News & Events from the Lafayette Chamber
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Jay Lifson, Executive Director
251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150, Lafayette, CA
Office Hours by Appointment only:
Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-1pm
Please call for an appointment; masks required inside.
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Rate Changes Due to the Minimum Wage Increase – January 1, 2022
Due to the enactment of Senate Bill (SB) 3, the California minimum wage will increase to $15.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2022, for employers with 26 or more employees, and to $14.00 per hour for employers with 25 or fewer employees. More details here.
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Contra Costa Issues Update to Indoor Masking Order
Masks Now Required for Everyone in All Public Indoor Settings
With the highly contagious COVID-19 omicron variant circulating in Contra Costa County, Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) announced a health order today requiring masks in all public indoor places without exceptions for certain indoor settings.
Previously, fully vaccinated public speakers and performers, and fully vaccinated groups of 100 or fewer people were allowed to remove their face coverings under controlled conditions.
The order, which goes into effect on Dec. 29, 2021, now requires all people in Contra Costa, regardless of vaccination status, to mask in public indoor settings.
Many other Bay Area counties already require everyone to mask in all indoor public settings.
“The omicron variant is very contagious, and we now know that anyone, regardless of vaccination status, can spread this variant to other people,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, Contra Costa County health officer. “We anticipate the case rate and hospitalization numbers to increase over the coming weeks. To reduce spread, cases, and hospitalizations, we all need to wear masks anytime we are in an indoor public setting.”
The first case of the omicron variant was first identified in the county on December 18, and since then case rates and hospitalizations have significantly increased. The average number of daily new COVID-19 cases has increased 149% over the last week and hospitalizations have risen 31%.
Because cases and hospitalizations involve both unvaccinated and fully vaccinated people, CCHS strongly urges everyone to get vaccinated and boosted as soon as they are able.
COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses, continue to offer the most effective protection against hospitalization and death from all variants of COVID-19 circulating in the county.
Visit coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-vaccinated for information on healthcare providers, pharmacies, and clinics offering COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots. No-cost vaccinations and boosters are also available through CCHS’ public clinics by calling 1-833-829-2626.
The requirements for lifting the indoor masking order will remain the same and progress can be tracked on our Indoor Mask Dashboard.
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Happy New Year!! Stand out in the crowd in 2022. Advertise in The Grapevine®. Serving the Lamorinda community for 40 years.
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Welcome New Lafayette Chamber Member!
The following business recently joined the Lafayette Chamber! We encourage you to visit their website to learn more.
1155 Laurel Drive, Lafayette
Larry Thal, 925-283-7434
Located in the very heart of Lafayette, California, Thal Vineyards is a proud member of the Lamorinda Wine Growers Association. We are focused on natural winegrowing and sustainability. 📷 Larry and Esther Thal
Category: Winery / Vineyard
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Thank You Renewing Members!
The following members renewed their membership during the timespan Dec. 20, 2021 - Jan. 2, 2022. Curious about your membership status? Contact us.
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Member Shout Out!
This week's member shout-out is to our members who participate in the Acalanes High School ASB Spirit Card Program. This is a student only program in which students purchase a card and get benefits including discounts at local businesses! Here is the list for the '21-'22 school year:
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Inspiration Contagion Book Launch Party
Tuesday, February 1, 12-1 pm PST
Join member and author, Holly Jean Jackson, to celebrate her newly published book, Inspiration Contagion, Health Secrets for Raving Success! In this session, Holly will do a book reading, share how the launch is going, invite you to share your personal stories of inspiration and growth and answer any questions you have.
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New Cal/OSHA Workplace Rules
As many of us race to the finish line and make the most out of the last week or two of 2021, unless you are a business of ONE person, you now have new Cal/OSHA rules to read, understand and prepare your business for the continued battle with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The chamber has contacted our county and state officials regarding the somewhat over-reaching mandate that holds employers responsible to:
- Communicate to employees about the employer's COVID-19 prevention procedures.
- Identify, evaluate and correct COVID-19 hazards.
- Require and provide face coverings and respirators in the manner and in the circumstances specified in the ETS.
- Advise employees they can wear face coverings at work, regardless of their vaccination status, without fear of retaliation by the employer.
- Use engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment under certain circumstances.
- Follow procedures to investigate and respond to COVID-19 cases in the workplace.
- Provide COVID-19 training to employees.
- Starting January 14, testing needs to be made available for all close contacts, regardless of vaccination status.
- Exclude COVID-19 cases and exposed employees from the workplace until they are no longer an infection risk. Exposed employees who are fully vaccinated and have no symptoms do not need to be excluded.
- Follow return to work criteria.
- Maintain records of COVID-19 cases, and report serious illnesses to Cal/OSHA and to the local health department when required.
OSHA Workplace Rules:
Our County Supervisor Candace Andersen is checking with County Health to see if they can assist in creating information or a check list that is easier to follow than sifting through all of the rules and regulations. We will keep you posted!
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Contra Costa Micro-Enterprise Relief Fund available for small businesses impacted by COVID
The Contra Costa County Micro-Enterprise Relief Fund offers grants to micro-businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in Contra Costa County cities except for Walnut Creek, Concord, Pittsburg, and Antioch which receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, directly.
The Contra Costa County Micro-Enterprises Relief Fund is funded by the Contra Costa County CDBG program. The CDBG program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This fund is administered by the nonprofit organization Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center’s East Bay office.
FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS FUND, A “MICRO-ENTERPRISE” WILL BE DEFINED AS A FOR-PROFIT ENTITY WITH:
- A maximum of 5 employees (including owner)
- Less than $250,000 in annual business revenue
- Registered, in good standing with, and operating in Contra Costa County cities except for Walnut Creek, Concord, Pittsburg, and Antioch
ELIGIBILITY, BUSINESS MUST:
- Be an existing micro-enterprise with 5 employees of less (including owner)
- Have a business operating in Contra Costa County except for Walnut Creek, Concord, Pittsburg, and Antioch
- If resident lives outside of the county, business must be a brick and mortar in eligible cities
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Have a business license or permit (They will accept a State seller’s permit for Lafayette businesses since the City does not issue a business license.)
- Have a DUNS number (or able to obtain one prior to grant receipt)
- Be able to show their business financials from 2020 (tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, POS reports, quarterly taxes)
- Have a household income that is low to moderate-income (varies based on household size) or the majority of employees are low income (must show proof of income)
- Be directly impacted by COVID-19
INELIGIBLE BUSINESSES:
- Operating one of the following types of businesses: adult entertainment, liquor, cannabis, franchise
- Gig-workers: Uber, Instacart, etc.
- Received over $25,000 in PPP or EIDL loan/grants, if so, grants must be used for different expenses.
EXAMPLE USE OF FUNDS (NOT AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST)
- Purchasing technology (i.e. laptops, printer, point of sale system)
- COVID-19 precaution supplies (PPE)
- Safety remodeling (plexiglass, spacing tape, construction labor)
- Façade improvements and signage
- Online platform fees and social media marketing to further online sales
- Commercial rents
- Employee salaries (must provide third party payroll vendor, 941 Form or W3 IRS Form)
- Funds cannot be used to pay debt or loans.
GRANT AMOUNT: $1,000.00- $10,000.00
To apply visit Contra Costa County Micro-Enterprise Relief Fund – Renaissance Center: Renaissance Center (rencenter.org)
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Labor Law Update: What's New in 2022?
What's New for 2022?
2021 was an unprecedented year in so many ways. 2022 looks to be a bit brighter regarding the pandemic, however, with all of the laws the California Legislature and Governor passed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it's been difficult to keep up on what is and isn’t new.
This presentation will inform you of the latest updates and new bills that touch on almost every facet of employment for 2022. Ranging from new reporting requirements due to COVID-19 to wage theft consequences and a new minimum wage, join us to learn more about the new employment laws that impact California employers.
Topics discussed include:
- New Policies, Practices and Record Requirements
- 2022 Minimum Wage Updates
- Safety and COVID-19 Changes
- Industry Specific Laws
- Recent Case Law - a Glimpse into the Future
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Supervisor Candace Andersen's December 30 Weekly Update
➡ The Newest Quarantine Guidelines
➡ Contra Costa Issues Update to Indoor Masking Order
➡ Appointments Now Required at Contra Costa Health Services COVID-19 Testing Sites
➡ Free Covid Booster Clinic on January 11th in San Ramon
➡ Contra Costa Requires COVID-19 Booster Verification for Workers in High-Risk Jobs
➡ Bay Area Health Officers Urge Boosters to Protect Against Omicron Variant
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Creating World Class Innovation Hubs in the Walnut Creek Region
Tuesday, January 11, 2022, 9:00 - 10:00am, Complimentary Virtual Event
Walnut Creek Chamber is kicking off 2022 with a cutting-edge Civic Affairs Forum: “Creating Innovation Hubs in the Walnut Creek Region.” On Tuesday, January 11 an expert panel tackles biotech in the East Bay and opportunities to attract the life science sector to the I-680 corridor. Guest Speakers: Gordon Žagar, Facilities & Real Estate Project Executive Zagar Consulting; Brian Stonerock, Director of Global Facilities & Real Estate at Zymergen; and Edward F. Del Beccaro, Executive Vice President, TRI Commercial. Register here, Zoom link will be sent by email the day before webinar.
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Reserve your seat now with early registration pricing! EARLY REGISTRATION PRICING ENDS JANUARY 15. Event date: Monday, March 7, 2022. Location: SAN RAMON MARRIOTT.
As EBWC attendees know, seats always sell out quickly!
Early Registration Pricing: In-person Attendees - If purchased on or before January 15, 2022: $255.00 per person; $295 thereafter. Or Choose to Join Us Virtually for $95 per person. To Make a Reservation: to attend live, click here. to attend virtually, click here.
Keynote and guest speaker presentation; speaker meet and greets; breakout sessions | exhibitor booths; book store and author signings; networking. Includes continental breakfast, gourmet lunch, afternoon wine reception & more. Learn more here.
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ParkSmart-EasyPark & ParkSmart-CarPool apps for Employees
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Positive "Rewiring" For Your Best 2022 - Learn More From Michele Molitor
At Mt. Diablo Business Women's January meeting, learn from Michele Molitor how her unique "Rapid Rewiring" approach can bring you less stress and more success in 2022. Called “The Brain Detective” by her clients, Michele is the founder and CEO of Nectar Consulting, Inc., and co-author of the best-selling book “Breakthrough Healing." You'll also be able to introduce yourself and your business, and enjoy the great camaraderie of our group and our meetings.
Wednesday, January 12, 2022, 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Guests are welcome to participate in two meetings prior to joining Mt. Diablo Business Women (there is an annual membership fee upon joining).
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Are you and your family prepared for an emergency or community wide disaster? Do you have an escape plan for your home? Do you know where your emergency gas and water shutoff valves are located? Would you know how to help your neighborhood if emergency responders were not available from 911?
Learn how to respond after a disaster when first responders are overwhelmed, and communications are down. Many homeowners are not aware of hazards around the home that can cause fire or add to possible damage during an earthquake. Learn to spot home safety hazards and protect you, your family, and neighbors by attending CERT classes.
There is a series of classes available from Lamorinda’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Learn, in detail, disaster preparedness and response, how to work with your neighbors as a team and help your community during an emergency. The course covers many subjects:
- emergency preparedness
- radio communications
- fire safety
- medical triage and treatment operations
- light search and rescue techniques
- CERT organizational skills using the Incident Command System
- disaster psychology
- pet preparedness and response
- terrorism awareness
Classes are taught twice a year, once in Lafayette and once in Orinda. Class series are one night a week for nine weeks, including hands-on exercises and a final drill. The next class series will be held at the Orinda Library on Wednesday nights from 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm starting January 12 and finishing on March 9.
GET READY and become one of the over 900 trained Lamorinda CERTs. Sign up now!
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Answers for Adult Children of Aging Loved Ones
Anderson Bros. Movers and Senior Solutions Group invite you to Answers for Adult Children of Aging Loved Ones on January 22, 2022, 9:30am-11am at the Lafayette Library.
Ask the experts anything about caring for your older parents in this live event to discuss options for elderly family members.
Senior Solutions Group is a team of seasoned professionals who work within our community to support senior citizens and their families. Our combined years of experience allow us to help and provide modern solutions to the challenges aging adults face today.
In this seminar, you will learn how to assist your senior family member in navigating life’s transitions and help them keep their independence for as long as possible. We will discuss some common pitfalls, talk about the best strategies to avoid them, and discuss how to recognize changing needs before they turn into a crisis.
Join us for an informative evening, meet our team, and let us share with you the many ways we can help. Tickets are $10, and all proceeds go to the Alzheimer's Association.
By purchasing a ticket to this event, you agree to:
- Show physical CDC Vaccination Record Card or the State of California Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record as proof
- Show a state-issued photo ID that matches the vaccine record
- Wear a mask at all times inside of our venue
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Grab and Go café lunch menu (salad, sandwiches, smoothies, soup, snack packs, and savory pastries) is available from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday - Friday.
Soup is served at the Café daily, 11 AM - 5 PM (or until sold-out). Come on in and get a nice warm bowl with a chunky slice of bread for $7. Also available in quart size.
TABs are available Monday - Friday and need to be ordered by 9:00 AM the day of (at the latest). Pick-up time for TABs is between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Deliveries are available in Moraga, Lafayette, and Orinda for an additional $10 (option is available in the pulldown menu)
Donna can cater a traditional English Afternoon Tea. These events are a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family during the holiday season. If you have any questions or would like to make an inquiry, please email Donna at: Donna@gengoodness.com
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The Data Administrator is responsible for supporting the design and administration of our agency program data management systems. In partnership with the executive team and the Contracts & Data Manager, the Data Administrator will ensure high-quality data is collected across programs and used to meet funder reports and guide program growth and improvements. The Data Administrator will ensure we set up systems to maintain data quality and accuracy and will work with colleagues across the organization to ensure we meet or exceed our program goals. The Data Administrator will be directly responsible for producing timely dashboards and reports and will ensure that all of our practices are HIPAA compliant and protect the confidentiality of client data. To learn more, visit: https://hopesolutions.bamboohr.com/jobs/view.php?id=60.
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Lamorinda Spirit Van Program Needs Drivers and Dispatchers
The Lamorinda Spirit Van Program is looking for a part time paid driver from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. Eventually this shuttle will run two+ days a week. The route will include stops along Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette with each circuit taking about 30 minutes. If additional hours are wanted, this position can also include dispatching and/or driving older adults to errands and shopping when we don’t have a volunteer driver. Position requires a good driving record, cheerful communication skills, agility to bend over to tie down a wheelchair on occasion. The Program is also looking for:
- a part time paid dispatcher to take ride reservations, schedule the route, communicate with passengers and drivers, and prepare reports. Position requires good communication skills and knowledge of Excel.
- volunteer drivers to drive a 4-hour weekly or bi-weekly morning or afternoon shift to take older adults on errands and shopping.
For more information, please contact Mary Bruns at 925-284-5546.
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Farewell to a Dear Friend of the Lafayette Chamber
JoAnne Archer passed away peacefully on December 22. JoAnne was a long time board member with the Lafayette Chamber. She was a long time resident of Lafayette and owned her own small business “Sew Fine Interiors.” She participated and volunteered for nearly every event and program the Chamber offered. Having been a flight attendant for many years, she always graced us with kindness and hospitality. 📷 JoAnne pictured next to Christina Alba (with the scissors) at the November 2014 ribbon cutting at Rivulet Chiropractic.
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From the Lafayette Library and Learning Center
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WOW presents Color into Line: Pastels from the Renaissance to the Present at the Legion of Honor
Wednesday, January 12, 2021, 2:00 - 3:00 PM | ZOOM, Register here
With the appearance of painting, the immediacy of drawing, and the matte finish of a fresco, pastel is one of the most versatile mediums used throughout art history. This talk, presented by the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, will trace the history of pastels over five centuries while also providing audiences with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to appreciate rare works not usually on public view.
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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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Now is the Time!
Your online profile is search engine optimized. Include a full business description including key words that your potential customers and clients would use to find you. You can also add up to four social media platforms to the listing.
And guess what? The Lafayette Chamber now has a TikTok account. Follow us for future postings!
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Lafayette Reservoir Photo Book
The Lafayette Reservoir: A Visual Celebration coffee table book, by Steve Hobbs, is available at the Lafayette Chamber office, 251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150 for a $35 donation. Please call for appointment, (925) 284-7404.
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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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