Business News 22 - Spring 2015

A PUBLICATION OF THE TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SPRING 2015

TOWER HEALTH & WELLNESS HELPING PEOPLE HELP THEMSELVES

ISSUE 22

Serving Generations of Families Since 1876

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425 North Soderquist Road, Turlock, CA 95381 • 209.632.9111 • Lic # FD1843 CML# COA114

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

CONTENTS W.A.C.E. AWARD WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

115 S. Golden State Blvd.

Turlock, CA 95380

9

209-632-2221 Fax 209- 632-5289 Hours: Mon. - Fri. • 10am - 4pm PRESIDENT / CEO

Cover Tower Health & Wellness

10 Chamber Membership Breakfast 11 Agriculture scholarships 12 Chamber Ambassadors 14 Best of Turlock 2015 16 Legislative scorecards 18 San Joaquin Valley Caucus 19 Legislator Meet and Greet 20 Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green 20 Bistro 234 21 Kirkes Electric 21 Paramount Court Senior Living 22 Heat illness regulations 23 Chamber members for 1 to 5 years 24 Tips for selling your home 25 Another dry year 26 Ribbon Cuttings 27 Mixers 28 Work Wellness 28 New Chamber members 29 Community events 30 Outstanding Women of 2015

Sharon Silva sharonsilva@turlockchamber.com MEMBERSHIP / FINANCE

Kassi Fortado kassi@turlockchamber.com

COVER PHOTO BY CANDY PADILLA ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON DR. SCOTT COLQUHOUN IS ONE OF THE MANY SPECIALISTS WHO PRACTICE AT THE TOWER HEALTH & WELLNESS.

Published by The Turlock Journal 138 S. Center St., Turlock, CA 95380 209-634-9141

COVER PHOTO BY

Published by The Turlock Journal 138 S. Center St., Turlock, CA 95380 209-634-9141

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

CHAMBER PRESIDENT & CEO The city’s business, government and education leaders working together for a common goal are what make Turlock unique and what Stanislaus Business Alliance CEO David White termed “the shining star of the county” in regards to its unemployment rate based on statistics gathered from the Alliance’s 2014 Synchronistic Survey.

The goal now will be to continue that success in the future and see Turlock lead the county in economic recovery. The only way for that to happen is for existing community partnerships to thrive and new partnerships to be formed.

The Chamber will foster these collaborative efforts in 2015 in a variety of ways including: • Healthy Turlock Expo, this May 13 event that will feature insurance education, health planning and a focus on how employers can keep employees healthy physically, nutritionally and mindfully; • Partnering with Cal State Stanislaus and the City of Turlock to see the return of the 4th of July fireworks celebration at the university campus; • Growing the Chamber’s membership; and • Maintaining ongoing partnerships with the City of Turlock, Stanislaus Alliance and local businesses like the Turlock Journal.

Sharon Silva

Change is difficult.

Although often met with trepidation, change is also a chance for growth and renewal.

The Chamber and Turlock as a whole are in the midst of change. As we say a fond farewell to city, education and business leaders who have made a positive impact in our community, we welcome the opportunity to forge new partnerships and ventures.

Along with change in leadership at Emanuel Medical Center and on PRESIDENT & CEO the Turlock City Council, Turlock Unified School District Superintendent Sonny Da Marto and Stanislaus County Fair Executive Director Chris Borovansky both recently announced their respective retirements. Their efforts to help make Turlock a prosperous community will not be forgotten.

SHARON SILVA

President and CEO, Turlock Chamber of Commerce

Watch.

BUSINESS NEWS

209magazine.com

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SPRING 2015

2015 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

KYLE KIRKES CHAIR Kirkes Electric

STEVE GEMPERLE TREASURER Gemperle Enteprises

JAMES BRENDA JKB Energy

MIKE ROMEO Romeo Medical Clinic

DEAN DOERKSEN Central Ag Products

STEVEN PADILLA Sunopta

GUILLERMO RAMIREZ Las Casuelas Memo’s Cocina

JOHN LAZAR. Former Mayor of Turlock Century 21 Realtor

LAZAR PIRO Piro Trading International

JERRY POWELL PMZ Realtor

MIKE LYNCH Mike Lynch Consulting

ROBERT RODARTE US Bank

ASHOUR BADAL CSU Stanislaus

SAM DAVID Assyrian American Civic Club

PAUL PORTER Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

2015 TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF

SHARON SILVA PRESIDENT/CEO

KASSI FORTADO MEMBERSHIP/ FINANCE

IOM, Institute for Organization Management, University of Arizona, Bachelor Arts Organizational Communication

CSU Stanislaus

2015 CHAMBER CHAMPIONS Allen Mortuary

Paramount Court Senior Living

Stanislaus

Tower Health & Wellness Center

Emanuel Medical Center Gemperle Family Farms JKB Energy / Living Kirkes Electric

CEO Roundtable April 16 Mixer – New Bridge Management April 21 LobsterFEST at Assyrian American Civic Club May 1 Health Expo at Assyrian American Civic Club May 13 Mixer – Jaureguy’s Paint and Decorating May 19 Mixer – Paramount Court June 16 Leadership Graduation June 25

Oak Valley Community Bank

California State University

Covenant Village Senior Living

UPCOMING EVENTS

Turlock Journal Turlock Scavenger / Turlock Recycling Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

We are humbly honored that you voted us BEST FUNERAL HOME. Thank you to our incredible community for your support!

209-634-5829

We are proud to be the only family-owned funeral home in the Turlock area and proudly helping Turlock families since 1952.

247 N. Broadway • Turlock • 209.634.5829

A family you can rely on BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

January 2015 An Open Letter to the People of Stanislaus County In the last several months, we have been inundated by constant media coverage of law enforcement incidents around the country. Starting with the incident in Ferguson, Missouri and spreading to the latest incident in New York, we have seen some of our elected officials and others suggest that our law enforcement professionals are abusive, corrupt, and in some cases, even racist. From our perspective, nothing could be further from the truth.

Preserving freedom and democracy, in a society as complex as ours, takes dedicated professionals.

What we don’t see in these repetitive media cycles are the stories of heroic men and women who stand between good and evil, ensuring all of us stay safe. They are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters; family members all working under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, committed to a profession that is based upon service and sacrifice.

And despite the onslaught of negative media reporting, the men and women of the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office enjoy widespread community support. For that, we wanted to take a moment to say thank you. Knowing we can count on your support makes a tremendous difference in our ability to carry out the duties and responsibilities you have entrusted to us.

Our highest priority is to protect the public’s trust and confidence in us. We do that through communication, collaboration and cooperation. We abide by our guiding principles of honesty, integrity, professionalism and respect. We abide by the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics without exception and we are accountable to the people we serve. If we make a mistake, we will own up to it. We realize our success in the community is only as good as the relationships we develop.

Without those relationships and our work together, we will fail.

While we all face many challenges, our commitment to you remains unchanged. We will always do our very best, with the resources we have, to protect the people we serve and we will do that to the very best of our ability in partnership with the community.

Thank you all for your support of your Sheriff’s Office and the men and women who serve in law enforcement. Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

ADAM CHRISTIANSON Sheriff – Coroner Stanislaus County

COVER

TOWER HEALTH & WELLNESS offers holistic approach to medical care

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

2015

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

you care for,” he said, noting that 75 percent of healthcare costs are based on lifestyle choices. “Quality care means you are not only taking care of the sickness, but you are also taking care of the wellness and that’s a preventative measure.”

In a world where encounters are becoming increasingly less personal due to the advent of technology, the physicians at the Tower are also constantly adapting their methods. In an effort to offer patients the most up to date medical care they are developing Suite Romeo, an electronic health record that allows doctors to record the uniqueness of a patient encounter and in turn also obtain objective evidence from a database. By developing the technology, the physicians at the Tower hope to find ways to quantify health improvement rather than navigate the simplistic terms of sick and healthy.

“Healthcare is much more in depth than that,” said Romeo. ◆

PHOTO BY CANDY PADILLA/ The Journal

marks the 10th anniversary since the Tower Health & Wellness Center opened its doors to the community and while the services offered are diverse, there is one uncompromising principle underlying the work performed at the Center: help people help themselves.

“This was always designed to be the health and wellness center and I think it’s important that we don’t lose that theme,” said General Partner Sam JW Romeo.

Whether it is the aesthetically pleasing flower shop in the Tower’s lobby or the relaxing services available at Eterna Medi-Spa and Salon, creating a spirit of wellness for those entering the Tower doors has been a priority from day one.

“We kept the restaurant here because I think the presence of good, quality food is part of life and nutrition and wellness and feeling good,” said Romeo of the Center’s popular Italian restaurant Toscana’s. “The fact that you walk into a pleasant environment gives you a sense of wellness or improvement or wanting to be healthy if you will.”

The Tower’s holistic approach to health is also seen in the wide range of medical services offered where patients are tended to at all stages, whether that’s a preventative check-up or a surgery. With specialists in fields like orthopedics and sports medicine, there is also a sleep lab, cosmetic surgery suite, physical therapy location and more allowing physicians and specialist to attend to the diverse needs of patients.

Aiming to cultivate an environment where people will not only leave feeling better physically but also find the inspiration to make positive lifestyle changes, Romeo said making a community wide change for the healthier starts with working one-on-one with patients.

“The cornerstone of that is empathy. You have to walk in the shoes of the people

CHAMBER Stanislaus Business Alliance President and CEO David White gives perspective on Turlock’s economic status at the Chamber’s Membership Breakfast in March by comparing the town amongst fellow cities in the county and national averages.

TURLOCK, CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

POSITIONED FOR GROWTH

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

PHOTO BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN / The Journal

T

urlock is an economic force to be reckoned with in the county, a fact not surprising to those gathered at the annual State of the Chamber Membership Breakfast on Thursday.

Members of the Chamber were, however, given a more concrete understanding of the city's economic growth by Stanislaus Business Alliance CEO David White, who referred to Turlock as “the shining star of the county” in regards to its unemployment rate, and credited Turlock as a thriving community based on statistics gathered from the Alliance’s 2014 Synchronistic Survey.

White noted that this survey allows the Alliance to build a relationship of trust with a company, understand their issues, discover industry trends, and understand their direction, value and growth potential. Companies ranked the City in several categories like utilities, public safety, public services, education, employment, and more.

“By the way, we have the scores for the entire county and Turlock by and large exceeded the county in almost every score,” said White.

Turlock's business success is also seen in the recent growth in the Chamber of Commerce membership.

Chamber CEO and President Sharon Silva not only touted the multitude of programs and events the Chamber is offering, but also noted the organization’s efforts BUSINESS NEWS

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to attract more businesses to join.

“One of the things we are now doing is rebuilding our membership. We’re close to 500 again but in a community of this size, with about 5,000 businesses, we should at least be around 600 or 700,” said Silva.

Events the Chamber hosts include several breakfasts with local legislators such as the Economic Trends Breakfast in October and Eggs and Issues in August with local Congressman Jeff Denham (R – Turlock). By developing a Young Professionals committee, spearheading a Healthy Turlock Expo and donating thousands of dollars through the annual Ag Scholarship Luncheon, the Chamber makes year-round efforts to support business in the community at all levels. However, Silva was quick to credit the support of the members as integral to the organization’s success.

“We’re here because of you,” said Silva Thursday morning.

Silva also noted that the Chamber is collaborating with California State University, Stanislaus, the City of Turlock, Covenant Village, and Emanuel Medical Center to remake a video that was created several years ago to promote Turlock.

“We’re going to be able to use it in all of these different areas for economic development,” said Silva. “It’s all about partnerships and working together and we have great partners.” ◆ SPRING 2015

AGRICULTURE

Community unites to support future ag ambitions

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

A

veterinarian, an agricultural teacher, a forestry specialist, an animal geneticist.

These are just a handful of career aspirations shared by 16 graduating high school seniors who were invited to the 15th Annual Ag Scholarship Luncheon in March, where the Turlock Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee awarded them $20,500 in scholarships.

“The Chamber Ag Committee is proud to continue supporting our young citizens as they move forward into careers in agricultural related fields,” said Dianna Bettencourt, Ag Committee chair. “Ag is the lifeblood of Stanislaus County, and these young leaders represent out future.” ◆

L

NTIA ESIDE

R

DENAIR HIGH

TURLOCK HIGH

HUGHSON HIGH

Emily Kosky

Kenneth Carder

Gabriella Borges

Cheyenne DeJarnett

Blake Love

PITMAN HIGH Jordan Aguiniga

Mary Frost

Kristen Voss

LIVINGSTON HIGH

WATERFORD HIGH

Hannah Friesen

HILMAR HIGH

Austin Silva

Denelle Flake

Hayley Randall

Allyson Sousa

Doninic Vieira

Jamie Herndon

Georgina Reyes Solorio

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ERCIA

COMM

AG SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS FOR 2015

INC.

Commercial & Residential

999 N. Golden State Blvd., Turlock, CA 95380 209.634.9301 www.kirkeselectric.com BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

47062_1

Electrical design • Landscape Lighting • Audio/Video • Home Theatre • Security Cameras

2014

CHAMBER

Ambassador of the Year

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he community service portion of Robert Rodarte’s resume is long. For years he has contributed his time and efforts to a range of regional causes and most recently he is championing the Turlock Chamber of Commerce as a board member and chair of the Ambassadors Committee.

Rodarte recently led the Chamber’s most successful membership drive in history with his team bringing in 26 new businesses, nearly half of the overall total of 64 new members.

“I ended up jumping in and leading the way,” recalled Rodarte.

Rodarte’s interest and aptitude in taking the helm is one primary reason he was selected as the Chamber’s 2014 Ambassador of the Year.

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Robert Rodarte

Chamber ambassadors serve as the public relations arm of the Chamber, meaning that they are equipped to sell potential members on the benefits of joining the Turlock Chamber of Commerce. In his time at the Chamber Rodarte has not only taken on leadership roles, but also helped to build the infrastructure of the ambassadors program with the hopes of attracting more qualified candidates.

“Because our ambassadors play such an active role it can be a great training ground or stepping stone to the board because you’re so actively engaged,” explained Rodarte.

By contributing to an organization that promotes businesses Rodarte has not only been able to contribute to Turlock’s growing business com-

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

munity, but also network and in tur n publicize U.S. Bank where he is the branch manager. Rodarte put the advantages most succinctly in business terms: “There always a return on your investment,” said Rodarte of his involvement. “It’s a win-win.”

However, his interest in the Chamber isn’t all serious.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Rodarte said with a smile. “I get to work with great people and am really happy to represent the Chamber and to represent the business community.” ◆

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

oy Biddle’s dedication to the Chamber predates her recent selection as Chamber Ambassador of the Quarter. Formerly named Chamber Ambassador of the Year in 2013, Biddle’s interest in the voluntary position is indicative of her expertise in cultivating supportive networks, something she practices each day as the executive director of Creative Alternatives.

Creative Alternatives is a nonprofit corporation that primarily provides services for youth like residential care, homes for children such as foster family placement, and includes a transitional housing program for foster youth aging out of residential care.

“Every day I am blessed by all the youth at Creative Alternatives and their determination to beat the odds.

I strive to make their experience with us a positive, nurturing and loving one,” said Biddle.

Biddle’s 25-year tenure at Creative Alternatives is BUSINESS NEWS

a storied one as she began at the nonprofit working directly with children before rising through the ranks to her current executive position. Noting the rewarding nature of her job, Biddle said she aims to create an environment that affords the employees to feel the same way about their jobs as she has about hers.

“Obviously, no one works at one place as long as I have unless you truly love what you do,” said Biddle.

This sense of dedication has translated into her commitment to the Turlock Chamber of Commerce.

While Creative Alternatives has been involved with the Chamber since 2006, it was just three years ago that Biddle took on the role of ambassador and has since made significant strides in bringing in new businesses and maintaining those memberships. ◆ 12

SPRING 2015

2015 CHAMBER AMBASSADORS Elizabeth “Liz” Allen Aflac

Joy Biddle Creative Alternatives

Cheryl Gerhardt Paramount Court

Jilbert Gevargizi Steele Insurance

Brad Humble State Farm

Kathy Hobby SCOE / Stanislaus Education Foundation

Janet Lopez Umpqua Bank

Jim Limberto Integrity First Financial Group

Mary Mathews iHeart Media

Robert Rodarte US Bank

Stephanie Talkington Lancaster Painting

Anokeen Varani Dental Spa

Bella Youri Edward Jones

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2015

EVENT

Best of Turlock 2015 47th annual event showcases a community with heart

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BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

very year the Chamber of Commerce takes the time to recognize the good work of individuals and businesses that help make Turlock great.

Often these innovators fly under the radar. Take Gary and Louise Reed of Lock-n-Stitch, the Corporation of the Year, for example.

“We are just a cast-iron repair company,” said Gary.

While this is true, Lock-n-Stitch is also responsible for repairing the dome of the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., a job bestowed Lock n Stitch to a singular company in the nation.

The Reeds’ modesty is indicative of the good nature possessed by all of the Best of Turlock winners.

Educator of the Year Gil Ogden came to Turlock at 19 years old with $60 in his pocket. He played football with now Turlock Police Chief Robert Jackson and graduated from college with Turlock City Council member and vice mayor Amy Bublak. Now, as the director of student services in the Turlock Unified School District, he gives his time and efforts to establishing proGil Ogden grams that target at-risk youth.

Agriculture Leader of the Year Ram Saini came to California from India, where he ran the country’s largest poultry co-operative. As a founding member of Preserve Chemical he has developed formulas used in the poultry and swine industries and served on the California Poultry Federation Board of Directors for years. He has also dined with Presidents George W. Bush, Ram Saini Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

If there ever was a person to disprove the theory BUSINESS NEWS

that accomplishments are proportional to one’s age Youth Citizen of the Year Henna Hundal would be the one.

As a senior at Turlock High School, Hundal has taken 19 honors and advanced placement courses, presently has a 4.72 grade point average, Henna Hundal and is ranked number one in her class of 497 students.

“As important as the numbers are, they only tell us part of Henna Hundal’s story,” said Principal Marie Peterson.

To name just a few of her extracurricular activities, Hundal founded the school’s math club, contributed to several publications including the Huffington Post, participated in Mock Trial, and is a certified yoga instructor. She is also gracious and articulate.

“I cannot begin to quantify the depth of gratitude I feel,” she said.

Gratitude was a theme of the evening where every speaker before the podium thanked not only their friends and family for their support, but the community. Perhaps Citizen of the Year Matt Swanson put it most Matt Swanson succinctly when he said, “The bottom line is, I love Turlock.”

Turlock is the town where his grandfather founded the family’s turkey farm in 1941, and his father established Associated Feed, the company that has grown five-fold under Swanson’s care. With more than 12 companies and extensive philanthropic work, Swanson has ventured far beyond the agriculture industry into 14

SPRING 2015

SCORECARDS

GARY SOISETH

STEVEN NASCIMENTO

MATTHEW JACOB

COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM

BILL DEHART

MEETING

AMY BUBLAK

TURLOCK CITY COUNCIL VOTING RECORD

1.

12/9/2014 AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF TURLOCK AND TURLOCK N Y Y Y Y DOWNTOWN PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION FOR A MANAGEMENT DISTRICT PLAN FOR A TERM OF 10 YEARS

2.

1/13/15 APPOINTMENT OF ERIC GONSALVES AND STEVE HALLAM TO FILL VACANCIES ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON DEC. 31, 2018.

Y Y Y N Y

3.

1/13/15 REDUCE PARKS, ARTS & RECREATION COMMISSION FROM NINE MEMBERS TO SEVEN MEMBERS. REAPPOINT BRENT BOHLENDER TO THE COMMISSION AND APPOINT HANNAH NOONAN TO THE COMMISSION FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON DEC. 31, 2017.

Y Y Y Y Y

4

1/27/15 ADOPT A POLICY PROHIBITING THE USE OF TOBACCO IN ALL PUBLIC PARKS, PUBLIC FACILITIES AND ADJACENT PUBLIC PARKING LOTS IN THE CITY OF TURLOCK.

Y Y Y Y Y

2/10/15 DIRECT STAFF TO ISSUE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TO MANAGE A CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU.

Y Y Y Y Y

5.

DISTRICT 5 JIM DEMARTINI

DISTRICT 4 DICK MONTEITH

DISTRICT 3 TERRY WITHROW

BOARD AGENDA ITEM

DISTRICT 2 VITO CHIESA

MEETING

DISTRICT 1 WILLIAM O'BRIEN

STAN. CO. BOARD OF SUPERVISORS VOTING RECORD

1.

12/16/14 AUTHORIZED THE SHERIFF TO PURCHASE A MX-10 SURVEILLANCE CAMERA SYSTEM AND INSTALL THE SYSTEM ON THE DEPARTMENT’S CESSNA 206 AIRCRAFT.

Y Y Y Y Y

2.

2/10/15 APPROVED THE SHERIFF’S INTERNSHIP PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZED THE DEPUTY SHERIFF INTERN POSITIONS TO BE CREATED CONTINGENT ON APPROVAL OF FUNDING TO BE RECOMMENDED IN THE 2014- 2015 MID-YEAR FINANCIAL REPORT.

Y Y Y Y Y

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SPRING 2015

SENATOR BARBARA BOXER

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES & U.S. SENATE

SENATOR DIANNE FEINSTEIN

CONGRESSMAN JEFF DENHAM CA 10TH

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD

N

N

NO VOTE

N

AGENDA ITEM 1.

HR 644: FIGHTING HUNGER INCENTIVE ACT OF 2015

Y

2.

S 1: KEYSTONE XL PIPELINE APPROVAL ACT

Y

3. HR 30: SAVE AMERICAN WORKERS ACT OF 2015

Y

4.

HR 240: DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2015

Y

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION 1. This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to reinstate and make permanent the tax deduction for charitable contributions of food by any trade or business, regardless of whether the contributions are made by a C corporation. The food must be apparently wholesome food as defined by the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act. 2. Authorizes TransCanada Keystone Pipeline, L.P. to construct, connect, operate, and maintain the pipeline and cross-border

facilities specified in an application filed by TransCanada Corporation to the Department of State on May 4, 2012.

Deems the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement regarding the pipeline issued by the Secretary of State in January 2014 to fully satisfy the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and any law that requires federal agency consultation or review, including the Endangered Species Act of 1973.

Maintains in effect any applicable federal permit or authorization issued before enactment of this Act. Grants original and exclusive jurisdiction, except for review in the Supreme Court, to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit over any civil action for the review of a federal agency action regarding the pipeline and related facilities.

Declares that this Act does not alter any CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 

STATE LEGISLATURE BILLS TO WATCH AGENDA ITEMS ECONOMIC VITALITY

AB 54 (Lawsuit Reform: ADA) - Will help small businesses by providing a 60-day window to fix an alleged violation of a construction-related accessibility standard, if the standard related to the alleged violation has changed within three years; introduced by Assembly Leader Kristin Olsen (R-Modesto) and co-authored by each member of the Central Valley Caucus.

EDUCATION

SB 131 — Legislation that would increase funding for the San Joaquin Valley Program in Medical Education (SJV PRIME), an innovative program operated by the University of California that brings more physicians to the region. Coauthored by Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres) Senator Kathleen Galgiani (D-Manteca), Assembly Leader Kristin Olsen (R-Modesto) and Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced).

AB 1318 (School District Budget Reserve Cap) – Seeks to allow school districts to man-

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SPRING 2015

age their own finances, and to save for local education priorities and emergency needs.

Joint-authored by Assembly Leader Kristin Olsen (R-Modesto) and Assembly member Adam Gray (D-Merced).

AB 1161 (Expanding Pre-School) – Establishes a pilot program in five counties, selected through an application process, for high-quality preschool education for lowincome and English-learner students that would be funded through private investments in exchange for state tax credits.

Joint-authored by Assembly Leader Kristin CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 

GOVERNMENT

Valley legislators establish caucus to address region’s priorities

C Kristin Olsen

Anthony Cannella

Adam Gray

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

entral Valley legislators are banning together in Sacramento by creating the bipartisan San Joaquin Valley Caucus, which aims to address the unique needs of Valley constituents.

“Since we all work so well together and have accomplished so much, Assembly member Adam Gray and I thought it would be a good idea to create a San Joaquin Valley Legislative Caucus with the overall objective being to make sure we are fully informed of all legislation and how it would impact our Central Valley,” said State Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres). “The San Joaquin Valley faces very unique challenges and I am pleased to be a part of this caucus working with Valley lawmakers to address these challenges, ensuring our communities remain vibrant, viable and economically healthy now and in the future.”

The caucus includes legislators from San Joaquin County to Kern County and will focus on

three main issues: water, higher education and reforming the Americans with Disabilities Act. Assemblymember and Minority Leader Kristin Olsen announced the formation of the caucus at the Best of Turlock event in January, assuring locals that the caucus will strive to find bipartisan solutions to ongoing Valley issues.

“We are stronger together than any of us are individually,” she said.

While the ongoing drought has undoubtedly been on the forefront of legislators and constituents’ minds alike, collectively advocating for the region that produces a significant portion of the nation’s agricultural goods has remained a priority for Valley representatives in Sacramento. Other than protecting the region’s resources, Olsen said that the caucus wants “to make sure more Central Valley students can access high-quality university programs which will ultimately lead to economic growth in our communities.” ◆

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CAUCUS MEMBERS Assembly: Kristin Olsen • R-Modesto Adam Gray • D-Merced Frank Bigelow • R-O’Neals Shannon Grove • R-Bakersfield Rudy Salas • D-Bakersfield Jim Patterson • R-Fresno Susan Talamantes Eggman • D-Stockton Devon Mathis • R-Visalia

Senate:

800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org

Anthony Cannella • R-Ceres Tom Berryhill • R-Modesto Jean Fuller • R-Bakersfield Andy Vidak • R-Hanford

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

Legislators come to talk Turlock

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

W

Assembly Republican Minority Leader Kristin Olsen (R –Modesto) and

City of Turlock Mayor Gary Soiseth converse at the Turlock Chamber hile local legislators may hold difof Commerce’s Meet the Legislators event. ferent views on issues affecting the region they have one thing in common: Turlock.

On March 19, legislators of all levels of government convened at the Turlock Chamber of Commerce to interface with constituents and speak about the issues facing the Valley.

Unsurprisingly water was a common theme, but legislators also spoke to the importance of job creation and spearheading education in the Valley.

“The biggest concern a lot of constituents have in my district is the lack of jobs and the lack of water,” said Senator Tom Berryhill (R– Twain Hart).

Assembly Republican Minority Leader Kristin Olsen (R-Modesto) echoed a similar sentiment and noted the importance of spearheading educational initiatives in the Valley, something that the Central Valley Caucus is working on in Sacramento. California State University, Stanislaus President Josef Sheley was present and said not only getting high school students into college, but getting college students into the local career the event was optimistic and Turlock was hailed as a regional gem for being force is vital to growth. collaborative and future oriented.

While the legislators addressed serious issues “It’s not that way in every community,” Stanislaus County Supervisor Vito unique to their constituents, overall the tone of Chiesa pointed out. ◆

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION

STATE LEGISLATURE BILLS TO WATCH Olsen (R-Modesto) and Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins (D-San Diego).

PUBLIC SAFETY

SB 676 — Legislation enabling law enforcement to more easily prosecute those who engage in cyber exploitation and revenge porn. The bill is part of a bipartisan effort with Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres) and Assembly member Mike Gatto (D-Glendale) who has introduced AB 1310, a companion bill. Both are supported by California Attorney General Kamala Harris.

WATER RESOURCES

AB 1242 — Prohibits the State Water Board from adopting water plans that significantly harm groundwater basins. Authored by Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced). For the past year, the Board has considered redirecting significantly more water away from agriculture and urban users to allow additional water to flow out to the San Francisco Bay Delta.

AB 1243 — Helps local governments and water districts pay to construct systems to put water back into the ground, introduced by Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced).

AB 1244 — Allows farmers to construct small on farm ponds to accommodate water storage and targeted irrigation, introduced by Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced).

VETERANS

AB 1275 — Would exempt veterans’ military retirement pay from the state income tax, introduced by Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-Merced).

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

PHOTO BY CANDY PADILLA/ The Journal

federal, state, or local process or condition in effect on the date of enactment of this Act that is necessary to secure access from an owner of private property to construct the pipeline and cross-border facilities.

Allows acquisition of land or an interest in land for the pipeline and cross-border facilities only in a manner consistent with the Constitution.

3. This bill amends the Internal Revenue Code to change the definition of “full-time employee” for purposes of the employer mandate to provide minimum essential health care coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act from an employee who is employed on average at least 30 hours of service a week to an employee who is employed on average at least 40 hours of service a week.

BUSINESS

: 4 3 2 Culinary icon in downtown Turlock Bistro

F

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

or nearly 15 years, Bistro 234 has served downtown restaurant patrons with a menu comprised of fresh and innovative American and French-influenced culinary masterpieces. The restaurant also offers a full bar and award-winning wine selection, both of which are guaranteed to complete each guest’s dining experience.

“People are thrilled with the consistency of our food and that’s all thanks to executive chef Leroy Walker and his great staff,” said owner Jennifer Doerksen. “Their comments just give us more motivation to keep doing what we’re going and trying new things.”

Recently, the restaurant

has adopted a number of vegan and gluten-free dishes to its menu, as well as begun offering popular cooking classes and wine tastings.

When it comes to the many dishes the bistro serves, Doerksen herself attested to the quality by stating that she would opt to have the Chilean Sea Bass every night, a dish that has officially replaced the restaurant’s Chicken Marsala as top seller.

According to Doerksen, the dish—which is served over jasmine rice with coconut milk—is so good that all it needs is “a little bit of salt, pepper, and a slight drizzle of butter.”

The owner credits Walker with the quality ingredients

WISG

W

inton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency may seem like a mouthful to some, but to others the business title perfectly encapsulates the collaborative efforts that have occurred over the years to successfully form the company that it is today.

“Through mostly hard work and several key acquisitions, Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency has become recognized as one of the largest agencies in the Central Valley,” said Mike Ireland Sr. For over 100 years, WISG has served as the leading provider of insurance related services to the region, with locations in Turlock, Modesto, Livingston and Oakhurst.

Despite the fact that the agency has four locations today, the story of WISG begins in 1913 when Gordon H. Winton opted

the restaurant serves, who she describes as adamant when it comes to finding and attaining fresh protein, vegetables, and dessert items on a regular basis.

“Leroy is the heart and soul of this place,” said Doerksen. “Nothing would happen without our kitchen staff.

Walker has not only received praise from the restaurant’s owner, but from the entire city as well as he has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Best Chef award.

“I’m always appreciative of anybody recognizing anything that we do at the Bistro, it makes the years that I have put into my craft worth it,” said Walker.

Jennifer Doerksen and Leroy Walker

“We’ve been here for such a long time, but we still want to keep up to high standards regarding quality and service,” added manager Jayton Gates.

For dinner or private party reservations, visit bistro234.com or call 6684234. Bistro 234 is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday through Saturday. ◆

surpasses competitors with personalized service

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

to open his own insurance agency, G.H. Winton Insurance Agency, in Livingston.

Throughout the years and through multiple partnerships, WISG transformed from that singular Livingston location over a century ago to the insurance agency it is today containing nearly 100 employees at the Turlock location alone.

According to Ireland Sr., WISG is a full service agency that offers virtually every line and type of insurance, including agriculture, commercial, health and life, personal, workers’ compensation, and alternative risk solutions.

“This allows us to provide insurance solutions based on our clients’ needs,” wrote Ireland Sr. “Whether the client is a major complex business doing business internationally or a student purchasing their first car.”

BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

Despite the growth of the company, WISG still strives to create that one-onone experience that their competitors often overlook.

“Many consumers who have tried the ‘less than 15 minutes can save your 15 percent’ approach tell us that our agents and customer service representatives take the time to fully appreciate their uniqueness which results in less follow-up and greater accuracy when the insurance is placed,” wrote Ireland Sr. “Offering a very high level of insurance expertise combined with the local knowledge of individual and business needs means that our clients do not have to travel outside of their trading area to receive the very best,” added Ireland Sr. WISG’s Turlock location is at 627 E. Canal Dr. For more information, visit wintonireland.com or call 667-0995. ◆

Family business proves to be a bright idea

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

Roger and Kyle Kirkes

D

espite the fact that Kirkes Electric has been serving the Central Valley and surrounding areas since 1949, it is far from old fashioned.

Chief Executive Officer Roger Kirkes

can vividly recount the history of the business—from its beginning as an 8 by 10 foot shed over 60 years ago to the prominent electric company that specializes in residential services, commercial services, design and lighting maintenance it is today.

His nephew and company president Kyle Kirkes joined the family business in 1998, and since then the family partnership has been at the forefront of daily operations alongside Vice President Larry Nathanson.

“The longevity that we’ve had as a company is due in part to the foundation that Roger laid for the company itself, but it’s the employees that work here that make us what we are today,” said Kyle Kirkes, “We’ve also been blessed, and to some degree lucky, as a company to end up with the clients that we have.”

Kirkes reports that the majority of business at the electric company can be attributed to commercial purposes, including electrical estimation, design

and installation for commercial buildings, health care facilities and shopping or retail centers.

“Commercial is absolutely the bulk of our work,” said Kirkes. “However, we’re really concentrating on the residential side, especially with home automation.”

One way that Kirkes hopes to increase exposure of residential services offered by the electric company is with residential supervisor Bruce Trussler and ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System.

With g!, customers can control their residence’s music, television, lights, security, climate, irrigation, video and even drapes with the touch of a button.

Other residential services offered by Kirkes include electrical, audio, video, landscape lighting, phone systems, satellite systems, home audio and theatre systems, security cameras and alarm systems.

Kirkes Electric is located at 999 N. Golden State Blvd. in Turlock. For more information, call 634-9301. ◆

Paramount Court offers active senior living, memory care

W

hen Irene Brunskill is asked about why she chose Paramount Court Senior Living in Turlock to live out her golden years, she can rattle off a list of reasons, but the one at the top is one she never considered before moving in.

“I like to keep my door open,” Brunskill said from her apartment at the senior living facility. “It makes it seem like home for me.”

Brunskill is just one of the approximately 80 residents currently calling Paramount Court Senior Living their home.

Opened in April 2001, Paramount Court Senior Living offers both assisted living facilities and secured care, for those dealing with memory

problems.

“There is a huge need for memory care right now, and it can be hard for the families to make the decision that their loved one can no longer live on their own," said Cheryl Fantazia Gerhardt, the facility’s marketing director. “Of course, they would rather be at home, but this is the next best thing.”

The floor plans at Paramount Court Senior Living range from studios, to one bedrooms, to two bedrooms. The facility hosts a salon, an award-winning restaurant style dining program, laundry and linen service, and landscaped gardens.

But what really appeals to most residents, according to Fantazia Gerhardt, is the bevy of activities

BUSINESS NEWS

21

SPRING 2015

BY SABRA STAFFORD

that happen routinely at Paramount Court Senior Living.

“We have a lot of interesting activities which the residents adore,” Fantazia Gerhardt said. “Interaction makes a great difference in someone’s well-being and make for a happier and healthier life.”

Some of the routinely scheduled activities include outings to area restaurants and cultural events, guest speakers and presentations, volunteer opportunities in the community, as well as games, arts, music and exercising.

“Quality of life is a big issue for us,” Fantazia Gerhardt said. "We want our residents to be happy with their choice and we want the families to feel comfortable with it as well.” ◆

HUMAN RESOURCES

TEMPERATURES RISING More changes coming to state’s heat illness regulations

E

mployers will need to implement new heat illness prevention measures by May 1, instead of the anticipated July 1 deadline.

The Division of Occupational Safety and Health Standards B oard has adopted changes to California’s unique heat illness prevention regulations.

The Cal/OSHA Standards Board sent the revised regulations to the Office of Administrative Law for final approval, asking for an accelerated effective date of May 1, 2015, rather than the original July 1 operative date.

It is anticipated that the revised regulation will be approved so employers need to update their heat illness prevention program to be in effect for this summer.

The changes include: • Access to shade must be provided when temperatures reach 80 degrees, instead of the current standard of 85 degrees;

• Fresh, pure and suitably cool water must be provided to employees, instead of the current standard of potable water A change to what is considered “potable water” that must be made available to employees; • Monitoring of employees taking a “preventative cool-down rest;” and • Changes to high heat procedures.

Heat Illness Prevention Coalition Members of the Heat Illness Prevention Coalition attended the OSHSB’s Feb. 19 meeting in Oakland and reiterated their concerns that the changes will hurt employers while not creating safer outdoor workplaces in California.

Most of the adopted changes provide additional clarity and address concerns the coalition raised about compliance challenges in both the original proposed revised regulation and the first round, from September 2014, of proposed modifications to the original draft.

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Numerous new revisions, however, remain a concern to the coalition. Specifically, the sections on access to shade and how compliance will be determined require further clarification and guidance for employers. Cal/OSHA has indicated that guidance will be provided in time for employers to develop and implement new procedures in compliance with the new rules.

The coalition closed by urging the division to conduct collaborative and public meetings to develop compliance guidance for employers. Various provisions in the proposal require clarification to enable employers to understand their compliance obligations.

More Information Interested employers can find more information regarding the regulations on the OSHSB’s web page: http://www. dir.ca.gov/oshsb/oshsb.html ◆ — Information courtesy of CalChamber

22

SPRING 2015

The Turlock Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize businesses that have been members for 1-5 years!

We thank you for your continued support!

A Home Sweet Home Inspection A&A Portables AJAVA Systems Inc. DBA World Grocer All Star Trophies and Signs Alpha Poultry & Livestock Equipment Inc. Alpha Signs Alzheimer / Dementia Support Center, Inc. Anderson’s Tow Apollo Pool Service Ash Pirayou Rutan & Tucker, LLP Associated Feed & Supply AT&T Authorized Retailer (Parrot) Avalos Mechanical & Fabrication, Inc B&B Manufacturer and B&B Fluid Power Backyard Team Corps Balanced Books Bay Area Coating Consultant Services, Inc. Bill & MaryAnn Daly Blue Diamond Growers BNI Business Builders BNI Next Generation Turlock BNI Turlock Business Partners Branding Iron Catering Brite Electric, Inc. Cal Coating Asphalt CalChamber Cal-Green Recycling California Women for Agriculture Caloy Company Camp Taylor Candlewood Suites Carnegie Arts Center Foundation Century 21 Agent Jaime Silva - Esteves Chili’s Grill & Bar Cindy Fraze Realtor Clean ‘N’ Go Carpet Cleaning & Janitorial Services Collette Vacations Colston Company / DBA Powerhouse Realty Community Vet Clinic Covenant Care at Home CTC American Express DAC Remodeling Inc. Data Path, Inc. Dataflow Business Systems David’s Painting Diane Angel Photography Digs

Direct Security & Sound, Inc. Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Exit Realty Consultants Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Family Pet Mortuary First California Mortgage Company Gallery Finesse Galletto Ristorante GDR Engineering, Inc. Generations Family Optometry GeoStrategies Inc. GJ Gardner Homes Gold Star Referral Clubs Golden Bear Physical Therapy & Sports Injury Center H&R Block Hancock Farmland Services, Inc. Headquarters Family Hair Salon Hilmar Health Center IBEW Local 684 iHeart Radio imortgage.com Independent Electric Supply J. D. Almond Farms, Inc. Jester Auto Works Kathy Halsey Kindle and Associates LLC Latif’s Restaurant Layer 3 Integration Liberty Private Security, Inc. Lulette A. Mercado DDS Family Dentistry Manteca Chamber of Commerce Mayfaire Manor Corp.

McCormick Barstow LLP Millerick Engineering, Inc. MK Electric & Design Inc. Monte Vista Small Animal Hospital Nathan Dabulewicz Insurance Agency, LLC New Bridge Management Old Republic Title Company Pacific Ag Wholesalers Pageo Lavender Farm Papa John’s Pizza Paychex, Inc Pet Avenue Pine Creek Nutrition Service, Inc. Postal Center U.S.A. Primerica Financial Services R.A.M. Farms, Inc. R.E. Construction Rabobank - Turlock Radio Merced Richardson Allstate Insurance Company Scenic Oaks Funding

BUSINESS NEWS

Scott Davis Auto Sales, Inc. Seniors Helping Seniors ServiceMaster CLEAN Sheila Lowe Insurance Agency Smith Collision Center Stanislaus Council of Governments Stanislaus County Affordable Housing Corporation Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office State Senator Anthony Cannella Steve Shamgochian Almond Enterprises Strategic Legal Group Sunopta Sunrise Bakery Sutter Gould Care Center Turlock Care Center Swenson Shear Taste of Life Deli and Cafe Tom Michael Insurance Agency Torre Reich Construction Inc. Toscana’s Transamerica Financial Advisors Tri Counties Bank Turlock Animal Shelter Turlock Auto Parts

23

SPRING 2015

Turlock Auto Plaza Turlock Chamber of Commerce Turlock Direct Turlock Family Network Turlock Gospel Mission Turlock Monument Co. Turlock Police Department Turlock Pregnancy Center Turlock Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics United Cerebral Palsy UPS Store Valley Tool & Mfg Valley Vein Health Center Vieira Company Vito’s Ristorante Volvo Construction Equipment & Services Volvo Rents Warden’s Wardens Office Products CTR Wes Jacobs White Crane Ranch, Inc. White Crane Ranch, Inc. Wingstop Woodside Management Group

REAL ESTATE

Tips for selling your home this spring

T

By Jim Theis, PMZ Real Estate CA Broker License 01290827

he Turlock area real estate market has returned to more of a normal market as the number of traditional listings grow, days on the market increase, and distressed properties (short sales and bank owned) become a fading memory. As we move into the spring selling season, you need to get your home and yourself ready to capitalize on this active market time. Here are easy and low-cost tips to take now that will make your home standout and add value:

nize the rest. Living and storage space are extremely important commodities, and a little extra space and breathing room will make your home more appealing.

Remember that buyers will be opening cabinets and closets, so removing items from the room and filling the closet is not always the simple solution. Given the choice between have an item in the house or garage, put it in the garage. Better yet, consider renting a storage unit.

5. Make Your Home Sparkle: It is time for a thorough spring cleaning. Wash down the exterior and concrete walks. Clean windows inside and out. Dust furniture, ceiling fan blades, and light fixtures. Hire a professional to steam clean floor and counter tile grout.

Clean mirrors and polish metal fixtures. Spring is not only a colorful season, but a fragrant one, too. Scents have a profound effect on mood, so infusing scent into your décor with candles and fresh-cut flowers/plants can change the overall feeling of space. Check lighting – install new light fixtures and bulbs as necessary.

Bring out the bright colors and put away the heavy winter flannel comforter.

6. Scrutinize: When you think you are ready – do a self-evaluation. Put your “buyer’s eyes on” and do a final walk through making sure your home has the impact and pizzazz to pull a buyer in and keep them engaged.

1. Whip The Yard Into Shape: Clear winter yard debris and trim trees and shrubs. Replace any dead plants and add colorful flowers, especially around the entry way. Put down new mulch or bark. Diagonally mowed lawns make your yard appear larger and artfully manicured lawns do not go unnoticed. If you have a pool, have it free of debris and water sparkling clear.

2. Pump Up The Curb Appeal: First impressions are everything and an inviting entry will get buyers in the front door. If the front door is weathered, paint it and if the hardware is worn, replace it, if the welcome mat is worn, replace it. Remember you never get a second chance to make a positive first impression.

3. Make Minor Repairs: It is important to make a list of the obvious repairs and take care of them before your home is listed. Fix that leaky kitchen faucet, paint the kid’s bedroom, and have the carpets cleaned.

Rather than having a potential buyer walking through your home making a mental list of the items that need to be fixed, they’ll be able to focus on the positive attributes of your home. You will also save time and money later by avoiding back-and-forth negotiations over minor repair issues – your actual cost of repairs will almost always be less than a buyer’s post-inspection estimate.

4. Remove Your Clutter And Junk Now: Look at each item in your home, and decide to save it, store it, sell it, or dispose of it. The concept that “less is more” is at the heart of making a home sellable. Once you have gotten rid of what you’re not going to use, orgaBUSINESS NEWS

Buyers often decide within 90 seconds of seeing a home whether they want to consider buying so sellers need to make sure no detail is left untouched. Three things sell a home in any season: location, condition, and price. Don’t let condition be the negative factor since you can always compensate for a less-than-perfect location with a better price. And finally when you are ready to put your home on the market, be sure to engage the professional services of a licensed Realtor to assist you in getting the best price for your home in the desired time. Give us a call and we would be glad to meet and provide assistance in getting your home ready to sell. ◆ 24

SPRING 2015

WATER

Farm Bureau weighs in on another dry year

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

B

ad things come in threes— except when referencing to the number of years that California has been plagued with one of the severest droughts on record.

Following a historically dry January in the Tuolumne River Watershed, the region is poised to dryly progress into a fourth arid year after three of the driest consecutive years have already scourged the area.

“Weather is always the biggest challenge when it comes to farming,” said Stanislaus County Farm Bureau executive director Wayne Zipser. “We can’t make it rain.”

According to Zipser, the repercussions of the drought will not be limited by any boundaries this year, as every farmer is projected to experience ramifications of the widespread water shortage in one form or another.

“People need to realize there is a big risk in farming,” said Zipser.

“We are proud of the men and women who risk their livelihood and work to provide the food on our table.”

Although every grower will be affected by the drought, Zipser noted that some farmers might struggle more than others—specifically those who reside in the westside of the Valley.

Zipser regards the westside of the Valley as an area of concern, especially in drought conditions,

“Surface water supplies have been cut dramatically and the westside virtually has no surface water allocations.

Growers will depend heavily on groundwater if they have the ability to pump.” ­—Wayne Zipser. as this region will receive absolutely no surface water aside from a few areas, including those in the Central Valley Irrigation District service area.

“Surface water supplies have been cut dramatically and the westside virtually has no surface water allocations,” said Zipser. “Growers will depend heavily on groundwater if they have the ability to pump.”

To mitigate the drought, Zipser reported that farmers are using many tools to conserve as much

BUSINESS NEWS

25

SPRING 2015

water as they can, including drip, micro, and flood irrigation—a technique which can potentially provide a significant resource of groundwater recharge.

Additionally, he noted that growers will continue to fallow their land, an effort that involves plowing and leaving a portion of land unsown.

“You could have a grower who will fallow some acreage and then transfer that water to their permanent crops to keep their investment alive,” said Zipser. “There will definitely be land fallowed on the westside, although the extent is not known yet.”

Whether or not they have adequate access to groundwater has and will continue to occupy the minds of local growers, as Zipser reports that there is not enough surface water to grow any crops for harvest.

For those who may not have the ability to obtain a sufficient amount of groundwater, this year will unquestionably manifest as yet another challenging term.

“We have always been proud that our farmers and ranchers provide safe, abundant food and fiber while conserving as much of our natural resources,” said Zipser.

“The drought will put a huge strain on their abilities to find a way to get through it.

“We have before and we will again,” concluded Zipser. ◆

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HUMAN RESOURCES

Keep employees ‘in the game’ with Work Wellness

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

G

etting hurt on the job can be expensive: it costs employers in lost work time and employees can lose physical health and their sense of security. Romeo Medical Clinic, located inside of the Tower Health and Wellness Center, is improving the health of employers and employees alike through their Work Wellness Program.

Whether employees are harvesting almonds or serving as fire fighters, the Work Wellness mission is to foremost prevent injuries but also to treat injuries when misfortune strikes in the workplace.

“We take care of the full spectrum of industrial medicine from pre-employment...to injury care all the way through,” said Dr. Sam Romeo.

The Work Wellness program jump started in 2003, when Emanuel Medical Center requested the newly established Romeo Medical Clinic take over their employee health program. With formal training in sports medicine, Romeo said the physicians began applying the principles of athletic care to occupational medicine noting that the end goal was the same: safely keep employees “in the game.”

“More and more companies started coming to us because they understood that our priorities aligned with theirs, which is to take great care of the whole person, focus on prevention, give people the highest quality care when they do get hurt, and get them back in the game as quickly and safely as we can,” he said.

Work Wellness’ occupational medicine services have expanded over the last 12 years and clients include Turlock Irrigation District, Hilmar Cheese, the City of Turlock, Turlock Unified School District and more.

“If we provide great care for people and it’s also cost effective, employers are really happy. So, it’s always our guiding principle to align all of the stakeholders in healthcare on the same team: patients, employers, and us as providers and physicians,” said Romeo.

In recent years physicians at Romeo Medical Clinic has

BUSINESS NEWS

28

also incorporated an additional holistic component into their services that looks beyond physical health of employees and addresses their mind and spirit as well. Seity is a unique corporate wellness program that offers an integrated approach to health by allowing employees to take confidential assessments where they identify their core values for living, participate in health challenges, undergo biometric testing, and more. The Seity program aims to support healthy, happier people, which leads to a healthier, happier work force.

Aimed at improving individuals’ quality of life, Romeo Medical Clinic’s Seity and Work Wellness programs are a manifestation of the physicians’ belief that living well in all aspects of life is attainable for everyone. With this philosophy, they have decreased healthcare costs dramatically for many local employers.

“It’s really gratifying work to lock arms with such incredible people in our community and help them live an amazing life,” said Romeo. ◆

NEW MEMBERS Aflac - Liz Allen Beehive Beauty Salon Bill Zoslocki Construction Company, Inc. CycleFit Spin Studio Indoor Billboard Northwest, Inc. KAL Insurance Services Mid Valley Nut Co Inc. Quizno’s Subs — 2868 Monte Vista Ave. State Farm Insurance - Rich Humble

SPRING 2015

This 24-hour walking and running event benefitting the American Cancer Society will be held at the following local venues: • Hilmar High School, April 18 • CSU Stanislaus, April 25-26 • Hughson High School, May 1-2 • Pitman High School, May 16-17 For more information, visit relayforlife.org.

LobsterFEST

The Turlock Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the 1st Annual LobsterFEST on May 1 at the Assyrian American Civic Club.

The event will feature a Louisiana-style lobster boil with music, live and silent auctions.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact the Chamber at 209-632-2221 for more information on tickets or

Healthy Turlock Expo

The Turlock Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the Healthy Turlock Expo on May 13 at the Assyrian American Civic Club.

This Expo will feature insurance education, health planning and how employers can help keep employees healthy physically, nutritionally and mindfully.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact the Chamber at 209-632-2221 for more information.

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SPRING 2015

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CALENDAR

AWARDS

Outstanding Women of 2015 FOUR TURLOCKERS HONORED BY COUNTY COMMISSION

W

BY ELIZABETH ARAKELIAN

hat makes a woman outstanding?

Judging by the result of the Stanislaus County Commission for Women’s Outstanding Women Award recipients there are many things: being a good student, volunteering to help others, blazing a trail for women in business, and rallying for those who can’t stand up for themselves to name a few.

This year four of the 15 women selected represent Turlock and their diverse backgrounds and contributions are a testament to the individuality of all women.

One of these young women is Itzel Villalobos, a senior at Stanislaus Military Academy where she is a Staff Sergeant.

When she isn’t studying for her good grades, she spends her time mentoring students at Osborn Elementary School and teaching Sunday school through her church EQUIP. She has also utilized her leadership skills by taking a petition around to Westside residents to

help reinstate a restroom facility at Columbia Park.

“I was just so happy and so honored,” said Villalobos of her award.

Across town at Turlock High School another Outstanding Young Woman, Mackenzie Salyer, has shown her peers the power of positive focus. Salyer has participated in two varsity sports each year while at THS and volunteered her time in several capacities: helping to pack food at local homeless shelters, hosting a trick or treat for canned food donations, volunteering at Delta Blood Bank, helping with junior high school athletics, and more.

While Sharon Silva’s high school days are behind her, she has made significant strides in the community as a business woman. Serving as the President and CEO of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce, Silva is well versed in helping businesses find community amongst other businesses. She herself has also found community in Turlock by serving on

several boards of causes she is passionate about including the Prodigal Sons and Daughters, the Stanislaus Business Alliance, the Stanislaus County Economic Development Committee, and California State University, Stanislaus President Sheley’s Advisory Council, to name a few.

“I am humbled, I am really humbled, that when I see what these other women have given and accomplished that my name would be among them,” said Silva.

Turlock resident Arlene Vilas was also recognized for her contributions, namely for her membership of the Soroptimist International of Ceres since 1991, the mission of which is

Home • Auto • Health • Farm • Business

2015 OUTSTANDING WOMEN Cindy Duenas

Kaye Osborn

Britta Foster

Sharon Silva

Marian Kaanon Reina LopezNegrete Lynne Meredith

to improve the lives of women and girls through programs that lead to social and economic empowerment. She has triumphed this society’s cause by helping establish programs like Soroptimists Encouraging Women which offers female clients of the Stanislaus Recover y Center monthly presentations on positive self esteem. For the younger set she has helped establish Soroptimists Empowering Teens, a mentoring program targeted for junior high age girls who are not socially inclined. Three times a year these programs are available at all Ceres junior high campuses and include speakers, crafts, and a mentoring session. ◆

Teamwork makes the difference

Stacy P. Speiller Arlene Vilas Gillian Wegener

2015 OUTSTANDING YOUNG WOMEN Krupa Modi Selena Thomas

600 E. Main Street • Suite 200 • Turlock PH 209.634.9031 • LIC# 0649647

Itzel Villalobos

WWW.WESTERNVALLEY.COM

Makenzie Salyer

BUSINESS NEWS

30

SPRING 2015

47267_1

Brianna Addington

nice

,

W

Winton-Ireland, Strom\ & Green

hat inspired the founding of

What is the greatest challenge

business is definitely far reaching beyond

Winton-Ireland, Strom &

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green has

the Central Valley into many states across

Green? Winton-Ireland’s

faced, and how did you overcome it?

the country. Our motto is “Local Feel,

roots in the Central Valley date back to

The greatest challenge over the years has

Global Expertise” and we continuously

1913, when Gordon H. Winton began his

been the trend towards turning insurance

reinforce that just because we are “local,”

insurance agency in Livingston. The entity

purchasing into a commodity where the

there is no shortage of the expertise

as it is known today, Winton-Ireland,

very lowest price is the focus, rather than

we offer compared to agencies in major

Strom & Green Insurance Agency, was

the value and need. At Winton-Ireland, we

metropolitan areas.

largely inspired by a partnership that was

will always give you options and a thorough

formed between Gordon’s son Keith and

explanation of what drives each component

What does the future hold for

myself, with the desire to bring quality

of your insurance program. We do not

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green? We are

professional insurance knowledge and

conduct our business as a 1-800 business;

well poised for the future with a strong

capabilities to the Central Valley with full

we have real people who provide personal

leadership team and talent ready for

service offices in Turlock, Modesto and

assistance. We are a rarity amongst

succession. We operate very responsibly

Livingston. Through mostly hard work and

insurance agencies in many positive ways;

fiscally, ensuring that the business is sound

several key acquisitions, Winton-Ireland

one such way is that we have a fully staffed

and can withstand the economic challenges

has grown into one of the largest agencies

claims department that advocates on

that we constantly face. We continue to

in the Central Valley.

behalf of our clients in negotiation with

demand the highest level of professionalism

the insurance companies. We have claims

of our staff which involves countless hours

What has made Winton-Ireland, Strom

personnel for all lines of insurance as well

of accreditation on insurance subjects. As

& Green successful? The secret to

as specialists who focus solely on Workers

we celebrated our 100th anniversary in

Winton-Ireland’s success has been to gain

Compensation claims.

2013, we knew that the next 100 years will be even better.

a thorough understanding of our clients’ needs. There are so many off-the-shelf

What do you enjoy about doing business

insurance programs available, however our

locally? The biggest enjoyment from

philosophy of customizing insurance needs

working locally is knowing so many of

to each business’s unique exposures is how

our clients personally. They are a part of

we can be sure that our customers receive

our community and their success in their

the best value. We help our clients make

personal and business dealings is very

sound business decisions regarding risk

closely tied to our success. We are vested

retention and engage them in loss control

in those clients because they make our

and management practices that produce

community a better place to work and

the most favorable outcomes.

allow us to provide gainful employment to almost 150 people. Having said that, our

MIKE IRELAND SR. ,

CEO

presented by

FEB BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015

1

50-plus?

Check it out!

Your chances of developing colorectal cancer increases considerably after reaching the half century mark. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, about 9 out of 10 people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are at least 50-years-old. So if you are 50-plus, or at high risk, you should undergo colorectal cancer screening. So check it out with your doctor.

Your life may depend on it!

Other risk factors that may increase a person’s chance of developing colorectal cancer include: · Having a personal history of colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel disease · Having a personal or family history of colorectal cancer · Being African-American or an Ashkenazi Jew · Eating a diet high in fat · Being physically inactive · Obesity · Smoking and heavy alcohol use · Type 2 diabetes People at increased risk for colorectal cancer should talk with their doctor about being screened for the disease before the age of 50.

For physician referral, call (209) 250-5350.

880 E. Tuolumne Road, Turlock | emanuelmedicalcenter.org/cancer BUSINESS NEWS

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SPRING 2015