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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2021 Fire Season Preparedness and Response Presentations
City Council Meeting TONIGHT: Monday, May 17, 2021, at 7:00 p.m., Online
Presentations by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, Lafayette Emergency Preparedness Commission, Lamorinda CERT, PG&E, EBMUD, and Lafayette Police Department. The agencies will be describing their respective roles within emergency preparedness and response; how the agencies work together; provide updates on preparations for the 2021 Fire Season and PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
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DIY Video Engagement Tactics
TOMORROW - Tuesday, May 18, 12 NOON, Online
Sharing your stories and engaging your audience is one of the best assets in your toolkit. Learn strategies to amplify your impact.
Special guest, Christi Lowe – a two time Emmy Award Winning Video Producer, and broadcast journalism veteran, will join us to talk about the types of videos that work when marketing your business, and how to beef up your video quality.
We will discuss the following:
- Why Video Marketing Matters
- How to Look Pro on a DIY Budget
- Recording Strategies
- Engagement Ninja Tips
Please note, even though your confirmation may say 3pm EST the event is at NOON PST.
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"Coffee" with City of Lafayette Mayor Susan Candell
Friday, May 21, 8am-9am, Online
Mayor Candell's priorities for Lafayette in 2021 include the new General Plan for the City, state housing mandates and public safety. Join us for "coffee" and get a chance to meet and speak with Mayor Candell on issues that are important to you.
Please register in advance for this webinar. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
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Lafayette’s Favorite Dinner Party – The “Taste of Lafayette” Restaurant Stroll!
Tuesday, June 22, 5pm-8pm, Downtown Lafayette
Tickets are limited and the event will account for any state/county health and safety guidelines. Please note you may be required to wear a mask and to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result within 72 hours of the event. High risk or those not feeling well should not attend.
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Welcome New Members!
The following businesses and organizations joined the Lafayette Chamber last week! We encourage you to visit their website and social media to learn more.
Lafayette, CA
Elliot Kallen, 510-206-1103
A Brighter Day was founded in 2015 to help teens and young adults recognize and cope with stress and depression. Storms Don’t Last Forever. There will always be A BRIGHTER DAY.
Category: Non-Profit Organizations & Clubs
1516 South Main Street, Walnut Creek, CA
Julie Tobias-Pancoast, 415-606-7537
Family owned NY style hand tossed pizza shop serving hoagies, cheesesteaks, wings, fresh tossed salads, garlic knots & daily slices. 8 amazing changing draft beers, craft soda and wine. We offer delivery, pick up or dining in.
Category: Restaurants
1005 Oak Hill Rd, Lafayette, CA
Kristin or Paul Crotty, 510-507-4847
Eco-shop featuring refills and low waste essentials for the home and body + artwork and jewelry from local artists.
Categories: Green Products, Environmental
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Victoria Briskin and Pam McGrath, 925-949-8712
Trinity Center’s mission is to be the doorway to opportunity for homeless and working poor people. We give care and hope to each person through supported access to services and resources. We invite everyone to participate in our mission.
Category: Non-Profit Organizations & Clubs
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Thank You Renewing Members!
The following members renewed their membership May 10-16, 2021.
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Member Shout-Out: Acalanes Community Always
This week's Member Shout-Out goes to those members that continue to support the Acalanes Community Always campaign!
Acalanes Senior Car Rally
Friday, May 21 at 5pm, Downtown Lafayette
Come one, come all and celebrate our Class of 2021!
Local Lafayette restaurants and businesses are encouraged to help celebrate seniors by providing a special blue drink, meal package and/or discount. Acalanes Leadership social
media will promote any fun partnerships and will encourage families to dine & shop in Lafayette before and after the car rally.
ASB Spirit Cards
Acalanes High School students with an ASB Spirit Card card have had the opportunity to obtain discounts at some of our favorite local businesses including:
Batch & Brine: 20% off a check for up to 6 people for dine-in or take-out
Pancoast Pizza: 6 free garlic knots with any $20 order or 12 free knots with any $40 order.
Patxi’s Pizza: 20% off one check up to 6 people dine-in or take-out
Peet’s Coffee: Get $2.50 off any bar drink (e.g., drip coffee, tea, espresso drinks)
Sideboard: Any free non-alcoholic beverage with any purchase to anyone showing their ASB Spirit Card!
Tutu’s Food & Drink: One complimentary non-alcoholic beverage with the purchase of one entrée (for dine in only). Not valid on to-go orders or market purchases.
Thank you Chamber Members!
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ICYMI - In Case You Missed It!
➡ Children Ages 12-15 Now Eligible For Covid-19 Vaccination in Contra Costa County
➡ Free COVID-19 Vaccines Coming to Local School Campuses
➡ All County-run Vaccine Sites Now Accepting Walk-ins Without Appointments
➡ Free Rides are Available to COVID 19 Vaccine Sites Through Uber and Lyft
➡ Contra Costa Will Follow the State’s Mask Guidance
➡ Do You Still Have Questions About the Safety of the Vaccine?
➡ FCC Providing Discounts For Eligible Households
➡ Blueprint for Safer Economy - Dimmer Framework - Why isn't Contra Costa County in the Yellow Tier?
➡ Moraga-Orinda Fire Chief Winnaker Offers Recommendations
to Reduce the Risk of Wildfire
California will continue it’s requirement that the fully vaccinated wear masks in most indoor settings outside the home including public transportation until June 15, declining to immediately implement looser guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read full article here.
Those interested encouraged to fill out survey online, contribute to social justice art installation.
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Support our neighbors who are homeless and in great need! Undies and Sock Collection Drive is under way!
Join us in the struggle to end poverty. Local Lafayette Chamber member businesses will be collection sites during the month of May. A list of sites is posted here including:
"We love that there are various drop-off points to make it easier for the community to contribute items that will be a blessing and an encouragement to the people in our community who are homeless or otherwise in great need." - Dean G. Hollenbeck | Director, Major Gifts, Corp. Partnerships & New Life Golf Tournament, Bay Area Rescue Mission
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The Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County provides a variety of quality services to businesses in Contra Costa County and the greater East Bay. Our services support the needs of all businesses including high-demand sectors of the local and regional economy as we match employers with a diverse, skilled workforce. Our Business Services team provides these services mostly at no-cost.
The business services team has resources to help you with talent recruitment and referral to partners.
- Customized recruitment events for companies
- Job posting and access to qualified job seekers
- Space for recruitment events
- Financial assistance and subsidies for on-the-job employee training
- Assistance with identifying tax credits for new hires
- Access to Unemployment Insurance and Disability Insurance information and labor market data through EDD
- Layoff and Outplacement Services for businesses that are downsizing or closing
- Links to Business Resources
The WDBCCC and its partners provide no-cost HR services, no-cost business advising/training, and SBA funding, no-cost recruiting services, as well as introducing government incentives, etc. This is your tax dollars going to work for you. Call 1-888-599-7645 M-F, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Click here to learn more.
Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County (WDBCCC) is sharing its Human Resources commercial for CCC: Contra Costa County. This commercial is done in partnership between both the WDBCCC and the California Employers Association (CEA). This partnership provides no-cost HR services to businesses in Contra Costa County. Watch the video here.
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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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White Rabbit Business Solutions: Let's Take A Trip!
Tuesday, May 18, 3pm-4pm, Online
2020 was trying for all of us and we are all itching to get out and take a trip. Let's start small and safe, let's get together, hang out and network. No mask needed! Do you realize this is a trip we are already on? It's like a rollercoaster ride, it's a networking trip and what a trip it is! But beware, sometimes networking can be like entering a rabbit hole! There are so many questions, decisions, and things to think about, if you don't know which way to go, you can find yourself lost and and sinking fast. Do you even know why you want to network and the best choice of where to network? These are two basic questions that if not answered correctly can begin your trip descending down the networking rabbit hole!
Be aware of all the information out there, because if you make ill informed decisions, you will continue your downward free fall finding it more difficult to escape this abyss. Rest assured, White Rabbit Business Solutions is here to help you navigate the free fall down the networking rabbit hole. While networking is critical for any business to grow, there is a right way to network for it to be successful for you and your business. Do you know the best way to find your way through the networking rabbit hole? Let us help you!
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Chamber Connectors Networking Group
Wednesday, May 19, 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!
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Webinar: Working Towards Better Outcomes (Retirement)
Working Towards Better Outcomes: A Different Approach To Today's Retirement
Thursday, May 20, 12pm-1pm
Please call 925-297-4200 for login information.
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DLHA Law Group - Complimentary webinar: 2021 Legal Challenges & New Risks
Tuesday, May 25, Noon, Online
STATE/FEDERAL LABOR LAW LESSONS FROM CORPORATE NON-COMPLIANCE
2021 continues to bring new laws and their corresponding legal challenges to businesses of all sizes. In this webinar, DLHA Law Group will provide a comprehensive, action-oriented assessment on new supplemental paid sick leave in California and the subsidies and credits embodied in the American Rescue Plan Act.
We will review the ever-changing landscape related to COVID-19, including employee certifications for sick leave, employee COVID testing, and the use of vaccine policies (mandatory and voluntary).
Finally, we will provide an update on the independent contractor law known as AB5 and review current and new corporate formalities and their necessities in this environment (demonstrating real examples of businesses whose failure to follow corporate formalities resulted in personal liability for their owners). To register, email heather@dlhalaw.com. |
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Taking Control of Debt
Tuesday, June 1, 12 noon, Online
Many Americans are significantly in debt. So, if you are feeling the pressure, you’re not alone. The good news is you can start eliminating it. Regardless of the type of debt you are in – credit card, student loans, car loans or something else – it’s important to know you can get out of debt. It won’t happen overnight, but being debt-free is possible once you make a commitment and a plan.
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What to know now as an Employer in California
Friday, June 11, 10:30am, Online
Today, your plate is full and we’re in uncharted waters. There are areas of your business that are hard to stay on top of, like Human Resources and Employee regulations. Bring your questions to this talk on the current Employer/Employee landscape, what’s happening now and what to watch for.
- Employee regulations change almost every week, how can you take the time to know what you need to do for your team?
- Are your workers classified as they should be? Don’t get caught out by new laws that affect you.
- You don’t know if you need to make your Independent Contractors employees?
- You want to have a team that is loyal to you and engaged in your business.
- You know that Covid is a thing, and you need to know how to protect yourself and your team.
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Member & Community Announcements |
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Germinate Kitchen, Community-First Funding
Meet member Germinate Kitchen – a new modern shared commercial kitchen where local food producers can prepare their food. If you support Farmers Markets, if you are a foodie, if you support independent food producers, these are the people you’ll find at Germinate Kitchen. In a growing trend, Germinate Kitchen has taken a community-first funding approach, providing Lamorinda with the opportunity to be directly invested in their community, keeping more food producers local. Read more about their story on their website: GerminateKitchen.com
What’s additionally exciting is that Germinate Kitchen is co-located with the new Lamorinda AVA Wine Tasting Room.
Want to know more about partnering with Germinate Kitchen or renting the kitchen, email Germinate Kitchen at hello@germinatekitchen.com. |
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Cancer Support Community
The Cancer Support Community will be on the City of Lafayette docket this month; please feel free to watch via webinar if you would like to stay apprised of our process!
Wednesday, May 19th at 7:00 PM - Transportation and Circulation meeting, agenda and details HERE
Wednesday, May 26th at 7:00 PM- Design Review Commission meeting, agenda pending post on lovelafayette.org.
These meetings do not require public or written support, but rather the capability to use the "raise hand" icon on Zoom to speak if someone feels called to say something while viewing.
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FREE Medicare Seminars
Thursday, May 20, noon
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 REGISTER go to canopy.vanbergins.com OR call (877) 833-4253 TTY 711. |
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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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Trinity Center's 7th Annual Night of Hope Gala
On Friday, June 11, 2021, Trinity Center will host our 7th Annual Night of Hope Gala – Virtually! This year, we are honoring fellow service providers whose work has helped make it possible for Trinity Center to continue serving the growing need in our community – despite the pandemic. Community sponsors are the primary source of funding for this event and will help ensure its success. We appreciate any support you can provide (click the links below for more information):
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A Fun and Inclusive Pickleball Program!
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. Lafayette has six courts at its community center and utilization is increasing. Budd MacKenzie has offered to form a Lafayette pickleball club. Currently there are no dues. The goal is to work with Lafayette's Park and Recreation Department to develop a fun and inclusive pickleball program for beginning and advanced players of all ages.
Together they intend to provide answers to the questions most often asked;
1. Where and how can I learn?
2. Who can I play with and when?
3. How can players with different skill levels establish times to play.
Should you wish to join send an email to lafayettepickleballclub@gmail.com and indicate whether you wish to be on one of two email mailing lists. One is for those who would prefer to not disclose their email address and the other for those who would like to know the addresses of other players. Neither list will be shared with anyone.
If you are willing to help with the formation of the club, indicate in your email.
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From the Lafayette Library and Learning Center |
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Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation Presents
Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Author Jeff Gottesfeld in conversation with former sentinel Steve Shodeen, SFC USA Retired
Thursday, May 20, 2021, 2:00 PM | ZOOM
In honor of Memorial Day join author Jeff Gottesfeld for a special conversation with Bay Area native Steve Shodeen, SFC USA Retired, as he shares his experience serving as sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Discover the story of the sentinels, and that of the unknown soldiers they honor, through the resonant words and illustrations in Jeff Gottesfeld’s latest book Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (for children age 7+; illustrated by Matt Tavares).
With every step, every turn, the sentinels pay homage to America’s fallen as they keep vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. To stand there - with absolute precision, in every type of weather, at every moment of the day, one in a line uninterrupted since midnight July 2, 1937 - is the ultimate privilege and the most difficult post to earn in the army. Everything these men and women do is in service to the Unknowns, their fellow soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Sweet Thursdays Presents Linda Shiue, MD: Spicebox Kitchen
Thursday, May 20, 2021, 5:00 - 6:00 PM | ZOOM
In her first cookbook, chef and physician Linda Shiue puts the phrase “let food be thy medicine” to the test. With 175 vegetarian and pescatarian recipes curated from her own kitchen, Dr. Shiue takes you on a journey of vibrant, fresh flavors through a range of spices from amchar masala to za’atar. With a comprehensive “Healthy Cooking 101” chapter, lists of the healthiest ingredients out there, and tips for prevention, Spicebox Kitchen is a culinary wellness trip you can take in your own kitchen.
This program is presented by the Friends of the Lafayette Library.
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Thursday, May 27, 2021
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Don Tatzin Community Hall
Give Blood. Help Save Lives! The Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation and American Red Cross have teamed up to host monthly community blood drives. Donating is a safe process and healthy, eligible individuals are strongly urged to give blood or platelets.
For a limited time, the American Red Cross will test all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies as an additional health service to our donors. To schedule an appointment go to: redcrossblood.org/give or call 1-800-733-2767 and use Sponsor Code: lafayettelibrary.
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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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