News & Events from the Lafayette Chamber |
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Jay Lifson, Executive Director
251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150, Lafayette, CA
Virtual Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-1pm
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Greetings!
This week we invite you to:
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Welcome New Members!
The following businesses joined the Lafayette Chamber last week! We encourage you to visit their website and social media to learn more.
955 Mountain View Dr., Lafayette
Stacey Pawlakos, 925-283-1788
Full service hair salon including make up application.
Category: Beauty Salons & Services
3249 Mt. Diablo Court, Suite 101-B, Lafayette
Dr. Rebecca Parish, 925-464-3916
Dr. Rebecca Parish is pleased to open a satellite location in Lafayette, California! Due to her deep commitment to long term relationships with her patients and her community volunteer work, she accepts new patients only on a case-by-case basis.
Category: Physicians / Surgeons
3210 Old Tunnel Road, Lafayette
Sarah Chodack, 925-297-5751
24 / 7 Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Hospital offering Emergency, Surgical, Neuroglial and Internal Medicine Services.
Categories: Veterinarians, Medical Imaging / Radiology
18 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 240, San Ramon
Janet Fazio, 925-791-1040
At Marathon Tax Planning, our goal is to take the stress out of tax season for business owners and individuals, so you can focus on the issues you are passionate about in your daily life.
Categories: Accountants - Certified Public / Enrolled Agents, Tax Services
3455 Mt Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
Michele Zhou, 440-836-2092
Great local restaurants under one roof!
Categories: Restaurants, Cafe
50 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette
Christle Gorman, 925-962-9537
Formerly known as 'Coffee Shop' , Lafayette Public House brings the city a one stop shop for breakfast, lunch and dinner in our ability to curate each guest experience by keeping service, quality and community at the forefront of everything we do. Whether you're looking to start your day with a cup of specialty coffee, or unwind with a house made margarita our menus are sure to have something for you, your family and even your furry friend.
Category: Coffee & Tea
Thank You Renewing Members!
The following members renewed their membership April 5-11, 2021.
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Member Shout-Out: Lamorinda Living Podcast Series
➡ Lafayette’s Sandra Ann Harris discussed her new book: Say Goodbye to Plastic.
➡ Lafayette’s Christine Raymond discusses her community-based magazine: Lafayette Social.
➡ Top Lamorinda realtor Dana Green discusses home values during the pandemic as migration patterns trend away from high-density cities.
➡ Orinda mother, attorney and District 16 Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan shares why she decided to run for office and what life is like in the political arena
➡ Lafayette's Holly Jean Jackson discusses business coaching
➡ Lafayette Chamber's Jay Lifson discusses supporting businesses during uncertain times
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Classifieds
Now Hiring!
Are you looking for a job? See also our Instagram Highlight for Lafayette Chamber businesses that are hiring! |
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Room for Rent at Lafayette Beauty
Lafayette Beauty in downtown Lafayette has an available room for rent. It would make a great space for an esthetician or someone who wants to do micro blading, lash extensions or other personal services. The rent is $750 including utilities. Contact Fereshta Popal at (510) 825-1398 for more information.
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Sub-lease available at 3355 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
The Peter Pan Foundation would like to find a tenant that would allow them to share the space for occasional use. So if the tenant used it primarily during business hours, PPF could have use of that room evenings and weekends, potentially.
It's one large room, about 300 sq. feet. Access to a private bathroom.
There is a door that separates that room from the PPF side of the building.
One parking space would be available in the back.
Rent would be $900 a month plus $50 for utilities that would include, PG&E, water, garbage and internet. The space is available 4/1 but can be moved into anytime during the month of April, with pro-rated rents. Looking for someone to sign a 6 month lease with month-to-month after that and a 60 day notice to vacate. For more info, call Gina Campo, 925-822-2561
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Supervisor Candace Andersen's Weekly Update
➡ 54.9% of Contra Costa Residents are Vaccinated, Health Officials Continue to Urge Residents Ages 16+ to Get Vaccinated
➡ Contra Costa County Moves into the Orange Tier
➡ COVID-19 Drive-Through Vaccination Clinic Opened in Concord
➡ Governor Newsom Announces Extension of Oakland Coliseum Mass Vaccination Site
➡ Most Community Libraries Reopening With Limitations Later this Month
Join the Discussion with Health Officer About COVID Guidelines, Focusing on Events
Supervisor Andersen invites everyone to join the Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Committee on Covid-19 Economic Impact and Recovery Meeting on Thursday, April 15th at 1:30 p.m.
The primary topic of discussion will be new State guidance for events and festivals. However, other questions regarding COVID will be also addressed. Questions you would like to have answered can be asked ahead of time by emailing our office at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us, or at the meeting during the Public Comment period.
Ad Hoc Committee Agenda: http://64.166.146.245/agenda_publish.cfm?id=&mt=ALL&get_month=4&get_year=2021&dsp=ag&seq=1784
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General Plan Update: Connect and Share at Housing Element Workshops
You’ve studied up and now it’s time to speak up: The General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) is winding down its informational phase of the Housing Element update and is moving into the public input period. The GPAC is hosting four community workshops to gather input on how our community should plan for housing. Each session will be a deep dive into different aspects of what goes into the Housing Element and the workshops will be an opportunity to connect with other community members on the topic of housing.
- Monday’s City Council Meeting: A Very Full Agenda
- Wednesday Webinar: Internet Safety for Parents of The Online Generation
- Developing a Hamlin Nature Park Master Plan
- The Spring Edition of Lafayette Vistas: Now in Full Color
- The Revised CERT Preparedness Training Module
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Invitation to the Lafayette Homeowners Council April 13 Spring Issues Presentation- all welcome!
The availability of affordable and inclusive housing in California is a real issue facing all of us. Desirable and livable suburbs like Lafayette have become a “hot market” with increased prices of real estate and rental rates reflecting this trend. This housing shortage is state wide, especially for affordable housing, and has become a problem that state level politicians are attempting to address.
The Lafayette Homeowners Council will host a webinar focused on these topics and alternative ideas to provide more affordable and available housing in our community. We have invited representatives from two groups - Livable California and United Neighbors to make presentations on California’s housing “shortage” and affordable housing dilemma, as well as a review of current and proposed laws aimed at densifying single family home neighborhoods state - wide, and what we can do about it. Invited are all Lafayette homeowners associations, neighborhood groups, and all other interested individuals.
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Relief Funding for Small Businesses
The City of Lafayette is proud to offer the Small Business Assistance Program to all small businesses within our community. Small business assistance webinars are held every Thursday afternoon at 4pm to discuss the Paycheck Protection Program and other tips to obtain funding. There is also a Q&A panel where you can get answers to your questions live. Feel free to register for the Webinar by clicking HERE and select the date and time that works best for you. Get verified for this free service HERE.
Upcoming Items of Interest:
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Changes to the EIDL: In light of how long the economic impact of the pandemic has persisted, the SBA has made two positive expansions to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).
- EIDL extending original loan deferments until 2022
- For all SBA disaster loans made in 2020, the first payment due date is 24 months, extended from 12 months, from the date of the note.
- For all SBA disaster loans made in 2021, the first payment due date is 18 months, extended from 12 months, from the date of the note.
- EIDL allowing optional expansions to both existing and new loans
- Original EIDL calculations were based on six (6) months’ worth of 2019 gross revenue (max. of $150,000).
- As of April 6, 2021, new rules now allow a total calculation of 24 months’ worth of gross revenue (max. of $500,000). Initially, this option had a very narrow eligibility only for businesses who received their EIDL before April 3, 2020.
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Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG): April 8, 2021 launch of application delayed as SBA website crashes. New launch date currently TBD.
- The SVOG application portal officially launched at 9am PST this Thursday. Unfortunately, website issues caused the portal to be shut down in less than one hour.
- The SBA has pledged to release a new launch date in advance so small businesses can prepare and have equitable access to apply.
- Final rules and eligibility are still not yet finalized. Similar to their approach to the PPP Forgiveness application process, the SBA is currently relying on interim guidance, as opposed to official rules that they would be committed to.
- Our current understanding is the SBA agency has little experience in administering grants. We are following this program very closely to keep Lafayette businesses informed. We anticipate rules may change week to week or even day to day as the SBA adjusts to overseeing a grant for the first time in over a decade.
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Final Round of the California Relief Grant: We are preparing our small businesses for the last “Round 6” application that is anticipated release mid-April 2021.
- We are providing new applicants with guidance on how to apply for this final round.
- Previous applicants from Rounds 1-5 are given guidance on how to double check their on file application in case it is being rejected for incorrect documents. This way they can be competitive for their final review in Round 6.
- To date, the grant administrators are opting to not tell applicants why they are rejected, allowing tiny missed details to have applicants thrown out as quickly as possible without informing them on how to fix their application.
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PPP application deadline is extended to May 31st.
- TPA is working aggressively to encourage more BAP members to apply now that there is much more breathing room for them to attempt it.
- Small business participation in the BAP remains high now that the Schedule C Gross Revenue rule has made so many new businesses eligible for this resource
- We are also helping businesses navigate the several banks/lenders who have shut down their applications instead of comply with the SBA’s rule changes.
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Tuesday Talk: Ninja Marketing Tips
Tuesday, April 13, 12noon, Online
Walk away with at least 2 new marketing strategies you can implement in your business today!
Learn from tried and tested marketing strategies that are sure to work. In this session, you will hear some of the hottest marketing biz trends and how best to implement them in your biz today.
Some of the topics we will be discussing:
- Clubhouse and how to build your social media following while testing marketing topics
- The best lead magnet to consider using today
- The best messaging strategy to use with new Instagram followers
- The importance of using testimonials in your marketing strategies
- Using voice messaging over social to build connection
- And much more!
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One on One Speed Networking with Blitzr
The Lafayette Chamber will host its first ever online one-on-one speed networking event on Wednesday, April 14 at 6pm utilizing the new platform Blitzr. Optimize your profile and your setup for a successful event prior to the event. Tip: Chrome is the best browser to use.
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Chamber Connectors Networking Group
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 4:30pm, Online
The Lafayette Chamber is hosting a networking/referral group called Chamber Connectors for current Lafayette Chamber members. We meet twice a month (first and third Wednesday of the month at 4:30pm) online for now!
If you're interested in joining this free networking group, please contact Fred Steingraf at fred.steingraf@edwardjones.com. Or simply use this link to join us on Zoom Wednesday, April 21, 4:30pm.
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Join the CHAMBER TEAM in the Hope Walk!
Please help us support the Cancer Support Community by making a contribution to our team. Walk, hike, swim, or ride from your favorite spot and send picture. Together, we can make a difference! Thanks to Ali Stoddard ( Green Alley) for being a Community Partner and Molly Northrup ( Northrup Consulting) for being our team leader.
Cancer Support Community is doing a "how to" and best practices session on Tuesday, April 13 at 4 p.m. over Zoom for anyone who wants to learn successful techniques for recruiting team members or doing fundraising. We will do a quick website training and then have some of our top team leaders share their secrets, followed by a Q&A where participants can ask questions or share their own ideas and tips. The registration for this free session is here:
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The Ten Things To Know About Managing Employees
Tuesday, April 13, 3pm, Online
It is critical for owners and managers to understand that having employees in California is different than every other state. Join us to learn the employment policies and HR best practices to reduce risk and keep your business compliant with the law. The presenter will be Chana Anderson, CCP, PHRca, SPHR, Senior Vice President & Practice Leader for ABD HR Consulting Services, as well a SBDC Regional Advisor. She holds several degrees and certifications, and possesses a deep expertise in organizational culture, human resources, and employment law. Her superpower is making the complex and ever-changing employment landscape easy to navigate.
This webinar will cover:
- Independent contractor v. employee
- Required new hire paperwork
- Complying with wage & hour laws
- Mandatory and optional benefits
- Essential training and policies
- Terminating employment
Free Webinar: 5 Steps to Manage Conflict at Work
Bad attitudes in the workplace can deteriorate morale, lower productivity, and increase costs. It doesn't take much for a co-worker, manager, or customer to feel the negative effects of someone with a bad attitude. The good news is there is now a process for dealing with these difficult people!
Test your leadership skills to see how you'd respond in a variety of difficult situations while learning about:
• 5 steps to manage conflict
• How to address "problem" employees
• Creating a positive work culture
• Recognize the characteristics of a bad attitude
• Assess challenging situations and determine an appropriate strategy
• Regain your positive attitude
Don't need an employee handbook? Think again.
Have you ever questioned the purpose of an employee handbook? Think again. The best employee handbooks offer a reminder of a company's vision and purpose, while protecting your business from costly lawsuits.
Benefits of CEA helping you customize your employee handbook:
- Ensures compliance with federal and state laws
- Your first line of defense in a lawsuit
- Helps ensure key company policies are clearly communicated
- Communicates to employees what is expected of them
Your employee handbook is the most important document you have to communicate to your employees. Make sure you do it right the first time!
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Mt. Diablo Business Women: How to Build Your Business by Writing a Book!
Wednesday, April 14, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Teresa Currivan, founder of The Right Place Learning Center, shares tips on writing your book, framing it to communicate what you offer, and getting it published. Join us on April 14 for this exciting talk plus great networking. Online – no registration fee, non-members can attend two meetings prior to joining MDBW as members. Register here.
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Medicare Seminars
If you or someone you know has questions about Medicare, our free, virtual, and educational seminars are perfect for you. We have licensed Medicare agents teaching you all the basics. Join us to get your questions answered. No cost, no obligation. No Sales. Under 1 hour. For times and dates and to EGISTER go to canopy.vanbergins.com OR call (877) 833-4253 TTY 711. |
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Want to improve your public speaking skills?
Come find out what all the talk is about! Toastmasters is great organization to improve your communication and leadership skills.
You'll learn and practice public speaking in a friendly, comfortable environment. Our members are there for the same reason you are — to become better communicators. We have members of all levels, from beginners to experienced speakers.
Please contact Marilyn for the Zoom meeting details or more information at
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8th Annual Project LPIE Seeks Judges!
LPIE is hosting the 8th Annual Project LPIE - a project based competition in 12 categories for Acalanes High School students to showcase their skills. LPIE is specifically in need of judges for the categories of Journalism and Entrepreneurship. If you would like to volunteer to be a judge (time commitment is roughly 4 hours via zoom/phone), please contact gab@lpie.org. |
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Diablo Magazine: A call for entries, tell us about an Agent of Change
Diablo magazine is looking for the next generation of changemakers, and they want to hear about how you're making your mark on the East Bay. Submit your own story, or tell us about someone you know who is a trailblazer in our community. Learn more and submit here. Entries due by May 31. |
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From the Lafayette Library and Learning Center |
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WOW Presents: Avril Angevine on Dorothea Lange
Popular art lecturer Avril Angevine returns to WOW with a new lecture about Dorothea Lange who produced an astonishing body of photographic work in a career that lasted from the 1920s, when she ran the most successful portrait studio in San Francisco, to her death in 1965.
Best known for her Depression era documentary work - including the world-renowned photo “Migrant Mother” - Lange brought the humanity of the poor into sharp focus in works that still resonate with us today.
This program is presented by the Friends of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center.
Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation In partnership with Orinda Books Presents: Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D.: Radical Curiosity
In conversation with Mary Furlong, Ed.D.
Ken Dychtwald, Ph.D. will discuss his latest book Radical Curiosity: One Man's Search for Cosmic Magic and a Purposeful Life
Widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost experts on aging and longevity, Ken Dychtwald offers an entirely different - and far more personal - perspective in his latest book. Triggered by the deaths of his parents, and motivated by his cutting-edge research, Dychtwald dives deep to examine the arc and legacies of his own life in order to show readers his keys to a meaningful, magical and purposeful life.
Reopening Monday, April 26
Beginning Monday, April 26, Lafayette Library will reopen to the public for Grab & Go service. For details, visit ccclib.org.
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Please note: to signup via text you will be asked for your birthdate. This information is not stored, it is only used for verify you are over 21 years of age.
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Show Your Membership!
Would you like to include a Lafayette Chamber membership emblem on your website or other marketing materials?
The Lafayette Chamber would be happy to provide you with the appropriate logos. Simply email your request to holly@lafayettechamber.org. |
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