Business News 25 Winter 2016

A PUBLICATION OF THE TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WINTER 2016

OAK VALLEY COMMUNITY BANK PEOPLE-CENTERED BANKING

ISSUE 25

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C O N T E N T S W.A.C.E. AWARD WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

16

Oak Valley Community Bank

7 Chamber New Chamber Board Members

9 Changes at the Chamber 10 Conference room rental 11 Ambassador of the Year, Quarter

Inaugural Casino Night

12 City

Downtown parking study

13 Sidewalk, street tree ordinance 15 Economic development 16 Mayor’s 2016 priorities 19 Elections

115 S. Golden State Blvd.

Turlock, CA 95380 209-632-2221 Fax 209- 632-5289 Hours: Mon. - Fri. • 10am - 4pm

November elections recap

20 Legislative Scorecards 22 State

INTERIM CEO

Paul Wright

Governor’s proposed budget

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

23 Business

Irene Homes

Realtor Lynette Poquette

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

24 Total Nutrition 24 Trinity Productions 25 Deli Delicious 26 Human Resources

James Governale

EVENTS COORDINATOR

Sharon Berry

New employment laws

27 Chamber members for

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

10-15 years

28 Mixers and Ribbon Cuttings 29 Education One Purpose BUSINESS NEWS

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CHAMBER BOARD CHAIR The Turlock Chamber of Commerce has had a challenging year. We have had experienced some issues which we are in the process of solving.

LAZAR PIRO

CHAIRMAN, TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD, BOARD PRESIDENT PIRO TRADING INTERNATIONAL

PAUL WRIGHT

INTERIM PRESIDENT AND CEO TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Going slow to go fast There is a saying in life that goes something like “Sometimes you have to go slow to go fast.”

When the Chamber Board of Directors enlisted me to serve as the Interim President/C.E.O., their primary charge included operations management, fos-

I am very pleased and I appreciate the opportunity to serve the business community as the Chairman of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce. I am excited to work with our Board of Directors whom I know have worked hard to promote a strong community.

Our Board of Directors provides a vision for the agency to meet the needs of its members and to assist in developing their business for success.

We are going to continue to work together with all our partners for the benefit of the community as a whole.

The City of Turlock, California State University Stanislaus, and Turlock Unified School District, we must look at ways we can all contribute in order to grow and build back the Chamber

tering key business and community relations and assisting the board in the search for a permanent Chief Paid Executive. My strong recommendation was to additionally employ my organization development consulting background to perform a strategic analysis of the organization.

During the first three months of my tenure, I performed one-on-one confidential interviews with key business and community leaders, as well as elected officials and government staff leaders. I asked them three key questions: 1. What strengths does the Chamber have to build on; 2. What are the Chamber’s weaknesses; and 3. What one to three issues are most critical for the Chamber to address during the next 6 to 12 months?

The primary objective of the Chamber Board Retreat in November was to assess and determine how to “re-brand the Chamber.” In our first session we fundamentally evaluated every program and event. In the second session we employed the data collected in the above exercise to determine the four most critical issues.

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and engage with others to support the progress and development of Turlock community.

I want to take time to thank our interim CEO, Mr. Paul Wright, who we are fortunate to have the opportunity to work with and all the Chamber staff to keep the business in perfect aspect and full operation.

As always thank you to our members and special thanks to our former Chair, Mr. Kyle Kirks for his leadership.

Turlock is the best place to live and work. In my personal international business, I am the Turlock Ambassador for the world as said by Mayor Curt Andre.

Lazar Piro Chairman, Turlock Chamber of Commerce Board President Piro Trading International

An over-arching strategic goal is to shift the Turlock Chamber from an “event-driven” organization to a “membership-driven organization.” A major step in that direction is to conduct fewer, yet higher quality events. A second focus is to assess and develop member services in order to improve the Chamber’s product. Finally, the Chamber will significantly grow membership by conducting a membership drive in February and developing an enhanced approach for generating members throughout the year.

I encourage you to read the article in this issue of the Business News that communicates our going forward plans in greater detail. In closing, my number one goal as your Interim is creating the foundation for the new permanent CEO to be successful. Hopefully the “going slow” we have been doing the last four months gives the new CEO the foundation to “go fast.”

Paul Wright Interim President and CEO Turlock Chamber of Commerce

2016 CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LAZAR PIRO CHAIR Piro Trading International

SAM DAVID Assyrian American Civic Club

ROBERT RODARTE CHAIR ELECT US Bank

ASHOUR BADAL CSU Stanislaus

DEVINDER SINGH BAINS Turlock Auto Plaza

KYLE KIRKES Kirkes Electric

PAUL PORTER Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

JAMES BRENDA JKB Energy

SUE MICHELETTI Emanuel Medical Center

JERRY POWELL PMZ Realtor

MICHAEL ALLEN Allen Mortuary

STEVE GEMPERLE Gemperle Enteprises

ANOKEEN VARANI Dental Spa

JOY BIDDLE Creative Alternatives

EILEEN HAMILTON Hamilton Farms

CRAIG PITAU Thoresen’s Inc.

2016 TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF

PAUL WRIGHT INTERIM CEO

IRENE HOLMES MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

JAMES GOVERNALE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS

2016 CHAMBER CHAMPIONS

UPCOMING EVENTS FEBRUARY 15-19: Membership Drive 16: Mixer (Holiday Inn Express) MARCH 14: Ag Scholarship Event 15: Mixer (Turlock Auto Plaza) 18: Casino Night APRIL 19: Mixer (New Bridge Management) MAY 13: Lobsterfest 17: Mixer (Udder Place) JUNE 21: Mixer (Grocery Outlet) JULY 19: Mixer (Assyrian American Civic Hall)

Allen Mortuary Emanuel Medical Center Garton Tractor, Inc. Gemperle Enterprises JKB Energy / Living Kirkes Electric MedicAlert Foundation Tower Health and Wellness Turlock Journal Turlock Scavenger Company / Turlock Recycling Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Oak Valley Community Bank BUSINESS NEWS

SHARON BERRY EVENTS COORDINATOR

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AUGUST 16: Mixer (Smith Chevrolet) 17: Eggs & Issues SEPTEMBER 20: Mixer (Thorsen’s) 23: Best of Turlock OCTOBER 18: Mixer (Turlock Historical Society) 19: Economic Trends NOVEMBER 15: Mixer (Geiger’s Fine Jewelry) DECEMBER 1: Mixer (Turlock Chamber)

CHAMBER

NEW BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2016 MICHAEL ALLEN

Michael Allen began working side-by-side with Grandfather "Bill" Allen, the founder of Allen Mortuary, over a decade ago. He learned first-hand what it takes to make a family-owned business successful. With training very much rooted in his grandfather's traditions, Michael's approach to caring for families, and his personal leadership style, continue the Allen Family traditions today and into the future. A compassionate businessman with a family-centered philosophy, Michael is committed to serving the community just as his grandfather did for more than five decades.

Michael is a certified Funeral Counselor and President of Allen Mortuary.

SUE MICHELETTI

Susan “Sue” Micheletti is Chief Executive Officer of Emanuel Medical Center. She was appointed to lead Emanuel in August 2014, when the hospital was acquired by Tenet Healthcare. Micheletti previously served as Chief Operating Officer at San Ramon Regional Medical Center in San Ramon, Calif. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and a master’s degree in business administration, both from Santa Clara University. Micheletti is a member of Turlock Rotary and serves on the Hope Hospice Board of Directors. She is the proud mother of two adult children who have both chosen careers in the healthcare arena as well.

JOY BIDDLE

Joy Biddle has been with Creative Alternatives, Inc. for 26 years and has been the Executive Director for five years. Creative Alternatives is a nonprofit organization based in the Central Valley of California. Biddle has reached out to Chamber members for three years as a Chamber Ambassador and served as the Board President for Mayfair Manor Corporation from 2006-2009.

She has earned her master’s degree from American Public University in Public Administration.

Biddle endeavors to make the experience of the children she works with positive, loving and nurturing, and strives to be a genuine and caring leader for all.

CRAIG PITAU

Craig Pitau was born in Turlock at the old Emanuel Hospital on Canal. He graduated from Modesto Junior College and CSU Sacramento, where he earned a degree in Business Administration. Craig worked at Foster Farms and Tri Valley Growers for a total of 20 years. He purchased ownership shares at Thorsen’s Plumbing, Heat and Air Inc. in 2002, and became the sole owner in 2012. He also acquired Tenney A. Norquist in Modesto in 2015. Pitau has been married to his wife Julia for 28 years and has two boys, Josh and Jarrett.

DEVINDER SINGH BAINS

Devinder Singh Bains is the owner and operator at Turlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, with over 30 years of training and experience in all aspects of automotive sales and service, including dealership management. He also has management experience in customer relations, personal management, organizational systems and employee training. He is often involved in the community and has received numerous achievements that point out his professionalism and efficient business style.

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THE BENEFITS OF A

CHARITABLE BEQUEST A charitable bequest is a wonderful way for you to help further the work of the University and its mission.

There are many reasons why you might consider making a charitable bequest. Here are some of the benefits of bequest giving: It costs you nothing today to make a bequest A bequest is free of federal estate tax Your bequest can be changed down the road

You can still benefit your heirs with specific gifts A bequest may produce estate tax savings You can leave a legacy through a bequest

To learn more about how you can make an estate gift, please visit plannedgiving.csustan.edu.

CHAMBER

T

The Best of Turlock awards ceremony has been moved to the fall to allow the Chamber time to revamp the selection process and plan for an even better event.

BY KRISTINA HACKER

much consideration, the Chamber Board of Directors decided on a new path for 2016.

The Chamber will continue with programs that are complimentary to its mission, like Leadership Turlock, Agricultural Scholarships and the Turlock Young Professionals group, while eliminating or revamping other programs.

"One of the major decisions we made was to focus on membership and host fewer events," said Wright.

While the Chamber has been known to host a number of social events throughout the year — like the Party Under the Stars dinner and auction and the annual Golf Tournament —moving forward, the Chamber will only put on three annual events.

In March, the Chamber will host its first annual Casino Night, followed by a return of the popular Lobsterfest in May. The Chamber will continue its Best of Turlock awards program, but the event has been moved from the beginning of the year to the fall to allow the Chamber time to revamp the selection process and plan for an BUSINESS NEWS

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even better event.

"We want to be membershipdriven instead of event-driven," said Wright.

Hosting fewer events is not the only change coming to the Chamber. Starting in 2016, the Turlock Chamber of Commerce will no longer endorse candidates for public office.

The Chamber's Political Action Committee and Government Relations Committee will both be tasked with a more informative role, educating members on government affairs, with an emphasis on local issue.

"We want to make sure our members and the business community know what their options are, but at the end of the day, it's their call," said Wright.

While Wright has helped the Turlock Chamber chart a path for future success, it will be up to the permanent CEO to develop new membership-focused programs. A search committee has been actively seeking candidates since mid-December, and a new CEO is expected to take over by April 1. ◆

FILE PHOTO/ The Jounral

he Turlock Chamber of Commerce is ringing in the new year with a host of changes aimed at refining the organization's focus to bring the most benefit to its members.

"No matter what size you are, you have to figure out what's the best way to use your resources," said Chamber Interim CEO Paul Wright.

Wright was appointed to serve as the Chamber's interim executive director following the retirement of long-time president Sharon Silva in August 2015. Wright's background includes over 30 years of business experience, with 20 years as a consultant—working with leadership teams and organizations as they seek to align their relationships and strategy.

He is now using his experience as a consultant to bring a renewed emphasis on membership to the Turlock Chamber.

"When you go through a leadership change or transition in any context...it's really important to do a reflection and evaluation," said Wright.

After a qualitative analysis and

CHAMBER

Conference room rental at the Chamber

A

re you or your business in need of a conference room rental for weekly, monthly, or one-time meetings? Here at the Turlock Chamber of Commerce, we open up our conference room to professional assemblies.

It is complete with leather chairs and smooth, handsome tables. For the businessperson who uses graphs, illustrations or presentations, we have a flat screen television to assist the visual component.

Additionally, our whiteboard is complete with an assortment of markers and an eraser. Coffee is available for all meetings, as well.

Call the Turlock Chamber of Commerce to make a reservation at (209) 632-2221 and one of our staff will be happy to help you. â—†

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2015

2015

AMBASSADOR

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR Jilbert Gevargizi Jilbert Gevargizi has been a Chamber Ambassador for a year and half and he said being named the Ambassador of the Year was very exciting.

Gevargizi, who has over 10 years experience in the banking industry, opened Steele Insurance Agency in Turlock about two and half years ago.

“I joined the Chamber Ambassadors program to help other small businesses grow,” he said.

OF THE QUARTER

4TH QUARTER

He said he enjoys meeting new people and educating them about all the Chamber has to offer.

Chamber Ambassadors are business leaders who work with the Chamber in membership development, retention of members and are the link between the membership’s board and staff. These individuals are dedicated to meeting with Chamber members and prospective members to talk about the return on their investment and the benefits of Chamber membership.

Anokeen Varani Anokeen Varani has been a Chamber Ambassador for three years and she said she most enjoys being the personal connection between local businesses and the Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s a great outreach program, it really helps connect the businesses with the Chamber and gives them insight into all the benefits the Chamber has to offer its members,” she said.

Varani, co-owner of The Dental Spa in Turlock, is also on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

“Learning how to network really helped our business grow and I want to share that information,” said Varani about her work with the Chamber.

Let them know I’m their personal ambassador, so they have someone they know to ask questions about the chamber.

Chamber to host

inaugural Casino Night T

he Turlock Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 1st Annual Casino Night on March 18 at the Assyrian American Civic Club. The event promises to be a thrilling night for those looking to meet Lady Luck.

The event will primarily consist of games, a raffle, prizes and dancing. Poker, Texas Hold ‘Em, Let it Ride, and others will be the focus of the night’s festivities.

The raffle prizes will be accompanied by 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes for the poker tournament.

Tickets are $50 each and include $1,000 in play money. Just in case you run out of all your casino cash, there will be roaming bankers who will be happy to assist you with getting more play money as you need it.

BUSINESS NEWS

There is also a great opportunity to market your business by being a sponsor of this event. Varied levels of sponsorships will be offered with fantastic benefits associated with each one. With each sponsorship comes a number of tickets to the event as well as sponsor recognition via signs on the game tables, hanging from the ceiling and 11

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on a continuous PowerPoint.

Reserve the evening of March 18 today and be assured that you are reserving an evening of fun and laughter with other fun-loving citizens of Turlock.

If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or if you have any other questions, feel free to call the Turlock Chamber at 209-632-2221 and we will be happy to assist you! ◆

CITY

City moves forward with downtown

TJKM Transportation Consultants has been contracted by the City to prepare a plan that will identify the infrastructure improvements and funding needed to increase the supply of parking in the downtown area, including the construction of a surface parking lot at 129 South Broadway and a parking garage.

parking study

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

FILE PHOTO/ The Journal

T

he City of Turlock is one step closer to securing upgraded parking options in the downtown area after Turlock City Council voted earlier this month to approve an agreement with TJKM Transportation Consultants for the development of a Downtown Parking Plan.

The agreement with TJKM is for an amount not to exceed $69,410 to prepare a plan that will identify the strategies, infrastructure improvements and funding needed to increase the supply of parking in the downtown, including but not limited to, the construction of a surface parking lot at 129 South Broadway and a parking garage.

This project was not included in the 2015-16 budget as it was not anticipated at the time the budget was prepared. This project is included as an approved project

for CFF funding. In addition to the consultant cost of $69,410, the City Council also approved $6,941 in staff costs, which will be used to pay for the Engineering Division’s time spent on this project, for a total project amount at $76,351.

The Downtown area is a roughly 160 acre area with core commercial area of approximately 90 acres with residential, civic and heavy commercial uses at the periphery. The study will look at a comprehensive approach to addressing current and future parking in all of the Downtown areas where parking is a constraint to ensure the continued success and investment in the Downtown.

The final report is slated for presentation before City Council by summer 2016. ◆

HELPING VALLEY BUSINESS GROW At Oak Valley, we take pride in helping our customers and communities get stronger. The most rewarding opportunities are often those which provide local businesses the ability to grow and help our communities thrive.

Bistro 234, Executive Chef, Leroy Walker and Owner, Jennifer Doerksen Bethel, with Oak Valley’s Susan Quigley, Business Development Officer, 209.633.2855 and Dianna Bettencourt, Turlock Branch Manager, 209.633.2867

“We have a strong sense of comfort and trust when it comes to working with Oak Valley. Their entire staff goes out of their way to take care of our banking needs with an unequaled level of service and professionalism.”

866.844.7500 • ovcb.com

- Bistro 234, Turlock

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

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Deep Roots ~ Strong Branches

BUSINESS NEWS

Van Guilder outlined a plan to use a range of media sources, including the City's website, utility bills and creating informational pamphlets to be distributed to Realtor groups and other community organizations, about property owners' responsibilities to maintain sidewalks and street trees.

She also explained that the City has a financial

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FILE PHOTO/ The Jounral

he City of Turlock is instituting a new Local Option for real estate transactions that aims to increase awareness of property owners' responsibilities when it comes to sidewalk and street tree maintenance.

The new ordinances require that with every sale or transfer of property, the seller is required to provide notice of the property owner's maintenance obligations related to street trees and sidewalk areas. The City of Turlock Municipal Code requires every property owner and every person occupying property within the city to maintain street trees in the parkway or planting easement on or adjacent to his or her property.

The Local Option Disclosure Agreement is the same process Realtors use to inform buyers of the Right to Farm ordinance in Stanislaus County, however, the Turlock sidewalk and street tree ordinances will be the first of their kind in the area.

"This could serve as a model for other municipalities," said Council member Bill DeHart, co-chair of the Street Tree and Sidewalk Ad Hoc Committee which was tasked with finding a solution to the many cracked and broken sidewalks, often the result of older trees' expansive root structures, found around Turlock.

In June, Mayor Gary Soiseth had proposed making sidewalk inspections be performed with other tasks during the 30-day point of sale period for a property.

Soiseth's recommendation was met with contention as local Realtors said that the point of sale period is not only a critical time for the buyer and seller, but involves a multitude of people.

The Ad Hoc Committee was formed to come up with possible solutions to the city's sidewalk issues. The disclosure agreement puts information in the hands of property buyers, without requiring another inspection to be performed at the point of sale. However, the disclosure is just the tip of the iceberg in getting the many broken sidewalks around town repaired.

"We have 15,000 houses in the city of Turlock, the Realtors only touch about 2,000 homes a year, so it's still going to be on the City — as far as I'm concerned — to get the education out there," said Larry Rumbeck, founding partner and Realtor at Turlock Realty Group.

A citywide education campaign is already in the works, according to Director of Parks, Recreation, and Public Facilities Allison Van Guilder.

assistance program through the Housing Department to help homeowners be able to afford needed repairs.

"What we really strive to achieve is voluntary compliance; we try to avoid the punitive," said Van Guilder.

The new ordinances will go into effect on July 1, 2016, however, the City plans to continue looking into ways to increase compliance on sidewalk repairs.

"I appreciate everybody who got involved. This is just the beginning of the process…additional things need to be taken into consideration, it's not solving [the issue] it's a Band-Aid, and we'll work towards making the city more comfortable for everyone who is residing here," said Vice Mayor Amy Bublak. ◆

Home • Auto • Health • Farm • Business

Teamwork makes the difference

600 E. Main Street • Suite 200 • Turlock PH 209.634.9031 • LIC# 0649647 WWW.WESTERNVALLEY.COM WINTER 2016

47267_1

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BY KRISTINA HACKER

“Uneven Sidewalk” signs on Kensington Court denote hazardous sidewalks, something the property owner is charged with financing.

A new ordinance will mandate sidewalk and street tree disclosures be part of real estate Turlock real estate transactions starting July 1.

Proudly Serving

our Community for 63 Years.

The Allen family is proud to be the only family-owned funeral home in the Turlock area.

247 N. Broadway-Turlock 209.634.5829 FD 432 www.allenmortuary.com

CITY

E

Richard and Teresa Aziz (back row, far right) stand with their crew of employees outside their new restaurant, Carnivore’s BBQ Sandwich Shop, the most recent recipient of the Turlock Business Partnership Incentives Program.

BY KRISTINA HACKER

BUSINESS NEWS

of available commercial space. So I think the program has been very successful for what we intended, which was to fill vacant commercial space," said Maryn Pitt, assistant to the city manager for economic development and housing in Turlock, during an update on the program she gave to the City Council in December.

Following her program update, Vice Mayor Amy Bublak presented the newest incentive recipient —Carnivore's BBQ Sandwich Shop owner Richard Aziz — with a check.

"The whole concept is to basically help somebody get a business open. With the jobs and opportunities for small businesses, it's great for city, it's great for our community," said Bublak. ◆

800-44-Mocse www.Mocse.org

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PHOTO CONTRIBUTED/ The Jounral

conomic development has been and continues to be the number one priority for communities across California, and especially here in the Central Valley where recovery from the recent recession has been slow going. In the midst of this effort to attract and maintain thriving businesses, the City of Turlock has been recognized for its Turlock Regional Industrial Plan and celebrated the success of its small business incentive program.

The City of Turlock was recently acknowledged by the California Partnership for the San Joaquin Valley for its streamlined permitting process for new construction in the Turlock Regional Industrial Park and the job creation that it fosters.

The Partnership gave kudos to the City for engaging in practices that streamlined the development process for approving new agricultural businesses that thrive in the Central Valley. By adopting the industrial specific plan, the City planned and invested in infrastructure that is friendly to agri-business, from truck circulation to wastewater facilities to proximity to a new energy plant; environmental impacts of potential new industrial uses were studied in the EIR that was adopted with the Specific Plan. With the Master Plan and environmental approval already completed, the City was able to issue entitlements and complete the project-level environmental review for Blue Diamond within roughly 10 weeks of the application. Since the Master Plan was already completed, the City was able to immediately create a joint construction team during the building permit review and construction phases of the project.

The City’s expedited plan review process as well as a phased issuance of building permits kept the project moving. Operation of the first test line took place within a year and three days of the issuance of the building permit, which was made possible by the Master Plan process performing a streamlining function.

But it's not just large industries the City has been working to draw into town.

In 2011, the City of Turlock kicked off the Turlock Business Partnership Incentives Program, offering $1,000 cash to small businesses which open up shop in vacant storefronts and meet certain criteria, such as submitting a business plan.

Over the past four years, the City has given incentives to 45 businesses, which created 94 full-time jobs and 83 part-time jobs.

"That's quite a leveraging of funds in terms of an investment and that return on that investment. What we see now is that our vacancy rates are very, very low in the commercial centers...we don't have much left in terms

COVER

Community banking at its best

BY KRISTINA HACKER

WHEN IT COMES TO RISK, WE’RE VERY MEASURED AND THOUGHTFUL. WE GREW BANKS DURING THE RECESSION BECAUSE WE COULD. ­—Chris Courtney

T

he "Community" part of Oak Valley Community Bank's name is very important to the company's president and CEO, Chris Courtney. And for good reason. Courtney attributes the relationships that are made between bank employees and their customers in each and every community as the secret to the company's success.

"It's the people. The people make the business different. We create a warm, inviting feeling where people know each other; that's our secret, if you will. We live that pledge," he said.

Oak Valley's secret has led to much success over the past 25 years. The bank has grown to over $700 million in total assets and currently operates 16 branches in Oakdale, Sonora, Escalon, Turlock, Stockton, Patterson, Ripon, Manteca, Tracy, Modesto and the Eastern Sierra.

In 2009, Oak Valley Bancorp received NASDAQ listing approval and in 2014 the company was named one of 25 U.S. banking institutions to the KBW "Bank Honor Roll" of superior performers, an honor the Oak Valley has earned for the past three years.

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"The Bank Honor Roll is a way for KBW to acknowledge companies that have succeeded during what was a very challenging decade for banks," said Fred Cannon, global director of research for KBW, an investment bank and broker-dealer that specializes in the financial sector. "These institutions have flourished by differentiating themselves from their peers, while at the same time, positioning themselves for further growth in what continues to be a difficult rate environment."

Oak Valley Community Bank has never lost money in a year which is, according to Courtney, unheard of in the U.S. and the Central Valley, especially.

"When it comes to risk, we're very measured and thoughtful. We grew banks during the recession because we could," said Courtney. "We grew investments and did some smart things."

Although Oak Valley Bancorp has unquestionably made sound business decisions over the past two decades, Courtney said that each branch is empowered to serve their customers in the best way for that individual community.

Oak Valley Vice President and Business

BUSINESS NEWS

Dianna Bettencourt, Turlock Branch Manager and Susan Quigley, Vice President Business Development Officer

"We feel it's very important to educate kids on how to be financially responsible as they get older," said Courtney.

For more information about Oak Valley Community Bank, go to www.ovcb.com or visit the Turlock branch located at 2001 Geer Rd. â—†

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CANDY PADILLA/ The Jounral

Development Officer Susan Quigley and Turlock Branch Manager Dianna Bettencourt are proud to serve the community of Turlock.

"Turlock is a great place to live and work," said Bettencourt.

Quigley said she enjoys helping customers find the right fit for them.

"I'm dealing with three or four generations of customers," she said.

Each branch of Oak Valley Community Bank is involved in philanthropic efforts, and the Turlock branch gives both money and volunteer hours to a number of local organizations.

The Turlock Gospel Mission, Relay for Life, Camp Taylor, the Salvation Army, Sierra Vista Child and Family Services, Arrowhead Club, United Samaritans Foundation and California State University, Stanislaus are just a few of the nonprofit organizations that Oak Valley Community Bank support.

Over the past holiday season Quigley and Bettencourt could be seen manning the Salvation Army kettle station at Raley's Supermarket and helping disadvantaged kids find warm clothes and a few toys through the Turlock Community Charities Shopping Tour.

The bank also provides resources for financial literacy for foster teens and information on how to prevent elder abuse when it comes to money.

CITY

FILE PHOTO/ The Journal

A

BY KRISTINA HACKER

s Gary Soiseth entered his first year as Mayor of Turlock, he had very specific goals in mind: improve the City's infrastructure and analyze the City's budget line by line. Over the past 12 months, Soiseth has made great strides into making those goals realities for the residents of Turlock.

After three decades of negotiations, the City of Turlock entered into a water sales agreements with the Turlock Irrigation District that will provide Tuolumne River water for domestic use to the Stanislaus Regional Water Authority.

"We are moving rapidly on the surface water project, from conducting environmental studies to touring neighboring facilities to hiring firms that could build the plant. This drinking water plant will have a financial cost, but the cost of doing nothing is far worse.

This project will secure drinking water for future generations in Stanislaus County and I’m proud to play a small role," said Soiseth.

The City also made progress on the North Valley Regional Recycled Water Project that will provide recycled water to help Turlock’s farmers while also supplying recycled water to farms west of the Stanislaus River. When completed, the NVRRWP will be the nation’s largest recycled water project and will be the model throughout the nation for interagency cooperation, according to Soiseth.

"In a time of drought, it’s a testament to the resolve of local public officials and staff that these two projects are progressing rapidly," he said.

Turlock Mayor Gary Soiseth delivers his first State of the City address in February 2015 before City staff and members of the public.

His 2016 State of the City address is scheduled for Jan. 29.

Other infrastructure improvements include investing a portion of the Transient Occupancy Tax (a tax on Turlock’s hotel guests) in the City's parks and tournament venues, most notably by re-wiring the Pedretti Field lights.

"The investments of 2015 have been large, but I’m proud that they have not been made at the expense of the taxpayer. Instead, we were able to pay down toxic debt, saving the city more than $615,000 annually over the next decade. We were also able to divest of costly cityowned buildings and pay off large sums of unfunded liabilities in the Public Employee Retirement System funds. These aggressive fiscal moves have put Turlock on a solid path toward a balanced budget within the year," said Soiseth.

Looking ahead, Soiseth once again has specific priorities in mind: invest in reliable drinking water, invest in our local roads, and invest in our sense of community.

"While progress has b een made regarding water consumption during this historic drought, BUSINESS NEWS

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we will continue to find ways to reduce Turlock’s consumption and will continue on a path toward realizing our major water projects," he said.

"In 2016, I will proactively tackle our failing roads. While we have doubled the modest funds for pothole repair, added new methods of maintaining our roads, increased the Americans with Disabilities Act compliant ramps and sidewalks, secured grant funding for major thoroughfares, and established a new sidewalk and tree maintenance assistance program for fixedincome and senior residents, there is still much more work to be done to our neglected roads.

"As I have stated since I ran for office, I’m supportive of a regional approach to our transportation needs. It’s my hope that citizens will choose to invest in their local and regional roadways by supporting a county-wide half-cent sales tax initiative in November 2016."

The Mayor also plans to roll out a “Million Acts of Kindness” initiative through the City of Turlock’s Afterschool Program. This city-wide campaign will work with the city's youth to create ideas that make the city a kinder place to live, while also creating a stronger connection among Turlock’s very diverse religious, ethnic and cultural groups.

More details for Soiseth's plans for 2016 will be discussed at the 2016 State of the City Address at 7:30 a.m. Jan. 29 at the City of Turlock Corps Yard, 701 S. Walnut Rd. The public is invited. ◆

ELECTIONS

FRANTZ, SANTOS return to TID Board T

We have the We have the Diamond ring Diamond ring That will have We the That will have Herhave saying Diamond ring Her saying That will have Her saying

BY ALYSSON AREDAS

urlock Irrigation District Director Michael Frantz will embark on his seventh year serving on the board following his re-election for Division 1 in November. Although he is hoping for rain, Frantz said that he will continue to help TID work diligently and efficiently with water during the ongoing drought. He said that he also looks forward to playing a supportive role in the Don Pedro Federal Energy Regulatory Commission relicensing process.

“It feels great to have the support of the community,” said Frantz. “I look forward to four more years.”

Incumbent Rob Santos ran unopposed for the TID Board of Directors Division 4.

In Turlock Unified School District, incumbent Barney Gordon ran unopposed for Trustee Area 1, incumbent Frank Lima ran unopposed for Trustee Area 5 and newcomer Ken Malech ran unopposed for Trustee Area 3. Anthony Silva was appointed to serve Trustee Area 7 in October after no candidates filed to run before the deadline in August.

In Chatom Union School District, incumbent Steve Soderstrom ran unopposed for Trustee Area 3 and incumbent Daniel Costa ran unopposed for Trustee Area 4. ◆ BUSINESS NEWS

“ I do. ” “I do.”

“I do.”

15 Months No Interest OAC 15 Months No Interest OAC

340 E 15 Main Street, CA 95380 Months NoTurlock, Interest OAC

209.668.4653 www.geigersfinejewelery.com 209.668.4653

340 E Main Street, Turlock, CA 95380

www.geigersfinejewelery.com 50559_3

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340 E Main Street, Turlock, CA 95380 WINTER 2016

SCORECARDS

GARY SOISETH

STEVEN NASCIMENTO

MATTHEW JACOB

COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM

BILL DEHART

MEETING

AMY BUBLAK

TURLOCK CITY COUNCIL VOTING RECORD

1. 8/11/15

APPROVING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF TRANSMISSION Y Y Y Y Y FACILITIES FOR THE NORTH VALLEY REGIONAL RECYCLED WATER PROGRAM

2. 9/8/15

ADOPTING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE VISTA STUDENT HOUSING PROJECT

Y Y Y Y Y

3.

ADOPTING THE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN.

Y Y Y Y Y

4 9/22/15

ISSUING A DOWNTOWN PARKING STUDY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Y Y Y Y Y

5. 10/13/15

IMPLEMENTING UPDATED FEES/CHARGES FOR PROPERTY RELATED SOLID WASTE SERVICES

Y Y Y Y Y

9/22/15

TURLOCK CITY COUNCIL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION 1. Approving the following NVRRWP components: (1) design and construction of the NVRRWP transmission facilities, including all necessary transmission pipelines to transmit and

deliver recycled water from the terminus of the Harding Drain Bypass Pipeline to the DMC; (2) the addition of a new authorized point of discharge of the City’s recycled water to the DMC; (3) sub-

mittal of a Wastewater Change Petition to add 43,259 acres in the DPWD and 124,897 acres in the wildlife refuges, as the authorized place of use CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 

AMENDING COUNTY CODE REGARDING SUPERVISORS’ COMPENSATION

ABSENT Y

3. 9/29/15

AUTHORIZING USE OF HOUSING FUNDS FOR THE GRANGER N Y Y Y N AVENUE SUPPORTIVE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER

4. 10/27/15

AWARDING CONTRACT TO GEORGE REED, INC. FOR THE HATCH Y Y Y Y Y ROAD AT SANTA FE AVENUE INTERSECTION PHASE 3 PROJECT .

DISTRICT 5 JIM DEMARTINI

2. 9/22/15

9/15/15

DISTRICT 4 DICK MONTEITH

Y Y Y Y Y

1.

DISTRICT 3 TERRY WITHROW

ACCEPTING RECOMMENDED FINAL BUDGET FOR FY2015-16

MEETING

DISTRICT 2 VITO CHIESA

BOARD AGENDA ITEM

DISTRICT 1 WILLIAM O'BRIEN

STAN. CO. BOARD OF SUPERVISORS VOTING RECORD

Y Y N

STAN CO. BOARD VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION 1. The Recommended Final Budget for Fiscal Year 2015-2016 totals $1,097,281,913 and reflects an increase of $15.4 million, or 1.4% increase for all funds as compared to the 2015-2016 Adopted Proposed Budget and just $4.6 million, or .4% increase over the 2014-2015 Adopted Final Budget. Almost half of the increase over the

2015-2016 Adopted Proposed Budget is reflective of one-time investments in infrastructure, community support and reserves to maintain the financial health of the organization, totaling to $7.3 million.

2. Supervisors’ compensation set forth in the Stanislaus County Job Classification and Salary

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Report shall be increased by 3.75 percent effective on the first full pay period in January of each fiscal year if, as determined in subsection C of this section, both: (1) The base salary of Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors is 20 percent or more below the average base salary for comCONTINUED ON PAGE 30 

SENATOR FEINSTEIN

SENATOR BOXER

CONGRESSMAN DENHAM

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD

1.

HR 3495 WOMEN’S PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT

Y

ABSENT ABSENT

2.

HR 3457 JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS OF IRAN TERRORISM ACT

Y

ABSENT ABSENT

3.

HR 3762 RESTORING AMERICANS’ HEALTHCARE FREEDOM

Y

ABSENT ABSENT

4.

HR 1314 BIPARTISAN BUDGET ACT OF 2015

Y

5.

HR 4038 AMERICAN SECURITY AGAINST FOREIGN ENEMIES

Y

6.

HR 1735 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT

Y

7.

S 2146 STOP SANCTUARY POLICIES AND PROTECT AMERICANS

ABSENT N

N

8.

S AMDT 2908 PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECOND AMDT. RIGHTS PROTECTION

ABSENT

Y

Y

Y

ABSENT ABSENT N Y

Y

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION 1. Authorizes a state to determine if institution, entity, or individual that performs abortions qualifies for participation in Medicaid programs.

2. Prohibits sanctions on Iran from being lifted until Iran pays court-ruled fines for judgments

related to terrorism.

3. Repeals the individual mandate of the Affordable Care Act which requires an individual to maintain minimum essential health care coverage.

Repeals the employer mandate of the Affordable

Care Act which requires certain employers to offer full-time employees the opportunity to enroll in minimum essential health care coverage under an eligible employer-sponsored plan. CONTINUED ON PAGE 30

STATE LEGISLATURE OLSEN RECEIVES LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM THE CALIFORNIA SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

LOCAL LEGISLATORS LISTED AS PRO-BUSINESS BY CAL CHAMBER

Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen, of Modesto, was honored as the California Small Business Association’s Legislator of the Year award during their annual California Small Business Roundtable Retreat in November.

“The small business community is the heart of the California Dream,” said Olsen. “It takes hard-work and unwavering faith to start up and run a small business in this state, and I am honored to fight every day on behalf of those who provide good jobs and opportunity for Californians across the state.”

The California Small Business Association is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit, non-partisan organization that makes its mission to provide small business with a meaningful voice in state and federal governments. Each year, they honor state representatives for their efforts to foster a business-friendly environment in California.

“Assembly Republican Leader Olsen is a tireless advocate for California’s small businesses,

Senator Tom Berryhill (R-Twain Harte) and Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen were both put on the top of the California Chamber of Commerce list of legislators with a pro-business voting record.

“It is all about jobs. Especially in areas like the Central Valley and the Foothills where the so-called economic recovery hasn’t really kicked-in like it has in the coastal areas,” said Berryhill. “Implementing policies that create jobs, not lose them, is one of the main reasons I came to Sacramento.”

All 14 members of the Senate Republican Caucus received top scores on the California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber) 2015 legislative scorecard, released in November.

"Small business continues to be the backbone of California. The CalChamber scorecard is another indication of my continued commitment to small business, the jobs they provide and California’s economic growth,” Berryhill continued.

According to CalChamber, legislators

so we are pleased to have this opportunity to recognize the work she has done to fight back against burdensome regulations in our state, and to bring forward common-sense reforms that work for every community,” said Betty Jo Toccoli, CSBA president.

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were rated based on how they voted on priority bills to California's business community. The scorecard can be viewed by visiting: advocacy.calchamber.com

STATE

BY KRISTINA HACKER

G

overnor Jerry Brown proposed a record high $122.6 billion General Fund budget plan for 2016-17 — an increase of $6 billion over last year — that makes significant increases in funding for education, health care and state infrastructure, while bolstering the state's Rainy Day Fund and paying down state debts and liabilities. Along with the increased spending, however, the Governor also urged fiscal restraint.

"Relative to years past, the state budget is in good shape.

Education funding is at its highest level ever, fifteen million Californians are covered by Medi-Cal or Covered California, the minimum wage has risen to $10 an hour, and for the first time, the state will provide almost $400 million to low-wage working families through an earned income tax credit," wrote Brown in his letter to the Legislature.

"Given the wide disparities that exist in our state and the millions who struggle in one form or another, understandably there will be proposals to fund a variety of worthwhile programs.

But it would be short-sighted in the extreme to now embark upon a host of new spending only to see massive cuts when the next recession hits. In view of the $27 billion deficit of just five years ago and the much larger one in 2009, it is clear that fiscal restraint must be the order of the day. It also goes without saying that we should be chipping away at the $72 billion unfunded liability that weighs down our retiree health system," he continued.

While local legislators are pleased to see education and transportation priorities in the Governor's budget proposal, they think increased spending is not the answer to some of the State's biggest problems.

“With the increased revenues that our state government is realizing, I am pleased that Governor Brown remains committed to bolstering our reserves, rebuilding our transportation system, and increasing funding to education. With a budget that is $6 billion larger than last year, we must remain prudent in using our new funds to invest in California and prepare for our next economic downturn. It would be easy to spend this revenue on new programs that require ongoing spending, but we could find ourselves facing deficits when the economy inevitably slows again," said Senator Anthony Cannella.

“I was disappointed that we were unable to reach a transportation funding package last year and am glad to see the Governor is keeping it a priority. Additional funding for transportation is an investment that will benefit all Californians. We cannot continue to delay the rebuilding of our transportation infrastructure,” continued Cannella.

For Senator Tom Berryhill, more taxes are not the answer to the State's transportation needs.

"I remain disappointed that the governor prefers additional BUSINESS NEWS

taxes to repair roads and bridges, rather than prioritizing more of our general fund dollars on that task. We had a $10 billion budget surplus last year, revenues are predicted to be even higher this year, and yet he continues to insist on tax increases. Maintaining a solid and safe transportation infrastructure should be more of a priority," said Berryhill.

Assemblymember Kristin Olsen echoed Cannella's opinion on the proposed budget's record spending, and went on to address education reform.

“I am pleased to see continued increases in school spending per student, but history and data shows that funding alone will not improve student outcomes. Our students deserve better.

We have to be willing to pass meaningful reforms to improve the quality of education in our state. I call on Governor Brown and my Democratic colleagues to work with me toward true reform measures that will help our students, teachers, and economy,” said Olsen. ◆

Help Fight Hunger Call (209) 668-4853 or visit our website at www.unitedsamaritans.org ENCLOSED IS MY GIFT TO UNITED SAMARITANS FOUNDATION Name Address City, State, Zip Enclosed is my gift of S Your Gift is Tax Deductible

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220 S. Broadway, Turlock, CA 95380

BUSINESS

BY NATALIE WINTERS

S

he may be new to the business, but Lynette Poquette’s 18 years of customer service sets her apart as a competitive Realtor in the local market.

Poquette is approaching her second year as a Realtor and is affiliated with Berkshire Hathway HomeServices, a company that is owned by Warren Buffett and brand new to the Central Valley.

“It’s nice to have a strong brand, but we’re not just a real estate company,” she said. “What’s great about our company is that we are a home services business — for selling, buying or even renting your home.”

Poquette said she enjoys that up to this point in her realty career she has mostly been a buyer’s agent.

“I get the opportunity to meet families and get to know them very personally during the process,” she said. “We’re friends at the end of every transaction and always keep in touch, making the purchase of their home as important to me as it is to them.”

Poquette also enjoys the flexibility of being a Realtor, as it allows her to be available to her kids with their hectic schedules, as well.

She has worked in several different fields before turning to real estate and Poquette capitalizes on the importance of being able to connect with her clients, hear what they’re saying and find them the perfect home.

“Getting a husband and wife to agree on a home is something that gives me a leg up in the industry with my previous customer experience,” she laughs.

Her motto is: “Today is the best day to buy or sell your home,” because Poquette argues that the market is growing and growing.

“It sounds cliché but it’s the truth,” she said. “Clients I had six months ago already have equity in their home.”

Visit Poquette’s office at 2051 Geer Rd., in Turlock, or contact her at 209-417-4534. ◆ BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS

T

BY NATALIE WINTERS

otal Nutrition is more than just a supplement store as your weight loss success and goals is just as important to them as it is to you.

Specializing in sports nutrition, fitness and vitamins, their team members are certified sports nutritionists that are trained to give complimentary customized supplement regime and meal plan suggestions that specifically fit your goals.

“What makes us different than any other company is we give personal recommended meal plans and suggestions for each person, not just your run-of-the-mill ‘this product works for everybody’ spiel,” said David Bisby, manager of the Turlock location. “We figure

I

out what works best for you.”

Total Nutrition covers areas such as weight loss for men and women, pre and post workouts, protein powder shakes, snacks and healthy living. They believe that when you’re ready for the next level in health, fitness and sports nutrition—you’re ready for Total Nutrition.

Turlock’s Total Nutrition is located at 2745 Countryside Dr. and has been open in since June 2.

“We’ve been doing really well so far, business has been successful” said Bisby. “Turlock is a great place to have a shop like this because the area is heavily rooted in the fitness community.”

Total Nutrition offers products that improve mental energy and

focus, tone or build muscle, burn fat, sculpt and define.

“For me, I body build so getting to be in here every day, I’m like a kid in a candy store,” said Bisby.

“But one of my favorite things is being able to help the customers progress over time.”

The store features brands such as Quest Bars, Gorilla, Muscle Sport, Pharma Fuel, Intek and many more.

Total Nutrition offers discounts for students, law enforcement, firefighters, military and former military. They also offer a 25 percent VIP member discount for those who simply like their Facebook page and/or Instagram.

“Visit our store to get the best information and products available,” said Bisby. “We’re here to help.” ◆

BY NATALIE WINTERS

f you are in need of a quality sound company for events of any and all kinds, look no further than Trinity Productions.

Based out of Tracy, Trinity Productions covers the Bay Area, Central Valley and is Northern California’s premier provider for festival and production concert sound, lighting and staging.

“We do concerts, corporate events and anything that requires sound, video or lighting,” said John Moore, owner and operator of Trinity Productions. “We’re pretty much full service and our equipment is readily adaptable to cover an event with up to 5,000 people.”

Trinity Productions is a factory authorized dealer for many pro-audio lines and offers audio and visual systems, DJ systems sound and lighting rentals.

“One of the big things for our company is that we know what we’re doing

and we’re very reasonably priced,” said Moore.

Moore said his commitment to excellence is the reason for the company's success and where they are today.

“Ever y event that we have worked on to date has been a success for our clients and we’re very proud of that,” he said.

The first venues for Trinity Productions were afternoon concerts and they have grown to cover events such as indoor theatres, performing arts theatres, backyard weddings—you name it.

Moore understands that outdoor events rarely occur on a flat surface, and their portable staging features a leveling system within the structure, allowing the stage to go just about anywhere you would want it.

BUSINESS NEWS

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WINTER 2016

Trinity Production also offers video production for events that includes a screen for projections.

“We work closely with another company in the Bay Area so if a video wall is needed we have someone that can bring in equipment for an event that would need it,” said Moore.

Moore says they are also now offering powered db Technologies speaker systems for the ease of setup, convenience and quality.

“We rent out speakers for those who may want a backyard party or wedding, but don’t want to hire a DJ,” Moore said.

Visit Trinity Productions online to learn more about their services, clients, equipment at TrinityProSound.com. ◆

Deli Delicious A NEW TAKE ON FRESH

S

BY NATALIE WINTERS

ince August, Turlock has been home to a California specialty: Deli Delicious.

Deli Delicious, a premium sandwich shop, features fresh ingredients and excellent customer service—owned and operated by Marine veteran Russell Clark.

“Opening a new business in the area can be difficult, but Turlock has been so good to us,” said Clark. “We’ve had great customers and good business since day one.”

According to Clark there are over 40 locations throughout California and the franchise has been recognized as the Central Valley’s No. 1 choice for premium specialty sandwiches since 1995.

Clark said that the most important thing about Deli Delicious is that everything done there is fresh. The bread is delivered daily, the meats and cheeses are from a block and sliced daily and

the vegetables are fresh, as well.

“The chicken and tri tip are sliced thin enough to where you get a tender piece on every bite,” he said. “We don’t send you home hungry.”

The signature sandwiches are a crowd favorite, however, Clark claims that their beer battered French fries are the most popular item on the menu.

“Sometimes people come in just for the fries; they’re that good,” said Clark.

Curly fries, shoestring fries and sweet potato fries also grace the menu with special seasonings. Deli Delicious also features signature sauces that they make in-house as well, including ranch and chipotle.

“One thing that is cool about

209-664-9325

our store is we have a lot of items on our menu,” said Clark.

Salads are prepped daily from a block of lettuce, they feature fresh veggies and unlike other sandwich shops, Clark said, they also have sprouts.

“There is not a thing in our store that isn’t fresh or prepared daily,” he said. “And that’s important to know.”

Deli Delicious is located at 2743 Countryside Dr. in Turlock, but they also deliver for orders over $30.

“Our prices might be a little higher than other sandwich shops,” said Clark. “But the quality you’re getting is unbeatable.” ◆

209-656-9219

www.yonansjewelers.com 32831_1

www.yonansfloralweddings.com

16822 YonansAd.indd 1

BUSINESS NEWS

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8/14/12 11:53 AM

HUMAN RESOURCES

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CHAMBER

The Turlock Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize businesses that have been members for 10-15 years!

We thank you for your continued support!

Costco Wholesale

Trophy Works

Pederson, Nancy- Realtor

Yonan’s Floral

Berger & Company CPA’s

Stanislaus County Farm Bureau

Vail Creek Jewelry Designs

Stanislaus Business Alliance

Sandra L. Kruthoff, CPA APC

Almond Tree Restaurant

CAT Rental Store

US Bank

Saunders Air Conditioning & Heating

The Spa

Layer 3 IT, Inc.

Turlock Memorial Park

Dias, Teresa- Realtor Oliveira, Clarence- Realtor

Stewart & Jasper Company Store

Blakemore Center for Hearing & Balance

Romeo Medical Clinic, Inc.

Turlock Historical Society

Branding Iron Catering

Tower Health & Wellness Center

Michael S. Warda, A Professional Law Corporation Valley First Credit Union Monte Vista Farming Company, Marketing Bank of the West

Cornerstone Consulting, Inc.

Ag Production Company

Pacific Gas & Electric

GDI Insurance

Staley’s Club Tower Compounding Pharmacy Turlock Imaging Services The Creation Lab

Bistro 234

VIA Adventures, Inc.

Crimetek Security Services

Oak Valley Community Bank

Barrett Construction Staples #0633

Success Capital Expansion Development

American Pacific Mortgage

Turlock Commerce Bank

Delta Sierra Beverage, LLC

Parkwood Apartments

Alfred Matthews Inc. Collision Center

Quizno’s Subs

First American Title

Holiday Inn Express

Brenda Athletic Clubs

MedicAlert Foundation Stammerjohan Consulting

Stanislaus County Sheriff

1854

Keeping the Peace since

/

Concrete by Hallack The Flowery Glitz Fine Clothing

Take a stand and help make a difference in your community.

JOIN our team today!

Chaplain Program | Dive Team | Explorers | Correctional Emergency Response Team | K9 Unit | Mounted Unit Deputy Sheriff | Honor Guard | STARS Citizen Volunteers | Air Support Unit | Bomb Squad | SWAT

For information on recruitment please call: (209) 567-4412 or beadeputy.com BUSINESS NEWS

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M

I

X

E

R

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DECEMBER MIXER

R I B B O N

C U T T I N G S

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

CARNIVORE BBQ

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EDUCATION

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One Purpose Scholarships for Success

n the second year of the One Purpose campaign, volunteers raised nearly $450,000 that will be awarded as scholarships to high-achieving Stanislaus State students who demonstrate academic promise.

This year, more than 600 donors gave during the annual fund drive, and the number of alumni who gave doubled to more than 200. The donors and volunteers who support One Purpose are representative of a community that values education and invests in students at a University that fuels the region. Their efforts are building a community that fosters student success.

Nearly 170 students have been awarded One Purpose scholarships for the current academic year, and that number will continue to grow thanks to the continued support of One Purpose volunteers. The scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit to students who demonstrate academic excellence and the potential to make an impact on their academic, athletic, or artistic program.

“One Purpose is an important asset for our students and our community — supported by the region for the region,” said Stanislaus State President Joseph F. Sheley. “We need more college graduates, and One Purpose is meeting that need by recognizing students who excel academically. They are on the right track to make a positive difference as leaders who will move our region and our state forward.”

During the six-week campaign last fall, One Purpose scholarship recipients stepped forward with messages of gratitude and shared how their scholarships have impacted their studies and allowed them to continue striving for excellence.

“I would love to tell the volunteers and donors that I can’t thank them enough for the opportunity they’ve BUSINESS NEWS

given me to go back to school and to achieve a degree,” said Amelia Hund, a biology major and One Purpose scholarship recipient. “It’s something that I’ve always dreamed of.”

In addition to the support provided by scholarships raised through One Purpose, the volunteers have served as ambassadors of goodwill for the campus, and this effort is boosting affinity for the University. One Purpose volunteer and Stanislaus State alumnus Marty Grynbaum said the positive impact of the University on the region is becoming more evident, and that One Purpose is generating awareness.

“It’s become more of a college community — when you go downtown and you see college students — the University has become an integral part of the community,” Grynbaum said. “A great part of One Purpose is that it gets alumni and community members involved with the University. They get a better understanding of what the University does for the region. The value in our local University is apparent and it’s a partnership in which everyone benefits.”

Volunteer Chris Murphy, a Stanislaus State alumnus, emphasized the importance of connecting people with the University and the opportunities it provides for students and for the future of the region.

“Stanislaus State is our University, whether you are in Turlock, Modesto, Patterson, Newman, wherever you are in the region, and we need a strong four-year university,” Murphy said. “Through One Purpose we can make sure that people know we are proud of Stanislaus State. I am very proud of my education and I am proud to be a part of the One Purpose team.”

For more information about the One Purpose campaign and to hear more from One Purpose scholarship recipients, visit www.csustan.edu/one-purpose ◆ 29

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

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TURLOCK CITY COUNCIL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION

STAN CO. BOARD VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION

for the City’s recycled water; (4) the addition of supplemental CVPIA refuge water supplies to the authorized purposes of use for the City’s recycled water; and (5) a Joint Powers Agreement for the North Valley Regional Recycled Water Program, as specified in the resolution considering the Final EIR for the NVRRWP. 2. Amending the General Plan and rezone three parcels, totaling approximately 9.7 acres, from Community Commercial to High Density Residential to allow for the construction of a 180-unit, 600-bed student housing complex, referred to as The Vista student housing project. The properties are located at 900 W. Monte Vista Ave, 3000 Crowell Road, and 1010 W. Monte Vista Ave. The purpose of the project is to build a student housing community where the individual bedrooms will be leased solely to California State University, Stanislaus, students and all of the community amenities will be available for the exclusive use of the student residents and their guests.

3. The Active Transportation Plan includes projects, standards, policies and programs designed to encourage and support biking and walking in Turlock.

4. Issuing a request for proposals to obtain consulting services to prepare a parking analysis for the Downtown Turlock area, ensuring parking does not limit the success of current businesses and does not become a constraint on continued growth.

5. Approving an increase in solid waste fees, after the City failed to receive the required 9,119 formal protests needed to prevent the fee hike from moving forward. The average residential solid waste fee increased by 9.16 to 9.45 percent starting Dec. 1.

parable county supervisors; and (2) The General Fund projected revenue in the adopted budget for the fiscal year is equal to or greater than the actual General Fund revenue realized in the prior fiscal year.

3. Authorizing the use of Stanislaus County’s California Housing Finance Agency funds in the amount of $490,000 in partnership with the City of Modesto and Community Transitional Resources, a local non-profit, for the Permanent Supportive Housing and Community Resource Center Project to be located at 522 East Granger Ave., Modesto. The total project cost is $1.46 million.

4. Award a contract in the amount of $1,449,515 to George Reed, Inc., of Modesto, for the construction of the Hatch Road at Santa Fe Avenue Intersection Improvement Phase 3 Project. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

FEDERAL VOTING RECORD EXPLANATION Prohibits federal funds from being appropriated to a reproductive health or family planning organization that provides elective abortions for 1 year.

4. Extends the debt limit and appropriates funds for fiscal years 2016 and 2017.

5. Expands background checks for Syrian and Iraqi refugees applying for admission to the United States.

6. Authorizes the State to appropriate $38.2 billion to the overseas contingency operations fund. Reduces the pension for a uniformed service member that enters service on or after Oct. 1, 2017 from a maximum of 75 percent of base pay to a maximum of 60 percent of base pay. Specifies that no funds appropriated to a governmental department or agency for fiscal year 2016 shall be used for the transfer or release of individuals detained at the United States Naval Station at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

7. Prohibits sanctuary jurisdictions from receiving federal grants and increases penalties for an undocumented immigrant who reenters the United States after being deported.

8. Expands background check requirements for firearms purchased at gun shows and online.

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nice

,

W

hat inspired the founding of Garton Tractor?

My great grandfather William Cornforth worked for Ford Motor Company. Later a dealership opportunity became available in Reedley, CA. He moved his family down there and started Cornforth Tractor. Later, my grandfather Bud Garton purchased the dealership from his father-in-law, William Cornforth.

Garton Tractor

What do you enjoy about doing business locally?

Being part of America’s food production and the farming community.

What does the future hold for Garton Tractors?

Continued conservative growth based on our people and products.

What has made Garton Tractor successful?

Our success has been due to our great employees. Our slogan is Quality People Quality ProductsÂŽ What is the greatest challenge Garton Tractor has faced, and how did you overcome it?

Fluctuations in the agriculture industry - Luckily our local agriculture economy is incredibly diverse. We always aim for long term success.

GARTON FAMILY TOM, DREW, GRANT, BEN, BILL

presented by

FEB

1

2016 March 10, 2016, 6 pm-9 pm Fitzpatrick Arena

Stanislaus State One University Circle, Turlock, CA 95382

csustan.edu/vines

JOIN US for a remarkable culinary experience where savory bites, ďŹ ne wine and craft brews are showcased throughout an impactful fundraising event. $100 per ticket | (209) 667-3131 Dress for an exceptional evening. Must be at least 21 years of age.

Proceeds beneďŹ t Stanislaus State alumni programs, campus projects and student scholarships.