Progress Magazine March 2011

progress Modesto Chamber of Commerce

March 2011 Vol. 32 Issue 3 Modchamber.org

Warden’s: The Chamber Member of the Year New Members Cover Photo by Studio Warner

Work In Progress

Ribbon Cuttings

BECAUSE POINT A TO POINT B DOESN’T ALWAYS HAVE A DOCTOR IN BETWEEN. Sutter Gould Urgent Care Centers offer extended weekday and weekend hours, and all-day walk-in appointments. You’ll also find up to the minute wait times posted online to make staying on top of your health even easier. It’s where convenience meets quality, personalized care from a name you trust.

Visit suttergould.org for current wait times and location maps.

URGENT CARE HOURS STOCKTON

2545 W. Hammer Lane 9 am - 8 pm

MODESTO

600 Coffee Rd. (1st floor) 8 am - 8 pm (Mon.-Fri.) 8 am - 6 pm (Sat.-Sun.)

TURLOCK

1015 East Main St. 8 am - 7 pm

Co ver Sto ry

Warden’s:

The Chamber Member of the Year

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman

Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Chairman Elect

David Gianelli, Gianelli & Associates

Immediate Past Chairman

Kathy Halsey, Individual Member

Co m m u ni ty D evel o pm en t

Vice Chairman Finance

Dennis Wann, Tim Colbert & Associates, Inc.

Vice Chairman of External Affairs Cecil Russell, Individual Member

Vice Chairman of Internal Affairs Eric Benson, JS West & Company

Directors

Lynn Dickerson, Gallo Center for the Arts Dan Garcia, Tri Counties Bank Pat Gillum, Pat Gillum, CPA David Halvorson, American Chevrolet Doug Johnson, Reach Business Systems Neal Khatri, Best Western Khatri Properties Craig Lewis, Prudential California Realty Sharon Likely, Kaiser Permanente Mike Moradian, Peace of Mind Home Inspections Bill Moreno, Fire 2 Wire Ron Owen, Bank of the West Suzy Powell, Individual Member Chris Ricci, Chris Ricci Presents Jeremiah Williams, Oak Crafts by Jeremiah

97th Annual Dinner Leadership Modesto Awards and Achievements Announcements

8 10 12 13

Eco n o m i c D evel o pm en t

Ex-Officio

Bill Bassitt, The Alliance George Boodrookas, Modesto Junior College Keith Boggs, Leadership Modesto David Boring, Never Boring Design Associates Greg Nyhoff, City of Modesto

Chamber Staff

Cecil Russell, President/CEO crussell@modchamber.org Minnie Dodge, Administrative Manager mdodge@modchamber.org Sharon Novotny, Accountant snovotny@modchamber.org Nita Gruendeman, Membership Sales Manager ngruendeman@modchamber.org Elizabeth Facanha, Special Events Manager efacanha@modchamber.org Meagan Lopez, Administrative Assistant chamberassistant@modchamber.org

About Progress...

Postmaster: Send address changes to: PROGRESS, P.O. Box 844, Modesto, CA 95353. Editorial opinions are not necessarily those of the Board of Directors or members of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce. Chamber members may submit news by contacting: Progress Editor, email info@modchamber.org, P.O. Box 844, Modesto, CA 95353, (209) 577-5757, fax (209) 577-2673. Inquiries about ad rates, please contact Kristin Bowker at (209) 526-9136. Deadline is the 10th of each month for news and advertisements for the following month’s publication (news published at the discretion of the Editor on a first come, first served, space available basis).

People On the Move Work In Progress

14 17

New Member Profiles Land of Opportunity

18 21

N e tw o r ki n g A nd R e fe r r a l s

Business Before and After Hours New Chamber Members Chamber Calendar

19 19 22

Publisher

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

Graphic Design

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

Ambassad or Co r n er

Printer

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

Distribution

Come one, come all! Become an Ambassador and meet the community business leaders.

Parks Printing (209) 576-2568

As a volunteer Ambassador for the Chamber, the monthly activities include meeting once

Advertising Sales

a month, visiting an average of eight businesses per month, attending networking events,

Kristin Bowker Never Boring Design Associates (209) 526-9136 • progress@neverboring.com

participating on committees, and having fun. Ambassadors are energetic, outgoing and interested in what goes on in Modesto. Community involvement is a great way to give

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Mission Statement

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

On the cover

Warden’s: Chamber Member of the Year Jerry Warden and Jennifer Viss Photo by Studio Warner

Linda Curtis

back and connect with others. So stop by the Chamber, meet the staff, look at the different opportunities for volunteers, pick up an application, and attend a meeting! I hope to see some new faces soon – Linda Curtis, Kelly Services (209) 577-4777

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PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 577-5757 • (209) 571-6480 • Fax (209) 577-2673 www.modchamber.org • info@modchamber.org

MAR 2011

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L e ad ershi p

C h a i rma n’ s C orner “In a progressive country, change is constant... change...is inevitable.” ----Benjamin Disraeli Welcome to change at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Ralph Curtis

I certainly want to thank Joy Madison for her

contributions to the Chamber during her years as Chief Executive Officer and wish her all the best in her future endeavors. And, I want to welcome Cecil Russell, who will be serving as our new CEO. Cecil comes to us after a career at Save Mart where he was a Vice President. He has strong Chamber ties that go back years to when he was a member of the Board of Directors and then Chairman of the Board . During the year he was Chairman, Cecil handled the transition to new CEO Gary Plumber, so he is well versed on the challenges involved in such change. I am looking forward to the Chamber benefitting from some of the good ideas Cecil is going to bring to the table.

The Chamber Board of Directors is also undergoing some changes.

We recently had a Saturday morning session to discuss organization and goals.

It was exciting to hear some of the fresh ideas and

comments made by the Board members. The simple fact that we all spent several hours together discussing Chamber business was a positive start to this new Board year.

The Board is going to be organized this year around four ViceChairpersons. The

Vice-Chair of External Operations

will

responsible for reaching out to other community organizations (and beyond) to spread the message of the Chamber and to better coordinate efforts to work together to address community priorities.

The Vice-Chair of Internal Operations will be responsible for overseeing the internal workings and operations of the Chamber, such as personnel, budget and our website.

The Vice-Chair of Events and Special Projects will be responsible for overseeing all of the significant events put on by the Chamber during the course of the year with the goal of making each of them as successful and significant as possible.

Finally, the Vice-Chair of Member Relations will see to it that members are receiving value for their memberships.

Each of the Vice-Chairs will be assisted by several other Board members.

The goal is to have an active, involved Board of Directors that will make the Chamber a significant force in the community on behalf of business.

Finally, we are looking for the support and participation of all our members because everyone can do something to make our community better. Each member can start by, wherever possible, buying local and patronizing a Chamber member. Let’s make this a good year for Modesto!

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Board of Directors - Bill Bassitt, Keith Boggs, George Boodrookas, David Boring, Greg Nyhoff, David Halvorson, Eric Benson, Craig Lewis, Lynn Dickerson, Cecil Russell, Suzy Powell, Kathy Halsey, Chris Ricci, Pat Gillum, Doug Johnson, Neal Khatri, Bill Moreno, Ron Owen, Jeremiah Williams, At podium – Ralph Curtis

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

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MAR 2011

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Evan Porges, David Gianelli, Jerry Warden, Jennifer Viss and Norm Porges

Warden’s:

The Chamber Member of the Year Written by Matthew Andrews, Photos by Studio Warner

O

n January 28th, Modesto Chamber of Commerce

has diversified, and in addition to selling office supplies, Warden’s

celebrate the outstanding achievements by individuals

moving services, and operates an outlet center for used and discounted

members gathered together for the 97th time to

and businesses in the Modesto area over the past year. Many awards were given that evening, but the night’s most prestigious award, the

Chamber Member of the Year, went to a company that has been a key part of the local business world for more than 40 years – Warden’s.

Warden’s was founded by Jerry Warden in 1965. At the time, Warden

furniture. Warden notes that the company’s evolution came as a result of observing the needs of their clientele, and finding a way to

address those needs. “Every aspect of the business has grown out of

the needs of the community,” he says. “We try to meet those needs as best we can.”

was a 24-year-old college student and a father to be, and he had a

Now, almost half a century later, Warden’s has become a staple in the

office supplies. Warden, who attended California State University,

businesses, especially in the context of a sour economy, Warden’s is not

vision of building a company that supplied local businesses with Stanislaus, would make sales calls throughout Modesto and Riverbank

on his way to school, make stops in Turlock in between classes, and then head west to Patterson and Newman towards the end of the day.

community. In an age where big box stores can stifle the ambitions of small

only still here, but it is actually growing and expanding. It has become a symbol of resilience and an inspiration to many other local businesses.

Even while trying to manage a new business, attending to his studies

While there are many reasons for Warden’s success, the single most

as a personable salesman who could provide a solid relationship

with customers that Warden started with in 1965 is still the company’s

and his growing family, Warden was able to make a name for himself as well as pens and pencils. “People could buy my products from anywhere,” he says, “But they could only buy me from one place.”

In the years that followed, Warden’s grew from a one-man operation

to a successful business with close to 40 employees. The company

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also sells office furniture, has an in-house delivery division, provides

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

important reason is the commitment to building solid connections

guiding principle. Warden’s desires to treat every customer with the

utmost level of respect, which is something customers will never

stop appreciating. “We pride ourselves on doing what we say we’re going to do,” says Joe Cunningham, Vice President of the company’s

C ov e r S t ory

Furniture Division. “We don’t try to oversell, we just say what we’re

incredibly important to keep our money within the community. It’s

“Some might call it customer service, but we like to think of it as

Warden’s also seeks to strengthen the local community through

“People still like to buy from people.”

worlds, particularly through the Chamber ’s Leadership Modesto

going to do and then do it with genuineness and integrity.”

being relationship-driven versus product-driven.” He continues,

just the right thing to do.”

the development of new leaders in the business and civic program. Cunningham was the first Warden’s employee to participate in the program in 2001, and since then the company

“It’s such a necessity for us to keep our jobs and dollars here locally, we really support one another when we do that.”

— Chief Operations Officer, Jennifer Viss

has had half a dozen graduates and one employee is currently enrolled. Furthermore, one of the graduates is now a member

of the program’s steering committee, and Warden’s now has an active part in developing the curriculum that will build future leaders in the community.

As recipients of the 2010 Chamber Member of the Year Award,

Warden’s employees are both overjoyed at the recognition of their decades of hard work and support for the community, and

This dedication to good customer service is a natural outpouring

of another one of the company’s guiding principles – to ensure that employees are happy and well-treated. The average tenure for a

Warden’s employee is 10 years, meaning that the company’s 40 employees bring a combined total of 400 years of experience to the table. “I think that says something,” says Warden, “it means we

humbled by their selection over the many other outstanding businesses in the area. “It’s quite the honor. There are a lot of

deserving candidates,” says Cunningham. “We want to really thank our employees for earning this. It’s not the management

that earned this award, but everyone working together. It takes a team to make this work.”

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must be doing something right.”

Warden adds that treating the employees with respect and

kindness creates a happier work force, which in turn translates into a happier customer base. It also offers customers a level of

consistency, knowing they can reach out to the same people who have been helping them for years.

Warden’s also believes that building relationships is not isolated to respectful business transactions, but rather it is a part of all of the company’s interactions with the community. For this reason,

Warden’s has been an active leader in promoting local businesses and developing leaders within the community.

One of the biggest causes championed by Warden’s is the idea that local dollars should be kept local through the patronage of local businesses. As a local business that has held its own in

competition with out-of-town chain stores, Warden’s has truly benefited from the support of the community, and they seek to

have that support transferred to other regional businesses. “It’s

such a necessity for us to keep our jobs and dollars here locally,” says Chief Operations Officer, Jennifer Viss. “We really support one another when we do that.”

For Warden, buying local is not just a good idea, but vital to the

health of the local economy. As citizens of a community, he explains, people have an obligation to build the community up and support one another. “This is the community that we live in,” he says, “it’s

Jennifer Viss, Jerry Warden and Joe Cunningham

MAR 2011

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce 97th Annual Dinner

Small Business of the Year Awarded to Jeff Burrow and Jason Gordo, Valley Wealth with Neil Khatri, Best Western, Khatri Properties; Laura and Jay Ward, Ward Promotional Marketing Solutions

Robert J. Cardoza Award Awarded to Jeff Grover, Solecon Industrial Contractors with Curtis Grant, Joan Cardoza, Elaine Grover, Ralph Curtis, Curtis Legal Group

Distinguished Service Award Awarded to Cory Warner, Studio Warner with Mike Nash, Mo-Cal Office Solutions; Lynn Dickerson, Gallo Center for the Arts

Ambassador of the Year Awarded to Linda Curtis, Kelly Services, Inc. with Pat Gillum, Pam Gillum, CPA; Doug Johnson, Reach Business Solutions

Distinguished Service Award Cory Warner, Studio Warner With XXXX

Congressman Dennis Cardoza

Elected Officials Congressman Dennis Cardoza, Supervisor Dick Monteith, Supervisor Vito Chiesa, City of Modesto Vice Mayor Brad Hawn, Modesto City Schools Trustee Steve Grenbeaux, Bob Phelan representing Assemblyman Tom Berryhill, John Freeman representing Assemblyman Bill Berryhill, Stanislaus County Assessor David Cogdill, Supervisor Bill O’Brien, Council Member Stephanie Burnside, Mayor Jim Ridenour, At podium Joy Madison

Thank You to our Event Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors Gianelli & Associates Kaiser Permanente

Excellence in Education Awarded to Stanislaus Military Academy Fred Bigler, Director of Community Support Services; Cindy Young, Interim Division Director, Career, Charter & Alternative Education; Alberto Velarde, Principal, John B. Allard Community School with Betty Earle, President Elect, Sunrise Rotary; Sylvester Aguilar, Bank of the West

Award Sponsors Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation Care Center America’s Chimney Sweep Floral Sponsor Doctors Medical Center Wine Sponsor Gallo Sales Company A/V Sponsor ATV Video Center, Inc. DÊcor Sponsor JCD Atmospheric Studios, Inc. Video Never Boring Design

Nonprofit of the Year Awarded to Modesto Symphony Orchestra Association Cathy Mendoza, Lauren Bennett, Kelly McMurray, Lesley Sabol, with Keith Boggs, Stanislaus County Chief Executive Office; Sylvester Aguilar, Bank of the West; Craig Lewis, Prudential CA Realty

Welcome Team of the Year Awarded to Jerri Reed, The DoubleTree Hotel with Mark Buckley, Farmers Insurance; Eric Benson, JS West

Color Guard Stanislaus Military Academy

Stanislaus Military Academy

Economic Development

L eadership M odesto Healthcare was the focus of the Leadership Modesto class in January.

The class spent the day learning the many aspects of healthcare and it’s direct impact on our local community.

The day’s agenda included visits and tours of two of Modesto’s major hospitals. The day started off at Memorial Medical Center.

There

the LEMO students heard an overview of Health Care Reform and

the Hospital as a business from Memorial Medical Center ’s Chief Executive Officer, James Conforti.

During a behind the scenes tour, students gowned up and visited

Memorial’s operating rooms, the new server room (which supports the eletronic health record implementation) and received an up close view of Memorial’s medical transport, the Medi-Flight Helicopter.

Finally, the students met in the Hospital’s board room where they enjoyed lunch.

The next stop for the LEMO class was a visit to Doctors Medical Center. Registered Nurse, Karen Hall spoke about Palliative Medicine,

a form of medical care that focuses on reducing the severity of disease symptoms, rather than striving to provide a cure. Afterwards, the

students took a short break before they toured the facility. After the tour, the students heard from Dr. Peter Brokerick who spoke about the

Experienced Bankers When you bank with us, you bank with experience and strength.

DAVE BOYD & LOUISE TABOR

Central Valley Consortium for Medical Education.

The day induced an abundance of positive feedback from the LEMO students. Students appreciated being exposed to different perspectives

at each facility and valued how passionate about healthcare all of the presentations were.

“Memorial Medical Center has been a proud sponsor of the Chamber ’s

Leadership Modesto program for many years, and we have sent many participants through the program. We love having the opportunity to

share information about our business with LEMO participants each year.” ~ James Conforti ~

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce and it’s Leadership class of

2011 would like to extend a special thank you to Memorial Medical Center for sponsoring the continental breakfast, as well as their gracious gift of lunch.

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

TURLOCK 134 S. Golden State Blvd.

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MAR 2011

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community Development

A wards And A chievements Modesto’s Storer Transportation Service recently received

Candlewood Suites has been named Turlock Journal’s, “Readers

safety award from the California Highway Patrol. Storer was chosen in

laundry facilities, and gym are just a few of the amenities that Candlewood

a prestigious STAR — Safe Transportation Achievement Recognition — the over 25 buses (large fleet) category. Storer was singled out for its 58

years in business and passing 84 consecutive CHP inspections in Tour Bus, School Bus and General Public Paratransit Vehicle operations. The

CHP selected Storer, the oldest school bus contractor in the state, as an award recipient for its top-rated maintenance program, record keeping,

safe drivers and clean accident record. Prior to their recent STAR award

Choice Award for 2010”. Spacious studios, full kitchen, 24-hour free

Suites has to offer. We are unique to this area, and the response from the

community has been wonderful. Candlewood Suites offers daily, weekly and monthly rates to accommodate corporate executives, displaced

homeowners, contractors, and permanent residence. If you have pets they are welcome also. For more information call (209) 250-1501.

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the company was awarded two national safety awards. The Safety Leader of the Year Award from United Motor Coach Association in 2007, and a second National Safety Award in 2009 from the International Motor Coach

Group. “Since 1952, we at Storer Transportation have and will continue the proud tradition of offering unprecedented service where safety is never compromised,” said Donald Storer, President and Chief Executive

Officer. “Our safety record is no accident. It’s very special for us to be the first recipient of this award (STAR) in the State of California.”

Construction Management Design/Build

4th & U, Berkeley, California General Contracting Pre-Construction Planning Value Engineering

4th & U

Essex Property Trust, Inc. 171-Unit mixed use multi-family and retail over podium parking.

Completed on time and under budget in 2010.

1920 Standiford Avenue, Suite 1 l Modesto, CA 95350 Tel. (209) 338-0157 l Email: info@scmcms.com www.scmcms .com

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

Modesto Chamber of Commerce

Help your business make PROGRESS The Number One Business Publication in Stanislaus County For advertising information please call Progress Magazine at 209.526.9136

community Development

A g A ware L uncheon P l a n n e d f o r A p r il 7

A nnouncemen ts

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce announces its 16th annual Ag Aware

Benchmark Commercial Real Estate Services has moved to a

Luncheon, April 7, 2011 at the S.O.S. Club in Modesto. Featured keynote speaker is Modesto City Schools teacher, Roger Dixon. In addition, two representatives from the FFA program will be on hand to speak about their FFA experience.

to continue meeting the needs of their commercial real estate clients.

Benchmark is one of the most active commercial real estate brokerage

firms in the region. The team specializes in bank-owned commercial properties, tenant representation, and property management. In 2010 the

Since its inception sixteen years ago, the Luncheon has raised more than $110,000, benefitting FFA programs offered through Modesto City Schools.

FFA students and programs benefit from new equipment purchases and funding for travel to state and national leadership activities. Ag Aware also serves to educate and inform the local business community on current agricultural issues.

company grew to capacity at their old location. Now in the new location,

the company is poised to continue growing to meet client needs. For more information please call (209) 529-4425

Howard Training Center invites you to its third annual Spaghetti

Feed on Sunday, March 27, 2011 at Witmer Hall, 1424 Stonum Road,

Modesto. Enjoy delicious spaghetti and an afternoon of family fun! Doors

Tickets for Ag Aware are $25 per person, and are available for advance purchase at the Modesto Chamber of Commerce office at 1114 J Street, Modesto, or at the door the day of the event.

New sponsorship

packages including table sponsorships, are available. Call the Chamber for details, (209) 577-5757.

new office at 1031 15th Street, Suite 4. The location will allow the company

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open at 1 p.m., dinner begins at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5

for children 10 and under. Proceeds benefit Howard Training Center’s Meals on Wheels Program to provide daily nutritious meals for over 1,000 seniors in Stanislaus County. For tickets, call (209) 593-5611.

Oak Valley Community Bank announced plans to open a new

branch at 3508 McHenry Avenue on the corner of McHenry and Sylvan.

The branch will be Oak Valley’s third in Modesto, and is expected to open

by April 2011. The branch will feature two drive-up lanes, a drive-up

Oak Valley COmmunity Bank We mean business

ATM, and a walk-up ATM. Hours will be Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Drive-up service begins at 8:30 a.m on weekdays.

Oak Valley Community Bank recently announced plans to open a new branch in Manteca at 191 W. North Street, near the intersection of

North and Main. The branch is expected to open in May/June 2011 and will initially be open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Steve Sereno, Meredith Hamilton, Mark Cook, Cathy Stapley, and Jeffrey Hamilton, with Oak Valley’s Ron Davenport, 209.343.7627

Experience business banking the way it should be – the perfect blend of oldfashioned personal service and modern technology to meet your every need.

“Oak Valley delivers – first-class service, competitive returns, and the ability to work with local people who understand the needs of Central Valley businesses.”

Let us make your business, our business.

– Hamilton & Company, LLP, CPAs, Modesto

www.ovcb.com

Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

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

MAR 2011

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Community Development Economic Development

B usiness to P eople O n T he M ove B usiness t radeshow Arata, Swingle, Sodhi & Van Egmond, A Professional Law Corporation, is

Reserve your space now!

Contact Elizabeth Facanha (209) 577-5757

pleased to announce Amanda J. Heitlinger as the

firm’s newest Associate Attorney. Amanda recently

• Open to the public

• Meet Local Community Businesses

• Samples

• Drawings

Cornelio at the Pima County Superior Court in Tucson, Arizona.

• Food

Amanda also worked for the University’s Child and Family Law

• Beverages

• Discounted booth space

graduated from the University of Arizona James Amanda J. Heitlinger

E. Rogers College of Law where she focused her studies on civil litigation and family law. Amanda

previously worked as a law clerk for the Honorable Judge Carmine

Advocacy Clinic providing pro bono legal services to underprivileged children and families in southern Arizona.

Contact Amanda at

(209) 522-2211. www.Arata-law.com.

to new Chamber members

Candlewood Suites in Turlock General Manager Jolene Saldivar, announced the hotels new sales team. Canan Hasen has been chosen as Director of Sales. We basically stole her from one of our sister properties in Folsom. Canan started Canaan Hasen

with our parent company in May 2010. With over 10 years of experience in the hospitality and travel

industry. Canan has established herself as a resourceful, educated, and a hard working leader. Patty Sykes was announced as the new Sales Manager. Patty has lived in the the Central Valley for years. With degrees in real estate and business, Patty comes to us with a diverse job history from real estate, to corporate, to government. Although

WE’VE DELIVERED EXPECTATION-EXCEEDING SERVICE FOR OVER 50 YEARS

Patty has never worked in hospitality, she seems Patty Sykes

connected to the community and has the ability to make our guests feel at home. Our sales team

focuses on reaching out to the community, streamlining the reservation process, and guaranteeing guest satisfaction. Candlewood Suites (209) 250-1501, our sales team is ready to assist you.

Central Valley Community Bank is proud to announce that Ramina Ushana and her staff are serving the Modesto community in their new fullservice Modesto office. Ramina comes to the bank with over 30 years of banking background. She has been an Ramina Ushana

Ambassador for Modesto Chamber of Commerce and has received the honor of being Chamber Ambassador

of the Year, two years running. Ramina and her team welcome you to stop by at 300 Banner Court, Suite 2, Modesto, CA 95357, contact them at (209) 576-1402 option 3, or Ramina.Ushana@cvcb.com.

KEMPERCPA.COM

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1700 STANDIFORD AVE., SUITE 200 MODESTO, CALIFORNIA 95350

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

209.521.1100

Economic Development

p resident’s c lub C ircle Of I nfluence Platinum level Kaiser Permanente Save Mart Supermarkets

Diamond Level Bank of the West Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc. Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC Doctors Medical Center-DMC Frito-Lay Company, Inc. Pacific Southwest Container Romo & Associates Walmart

Gold Level Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Inc. Costco Wholesale DoubleTree Hotel Evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation

Care Center Foster Farms Dairy JC Penney Company Memorial Medical Center The Modesto Bee Modesto Irrigation District Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball Post Foods, LLC RACOR, Division of Parker

Hannifin Corporation Sysco Food Services Taco Bell

Silver Level 5.11 Tactical, Inc. AAA AAA Locating, Inc. AT&T Acme Construction Company, Inc. Ambeck Mortgage Associates American Chevrolet American Medical Response Applegate Johnston, Inc. Aramark Uniform Services Atherton & Associates BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Basic Resources, Inc. Brandman University, Part of

Chapman University Brown, Fink, Boyce & Astle, LLP Bunge Oils California State University, Stanislaus Candlewood Suites Central Valley Automotive Central Valley Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Central Valley Nissan Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai Central Valley Medical Group Children’s Hospital Central California Children’s Hospital & Research

Center-Oakland Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Citibank Clark Pest Control Comcast Construction Management Corporation Courtyard by Marriott Covenant Village of Turlock Curtis Legal Group

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

Damrell, Nelson, Schrimp,

Pallios, Pacher & Silva Del Monte Plant #1 Delta Sierra Beverage DirectLine Technologies, Inc. English Oaks Nursing &

Rehabilitation Hospital External Resources Inc. F & M Bank Galletto Ristorante Georgia-Pacific Gianelli & Associates Gilton Solid Waste Management, Inc. Great Valley Center Grimbleby Coleman CPAs, Inc. Grover Landscape Services, Inc. Harris Moran Seed Company Heald College I.J. Larsen Pumps, Inc. Infiniti of Modesto Institute of Technology International Paper Company ITT Technical Institute JS West & Company Kaplan College Magnum Boots USA McHenry Medical Group, Inc. Mercer Foods Mocse Credit Union Modesto Commerce Bank Modesto Toyota Mraz, Amerine & Associates Nestle USA Oak Valley Community Bank O’Brien’s Market, Inc. OLAM Spices & Vegetables, Inc. Oldcastle Glass Pacific Gas & Electric Company Panelized Structures, Inc. Pepsi-Cola Bottling Group Plastipak Packaging Prime Shine Car Wash Rabobank Raley’s Rizo-Lopez Foods Inc. San Joaquin Valley College Seven Up Bottling Corporation Solecon Industrial Contractors Solid Networks, Inc. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Stanislaus Food Products Company Stanislaus Surgical Hospital Stantec Consulting Storer Coachways Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Turlock Irrigation District US Bank (Modesto Main) Valley Bio Energy, LLC Valley First Credit Union Valley Lexus-BMW Versa Cold Logistics Services W.H. Breshears, Inc. Warden’s Office Products Center Warden’s Office Furniture Outlet Wells Fargo Bank Winton, Ireland, Strom & Green

Insurance Agency Yosemite Meat Company, Inc.

Work In Progress Modesto Chamber of Commerce

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

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Service when you need it (Courtesy of Never Boring Design Associates) Customer service is a crucial component of your marketing plan. No matter how effective, concise, flashy, or well-executed your advertising and marketing

J.M. Equipment Company began selling

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farm equipment to Central Valley farmers in

customer.

alienating clients with poor customer service.

1936. Today, the Manteca-based company

business apart from another.

one

of

providers

the of

premier

“

tractors,

forklifts, and other types of farm equipment between Sacramento and Fresno.

“..The quality of service is where

When asked why the company

Here are a few simple tips that will make a big difference: • “May I place you on hold?” - don’t drop your clients in

“Everyone can sell the same

the hold abyss before they’ve had the opportunity to say

forklift, or the same tractor,”

it’s okay to do so.

he says. “But the quality of service is where the telling story is.

Our actions speak

• Greetings! - a smile and a simple “hello” go a long way toward building good customer rapport. Brownie points for face and name recognition!

• Follow through - nothing will kill a sale faster than the failure to follow up when you say you will.

louder than words.”

the telling story A DVERTISING I GRAPHIC DESIGN

has been so successful, CFO Vincent Victorine talks about a number of factors, including smart and

business competitive

practices

is. Our actions speak louder than words.”

pricing.

However, he cites a tireless dedication

to

customer

”

-CFO Vincent Victorine

service as the foremost reason

Victorine

says

that

commitment

to

building

connections

has

resulted

of

long-term

in

a

number

I WEB DESIGN

I MARKETING I FILM & MULTIMEDIA

I COMMERCIAL SIGNS

this

relationships with customers. He notes that repeat customers account for roughly 80% of the company’s business.

MODESTO MEANs BUSINESS 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, or through our 2011 directory at www.villageprofile.com/california/modesto.

Progress Magazine is the voice of the Modesto

for the company’s status in the

Chamber of Commerce, and the leading business

In addition to building relationships as a

publication in Stanislaus County. For more information

our first priority,” he says, “it’s our mantra.”

business, J.M. Equipment Company also

or advertising info call (209) 526-9136

© Never Boring Design

•

industry. “Solving our customers’ problems is

strives to build relationships as a consumer.

Good customer service is something that

Victorine makes an effort to ensure that much

J.M. Equipment Company has practiced and

of the company’s expenditures go to local

preached since day one.

Victorine explains

vendors and other businesses in order to

that in an industry where customers have a

keep dollars circulating locally. “We strongly

range of choices regarding where to buy similar

believe that you need to buy local to stay

farm equipment, it is necessary to establish

local,” he explains.

neverboring.com

is

That is ultimately what sets one

This story can also be found at www.modbee.com/workinprogress

MAR 2011

17

economic Development

N e w M emb er P rofiles E m p l o y e r N e t w o r k L L C Whether you’re a small start-

up, or a large established company, Employer Network can help you effectively manage your employees. We offer a complete

Human Capital Management Solution, including: payroll, human

resources and time & labor management, all in a single platform we call Onepoint. We think Onepoint is the most robust payroll

service solution available. We also offer COBRA, FSA plans, Pay-2-

M u s t a r d S e e d C a t e r i n g C o m p a n y , in business for over 18 years, has expanded to better serve the Modesto area. We are an onsite catering company that services a full menu and specializes in personalized menus, elegant hors devours and exquisite box lunches.

Each item is created to compliment your budget and occasion. We will happily provide servers and arrange all necessary party rentals to help

Pay Workers Compensation, tax credit processing and background

complete your party’s ambiance. For an event consultation, contact

screening. Take payroll to the next level! Call Employer Network

Shauna Petersen at (209) 277-0931, email shaunapetersen@sbcglobal.

and see what you’ve been missing. (209) 599-9341

net or on the web at mustardseedcateringco.com!

G i r l S c o u t s – Experience the world of Girl Scouting and make the

N e w Yo r k L i f e I n s u r a n c e C o m p a n y is the largest mutual

serves nearly 29,000 girls and 10,000 volunteers in over 18 counties. We are committed to our mission, “To build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place.” This can only be accomplished with the help of amazing volunteers like you, so pick up the phone and call today to find out how you can help. Contact 800-834-9899 or visit www.girscoutshcc.org.

life insurer in the U.S., with more than 160 years of service to its policy owners. The company has over $265 billion in assets and is AAA rated.

Licensed agent Heidi Howell is pleased to assist with your financial goals, including life insurance, long-term care, lifetime income, college funding, mortgage protection and retirement planning. “Please contact me for a quick overview of who we are and how we help people,” Heidi says.

Contact Heidi at (209) 550-0544 or hhowell@ft.newyorklife.com.

P

“Equipment for Agriculture and Industry” Manteca 209-522-3271 • Sacramento 916-372-0707 • Fresno 559-233-0187 • Patterson 209-892-6294

evergreen Nursing & Rehabilitation Care Center

* Registered Nurses 24/7 * Long Term and Short Term Quality Care * 175 Bed Facility * Pleasant Environment * Inviting and Stimulating Social Activities * Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Respiratory Therapy * Specialty Dining Menus

18

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

* Pharmaceutical Services * Intravenous Therapy * Incontinence Service * Wound and Skin Care * Medicare Part A/B, Medi-Cal Other Insurances Welcome * Family Owned and Operated for 50 Years

Celebrating 50 Years Of Quality Care Engaged in your Care and your Life 209.577.1055 2030 Evergreen Ave. Modesto, CA 95350 www.evergreencare.com Fax: 209. 550. 3615

© Never Boring Design • neverboring.com

difference in a young girl’s life! Girl Scouts Heart of Central California

N e tw o r k i n g A n d R e f e rra l s

B u s i ness B efore and A ft er H ours february business before hours

february business after hours

Hosted by: University of Phoenix

Hosted by: Mitchell’s Harley-Davidson

Wine Provided By:

Coffee Provided By:

University of Phoenix staff

Mitchell’s Harley-Davidson staff

University of Phoenix is an institution that has grown from an upstart

Since 1938 Mitchell’s Modesto Harley-Davidson has been

America. Students study at more than 200 locations, as well as through

enthusiasts through a long standing commitment to building a

in 1976 to becoming today’s largest private university in North online programs available in most countries around the world.

exceeding the needs of the Northern California Harley-Davidson strong relationship with our community.

University of Phoenix

Mitchell’s Harley-Davidson

Salida, CA 95368

Modesto, CA 95351

5330 Pirrone Road

500 N. Carpenter Road

(209) 858-6985

(209) 522-1061

N e w C ha mb er M embers Employer Network LLC

Mustard Seed Catering

Rosemarie Wilson (209) 599-9341 ph (209) 924-4303 fax rwilson@employernet.net www.employer.net Payroll Services

Shauna Petersen 900 N. Broadway Avenue, Turlock, CA 95380 (209) 277-0931 ph (209) 545-1599 fax shaunapetersen@sbcglobal.net www.mustardseedcateringco.com Caterers

Law Office of Ruben Villalobos

Sierra Storage/E-Waste/ Budget Truck Rentals Madalynn Panelle Rodriguez 1736 Herndon Road, Ceres, CA 95307 (209) 537-4310 ph (209) 537-6029 fax sstorage4310@yahoo.com Storage – Self Service

Ruben Villalobos 900 G Street, Suite 300, Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 543-2602 ph (209) 529-1116 fax ruben.villalobos@gmail.com www.DUIfighters.com Attorneys

New York Life Insurance Company

Stanislaus Arts Council

Heidi Howell PO Box 1112 Modesto, CA 95353 (209) 550-0544 ph (209) 550-0545 fax hhowell@ft.newyorklife.com Insurance – Life / Disability / Health

Master Suites

Grace Leiberman 509 13th Street, Suite 3, Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 558-8628 ph (209) 558-8739 fax stanarts@att.net www.artsway.org Arts Organizations Galleries & Agencies

Plastipak Packaging

Sylvia Hines 7797 N. First Street, #449, Fresno, CA 93720 (559) 299-9860 ph (559) 746-7222 fax sylvia.hines@mastersuites.net www.MasterSuites.net Corporate Housing/Relocation Specialists

Modesto Academy of Music & Design Pam Tallman 5428 Pirrone Road, Salida, CA 95368 (209) 545-6872 ph info@modestoacademy.com www.modestoacademy.com Schools

Andrew Hobbs 4324 Leckron Road, Modesto, CA 95357 (209) 549-3512 ph (209) 572-5093 fax ahobbs@plastipak.com www.plastipak.com Packaging – Contractor

Safeway, Inc. Bob Shroyer 1901 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 571-6280 ph (209) 571-6284 fax www.safeway.com Grocer – Retail

Stanislaus Literacy Center Karen Williams 1224 I Street, Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 522-0656 ph (209) 522-0658 fax williamsk@readingworks.net www.readingworks.net Community Service Organizations

Waterford Irrigation Supply, Inc. Ron Nydam 12500 Bentley Street, Waterford, CA 95386 (209) 874-1386 ph (209) 874-1381 fax jnydam@sbcglobal.net Agriculture

MAR 2011

19

UNO. WAY DEEPER THAN PIZZA

WANT A FREE APPETIZER? Get yours at:

insidersclub.unos.com 1533 Oakdale Rd. Modesto (209) 521-8667

20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

N etw o r k i n g A n d R e f e rra l s

Prime Shine Express presents:

LAND OF OPPORTUNITY ...a series spotlighting entrepreneurial achievement

Tom Arnold Owner Appetéz Restaurant Buddy’s Pub and BBQ Please give me a brief overview about your company’s history. My wife Dorene and I founded Appetéz in 1997 and we chose our current location because of its central location in Modesto. I founded Tom Arnold Appetéz upon moving to Modesto from the Bay Area in search of opening my own restaurant. I worked with and consulted with several companies to learn the area. I then decided to make the leap of faith and open my own restaurant.

Our products and services have always been a work in progress. From our atmosphere to our offerings, Appetéz continues to develop what we believe the community desires. Our services include café dining, banquet room, catering, Traveling Chef (intimate dining in a business or home), delivery service, wedding and special event consulting and coordination, and currently going after retail for our new Buddy’s BBQ and sauces.

The company continues to grow in different areas. When a team member has an idea to establish their own business, we support them and help them get going. Our newest venture will be incorporating healthy dog treats for our guests who walk the Virginia Corridor with their pets and enjoy a nice lunch / dinner on the patio.

Our newest member to join the team is our son, Noah, who is our food critic for the youth. Noah, also nicknamed Buddy, tries our newest menu items for kids and gives the thumbs up or down.

You can find him sometimes hanging out with our guests enjoying peanuts in Buddy’s Pub & BBQ. Tell me about your career and professional life. What have you done in the past that has led you to where you are now? I have been in the Hospitality Industry for over 35 years, starting off by assisting my mom with catering out of our house to earn money for the family. I immediately realized my true love of serving people via great food and service. I take great pride in giving people “moments” to appreciate life, their friends and loved ones, and how fortunate we have it in America.

Would you share with me some background that has contributed to helping you achieve your goals? My hospitality life has given me incredible opportunities: learning the culinary sides of things from my mom (amazing chef), service standards from TGIFriday’s, Modesto necessities from our incredible guests, and what should be done to help the community via my ties with Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Serra Club, and the Chamber of Commerce.

What challenges have you had to overcome in your professional life and how did you achieve that? The restaurant industry as a whole always has its challenges, but my team has always done a good job being ahead of them.

From product cost and quality fluctuations, to new chain competition coming to our city, the team jumps to the challenge. It is not an easy industry and Appetéz strives to be the best it can be by pushing ourselves relentlessly. Thus, kudos to the team members who put up with this mentality each and every day, for it is truly their efforts that make me successful.

What are some of the accomplishments of which you are particularly proud? One of my largest accomplishments was the gift of my daughter, Maya. She was born into this world with amazing challenges, and gave me the opportunities to learn from her, the doctors and caretakers, and on how strong we all can be during what most people believe is our hardest times. I was blessed to have the God-given six years with her and I will forever try to support those families whose children “go home” at such an early age. My wife and I have set up a children’s fund in her name to help families and are in the design stages of building a residential care facility for the elderly tied to a hospice house for children. Seniors helping children – for we all come in and go out in diapers – why not support each other accordingly.

What advice do you have for business people when it comes to achieving their goals? My advice for business people: THINK. Think real hard about who you are, what your strengths and challenges are, and most importantly, what you are passionate about. Write it down, formulize a plan, then “Just go do it!!” If you love it and plan appropriately, it will make you amazingly successful and happy. Believe in yourself for the Land of Opportunity shines in each of us.

What do you like about doing business in the Modesto community and why do you think this is the Land of Opportunity? Modesto and its surrounding cities are an amazing place where the opportunities are bountiful – a developing community, affordable housing, business community support, and my newest joy as a parent involved with my son’s education in the Fremont Open Plan where my lovely bride Dorene helps the future leaders of our community develop Care Facility for the Elderly tied to a Hospice House for children.

Prime Shine Express is proud to present The Land of Opportunity.

Each month this series provides a forum in which to showcase the entrepreneurial achievements of a Stanislaus County business owner. Prime Shine Express is proud to recognize the entrepreneur’s ability to overcome obstacles and to honor their successes in their industry and in the community.

Anthony D. Johnston

Eric T. Nielsen

Business & Estate Planning Probate Trust Litigation

Business Transactions Business Litigation

Adjunct Professor of Contract Law, Humphreys Law School

Quiet Confidence | Proven Excellence 1014 16th Street • Modesto, CA 95354 • (209) 521-6260

GIANELLI-LAW.COM

MAR 2011

21

N e tw o r ki n g A nd R e fe rra l s

Taking Care of Good Employers

C ha mb er C alen da r March 2011 8

Facilitated by Katherine Boyd, Curtis Legal Group

Time: 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Business Before Hours: Home Oxygen Company

Time: 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Chamber U Seminar -Effectively Leveraging Technology to

Facilitated by: Kyle Egerton of Solid Networks and

Group Health

•

Workers Comp

•

1-800-94-CAPAX

•

Home Owners

•

Auto

•

Business Insurance Lic. # 0144783

Multiply Sales Within a SMB

Michael Loschke of IMC Training and Consulting

Location: Brandman University Part of Chapman University 5222 Pirrone Ct., Salida, CA Time: 8:45-11:00 a.m.

17

Business After Hours: Fairfield Inn & Suites

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Giddings, Corby, Hynes

Location: 2020 Coffee Road, Suite C-1A

15

www.capax.com

Location: Chamber Conference Room

10

Just Ask.

Chamber U Seminar – Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

Location: 3301 Countryside Drive, Turlock

23

Chamber U Seminar - Lessons in Leadership

Location: The State Theatre, 1307 J Street

Facilitated by Verla Oliver, SinglePoint Outsourcing Time: 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

April 2011 7

Ag Aware Luncheon

Location: SOS Club, 819 Sunset Avenue

14

Business Before Hours: Humphreys College

Time: 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Time: 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Location: 3600 Sisk Road, Suite 5A

21

Business After Hours: United Cerebral Palsy of Stanislaus Co.

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Location: 4265 Spyres Way, #2

♦

22

Modesto Chamber of Commerce Progress

♦ ♦

♦

Where do these doctors send their families for expert care?

Our name says it all.

• Ranked FIRST in the Region for Cardiac Services (Healthgrades, 2010) • The Region’s FIRST Primary Stroke Center • The County’s FIRST and ONLY Level 3 NICU • FIRST in the Region to receive Level 2 Trauma Center Verification from ACS • FIRST in Modesto to offer daVinci Surgical Robot Technology

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

MAR 2011

23

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

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

as recent immunizations, future appointments, and many lab results can all be accessed online. And, these days, that’s just about anywhere. You can even e-mail your child’s doctor. Just another way that we at Kaiser Permanente help you to live well and thrive.

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

ProgressMag_Sep-Dec09_8.25x11.25.indd 1

8/19/09 4:29:22 PM