TPO Member Spotlight Archive

September 2010

Central Coast Federal Credit Union - TPO Member Since February 1992

Leinette Limtiaco, President/CEO-Central Coast Federal Credit Union:

TPO: "The Central Coast Federal Credit Union has been a member of TPO for over 18 years!. How do you feel TPO contributes to the credit union’s success?”

Leinette Limtiaco, President/CEO-Central Coast Federal Credit Union: "TPO and Central Coast Federal Credit Union have been working diligently together for the past 18 years. There have been countless ways that TPO has supported our employment practices, ranging from revamping our Employee Handbook, working on job descriptions, keeping us informed on the policies and regulations in the vast field of HR, to offering seminars, classes and further education to our HR professionals and upper management. It is a great working relationship based on mutual respect. We know that when we work with anyone at TPO, we are dealing with the best! Everyone plays such an integral role in making sure our organization is at its finest and adhering to the laws for the sake of our employees and the community.

We have such an admiration and confidence in TPO that we take our testimonials to other organizations in need of the best and most outstanding in the HR field. Management at Central Coast FCU can rest assured that we are providing all the necessary information and tools to our staff to better support our environment to be the best place to work possible. TPO has been there to help us succeed and we are looking forward to the many, many more years to come!

Our hats are off to TPO and the professionalism and knowledge that they bring to not only our organization, but the community. We are honored and proud to be a part of their family!”

Serving the Residents and Workers of Monterey County, CA Since 1949

The Central Coast Federal Credit Union has been serving the financial needs of the people of this community since 1949, back when there were still canneries operating. It has always been locally owned and operated and still is today. You will never have to call across the country to do your banking. We all live here just like you.

The Central Coast Federal Credit Union is a not for profit financial institution. What does that mean to you? Any profits are returned to you in the form of higher interests on savings accounts, and lower rates on loans. Your money stays right were it belongs. Here in our community.

Community minded, just like you.

July 2010

SCCMA - TPO Member Since August 1994

William C. Parrish, Jr., Chief Executive Officer:

TPO: "The Santa Clara County Medical Association and Monterey County Medical Society have been TPO members for 16 years! How do you feel TPO contributes to the organizations’ success?”

William C. Parrish, Jr., Chief Executive Officer: "TPO adds to the success of our organization in two ways. 1) TPO is a most valuable resource in the management of our personnel and any such issues that arise...from training, employee handbook creation, consultation, to problem intervention/resolution. In small to medium size business like ours, it is impossible and impractical to have multiple experienced and credentialed human resource professionals on staff; and unfeasible to personally stay current on all issues and changes that impact successful management. 2) TPO is a wonderful resource that we are able to recommend to our members when they face potential issues or need assistance. The quality and service TPO provides allows us, and our members, to focus on what we do best while creating/maintaining a positive work environment. This relationship creates a win/win/win situation where all benefit.”

ABOUT THE SCCMA and MCMS

The Santa Clara County Medical Association (SCCMA) and the Monterey County Medical Society (MCMS) are professional associations representing physicians and their patients in all modes of practice and specialties, including medical students and residents.

It is the mission of the SCCMA and MCMS to act collectively for our members by promoting:

Excellence in the provision of quality, ethical health care;
The health of our community;
Physicians’ personal, social, and professional integrity and well-being; and
The common goals of similar organizations.

Through our efforts, and those of the California Medical Association, we have provided the opportunity for physicians to focus more time on treating patients and less time worrying about the hassles of practice management. Organized medicine has helped preserve the cap on awards in medical malpractice cases, otherwise known as MICRA, resulting in stabilized malpractice insurance costs in California not enjoyed in other parts of the nation. If you are not already a member, and you are an MD or DO, please consider joining today. Our strength and influence grows with our increasing membership, so please help do your part for organized medicine today.

For more information please visit www.sccma-mcms.org.

April 2010

Pacific Ag Rentals - TPO Member Since November 2009

Bart Walker, Vice President:

TPO: "Pacific Ag Rentals is one of TPO's newest members. What made you decide to join, and how do you feel TPO contributes to Pacific Ag's success so far?"

Bart Walker, Vice President: "My Father started Pacific Ag Rentals (PAR) in 2001 with 4 people. Through his great vision and leadership we have grown the company to 54 full time employees covering all growing regions of CA from the Oregon border to south of Phoenix in Arizona. Our HR Department title had been held by several different people and was made up of an employee manual that was my Senior Project in 1994 and a yearly subscription to a web site HR service that sent out a few posters once a year. I knew the record keeping and regulations would increase when we grew to 50 employees so I started looking for a service to handle our HR needs.

Derek Derdivanis, local Chair of Vistage International, told me about TPO and the services they provided. I called Robert and he met with me to discuss our HR needs and how TPO could fill them. Susan Kettmann, SPHR, was assigned to be our main contact; all of the TPO Team Members are nationally certified as Senior Professionals in HR and highly experienced specialists in their field. Susan let us know of all the services that were needed to be put in place and we made the decision which items to prioritize and implement.

In less than two months we were up to date with all of our employee record keeping, required training, custom employee manual, job descriptions and all of the forms required by law in an easy to use binder. I don’t have to know how to implement an HR program I just need to know somebody who does; TPO is my somebody. I am very happy with TPO and what they have delivered. I know I am only one phone call away from a real person to answer my HR questions."

ABOUT PACIFIC AG RENTALS

The people at Pacific Ag. Rentals have been in the agriculture business for over 30 years serving California and Arizona with quality and dependable Farm Equipment. Since the beginning, Pacific Ag. Rentals has been oriented to serving and fulfilling the needs of agriculture interests with quality implements, tractors, parts, hardware, and other necessities at the best prices possible.

We specialize in short and long-term renting, leasing and financing any size of equipment package. Being a medium sized business allows us to be flexible and creative in financing equipment. You can buy outright, or rent the equipment for a while and return it when you are finished, or we can put it on a lease to own payment plan. We have a full service shop that keeps our equipment running smoothly. We have radio dispatched service trucks that can repair down equipment in a hurry. Our mechanics have been working in the field for over 20 years and are experienced to handle concerns that arise from the daily use of farm equipment.

We have a large fleet of John Deere, CAT and Kubota tractors ranging in horsepower from 45 to 550hp. We are the local dealer for Laser Guided land leveling systems, AUTOFarm and Trimble GPS Systems, Harlo 2WD and 4WD field forklifts, Balzer flail shredders, and a direct supplier of aluminum irrigation pipe and fittings. We carry a large range of tillage equipment, starting from shovels and sweeps to discs and rippers.

We are easy to do business with.
Challenge our Team with your needs,
I know we can save you some money...

For more information please visit www.pacificagrentals.com.

February 2010

The Big Sur Land Trust - TPO Member Since March 2001

Bill Leahy, Executive Director:

TPO: The Big Sur Land Trust has worked with TPO for over 15 years and been a TPO member for almost 10 of those. How do you feel TPO contributes to BSLT's success?

Bill Leahy, Executive Director: "TPO brings a full service one-stop-shop human resources department to our organization without us having to hire, at great cost, human resources personnel. TPO provides us the expertise we need to solve difficult personnel challenges, address ever-complex legal standards, craft job descriptions, initiate recruitments, provide training and do day-to-day trouble shooting. Because of the diverse set of organizations TPO works with, they also bring to the table far more creative strategies to address human resource matters than we could ever develop on our own."

ABOUT THE BIG SUR LAND TRUST

Founded in 1978, the mission of The Big Sur Land Trust is to conserve the significant lands and waters of California’s Central Coast for all generations. The Land Trust has protected more than 30,000 acres of land since its inception. The Big Sur Land Trust is a private non-profit 501(c)(3) governed by a board of 17 trustees, operated by a staff of 14, and supported by hundreds of volunteers and members. Generous donations and public conservation funds finance the Land Trust’s conservation work. Under its current leadership, our mission has been coupled with a new expanded vision, one that sees a future for our communities in which rich natural resources, working landscapes, prospering human communities and the unique character of place are conserved and cared for through collaborative partnerships and mutual support. We have expanded our scope and impact by introducing innovative approaches to conservation work and by developing a wide network of community partners to engage in these efforts. The Land Trust is committed to pursuing land and water conservation work that strengthens our communities and inspires a stewardship ethic so that Monterey County can maintain its unique and special place in the world. The goal and commitment of the Land Trust is to pursue resource conservation that supports the well-being of land and people and sustains our region’s unique quality of life for us all.

For more information please visit www.bigsurlandtrust.org.

December 2009

Nepenthe - TPO Member since December 2004

Kirk Gaffill, Nepenthe General Manager:

TPO: NEPENTHE HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR 5 YEARS. HOW DO YOU FEEL TPO CONTRIBUTES TO YOUR OPERATION’S SUCCESS?

Kirk Gaffill, Nepenthe General Manager: “The need to properly manage a company’s greatest asset, its employees, is of the utmost importance and simply cannot be overstated in a competitive and ever increasing regulatory environment. TPO provides consistent and high quality training support to our company and its management team. Further, TPO’s principals and its staff are gifted and quite effective in providing appropriate guidance and support in managing difficult or problematic employment issues.

Nepenthe has worked with TPO to develop our Employee Handbook, improve our hiring and employee management procedures, and as reliable counselors in the area of employment law and liability. TPO is a critical partner to our on-going success in managing, nurturing and improving the quality or our staff. Success in these areas directly improves our overall economic success in the short term and enhances our prospects for continued long term success.”

ABOUT NEPENTHE

Nepenthe - serving visitors to the

Big Sur Coast since 1949!

Nepenthe Restaurant serves lunch every day of the year from 11:30 - 4:30. They serve dinner from 5:00 - 10:00 every day except Thanksgiving & Christmas. Based on the vision of founders Lolly and Bill Fassett, the family has maintained a commitment to exceptional caring service in a relaxed atmosphere. Lolly added the Phoenix Shop in 1964 to share the wares and treasures she loved with the world, and in 1992, the Café Kevah opened. All three businesses are still operated by their children and grandchildren. The traditions of family hospitality are a hallmark of the business.

For more information about Nepenthe: http://www.nepenthebigsur.com

Augusts 2009

Sambrailo Packaging - TPO Member Since 2002

Mark Sambrailo, President:

TPO: SAMBRAILO PACKAGING HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR OVER 7 YEARS. HOW DOES TPO ADD TO SAMBRAILO’S SUCCESS?

Mark Sambrailo, President: "Sambrailo has over 180 employees throughout 11 facilities in the US and Mexico. TPO has provided invaluable support spanning beyond the HR realm to functioning as a strategic business partner. With LaTonya and the TPO team of experts at our fingertips, we feel confident that we can access the most current regulatory answers on the spot. Even more than that, we gain a practical menu of employee relations considerations and implications to weigh up against our decisions and actions before we act. Our outcomes are always improved when we enlist TPO’s involvement.

TPO has taken on a wide variety of assignments, with outstanding and sustainable results. Examples include: hiring of executives, compensation comparisons, our sales bonus plan development, management by objective (MBO) development, customized performance record tools, regulatory compliance training & support, as needed conflict resolution support – and being the sounding board for managers and recommending creative solutions to problems."

ABOUT SAMBRAILO PACKAGING

The Sambrailo story begins in 1923 when Charles Sambrailo first recognized the need to improve produce handling methods. He approached growers and shippers with packaging solutions such as paper liners designed to protect the produce as it was packed into wooden boxes. This forward thinking and action began Sambrailo’s long-standing role as the produce packaging industry’s innovation leader.

Throughout Sambrailo’s 86-year history, this family-owned company has remained committed to providing superior quality that delivers measurable customer benefits.

In 1957 Sambrailo improved upon the old strawberry cartons by developing trays with glued and folded-over windows. This insightful creation reduced fruit damage and increased tray strength.

In the 1970’s Sambrailo continued to raise fruit packaging standards with the introduction of a new strawberry tray with a dividing zipper on the bottom. This concept expanded merchandising options for the shippers.

Sambrailo also began printing on solid fiber fruit baskets, a simple change which provided the shipper with branding opportunities.

In the 1980's Sambrailo strengthened its presence in the packaging industry with a series of innovations. First, they simplified carton assembly with the introduction of the one-piece hand-folded apple box. Next, Sambrailo developed the plastic dome lid for the solid fiber fruit baskets, thus making stacking possible and reducing mechanical damage. Subsequent packaging advancements include the single-layer long-stem strawberry tray, the development of insulated flower cartons, and the glued double-ended bushberry tray.

In 1987 Sambrailo revolutionized the packaging industry by introducing the first ever plastic clamshell for fresh berries. Now products were not only stackable and well-protected, but visible to consumers.

The '90's saw Sambrailo Packaging increase the impact of packaging graphics with the development of pre-printed liners for strawberry trays. They also introduce their patented floral water pack, a design which reduced packaging costs, improved shipping efficiencies and ultimately improved margins for their customers.

Continuing in their tradition of responding to growers & shippers greatest needs, Sambrailo introduced the modular MIXIM Packaging System in 1998. This unique packaging matrix of clamshells, trays and pallets dramatically cut down on cooling time and product bruising while maximizing freight cube. Each patented feature results in cost savings throughout the distribution chain.

In the new millennium, Sambrailo Packaging has introduced our patent-pending MIXIM “Snap-Flap” container. This one-piece, double-hinged container with its unique lid-closure offers inventory control, improved packaging efficiencies, labor savings, consumer appeal and addresses safety concerns. The Snap Flap is perfect for value-added and shed-packed fruits and vegetables.

Recently, Sambrailo Packaging answered customers’ needs and proudly introduced the MIXIM Classic “LV” 1-LB and MIXIM “FS” 4-LB Strawberry Clamshells. The “LV” Classic is a perfect fit for the larger variety berries and still nests into the classic 6-down tray. The 4-LB “FS” clamshell was designed to fit into the new wireless machine-fold 3-count trays, as well as the standard 2-count trays.

For 2009 Sambrailo Packaging is launching a new line of “RunRite” Blueberry Clamshells. In a progressive and forward thinking collaboration with top machine manufacturers, these containers have been carefully engineered to run on both high-speed volume and weigh-filled packing lines with minimal down-time and product loss. As such the RunRite is the most efficient and cost-effective clamshell on the market.

Today, Sambrailo has over 180 employees throughout 11 facilities in the US and Mexico, each supplying an unequaled range of packaging options for agricultural commodities. Through 3 generations of innovation, the philosophy of Charles Sambrailo still holds true: Listening to customer requests, focusing on technical issues and progressive research of "whatever is best for the produce." This motto continues to be the unifying motivation in the continuing success of Sambrailo Packaging.

For more information about Sambrailo Packaging visit: www.sambrailo.com

April 2009

Pasatiempo Golf Club - TPO Member Since 2000

Jay Walkinshaw, General Manager:

TPO: PASATIEMPO GOLF CLUB HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR OVER 9 YEARS. HOW DOES TPO ADD TO PASATIEMPO’S SUCCESS?

Jay Walkinshaw, General Manager: “We call upon Melissa for strategic advice and we benefit from the flawless administration of TPO’s workshops and training programs, such as CA Employment Essentials, Harassment & Discrimination in the Workplace Training and their Annual Conference with informative and entertaining guest speakers. An invaluable bonus is TPO’s ability to offer these programs in Spanish. Blanca is engaging and always helpful in this role.

TPO offers best practice advice and solutions tailored to Pasatiempo’s diverse and unique environment and its eclectic workforce. From keeping our Employee Handbook accurate and up-to-date, to assisting with investigating employee complaints, Jill, Robert, Melissa and the whole TPO team take the time to understand our business, our culture and our needs."

ABOUT PASATIEMPO GOLF CLUB

Pasatiempo was designed by world-renowned golf architect Alister MacKenzie. Even though MacKenzie also designed Augusta National and Cypress Point, Pasatiempo was his favorite layout and where he made his American home, which still borders the sixth fairway. Today, this historic top 100 course is a semi-private golf club that sets aside certain tee times each day for public play.

Pasatiempo is a golfer’s dream come true — it is ranked #11 in Golf Magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play 2008 and ranked #31 in Golf Digest’s 2005 America’s Greatest Public Courses. Golf Digest also named Pasatiempo Golf Club as one of the top 3 courses you can play in California (along with Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill). Golf Magazine ranks Pasatiempo #55 in the Top 100 Courses in the U.S. (private and public), up 16 places over the 2005 ranking!

From greens that have challenged generations of golfers including Bobby Jones, Ken Venturi, Juli Inkster, and Tiger Woods, to rich golf history and breathtaking scenery, Pasatiempo delivers a memorable golf experience; it is truly one of the finest championship golf courses in the world.

For more information about Pasatiempo Golf Club: www.pasatiempo.com

February 2009

The Don Chapin Company - TPO Member Since 2001

Don Chapin Jr., President / CEO:

TPO: THE DON CHAPIN COMPANY HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR SEVEN YEARS. HOW DO YOU FEEL TPO CONTRIBUTES TO YOUR OPERATION’S SUCCESS?

Don Chapin Jr., President / CEO: “TPO has been a great partner and have been very instrumental in helping us with our Company Policy Handbook and with every day issues that we need some expert advise on. In the last seven years our company has grown from 175 employees to 275 just with the Don Chapin Co. TPO has provided not only technical information needed to ensure exemplary HR practices, but you have mentored us as we developed our own human resource department. Your staff is outstanding and always very helpful. Our employees are our biggest asset and you have helped us in our quest to attract and retain outstanding staff."

ABOUT tHE Don Chapin Company

The Don Chapin Company was founded in 1978 by President Don Chapin Jr., and his father, Don Chapin Sr. As a premier general engineering contractor on the central coast, the Don Chapin Company specializes in roadway construction, underground utilities, concrete construction, land clearing and septic construction. Proudly serving the Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties, the Don Chapin Company provides the highest quality of workmanship and professionalism to their customers.

As a family owned and operated company, the Don Chapin Company believes keeping a strong relationship with their customers is the key to success. The Don Chapin Company is the local company that cares, providing the highest quality of workmanship along with honest and realistic information. As the company continues to grow, the core values remain true, providing superior work and integrity to our customers. What ever the request, whether large or small, the Don Chapin Company takes pride in getting the job done on time and under budget.

For more information about The Don Chapin Co: www. www.donchapin.com

November 2008

The Mission Ranch - TPO Member Since 1993

Theresa A. Jung, General Manager:

TPO: THE MISSION RANCH HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR OVER THIRTEEN YEARS. HOW DO YOU FEEL TPO CONTRIBUTES TO YOUR OPERATION’S SUCCESS?

Theresa A. Jung, General Manager: “"The Mission Ranch and TPO have been partners for over 13 years. The Mission Ranch employs 149 staff members and we have a wonderful diverse group of individuals who are dedicated employees. TPO has provided us with invaluable Leadership and HR classes. They have created "on premises" classes for our employees that directly pertain to the Hospitality Industry and our specific needs. TPO has been very instrumental in helping us create and train our HR department. Your staff members are professional, always helpful (even at 4:25pm!) with great advice. Robert and Jill, your dedication to Employer and Employee Relations and much more, has made our operations successful on so many levels. Our testimonials are our managers and employees who come back after your trainings enthusiastic, lifted morale and greater communication skills, eager to apply what they have just learned."

TPO has provided not only the technical information needed to ensure exemplary HR practices, but you have mentored us as we developed our own human resources department. Your staff is outstanding and always helpful when we need advice on a challenging issue. Over the years, you have assisted us in staying current on HR regulations, trained us on a variety of topics and provided us with excellent advice. Our employees are our biggest asset and you have helped us in our quest to attract and retain outstanding staff."

ABOUT tHE mISSION rANCH

The Historic Mission Ranch offers thirty-one unique and charming rooms - many with ocean views, fireplaces and Jacuzzi Tubs. Our Historic 1850's Farmhouse, The Bunk House, The Hayloft and our Meadow View Triplex rooms just to name a few. A complimentary continental breakfast and use of our six Championship Tennis Courts and Fitness Facility is included. Dinner is served nightly from 5pm to 9:30pm. The Piano Bar is a favorite for our dedicated locals and guests. Dinner music starts at 8pm and sing-a-longs start at 9pm with complete bar service beginning at 4pm Monday thru Saturday. Our Sunday Jazz Champagne Brunch has become a Carmel tradition, featuring one of the area's most venerable trios. Brunch is served at 10am until 1:30pm. The Mission Ranch offers a spectacular setting for weddings, parties and Corporate Events. The "Patio Barn," which will accommodate 50 to 96 guests, offers a dance floor and glass doors that open onto the brick patio with a view towards the green meadow and ocean. It also boasts a large copper-topped bar at one end of the room with a stage at the opposite end. The "Large Barn," which will accommodate parties up to 160 guests, is a generous room with an open beam ceiling. The Mission Ranch Staff prides itself in making your stay a happy and memorable one. Our mission is simple, "When you are happy, we are happy". We look forward to seeing you down at the Mission Ranch!

For more information about The Mission Ranch: www. www.missionranchcarmel.com

September 2008

Central Coast YMCA - TPO Member Since 1999

Sharon Gish, President/CEO:

TPO: The Central Coast YMCA has been a TPO member for nine years now. How do you feel TPO contributes to your organization's success?

Sharon Gish, President/CEO: “TPO has been a great partner and you have been very instrumental in our success. In the last nine years, the Central Coast YMCA has grown to five branches in three counties with more than 500 employees throughout the year. The majority of our employees are part-time and many of them are teens who are just entering the workforce. Consistency and fairness in our personnel policies and practices helps build staff morale and create a stronger sense of teamwork.

TPO has provided not only the technical information needed to ensure exemplary HR practices, but you have mentored us as we developed our own human resources department. Your staff is outstanding and always helpful when we need advice on a challenging issue. Over the years, you have assisted us in staying current on HR regulations, trained us on a variety of topics and provided us with excellent advice. Our employees are our biggest asset and you have helped us in our quest to attract and retain outstanding staff."

ABOUT Central Coast YMCA

The Central Coast YMCA is a charitable organization offering membership and programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body. The YMCA embraces diversity and is open to men, women, boys and girls of all ages, races, ethnicities, religions, abilities and circumstances. More than 25,000 people are involved in YMCA programs each year at one of five branches located in Salinas, Watsonville, Monterey, Soledad and Hollister.

Programs include health and wellness classes, teen and family activities, youth sports programs, day camp, after school care and volunteer opportunities. Financial assistance is available thanks to generous donors whose contributions to the annual YMCA Community Support Campaign help kids and families in need.

All YMCA programs promote the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

At the YMCA it is the belief that:

Every child and youth will deepen positive values, their commitment to service and their motivation to learn.
Every family will build stronger bonds, achieve greater work/life balance and become more engaged with their communities.
Every individual will strengthen their spiritual, mental and physical well-being.

To learn more about Central Coast YMCA, Visit www.centralcoastymca.org

July 2008

Monterey County Bank - TPO Member since 2005

Charles T. Chrietzberg, Jr., President/CEO/Chairman

TPO: How do you feel TPO contributes to Monterey County Bank’s success?

Charles T. Chrietzberg, Jr., President/CEO/Chairman: “Monterey County Bank has grown in the past several years and we now find ourselves with over 50 employees. The laws that govern employers with 50+ employees are often different than those with less than 50. TPO’s guidance in these areas has been critical, in order for MCB to maintain our strict adherence to HR statutory regulations. Additionally, it has been very helpful to have the experts at TPO available when we encounter HR situations that may be unusual, or something we have not previously encountered.

ABOUT Monterey County Bank

Monterey County Bank is the oldest locally owned, locally managed bank in Monterey County - over 31 years! We have a commitment to continue this important family tradition. President/CEO Charles T. Chrietzberg, Jr. and his daughter Vice-President Stephanie Chrietzberg work together closely to prepare a new generation of the MCB team to continue our service. This is something we’re proud to offer our clients and our community.

THE WHOLE PACKAGE

Beyond outstanding SBA, Construction & Commercial Lending and Merchant Card Services, Monterey County Bank is poised to be a complete local banker. We have several options in both Business & Personal Accounts that can be tailored specifically to any businesses needs.

SBA LOANS

Monterey County Bank has been the #1 SBA Lender in Monterey County for over 10 years. SBA Loans can be used for business purchase, new business start-up, additional working capital, equipment or tenant improvements for your existing business, and purchase of commercial real estate to house your business. Monterey County Bank specializes in SBA loans with experts in our lending department who can talk business with people who do business. Having attained “Preferred Lender” status in 1993 from the Small Business Administration, Monterey County Bank can approve SBA loans in-house, which means a much faster turnaround for small businesses obtaining SBA financing. Because we are locally owned and managed, all decisions, including loan approvals are made right here.

MERCHANT CREDIT CARD SERVICES

Merchant Card services can often be challenging for a small business. Monterey County Bank has developed a cutting edge combination of competitive rates and personal credit card service that is delivered locally from our Merchant Card division in Carmel Rancho. The relationship between Monterey County Bank and MasterCard and VISA expedites installation and service. We provide:

Competitive fees
Cost effective, streamlined system with local and personalized customer service at your fingertips
24 Hour support & help desk
Fast, efficient settlement of funds
Fewer processing errors and fewer chargebacks
Detailed transaction reporting
Compatible with most hardware solutions
Solutions for: retail, hotel, restaurant, mail order, wireless or internet businesses

COMMERCIAL & CONSTRUCTION LOANS

Monterey County Bank offers great financing options for commercial & construction lending

Construction loans for single family residences - both owner & non-owner occupied
Construction loans for multi-family properties
Permanent/long term financing for purchase or refinancing of multi-family properties
Construction financing for Commercial properties
Permanent/Long term financing for the purchase or refinancing of commercial properties
Secured term loans to businesses for purchase, expansion or refinancing

Because we are locally owned and managed, all loan approvals are made right here.

Visit www.montereycountybank.com

May 2008

Kinship Center - TPO Member since 1997

Carol Biddle, President/CEO

Kinship Center^®

Every Child Deserves a Family™

TPO: KINSHIP CENTER HAS BEEN A TPO MEMBER FOR OVER ELEVEN YEARS. HOW DO YOU FEEL TPO CONTRIBUTES TO KINSHIP CENTER’S SUCCESS?

Carol Biddle, President/CEO: “During the many years that Kinship Center has utilized the services of TPO, our staff has grown from 30 to more than 150, and we have developed our own internal HR department. TPO has supported us during this time of development and change. When we update our employee handbook, we rely on TPO to be sure that it contains all of the current HR regulations, and we appreciate their quick responses to our questions. We have sent several new managers to TPO's Management Excellence Series and HR-101 workshops, and TPO has worked with us to present the mandated harassment training to our entire statewide staff at one time. We look forward to their annual update seminars each year.”

ABOUT Kinship center

Since 1984, Kinship Center has helped create and support families for thousands of children, ages birth through 17, who can no longer safely remain with their birth parents because of abuse, neglect or abandonment. With a core belief that every child deserves a family, Kinship Center remains focused on our mission…to connect children to safe, permanent families who will be there for a lifetime.

A statewide nonprofit agency, Kinship Center and our professional staff play a leading role in the field of child welfare, and we continue to receive national recognition for our model programs and services on behalf of children. Through participation and advocacy, we help formulate policy and establish standards that protect children and families. Kinship Center provides life-changing outcomes for more than 1,800 children and 2,000 families each year through a variety of programs:

Adoption: Our adoption services include public awareness, parent recruitment, assessments and education, child placement, and support and counseling for families after placement.
Foster Care: Kinship Center’s therapeutic foster care program provides experienced, temporary care for children who have suffered abuse or neglect from family members.
Relative Care: Our Family Ties program offers critical services for relative caregivers, 90% of whom are grandparents, to help them keep children in crisis out of foster care and connected to family.
Mental Health Therapy and Child Development: Kinship Center mental health clinics assist children who have emotional, developmental or behavioral challenges.
Wraparound: A program for adoptive or relative families dealing with children’s most serious issues. The goal is to keep children out of residential care or psychiatric hospitalization.
Education Institute: Kinship Center is recognized nationally for providing state-of-the-art training for parents and professionals.

Please visit Kinship Center's website at www.kinshipcenter.org for more information.

March 2008

The Community Foundation - TPO Member Since 2000

Todd Lueders, President/CEO

TPO: "The Community Foundation for Monterey County has been a TPO member for over eight years. How do you feel TPO contributes to Community Foundation’s success?

Todd Lueders, President/CEO: “The Foundation has grown to include 23 staff members in 5 different locations. TPO has been a great help by providing reliable “as needed” guidance for regulatory compliance and handling both formal and informal employee/management issues. You have also been instrumental in our professional development efforts by presenting impactful training programs including legal compliance for harassment & discrimination prevention and communications programs including leadership skills and conflict management. We rely on your regulatory expertise, impactful training programs and appreciate your good advice.”

ABOUT The Community Foundation for Monterey County

“Here for Good”
The Community Foundation for Monterey County is dedicated to improving the quality of life in our county by raising, managing and distributing charitable funds to worthy organizations for the betterment of our community. Created in 1945 as the “Monterey Foundation” with all volunteers, 2008 marks the Community Foundation's 63rd year. Todd Lueders became the first paid staff member in 1981, and the Foundation became the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) in 1984.”

In 2007, under the skilled guidance of a nineteen-member Board of Directors, CFMC awarded 710 grants amounting to $7.63 million (which was $800,000 up from 2006) and boasts an 8% total return on investments. As the steward of more than 250 funds and total assets of over $143 million, the Community Foundation is now the largest grant making foundation on the Central Coast.

Among the many deserving recipients of grant funding, CFMC is proud to include the following special programs:

Neighborhood Grants Program

Started in 1997 with a grant from the Packard Foundation, the Neighborhood Grants Program is now fully integrated into the ongoing operations of the Community Foundation. This program helps community-based organizations throughout Monterey County improve their neighborhoods through small grants and workshops.

Management Assistance Program

The mission of the Management Assistance Program (MAP) is to improve and expand access to organizational capacity-building resources for non-profit organizations in Monterey County. The MAP includes affordable workshops, library resources, and consultant referrals for agencies seeking to strengthen their management.

Communities Advancing the Arts

Through this initiative, the Community Foundation for Monterey County works with local communities to improve the capacity and sustainability of arts organizations representing a wide range of cultural traditions in Monterey County, to increase their visibility among diverse audiences and donors, and to develop new donors and audiences for their work.

Literacy Campaign

The creation of the Literacy Campaign was a direct response to alarming local statistics: a quarter of the adult workforce reads below the fourth grade level and only two-thirds have completed high school. By helping others gain the literacy skills needed for fuller lives, greater job opportunities and successful families, the Campaign will improve the quality of life in Monterey County.

Women’s Fund of Monterey County

The mission of the Women's Fund of Monterey County is to effect social change as an advocate, catalyst, convener and funder to improve the quality of life for women and girls.

Please visit the Foundation’s website at www.cfmco.org for more information about CFMC.

January 2008

City of Marina - TPO MEMBER SINCE 2006

Anthony Altfeld, City Manager

TPO: "As a member of TPO, how do you feel TPO contributes to the City’s success?"

Anthony Altfeld, City Manager: "The TPO team has offered the City of Marina a myriad of coaching, training and specialized services that have positively affected every department and has served to enhance our already strong Human Resources Department.

As a public agency, we provide services to our community through staff, volunteers serving on councils, boards and commissions and contracted services. Understanding the intricacies of employment and labor law, in addition to offering appropriate training sessions to the various groups has been something that TPO's team has offered with professionalism and accuracy.

Our experiences with TPO have included their management and guidance of executive searches, compensation and salary studies and educational opportunities for all employee levels. Most recently we've had staff attend the first time supervisor courses and the Management Excellence Series. The feedback from our employees and their ability to implement key concepts and ideas learned to facilitate greater productivity and professionalism within our organization has been immediate.

In addition to a strong educational calendar offered on an ongoing basis, the TPO team has provided quality specialized training services to volunteers and staff for better education of our stakeholders, in addition to satisfying state mandated requirements.

Due to TPO's broad range of knowledge and capabilities, we have had the unique opportunity to incorporate executive coaching for key employees. This service allows us to offer additional learning opportunities in specific areas to already strong managers, making them more knowledgeable and well-rounded.

It is with the assistance of TPO that we've been able to focus on what we do best and have every confidence that we have access to quality education, accurate information and the latest in mandates, trends and decisions that effect our employment practices."

ABOUT THE CITY OF MARINA

The City of Marina is one of California’s fastest growing, dynamic communities in California. Marina’s City Manager, Anthony Altfeld, was recently interviewed for his thoughts about the future of Marina. Citing projected planned growth and projects in the City, including vitalization of the downtown and newer former Fort Ord areas, Altfeld noted the importance of incorporating enthusiasm, responsibility, and thoughtful planning as keys to successful and effective government efforts in helping to shape the community’s future.

Vision Statement: “Marina desires to grow and mature, along with its image, from a small town, primarily bedroom community, to become a small city which is diversified, vibrant and mostly self sufficient".

Visit Marina’s website at www.ci.marina.ca.us. Learn more about the exciting and diverse projects and accomplishments underway by reading the City of Marina at Monterey Bay NEWS at http://www.ci.marina.ca.us/documents/Newsletter07.pdf.

November 2007

InterWest Insurance Services, Inc. - TPO MEMBER SINCE 2003
Dave Dias, Vice President
Executive Board Member

TPO: "InterWest has been a TPO member for over three years. How do you feel TPO contributes to InterWest and your Client's success?"

Dave Dias, Vice President: "TPO has been a major contributor to InterWest and our clients in at least two significant ways! First and foremost, it’s their people. TPO HR Management consultants “say what they do and do what they say.” They are individuals operating within the context of a team environment where character and ethics are a top priority. Their diligent commitment to follow-through really sets them apart. Second, they are very competent in their respective discipline. Whether it’s consulting with us and our clients on Employee Handbooks, Communications Support, Employee Applications, FMLA/CFRA Compliance Programs, Personnel File Management or Policy & Procedure Manuals, we have found their professional recommendations relevant and timely. We can always depend upon them to deliver."

ABOUT INTERWEST

InterWest is a name you can trust

InterWest has been California’s trusted insurance partner since 1910. Our geographical footprint spans the Northern California with 12 regional offices. We offer a full range of business and personal insurance products and services. With more than $550 million in property & casualty premiums purchased on behalf of our customers every year, and representing over 175 insurance companies, we make our clients’ financial care and growth a priority. InterWest is ranked 46th among the largest 100 insurance brokers in the United States (both public and private ranked by revenue). We were also ranked 11th on the list of 100 Largest Privately Held Independent Agencies in the U.S. In business since 1910, we expect to continue serving our clients as their premier private insurance brokerage for many years to come.

InterWest offers services in most aspects of commercial insurance, self insurance, risk management, employee benefits and private client personal insurance. As brokers, our goal is to address our client’s overall risk related needs, from the client’s point of view. We work for our client and take pride in providing service that meets the highest standards in our industry.

Size is an advantage. We are large enough that our clients have access to the strongest insurers in the U.S., through longstanding direct insurance company relationships as well as wholesale market relationships. We are small enough to deliver personal service and that is one of the main reasons we value our relationship with TPO. TPO places a high value on the client which is a strong reflection of the values represented at InterWest.

As a regional insurance broker we place HIGH VALUE on TPOHR’s core expertise…human resources consultation. We have been a TPOHR member for years and have partnered with them in a variety of ways:

• Joint workers compensation educational seminars
• Joint employee benefit and HR presentations
• Direct client referrals
• Many members of our management team have taken courses offered by the TPO team.

As a result of the volume of business InterWest manages, we have established very important and strategic relationships…TPO represents one of those significant and valued relationships and we’re honored to call them our business partner!!

To learn more about InterWest click here.

September 2007

CHARTWELL SCHOOL

Douglas Atkins, Executive Director

TPO: "Chartwell School been a TPO member for over 10 years. How do you feel TPO contributes to Chartwell's success?"

Teresa Brown, Business Manager: "Chartwell School is a non-profit that has experienced steady growth and development over the span of 25 years. Navigating through the often-tumultuous waters of human resources for the past ten years is something that TPO has done with excellence and precision. Knowing that answers, advice and support are only a phone call or e-mail away has truly made me feel as if our HR department is just down the hall. The staff is always professional, knowledgeable, accessible as well as personable.

We have engaged TPO on multiple projects. Whether guiding us through complex employee situations, providing training, updating policies, pay scales or assisting in the hiring process, the TPO professionals have never given us cause for disappointment. I always come away with the satisfaction that we have received the very best they can provide.

We have come to think of Jill, Robert, Melissa and the entire TPO staff as an extension of our team. They have taken time to get to know our organization and the population we serve. This understanding has helped TPO more effectively serve Chartwell and meet our needs. We value the many years of dedicated service TPO has provided with appreciation."

ABOUT CHARTWELL SCHOOL

Our Mission

Unlike the acquisition of language, the ability to read is not innate. It must be learned. For at least one in every seven people, reading is made especially challenging by the fact that their brain processes visual and auditory information in a different way than their peers. Learning differences, including dyslexia, are unrelated to intelligence or gender. They appear to have a genetic component, and they do not disappear over time. With proper understanding and specialized education, learning differences do not limit potential or success - Winston Churchill is just one of a thousand examples of accomplished people with learning challenges.

The mission of Chartwell School, therefore, is to educate children with a wide range of language-related visual and auditory learning challenges in a way that provides them with the learning skills and self-esteem necessary to return successfully to mainstream education. Chartwell also helps individuals with specific learning challenges access their full potential by providing leading-edge education, research and community outreach.

What We Believe

Our philosophy is to educate each child as a unique and valuable individual. Our educational evaluations focus on finding effective, tailored learning avenues. We identify and develop areas of aptitude and strength as we address learning challenges, with the emphasis on each student rediscovering a sense of self-worth. We present project-based content and learning opportunities that are intellectually stimulating, while giving equal attention to learning skills and character development. We empower each student to effectively recognize and compensate for his or her specific learning challenge. Our faculty helps students use all their senses and all their strengths in a well-structured learning environment. Students are not simply encouraged but fully expected to become active, responsible learners.

What We Do

Chartwell School provides a full academic program in a highly structured learning environment, utilizing multi-sensory teaching. This approach is used consistently in all classes. The course of study includes all areas of language instruction, mathematics, social studies, physical education, and an array of enrichment activities supervised by professional staff. Students discover and nurture their talents in the Visual Arts, Science Laboratory and Computer Lab. Supplemental services are offered by a certified speech and language therapist for those students requiring additional work in receptive and expressive language development.

While helping the student overcome academic difficulties, programs at Chartwell actively teach self-reliance and respect for others. Students preparing to return to the mainstream education participate in a formal transitioning program in their last semester, which includes skills for effective self-advocacy.

Community Outreach

Chartwell is the only school in our entire Central Coast region that provides this type of specialized education. Chartwell Outreach shares best practices in education with other schools and youth organizations, so that they can work more effectively with students who experience milder forms of dyslexia and related learning difficulties. The goal of Chartwell Outreach is to bring research-based instructional methods to bear upon the community at large and to address the problem of literacy in its largest context. Collaborative partners have included the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monterey County, the Salvation Army, Salinas Union High School District, the Salinas YES program, future teachers at California State University Monterey Bay, Monterey Peninsula College, foster care programs, and many others. In addition to providing direct services to students, Chartwell Outreach works with organizations to help their staff provide effective literacy instruction.

Our Faculty

The Chartwell faculty specializes in language development and linguistic structures related to reading, writing, mathematics and all other disciplines. Each Chartwell teacher receives additional language training in a structured phonetic/linguistics program.

Most hold advanced degrees. Faculty also includes a physical education instructor, two speech and language therapists and an occupational therapist. The faculty values problem-solving, diagnostic instruction, character development and home communication as essential elements for student success.

For more information: www.chartwell.org

July 2007:

CHISPA: TPO MEMBER SINCE June 2003 (Client since 1995)

TPO: “CHISPA been a TPO member for over 4 years, and a client since 1995. How do you feel TPO contributes to CHISPA’s success?”

Trish Huels (CHISPA’s Director of Administration): “As a nonprofit organization with 60 employees between CHISPA and two subsidiaries, a construction company and a property management company that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, we have had some challenging and unique human resource issues over the years. TPO staff has listened to our concerns, served as a sounding board, and offered practical advice and solutions to each situation that has arisen.

TPO has also been a great source of information and training for our employees and management staff, from the mandatory Harassment & Discrimination training to basic labor law (California Employment Essentials) for supervisors and management training (Management Excellence Series).

Whether assisting with special projects such as harassment investigations, revision of policies, compensation studies of similar organizations, or providing training and consulting services, Jill, Robert and the TPO staff have provided an invaluable service that is greatly appreciated.”

ABOUT CHISPA

CHISPA (Community Housing Improvement Systems and Planning Association, Inc.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit Community-based Housing Development Organization (CHDO) operating on the Central Coast of California.

CHISPA is overseen by a nine-member Board of Directors with diverse backgrounds and experience in real estate, law, property management, social services, and the education, and business. CHISPA Board members all reside and work in different areas of Monterey County and most also serve on Boards of other community-based nonprofit organizations.

As the largest private, nonprofit housing developer in Monterey County, CHISPA has completed more than 1,900 affordable single family, multi-family and senior housing units since it’s incorporation in 1980. While these developments have provided housing for more than 7,400 people, there is still a great need for more affordable housing in Monterey County and throughout the State of California.

CHISPA’s mission is “To enhance the quality of life and create socially and economically healthy living environments on the Central Coast of California by developing, owning and managing rental housing, by providing home ownership opportunities for very-low, low and moderate-income people and by revitalizing neighborhoods” and encompasses more than just building housing units; CHISPA also integrates community service programs, in collaboration with other community service agencies, at their rental developments to best serve CHISPA residents.

In addition to providing affordable housing opportunities to very-low, low, and moderate-income households, CHISPA has also contributed more than $128 million to the local economy over the last 25 years in construction costs alone.

To learn more about CHISPA, visit their website at: www.chispahousing.org

May 2007:

Four Sisters Inns: TPO MEMBER SINCE July 1993

Four Sisters Inns is headed by Shelley Post Claudel as president and supported by a corporate staff and some 250 talented and dedicated individuals.

TPO: "Four Sisters Inns has been a TPO member for almost 14 years. How do you feel TPO contributes to Four Sister's success?"

Shelley: "As an organization with 15 different locations spread across two states, our human resources needs are both unique and challenging. TPO has provided us with a coordinated and comprehensive approach to addressing this situation. Additionally the management team has greatly benefited from the training seminars, including those offered in a large group format with other companies and particularly those customized to address our particular issues.

TPO has walked us through a variety of diverse employee situations over the years, using an effective combination of sound HR advice, practical solutions and a little humor. Jill, Robert and their entire team have always "been there" for us, to listen and advise, and we are very appreciative!"

Four Sisters is a collection of extraordinary inns located in the most spectacular regions of the west. The Post Family Home was a spectacular, multi-gabled 1888 Victorian mansion overlooking Monterey Bay. Already christened "Green Gables" by a previous owner, who had opened it to travelers, the home was the subject of regular inquiries from would-be guests. Finally, in July 1975, the Posts were persuaded to become seasonal hosts. For several years, they reshuffled their living quarters during the summer months to rent rooms to enthusiastic guests.

Four Sisters Inns gradually added new inns to the collection, each chosen with an eye toward elegant architecture, historical significance, and a truly unique setting. Coupling these inns with home cooking and gracious, friendly service, they soon had a steady stream of business. Rooms at the original inns (including Green Gables, Gosby House and Cobblestone) are decorated with the Post's elegant antiques. For more information about Four Sisters Inns, visit their website at www.foursisters.com.