progress magazine october 2012

October 2012

Vol. 33 Issue 10

modchamber.org

Small Business: Major Impact in Stanislaus County

Book Club in a Box Senator Dianne Feinstein Visits Modesto51st Harvest Lunch

Cover Photo by Studio Warner

Our doctors treat you like you’re one in a million. Not one of millions.From giving you access to some of the most respected hospitals and doctor groups in the region, to providing access to a large array of specialists, choosing the Sutter Health network of doctors and hospitals means you’re choosing a network that is committed to you.

Choose a Sutter doctor and get a health partner you can count on.

TheDoctorForYou.com/CentralValley

01124

Webster’s Dictionary defines Ambassador “an authorized representative or messenger.” I define the Chamber Ambassadors as “connectors.” We naturally like to connect the people in our sphere of influence to the things, products, people, and relationships that they are looking for. The Chamber Ambassador Program is a great way to make more connections. I love having the opportunity to meet with Chamber Members and find out more about their businesses: What differentiates them in the market place? What are their main goals and challenges? What keeps them up at night? All of this helps me to make more connections for others and for myself. This program has given me the opportunity to learn about many businesses that I otherwise would not have known about. The next time an Ambassador calls on your business, make a connection! Tell them about your business you never know where it might lead. For more information contact Melissa Barry, “The Facilitator,” with ITSolutions|Currie at (209) 338-3562 or [email protected]. P

Ambassador Corner

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

Everything! Find the events thatkeep our area hopping at mydesto.com

A:Q: What’s happeningin Modesto today?

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.

Executive Committee ChairmanRalph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Chairman ElectDavid Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Past ChairmanKathy Halsey, Individual Member

Vice Chairman of Internal OperationsPatricia Gillum, Patricia Gillum, CPA

Vice Chairman of External OperationsDan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank

Vice Chairman of Member RelationsBill Moreno, Fire2Wire

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

DirectorsPamela Cullors, Sysco Food Services of Central California David Halvorson, American Chevrolet Neal Khatri, Best Western Khatri PropertiesCraig Lewis, Prudential California RealtySharon Likely, Kaiser Permanente Steve Madison, STANCOMichael Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.Ron Owen, Bank of the WestChris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents, Inc. James Ridenour, Individual Member Ruben Villalobos, The Villalobos Legal GroupLaura Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing SolutionsJeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

Ex-OfficioBill Bassitt, The AllianceGeorge Boodrookas, Modesto Junior CollegeKeith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office David Boring, Never Boring Design AssociatesGreg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Cecil Russell, President/CEOModesto Chamber of [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]

On the cover: Local small business. List located on page 4.Photo by: Studio Warner

melissa berry

Our doctors treat you like you’re one in a million. Not one of millions.From giving you access to some of the most respected hospitals and doctor groups in the region, to providing access to a large array of specialists, choosing the Sutter Health network of doctors and hospitals means you’re choosing a network that is committed to you.

Choose a Sutter doctor and get a health partner you can count on.

TheDoctorForYou.com/CentralValley

01124OCtObER 2012 3

CONTENTS OCtObER 2012

leaderShIp

4 Message from the CEO

5 Arch Rennovation Sponsors

COVer StOry

6 Small Businesses Make a Major Impact in Stanislaus County

eduCatIOn

8 Heald College’s S.P.I.E. Internship

11 Book Club in a Box

COMMunIty deVelOpMent

15 Chamber Board Perspective25 Work in Progress

eCOnOMIC deVelOpMent

20 People on the Move 20 New Member Profiles

23 Land of Opportunity

netwOrkIng & referralS

16 Ribbon Cuttings 17 Business Before and After Hours20 New Chamber Members 26 Calendar

gOVernMent relatIOnS

13 U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein Visits Modesto

Small Business and Our Local Economy

leadership

cecil russellchamber ceo

message from the ceoBy Chamber CEO Cecil Russell

In this issue of Progress, we are featuring members that represent the small business community of Modesto. There are many reasons to feature this group in October. They make up a large percentage of our membership and are very important to our local economy. They employ thousands and they continue to create jobs and opportunity in our community. They invest their profits in the community and constantly give back, supporting

charities and local youth programs. The dollars that are spent locally circulate up to four times, creating more economy and tax dollars that in turn pay for important services, like police and f ire, departments that keep our city healthy. Please take time to read the articles in this issue and in future issues of Progress, and learn more about the local businesses in our community.

The election coming up in November will be one of the most important that we will ever face. The future direction of our country rests on the outcome of our national election. We will be choosing our President, our representatives to Congress, one Senator and one member of the House of Representatives. The f inancial condition of our country and our economy is at risk. The candidates vastly differ on the solutions they offer. Please listen carefully to the substance and basic fundamentals that these candidates present, and then vote for who you believe offers the best

solutions and will represent our country, not just over the next few years, but for generations to come. We will also be voting on our local State off icials, our Assembly and State Senator. The outcome of these races could change the balance of power in Sacramento. We cannot, nor should we, elect people who will continue to put burdens on our businesses to the degree that they cannot afford to stay in business or cannot afford to expand and create jobs. The Governor’s tax measure puts business at risk, creating more taxes that could slow or stop the economic growth we have only recently begun to see. If the tax initiative does not pass, education will be put at further risk with the threatened cuts. Again, study the issue and vote for the best solution.

I close on the subject of the Modesto Arch. By now you should know that we are making progress on the preservation project for the Modesto Arch. Everything is progressing on time and, thanks to many volunteers and donors, we are planning a huge celebration on October 26. The party kicks off with a parade of 100 cars, one from each year 1912-2012, followed by the burying of the time capsule and f inally the relighting of the Arch.

Many thanks to Brenden/Mann Foundation, Doctors Medical Center, The Modesto Garden Club, Beard land Improvement Company, Kaiser Permanente and to all donors for their generous contributions. Refer to page f ive for the full list of sponsors. Keep watching the exciting progress as we recapture the glory of the Modesto Arch. P

1. Katherine Passmore, Johnson & Associates CPA's, Inc. 2. Kathryn Knightsby, Kathryn Knightsby Real Estate Associates3. Susie Fagundes, Intrinsic Elements4. Nancy Hawn, C’est Joli5. Mariana Harmon, Harmon Pest Control6. Joanne Ramos, Village Baking Company7. Mary Farinacci, Mary’s Pet Project8. Janice Jones, J’s R Us Travel9. Donna Noeller, Central West Ballet10. Michelle Van Artsdalen, Intrinsic Elements11. Bob Harmon, Harmon Pest Control12. Jenna Harvey, Pura Vida Shaved Ice13. Ryan Woods, Pura Vida Shaved Ice14. Sarah Grover, Portico15. Marianne Russo, Construction Management Corp.16. Bruce Russo, Construction Management Corp.17. Mike Robinson, Subliminally Fresh18. Jaimi Corona, Once Upon A Child19. Marilyn Corona, Once Upon A Child20. Michelle Donaldson, Acacia Park Nursing & Rehab Center21. Larry Tate, The Auto Shop22. Charles Brunn, Law Offices of Brunn & Flynn23. Rosalyn Wyatt, Studio V Pilates & Fitness24. Jennifer Jackson-Romero, Studio V Pilates & Fitness25. Tracy Ladd, CentralValleyJobs.Com

26. Martha Passalaqua, Law Offices of Martha L. Passalaqua27. Donna King, Valley Hearing Aid & Optical28. Anna Vieira, Classic Wine Vinegar Company, Inc.29. Bret Lampman, The Choku-Rei Center30. Emma Porter, Portico31. Sue Rogers, Studio V Pilates & Fitness32. Victoria Popoff, Studio V Pilates & Fitness33. Julie Orona, Never Boring Design Associates34. Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah35. Eddi Marie Julian, Beckles Candies & Gifts36. Jim Julian, Beckles Candies & Gifts37. John Welsh, The Choku-Rei Center38. Jonathan Sciabica, Nick Sciabica & Sons39. Michael Knightsby Kathryn, Knightsby Real Estate Assosciates40. Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions41. Pam O’Brien, At Home42. Sue Fenton, At Home43. Brad Hawn, CHG44. Cynthia Coughlin, Central West Ballet45. Joe Rossini, Rossini’s Formalwear46. Greg Kyler, City Signs47. Rene Davelny, Central West Ballet48. Mike Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.

33

3839

40

444548

47

34

3536

37

41 42 43

46

7

6

5

43

2

1

14 1516

17 18

19

2021

2230

31 32

23 2425 26

2728 29

89

10

11

1213

4 Modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Arch RestorationSponsors

Platinumbeard Land Improvement Companybrenden Mann FoundationCare 1st Health PlanDoctors Medical CenterKaiser PermanenteModesto Garden Club

GoldCorollo Engineersthe Lyons FamilyStanislaus Food Products

BronzeAt&tChristine beckstromCovanta Stanislaus, Inc.Downtown Improvement DistrictMark DriverElectrical Works UnionIbEW Local 684David GeerModesto Confidential & Management AssociationModesto Convention & Visitors bureauPeace of Mind Home Inspection, Inc.Prime Shine Car WashSierra Pacific DistributionStorer transportation

Honorable DonorsCosta Family FoundationFranklin & Downs Funeral Homes

Friends of the ArchPaul baxterWendy CampopianoKarlene DuckartJudith Windsor

ContributorsAcme ConstructionAllied Concretebillington Welding & Manufacturing Inc.Ceres Pipe & MetalCity SignsCHGCollins ElectricalCustom Komfort ConstructionDenton Inc.Design MetalsEt Abatement Inc.FYFE Co. LLCModesto Garden ClubJoaquin Painting, Inc.

Arch Bar ContributorsAmerican Chevroletbeckles Gifts & Candiesboyett Petroleumbrunn & Flynnburnside body ShopCash-Dudley Speiller & torres Professional LawCollins ElectricalDoubletree HotelModesto Convention & Visitors bureauNever boring Design AssociatesSierra Pacific Warehouse Groupthe Auto Shop

Luis Aguilar PlasteringNorth Modesto Kiwanis ClubModesto Kiwanis ClubSafe-t-Lite of ModestoSherwin Williams Paint StoreVolvo RentsWard Promotional Marketing SolutionsWille Electric Supply Co., Inc.

Mark your calendars for Friday, October 26, 2012! You will not want to miss the celebration of the century! Join our community as we celebrate the restoration and rededication of the Modesto Arch! the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and the City of Modesto sincerely thank all who have donated or contributed to the restoration of the Arch! Sponsorships and donations are still welcome! the restoration of the Arch will be a continued effort and the Arch still needs your support. to make donations and contributions please contact the Chamber at (209) 577-5757. More Sponsors to come...

OCtObER 2012 5

{ Cover story }

make up around 99.7% of U.S. employer firms and a whopping 64 percent of new private-sector jobs, nationwide, making small business the most active segment of the business community.

According to Svedbeck, some of the difficulty in defining what constitutes a small business is due to the varied needs of different industries. “What might be small in manufacturing might be big in retail. Just to be effective in certain industries now, you have to get to scale.” But Svedbeck adds that the Alliance’s market is primarily with the segment of businesses that most often come to mind when you seek to define a small business: “people who are starting businesses or who are part of a smaller operation like a family owned business, even if that’s grown to a large staff.”

Small Business in Stanislaus CountyWhatever definition you use, it ’s clear that small businesses are booming in Stanislaus County. According to research gathered by the Employment Development Department (EDD), there are more than 14,000 small businesses in operation within Stanislaus County.

From sea to shining sea, America is the nation of small business. From businesses run part-time from home offices to companies in operation for decades with scores of employees, small businesses comprise a major segment of our nation’s economic strength and contribute mightily to the economic health of our region. Throughout the United States, small businesses account for a large serving of existing employment, bring in the lion’s share of tax revenue that keep the community running and, as the country experiences its slow economic uptick, it is small businesses that are overwhelmingly adding new jobs to the economy.

One of the key challenges that economic statisticians face is simply quantifying what constitutes a small business, says Randy Svedbeck, Research Manager for the Stanislaus Economic Development & Workforce Alliance’s Business Resource Center. “The Office of Advocacy from the SBA [the U.S. Small Business Administration] draws the cutoff at 500 employees or less, but that’s probably a little higher than what most consider a small business.” Statistics from the SBA indicate that businesses with fewer than 500 employees

Small Businesses Make a Major Impact in Stanislaus County

By Justin Souza

These businesses employ more than 120,000 county residents and account for over $4 billion in annual payroll. The largest small business employers are in the manufacturing and service industries with almost 10,000 local small businesses in operation as of the end of 2011. However, the bulk of the county’s small businesses have less than ten employees, and, on average, around half are sole proprietorships or home businesses that get by with only the entrepreneur on the payroll.

According to Svedbeck, the entrepreneurial model of small business has seen a boom in recent years. “One of the trends we’ve seen in the data is that while a lot of midsized and larger companies are losing a little bit of employment, individuals are out creating their own opportunities. When the job market is really tight, it can be a good time for people with the skills or expertise to take a shot, especially if they’ve always had a dream of establishing their own business.” While not all of these businesses will take off, many will flourish. Tough economic conditions often result in a boom of small businesses that are uniquely positioned in new or underutilized niches in the marketplace. As these businesses develop, they add to the economic diversity of the region.

As the local economy recovers, the small business market is showing major signs of improvement, says Small Business Development Center Director Kurt Clark. “We’re seeing the beginning of recovery in the small business community. Three or four years ago, I saw a lot of small businesses coming in looking for capital to survive, but now I see more and more small businesses come in looking to expand and add equipment or employees.”

According to a recent survey by the SBDC, more than half of all local small businesses are expecting an increase in revenues and profits over the coming year, and more than 40% expect to add on workers in the next 12 months. Svedbeck indicated that this is a hopeful sign for the local economy, and indicates a turnaround from the outlook in recent years.

The Small Business ConnectionWhile it can be difficult to define a small business by employee size, one particular factor ties most small businesses together: their focus on customer service.

Customer service is important to every business. But for a small business, especially one serving an established customer base, delivering exceptional customer service is essential. “We love our

customers, and we have loyal people come through who have become part of the family,” says Jenna Harvey, co-owner of Pura Vida Shaved Ice, a local business established in 2011. “People really seem to feel accountable when you establish a relationship with them. People come in, we know their orders, we ask about their kids, we know what’s going on in their lives. That’s because we’re small enough that we can remember them.”

Eddi Marie Julian, owner of Beckles Candies and Gifts, echoes this sentiment, “We love Modesto and we enjoy our customers. Many of them have been loyal for years and we’ve developed friendships with them. We have even seen children grow into adults with their own youngsters!”

Alongside this commitment to customer service, many small businesses also prioritize their commitment to the community. “Modesto’s tight knit community and those who love it offer support of all kinds,” said Joanne Ramos, owner of Village Baking Company. “I would not want to do business anywhere else.” No matter the definition, small businesses make up a large portion of Stanislaus County’s economy. From the entrepreneur just getting started to the established and long-running family business, small businesses push our county toward the future and their success reflects the success of Modesto as a whole.

This month, do your community a favor: go out and support your favorite local small business! P

We’re seeing the beginning of recovery in the small business community.

– Kurt Clark, Director, Small Business Development Center

eduCation

heald college’s s.p.i.e. internship

By Richard Geraghty

For most, summer breaks are a time of gathering around the barbeque grill, long summer nights, family vacations and, most importantly, no school or homework. For Stanislaus Partners in Education (S.P.I.E.) interns Jerry Ochoa and Sandra Blair, it was quite the opposite. For them, summer brought on meetings, deadlines, trainings and even the occasional homework assignment.

This year, Heald College Modesto was given the opportunity to partner with S.P.I.E. and host both Jerry Ochoa, Guidance Counselor from Modesto High School, and Sandra Blair, Guidance Counselor from Turlock High School. Both Jerry and Sandra spent a week at Heald College Modesto shadowing Directors and staff in search of an understanding of Private Education and its potential as a viable option for recent and upcoming high school seniors. Roving from department to department, Jerry and Sandra spent time in the Admissions department learning about the process each Admissions Advisor takes to partner with potential students, understand their needs and potential obstacles, and create a plan of action.

From there; Sandra and Jerry moved onto Financial Aid where they were exposed to all of the different financing options students can select, which range from scholarships and grants to both federal and private student loans. Jerry and Sandra learned that students are never alone in the decision making process. Each student is assigned a Financial Aid Advisor who ensures that whatever financing combination the student chooses, it will be the least impactful option when it comes time to repay what he or she borrowed.

The next stop on the tour landed them in Academics and Student Services where they spent time learning about the registrar, student records, the instructors, Program Directors and the Library and Learning and Resource Center. The last stop on the tour was in Career Services where both interns learned about all of the wonderful resources offered to “in school” students as well as graduates. Resources range from job placement assistance, career fairs, advisory boards, resume help, workshops and in-class presentations.

The partnership with Heald College Modesto and S.P.I.E. was a huge success and we look forward to a continued partnership and greater involvement in the future. P

eduCation


A major renovation project to update an apartment complex serving disabled adults has been completed, announced the Stanislaus County Affordable Housing C o r p o r a t i o n (STANCO).

Late last year Farmers & Merchants Bank submitted a proposal to the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco to access affordable housing program funding to renovate the 18-unit complex at 901 California Street in Modesto. The F&M application scored well and the Federal Home Loan Bank provided $199,000 in subsidy to renovate the apartment complex.

STANCO worked closely with F&M Bank as the construction management team and developer for the project. STANCO additionally partnered with the MID and PG&E, both of which provided an additional $17,500 in funding and in-kind labor to install improvements to reduce energy consumption.

The project included placing a new heat refractive roof over the complex, installing energy-efficient windows, replacing siding and decking, electrical upgrades, improving outdoor lighting and landscaping

upgrades. STANCO utilized area contractors and all building materials were purchased locally.

“We are impressed with the magnitude of improvements that were accomplished within the confines of the funding,” said Glenn Hutsell, manager of Consumer and Family Affairs for Stanislaus County Behavioral Health Services.

STANCO is contracted by the county to provide housing for homeless persons with mental health disabilities.

According to Julie Hannon who oversees Modesto’s housing programs: “The complex is one of the older facilities we inspect. It was in need of some ‘TLC’ and we are very pleased with the results. The collaboration between STANCO, F&M Bank, MID and PG&E

is a good demonstration of leveraging programs and resources with maximum impact. Ultimately, the residents’ quality of life is improved and the neighborhood benefits from the facelift,” added Hannon.

STANCO is a 501©3 nonprofit organization. Its mission is to develop affordable housing solutions in Stanislaus County. P

your chamber at workStanISlauS COunty affOrdaBle hOuSIng COrpOratIOn COMpleteS renOVatIOn

prOjeCt at 901 CalIfOrnIa Street, MOdeStOBy Steve Madison, Chamber Board Member and Government Relations Council Chair

steve madison

leadership

The project included placing

a new heat refractive

roof over the complex,

installing energy-efficient windows,

replacing siding

and decking, electrical

upgrades, improving outdoor

lighting and landscaping upgrades.

OCtObER 2012 9

state of the region

eConomiC development

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Water is a key economic driver of our community. In the upcoming Fourth Annual State of the Region: “Why Water Matters,” we will present the role of water in our community and important trends for our water future. Our guest panel will discuss our water history and the future of water in our region for agriculture, business, and municipal purposes.

Water expert Dr. Roger C. Bales from the Sierra Nevada Research Institute, UC Merced will discuss the future of measuring our water supply and Dr. Nick Pinhey, Former Director of Utility Planning and Projects for the City of Modesto will share his vision on the future of urban water. Vince Roos, San Joaquin River Basin Facilitator, with the California Water institute will also look at the future of irrigation water and what lies ahead.

With this in mind join us on October 18, 2012 at the Modesto Centre Plaza for this important and timely event.

Sponsorships and tickets are available now. Please contact Elizabeth Facanha at [email protected] or (209)577-5757. P

when: october 18th, 2012 where: modesto centre plaza

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

State of the Region: Why Water Matters


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eduCation

Community book clubs have free access to sets of books through the Stanislaus County Library. There are 90 titles available, including such popular books as “Eat, Pray, Love,” “The Kite Runner,” and “Life of Pi.” Each set generally has 15 to 20 copies, and sometimes an audio book or large print edition is included. The

checkout period for Book Club in a Box is flexible, usually about four weeks, with books due one week after the book club meets.

Currently, library book clubs in Salida, Modesto, Turlock and Riverbank are using the collection, as well as some community book clubs and library book clubs from neighboring counties.

While this program is well used, Book Club in a Box can still accommodate more groups at this time.

“Book club organizers using this service tell me it’s wonderful,” said Diane Bartlett, Nick W. Blom Salida Regional Library Manager. “They appreciate not having to purchase every title the book club reads and it makes the groups more accessible for all community members.”

A list of titles is available on the Readers Corner page of the library web site, www.stanislausl ibrary.org. Book Club in a Box is housed at the Nick W. Blom Salida Regional Library at 4835 Sisk Road.

For more information, please call (209) 543-7315 or visit the Salida Library Information Desk. P

book club in a boxBy Susan Lilly, Stanislaus County Free Library

susan lilly

The checkout period

for Book Club in a

Box is flexible, usually

about four weeks.

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OCtObER 2012 11

announcements

awards and achievements

The McHenry Mansion Foundation presents its 26th annual Table Setting fundraiser with Preview Day October 15 and catered lunch October 16 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fr. O’Hare Hall, 1813 Oakdale Road, Modesto. Forty thematically-decorated tables will be featured. Preview Day (11 a.m.– 7 p.m.) tickets are $10 at the door. Refreshments served. For information about luncheon reservations, call (209) 571-0635. P

For the second year in a row, Data Path, Inc. was recently recognized by Inc. Magazine’s list of the 5,000 Fastest-Growing Small Businesses in the country (#2774) and one of the top 150 IT consulting firms in the country. Co-owners Dave Darmstandler and James Bates, Grace Davis High graduates, started the company in 2005; it has grown 227% the past three years. To learn more about Data Path, go to www.mydatapath.com or contact Director of Sales George Isaac at (209)312-9818. P

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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.

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

BUY LOCAL,

Invest in your futurePlease call The Modesto Chamber of Commerce at (209) 577-5757 for more information.

senator dianne feinstein visits modesto

On August 29th United States Senator Dianne Feinstein visited Modesto to deliver a “Washington Update.” After being contacted by Feinstein’s office only weeks prior, the Modesto Chamber of Commerce mobilized quickly to organize a luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel. This was the first time a Senior Senator had visited Modesto and the Chamber of Commerce was pleased with both the Senator’s selection of Modesto and the success of the event.

A sold out crowd of approximately 350 people attended the event at which the Senator spoke about government spending, the unemployment rate, home foreclosures, bringing more business to California and water. While openly discussing the need for more water storage in California, Senator Feinstein deliberately refused to comment on the then hotly debated topic of the Modesto Irrigation District’s proposal to sell water to San Francisco.

In commenting on the need for California to build a larger manufacturing base, she acknowledged that, “a lot of California law moves manufacturing outside of the state.” Stricter environmental requirements and other regulations drive up the cost of doing business. The Senator added that: “The Legislature needs to take a look at the laws and mandates they have passed.”

Senator Feinstein kept the tone of her presentation relatively upbeat despite discussion of the dreary economy and high foreclosure rates.

She did, however, candidly express her disappointment about the growing partisanship in Washington that is hindering efforts of both sides to improve the Country’s economic position.

We thank the Senator for choosing Modesto for her Washington update. P

eduCation

chamber chairman Ralph CuRTiS, mayor gaRRad maRSh, senator diaNNE FEiNSTEiN, and chamber ceo CECil RuSSEll

OCtObER 2012 13

14

© M

odes

to Ir

rigat

ion

Dis

tric

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Phil and Jan Tilbury of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms with

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Phil and Jan Tilbury of Almond Ace Packing and Tilbury Farms with

Frank Middleton, VP Commercial Lender, 209.844.7563

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partner with a genuine desire to help our businesses grow.”

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chamber board perspectiveBy Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

It has been said that “It takes a village to raise a child”, so what does it take to raise a vibrant business community? My answer: an active local Chamber of Commerce with strong leadership from top to bottom. Let’s start from the top. My membership started in 1995, when Bill Seavy was the CEO. In my opinion, Bill was a great fit at that time, and for that time. When I joined the Chamber, the question was asked, “What can we do

for your business?” My answer was, and still is, “It’s what I can do for the Chamber.” We all have certain talents and can make a huge difference when we all work together to achieve a healthy business climate.

Serving many years as a Chamber board member and on several different committees has given me the opportunity to glean skills, knowledge and an understanding of how other fellow businesspeople, board members, ambassadors, welcome team members and yes, even Minnie Dodge, conduct business on a day-to-day basis. This experience has been a very valuable learning tool. Knowing that no man or woman is an island validates my point that we need one another, or may I say, the Modesto

Chamber of Commerce, to help us succeed. We may not always get it right, say it right or do it right, however working together as a Chamber we will succeed.

Buying local plays a large part in cultivating and stimulating our local business community. We have had many CEOs over the past several years: Bill Seavy, Gary Plummer, Joy Madison and now Cecil Russell. In my opinion Cecil has this city’s businesses, and especially Chamber members, at heart. I have not seen a Chamber CEO more compassionate about serving, promoting and celebrating businesses in Modesto.

Nationally we have experienced an economic down turn which has affected the bottom line for all of us. Some of us are still in pursuit of the American Dream and some have crashed. However, let me remind you that we are still in the greatest country in the world and opportunity has been known to knock twice. Never give up, back down, back away or throw in the towel. Like I stated in the beginning, it takes a Chamber to raise a vibrant business community and, working together, we can make it happen. “May God Bless America.” P

Community development guest Column

Guest ColumnSMall BuSIneSS and Our lOCal eCOnOMy

By David Leer, Nationwide E-Brokerage

The vast majority of small business startups are dissolved within the first five to ten years. Although the rate of failure is highly publicized, many small business owners either sell or dissolve their companies having attained a reasonable measure of success. In the United States, small businesses employ nearly half of the workforce and account for over half of all new jobs created in the last

twenty years. On average, small business owners (fewer than twenty (employees) spend four-five times or more to comply with environmental regulations and three times more on tax compliance per employee than their largest counterparts. (“The Impact of Regulation Costs on Small Firms, an Advocacy -funded study by Nicole Crain and Mark Crain, 2010.”)

In addition to issues affecting small business nationally, local owners are required to face the challenges associated with increased expenses and decreased revenues in a deflated local economy. It stands to reason the greatest challenges do not generally arise from achievement, as Bill Gates suggests, “Success is a lousy teacher. It seduces smart people into thinking they can’t lose.” Our greatest challenges arise from these difficult times where local business owners must address these ongoing issues with creativity, patience and fortitude.

At Nationwide E-Brokerage, we believe it is necessary to develop areas of expertise which align with an individual ’s greatest passions. Nonetheless, t a l e n t a l on e d o e s not suff ice, it is the p e r s e ve r a nce du r i ng d i f f icu lt t imes which produces the necessary qualities of character that sustain us in good times and bad. Integrity is the foundational component for success in any small business irregardless of the “Bottom Line.” In Modesto, we have the unique opportunity to sh ine as exper ienced professionals in a diverse market, showcasing our ability to be successful in any endeavor based upon our values and commitment to excellence. P

Jeremiah williams david leer

Never give up, back

down, back away or

throw in the towel.

Like I stated in the

beginning, it takes

a Chamber to raise

a vibrant business

community and,

working together, we

can make it happen.

Our greatest

challenges arise

from these difficult

times where local

business owners

must address these

ongoing issues with

creativity, patience

and fortitude.

OCtObER 2012 15

ribbon cuttings

networking & referrals

AvAlon CAre Center515 e. orangeburg ave.modesto, ca 95350(209) 529-0516

WAlmArt neighborhood mArket1421 coffee roadmodesto, ca 95355(209) 522-3600

rizo-lopez Foods, inC.201 s. mcclure roadmodesto, ca 95357(209) 232-3700

Cornerstone studios5278 Jerusalem ct. ste. 7modesto, ca 95356(209) 521-9389

berliner Cohen1130 12th street, ste. bmodesto, ca 95354(209) 576-1197

inter-FAith ministries120 kerr ave.modesto, ca 95354(209) 572-3117

keller WilliAms reAlty1001 sylvan ave., bldg. amodesto, ca 95350(209) 496-9200

rodArAkis & sousA, A proFessionAl lAW Corp.627 13th street, ste. fmodesto, ca 95354(209) 554-5232



sept } business before & after hours

Business Before Hours hosted by:

san Joaquin valley College Business After Hours hosted by:

huff restoration dki

San Joaquin Valley College(209) 543-8800 • www.sjvc.edu5380 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368

Founded in 1977 San Joaquin Valley College has 11 campuses located throughout California. SJVC is an accredited private junior college that provides accelerated career-focused curriculum and instruction to its students. The college has prepared more than 20,000 graduates for professional success in their chosen careers.

Huff Restoration DKI(209) 545-0354 • www.huffdki.com4917 Stoddard Road, Modesto, CA 95356

Huff Restoration DKI is a branch of Huff Construction Company. We now offer restoration services in a time when you need us most. Whether its f ire, mold or water damage, don’t trust your company to an unknown company, trust over 40 years of construction experience.

OCtObER 2012 17

eduCation

modesto chamber of commerce chamber celebrates 51st harvest lunch

The 51st annual Harvest Lunch sponsored by Del Monte Foods, was held September 14 at Graceada Park. A record crowd of over 800 gathered to sample the bounty of fresh peppers and tomatoes and luscious melons and grapes, cheeses, bread and eggs produced right here in the Central Valley. As they have for many years, Mape’s Ranch provided delicious tri-tip and the MJC kitchen cooked up their scrumptious beans. As always, this was an event to remember!

The Keynote speaker was Richard Waycott, President and CEO of the Almond Board of California. Waycott talked about the effect of our economy on agriculture in the Valley and noted that while not all crop and livestock enterprises are thriving, most are like never before. He further stated that California almonds have boomed, thanks to increased acreage and per-acre yields.

Since its inception, the event, spotlighting Stanislaus County’s agriculture industry, has awarded over $280,000 to agriculture students through the Modesto Junior College Voss-Berryhill Ag Scholarship fund. Thirty students will share the nearly $22,000 raised from this year’s event. Many of these students return to the area to put their education to work and to lend their support for the next generation.

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.

Presenting Sponsor – Del Monte Foods, Inc.Gold Sponsor - Ray Ruiz and todd barton, Morgan Stanley P

Platinum LevelKaiser PermanenteWalmart

Gold LevelModesto Irrigation DistrictDoubletree Hotel

Silver LevelAtherton & AssociatesDel Monte FoodsF & M bank/Dave Wilson NurseryGianelli & AssociatesGrimbleby Coleman CPAS, Inc.Harris Moran Seed Company

JS West CompanyMocse Credit UnionModesto Commerce bankOak Valley Community bankRabobankSave Martthe Modesto bee turlock Irrigation DistrictU.S. bankValley First Credit UnionWells Fargo bank Wells Fargo Regional business banking GroupWinton Ireland Strom & GreenYosemite Meat Company

Table SponsorsA.L. Gilbert/Farmers WarehouseAlmond board of CaliforniaAmerican AgCreditball Metal Food Containerbank of Ag & Commercebank of Americabeard Land Improvement Companyboyett Petroleumburchell Nursery, Inc.California Milk Advisory boardCalifornia Poultry FederationClendenin bird & CompanyCrop Production ServicesCSU Stanislaus Ag ServicesDuarte NurseryE & J GalloFarmland Management ServicesFisher NutFlory IndustriesJ M Equipment CO., Inc.Jack RabbitLong Ranch, Inc.Mape’s Ranch/Lyons InvestmentsMJC FoundationModesto City SchoolsMorning Star FarmsOld Republic title CompanyPerez FarmsPrideStaffStanislaus County Assessor’s OfficeStanislaus County Farm bureau

Stanislaus County Office of EducationStanislaus County Sheriff’s DepartmentSuperior Fruit Ranchthe AlliancetSM Insurance & Financial ServicesUmpqua bankUnion bankVeterinary Service, Inc.Wenger RanchYosemite Community College DistrictYosemite Farm Credit

Equipment SponsorsAmerican AgCreditGarton tractorSan Joaquin Equipment

Direct Donors4H Color GuardAlmond board of CaliforniaApricot Producers Associationburchell Nursery California State University StanislausDavis HS Safety AcademyDiamond FoodsDittosFresh PointFoster Farms DairyHilmar CheeseJack Frost/Arctic Glacier Inc. Mape’s Ranch/Lyons InvestmentsMid Valley Foods, Inc.Modesto Junior CollegeModesto FFANuCal FoodsPerez brothersSan Joaquin tomatoSave MartSeven-Up bottling CompanyStanislaus County Farm bureauStanislaus Farm Supplyturlock Fruit Company Village baking CompanyWilliam Amaral


DON’TPROMISE

WHAT YOU CAN’T

DELIVERWhat sets us apart from our competition….dependability.

WE DELIVER WHAT WE PROMISE

Lesson #1

printing • mailing • fulfillment • promotional items • cross media marketing

parksprinting.com | 209.576.2568

OCtObER 2012 19

new chamber members


DSW Inc. has been and is a leading branded footwear and accessories retailer for over 20 years, that offers a wide selection of brand name and designer footwear and accessories for women, men and kids. DSW offers a free, award-winning loyalty program, DSW Rewards, where customers earn certificates toward future DSW purchases and receive special member-only offers. Our new store is located at 3900 Sisk Road, come shop our 24,000 pairs of shoes!

VBoogie’s Dance Journey is located at 711 10th Street in Modesto. The new dance studio is owned by Vontrese “VBoogie” Stevenson, a licensed Zumba® Instructor since 2008 with over 25 years of dance industry experience and education. She has certifications as a professional dancer, choreographer and performer and has been involved in many community and charity projects here in the Central Valley and Bay Area. Zumba® Fitness is the studio’s primary service offering among other specialty rhythm classes available to the downtown Modesto & surrounding areas. You can register for classes at http://www.ZumbawithVboogie.com. P

new member profiles


ADP Stefany Millstein 2421 I Street #5 Sacramento, CA 95816-4242 (916) 854-5543 (209) 593-2313 [email protected] www.adp.com Payroll Services

CIGAR CLUB Adam Aprim 1407 Standiford Avenue, #C Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 557-2500 [email protected] www.modestocigars.com Cigar Shop & Lounge

COLLINS ELECTRICAL brian Gini 125 tuolumne boulevard Modesto, CA 95354(209) 524-6641 [email protected] www.collinselectric.com Electric Contractors

CONNECTED REAL ESTATE, INC. Cindy Yoder 1635 tully Road, Suite #2 Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 526-1619 [email protected] www.connected-real-estate.com Real Estate

COVERALL HEALTH-BASED CLEANING SySTEM Evan Wright 200 Northwoods Avenue #10 Manteca, CA 95336 (916) 501-4986 (209) 923-4956 [email protected] www.coverall.com Janitorial Service

DSW, INC. Daniel DeCaria 3900 Sisk Road, Suite J2 (614) 872-1089 [email protected] www.dsw.com Retail

HONEy’S AIR Dale Kujawski 5536 Pirrone Road Salida, CA 95368 (209) 523-2345 [email protected] www.honeysair.net Air Conditioning/Heating Equipment & Systems/Sheet Metal

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTy Nino Pascolati 1001 Sylvan Avenue, #A Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 496-9200 (209) 496-9201 [email protected] www.modestokw.com Real Estate

KIDS WORLD DENTAL Vita Antonov 1404 Mitchell Road Modesto, CA 95351 (209) 537-7878 (209) 537-7916 [email protected] www.kidsworlddental.net Dentists

LEGALMATCH.COM 395 Oyster Point boulevard South San Francisco, CA 94080 (866) 686-5342 [email protected] www.legalmatch.com/find/modesto-ca-lawyers.html Attorneys

MICELI-WATTERS, STAFFING PARTNERS, LLC trish Miceli 1509 K Street #179 Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 544-2907 [email protected] www.staffingpartners.net Employment Agencies

QUIK MED ELECTRONIC BILLING SOLUTIONS Mary Marlett 2201 Curzon Drive Modesto, CA 95355 (209) 988-5522 (209) 214-6883 [email protected] Medical billing

people on the move

Stanislaus County i s pleased to announce the appointment of Angela Freitas as the new Director of Planning and Community Development. Freitas has been serving in an interim capacity since March 2012. Freitas has been an employee of the Stanislaus County Planning Depar tment s ince 1999. She has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in City and Regional Planning from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Her work

with the County has been focused on Planning, Community Development and Redevelopment. P

Provost & Pritchard Consulting Group has announced the addition of Karen Kirk as Client Services Manager to the firm’s business development team. Kirk will be responsible for developing and enhancing business partnerships throughout the San Joaquin Valley region. Kirk has over 25 years of business and partne rship development experience in the professional engineering and environmental industry. Her experience consists of developing business opportunities, networking, identifying strategic initiatives, and assisting engineering and consulting professionals in growing professional relationships with their clients. For more information please contact (209) 845-8700.

karen kirk

angela freitas


president’s clubcircle of influence

PLATINUM LEVELkaiser permanentewalmartwalmart neighborhood market

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 containersunpower

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 baseballracor, division of parker hannifin corporationsave mart supermarkets seneca foods, llcsysco food services of central californiataco bell

SILVER SPONSORSaaaat&tacme construction company, inc.ambeck mortgage associatesamerican chevroletamerican medical responsearamark uniform servicesatherton & associates, llpbJ’s restaurant & brewhousebrandman university, chapman university systembunge oilscalifornia state university, stanislauscentral 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 californiachukchansi gold resort & casinocitibankclark pest controlcollins electrical comcastconstruction management corporationcourtyard by marriottcovanta stanislaus, inc.curtis legal groupdamrell, nelson, schrimp, pallios, pacher & silva

del monte foodsdelta sierra beveragedirectline technologies, inc.the eberhardt school of businessenglish 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.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 post foods, llcprime 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 coachwayssunopta aseptic, inc.sutter gould medical foundationturlock irrigation districtus bank valley first credit unionvalley lexus-bmww.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.


PEOPLE ARE THE BOTTOM LINE

You've worked hard to get where you are.

Put your trust in a firm motivated to help

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it's the people behind the numbers.

Contact us today at 209-527-4220 or gccpas.net.

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...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Prime Shine Car Wash presents:

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 Car Wash is proud to recognize the entrepreneurʼs ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

Brian EliasonTrailEr Haul ConCrETE

Trailer Haul Concrete has catered to the homeowner and small contractor markets in Modesto since 1962. The company sells “everything for your yard that doesn’t grow,” including landscaping materials, a variety of paving or decorative stones, soils and other materials. The business has been owned and operated by the Eliason family since 1984.

Tell me about your career and professional life. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now?I grew up pulling weeds, sacking rocks and driving tractors here. I went off to college, got a degree, then went down to Southern California and worked in aerospace for a couple of years. I came back here because this is a family business and you don’t have the politics of the corporate world.

What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life? What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud?Our greatest accomplishment is still being here, and our biggest challenge is still being here. My dad built this business on a handshake. He didn’t need contracts. When he said he’d do it, he’d do it. That reputation for being able to work with our customers is a good thing. We always want to maintain that.

You’re very much an entrepreneur. What do you think makes you such a success?It’s all about customer service: answer the phone, get to them quickly, do everything you can to make them happy. That means if we screw up, we’re going to fix it. And if they screw up, we’ll try to help them fix it, too.

What is the single biggest reason that you have achieved the level of success you have?We treat the customer fairly. This type of business is customer oriented. We see mainly small contractors or homeowners, so we’re always helping customers find what they want and need. I try to do what I saw my dad do many times: not sell the customer the most expensive product, sell them what they want. If you give the customer what they want, they might tell somebody. If you make them mad, they’ll tell everybody.

What do you like about your job?Being a business owner allows you to pursue other passions and interests, even sometimes in the middle of the day. Flexibility as a business owner is a big plus.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?One of the things I’ve been doing for the last sixteen years is Bible Study Fellowship. I’ve been the teaching leader there for the last 11 years now, and that’s been great. It’s a wonderful Bible Study but very time consuming in its own right. Between time and class and preparation, I put in another 25-30 hours a week. But that’s something you can do as a business owner that you can’t do when you work for somebody else.

We have also supported Habitat for Humanity on projects through the years and a number of school teachers and school projects, including MJC’s geology and mineral courses.

What are your plans for the future?The challenge we face is that the economy has driven down prices, but not costs. Material is up, gas is up, rent is up, but I’m getting less for my concrete than I was six years ago. It’s hard for a small business to make inroads in the community when you’re fighting everything else. If costs were the same amount, I’d be okay, but it’s hard. The struggle is always to try to stay in business year to year, and sometimes it’s been close, but we’re still here. People keep coming to us because we help them figure out what they need and what would look best in their yard. We are happy to give suggestions or ideas based on our years of experience, and we’re flexible enough to fit the needs of the customer when they need it.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity?We’ve always been small and have never been about making a ton of money. The thing that sets us apart is that we’re locally owned and we live locally. We live in Modesto, we invest in Modesto, most of our suppliers are local. If we can get it locally, we do. We only go out of town if we can’t get it here.

brian eliason

CelebratingOver 50 Years

Of Quality Care

209.577.10552030 Evergreen Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 www.evergreencare.comFax: 209. 550. 3615

* Registered Nurses 24/7* Long Term and Short Term Quality Care* 175 Bed Skilled Nursing Facility* Pleasant Environment* Inviting and Stimulating Social Activities* Inpatient & Outpatient Physical Therapy * Inpatient & Outpatient Occupational Therapy * Speech Therapy * Respiratory Therapy

* Specialty Dining Menus* Pharmaceutical Services* Intravenous Therapy* Incontinence Service* Wound and Skin Care* Medicare Part A & B* Medi-Cal* Other Insurances Welcome* Family Owned & Operated for over 50 Years

Engaged in your Care& your Life

OCtObER 2012 23

WORK IN

Community development

The Leadership Modesto 2012 Retreat at Bass Lake was an insightful and learning experience for the 30th year class.It started with a bus ride that provided an

opportunity for the class to bond with one another through some humorous activities.

Nathan Miller of Grimbleby Coleman CPA’s said,”The best part of the weekend was getting to know all of my classmates and learning about our personalities and how we relate to each other in a Leadership context. The time spent in our sessions, at dinner, and doing some of the fun activities helped to quickly breakdown some of the awkwardness that a new class can have. It really sped up the ‘getting to know you’ process.”

Jorilyn Novotny of NAI Benchmark shares, “We laughed, we learned, we shared, we bonded. The weekend was eventful, exciting, educational, and downright FUN! It was an unforgettable experience that I am sure we will all carry with us for the rest of lives.”

Danielle Jones from SCOE said “It is rare to create a sense of community (where everyone feels included) so quickly. During the retreat, I was able to get to know my classmates in a way that encouraged cohesion and

bass lake retreatBy: Melissa Heath, Warden’s Office Products

99th annual awards gala

january 26, 2013

gallO Center fOr the artS

It ’s time to mark your calendars and cast you vote. Start thinking about nominating the business of your choice for the upcoming Modesto Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Gala. Over the next few weeks the Chamber will be contacting you via email with the nomination form.

We would invite you to look around our incredible membership and let us know why you think a particular business is worthy of your nomination. We want your vote and your story! Please watch for the nomination form, take the time to complete it and send it back, then reserve your seat for the 99th Annual Gala and Members Choice Awards.

unity. Truly the retreat exceeded my expectations, I knew I would enjoy the experience but did not have any idea to what extent. My deepest gratitude to the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and the Retreat Steering Committee for dedicating countless hours to making the retreat a leadership experience I will never forget!”

Please go to www.modchamber.org to see details on how you can participate in the Leadership Modesto 2013-2014 class.


“We really like

supporting our

community and it’s

really important to us

to give back. It also

helps us build trust

with our community,

because people

recognize that we live

in and support this

town.”

- Mariana Riquelme

Service when you need it(courtesy of never Boring design Associates)

When business is booming, advertising is the last thing on your mind. But when times get tough, an aggressive ad campaign becomes the last thing you want to spend money on. By maintaining an advertising presence through thick and thin, you can keep your business rolling, stay at the top of your customers’ minds and keep slowdowns to a minimum. Never Boring Design is an industry expert at creating unique, effective and affordable advertising. Find out how we can keep your business moving forward, visit us today at neverboring.com

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 2012 directory at 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

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

when most people think of pest control, they

imagine workers in masks using sprays to combat

insect infestations. harmon pest control operates

a little differently, says vp and co-founder mariana

riquelme-harmon, “90% of what we do are termite

inspections, along with roof inspections, home

inspections and all the other tests

that go along with that.”

since its establishment in 2004,

harmon pest control has been

the go-to provider of inspections

for clients across stanislaus, san

Joaquin and merced counties.

their client list includes

homeowners, homebuyers and,

especially in recent years, banks.

“with so many repossessed

houses on the market, they need

to work with a company that has

a lot of experience, and we try

very hard to deliver at a really

high level.”

mariana added that harmon pest

control’s established clientele and

pool of referrals has helped them maintain medical

benefits and pay for their 11 employees, even

through the economic downturn. “even in 2007 when

the market was having a tough time, we were able

to keep busy by doing work out of state with other

banks. that came from developing great relationships

with clients.” one key to harmon pest control’s

success at building profitable relationships is

community support. “we really like supporting

our community and it’s really important to us to

give back. it also helps us build trust with our

community, because people recognize that we

live in and support this town.”

mariana indicated that harmon

pest control’s bottom line is

dependent on those relationships

as well. “most companies have

their regular customers every

month and they know they have

x amount of dollars coming in.

we’re just the opposite. our

challenge is to make sure that

our relationships are good so

people are always referring us for

inspection work.”

“we’re really proud that we’ve

always stayed strong so we could

keep all our people working through

everything, and we’ve been able to

maintain the same group of people

since the start. so many businesses in our industry

haven’t been able to do that.”

harmon pest control is located at 4459 spyres

way #d in modesto. call (209) 522-1475 for

more information.

Developing Relationships, Community Service Keeps Harmon Pest Control Successful

OCtObER 2012 25

chamber calendar

NOvEMbER 2012

OCtObER 2012

8 BuSIneSS BefOre hOurS:

Bank Of the weSt

Location: 3600 McHenry Avenue Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

13 new MeMBer OrIentatIOn

Location: 1114 J Street Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

25 BuSIneSS after hOurS:

hOward traInIng Center

Location: 1424 Stonum Road Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

5 OktOBerfeSt

Location: John Thurman Field, 601 Neece Drive Time: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

11 BuSIneSS BefOre hOurS:

BlOM & SwaIn

Location: 1025 14th Street Time: 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

18 BuSIneSS after hOurS:

StudIO V pIlateS & fItneSS

Location: 4345 Spyres Way, Ste 201 Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

18 State Of the regIOn

Location: Modesto Centre Plaza, 1000 L Street Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

25 50th annual gOOd egg

BreakfaSt

Location: DoubleTree Hotel 1150 9th Street Time: 7:00 a.m. Eggsactly


did you know that over 50% of modesto

chamber member companies employ

50 or fewer employees? our city is

teaming with small and mid-sized

businesses that provide goods and

services not only locally, but nationally

and in some cases, internationally. so

when you are looking for professional

services, specialty gifts, supplies, great

food and entertainment, be sure to

consult the chamber website to find the chamber member

who can fill your every need. P

{ minnie’s news bites }

minnie dodge

26 arCh CeleBratIOn

Location: 9th Street and I Street Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

We are looking for 100 cars, classic to current from 1912 - 2012. One car per year. Preference given to American made cars. the following are the years we still need…1913 1915 1916 1917 1919 19221923 1924 1925 1926 1942 19431944 1945 1952 1959 1975 19761977 1978 1980 1981 1982 19831984 1985 1990 1992 1993 19941995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2008to participate please contact the Modesto Convention and Visitors bureau, (209) 526-5588.


FIRST with the da Vinci® robotic technology. Specialists SECOND to none.When it comes to minimally invasive surgery, the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System sets the standard for advanced technology. Our specially trained surgical team was the first in the area to use da Vinci®, and has performed more than 800 gynecological, urological, and general surgery procedures with this technology since August 2007. It’s just one more example of the cutting-edge technologies that are used at Doctors Medical Center every day. While the da Vinci® robot sets the standard for the cutting edge of technology, DMC doctors set the bar for the gold standard of care.

• Treatmentforgynecological,urological, and general surgery procedures •Significantlylesspain•Lessscarring•Lessriskofinfection•Shorterhospitalstay•Minimalbloodloss•Fasterrecovery

facebook.com/dmcmodesto

To find out if you are a candidate for a da Vinci® procedure, visit www.dmc-modesto.net/davinci.html

or call 866-715-6902 for a physician referral.

He just saved two hours. And a copay.

kp.org/centralvalley

How? He simply e-mailed his doctor, instead of leaving

work for an office visit. My Health Manager online services

can prevent productivity losses—for your people and your

organization—at a time when it’s crucial to do more with less.

And these services are available at no added charge.

Members can:

• e-mail their doctor’s office

• check most lab results

• request routine appointments with their personal physician

• order prescription refills

See how we can bring greater value to your health care dollars—view a demo at kp.org/experience.

Or contact your Kaiser Permanente broker or account manager.

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progress magazine october 2012

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