May 2012

Vol. 33 Issue 5

modchamber.org

Business-to-Business Trade ShowCandidate WorkshopDream Big... Read @ Your Library

Legends of Modesto: Carl Boyett

Cover Photo by Studio Warner

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may 2012 3

It has been a pleasure serving on the Welcome Team for over 20 years! I have had the opportunity to meet thousands of business owners and welcome them to our community and our Chamber of Commerce. They are appreciative of the support and exposure that a ribbon cutting brings to their businesses and are impressed by the outpouring of recognition from the chamber, city council, and state and national elected officials. Countless business connections have been made and personally, I have formed lasting relationships with many of the businesses we greet and other members of the Welcome Team. To learn how to protect what matters most to you, please contact Mark Buckley – Farmers Insurance and Financial Services at (209) 527-8800. P

Welcome Team Corner

PROGRESS MAGAZINE1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354(209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673www.modchamber.org • info@modchamber.org

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 Systems, Inc.

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, Law Office of Ruben VillalobosLaura 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 DesignGreg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce(209) 577-5757 • info@modchamber.org

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

Printer: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568 • frankp@parksprinting.com

Distribution: Parks Printing(209) 576-2568

advertising Sales: Kristin BowkerNever Boring Design Associates(209) 526-9136 • progress@neverboring.com

mark Buckley

On the cover Carl BoyettPhoto by Studio Warner

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

A:Q: What’s happeningin Modesto today?

CONTENTS may 2012

LeadershIp

4 Your Chamber at Work

5 Chamber Board Perspective

CoVer story

6 Legends of Modesto: Carl Boyett

eduCatIon

8 Preparing for Tomorrow Today

10 Dream Big…READ @ Your Library

11 Heald College

CoMMunIty deVeLopMent

15 Leadership Modesto

24 Awards and Achievements

25 Work in Progress

eConoMIC deVeLopMent

10 People on the Move

20 New Member Profiles

23 Land of Opportunity

networkIng & referraLs

16 Ribbon Cuttings

17 Business Before and After Hours

20 New Chamber Members

26 Calendar

4 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

leadership

It is a very busy time of year in the Capitol. May is filled with hearings on the legislation that has been introduced this year and, mid-month, the Governor will present his revised budget.

I am proud to report one of my bills, SB 971, made the Cal Chamber’s Job Creators 2012 list. The goal of the bill is to reduce electricity costs for ratepayers by changing the way utilities can achieve their

Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) goals. Right now, large hydroelectric facilities, which generate power that is every bit as green as wind or solar, are not included in the program. SB 971 would change the program by computing RPS based on a utility’s total load, minus the portion generated from hydroelectric facilities. So if a utility district received 25% of the electricity it delivers to its customers from these facilities, their new RPS mandate would be on the remaining 75% of power generated from other sources.

Utilities in the Central Valley will have to spend millions of dollars each year in order to reach RPS goals under the current program. For example, consider the impact to Modesto Irrigation District (MID) ratepayers. MID estimates it will cost an additional $178 million over the next nine years to comply with the program. That measures out to an average of almost $200 per customer each year. Now is not the time to be raising electricity rates and placing additional stresses on families and businesses who are scraping by in this tough economic climate.

As I evaluate my positions on bills that come before the Senate this year, I will make job creation my

top priority. I am also going to focus on reducing the regulatory burdens that make it harder to do business in California.

As you hear about proposed legislation, please feel free to contact me with your opinions. My door is always open, and I always appreciate a direct dialogue about the work we do in the Capitol. P

your chamBer at workCapItoL update

By Senator Anthony Cannella

senator anthony cannella

Now is not the

time to be raising

electricity rates and

placing additional

stresses on families

and businesses

who are scraping

by in this tough

economic climate.

may 2012 5aPR 2012 5

chamBer Board perspective BLue rIBBon CoMMIssIon on hoMeLess deLIVers report to CIty CounCIL

By Chamber Board Member and Government Relations Council Chair, Steve Madison

leadership

In February 2011 after hearing concerns from residents and business owners, the Safety and Communities Committee of the Modesto City Council appointed nine community members to the Blue Ribbon Commission on Homelessness (BRCH) for the purposes of reviewing issues related to homelessness and its impact upon the quality of life in Modesto.

The commission reviewed many issues, including exploring whether city ordinances ought to be revised or new ordinances adopted in order to regulate use

of city parks by homeless individuals or groups who provide services within the parks. The BRCH heard presentations on aggressive panhandling, reviewed a special police department program (now unfunded) that dealt with homeless individuals; and received input from citizens who live adjacent to city parks. Commission members also visited homeless centers and provided a forum for homeless individuals to discuss their challenges.

The following findings of the BRCH were presented to the city council on April 3:

• City parks are a magnet for vandals, drug trafficking and crime.

• Most of the crime activities are not committed by homeless individuals.

• Annual maintenance costs for vandalism in parks exceeds $500,000.

• Parks are not a good location for the provision of homeless services, particularly for meal distribution.

• Better coordination is needed between providers of meals and commodities for homeless individuals.

• Homeless services and funding are not effectively coordinated.

• Police monitoring has determined that panhandlers collect hundreds of dollars in a single day from sympathetic donors.

• Police report that panhandlers they have interviewed use the money that is donated to buy drugs and alcohol.

BRCH Recommendations:

• Increase security in parks through the use of park safety officers or security firms.

• Establish day facilities to augment area shelters that are only open during evening hours. Day centers could provide meals, restroom and laundry facilities and provide central points for delivering services to homeless individuals.

• Establish better coordination of groups and agencies providing homeless services. It is anticipated that through better coordination, more efficient services can be provided in the face of decreasing funding.

• Develop and deliver a robust community education effort to identify how and where homeless individuals can receive assistance. In addition, community members will be encouraged to donate directly to nonprofit agencies, rather than contributing to panhandlers.

The next step is for the Safety and Communities Committee to discuss implementation of the recommendations from the BRCH. City Council members expressed that they would like to form a task force to implement the recommendations, with immediate emphasis on providing a day use facility for homeless individuals, better coordination of services and a community outreach campaign to discourage citizens from contributing to panhandlers. P

steve madison chamBer Board

memBer and government relations

council chair

6 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

{ Cover story }

HistoryCarl was born in 1945 to parents Stan and Carol Boyett, who had each begun careers in the oil industry after high school. When he was only three years old, Carl’s parents partnered with Walt Barbour to found Barbour’s Premium Stations, a line of fuel stations that spread throughout the Modesto, Manteca and Atwater areas.

In the early 1960s, while Stan and Carol were buying the retail distributorship and first hanging the placard bearing the Boyett Petroleum name, Carl applied and won admission to the US Coast Guard Academy. At the Academy, Carl earned entrance to the Honor Company and, when President Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, Carl served in the honor guard at his funeral procession.

If you’ve driven in Central California, you are probably familiar with Carl Boyett’s name. As the CEO of Boyett Petroleum, Carl helms one of Modesto’s major businesses. Boyett Petroleum sells gasoline under its own brand at 40 area retail stations, supplies 300 service stations throughout the Western US under a variety of brands and services more than 1,000 commercial customers.

Carl is a true believer in Modesto, the town where he has spent much of his life. In addition to his duties with Boyett Petroleum, Carl has focused much of his energy over the years on making Modesto a better, more prosperous place. Given Carl’s true dedication to community service, including his support of area parks and promotion of green and sustainable practices throughout the area, it’s no surprise that he has earned the respect of the community.

Written by Justin Souza, Photos by Studio Warner

Carl BoyettLegeNds of Modesto:

may 2012 7

During the Vietnam War, Carl was drafted to serve in the US Army and fought in Vietnam for 12 months during the Tet Offensive before being honorably discharged as an E-5 in 1970.

Boyett PetroleumAfter his discharge, Carl was selling insurance in Hawaii when his life’s work arrived by post. “In 1970, my father wrote me a letter and asked me if I’d like to come back to Modesto and go into business with him,” said Carl. By that point, Boyett Petroleum operated from three retail locations in Modesto: a station on 9th & K Street, one on 15th & I Street and another on Yosemite Blvd. “He made me a partner from day one. Every month, I got to see that if I worked harder the company did better.”

“I was 25 when I came back and went into business. It was an important step for me and I was fortunate that my parents involved me so early.”

Carl joined Boyett Petroleum as CEO in 1970, and 42 years later he holds the same title, while the company he leads has blossomed from a small retail distributorship to the premier independent fuel supplier and retailer in the West.

Under Carl’s leadership, Boyett Petroleum has gone from selling less than 4 million gallons of gasoline per year to nearly 1 million gallons each day with projections of close to $1 billion in sales this year. The company’s focus has shifted, as well. “Retail’s always been important, but we’re really a wholesaler. 90% of our business is reselling to other people. We sell to about 300 stations f rom San Diego to Phoenix to Las Vegas to Reno.”

In the last decade, the company has established Cruisers stores, a line of branded convenience stores operating throughout the Modesto area. “We’ve had convenience stores since 1978, but we didn’t take it super seriously until we came up with Cruisers. One of our goals this year is to add private label items to our shelves.”

Community ServiceCarl has always been committed to giving back to the community, logging more than 40 years as a member of the Jaycee’s and nearly 30 as a Rotarian. “It’s a good way to meet people and get involved. After a while, you develop a spirit of serving the community.” said Carl. A few years ago, this spirit of community service inspired Carl

to spearhead the creation of Boyett ’s own charity, which was realized in 2009 with the foundation of the Make Dreams Real Endowment Fund. The Fund helps Stanislaus County’s children participate in programs that enrich and stimulate their minds and bodies. “These kids keep losing things like science camp and field trips because of budget cuts,” said Carl, adding that the Fund intends to expand Stanislaus County’s educational offerings by paying 10% of its $1 million dollar endowment goal annually in the form of matching grants to help kids. “This is one of the

things that I think is really exciting.”

The Endowment Fund’s foundational activity is an annual charity golf tournament held each spring. This year will mark the 23rd year of the tournament. “Most charities have some level of expenses, but ours gets 100% of the proceeds,” said Carl. “[Boyett Petroleum] underwrites the cost of this tournament so that all the funds people give us go into the Endowment Fund to help the kids.”

In addition to Make Dreams Real, Boyett Petroleum has made a wide variety of other charitable contributions to the community under Carl’s leadership. The company’s Be Green Initiative established recycling days at Boyett-owned stations around the city with proceeds matched by the company. Coupled with recycling stations at the annual Earth Day celebration at Graceada Park, these initiatives have raised over $30,000 for area parks.

Carl himself is an active member with a wide variety of nonprofit boards in the area, including serving as Chairman of the Board with the Gallo Center for the Arts and President of the Society of Independent Gasoline Marketers of America.

In recognition of his service to his country and the life he has spent supporting and encouraging the community, Carl was honored with the title Citizen of the Year f rom the American Legion post 74 last November and has been tapped as Grand Marshal of Modesto’s 4th of July Parade for this year.

Ultimately, though, it is not Carl ’s many incredible accomplishments that are most striking about him, but simply the pureness and generosity of spirit of a man who has done, seen and conquered so much in his lifetime, and stil l finds joy in the city he calls home. P

Written by Justin Souza, Photos by Studio Warner

Carl is a true believer

in Modesto, the

town where he has

spent much of his

life. In addition to his

duties with Boyett

Petroleum, Carl has

focused much of his

energy over the years

on making Modesto

a better, more

prosperous place.

Boyett Petroleum Make dreams Real for stanislaus Children

23rd Annual golf tournamentWednesday, May 16, 2012100% donation All fees, expenses, overhead paid by Boyett Petroleum

donate, Play, Volunteermakedreamsrealfund.com • (209) 577-6000

8 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

The video on the projector screen shows the shoebox-sized mechanized robot playing “Chopsticks” on a piano. Community members look on with interest. Guided by its electronic eye and directions that have been programmed into its “brain,” it’s a demonstration of the integration of technology, mechanics, and precision timing. A highly complicated task, made more impressive by the Beyer High School student’s answer “Not a thing,” to the question, “How much did you know about robotics and computer programming before you came into this class?” On the other side of the room, students – dressed in shirts and ties – explain the programming and engineering that went into the “Beast,” the four-foot high robot that seeks out basketballs, collects and conveys them upward to an entry chute to rollers that thrust the balls toward the basketball hoop. “Nothing but net.” Their design will be tested at the upcoming FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) in Madera this April.

The Robotics Program at Beyer High School was one stop among six programs visited as Modesto City Schools opened its doors and hosted a tour of its Career Academies and Specialized Programs on March 8, 2012. Along for the tour were local business, industry, and community members representing the Chamber, Stanislaus Community Foundation, Alliance Worknet, Stanislaus/Tuolumne Central Labor Council, SCOE, the Modesto Bee, and a Modesto City Schools Board Member.

Initiated by Superintendent Pam Able, the tour was a window to give community members a first-hand glimpse into the wide variety of Career Technical Education (CTE) programs the district offers and the high level, relevant technical and workplace skills students develop while in the programs. Her goal echoed the sentiments of Kenni Friedman—community advocate and former Modesto City Councilwoman – who participated in the tour and said of her experience, “My goal is to offer every student an opportunity to succeed. The academies and specialized programs provide many of our students the academic resources they need to qualify for a job or to begin their career path.”

According to Modesto City Schools Board of Education member Steve Grenbeaux, “The trip was very successful. It gave business and labor a good understanding of what was offered in our high schools, and ways that they could work with MCS to improve and expand our offerings.”

The trip began at Downey High School, where Ag Instructor Mike Schilperoort gave an overview of the district’s multi-faceted Ag programs in which nearly 3,000 students – including over 2,500 Future Farmers of America (FFA) members – take classes ranging from Ag mechanics and integrated Ag science to horticulture and animal science. From there, tour visitors boarded district vans and spent the day visiting the following programs:

Downey Culinary Arts students provided a fabulous full-service luncheon featuring a smoked pork loin Panini with caramelized onions, and finished off with a dessert of Panna Cotta topped with fresh berry sauce. Instructor Chris May and students anxiously await this summer’s renovation of their current 1951-era kitchen to a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen as part of a Career Technical Education Facilities Grant.

While the tour catered to adults, it was the students who stole the show through their ability to articulate their accomplishments in each of the programs. Modesto Bee education reporter Nan Austin said, “What struck me about the tour was the number of options and types of talents the academies appealed to, and this type of event made those contrasts very clear. From the robotics course, to the cooking, to the ag and all the others, the variety of programs touched a wide array of students and tapped into that all-important social dynamic that keeps kids engaged and wanting to come to school every day. In those rooms it was cool to care about coursework. I especially got a lot out of hearing about the classes from the kids…It was neat to see how passionate the teachers were, but it was how much the kids knew and cared that really made an impact and said, yes -- this program works.”

A common thread woven throughout all the programs visited was a high level of passion among the instructors, and a high level of relevant learning experienced by students. Their sense of ownership of their programs was palpable and their comments echoed recurring themes of work ethic, responsibility, critical thinking, teamwork, and other skills considered essential in the workplace. Some students credited their programs with saving them from heading down the wrong path. Others commented on the value of job shadowing and mentoring that are part of their programs. All students were eager to rise to the challenge of their rigorous coursework.

PreParing for Tomorrow Today: a unique Behind-the-scenes tour of modesto city schools’

career technical education programs By: mike henderson, director of alternative and vocational education mcs

Health Careers Academy and Public Safety Academy Davis High School

Robotics Program Beyer High School

Pre-Veterinary Science and Biotechnology/Forensics Programs Enochs High School

Education & Child Development (ECDA) and Industrial

Technology & Engineering (ITEA) Academies and Welding Program Johansen High School

Culinary Arts Program Downey High School

Performing Arts Academy Modesto High School

eduCation

may 2012 9

“It’s challenging,” one said. “But I’m ready to apply what I’m learning. I’m ready to work.”

Before the tour ended, there was already talk of additional tours to make the opportunity available to more community members. Based on feedback from participants, the tour was a positive experience that showcased Modesto City Schools’ programs and students. Clearly, the March tour is just the beginning.

More people in our community need to become more knowledgeable of the many diverse programs/learning experiences that Modesto City Schools are offering. The Enochs Forensic Labs are fascinating, the Veterinary Science Programs offered are very advanced. I am looking forward to the expansion of the Culinary Academy and being able to use it for catering. The Performing Arts group was also very impressive. The entire day is something that I would like all of our board members to experience. – Cecil Russell, CEO, Modesto Chamber of Commerce

What a fabulous experience it was to tour various High School Academies and Specialized Programs! There is nothing like being there, in person, to see and feel the enthusiasm of students so thoroughly engaged in learning. It is obvious that teachers are bringing real meaning to learning and to life! There are so many reasons to be excited and proud of the rich learning opportunities provided for Modesto’s high school students. Talking with individual students and staff members and hearing them express how very motivated they are about learning and teaching is just what our community needs to realize. Every time I’m on a high school campus, I leave thinking, “I wish everyone could see the great things going on here! Please provide additional tours for Modesto’s citizens. They too will be proud of what schools are providing for our students.” – Mary Ann Sanders, Board Member, Stanislaus County Office of Education

In a nutshell, I was very impressed by the level of diversity and accomplishment within the Academies program. At each stop, we were able to see the students apply hands-on techniques to their work. The individual investment and commitment of each student to their work was both noticeable and impressive. Personally, with my background of having previously worked in the public schools system for twenty-seven years, I was very impressed by both the overall program structure, and implementation of the program itself. The dedication of the staff was clear; they were focused on the individual student, and the direction of instruction towards their goals, as a class. On more than one occasion throughout the day, I caught myself saying to the other tour participants, “With all the negative talk about the public schools in the press lately; I had no idea. This is what the community needs to see”.

From our first stop at Downey High School, and throughout each campus visited, the students were engaged, attentive, focused, and had a clear vision of what this progressive, educational experience would be able to provide them in the outside world, post-high school. No matter where they go, the skills being taught and employed within this program are instrumental and hold the keys to future successes for them. – Tony Rojas, Secretary/Treasurer, Stanislaus/Tuolumne Counties Central Labor Council

There is a cadre of extremely talented and dedicated professional educators in Stanislaus County that are striving to make a real difference in the lives of students that are living in at-risk environments, or might be English Language Learners, or growing up under adverse circumstances, yet are thriving in school despite their circumstances because there are teachers and staff that care about them.

The Career Academies and Career Pathways that Modesto City Schools has started in their High Schools give our students a wonderful learning opportunity that really makes learning fun and engaging. Career Academies across the country over the past forty years have a demonstrated and proven track record of increasing attendance, raising grade point averages, reducing disciplinary issues, and reducing high school dropouts.

As a former Modesto City Schools parent and professional educator who works in economic development and workforce development for the Stanislaus Economic Development & Workforce Alliance; Modesto City Schools is doing a wonderful job educating the workforce of tomorrow for Stanislaus County! – Keith Griffith, Senior Manager, Education, Alliance Worknet P

10 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

in celebration of our 100 years of

service to the modesto business

community, the chamber was

presented with a wonderful painting

by rebecca murphy that depicts

many iconic locations and symbols

of modesto. a representation of this

painting was

featured on

the cover of

the april issue of progress. signed

and numbered prints of the painting

are now available for purchase. call

meagan lopez at the chamber to

reserve your copy today, (209) 577-5757.

people on the move

Success Capital has announced the appointment of Michael German as its President, replacing Susan Martin, who is stepping down after 10 years of leadership of the organization. Success Capital is a Modesto based economic development company which provides long term, fixed rate, commercial real estate financing under the US Small Business Administration 504 loan program.

Michael has over 20 years experience in commercial lending. He previously served as Chairman of Success Capital’s Board of Directors, as a member of the Alliance Small Business Development Center Advisory Board, and as a Loan Officer at the SBA Commercial Loan Service Center. For more information contact Michael at 209-521-9372 or mgerman@successcapitalsba.com. P

eduCation

Spring is here! Soon it will be time for graduations, marking the end of another school year. Kids of all ages will be filled with excitement for the long awaited summer vacation! Yet, all children

have some learning loss during the summer months, and more significant losses are seen in children who don’t have access to books.

The Stanislaus County Library’s Summer Reading Program, May 26 through August 4, is a fun and free way to encourage children to read over the summer months to retain or even improve their reading skills.

Participating in the Summer Reading Program is fun and easy! Children pick up a reading log at any Stanislaus County Library branch and keep track of each day spent reading for at least 20 minutes. After seven days of reading, they bring the log back to the library and receive an incentive prize. Young children, who are not yet reading, can also participate by having someone read to them. Special performers appear at every branch, making summer visits to the library even more fun! Library event performers use their talents to build literacy

and pre-literacy skills, as well as instill a love of reading and learning.

Teens are encouraged to participate by completing a bingo-style card with various types of reading represented in each square. They can earn bowling passes and be entered into special prize drawings for larger items like a Kindle or iPod.

Adults are also invited to participate by writing short book reviews to recommend their favorite titles to other readers. The Summer Reading Program has been expanded to include adults because it’s important for children to see their parents demonstrating good reading habits. “Parents are their children’s first and most influential teachers,” said Amy Taylor, Modesto Library Manager. “Like many other behaviors, children pick up good habits they observe in their parents.” Although adults don’t earn weekly reading incentives, there is a drawing held at the end of the summer for adult participants for a chance to win a reading prize basket.

Numerous recent studies show that students typically lose at least one month’s worth of learning over the summer. Studies also show that children from lower income households lose even more. Researchers conclude that this disparity can be attributed to less access to books and learning opportunities. A 1998

study concluded that “the amount and quality of student’s access to reading materials is substantively related to the amount of reading they engage in, which in turn is the most important determinant of reading achievement.”

Our local libraries provide a wide range of materials, so people of all ages are likely to find something to interest them. Librarians have long understood the importance of continuous learning. In fact, the Stanislaus County Library’s Summer Reading Program began more than 50 years ago as an effective method of reaching out to all children and encouraging them to develop a lifelong love of reading and learning.

The value of this program to our community is priceless, but the cost of providing it is not. The Stanislaus Library Foundation provides full funding, about $30,000, to finance the Summer Reading Program county wide. Friends of the Library groups at local branches also pitch in to offer additional programs and special incentives.

Last summer, more than 12,000 children, teens and adults participated in the program. For more information on Summer Reading, please visit your library branch or go to www.stanislauslibrary.org. P

dream Big…read @ your liBrary

michael german

susan lilly

{ minnie’s news bites }

minnie dodge

may 2012 11

eConomiC development

heald college By Ezra Salas, Campus President

209.423.4940

Published by Never Boring Design Associates

In July of 2010 Heald College opened its doors to its 12th and newest campus. Nearly 20 years had passed since Heald College opened up a campus, and with a community in dire need for jobs and higher education, Modesto was deemed to be a perfect fit. Since opening its doors in July of 2010, Heald College has breathed life into the local economy by creating 114 full and part time positions not

to mention the jobs that have been created for our in school students and graduates. Now some five weeks after Heald College Modesto’s first graduation, and with the words of Keynote speaker Dan Costa still echoing in their ears, many of the graduates have found work and many more are finding themselves in an all too unfamiliar place; an interview. Of the 63 graduates, 14 of them have been placed in positions within their respective industries and another 12 more have elected to pursue a bachelors degree and further their education. Two have joined the Air Force and the remaining students are working c losely with Career Ser vices to ensure when they

get ca l led for an inter v iew they wi l l be prepared and confident in their ability to get the job done effectively, and with great customer ser vice. Career Ser vices is a department dedicated solely to the professional growth and development of al l Heald College Modesto’s near ly 900 students. Career Ser vices is also a valuable resource graduates can receive for l ife. As an act ive member in the Modesto Chamber of Commerce and L eadership Modesto, and Heald Col lege Campus Pres ident I have made i t my personal miss ion to bui ld a l l iances with loca l employers to create jobs for his graduates and prepare them to enter the workforce through effective internship and externship opportunities. In 2013 Heald College will be celebrating its 150 year anniversary and one thing has remained the same, a strong focus on workforce preparedness and involvement in the communities we serve. P

ezra salas

12 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

Senator Anthony Cannella, Chairman, Senate Agriculture Committee, was the Keynote Speaker at the 17th annual Ag Aware Luncheon held April 19th at the SOS Club. Approximately 500 local business men and women listened intently as the Senator spoke about the budget saying the state government needs to take a different approach from increasing taxes. In addition, the Senator touched on SB 1302 Arson: Commercial Livestock Farms, SEQUA reform and water storage. FFA students Sydney Smith, Joseph Gregori High School and Arla Green, Thomas Downey High School shared their FFA experience, telling the audience about their experience at the yearly FFA convention and their plans to continue their education in the Agriculture field.

Gold level sponsors Garton Tractor New Holland Agricultural Equipment and JS West Company and Silver Level Sponsors American Chevrolet, Grimbleby Coleman CPA’s, Oak Valley Community Bank and Sheriff Adam Christianson helped this year’s program generate over $10,000 for FFA scholarships, bringing the

sixteen-year total to $155,000. FFA students and programs benefit from new equipment purchases and funding for travel to state and national leadership activities.

In addition to the corporate sponsors,

Ag Aware Chairman Mark Anglin, Dean of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Modesto Junior College, credited Yosemite Meat, Save Mart Supermarkets, Foster Farms Dairy and Village Baking Company for their contributions of food and

beverages. Centerpiece creations were sponsored by the California Women for Agriculture; programs, door prizes and other materials were provided by Modesto City Schools and Modesto Junior College Ag Department. P

17th annual ag aware! luncheon

goLd LeVeLsponsors

garton tractor/new holland

Js west company

sILVer LeVeL sponsors

american chevrolet

oak valley community Bank

grimbleby coleman cpa’s

sheriff adam christianson

presIdent’s CLuB

taBLe sponsors

dIaMond LeVeL

Bank of the west

goLd LeVeL

doubletree hotel

save mart supermarkets

sILVer LeVeL

atherton & associates

curtis legal group

del monte

gianelli & associates

mocse credit union

modesto commerce Bank

rabobank

turlock irrigation district

us Bank

wells fargo regional commercial

Banking group

winton-ireland, strom & green

insurance agency

taBLe sponsors

a.l. gilbert company

almond Board of california

american agcredit

Bank of america

Blue diamond growers

Boyett petroleum

Burchell nursery, inc.

california milk advisory Board

california poultry federation

crop production services

csu stanislaus ag dept.

dave wilson nursery

duarte nursery

e & J gallo winery

f & m Bank

farmland management services

fisher nut company

flory industries

J.m. equipment co., inc.

lane menezes the ranch realtor/

sherman Boon

langman consulting

mape’s ranch/lyons family.

melvin wheeler & sons

modesto Junior college ag staff

modesto Junior college

foundation

modesto city schools

perez farms

provost & pritchard

consulting group

rank investigations &

protection inc.

san Joaquin equipment co.

satake usa

stanislaus county assessor

stanislaus county farm Bureau

union Bank

veterinary service, inc

yosemite community

college district

yosemite farm credit

dIreCt donors

the almond Board of california

Braden farms

california women for agriculture

ceres pipe & metal

foster farms dairy

gca financial services

mid valley foods

modesto steel

save mart supermarkets

stanislaus farm supply

village Baking company

yosemite meat company, inc

editorial

Senator Anthony Cannella

Sydney Smith

Arla Green

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The Chamber and the Ag Aware Committee would like to express our appreciation to the following organizations that were table sponsors and donors for the event:

may 2012 13

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14 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress14

editorial

A free workshop will be offered May 19 for prospective candidates for local elected off ices. It is again being offered by your Chamber in association with The Modesto Bee/modbee.com and representatives of the Democrat and Republican parties.

The program will be held at the Nick Blom Salida Regional Library, 4835 Sisk Road. Registration will begin at 8:45 a.m., with presentations beginning at 9 a.m.

The workshop will open with a 3-member panel of local elected off icials describing the rewards and challenges of public service followed by a presentation on the basic elements of a campaign organization and its activities. The program will also feature a comprehensive session on campaign f inance reporting by a local Certif ied Public Accountant, Joan Clendenin of Clendenin, Bird and Company, CPAs.

The workshop is designed for those seeking local off ices this June and beyond. The November election will include openings for Mayor and City Council in seven cities throughout the county [excluding Modesto and Ceres] and seats on Yosemite Community College Board of Trustees.

In fall 2013, there will be elections for irrigation, hospital and f ire districts as well as all school boards. The Modesto and Ceres City Council seats also are f illed in odd-numbered years. It is not too soon to be considering those positions and preparing to run by attending this workshop. Many current and previously elected off icials are “graduates” of this program.

Advanced registration is preferred so that suff icient materials will be available for all who attend. To reserve your seat, please call the Chamber at 209-577-5757 or e-mail Meagan Lopez at mlopez@modchamber.org. P

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

Joan clendenin

A free workshop for prospective candidates

getting ready to run for puBlic office?}

may 2012 15

The coach left Modesto at 7:00 a.m., arriving at the State Capitol at 8:30 a.m. Our first event was a tour of the Capitol Building. The tour consisted of the history of California Statehood from 1854, when the Capitol moved to Sacramento through 1976-1982 when the building was refitted to withstand earthquakes at a cost of 68 million dollars.

Next we reviewed members of the Senate and Assembly including their years of service. Members are able to move between houses after they max out their years of service in either the Senate or Assembly.

We proceeded to the actual Assembly room. The room is green, based on English tradition, and represents agriculture. Electronic voting started in 1935.

On our way to the Senate Chambers we passed by portraits of past Governors including Jerry Brown, which was painted in a very modern stylistic way, unlike all the other portraits.

The Senate Chambers are painted red, again after England’s Royal House of Lords. There are forty seats for the forty districts.

Next, Jason Sisney, Deputy Legislative Analyst, spoke to us regarding the budgeting process and the financial issues facing the State in these tough economic times. Jason said the complexity of the State is a big part of the budget problems.

Following Mr. Sisney, Pat Moran, a lobbyist, spoke to us regarding the roll of lobbyists in the political system. One interesting comment from Mr. Moran, lobbyists don’t like term limits as they feel they must constantly re-educate members of the House and Senate.

The morning wrapped up with Assemblymember Kristin Olsen, who spoke to us regarding the demands of her job and her Republican beliefs that guide her decisions.

After lunch on our own, we met with Dan Walters, Editor at the Sacramento Bee. Dan entertained us with his usual cynicism on the State of the State.

Lastly, we met with Julia Berry, Assemblymember Bill Berryhill’s Chief of Staff, who stood in for Berryhill. She manages eight staffers and is currently pushing fifteen bills through the Assembly. Ms. Berry also discussed what Berryhill’s team is working to accomplish.

At 3:00 p.m. we boarded the coach for our return to Modesto. P

Leadership Modesto by Gay McFarren

Community development

16 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

chamBer hosts third annualstate of the city luncheon

The third annual State of the City Luncheon was a huge success. Modesto Centre Plaza was packed with 400 attendees. Luncheon guests listened while the Honorable Garrad Marsh presented his outlook for the City, his vision and some of his goals over the next four years.

Following his presentation, the Mayor and City Manager Greg Nyhoff answered a wide range of questions from the audience, facilitated by George Petrulakis.

This event continues to grow each year creating and atmosphere where everyone is welcome to attend and be involved through the Q&A process.

The Chamber thanks the following sponsors for their support. Without the support of our sponsors and members, important events such as these would not be possible.

presentIng sponsorkaiser permanente

Venue sponsor california state

university, stanislaus

doubletree hotel

prIntIng sponsor heald college

InforMatIon sponsormodesto irrigation district

eVent sponsors american medical response

Beard land & investment co.

Brad hawn

petrulakis Jensen &

friedrich, llp

taBLe sponsors

presIdent’s CLuB

dIaMond LeVeLcapax-giddings, corby,

hynes, inc.

medamerica Billing

services, inc.

goLd LeVeLevergreen nursing &

rehabilitation care center

seneca foods, llc

sILVer LeVeLf & m Bank

gianelli & associates

grimblebly coleman cpas, inc.

kaplan college

mocse credit union

oak valley community Bank

san Joaquin valley college

solid networks, inc.

us Bank

wells fargo commercial

Banking

winton-ireland, strom & green

insurance agency

taBLe sponsorscity of modesto

modesto city

employees association

modesto confidential &

management association

united cerebral palsy of

stanislaus county

university of california, merced

Mayor Garrad Marsh

Peer recovery arT ProjecT1222 J. street, modesto, ca 95354(209) 985-0467

Lynn TeLford-SahL1101 standiford avenue, suite B2 modesto, ca 95350(209) 492-8745

Taxi’S hamburgerS1809 mchenry avenue, suite B, modesto, ca 95350(209) 527-8294

naTionwide e-brokerage1231 8th street ste 402, modesto, ca 95354(209)595-3083

The wedding emPorium704 - i street #a1, modesto, ca 95354(209) 522-7526

modeSTo goSPeL miSSionrehabiLiTaTion cenTer1400 yosemite Blvd., modesto, ca 95354(209) 529-8259

riBBon cuttings

Community development

may 2012 17

networking & referrals

Business Before Hours hosted by:

Stanislaus county free Library

apr } Business Before & after hoursCoffEE

proviDED By:

STANISLAUS COUNTY FREE LIBRARY

(209) 558-7801 • www.stanislauslibrary.org1500 I Street, Modesto, CA 95354The Stanislaus County Library fosters the love of reading and opens the door to

knowledge. The county’s 13 library branches provide free access to books, books

on tape/CD, large print books, Playaways, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs, in

addition to computer and Internet access, premium subscription databases with

articles on a wide range of topics, and reference material such as the Foundation

Center database for non-prof its and individuals seeking grants.

SOLID NETWORKS, INC.

(209) 338-1400 • www.solidnetworks.com 5686 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368Founded in 1999 and headquartered in California’s Central Valley, Solid Networks

offers a full suite of Professional and Managed Services to businesses of all sizes

throughout California and Nevada. We specialize in a full spectrum of IT areas,

including: Virtualization, Unified Communications, Power & Cooling, Cloud Services,

Network Infrastructure Design & Implementation, Network Administration & Systems

Upgrades, Application Migrations, Server Administration & Hosting, and Desktop

Optimization, Monitoring & Management.

Business After Hours hosted by:

Solid networks, inc.

Modesto Chamber of Commerc

Community development

Six Ways to Keep Your Workers Safe and Healthy

deVeLop and IMpLeMent an IIpp.

california law requires every business, regardless of

size, to have a written injury and illness prevention

program (iipp). the iipp is the cornerstone

of a company’s safety program and it’s eight

components outline the steps an employer should

take to minimize risk, educate workers, and correct

workplace hazards. the program doesn’t need to

be intricate, but it should be thorough and reviewed

on an annual basis. it is a living document and

embodies your company’s safety culture and practices.

Create an eMergenCy aCtIon pLan.

writing an emergency action plan is one of the eight required components

of an iipp. it is an essential document that walks all employees through the

process of what to do in any kind of emergency – occupational, natural

disaster, you name it. having it written down isn’t enough. it needs to be

easy to understand, shared with all employees, posted in plain view, and

updated to reflect changes to the company (such as company’s primary point

of contact). conduct at least one emergency evacuation drill annually with all

employees, which is a great way to ensure what you have on paper will work

in a real emergency.

reguLarLy ConduCt hazard assessMents.

it is critical to know your company’s hazards. risk is relative to your business

and every company has danger. it can be as simple as the inappropriate use

of cleaning products. do not take for granted that all workers know what is or

isn’t a hazard. as part of maintaining your iipp, regularly assess your business

and it’s operations for hazards. when risk is found, document your protocol

for minimizing a possible injury or illness. then train your workers on what the

hazard is and how to avoid getting hurt or sick.

traIn workers to Be safe.

all employees should receive safety training when they start with the company

and on a regular basis from then on. at a minimum, the iipp should be reviewed

and discussed once a year with all workers. if a new hazard is identified,

employees should be informed immediately, along with the steps needed

to stay safe. you can never provide too much information when it comes to

workers being safe on the job.

CeLeBrate safety.

actively celebrate a culture of safety. maintain a calendar of the number

of days without incident and when you reach a specific milestone, provide

some form of incentive for all workers. encourage employees to become

your partners in safety and when someone observes a hazard, publicly

praise that individual for their contribution. make safety a priority for your

business and promote that mantra consistently.

stay InforMed.

state and federal regulations change regularly relative to keeping workers

safe and healthy. maintain active participation in organizations like the

modesto chamber of commerce and agsafe to ensure you have the most

current information on what you must do to protect your employees. P

{ from the eXperts }

amy wolfe agsafe

By Amy Wolfe, AgSafe

P

20 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

new chamBer memBers

LANGMAN CONSULTING Chip Langman 400 - 12th Street, #25 Modesto, CA 95354 ph (209) 566-1403 chip@langmanconsulting.com Political Consultants

CALIFORNIA OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIANS Rae Weber P.O. Box 3839 Modesto, CA 95352-3839 2112 McHenry Avenue, #B Modesto, CA 95350 ph (209) 572-2114 fax (209) 572-0804 raeweber@sbcglobal.net Medical Clinics

CIVIC PARTNERS MODESTO, INC. Steve Semingson 7777 Center Avenue, Suite 300 Huntington Beach, CA 92647 ph (714) 230-8000 (714) 230-8010 ssemingson@civicpartners.com. www.civicpartners.com Real Estate Developers

DEJONG FINANCIAL GROUP Karen Dejong 1130 L Street Suite B Modesto, CA 95354 ph (209) 409-8759 fax (209) 566-1002 dejongkrn@yahoo.com Financial Planners & Services

FLOWER STUDIO Jorge & Bertha Ortega 1028 - 11th Street Modesto, CA 95354 ph (209) 575-0102 fax (209) 575-0103 flowerstudiomodesto@yahoo.com www.flowerstudiomodestoretail.com Florists-Retail

MAxIM HEALTHCARE SERVICES Melissa Kincy 1620 N. Carpenter Road, Suite C-19 Modesto, CA 95351 ph (209) 222-5490 fax (855) 456-7266 stocktonoffice@maxhealth.com www.maximhealthcare.comHome Health Services

TAxI’S HAMBURGERS Ali Arshad P.O. Box 580451 Modesto, CA 95358 1809 McHenry Avenue, Suite B Modesto, CA 95350 ph (209) 527-8294 fax (209) 571-2260 taxismodesto@att.net Restaurants

THE WEDDING EMPORIUM Kimberly Vaughan 704 - I Street, #A1 Modesto, CA 95354 ph (209) 522-7526 fax (209) 742-5892 weddings@ modestoweddingemporium.com www.modestoweddingemporium.com Wedding Services

UPLAND’S BUSINESS & COMPUTER SERVICES John Upland ph (650) 222-6435 jupland@att.netwww.upszu.us Telecommunications Consulting

networking & referrals

Maxim Healthcare Services As a dependable homecare provider for more than 20 years, Maxim Healthcare Services provides both skilled medical care and non-medical services for adult and pediatric patients in the comfort of their homes. Accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), Maxim has staff on call 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, to help ensure continuity of care and preserve quality of life while promoting independence and individual success. Our office is located at 1620 N. Carpenter Road, Suite C-19, in Modesto. Please call us today at (209) 222-5490. Taxi’s Hamburgers has been a favorite sense it opened in the Vintage Faire Mall in 2001. Taxi’s is the place to go for a fresh gourmet, juicy burger, grilled to perfection with all the toppings you can stuff between the buns! We pride our selves on using the freshest quality ingredients for our food. We have a new dessert bar, 4 large flat screen TV’s, state of the art jukebox and a meeting room, good food and fun for the whole family! For more information please call (209) 527-8294. Located 1809 McHenry Ave. Ste. B.

Garcia Insurance Agency/Farmers Insurance, specializes in determining and meeting your best insurance needs possible, for Life, Business, Auto, Home, Recreational Vehicles. With a qualified, mobile, and caring staff, who is available when you need them, where you need them. We offer a professional yet friendly home like environment free of pressure. Located at 1620 N. Carpenter Rd. Suite D-51, Modesto CA 95351, (209) 222-3710, Jgarcia19@farmersagent.com, www.farmersagent.com/jgarcia19. Open Monday-Friday 9am-6pm and after hours by appointment. You’re family not just a customer!

Lodi Association of Realtors® (LAR) celebrating 90 years of service to over 1500 members as a support organization helping individual Realtors® and Affiliates. Our mission is to provide members with education and resources enabling them to conduct business successfully, to promote and enforce professional and ethical standards and strengthen the Realtor® image by improving the quality of life in their communities, promoting equal housing opportunity and protecting and preserving private property rights L.A.R – “Your Local Associat ion of Realtors, www.lodirealtors.org Modesto (209) 523-5316 Lodi (209) 368-5315. P

new memBer profiles

eConomiC development

STOCKTONMODESTOMODESTO

UNTANGLETHE WEB

The web moves fast. Really fast. Last year’s big

thing is already ancient history. And that

website that your neighbor’s kid set up for you

back in 2002? It could use an update. Never

Boring’s Interactive Team are experts at

creating flexible custom websites that are

beautiful, functional and help you keep your

content fresh. Don’t let the web leave you behind, get up to speed fast with a

new site from Never Boring Design.

CALL US TODAY: 526.9136

22 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

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

(209) 523-8365

Keeping Modesto Cool Since 1957

AIR CONDITIONING • HEATING • SHEET METAL

AIR DUCT CLEANING • PLANNED SERVICE MAINTENANCE

W W W . N O R Q U I S T A I R . C O M

LIC. 872913

Modesto City Schools’ James C. Enochs High School Forensic/Biotechnology Career

Pathway Program has been honored with numerous accolades, both locally and nationally. Charged with providing innovative learning opportunities for

students, program instructors developed highly effective, standards-aligned lessons

and lab activities. Students in the program have better than average attendance and grade point averages, take more science classes than are required and are committed to learning science at advanced levels.

Forensic/Biotechnology Career Pathway Program graduates are working in industry, attending colleges and universities, and are part of research teams in noted biotechnology programs. Reports from the schools and firms who have placed students are universally positive. Enochs students are well trained and know how to contribute!

Program administrators would like to develop partnerships with Central Valley businesses to provide on-site learning opportunities, including internships or job shadowing, for program participants. Memorial Medical Center and Duarte Nursery have hosted some of the program’s seniors, they report high levels of student were success when learning about workplace expectations and roles. When coupled with a strong internship or job shadowing experience, an educational program like the Forensic/Biotechnology Career Pathway, can help to keep the best and brightest students in Modesto.

One- to two-week (or longer) internships and/or job shadowing opportunities will provide the program’s 30 seniors (Grade 12) and 60 juniors (Grade 11) with first-hand experiences in a workplace environment. Ideally, students will stay for a minimum of four hours each day. Students need to learn what employers expect of employees, and what challenges they may face so they can contribute to the success of any firm. Companies with lab environments would be of high interest to students, and program administrators will work to make the internships and job shadowing opportunities mutually beneficial.

Forensic/Biotechnology Career Pathway Program students come from a wide variety of backgrounds, are well trained academically and have laboratory skills. They are WorkKeys tested (a workforce preparedness measure), and will bring diverse abilities to the experience. Please consider providing an internship or job shadowing experience for students in the Forensic/Biotechnology Career Pathway Program and other pathways and academies in Modesto Schools. Help develop a locally grown and Central Valley oriented workforce that can help keep firms and jobs in our community.

Partnerships are needed for all pathways and academies. For more information, please contact Mike Henderson, Director Alternative and Vocational Education at henderson.m@mcs4kids.com or Dave Menshew at menshew.d@mcs4kids.com or Graham Tuck at tuck.g@mcs4kids.com Enochs High School Forensic/Biotechnology Career Pathway Program Administrators. P

By Dave Menshew, Instructor, Enochs High School

Premier Program Pursues Productive Partnerships

Community development

may 2012 23

...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.

Brad Hawn CHG StruCtural EnGinEErS

CHG Structural Engineers is a firm of consulting structural engineers founded by Brad Hawn in 1981. The firm, which predominately handles schools, hospitals and commercial projects, intentionally maintains a small staff of creative and motivated professionals in order to maximize flexibility and remain dynamic as markets shift.

tell me about your career and professional life. What have you

done in the past that has led you to where you are now? After school, I worked for companies in Modesto and Stockton before I opened my own practice in 1981. When I started my business, it was a risk. The economy was bad but the company I was working for wasn’t doing anything to market itself. I knew I could stay there and probably get laid off or take a chance and start my own business. I don’t know that I would advise people to do what I did, but I felt like it was the lesser of the two risks.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud? I’m proud of my family. I have three grown kids who I love and respect and who love and respect me. People think about money as the true mark of success but if you look at people who have made a lot of money and have ruined their lives… that’s not success. I would rather have a lot less money and have good relationships.

You’re very much an entrepreneur. What do you think makes you such a success? My hunger for the next thing. My wife says I like to climb mountains. I like to take risks and I’ve learned a lot in my life from mistakes because I’m willing to reach out of the box and make a lot of them. You’ve got to be willing to put yourself into positions where you might fail. Nobody likes to fail, but it’s a learning experience. When I ran for mayor, I knew there was a 50/50 chance that I was going to lose and I lost. But I learned a lot along the way about myself and about how to make the changes that can move our city forward.

What is the single biggest reason that you have achieved the level of success you have? My wife Nancy is a big help; she grounds me and helps me consider before I leap. I could never do this alone. I think you need someone that contrasts you to ground you. If you’re around people that all think like you do, you’re going to make a lot of mistakes. Often when I’ve had to make major decisions, I talk to people who I know will probably give me the answer I don’t want, because I want to hear what they have to say. When you’re looking for advice, you can pick the people you talk to to get the advice you want. But I think with maturity you come to respect the opinions of people who are different than you. You become a more complete person with that contrast.

Do you participate in any community outreach efforts or clubs?I just finished up 8 years on the Modesto City Council and I’ve been active in my church and a member of Modesto Rotary Club for over 25 years. Through my work with the Council, I’ve started helping out in the Airport neighborhood. I’m proud that I’ve been able to help really disadvantaged people figure out how to work with the City, the Council and local businesses to accomplish things in their community.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? The key to being an entrepreneur is the eagerness to go out and create a market for yourself. Finding success means looking out ahead, seeing what the market will be and adjusting your business to cater to niches in what’s coming. You have to pioneer, not just come in, set down and maintain, because in this climate, even long standing established businesses that don’t adjust are dying.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the land of Opportunity? I wholeheartedly think Modesto is the best place to live and a great place to do business. It’s the land of opportunity because you can be here and service the whole Western US without a problem. We’re in a place that has great potential if we do it right. I want to be proud to be from Modesto. We’ve made a lot of progress but we’ve got a lot more to go. I hope the city government and the Chamber keep working together to make more opportunities. Nobody is going to do it for us, we’ve got to do it for ourselves. It takes time, but we can make a better community.

Brad hawn

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

24 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

WORK IN

Community development

United Way of Stanislaus County President and CEO, Francine DiCiano, was recently named one of 10 Outstanding Women for 2012 by the Stanislaus County Commission for Women. She was honored March 31 at the Commission’s 33rd annual dinner. Francine has served as United Way’s President and CEO for two years and staff is grateful for her leadership. She is committed to making Stanislaus County a better place for all of us. For more information please

contact United Way of Stanislaus County at (209) 523-4562. P

awards and achievements

announcements

francine dicano

Howard Training Center (HTC) is hosting its Second Annual “Aim To Fill The Need” Trap Shoot Competition at the Escalon Sportsman’s Club, 25195 East River Road, Escalon. For $30, participants will receive 50 targets and a delicious lunch. $10 lunch only tickets are also available. Trophies will be awarded for top shooters in the Men’s, Women’s and Junior (18 & Under) Categories. Join us for this family-friendly event on July 15, 2012. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, call (209) 593-5618 or go to www.howardtrainingcenter.com to register. P

Business to Business trade show

We have the date, June 27, 2012 and location, Modesto Centre Plaza. Now all we need is you. Sample local, shop local, sell

local, buy local, reserve your booth space now and start planning for the 8th Annual Business to Business Trade Show. Meet Valley professionals and see the best businesses and products the

Chamber membership has to offer. Be part of this exciting event as a Business to Business sponsor, vendor, or attendee.

This year we will offer new member discounts, and incentives to our existing members with contests, information on best booth designs and how to drive traff ic to your exhibit.

Sponsorships and vendor booths are going fast. To become a sponsor or reserve booth space, please call Elizabeth Facanha at (209) 577-5757.

See and be seen at the Annual Business to Business Trade Show, June 27, 2012. P

DIRECT FLOORING & HOME

Discount outlet showroom

Parts & service counter

Discounted appliances

Low-end carpet, tile, cabinets, sinks

Open box items

Discontinued items

Scratch 'n dent items

Overstocks and more!

2424 McHenry Avenue (corner of Floyd)directappliance.com l www.facebook.com/DirectAppliance l (209)238-3000

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NEW LOCATION! DIRECT APPLIANCE, FLOORING AND HOME OUTLET701 K Street, corner of 7th down from The DoubleTree Hotel

save the date

Business to Business trade show

June 27, 2012

modesto Centre plaza.

may 2012 25

when mother and son Judy and scott aspesi opened

dewz restaurant in 1997, it was a casual spot where

diners could pick up a good meal and sip a glass

from one of a limited selection of wines. fifteen

years later, dewz restaurant has evolved into one

of modesto’s premiere fine dining

establishments, with a full bar,

seating for around 100 diners

and a growing reputation.

this January, dewz was named

one of the 100 best overall

restaurants in the country for

2011 from opentable.com,

putting this modesto hotspot

on the national stage alongside

such oft-celebrated company as

chef thomas keller’s the french

laundry. this top 100 list is drawn

from over 5 million user reviews

on opentable.com, and dewz

is one of only 10 restaurants in

california to have made the cut.

in march, dewz added another

award to its shelf when it was named one of the

opentable 2012 diner’s choice top 100 restaurants

for service. this influx of awards doesn’t change the

way the business is run, said scott aspesi. “i just

love satisfying customers. we try to make sure

everyone who comes in is pleased with our food

and our service.”

later this year, dewz will open a new wine and cheese

shop next door to their location on J street. the new

shop, slated to open no later

than august in the building

rc david currently occupies,

will offer wine shoppers a fun,

relaxed atmosphere where

they can sample a wide variety

of the wines available on dewz

wine list and nosh a variety of

meats, cheeses, breads and

dipping sauces usually available

at the restaurant. aspesi

envisions the new shop as the

perfect place for downtowners

to relax before a show at the

gallo center. aspesi said that

the new shop will feature

specialty equipment from italy

that will automate the sampling

process so customers can

distribute perfectly-measured samples of wines

on their own. Backed up by dewz well-earned

reputation for quality, this new venture should

quickly become a vibrant new hotspot in modesto’s

downtown landscape.

Dewz Restaurant Elevates

Modesto Dining to National Stage Service when you need it(courtesy of never Boring design Associates)

Never Boring’s Film & Multimedia Department is more than just commercials. We have video options to fit every business. Here is a peek at what we do: New hire orientations a hassle? Training Videos mean you film it once and you’re done. Brochures boring your customers? Corporate Videos set them apart. Want to tell your company’s story in your own words? Legacy Videos make it last. Is your business ready for the limelight? Find out what Never Boring can do for you. 526-9136, 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 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.

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

“I just love

satisfying

customers.

We try to make sure

everyone who comes

in is pleased with

our food and our

service.” -Scott Aspesi

Dewz Restaurant

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

26 modesto Chamber of Commerce I Progress

networking & referrals

chamBer calendar

MAy 2012

10 BusIness Before hours

Principal Financial Group Location: 301 Banner Court, Suite 1 Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

17 BusIness after hours

Modesto City-County Airport Location: 617 Airport Way Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

JuNE 2012

14 BusIness Before hours

IT Solutions|Currie Location: 1801 Tully Road, Suite E Time: 7:30 am – 8:30 am

21 BusIness after hours

Flying Turtle Cast Concrete Location: 1314 Coldwell Avenue Time: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

27 BusIness to BusIness tradeshow

Location: Modesto Centre Plaza, 1000 L Street, Modesto Time: 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm

We’ve been with you for generations

Serving the CentralValley Since 1928

Manteca209.823.7151

Modesto209.524.6366

license #0288149

AUTO - HOME - LIFE - HEALTH - BUSINESS

check us out to win ticketsfor games and events

tsm

For a physician referral, call 1.866.715.6302 or visit www.dmc-modesto.net/davinci.html

FIRST in gynecologic technology.

Doctors SECOND to none.

John C. Pfeffer, M.D.; James Y. Yip, M.D.; Susan C. Ways, M.D.; Fredric W. Feist, Jr., M.D.; Sean B. Clare, M.D.; Esther Tow-Der, M.D.; Sabrina Hussain, M.D. (photo not available)

When it comes to minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System sets the standard for state-of-the-art technology. A surgeon’s dream, the da Vinci® is a sophisticated piece of equipment that allows the specially-trained DMC doctors to perform surgeries with the tiniest of incisions, resulting in

less pain, less blood loss and quicker recovery. And it’s just one of the cutting-edge developments at Doctors Medical Center. To find out if you are a candidate for a da Vinci® procedure, visit www.dmc-modesto.net/davinci.html or call 866-715-6302 for a physician referral.

Significantly less pain • Less scarring • Less risk of infection Shorter hospital stay • Minimal blood loss • Faster recovery

Scan this QR code for more information on candidacy for the da Vinci procedure.

Download our App nowfor Android™

for Apple®

for BlackBerry® facebook.com/dmcmodesto

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.

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