business news 2013 - summer issue

BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013

Contents

TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Business News115 S. Golden State Blvd.Turlock, CA 95380209-632-2221

Fax 209-632-5289Hours: Mon-Fri 10am – 4pm

Sharon SilvaPresident/CEO

[email protected]

Tasha Van SantenDirector Communications/Development

Ext. [email protected]

Sharon BerryAdministrative Assistant


Kassi FortadoMembership/CVB Assistant


Jessica LundbergAdministrative Assistant


TURLOCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

Desa CammackDirector

115 S. Golden State Blvd.209-632-2221 Ext. [email protected]

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

Page 7 Family Owned Woods Furniture Adapts to Times

Page 8 Rabobank Celebrates National Small Business Week

Page 9 Scandals I Have Known

Page 10 CSU Appoints New President and Vice President

Page 10 Cool Hand Luke’s Welcomes New Owner

Page 11 Workers Safety Vital During Hot Summer Months

Page 12 Turlock Public Safety Facility

Page 13 Motivating and Encouraging Leadership Roles in the Community

Page 14 City Council - First Six Months

Page 15 Walmart Neighborhood Market to Revitalize Shopping Center

Page 16 Kirkes Electric - From a Shed to an Institution

Page 17 Mixers for April, May and June

Page 17 Ribbon Cuttings

Page 18 Chamber Recognizes Over 50 Years of Service

Page 21 Stanislaus County Business Forum - National Health Care

Page 22 Turlock Convention and Visitors Bureau Promotes Community Events

It is hard to believe that we are already halfof the way through 2013! The board ofdirectors is working tirelessly to ensure the

Turlock Chamber meets its commitment to bea value added resource to member businessesand the local community.

We are delighted with the recent Cal StateUniversity trustees’ announcement to appoint Dr. Joseph Sheleythe president of CSU Stanislaus. Dr. Sheley has served as interimpresident of CSU Stanislaus since June of 2012. During thistime we have had many opportunities to work with Dr. Sheleyand can tell that the future is looking bright for CSU Stanislaus.Turlock and the local business community is looking forward tohis leadership and commitment to the school and community.We appreciate the support and the close working relationshipbetween the Turlock Chamber and CSU Stanislaus.

Locally developed wellness programs are evolving in thecommunity. The Turlock Chamber is working with local groupsas they develop a regional, cost effective wellness program. Withchanges in the healthcare delivery system imminent in the nearfuture, local businesses need a way to lower employer healthcarecosts and improve employee productivity and overall wellness.This solution will be ready by the end of summer (if not sooner).

Tenet Healthcare Corporation is on track to acquiring EmanuelMedical Center by the end of August. The Tenet managementteam has been meeting with local employees, physicians, andbusinesses to make the transition as smooth as possible. Theywill continue to provide excellent medical care and services to ourlocal community. Their goal is to collaborate with the Turlockmedical community to provide patient-centered care andimprovement of the efficiency of healthcare delivery in Turlockand the surrounding communities.

The Turlock Chamber actively assists with the development of abusiness friendly community. We are diligently working onincreasing our business memberships. At the same time, we areenthusiastically supporting our current business members. As thechairman of the board I am excited about the ongoing work withthe individual businesses. I am also motivated to have aproductive summer and a productive next six months of 2013.

Mike Romeo, MDRomeo Medical Clinic

It is an exciting time in Turlock; theChamber has seen a very busy first half of2013 for our community and our

partners. The Chamber is working on aHealthy Turlock initiative with the RomeoClinic and MedicAlert Foundation to helpcreate a Healthy Turlock for our businessesand community.

The Chamber is in the process of gathering information along withthe Mayor and City Leaders for a Road Sales Tax to raise enoughfunding to fix the roads in our city.

Our Leadership Program celebrated 20 years of service educating ourleaders and future leaders on what our community has to offer andthe needs of the community.

I had the honor of accompanying Mayor Lazar to Washington D.C.and visiting our Legislators on the hill. It just happened to be theweek of the Inauguration of our President which allowed me thehonor of attending the Inauguration; it was an amazing experience!

Tenet Healthcare Corporation is in transition acquiring EmanuelMedical Center, and a new President has been appointed forCalifornia State University, Stanislaus. The Turlock Chamber andthe community is delighted with the appointment of Dr. JosephSheley. Dr. Sheley has served as the Interim President for the pastyear and is a wonderful partner with the Chamber and Turlockcommunity.

Blue Diamond Growers just cut the ribbon at the groundbreakingcelebration of the opening of the 88 acre, 200,000 square foot site inTurlock. The opening of the plant has brought 40 new jobs and thenext phase is planned to bring over 300 more jobs to our region.

It is always about partnership with the Chamber and our businesses;we want to thank Home Depots Framing Hope program who hasbeen partnering with the Chamber Foundation in donating productto non-profits and churches as well as businesses that need assistance.A big thank you goes out to Home Depot and Woods Furniture, whohelped make this possible for the Chamber to do by giving us alocation and storage to house the merchandise that is given at NOcost to those non-profits and organizations of need. Also, JKBLiving, Teen Challenge, and The Greenery have helped tremendouslywith the pick-up of product, supplying the forklift to unload product,as well as keeping the storage area organized. All of our support fromour businesses allows us to make it possible to continue this service toour community. This program supports a minimum of twelve non-profit organizations each month and other families of need.

The Chamber has had the privilege, for over the past six months, tohave outstanding guest speakers for our CEO Roundtables and GRC(Government Relations Committee) meetings. The Board ofDirectors and Staff are looking forward to another productive sixmonths.

Sharon Silva, President/CEO

BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013 PAGE 5

Exciting and Busy Time in TurlockFrom the President/CEO

WelcomeOf The Board - Mike Romeo

ChairmanAnticipating Productive Summer

Upcoming Events:Mixer Rex Klein InsuranceJuly 16th

Party Under The StarsSeptember 21st

PAGE 6 BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013

Mike LynchMike Lynch Consulting

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

Marty Jakosa (Ex-officio Member)

Foster Farms

Mike AllenAllen Mortuary

Dean DoerksenCentral Ag Products

Steve Gemperle (Treasurer)Gemperle Enterprises

Julio HallackDBA Concrete by Hallack

Chris KiriakouCornerstone Consulting

Linda NowakCSU Stanislaus

Mike Romeo (Chair)Romeo Medical Clinic

Mike RoseB & B Manufacturing

Andrew Wigglesworth(Chair Elect)

MedicAlert Foundation

Bill Bassitt(Ex-officio Member)

Alliance

2013 Chamber Board of Directors

Chamber ChampionsAllen Mortuary • B&B Fluid Power

Emanuel Medical Center • Gemperle EnterprisesJKB Energy / Living • Kirkes Electric

Lancaster PaintingMedicAlert FoundationRomeo Medical Clinic

Turlock JournalTurlock Scavenger/Turlock Recycling

Winton-Ireland, Strom & Green Insurance Agency

Ashour BadalCSU Stanislaus

Fred BrendaValley Tool & Manufacturing

Kyle KirkesKirkes Electric

Sharon SilvaCEO/President

IOM, Institute forOrganization Management,

University of Arizona, Bachelor ArtsOrganizational Communication

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

Kassi FortadoMembership /

CVB AssistantMerced College

2013 TURLOCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF

Dianna BettencourtOak Valley

Community Bank

Steven PadillaSunopta

Jeff SegarsFoster Farms

James BrendaJKB Energy

The Turlock Chamber ofCommerce would like towelcome JessicaLundberg to our team.She is a recent CaliforniaState University,Stanislaus graduate andis pursuing her collegecareer with her Master’sdegree. Jessica’s positionwill be administrativeassistant and will befocusing on sales,communications andevents. We look forwardto having her as a part ofour staff.

Jessica LundbergAdministrative Assistant

Bachelor Arts – Liberal StudiesCSU Stanislaus

Welcome


Woods Furniture Galleries isn't just the Best of TurlockSmall Business of the Year, as awarded by the TurlockChamber of Commerce in early 2012. It's been one

of the best Turlock businesses for over 63 years – and fourgenerations.

The business was named Best of Turlock in large part for itsability to adapt to the changing economic environmentthroughout their long tenure.

“Over the years there have been many changes within thefurniture industry and Woods is proud to say they have adaptedand will continue offering the best products available at thelowest price possible,” David Woods said.

From one Downtown Turlock store, opened in 1950 byThurman and Elisa Woods, the business grew to have threestores in the heyday of the early 2000s. Brothers David andRandy Woods became the third generation to run the familybusiness at the same time, taking the helm in 2005.

But as the economy contracted, Woods Furniture shuttered itsdowntown locations to focus on a six-acre storefront on Taylor

Family Owned Woods FurnitureAdapts to the Times

Court, in prime viewing distance of Highway 99.“While nearly 150,000 cars pass along the highway daily, wemoved to that location for extra exposure and potential businessgrowth,” said David Woods.

The Taylor Court location is still thriving today, offering acombination of the latest furniture styles, the best quality, andthe lowest prices. Top brands like Ashley, Broyhill, Lane, andFlexsteel are all available.

And it's not just furniture on sale. Woods Furniture Galleriesalso offers name-brand mattresses from brands like Serta andTempurpedic and unique decorating accessories. Mini storagebarns are available, too.


In celebration of National Small Business Week in June, Rabobank in Turlock isoffering local businesses a special discount on small business loans and lines of credit.Branch Manager Laura Reis and her staff are ready to answer your questions and help

you get started.

“Small businesses are the heart and soul of our local economy here in Turlock and wewant to help them grow and succeed,” said Ed Rocha, regional president. “A business loanor line of credit can be used to buy equipment, build inventory, manage seasonal cash flowor grow your business.”

Businesses that apply for a loan or line of credit by July 19 receive a $250 loan feediscount plus either six months of free business checking or six months of free premiumbusiness online banking services. That’s a savings of up to $339. Rabobank customersthat refer a fellow business owner can receive the same offer.

You’ll have the personal attention of the local Rabobank team plus free 24/7 access to theirnew business online banking, designed to make your everyday transactions simple and

convenient. Their premium services include Bill Pay and a direct connection to your accounting software (Quicken or QuickBooks)to make managing your money even easier.

Rabobank’s mission is to create value for their customers, employees and communities by providing high-quality and reliable financialservices. Details about the offer are available by calling Rabobank’s Turlock branch at 209-632-6065 or by visitingwww.rabobankamerica.com.

RABOBANK CELEBRATES. . . National Small Business Week with Special Business Financing Offer


The number of scandals involving the current Washingtonadministration seems to be in high gear. I recall thatgovernment scandals have always been around, in one form or

another and long before I graduated from Turlock High in 1965. Butfor me it wasn’t until 1972 that I first started to pay attention.President Nixon’s Watergate scandal forced him to resign. Imagine, aPresident resigning! Now this certainly was not the first presidentialscandal. Andrew Jackson (term of office 1829-1837) was involvedwith the first major presidential scandal. In 1791 he married a womannamed Rachel Donelson who he thought was properly divorced, butshe wasn’t. Thirty years later (Yes! 30 years), during the election of1828, it was resurrected and used against him. Scandals always affectthe economy in some way, mostly paralyzing government leading toinaction and its impacts on issues of the time, including businessissues. Following is a list of the major scandals from the recent pastthat I have known.

1972 - Richard Nixon’s Watergate – In 1972 five men brokeinto the Democratic National Headquarters in the Watergate officebuilding in Washington D.C. They were caught and, even though theWhite House attempted to cover up the break-in, were convicted andsubsequently Nixon resigned under pressure.

1980s - Ronald Reagan’s Iran-Contra – Several members ofthe Reagan Administration devised a plan to sell arms to Iran (whowas on an arms embargo list) in exchange for hostages andsubsequently then use a portion of the proceeds to fund anti-Sandinista and anti-Communist rebels in Nicaragua. Funding of therebels was prohibited by Congress in 1982/84 by the BolandAmendment. Reagan’s direct involvement was never proven but thescandal left a stain on his presidency.

1998 - Bill Clinton’s Monica Lewinsky Affair – MonicaLewinsky was a White House staffer with whom Clinton has an“improper physical relationship”. Amidst denials, investigationsultimately proved that Clinton had lied about the affair. The Houseof Representatives moved to impeach him but the Senate did notremove him from office.

2013 - Barack Obama’s IRS Political Targeting, NSASurveillance Phone Record Dragnet, Justice Department Spying onAP Journalists and Benghazi Libya Consulate Attack VideoDeception; a virtual cornucopia of scandals that have erupted in thelast eight months. At this time investigations are under way regardingthe authorization and details of the above activities.

There is no lack of scandals in the history books. About every fifteenyears or so a major scandal overtakes the White House and occupiesthe headlines for a considerable length of time. Presidentshave lied before but to do so openly regarding the deaths of Americandiplomats abroad is different. An affront to our way of government isthe purported use of government agencies for political purposes.Using the dreaded IRS to target those not supporting theadministration almost seems like a vendetta. What a chilling effect onbusiness and our freedoms. Maybe Baron Acton was right when hesaid, “. . . absolute power corrupts absolutely . . .” (John EmerichEdward Dalberg Acton, first Baron Acton (1834– 1902)). I don’tthink we’ll forget this one quickly.

SCANDALS I HAVE KNOWN

Chris Kiriakou


After nearly a year as interimpresident of CaliforniaState University, Stanislaus,

Joseph F. Sheley was appointed inMay as president by the CSUBoard of Trustees.

Sheley has spent much of his first year at CSU Stanislaus meetingwith people throughout Turlock and the surrounding region, andhe’s emphasized the need for the university to have strong ties tothe community.

“The commitment of our faculty and staff to our students is a source of pride to me, as is theStanislaus region’s faith in the university,”Sheley said. “The real and potential impact of the region andinstitution — in partnership — on the future of California issignificant almost beyond imagination.”

Sheley previously served as provost and vice president foracademic affairs at his alma mater, Sacramento State, where healso spent time as dean of the College of Social Sciences andInterdisciplinary Studies, director of alumni relations andexecutive vice president. His career in academia includes 21 yearsas a faculty member, department chair and faculty head of theUniversity Senate at Tulane University.

Shirley M. Pok, who servedfor more than 12 years asvice president of

development at Emanuel MedicalCenter in Turlock, is the new vicepresident for advancement atCSU Stanislaus.

At Emanuel, Pok led a team of employees and volunteers thatraised $22 million for critical services and facilities. The TurlockChamber of Commerce recently honored Pok as Citizen of theYear, and the Yosemite Chapter of the Association of FundraisingProfessionals named her Outstanding Fundraiser of the Year in2012.

Pok previously worked at CSU Stanislaus as a director ofdevelopment from 1998 to 2000. Her fundraising career began in 1982 at Fresno State University, where she spent 17 yearshelping to develop the Bulldog Foundation from its early stagesinto the nation’s largest in terms of athletic fund development byvolunteers. She earned a bachelor’s degree in management andorganizational development from Fresno Pacific University in1999.

The vice president for advancement at CSU Stanislaus oversees ateam of professionals dedicated to fundraising and externalrelations functions, including development, alumni relations,communications and public affairs.

Sheley Named President of CSU Stanislaus

PokNamed Vice President

of Advancement

Turlock's Cool Hand Luke's steakhouse and saloon is now owned and operated by Tim Pilloud, of Fresno. Pilloud hasowned other Cool Hand Luke's locations since 2007.

The Turlock restaurant first opened in 2008, offering a wild-westtake on the traditional steakhouse. Cool Hand Luke's prides itself onmassive portions of steaks, ribs, chicken, and prime rib.Cool Hand Luke's is a franchise restaurant, developed by DynacoFood Concepts of Fresno. Dynaco also owns Perko's Cafe andHuckleberrys.

Turlock's Cool Hand Luke’s is open for dinner daily, from 4 p.m. to9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.Friday and Saturday. Cool Hand Luke's opens for lunch and dinneron Sundays, 12 noon to 9 p.m. The restaurant is located at 3050Tegner Rd.

Cool Hand Luke's Welcomes New OwnerThe coolest joint in town is now under new ownership.


Workers who are exposed to extreme heat or work inhot environments may be at risk of heat stress,which can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion,

heat cramps, or heat rashes. According to the Centers forDisease Control and Prevention, workers at risk of heat stressinclude outdoor workers and workers in hot environmentssuch as firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, constructionworkers, factory workers and others. Workers at greater risk ofheat stress include those who are 65 years of age or older, areoverweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or takemedications that may be affected by extreme heat.

“Prevention of heat stress in workers is important,” said Dr.Greg Greenberg, medical director for Emanuel MedicalCenter’s Emergency Services. Greenberg encourages employersto provide training to workers so they understand what heatstress is, how it affects their health and safety, and how it canbe prevented.

HEAT STROKE“Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related disorder,” saidGreenberg. It occurs when the body becomes unable to controlits temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, thesweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cooldown. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can riseto 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.“Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability ifemergency treatment is not given,” said Greenberg.

Symptoms of heat stroke include: hot, dry skin or profusesweating; hallucinations; chills; throbbing headache, high bodytemperature; confusion or dizziness; and slurred speech.

First AidTake the following steps to treat a worker with heat stroke:• Call 911 and notify their supervisor.• Move the sick worker to a cool shaded area.• Cool the worker using methods such as: soaking their clothes

with water, spraying, sponging, or showering them with water,or fanning their body.

HEAT EXHAUSTION“Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of thewater and salt, usually through excessive sweating,” sharedGreenberg. Workers most prone to heat exhaustion are those thatare elderly, have high blood pressure, and those working in a hotenvironment.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating; extremeweakness or fatigue; dizziness or confusion; nausea; clammy, moistskin; pale or flushed complexion; muscle cramps; slightly elevatedbody temperature; fast and shallow breathing.

First AidTreat a worker suffering from heat exhaustion with the following:

• Have them rest in a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area.• Have them drink plenty of water or other cool, nonalcoholic

beverages.• Have them take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WORKERSWorkers should avoid exposure to extreme heat, sun exposure,and high humidity when possible. When these exposures cannotbe avoided, workers should take the following steps to preventheat stress:• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as

cotton.• Avoid non-breathing synthetic clothing.• Gradually build up to heavy work.• Schedule heavy work during the coolest parts of day.• Take more breaks in extreme heat and humidity.• Take breaks in the shade or a cool area when possible.• Drink water frequently. Drink enough water that you never

become thirsty.• Avoid alcohol, and drinks with large amounts of caffeine or

sugar.• Be aware that protective clothing or personal protective

equipment may increase the risk of heat stress.• Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers.

Workers safety vital during hot summer months


Almost anyone traveling though the Downtown will havenoticed construction of the Public Safety Facility on thecorner of N. Broadway and W. Olive Ave. Designed to

complement the Carnegie Center, the PSF will provide a modernbuilding for our Police and Fire services today and into the future.

Planning for the facility began with a Public Safety Space NeedsAssessment in 2007. Experts were brought in to assess our currentoperations, gauge our future requirements, and providerecommendations. Three options were considered – remodelingour current facilities, demolishing our current facilities to rebuildon the same site, and constructing a new building at a new site.While a new site and building were expensive, estimated at $37.5million, they were ultimately found to be the least costly of thethree alternatives.

There was a strong desire to place the new facility near theDowntown and sites within the (then) Redevelopment Agencydistrict were explored, to enable RDA funding. The three topcontenders were sites on Marshall St. at S. Thor St., on S. First St atA St, and on N. Broadway at W. Olive Ave., which was eventuallyselected.

Things have moved along, although not always smoothly! Thenational and local economies took a tumble, the RedevelopmentAgency was eliminated, contaminated soil was discovered on site,and vandalism occurred to the construction site. Portions of thebuilding were redesigned and some desired items were eliminatedto save on costs, bringing the budget to the $34 million mark.Consideration was made to cancel the project, altogether, althoughseveral million dollars had already been invested.

The project persevered, however. The PSF should be completedduring the summer and Turlock Police & Fire expect to move inbefore Fall. The approximately 57,000 sq. ft. facility was designedto provide for future growth and should meet the needs of ourPolice Department and Fire Administration for the next 30 years.While I don’t have a date yet, I hope to see everyone during ourGrand Opening and annual Open House!

by Capt. Jeff Lopes

Turlock Public Safety Facility


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By Chris Kiriakou

The first half of this year had the council looking to improvetransportation with improvements to Fulkerth Road, discussion of aTaylor Road Expressway, purchasing of the 2 remaining parcels for

the second phase of the new Turlock Regional Transit Center and workingon a new Pavement Management System for existing streets. The Councilalso held three Community Forums presenting city services and takingcommunity input in April, May and June.

CITY COUNCIL: First Six Months - Looking to Improve Transportation

1. 2/12/2013 Turlock Regional Transit Center Y Y Y Y Y

2. 2/12/2013 Enterprise Zone Y Y Y Y Y

3. 2/26/2013 Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation Y Y Y Y Y

4. 2/26/2013 Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job Y Y Y Y Y

5. 3/12/2013 State Water Resources Control Board Y Y Y Y Y

6. 3/12/2013 Pavement Management System Y Y Y Y Y

7. 4/23/2013 Taylor Road Expressway Y N Y Y Y

• Turlock Regional Transit Center – Council approved the purchase of 2 remaining parcels for the second phase of the new TurlockRegional Transit Center.

• Enterprise Zone – With Enterprise Zones in danger of being eliminated on a State level the Council approved to communicate thepositive benefits of Enterprise Zone program in local communities and on a statewide economic level and community support forEnterprise Zones and opposition to any proposal that would threaten their existence. Authorizing staff to support the positivebenefits of the Enterprise Zone program to any proposal that would threaten their existence.

• Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation – “Federal Street Projects” to be funded via a transfer of Section 2013 Gas Tax Monies from Fund217 “Gas Tax Fund” for “Fulkerth Road Rehabilitation” to complete the necessary funding requirement for the project.

• Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job – City Staff requested authorization of thecreation of an Assistant to the City Manager for Economic Development/Community Housing job classification and carriedunanimously.

• State Water Resources Control Board - Request to support the San Joaquin Tributaries Authority (SJTA) as it endeavors to preventthe State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) from imposing a thirty-five (35%) percent unimpaired water flow mandate inthe Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and Merced Rivers from February through June each year.

• Pavement Management System - Development Services Director Mike Pitcock presented the staff report on the conditions of theRoadway System in the City of Turlock, which included information about the Pavement Management System, conditions of ourexisting street network, funding required to improve our existing street network, the cost of various types of street improvements,and funding alternatives/options.

• Taylor Road Expressway – Planning Manager Debbie Whitmore presented the staff report on the request to adopt a standardizedstreet element and width for the 4-lane sections of the Taylor Road Expressway. Planning Commission Chairman Mike Brem thatthe request presented to council is consistent with the General Plan. Council adopted a standardized street element and width forthe 4-lane sections of the Taylor Road Expressway 4-1 vote.

Leadership Turlock is a 10-month program, beginning in September, whereparticipants develop knowledge and understanding of the community – itscomplexities and its potential. The program provides an opportunity for participants

to meet and exchange ideas as a class and with current community leaders, and to motivateand encourage participants to assume leadership roles in the community.

There is a variety of day trips the class gets to partake in that includes visiting the StateCapitol, a tour of CSUStanislaus, visitingEmanual Medical centerand many more places.From nonprofits to theTurlock government,Leadership Turlockexplores a big variety ofTurlock. There is also aclass retreat to Bass Lakethat is an intensiveleadership conferenceand a great bondingexperience.

Joining LeadershipTurlock allows you to explore the Turlock community at a level mostpeople are restricted from. It also gives you the opportunity to meetour community leaders and actually talk with them on a broad rangeof topics. It enhances your leadership and management skills. Of themany benefits you will receive from joining Leadership Turlock oneof the greatest is the new bond of friendship with your fellow classmembers.

Sign up for the 2014-2015 Leadership Turlock class today!

PAGE 14 BUSINESS NEWS « SUMMER 2013

Motivating and EncouragingLeadership Roles in the Community


For nearly four years, one of the largest retail spaces inTurlock sat vacant, empty, unused.

After Mervyn's chainwide bankruptcy in 2009, it took yearsto find a tenant for the massive, 62,000 square-foot anchorspace on Geer Road. But this summer, WalmartNeighborhood Market will open in the site, bringing new lifeto the shopping center.

Walmart Neighborhood Markets aren't like the standardWalmart store – there are no electronics, clothing, toys orsporting goods. Instead, the stores serve as a dedicated,Walmart-owned supermarket.

“We see a need for additional grocery options,” Walmartspokesperson Delia Garcia said. “Customers have beenlooking for additional options for fresh, affordablegroceries.”

The Walmart Neighborhood Market will include a fullsupermarket line of groceries, produce, meat, dairy, deliitems, pharmacy services, and a money center.

The new store is roughly half the size of Turlock's existingWalmart, but larger than the average, 38,000 square-footWalmart Neighborhood Market.

. . . to RevitalizeShopping Center


From humble beginnings in a shed no larger than a smallbedroom, Kirkes Electric has established itself as one of thepremier companies in Turlock.

The business was founded in 1949 by Neil and MargauretteKirkes, in a tiny 8-foot by 10-foot shed at 307 Flower St. Sincethen, the business has grown exponentially.

In 1963 the company moved in to its spacious headquarters at 999N. Golden State Blvd., where the business still resides today. Be-tween 50 and 90 employees work for the company at any given time.

And the company is still in family hands, with Roger Kirkes – Neil& Margaurette's son – serving as CEO today. It's not just RogerKirkes involved, either – his nephew, Kyle Kirkes, serves as thecompany president.

Agency

Camp Taylor

DAC Remodeling Inc.

Data Path, Inc.

Diane Angel Photography

First California Mortgage Company

Papa John's Pizza

Quilts of Honor

Stanislaus Council of Governments

Tom Michael Insurance Agency

Turlock Pregnancy Center

Valley Care Medical Group

Valley Vein Health Center

Volvo Rents

New Members

FROM A SHED TO AN INSTITUTION:

KIRKES ELECTRIC

In more recent years, Kirkes Electric has expanded yet again.The firm added a design team in 1993, able to design newprojects with Computer Aided Design or modify existingprojects. The team can even handle lighting design andcalculations with the high-tech software.

Kirkes Electric installs and maintains just about anything ahomeowner could need: electrical, audio, video, landscapelighting, phone, satellite, home theater, security cameras, centralvacuum, alarm, and home automation systems. And forcommercial needs, Kirkes Electric is capable of scaling to workin health care facilities, commercial office buildings, andshopping centers alike.

To reach Kirkes Electric, call (209) 634-9301.


FIRST CA

MORTGAGE

Mixers APRIL • MAY • JUNE

10 EASTKITCHEN ANDTAPHOUSE

MEDICALERTFOUNDATION

THE AGENCY ANDDENTAL SPA

Ribbon Cuttings

OAKVALLEYCOMMUNITY BANK

NEW BRIDGE MANAGEMENT


. . . WOULD LIKE TO RECOGNIZE BUSINESSES THAT HAVE BEEN MEMBERS FOR OVER 50 YEARS! We thank you for your continued support:

Turlock Journal • Turlock Fruit CompanyThorsens Inc. • Turlock Sales Yard, Inc. • Kirkes Electric, Inc.Woods Furniture, Inc. • Allen Mortuary • Garton Tractor, Inc.

Smith Chevrolet Cadillac, Inc. • National MarketUnited Equipment Sales/Rentals • Foster Farms • Bel Air Lodge

Sacred Heart Catholic Church


Sellers are in the driver’sseat as buyers continue toface tough competition in

the inventory-controlledmarket. As the second half of2013 is on the horizon, itappears that limited inventoryof available homes willcontinue to dominate theheadlines for the balance of theyear. The numbers of bankowned properties and sellerselecting to proceed with shortsales has continued tosignificantly decline the past 12months. In January 2012,distressed sales accounted for61.2% of total sales – in April2013 distressed sales were downto 34.2% of all sales.

As a result of the reducedinventory, Turlock medianhome values have risen over20% the past year to $119.85per square foot and areexpected to climb for thebalance of this year as wecontinue in a “seller’s market”.

The rate of price increases will moderate as mortgage interest rates risefrom the historic lows in the 3.50% range to the current 4.25% levelsand investors move to the sidelines as improving home values havereduced investment rate of returns.

A trend that we are watching closely is the recent rise of pre-foreclosure activity as evidenced by the rise in Notice of Default filings.Current filings are down almost 48% versus last year, but have risen twoconsecutive months. It is too soon to say that this increase in first-stageforeclosures will lead to an increase in bank owned inventories in thenext six (6) months.

Reduced Inventory Results

by Jim L. Theiss, Broker


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


About The Alliance: The mission andresponsibility of the Alliance is overseeing botheconomic development and workforce trainingactivities for the county. Under its leadership, theAlliance is committed to creating a blueprint forsuccess, which can make Stanislaus the strategicbusiness choice for existing and expandingbusinesses by focusing on job creation, businessassistance, and workforce preparation activities.

Turlock businesses wanting insight on the NationalHealth Care Reform and its impact on local companiesare encouraged to attend the upcoming Stanislaus

Business Forum on June 20th at the Martin Peterson Center indowntown Modesto from, 7:15a.m- 11:30p.m.

The forum is hosted by the Alliance Small BusinessDevelopment Center (SBDC) and U.S. Small BusinessAdministration. Presentations from State and local health careindustry experts will cover a wide variety of topics, includingthe small business program of the State Insurance Exchange,impacts on medical providers, and tax implications of theAffordable Care Act (ACA).

Keynote speaker for the event will be James Bennett, RegionalVice President of San Jose Word & Brown General Agencywho will explain how to determine actual group size underACA and define the unclear terms and strategies.Headquartered in Orange, California, Word & Brown has a30-year legacy of developing innovative tools and technologyand providing an array of amazing products, carriers andservices to licensed brokers who write individual and groupmedical, life, and ancillary policies.

Also included in the program is a panel of local experts: PeterAnderson, Senior Vice President of Strategy and BusinessDevelopment of Sutter Health, who will discuss the ACAimpact on local health care providers and the access to care;Clive Grimbleby, President of Grimbleby Coleman CPA willcover tax implications of ACA and the reporting requirements;and Michael Lujan, Director of the Small Business HealthOptions Program Covered California-California Health

Benefits Exchange will provide insight on how the Exchangeworks and provide information on health insurance options forsmall business.

Local business presenters, Paul Van Konynenburg and ChrisBritton, Britton Konynenburg Partners, will be discussing howACA will impact providing healthcare to their employees andtheir plan to address the change. Britton Konynenburg Partnersis a diversified farming and real estate management companylocated in Stanislaus County.

There will also be an extensive Q&A period with the presentersduring the forum. The cost to attend is $40 per person whichincludes breakfast that will be served at 7:30a.m.

To register for the forum please call 209-567-4910 or visitalliancesbdc.com to sign up. Spaces are limited and are expectedto fill quickly.

NATIONAL

Key Note SpeakerJames Bennett,Regional VicePresident of SanJose Word &Brown GeneralAgency

STANISLAUS BUSINESS FORUM


Spring Juried Art Show & SaleJune, All Month, 10:00 AM-5:00 PMThe Annual Spring Juried Art Show and Salefeatures new work by the region's finestartists. This exhibition includes works in allmedia, with cash prizes awarded in fivecategories.More Info: (209) 632-5761www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Aerial Dance WorkshopJune 24 – June 27 times varyThe Center for Urban Performance and Service will host an AerialDance Intensive under the direction of Rebekah Leach.More Info: (209)667-9020www.westsideministriesturlock.com

Patriotic Day ParadeJuly 4, 10:00 AMThe Patriotic Parade will include around75 entries and run through HistoricDowntown on Thursday morning,expecting to draw thousands to the MainStreet corridor. The Patriotic Parade willbegin at E. Main Street and Palm Street,continue to W. Main Street andBroadway Avenue.More Info: (209) 634-6459www.turlockdowntown.com

4th of July Street FestivalJuly 4, 12:00 PMCars, entertainment, activities, demonstrations, shopping and, ofcourse, FOOD.More Info: (209) 634-6459 www.turlockdowntown.com

Red, White & Boom Fireworks ExtravaganzaJuly 4, 6:00 PMEntry is Free and Parking is Free. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs,baskets of food, soft drinks and water. Come with the family andenjoy a great evening of fun. No alcohol allowed or glass bottles.Guests may not bring their own fireworks.More Info: (209) 668-1333 www.stancofair.com

Stanislaus County FairJuly 12 - 21, Times VaryThe fair opens in mid-July on a Fridayfor a 10-day run. More than 230,000visitors will pass through ourturnstiles for award-winning fun atthe largest family-centered event inStanislaus County.More Info: (209) 668-1333 www.stancofair.com

Comedy for CharityJuly 13, 7:30 PMThe hilarious Vincent Oshana will be performing for a local charity.This event is hosted by The Agency and all profits will be donated to aTurlock charity. Paying forward is the greatest feeling. Why not do itwhile having a great time.More Info: (209) 250-0925 www.turlockagency.com

Ukulele JamJuly 13, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PMMore Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Yosemite Renaissance XXIIIJuly 30 – Sept 29, 10:00 AM-5:00 PMYosemite Renaissance is an annual competition and exhibit designedto encourage diverse artistic interpretations of Yosemite. Its goals areto cultivate contemporary forms of representation by today's artistsand to sustain a continuum with past generations of Yosemite artists.More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Stanislaus County Fireman’s Muster Aug 2 – Aug 4, 12:00 PMEver want to learn the techniques of old school firefighting? TheStanislaus County Fire Muster Association is offering a training class atthe CFMA sanctioned muster the weekend of August 3rd and 4th. Thewill be CE class on Saturday afternoon after competition. We lookforward to seeing you there.More Info: (209) 883-2863 www.californiamuster.com

Cruzin’ Car Show Benefiting Charleston “Cash” GoeppertAug 3, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PMJoin us on the 4th Annual Cruzin’ Car Show Benefit at ConnectingPoint Church! We’ll have new and old cars alike, prizes, raffles,auctions, food, and activities for the whole family. 100% of all fundsraised will go towards Cash and his family.More Info: (209) 668-4080

Ukulele JamAug 10, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PMMore Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Moonlight & MargaritasAug 10, 6:00 PM - 10:30 PMAll proceeds will benefit the Turlock Salvation Army. Limited ticketsare available. Price of tickets $50.00. Please visit one of these sponsorlocations to purchase yours today: Mason-McDuffie MortgageCorporation, Yonan's Jewelers and Turlock Salvation Army. All guests must be 21.More Info: (209) 632-5761 www.carnegieartsturlock.org

Ryan Promotions – Summer Auto Swap MeetAug 11, 7:00 PM - 4:00 PMProud owners who like to show off their magnificent machines, autotraders buying or selling iconic cars, businessmen selling those rareparts which you cannot find anywhere else, the experts whose brainyou can tap into for auto advice and car lovers who like to gettogether with old timers to share stories over a cold beer. More Info: (209) 356-0436 www.ryanspromotions.com

Faultline War IX, California State CMSA cowboy mounted shootingAug 23,8:00 AM - 4:00 PMCome see the old west come alive. Even if you're not competing,come out and visit with us. Meet the riders, ask questions, and learnhow to become a member.More Info: (408) 710-1616 www.CaRangeRiders.com

For more information on Turlock events download the free“TurlockCVB” app or visit the www.VisitTurlock.org communitycalendar.

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