progress magazine october 2011

FUTURE

VOTE 4MODESTO’S

OFFICIAL BALLOT

MAYOR

MODESTO IRRIGATION DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MODESTO CITY COUNCIL

MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION

STANISLAUS COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

October 2011

Vol. 32 Issue 10

modchamber.org

ElectionEditionSpecial

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00659_OE_Progress_Oct.indd 1 9/21/11 4:33 PM

OCT 2011 3

Ambassadors make monthly visits to Chamber members. I have found Ambassador visits to be positive in nature and quite rewarding. You meet people that you did not know and you find out that business activity is better than expected. We hear all the negative economic news in the media, but these visits have shown me that many local businesses are doing nicely (some exceptionally well). This flow of positive energy helps me maintain a positive feeling regarding my own business, TelePacific Communications (209) 870-6460. P

Ambassador Corner

PROGRESS MAGAZINE1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354(209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673www.modchamber.org • [email protected]

Mission StatementTo promote the region’s economic strengths and vitality; identify and promote services that are valuable to our members; advocate for public policy that is advantageous to the business community; and fully participate and partner in activities to improve quality of life.

BOARD OF DIRECTORSChairmanRalph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Chairman ElectDavid Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Vice Chairman of Internal OperationsEric Benson, JS West & Company

Vice Chairman of External OperationsKathy Halsey, Individual Member

Vice Chairman of Member RelationsDavid Halvorson, American Chevrolet

Vice Chairman of Events & Special ProjectsDoug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions

DirectorsLynn Dickerson, Gallo Center for the Arts Dan Garcia, Tri Counties BankPat Gillum, Pat Gillum, CPANeal Khatri, Best Western Khatri PropertiesCraig Lewis, Prudential California RealtySharon Likely, Kaiser PermanenteMike Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.Bill Moreno, Fire 2 WireRon Owen, Bank of the WestSuzy Powell, Individual MemberChris Ricci, Chris Ricci PresentsLaura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing SolutionsJeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Ex-OfficioBill Bassitt, The AllianceGeorge Boodrookas, Modesto Junior CollegeKeith Boggs, Leadership ModestoDavid Boring, Never Boring Design AssociatesGreg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Cecil Russell, President/[email protected]

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce(209) 577-5757 • [email protected]

Graphic Design: Never Boring Design Associates(209) 526-9136 • www.neverboring.com

Printer: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568 • [email protected]

Distribution: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568

Advertising Sales: Kristin BowkerNever Boring Design Associates(209) 526-9136 • [email protected]

doug perry

28th AnnuAl OktOberfest

DAte: october 7, 2011

lOcAtIOn: John thurman Field

tIme: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

STATE Of ThE

REGIOn LunChEOn

october 26, 2011

doubletree hotel,

1150 9th Street

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Fleet Maintenance Made EasyComplete Car Care Center • Foreign & Domestic

1529 9th St., Modesto (209) 526-1909

Since 1969

Ralph, David and Brad are here to help you.

Chamber Member Since 1982

CONTENTS

PublIc ADVOcAcy

4 Meet the Candidates

cOmmunIty DeVelOPment

19 Announcements

19 Awards & Achievements

ecOnOmIc DeVelOPment

17 New Member Profiles

25 Land of Opportunity

netwOrkIng & referrAls

20 Business Before and After Hours

21 New Chamber Members

24 Ribbon Cuttings

30 Chamber Calendar

4 Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

PuBlIC ADvOCACy

Voting is one of the greatest privileges and also one of the greatest responsibilities

we have in this country. It is something that puts us all on equal ground, because it

doesn’t matter how much money you make, what you do for a living, your race or

your gender, we all have the opportunity to vote. We believe we are all responsible

to be active in positive change, and voting is one way to influence change. Voting

gives us a chance to choose the leaders we want running our city, our school

districts, our state and our country.

By the time you receive this issue of Progress Magazine, the fall political campaigns

will be in full swing and absentee ballots will be in the mail. For months, however,

your Chamber has been busy studying issues, interviewing candidates and analyzing

positions. In this issue of Progress Magazine you will see the product of that effort.

We are publishing this information in Progress Magazine, and on the Chamber’s

website, to help you evaluate our local candidates, so you can cast your vote for the

most qualified, business friendly candidate of your choice. With permission from the

candidates, you’ll find the answers to questions the Chamber felt were important to

ask them. In this issue of Progress Magazine you will read a synopsis of some of

their answers, and on the Chamber’s website, www.modchamber.org, you will see their

answers in their entirety.

The Chamber focused on races that would have the most impact on Modesto Chamber

members: City of Modesto Mayor and City Council, Modesto City Schools Board of

Education, Stanislaus County Board of Education and the Modesto Irrigation District

Board of Directors. Each of these entities does thousands of dollars worth of business

every day. In these challenging economic times, it is imperative that we elect fiscally

responsible, pro-business men and women to these offices. We need individuals with

keen minds and innovative approaches who will devote their time and talent to serving

our community and region. Voters, and especially those in the business community,

should support candidates that have strong character, firm commitment, are truly

competent and possess the real courage necessary to get the job done in these near

catastrophic times.

Armando Arreola

Brad Hawn

Garrad Marsh

Bill Zoslocki

Modesto Chamber of CommerceQ & A, Candidates for Mayor, City Council, School Board and Modesto Irrigation District Board of Directors

How can the city, schools, Stanislaus County Board of Education, MID and the Chamber work together? Describe ways in which you as an elected official would encourage such a collaborative and cooperative relationship.

If you are elected to office, what will be your top issue? Describe the measures you will take to address this number one priority.

In your words, describe the role and responsibility of the office you seek.

Do you have any experience running a business or any similarly organized enterprise?

Do you support pension reform? What are your plans to balance the budget in your term of office?

By organizing leadership that provides programming and that administrates with political policies and public relations.

All entities can work together for the benefit of our entire region. Organiza-tions can work together by alerting the community of potential events, decisions, and other actions that can impact each other. As Mayor, I will encourage direct lines of communica-tion among these entities.

I believe that united planning should extend to all the leadership groups within our area. We all have different responsibilities, but common problems and we should be working together to find solutions. I have always advocated regular meetings with the school board and have worked to develop collabora-tive solutions in all areas.

The greatest issue confronting the city is jobs and unemployment. Each organization plays a role in the success of job building; the city with governing obligations, the schools focusing on providing an educated workforce, MID providing competitively priced power and the Chamber providing networking and the development of leadership in the business community. Collaboration between each organization needs to continue. I will take a leadership role in enhancing collaboration.

As a Democrat, administrating with state employees so that I provide leadership at the local sector with budget - cutting measure, by administrating business enterperunor on the measures.

The most pressing issue in Modesto is the revival of our economy. We must put people back to work and provide adequate civil services. This can be done by making Modesto a much more business friendly place, and encouraging the relocation of outside businesses. We need to make Modesto “the most business friendly city in California.” The leading problem is two-pronged: jobs and education and they are closely related. We must bring our educational level up to attract business to the area. We need to do a better job marketing our positive attributes and continue to become more business - friendly to new and expanding enterprises.

My top issue is job development. I would suggest a change in the city’s culture from a regulatory administration focus to a customer service focus, look for ways to reduce the cost of government to business, create strategically located business centers, implement regular attendance with 21st century industry groups and implement a jobs impact review for city codes, fees or applications. We also need to work with our educational system.

I have the support from the State of California behind all work that I do during my leadership with the state, to explain to the Chamber of Commerce, organizations, boards of directors, and committees board, to provide leadership to the mayor position.

I believe the Mayor has a responsibility to all the citizens of Modesto to make the City a fine place to live, work, play and raise a family. It’s the Mayor’s job to look to provide adequate public services, find ways invest in the future of our community and preserve Modesto’s character.

There are a variety of roles in which the Mayor should take the lead role. First, the Mayor of Modesto should provide the leadership and vision to move our city into the future. He should be accessible, involved in all segments of the city, and provide leadership for our region.

The office of the mayor sets the tone and vision for the community. The mayor’s responsibility is to execute all specific city obligations, administer all the “figurehead” responsibilities required and be an ambassador for the city at public events. Most importantly the mayor must provide strong leadership to all city departments.

No response available.

Yes, pension reform is necessary. I introduced an advisory vote to place three pension-related questions on the November ballot, so the public can give direction to city leaders regarding pension reform talks with employee unions.

Yes, pension reform is necessary, Modesto cannot sustain the current levels in today's economy. The city has made strides in correcting this, however more must be done. I would suggest a cap on existing levels for unused sick leave and bargain with individual groups.

Yes.


Modesto's city budget started at $135 million, it now stands at $100 million. However it still needs to be cut $10 - $12 million. This can be accomplished through a 12% - 14% reduction in pensions and salaries over the next year or two. This cannot be accomplished without negotiations with unions.

Modesto's current budget policy is fiscally sound. I would suggest continuing to enforce furloughs, bigger cuts in non-essential services such as mowing, janitorial, or outsourcing them. A growing economy will reduce stress on the city budget and that will be my main focus.

For the short term, continue cutting budgets to match income. For the long-term, grow the local economy to increase revenue.

MID BoardCandidates

Yes, as an entrepreneur. Marketing is one of my top priorities. Also with leadership organizing enterprising business, that requires critic path marketing/business leadership.

I am the owner of CHG, a structural engineering company that employs several Modesto residents. In this capacity, I know the struggles and triumphs in running a small business, and have business acumen necessary to help kick start Modesto’s economic engine.

I have owned and operated McHenry Bowl for 25 years. My business employs 55, has a multimillion dollar budget, and operates about 16 to 20 hours daily, 365 days a year. I know what it takes to create jobs and strengthen our economy.

Yes, my business partnerships have directly employed at times 60+ people, and when combined with direct subcontractors oversight, hundreds of employees in a non-static environment. I also have experience in contract negotiation and execution.

How can the city, city schools, Stanislaus County Board of Education, MID and the Chamber work together? Describe ways in which you as an elected official would encourage such a collaborative and cooperative relationship.

The most important issue for these agencies is jobs and economic growth: For the City, minimizing regulatory hurdles to industrial and job creating land uses; for city schools and County Board of Education, providing a well educated work force; for the chamber, encouraging local policies that further sustainable job creation; and for MID, restoring MID’s role as a low cost provider of power and water and an economic engine for jobs in our community.

Local government is based on personal relationships . Our top priority for Modesto is area wide job creation and retention. Companies seeking to expand and locate in Stanislaus county will look at power costs, workforce readiness and logistics as major determinants when comparing locations. Stanislaus county public entities must understand how their roles in these areas are interdependent for successful job creation. MID should use organizations such as the Chamber as sounding boards for what is needed throughout the district.

At MID we work with the City, Modesto City Schools and County Board of Education regularly concerning drinking water supply, electricity supply, water safety and storm drainage within MID boundaries.


My top issue will be to lower power rates. The measures I would take include cutting wasteful spending, reducing MID’s growing debt, and negotiating favorable power agreements.

My top priority is to protect our ag water and hydroelectric resources from Don Pedro Reservoir. MID and TID need to relicense the Don Pedro Reservoir through a FERC permitting process over the next few years. To successfully accomplish this, our community must stand united. Careful control of operating costs along with a balanced sharing of necessary rate increases is needed to achieve this.

My number one priority is to be engaged in the ongoing process that is the Modesto Irrigation District. Without direct involvement from the Board of Directors, the organization is setting a course that will be undesirable for ratepayers and staff.

If elected to office I would promote efficiency and service to the community.


My key role and responsibility will be to represent the rate payers and public, and not any special interest group.

MID directors are responsible for the strategic guidance of the district – including infrastructure needs, capacity planning and top management recruiting and accountability. MID directors also direct operating budget development and policy. IN the next few years, MID directors will face very important decisions in negotiating the terms of our renewed FERC permit on Don Pedro Reservoir

The role of the directors is to be engaged in the ongoing fight to control rates for water and power as well as retaining water rights.

The MID Board promotes quality service and short term and long term utility service to our community.


I started my own cattle ranching and almond growing business from scratch. This business has grown to over 800 cattle and 65 acres of almonds and walnuts.

I graduated San Diego State University with a Business Admin – Finance degree and have worked with my family at Duarte Nursery, Inc. My initial focus was in expanding sales. I have led the innovation and marketing strategies in many new area of the business and am currently the president of the company. In addition to a Bachelors of Science, I hold an MBA from the University of the Pacific and a graduate fellow of the California Agricultural Leadership Program.

Yes, I am the Vice President of Blom's Ranch, Inc.

Our business growth has helped me to understand the needs of our community for water and electricity. We need business efficiency to manage the "green energy" requirements of the State of California

What are the most important assets and/or perspectives you would bring to this office?

I have worked for Modesto Irrigation District, and as a farmer, I am a business owner and user

I am experienced, well educated, and fiscally responsible.

I would say that I bring energy, enthusiasm and engaging nature to work with and for people

I can help the MID meet the challenges of providing water and electricity in the heavily stressed business climate of our county and the State of California.

PG&E, as an investor owned utility is expected to make a profit and pay dividends. MID as a public utility is not. Why are the rates essentially equal and what role or responsibility does MID have to insure an equitable cost of doing business?

I would make wiser decisions and have MID have 33% renewable energy by 2020. I would also complete additional research and expand the research areas from 52 acres to 400 acres above the fog. The responsibility is to the rate payer. Give MID back to the rate payer. Urban, rural, and business all work together. Ag is the base here, we need to work on collaboration.

Please provide answer in 25 words or less.

As a board member it is my responsibility to spend the rate payers dollars wisely. One of the main reasons I am seeking this position is to determine why we have had so many rate increases. Many factors attract new business to our area, low utility costs is one of them. MID should do everything in its power to maintain low rates for all its customers

PG & E recently went through bankruptcy. They are regulated by the California Public utilities Commission. MID has had a good year year thus far in 2011. The electricity market costs have dropped down significantly and we have had an outstanding snow pack which results in reasonable hydropower.

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

Nick Blom

John Kidd

MAYORAL CANDIDATES MAYORAL CANDIDATES

State of theRegion Luncheon

Meet the Candidates Q&A with Mayoral Candidates

The choices you make this November will have a profound impact on our community

for the next four to eight years and beyond. Our economy, schools, education, future

workforce and ability to retain and attract more business are vital to our future and

depend on your vote in this election.

Now is an important time in Modesto’s history. In November we will be electing

a new Mayor and three to four new Councilmembers. The whole makeup of our

city council will change. Who we elect to lead us in the future could never be

more important. With dwindling revenues, increasing demands and the fiscal

uncertainty of our state and federal governments, there are very tough decisions

that will need to be made by our local elected officials. It’s vital that our new city

council be up for the task.

After listening to all of the mayoral candidates, and all but one of the council

candidates, we believe some candidates are well prepared to take on this challenge.

They have studied and evaluated the issues and are well informed about the difficult

decisions they face. They have not simply listened to what they’ve been told, but instead

have educated themselves on all sides of the issues. They understand finances, the

budgeting process and the importance of being fiscally responsible. They understand

that our economy and the ability to retain and attract businesses are central to the

future of this community. They understand that we need to work on rules, restrictions,

fees and ordinances that make it more advantageous to preserve and create private

sector jobs, because creating jobs creates tax revenues, and strong tax revenues are

what our city needs to provide the services that make this a wonderful, safe place to

work and live. Now, with your vote, you can help elect a business-friendly mayor and

council so that business and government can work together on the future economic

vitality of our vibrant city.

Note: Copies of the complete responses to the candidate questionnaires may be found on the

Chamber website at www.modchamber.org. Candidate biographies, videos of editorial

board interviews and election news stories and forum information is available at

www.modbee.com/elections

PuBlIC ADvOCACy

Armando Arreola

Brad Hawn

Garrad Marsh

Bill Zoslocki

Modesto Chamber of CommerceQ & A, Candidates for Mayor, City Council, School Board and Modesto Irrigation District Board of Directors

How can the city, schools, Stanislaus County Board of Education, MID and the Chamber work together? Describe ways in which you as an elected official would encourage such a collaborative and cooperative relationship.




Do you support pension reform? What are your plans to balance the budget in your term of office?

By organizing leadership that provides programming and that administrates with political policies and public relations.

All entities can work together for the benefit of our entire region. Organiza-tions can work together by alerting the community of potential events, decisions, and other actions that can impact each other. As Mayor, I will encourage direct lines of communica-tion among these entities.

I believe that united planning should extend to all the leadership groups within our area. We all have different responsibilities, but common problems and we should be working together to find solutions. I have always advocated regular meetings with the school board and have worked to develop collabora-tive solutions in all areas.

The greatest issue confronting the city is jobs and unemployment. Each organization plays a role in the success of job building; the city with governing obligations, the schools focusing on providing an educated workforce, MID providing competitively priced power and the Chamber providing networking and the development of leadership in the business community. Collaboration between each organization needs to continue. I will take a leadership role in enhancing collaboration.

As a Democrat, administrating with state employees so that I provide leadership at the local sector with budget - cutting measure, by administrating business enterperunor on the measures.

The most pressing issue in Modesto is the revival of our economy. We must put people back to work and provide adequate civil services. This can be done by making Modesto a much more business friendly place, and encouraging the relocation of outside businesses. We need to make Modesto “the most business friendly city in California.” The leading problem is two-pronged: jobs and education and they are closely related. We must bring our educational level up to attract business to the area. We need to do a better job marketing our positive attributes and continue to become more business - friendly to new and expanding enterprises.

My top issue is job development. I would suggest a change in the city’s culture from a regulatory administration focus to a customer service focus, look for ways to reduce the cost of government to business, create strategically located business centers, implement regular attendance with 21st century industry groups and implement a jobs impact review for city codes, fees or applications. We also need to work with our educational system.

I have the support from the State of California behind all work that I do during my leadership with the state, to explain to the Chamber of Commerce, organizations, boards of directors, and committees board, to provide leadership to the mayor position.

I believe the Mayor has a responsibility to all the citizens of Modesto to make the City a fine place to live, work, play and raise a family. It’s the Mayor’s job to look to provide adequate public services, find ways invest in the future of our community and preserve Modesto’s character.

There are a variety of roles in which the Mayor should take the lead role. First, the Mayor of Modesto should provide the leadership and vision to move our city into the future. He should be accessible, involved in all segments of the city, and provide leadership for our region.

The office of the mayor sets the tone and vision for the community. The mayor’s responsibility is to execute all specific city obligations, administer all the “figurehead” responsibilities required and be an ambassador for the city at public events. Most importantly the mayor must provide strong leadership to all city departments.


Yes, pension reform is necessary. I introduced an advisory vote to place three pension-related questions on the November ballot, so the public can give direction to city leaders regarding pension reform talks with employee unions.

Yes, pension reform is necessary, Modesto cannot sustain the current levels in today's economy. The city has made strides in correcting this, however more must be done. I would suggest a cap on existing levels for unused sick leave and bargain with individual groups.

Yes.


Modesto's city budget started at $135 million, it now stands at $100 million. However it still needs to be cut $10 - $12 million. This can be accomplished through a 12% - 14% reduction in pensions and salaries over the next year or two. This cannot be accomplished without negotiations with unions.

Modesto's current budget policy is fiscally sound. I would suggest continuing to enforce furloughs, bigger cuts in non-essential services such as mowing, janitorial, or outsourcing them. A growing economy will reduce stress on the city budget and that will be my main focus.

For the short term, continue cutting budgets to match income. For the long-term, grow the local economy to increase revenue.

MID BoardCandidates

Yes, as an entrepreneur. Marketing is one of my top priorities. Also with leadership organizing enterprising business, that requires critic path marketing/business leadership.

I am the owner of CHG, a structural engineering company that employs several Modesto residents. In this capacity, I know the struggles and triumphs in running a small business, and have business acumen necessary to help kick start Modesto’s economic engine.

I have owned and operated McHenry Bowl for 25 years. My business employs 55, has a multimillion dollar budget, and operates about 16 to 20 hours daily, 365 days a year. I know what it takes to create jobs and strengthen our economy.

Yes, my business partnerships have directly employed at times 60+ people, and when combined with direct subcontractors oversight, hundreds of employees in a non-static environment. I also have experience in contract negotiation and execution.



Local government is based on personal relationships . Our top priority for Modesto is area wide job creation and retention. Companies seeking to expand and locate in Stanislaus county will look at power costs, workforce readiness and logistics as major determinants when comparing locations. Stanislaus county public entities must understand how their roles in these areas are interdependent for successful job creation. MID should use organizations such as the Chamber as sounding boards for what is needed throughout the district.




My top priority is to protect our ag water and hydroelectric resources from Don Pedro Reservoir. MID and TID need to relicense the Don Pedro Reservoir through a FERC permitting process over the next few years. To successfully accomplish this, our community must stand united. Careful control of operating costs along with a balanced sharing of necessary rate increases is needed to achieve this.





MID directors are responsible for the strategic guidance of the district – including infrastructure needs, capacity planning and top management recruiting and accountability. MID directors also direct operating budget development and policy. IN the next few years, MID directors will face very important decisions in negotiating the terms of our renewed FERC permit on Don Pedro Reservoir





I graduated San Diego State University with a Business Admin – Finance degree and have worked with my family at Duarte Nursery, Inc. My initial focus was in expanding sales. I have led the innovation and marketing strategies in many new area of the business and am currently the president of the company. In addition to a Bachelors of Science, I hold an MBA from the University of the Pacific and a graduate fellow of the California Agricultural Leadership Program.




I have worked for Modesto Irrigation District, and as a farmer, I am a business owner and user

I am experienced, well educated, and fiscally responsible.

I would say that I bring energy, enthusiasm and engaging nature to work with and for people



I would make wiser decisions and have MID have 33% renewable energy by 2020. I would also complete additional research and expand the research areas from 52 acres to 400 acres above the fog. The responsibility is to the rate payer. Give MID back to the rate payer. Urban, rural, and business all work together. Ag is the base here, we need to work on collaboration.

Please provide answer in 25 words or less.


PG & E recently went through bankruptcy. They are regulated by the California Public utilities Commission. MID has had a good year year thus far in 2011. The electricity market costs have dropped down significantly and we have had an outstanding snow pack which results in reasonable hydropower.

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

Nick Blom

John Kidd

MAYORAL CANDIDATES MAYORAL CANDIDATES

State of theRegion Luncheon

Q&A with Mayoral Candidates

ElectionEdition


PuBlIC ADvOCACy

MID BOARDCANDIDATES


MID should use organizations such as the Chamber as sounding boards for what is needed throughout the district.


Local government is based on personal relationships .Our top priority for Modesto is area wide job creation and retention. Companies seeking to expand and locate in Stanislaus county will look at power costs, workforce readiness and logistics as major determinants when comparing locations. Stanislaus county public entities must understand how their roles in these areas are interdependent for successful job creation.




My top issue will be to lower power rates. The measures I would take include cutting wasteful spending, reducing MID’s growing debt, and negotiating favorable power agreements

My top priority is to protect our ag water and hydroelectric resources from Don Pedro Reservoir. MID and TID need to relicense the Don Pedro Reservoir through a FERC permitting process over the next few years. To successfully accomplish this, our community must stand united. Careful control of operating costs along with a balanced sharing of financial burdens is important.

If elected to office I would promote efficiency and service to the community




MID directors are responsible for the strategic guidance of the district – including infrastructure needs, capacity planning and top management recruiting and accountability. MID directors also direct operating budget development and policy. In the next few years, MID directors will face very important decisions in negotiating the terms of our renewed FERC permit on Don Pedro Reservoir

The MID Board promotes quality service and short term and long term utility service to our community




I am the president of Duarte Nursery, Inc., a company with hundreds of employees and tens of millions of dollars in annual sales. I hold a BS in Business Finance from San Diego State University, an MBA from the University of the Pacific and am a graduate fellow of the California Agricultural Leadership Program.




We have lost our competitive advantage to PG&E customers because MID has not vigorously challenged the regulations that have increased our rates and have wasted money on projects like Mountain House and unnecessary capital expenditures. MID needs to return to the basics of puitting the ratepayer first and restoring our historical role as a low cost provider of power and water.

If the district spends a dollar, the ratepayers will pay it. MID needs to focus its opera-tions and control costs like a business. We need to continuously seek cost reductions. Ratepayers shouldn’t have to pay for above market employee compensation, low productivity or intransience.

PG & E recently went through bankruptcy. They are regulated by the California Public utilities Commission. MID has had a good year year thus far in 2011. The electricity market costs have dropped down signifi-cantly and we have had an outstanding snow pack which results in reasonable hydropower.

Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd

How can the city, city schools, Stanislaus County Board of Education, MID, and the Chamber work together? Describe ways in which you as an elected official would encourage such a collaborative and cooperative relationship.

Did not participate.

In order to improve the services we provide to the citizens of Modesto, it is imperative that we openly discuss avenues where our desires to serve the citizens overlap, and where we can combine our efforts without duplicating our efforts. I will participate with representatives from these entities to find collaborative areas in which we could function without having to compromise our responsibilities to our organizations.

The Chamber should be a major player as the ‘voice of businesses’ when coordinating discussions about Modesto's future. The Chamber should play a vital role in economic growth plans and programs developed with local government, education and utility operators. I am working on a GRC task force, a program where the Chamber takes a lead role in educating the community about FERC and challenges facing MID and TID.

Share information. I met with the past superintendent and am now meeting regularly with the new superintendent. I visit schools and speak with sixth graders about Modesto.

A collaborative and cooperative relationship also means "go along to get along." This has resulted in scandals that have cost business and taxpayers millions. Some civic and political leaders have failed to promote oversight as guardians of public money. Cooperation is necessary for the public good as long as it does not lead to cronyism.

In my business I communicate with many different individuals, most importantly all of my clients, and they all have different needs, agendas and requirements. Modern communication, efficient meetings and common ground is the backbone to my professional success. I require my clients to provide a written outline of goals they place on my office. These checks and balances keep us on task and assures everyone of our purpose.



Our job as a city council is to provide the services (fire, police, transportation, and administration) required by the residents of Modesto using the most efficient budgeting we can provide. It may mean outsourcing some services. However, it is not the responsibility of the city govern-ment to provide jobs; it is the responsibil-ity of city government to provide the services the community needs at the lowest cost to those citizens.

The city council is the leadership group and policy making body for the City of Modesto. This is the group directly responsible for financial oversight and accountability of how our tax dollars are spent. The city council should develop plans for the long-term health of Modesto's economy.

To make decisions that improve the quality of life for all Modestans.

I must provide open and transparent government and make decisions to administer and supervise taxpayer money without fear of special interests.

I have been asked to sign pledges and take positions on social issues. Thatis not what I am about. I am about managing taxpayer dollars wisely and doing what is right, for the people of Modesto.

Prior to being appointed to the City Council I thought the role and responsi-bility of this office was that of a policy maker. However, I have learned that it is far more than that. City councilmember are challenged to be mediators, cheerleaders, educators, consultants, financial advisors and much more. It’s important to bring balanced, open-minded, inquisitive discussion to our committees, negotiations, and council meetings.

There are numerous responsibilities of the council, but the one main responsibil-ity is to listen to the people, address their concerns, and work to do what is best for Modesto.

As a councilperson it is my responsibility to represent the people of Modesto and make sure that everything the council does is transparent.



My top issue is creating a business climate through tax and fee incentives to attract new industry to Modesto. This is the biggest step we can take. It generates jobs and increases sales of local products; that translates into additional revenue to the city as well as increasing the purchasing power for our citizens.

The single most important issue we are faced with is safety. Businesses will not relocate or open new ventures in our area if crime is running rampant. We MUST have a safety discussion with every budget discussion. My plans include working with city, public safety, taxpayers & community organizations to create plans that will reduce theft, drug production and drug use. Part of the solution is a comprehensive plan for job growth; unemployment and crime rate are directly related.

Volunteerism, developing more “taking it to the streets” events. A working citizen is a happy citizen.

We have to get back to basics. We must return to open, transparent, and accountable government. We cannot continue to spend more than what we take in and borrow to make up the difference. The number one priority is to be a good steward of the people’s resources.

Eliminate policies that impede or prohibit private sector job growth. The Chamber is on a great path right now; I would leverage that momentum and propose a “strike force”, of between five and eight local business people to be advocates for why Modesto is a great place to live and do business. Solidify their voice and make that group the people that “sell our town” to other business owners.

Public safety is the primary role of local government. I will fight to make sure our streets are safe and our community is protected from crime, gang violence, drugs and disasters. Without safe streets employers will have no desire to look at Modesto as a place to do business or expand their current operations. Only by attracting new and diverse jobs can we renew our local economy.

I am concerned about several issues, but I am most interested in starting a Clean It or Lien It program in Modesto. Modesto has been hit hard with foreclosures, which continues to be a problem in our community. Other cities have implemented plans that hold lenders responsible for foreclosed properties. The programs have been very beneficial to their communities and I want to implement such a program here.

Bringing more jobs to Modesto. I would look into how we could market Modesto to make it more attractive to manufactur-ing companies to bring their business here

My top issue will revolve around helping make our community more economically vibrant. We first need to make Modesto the simplest place in California to expand or start a business through a Red Tape Task Force. We should also determine if local taxes on businesses can be reduced over time, develop shovel-ready business park land, and improve our road network.



In 1979, I designed and put together a business plan for the development of Rainbow Fields Softball Complex, and was hired as General Manager. I managed all aspects of the facility, including concessions, field maintenance, promotion and organization of league and tournament play. In the mid 90’s, my wife and I created Willing Heart Promotions, Inc., promoting, sponsoring and managing Christian concerts.

I am a small business owner – I sign both sides of the paycheck. In the past I have been a corporate executive with responsibility for a $50M budget that included revenue growth, sales, marketing, expense management, planning, forecasting, business development and staffing in addition to coordinating 5-year plans.

The city of Modesto.

Yes, I have opened six restaurants in Modesto and currently manage the Mediterranean Market and Grill with 18 employees.

Yes. United Pacific Assets, LLC, Crows Landing Investors, LLC, and Patriot Legal Documents LLC DBA Patriot Evictions.

Do you support pension reform?


Yes, we don't have the money to pay pensions as it currently stands.

Both sides of the negotiating table are working on reform. The current system is unsustainable and must be modified. We cannot end up like Vallejo; file for bankruptcy. We must work together with labor on pension reform that is fair to both city workers and the taxpayers of Modesto.

Pension reform needs to happen so that it makes sense foreverybody involved.

Yes, the current method is not sustainable and needs to be changed despite the pressure to do nothing. Public Safety gets 75% of our budget. How much more do they want?

Yes, to align with the private sector.

Yes. We need pension reform to be based on facts and must provide taxpayers a full, factual analysis. We should ask public employee unions what their ideas are to solve the challenge. We must take account of what the voters say in the November advisory votes. We need solutions that do not raise taxes.

We have to review who it affects and have the affected people come to the table. There must be proper communication among all parties.

What are your plans to balance the budgetin your term of office?


I plan to pursue a balanced budget through better management of the citizen’s money by exploring the outsourcing of some departments in the City of Modesto. If we can save money by outsourcing departments such as the sewage treatment plant, and save a substantial amount of money of the citizens of Modesto, I believe that would put more money into the General Fund allowing us to not cut police and fire departments.

The city budget must be balanced; we cannot have deficit spending. Government must learn to operate on a fixed income. We can no longer live beyond our means when it concerns how our tax dollars are spent.

Do our best to create more revenue, such as new business much like Rizzo Lopez coming to Modesto and bringing 185 jobs. Serve as an ambassador from the city to the business community.

As Mayor of Modesto we had four balanced budgets. We got back to basics, created jobs, and provided for public safety. We did not spend more than revenues or borrow to make up the difference. We can do it again.

Reshape the way we spend. Some examples are we don't need to buy new equipment all the time. The police department says there is a decrease in crime. If so, we need to review the funding alignment inthat department.


The City budget must be balanced; we cannot have deficit spending. Government must learn to operate on a fixed income. We can no longer live beyond our means when it concerns how our tax dollars are spent.

Reshape the way we spend. Some examples are we don't need to buy new equipment all the time. The Police Dept. say there is a decrease in crime, then we need to review the funding alignment in that department.

As a team member of the Finance Committee and business owner I recognize the importance of delivering more with less. As a city we must continue to evaluate efficiencies and be innovative in delivering services. I will continue to weigh the impacts on the community and make decisions accordingly.

Review long and short term contracts. Get rid of redundancy and look at outsourcing and privatization. Keep an open mind to all options.

John Lane Gunderson

Philip W. Moyer

Todd Aaronson

Dave Lopez

Carmen Sabatino

Paul D. Tunison

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

District 6


I bring energy, enthusiasm and engaging nature to work with and for people

I have worked for Modesto Irrigation District and understand firsthand the challenges MID faces and the opportu-nities MID has to lower rates and save money. As a farmer and rancher, I understand the importance of low rates to our businesses.

I am experienced, well educated, and fiscally responsible. I have built and run a business by making many successful strategic and management decisions. MID needs experienced and indepen-dent board members whom will run the district like a business.


CITY COUNCILCANDIDATES


Share information, I met with the past superintendent and am now meeting regularly with the new superintendent.I visit schools and speak with sixth graders about Modesto.

The Chamber should be a major player as the ‘voice of businesses’ when coordinating discussions about the future of Modesto. The Chamber should play a vital role in economic growth plans and programs developed with local government, education and utility operators. I am currently working on a GRC task force a program where the Chamber takes a lead role in educating the community about FERC and challenges facing MID and TID.

In my business I communicate with many different individuals, most importantly all of my clients, and they all have different needs, agendas and requirements. Modern communication efficient meetings and common ground is the backbone to my professional success. I require my clients to provide a written outline of goals they place on my office. These checks and balances keep us on task and assures everyone of our purpose.

I am thrilled to see the collaborative efforts that are being fostered between the city, city schools, MID and the Chamber. As an elective official I feel it is our role to help lead, facilitate & participate in these relationships and new ones. I will continue to stay engaged in the community and create new possibili-ties that will allow all players to work together.

The city can work with the schools to provide safe access for students. Traffic can be hazardous in front of many schools and the city can help to ensure these roads are kept safe. MID offers many services and helps educate our children on water and power line safety issues. The Chamber can help keep local businesses informed on what is happening in our community.

To attract new business to Modesto, we must show that we have qualified man power. The schools can show that non college bound high school graduates are ready to enter the work force. Access to water should be an incentive for businesses. When elected, I will encourage meetings with each department named above at least 3 times a year to review what each has done to improve Modesto.

Goals must be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and with a timeframe. Goals that do not have these attributes do not come to fruition, especially in well-meaning and broad community efforts. We must work together to improve our educational attainment levels. So, I am hopeful that good comes out of the recent work discussed at the Chamber's State of Education event with the Alliance and educational entities.


To make decisions that improve the quality of life for all Modestans

The City Council is the leadership group and policy making body for the City of Modesto. This is the group directly responsible for financial oversight and accountability of how our tax dollars are spent. The City Council should develop plans for the long-term health of Modesto's economy.

I have been asked to sign pledges and take positions on social issues. That is not what I am about. I am about managing taxpayer dollars wisely and doing what is right, for the people of Modesto




The office of city councilmember is the primary policymaking office for the City.


Volunteerism, developing more taking it the streets events a working citizen is a happy citizen.

The single most important issue we are faced with is safety. Businesses will not relocate or open new ventures in our area if crime is running rampant. We MUST have a safety discussion with every budget discussion. My plans include working with city, public safety, taxpayers & community organizations to create plans that will reduce theft, drug production and drug use. Part of the solution is a comprehensive plan for job growth; the unemployment rate and the crime rate are directly related to each other.

Eliminate policies that impede or prohibit private sector job growth. The chamber is on a great path right now; I would leverage that momentum and propose a “strike force”, of between five and eight local business people to be advocates for why Modesto is a great place to live and do business. Solidify their voice and make that group the people that “sell our town” to other business owners.




My top issue will revolve around helping make our community more economically vibrant. We first need to make Modesto the simplest place in California to expand


The City of Modesto

Both sides of the negotiating table are working on reform. The current system is unsustainable and must be modified. We cannot end up like Vallejo; file for bankruptcy.We must work together with labor on pension reform that is fair to both city workers and the taxpayers of Modesto.Pension reform needs to happen so that it makes sense for everybody involvedYes, the current method is not sustainable and needs to be changed despite the pressure to do nothing. Public Safety gets 75% or our budget. How much more do they want?Yes, to align with the private sector. as co-owner and Chief Financial Officer of Cogdill & Giomi, Inc., a Modesto based real estate appraisal firm.


Pension reform needs to happen because it doesn't make any sense.



In this economic climate I believe all expenses should be reviewed and justified. Under-standing as a business owner we need to pay attention and be fiscally responsible. As a city council member we must complete our due diligence to find a balance. Reform means you evaluate and analyze what is best for the community.

Yes, it needs to change. However, the employees paid in their 5% and the city was suppose to match. The city took a furlough from the match because of the economy. If this continues we need to go to the tables and talk.

It is their decision not ours to decide which pension system they should have. Chang-ing could be costly.


What re your plans to balance the budget in your term of office






I would spend my time analyzing every part of the budget. Then decide where cuts could be made. Emergency services would be the last to be cut.

Determine if we are duplicating services at the city or with other goverment agencies; determine which city services can be turned over to private sector or non-profits; involve citizens in identifying areas where city can no longer provide services; encourage economic growth by making Modesto the simplest place

District 3Dave Lopez

Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison

District 5Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

District 6David Cogdill, Jr.

CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES DISTRICT 1 CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES DISTRICT 1


Q&A with City Council Candidates

OCT 2011 7

PuBlIC ADvOCACy

MID BOARDCANDIDATES


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd




The Chamber should be a major player as the ‘voice of businesses’ when coordinating discussions about Modesto's future. The Chamber should play a vital role in economic growth plans and programs developed with local government, education and utility operators. I am working on a GRC task force, a program where the Chamber takes a lead role in educating the community about FERC and challenges facing MID and TID.


A collaborative and cooperative relationship also means "go along to get along." This has resulted in scandals that have cost business and taxpayers millions. Some civic and political leaders have failed to promote oversight as guardians of public money. Cooperation is necessary for the public good as long as it does not lead to cronyism.

In my business I communicate with many different individuals, most importantly all of my clients, and they all have different needs, agendas and requirements. Modern communication, efficient meetings and common ground is the backbone to my professional success. I require my clients to provide a written outline of goals they place on my office. These checks and balances keep us on task and assures everyone of our purpose.



Our job as a city council is to provide the services (fire, police, transportation, and administration) required by the residents of Modesto using the most efficient budgeting we can provide. It may mean outsourcing some services. However, it is not the responsibility of the city govern-ment to provide jobs; it is the responsibil-ity of city government to provide the services the community needs at the lowest cost to those citizens.

The city council is the leadership group and policy making body for the City of Modesto. This is the group directly responsible for financial oversight and accountability of how our tax dollars are spent. The city council should develop plans for the long-term health of Modesto's economy.

To make decisions that improve the quality of life for all Modestans.


I have been asked to sign pledges and take positions on social issues. Thatis not what I am about. I am about managing taxpayer dollars wisely and doing what is right, for the people of Modesto.






My top issue is creating a business climate through tax and fee incentives to attract new industry to Modesto. This is the biggest step we can take. It generates jobs and increases sales of local products; that translates into additional revenue to the city as well as increasing the purchasing power for our citizens.

The single most important issue we are faced with is safety. Businesses will not relocate or open new ventures in our area if crime is running rampant. We MUST have a safety discussion with every budget discussion. My plans include working with city, public safety, taxpayers & community organizations to create plans that will reduce theft, drug production and drug use. Part of the solution is a comprehensive plan for job growth; unemployment and crime rate are directly related.

Volunteerism, developing more “taking it to the streets” events. A working citizen is a happy citizen.

We have to get back to basics. We must return to open, transparent, and accountable government. We cannot continue to spend more than what we take in and borrow to make up the difference. The number one priority is to be a good steward of the people’s resources.

Eliminate policies that impede or prohibit private sector job growth. The Chamber is on a great path right now; I would leverage that momentum and propose a “strike force”, of between five and eight local business people to be advocates for why Modesto is a great place to live and do business. Solidify their voice and make that group the people that “sell our town” to other business owners.









The city of Modesto.

Yes, I have opened six restaurants in Modesto and currently manage the Mediterranean Market and Grill with 18 employees.

Yes. United Pacific Assets, LLC, Crows Landing Investors, LLC, and Patriot Legal Documents LLC DBA Patriot Evictions.





Pension reform needs to happen so that it makes sense foreverybody involved.

Yes, the current method is not sustainable and needs to be changed despite the pressure to do nothing. Public Safety gets 75% of our budget. How much more do they want?






I plan to pursue a balanced budget through better management of the citizen’s money by exploring the outsourcing of some departments in the City of Modesto. If we can save money by outsourcing departments such as the sewage treatment plant, and save a substantial amount of money of the citizens of Modesto, I believe that would put more money into the General Fund allowing us to not cut police and fire departments.

The city budget must be balanced; we cannot have deficit spending. Government must learn to operate on a fixed income. We can no longer live beyond our means when it concerns how our tax dollars are spent.


As Mayor of Modesto we had four balanced budgets. We got back to basics, created jobs, and provided for public safety. We did not spend more than revenues or borrow to make up the difference. We can do it again.

Reshape the way we spend. Some examples are we don't need to buy new equipment all the time. The police department says there is a decrease in crime. If so, we need to review the funding alignment inthat department.






John Lane Gunderson

Philip W. Moyer

Todd Aaronson

Dave Lopez

Carmen Sabatino

Paul D. Tunison

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

District 6
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer





PuBlIC ADvOCACy


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd


I am thrilled to see the collaborative efforts that are being fostered between the city, city schools, MID and the Chamber. As an elective official I feel it is our role to help lead, facilitate & participate in these relationships and new ones. I will continue to stay engaged in the community and create new possibilities that will allow all players to work together.


To attract new business to Modesto, we must show that we have qualified man power. The schools can show that non college bound high school graduates are ready to enter the work force. Access to water should be an incentive for businesses. I will encourage meetings with each department at least 3 times a year to review what each has done to improve Modesto.

Goals must be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and with a timeframe. Goals that do not have these attributes do not come to fruition, especially in well-meaning and broad community efforts. We must work together to improve our educational attainment levels. I am hopeful that good comes out of the recent work discussed at the Chamber's State of Education event with the Alliance and educational entities.



Prior to being appointed to the City Council I thought the role and responsibility of this office was that of a policy maker. However, I have learned that it is far more than that. City council members are challenged to be mediators, cheerleaders, educators, consultants, financial advisors and much more. It’s important to bring balanced, open-minded, inquisitive discussion toour committees, negotiations, and council meetings.

There are numerous responsibilities of the council, but the one mainresponsibility is to listen to the people, address their concerns, and work to do what is best for Modesto.


The office of city councilmember is the primary policymaking office for the city. The primary responsibilities are improving oversight in City Hall, both in the city’s budgeting and it functions; and making our community more economically vibrant. With district elections, a primary responsibility of a councilmember is to balance the needs and interests of the district with community-wide needs and interests.




I am concerned about several issues, but I am most interested in starting a “Clean It or Lien It,” program in Modesto. Modesto has been hit hard with foreclosures, which continues to be a problem in our community. Other cities have implemented plans that hold lenders responsible for foreclosed properties. The programs have been very beneficial to their communities and I want to implement such a program here.

Bringing more jobs to Modesto. I would look into how we could market Modesto to make it more attractive to manufacturing companies to bring their business here.




I have worked alongside my husband, Brent, for the past 10 years. We were fortunate to purchase the shop in 2001 and have successfully managed the responsibilities. As a business owner I have seen firsthand how difficult it is to run and grow a business. I have been able to navigate the shop through these tough economic times and am confident of our continued growth and success in this community.

A few years ago I ran my own handyman business. The experience was very beneficial but I was able to get a job which allowed greater benefits and allowed me more time with my family.

No.

Yes. My business experience involves running a professional services firm as co-owner and Chief Financial Officer of Cogdill & Giomi, Inc., a Modesto based real estate appraisal firm.



In this economic climate I believe all expenses should be reviewed and justified. Understanding as a business owner we need to pay attention and be fiscally responsible. As a city council member we must complete our due diligence to find a balance. Reform means you evaluate and analyze what is best for the community.


It is their decision not ours to decide which pension system they should have. Changing could be costly.




As a team member of the Finance Committeeand business owner I recognize the importanceof delivering more with less. As a city we must continue to evaluate efficiencies and beinnovative in delivering services. I will continue to weigh the impacts on the community and make decisions accordingly.



Determine if we are duplicating services at the city or with other goverment agencies; determine which city services can be turned over to private sector or non-profits; involve citizens in identifying areas where city can no longer provide services; encourage economic growth by making Modesto the simplest place in California to expand orstart a business.

This cannot be predicted, but if there is a shortfall, we need to look at what branches of government can we consolidate without limiting services.

StephanieBurnside

Joshua Esteves

JenevieveKenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


MID BOARD CANDIDATES



OCT 2011 9

PuBlIC ADvOCACy


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd





Goals must be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and with a timeframe. Goals that do not have these attributes do not come to fruition, especially in well-meaning and broad community efforts. We must work together to improve our educational attainment levels. I am hopeful that good comes out of the recent work discussed at the Chamber's State of Education event with the Alliance and educational entities.



Prior to being appointed to the City Council I thought the role and responsibility of this office was that of a policy maker. However, I have learned that it is far more than that. City council members are challenged to be mediators, cheerleaders, educators, consultants, financial advisors and much more. It’s important to bring balanced, open-minded, inquisitive discussion toour committees, negotiations, and council meetings.

There are numerous responsibilities of the council, but the one mainresponsibility is to listen to the people, address their concerns, and work to do what is best for Modesto.


The office of city councilmember is the primary policymaking office for the city. The primary responsibilities are improving oversight in City Hall, both in the city’s budgeting and it functions; and making our community more economically vibrant. With district elections, a primary responsibility of a councilmember is to balance the needs and interests of the district with community-wide needs and interests.




I am concerned about several issues, but I am most interested in starting a “Clean It or Lien It,” program in Modesto. Modesto has been hit hard with foreclosures, which continues to be a problem in our community. Other cities have implemented plans that hold lenders responsible for foreclosed properties. The programs have been very beneficial to their communities and I want to implement such a program here.

Bringing more jobs to Modesto. I would look into how we could market Modesto to make it more attractive to manufacturing companies to bring their business here.






No.










As a team member of the Finance Committeeand business owner I recognize the importanceof delivering more with less. As a city we must continue to evaluate efficiencies and beinnovative in delivering services. I will continue to weigh the impacts on the community and make decisions accordingly.



Determine if we are duplicating services at the city or with other goverment agencies; determine which city services can be turned over to private sector or non-profits; involve citizens in identifying areas where city can no longer provide services; encourage economic growth by making Modesto the simplest place in California to expand orstart a business.


StephanieBurnside

Joshua Esteves

JenevieveKenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer






PuBlIC ADvOCACy



The most important issue for these agencies is jobs and economic growth: For the city, minimizing regulatory hurdles to industrial and job creating land uses; for city schools and county Board of Education, providing a well educated work force; for the Chamber, encouraging local policies that further sustainable job creation; and for MID, restoring MID’s role as a low cost provider of power and water and an economic engine for jobs in our community.

Local government is based on personal relationships. Our top priority for Modesto is area wide job creation and retention. Companies seeking to expand and locate in Stanislaus county will look at power costs, workforce readiness and logistics as major determinants when comparing locations. Stanislaus county public entities must understand how their roles in these areas are interdependent for successful job creation.










MID directors are responsible for the strategic guidance of the district – including infrastructure needs, capacity planning and top management recruiting and accountability. MID directors also direct operating budget development and policy. In the next few years, MID directors will face very important decisions in negotiating the terms of our renewed FERC permit on Don Pedro Reservoir.






Our business growth has helped me to understand the needs of our community for water and electricity. We need business efficiency to manage the "green energy" requirements of the State of California.


As a board member it is my responsibility to spend the rate payers dollars wisely. One of the main reasons I am seeking this position is to determine why we have had so many rate increases. Many factors attract new business to our area, low utility costs is one of them. MID should do everything in its power to maintain low rates for all its customers.

We have lost our competitive advantage to PG&E customers because MID has not vigorously challenged the regulations that have increased our rates and have wasted money on projects like Mountain House and unnecessary capital expenditures. MID needs to return to the basics of putting the ratepayer first and restoring our historical role as a low cost provider of power and water.

If the district spends a dollar, theratepayers will pay it. MID needs to focus its operations and control costs like a business. We need to continuously seek cost reductions. Ratepayers shouldn’t have to pay for above market employee compensation, low productivity or intransience.

PG&E recently went through bankruptcy. They are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission. MID has had a good year thus far in 2011. The electricity market costs have dropped down significantly and we have had an outstanding snow pack which results in reasonable hydropower.

Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

John Duarte

John Kidd


Did not participate


The Chamber should be a major player as the ‘voice of businesses’ when coordinating discussions about Modest's future. The Chamber should play a vital role in economic growth plans and programs developed with local government, education and utility operators. I am working on a GRC task force, a program where the Chamber takes a lead role in educating the community about FERC and challenges facing MID and TID.


A collaborative and cooperative relationship also means "go along to get along". This has resulted in scandals that have cost business and taxpayers millions. Some civic and political leaders have failed to promote oversight as guardians of public money. Cooperation is necessary for the public good as long as it does not lead to cronyism.



Did not participate

Our job as a City Council is to provide the services (fire, police, transportation, and administration) required by the residents of Modesto using the most efficient budgeting we can provide. It may mean outsourcing some services. However, it is not the responsibility of the City Government to provide jobs; it is the responsibility of City Government to provide the services the community needs at the lowest cost to those citizens.









Did not participate

My top issue is creating a business climate through tax and fee incentives to attract new industry to Modesto. This is the biggest step we can take. It generates jobs and increases sales of local products; that translates into additional revenue to the City as well as increasing the purchasing power for our citizens.

We have to get back to basics. We must return to open, transparent, and accountable government. We cannot continue to spend more than what we take in and borrow to make up the difference. The number one priority is to be a good steward of the people’s resources.Volunteerism, developing more taking it the streets events a working citizen is a happy citizen.









Did not participate



The City of Modesto

Yes, I have opened six restaurants in Modesto and currently manage the Mediterranean Market and Grill with 18 employees

Yes. United Pacific Assets, LLC, Crows Landing Investors, LLC/, and Patriot Legal Documents LLC DBA Patriot Evictions

Y


Did not participate


Both sides of the negotiating table are working on reform. The current system is unsustainable and must be modified. We cannot end up like Vallejo; file for bankruptcy.We must work together with labor on pension reform that is fair to both city workers and the taxpayers of Modesto.

Pension reform needs to happen so that it makes sense for everybody involved

Yes, the current method is not sustainable and needs to be changed despite the pressure to do nothing. Public Safety gets 75% or our budget. How much more do they want?





Did not participate

I plan to pursue a balanced budget through better management of the citizen’s money by exploring the outsourcing of some departments in the City of Modesto. If we can save money by outsourcing depart-ments such as the sewage treatment plant, and save a substantial amount of money of the citizens of Modesto, I believe that would put more money into the General Fund allowing us to not cut police and fire departments.



Reshape the way we spend. Some examples are we don't need to buy new equipment all the time. The Police Dept. says there is a decrease in crime. If so, we need to review the funding alignment in that department.





John Lane Gunderson

Philip W. Moyer

Todd Aaronson

Dave Lopez

Carmen Sabatino

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


I bring energy, enthusiasm and engaging nature to work with and for people.


I am experienced, well educated, and fiscally responsible. I have built and ran a business by making many successful strategic and management decisions. MID needs experienced and indepen-dent board members whom will run the district like a business.




























The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES DISTRICT 3


MID BOARD CANDIDATES MID BOARD CANDIDATES

It is vital to Modesto’s future that we attract new manufacturing and production

businesses and retain the ones we currently have. We need the jobs and the increased

economy that these businesses create. We must regain the advantage that business has

enjoyed with the very competitive rates provided by MID. The relicensing of Don

Pedro Dam will be one of the most important issues that the MID board will face in

coming years. We are very dependent on our agribusiness to drive the economy in our

Q&A with MID Board Candidates

OCT 2011 11

PuBlIC ADvOCACy



The most important issue for these agencies is jobs and economic growth: For the city, minimizing regulatory hurdles to industrial and job creating land uses; for city schools and county Board of Education, providing a well educated work force; for the Chamber, encouraging local policies that further sustainable job creation; and for MID, restoring MID’s role as a low cost provider of power and water and an economic engine for jobs in our community.

Local government is based on personal relationships. Our top priority for Modesto is area wide job creation and retention. Companies seeking to expand and locate in Stanislaus county will look at power costs, workforce readiness and logistics as major determinants when comparing locations. Stanislaus county public entities must understand how their roles in these areas are interdependent for successful job creation.










MID directors are responsible for the strategic guidance of the district – including infrastructure needs, capacity planning and top management recruiting and accountability. MID directors also direct operating budget development and policy. In the next few years, MID directors will face very important decisions in negotiating the terms of our renewed FERC permit on Don Pedro Reservoir.






Our business growth has helped me to understand the needs of our community for water and electricity. We need business efficiency to manage the "green energy" requirements of the State of California.


As a board member it is my responsibility to spend the rate payers dollars wisely. One of the main reasons I am seeking this position is to determine why we have had so many rate increases. Many factors attract new business to our area, low utility costs is one of them. MID should do everything in its power to maintain low rates for all its customers.

We have lost our competitive advantage to PG&E customers because MID has not vigorously challenged the regulations that have increased our rates and have wasted money on projects like Mountain House and unnecessary capital expenditures. MID needs to return to the basics of putting the ratepayer first and restoring our historical role as a low cost provider of power and water.

If the district spends a dollar, theratepayers will pay it. MID needs to focus its operations and control costs like a business. We need to continuously seek cost reductions. Ratepayers shouldn’t have to pay for above market employee compensation, low productivity or intransience.

PG&E recently went through bankruptcy. They are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission. MID has had a good year thus far in 2011. The electricity market costs have dropped down significantly and we have had an outstanding snow pack which results in reasonable hydropower.

Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

John Duarte

John Kidd


Did not participate


The Chamber should be a major player as the ‘voice of businesses’ when coordinating discussions about Modest's future. The Chamber should play a vital role in economic growth plans and programs developed with local government, education and utility operators. I am working on a GRC task force, a program where the Chamber takes a lead role in educating the community about FERC and challenges facing MID and TID.


A collaborative and cooperative relationship also means "go along to get along". This has resulted in scandals that have cost business and taxpayers millions. Some civic and political leaders have failed to promote oversight as guardians of public money. Cooperation is necessary for the public good as long as it does not lead to cronyism.



Did not participate

Our job as a City Council is to provide the services (fire, police, transportation, and administration) required by the residents of Modesto using the most efficient budgeting we can provide. It may mean outsourcing some services. However, it is not the responsibility of the City Government to provide jobs; it is the responsibility of City Government to provide the services the community needs at the lowest cost to those citizens.









Did not participate

My top issue is creating a business climate through tax and fee incentives to attract new industry to Modesto. This is the biggest step we can take. It generates jobs and increases sales of local products; that translates into additional revenue to the City as well as increasing the purchasing power for our citizens.

We have to get back to basics. We must return to open, transparent, and accountable government. We cannot continue to spend more than what we take in and borrow to make up the difference. The number one priority is to be a good steward of the people’s resources.Volunteerism, developing more taking it the streets events a working citizen is a happy citizen.









Did not participate



The City of Modesto

Yes, I have opened six restaurants in Modesto and currently manage the Mediterranean Market and Grill with 18 employees

Yes. United Pacific Assets, LLC, Crows Landing Investors, LLC/, and Patriot Legal Documents LLC DBA Patriot Evictions

Y


Did not participate


Both sides of the negotiating table are working on reform. The current system is unsustainable and must be modified. We cannot end up like Vallejo; file for bankruptcy.We must work together with labor on pension reform that is fair to both city workers and the taxpayers of Modesto.

Pension reform needs to happen so that it makes sense for everybody involved

Yes, the current method is not sustainable and needs to be changed despite the pressure to do nothing. Public Safety gets 75% or our budget. How much more do they want?





Did not participate

I plan to pursue a balanced budget through better management of the citizen’s money by exploring the outsourcing of some departments in the City of Modesto. If we can save money by outsourcing depart-ments such as the sewage treatment plant, and save a substantial amount of money of the citizens of Modesto, I believe that would put more money into the General Fund allowing us to not cut police and fire departments.



Reshape the way we spend. Some examples are we don't need to buy new equipment all the time. The Police Dept. says there is a decrease in crime. If so, we need to review the funding alignment in that department.





John Lane Gunderson

Philip W. Moyer

Todd Aaronson

Dave Lopez

Carmen Sabatino

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


I bring energy, enthusiasm and engaging nature to work with and for people.


I am experienced, well educated, and fiscally responsible. I have built and ran a business by making many successful strategic and management decisions. MID needs experienced and indepen-dent board members whom will run the district like a business.




























The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer




MID BOARD CANDIDATES MID BOARD CANDIDATES

area. We need a steady and dependable water supply for our farmers. We must have

directors that understand all of the business aspects and who will be good stewards

not only for the farmers, but all business and ratepayers that depend on MID for

competitive rates. Please vote for the most knowledgeable and fiscally responsible

candidates. Our future depends on your vote.


PuBlIC ADvOCACy

The school board candidates have major challenges facing them. How do our schools prepare our children to be well rounded and good citizens, employees, innovators and employers while facing dramatic budget

cuts? Our County and City School Board candidates need to show an understanding of the fiscal challenges they wil l be facing as well as the need to better prepare students for col lege and/or the work force.


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd







Prior to being appointed to the City Council I thought the role and responsi-bility of this office was that of a policy maker. However, I have learned that it is far more than that. City council members are challenged to be mediators, cheerleaders, educators, consultants, financial advisors and much more. It’s important to bring balanced, open-minded, inquisitive discussion to our committees, negotiations, and council meetings.



The office of city councilmember is the primary policymaking office for the City. The primary responsibilities are improv-ing oversight in City Hall, both in the city’s budgeting and it functions; and making our community more economi-cally vibrant. With district elections, a primary responsibility of a councilmem-ber is to balance the needs and interests of the district with community-wide needs and interests.




Bringing more jobs to Modesto. I would look into how we could market Modesto to make it more attractive to manufacturing companies to bring their business here





No












Determine if we are duplicating services at the city or with other goverment agencies; determine which city services can be turned over to private sector or non-profits; involve citizens in identifying areas where city can no longer provide services; encourage economic growth by making Modesto the simplest place in California to expand or start a business.


Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES DISTRICT 5MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES




I think the Chamber has taken the first step already. I will work closely with the Chamber to form partnerships with businesses finding volunteers to provide mentoring/ life skills services to at risk students, and developing career education opportunities for students. I would like to see Modesto City Schools develop an agricultural magnet program or high school that would prepare students for employment opportunities that exist in our area.


Modesto City Schools already has collaborative and cooperative relationships with all of these groups. There will be even more after the Chamber's recent "State of Education" program. As an individual I am a member of the Alliance/Chamber Education Committee. I will continue my involvement with all these groups. The problem seems to be that not all of these entities mentioned are committed to the goal.

All of the entities you reference above have a mutual interest in the economic health of our city. There is abundant common ground. What we need is to be open to the discussion and to have a willingness to explore non-traditional solutions.

Working together we could build a collaborative and cooperative relationship by initiating a program to help valley employers gain skilled employees through vocational education, and reduce the dropout rate.

The resources and tools to accomplish this are already available. As board president I made communication and collaboration with community leaders a priority. Working together we could utilize the resources of The Chamber and the business community to incorporate Career Tech Education curriculum, teaching strategies, and best practices


A majority of the school board (a lone member has no power) is responsible for the oversight of the district’s $250 million budget, for setting board policies and the direction of the district, the employment of the superintendent, (the only person the school district can directly hire or fire), and the approval/ratification of contracts.


The roll of the board is to set policy and give direction to the district. Right now, individually and collectively the board needs to do everything possible to make sure the new superintendent succeeds.

The primary role and responsibility of a school board member is to evaluate facts presented to the board, and to thereafter make decisions regarding policy and budget issues. In this endeavor I believe we have a duty to hear from all interested stakeholders, and to have a process which is as credible, transparent and non-political as possible.

Approves the Stanislaus County Office of Education Superintendent's salary, approve the SCOE operational budget, and function as an expulsion appeal board. Establish, review and implement board policies.

On the surface, the Board sets policy, approves the yearly operating budget, and serves as an appeals board for inter-district attendance requests and student expulsions. However, SCOE is positioned to bring together school districts and the community to focus on important issues that impact all of us.

If you are elected to office, what will be your top issue? Describe the measures you will take to address this numberone priority.

I have two major concerns: Achievement & Accountability. District resources must be allocated in a manner that does not jeopardize academic achievement. The district must implement cost savings/budget reductions and aggres-sively pursue grant funding. I am concerned about district accountability to the public regarding the payment of Mello Roos and Bond fees. Modesto needs to thoroughly study ways these debt obligations can be reduced or shortened.


My top priority is to increase Vocational and Technical offerings. The new Superintendent is on the board, and has made it one of her goals. I will work with her and the board to find new ways to do this.

I am deeply troubled by the loss of five school days in Modesto City Schools.I want to get those back. Another areaof priority for me is early childhood care and education, and early detection and intervention regarding at-risk students. With regard to both budget and policy, my decisions as a board member will reflect the importance I place on these issues.

I will be visible, responsive and support school districts in Area 3. I will function as a liaison between the school districts and SCOE, giving me the opportunity to support programs and services thus meeting the districts varied needs as requested. Together, the districts and SCOE can have an open dialogue and foster a collaborative, working spirit.

Special Education is one of the current hot topics. I will encourage healthy dialogue between all parties involved to benefit those affected by the outcome. I want to see the programs remain with SCOE if fiscal issues with the districts can be resolved. The programs face a number of challenges and these special students must remain the priority in all discussions and decisions.

Did not participate

Putting students first. Getting parents involved and creating a safe school environment. Getting our schools out of Program Improvement status, improve on our expulsion, suspension and truancy rates, improve in the basic curriculum, create a military school, and improve relationships between the district, parents and the community


Yes. Since 1995 I have operated my own private law practice. I also am an officer in my husband’s professional law corporation, and help manage financial matters for him. I am the managing partner of the J & T Goncalves Family Limited Partnership, which is a farming operation. I understand the challenges business owners face every day.


No.

Yes. At this time I work as court-appointed counsel, but for several years I had a private law office in town. Prior to attending law school I co-owned a maternity and baby shop in the Central Valley. I am fully aware of the challenges facing small business. I support and encourage collaboration between local youth and the business community.

Yes. I have over 40 years of experience in education from volunteer to top level administrator. After 25 years of service with SCOE, I retired in 2004 as the Deputy Superintendent of Student Services and Human Resources. I was responsible for a number of SCOE educational programs during my tenure including Special Education, Community Schools, and Charter Schools.

My husband and I are walnut growers/processors in Stanislaus County. We process our crop for domestic and international distribution. Four years ago, I started the Salida Performing Arts Foundation in an effort to keep the performing arts in public education. To date more than 100 elementary students at Sisk Elementary participate in a violin immersion program.

What are the most important assets and/or perspectives you would bring to tnis office?

I’ve served as a school board member. For 16 years I was an active parent volunteer. I’m an attorney in private practice, and handle financial matters for our family farm. I immigrated to the U. S. as a child and understand the linguistic, economic and cultural challenges many children face.


I have experience, four terms on the board, institutional knowledge, and 34 years as a classroom teacher. When I make a decision I know how it will effect the whole educational system.

My approach to assessing issues is rational and fair. I listen and am accessible. Now more than ever, each financial decision by the Board must be carefully made because it will ripple through the entire community.

My extensive background in education - specifically with programs and services offered by SCOE. This rich background, supplies me with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the function and role of SCOE and the Board that oversees these operations.

I am approachable, honest, inquisitive, trustworthy, genuine, gregarious and caring. I always act with students at the forefront with a deep desire to understand issues from multiple perspectives. I believe in supporting teachers to get what they need to reach even the most challenging students.

What is your position on careertechnical education/vocationaleducation as a priority?

I wholeheartedly support career technology and vocational education. I would like to see the district develop an Agricultural Technical High School or magnet type program (like I.B.) that would prepare students for jobs upon graduation.


Vocational and Technical Education is my top priority. Only one third of our students will go to college. The other two thirds need to have programs that will help them become productive workers. I believe that the dropout rate will decline with more Vocational and Technical programs.

I strongly support vocational education. We must offer both an academic education and vocational training in order to address the local need for educated and skilled workers. In collaboration with business, we can provide workforce readiness and skills training.

Vocational education is a high priority in our community. Via a charter school working together we could utilize the resources of the Chamber and the business community and incorporate vocational curriculum, teaching strategies and best practices from the education community.

We must create an educated and prepared workforce. Chefs and mechanics can be as successful as the college educated. Let's capitalize on students' interests. Would learning Algebra, Geometry and Chemistry under the umbrella of culinary arts make more sense? Maybe then our dropout rate would decline.

Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux

Cathy Flores Hallinan

Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina

MODESTO CITY SCHOOL BOARD OF EDUCATION

STANISLAUS COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES STANISLAUS COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


























Did not participate





No.


















Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux


Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina




























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


























Did not participate





No.


















Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux


Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina



Q&A with Stanislaus County and Modesto City Schools Board of Education Candidates

OCT 2011 13

PuBlIC ADvOCACy


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


























Did not participate





No.


















Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux


Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina




























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


























Did not participate





No.


















Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux


Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina




























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer


























Did not participate





No.


















Solange G. Altman

Brian Du Bois

Steven Grenbeaux


Norman V. Lee

Kimberly Spina



They should understand the role that a good education system plays in promoting our local economy. They should have an understanding of the bridges that have been and can be built between our schools and

businesses. They should show a strong desire to further enhance those relationships. Here we present the candidates’ answers to key questions about our education system.


The November ballot will list three Measures for your consideration. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce supports these measures, which advise the City Council on city employee retirement issues. The Chamber sup-ports pension reform and believes the City cannot continue to fund pen-sions at their present levels. Our current economic climate has required private business to make adjustments and our City should do likewise. The City cannot sustain funding these expenses at their current levels and continue to provide other services necessary to our community. The current Council has done a good job focusing on potential new hires; however, those policies need to also apply to current employees. Unless a change is made it will become increasingly more difficult to balance the city budget without eliminating additional public safety positions.

Measure Q Should the City of Modesto seek to move employees from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution, 401(k) style, plan for retirement benefits? Yes or No. - This advisory measure seeks to enable the city to predict what its benefit expense will be in the future, which will alleviate the necessity to continually ask taxpayers and ratepayers to fund the costs of public pensions. This measure will provide Modesto with a steady level of costs while still maintaining a top retirement plan for valued city employees. The Chamber supports this measure because the approach it recommends would be the best way to solve Modesto’s long-term structural deficit and avoid a massive unfunded liability.

BAllOT MEASuRES


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer







They all can work together by fighting against gangs and drugs in our community. This can be done by building boys and girls clubs, working with students to create checking and savings accounts, making sure that every youth has a California ID card and assisting students in getting a job after high school.

One major purpose of education is to prepare people for the job market. Schools are facing huge budget cut-backs threatening their ability to provide a quality education. Teachers and staff layoffs are common, and popular programs were curtailed. Businesses can help by making internships available. As an elected official, I will use my contacts in the business community and network with the Chamber and it's members.

Improving education in our community is a community responsibility. I will work with the Chamber and the city to create community partnerships that offer opportunities to mentor students and provide job training skills.

We all need to work together in order to better serve the citizens of Modesto. The city schools need the city government and the Chamber to provide the mentors and man power required to improve education in our community. As an elected official I will encourage my board and other boards to participate in these meetings and make sure we are striving for a better community.



School board members must understand their duties and responsibilities. It is essential to keep in mind that education is a state function. Board members, as individuals, exercise no authority outside legally constituted meetings. Policies can be agreed upon only in an official meeting, and individual members cannot commit the board to any definite action except as authorized by the board at a legal meeting.

I seek the office of Trustee on the Modesto City School Board. As Trustee, I will have the opportunity to set the policies and establish the budget of the school district.

The Modesto City Schools Board of Education is responsible for the direction and policy-making for the District. The Board is also responsible for the hiring of the school superintendent. The Board sets the policies and makes sure that the District operates according to those policies. The Board also provides financial oversight for the District.

The Modesto City School Board is responsible for two things. First, they are responsible for hiring and firing the Superintendent. This is the only employee that the board has direct control over. Second, the MCS board is responsible for approving the budget. With the projected 22 million dollar shortfall this will be the main responsibility of the board for the next 4 years.



Putting students first. Getting parents involved and creating a safe school environment. Getting our schools out of Program Improvement status, improve on our expulsion, suspension and truancy rates, improve in the basic curriculum, create a military school, and improve relationships between the district, parents and the community.

The top issue in my mind is the budget shortfall that we must address. Unfortunately, there are no easy answers here. Much of the fat has already been eliminated, and further cuts will hurt. As a board member, I would evaluate each proposed cut to assure that to the greatest extent possible, we preserve our ability to provide our children with the best education that will qualify them for their future employment.

My top issue will be to improve student performance.This begins with accountability. I will work to develop training for principals regarding best practices. We can learn from each other. I will work to develop effective teacher evaluations and training to help teachers be the best. I will work to create a culture of learning in our community.

I have many priorities but most importantly the budget must get under control. The district cannot function without being fiscally sound. We need to reach out to the community to participate in classrooms and after school programs, and work with employee groups to save their jobs while keeping the district afloat. Most important we must re-focus on students and remember it is their future that we are protecting.



Yes, I'm the CEO/President of Buoyancy Charitable Community, a nonprofit organization, and I'm the Assistant Principal of Johanna Boss High School. I have served as the acting principal over this same school.

Yes. I have been a partner in a law firm since the 1980s and have had varying management responsibilities. I have been the managing partner of our law firm for twelve years.

I am a business litigator and I run my own small law practice. As a director for the Lighthouse Preschool, I made financial and business decisions for the school. My parents are Modesto business owners and my husband is part of one of the oldest family businesses in Modesto.

I have not run a business but I have a degree in Organizational Communications from Sacramento State. The classes required for this degree taught me how to streamline an organization through better communications processes. This enhanced communication is the foundation for any successful business.



I have a B.S Degree in Social Science, Clear teaching credential, Master in Education Administration, Professional Clear Administration Service Credential. Taught in Middle School, High School, and Adult Education. I know education rules, Laws, and procedures.

I bring family values, the common sense of a businessman, and the prespective of a concerned, involved parent. Beyond this, I am a trained mediator, and have experience working with opposing sides to reach a consensus.

I am the only candidate running that currently has children attending school in the District. As an involved parent, I offer the perspective of how the District policies actually play out in the classroom. I will be an advocate for kids.

I have the benefit of graduating from both high school and college in today's technical age. I understand what it takes to succeed in education with the use of technology that was not available 20 or even 10 years ago. This knowledge gives me a unique view on what our students need to excel in school today.

What is your position on career technical education/vocational education as a priority?


I support career technical education/ vocational education . They should be priorities. Once students master a technical or vocational skill, they usually can get a high wage paying job, or become an entrepreneur and own their own business.

We have to recognize that many of our students do not want to go to college, or cannot afford it at this time. For them technical/vocational education is critical. It must be a priority for our district.

I support expanded emphasis on technical/vocational training. Not every student is college-bound and we need a school system that gives those students the skills they need to get a job with a livable wage.

Vocational education will be essential in bridging the gap between the upper and lower tiers of students. As a community we need to encourage students to try new areas of study in order to find the area that best suits their needs. Partner-ing with local businesses will give these students a first hand look at what careers are available for them to strive towards.

Mylinda Mason

Rickey McGill

Bill Mussman

Amy Elliott Neumann

Josh Vander Veen


MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES

Did not participate

MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATESMODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES

Q&A with Modesto City Schools Board of Education Candidates

OCT 2011 15

Measure R Should the City of Modesto seek to avoid “pension spiking” by current city employees by moving to an average of the last three years of employment for the salary baseline in the employee retirement equa-tion rather than the current last single highest year? Yes or No. – Pension spiking allows public employees, whose pension benefits are determined by their top year of pay to forgo medical and other benefits to drive up their final year of pay, creating an artificially high baseline that the per-centage of benefit is multiplied by. This advisory measure encourages fu-ture councils to end pension spiking by averaging the employees’ top three years earnings instead of just the single top-earning year. The Chamber supports this measure because it will provide a more equitable manner of determining pension benefits for public employees.

Measure S Should the City of Modesto seek retirement formulas that increase the age of retirement for our employees to mirror the private sector? Yes or No. – The current retirement system for Modesto city em-ployees actually encourages the most valuable, experienced employees to retire earlier than people employed in private sector jobs. This advisory measure will encourage future councils to consider policies that would motivate the city’s most experienced employees to continue employment with the city, which ensures tax payers will benefit from the experience gained by long term employment, rather than losing that experience be-cause of early retirement. The Chamber supports this measure because it will increase city employees retirement age in a manner that more closely mirrors that of private sector retirement. P


























Nick Blom

Larry Byrd

Joe Duarte

John Kidd



















No














Stephanie Burnside

Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer

David Cogdill, Jr.

Douglas Dyrssen
































The City of Modesto



















Todd Aaronson

Paul D. Tunison


Joshua Esteves

Jenevieve Kenoyer







They all can work together by fighting against gangs and drugs in our community. This can be done by building boys and girls clubs, working with students to create checking and savings accounts, making sure that every youth has a California ID card and assisting students in getting a job after high school.

One major purpose of education is to prepare people for the job market. Schools are facing huge budget cut-backs threatening their ability to provide a quality education. Teachers and staff layoffs are common, and popular programs were curtailed. Businesses can help by making internships available. As an elected official, I will use my contacts in the business community and network with the Chamber and it's members.

Improving education in our community is a community responsibility. I will work with the Chamber and the city to create community partnerships that offer opportunities to mentor students and provide job training skills.

We all need to work together in order to better serve the citizens of Modesto. The city schools need the city government and the Chamber to provide the mentors and man power required to improve education in our community. As an elected official I will encourage my board and other boards to participate in these meetings and make sure we are striving for a better community.



School board members must understand their duties and responsibilities. It is essential to keep in mind that education is a state function. Board members, as individuals, exercise no authority outside legally constituted meetings. Policies can be agreed upon only in an official meeting, and individual members cannot commit the board to any definite action except as authorized by the board at a legal meeting.

I seek the office of Trustee on the Modesto City School Board. As Trustee, I will have the opportunity to set the policies and establish the budget of the school district.

The Modesto City Schools Board of Education is responsible for the direction and policy-making for the District. The Board is also responsible for the hiring of the school superintendent. The Board sets the policies and makes sure that the District operates according to those policies. The Board also provides financial oversight for the District.

The Modesto City School Board is responsible for two things. First, they are responsible for hiring and firing the Superintendent. This is the only employee that the board has direct control over. Second, the MCS board is responsible for approving the budget. With the projected 22 million dollar shortfall this will be the main responsibility of the board for the next 4 years.



Putting students first. Getting parents involved and creating a safe school environment. Getting our schools out of Program Improvement status, improve on our expulsion, suspension and truancy rates, improve in the basic curriculum, create a military school, and improve relationships between the district, parents and the community.

The top issue in my mind is the budget shortfall that we must address. Unfortunately, there are no easy answers here. Much of the fat has already been eliminated, and further cuts will hurt. As a board member, I would evaluate each proposed cut to assure that to the greatest extent possible, we preserve our ability to provide our children with the best education that will qualify them for their future employment.

My top issue will be to improve student performance.This begins with accountability. I will work to develop training for principals regarding best practices. We can learn from each other. I will work to develop effective teacher evaluations and training to help teachers be the best. I will work to create a culture of learning in our community.

I have many priorities but most importantly the budget must get under control. The district cannot function without being fiscally sound. We need to reach out to the community to participate in classrooms and after school programs, and work with employee groups to save their jobs while keeping the district afloat. Most important we must re-focus on students and remember it is their future that we are protecting.



Yes, I'm the CEO/President of Buoyancy Charitable Community, a nonprofit organization, and I'm the Assistant Principal of Johanna Boss High School. I have served as the acting principal over this same school.

Yes. I have been a partner in a law firm since the 1980s and have had varying management responsibilities. I have been the managing partner of our law firm for twelve years.

I am a business litigator and I run my own small law practice. As a director for the Lighthouse Preschool, I made financial and business decisions for the school. My parents are Modesto business owners and my husband is part of one of the oldest family businesses in Modesto.

I have not run a business but I have a degree in Organizational Communications from Sacramento State. The classes required for this degree taught me how to streamline an organization through better communications processes. This enhanced communication is the foundation for any successful business.



I have a B.S Degree in Social Science, Clear teaching credential, Master in Education Administration, Professional Clear Administration Service Credential. Taught in Middle School, High School, and Adult Education. I know education rules, Laws, and procedures.

I bring family values, the common sense of a businessman, and the prespective of a concerned, involved parent. Beyond this, I am a trained mediator, and have experience working with opposing sides to reach a consensus.

I am the only candidate running that currently has children attending school in the District. As an involved parent, I offer the perspective of how the District policies actually play out in the classroom. I will be an advocate for kids.

I have the benefit of graduating from both high school and college in today's technical age. I understand what it takes to succeed in education with the use of technology that was not available 20 or even 10 years ago. This knowledge gives me a unique view on what our students need to excel in school today.

What is your position on career technical education/vocational education as a priority?


I support career technical education/ vocational education . They should be priorities. Once students master a technical or vocational skill, they usually can get a high wage paying job, or become an entrepreneur and own their own business.

We have to recognize that many of our students do not want to go to college, or cannot afford it at this time. For them technical/vocational education is critical. It must be a priority for our district.

I support expanded emphasis on technical/vocational training. Not every student is college-bound and we need a school system that gives those students the skills they need to get a job with a livable wage.

Vocational education will be essential in bridging the gap between the upper and lower tiers of students. As a community we need to encourage students to try new areas of study in order to find the area that best suits their needs. Partner-ing with local businesses will give these students a first hand look at what careers are available for them to strive towards.

Mylinda Mason

Rickey McGill

Bill Mussman

Amy Elliott Neumann

Josh Vander Veen


MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES

Did not participate

MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATESMODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES

PuBlIC ADvOCACy


The Modesto Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the educators, businesses and individuals who attended State of Education: Building Bridges for Tomorrow’s Workforce on August 25, 2011. This event is the first of many to come. We recognized some outstanding programs, students and efforts from educators and the business community. We sincerely thank our sponsors who made this event possible. Their generous donations included 100 tickets for educators to attend this event. The 22 member Education Committee worked for months planning and preparing for this event, thank you.

The Chamber will take a leading role with internships beginning in 2012 and it is our hope that our membership will follow suit assisting with one of the many programs offered at the event.

Everyone involved with this event played a critical role in helping your Chamber raise funds to award scholarships to students in the first year of this event’s inception. We applaud your generosity and look forward to bringing you more information regarding the introduced initiatives over the course of this next year. It is our sincerest wish that you become involved in some way with a program, school or educational institution. Ask questions, make a difference and see what happens.

State of education: building bridgeS For

tomorrow’S workForce

Presenting SponsorWalmart

Chairman SponsorAT&T

Speaker SponsorsDoubleTree HotelHeald CollegeUC Merced

Venue SponsorsBrandman University Part of Chapman UniversityMike’s Roadhouse

President’s Club Table SponsorsPlatinum Save Mart Supermarkets

Diamond Doctors Medical Center – DMC

GoldModesto Nuts Professional Baseball Memorial Medical Center

SilverAmerican Chevrolet Curtis Legal Group Gianelli & Associates Prime Shine Car WashSan Joaquin Valley CollegeUS Bank

Table Sponsors Assemblymember Kristen Olsen The Alliance CHG Brad Hawn City of Modesto David E. Cogdill Sr., Stanislaus County Assessor Don’s Mobile Glass Express Employment ProfessionalsHumphreys College McHenry Bowl, Inc. Mocse Credit UnionModesto City SchoolsModesto Junior College FoundationNever Boring Design AssociatesRiverbank Chamber of CommerceRoss F. Carroll, Inc.Stanislaus County Office of EducationTDR, Inc. Turlock Chamber of CommerceUnited Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus County

COMMunITy DEvElOPMEnT

OCT 2011 17

ECOnOMIC DEvElOPMEnT

Marc O’Neil Jeff QuinnMarcia MesserDan Mello

Comprehensive Risk Management Services

OSHA Compliance & Injury Prevention Programs

Safety Training Seminars and Materials

Business and Benefits Consulting Services

HR, Legal and Accounting Consulting

Self-Funded Programs and Captive Management

Local Feel. Global Expertise.

MODESTO (209) 529-3480 l TURLOCK (209) 667-0995 l LIVINGSTON (209) 394-7925 l FRESNO (559) 432-8200 l OAKHURST (559) 683-4610

wintonireland.com l Since 1913 l Lic # 0596517

Taffeco Real Estate In this ever changing market, progress is impossible without change. Taffeco Real Estate has created new opportunities designed to empower real estate professionals to achieve their personal goals and obtain financial success. Our Mission is to become the leading real estate company in the United States as a brand that completely resets the standards of excellence in the industry. Taffeco Real Estate’s unprecedented 100% commission plans include access to our prestigious located office, innovative technology, comprehensive training, education and support. For more information please contact (209) 531-2900. P

USA Auto Service is a family-owned business serving the Modesto motoring public with a combined average experience of over 72 years. We have come to be known for our long-standing tradition of customer-focused outcomes and high-quality service. We have a modern facility designed to take care of today’s customers and their automobiles. We hire the best ASE Certified Technicians, highly trained Service Advisors, procure the best parts available, implement continuous training and ensure that the job is done right the first time. Our 24 month, 24,000 mile warranty is highly exceptional in today’s marketplace. For more information please call (209) 524-3567 or visit www.usaautoservice.net

Champs Elysees Day Spa Here at Champs Elysees Day Spa, we strive to be number one in customer service. We want our clients to escape and relax in our elegant atmosphere. We are proud to say we use Epicuren Discovery for all of our facials, massage and body treatments. We also use the pharmaceutical grade image products for all of our wonderful chemical peels. At Champs Elysees we do so much more than your basic treatments. We want everyone to leave with a smile and be excited to come back. Please visit our website at champselyseesmodesto.com or call (209) 579-2848.

Oak Valley Community Bank Headquartered in Stanislaus County, Oak Valley Community Bank has been offering a full-line of financial services to local families and businesses since 1991. They currently operate through fourteen branches in five counties. They are also a participating member of the surcharge-free MoneyPass ATM network with over 17,000 ATMs nationwide. Visit Oak Valley today and experience banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of old-fashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need. For more information call 1-866-844-7500 or visit www.ovcb.com. P

new member proFileS


THE BUCK HERE.Shop Local.

MODESTO MEANS BUSINESS

Members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce are eligible for greatly discounted

rates on the following media outlets.

• Radio commercials on the top stations in the market

KATM, KHKK, KHOP, KWIN, KESP, KJSN, KFIV, KMRQ, KOSO and KRVR.

• TV commercials on major networks through Comcast

• Newspaper space in the Modesto Bee

Your message will be included in commercials produced by The Modesto Chamber

of Commerce and certain restrictions apply. Production services are also available

at reduced rates. Don’t pass up this opportunity to be part of a campaign to

educate the public on the importance of shopping locally and gain exposure

for your business at a fraction of the usual cost.

Please call Warren Groeschel at (209) 526-9136 for more information.

1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 577-5757 • modchamber.org

BUY LOCAL,

Invest in your future

SOCIETY FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN & ADULTS ANNUAL GALA

10.22.2011Galletto Ristorante

6pm - Midnight

$tickets: 150.00 each

TO PURCHASE:

Passed Course Menu Dining Stations

Hosted Wine Bar 6-8pm Poker Tournament

Exciting Entertainment

www.SocietyforHandicapped.org(209) 524-3536

Masquerade BallRED CARPET

OCT 2011 19

The Modesto Symphony Guild has been hard at work throughout the year raising money to support the symphony, providing lodging for visiting musicians and awarding scholarships to well-deserving music students. To cap off their year they are presenting an evening with Modesto’s own Broadway Star – Jeremy Stolle. They will be hosting a dinner at Del Rio on Saturday, October 15th with a wonderful evening of entertainment in store. Tickets, as well table sponsorships are available by calling Toni Clark at (209) 529-9169.

Soroptimist International of Modesto will hold their 36th Annual Pancake Breakfast & Craft Fair on Sunday, October 23 from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Masonic Center located at 800 Rose Avenue, Modesto. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door or in advance. Bring a can of food to benefit those in need and be entered in a drawing for a nice prize. Please join us for this family event. For tickets or further information contact Truda Faulkner at (209) 521-6417 or email [email protected]. Peace of Mind Home Inspections just opened a structural pest inspections division called Peace of Mind Pest Control. Owners Michael Moradian and David Alvares have named 11-year pest inspection veteran Doug Goodman as operator and inspector. Services include real estate termite inspection, treatment, fumigation and repair, dry rot repair, certification and estimates, with pest control services starting in 2012. The company is state licensed, bonded and insured for your own peace of mind, and serves San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Merced counties. For details, phone (866) 757-8480.

The Alzheimer’s Association Modesto’s 1st Walk To End Alzheimer’s is being held Saturday, October 22 at Graceada Park. The Alzheimer’s Association’s “Walk To End Alzheimer’s” is the nations largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research programs. There is NO fee to register to walk. Walk check-in begins 8:30 a.m.; the 3 mile walk with 1.5 mile shortcut begins at 10 a.m. Visit www.walktoendalz.kintera.org/modesto11 or call Walk Co-Chair, Rebekah Martin with Pacifica Senior Living Modesto (209) 491-0800. P

announcementS


Sue Hollingsworth, CPA Accredited Estate Planner® is the designation earned recently by Sue Hollingsworth, CPA. The AEP® designation is awarded by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, focusing on high professional, ethical, and educational standards. For over 25 years, Sue Hollingsworth has worked with clients in Modesto and beyond to offer estate planning, tad, and estate and trust accounting services. Sue

is a current member and Past President of the Estate Planning Council of Stanislaus County. For more information, visit www.shollingsworth.com. Yosemite Lanes celebrated its 50th anniversary the week of August 29 through September 5, 2011. The bowl, built in 1961, enjoyed its popularity until it was time for a new look. Jim Gordin acquired the bowl January 1, 1999 and from 1999 through 2005 initiated extensive remodeling and modernization. The bowl operates a full service restaurant, lounge, pro shop and 32 of the highest scoring lanes available in the industry. Since April 2010 the bowl is now open 24/7. For more information, please visit www.yosemitelanes.com. P

awardS and achievementS

Sue hollingSworth

401 10th Street (Corner of “10th & D” St) Modesto, CA

P: (209) 527-0902 | F: (209) 527-4045 | www.loveladys.com

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Body and Paint Shop, Inc.

Family Owned and Operated since 1974 | Four� Generation

State of the Region Luncheon

The Chamber’s third annual State of the Region Luncheon will be held on October 26, 2011 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Modesto. With a sell out in 2010, the upcoming State of the Region promises to be as edgy and thought provoking as in years past. This year Dr. Jeffrey Michael of UOP’s Eberhardt School of Business will be discussing economic trends in our region. Following the presentation will be a panel discussion with local business leaders regarding their approach to succeeding in our current climate. The lunch and panel discussion will encourage candid interaction among participants.

Sponsorship of the State of the Region event offers prime opportunity for targeted marketing and advertising, networking with Modesto’s who’s who in the business community and connection with regional decision makers. Be part of an event that facilitates thought provoking ideas, change in the community and supports local business.

Sponsorships, table reservations, tickets and more information are available by contacting Elizabeth Facanha, Special Events Manager, or by email [email protected], (209) 577-5757.

What State of the Region LuncheonWhen October 26, 2011 Check in and networking: 11:30 am Lunch and discussion: Noon to 1:30 pmWhere DoubleTree Hotel, 1150 9th Street P


BRENDA ATHLETIC CLUBS MODESTO SPORTS(209) 571-2582200 Norwegian Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350 Brenda Athletic Clubs has served the Modesto and Turlock area for over 30 years. Their

mission is to “aid our members and those in our community to live life to the fullest.”

Before hours hosted by:

intrinsic elements

After hours hosted by:

Brenda athletic clubs Modesto Sports

nETwORkIng & REFERRAlS

Sept } buSineSS beFore & aFter hourS

INTRINSIC ELEMENTS (209) 409-8510 1214 J Street, Modesto, CA 95354Intrinsic Elements is an eclectic mix of personal homeopathic items, unique gifts, crystals, jewelry and much more. It’s a place to find the perfect gift for people of any age.

New Summer Menu

WANT A FREE APPETIZER?Get yours at:

insidersclub.unos.com1533 Oakdale Rd. Modesto

(209) 521-8667

COFFEE PROVIDED By:

OCT 2011 21

new chamber memberS


BETHANY CHRISTIAN SERVICESnan Cain3048 Hahn DriveModesto, CA 95350(209) 522-5121(209) [email protected]/northerncaliforniaAdoptions

CENTRAL VALLEY AG GRINDING & CENTRAL VALLEY AG TRANSPORTRyan hoganCentral Valley Ag Transport5707 Langworth RoadOakdale, CA 953615509 Langworth RoadOakdale, CA 95361 (209) [email protected] Services

CHAMPS ELYSEES DAY SPAJohn PierceElyse Pierce807 W. Roseburg AvenueModesto, CA 95350(209) 579-2848champselysees.modesto@yahoo.comwww.champselyseesmodesto.comSpa

HOBBY LOBBY STORES, INC.Kari Andrews2801 Mchenry Avenue Modesto, CA 95350(209) [email protected] & Crafts / home Decor

JCS IMMIGRATION SERVICESYulia Joseph3700 WhitfieldModesto, CA 95356(209) 544-2472yulia@jcsimmigration.orgwww.jcsimmigration.orgImmigration Service

JEWELRY VAULTLaurie Smith3801 Pelandale Ave Ste A-11Modesto, CA 95356(209) 545-1100(209) 545-7545lsmith.jewelryvault@gmail.comwww.jewelryvaultmodestoca.comJewelers-Retail

S.A.R. CONSTRUCTIONScott Roberts2019 Poland RoadModesto, CA 95358(209) [email protected], General

VERMEULEN & COMPANY, AN ACCOUNTANCY CORP.Tom Vermeulen1180 W. Main Street, Suite 2Ripon, CA 95366(209) 559-5051(209) 559-5052tom@vermeulencpa.comwww.vermeulencpa.comAccountants-Certified Public

VITO’S RISTORANTE MODESTORay Ashak918 13th StreetModesto, CA 95354(209) [email protected]


Retail Shopping Centers Senior Housing Medical Offices Industrial FacilitiesOffice Buildings Private Schools Churches Restaurants Hospitality

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BLoM & Swain1025 14th Street, modesto, ca 95354(209) 526-9426

taffeco ReaL eState4807 Sisk rd., modesto, ca 95356(209) 531-2900

gReenwood Machine & faBRication, inc.2517 railroad ave., ceres, ca 95307(209) 538-2277

oak VaLLey coMMunity Bank3508 mchenry ave. modesto, ca 95356(209) 579-3365

hoMetown Buffet1771 prescott rd., modesto, ca 95350(209) 521-3999

chaSe Bank3601 pelandale ave., modesto, ca 95356(209) 543-9550

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OCT 2011 25

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

Prime Shine Car Wash is proud to present The Land of Opportunity.Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial

achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Express is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor

their successes in their industry and in the community.

Ralph Perry has been a fixture of the Modesto auto repair industry for over 50 years. Since 1969, Ralph’s Transmission has addressed all of Modesto’s transmission and general automotive repair needs from its huge 9th St location. The shop is currently staffed by four employees and Ralph himself.

Are you originally from this area?I grew up on the West Side, in the town of Newman. I always loved automobiles

and started working with cars around the time I was 13 years old. Washing them, sweeping floors in garages, stuff like that. Because I spent time in that

environment already, I ended up working on cars at a very young age.

What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now? I’ve worked on cars for most of my life. I started out working for Patchett’s out in Newman and worked at different shops

around the area for a few years. In the late 1960’s, I rented part of a small space from a tow shop in order to start helping customers of my

own. The business grew from that little shop and just kept mushrooming and growing. It was only a couple of years after that we moved to this location, and the rest is history.

What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life and how did you achieve that? Technology has changed so much in the past 40 years. All the transmissions used to be controlled by cables through the carburetor or vacuums through the engine. Now it’s all electronically controlled. It’s just amazing how far cars have come. Now you have to be very technologically advanced to know what to do. Automotive repair is just a whole other

business than it was when I got started.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud? I think that just being here for 42 years is a big accomplishment. We’ve been through a lot as a business. We’ve been through the oil embargo and several recessions, but the events of the last ten years have made the biggest impact. We’ve seen the whole market change since 2001. I am particularly proud to still be here providing the best service we possibly can for our community after so many years and so many changes.

What do you like about your job? I love to help people. Even after all this time, I still enjoy being involved in the automobile repair industry. It also affords me the opportunity to pursue a sideline hobby, which is working with the cars of my era. I always get great pleasure from seeing a customer’s classic car restored to its original condition. That’s a major enjoyment of mine.

What are your plans for the future? People are now keeping their cars longer, so we diversified the business a few years ago. We now not only do transmissions, but all the general repairs that the vehicle needs to stay safe and reliable. We are going to keep our business evolving as newer technology comes along. The Hybrid and Electric cars have been a big factor in that in the last few years and there is sure to be more in the future. We plan to continue to provide quality service to our customers and community for as long as possible.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? Above all else, always do the right thing for the customer. Treat your customers how you’d like to be treated and you’ll find loyal customers that will sustain your business. Try to be positive and involved in your community, too.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity? I’m a living example of the opportunities of Modesto. Everything I’ve accomplished and every goal I’ve made has been here. Everything I have acquired is through this business. From the start, Modesto and the surrounding community have always supported us. For a guy who barely finished high school, I’ve really been afforded a great life because of the Modesto community.

ralph perry

For information on how The Principal® can help give you an edge, contact the Modesto Business Center.

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preSident’S clubcircle oF inFluence

PLATINUM LEVELkaiser permanenteSave mart Supermarkets walmart

DIAMOND LEVELbank of the westcapax-giddings, corby, hynes, inc.doctors behavioral health center-dmcdoctors medical center-dmcdmc FoundationFrito-lay company, inc.medamerica billing Services, inc.pacific Southwest container

GOLD LEVELcoca-cola bottling company, inc.costco wholesaledoubletree hotelevergreen nursing & rehabilitation care centerFoster Farms dairyJc penney companymemorial medical centerthe modesto beemodesto irrigation districtmodesto nuts professional baseballpost Foods, llcracor, division of parker hannifin corporationSeneca Foods, llcSysco Food Services of central californiataco bell

SILVER LEVEL5.11 tactical inc.aaaaaa locating, inc.at&tacme construction company, inc.ambeck mortgage associatesamerican chevroletamerican medical responseapplegate Johnston, inc.aramark uniform Servicesatherton & associates, llpbJ’s restaurant & brewhousebasic resources, inc.brandman university part of chapman universitybrown, Fink, boyce & astle, llpbunge oilscalifornia State university, Stanislauscandlewood Suitescentral valley ag grinding/ central valley ag transportcentral valley automotivecentral valley chrysler, Jeep, dodgecentral valley nissan central valley volkswagen hyundai central valley medical groupchildren’s hospital central californiachildren’s hospital & research center-oaklandchukchansi gold resort & casinocitibankclark pest controlcomcastconstruction management corporationcourtyard by marriott

covenant village of turlockcurtis legal groupdamrell, nelson, Schrimp, pallios, pacher & Silvadel monte Foodsdelta Sierra beveragedirectline technologies, inc.english oaks nursing & rehabilitation hospitalF & m bankgalletto ristorantegeorgia-pacificgianelli & associatesgilton Solid waste management, inc.grimbleby coleman cpas, inc.grover landscape Services, inc.harris moran Seed companyheald collegei.J. larsen pumps, inc.infiniti of modestoinstitute of technologyinternational paper companyitt technical instituteJS west & companykaplan collegemv transportation, inc.magnum boots uSa inc.mchenry medical group, inc.mercer Foodsmocse credit unionmodesto commerce bankmodesto toyotamraz, amerine & associatesnestle uSaoak valley community banko’brien’s marketolam Spices & vegetables, inc.pacific gas & electric companypanelized Structures, inc.pepsi bottling groupplastipak packaging prime Shine car washrabobankraley’srizo-lopez Foods, inc.rocha transportation San Joaquin valley collegeSeven up bottling corporationSolecon industrial contractorsSolid networks, inc.Springhill Suites by marriottStanislaus Food products companyStanislaus Surgical hospitalStorer coachwaysSutter gould medical Foundationturlock irrigation districtuS bank valley bio energy, llcvalley First credit unionvalley lexus-bmwversa cold logistics Servicesw.h. breshears, inc.warden’s office products centerwarden’s office Furniture outletwells Fargo bankwells Fargo commercial bankingwinton, ireland, Strom & green insurance agencyyosemite meat company, inc.

preSident'S clubnew memberS

Central Valley Ag Grinding & Central Valley Ag Transport joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce’s President’s Club – Circle of Influence at the Silver Level in August. Accepting the President’s Club Plaque from Chairman Ralph Curtis is Ryan Hogan, Chief Financial Officer of Central Valley Ag Grinding & Central Valley Ag Transport. The Chamber is pleased to have their Membership. To learn more about Central Valley Ag Grinding & Central Valley Ag Transport, Inc.

please contact (209) 869-1721 or visit www.cvaggrinding.com. P

ECOnOMIC DEvElOPMEnT

The COMPASS® is your guide to better health. Come in for a ZYTO COMPASS® assessment.

ryan hoganralph curtiS &

OCT 2011 27

507 West F Street Oakdale, CA 95361 (209) 847-8066 www.jhaidlendesign.com

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Quiet Confidence | Proven Excellence

1014 16th Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 521-6260GIANELLI-LAW.COM

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CelebratingOver 50 Years

Of Quality Care

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chaMBeR ceLeBRateS 50th haRVeSt Lunch


The 50th annual Harvest Lunch sponsored by Del Monte Foods, was held September 9th at Graceada Park. A crowd of 800 people gathered to sample the bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables raised in the Central Valley and delicious tri-tip from Mape’s Ranch. Keynote speaker for this year’s luncheon was Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture.

In recognition of the 50th year of the event, the offices of Congressman Jeff Denham and Congressman Dennis Cardoza prepared a Congressional Resolution which was read into the Congressional Record. This Resolution was presented to Chamber Board Chairman

Ralph Curtis and Harvest Lunch Committee Chairman Jeff Coleman. A California Legislative Resolution was received from State Senators Tom Berryhill and Anthony Cannella and State Assembly Members Bill Berryhill and Kristen Olsen. Recognition was also received from the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors. Since its inception, the event has awarded over $260,000 to approximately 350 students through the Modesto

Junior College Voss-Berryhill Ag Scholarship fund. Thirty students will share the $20,000,

raised from this year’s event.

We would like to thank our sponsors and donors for their contributions to the event, and extend a special thank you to Letitia Miller of MJC, for her inspiring performance of our national anthem.

PRESIDENT’S CLUBPlatinum LevelSave Mart Supermarkets Diamond LevelBank of the WestCapax-Giddings Corby and Hynes

Gold LevelModesto Irrigation District

Silver LevelAtherton & AssociatesDamrell, Nelson, Schrimp, Pallios, Pacher & SilvaDel Monte FoodsDoubleTree HotelF & M BankGianelli & AssociatesGrimbleby Coleman, CPAS, IncHarris Moran Seed Company

Silver Level continuedMocse Credit UnionModesto Commerce BankOak Valley Community Bank J M EquipmentRabobankThe Modesto Bee Turlock Irrigation DistrictU.S. BankValley First Credit UnionWells Fargo Bank Wells Fargo Regional Commercial Banking GroupWinton Ireland Strom & Greenyosemite Meat Company

Table SponsorsA.L. Gilbert/Farmers WarehouseAlmond Board of CaliforniaAmerican AgCreditBall Metal Food ContainerBank of AmericaBoyett PetroleumCalifornia Milk Advisory BoardCalifornia Poultry FederationCrop Production ServicesCSU Stanislaus Ag DepartmentDave Wilson NurseryDiamond FoodsDuarte NurseryE & J GalloFarmland Management ServicesFisher NutFlory IndustriesFores Macko, A Professional Law GroupJKB Energy Jack RabbitLovelady’s Body & Paint ShopMape’s Ranch/Lyons InvestmentsMJC FoundationModesto City Schools

Perez FarmsPMZ-Real EstateStanislaus County Farm BureauStanislaus County Office of EducationSuperior Fruit RanchThe Morning Star CompanyTSM Insurance & Financial ServicesUnion BankUmpqua BankVeterinary Service, Inc.Western United Dairymenyosemite Community College Districtyosemite Farm Credit

Equipment SponsorsAmerican AgCreditGarton Tractor San Joaquin Equipment

Direct Donors4H Color GuardAlmond BoardArctic Glaciers, Inc.Burchell Nursery Davis HS Safety AcademyDiamond FoodsFresh PointFoster Farms DairyHilmar CheeseMape’s Ranch/Lyons InvestmentsCouncilman Garrad Marsh & Dallas MarshModesto Junior CollegeModesto Future Farmers of AmericaNuCal FoodsPerez BrothersSan Joaquin TomatoSeven-Up Bottling CompanyStanislaus County Farm BureauStanislaus Farm SupplyTurlock Fruit Company Village Baking Company P

WORK IN

OCT 2011 29

Since 1981, in-Shape health clubs have

been driven by a singular vision for helping

people stay healthy and have fun. From its

foundation as a single club

to its current position as a

california-wide health club

chain with 47 locations, the

company has stayed vital by

delivering superior service,

facilities, results and

experiences that exceed

customer expectations.

over the last 30 years, in-

Shape has benefited from

strong, consistent growth

through good economic

times and bad by offering

customers a full-service

health club environment that is always

convenient and supported by more than 1,750

friendly staff throughout its many california

locations.

across its locations, including the company’s

new modesto facility, which opened on mchenry

ave. earlier this year, in-Shape offers an

unparalleled family oriented, full-service health

club experience including pools, waterslides

and racquetball courts. the company even

promotes its facilities as a great way for cash-

strapped customers to vacation without leaving

town. by offering customers

access to pools, waterslides,

and fun in a family-friendly

atmosphere without the costs

of traveling, in-Shape helps

clients navigate the down

economy without cutting into

their bottom line. this style of

innovative thinking is central to

what has helped the company

grow and expand so quickly

over the last 30 years.

in the future, the company

hopes to spread the “in-Shape

lifestyle” to more people

and more communities by continuing to offer

full-featured and inclusive facilities that cater

to a wide range of sports and different types

of fitness while integrating new equipment

and offering new amenities to customers of all

ages, needs and fitness levels. offerings like

the company’s group X classes, which include

options like the fitness craze Zumba, as well

as pilates, r.i.p.p.e.d and more, help the health

club constantly grow its customer base.

IN-ShAPE KEEPS ItS CAlIfORNIA hEAlth Club buSINESS fIt ANd ACtIvE Service when you need it

(courtesy of never Boring design Associates)

The one skill you can’t live without in marketing - communication. It seems like a no-brainer, but excellent written and verbal communication can be harder than you might think. Whether it’s drafting a single email, or disseminating a complicated message to an audience of thousands, saying the right thing (nothing more, nothing less) takes skill.

Trying to sum up your company philosophy in six words or less? Trying to fill your next Progress ad with 100 characters of captivating charm and wit? Consider calling in an expert when you’re at a loss for just the right words. The right copywriter can help you draft the message that best fits your brand and project goals.

ModeSto MeAnS BuSineSSthe chamber stands by this statement. We practice it on a daily basis. As an organization, we use Chamber Members exclusively. We hope we can ‘count on you’ to practice using Chamber Members to meet all of your business needs. You can find new and current members online at www.modchamber.org, or through our 2010 directory at http://www.villageprofile.com/california/modesto.

Progress Magazine is the voice of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business publication in Stanislaus County. For more information or advertising info call (209) 526-9136.

© N

ever

Bor

ing

Des

ign

• ne

verb

orin

g.co

m

ADVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN I WEB DESIGN I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA I COMMERCIAL SIGNS

In-Shape offers an

unparalleled family

oriented, full-

service health club

experience including

pools, waterslides

and racquetball

courts.

WORK INa series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies



OCtObER 2011

7 28th Annual Oktoberfest Location: John Thurman Field, 601 Neece Drive Time: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

11 chAmber unIVersIty

harassment Prevention Training Workshop Location: Modesto Chamber of Commerce, 1114 J Street Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Facilitated by: SinglePoint Outsourcing

13 busIness befOre hOurs

Don’s Mobile Glass Location: 1424 H Street Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

20 49th AnnuAl

Good Egg Breakfast

Location: DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th Street Time: 7 a.m. Eggsactly!

20 busIness After hOurs

hospitality house Location: 5400 Kiernan Ave., Salida Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

26 State of the Region Luncheon Location: DoubleTree Hotel, 1150 9th Street Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

NOvEMbER 2011

10 busIness befOre hOurs

Rabobank Location: 1400 Standiford Ave., Ste 12 Time: 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

17 busIness After hOurs

Warden’s Office Products Center Location: 1415 J Street Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

chamber calendar

When it comes to being first in healthcare, a hospital is only as good as its leadership. Doctors Medical Center Modesto is proud of its best-in-class clinicians and administrators who work side by side to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients. From advanced technology to specially trained medical staff, DMC is continuing to lead the region with certified Centers of Excellence in Trauma, Stroke and Cardiac Care to name a few.

FIRST Chest Pain Center in the RegionFIRST AND ONLY Certified Primary Stroke Center in the RegionFIRST Level II Trauma Center in the RegionFIRST Level III NICU in the Region

(From left to right):Alex Mari, MD, Chief of StaffAlan Schaffert, MD & Cheryl Harless, RN, Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke Center DesignationGeorge Arata, Esq., Chairman of the BoardPeter Broderick, MD, California Academy of Family Physicians (CAFP) Family Physician of the Year 2011John Pfeffer, MD, Stanislaus Medical Society Physician of the year 2011 and da Vinci robotic surgery pioneerEric Ramos, MD, California Academy of Family Physicians (CAFP) Family Physician of the Year 2010/Chief Medical OfficerDennis Litos, CEO, California Hospital Association Certificate of Distinction Award 2010 and American Hospital Association Grassroots Champion Award 2011John Merillat, MD & Kate Donovan, RN, Chest Pain Center Designation by the Society of Chest Pain CentersNiamh Seavy, MD & Anita Schlenker, RN, American College of Surgeons Verified Level II Trauma Center

For a physician referral, call 1.888.284.6641 or visit dmc-modesto.com

The FIRST name in Healthcare Leadership.

Download our App!

FUNNY, IT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE A DOCTOR’S OFFICE.

Announcing A new wAy to connect witH your doctor. Many of your records such

as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed

online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s

doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive.

To learn more, go to kp.org/centralvalley.

ProgressMag_Sep-Dec09_8.25x11.25.indd 1 8/19/09 4:29:22 PM

progress magazine october 2011

Documents

sutter health doctors

sutter health network

business community

business activity

health plan

boring design associates209

memorial medical center

modesto chamber of commerce209