Progress March 2018

VOL. 39 | ISSUE 3 | MARCH 2018

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS TOM CHANGNON WINNER OF 2017 ROBERT J. CARDOZA CITIZEN OF THE YEAR & LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

DIAMONDS AMONG US 104TH ANNUAL GALA MEMBERS CHOICE AWARDS

MODESTO CHAMBER AWARDS THE MODESTO BEE

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Small Business Loans

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MARCH 2018 | CONTENTS 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.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman

Nonprofit of the Year Award WinnerThe Modesto Gospel Mission

Steven Rank, Rank Investigations and Protection, Inc.

Chairman-Elect

Thomas Reeves, City of Modesto

Past Chairman

Vice Chairman, Internal Operations

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DIRECTORS

COMMUNITY

Eric Tobias, F&M Bank

Vice Chairman, External Operations Stephen Madison, STANCO

Patricia Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum,CPA Annie Amies, Vintage Faire Mall Elliot Begoun, The Intertwine Group Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments Paul Holshouser, Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto Michael Howell, Blom & Associates Warren Kirk, Doctors Medical Center Loren Kuntz, Atherton & Associates Naomi Layland, Huff Construction Co, Inc. Craig Lewis, Lewis Capital Advisors DeSha McLeod, Community Hospice Inc. Michael Moradian, Peace of Mind Pest Control & Home Inspections Kathy Monday, Damrell, Nelson, Shrimp, Pallios, Pacher & Silva and Squeeze In Tom Nielsen, Individual Member Peggy O’Donnell, Mid-Valley Promotion Dillon Olvera, Beard Land & Investment Co. Kristin Reza, Bank of Stockton Lucy Virgen, Bank of the West Pete Zahos, Sysco Central California, Inc.

104th Annual Gala Members Choice Awards

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Message from the CEO Chamber Calendar

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Nonprofit of the Year Award Winner

ADVOCACY

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Diamonds Among Us 104th Annual Gala Members Choice Awards

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Gala Winners Photo Gallery

RELATIONSHIPS

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ADVISORS

Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College David Boring, Never Boring Tim Harms, Leadership Modesto Joe Lopez, City of Modesto David White, Opportunity Stanislaus Melissa Williams, Modesto Irrigation District

Modesto Chamber Awards the Modesto Bee

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Cecil Russell, President/CEO Modesto Chamber of Commerce CRussell@ModChamber.org

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce

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209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org

Graphic Design: Never Boring

209.526.9136 • www.neverboring.com

Printer: The Parks Group

209.576.2568 • mike@theparksgroup.com

Local Government Day

Distribution: The Parks Group

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Advertising Sales:

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Never Boring 209.526.9136 • progress@neverboring.com

Modesto Chamber Awards the Modesto Bee Ribbon Cuttings March Anniversaries

EDUCATION Leadership Modesto Group Participates in Local Government Day

SERVICE

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209.576.2568

People on the Move/Announcements

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Service Award Prime Shine: A Beacon in the Community

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in

© Copyright 2017 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

Prime Shine: A Beacon in the Community

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

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

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

By Cecil Russell,

ATTENDED VALLEYWORX & BAY VALLEY TECH GRAND OPENING

Chamber President and CEO As you can see as you read this issue, our 104th Annual Gala and Members Choice Awards was an exciting night. If you missed it this year, block out the last Saturday of January 2019 on your calendar right now. We are proud of this event, and we are already planning for next year.

Ag Aware is coming up next month, and there is still time to sponsor and buy a table or tickets. This is a yearly tradition over 20 years in the making. Agriculture has such a long heritage in our region and is still one of the most significant economic drivers of our local community, and Ag Aware recognizes and celebrates this. Yet it also recognizes that our students are the future, and so Ag Aware is a significant fundraiser for the FFA programs in the local public and private high schools. To date, this event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for FFA students.

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Your attendance at Ag Aware helps raise money for these students.

So please join us on Apr. 13 at the MJC ACE Pavilion for great locallysourced food, networking, and guest speaker Cannon Michael, President and CEO of Bowles Farming Company. You will go away with new friends, a full stomach, and the satisfaction of investing in our future farmers and agribusiness men and women.

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We are working on several exciting new projects and microevents to deliver to you, our members, in 2018. We are moving full steam ahead with the Disney Institute. We are also working with the City of Modesto on economic development projects and tourism, including the celebration in June of Centre Plaza’s 30th birthday. More details will follow soon. Thank you all for your continued support of the Chamber and its mission. | P

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RIBBON CUTTINGS & GRAND OPENINGS

HOSTED NEW MEMBER ORIENTATIONS & ONLINE MARKETING TOOLS CLASSES

Meet & Greet with new CEO of HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, Tina Pollock

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE PRESENTATIONS

BY CITY OF MODESTO ON THE MODESTO CITY-COUNTY AIRPORT AND BY ACEFORWARD ON ACE TRAIN & SAN JOAQUINS TRAIN EXPANSIONS NORTH-SOUTH FROM SACRAMENTO TO CERES

Government Relations Council Presentation on the Water Supply & Water Quality Initiative

MID MEETINGS

2018 Graffiti Parade Planning Committee Meeting MODESTO CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

DID & DOWNTOWN SECURITY MEETINGS

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

COMPREHENSIVE FEES TASK FORCE MEETING

CHAMBER COMMITTEES AND SPECIAL EVENTS PLANNING MEETINGS CO-HOSTED BUSINESS AFTER HOURS WITH NETWORK BUILDERS IT ATTENDED STATE OF THE COUNTY SPEECH

BY SUPERVISOR JIM DEMARTINI MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

MULTIPLE MEETINGS WITH VARIED BUSINESS PARTNERS FOR NEW PROGRAMS AND ENTERPRISES FOR ADDED VALUE TO MEMBERS

Brokerage ¡ Development ¡ Management

1016 12th St, Modesto, Ca 95354

MARCH 2018

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CHAMBER CALENDAR MARCH 14

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 7:30 a.m.

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 9 a.m.

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Franklin & Downs 1050 McHenry Ave., Modesto 5:30 p.m.

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CHAMBER CALENDAR 6

Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 7:30 a.m.

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NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 3 p.m.

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Ag Aware Luncheon MJC Ace Pavilion 11:30-1 p.m.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 12 p.m.

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APRIL DEVELOPMENT 04 ECONOMIC COMMITTEE MEETING

Chamber Marketing Online Class Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 4 p.m.

AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 8 a.m.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

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CHAMBER MARKETING ONLINE CLASS Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 4 p.m.

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STANISLAUS GREEN TEAM Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 9 a.m.

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BUSINESS AFTER HOURS BBSI 1111 I St., Ste. 107, Modesto 5:30 p.m.

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GOVERNMENT RELATIONS COUNCIL MEETING Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 12 p.m.

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AMBASSADOR & WELCOME TEAM MEETING Modesto Chamber of Commerce** 8 a.m.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

1050 McHenry Ave., Modesto March 15 | 5:30 p.m.

At Franklin & Downs Funeral Home McHenry Chapel, we do, indeed, try to offer you a home, a comforting and inviting place to gather in remembrance and celebration of lives lived well. Our experienced staff is committed to this vision and passionate about making your time with us as memorable and uplifting as possible. We bring together decades of experience caring for families of all cultural backgrounds and diverse walks of life. We pledge to treat you and your loved ones just like family, and we guarantee to offer services that meet all of your specifications while exceeding all of your expectations.

Licensed staff members are available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to discuss your needs. Whether you are doing pre-planning or need to hold a service soon, we are ready to answer our phone and offer you warm, friendly, and empathetic service. | P

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NONPROFIT OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER – THE MODESTO GOSPEL MISSION

By John Villines, Director of Membership & Operational Services, Modesto Chamber of Commerce The late Mother Teresa said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

One of the highlights of the Chamber’s annual Gala is to grant our “Nonprofit of the Year” award to one of our member organizations that create positive ripples in our city, our region, and our world.

Our members nominated 14 local nonprofit organizations for this year’s award, by far our biggest category of nominees.

This speaks volumes to all of the great organizations doing notable work in our community to make it a better place. These nominees offer a wide range of tangible services, advocacy, and connectivity to many segments of our community.

The organizations nominated for this award were Amtrak San Joaquins/ACE Train, Boys and Girls Club of Stanislaus County, Community Hospice, Disability Resource Agency for Independent Living (DRAIL), Modesto Gospel Mission, Second Harvest Food Bank of San Joaquin and Stanislaus, Sierra Vista Child and Family Services, Society for disabilities, Soroptimist International of Modesto, Stanislaus Community Foundation, Stanislaus Senior Foundation, United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus (UCP), Women’s Education & Leadership League (WELL), and Youth for Christ Central Valley.

from a Billy Graham crusade in Modesto in 1948. Today, the Mission provides so much more than just meals, clean clothing, and a safe shelter (although it provided just that for 127,715 individuals in 2017). It also offers a free medical clinic and GED and diploma services; support programs to assist with life changing events, addiction recovery, employment, and a youth program to help young people with homework, tutoring, and building friendships.

The Modesto Gospel Mission also has an 18-month New Life Program that helps men and women transition from homelessness back into a sustainable housing lifestyle. This is accomplished by counseling and helping overcome addiction, training in life skills, job skills, and employment certifications.

The Mission receives no government grants, but exists off of the private donations of individuals, churches and businesses.

The Chamber is proud to recognize the staff and volunteers of the Modesto Gospel Mission with this award for all they do to serve some of the neediest in our city. | P

This year’s winner was the Modesto Gospel Mission. The Mission’s vision is to offer refuge, recovery, and restoration for our homeless population. The Mission is celebrating its 70th anniversary. It started downtown with leftover funds

COMMUNITY

JASON CONWAY, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MODESTO GOSPEL MISSION

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

Shopping for Rehabilitation Is Like Comparing Apples to Oranges When comparing inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRF) to skilled nursing facilities over two years, research* concludes that long-term outcomes for IRF patients are superior: • Return home two weeks earlier • 8% lower mortality rate • 5% fewer emergency room visits • Significantly fewer hospital readmissions per year * Dobson|DaVanzo analysis of research identifiable 20% sample of Medicare beneficiaries, 2005-2009

PROGRESS TO SUCCESS

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COMMUNITY

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MARCH 2018

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Diamonds Among Us

104th Annual Gala Members Choice Awards

BY JORDAN SEVERNS

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce has been a sparkling diamond of the city for more than a century, and this January they held their 104th Annual Gala Members Choice Awards, kicking off the year by looking back on 2017 and remembering the people, businesses, and nonprofits that ensured the continued prosperity of Modesto and its people.

The first award of the evening was 2017’s Vera Girolami Ambassador of the Year, given by last year’s winner, Carol Solario of American Chevrolet, and Brad Blakeley of Edward Jones. It was awarded to Bill Robinson of Principal Financial Group. The Ambassador represents the Chamber’s outreach, delivering important news to its members, and collecting feedback from within the Chamber. They also volunteer at community events.

ADVOCACY

“In short, they are our most dependable resource and first to answer the call,” said Carol Solario. Robinson was selected because of his proven dedication to the Chamber, and his willingness to go above and beyond at Chamber events.

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Next up, Kyle Wolterstorff, also of Principal Financial Group, and Lucy Virgen of Bank of the West presented the Ted Shields Welcome Team Member of the Year award to Mark Buckley of Farmers Insurance. In nearly twenty-five years of service to the Chamber, Mark has attended hundreds of ribbon cuttings and business openings, welcoming new members to the Chamber and generally epitomizing an excellent Welcome Team Member: “a friendly, welcoming representative of our community who takes a genuine interest in each and every member he meets.”

Because Modesto is blessed with so many hardworking nonprofit organizations, the Nonprofit Organization of the Year award is always a competitive one, and this year was no different. Nominees included Second Harvest Food Bank of San Joaquin and Stanislaus, Stanislaus Community Foundation, Women’s Education & Leadership League, and several others.

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

“Our community is a better place because of the work that is accomplished by our nominees,” said Carol Shipley of Stanislaus Family Justice Center, winner of last year’s award. Board Member Pat Gillum added, “These organizations offer second chances for those in recovery, provide training and employment for the physically and mentally challenged, create role models and opportunity for at risk children, connect cultures around the globe and much, much more.”

The winner, the Modesto Gospel Mission, is celebrating 70 years of providing food, warmth, and shelter to those who need it, as well as additional services such as a youth program that provides children with tutors and helps them develop friendships. Last year, the nonprofit served 127,715 people by providing them with nourishment and a place to sleep, and their New Life Program helps people transitioning from

“Our community is a better place because of the work that is accomplished by our nominees” homelessness back into a healthier lifestyle, providing these individuals hope and strength as well as more practical skills and counseling. They have more than earned this award.

In addition to nonprofits, Modesto is also home to a number of small businesses who not only showcase the city’s ability to give, but also its capacity for ingenuity and growth. The Small Business of the Year award was another hotly competitive one, with nominees ranging from the Food Fix Truck to the La Parilla Restaurant, to the Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball Team, who ultimately took home the award. Coming off of their victory in the California League Championship, the team took home this award as well for their giving nature, and their commitment to supporting veterans and educational programs in the community. In 2017, the team donated $291,000 to hundreds of charities.

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS TOM CHANGNON WINS THE ROBERT J. CARDOZA CITIZEN OF THE YEAR & LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Tom Changnon chased his dream of being a pro ballplayer from

a full-ride scholarship at Stanford University to the Houston Astros; however, an injury prematurely ended that career. Lucky for us, Tom soon embarked on his lifelong career as an educator in many capacities. When the Stanislaus County Superintendent of Schools position opened about 12 years ago, he ran for the

One of the biggest awards of the night, the Chamber Member of the Year, was awarded to the business who has shown outstanding commitment to the Chamber and to Modesto as a whole through donations, volunteer work, and general support. The nominees were Bank of the West, Belkorp Ag, Grimblebly Coleman CPAs, Modesto Bee, Prime Shine Car Wash, and Stanislaus Foods Products, and the honor went to Grimblebly Coleman, Certified Public Accountants. The company and its partners have frequently and consistently sponsored Chamber events, does business with other Chamber members, and recently assisted the Chamber transition of its accounting software and preserved decades of information.

vacant seat with the blessing of his family, and the rest is history.

“It is their sincere philosophy about making a difference that spurs on their commitment to giving time and resources so that our community can thrive in job creation, education, and business,” said Thomas Reeves as he presented the award.

Recession when organizations were in the throes of painful

Tom saw the resources of the Stanislaus County Office of Education as an opportunity to be creative and to devise new options for students. Tom’s innovations and initiatives include the “Stanislaus Military Academy” for students in SCOE’s alternative education programs; the “Come Back Kids” program to serve adults who want a second chance to earn a high school diploma; the “Fit for the Future” initiative which inspires students countywide to participate in physical activity; the “Choose Civility Campaign,” instituted at the height of the Great cuts and angry constituents took the podium to contest; and currently the 5-year “Destination Graduation Initiative” which he is transitioning into a larger “Cradle to Career” movement.

Tom and his staff worked to procure the former Modesto Bee

Other winners included the Modesto Bee for Business Partner of the year, Naomi Layland for Distinguished Service, Nate Benniger for Leadership Modesto Graduate of the year.

All of the evening’s nominees, winners, and hosts, are vital members of our community, and the city of Modesto is lucky to have them. Whether they’re offering their time, their money, or their entrepreneurial spirit, they have bettered this city and made it what it is, and we all owe them our sincere thanks and admiration. | P

building, seeing in its shell the makings of a Career Technical School for students and others, and he forged a partnership with Opportunity Stanislaus that led to VOLT Technical Institute’s occupancy in the building as well.

Tom has decided not to seek reelection, and to retire. Stanislaus County is a better place because of Tom Changnon’s life work of investing in children, and his last twelve years of leadership at the helm of the Office of Education. It is fitting that Tom was awarded the Modesto Chamber’s Robert J. Cardoza Citizen of the Year & Lifetime Achievement Award to recognize his enduring contributions to our community. | P MARCH 2018

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BILL ROBINSON Ambassador of the Year

MARK BUCKLEY Welcome Team Member of the Year

MODESTO GOSPEL MISSION Nonprofit of the Year

MODESTO NUTS Small Business of the Year

GRIMBLEBY COLEMAN Chamber Member of the Year

ADVOCACY

THE MODESTO BEE Business Partner of the Year

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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

NATE BENNINGER Leadership Modesto Graduate of the Year

NAOMI LAYLAND Distinguished Service

TOM CHANGNON Robert J Cardoza Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award

Are you interested in hosting a

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

in 2018?

Contact Communications Assistant, Sandra Montez today!

ADVOCACY

209.577.5757 or smontez@modchamber.org

MARCH 2018

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

ANNOUNCEMENTS Bay Valley Tech LLC operates the Bay Valley Tech Code Academy as well as the ValleyWorx

The Port of Stockton announced the election of a new Chair and Vice-Chair for 2018. Following a vote by the Port of Stockton Commissioners, Sylvester

tech and digital design co-working space.

Aguilar has been named Chairman and Stephen Griffen Vice-Chairman.

Sylvester Aguilar

Mr. Aguilar is Senior Vice President and Business Banking Relationship Manager Team Lead for the Mid-Valley Business Banking Offices of Bank of the West. Mr. Aguilar is a Stockton native who is very active in the community.

Bay Valley Tech code academy (www.bayvalleytech.com) offers affordable on-site instruction for those seeking lucrative careers in software development. Our offerings include one-day coding camps, six-week part-time coding classes as well as an 11-month part-time full-stack coding academy.

Mr. Aguilar serves on the boards of a number of area nonprofits, including the CSUS College of Business Advisory Board, The Business Council and the Stockton Symphony Circle. He also is Past President of the San Joaquin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and was past Chairman for the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Aguilar holds a Bachelor’s degree from the

ValleyWorx (www.valleyworx.com) is a flexible, inexpensive co-working space and entrepreneurial community designed to support startup companies, software consultants and digital design freelancers.

Come check us out today!

University of the Pacific’s Eberhardt School of Business, is a graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School and has completed graduate work at Golden Gate University.

Address: 4701 Stoddard Rd., 2nd Fl., Modesto, CA 95356 Tel: 209.985.4721

Mr. Griffen, a lifelong resident of Stockton, began working at the Port as a longshoreman in 1977. Since 1984, he has been owner of Country Club Service and Bob’s Lube, and also is the owner of Country Club Smog.

Stephen Griffen

To learn more about The Port of Stockton, visit www.portofstockton.com | P

RELATIONSHIPS

Oak Valley Community Bank, announced the promotion of Laura Weaver to VP, Area Manager.

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Weaver joined Oak Valley in 2005 and has over 17 years of total banking experience. She has held several branch management roles including Assistant Customer Service Manager (Modesto), Customer Service Manager (Oakdale), and most recently Escalon Branch Manager. As Area Manager, she will continue to manage the Escalon Branch, as well as provide support to the business development and growth initiatives of the Manteca and Ripon Branches. | P

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

10 Years of Loving Modesto This Apr. 21 will celebrate the 10 Year Anniversary of Love Modesto. What started out as a small volunteer initiative has grown to a city-wide event that continues to be a catalyst for year-round impact in our community.

Last year over 7,000 people in Modesto came together on one day to volunteer across 110 projects, representing $600,000 in service (independentsector.org). People engage in a variety of projects, including appreciating public servants, visiting convalescent homes, donating blood, building a house with Habitat for Humanity, and working in city parks and schools, among other opportunities.

One of the great ways to get involved in Love Modesto is for company employees to volunteer together on a project.

Companies can wear branded shirts, host BBQ’s after the event, and sponsor projects.

If you are interested in your company getting involved, including sponsoring a project or the event, please go to LoveModesto.com, or email us at contact@lovemodesto.com.

BECOME A

MEMBER

FREE WORKSHOP SPONSORED BY SCORE-MODESTO DIGITAL MARKETING 101 Tuesday, Mar. 20, 2018, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce, 1114 J St., Modesto, CA Must register to reserve your seat at https://goo.gl/s4xcrh Learn the basics of Digital Marketing with 4thDMC, and our consulting side RussellSquared. Find out why Social Media is so powerful. Marketing has changed over the years and if you do not have a digital presence you might not ever be found.

What you learn in this seminar: • Create relevant posting in Social Media (Learn the "formula") • Find which Social Media your business should focus on • Funnel your clients to a specific hub on the Internet • Find out which hub that should be • CRM's; should you have one or not? What's out there?

• "Read the Numbers" • Schedule Posts on certain Media • Learn what's out there in Social Media. "Did you know" Q and A. • Also learn the statistics and numbers for each Social Media and Why Digital Marketing and Social Media is so important in this day and age

FREE WORKSHOP SPONSORED BY SCORE-MODESTO Lead Generation Strategies for LinkedIn Thursday, Mar. 22, 2018, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce, 1114 J St., Modesto, CA Must register to reserve your seat at https://goo.gl/c4yxfJ How much time, effort and money are you investing to reach new clients? Are you finally ready to learn how to use LinkedIn to grow your business? With a few simple habits and moments/day, you can be reaching the people looking for you without spending more money.

What you learn in this seminar: • The key elements of a strong, converting profile • How to strategically build a quality network • How to reach out to potential clients and referral partners • The quickest, simplest ways to generate and nurture leads • How to drive traffic to your website or landing page • How to prioritize your time on LinkedIn • Content Marketing Strategy

RELATIONSHIPS

We are pleased to announce that we have added Eric Nielsen as a named partner and Gianelli & Associates is now officially Gianelli Nielsen. Eric has been with our Firm since 2009 and has been an owner since 2013. Many of you have had the privilege of working with Eric and know that he has a passion for helping his clients that is unmatched—he often says, “you hired me to worry so let me deal with the stress.” Eric heads our litigation department and he vigorously advocates on behalf of each of our clients from start to finish without exception.

visit us at modchamber.org or call our membership Director, John Villines at 209.577.5757

MARCH 2018

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Stanislaus County Caregiver Resource Fair The 2nd Annual Stanislaus County Caregiver Resource Fair, hosted by Community Hospice this year, provides a “one stop shop” means of support and empowerment to all caregivers in Stanislaus County.

The fair will offer a continental breakfast, health screenings, community vendors, opportunity prizes and education workshops including four speakers, all free of charge. Featured presentations will include financial planning, behavioral issues and caregiving, Advanced Health Care Directives and funeral planning.

The purpose of the fair is to provide relevant and useful resources and support in attempt to reduce the overwhelming stresses and pressures that accompany the caregiver role. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with local leaders in the caregiving and aging community to network and build relationships. For more event information, visit stancaregiverfair.wixsite.com/2ndannual.

Monday, Apr. 2, 2018, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Stanislaus Veteran’s Center 3500 Coffee Rd., Modesto, CA 95357

Unlimited Physiques “Better lives with Exercise” Unlimited Physiques is a studio that provides you with premiere personal training. We specifically concentrate on the mind, body, core and strength training. We will focus on every client individually and assist you in reaching the optimum in physical and nutritional health.

RELATIONSHIPS

A well-defined body commands attention! Your only commitment is to your training. The secret is to start with the basics and a good trainer! Vincent Wilson, Owner and Personal Trainer, has over 35 years of personal training experience. “It’s different for everybody," he explains.“I work with all kinds of people and use a mixture of functional, core and weight training to match each individual’s abilities, meet their needs and help them lead healthier lives.”

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Join us for an Open House and Ribbon Cutting of our new facility location on Friday, Apr. 6 from 4-7 p.m. Located at 144 Woodrow Ave. Unit 1, Modesto.

MODESTO CHAMBER AWARDS THE MODESTO BEE WITH BUSINESS PARTNER OF THE YEAR AWARD

By Thomas Reeves, City of Modesto, Modesto Chamber Chairman-Elect At this year’s Gala, your Modesto Chamber of Commerce took a side-step toward the unconventional and presented a new award for Business Partner of the Year. This award honors a company that has gone above and beyond in support of the Chamber’s goal to provide state of the art leadership training to our businesses.

The Modesto Bee has been one of this area's primary sources of news and information for well over a century, publishing daily since 1884. It is one of the leading providers of advertising options to local businesses, and produces top-quality, intensely local digital and print products 365 days per year, and delivers to six local counties.

Purchased by the McClatchy family in 1924, the newspaper became the family’s third. The Bee’s digital media services and advertising department have provided much exposure and advertising for Chamber events over the years, and the staff have served on Chamber committees and volunteered to serve at events.

In 2014 Ken Riddick became the President and Publisher of the Modesto Bee. He brought back a sense of community with an understanding of the importance of businesses to succeed. He oversaw, along with current General Manager Tim Richey, the Bee’s movement into providing digital marketing and media services. With the chamber as a supporter, Ken and Tim instituted an annual recognition program, The Excellence in Business Awards.

We believe that any recognition of business accomplishments goes a long way to build confidence in our local economy. When the Modesto Chamber had the opportunity to introduce worldclass training through the Disney Institute, the Modesto Bee was first in line to help sponsor and market this premier training program. Together with Stanislaus State and Prime Shine Car Wash, the Bee’s effort in marketing this event contributed greatly to its success. We are honored to work alongside the Modesto Bee, and proud to award this innovative company our Business Partner of the Year Award. | P

For more information visit Unlimited Physiques.com or call 209.408. 0063

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

TIM RITCHEY, GENERAL MANAGER, THE MODESTO BEE

RIBBON CUTTINGS

AMERICAN CANCER - DISCOVERY SHOP 3440 McHenry Ave., Ste. D-12, Modesto, CA 95350

MCDONALD'S ON PARADISE 409 Paradise Rd., Modesto, CA 95351

BAY VALLEY TECH-VALLEYWORX 4701 Stoddard Rd., Modesto, CA 95356

VALLEY RECOVERY RESOURCES REDWOOD FAMILY CENTER 1405 11th St.,Modesto, CA 95354

DOWNTOWN STORAGE AND MAILING 1305 10th St.,Modesto, CA 95354 Join us for the 23rd Annual AG Aware Luncheon!

Join 700 of Modesto’s prominent agricultural and community leaders to raise funds for Modesto’s Future Farmers of America programs. Proceeds from the Ag Aware Luncheon benefit Modesto area FFA chapters who will be the next generation of leaders in the area’s most prominent industry.

JACKSON HEWITT 3020 Floyd Ave., Ste. 315, Modesto, CA 95355

RELATIONSHIPS

Our 2018 speaker is Cannon Michael President/CEO of Bowles Farming Company.

APRIL 13, 2018 Location: Modesto Junior College ACE Pavilion Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Tickets: $25

For more information and tickets please contact the Chamber at (209) 577-5757 or visit the website:

MARCH 2018

17

Congratulations

TO THIS MONTH'S MILESTONE MEMBERSHIPS

60 + years

20 + years

LAKEWOOD MEMORIAL PARK/FUNERAL HOME INC.

BRENDEN THEATRE CORP.

45 years +

MODESTO NUTS PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL

40 + years THE PARKS GROUP

J.M. KECKLER MEDICAL CO., INC. PEGASUS RISK MANAGEMENT SAFETY CENTER INCORPORATED SPEEDEE OIL CHANGE & TUNE UP STANISLAUS PARTNERS IN EDUCATION

15 + years OPPORTUNITY STANISLAUS

MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INC.

RIZO-LOPEZ FOODS, INC.

VALLEY HEART ASSOCIATES MEDICAL GROUP

SOLID NETWORKS, INC.

CROSSPOINT COMMUNITY CHURCH OF MODESTO

NEWMAN-ROMANO, LLC

STANISLAUS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION STANISLAUS HEALTH FOUNDATION

10 + years

25 years

RANK INVESTIGATION AND PROTECTION, INC.

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF MID-CAL, INC.

ROSS W. LEE, INC.

+

RELATIONSHIPS

HEARST TELEVISION, INC.

35 + years 30 + years

18

DALE COMMONS ASSISTED LIVING

AHART BENEFIT INSURANCE SERVICES CHG STRUCTURAL

BOOMERS MODESTO

SAMARITAN VILLAGE

CENTER FOR HUMAN SERVICES

VALLEY OAK PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

LAW OFFICES OF MAYOL & BARRINGER PHILLIPS LIGHTING & HOME, INC. UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF STANISLAUS COUNTY VALLEY FIRST CREDIT UNION

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

LEADERSHIP MODESTO GROUP PARTICIPATES IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT DAY

By John Wilson & Brent Burnside, Leadership Modesto On Jan. 12, the Leadership Modesto Class of 2018 participated in

During lunch, the group had the opportunity to hear from long time

Local Government Day at the 10th Street Plaza downtown.

campaign manager and consultant, Mike Lynch, and City Council Member, Kristi Ah You. The two spoke to the LeMo group about

The day started off with a Local Government information session

their political experiences and dedication to public service.

led by County Community Manager Patrick Cavannah and City Business Manager Laurie Smith. The two government officials

Following lunch, Interim City Manager Joe Lopez and County

provided information about the basic levels of local government,

CEO Jody Hayes talked to the group about developing leaders

roles and responsibilities, and organizational structures.

by empowering them in their decision-making abilities. A video featuring retired U.S. Navy Captain David Marquet displayed this

Following “Local Government 101,” the Leadership Modesto

leadership style.

(LeMo) class discussed the budgetary components of the Stanislaus County Government, led by Patrice Dietrich,

Following the meeting with Joe and Jody, the group entered the

Assistant Executive Officer and Brenda Kiely, Senior Finance

chambers for a mock City Council activity. Five of the LeMo

Manager. The Budget Message, “Striving together to be the

classmates assumed the role of City Councilmembers and

best,” focused on Safety, Health, Economic Strength, Learning

participated in a mock hearing. They heard cases for and against

and Efficient Public Service.

cannabis business activities downtown and cast their vote on the proposed plan.

After budget discussions, class members entered the chambers and divided into teams of five to participate in “Department Wars—The Budget Awakens.” Each team represented a separate city department (MPD, MFD, Parks & Rec. etc.) and was given the mission of determining how budget cuts should be made through the lens of their assigned department. The activity highlighted the challenges associated with program cuts as well as the residual impacts on the community.

Following the mock City Council meeting, the LeMo group had an Jenny Kenoyer and County Board of Supervisors Jim DeMartini and Vito Chiesa.The panel discussed their approaches to problem solving, plans for navigating through budget issues and the importance of City and County collaboration. Please check out next month’s issue of Progress, featuring Leadership Modesto’s “Healthcare Day.” | P

MARCH 2018

EDUCATION

open forum Q&A with City Councilmembers Mani Grewal and

19

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

By Elliot Begoun, Modesto Chamber Board Member, The Inertwine Group At the 104th Annual Gala, three amazing individuals were nominated for the Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes an individual or company for outstanding service and commitment to the Modesto Chamber and the greater community. It’s not only intended for those whose actions are easily visible, but also for those who work behind the scenes to make a true difference.

All three of this year’s nominees were deserving of the recognition.

Marian Kaanon, CEO of the Stanislaus Community Foundation was not only a nominee but also the Gala’s Master of Ceremonies.

Marianne continues to have a huge impact on this community through her efforts with SCF and was key in bringing the Irvine Foundation’s New Leadership Network to the community.

Kate Trompetter was another one of the nominees. Kate is a connector of people and a community catalyst. She is one of the individuals behind the Breakfast Club for young professionals, Mod Shop, Porchfest, and more. She has also been a big part of Leadership Modesto and recently started her own coaching and consulting practice.

Are you interested in hosting a

BUSINESS BEFORE HOURS

in 2018?

Contact Communications Assistant, Sandra Montez today!

209.577.5757 or

SERVICE

smontez@modchamber.org

20

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

NAOMI A. LAYLAND, BUSINESS MANAGER TO BRAD ARDIS AND COMPANIES

The winner of the Distinguished Service Award was Naomi Layland.

Naomi is the Business Manager for Brad Ardis and Companies. She manages five separate businesses, is on the Chamber’s Board of Directors, a Girl Scout Troop Leader and a mom of two busy young daughters. In all her free time, Naomi is the force behind the redesign of Progress Magazine and the Chamber’s soon to be released website. She chaired the Chamber’s Business Summit and Trade Expo for two years. Naomi helped create the C.A.R.E.S. marketing platform (Community, Advocacy, Relationship, Education, Service.) which allows the Chamber to better communicate the value it delivers on behalf of its members.

In addition to its staff, the Chamber relies upon the hard work and dedication of its board members and volunteers. Naomi’s contribution to the Chamber has been enormously valuable and we are very grateful. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we want to recognize all the nominees and congratulate Naomi on this award.| P

MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WORK IN PROGRESS a series spotlighting some of our area’s most innovative and successful companies

PRIME SHINE: A BEACON IN THE COMMUNITY By: Noel Daniel

Most locals know the clear option for quick and convenient exterior washes. Prime Shine is a community staple that was founded in 1991 by Norm Porges. His goal was the change the way Californians thought about washing their cars.

At that time, there weren’t any other options for an upscale, express exterior wash in California.

It was a unique and innovative idea born of society’s shift toward a quick-service culture as time became a precious commodity.

ONE OF PRIME SHINE’S KEY ORGANIZATION FOUNDATIONS IS “INVOLVEMENT IN OUR COMMUNITY” Over time, Prime Shine became a squeakyclean powerhouse that’s since started bettering our communities. They not only provide valuable resources to nonprofits by investing in their programs to help those in need—they also provide a much-needed car washing service that is environmentally friendly, using watersaving systems and friendly chemistry.

Prime Shine’s owners Norm and Evan Porges, as well as members of the executive team, have been involved in countless community organizations. One of Prime Shine’s key organization foundations is “Involvement in Our Community,” and for the past 27 years they have partnered with many organizations to provide either car washes for donations, environmentally-safe fundraisers to nonprofits, volunteering on boards, or monetary assistance.

They’ve also been focused on being an employee-centric employer, offering incredible opportunities and benefits in addition to teaching valuable life skills to thousands of employees through their system. They were even recognized in 2017 as a Central Valley Best Employer.

Their dedication to business excellence saw its fair share of long-term goals. In fact, about 10 years ago, Prime Shine established a goal of 20 locations by the end of 2020. Presently, their 19th location is under construction, and the 20th will break ground in late spring. This accomplishment demonstrates the incredible dedication that all of Prime Shine’s employees have to this goal.

Prime Shine is very proud of its relationship with the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. As a member for over 25, years they believe that the company would not be what it is today without the networking, counselling, and advocacy that the Chamber provides to the community’s businesses. | P

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PRIME SHINE, VISIT WWW.PRIMESHINE.COM. PRIMESHINECARWASH PRIMESHINECARWASH

SERVICE WHEN YOU NEED IT (Courtesy of Never Boring) When business is booming, advertising is the last thing on your mind. But when times get tough, an aggressive ad campaign becomes the last thing you want to spend money on. By maintaining an advertising presence through thick and thin, you can keep your business rolling, stay at the top of your customers’ minds and keep slowdowns to a minimum. Never Boring is an industry expert at creating unique, effective and affordable advertising.

Find out how we can keep your business moving forward, visit us today at neverboring.com

B r a n di n g . S t r a t egy. D e si gn.

THE CHAMBER C.A.R.E.S. The 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.

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.

PRESIDENT’S CLUB CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE PLATINUM LEVEL

SILVER LEVEL

Flowers Baking Co. of

Stinson Enterprises Inc.

E. & J. Gallo Winery

Acme Construction Company, Inc.

Kaiser Permanente

American Chevrolet

Food Maxx

Storer Coachways

Walmart

American Medical Response

Galletto Ristorante

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation

Walmart Neighborhood Market

Aramark Uniform Services

Gianelli & Associates

Telcion Communications Group The Eberhardt School of Business

Modesto, LLC

dba Modesto Toyota

Atherton & Associates, LLP

Gilton Solid Waste Mgmt, Inc.

DIAMOND LEVEL

Bank of Stockton

Golden Valley Health Centers

The Modesto Bee

Bank of the West

Brightwood College

Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc.

Turlock Irrigation District

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Brunn & Flynn

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Union Bank

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc.

California State University,

I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc.

US Bank

Doctors Behavioral

Stanislaus

Infiniti of Modesto

Valley BMW

Care One Home Health and

International Paper Co.

Valley Children's Healthcare

Iron Mountain, Inc.

Valley First Credit Union

Central Sanitary Supply Co.

JS West & Companies

Valley Lexus

Modesto & Empire Traction Co.

Central Valley Ag Grinding

Maxx Value Foods

Vintage Faire Mall

Pacific Southwest Container

Central Valley Automotive

Mercer Foods

W.H. Breshears, Inc.

Physician Referral Service-DMC

Central Valley Chrysler,

Mocse Credit Union

Warden's Office Furniture Outlet

O'Brien's Market

Warden's Office Products Center Wells Fargo Bank

Health Center- DMC

Doctors Medical Center-DMC Frito-Lay Company, Inc.

Hospice, Inc.

Jeep, Dodge

GOLD LEVEL

Central Valley Nissan

Oak Valley Community Bank

5.11, Inc.

Central Valley Specialty Hospital

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Crystal Creamery

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Panelized Structures Inc.

Insurance Agency

Doubletree by Hilton Modesto

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

Pepsi Bottling Group

Yosemite Meat Co., Inc.

Fiscalini Cheese Company

Clark Pest Control

PMZ Real Estate

HealthSouth Rehabilitation

Cloudy in California

Prime Shine Car Wash

COIT Services Inc.

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Memorial Medical Center

Collins Electrical

Rogers Jewelry

Modesto Irrigation District

Comcast

Rogers Jewelry Co.

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Covanta Stanislaus, Inc.

San Joaquin Valley College

RACOR, Division of Parker

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp,

Save Mart Supermarkets

Seven Up Bottling Corporation

of Modesto

Hannifin Corp.

Pallios, Pacher & Silva

Seneca Foods, LLC

Del Monte Plant

Smile Shine Family Dental

Sysco Food Services of

Delta Sierra Beverage

Solecon Industrial Contractors

English Oaks Nursing

Solid Networks, Inc.

Stanislaus Food Products Co.

Central California

Taco Bell

& Rehabilitation Hospital

Stanislaus Surgical Hospital

F&M Bank

CONTACT THE CHAMBER TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PRESIDENT'S CLUB LEVEL BENEFITS

First Choice Physician Partners Flooring Liquidators, Inc.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 1ST CHOICE LEGAL ASSISTANCE

SERVICE

Legal Support Services 802 14th St. Ste. L Modesto, CA 95354 1stchoicelegalassistance.com

DEL RIO FOODS, INC. (FARMER BOYS)

209.422.5499

Fast Food 1701 Prescott Rd. Modesto, CA 95350 209. 451.4448

ALIADO CONSULTING

EAST BAY THERAPEUTICS

Consulting & Management 1501 F. St. Modesto , CA 95354 714. 300.3050 myaliado.com

Retail & Wholesale 2340 Powell St., #384 Emeryville, CA 94608 916.757.4892

ACADEMY MORTGAGE CORPORATION

MODESTO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION TRUSTEE Education 426 Locust St. Modesto, CA 95351 209.404.4923 johnwalkeroned.com

Real Estate Services 3224 McHenry Ave., Ste. C&D Modesto, CA 95350 209. 809.2317 academymortgage.com/modesto MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG

JOHN WALKER -

LA FAMILIA MARKET Retail & Wholesale 4600 Broadway Ave Salida , California 95358 209.613.0050

ROOFLINE SUPPLY Roofing Services 1518 Lone Palm Ave. Modesto, CA 95351 rooflinesupply.com 209.524.4563

UNLIMITED PHYSIQUES Fitness & Health Clubs 144 Woodrow Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 unlimitedphysiques.com 209.272.7244

HELPING VALLEY BUSINESS GROW

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

866.844.7500 • www.ovcb.com Oak Valley’s Mike Garcia, Commercial Loans, 343.7607; Owners of Fun Sport Bikes Brian Zahra, Richard Burton, and Steve Burton; Teddi Lowry, Branch Manager Modesto Dale, 579.3371; Chris Courtney, OVCB President & CEO

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

“We’ve been with Oak Valley for many years now. The personal service and attention we receive is first-class.

They have been a trusted advisor and advocate for us – they’ve really treated us right.�

- Fun Sport Bikes, Modesto

Lic.# 502700235

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MODESTO 1016 14th St., Modesto 209.526.9136

CUSTOM SIGNS 1025 Needham St., Modesto 209.593.5844

STOCKTON 445 W. Weber Ave. Ste. 124A, Stockton

THE FILM VAULT 1401 J St., Modesto 209.526.9136

neverboring.com 800.317.9136