News & Events from the Lafayette Chamber |
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Monday, December 21, 2020 |
Jay Lifson, Executive Director
251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150, Lafayette, CA
Virtual Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm, Friday 9am-1pm
Closed Dec. 23 at noon through Jan. 4 at 9am.
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Shop Local – Because it Matters.
Today’s uncertainty pits the pandemic against our local economy. This has become an endurance race, not a sprint. Can our small local businesses outlast the virus? The answer is really up to all of us.
- When you shop local, you are supporting the very people that support you all year long.
- You buy, you pay sales tax, and part of that tax comes back to pay for police, safety, road repairs, etc. For every $100 you spend at one of our local businesses, $68 will stay in Lafayette.
- You are helping people to keep their jobs.
- You are helping the environment with less packaging and less fuel used.
- Small Business keeps our downtown unique.
The new normal will certainly be different. And our small businesses have done everything that has been asked of them. They have made many sacrifices to keep our community safe. Changing the way they do business is expensive and challenging. During the last recession, NY Times writer Thomas Friedman said: ”Average is officially over… If you think you are going to make it by just showing up, I recommend a new business plan.” Let’s take a stand together and help our city through this difficult time.
- Practice social distancing. Wear a mask, wash your hands and avoid crowds. Behave like your life depends on it. Because for these small businesses, it does!
- Buy gift cards to your favorite businesses. They need the cash now to survive.
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Whether it is in-person, curb side pick-up or on-line sales, SHOP LAFAYETTE.
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Shopping in Lafayette on Mount Diablo Blvd is special because …
YOU get to see Carole and Kim; John and Colleen; Betty and Sam; Aline, Scott and Wendy; Lauren; Matt and Sally; Lorin; John and Terry; Tom (pictured) and Rosylyn; Leila; Sara; Roya and Robin; David; Dan, Connie and Daniel; Susan; Nese; Stefanie; Julie; Bel; Rudy and Betty; Sherry; Tracey; Jesse and so many more!
These are our neighbors, bleacher buddies and local store owners that took a chance on Lafayette and share their passion for small town business with us. You get to hear about their kids growing up. Sometimes watch the next generation help out during the holidays. This is the heart of our downtown community. Please support them.
Shop Lafayette First
• Get the personal touch, even through Zoom or Facetime!
• Support your neighbors.
• Contribute to our City Sales Tax dollars.
• Show you care.
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The end of 2020 is here, and no one is in the office.
We are working remote, but you may not notice ...
On Friday, December 18 we sent out our Year-End Silver Linings email blast with a recap of our 2020. If you missed it or want to read it again, click here.
The Lafayette Chamber wishes you a Happy Holiday Season. Thank you for all your good tidings whether by email, card or thought, we truly appreciate them!
And now grab your calendar because we are ready to take on 2021!
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Welcome NEW Member!
Last week we welcomed the following business to our membership!
Jones Development Company, LLC
914 Dewing Ave
Janice Maldonado, 510-261-5500
Commercial Real Estate Development, Consulting, Investments and Property Management
Category: Real Estate Development
Thank you Renewing Members!
The following members renewed their Chamber membership between December 14-20. Thank you!
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Thank you to our Retiring Chamber Board Members!
Michael Heller joined the Chamber 30 years ago, first representing Lafayette Florist then continued in his role at BMW Concord. First elected to the Chamber Board in 1995. He has brought a great grounded voice to the board. His love for Lafayette shows. Countless hours volunteering at every event. He lead the Iron Man Team, giving up weekends year after year to help put on the Art & Wine Festival from marking the streets for vendor booth locations till the last road closure sign was put away. Served diners at the Taste of Lafayette restaurant tour. Closed streets and barricades for the Res Run for Education. Barbecued sausages and burgers for nearly every Rock the Plaza concert. His positive can do attitude will be missed! Michael is pictured center with wife Yolanda (left) and Kathy Doyle (right).
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Dr. Jeremy Steel joined the Chamber in 2013 and the Board the following year. He co-founded the Yo Pro’s by seeing a need to bring our younger members and/or their staff together to network. He helped coordinate adding the Healthy Lifestyle Fair to the Res Run for Education. His passion for recycling has helped make all of our events greener. He also has given endless hours for many of our community events. Jeremy will not be leaving us just stepping off the Board and into new roles as an Ambassador and our 2021 Art & Wine Festival Chair. Jeremy (right) is pictured with Travis Johnston (left).
We also say thank you to Connie Collier and Steve Cortese for serving as advisors on the 2020 Chamber Board. Your insight, opinion and feedback were most appreciated throughout the year!
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Lafayette’s Citizen of the Year in 2015, Marechal Duncan
As reported in Friday's City of Lafayette Weekly Roundup, w e are saddened to learn from Mary McCosker, Executive Director of the Lafayette Historical Society, that Marechal Duncan died last week at the age of 98. He was a wonderful husband, father, friend, and supporter of all things Lafayette, especially the Lafayette Historical Society, to which he devoted many years of his life. He touched so many parts and people of our community in his years in Lafayette with his charm, thoughtfulness, caring, and dedication. As Mary says, “He had a great run!” You can read the story of Marechal's life in this East Bay Times article when he was named Lafayette’s Citizen of the Year in 2015. Goodbye, old friend, we shall truly miss you.
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Looking to network (virtually)? The Lafayette Chamber's networking/referral group called Chamber Connectors.
We will meet twice a month (first and third Wednesday of the month at 4:30pm). Our January meetings are Wednesdays, January 6 & 20 from 4:30 to 5:30pm.
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Visualize Your Year & Make it Happen!
Tuesday, January 19, 4pm-5pm, Online
A 1 hour interactive workshop where we uncover your big dreams and goals for the year. Less than 8% of people who make resolutions actually achieve them. Instead of simply setting resolutions, it can be more effective to set a clear vision with underlying clear goals for the year ahead.
This is an opportunity to experience what you are desiring so that you have a guide post motivating you to get there and a northern star letting you know when you have arrived. Presented by Holly Jean Jackson. Register here >>
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Author Talk About Plastic-Free Living During A Pandemic
Thursday, January 21, 7:30pm-8:30pm, Online
During her presentation, which is co-hosted by Sustainable Lafayette and the Lafayette Chamber, you'll be sure to pick up some easy new tips to tune up your plastic-free lifestyle in every room of your house. Plus, you'll learn about how waste during the Covid 19 crisis is piling up, including single-use PPE, like the blue polypropylene masks we're seeing littering the streets, disposable takeout containers, online shopping plastic packaging, etc... But don't despair, Sandra will guide us by sharing many easy tweaks we can make to significantly reduce our plastic footprint.
Longtime Chamber of Commerce member and local eco-minded citizen, Sandra is the owner of ECOlunchbox, a local plastic-free food container company that's a Certified California Green Business and socially responsible B Corporation. If you'd like to read the book, it's available at Reasonable Books, a new chamber member business, next to Trader Joe's in Lafayette.
We hope you'll join us for this fun, local and interactive evening of eco-friendly conversation. Presentation will last 1 hour and be tailored for adults as well as children ages 12 and older. Register here.
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SAVE THE DATE!
Save the date for the Lafayette Chamber's January Mixer, Wednesday, January 27, 6pm--7pm. More on the fun and excitement coming soon!
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The State of Digital Marketing for Local in 2021
Tuesday, February 2, 12noon-1pm, Online
Uncertain about how to manage your digital marketing in 2021? Learn the “5 Virtual Pillars” of digital marketing that will keep your business top of mind for your most valued customers in 2021 and beyond.
- Small business advertising solutions that don’t include Google Ads.
- Get tips on simple adjusts to your website that will improve your SEO.
- Automating social and best channels for your industry.
- Why reviews matter more than you know and how to ask for more.
- How to update and keep track of your company citations across the web.
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City of Lafayette
Lafayette Business Assistance Program to Restart
On Monday, the City Council voted unanimously to authorize the City Manager to restart the Lafayette Business Assistance Program to assist local businesses and non-profits access available resources offered by state and local governments. It is anticipated that Congress will act in the coming days to approve new legislation to provide additional resources and assistance as well as a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program.
The Lafayette Business Assistance Program will also be conducting a webinar in early January to provide information and answer questions, on the federal, state, and local resources that are available for businesses, as well as to highlight the services provided through the Business Assistance Program. For more information on the services that will be offered by the Lafayette Business Assistance Program, as well as additional information on currently available resources, please visit the Program’s website.
And other news and important links:
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Available: 15 Minute Parking Signs
Lafayette businesses - if you need signs for parking meters near your take-out pickup or curbside pickup locations, email jay@lafayettechamber.org! He can facilitate getting you signs to help your customers safely patronize you!
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Walnut Creek Chamber BACK TO BUSINESS - Is Your Lease Stressing You Out?
Tuesday, December 22, 9:00 - 10:00am
With guests:
Chamber Board Chair Matthew Guichard, Guichard, Teng, Portillo & Garrett, APC Board Director Edward Del Beccaro, TRI Commercial Real Estate Services
Board Director Eugene McGrane, Cushman & Wakefield of California
Is paying your lease stressing you out? Since March, most restaurants and brick-and-mortar stores have been doing a fraction of their normal business or no business at all. Even some big businesses are struggling to pay their lease. The economic pressures have tenants of all types looking for some type of relief, but most don’t know their options or where to turn for help. The Chamber has assembled three experts who will help to answer your questions and navigate the possible options. Chamber Board Chair Matthew Guichard, Guichard, Teng, Portillo & Garrett, APC; Board Director Edward Del Beccaro, TRI Commercial Real Estate Services, and Board Director Eugene McGrane, Cushman & Wakefield of California have shared their expertise with clients throughout the pandemic. So if your lease is keeping you up at night, you won’t want to miss this opportunity.
Zoom link will be sent by email the day before webinar.
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Market update and outlook from J.P. Morgan
Thursday January 7, 12:00-12:30pm
Using the most recent edition of J.P. Morgan Asset Management's Guide to the Markets, David Lebovitz, Executive Director will share thoughts on the current economic landscape, discuss key drivers and trends taking place in the markets and answer your most pressing questions. Specific topics include:
• Understanding the implications of the presidential election
• The outlook for the global economy
• Equities: growth versus value and U.S. versus international
To join by one-tap mobile or phone if you have no computer, call (669) 900-6833. You will need the following meeting ID and password: Meeting ID: 928 7454 7079, Password: 881786
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New Year 2021 Let's Network!
Join White Rabbit Business Solutions Wednesday, January 13 from 4:00-5:30 for an afternoon of networking. Meet small business owners and professionals who want to learn about your business! Register here. |
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Effectively Harnessing Your Nonprofit's Human Capital During Crisis - Strategies to Ensure Organizational/Employee Sustainability and Financial Security
January 25, 12:00pm-1:30pm
Gian Panetta, Samantha Davenport, Kim Smith, and Matthew Sagers from MassMutual Northern California will address some of the prominent issues in harnessing your organization’s human capital at this time of significant stress and duress. Protecting your nonprofit from loss during significant shifts or transitions should be an important focus of leadership. In this program we will discuss the following:
- How to address the myriad challenges from finance to culture and compassion fatigue
- Why it is important to pay attention to the wellness of your employees and their financial situation
- Why non-profits shouldn’t overlook the importance of employee benefits at all levels
- How to package compensation/benefits at low or no cost that will encourage employee retention
- What is the employer’s responsibility to employees as it pertains to financial wellness
- How to maintain healthy relationships through voluntary wellness programs
We know that challenges in human capital are exacerbated during crisis times which means organizations must recalibrate and pivot as needed to grow and thrive. These topics will be covered with ample time and opportunity to discuss specific cases and issues that nonprofit leaders might be experiencing at the moment. $10 CEN Members | $20 Non-Members. Learn more and register here. Questions? Contact Gian at (925) 979-2330.
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Member & Community Announcements |
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Wish Upon A Window
Lafayette-based Peter Pan Foundation is fighting to keep the magic alive that brings smiles to the children at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital and through the Make-A-Wish Foundation! Please join Jennifer Perlmutter Gallery and Lafayette Social in raising $10,000 for the Peter Pan Foundation! We're almost a third of the way there!
Go to lafayettesocial.com/wishuponawindow to watch tonight’s grand finale (Santa’s coming!) LIVE and to donate to PPF! We are in need of local businesses or individuals to provide matching funds of $100-$500 or more! PLEASE help to bring joy and comfort to children throughout 2021 by providing matching funds now. Have questions? Email us at lafayettesocial@n2pub.com. Thank you!!!
P.S. Children can drop off their letters for Santa at the Gallery all day today!
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📢 Announcing Gold Coast's 2021 Season!
Pamela Freund-Striplen will be LIVE on Facebook today at 3pm at the Town Hall Theatre for this special announcement regarding the 2021 season!
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Special Offer from Diablo Ballet
It's the most wonderful time of the year, which means it's time for Diablo Ballet's The Nutcracker Suite, which will
virtually stream into households December 21-23.
Lafayette Chamber friends can receive a special $25 virtual screening ticket, saving you $10 off the regular price. To get this offer, call the Lesher Center Ticket Office at (925) 943- 7469 and give the code FRIEND 10.
Take a look here at this magical production that puts a unique and charming spin on the classic Nutcracker tale. With your screening ticket, you'll receive three days of unlimited viewing of this charming ballet that's perfect for young and young at heart.
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Give the Gift of Coaching!
Have you ever wondered why someone else is hitting their goals faster than you? Or why life appears to be so much easier for those around you? So many times it's because they have a coach or a mentor. They have invested in themselves intentionally. I have seen this so many times with clients and through my personal experience. We find ourselves in a rut. We begin comparing ourselves to others. We repeat the same actions and expect a different outcome. And surprise, nothing happens. Without new action, nothing changes. A coach can help you see your blindspots. A coach can help guide you to the right new actions. A coach is there to help you define success for yourself. To cheer you on. To help you stay the course even on those bad days. This is why I am offered 70% off of my coaching. I am also offering a 2 pack package which I never offer. This is a limited time holiday offer. If you or someone you love needs a fresh perspective, help setting goals, new ideas, motivation, a cheerleader or a jumpstart for the New Year, be sure to purchase your package today. https://hollyjeanjackson.com/shop/products/gift-certificate
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Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary Club
Every Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
January 2021 Weekly Speakers
1: No meeting
8: Farah Papaioannou, CEO of Edgeworx
15: Con Jenkins, The Quarterly Big Rotary Picture
22: Mark Roberts, District Governor
29: Bob Marino, Member Magazine
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Little Free Pantry: Let’s help those in need this holiday season.
Thanks to its volunteers, the Lafayette Community Garden and Outdoor Learning Center has now opened a Little Free Pantry. We don’t know how many people in our community are struggling during the holidays, but this resource might bring some relief and make the season just a little bit brighter. The Little Free Pantry is just in front of the Lafayette Community Garden at 3932 Mount Diablo Blvd.
It’s for everyone in the community, and the concept is simple: Take what you want and leave what you can. A team at the Community Garden will monitor use and stocking of the pantry with items such as iron-rich cereal, fruit juice, canned fruit and vegetables, soup, rice and pasta, powdered milk, peanut butter, canned meat and fish and other staples. Lafayette, like other communities around the country is joining the effort to help those who need a little cheer this winter. Read more about the Little Free Pantry movement at littlefreepantry.org. |
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Passing Joy from Generation to Generation
The Diablo Regional Arts Association (DRAA), the nonprofit partner of the City of Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center for the Arts, is stepping-up and leading the way toward a newly defined future with DRAA’s Pave the Way campaign. This fundraising effort, which features naming opportunities and custom concrete pavers outside the Lesher Center, will support innovative artistic programming and provide access to the arts. With a vision of ensuring the Lesher Center recovers from the negative impacts of COVID-19 restrictions and remains the premier arts destination in the region, the Dean and Margaret Lesher Foundation committed an initial investment of $150,000 as a matching gift for the campaign.
To receive information about purchasing a paver or other donation opportunities, please visit www.draa.org/pave, call (925) 457-2000, or contact info@draa.org. |
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Announcement about Participating in Be Kind and Be Happy Project
There’s an opportunity to participate in a new project that encourages kindness and different ways to find happiness. It’s a new documentary series in which Be Kind features two dozen individuals and experts talking about what they do to be kind to others and what others have done to be kind to them. Be Happy features individuals and experts talking about what makes people happy and what they do to make others happy. Here is more information about these projects and how you can participate to promote kindness and happiness, which is very much needed in the world right now.
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Kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten registration for 2021 - 2022
Online Pre-enrollment for the 2021-2022 school year will open on January 4, 2021
If your child will be five years old by September 1, 2021, please go to www.lafsd.org; click on the Enrollment icon and follow the links to pre-enroll for Kindergarten. Kindergarten is optional in California (CA Ed Code 48200). Note: Transitional Kindergarten is for children born between 9/2/16 and 12/2/16.
If your child will be six years old by September 1, 2021, please pre-enroll for first grade (CA Ed Code 48010). Children who have completed kindergarten in a private or public school in California shall be admitted to the first grade unless the parent/guardian and the school district agree that the child may continue in kindergarten for an additional year. (CA Ed Code 48011). View flyer >>
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Branch Office Administrator, Edward Jones Lafayette
If you find yourself looking for a fulfilling career, the Branch Office Administrator (BOA) role may be the right opportunity for you. BOAs team up with financial advisors to help clients achieve their long-term financial goals. We’re proud to have more offices in the U.S. and Canada than any other investment firm, serving over seven million clients. Details here.
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Temporary Workforce Services Specialist
Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County is recruiting for a Temporary Workforce Services Specialist, for the short term, through June 2021. See further details in the attached job announcement flyer.
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From the Lafayette Library and Learning Center |
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On behalf of the Lafayette Library staff, the Friends, and Foundation Board of Trustees, thank you for your continued patronage throughout this year. May you enjoy a restful holiday, and peace and good health in the new year!
If we had one wish this holiday, it would be to re-open the Library with as many hours, materials, classes and programs as ever! However, we have not met our fundraising goals for 2020 and need your help. Please consider making a donation today. Every dollar helps! We can't do this without you!
Martin & Anne, Read by author Nancy Churnin
Tuesday, January 12, 3:00 – 3:30 PM via Zoom
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Anne Frank were from different worlds, but they were born the same year, 1929. Across the ocean, they both faced racial discrimination and reacted to hate with words of hope, striving for unity and understanding rather than divisiveness.
Martin & Anne is a beautifully illustrated book that shares the powerful, inspiring stories of two heroes whose messages of goodwill encourage all of us to choose tolerance and kindness towards one another.
This special FREE program is made possible thanks to financial support from the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation and its donors. The Library Foundation has donated copies of Martin & Anne to the Lafayette Library and to the four Lafayette elementary school libraries.
WOW Presents: Instituting Women Representation
Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art
January 13, 2:00 - 3:00 PM via ZOOM
A 2018 study revealed only 11% of works in the nation’s major museum collections are by female artists. Acknowledging this gender inequity, Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art (SMCMoA) in Moraga reframed their operational and professional practices to enhance the voice and representation of women in the arts. This webinar informs viewers of the underlining practices to build gender inclusion in museums, and shares how a small college art museum has examined their institutional history, collection practices, and exhibition curations to generate a richer, more inclusive model.
This program is hosted by Friends of the Lafayette Library.
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New Member Posts on Social
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Please note: to signup 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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