HEADLINES: August 2, 2021 |
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A CONVERSATION WITH A LEADER |
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Back to Business
Tuesday, August 10 - Virtual
Retail in the Post-Pandemic Era
A conversation with
Brian Hirahara
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Our Back to Business webinar series continues August 10,with Brian Hirahara, one of downtown Walnut Creek’s preeminent developers, whose passion for the city and its future is reflected in his past projects, which include Sasa, Tiffany & Co, Va de Vi, and 1500 Mt Diablo home to Rooftop, Slice House, and Telefèric Barcelona. As the California economy reopens what does it mean for retail? Hirahara will weigh in and discuss his plans for The Foundry, a future food hall on Locust Street.
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LEADERS ABOUND AND REBOUND |
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U.S. News & World Report released its 32nd annual Best Hospitals rankings, which recognize hospitals for their performance and reputation across 15 medical specialties.
John Muir Health-Walnut Creek Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center were both evaluated by
U.S. News and garnered high performing rankings across multiple specialties and procedures.
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U.S. News & World Report Top Hospitals
John Muir Health’s Concord and Walnut Creek Medical Centers have again been ranked very highly by U.S. News & World Report in its 2020/2021 list of America's Best Hospitals. The Walnut Creek Medical Center has a nationally ranked service for the 14th straight year. This year Gastroenterology and GI Surgery (#49), Gynecology (#33), Nephrology (kidney disorders) (#50), Orthopedics (#26) and Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (#37) all achieved national rankings. For the fourth straight year, the Concord Medical Center was one of only 1% of hospitals nationwide to receive a high performing rating in all ten procedures and conditions evaluated. Walnut Creek and Concord were also designated as Best Regional Hospitals, ranked #2 and #3 in the SF Metro Area and #10 and #12 in the state, respectively.
Congratulations to John Muir Health and Chamber Board Director Patricia Haggen, Executive Director, Hospital Operations.
John Muir Health
Proud members of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau since 2005.
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Kaiser Permanente hospitals recognized among nation’s best. U.S. News & World Report rates all Kaiser Permanente hospitals as ‘high performing’ for multiple specialties, procedures, or common conditions. Kaiser Permanente hospitals are among the best in the nation for delivering high-quality care, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2021-22 Best Hospitals rankings. The 32nd annual study analyzes how well hospitals perform when it comes to specialty care, common procedures, and common patient conditions. According to the evaluation of more than 4,500 hospitals nationwide: Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek has 4 High Performing rankings in specialties/procedures: heart failure, kidney failure, stroke, and pneumonia
Congratulations to Kaiser Permanente and Chamber Board Director Marty Ardon, Senior Vice President and Area Manager.
Kaiser Permanente, Diablo Area
Proud members of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau since 1956.
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July 29, 2021
Rebound Extension and Downtown NEXT
We wanted to inform you of a recent meeting with City Council to extend the Rebound Program and ongoing Downtown NEXT efforts:
1. Rebound Extension a. City Council Met to Affirm Rebound Extension: On July 20, 2021 the City Council affirmed an extension of the Rebound Program which allows outdoor dining and retail display in City streets and sidewalks, through the end of the year, December 31, 2021. b. Process: We will follow up in the coming weeks with instructions on how to continue use of your Rebound area, including inspections and a new encroachment permit for those in City streets or sidewalks. To continue to the full letter, click here.
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Homeless Micro-Housing In Walnut Creek Wins Support
Posted Thu, Jul 22, 2021 at 7:36 am PT
WALNUT CREEK, CA — The Walnut Creek City Council wants to proceed with at least one six-home development of micro-houses through a special permitting process instead of creating a new zoning designation, to give the concept a test drive. The council took no formal action on a proposal to build a half dozen home for low-income residents in the parking lot of Tice Valley's Grace Presbyterian Church just outside Rossmoor, as no official application has been filed with the city. To read the article in its entirety, click here.
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LEADING WITH PURPOSE
THE NEED
The East Bay needs more people ready to to run for office who care and are equipped to make our region a better place. Running for office is work, but you can win with the right help.
Apply for Build the Bench
Democratic participation is key to the East Bay continuing to thrive. That’s why we launched our very own candidate training program designed to help local leaders run and win elected office. We do not endorse candidates but are proud that eight alumni of our program are now serving in public office across the region. To learn more, click here.
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Please join us in congratulating
Bob Linscheid for his leadership in implementing the East Bay Leadership Council’s task force pilot and fostering collaboration among education, healthcare, and economic development leaders as part of the Opportunity Task Force. To reconnect and reserve a place at the August 23 awards celebration, click here.
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TRUE LEADERS ARE EXPERT AMBASSADORS |
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Chamber Ambassador Chair
Gary LaMusga
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Gary has been in the financial and insurance services business for over 41 years in the Bay Area. He focuses on comprehensive financial planning, investment management services, retirement strategies, tax strategies, insurance, estate and divorce planning. He has dedicated his years in the industry providing sound advice and solutions to individuals and businesses. With his expertise, tools and techniques, his clients feel more confident in reaching their goals for the future. Gary holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of CA Davis. He is a Certified Divorce Financial Specialist (CDFA), member of the MDRT and NAIFA. He sits on the Board of Directors for The Police and Fire Fallen Heroes. On a personal note, he has obtained the rank of Eagle Scout, God and Country and Order of the Arrow and is a member of the National Eagle Scout Association.
The LaMusga Company Insurance and Financial Services
Proud members of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau since 2019.
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What is a Chamber Ambassador?
Ambassadors actively advocate for the Chamber, communicating the benefits, programs and privileges of becoming a Chamber member. Through enthusiastic Chamber representation, Ambassadors seek opportunities to educate, promote and share the benefits of Chamber membership with the business community. Serving as an Ambassador offers a great deal of visibility and builds credibility for your own business, while generating stronger relationships for the Chamber in the business community.
Our Ambassadors play an essential role in member recruitment, communication and retention, assisting with BASH mixers, ribbon cuttings, and monthly meetings.
Ambassadors gain business exposure by being the first to meet Chamber members and put their company's name in the forefront. By volunteering at Chamber events and attending Ambassador meetings, they are kept current on what is happening within the Chamber and our community.
Become an Ambassador!
The Ambassador team welcomes new members to join them. If interested in learning more or attending their next meeting, please contact Chamber Membership Director Linda Vesneski. (925) 934-2007 or lvesneski@walnut-creek.com.
Meet Gary, Linda, and the Chamber Ambassadors at the next Chamber BASH.
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Indoor Masking Orders Take Effect Today, Tuesday, August 3.
Bay Area Health Officials Urge Immediate Vaccination and Issue Orders Requiring Use of Face Coverings Indoors to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19. "Vaccines remain the most powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19, including the Delta variant. "If you are eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine and have not yet done so, please do not wait any longer," said Dr. Chris Farnitano, health officer for Contra Costa. All Californians age 12 and older are now eligible to get a safe, effective and no-cost COVID-19 vaccine. People can get vaccinated through County and State-run sites, pharmacies and other healthcare systems. This page has information about how you can get vaccinated through different vaccine providers. Click here.
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We know there's a lot to consider.
As the county’s two largest healthcare providers, we’ve joined together to help provide you with solid, unbiased answers to your questions about the COVID-19 vaccines. And, as always, we encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider for more information.
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UPDATED PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOAN FORGIVENESS PROCESS
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has launched a Payment Protection Program (PPP) Direct Forgiveness Portal, which will help streamline the forgiveness process for loans of $150,000 or under, and allow small business owners to apply directly through the SBA. The new forgiveness platform will begin accepting applications from borrowers on August 4, 2021 and is currently operating under an invite-only pilot period. Click here.
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BART increases service four weeks early starting 8/2/21
BART will return to near-pre pandemic service on August 2 instead of August 30 as originally planned. The August 2 change includes extending closing times to midnight Monday through Saturday. For more information, click here.
Ridership Watch: daily updates related to riders returning to BART
This page is being continuously updated to keep the public informed about our recovery efforts and BART ridership data as we work to regain riders. Click here.
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Say Hello to Our New Members!
To learn more about these Chamber Member businesses, visit their websites, or better yet, visit their location and introduce yourself.
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Matt Shupe
Susan DArcangelo
Jason Brittingham
Steve Davidson
Suzanne Martin
Amanda Pinkham
Lila Owens
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MEMBER BENEFITS & UPCOMING EVENTS |
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Your success is our business. From free directory listings on our website to monthly mixers to business development groups, a Chamber membership offers you a wealth of benefits. To learn more about how we can partner, contact our Membership Sales Director Linda Vesneski at (925)934-2007 or lvesneski@walnut-creek.com
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Lunch Hour Power Hour
Virtual Business Speed Networking!
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12
12:15pm - 12:45pm
Free and open to all business owners and professionals in Contra Costa County, California, and beyond.
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Chamber Orientation
AUGUST 25, 2021 4:00-5:00PM
Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce
1280 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek
At this orientation for new, current, and future Chamber members, learn how to maximize the programs, events, policy forums, marketing, and networking opportunities we provide to build community connections and reach hundreds of new potential customers.
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On the first and third Tuesdays each month, meet with other Chamber members to build new relationships, share marketing strategies, present your business story, and brainstorm on growth ideas in one of our Business Links groups. Email us for details, chamber@walnut-creek.com.
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Connect with other members
The Walnut Creek Chamber Business Links leads program—open to Chamber members only—is a lively, non-compete networking and business development opportunity for enthusiastic business professionals, offering the power of high-speed connectivity with the personal touch of a handshake. Business Links is about building relationships, sharing business growth ideas, exchanging qualified business leads, and generating momentum by connecting professionals with other professionals, and linking them to prospects and power partners.
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Host a Chamber BASH
For details and hosting application,
Chamber Membership Director Linda Vesneski at lvesneski@walnut-creek.com or 925.934-2007.
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Host a Chamber BASH
Showcase your businesses at a fun, after hours networking event by being a host of one of our monthly BASH mixers! Held the last Thursday of each month, the BASH gives our members an opportunity to showcase their business and provide a fun environment for the community to come out and network, make new friends, and learn more about our local business community!
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BE SEEN AT THE COOLEST PLACE IN THE EAST BAY! |
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Walnut Creek On Ice is a fun destination that draws people of all ages and from all over the Bay Area to skate, celebrate, shop, dine, and stroll throughout the entire holiday season. The partially enclosed rink is open daily, rain or shine, giving more than 10 weeks of continuous brand exposure to more than 45,000 skaters and more than 100,000 spectators. An additional 40,000 or more vehicles pass by this eye-catching winter wonderland each day.
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The Sparkle Returns to Civic Park this Holiday Season
Ten Weeks of the
Coolest Advertising
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A limited number of ice rink dasher boards are available.
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To speak with someone directly, please contact the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce at (925) 934-2007.
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Think there's nothing to do? You just may be surprised what's happening. Upcoming events include:
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Chamber Trip To Sicily
Palermo. Siracusa. Catania. Taormina
October 19-27,2021
Discover Sicily through its glorious architecture, ancient ruins, breathtaking villages, and sumptuous cuisine. Questions? Contact Lynn Pauline (925) 934-2007. (Brochure)
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COVID UPDATES & QUICK LINKS |
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Requiring All People to Wear Masks
in Indoor Public Settings
In order to slow the spread of the more contagious Delta variant of COVID-19, all people, regardless of vaccination status, are required to wear face coverings in public indoor settings in in Contra Costa County until further notice, beginning August 3, 2021. For complete information, click here.
For the latest Covid-19 information:
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Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
1280 Civic Drive | Suite 100 | Walnut Creek | CA | 94596
925.934.2007
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