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A Message From the President
Greetings!
We welcome and thank our new Business Partner, Pattern Energy. Pattern Energy is our "Featured Member" in the newsletter this month. We have listened, heard, and responded to our membership! This month, we are launching the "Good Morning Brawley" monthly breakfast seminars. Brawley Chamber of Commerce members, Walker and Driskill, PLC, will present, "What's New in Employment Law for 2012." As a business owner, this seminar is for you. Each year, there are many new payroll, labor, worker's compensation, OSHA and other laws that affect business and it is prudent that you are aware of these changes. This will be a great time to network and obtain valuable information for your business, not to mention, having a great breakfast and a good time. Join us at the Stockmen's Club, Friday, February 10th at 7:00am. Please call Alexis at the Chamber office to make a reservation. It's time to celebrate.....Two Ground Breakings in Brawley! First, on Saturday, January 28th , the new ARCO AM/PM, Car Wash, and Del Taco adjacent to Wal Mart Ground Breaking ceremony was held. The Chandi Group, USA is the developer. The Chandi Group, USA has other franchises in the Coachella Valley.  | |
Chandi Group Groudbreaking January 28, 2012.- Photo courtesy of Desert Review News
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You may be familiar with the AM/PM gas station and Del Taco off of Highway 86 in Mecca. That is one of their businesses. This is their first project in Imperial Valley. The project will create an expected 300 new construction jobs as well as 100 new local valley jobs once the stores are opened. Secondly, on February 2, 2012, Sun Community Federal Credit Union held a Ground Breaking ceremony for their new Brawley Branch facility, also adjacent to Wal Mart. The renderings for this new facility are beautiful. Congratulations to both businesses!  | | Sun Community Federal Credit Union Groundbreaking February 2, 2012- Photo Courtesy of IV Press |
Don't forget to visit our website (www.brawleychamber.com) for information about programs and events in the community. We encourage you to take advantage of the many workshops and seminars that are hosted throughout the year, inclusive of Mixers which are excellent for networking as well as member ribbon cutting ceremonies. Our membership is the lifeline for the Chamber. By working together, we will continue to strengthen the value of Chamber membership and strengthen our local community.
Sincerely Yours,
Denise Smith
President of the Board
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Chamber News
Brawley Chamber Mixer
San Sebastian Rustic Furniture Brawley Chamber Mixer
 | | Store Owner Vanessa Vaca- Photo Courtesy of Desert Review News |
The Brawley Chamber of Commerce Mixer was hosted by Chamber member San Sebastian Rustic Furniture January 24, 2012. San Sebastian Rustic Furniture is located at 1102 E. Main Street in Brawley. San Sebastian Rustic Furniture has been a part of the Brawley Chamber of Commerce since 2006. San Sebastian Rustic is a great little shop rich with unique and timeless home and garden decor. Vintage rustic elements like wagons and wheels. Mexican imports such as Talavera and metal art and beautiful garden decor, come by, its worth the drive! For more information about the Brawley Chamber member, please click here.
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Left to Right: Denise Smith, President of the Board & Vanessa Vaca, Store Owner- Photo courtesy of Desert Review News
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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Florentine Collections The Brawley Chamber of Commerce celebrated with Chamber member Florentine Collection as they cut the ribbon to the first gated community in the City of Brawley. The ribbon cutting was held on  | Brawley City Council & Florentine Collection Partners gather to cut ribbon.- Photo by IV Press
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January 20, 2012 at the new site located at 451 Panno Road in Brawley. Florentine Collection.... Refreshing, new, the place you can't wait to come home to everyday. This delightful community boasts three distinctively unique floor plans each with their own attached two car garage. All homes enjoy a nice patio, deck, or courtyard and luxurious master suites with walk-in closets and elegant baths. And, note the gleaming stainless steel appliances and granite countertops that are standard features by GHA Community Homes
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Membership Appreciation Plaque Presentation- Photo Courtesy of Desert Review News
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and Westmount Properties. Florentine collection residents will also enjoy the beautiful resort center with pool, spa and clubhouse and the convenience of being located near a hospital and a Wal-MartCenter shopping center.
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Mayor of Brawley, George Nava, congratulates Florentine Collection Partners on their new development- Photo Courtesy of Desert Review News
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Chamber Member Spotlight
Thank You to Our New Members
The Brawley Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following businesses for becoming our new members this past month of January, 2012.
A Thing Called Cake- where you can order a cake as special as your party. Don't just have a sheet cake that everyone expects to see at the main table, wow them with a custom cake built just for you. Make your kids party extra special with their favorite characters and flavors! Corporate clients also welcome! For more information about this new member, please visit their website at www.athingcalledcake.com or call (760) 344-3400 to place your order today!
Computer Doctor-Computer Doctor is a technology company that provides companies and home users with information technology solutions. Information technology has become a necessary component of everyday life. Our goal at Computer Doctor is to provide each of our clients with easy to use, yet powerful, technology solutions to keep all of your computers and network systems running at peak performance levels. Our network engineers have over 15 years of experience working in large corporations, government agencies, community colleges, local businesses, and with home users. Clients take comfort in the fact Computer Doctor's network engineers not only hold information technology certifications such as Microsoft, Novell, Cisco and IBM but also have Masters Degrees in Business Administration (MBA) with an emphasis in Information Technology Management. For more information about this new member, please visit their website at www.ivcomputerdoctor.com or call (760)330-7275. Stockmen's Club of Imperial Valley- Stockmen's Club of Imperial Valley originated as a non-profit social club for affiliates of the local cattle industry in December 1963. Since then, this private club has grown to include business men and women, community leaders and other organizations. For more information, please visit their website at www.stockmensclub.com or call (760) 344-6864.
Jean Harbert, Realtor- The purchase or sale of a home or investment property is one of the most complex and significant financial events in peoples' lives. People typically seek the help of real estate brokers and sales agents when buying or selling real estate because of the complexity and importance of this transaction.Real estate brokers and sales agents can help you find a home, sell your home, make an offer on a home, help you find buyers, and assist you with paperwork. Contact our new member today at (760) 996-6267 or email ladyinrd@roadrunner.com
Bill Burns, AdvoCare Consultant- Since 1993, AdvoCare� has been a world-class nutrition company specializing in health and wellness, weight management, vibrant energy and sports performance. Navigate through this site to learn more about our cutting-edge nutritional supplements and skincare as well as the opportunity to earn a full time income with a part time commitment by sharing AdvoCare products with others. For more information about this new member, please visit their website at www.advocareofthedesert.com or call (760)554-1388.
Thank You to Our Renewing Partner
Mesquite Regional Landfill- The Mesquite Regional Landfill is Southern California's first operating landfill that is permitted to receive waste by rail. The landfill is located next to the Mesquite Gold Mine, east of Glamis and near the Union Pacific Railroad mainline. A 5-mile rail spur connects the landfill to the railroad mainline. The site is well suited to be a landfill because of its desert climate, distance from groundwater, distance from residential development, proximity to the railroad, and preexisting use for mining. The landfill will be designed and operated as a sanitary landfill to meet all local, state and federal requirements. For more information about this partner, please visit their website at www.mlrf.org.
Thank You to Our Renewing Members The Brawley Chamber of Commerce would like the following listed businesses for renewing their membership and commitment to the Brawley Business Community this past month of January, 2012.
Allied Waste of Imperial Valley
Aspen in the Desert
Brawley Elementary School District
Burrtec Waste Management
Campesinos Unidos, Inc.
Clean Harbors Environmental Services, Inc.
Development Design & Engineering, Inc.
First Christian Church of Brawley
Frye Chapel
Girl Scouts- Imperial Valley Service Center
Green Patch Nursery
Green's Jewelry
Home Pro, Inc.
Hydraulics & Bearing Supply Corporation
Imperial Compost
Imperial Valley Choral Society
K-F Seeds
Knights of Columbus Council 2130
Larry R. Bennett Insurance
Martin Auza Sheep Co.
Office Supply Company
PRN Desert Rehabilitation Institute
Prima Bella Produce, Inc.
RDO Equipment, CO.
Rain For Rent
Shannon J. Daughtry, DDS Inc.
The Pollakov Financial Group
United Way of Imperial Valley
Wright & Knight Service Center.
If you, or a business you know, would like to join the Brawley Chamber of Commerce please click here to download our membership application. For further information, please contact us at (760) 344-3160 or visit our website at www.brawleychamber.com. |
Upcoming Chamber Events
"Good Morning Brawley" Breakfast with Walker & Driskill, PLC.
February 10, 2012 at 7:00am-8:30am The Brawley Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the first of their "Good Morning Brawley" Breakfast series February 10, 2012 at the Stockmen's Club, 275 Marjorie Ave., in Brawley, CA. This breakfast presentation will be on "What's New In Employment Law 2012" Come  and enjoy a hot breakfast while you learn what new employment laws may affect your business.
Chamber Member Tickets- $20.00
Non-Member Tickets- $30.00
To reserve your tickets by February 7, 2012, please contact Alexis Brown at (760) 344-3160 or email alexis@brawleychamber.com.
Brawley Chamber Mixer
Hosted By: New Chamber Members Stockmen's Club of Imperial Valley and A Thing Called CakeFebruary 23, 2012 at 5:30pm-7:00pm The Brawley Chamber of Commerce will be holding our monthly mixer at the location of new member Stockmen's Club of Imperial  Valley, 275 Marjorie Ave., in Brawley, CA. This mixer will feature desserts by also new member, A Thing Called Cake. This monthly mixer is a benefit the Brawley Chamber provides to our members as a networking opportunity with the Business Community of Brawley and Imperial Valley. For more information on becoming a member of the Brawley Chamber of Commerce, please click here to view our membership application. |
Governmental Affairs Report
February 1, 2012 Meeting Report The Regional Governmental Affairs Committee met on Wednesday. Andy Horne, Deputy CEO in charge of Natural Resources Development with County of Imperial, was a guest presenter. Mr. Horne reviewed the details of the County's proposed Public Benefit Program for Solar Projects. Since solar projects are exempt from property taxes, it is proposed that developers of solar projects voluntarily pay fees to the County to mitigate some of the impacts of locating a solar project in Imperial County. The proposed benefit program includes an ag benefit payment of $5,000/acre for locating a solar project on "prime" farm ground or $2,000/acre less productive farm ground. The public Benefit programs also includes a community benefit payment of $150/acre per year for years 1-10 and $200/acre per year for years 11 and through the end of the project including a CPI adjustment. In addition to the ag benefit payment and the community benefit payment, it is proposed that the developer and all qualifying contractors and subcontractors obtain a Board of Equalization permit to allocate sales tax payments to Imperial County. It is estimated that a 2,000 acre, $600 million solar development would generate almost $18MM in revenue for the County. It is proposed that a committee be established to return some portion of that revenue to established not-for-profit agencies. Another portion of that revenue could be used for infrastructure development possibly in Mesquite Lake. The RGAC also discussed a policy to handle requests for persons wishing to make presentations to the committee. We are hoping that we can have that in place soon. NLRB Has Been Delayed Important Notice From the State of California For those who have received your 2012 California and Federal Employment Notices Posters, please note this important change: The NLRB has delayed the original January 31, 2012 posting date until April 30, 2012 for the new notice entitled "Employee Rights Under the National Labor Law Act." You don't need to post the separate NLRA notice now until April 30, 2012.
The Governmental Affairs Committee is a benefit provided by the Brawley Chamber of Commerce to our membership. If you are a member of the Brawley Chamber and would like to participate on this committee, please contact the Brawley Chamber of Commerce at (760) 344-3160 or email alexis@brawleychamber.com. |
City of Brawley News
On the Path to A Sustainable Pension System:  A Workshop Hosted by the Brawley City Council Tuesday, 10 January 2012, 6-8PM the City of Brawley held discussions at the Del Rio Community Center on a sustainable pension system for City employees.
Nothing was decided Tuesday but a number of ideas were discussed during a workshop that addressed growing retirement costs at a time when Brawley is operating under an estimated $1.14 million shortfall.
The crowd of mostly city employees broke into clusters of small groups that came with answering the majority of 17 questions related to the pension reform. The input was sought as Brawley seeks to overhaul its pension system in which the city pays all of the costs.
Having sworn, or public safety employees, pay 9 percent into their retirement and all other employees pay 7 percent into theirs was considered as City Manager Rosanna Bayon Moore has said such a change would bring in a savings of more than $576,000. But Moore assured the people who showed up to the workshop that any changes to Brawley's retirement system would not be applied "until it is negotiated" with bargaining units. Public Works Director Yazmin Arellano said the group she worked with suggested phasing in employee contributions and requiring any new hires to pay in to their retirements. At another table, Parks and Recreation Director Karin Morgan announced that her group wanted to have the city's budget reviewed for any further cuts and to phase in employee contributions by 3 percent. But Police Chief Mark Gillmore said that the employees he spoke for, which consisted of some in law enforcement, suggested to first "zero out" the budget by doing a number of eliminations, which included abolishing redevelopment contributions of $167,000 and "zeroing out" the nondepartmental budget of more than $131,000. Fire Capt. Michael York asked if employees may opt out of paying into Social Security, which would stave off the prospect of paying into retirement. Shirley Bonillas, personnel and risk management administrator, said she would look into the matter today.
At the end of the meeting, Moore discussed a piece of legislation that would seek to have the dissolution of redevelopment agencies pushed back until April 15
- The format is intended to provide a venue for com-ments and ideas from stakeholders and the public at large.
- Direct communication with the City Council and City Manager is encouraged. Input is also welcome via email at ABenavides@brawley-ca.gov or by mail at City of Brawley, 383 Main Street, Brawley, CA 92227.
Article provided by- Imperial Valley Press, Staff Writer Silvio J. Panta.
RDA Funding Cuts Affect City A Message From the City Manager, Rosanna Bayon Moore With the advent of AB1X26, February 1, 2012 marked the dissolution of the Brawley Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The consequences of dissolution will be far reaching, including City staff reductions to be implemented March 1st. The CRA represented an important resource for the City. Fire Station No. 2, anticipated for completion in Spring 2012, is a living example of its local impact. The CRA has also provided the revenue source for funding economic development activities within the City of Brawley and the region, enabling membership in Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation and supporting the Brawley Chamber of Commerce. While the times are rapidly changing at every turn, the City looks forward to collaborating with the Chamber in new and different ways to advance business retention and attraction in 2012 and beyond. |
Your Community
"Paint the Town Purple"  The 2012 Brawley Relay For Life volunteer base is preparing a 'Paint the Town Purple' campaign to begin this Saturday, February 4, through Saturday February 11, to remind the Brawley community and surrounding area that the 2012 American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Brawley is near and is 'Fighting Back' against cancer in our communities. This Saturday morning at 9:00am sharp, several Relay community volunteers will gather at the Rock Cafe, located at 132 S. Plaza Street, in Brawley, to discuss a quick game plan and disperse in to small groups down main street to hang purple bows, ribbons and event posters to remind locals to 'Get involved' with their upcoming Brawley Relay For Life event to be held Saturday, April 21, 2012, at Cattle Call Park, Brawley CA. In addition, a second group of Brawley Relayers will gather in Calipatria at 190 W. Main St., at approximately 1:00pm to 'Paint the Town Purple' as well.
For more information on how to get involved in Calipatria this Saturday, please contact the 2012 Brawley Relay For Life Team Development Chair, Dona Bailey, at 760-457-5374. Now, through the 2012 Brawley Relay For Life event date, Brawley volunteers will be canvassing the entire community to hand out window posters, invitations, and event information on how to participate with their 2012 Relay. All American Cancer Society Relay For Life proceeds help continue cancer research and provide a multitude of free cancer related programs and services to Imperial Valley cancer patients and their loved ones. 2012 Brawley Relay volunteers are also inviting local cancer survivors and thier caregivers to this event to be recognized and honored for thier courage and inspiration in our communities. To join this event, or get more information, please visit the 2012 Brawley Relay For Life website at: www.relayforlife.org/brawleyca For more information about helping this Saturday morning to 'Paint the Town Purple,' please contact the 2012 Brawley Relay For Life Event Chair, Kim Rice, after 5:00pm, at 760-427-3968, email: kim.rice@nationalbeef.com, or contact the 2012 Brawley Relay For Life Event Co-Chair, Jackie Anderson, after 5:00pm at 760-604-3072, email: kidsgrandma@sbcglobal.net Imperial Valley businesses, families, churches, schools, or anyone interested in taking action to 'Fight Back' against cancer can easily form a Relay fundraising team, sponsor, or help plan this amazing community event! Relay For Life volunteer opportunities are FUN and practically endless! There are many ways to get involved in an Imperial Valley Relay For Life event. For more information please contact your local Imperial Valley American Cancer Society Office located at 400 S. Eighth St, El Centro, CA 92243 or phone 760-604-4655. Please join us this Saturday for a few hours in Brawley and Calipatria to 'Paint The Town Purple' and 'Fight Back' against cancer in 2012! Your support is greatly appreciated! |
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Featured Member Article
Pattern Energy Group LP
Pattern Energy Group LP is an independent, fully integrated energy company that develops, constructs, owns and operates renewable energy assets in the United States, Canada and Latin America. With a long history in wind energy, Pattern's highly-experienced team of scientists, engineers, construction experts, and legal and financial professionals has placed into operation more than 2,500 MW of wind power projects. Pattern is headquartered in California and proud to become a part of the Imperial Valley. Pattern's Ocotillo Wind project is an investment in the region and will provide economic benefits, including substantial tax revenue and much needed jobs. Pattern is nearing completion of the development phase and expects the project to be before the County for approvals as early as March. Pattern is focused on being a responsible community partner by respecting the land, its resources and the people of the Imperial Valley. With your support, Pattern's Ocotillo Wind project will be the first of its kind in the Imperial Valley and begin harnessing the wind by the end of 2012.
For more information about Pattern Energy Group LP, please visit their website at www.patternenergy.com.
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Upcoming Events For February, 2012
Feb. 6- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival, Little & Jr. Chef Cookery Contest at 6pm located at the Civic Center in Holtville, CA
Feb. 7- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival, Adult Cookery Contest at 6pm located at the Civic Center in Holtville, CA
Feb 8- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival, Dessert Cookery Contest at 6pm located at the Civic Center in Holtville, CA
Feb. 9- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival, Seniore & Open Chef Cookery Contest at 3-6pm located at the Civic Center in Holtville, CA.
Feb. 9- North County Coalition of the Arts presents the City of San Diego Ballet performing The Firebird at the Palmer Performing Arts Theater at 7pm. Tickets: $10 for Adult, $5 for students k-12.
Feb. 9- Imperial Chamber of Commerce Mixer at the Airporter Inn, 1093 Airport Road in Imperial.
Feb. 10- Brawley Chamber "Good Morning Brawley" Breakfast with Walker & Driskill at 7am, location: Stockmen's Club. For more information, please Upcoming Chamber Events.
Feb. 10- El Centro Regional Medical Foundation 5th Annual Mardi Gras Fundraiser & City of El Centro Mardi Gras King & Queen Coronation at the Old Eucalyptus School House at 6pm. Tickets: $100 per person, Sponsored Tables: $1500 to $2500.
Feb. 10- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival Mid-Way Carnival 3-11pm located on the corner of Holt & 6th Street.
Feb. 10- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival, Sweepstakes Finals Cookery Contest at 6pm located at the Civic Center in Holtville, CA
Feb. 11- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival Parade & Street Fair, 7-4pm. For a schedule of events, please visit the Brawley Chamber's Event Calendar.
Feb. 11- City of El Centro's Annual Mardi Gras Parade & Street Carnival on Main Street in El Centro; 5-10pm
Feb. 12- 65th Annual Holtville Carrot Festival Street Fair & Carnival 11am-1pm. For a schedule of events, please visit the Brawley Chamber Event Calendar.
Feb. 17- Free Legal Workshop on Bankruptsy and Dept Negotiations presented by Renda Law Offices at the Brawley One Stop. Event starts at 11:30am. Refreshments and lunch to be provided.
Feb. 18- Imperial Valley Classic Health Fair, Bike Rodeo & 5k. Please visit the Brawley Chamber's website for a schedule of events.
Feb. 18- Pioneer's Museum Day 10am-4pm. To become a vendor please contact the museum at (760) 352-3211.
Feb. 18- Imperial Valley Jr. Fisherman's Trout Fishing Derby 7-10am at Sun Beam Lake, 1750 Drew Road, Seely, CA. For rules and contact information,please visit the Brawley Chamber Event Calendar.
Feb. 18- Hidalgo Society 90th Anniversary, Installation of Officers Banquet. Dinner at 5:30pm, to purchase tickets please contact Max Reyes at (760) 222-8520. Tickets will not be sold at the door.
Feb. 23- Brawley Chamber Mixer, hosted by new members; Stockmen's Club of Imperial Valley and A Thing Called Cake. Mixer will begin at 5:30pm- 7pm at the Stockmen's Club, 275 Marjorie Ave., in Brawley, CA.
Feb. 24- Imperial Valley Young Professionals Leadership Development Series: "Ethics of Leadership" seminar. Cost- $5 for IVYPO members, $7 non-members. Please RSVP to the El Centro Chamber of Commerce (760) 352-3681.
Feb. 24- Imperial Chamber of Commerce Movie in the Park featuring Charlotte's Web, located at Eager Park in Imperial to begin at dusk.
Feb. 25- Imperial Fair Parade located on Imperial Ave in Imperial, CA.
Feb. 25- Inugural Tri-Tip Cook Off & Imperial Market Days, 11am-3pm located at Eager Park in Imperial, CA.
Feb. 25- City of El Centro's "Le Tour de Manure" Cost: $30 per rider. Bring Family, friends and co-workers to El Centro Town Square, 7th & Main Street. For more information, please contact City of El Centro, Parks & Recreation Department at (760) 337-4555.
Feb 25- Calexico Chamber of Commerce hosts 11th Annual Mardi Gras Beer Tasting Event. Located at the Calexico Cultural Arts Center 7pm-10pm.
For more information about these event, please visit our Chamber EVENT CALENDAR |
Labor Law Tip of the Month
Q: What qualifies as administrative work?
A:Under the 2001 Wage Order and incorporated regulations, work is "administrative" when it is "directly related" to management policies or general business operations. The court clarified that work is "directly related" if it satisfies two components:
- It "must be qualitatively administrative." This component can be met when "white collar" employees engage in servicing a business, including advising management, planning, negotiating and representing the company.
- 2. "Quantitatively, the work must be of substantial importance to the management or operations of the business."
The court declined to issue a definitive decision on the exempt/nonexempt status of these workers, and sent the decision back to the lower court to apply the appropriate test to the facts. The court opined that claims adjusters may, in fact, meet the qualitative prong of servicing the business by negotiating settlements, advising management and processing claims. The claims adjusters' work may well be exempt if they can also meet the quantitative component of the test and show that this work is of substantial importance to the management or operations of the business.
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*The Labor Law Tip of the month is another benefit provided for Brawley Chamber of Commerce members. For expert explanations of labor laws and Cal/OSHA regulations, not legal counsel for specific situations, call (800) 348-2262 or submit your question at www.hrcalifornia.com.
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