Contents
W.A.C.E. Award Winning Publication of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce
TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Business News 115 S. Golden State Blvd. Turlock, CA 95380 209-632-2221 Fax 209-632-5289 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm
Sharon Silva President/CEO sharonsilva@turlockchamber.com
Tasha Van Santen Director Communications/Development Ext. 104 tasha@turlockchamber.com
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Family Owned Woods Furniture Adapts to Times
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Rabobank Celebrates National Small Business Week
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Scandals I Have Known
Page 10
CSU Appoints New President and Vice President
Page 10
Cool Hand Luke’s Welcomes New Owner
Page 11
Workers Safety Vital During Hot Summer Months
Page 12
Turlock Public Safety Facility
Page 13
Motivating and Encouraging Leadership Roles in the Community
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City Council - First Six Months
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Walmart Neighborhood Market to Revitalize Shopping Center
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Kirkes Electric - From a Shed to an Institution
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Mixers for April, May and June
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Ribbon Cuttings
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Chamber Recognizes Over 50 Years of Service
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Stanislaus County Business Forum - National Health Care
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Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Promotes Community Events
Sharon Berry Administrative Assistant Ext. 100 sharonberry@turlockchamber.com Kassi Fortado Membership/CVB Assistant Ext. 101 kassi@turlockchamber.com
Jessica Lundberg Administrative Assistant Ext. 103 jessica@turlockchamber.com TURLOCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU Desa Cammack Director 115 S. Golden State Blvd. 209-632-2221 Ext. 107 desa@visitturlock.com
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
From the President/CEO
Chairman
I
I
Welcome
Exciting and Busy Time in Turlock
t is an exciting time in Turlock; the Chamber has seen a very busy first half of 2013 for our community and our partners. The Chamber is working on a Healthy Turlock initiative with the Romeo Clinic and MedicAlert Foundation to help create a Healthy Turlock for our businesses and community.
The Chamber is in the process of gathering information along with the Mayor and City Leaders for a Road Sales Tax to raise enough funding to fix the roads in our city. Our Leadership Program celebrated 20 years of service educating our leaders and future leaders on what our community has to offer and the needs of the community. I had the honor of accompanying Mayor Lazar to Washington D.C. and visiting our Legislators on the hill. It just happened to be the week of the Inauguration of our President which allowed me the honor of attending the Inauguration; it was an amazing experience! Tenet Healthcare Corporation is in transition acquiring Emanuel Medical Center, and a new President has been appointed for California State University, Stanislaus. The Turlock Chamber and the community is delighted with the appointment of Dr. Joseph Sheley. Dr. Sheley has served as the Interim President for the past year and is a wonderful partner with the Chamber and Turlock community. Blue Diamond Growers just cut the ribbon at the groundbreaking celebration of the opening of the 88 acre, 200,000 square foot site in Turlock. The opening of the plant has brought 40 new jobs and the next phase is planned to bring over 300 more jobs to our region. It is always about partnership with the Chamber and our businesses; we want to thank Home Depots Framing Hope program who has been partnering with the Chamber Foundation in donating product to non-profits and churches as well as businesses that need assistance. A big thank you goes out to Home Depot and Woods Furniture, who helped make this possible for the Chamber to do by giving us a location and storage to house the merchandise that is given at NO cost to those non-profits and organizations of need. Also, JKB Living, Teen Challenge, and The Greenery have helped tremendously with the pick-up of product, supplying the forklift to unload product, as well as keeping the storage area organized. All of our support from our businesses allows us to make it possible to continue this service to our community. This program supports a minimum of twelve nonprofit organizations each month and other families of need. The Chamber has had the privilege, for over the past six months, to have outstanding guest speakers for our CEO Roundtables and GRC (Government Relations Committee) meetings. The Board of Directors and Staff are looking forward to another productive six months. Sharon Silva, President/CEO
BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ SUMMER 2013
Of The Board - Mike Romeo
Anticipating Productive Summer
t is hard to believe that we are already half of the way through 2013! The board of directors is working tirelessly to ensure the Turlock Chamber meets its commitment to be a value added resource to member businesses and the local community. We are delighted with the recent Cal State University trustees’ announcement to appoint Dr. Joseph Sheley the president of CSU Stanislaus. Dr. Sheley has served as interim president of CSU Stanislaus since June of 2012. During this time we have had many opportunities to work with Dr. Sheley and can tell that the future is looking bright for CSU Stanislaus. Turlock and the local business community is looking forward to his leadership and commitment to the school and community. We appreciate the support and the close working relationship between the Turlock Chamber and CSU Stanislaus. Locally developed wellness programs are evolving in the community. The Turlock Chamber is working with local groups as they develop a regional, cost effective wellness program. With changes in the healthcare delivery system imminent in the near future, local businesses need a way to lower employer healthcare costs and improve employee productivity and overall wellness. This solution will be ready by the end of summer (if not sooner). Tenet Healthcare Corporation is on track to acquiring Emanuel Medical Center by the end of August. The Tenet management team has been meeting with local employees, physicians, and businesses to make the transition as smooth as possible. They will continue to provide excellent medical care and services to our local community. Their goal is to collaborate with the Turlock medical community to provide patient-centered care and improvement of the efficiency of healthcare delivery in Turlock and the surrounding communities. The Turlock Chamber actively assists with the development of a business friendly community. We are diligently working on increasing our business memberships. At the same time, we are enthusiastically supporting our current business members. As the chairman of the board I am excited about the ongoing work with the individual businesses. I am also motivated to have a productive summer and a productive next six months of 2013. Mike Romeo, MD Romeo Medical Clinic
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2013 Chamber Board of Directors
Mike Romeo (Chair) Romeo Medical Clinic
Andrew Wigglesworth (Chair Elect) MedicAlert Foundation
Paul Porter (Past Chair) Steve Gemperle (Treasurer) Winton-Ireland, Gemperle Enterprises Strom & Green
Mike Allen Allen Mortuary
Dianna Bettencourt Oak Valley Community Bank
Fred Brenda Valley Tool & Manufacturing
James Brenda JKB Energy
Dean Doerksen Central Ag Products
Julio Hallack DBA Concrete by Hallack
Mike Lynch Mike Lynch Consulting
Linda Nowak CSU Stanislaus
Steven Padilla Sunopta
Mike Rose B & B Manufacturing
Jeff Segars Foster Farms
Ashour Badal CSU Stanislaus
Kyle Kirkes Kirkes Electric
Chris Kiriakou Cornerstone Consulting
Bill Bassitt (Ex-officio Member) Alliance
Marty Jakosa (Ex-officio Member) Foster Farms
2013 TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF
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m Welco
Sharon Silva Tasha Van Santen CEO/President Director Communications/ IOM, Institute for Development Organization Management, Bachelor Science University of Arizona, Bachelor Arts Business Organizational Communication CSU Stanislaus
Sharon Berry Administrative Assistant Bachelor Science Education Pacific University
Chamber Champions
Allen Mortuary • B&B Fluid Power Emanuel Medical Center • Gemperle Enterprises JKB Energy / Living • Kirkes Electric Lancaster Painting MedicAlert Foundation Romeo Medical Clinic Turlock Journal Turlock Scavenger/Turlock Recycling Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency PAGE 6
Kassi Fortado Membership / CVB Assistant Merced College
Desa Cammack Director Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy Graduate
Upcoming Events: Mixer Rex Klein Insurance July 16th Party Under The Stars September 21st
Jessica Lundberg Administrative Assistant Bachelor Arts – Liberal Studies CSU Stanislaus
The Turlock Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome Jessica Lundberg to our team. She is a recent California State University, Stanislaus graduate and is pursuing her college career with her Master’s degree. Jessica’s position will be administrative assistant and will be focusing on sales, communications and events. We look forward to having her as a part of our staff.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
Family Owned Woods Furniture Adapts to the Times
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Court, in prime viewing distance of Highway 99. “While nearly 150,000 cars pass along the highway daily, we moved to that location for extra exposure and potential business growth,” said David Woods.
The business was named Best of Turlock in large part for its ability to adapt to the changing economic environment throughout their long tenure.
The Taylor Court location is still thriving today, offering a combination of the latest furniture styles, the best quality, and the lowest prices. Top brands like Ashley, Broyhill, Lane, and Flexsteel are all available.
“Over the years there have been many changes within the furniture industry and Woods is proud to say they have adapted and will continue offering the best products available at the lowest price possible,” David Woods said.
And it's not just furniture on sale. Woods Furniture Galleries also offers name-brand mattresses from brands like Serta and Tempurpedic and unique decorating accessories. Mini storage barns are available, too.
oods Furniture Galleries isn't just the Best of Turlock Small Business of the Year, as awarded by the Turlock Chamber of Commerce in early 2012. It's been one of the best Turlock businesses for over 63 years – and four generations.
From one Downtown Turlock store, opened in 1950 by Thurman and Elisa Woods, the business grew to have three stores in the heyday of the early 2000s. Brothers David and Randy Woods became the third generation to run the family business at the same time, taking the helm in 2005. But as the economy contracted, Woods Furniture shuttered its downtown locations to focus on a six-acre storefront on Taylor
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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RABOBANK CELEBRATES. . .
National Small Business Week with Special Business Financing Offer
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n celebration of National Small Business Week in June, Rabobank in Turlock is offering local businesses a special discount on small business loans and lines of credit. Branch Manager Laura Reis and her staff are ready to answer your questions and help you get started. “Small businesses are the heart and soul of our local economy here in Turlock and we want to help them grow and succeed,” said Ed Rocha, regional president. “A business loan or line of credit can be used to buy equipment, build inventory, manage seasonal cash flow or grow your business.” Businesses that apply for a loan or line of credit by July 19 receive a $250 loan fee discount plus either six months of free business checking or six months of free premium business online banking services. That’s a savings of up to $339. Rabobank customers that refer a fellow business owner can receive the same offer.
You’ll have the personal attention of the local Rabobank team plus free 24/7 access to their new business online banking, designed to make your everyday transactions simple and convenient. Their premium services include Bill Pay and a direct connection to your accounting software (Quicken or QuickBooks) to make managing your money even easier. Rabobank’s mission is to create value for their customers, employees and communities by providing high-quality and reliable financial services. Details about the offer are available by calling Rabobank’s Turlock branch at 209-632-6065 or by visiting www.rabobankamerica.com.
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
SCANDALS I HAVE KNOWN Chris Kiriakou
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he number of scandals involving the current Washington administration seems to be in high gear. I recall that government scandals have always been around, in one form or another and long before I graduated from Turlock High in 1965. But for me it wasn’t until 1972 that I first started to pay attention. President Nixon’s Watergate scandal forced him to resign. Imagine, a President resigning! Now this certainly was not the first presidential scandal. Andrew Jackson (term of office 1829-1837) was involved with the first major presidential scandal. In 1791 he married a woman named Rachel Donelson who he thought was properly divorced, but she wasn’t. Thirty years later (Yes! 30 years), during the election of 1828, it was resurrected and used against him. Scandals always affect the economy in some way, mostly paralyzing government leading to inaction and its impacts on issues of the time, including business issues. Following is a list of the major scandals from the recent past that I have known.
1972 - Richard Nixon’s Watergate – In 1972 five men broke
into the Democratic National Headquarters in the Watergate office building in Washington D.C. They were caught and, even though the White House attempted to cover up the break-in, were convicted and subsequently Nixon resigned under pressure.
1980s - Ronald Reagan’s Iran-Contra – Several members of the Reagan Administration devised a plan to sell arms to Iran (who was on an arms embargo list) in exchange for hostages and subsequently then use a portion of the proceeds to fund antiSandinista and anti-Communist rebels in Nicaragua. Funding of the rebels was prohibited by Congress in 1982/84 by the Boland Amendment. Reagan’s direct involvement was never proven but the scandal left a stain on his presidency.
1998 - Bill Clinton’s Monica Lewinsky Affair – Monica Lewinsky was a White House staffer with whom Clinton has an “improper physical relationship”. Amidst denials, investigations ultimately proved that Clinton had lied about the affair. The House of Representatives moved to impeach him but the Senate did not remove him from office.
2013 - Barack Obama’s IRS Political Targeting, NSA Surveillance Phone Record Dragnet, Justice Department Spying on AP Journalists and Benghazi Libya Consulate Attack Video Deception; a virtual cornucopia of scandals that have erupted in the last eight months. At this time investigations are under way regarding the authorization and details of the above activities. There is no lack of scandals in the history books. About every fifteen years or so a major scandal overtakes the White House and occupies the headlines for a considerable length of time. Presidents have lied before but to do so openly regarding the deaths of American diplomats abroad is different. An affront to our way of government is the purported use of government agencies for political purposes. Using the dreaded IRS to target those not supporting the administration almost seems like a vendetta. What a chilling effect on business and our freedoms. Maybe Baron Acton was right when he said, “. . . absolute power corrupts absolutely . . .” (John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton, first Baron Acton (1834– 1902)). I don’t think we’ll forget this one quickly.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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Sheley
Pok
Named President of CSU Stanislaus
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fter nearly a year as interim president of California State University, Stanislaus, Joseph F. Sheley was appointed in May as president by the CSU Board of Trustees.
Named Vice President of Advancement
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Sheley has spent much of his first year at CSU Stanislaus meeting with people throughout Turlock and the surrounding region, and he’s emphasized the need for the university to have strong ties to the community.
“The commitment of our faculty and staff to our students is a source of pride to me, as is the Stanislaus region’s faith in the university,” Sheley said. “The real and potential impact of the region and institution — in partnership — on the future of California is significant almost beyond imagination.” Sheley previously served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at his alma mater, Sacramento State, where he also spent time as dean of the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies, director of alumni relations and executive vice president. His career in academia includes 21 years as a faculty member, department chair and faculty head of the University Senate at Tulane University.
hirley M. Pok, who served for more than 12 years as vice president of development at Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock, is the new vice president for advancement at CSU Stanislaus.
At Emanuel, Pok led a team of employees and volunteers that raised $22 million for critical services and facilities. The Turlock Chamber of Commerce recently honored Pok as Citizen of the Year, and the Yosemite Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals named her Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year in 2012. Pok previously worked at CSU Stanislaus as a director of development from 1998 to 2000. Her fundraising career began in 1982 at Fresno State University, where she spent 17 years helping to develop the Bulldog Foundation from its early stages into the nation’s largest in terms of athletic fund development by volunteers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in management and organizational development from Fresno Pacific University in 1999. The vice president for advancement at CSU Stanislaus oversees a team of professionals dedicated to fundraising and external relations functions, including development, alumni relations, communications and public affairs.
The coolest joint in town is now under new ownership.
Cool Hand Luke's Welcomes New Owner
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urlock's Cool Hand Luke's steakhouse and saloon is now owned and operated by Tim Pilloud, of Fresno. Pilloud has owned other Cool Hand Luke's locations since 2007.
The Turlock restaurant first opened in 2008, offering a wild-west take on the traditional steakhouse. Cool Hand Luke's prides itself on massive portions of steaks, ribs, chicken, and prime rib. Cool Hand Luke's is a franchise restaurant, developed by Dynaco Food Concepts of Fresno. Dynaco also owns Perko's Cafe and Huckleberrys. Turlock's Cool Hand Luke’s is open for dinner daily, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Cool Hand Luke's opens for lunch and dinner on Sundays, 12 noon to 9 p.m. The restaurant is located at 3050 Tegner Rd.
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
Workers safety vital during hot summer months W
orkers who are exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments may be at risk of heat stress, which can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, workers at risk of heat stress include outdoor workers and workers in hot environments such as firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, construction workers, factory workers and others. Workers at greater risk of heat stress include those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat.
“Prevention of heat stress in workers is important,” said Dr. Greg Greenberg, medical director for Emanuel Medical Center’s Emergency Services. Greenberg encourages employers to provide training to workers so they understand what heat stress is, how it affects their health and safety, and how it can be prevented. HEAT STROKE “Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related disorder,” said Greenberg. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. “Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given,” said Greenberg. Symptoms of heat stroke include: hot, dry skin or profuse sweating; hallucinations; chills; throbbing headache, high body temperature; confusion or dizziness; and slurred speech. First Aid Take the following steps to treat a worker with heat stroke: • Call 911 and notify their supervisor. • Move the sick worker to a cool shaded area. • Cool the worker using methods such as: soaking their clothes with water, spraying, sponging, or showering them with water, or fanning their body. HEAT EXHAUSTION “Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and salt, usually through excessive sweating,” shared Greenberg. Workers most prone to heat exhaustion are those that are elderly, have high blood pressure, and those working in a hot environment. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating; extreme weakness or fatigue; dizziness or confusion; nausea; clammy, moist skin; pale or flushed complexion; muscle cramps; slightly elevated body temperature; fast and shallow breathing. First Aid Treat a worker suffering from heat exhaustion with the following:
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
• Have them rest in a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area. • Have them drink plenty of water or other cool, nonalcoholic beverages. • Have them take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WORKERS Workers should avoid exposure to extreme heat, sun exposure, and high humidity when possible. When these exposures cannot be avoided, workers should take the following steps to prevent heat stress: • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as cotton. • Avoid non-breathing synthetic clothing. • Gradually build up to heavy work. • Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of day. • Take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity. • Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible. • Drink water frequently. Drink enough water that you never become thirsty. • Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large amounts of caffeine or sugar. • Be aware that protective clothing or personal protective equipment may increase the risk of heat stress. • Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers.
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Turlock by Capt. Jeff Lopes
Public Safety Facility
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lmost anyone traveling though the Downtown will have noticed construction of the Public Safety Facility on the corner of N. Broadway and W. Olive Ave. Designed to complement the Carnegie Center, the PSF will provide a modern building for our Police and Fire services today and into the future. Planning for the facility began with a Public Safety Space Needs Assessment in 2007. Experts were brought in to assess our current operations, gauge our future requirements, and provide recommendations. Three options were considered – remodeling our current facilities, demolishing our current facilities to rebuild on the same site, and constructing a new building at a new site. While a new site and building were expensive, estimated at $37.5 million, they were ultimately found to be the least costly of the three alternatives. There was a strong desire to place the new facility near the Downtown and sites within the (then) Redevelopment Agency district were explored, to enable RDA funding. The three top contenders were sites on Marshall St. at S. Thor St., on S. First St at A St, and on N. Broadway at W. Olive Ave., which was eventually selected. Things have moved along, although not always smoothly! The national and local economies took a tumble, the Redevelopment Agency was eliminated, contaminated soil was discovered on site, and vandalism occurred to the construction site. Portions of the building were redesigned and some desired items were eliminated to save on costs, bringing the budget to the $34 million mark. Consideration was made to cancel the project, altogether, although several million dollars had already been invested. The project persevered, however. The PSF should be completed during the summer and Turlock Police & Fire expect to move in before Fall. The approximately 57,000 sq. ft. facility was designed to provide for future growth and should meet the needs of our Police Department and Fire Administration for the next 30 years. While I don’t have a date yet, I hope to see everyone during our Grand Opening and annual Open House!
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
CITY COUNCIL: First Six Months - Looking to Improve Transportation By Chris Kiriakou
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Amy Bublak
Bill DeHart
John Lazar
Steven Nascimento
Forrest White
he first half of this year had the council looking to improve transportation with improvements to Fulkerth Road, discussion of a Taylor Road Expressway, purchasing of the 2 remaining parcels for the second phase of the new Turlock Regional Transit Center and working on a new Pavement Management System for existing streets. The Council also held three Community Forums presenting city services and taking community input in April, May and June.
1.
2/12/2013
Turlock Regional Transit Center
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
2.
2/12/2013
Enterprise Zone
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
3.
2/26/2013
Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
4.
2/26/2013
Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
MEETING
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
5.
3/12/2013
State Water Resources Control Board
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
6.
3/12/2013
Pavement Management System
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
7.
4/23/2013
Taylor Road Expressway
Y
N
Y
Y
Y
•
Turlock Regional Transit Center – Council approved the purchase of 2 remaining parcels for the second phase of the new Turlock Regional Transit Center.
•
Enterprise Zone – With Enterprise Zones in danger of being eliminated on a State level the Council approved to communicate the positive benefits of Enterprise Zone program in local communities and on a statewide economic level and community support for Enterprise Zones and opposition to any proposal that would threaten their existence. Authorizing staff to support the positive benefits of the Enterprise Zone program to any proposal that would threaten their existence.
•
Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation – “Federal Street Projects” to be funded via a transfer of Section 2013 Gas Tax Monies from Fund 217 “Gas Tax Fund” for “Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation” to complete the necessary funding requirement for the project.
•
Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job – City Staff requested authorization of the creation of an Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job classification and carried unanimously.
•
State Water Resources Control Board - Request to support the San Joaquin Tributaries Authority (SJTA) as it endeavors to prevent the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) from imposing a thirty-five (35%) percent unimpaired water flow mandate in the Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and Merced Rivers from February through June each year.
•
Pavement Management System - Development Services Director Mike Pitcock presented the staff report on the conditions of the Roadway System in the City of Turlock, which included information about the Pavement Management System, conditions of our existing street network, funding required to improve our existing street network, the cost of various types of street improvements, and funding alternatives/options.
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Taylor Road Expressway – Planning Manager Debbie Whitmore presented the staff report on the request to adopt a standardized street element and width for the 4-lane sections of the Taylor Road Expressway. Planning Commission Chairman Mike Brem that the request presented to council is consistent with the General Plan. Council adopted a standardized street element and width for the 4-lane sections of the Taylor Road Expressway 4-1 vote.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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Motivating and Encouraging Leadership Roles in the Community
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eadership Turlock is a 10-month program, beginning in September, where participants develop knowledge and understanding of the community – its complexities and its potential. The program provides an opportunity for participants to meet and exchange ideas as a class and with current community leaders, and to motivate and encourage participants to assume leadership roles in the community. There is a variety of day trips the class gets to partake in that includes visiting the State Capitol, a tour of CSU Stanislaus, visiting Emanual Medical center and many more places. From nonprofits to the Turlock government, Leadership Turlock explores a big variety of Turlock. There is also a class retreat to Bass Lake that is an intensive leadership conference and a great bonding experience.
Joining Leadership Turlock allows you to explore the Turlock community at a level most people are restricted from. It also gives you the opportunity to meet our community leaders and actually talk with them on a broad range of topics. It enhances your leadership and management skills. Of the many benefits you will receive from joining Leadership Turlock one of the greatest is the new bond of friendship with your fellow class members. Sign up for the 2014-2015 Leadership Turlock class today!
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BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ SUMMER 2013
. . . to Revitalize Shopping Center
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or nearly four years, one of the largest retail spaces in Turlock sat vacant, empty, unused.
After Mervyn's chainwide bankruptcy in 2009, it took years to find a tenant for the massive, 62,000 square-foot anchor space on Geer Road. But this summer, Walmart Neighborhood Market will open in the site, bringing new life to the shopping center. Walmart Neighborhood Markets aren't like the standard Walmart store – there are no electronics, clothing, toys or sporting goods. Instead, the stores serve as a dedicated, Walmart-owned supermarket. “We see a need for additional grocery options,” Walmart spokesperson Delia Garcia said. “Customers have been looking for additional options for fresh, affordable groceries.” The Walmart Neighborhood Market will include a full supermarket line of groceries, produce, meat, dairy, deli items, pharmacy services, and a money center. The new store is roughly half the size of Turlock's existing Walmart, but larger than the average, 38,000 square-foot Walmart Neighborhood Market.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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FROM A SHED TO AN INSTITUTION:
KIRKES ELECTRIC
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rom humble beginnings in a shed no larger than a small bedroom, Kirkes Electric has established itself as one of the premier companies in Turlock.
The business was founded in 1949 by Neil and Margaurette Kirkes, in a tiny 8-foot by 10-foot shed at 307 Flower St. Since then, the business has grown exponentially. In 1963 the company moved in to its spacious headquarters at 999 N. Golden State Blvd., where the business still resides today. Between 50 and 90 employees work for the company at any given time. And the company is still in family hands, with Roger Kirkes – Neil & Margaurette's son – serving as CEO today. It's not just Roger Kirkes involved, either – his nephew, Kyle Kirkes, serves as the company president.
In more recent years, Kirkes Electric has expanded yet again. The firm added a design team in 1993, able to design new projects with Computer Aided Design or modify existing projects. The team can even handle lighting design and calculations with the high-tech software. Kirkes Electric installs and maintains just about anything a homeowner could need: electrical, audio, video, landscape lighting, phone, satellite, home theater, security cameras, central vacuum, alarm, and home automation systems. And for commercial needs, Kirkes Electric is capable of scaling to work in health care facilities, commercial office buildings, and shopping centers alike.
New Members
To reach Kirkes Electric, call (209) 634-9301.
Agency Camp Taylor DAC Remodeling Inc. Data Path, Inc. Diane Angel Photography First California Mortgage Company Papa John's Pizza
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Quilts of Honor Stanislaus Council of Governments Tom Michael Insurance Agency Turlock Pregnancy Center Valley Care Medical Group Valley Vein Health Center Volvo Rents BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
Mixers
MEDICALERT FOUNDATION
APRIL • MAY • JUNE
THE AGENCY AND DENTAL SPA
Ribbon Cuttings FIRST CA MORTGAGE
OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK
10 EAST KITCHEN AND TAPHOUSE
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
M NEW BRIDGE
T ANAGEMEN PAGE 17
. . . WOULD LIKE TO RECOGNIZE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE BEEN MEMBERS FOR OVER 50 YEARS!
We thank you for your continued support: Turlock Journal • Turlock Fruit Company Thorsens Inc. • Turlock Sales Yard, Inc. • Kirkes Electric, Inc. Woods Furniture, Inc. • Allen Mortuary • Garton Tractor, Inc. Smith Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc. • National Market United Equipment Sales/Rentals • Foster Farms • Bel Air Lodge Sacred Heart Catholic Church
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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Reduced Inventory Results by Jim L. Theiss, Broker
ellers are in the driver’s seat as buyers continue to face tough competition in the inventory-controlled market. As the second half of 2013 is on the horizon, it appears that limited inventory of available homes will continue to dominate the headlines for the balance of the year. The numbers of bank owned properties and sellers electing to proceed with short sales has continued to significantly decline the past 12 months. In January 2012, distressed sales accounted for 61.2% of total sales – in April 2013 distressed sales were down to 34.2% of all sales.
As a result of the reduced inventory, Turlock median home values have risen over 20% the past year to $119.85 per square foot and are expected to climb for the balance of this year as we continue in a “seller’s market”. The rate of price increases will moderate as mortgage interest rates rise from the historic lows in the 3.50% range to the current 4.25% levels and investors move to the sidelines as improving home values have reduced investment rate of returns. A trend that we are watching closely is the recent rise of preforeclosure activity as evidenced by the rise in Notice of Default filings. Current filings are down almost 48% versus last year, but have risen two consecutive months. It is too soon to say that this increase in first-stage foreclosures will lead to an increase in bank owned inventories in the next six (6) months.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
PAGE 19
t looks like the Greek government will not go into default on nearly $1.3 trillion Euros. Oh, by the way 1 Euro = $1.3256 today so that’s really $1.72 trillion give or take a few bucks. Come on, what does a default in a country the size of Connecticut mean to me here in Turlock on the other side of the world?? Well it really could mean a lot because guess who holds some of that debt??
I
A Greek Tragedy The Greek government has issued about $1.72 trillion in bailout bonds to keep the country alive, more or less. A payment on the debt is coming due March 20 and the Greeks don’t have the cash. (No wonder, in December unemployment was 21%.) The Greek government has asked the private bond holders to take a 53.5% cut in the current value or a near 70% loss in the full value of the bonds, as well as, seeking a $172 billion loan. Well here’s the connection between Turlock and Greece, guess who holds Greek bonds and related derivatives, several large US banks!! Remember those pesky derivatives from four years ago, Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS) that we’re still trying to recover from. Local Banks In June last year CNN reported that JP Morgan Chase, CitiGroup, and Bank of America held around $185 billion in Greek related derivatives. These are some of our local banks that we rely on for credit and services. But you say that’s a drop in the bucket compared to the $878 billion the US government bailout that the banks received under the Toxic Asset Relief Program (TARP). Guess what, Greece is just the leading edge of the storm with Italy, Spain, Portugal and Ireland not far behind. If Greece
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BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
Key Note Speaker James Bennett, Regional Vice President of San Jose Word & Brown General Agency
NATIONAL
STANISLAUS BUSINESS FORUM
T
urlock businesses wanting insight on the National Health Care Reform and its impact on local companies are encouraged to attend the upcoming Stanislaus Business Forum on June 20th at the Martin Peterson Center in downtown Modesto from, 7:15a.m- 11:30p.m. The forum is hosted by the Alliance Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and U.S. Small Business Administration. Presentations from State and local health care industry experts will cover a wide variety of topics, including the small business program of the State Insurance Exchange, impacts on medical providers, and tax implications of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Keynote speaker for the event will be James Bennett, Regional Vice President of San Jose Word & Brown General Agency who will explain how to determine actual group size under ACA and define the unclear terms and strategies. Headquartered in Orange, California, Word & Brown has a 30-year legacy of developing innovative tools and technology and providing an array of amazing products, carriers and services to licensed brokers who write individual and group medical, life, and ancillary policies. Also included in the program is a panel of local experts: Peter Anderson, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development of Sutter Health, who will discuss the ACA impact on local health care providers and the access to care; Clive Grimbleby, President of Grimbleby Coleman CPA will cover tax implications of ACA and the reporting requirements; and Michael Lujan, Director of the Small Business Health Options Program Covered California-California Health BUSINESS NEWS ÂŤ SUMMER 2013
Benefits Exchange will provide insight on how the Exchange works and provide information on health insurance options for small business. Local business presenters, Paul Van Konynenburg and Chris Britton, Britton Konynenburg Partners, will be discussing how ACA will impact providing healthcare to their employees and their plan to address the change. Britton Konynenburg Partners is a diversified farming and real estate management company located in Stanislaus County. There will also be an extensive Q&A period with the presenters during the forum. The cost to attend is $40 per person which includes breakfast that will be served at 7:30a.m. To register for the forum please call 209-567-4910 or visit alliancesbdc.com to sign up. Spaces are limited and are expected to fill quickly.
About The Alliance: The mission and responsibility of the Alliance is overseeing both economic development and workforce training activities for the county. Under its leadership, the Alliance is committed to creating a blueprint for success, which can make Stanislaus the strategic business choice for existing and expanding businesses by focusing on job creation, business assistance, and workforce preparation activities. PAGE 21
CVB Promotes . . .
Turlock Community Events
Spring Juried Art Show & Sale June, All Month, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM The Annual Spring Juried Art Show and Sale features new work by the region's finest artists. This exhibition includes works in all media, with cash prizes awarded in five categories. More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org
Aerial Dance Workshop June 24 – June 27 times vary The Center for Urban Performance and Service will host an Aerial Dance Intensive under the direction of Rebekah Leach. More Info: (209)667-9020 www.westsideministriesturlock.com Patriotic Day Parade July 4, 10:00 AM The Patriotic Parade will include around 75 entries and run through Historic Downtown on Thursday morning, expecting to draw thousands to the Main Street corridor. The Patriotic Parade will begin at E. Main Street and Palm Street, continue to W. Main Street and Broadway Avenue. More Info: (209) 634-6459 www.turlockdowntown.com
4th of July Street Festival July 4, 12:00 PM Cars, entertainment, activities, demonstrations, shopping and, of course, FOOD. More Info: (209) 634-6459 www.turlockdowntown.com
Red, White & Boom Fireworks Extravaganza July 4, 6:00 PM Entry is Free and Parking is Free. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs, baskets of food, soft drinks and water. Come with the family and enjoy a great evening of fun. No alcohol allowed or glass bottles. Guests may not bring their own fireworks. More Info: (209) 668-1333 www.stancofair.com Stanislaus County Fair July 12 - 21, Times Vary The fair opens in mid-July on a Friday for a 10-day run. More than 230,000 visitors will pass through our turnstiles for award-winning fun at the largest family-centered event in Stanislaus County. More Info: (209) 668-1333 www.stancofair.com
Comedy for Charity July 13, 7:30 PM The hilarious Vincent Oshana will be performing for a local charity. This event is hosted by The Agency and all profits will be donated to a Turlock charity. Paying forward is the greatest feeling. Why not do it while having a great time. More Info: (209) 250-0925 www.turlockagency.com
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Ukulele Jam July 13, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org
Yosemite Renaissance XXIII July 30 – Sept 29, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM Yosemite Renaissance is an annual competition and exhibit designed to encourage diverse artistic interpretations of Yosemite. Its goals are to cultivate contemporary forms of representation by today's artists and to sustain a continuum with past generations of Yosemite artists. More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org
Stanislaus County Fireman’s Muster Aug 2 – Aug 4, 12:00 PM Ever want to learn the techniques of old school firefighting? The Stanislaus County Fire Muster Association is offering a training class at the CFMA sanctioned muster the weekend of August 3rd and 4th. The will be CE class on Saturday afternoon after competition. We look forward to seeing you there. More Info: (209) 883-2863 www.californiamuster.com Cruzin’ Car Show Benefiting Charleston “Cash” Goeppert Aug 3, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM Join us on the 4th Annual Cruzin’ Car Show Benefit at Connecting Point Church! We’ll have new and old cars alike, prizes, raffles, auctions, food, and activities for the whole family. 100% of all funds raised will go towards Cash and his family. More Info: (209) 668-4080 Ukulele Jam Aug 10, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org
Moonlight & Margaritas Aug 10, 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM All proceeds will benefit the Turlock Salvation Army. Limited tickets are available. Price of tickets $50.00. Please visit one of these sponsor locations to purchase yours today: Mason-McDuffie Mortgage Corporation, Yonan's Jewelers and Turlock Salvation Army. All guests must be 21. More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org Ryan Promotions – Summer Auto Swap Meet Aug 11, 7:00 PM - 4:00 PM Proud owners who like to show off their magnificent machines, auto traders buying or selling iconic cars, businessmen selling those rare parts which you cannot find anywhere else, the experts whose brain you can tap into for auto advice and car lovers who like to get together with old timers to share stories over a cold beer. More Info: (209) 356-0436 www.ryanspromotions.com
Faultline War IX, California State CMSA cowboy mounted shooting Aug 23,8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Come see the old west come alive. Even if you're not competing, come out and visit with us. Meet the riders, ask questions, and learn how to become a member. More Info: (408) 710-1616 www.CaRangeRiders.com For more information on Turlock events download the free “TurlockCVB” app or visit the www.VisitTurlock.org community calendar.
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013
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