Fall 2012 - Business News

YOUR VOTE COUNTS

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

President of the United States

House ofRepresentatives10th District

United StatesSenator

California

Turlock City Council - 2 Members

OBAMAROMNEY

EMKEN

FEINSTEINHERNANDEZ

DENHAM

OLSENMATEO

NASCIMENTOJACKSONBUBLAKALVARADO

California State Assembly -12th Dixrict

PAGE 4 BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012

Contents

TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Business News

115 S. Golden State Blvd.

Turlock, CA 95380

209-632-2221

Fax 209-632-5289

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm

Sharon Silva

President/CEO

[email protected]

Tasha Van Santen

Director Communications/Development

Ext. 104

[email protected]

Patricia Baron

Operations

Ext. 103

[email protected]

Sharon Berry

Administrative Assistant

Ext. 100

[email protected]

Kassi Fortado

Membership/CVB Assistant

Ext. 101

[email protected]

TURLOCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Desa Cammack

Director

115 S. Golden State Blvd.

209-632-2221 Ext. 106

[email protected]

W.A.C.E. Award Winning Publication of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce

Page 7 Cover Story It’s Voting Time!

Page 8 Central Valley Job Fair

Page 9 Turlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealership is Back!

Page 10 Business Empowerment Forum

Page 11 New CSU Stanislaus President Champions Community Partnerships

Page 12 City of Turlock

Page 12 California SBDC If You Want to Help a Vet, Hire a Vet

Page 13 Considering November’s Ballot Measures

Page 14 A Quiet Summer at City Hall

Page 16 Ambassadors of the Quarter

Page 16 Welcome New Members

Page 17 Mixer, Chamber and Ribbon Cutting Events

Page 18 Leadership Class of 2013

Page 20 Reflections on Wisconsin

Page 21 Dental Spa, Antoine Varani, D.D.S.

Page 22 Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Promotes Community Events

We are approaching that magicaltime of year when signs pop up allover town in every shape, size, and

color. I am not talking about the pre-Christmas sales that start in September; I amreferring to the election. Every year votersare presented with a myriad of choices fromballot measures and propositions to local,state, and federal elected office.

All of these things have an impact on our quality of life and alsoshapes how we do things in Turlock. The best thing about theelection is that everyone has a voice and can be heard. To notcast your vote and then complain about the outcome is takingthe easy way out. If you are not part of the solution, you are partof the problem.

It is inherent that everyone exercises their right to vote and have asay in how we shape our community and also our country. Iwould encourage everyone to become familiar with thecandidates and issues. On the local level, there are many Meetand Greet sessions with the candidates, as well as, forums whichoffer a look at all the candidates and their platforms. The mostimportant thing is to make your vote counts and be an activeparticipant.

See you at the polls…

Paul PorterWinton-Ireland Strom & Green

As an American citizen, this is a veryimportant time in our country andour communities to select the

leaders that will represent us as theymake decisions that will impact our livesand livelihood. I believe it to be aprivilege to be able to cast a vote andhave a say in whom the people empowerto be our voice as decisions are beingdecided for our economic stability and the

lifestyles we live.

As the stewards of a strong business climate, it is theresponsibility of the Chamber of Commerce to insure that theinterest of business is being represented in the political decisionsof our community leaders; therefore, the Chamber has made adecision to support pro-business candidates for a better Turlock.

The question is frequently asked “Why does the Chamber getinto politics and do endorsements of local candidates”? Theanswer is actually simple; the Turlock Action for BusinessPolitical Action Committee (TAB PAC) and the ChamberBoard of Directors have devoted time and effort into makingthe Turlock Chamber of Commerce “the voice of Turlockbusiness.” The Chamber is dedicated to supporting businessretention and growth within our city and fostering pro-businesspublic policies which advance the economic agenda of ourregion.

One of the major goals outlined since 2006, when the ChamberBoard of Directors made a decision to be proactive legislativelyand to increase the advocacy efforts on behalf of Chambermembers. This mandate includes steps to strengthen businesspresence in local government and encourage changes in publicpolicy that affect chamber members.

Our elected officials must address the concerns of localbusinesses. Through this effort, the Chamber can act as aconsensus builder, expressing the concerns of the businesscommunity to our elected officials. The following questionsmust be answered: how to improve development in Turlock;how to deal with the homeless; how to assist public safety tokeep Turlock a safe place to live while developing a plan to keeppublic employee benefit and pensions affordable; and how toafford fixing city streets? These questions need to be answeredby the leaders we elect.

I ask for each of you to go to the polls and vote this Novemberfor President of the United States, Congress, State Legislatorsand our local officials. It is up to the citizens of this country toput the right people in office.

Sharon SilvaPresident/CEO

We are moving in the right direction

BUSINESS NEWS « FALL 2012 PAGE 5

Go To The Polls and Vote This November!

From the President/CEOWelcome

Of The Board - Paul PorterChairmanEveryone Has A Voice!


Mike Lynch (Past Chair)Mike Lynch Consulting

Paul Porter (Chair)Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green

Marty Jakosa (Past Chair)Foster Farms

Larry SmithSmith Chevrolet Cadillac

Mike AllenAllen Mortuary

Dean DoerksenCentral Ag Products

Yubert Envia Foster Farms

Steve Gemperle (Treasurer)Gemperle Enterprises

Julio HallackDBA Concrete by Hallack

Chris KiriakouCornerstone Consulting

Lazar PiroPiro Trading International

Susan QuigleyRabobank

Mike Romeo (Chair Elect)Romeo Medical Clinic

Steve TalkingtonLancaster Painting

Andrew WigglesworthMedicAlert Foundation

Bill Bassitt(Ex-officio Member)

Alliance

2012 Chamber Board of Directors

Chamber ChampionsAllen Mortuary • Emanuel Medical Center

F&M Bank • Gemperle EnterprisesJKB Energy • Lancaster Painting

MedicAlert FoundationOak Valley Community Bank

Rabobank • Smith Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc.Turlock Journal

Turlock Scavenger/Turlock RecyclingWinton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency

Upcoming Events:Ameriprise Financial ~September 18th

Creative Alternatives ~ October 16th

Costco ~November 20th

Sharon Silva President / CEO

Ashour BadalCSU Stanislaus

Dianna BettencourtOak Valley

Community Bank

Steven PadillaSunopta

Sharon SilvaCEO/President

IOM, Institute forOrganization Management,

University of ArizonaBachelor ArtsOrganizationalCommunication

Tasha Van SantenDirector Communications/

DevelopmentBachelor Science -

BusinessCSU Stanislaus

Sharon BerryAdministrative

AssistantBachelor Science -

EducationPacific University

Desa CammackDirector Turlock Convention

and Visitors BureauWestern Association ofChamber ExecutivesAcademy Graduate

Patricia BaronOperations

Bachelor ScienceBusiness/Accounting

MPA In ProgressCSU Stanislaus

Kassi FortadoMembership /

CVB AssistantMerced College

2012 TURLOCKCHAMBER

OFCOMMERCE

STAFF


This election gives California and Turlock voters a myriad of opportunities to impact our quality of life, both directly andindirectly. We are electing a President, a Congress, and State Legislature, City Council and approving or disapproving amyriad of propositions dealing with taxes, financing of campaigns, the death penalty, labeling of food products and autoinsurance.

In Turlock, our ballots will include contests for:PPRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (Obama or Romney)

PUnited States Senator, representing California (Emken or Feinstein)

PMember, United States House of Representatives for the 10th District which includes Turlock (Denham or Hernandez)

PMember, California State Assembly for the 12th District which includes Turlock (Mateo or Olsen)

PTwo members of the Turlock City Council (Alvarado, Bublak, Jackson and Nascimento)

PProp 30: Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act (Governor’s tax plan)

PProp 31: Government Performance and Accountability Act (Government reform)

PProp 32: Paycheck Protection Initiative (prohibits unions using payroll deductions funds for political purposes)

PProp 33: The Automobile Insurance Discount Act

PProp 34: End the Death Penalty Initiative

PProp 35: Californians Against Sexual Exploitation Act (almost everybody supports this)

PProp 36: Revises the 1994 Three Strikes Law (changes the law to require the life sentence only when the third strike is serious

or a violent felony)

PProp 37: Mandatory labeling of genetically modified organisms (untimely, unscientific and anti-competitive restrictions on

California agriculture and food processing)

PProp 38: Our Children, Our Future (Really? Would increase state income tax by billons annually with all revenue going toschools.)

PProp 39: “Close out of state corporate loopholes”

PProp 40: Overturn recently adopted state senate district maps (the one that put Turlock in a district that runs fromSacramento County in the north to Death Valley in the South)

The men and women elected to office, and the propositions that are passed (or not passed) in November will impact us directlyin Turlock.

REMEMBER, IF YOUR VOTE ISN’T CAST, THE VOTE OF SOMEONE WHO DISAGREES WITH YOU COUNTS DOUBLE!

So, on November 6th, it’s about action, dedication, innovation and a fresh perspective (to steal the words of our city councilcandidates).

PLEASE VOTE. IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT!

´´´ IT’S VOTING TIME!´´´ By Mike Lynch´´´ IT’S VOTING TIME!´´´

BY THE WAY, IF YOU DON’T VOTE, THE BALLOT OF SOMEONE WHO DISAGREES WITH YOU ON

A CANDIDATE OR ISSUE COUNTS TWICE AS MUCH. REMEMBER THAT WHEN YOU ARE

CONSIDERING NOT BOTHERING TO FILL OUTTHE ENTIRE BALLOT BECAUSE IT IS TOO

LONG…OR NOT EVEN GOING TO THE POLLSBECAUSE THERE MAY BE LINE.

About The Alliance: The Stanislaus Economic Developmentand Workforce Alliance is one of the only organizationsnationally overseeing both economic development andworkforce training activities. The Alliance is a private notfor profit corporation with a mission and responsibility ofimplementing economic development and workforce trainingactivities for the Stanislaus County community. The Allianceis committed to creating a blueprint for success, which canmake the Stanislaus the strategic business choice for existingand expanding businesses by focusing on job creation,business assistance and workforce preparation activities.


Nearly Two-Thousand . . .

Turlock, CA –Job seekers as far away as Chico and Fresnoregistered for the Central Valley Job Fair hosted by U.S.Representative Jeff Denham and facilitated by the Alliance.

A few eager job seekers showed up at the Stanislaus CountyFairgrounds two hours early wanting to be the first to talk to the47 participating employers.

Registrants received an official guide to the job fair at check-inwhich mapped out each employer location and prospective jobopenings. By 1:00, several employers had run out of applicationsand had to replenish. "We found some good, solid, qualifiedcandidates", one employer told the Alliance. That same sentimentechoed throughout most of the companies participating.

Congressman Denham was on hand for part of the day, talkingone-on-one with employers and visiting individually with jobseekers. Individuals seeking work endured long lines to speak withemployers, but many expressed appreciation for the opportunityto talk to companies who had real jobs, and were hiring rightaway!

For more information, contact Alisha Cruz [email protected] or call 209-567-4644.

ATTEND CENTRAL VALLEY JOB FAIR


GOOD NEWS . . .TURLOCK CHRYSLER DODGE JEEP

RAM DEALERSHIP IS BACK!

The Great Recession brought down many businesses, butone of the most significant was the American autoindustry. There was a federal bailout for the industry

but not for some dealerships. Turlock certainly felt therepercussion by the loss of the Turlock Auto Plaza.

July 2012,Turlock welcomed the Turlock Chrysler Jeep Ramdealership back to the community after three and one-halfyears. Not only is it great news for the area and nice to see theproperty bustling with activity, but many of these employeesworked for the previous dealership. Their presence in thecommunity has been missed and customers are anxious tocheck out the latest models.

Inder Dosanjh, the owner of the dealership, lives in Ceres andhas resided in Stanislaus County for most of his life. Thisdealership is the twelfth that Mr. Dosanjh owns in Californiaand they opened their doors 90 days after the decision wasmade to go ahead with the new dealership. The City Managerof Turlock, Roy Wasden, assisted in streamlining the process.

Dosanjh, takes pride in bringing innovation and comfort toeach buyer, whether the individual is looking for a new orlike-new used vehicle. Their friendly, highly trained,knowledgeable staff are fully prepared to answer any questionsthat the customers may have. Master mechanics are on site toservice vehicles meaning individuals no longer need to travelto Merced or Modesto to have work completed on their cars.

Stop by 1600 Auto Mall Drive in Turlock to check out thelatest Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram models. Additionalinformation about the latest models can be accessed at theTurlock Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram website,http://turlockchryslerdodgejeepram.com or by calling209.250.8500.


On September 26, the Turlock Chamber of Commercehosted a Business Empowerment Forum at Latif ’sRestaurant from 8:00 to 10:00 am. The Honorable

Jeff Denham, US House of Representatives, The HonorableAnthony Cannella, California Senate and The Honorable KristinOlsen, California Assembly were the guests of honor. The eventwas hosted by the California Prosperity Project, partnershipbetween CalChamber and BiPAC and Alliance for AffordableServices.

Attending were Dan Faraci, Cathy Mesch and Chianne Hewer.Cathy is the Grass Roots Coordinator for CalChamber. Chianneis the West Region VP for BiPac based in San Francisco, whichrepresents five western states.

Mayor John Lazar was the Emcee and Joe Savarise, Senior RegionalVP for BIPAC from Washington, DC was the Moderator. Therewere approximately 100 in attendance to hear what theCongressman, Senator and Assemblymember envision the issuesfacing the future of California, particular the Central Valley.

Senator Cannella talked about the culture change that wasneeded in California, specifically regarding business owners,having concerns for their own survival, but also, giving back totheir communities and to the state as a whole. The mutualconcern of all the legislatures was the need for state legislationreform. Assemblymember Olsen is concerned about how manybusinesses are leaving the state to do business elsewhere, as well asthe need to improve the process to make business decisions for amore transparent government. Congressman Denham shared hisfrustration with businesses taxes and how difficult it is for smallbusiness to expand. Other topics discussed included education,water storage, workforce development, bringing new industries tothe valley and of course, roads, transportation, and statefinancing.

The Turlock Chamber was very pleased and wants to thank thelegislators for making time from their busy schedules to meet withour community members and business leaders.

The Turlock Chamber Hosts a Business Empowerment Forum withCongressman Denham, Senator Cannella and Assemblymember Olsen

Business Empowerment Forum


By David Tonelli

In his first three months on the job, CSU Stanislaus InterimPresident Joseph F. Sheley has made good on his promise toget out into the community and region to start meeting

people.

He has met with federal and state legislators, local electedofficials, school superintendents, and business and communityleaders from all over the San Joaquin Valley. Two TurlockChamber of Commerce events were on President Sheley’sschedule: a July luncheon at the Turlock Chamber of Commerceand an August reception at the Carnegie Arts Center. He spokewith chamber members on both occasions.

The struggling economy has profoundly affected public highereducation and the private sector alike, Sheley said, but he believesthe region can thrive if all work together.

“We are not an island,” Sheley said. “We are part of an importantregion, and we truly want to partner in moving this regionforward.”

During his tour of theValley, Sheley said manybusiness owners havesung the praises of CSUStanislaus graduates.Beyond their expertisein their chosen field of study, he said, CSU Stanislaus studentsleave college ready to hit the ground running, with an educationgrounded in the liberal arts and with skills like writing, thinkingand communicating that help them transition quickly into thebusiness world.But even beyond the quality of the university’s graduates, Sheleysaid, there is a growing need for the university to work with localgovernments and businesses. As evidenced by the success of CSUStanislaus’ service learning programs — which provide workexperience and networking opportunities to students throughprojects that address specific needs of businesses and otheragencies — such partnerships can be mutually beneficial.

And when the economy turns around — and universities canreturn to actively pursuing new students andcompeting for state funding — a strongrelationship with the surrounding region willbuild the kind of collective pride andadvocacy that will benefit the entire Valley.

“If we do this, the region’s leaders and citizensbecome our active, aggressive advocates,”Sheley said. “They celebrate our successespublicly. And they pick up the phone andpersonally let those who decide our fate knowwhy we matter. No more hidden gem.”

New CSU Stanislaus President Champions Community Partnerships


The Alliance SBDC along with California State UniversityStanislaus is working to help our armed forces veteranshere in the Turlock area find gainful employment or even

find their passion and start their own business. CSUS is in themidst of opening their Student Veterans Center on campuswhich is tasked with coordinating student veterans affairs withavailable opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship,as well as provide a central meeting and training site for CSUSstudents who have served in the military. This comes on theheels of two recent bills in Congress, HR 4155, and HR 4057which direct the federal government and the states to considercertain military training when granting licensing andcredentialing for veterans in certain occupations.

Alliance SBDC Consultant Al Seaton is also working withCSUS and U.S. Congressman Jeff Denham’s office toimplement and energize the Bipartisan Congressional VeteransJob Caucus whose rallying cry is “I hire veterans.” AsCongressman Denham put it “If you want to help a vet, hire avet.” Seaton said “It’s also a goal of the SBDC is to makeveterans in our area aware that starting a business is a viableoption for veterans and the SBDC is here to help, with one onone consulting, business plan creation and business educationseminars, all provided at no charge by the Alliance SBDC. Afurther incentive for CSUS veterans, if an entrepreneur veteranor ‘vetrepreneur’ as it were, located in the city of Turlock in avacant storefront, they could receive a cash incentive of $1000from our city.For more information, call Al Seaton, Alliance SBDC at 632-2221, or stop by the Turlock Chamber of Commerceduring regular business hours, at 115 S. Golden State Blvd.

Like most other water and wastewater utilities across thecountry, the city of Turlock is facing many challenges,including: rising costs, stagnating revenues, aging

infrastructure, increasingly stringent regulatory requirements,population changes and a rapidly changing workforce. As thecity grows and develops, preserving an adequate supply of high-quality water for our customers remains our top priority.

Regional Surface Water Supply ProjectThe city of Turlock relies entirely on groundwater for its potablewater supply. For the past several years, the city of Turlock, alongwith the cities of Modesto, Ceres and Hughson, has beennegotiating with the Turlock Irrigation District to receive treatedwater from the Tuolumne River to supplement potable watersupplies. The Regional Surface Water Supply Project wouldprovide up to 29 million gallons per day (32,500 acre-feet peryear). Turlock would receive about 55% of the new watersupply.

North Valley Regional Recycled Water Project (NVRRWP)The city of Turlock currently operates a tertiary wastewatertreatment facility that produces 14,562 acre-feet per year ofhigh quality recycled water. The proposed NVRRWP wouldcombine the tertiary effluents of the cities of Turlock andModesto to achieve the delivery of 30,930 to 46,600 acre-feetper year of recycled water to the Westside. The water shortagein California is now at a crisis level due to the three-yeardrought and the pumping reductions from the San JoaquinRiver Delta. The first phases of the proposed project couldproduce and deliver the treated water to the drought-impactedwest side of Stanislaus County to irrigate food crops.

For more information on either of these projects, please contactDan Madden, Municipal Services Director at the city ofTurlock at (209) 668-5590, [email protected] or visitthe City’s website www.CityofTurlock.org.

If you want to help a vet,

hire a vetBy Al Seaton

CITY OF TURLOCKBy Dan Madden


Considering NOVEMBER’S BALLOT MEASURESBy Chris Kiriakou

It seems that with all the convention hoopla that November 6, 2012, Election Day, is just around the corner. Considering that“vote by mail” ballots will be sent out on October 8 through the 30th the election is just around the corner. Which brings me to thetypical question how am I going to vote on all these Propositions?? There are 11 measures on the ballot this November ranging

from tax increases to the death penalty. Following is a list of the measures and their short title.

Proposition 30 - Temporary Taxes to Fund Education, Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding

Proposition 31 - State Budget, State and Local Government

Proposition 32 - Political Contributions by Payroll Deduction, Contributions to Candidates

Proposition 33 - Auto Insurance Companies, Prices Based on Driver’s History of Insurance Coverage

Proposition 34 - Death Penalty

Proposition 35 - Human Trafficking, Penalties

Proposition 36 - Three Strikes Law, Repeat Felony Offenders, Penalties

Proposition 37 - Genetically Engineered Foods, Labeling

Proposition 38 - Tax to Fund Education and Early Childhood Programs

Proposition 39 - Tax Treatment for Multistate Businesses, Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Funding

Proposition 40 – Redistricting, State Senate Districts

Ballot Measure Description Support Oppose

Prop. 30 Temporary Taxes to Fund Education. Guaranteed Local Public Safety Funding. PProp. 32 Prohibits Political Contributions by Payroll Deduction. Prohibitions on PContributions to Candidates.

Prop. 33 Changes Law to Allow Auto Insurance Companies to Set Prices Based on a PDriver’s History of Insurance Coverage.

Prop. 37 Genetically Engineered Foods. Mandatory Labeling. PProp. 38 Tax for Education and Early Childhood Programs. PProp. 39 Tax Treatment for Multistate Businesses. Clean Energy and Energy PEfficiency Funding.

Over two months the Turlock Chamber of Commerce’s Government RelationsCommittee (aka the GRC) reviewed the ballot measures for their impact onbusiness. Not all are as clear cut as a sales tax increase but some are. TheCommittee reviewed the measures on the basis of the impact on California‘seconomy, the local economy and our community at large. The above table isthe GRC’s recommendations on the ballot measures.

As you can see there was a significant concern over the proposed increases intaxes even though there would be impacts to our local community. Theconcern is for business survival in an economy where discretionary income istrending down.


MEETING COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM

A QUIET SUMMEr AT CITY HALL

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hiteBy Chris Kiriakou

1 1/10/12 Housing Element Y Y Y Y Y2 1/10/12 Customer Service Report Y Y Y Y Y3 1/10/12 Redevelopment Successor Agency Y Y Y Y Y4 1/24/12 Building Code Standards – Board of Appeals Y Y Y Y Y5 2/14/12 Approval of City of Turlock as Successor Agency Y Y Y Y Y6 2/14/12 Award a Contract for the Rehabilitation of

Golden State Blvd. and W. Main St. Y Y Y Y Y2/14/12 Appointment of Rob Jackson as Police Chief Y Y Y Y Y

7 2/24/12 Towing Fee Schedule Y Y Y Y Y8 3/13/12 Vote to Support Measure T – 1/8th cent Library Tax Y Y Y Y Y9 4/24/12 Reduce Arts Commission Membership to 7 members Y Y Y Y Y10 4/24/12 Support ACA23 – Change vote to 55% for certain tax Y Y Y Y Y11 5/18/12 Approve $70,000 grant funding for 6 Non-Profits Y Y Y Y Y12 5/22/12 Approve ordinance providing recycling to businesses Y Y Y Y Y13 5/22/12 Adopt General Fund and Non-General Fund Budgets N Y Y Y Y14 6/12/12 Development Collaborative Advisory Committee Y Y Y Y Y15 6/26/12 Extend Contract for Participation in the

Alliance/Small Business Development Center. Y Y Y Y Y16 7/24/12 Sewer Bond Refunding Y Y Y Y Y17 8/14/12 Development Costs for Drinking Water Plant Dev. Y Y Y Y Y

The third quarter of 2012 had a number of contract and regular operating items for the City Council but little in the way ofcontroversy. However, the council did vote on a number of business related items that one might consider small in scope individuallybut added together are important to conducting business in Turlock. Council items and votes are as follows:

FOLLOWING IS A BRIEF SUMMARY OF EACH OF THE 2012 BUSINESS RELATED ITEMS.• Housing Element – Modification of the General Plan Housing Element to provide for affordable and decent housing within a

community. The modified Housing Element provides for Extremely Low, Very Low and Low income households by requiring thatAffordable Housing projects of 10, units or greater have 10% for Extremely Low income households, by identifying potential farmworker housing sites suitable for development, assisting non-profits in the development of those sites, and to meet the requirementsfor an SB2 Emergency Shelter zoning.

• Customer Service Report – As part of the City’s strategic Plan to improve customer service the City hired a firm to interviewcustomers of the Development Services Department. Although generally a good finding, the report still provided someopportunities for improvement.

• Redevelopment Successor Agency – As part of the ongoing battle over dwindling property tax revenues the Governor and thelegislature approved legislation to dissolve Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s). A RDA is a vehicle to fund improvements to blightedareas in a community and is funded through the increase in property taxes resulting from the redevelopment (the tax increment).Because RDA revenues are not handled through the normal state property tax allocation methods, other agencies that rely onproperty taxes were not getting their share of the revenues. The State Supreme Court ruled in favor of the State. By implementinga Successor Agency the City can continue the existing redevelopment projects within the City but no more.

• Building Codes – Board of Appeals – Approve an update to the Building Codes including an Appeals Board in Chapter 8-1, Article3.

• Successor Agency – A continuation of the transition from Turlock RDA to a Successor Redevelopment Agency. (see #3 above) Alsoestablish rules and regulation for the Successor Agency. The Agency will administer the existing RDA projects.

• Rehab of Golden State and W. Main – Awarded a $985,484 contract to rehab the two major streets with more than half comingfrom the Federal Regional Surface Transportation Program.

• Towing Fee Schedule – Increase Towing Fee to reflect higher costs of towing. Fees had not been adjusted since February 2009.• Measure T - Currently the Stanislaus County library is supported by a 1/8th cent tax which expires at the end of this year. This

Measure would extend it for five more years.• Reduced the Arts Commission membership from 25 to 7 with 2 alternates to improve action.• Assembly Constitutional Amendment 23 would reduce the required 2/3rds affirmative vote to 55% for local transportation related

taxes.


• The $70,000 Community Development Block Grantprovide funding to six local non-profits that provide socialservices to those in need.

• Approved an Ordinance that extends recycling to businessrefuse collection. Blue Can rental at $7.65/mo.

• Approved the 2012/13 approximately $30M City budgetcontaining a $4M deficit with the short fall coming out ofCity reserves. The future deficit is somewhat driven by theemployee concessions due to expire in October but healthcare and pension cost are also drivers. Staff hopes to resolveat least part of the deficit over the coming months. Bublakwas opposed to the large deficit.

• Appointed and reappointed certain members of theCommittee to assist in improving the City’s processes byproviding feedback and assistance in serving the TurlockDevelopment community.

• Participate in the Alliance’s training programs for smallbusiness employees. Funded through an ARRA grant.

• Sewer Bond refunding reduces the annual debt service by$750,000 and $4 million (NPV) over the life if the bondsthrough a lower interest rate.

• Resolves certain issues with TID and reimburses them forpast development costs in order to move the SurfaceDrinking Water Project forward.

A quiet summer is not a bad thing in light of the past years’concern and the coming election. The November election willcertainly be an election to watch because of not only thepossible change in Washington direction, regardless of theoutcome, but because of California’s partially addressed financialproblems. Proposition 30 is the Governor’s proposed solutioninvolving a sales tax hike. If it fails there will certainly befinancial issues to discuss not only at City Hall but throughoutCalifornia.


Ambassadors

New Membersµ Acosta Family Dental

µ Blue Diamond Growers

µ Expo Marketing & Services

µ Hoffman Electronic Systems

µ State Senator Anthony Cannella

µ Stop-N-Shop

µ Sunopta

µ Turlock Auto Plaza

Don Mundello, Jr. graduated fromTurlock High School and haslived and worked in the Turlock

area most of his life. He is a coach andboard member for the Denair YouthFootball Team and a member of the NewLife Christian Center.

Recently, Don married Amy and togetherthey have four children: Dustin (17)Allison (15) Breanna (15) and Trey (10).

They attend Denair School District and are active in sporting andchurch activities.

With the downturn of the economy, the company that Donworked for needed to reduce 1/3 of their positions to remain inbusiness. Though it meant leaving a position he enjoyed andsearching for new employment, he secured a position with Aflac.His 16 years of customer service and professional sales experienceprovided a seamless transition into his new career as an InsuranceAgent, one that brings him pride and a sense of satisfaction.

Aflac is an incredible company that provides cash benefits directlyto policy holders at times when they need it most; paying bills thatmajor medical coverage doesn’t. The depth of voluntary benefitsprovided to clients allows them to help keep their employeesprotected without costing their company a dime. It’s really a no-brainer.

Don looks forward to his participation as a Chamber member andthe opportunity to get to know y’all!

DON MUNDELLO, JR.

Cheryl Gerhardt has beenserving as the MarketingDirector for Paramount

Court Senior Living since June2009. She was previously at acommunity in Stockton for 11 yearswhere she served as MarketingDirector and Executive Directorduring her time there. She has beenin the health industry since 1987getting her start at Vintage Faire

Nursing and Rehab after attending Andon College for theirMedical Office course. Cheryl has been an member ofCVMAPS Networking group in Modesto for several yearsand currently serves as their President. She is also Secretaryfor the Stanislaus County Sheriff Posse, a member of theNewman and Turlock SEAPA (Stanislaus Elder AbusePrevention Alliance) forums, serves on the Alzheimer’s AidSociety Harvest Moon Fundraiser Committee, the StrokeResource Inc. Caregiver Conference Committee and the Walkto End Alzheimer’s Committee. She is also very happy to be anew part of the Chamber and looks forward to buildingrelationships with the other members. In her spare time sheenjoys camping, reading, laying by the pool and spendingtime with family and friends. She has been married toDeputy Gerhardt for almost 25 years, has 2 daughters, 1 son,a granddaughter and another due this December.

It is such a pleasure to work with so many wonderful peopleand very rewarding at the end of the day to know I havehelped a family, resident, or colleague resolve a problem. Ipride myself on being a resource to the community at large toprovide education and information so they can make the bestchoices possible for themselves and their loved ones.

CHERYL GERHARDT


Ribbon Cuttings

DENTAL SPA,ANTOINE VARANI,DDS

Mixers

STOP-N-SHOP

UNITEDCEREBRALPALSY

WAHL,WILLEMSE & WILSON, LLP

HOLIDAY INNEXPRESS

MEDIC ALERT


Class of 2013

Hemanta AgarwalaAlpha Inc.

Adrenna AlkhasStanislaus County Fair

Matthew BonanderBonander Buick GMC

Jay BremTurlock Unified School District

Audrey Lopes-DermondAmerican AgCredit

Ken FreebyAllen Mortuary

Trevor IrishMonte Vista Optometry

Henry JacksonCal-Green Recycling

Toby KitchensLancaster Painting

Kuldip MaderrMemorial Medical

Peter MoralesEmanuel Medical Center

Miguel PachecoTurlock Police Department

Annie RitsickUC Merced

Tasha Van SantenTurlock Chamber of Commerce

Anokeen VaraniVarani DDS Dental Spa

Scott WejmarTurlock Fire Department

Ron WilkinsonNashihara Wilkinson Design

“Where leaders come together with a

commitment, motivation and interest in serving

the Turlock Community for 20 years.”


It looks like the Greek government will not go into default onnearly $1.3 trillion Euros. Oh, by the way 1 Euro = $1.3256today so that’s really $1.72 trillion give or take a few bucks.

Come on, what does a default in a country the size ofConnecticut mean to me here in Turlock on the other side of theworld?? Well it really could mean a lot because guess who holdssome of that debt??

A Greek Tragedy The Greek government has issued about $1.72 trillion in bailoutbonds to keep the country alive, more or less. A payment on thedebt is coming due March 20 and the Greeks don’t have the cash.(No wonder, in December unemployment was 21%.) The Greekgovernment has asked the private bond holders to take a 53.5%cut in the current value or a near 70% loss in the full value of thebonds, as well as, seeking a $172 billion loan. Well here’s theconnection between Turlock and Greece, guess who holds Greekbonds and related derivatives, several large US banks!! Rememberthose pesky derivatives from four years ago, Mortgage BackedSecurities (MBS) that we’re still trying to recover from.

Local BanksIn June last year CNN reported that JP Morgan Chase,CitiGroup, and Bank of America held around $185 billion inGreek related derivatives. These are some of our local banks thatwe rely on for credit and services. But you say that’s a drop in thebucket compared to the $878 billion the US government bailoutthat the banks received under the Toxic Asset Relief Program(TARP). Guess what, Greece is just the leading edge of the stormwith Italy, Spain, Portugal and Ireland not far behind. If Greece


Ana and I attended the vigil at the Sikh temple in Turlockon Friday evening. It was a solemn ceremony, with theparticipation of most of the Turlock Sikh community and

of the cities’ elected leadership.

The temple, a beautiful building located near City Hall, reflects,both inside and out, the splendor and color of the Sikhcommunity. I thought of how lucky I was to live in acommunity where we are exposed to so many different culturesand peoples who all coexist peacefully, living the meaning of thewords on the Seal of the United States of America, “EPLURIBUS UNUM“ or “Out of Many, One”

The speakers expressed grief over the shootings in Wisconsin,and also mentioned several other incidents where Sikhs havebeen attacked and murdered by people who apparently thoughtthe Sikhs were Muslims. But no one blamed Muslims for theattacks. Instead, the shooter and other haters were condemnedas ignorant. The heroism and valor of the police and churchmembers was highlighted.

Most of us, or our ancestors, came here because we couldn’tmake it in the land of our forefathers, or were brought here byforce. Others wanted the freedom to hold their own religion, orno religion at all. Others fled persecution and genocide. Mostcame because it was the only way they could improve the lot oftheir families. They took a great risk to dare the unknownbecause they wanted something better. Even today, those whocome here, both legally and illegally, have essentially the same

motives. This desire to do better, to be free, to practice one’sreligion in peace are fundamental to our society today.

It hasn’t been easy. We have struggled mightily to get it right,and rarely do so perfectly. But we do move forward.

Catholics were discriminated against until sheer weight ofnumbers made them equals in the power structure. Mormons hadto flee from state to state to find a place where they could worshipin peace. Japanese Americans were dispossessed of property andinterned (imprisoned) in one shameful part of our past.

In our bloodiest war over 600,000 Americans died (the equivalentin today’s population to over 3 million) to remove from our landthe curse of slavery.

But in a few months time we will decide, as Americans, whetherto retain as President of the United States a man who happens tobe Black, or replace him with a man who happens to be Mormon.This is progress on a grand scale. The cliché is accurate: It couldonly happen in America.

It makes me proud to live in a country that is composed of somany different cultures and societies. The greatness of Americais that we have made our cultural differences our strength. Noone has to be Catholic, Baptist, Mormon, Sikh, Muslim, atheist,or Jew to be fully vested as Americans. The only requirement isthat no one can force, either directly or indirectly, his or herreligious or cultural practices on another. If you agree to thatconstraint, you are as American as the descendants of theMayflower, and the Native Americans who were here first.

That is why Ana and I went to the vigil at the Sikh temple in ourhometown. The attack in Wisconsin was an attack on our neighborsand our community also. It was an attack on us as Americans.

Such attacks, where haters murder at random for reasons norational person can understand, will likely continue. But whetherthey happen in Wisconsin, in Colorado, in Arizona or inStockton, we cannot surrender to the hate and intimidation.

Our police chief urged the attendees to be vigilant, that lawenforcement would be there when called. But law enforcementalone will not stop these assaults. All of us must renew ourcommitment to be intolerant of the haters and liars that lurk inevery walk of life. The hate and sickness that leads to suchoutrages as in Wisconsin is fueled by the hateful ignorantcomments and attitudes that go unchallenged at schools, in ourworkplaces, on television, on the internet, in our churches,neighborhoods and families. It becomes corrosive, and resultsfirst in silence, then in fear. It culminates in terror when thehaters feel empowered to act.

The attack in Wisconsin was not just an attack on a Sikh templeand its congregation. It was an attack on all of us. It was aimedat killing the very essence of the United States of America.

But the haters are in for a surprise. They don’t know our peopleor our history. They will not win.

Reflections on WisconsinBy Mike Lynch


The Dental Spa, located at 527 E. Olive Ave., Turlock, CA,is dedicated to taking the fear and unease out of a dentalvisit by providing an elegant environment that is both

inviting and serene. Antoine Varani, DDS and his staff arecommitted to ensuring that each patient is provided with thehighest quality care possible.

A state of the art system allows patients to complete paperworkon an iPad which is automatically downloaded to the computersystem and the waiting room offers a selection of beverages froma Keurig coffee station. The exam room provides each patientwith an experience specialized to their personal preference. Relaxto the scent of peppermint, lavender, ylang ylang, eucalyptus orcedar wood, while indulging in a gentle, warming massage andparaffin wax treatment for your hands, as your chosen music orfavorite television program play. These are all provided at noadditional cost with your comfort and health our TOP priority.

The level of skill and care provided by the Dental Spa is veryimportant to Dr. Varani; he is known for his gentle touch andtakes pride in ensuring that each patient has a positiveexperience.

Our staff also includes both a massage therapist and a highlysought after esthetician that are available by appointment. We useand sell Murad Skin Care products, developed by nationallyacclaimed dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad.

For additional information please visit us at www.varanismile.comor call 209.667.8874 to set up an appointment.


American Cowboy TeamRoping State FinalsSept 19‐23, All Day More Info: (559) 816‐9932www.actra.orgParty Under the StarsSept 22, 6:30 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: (209) 632‐2221www.TurlockChamber.comSTANfest 2012Sept 22, 10:00 AM‐2:00 PMLocation: California StateUniversity Stanislaus

Walk Your PawsSept 22, 8:00 AM‐9:00 AMMore Info: www.cotaforisabellac.comLos ValientesSept 27 & 28, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: (209)667‐3166 Garden in the BarnSept 28 & 29, 8:00 AM‐2:30 PMMore Info: (209)678‐0070 Pumpkin Patch & Corn MazeSept 28 – Nov 10, hours variesMore Info: (209)649‐7078 www.ramfarms.comTurlock Rotary Golf ClassicSept 28, 11:00 AM‐11:00 AMLocation: Turlock Golf & Country ClubMore Info: (209)667‐2300 www.turlock.orgMedicAlert Health & Safety FairSept 29, 10:00 AM‐3:00 PMMore Info: (209)668‐3333 www.medicalert.org/Kenny LoginsOct 4, 7:30 PM‐8:30 PMMore Info: (209)668‐1169 www.TurlockTheatre.orgThe Shape of ThingsOct 4, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.eduWGAS Motorsports Monster Truck RacesOct 5, 6:00 PM‐11:00 PMMore Info: (530)745‐0100 www.wgasmotorsports.comCalifornia Historical Radio SocietyOct 6, 9:00 AM‐1:00 PMMore Info: (209)605‐0290 www.cvantiqueradio.comEdgar Degas: The Private ImpressionistOct 6 – Jan 13, Hours VaryMore Info: (209) 632‐5761 CarnegieArts.orgWarrior Baseball FanFest, Carshow, & BBQOct 6, 12:00 PM‐5:00 PMMore Info: (209)667‐3272 www.CSUStan.comRich Roberts – Fall Auto Swap MeetOct 7, 6:00 AM‐4:00 PMMore Info: (209) 358‐3334 www.springfallturlock.comIntuition and Holistic ExpoOct 13, 10:00 AM‐5:00 PMMore Info: (209)604‐5413 www.TurlockExpo.comCommunity Hormone Replacement SeminarOct 16, 6:00 PM‐8:00 PMMore Info: (209)216‐3340 www.towerpharmacy.com

Business SummitOct 17, 8:00 AM‐4:30 PMMore Info: (209)632‐2221 www.turlockchamber.com3rd Annual Wine & ScreamsOct 19, 7:00 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: [email protected] Place BoutiqueOct 19, 10:00 AM‐3:30 PMMore Info: (209)664‐9500 www.paramountcourtseniorliving.comSacred Heart School ‘Kentucky Derby’ Dinner & AuctionOct 20, 5:00 PM‐9:00 PMMore Info: (209)669‐5336 www.sacredheartturlock.comStepping Out for Life 5K Walk/RunOct 20, 9:00 AM‐1:00 PMMore Info: (209)606 9517 www.turlockpregnancycenter.comAmy Seeley and the Moline MadmanOct 25, 8:00 AM‐9:00 AMMore Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.eduTodd AgnewOct 26, 7:00 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: (209) 634‐4935 www.montevistachapel.orgHoliday Open House at Vintage MarketNov 1, 5:30 PM‐8:00 PMMore Info: (209)669‐7800 www.vintagemarket210.comMike Birbiglia ‘My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend’Nov 1, 7:30 PM‐9:00 PMMore Info: (209)668‐1169 www.TurlockTheatre.orgBarry McGuire’s Trippin’ The SixtiesNov 3, 7:00 PM‐9:00 PMMore Info:(209) 668‐1169 www.turlockgospelmission.org

Angels! (Angels We Have Heard On High)—by Sean AbleyNov 8, 8:00 PM‐10:00 PMMore Info: (209)667‐3166 www.csustan.edu Letters to Santa Golf TournamentNov 8, 11:00 AM‐11:30 PMMore Info:(209)678‐3936 www.letterstosantacharity.comWine SocialNov 8, 5:30 PM‐7:30 PMMore Info Contact: Diane Wold: :209)480‐1743 Craft FaireNov 9, 9:00 AM‐5:00 PMMore Info: (209)667.7712 www.gslct.org16th Annual Christmas Open HouseNov 10, 6:00 PM‐9:00 PMMore Info: (209) 632 ‐ 4214 www.greenerynsy.comKettle DashNov 10, 7:00 AM‐8:30 AMMore Info: 209‐667‐6091 x 207 www1.usw.salvationarmy.orgKettle Kickoff LuncheonNov 10, 11:30 AM‐2:00 PMMore Info: 209‐667‐6091 x 207 www1.usw.salvationarmy.orgTurlock Stepping Pards 59th AnniversaryNov 11, 7:00 PM‐10:30 PMMore Info:www.steppinpards.ccsda.org

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Fall 2012 - Business News