A Message From The President & CEO HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM By Trish Christensen
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ummer will officially arrive in just a few days and our eagerness to get out and enjoy it freely is adding to the anticipation. As the state and the county see the results of more of the population being vaccinated, and with the virus finally ebbing, we are collectively beginning to take advantage of the ever-lightening restrictions we have been impacted by during the last 15 months. We are witnessing the happiness meter rise in the people we interact with at the store, a restaurant, at work, and at play. The timing of this shift is marvelous. Summer is when we traditionally look to travel, visit family, explore the great outdoors and the world around us. We all know things are not “normal”, and we may not feel a hundred percent confident in doing exactly what we did pre-COVID, but we certainly feel a new sense of ability and possibility to leave our homes and live our lives again at some level. This is so uplifting.
COMMUNITY
As you travel through this month’s edition you will learn of great things to come for our city and county. The city’s General Plan is getting off the ground. Attracting new industry and jobs is one element to be considered through this process. Our city’s ability to host travelers who may visit here is a key element to our economic success. Companies may come here searching for a new community to grow and hire their workforce. A family may visit if they are looking for a better job and a better way of life. We want to always highlight the great things we have going on and the incredible sights and activities we can explore so easily from here.
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MODESTO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE I MODCHAMBER.ORG
Within these pages you will read about the growth of the rail system passing through town as well as the expansion of the Transit Center. Here they look forward to having patrons from various places and directions come into town to tour our community, and to commute or travel out to other places. We are, as we know, well situated in the center of the valley. The Doubletree by Hilton’s room expansions and renovations are complete, and they cannot wait to host you or your out-of-town guests. As the Gallo Center says farewell to the esteemed Lynn Dickerson, we look forward to getting to know the incoming CEO, Chad Hilligus as well as returning to its beautiful theater and experiencing the multitude of music, culture, and performances that will be featured there. We have also highlighted the names of a few options for dining, of things to do, and of places to visit for those interested in a new suggestion. Please take some time to read about the great things we have on our calendar. We have stayed very busy with our Rising Professionals, Women in Business, Tech Connect, and Stanislaus Green Team networks. The staff and I are in the process of creating our refreshed list of events and things to come in the next several months. Please watch for information of those to start appearing on our website and social media platforms over the next month. Lastly, and as always ... I wish you health and wellness. Stay safe and take care. With warm regards, Trish
