Progress - August 2021

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

VOL. 42 | ISSUE 8 | AUGUST 2021

SCIABICA’S OLIVE OIL GRAFFITI SUMMER MILESTONE MEMBERS

We Haven’t Missed a Beat Since 1867

For more than 154 years Bank of Stockton hasn’t missed a beat in providing the financial and banking services our clients need. From business loans to expand a growing venture to real estate loans to help you buy a new home, we’ll supply the right advice and solutions that work for you. We are constantly working to make banking easier and more convenient with innovative products like our mobile banking app, remote deposit and security transaction alerts. Visit one of our branches today or check us out online and see for yourself what Bank of Stockton can drum up for you.

bankofstockton.com

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

IN MODESTO 1302 J St. & 4204 Dale Rd.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.

AUGUST 2021 | CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman

Michael Gaffney, PG&E

Past Chairman

Steve Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.

Vice Chair, External Operations Michael Moradian Jr. Peace of Mind Pest Control

Vice Chair, Internal Operations, Treasurer

85 Years For Sciabica’s

Patricia Gillum Pat Gillum CPA

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Garrett Ardis- Huff Construction Company Inc. Dennis Bettencourt- Blue Diamond Growers Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Kirstie Boyett, The State Theater David Halvorson Jr.- American Chevrolet Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Brian McDermott, Team S.O.S DeSha McLeod, Community Hospice Inc. Kymber Miller- Sysco Central California Inc. Eric Nielsen, Gianelli Nielsen Peggy O'Donnell, Mid-Valley Productions Jason Pineda, Freshpoint Inc. Bill Robinson, Principal Financial Group DeJeune Shelton- Modesto Junior College Madhu Singh, Bank of Stockton Jared Steinwert, F&M Bank John Villines- Modesto Gospel Mission

COMMUNITY

Donor Network

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President & CEO

Trish Christensen Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org Graphic Design: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141 • www.209magazine.com

Welcome Team Chair

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CEO Message

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Calendar

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Mix and Mingle

ADVOCACY

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Green Clean

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Member Engagement

RELATIONSHIPS

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Huff Construction

Distribution: 209 Magazine

EDUCATION

Advertising Sales:

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Tech Connect

Cover Photo:

SERVICE

Printer: 209 Magazine

209.634.9141 • hvanderveen@209magazine.com 209.634.9141

crogers@oakdaleleader.com 209.845.4074 Courtesy Of Sciabica’s California Olive Oil © Copyright 2021 Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing.

209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org

Leadership Modesto

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Staff: Administrative Assistant, Hope Gyorfi Administrative Assistant, Jolene Camarena Events Coordinator, Felicia Lopez Membership Coordinator, Sabrinna Gonzales Staff Accountant, Jaime Lastra

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MetroList

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in

this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Soroptimists

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PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org • Progress@ModChamber.org

AUGUST 2021

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A Message From The President & CEO MID-YEAR RELAUNCH

By Trish Christensen

W

e made it! Graffiti Summer is finally back, and the Annual American Graffiti Festival and Car Show, put on by the North Modesto Kiwanis Club, is too. Albeit at a COVID adjusted date of August 20th for the car parade, and August 21st and 22nd for the festival which will take place at Muni Golf Course once again. Talk about making summer suddenly feel real, and “normal” - So exciting!!!

We are actively transitioning from fully virtual to in person for meetings in the Chamber conference room.

Please stay engaged with our eblasts and website calendar for details as this process continues.

There is quite a mix of highlights to draw your attention to in this edition. We are thrilled to announce that our new “Member Mix & Mingle” events will begin in August, and they will have a fresh feel to them. If you follow us on social media, you have seen that we have been busy getting back out to host our usual ribbon cuttings for new members, grand openings, grand reopening’s, green certifications, and anniversary celebrations. The environment of these is based on the COVID guideline preferences of each individual business.

Our doors are no longer locked to the public so stop by to pick up missed editions of Progress Magazine, copies of the 2021 Business Directory, to purchase a joint labor law poster (English or Spanish), and drop off your event posters if you have them and want us to add to our street view boards.

COMMUNITY

We kick started July with the rollout of our redefined and enhanced membership benefits, the new titles of our President’s Tiers, and a robust list of our committees, programs, and targeted events. We extend an invitation to our members to let us know if you would like to go paperless, and/or have your dues broken out to be monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or done electronically.

We also offer a reminder to really enrich your member profile. When thoroughly populated, it becomes a great sub-site for your business.

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

We don’t want you to miss a beat as we have opportunities to have you join us here, or at a member’s place of business in the coming months.

Did you know we have a conference room and a smaller meeting room you can reserve for your own use? So, if you gave up your own office space during the pandemic, but you find you need a place to meet a client, or a quiet place to have some peace and quiet while you work, email info@modchamber.org. Nominal, by the hour member, and non-member rates and cleaning fee do apply.

I hope you enjoy all the wonderful content, stories, and information that follows … take care and stay safe!

With warm regards, Trish

MISSION The Modesto Chamber of Commerce to serving theArea, greater MISSIONSTATEMENT: STATEMENT: The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicatedistodedicated serving the greater Modesto regional businesses community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, MISSION The Modesto Chamber of Commerce isthrough dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area,STATEMENT: regional and businesses and community prosperity advocacy, collaboration, economic development, connectivity and business education.

Modesto Area,economic regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, development, connectivity and business education.

Toour execute our adopted mission have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. access to leaders, economic connectivity and business education.

That To execute adopted mission we development, havewe developed an acronym that helps keep us focused.

That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.” acronym is “CARES: Community, Relationships, Education andkeep Service.”

That To execute our adopted missionAdvocacy, we have developed an acronym that helps us focused. acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

EDUCATION

At its heart the Modesto Chamber is a community of likeminded

The Chamber serves the education community by hosting the

business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy

annual State of Business and Education event, by fund-raising for local

and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live,

students at the Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon annual series, and

work and play. The Modesto Chamber is the go-to resource and

partnering with local schools and colleges to train and educate young

At its heart the Modesto Chamber is a community of likeminded

business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy

and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live,

work and play. The Modesto Chamber is the go-to resource and

The Chamber serves the education community by hosting the

annual State of Business and Education event, by fund-raising for local

students at the Ag Aware and Harvest Luncheon annual series, and partnering with local schools and colleges to train and educate young

facilitator of ideas and communication for nonprofits, governmental men and women, all in keeping with our pledge to help provide a ready facilitator of ideas and communication for nonprofits, governmental men and women, all in keeping with our pledge to help provide a ready

agencies, and community leaders.

More More than than just ajust business club,club, the the workforce the Chamber Chamber agencies, and community leaders. a business workforcetotoserve serve local local employers. employers. Additionally, Additionally, the Modesto Chamber strives to affect its environment for positive educates its members on practical solutions and best practices through Modesto Chamber strives to affect its environment for positive educates its members on practical solutions and best practices through transformation by supporting change agents in the community. its Progress Magazine articles, monthly Chamber University and Seeds transformation by supporting change agents in the community. its Progress Magazine articles, monthly Chamber University and Seeds ofof Success speaker monthlycommittee committee Success speakerseries, series,workshops workshops and and seminars, seminars, monthly meetings, and SCORE counseling. meetings, and SCORE counseling.

ADVOCACY ADVOCACY

SERVICE SERVICE

Chamber Staff, Board of Directors and many of our topical

Chamber Staff, Board of Directors and many of our topical

committees, such as Economic Development and Government

committees, such as Economic Development and Government

Relations, are engaged and proactively representing our members by

Relations, are engaged and proactively representing our members by

The Chamber believes in service to the community and to its

The Chamber believes in service to the community and to its members. The Chamber Board and staff are active on many nonprofit

addressing business initiatives, addressing issues in our community members. The Chamber Board and staff are active on many nonprofit and government committees, donating their business expertise, time

addressing issues in our community and business working toinitiatives, relieve theaddressing regulatory burdens businesses endure due

and working toand relieve regulatory The burdens businesses due as to local statethe governments.

Modesto Chamberendure gets results, to local shown and state Modestomore Chamber gets results, as by governments. recent victoriesThe in forming rational ADA legislation, shown by recent avictories in measure, forming electing more rational legislation, defeating no-growth businessADA friendly candidates, working alongside otherselecting to passbusiness Measure L, a candidates, local self-help defeating a no-growth measure, friendly measure, for our workingtransportation alongside others to and passchampioning Measure L,fora more local water self-help agribusiness, industry citizens. By working together, transportation measure, andand championing for more waterour formembers our are stronger together than they ever be on their own. agribusiness, industry and citizens.

Bycould working together, our members

are stronger together than they could ever be on their own.

RELATIONSHIPS

RELATIONSHIPS

The Modesto Chamber specializes in building relationships among business and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit

The Modesto Chamber in building relationships organizations, and specializes governmental agencies.

We hostamong monthly businessnetworking and serving the special nexusevents, to businesses, nonprofit events, as annual an annual trade show, and our long-running Gala. Membersagencies. also may serve committees or go organizations, and governmental We onhost monthly through the Leadership Modesto program wheretrade they will build longnetworking events, annual special events, an annual show, and term relationships with key leaders in the business world and or go our long-running Gala. Members also may serve on committees

andand government their resources. committees, The Chamberdonating also serves its business individualexpertise, members time by andhosting resources.

Thecuttings Chamber alsointroduce serves itsa individual members ribbon which new business to theby hosting ribbon cuttings introduce new business to the community, valuable and which cost effective (free) amarketing opportunities, community, costworkshops effective (free) marketing exposure valuable to social and media, and training for opportunities, our business partnersto andsocial their associates, and other free andtraining discounted exposure media, workshops and forresources. our business

partners and their associates, and other free and discounted resources.

C - Community

C - Community A - Advocacy

A - Advocacy

R - Relationships

R - Relationships E - Education

ES--Education Service S - Service

throughlocal the community.

Leadership Modesto program where they will build longterm relationships with key leaders in the business world and local community.

AUGUST 2021

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COMMUNITY

CHAMBER CALENDAR

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AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Stockton Heat Hockey President Jamie Cochrane Navigating the Complexities & Balancing Act of Corporate and Community Responsibility in Minor League Professional Sports *Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Keith Boggs & David Leamon Stanislaus County, Crows Landing Development *Register on Website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M.

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AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING *In Person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

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AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING *In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

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MEMBERS MIX & MINGLE Love Stanislaus • 909 14th Street, Modesto 4:30PM-7PM

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MODESTO CHAMBER LEADERSHIP SERIES Leadership for Change Staff from Cradle to Career (C2C) Mary Pedraza, SCOE Erin Littlepage, CSUS Jay Brem, SCOE Jennifer Rangel, CHS *Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:45AM-1PM

MEMBERS MIX & MINGLE Wardens • 4104 Technology Dr, Modesto 5:00PM-7PM

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM The Climate Restoration Circle (CRC) Laura Stokes *Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 P.M.

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TECH CONNECT *Register on website 2:00 P.M.

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GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL Stanislaus County Supervisor Terry Withrow (Dist. 3) *Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 AM

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RISING PROFESSIONALS *Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 PM

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS *Register on website, in person & Zoom 4:00 P.M.

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM TBD *Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 P.M.

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TECH CONNECT James Bates COO/ Co Founder of Data Cyber Security Protection of internet connection systems hardware software and data from cyber threats *Register on website 2:00 P.M.

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GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL -Modesto City Councilmember (Dist. 3) Chris Ricci (Dist.3) “What is going on at the City” -Stanislaus County Supervisor Channce Condit (Dist.5) “My view- Challenges and Opportunities for Stanislaus County” *Register on website, in person & Zoom 11:30 A.M.

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RISING PROFESSIONALS *Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 P.M.

*See website for more detail. Find Zoom Registry links and more at www.modchamber.org

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS C. DeSha McLeod, MBA, CHPCA President/CEO Community Hospice *Register on website, in person & Zoom 4:00 P.M.

**The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is located at 1114 J St., Modesto

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RIBBON CUTTING Toshi Hart DDs., Inc 4213 Dale Rd B-6, Modesto 4:00PM-5PM

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Please note that calendar events and details are subject to change.

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM The Climate Restoration Circle (CRC) Laura Stokes *Register via Zoom 12:00 P.M.

AUGUST 2021

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85 Years And The Family Tradition Continues At Sciabica’s Olive Oil

By VIRGINIA STILL Keeping the doors open can be a serious challenge for any business and during a recession or pandemic it can be even harder. The Sciabica family has survived for the past 85 years through many peaks and valleys but through it all, their love for family and olive oil has reigned supreme.

This August, Sciabica’s Family California Olive Oil and gourmet foods will celebrate their 85th anniversary. Through five generations of family in the business, there have been many changes since 1936 when Jonathan Sciabica’s GreatGrandfather Nicola and Grandfather Joseph began artisancrafted, cold pressed olive oil production.

“The best feeling I have had in that 85 years of the family history was last year when my two nephews joined the company, Andrew and Nicholas,” said Jonathan, CEO. “It is not a feeling that you can put your finger on. I was there for the next generation coming in and I could really feel that lineage of the Sciabica family. That is what it really feels like to me, that it is a family and we welcomed the next generation in, and at 85 years I take a lot of pride in what we’ve accomplished. I also take a ton of pride in the interactions with our customers and how supportive they are and they have been, especially during the pandemic.”

Jonathan explained that Nicola learned about olive oil production in Sicily when he was a young man back in the late 1800s. He and his family immigrated to the United States and landed in Waterbury, Connecticut where Jonathan’s grandfather, Joseph, was born. Seeking a more Mediterranean climate, Nicola and Joseph took a train ride to California. Arriving in San Francisco during the summer, the weather was chilly; not what they expected. So they made their way to Modesto and found the climate they were looking for. They purchased some property in Modesto in 1925 that they still live on today.

All Photos Courtesy Of Sciabica’s California Olive Oil “Today we still farm, make olive oil, and live on that same property he bought in 1925,” said Jonathan. “It took him 11 years to say ‘I am going to make olive oil the way I made it in Sicily’. There was very little good olive oil in the US at that time. The next problem was they really didn’t have the customers here (in California) that appreciated it. So for 50 years they would make the olive oil here in Modesto and then they would ship it by train back to Waterbury, CT.” They sold California olive oil and grapes grown in Modesto out of a small shop in Waterbury and would return home after everything was sold and start the process all over again.

One of Jonathan’s first memories of growing up in the family business was the summer after 7th grade. He wanted to buy a fancy computer but did not have enough money, so his father, Nick, said that he would pay half. He worked the entire summer at the mill to earn the other half.

After he graduated college, Jonathan returned to the family business and was fortunate to work with his grandfather, Joseph. Joseph continued in the family business until his final days in 2010.

COMMUNITY

“He (Grandfather) was there from the beginning and I spent a lot of time with him over the years,” added Jonathan. “He was still there running the business, going to farmers market, making deliveries. He made deliveries by himself until he was 90. What he instilled in the company really is what we strive for today. He truly valued customer interactions. So that really is the goal of the company. We like to tell people that we are not in the Olive Oil business. We are in the customer happiness business.”

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Joseph passed his knowledge onto his sons, Daniel and Nick (3rd generation), who are the current owners and are actively passing their knowledge onto the 4th and 5th generations.

Jonathan likes to say that Nick is a farmer, Uncle Daniel is a salesman, and Joseph was a bit of both.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Sciabica’s offers a variety of products including a wide selection of olive oils, vinegar, and skin care. They can be found in stores like Save Mart, O’Brien’s, or Raley’s in Northern California or can be purchased online, and at Modesto and San Francisco Farmers markets, as well as in their Tasting Room & Gift Shop.

In the 1980s, they pioneered the concept of single varietal olive oils (vs. blends). They added fresh-fused flavored olive oils to their lineup in the 1990s. They are made fresh in the press with items like garlic, basil, lemon, and jalapenos.

Jonathan described Sciabica’s special production technique.

“An integral part of the extra virgin concept is being cold pressed; no heat. Heat destroys the taste and health benefits.

What we do is send fresh garlic with the olives right into the press. It is crushed together in the mill, nothing artificial, nothing added afterwards.”

Unlike other producers, to ensure optimum quality, they do not store the olive oil in a tank for long periods of time; instead they store it in small totes in their warehouse that is carefully light-, oxygen-, and temperature-controlled.

Jonathan explained that artisan-crafted quality and freshness of product are two key reasons Sciabica’s has won many awards and earned the loyalty of thousands of customers.

For example, Jonathan shared that the varietal Sevillano is a popular, award-winning olive oil with hints of artichokes and fresh herbs that has a forward flavor and a smooth finish.

The Arbosana varietal has a robust and peppery taste that can be used for bread dipping and salads.

Jonathan took on more of the sales part of the business with customer interaction and now holds the position of CEO. With the resurgence of the olive oil industry in the late 1990s and early 2000s, business began to pick up and the popularity grew. They saw another wave of industry growth around 2015 when California olive oil became internationally recognized for its superior quality.

One of the most popular olive oils is the ‘Buttery and Sweet’, a combination of Mission and Arbequina olives that has a buttery flavor with a touch of sweetness. “Of all the olive oils in our portfolio, I love that olive oil the most, not because it is my favorite to use, but because it replaces butter,” Jonathan explained. “It gets people to consume less saturated fat.

There are a lot of studies that show simply adding olive oil to your diet improves your health, but replacing saturated fat with olive oil is even better. There are so many benefits in consuming olive oil. We just need to find a way to get it into the American diet.”

The premium olives are grown from Fresno to Corning and production is in Modesto, where it’s been for 85 years. They have won many awards for their products in competitions like the California State Fair, where they have received two “Best of Show” Golden Bear awards.

COMMUNITY

The business hit some hard times throughout the years and even though some people advised them to quit, they kept forging forward, even if it took many sacrifices. They believed in the product and loved the business.

AUGUST 2021

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Today, including family, the company has a staff of 36 people across their two locations: the mill and the office warehouse.

The turnover has been minimal and most of the employees have been with them for over 20 years, including a long-time employee Pablo, who has been there for over 35 years.

“We’re like a close-knit family operation,” remarked Jonathan.

“We feel the same way about our employees as we do about our customers. We hire people and they don’t leave.”

The pandemic has caused several challenges and has changed the direction of the company from a focus on wholesale back towards retail. They were hit really hard during the pandemic as half of their business was with restaurants. Without their retail customers’ support, Jonathan shared they may not have been able to endure the effects of the pandemic.

When asked how Sciabica’s has managed to survive so many different challenges over eight and a half decades, Jonathan said it was a combination of the product and the people.

“Our customers support us both because of the products and because we make them feel like family. It is really important to us to treat every customer the same, no matter how much they buy. My grandfather always said that if you make a good product and have good customer service, the customers will come to you. Over many decades we have earned customers, and then you just have to not lose those customers. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the product is incredibly delicious.”

In celebration of its 85th anniversary, Sciabica’s will host its popular Farm to Fork event featuring local artisan food crafters and food trucks from around the region on Friday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at company headquarters, 2150 Yosemite Boulevard. For more info, visit SunshineInABottle. com/Events.

Helping Valley Business Grow

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

www.ovcb.com

COMMUNITY

Danny Wood (center) with Elisa Luna and Jeff Hushaw

“We’ve been with Oak Valley for over 10 years.

When we decided to relocate and build our new facility, we knew we wanted to work with a lender we could trust, who understood our company and line of business. The Oak Valley team hit the mark on all counts and they provided a competitive financing solution that was custom-tailored to meet our needs.”

- Danny Wood, owner, D.A. Wood Construction Inc.

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Oakdale • Modesto • Escalon • Sonora • Turlock • Ripon Patterson • Stockton • Manteca • Tracy • Sacramento

Sylvia Orozco

Branch ManagerMcHenry

579.3365

Pamela Swift

Branch ManagerDale Road

758.8020

Elisa Luna

Jeff Hushaw

Sarah Williams

343.7632

844.7544

320.7852

Branch Manager Oakdale

Commercial Lending

Treasury Management

Profit With Purpose Provides Step By Step Business Training Written by: Marian Kaanon / President/Chief Executive Officer Stanislaus Community Foundation

S

tanislaus Community Foundation, in partnership with the Porges Family Foundation, recently launched Profit with Purpose, a ten-week accelerator program designed to give nonprofits and mission-driven businesses a step-by-step structure to launch new business ideas that earn revenue and sustain their mission over time. Profit with Purpose is Stanislaus County’s first social enterprise training program.

What is a social enterprise? It is a hybrid organization that has BOTH earned revenue (through the sale of a product or service) AND a social mission (such as helping a specific group of people with working skills or feeding the hungry).

The inaugural cohort of Profit with Purpose included the following local nonprofit organizations: Habitat for Humanity Stanislaus, Modesto Gospel Mission, Haven Women's Center, LearningQuest--SLC, Enrich and Employ, Center for Human Services, Modesto Children's Museum, City Ministry Network, Downtown Streets Team, The Food Initiative of Greater Stanislaus, and Cricket's Hope.

To help catalyze the entrepreneurial success of these local organizations, Stanislaus Community Foundation and the Porges family tapped San Diego-based Mission Edge to provide a hands-on curriculum.

The ten week-program was designed to catalyze participating organizations to think outside the box on how they operate and fund their organization. Participants attended weekly online sessions taught by social sector entrepreneurs and leaders, and received mentoring, technical assistance, and peer support to help them develop and refine their business idea.

Of the eleven participating organizations, three were selected

by Mission Edge to pitch their business ideas at the end of the program through a virtual pitch competition on June 29, 2021. Modesto Gospel Mission, Cricket’s Hope, and The Food Initiative of Greater Stanislaus shared their business plans during the final event, which was sponsored by Valley First Credit Union and judged by local business professionals including Mike Gianelli, Kathryn Davis, and Tomas GomezArias.

The Food Initiative of Greater Stanislaus was selected as the winning organization for its Figs Market mobile farm stand concept offering affordable, accessible, convenient, and sustainable food. Figs Market will serve low access neighborhoods year-round with 12 weekly stops. Customers can find site locations using the Figs Market app and website.

Coming in second place was Cricket’s Hope with Cricket’s Hope Puzzles, a monthly puzzle club concept scaling and expanding the organization’s longstanding annual art sale.

The Modesto Gospel Mission placed third with their Volente coffee roasting concept offering work skills readiness and community connection for Gospel Mission clients.

COMMUNITY

Local mentors paired to provide their business expertise to participants included Norm Porges, Evan Porges, Jeremiah Williams, Matt Henderson, Lynn Dickerson, Adrienne Daniels, John Sablan, John Schneider, John Jacinto, Clive Grimbleby, Mike Zagaris, Seana Day, Colby Bell, Bill Seavy, Jeff Virgil, and Sally Gerbo.

PORGES FAMILY FOUNDATION

2 0 9 M U LT I M E D I A . C O M

Your local news source.

AUGUST 2021

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Sciabica’s Olive Oils Celebrates 85 Year Anniversary:

“Farm To Fork” Event Showcases Artisan Food Companies Modesto, CA: Friday, August 27th marks Sciabica’s 85th year in business, and everyone is invited to the “Farm to Fork” farmers market-style event featuring nearly 20 local artisan food companies.

COMMUNITY

Sciabica’s is hosting their annual family-friendly annual event, showcasing local artisan food companies known for their unique and exceptional quality food products.

Guests can purchase food and enjoy live music.

Participating vendors include Food Fix, Oakdale Barrel Ice & Creamery, Persuasion Brewing, Paul's Rustic Pizza, Sunblest Orchards, and Blooming Camp Ranch, to name a few. The event runs from 10AM-3PM at the company’s Modesto headquarters at 2150 Yosemite Blvd; there is no admission fee. For the first time, for the convenience of shoppers, Sciabica’s Annual Warehouse Sale will be both online and at the event.

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

The online sale will run from Thursday, 8/26 through Saturday 8/28. The in-store sale will be on Friday 8/27 only. Both online and at the event, all Sciabica-brand olive oils and flavored vinegars will be on sale at 25% off for 6 bottles or more, mix ‘n’ match. Shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of the convenience or ordering online and come to enjoy the anniversary event.

Founded in 1936, family-owned and operated Sciabica’s Olive Oils first began this farm-to-fork event to celebrate its 80th anniversary. Sciabica’s has won numerous awards for their 100% California Extra Virgin artisancrafted cold-pressed olive oils, including two recent California State Fair “Golden Bear” Best of Show.

For more information, visit SunshineInABottle.com/ events.

MEET THE GENERALS! AUGUST 19TH, 2021 3:00PM TO 5:30PM AT MANTECA TRANSIT CENTER 220 MOFFAT BLVD. MANTECA, CA

Face to Face Networking & Business development for subs and suppliers. $500.00 Sponsorship Includes: Recognition as event sponsor in all marketing material Two event tickets Company logo proudly showcased on entrance signage Vendor table with two chairs

$150 Booth Includes: Vendor table with two chairs Recognition as event sponsor in all marketing material

General Admission $45.00 for non members

For more information email

Click Here to Register!

ADVOCACY

$25.00 for members

info@valleybx.com

AUGUST 2021

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What Is The Value Of Clean?

By Julie Hogan, Vice President of Marketing and Communications More than ever, that answer is “priceless.”

Never before has the world been so knowledgeable about the critical role played by cleaning professionals to protect the healthy of staff and students.

CCS Facility Services provides commercial janitorial and building maintenance services across the Western United States. With every interaction, we strive to live our core values: Accountability, Commitment, Continuous Improvement, Excellence, and Professional Integrity. We are honored to clean hundreds of school districts and universities across the region as well as healthcare, manufacturing facilities, and much more.

Clean = Healthy Cleaning for health is one of the most important strategies school leaders can employ to take care staff and students on your campus. As a partner to thousands of businesses, it’s our job to help you identify and implement ways to boost your school’s defenses. This can happen in every space, from access points and common rooms to classrooms and individual offices.

We take it very seriously that our work contributes to the overall wellness of staff and students in your buildings.

We know that unhealthy environments contribute to absenteeism and missed school days. It’s not just the act of cleaning, either: it’s a sustainable supply chain and a reliable, knowledgeable workforce. To CCS, “clean” also means doing right by the environment and protecting the occupants of the space. Following our core value of Continuous Improvement, we have invested heavily in training and education from third-party experts to ensure we are servicing buildings the best way we can, including topics around sustainability and Green practices, infectious disease cleaning, building wellness, and much more.

Sustainability and green cleaning are incredibly important to CCS – in fact, “green” is part of our logo!

Four of every five commercial cleaning providers have a “green clean” practice, but what does that actually mean? For CCS, sustainable cleaning practices go well beyond selecting the best, most environmentally friendly products and equipment. It means developing protocols and processes committed to health, safety, and environmental stewardship; a management commitment to consider sustainability in every aspect of our business; and an investment in top industry resources. For example, we use diluted chemicals, which saves on transportation costs and are more environmentally friendly, and our unique CRI Green Label “backpack” vacuums are certified to effectively pick up dirt and contain it all within the vacuum instead of redistributing it in the air via the vacuum exhaust.

We are a member of the US Green Building Council, and we are CIMSGB (Green Building) certified, which provides a direct compliance option for the “Green Cleaning Policy” LEED prerequisite for our customers seeking LEED credits. In fact, CCS is among the few cleaning providers globally to hold CIMS-GB with Honors designation.

Third-Party Validation and Training As the first company in the world to earn GBAC STAR™ Service accreditation from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC), CCS’ expertise in preparation for and response to infectious disease situations is validated by the global expert. While validation from the expert is meaningful, what’s important is what it means to our education clients: it means the confidence and comfort that CCS knows what we are doing to respond to any disease exposure, from norovirus to flu to COVID-19.

We regularly pursue opportunities to improve our industry knowledge and understanding of all needs faced by the facilities we serve. We have a WELL AP on staff to support customers pursuing building wellness accreditation; more than 20 of our staff are Fitwel Ambassadors; and we have more than 200 GBAC Trained Technicians certified with deep knowledge about cleaning to mitigate for infectious diseases.

ADVOCACY 14

The Green Clean – More Than Surface Deep

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

The Benefits of Outsourcing Outsourcing custodial services may not be something you’ve considered for your campus, and we know how daunting it can be to move to a contracted service provider.

However, outsourcing is not only a big cost savings but a true time savings. From ensuring the supply closet is filled to consistent staffing to supervision, an outsourced provider like CCS gives you back time to focus on taking care of the direct needs of your staff and students – and time is money.

CCS Facility Services has deep roots in California. We pride ourselves on exemplary service and we never stop learning.

Plus, we have spent the last 12-plus months getting the deepest level of education and training to deliver the highest quality clean to our customers and we have the third-party validation to prove it.

We never stop learning and we never slowed down during the pandemic. Whether your school is pursuing wellness programs or wants to ensure products being used on campus are Green-friendly, or if you are looking toward a new school year and strategizing how to keep everyone healthy, CCS can help you achieve your goals. Check out our free guide on the eight steps to keep your campus healthy in this the “next normal”: https://bit.ly/CCS-keeping-campuses-healthy!

Let’s get to work.

CCS Facility Services: A Company Built to Serve

ADVOCACY

Get started at ccsbts.com

AUGUST 2021

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Hero Up And Join Donor Network West At Donate Life Run/Walk By: June R. Wallace / Community Development Liaison II

R

egistration is now open for the 11th annual Donate Life Run/Walk and Kids Dash in San Ramon, CA on Saturday, September 18th. To register, go to 5k.dnwest.org.

Hosted by Donor Network West, the federally designated organ procurement organization for northern California and northern Nevada, the annual fundraiser aims to raise awareness and funds to support its mission to save and heal lives through organ and tissue donation for transplantation and research. Participants can choose to run or walk a 5k or 10k course in person or virtually. Each participant will receive a T-shirt, race bib and medal.

All proceeds benefit Donor Network West’s ongoing efforts to educate communities about organ, eye and tissue donation. There are more than 100,000 people waiting for a life-saving organ transplant in the United States. One donor can save eight lives through organ donation and heal another 75 through tissue donation.

ADVOCACY

Join Donor Network West and Hero Up to save and heal lives. For more information and to register visit 5k.dnwest. org.

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Saturday, Sept. 18th, 2021 San Ramon, CA

Join Donor Network West to help raise awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation. Together, we can help save and heal lives and give hope to those waiting for a life-saving organ transplant.

Register Today!

5K.DNWEST.ORG

ADVOCACY AUGUST 2021

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MEMBER ENGAGEMENT Committees - Programs - Events

To execute our adopted mission we have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”

Each member of the Chamber is important, no matter what the size. We desire for local businesses and organizations to succeed and thrive.

To reach this goal we provide exposure, opportunities to engage with City leadership and community partners, and networking to businesses and organizations across industries. We work to better our community by providing up-to-date education and training, certifying qualifying businesses as Green, and providing advocacy on the City, State, and Federal levels. The Chamber is a family of dedicated individuals striving to make a difference in their business and way of life. Whatever your business needs are, we invite you to join us.

Committees

Government Relations Council Meets the 3rd Friday of every month, and is the nexus between members of the Chamber and elected and government officials who, through either legislation or regulation, may impact the bottom line of our members’ businesses.

Economic Development Committee Meets the 1st Wednesday of every month, and works with local government officials on issues through avenues including business park expansion, community planning, transportation needs, air services and redevelopment.

Stanislaus Green Team Meets the 3rd Thursday of every month, and creates a nexus between commerce and environment, searching for regional solutions to challenges facing Stanislaus County. This team works to assist businesses in “Going Green” to help reduce their costs of doing business, help the environment, and move the Stanislaus County economy forward.

Business and Education Committee A major collaborative initiative between business, education and the nonprofit sector on how we as a Chamber can positively affect workforce within our County for future generations.

RELATIONSHIPS

Welcome Team Meets the 1st Friday of every month and is made up of existing Chamber Members who attend Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies as well as other Chamber events to officially welcome our new members. Team members become acquainted with the businesses visited, exchange business cards, and welcome the newest businesses in our community.

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Ambassador Team Meets the 1st Friday of every month are highly visible and prestigious volunteers who serve as a Chamber’s primary liaison to new and current Chamber members. Ambassadors help educate current members about all the resources, savings and marketing exposure that can be utilized as a Modesto Chamber member.

Events

Inspire Youth Inspire Dreams The Inspire Youth Inspire Dreams goal is to facilitate each and every student who participates in recognizing his or her interests and discovering the opportunity to build their future in Modesto, CA. This platform will highlight multiple local businesses from all different sectors to give students a firsthand experience in the field of their individual interest.

Annual Member Choice Awards These prestigious awards are determined by Chamber membership and Board of Directors nominations of members and community partners in multiple categories that deserve recognition for their contributions of self, time, energy, and resources in making a positive difference for the Chamber and/or community.

Harvest Luncheon The Harvest Luncheon brings leaders of agriculture together with our community to celebrate our region’s abundant agricultural offerings. Proceeds from the Harvest Luncheon are used exclusively for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Voss-Berryhill Modesto Junior College Ag Scholarship Program.

Ag Aware Luncheon This luncheon generates scholarship funds for our local students, while highlighting the programs focused on education in agriculture in our region. Ag Aware funds benefit students in FFA programs at various local high schools.

Disney Institute The Modesto Chamber invites Disney to our community to deliver their world class training curriculum. Their programs provide professional development and continuing education from a globally recognized leader of the customer experience.

State of the Valley The Chief Executive Officer, or other County leaders present to members of the business, civic, and general community to hear updates on the vision, status, and direction of our regional government on topics such as our economy, homeless issues, water rights, and more.

California Green Business Network, Stanislaus Green Business Awards Green Business Awards luncheon provides an opportunity to celebrate and network with the local businesses who have been certified by our California Green Business Network, Stanislaus.

Go to www.modchamber.org or info@modchamber.org for more information.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Programs Women in Business Network This committee meets the 4th Wednesday of every month and strives to cultivate supportive relationships among the businesswomen within our community. They discuss topics such as survival tactics during an economic disruption, struggles and victories of operating a business affected by the pandemic, and strategies for continued success.

Tech Connect This program meets the 3rd Thursday of every month and is a networking group whose focus and vision are leveraging technology to improve business results. The Modesto Chamber of Commerce Tech Connect program has partnered with Bay Valley Tech and Valley Sierra Small Business Development Center, to bring awareness of the potential of Tech in the Central Valley, from jobs, trainings, and bringing potential Tech companies to the Valley.

Rising Professionals Network This committee meets the 4th Wednesday of every month and strives to cultivate supportive relationships among rising professionals from all sectors of business while also encouraging talent retention and the growth of our future leaders by mentorship and discussion with well-seasoned business professionals.

Modesto Chamber Leadership Series This is a partnership with Leadership Modesto. Monthly gatherings connect local leaders to attendees, allowing them to hear their thoughts, lessons and expertise on leadership enabling them to help develop their understanding and knowledge of becoming an effective leader.

modchamber

Chamber University Modesto Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Modesto Junior College bring you Chamber University. Chamber University offers you the keys to unlock over 800 courses of development opportunity. Chamber University empowers you and your staff to take your business to the next level. Modesto Chamber of Commerce Members, and non-members alike can access these courses through MJC’s Workforce Development & Lifelong Learning Department.

Business U Workshops are every 2nd Wednesday of the month. The purpose of Business U is to educate businesses in an array of areas which will aid in expanding their success. Presenting Leaders will help businesses gain insight and information to address challenges in the workplace. Business U also provides the tools to build skills and knowledge enabling them to make a positive impact in their business and community.

Leadership Modesto This program works to identify and foster new and potential Modesto leaders through a dynamic, hands on, ten-month intensive that instills the requisite knowledge and understanding of the many facets of community life and leadership. This program provides a unique opportunity for participants to meet and exchange ideas, grapple with current local and regional issues, and begin the important self-development of place and purpose required to assume leadership roles.

California Green Business Network Stanislaus The program helps businesses lower the cost of doing business, it is great for the environment, improves the wellness of employees and productivity, and it shows our community and customers that sustainability is your priority. This program is FREE to both members and non-members. https://greenbusinessca.org/StanislausCounty

Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Additional Member Benefits Member Referrals Discounted Conference Room rental State and Federal Compliance Posters Mix & Mingle - networking gatherings

RELATIONSHIPS

Progress Magazine Submission Chamber Eblast Submission Chamber Social Media Highlight Submission Member - Only Information Center

Go to www.modchamber.org or info@modchamber.org for up to date information and don't forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

AUGUST 2021

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RELATIONSHIPS 20

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

RELATIONSHIPS AUGUST 2021

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RELATIONSHIPS

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE

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DIAMOND LEVEL

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Gianelli Nielsen

Seven-Up Bottling Co. of

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Audi Modesto

Gilton Solid Waste Mgmt, Inc.

Modesto/Varni Brothers

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes,

Bank of Stockton - Dale Road

Golden Valley Health Centers

Corporation

Inc., a HUB International

Bank of Stockton - Modesto Main

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Company

Branch

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Stanislaus Food Products Co.

Doctors Behavioral Health

Blue Diamond Growers-Salida

Infiniti of Modesto

Center-DMC

Blue Diamond Growers-Turlock

International Paper Co.

Doctors Medical Center-DMC

California State University,

JS West & Companies

Frito-Lay Co., Inc.

Stanislaus

Lewis Capital Advisors

Pacific Southwest Container, Inc.

Care One Home Health and

Maxx Value Foods

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Hospice, Inc.

Mister Car Wash

Walmart

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

Mister Car Wash- Prescott

Central Valley Automotive

Mister Car Wash- 3520 McHenry

GOLD LEVEL

Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep,

Mister Car Wash- Dale

TSM Insurance & Financial

Crystal Creamery

Dodge

Mister Car Wash- Hatch

Services

Doubletree by Hilton Modesto

Central Valley Nissan

Mister Car Wash- McHenry

Turlock Irrigation District

EMOE, Division of Parker

Central Valley Volkswagen

Mister Car Wash- Oakdale Rd

Union Bank

Hannifin Corp.

Hyundai

Mocse Credit Union

US Bank

Encompass Health Rehabilitation

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Modesto Toyota

US Bank (Modesto Main)

of Modesto

Clark Pest Control

Nine3One

US Bank Turlock

Fiscalini Cheese Company

COIT Services Inc.

NT Nail Spa

Valley BMW

IHeart Media

Collins Electrical

O'Brien's Market

Valley Children's Healthcare

Modesto Irrigation District

Comcast

Oak Valley Community Bank

Valley First Credit Union

Modesto Nuts Professional

Del Monte Plant #1

Opportunity Stanislaus

Baseball

English Oaks Nursing &

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Sutter Health Valley Area

Rehabilitation Hospital

Panelized Structures Inc.

Sysco Central California Inc.

Exceed GPR & Locating, LLC

Pepsi Bottling Group

F&M Bank (Carpenter Road)

PMZ Real Estate

PLATINUM LEVEL

F&M Bank (Dale Road)

Residence Inn by Marriott

E & J Gallo Winery

F&M Bank (McHenry)

Modesto North

Kaiser Permanente

Flooring Liquidators, Inc.

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto,

Rose Bouquet

Warden's Office Products Center

SILVER LEVEL

LLC

San Joaquin Valley College

Wells Fargo Bank

Alpine Protective Solutions

Food Maxx

Save Mart Supermarkets

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

American Chevrolet

FreshPoint

Save Mart Supermarkets - Corp

Yosemite Foods Inc.

American Medical Response

Galletto Ristorante

Office

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Stifel Investment Services Storer Coachways Sutter Gould Medical Foundation The Century and Nine3One The Farmacy The Modesto Bee

Valley First Credit Union (Dale Branch) Valley First Credit Union Administrative Offices Valley Lexus Vintage Faire Mall/Macerich Company

CONTACT THE CHAMBER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PRESIDENT'S CLUB LEVEL BENEFITS MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

I

am Madhu Singh, Community Branch Manager for Bank of Stockton Dale Branch, Board Member at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and new Chair for the Chamber Ambassador and Welcome Team. The Chair position is a new addition to my experience in the Chamber, taking over for past Chair Brian McDermott with Team S.O.S., who has served our team exuberantly for several years. Brian leaves big shoes to fill, but I am greatly looking forward to expanding our team and reaching out to our community!

One of the most valuable benefits of being a Chamber member is that it allows you free P.R. via your people! A great way to do this is by joining our Welcome & Ambassador Team! Team involvement entails joining us for Ribbon Cuttings, Member Mix & Mingle events, and offers you an extraordinary chance to network and build great relationships! I have been with the Chamber for four years now and can’t tell you enough how much I love being around people who want to: Build & promote their business

August Anniversaries

We Celebrate your Loyalty AMERICAN LUMBER CO. BURTON'S FIRE, INC. FORES MACKO, A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION WHOLESOME NUT COMPANY INC. AGILE SOLUTIONS AND CONSULTING INC DBA MODESTO AM PM DOWNTOWN MODESTO PARTNERSHIP SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF MODESTO

Network with other members & stay informed on what’s going on in our beautiful city Volunteer & truly make a difference in their community!

Some of the other perks are simply having a great time & making great friends while supporting our valuable Members!

If you are interested, please feel free to call me at (209) 5572250, and we can make this happen! All Welcome Team/ Ambassadors meet on the 1st Friday of every month at 8 am (hopefully going back to in-person soon at the Chamber downtown) for typically an hour. We’d love for you to be part of this incredible team! Thank you.

If you’re not buying crop insurance, you don’t know Jack Farmers and ranchers can now purchase crop insurance for protect themselves against the loss of crops due to natural disasters or the loss of revenue due to declines in the prices of agricultural commodities.

Purchasing crop insurance will reduce your exposure to a variety of risks and bring you piece of mind. If you want to learn more about the programs that are available and how you can benefit, you need to know Jack.

MEET JACK Jack Roudebush is a leading crop insurance expert. His combination of industry knowledge and insurance company insight makes him uniquely qualified to help you navigate the intricacies of these programs. Call Jack today to learn how you can minumize your risk and protect your bottom line.

Direct: 209.550.3710 • Mobile: 209.483.0650 jroudebush@capax.com Lic#0B67204

Business Insurance | Group Health | Workers Comp | Home and Auto

capax.com

RELATIONSHIPS EDUCATION

AMBASSADOR HIGHLIGHT Madhu Singh

1.800.94CAPAX • 209.526.3110 Giddings, Corby, Hynes Lic# 0144783

AUGUST 2021

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Congratulations

TO THIS MONTH'S MILESTONE MEMBERSHIPS

70 + years

10 + years

AMERICAN LUMBER CO. HOUSE OF CARPETS FLOORING & DESIGN

MODESTO POLICE OFFICER'S ASSOCIATION DOCTORS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER-DMC PROVOST & PRITCHARD CONSULTING GROUP UNITED RENTALS - 519 VANDEMARK FAMILY DENTISTRY & ORTHODONTICS

50 + years BOYETT PETROLEUM MISTLIN HONDA

5 + years

40 years

MICELI-WATTERS, STAFFING PARTNERS, LLC COLLINS ELECTRICAL STANISLAUS COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS YOURS AND MINE SPORTS CUSTOM LOCKSMITH & ALARM INC. GOLDEN VALLEY HEALTH CENTERS WHOLESOME NUT COMPANY INC. AGILE SOLUTIONS AND CONSULTING INC DBA MODESTO AM PM DOWNTOWN MODESTO PARTNERSHIP

+

STANISLAUS COUNTY FARM BUREAU SIGN DESIGNS, INC. STANISLAUS MEDICAL SOCIETY BASIC RESOURCES, INC. UNITED WAY OF STANISLAUS COUNTY CLARK PEST CONTROL

20 + years GROVER LANDSCAPE SERVICES, INC. SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL OF MODESTO BURTON'S FIRE, INC. VALLEY BMW

RELATIONSHIPS

10 + years

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NICK SCIABICA & SONS M.G. COMMODITIES THE HOUSE MODESTO ELLIS SELF STORAGE NATIONAL AG SCIENCE CENTER FORES MACKO, A PROFESSIONAL LAW CORPORATION OMEGA PACIFIC INSURANCE SINGLEPOINT OUTSOURCING, INC.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

1 + years BBSI HEART & SOUL COFFEE LAMOURE'S INSURANCE SERVICE WALVESCO CORPORATION DBA STONEFIRE PIZZA BY MIDICI RAINBOW INTERNATIONAL RESTORATION OF MODESTO MCHENRY MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY STRAND ACE HARDWARE PFSA (PORTUGUESE FRATERNAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA) THE SHIRE COMMUNITY SPACE THE STRATEGIC LEGAL GROUP, PC SILVERWOOD RV KIDS CARE DENTAL & ORTHODONTICS QUANTUM ESCAPES RIGHT AT HOME CV WELLNESS LLC DBA AUTHENTIC 209

Half-Century Of Building Excellence For Huff Construction By: Fernando Arteaga - Marketing Manager

H

uff Construction Company, Inc. is celebrating 50 years of “Building Excellence!” As we celebrate our golden anniversary, we can now do so with a breath of fresh air as lockdowns, masks, and restrictions have subsided across the region. While the pandemic might not be officially over, we are fortunate to be safe and healthy today and to have overcome the giant hurdles that the COVID-19 pandemic threw our way.

Over the last year, Huff Construction has completed several projects in our region such as the Avena Bella Affordable Housing Community II in Turlock, Starbucks in Modesto, Rapid Xpress Carwash in Atwater, St. Mary’s Family Life Center in Oakdale, and more. The Avena Bella II project was built from the ground up in about 13 months during the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic. This new community brings 61 units of affordable family housing in two Mediterranean-style buildings. The apartments are a mix of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom units clustered around a common recreation area and a playground. Community features include common interior spaces, laundry rooms, enclosed bicycle storage, and a barbecue/picnic area.

Solar panels and a solar thermal water heating system were installed to reduce the property’s carbon footprint and to achieve LEED Gold certification.

We broke ground for Archway Commons II on June 30 alongside the City of Modesto, our client EAH Housing, California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and our community members.

Archways Commons II will consist of two-story gardenstyle apartment buildings that will provide 74 new affordable housing units as 1-, 2-, and 3- bedroom apartments. Huff Construction built the initial phase of Archway Commons back in 2014 and we are excited to complete the final phase of the community here in our hometown of Modesto.

Along with the exciting projects Huff Construction is building in the Central Valley, we have several large projects under construction in the San Francisco Bay Area including a 175-room Element Hotel and we are building beautiful residences and commercial buildings in Truckee, CA. We are so proud and grateful for everything we have accomplished over the last 50 years. As we look to the future of Huff Construction, we look forward to seeing what the next fifty years have for us in our ongoing pursuit of “Building Excellence.” For more information on Huff Construction, please visit our website at www. huffcon.com and follow us on social media.

AUGUST 2021

RELATIONSHIPS

At Huff Construction, we are fortunate and grateful to have started new and exciting projects that bring value to our community. Huff Construction has two new affordable housing projects in our region which include the Childs Ave. & B St. Affordable Housing Community in Merced and Archway Commons II in Modesto.

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Florida Condo Collapse Relevant To California Homeowner Associations

T

he tragedy of the 12 story Champlain Towers Condominium Collapse has been well covered by the media and our hearts go out to the residents who perished as well as their families. This shocking tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance not only of adequate building inspections and repairs but also for the difficult task of funding those repairs. It is time for a discussion on the increasing, inherent challenges that Homeowners Associations and their board of directors’ face in light of this recent tragedy and draws parallels to other tragedies such as the Library Gardens balcony collapse in Berkeley in 2015.

While we have few 12 story buildings in the valley, the condo collapse is relevant to our associations in the central valley. Homeowner Associations boomed in the 70’s and 80’s throughout the valley and California. The Champlain Towers in Florida were built in 1981 during a similar boom. A large number of Association properties in California are now 40-50+ years old and the buildings are aging to the point that they often require substantial repairs and may have safety issues. Being prepared for these substantial repairs requires substantial forethought, careful planning, and financial discipline.

As we sort through the issues that lead up to the collapse of the Champlain Towers, the answers are not clear at this point. It does appear that the association failed to plan for the repairs required for a building of this age as well as the more difficult task of how to fund those repairs. Planning effectively for major repairs/ replacements starts with a reserve study completed when the building or community is new. A reserve study lists the components that are association responsibility and provides a funding model for the components as they come due.

The volunteer homeowner board members during the last few years were in an untenable position due to the lack of planning by previous boards and reviled for suggesting such a large special assessment. A stalemate ensued after the engineering report came out in 2018.

Thus, no repairs were made, with disastrous results.

Reserve studies are required to be completed every 3 years in California but are not required in Florida. That should mean that California Associations are ahead of those in Florida, but not so fast. CA law requires that the association complete the study every 3 years but not does not require that they fund their reserves at any particular level. Many suggest associations be funded at 50%-70% but this is not a requirement in California or Florida. Legislation will likely follow in both California and Florida on this issue.

Associations and boards of directors have the responsibility to fund their reserves adequately to meet their obligations for repair and replacement, even if it means the unpopular task of raising assessments.

Planning ahead, increasing assessments steadily, making consistent repairs, conducting inspections, and volunteer board member education will help all associations regardless of location provide safety for their members as well as maintain property values.

The Cooper Company, 3425 Coffee Road Suite 1B in Modesto, is a Professional Association Management firm.

EDUCATION 26

At Champlain Towers, a Reserve Study was not ordered until 2020.

When completed, it showed the Association was only prepared to fund 6.9% of the needed repairs for the community, including those uncovered in an engineering study completed in 2018. The board was then faced with the difficult task of implementing a special assessment of over $100,000 per condominium homeowner. It appears the assessments had been kept artificially low for decades while the association was scarcely funding reserves, nor completing ongoing repairs.

Davis-Stirling.com by ADAMS|STIRLING PLC – ADAMS|STIRLING is a Professional Law Corporation dedicated to Residential and Commercial Associations.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Leadership Modesto Class Perseveres Through Adversity By: Amy Collier Carroll / Director of Legislative Affairs & Communications/PIO / Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office A Leadership Modesto commencement dinner was held at the Martin G. Petersen Event Center in June to celebrate the Leadership Modesto Class of 2021. The “most resilient class ever,” started the program in 2019, and for public health reasons that prevented gatherings, the group wasn’t able to graduate until June of this year. The class raised much needed funding for Without Permission, a Central Valley nonprofit organization that works to end sex trafficking, restore the victimized, educate local youth to prevent exploitation, and combat demand for the business of human trafficking.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce has begun accepting applications for the Leadership Modesto class of 2022. The program schedule of events and application packet are available at ModChamber.org under programs. Leadership Modesto has over 35 years of inspiring, growing and uniting high-quality leadership in our community through a dynamic, hands on, ten-month intensive program that instills a thorough understanding of community life and leadership in our region.

Participants of Leadership Modesto are provided a unique opportunity to meet and exchange ideas, grapple with current local and regional issues, and begin the important self-development of place and purpose required to assume leadership roles. Each class is expected to collaborate on a joint project that benefits the community.

Don’t wait in line, we value your time!

EDUCATION

Walk into any BAC branch for “line-less” service with a smile or go straight to your accounts in seconds with Mobile and Online Banking. Anytime, Anywhere!

www.bankbac.com

1-877-226-5820 AUGUST 2021

27

EDUCATION 28

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Soroptimist International Of Modesto Observing 85 Years Of Service By: JoAnn G. Found

S

The name, Soroptimist, means "best for women," and that's what the organization strives to achieve. Soroptimists are women at their best, working to help other women to be their best. Our Core Values are: Gender Equality - women and girls live free from discrimination, Empowerment - women and girls are free to act in their own best interest, Education - women and girls deserve to lead full and productive lives through access to education and Diversity & Fellowship women from varied backgrounds and perspectives work together to improve the lives of women and girls.

This November, Soroptimist International of Modesto will celebrate 85 years of Community Service. We participate in the Dream Programs of Soroptimist International of the Americas: The Live Your Dream Award - Education and Training Awards for Women and Dream It, Be It - Career Support for Girls.

The Dream Programs of Soroptimist ensure women and girls have access to the education and training they need to reach their full potential and live their dreams.

In addition to this, Soroptimist International of Modesto offers three Memorial Scholarships annually, and co-sponsors the Community Christmas Tree, now in its 37th year. Located at Vintage Faire Mall, this event has supported over 2000 underprivileged children in Modesto each year.

Soroptimist also sponsors LiveYourDream.org, a free online community empowering offline volunteer action. The network is made up of people who wish to support women and girls in their quest to lead better lives and offers information on topics such as women’s economic empowerment, ending violence against women and human trafficking, while also providing access to inspirational articles, tips, and blogs.

For more information: Visit our website at: www.simodesto.com Email us at: simodesto@soroptimist.net See us on Facebook at: Soroptimist International of Modesto, Best for Women

SERVICE

oroptimist International of Modesto is part of a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. With approximately 30,000 Soroptimists in over 120 countries we support community–based and global projects benefiting women and girls and have General Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Our delegations to major UN meetings and forums advocate for policies and actions which support our aims.

AUGUST 2021

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MetroList Makes The Real Estate Market Work By: Bill Miller / CEO, MetroList

M

etroList® is the largest Northern California Multiple Listing Service (MLS) that provides real estate professionals in Modesto and throughout 26 Northern California counties with essential listing data and tools necessary to compete in today’s real estate market.

Through the MetroList Prospector+ MLS System, real estate brokers and agents add and search listing details on thousands of active, sold and archived properties. The multiple listing service receives listing data from brokers/agents throughout the region which enables buyers working with agents to easily find their desired properties. The MLS also help sellers, when working with an agent, to expose their property to the widest audience of potential buyers.

One of the most important aspects of MetroList is that it is an independent and locally owned and operated company.

Everyday more than 22,000 real estate professionals trust MetroList to safeguard MLS data, establish and enforce a set of cooperating MLS Rules among brokers and agents which creates a fair and balanced system supporting real estate buyers and sellers.

The MetroList board of directors and its standing committees are comprised of brokers and agents from the Northern California geographic area it serves. These real estate professionals provide local expertise, knowledge, and understanding of their local communities, assuring consumers that their most important asset, their home, brings the most value whenever there is a transfer of ownership!

MetroList was founded in 1985 and continues to be among the industry leaders in bringing the most advanced technology, professional training and quality services to the real estate community.

MetroList subscribers can list and sell properties in 26 Northern California counties.

SERVICE

Although you may never interact with MetroList directly, we encourage you to seek out a professional real estate broker and agent that utilizes MetroList to help you list and/or sell your home. In the meantime, visit metrolist. com, the most trusted, accurate, up-to-date real estate consumer website. www.metrolistmls.com

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Central Valley Community Bank Taps Kelly Tenente As VP, Portfolio Manager

J

ames M. Ford, President and CEO of Central Valley Community Bank (Bank), is pleased to announce the addition of Kelly Tenente to the Agribusiness Lending Department as Vice President, Portfolio Manager throughout the San Joaquin Valley and Greater Sacramento regions.

Kelly joins Central Valley Community Bank with over 10 years of industry and agribusiness expertise. Known for her excellent client relationship management and new business development, Kelly has a strong commercial banking background managing agribusiness and real estate loan portfolios.

In her new role, Kelly is responsible for supporting the Bank’s Agribusiness Lending Department with management and maintenance of the loan portfolio, while also charged with new business development. Kelly can be reached directly at (209) 956-1106.

"Kelly’s agribusiness experience and industry knowledge will be a valuable asset in managing existing and helping to grow this business specialty in our geographic footprint,” said Ford.

Central Valley Community Bancorp trades on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the symbol CVCY. Central Valley Community Bank, headquartered in Fresno, California, was founded in 1979 and is the sole subsidiary of Central Valley Community Bancorp. Central Valley Community Bank

operates 20 full-service Banking Centers throughout California’s San Joaquin Valley and Greater Sacramento Region.

Additionally, the Bank maintains Commercial Real Estate, Agribusiness and SBA Lending Departments.

Members of Central Valley Community Bancorp’s and the Bank’s Board of Directors are: Daniel J. Doyle (Chairman), Daniel N. Cunningham (Vice Kelly Tenente, Vice President, Chairman), F. T. “Tommy” Portfolio Manager Elliott, IV, James M. Ford, Robert J. Flautt, Gary D. Gall, Steven D. McDonald, Louis C. McMurray, Andriana Majarian, Karen Musson, Dorothea D. Silva, and William S. Smittcamp. Sidney B. Cox is Director Emeritus.

More information about Central Valley Community Bancorp and Central Valley Community Bank can be found at www. cvcb.com. Also, visit Central Valley Community Bank on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Doctors Medical Center has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2021. Doctors Medical Center is one of only 212 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor.

at the highest level for specific performance measures. Full participation in the registry engages hospitals in a robust quality improvement process using data to drive improvements in adherence to guideline recommendations and overall quality of care provided to heart attack patients.

The award recognizes Doctors Medical Center’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that the hospital has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

“As a Platinum Performance Award recipient, Doctors Medical Center has established itself as a leader in setting the national standard for improving quality of care in patients with acute myocardial infarction,” said Michael C. Kontos, MD, FACC, chair of the NCDR Chest Pain – MI Registry Steering Subcommittee, and cardiologist at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center. “By meeting the award requirements set forth in the registry, Doctors Medical Center has demonstrated a commitment to providing reliable, comprehensive treatment for heart attack patients based on current clinical guideline recommendations.”

“We are so proud of this national recognition and to be among the best hospitals in the country for heart care,” said Warren Kirk, CEO of Doctors Medical Center. “This award recognizes the incredible commitment of our cardiac physicians, nurses and clinical team and their dedication to providing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients close to home.”

To receive the Chest Pain – MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award, Doctors Medical Center has demonstrated sustained achievement in the Chest Pain – MI Registry for two consecutive years (2019 and 2020), and performed

The Centers for Disease Control estimates that almost 700,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. A heart attack occurs when a blood clot in a coronary artery partially or completely blocks blood flow to the heart muscle. Treatment guidelines include administering aspirin upon arrival and discharge, timely restoration of blood flow to the blocked artery, smoking cessation counseling and cardiac rehabilitation, among others.

AUGUST 2021

SERVICE

HEART ATTACK TREATMENT Doctors Medical Center Among Nation’s Top Performing Hospitals

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