Progress Magazine - January 2024

Modesto Chamber oF COMMERCE

VOL. 45 | ISSUE 01 | january 2024

Industry & Manufacturing Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group I C REFRIGERATION Mysteries of Modesto

Happy New Year From Our Family to Yours We are especially grateful for the relationships we share with the people and the communities we have the pleasure of serving.

From the entire Bank of Stockton family, we wish you a Happy New Year.

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2024

In Modesto | 1302 J St. & 4204 Dale Rd. bankofstockton.com

Choose a health care partner that’s better for your business today, and tomorrow.

Remote, hybrid, in-person. Today’s workforce needs care that meets them where they are. More than ever, workforce health is a business strategy. Choose a leader who can help you navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Learn more at kp.org/choosebetter

For all that is Modesto. For all that is you.

A Message From The President & CEO 2024 - Happy NEW Year!

By Trish Christensen January has jump started the year with style! The buzz and excitement for our “Shop Greater Modesto, CA” online shopping mall is just incredible. We are so proud to be partnering with the City of Modesto to bring this to our micro, small, entrepreneurial business community as a free service to all in both Spanish and English. As we began onboarding the first several local businesses in December their excitement was thrilling to witness. The e-commerce platform is the perfect answer for locals who wish to sell their services and products in a much broader way.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation has been focused on developing mission and vision statements while also building the structure and requirements to promote, accept, and award scholarships. I am happy to share our Vision Statement here: The Vision of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce Foundation is to inspire philanthropy and energize the leaders who create a better path to prosperity for ALL in our community.

community

Our Annual Awards and Anniversary Soiree is January 25th.

We know it will be a fun and enjoyable experience for all!

Please join us at Center Plaza for a wonderful evening of food sampling, mingling, celebrating accomplishments, honoring anniversaries, and meeting our esteemed volunteer groups.

This will prove to be the classiest kickoff event in town!

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The Leadership Modesto Class of 2024 is about to head off for annual retreat, which kicks starts the program. I am excited to share that I will be going through the program myself, as an equal classmate, and a part of the 40th class of Leadership Modesto. Congratulations to our incoming class members: Joseph Antonacci, Shanyn Avila, Heather Bessoff, Holly Bowden, Aluriel Ceballos, DeAnna Christensen, Trish Christensen, Heather Elkins, Randy Icelow, Taylor Kline, Krystle Lisek, Shyreen Lloyd, Eric Mangal, Ronnie Merritt, Luz Montanez, Jeff Montgomery, Emil Mozaffari, Sara Redd, Jack Rodgers, Ileisha Sanders, Aman Sandhu, Eric Schuller, Anthony Silva, Tyler Stone.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce board of directors has some new faces. We look forward to working with each of these

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amazing individuals: Garrett Ardis, Huff Construction Company Inc.; Christine Schweininger, Valley Builders Exchange, Inc.; Brad Blakely, Edward Jones; Kirstie Boyett-Zacharias (Chairperson) Independent; Aphriekah DuHaney- West, Kaiser Permanente; Michael Gaffney (Immediate Past Chair), PG&E; Pat Gillum, Pat Gillum CPA’s; Victor Gomez Terres, Blue Diamond; David Halvorson, Jr., Resurrection Brands; Amy Jeffries, Gianelli/ Friedman/Jeffries; Courtney Lagorio, F&M Bank; Eric Mangal (Vice Chair Internal Operations & Treasurer), Grimbleby Coleman CPA’s; Brian McDermott, NTT; Michael Moradian Jr. (Chair Elect), Peace of Mind Pest Control & Home Inspections; Alan Morris, Bank of Stockton; Peggy O’Donnell, Mid Valley Promotions; Edgar Perez, American AgCredit; Stephen Qualls, Central Valley Division of the League of California Cities; Bill Robinson, Principal Financial; Kari Santos, IJ Larsen Pumps; Dejeune Shelton, Modesto Junior College Community Education; Kelly Tallant-Martin, Vintage Faire Mall; John Villines (Vice Chair External Operations), Modesto Gospel Mission; Laura Ward, Ward Productions. Auxiliary members: Johnathon Raymond, BBSI Check out our featured calendar on our website, and request to join our e-blast list if you are not already connected in that way. You will find current information for our ongoing, standing programs and committees: Rising Professionals, Women in Business, and Stanislaus Green Team networking programs; Government Relations Council, Economic Development Committee, and Business and Education Committee; and we anticipate the addition of a new and very promising support network in the next few months. And with SCORE rebuilding here in Modesto/Stanislaus County, we look forward to having them active, holding trainings and seminars, and meeting those needing their services right from our office once again very shortly.

There will be other items of interest to share as we get through the first quarter of the year. Please stay tuned, connect with us anytime, and stay well~ With warm regards, Trish

Each member of the Chamber is important, no matter the size of business. We desire for local businesses and organizations to succeed and thrive. To reach this goal we provide exposure, opportunities to engage with Regional Electeds and community partners, as well as networking with businesses and organizations across industries. We work to better our community by providing up-to-date education and training, certifying qualifying businesses as Green, and providing advocacy on City, State, and Federal levels. The Chamber is a family of dedicated professionals striving to make a difference in their business and way of life.

Whatever your business needs are, we invite you to join us.

To execute our adopted mission we have developed an acronym that helps keep us focused. That acronym is “CARES: Community, Advocacy, Relationships, Education and Service.”

C - Community At its heart, the Modesto Chamber is a community of like-minded business owners who share the vision for enjoying a thriving economy and creating and maintaining our community as a vibrant place to live, work and play. With over 100 years of history and experience in the Greater Modesto Area, we understand what it means to be a business owner and customer in our community, with featured events such as local and regional forums, Ag Aware, Harvest Luncheon, and Family Day. Chamber members get the opportunity to actively engage in and influence the community they live and work in.

A - Advocacy The Modesto Chamber supports local businesses and is an active advocate for the common interest of its members.

The Chamber has an Economic Development Committee and a Government Relations Council. These advocacy committees are dedicated and proactive in representing our members and community. They work to address business initiatives and relieve the regulatory burdens businesses face may face. The Chamber is also honored to certify local businesses and organizations through our California Green Business Network Stanislaus Program. Through this we create more conscientious and sustainable ways of life while lowering the cost of doing business for our community and future generations.

R - Relationships The Modesto Chamber of Commerce specializes in building relationships and serving as the nexus to businesses, nonprofit organizations, and governmental agencies. With over a dozen Committees, Programs, and Events in which our members can participate, the Chamber offers ample opportunity to meet and connect with other business owners in our community. As a relational organization, the Chamber works with its members to ensure the opportunity to connect and grow in every niche and industry to help build and cultivate long-lasting relationships among business owners and community partners alike.

E - Education The Modesto Chamber of Commerce values education and offers members the opportunity to stay on the leading edge with new and emerging information and training that will set your business apart from the rest. In partnership with Modesto Junior College, the Chamber is pleased to offer an assortment of trainings applicable to any business or industry for credited completion through our Chamber University platform. Our Chamber also works with members to provide a platform to speak to their own industry expertise and invite other members to learn from those leading our local industries.

S - Service The Modesto Chamber of Commerce offers its members a wide range of opportunities to promote and engage their business across industry and community lines. The Chamber Weekly E-Blast, Website, and our Progress Magazine provide opportunities to advertise and promote your business, keep up to date with articles about local businesses in our community, and stay in the loop about up-and-coming Chamber and community events. Our Chamber also offers indemand materials, such as Member contact list, Federal and State compliance posters, export document services, and so much more. Chamber members can also personalize their business profile within our website and have access to our Member-Only Information Center, where members can connect with other members, boost their social media presence, promote job postings, public events, and member-to-member discounts.

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Mission Statement

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to serving the greater Modesto Area, regional businesses and community prosperity through advocacy, collaboration, access to leaders, economic development, connectivity and business education.

january 2024 | CONTENTS

Executive Committee

Chairperson – Kirstie Boyett Zacharias, American Leadership Forum- Great Valley Chapter Immediate Past Chairman – Michael Gaffney, Pacific Gas & Electric Vice Chairman, Internal Operations – Pat Gillum, Patricia A. Gillum, CPA Vice Chairman, External Operations – John Villines

board of Directors

Garrett Ardis- Huff Construction Company Inc. Phriekah DuHaney West- Kaiser Permanente Brad Blakeley, Edward Jones Investments David Halvorson Jr. Debra Hendricks - Debra Hendricks Consulting Amy Jefferies - Gianelli Nielsen Rachell Le Viege - Lift-A-Hand Home Care Agency Eric Mangal, Grimbleby Coleman CPAS Inc. Brian McDermott Kymber Miller- Sysco Central California Inc. Michael Moradian Jr- Peace of Mind Control Peggy O'Donnell, Mid-Valley Productions Edgar Perez - F&M Bank Jason Pineda, Freshpoint Inc. Stephen Qualls-Central Valley League of CA Cities Bill Robinson, Principal Financial Group Kari Santos - I.J. Larsen Pumps Christine Schweininger- Valley Builders Exchange DeJeune Shelton- Modesto Junior College Madhu Singh, Bank of Stockton Kelly Tallent Martin

sierra pacific warehouse group

Bye Bye Mattress

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COMMUNITY CEO & President Message 4 7 Calendar 8 Announcements 9 Shop Greater Modesto 12 Sisbro Innovation ADvocacy

President & CEO

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Trish Christensen Modesto Chamber of Commerce tchristensen@modchamber.org

Publisher: Modesto Chamber of Commerce 209.577.5757 • Progress@ModChamber.org www.ModChamber.org Graphic Design: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141 • www.209magazine.com

ribbon cuttings

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Printer: 209 Magazine

209.634.9141 • hvanderveen@209magazine.com

Distribution: 209 Magazine 209.634.9141

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I C Refrigeration

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Staff:

Administrative Assistant, Stephen Shaw Sustainability Coordinator, Jolene Camarena Events Coordinator, Felicia Lopez Membership Coordinator, Lizeth Rocha Staff Accountant, Jaime Lastra

Ambassador Highlight People On The Move Milestones President’s Club

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Modesto Machine Works

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Mysteries of Modesto

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in

this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Cover Photo:

Dan Gomes/farmerdanphotography

Mysteries of Modesto Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

Green Certified

EDUCATION

crogers@oakdaleleader.com 209.845.4074

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REPSCO

RELATIONSHIPS

Advertising Sales:

© Copyright 2021 Modesto Chamber of Commerce.

Some parts of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted, however, we require that permission be obtained in writing.

209.577.5757, Progress@ModChamber.org

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PROGRESS MAGAZINE 1114 J Street • Modesto, CA 95354 209. 577.5757 • Fax 209. 577.2673 www.ModChamber.org • Progress@ModChamber.org

CHAMBER CALENDAR january

february

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Rising Professional- DARK

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Rising Professionals- Rise & Shine with the CEO’s 7:30 A.M.- 9:00A.M.

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Ribbon Cutting- Divine Cleaning 931 10th Street Modesto, CA 12:00PM-12:30PM

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Economic Development Committee *Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 P.M

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Ribbon Cutting- BioLife Plasma Services 1700 McHenry Ave, STE 60B 10:00PM-10:30PM

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Stanislaus Green Team Meeting 12:00pm – 1:00pm *Register on website for lunch count

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Ribbon Cutting- Digital Media Services

by Savannah Williams 1114 J. St. Modesto 4:00 PM- 4:30 PM

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Ambassador & Welcome Team *In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

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Government Relations Council Meeting Joe Lopez, City Manager- City of Modesto Measure H Update *In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

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Women and Business- Coffee & Conversation

Economic Development Committee-DARK Register on website, in person & Zoom 12:00 P.M

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Ribbon Cutting-Day Center 301 10th St. Modesto 1:30 PM-2:30 PM

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Ribbon Cutting- Shop Greater Modesto 1114 J. St. Modesto 11:00 AM- 11:30 AM Women and Business- Coffee & Conversation Stanislaus Green Team Meeting Divert- Holly Yanai 12:00pm – 1:00pm *Register on website for lunch count

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Ribbon Cutting- Rojas Photography 1114 J. Street Modesto, CA 2:00PM-2:30PM

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Ambassador & Welcome Team *In person & Zoom 8:00 A.M.

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Government Relations Council Meeting Donna Linder, Stanislaus County Clerk Recorder 2024 General & Primary Election *In person & Zoom 11:30 A.M. Register on website

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110th Annual Members Choice Awards & Anniversary Soiree Modesto Centre Plaza 5:30PM-8:30PM

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*See website for more detail.

Find Zoom Registry links and more at www.modchamber.org Please note that calendar events and details are subject to change.

Ribbon Cutting- Renew Your Body Butters 1114 J. St. Modesto 4:00 PM- 4:30PM

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announcement Stanislaus County Health Services Agency receives grants for safety education and training programs The Stanislaus County Health Services Agency, Public Health Division announced that the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, has provided grant funding to the Injury Prevention Program for the seventh consecutive year.

A $145,955 grant from OTS will fund safety education and training programs aimed at helping parents and caretakers make sure their child is riding safely when in a vehicle.

For the fourth year, the Agency has also received an additional $137,000 grant from OTS aimed at improving the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists.

Both grant programs will run through September 2024.

Car crashes are the leading cause of death for children 13 and under, and car seats save lives by reducing the risk of injury or death. Unfortunately, a nationwide survey by the NHTSA found that half of all car seats are misused.

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“The goal of this program is to significantly reduce death and injury to children riding in cars and trucks,” said Heather Duvall, Public Health Director. “Eliminating the financial burden for low-income families helps every child in our community ride safely.”

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another 173 pedestrians and 131 bicyclists being injured.

“Every bicyclist and pedestrian should feel safe on the road,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “Education is one of many important tools that collectively work to ensure everyone reaches their destination safely, regardless of how they travel.”

Pedestrian and bicycle safety funding will be used to conduct youth and adult education, including: Bicycle safety classes and educational workshops; bicycle and pedestrian safety for youth and adults; public education on the importance of safety equipment like reflective armbands, leg bands, headlights, taillights, reflectors, and helmets; and participation in national education campaign events and programs such as National Walk to School Day, Bicycle Safety Month, Pedestrian Safety Month, Safe Routes to Schools, and Vision Zero.

The listed activities are intended to teach and encourage skills to help individuals maneuver safely throughout their communities, reduce preventable injuries and deaths, and encourage active modes of transportation like walking and biking.

Funding for these programs is provided by grants from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information about these injury prevention programs, please call (209) 558-5657.

Funding for child passenger safety will go toward a variety of activities to promote occupant safety and decrease injuries and deaths due to improper use of car seats, booster seats, or seat belts: Child seat safety check-ups/ inspections; child safety seat education classes; child passenger safety technician COMING 2024!

Psychoeducation and Support groups training and recertification Modesto Groups: training; distribution of child Couples Support Group safety seats to families in Youth Emotional Regulation Skills Group Youth Social Skills Group need; and promotion of the Patterson Groups: Adult Grief Support Group importance of discarding Cost: $40 per group used and expired car seats.

Additionally, bicycle and pedestrian-related collisions remain high. In 2022, Stanislaus County recorded fifteen pedestrian and two bicyclist deaths from collisions with vehicles, with Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

Locations: Modesto and Patterson For registration and inquiries :

(P): 209) 554-6808

SHOP GREATER MODESTO: YOUR GATEWAY TO LOCAL BUSINESSES! Join us in celebrating the launch of Shop Greater Modesto, CA—an online marketplace designed to champion our thriving local businesses! This is FREE to our local regional business community, in Spanish and English.

BROADEN REACH OF SALES OUTLETS:

Diversity of sales channels to increase overall sales.

Benefit from shared promotion from multiple local businesses & partners.

COMMUNITY-BASED CONSUMER:

Online sales exposure to locally-minded consumers. Allows customers to choose local pickup, delivery, or shipping.

WHY BUY FROM SHOP GREATER MODESTO? LOCAL GOODS, DELIVERED Enjoy the convenience of local products delivered right to your doorstep!

SUPPORT LOCAL Every purchase through our marketplace directly contributes to the success of small businesses in our community.

ONLINE GUIDANCE AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:

CONNECT & STRENGTHEN:

Selling support from a live team assisting with your shop, products, and orders. Online training and resources to help you manage and market your shop.

Strengthen the local economy by fostering resilience and growth within our business community.

If you're a micro business, small business or entrepreneur, now is the time to showcase your offerings to a wider audience!

CONTACT US TODAY TO JOIN! Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore

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WHY SELL ON SHOP GREATER MODESTO?

Make an Impact with Your Business!

209-577-5757 sshaw@modchamber.org january 2024

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Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group: Ready for the Future

By Chris Murphy

Modesto is at the center of everything when it comes to logistics and food processing.

Our area leads in “Smart Ag” for the future and our ability to grow anything gives us an advantage.

But as everyone knows, our goods need to get to market and that’s where Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group comes in.

We provide Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) certified, organic warehouse and trucking services in all temperatures, from frozen, refrigerated to ambient, supporting local growers, manufacturers, processors, retailers, wholesalers and consumers.

Here we are in 2024 and a lot has changed. Besides being the home of American Graffiti, George Lucas, Star Wars, Royal Robbins, Ernest and Julio Gallo, Dan Costa and Jeremy Renner, we are also a proud agriculture town. Our region literally feeds the world. With that comes opportunity and responsibility.

Let’s start with the opportunity. Ag is so much more than processed fruits and vegetables.

Here is the responsibility part. We move food to people all over the world. This is where Modesto shines. If you haven’t been though the Beard Industrial area, you may have heard the M&ET trains moving hundreds of box cars daily, or have seen the thousands of trucks. This is the start of the journey, from processor to customer.

Then there are by-products.

Modesto is innovating in water treatment and reclamation and our growers benefit from this.

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Modesto has agricultural sewer and water capabilities for food processing that are rare in many areas. Our innovation is leading with new products, from aseptic packed oat and nut milk beverages, many variants of olive oil, prepared and snack foods, poultry, dairy with world-class cheeses and the multitude of salsas, tomato pastes, fire roasted flavors and new uses for almonds, pistachios, walnuts, peaches, grapes, packaging and more. Yes, there is a lot of wine and Gallo is the best in the business.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

Continued on Page 11

Continued from Page 10 Opportunity Stanislaus and Beam Circular are working to recycle our own biofuels back into the food, supply and energy chain. Sierra Pacific works toward carbon neutrality at our Patterson operation which is 45% powered by solar and will be expanding our solar power this year.

We are all responsible for food safety and traceability from the farm to the customer. Sierra Pacific takes special care in managing food safety, with excellent systems that track every move and every case, linking with customer systems.

We are proud that Modesto is our home base and our families live and work here. We invest back into our community and volunteer, promote and encourage people to get involved and our team has a volunteer spirit. SPWG is the home base for ModestoView magazine, a major promoter of positive local living.

Sierra Pacific has a national reach and when I meet a potential customer, I tell the Modesto story, from Gallo to American Graffiti and our great position in the food supply chain.

Our family and community story is an asset to our company and hope it’s the same for you. Let’s continue to innovate our local economy so we can all shine.

Chris Murphy CEO Sierra Pacific Warehouse Group www.spwg.com chrism@spwg.com

Expertise Makes the Difference

Our partnership with HUB International has made it possible to offer our clients more than ever before. The combination of our local knowledge and expertise along with the resources of one of the nation’s premier insurance companies allows us to bring you creative and cost-effective solutions that are right on target for your businesses needs.

Talk to us and see what the advantage of real expertise can do for you and your business.

Risk & Insurance | Employee Benefits | Retirement & Private Wealth hubinternational.com

800-942-2729 • 209-550-3783

community

Thirty-five years ago, our family company decided to focus on being a best-in-class food grade warehouse, a mission that still drives us today. Today, we are still family owned and now have our third generation leading our amazing professional team.

Giddings, Corby, Hynes Lic# 0144783

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The Digital Revolution in Industry and Manufacturing Navigating the Online Marketing Landscape Written by Kathryn Kim Ramos, Sisbro Innovation Website and Digital Marketing Consultant

Integrating digital marketing strategies has become increasingly vital in the rapidly evolving world of industry and manufacturing. This article delves into the intersection of these traditional sectors with the dynamic realm of online marketing, highlighting the transformative impact of digital strategies on industrial and manufacturing businesses.

Embracing Digital Marketing in a Traditional Domain Historically, the industrial and manufacturing sectors have relied on direct sales, trade shows, and wordof-mouth for business growth. However, the digital era has ushered in a paradigm shift. Today, an online presence is not just a luxury but a necessity.

Companies now leverage websites, social media, and digital campaigns to showcase their products and services, reach new markets, and build brand awareness.

The Power of Data and Targeted Marketing One of the most significant advantages of digital marketing in the industry and manufacturing sectors is the ability to collect, analyze, and utilize data.

Businesses can tailor their marketing efforts to specific audiences by understanding customer behaviors and preferences. For instance, a manufacturer specializing in automotive parts can use targeted ads and content marketing to reach automotive companies and enthusiasts, thereby maximizing the impact of their marketing spend.

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Content Marketing: Educating and Engaging Customers Content marketing plays a pivotal role in the digital strategy for manufacturers. Businesses can demonstrate their expertise and build trust with potential clients by creating informative and engaging content such as blogs, videos, and infographics. This approach is particularly effective in the B2B space, where purchasing decisions are often informed by detailed information and trust in the supplier’s knowledge and experience.

SEO: A Gateway to Global Markets Search engine optimization (SEO) is another critical component of digital marketing for industry and 12

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manufacturing. By optimizing their websites and content for search engines, local businesses can improve their visibility in search results, attracting more potential clients. This global visibility is particularly beneficial for manufacturers seeking to expand their reach beyond local markets.

Social Media: Building Community and Brand Loyalty Social media platforms offer manufacturers unique opportunities to build a community around their brand. Through regular updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and customer interaction, companies can foster loyalty and engage with existing and potential customers more personally and informally.

The Future: Integrating Digital with Traditional Methods While digital marketing offers numerous benefits, it doesn’t replace traditional marketing methods but rather complements them. The most successful companies integrate digital strategies with traditional marketing efforts, such as attending trade shows and maintaining personal client relationships.

Adopting digital marketing within the realms of industry and manufacturing represents more than a mere trend; it signifies a profound transformation in the operational and competitive methodologies of these businesses. By embracing online marketing strategies, manufacturers can enhance their visibility, reach new markets, and build stronger customer relationships, positioning themselves for success in a digital world.

To enhance your company's online presence, whether it's creating a new website, updating an existing one, or seeking a virtual assistant for social media or phone support, visit www.sisbroinnovation.com. You can also contact Sisbro Innovation directly at (800) 291-9102 for further assistance.

REPSCO, Inc. Green-to-Gold Program The manufacturing company, which moved from Colorado to the Riverbank Industrial Complex nearly five years ago, has emerged as the industry leader in producing 100% recyclable custom-designed plastic slips sheets, a viable alternative to wood pallets.

Innovation is a long-standing tradition at REPSCO – they have focused on every stage of the recycling process, from source separating material, to refining its development in order to net the highest quality polymers in the postconsumer market. This attention to detail has allowed the company to reduce costs in recycling and pass those savings on to their customers.

REPSCO continues to be the front-runner in developing turn-key solutions for reducing customer shipping and storage costs, while increasing load handling capacity.

The company has become proficient in the production of the slip sheets with specifications that can meet any unitized load size, weight and application. Additionally, they are unique in the sense that they understand the transportation and storage business as well as the recycled plastic industry. This is a perfect example of how environmental stewardship can lower the cost of doing business.

Nothing exemplifies this more than REPSCO’s Green-toGold program, an initiative that encourages its customers

and vendors to recycle their uses slip sheets, reusing former products again and again, while saving money, conserving resources and reducing their environmental impact in the process.

How is this possible?

• By offering incentives to return used REPSCO slip sheets to their facilities to be recycled.

• By showing customers how recycled slip sheets from REPSCO can stabilize their material handling costs.

• By utilizing post-consumer and post-industrial recycling in the production of their products and pass the savings on to their customers.

• By operating a closed-loop recycling system, REPSCO ensures sustainability with its product.

With the millions of wood pallets in America’s warehouses today, it’s time for an alternative – it’s time to partner with REPSCO! - For more information, contact George Isaac, Sales Director, at 209-312-7000 or at gisaac@repsco.com #itsallaboutrecycling #sustainability

advocacy

When it comes to recycling, REPSCO, Inc. does not just talk about it, they live it – day in, day out for more than 30 years.

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ambassador highlight Where Banking is Easy

By Courtney Lagorio, F&M Bank of Central California

Working in her current role as Commercial Relationship Manager, Courtney has become exposed to a variety of different industries other than agriculture. She now enjoys the diversity of her current clientele rather than be siloed into only servicing agricultural businesses.

“Becoming involved in the Modesto Chamber of Commerce was a fantastic way to get connected and become more enriched in the Modesto community” says Courtney of her reason for joining the chamber.

As an “outsider” residing in Linden and commuting 30 miles each way daily, Courtney joined the Modesto Chamber of Commerce in September of 2022 in hopes of connecting with the community.

She is now a part of the Women in Business Impact Committee and the Welcome Team.

Both of these programs help Courtney network with other business professionals of all ages and experience levels. Through F&M Bank, Courtney has also coordinated countless sponsorships for events

hosted by the Modesto Chamber, including the Ag Aware Luncheon, Harvest Luncheon, Community Connections Member Social, President’s Tier Social, and many others.

Courtney also directly supports many businesses and non-profit organizations that are members of the Chamber of Commerce. Courtney is well versed in commercial financing, including real estate, construction, lines of credit, equipment, agriculture, and can additionally assist with any depository needs. F&M Bank offers a tailored banking experience for its customers and is commonly referred to as “concierge banking”. The Bank is one of the few that still offers a full Commercial Banking staff that physically sit in our branches. The commercial team is available for our community at all times of the day – even without an appointment! As a bonus, F&M Bank was recently named the #1 Performing Bank in the United States by Bank Director, as well as the Bauer Financial “5-Star Superior Bank & Best of Bauer” award, as well as many others. F&M Bank is proud to serve the Central Valley the only way known – with exceptional service for our customers.

Giving back to the community is one of the main pillars of the bank.

Keeping money in F&M Bank is a safe and secure way to ensure your money stays invested in the central valley for many generations to come. https://www.fmbonline.com/about/about-f-mbank.html

RELATIONSHIPS

Courtney Lagorio was born and raised in the small agricultural community of Linden, CA, about fifteen miles east of Stockton. Courtney graduated with Summa Cum Laude from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with her degree in Agricultural Business. Coming from a 4th generation farming operation specializing in walnuts, almonds, cherries, stone fruits, squash, onions, tomatoes, and more – Courtney knew she wanted to do something connected to the agricultural industry here in the Central Valley.

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American Recycling Holdings New President American Recycling Holdings is pleased to announce Dave Hokens as its new President. Hokens has over 20 years of experience in material science engineering as well as food and agriculture, giving him a strong familiarity with the commodities materials markets and the full circle economy for paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals, which American Recycling specializes in.

Hokens brings a strong confidence that will enhance American Recycling’s operations and build relationships with current and future customers. Hokens will further solidify and grow our position in the market, as well as expand our reach across the region.

Mr. Hokens grew up in Michigan, received his Bachelor’s

and Master of Science degree in Material Science Engineering from Michigan State University and his M.B.A. from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

American Recycling is a full service commercial and industrial recycling company.

Dave Hokens Its operations are held on a property in Modesto that has been in the recycling business since 1946. For more information about American Recycling and its services, please visit americanrecyclingholdings.com.

Bye Bye Mattress The City of Modesto is proud to offer a new service to residents; by collaborating with the Mattress Recycling Council’s (MRC) Bye Bye Mattress program a collection site at 610 S. Conejo Ave. opened on Oct. 26. This provides a simple, no-cost option for residents to drop off their mattresses for recycling. Prior to last month’s opening of the collection site, all the mattresses collected within the city went into the landfill – a waste of resources.

Relationships

More than 75% of a mattress can be recycled and turned into everyday products like carpet padding, construction rebar and mulch. By recycling a mattress an individual can have an impact in fighting climate change.

Recycling just one mattress saves 500 gallons of water, enough energy to power the average household for three days and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an amount equivalent to driving 60 fewer miles.

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In addition to providing convenience to residents, the City is also participating in the program to reduce the number of illegally dumped mattresses on our streets. Just this year, the City of Modesto Blight Abatement team picked up 808 illegally dumped mattresses.

Since 2016, MRC’s Bye Bye Mattress program has recycled more than 10 million mattresses in California, diverting over 380 million pounds of steel, foam, fiber, and wood from the waste stream.

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

Bye Bye Mattress is a statewide network of collection sites and events serving urban and rural communities across California and made possible through collaborations with local governments, solid waste haulers and nonprofit organizations.

The new Modesto location is open Thursday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon. Simply bring your mattress, box spring or futon mattress to 610 S. Conejo Avenue.

Next time you are looking to get rid of an old mattress, don’t just throw it away. Recycle it using MRC’s Bye Bye Mattress program in Modesto and help make a difference for the environment and your community.

Visit ByeByeMattress.com for more information.

Congratulations to this MONTH'S milestone memberships

20 + years

Bank of America Chicago Title Pacific Gas & Electric Co. JS West & Companies

Andrews, Glenn & Carol Nexus Engineering US Bank

80 years +

Modesto & Empire Traction Co. Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc., a HUB International Company Modesto Irrigation District Beard Land and Investment Co. Wille Electric Supply Co., Inc. I. C. Refrigeration Service, Inc.

50 years +

Varni Brothers Corporation Storer Coachways Sysco Central California Inc. Gianelli Friedman & Jeffries

35 + years Skeet's Insurance Service Inc. Community Hospice & Health Services Kenni Friedman Modern Steel Structures Modesto Junior College Dept Of Agriculture

15 years +

O'Brien's Market Garton Tractor, Inc Valley Children's Healthcare Simile Construction Service, Inc. Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino Stuart David Furniture Bank of Stockton

10 + years Andersons Tow Modesto Academy of Music & Design Waterford Irrigation Supply, Inc. Valley Recovery Resources Redwood Family Center Edward Jones - Brad Blakeley Financial Advisor Kemper Sports - Creekside GC/ Dryden Park GC

5 + years Opera Modesto Ceres Pipe & Metal Dittos Copy Centers, Inc.

1 + years Astound Business Solutions Powered by Wave Valley Builders Exchange Costco Wholesale (Modesto) Christina Rotondo - State Farm Agent Venue 833 Liz Donegan - Humana Insurance BC CRYO SCULPT Resurrection Brands Camp Taylor, Inc. Davis Family Shines Mysteries of Modesto The Plus Group Truewood of Modesto

RELATIONSHIPS

100 + years

5 + years Mid Valley IT La Perla Tapatia La Familia Market JRP Realty Group

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president’s club Circle Of Influence Elite

Visionary

F&M Bank

San Joaquin Valley College

E & J Gallo Winery

Modesto Nuts Professional Baseball

Flowers Baking Co. of Modesto, LLC

Save Mart Supermarkets

Kaiser Permanente

Sutter Health Valley Area

Food Maxx

Seva Hospice

FreshPoint

Solecon Industrial Contractors

Gianelli Friedman & Jeffries

Stanislaus Food Products Co.

Gilton Solid Waste Mgmt, Inc.

Stifel Investment Services

Golden Valley Health Centers

Storer Coachways

Sysco Central California Inc.

Keystone AIM Property Management

enthusiast

Beard Land and Investment Co.

Alpine Protective Solutions

Capax-Giddings, Corby, Hynes, Inc., a HUB

American Chevrolet

International Company Central Valley Doctors Health System Doctors Behavioral Health Center-DMC Doctors Medical Center Mape's Ranch/Lyons' Investments

Atherton & Associates, LLP Audi Modesto Bank of Stockton Benchmark Engineering, Inc, Care One Home Health and Hospice, Inc.

Physician Referral Service-DMC

California State University, Stanislaus

IHeart Media Infiniti of Modesto International Paper Co. JS West & Companies Legacy Home Care Maxx Value Foods Mocse Credit Union Modesto Toyota

Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Swingle, Van Egmond & Heitlinger The Century The Parks Group TSM Insurance & Financial Services Turlock Irrigation District Union Bank US Bank Valley BMW

Central Valley Nissan

Nine3One

Central Valley Volkswagen Hyundai

Oak Valley Community Bank

Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino

O'Brien's Market

Clark Pest Control

Opportunity Stanislaus

Valley Lexus

Collins Electrical

Pacific Gas & Electric Co.

Varni Brothers Corporation

Comcast

Pepsi Bottling Group

Vintage Faire Mall/Macerich Company

Del Monte Plant #1

PMZ Real Estate

Walmart

Frito-Lay Co., Inc.

Dhillon Healthcare Group

Residence Inn by Marriott Modesto North

Warden's Office Products Center

IHeart Media

English Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Hospital

Rizo-Lopez Foods, Inc.

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency

Modesto Irrigation District

Exceed GPR & Locating, LLC

Rose Bouquet

Yosemite Foods Inc.

Blue Diamond Growers Crystal Creamery Doubletree by Hilton Modesto Fiscalini Cheese Company

Relationships

Astound Business Solutions Powered by Wave

Pacific Southwest Container, Inc.

Visionary

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American Medical Response

Grover Landscape Services, Inc.

Valley Children's Healthcare Valley First Credit Union

Contact the chamber to learn more about our president's club level benefits

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

RELATIONSHIPS january 2024

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Relationships 20

Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

RELATIONSHIPS january 2024

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I C Refrigeration Celebrates 80 Years

BY KEVIN SILVA

I C Refrigeration was established in 1940, by Bill Imfeld and wife Margrete along with business partner Paul Cloutier. Together they formed Imfeld Cloutier (I.C.) Refrigeration, which focused on dairy refrigeration and mechanical operations.

In the 1950’s and 60’s IC Refrigeration continued establishing themselves as a primary Residential Heating and Air Conditioning Company.

In 1963 Bill’s son Dick Imfeld, joins the company and eventually assumes full control and will be a major part of it for the next 49 years before retiring in 2022.

In 1987 the business would move its operations to its current location in Ceres located at 2216 Rockefeller Drive.

In 1997 Kevin Silva would join the IC team. Over the next 25 years Kevin will help transform the company to be more diversified by adding the following departments to better serve their customers : Restaurant division , Custom Stainlesssteel fabrication , Hood Cleaning , Fire Suppression, Bead Blasting, and powder coating . These services will grow the company to over 70 employees and span the service area from Bakerfield North serving all of Northern California.

In 2012 Kevin started purchasing shares of the company first buying out Dicks son Rich and then by 2022 he purchased the remaining shares from Dick, making him sole owner.

What sets IC apart from other companies is its diversification. We try to pay attention to what the customer’s needs are and provide whatever that is.

This is a challenge given the status of the current market and ever-changing cost of equipment and material.

Relationships

We also try to stay competitive and relevant in the current market place while keeping a steady work force .

I can’t take all the credit I have had a great team of dedicated employees around me that have helped us get to where we are today and are still working towards helping us be the best company we can be.

Happy Anniversary, Modesto Chamber Members for 80 Years!

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Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org

Modesto Machine Works, A Mainstay for More Than 116 Years Established in 1906, Modesto Machine Works is a repair center for worn and broken productions machinery, also CNC and Prototype Engineering.

We are a member of the Modesto Junior College Apprenticeship Team, helping people to develop skills in the manufacturing and food sectors.

Karrior Electric Vehicles and Carts are manufactured and sold in Los Angeles and Modesto, California.

We are located at 1106 G Street, Modesto CA 95354 Phone 209-524-4868 and 209-303-4496 modestomachine@att.net

karrior.com and https://modestomachineworks.com

Mysteries of Modesto!

By Janette Workman

content and current points of interest.” Another reviewer said, “Seems like the art of storytelling has been lost, but we were immersed in every single story!” Tours are seasonal due to weather, but private tours can be arranged all year. October concluded group tours, but they begin again in February 2024 for the Lovers Edition Tours.

Mysteries of Modesto tours are intended for mature audiences, individuals, groups and couples. www.mysteriesofmodesto.com

education / service

Mysteries of Modesto made its debut in February 2023. With a passion for history, the paranormal and a 10-year background in theater, founder Jan Workman wanted to share some of Modesto’s rich history in a fun way. Mysteries of Modesto is a walking, haunted history tour in downtown Modesto. The tour combines real history, with theatrical stories involving our beloved hometown.

One reviewer wrote “I appreciate the guide’s ability to weave the story(s) all while providing historic

january 2024

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Make your mark.

Some businesses are content to have no other online presence than a Facebook page, and never think of how that looks to customers. While Facebook is a wonderful complement to a company website, it is by no means a realistic replacement. And not everybody has a Facebook account anymore.

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2023 WINNER Best Bank in Modesto