What’s new with Gilroy Chamber of Commerce members

Posted on February 1, 2012 by gilroychamber

What’s New with Business

By Sue Thurman, Business Relationship Manager
Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

Find all your business needs at www.gilroy.org under our Chamber Directory.  It’s fast, easy, and includes a Google map for your convenience.

Quilters, it’s time to take a ride on the wild side during the 2012, 7th Annual, Quilter’s March Madness Shop Hop, February 29 – March 4. Starting with the Nimble Thimble at Garlic City Mercantile, 7550 Monterey Street, owner Dave Peoples says to stop by and fill out a registration form, pick up your Passport and get hopping! All stores will be open 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. You could win a $50 gift certificate from all participating shops and a $200 gift card for gas. In total, 19 stores are participating from Antioch to Winters, so stop by Nimble Thimble and get started. For more information, visit www.quiltersmarchmadness.com.
Downtown will be hopping on February 11 beginning at 8 p.m. when the South County Derby Girls host a mysterious, Valentine’s Day Masquerade Ball at Gilroy’s 9-Lives Club, 7430 Monterey Street. Then on February 25, Evolution is coming to rock our town with the “Ultimate Tribute to Journey”. Voted the “Best Live Music Venue” in Gilroy, 9 Lives Club features music, comedy and more! To view the schedule or see how to obtain tickets, visit their website www.9livesclub.com.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner—are you ready for a fantastic February 14 with the ones you love? Plan ahead with gift ideas from Scentsy! Sweet and sultry fragrances in the Romance collection will provide you with the perfect presents for your sweetie and anyone else you want to spoil. And if you want to give and give back, snuggly Sasha, the first-ever Charitable Cause Scentsy Buddy is dressed for the day in a cherry-red smock. For more information, go to the Scentsy website at www.marshabecht.scentsy.us or call Marsha at 842-0383.

The Gilroy Assistance League is now accepting grant requests for the year 2012 that will benefit Gilroy youth organizations. Last year GAL gave $13,000 to various youth services such as DreamPower Horsemanship, GHS Grad Night, Gilroy community Youth Center and Rebekah’s Children’s Services. A formal grant request proposal must be completed and returned no later than Friday, February 24, 2012. Forms may be downloaded from www.gilroyassistanceleague.org or picked up at Starritt Realtors, 7477 Eigleberry St. Completed forms may be returned to that same location or mailed to Patty Giacalone, 777 First St., PMB 274, Gilroy, 95020. Funds will be distributed in late April 2012. Questions, call Patty at 408-847-3036.

Rumor has it that the Neil Simon play, Rumors, will be opening at Pintello Comedy Theater, 8191 Swanston Lane, on February 3 with scheduled performances February 4, 10,11, 17,18, 24 and 25 plus one matinee on Sunday, February 19 at 2 p.m. Produced in arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. and directed by Whitney Pintello, the play will star Marion and Rod Pintello, Jon Reed, Ariane Borgia, Joline Masten, Tom Hepner, Valerie Vanni, Brad Nye and Katie DeSantis. Tickets are $18 and reservations can be made on-line at pintello@charter.net or call 408-337-1599.

If you didn’t know that Minuteman Press offers a huge variety of services (from A-W) and more by the minute, then it’s time to stop by, 15700 Monterey Rd., Suite 160 (Morgan Hill) or call 408-778-1311. They are the one-stop shop for all your printing and graphic design needs. Call for a quote-stop by for a look-Minuteman Press (www.minutemanpress.morganhill.com) is the first and last step in printing.

Regent Financial invites you to the monthly Morning Mix for coffee, treats and good conversation. February 8 at 8 – 9 a.m. Don’t miss February’s Guest Speaker Cheryl Ellemberg. Cheryl is the owner of ABD Promotions. She will be sharing her experience in how to promote you and your business using networking and marketing skills. We are excited to support our local community and businesses with this interactive workshop. Seating is limited so please call reserve a seat for you and a friend at 877-457-4567.

Patti Tartaglia, Food Fixx, has brought her personal cooking instruction classes to the People & Planet Store in Morgan Hill and is featuring gluten-free recipes. Gluten free, dairy-free pie crusts; gluten-free classic oatmeal cookies with organic raisins; gluten-free blondies with cranberries and white chocolate chips are just some of the recipes she is teaching-there’s lots more to learn from her too. Email her at patti@thefoodfixx.com or call 408-838-2810 for more information.

The New Balance Factory Store, 8155 Arroyo Circle, Ste 7 (Gilroy Premium Outlets) will be celebrating President’s Day with a presidential sale on February 16-20. Save an additional $25 on a $100 purchase of footwear, apparel and accessories for men, women and children. Specializing in multiple widths from 2a to 6e in men’s and 4a to 4e in women’s, they also offer difficult to find sizes in men’s 6 to 18 and women’s 5 to 13. The kid’s footwear selection covers infants to grade school children and is available in wide and extra wide widths. They also offer a full line of athletic and lifestyle apparel for men and women. They are located in the “Retail” Category of the Chamber Business Directory.

Sarah’s Vineyard is pleased to announce that the have been awarded a total of ten medals for their wine entries in the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2012. This prestigious competition received 5,500 entries this year, making it one of the largest competitions in the world. Many other local wineries were recognized for their wines this year as well, demonstrating the excellence of this growing area and our local winemakers. Sarah’s vineyard is located at 4005 Hecker Pass Hwy.

Gavilan College Child Development Center provides a safe, loving, secure environment that fosters each child’s unique cognitive, social-emotional, physical and language development within a well-planned environment. For children ages 2-5 years, who have not started kindergarten (parents do not have to be Gavilan College students) enroll now at 408-848-4815 or cgonzales@gavilan.edu or salonzo@gavilan.edu.
Out and About Magazine is helping to promote a day KidsFest, 2012 “about kids—for kids”, featuring a Trade Show with every resource a parent needs to make informed choices for their children including education, summer camp programs, attractions, clubs and organizations, kids activities, party ideas, health resources, kids retail and merchandise, etc. Kids will enjoy a variety of activities including games, entertainment, demonstrations, prizes and much more. Contact Bobbi Jo Palmer for more information, palmer.bobbijo@yahoo.com.

Posted in Chamber Of Commerce, General Information | Leave a comment

Look what is new with our Chamber members

Posted on January 4, 2012 by gilroychamber

Integrated Financial Benefits is pleased to introduce Nichole Osaki as the new Marketing Director.  Nichole comes highly recommended as she has experience in corporate sales and customer service.  She has a strong work ethic and drive to succeed and with her “can do” and “team oriented” attitude will be an asset to the team.  Nichole will soon be bringing you information about our financial seminar series; check our website for more information-www.ifitfinancial.com.  Please stop by, say hi and see for yourself why Nichole will be a terrific fit at Integrated Financial Benefits; 7881 Church St., Suite B.

Congratulations to Greenstreak Landscaping for recently earning three California Landscape Contractors Association Awards for various projects: the Small Residential Installation Achievement Award; the Large Residential Installation Achievement Award and the Outstanding Achievement Award for Medium Residential Installation.  Visit their website, http://www.greenstreakls.com/ or call Linda at 408-848-8446 to learn how they can help you with your landscaping needs.

Connie Rogers, President of the Gilroy Historical Society, announced that the public is invited to hear Amah Mutsun Tribal Chairman, Valentin Lopez, speak about tribal history in our area at the Gilroy Center for the arts, 7341 Monterey Street on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2-4pm.  She also asks that we mark our calendars and tell our friends that on January 30, 25% of the sales at Gilroy’s Papa Murphy’s Pizza will be donated to the Society for the Endowment Fund—Papa Murphy’s is located at 767 First Street, call 408-846-9300 to place your order and just say you want to benefit the museum.

Gina Lopez, Gina Lopez Insurance & Financial Services, Inc., 140 Second Street, 408-846-9077, introduces and congratulates Cecilia Torres Cortes as the new Customer Relations Representative Agent.

Christi Garcia, Wealth Management Advisor-LPL Financial, 8339 Church St., Suite 102, helps people find financial answers and success with their wealth portfolios by educating on principles of investing and planning.  She welcomes you to attend the next course at Gavilan College, Room BU120, 5055 Santa Teresa Bld.  The cost is $90 and the topic will be “Yes You Can…Control your Financial Future”; classes will be Thursdays, 2/16-3/8/12 from 6-8pm.

The perfect accessories for you new phones and pads are at AT&T Mobility, 8647 San Ysidro Ave.  Hot new cases in a rainbow of colors; Bluetooth accessories including the BlueAnt Car Kit; Milano Charging Cases; Lapgear Smart-e tablet lapdesks; iFrogz color stylus or the Incipio Stylus Pen-whatever you need to complete your organizing needs for 2012 are now available.

100 points equals $10 perk at Erik’s DeliCafe, 8300 Arroyo Cr., #320 at the Gilroy Premium Outlets.  And you receive 25 free points for registering at www.eriksdelicafe.com.  After that you will earn 1 point for each dollar you spend at any Erik’s DeliCafe and for every 100 points, a $10 Perk is added to your card automatically.  Visit Ashok and pick up your card today-and if you haven’t tried their Butternut Squash Soup you are missing a delicious luncheon treat!

Eleanor Villarreal is available to meet your Real Estate needs at 408-847-1605: whether buying, selling or considering investment property, she can help you.  She was recently voted to be one of Gilroy’s best Real Estate Agents through the Best of Gilroy section in the Dispatch.

Don B. Bergis, Jared M. Elson and Valerie J. Kemp of Regent Financial, invite you to the monthly Morning Mix for coffee, treats, good conversation and great connections.  Held every 2nd Wednesday of the month, the next Mix will be on January 11, 2012, 8-9am at 8337 Church St., Ste 117 and feature guest speaker, Mario Moreno, Massage Therapist.  One of the lucky guests will enjoy a free massage as Mario talks about the benefits of relaxation.  Please call to reserve a seat for you and a friend: 877-457-4567.

WELCOME NEW MEMBER,

The Law Offices of James A. Ward, 7810 Monterey Street.  Jim specializes in elder law and estate planning and can be reached, Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm at 408-847-4800 or at jward@wardesq.com; visit his website, www.wardesq.com.  Jim will be hosting the January After-hours Mixer at his new office on January 12, 5:30-7:30pm-mark your calendars and join us as we welcome Jim to the community.

Posted in Chamber Of Commerce | Leave a comment

Government Relations Committee meeting agenda, Fri., Dec. 9.

Posted on December 7, 2011 by gilroychamber

 

Gilroy Chamber of Commerce
7471 Monterey Street, Gilroy, CA  95020
Government Relations Committee

Friday, December 9, 2011

7:30 – 9:00 AM. @ The Chamber Board Room

Agenda

  1. Opening Remarks/Introductions (7:30 – 7:35)
  2. Approval of minutes:  November 11, 2011
  3. Discover Gilroy – Presentation by Tom Haglund, City of Gilroy Administrator and Katherine Filice, Articulate Solutions

(7:35 – 8:05)

 Discover Gilroy | Building Community is a community-wide campaign spearheaded by a special joint committee under the direction of the City of Gilroy to provide vital feedback to various community organizations; communicate the importance of thinking, acting, and shopping locally, and inform potential visitors and new businesses on the desirable aspects of the community.

 Articulate Solutions conducted research and developed a community outreach plan, summarize findings, develop a creative theme for each of the three main segments of the campaign (Residents, Tourism, and New Business), and create an overall marketing plan.

 The Discover Gilroy presentation will provide an understanding of the findings and the action steps that have been developed to build on the momentum that keeps Gilroy progressive and positioned for new economic opportunities.

  1. Gilroy Business PAC (Giusiana) (8:05 – 8:10)
  2. Community Development Updates (Haglund) (8:10 – 8:20)
  3. Economic Development Updates (Brownlow) (8:20 – 8:30)
  4. Gilroy Welcome Center Updates (Howard)
  5. Inquiries from GRC regarding the following (8:30 – 8:40)
  • Police Department (Turner)
  • School Board (Lai)
  • Gavilan College (Boll)
  • SCVWD (Gibson)
  • Redistricting

Chamber Updates (8:40 – 8:45)

  • HR Information
  • Legislative Information

Meeting wrap-up and discussion of November GRC meeting (8:45 – 9 a.m.)

  • Climate Action Plan
  • Recommendations to Chamber Board
  • Other Discussion

 

Adjournment (9 a.m.)

Posted in Government Relations Committee | Leave a comment

November What’s New With Chamber Business

Posted on November 30, 2011 by gilroychamber

What’s New With Business

Sue Thurman, Business Relationship Manager

Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

Gilroy Gardens is now booking private Ice Skating Parties from December 2 – 30. These special packages are for when the Park is not in operation and for private skate parties only with a 15 person minimum. For a 2-hour time slot the cost is $20 per person all ages; for a 4-hour time slot, $35 per person all ages. This includes skate rental, hot chocolate, and a variety of cookies. And you can customize your party for any age group. Book today by calling 408-840-7100. 

During the past two years, Gavilan College’s Community Education Program has trained 473 individuals entering or advancing in the water industry field. Beginning in Spring 2012, Gavilan will begin its Associate of Science Degree in Water Resources Management.  Students in the program can earn an industry recognized certificate or continue their studies and gain an Associate’s Degree which is highly sought after in the field. Over the next 4-10 years, the water industry is expected to lose 50% of its workforce due to retirements. Now is the time to get trained for a lucrative career in water. For more information about the degree, certificate or fee-based programs, go to www.GavilanCE.com or call 408-852-2804.

Laura Wrede Writer and Photographer at PhotoGirlStudio.com earned Yahoo’s Top Writer designation as one of their “Hot 100” contributors, moving up from the “Hot 500” designation last month.  Laura’s Yahoo articles are found across Yahoo News sites, including Yahoo Sports, Science, Local, Politics and more.  Have Laura use her skills to write your professional bio for a 2011 special price of just $99. Contact her at Laura@photogirlstudio.com for details.

Gilroy’s creative firm, Articulate Solutions, has a number of shiny new trophies to add to its growing wall of fame as they recently won two Gold and three Silver Awards for recent work with San Jose State University. The creative team’s design work on the SJSU Acceleration Fundraiser campaign was recognized with a Gold for Art Direction; the Mailer won a Silver Award for Art Direction and Graphic Design, while the Newspaper print ads earned two Silver Awards for Photography and Not-for-Profit advertising. Senior Designer, Suhita Shirodkar also won a Gold Award for Individual Achievement in Illustration. Articulate Solutions is the go-to design agency for South County, Silicon Valley, the Bay Area and beyond and can be reached at www.articulate-solutions.com or call Katherine Filice at 408-842-2275.

Michael Hawk, Gilroy photographer, was recently awarded the Silver Davey award for Individual Achievement in Photography for his work on the Acceleration ad campaign for San Jose State University. Michael said that photographing the exceptional students who were included in the university’s $200 million fundraising campaign was truly a pleasure. The powerful images helped create compelling and effective ads for SJSU.  Michael Hawk is a professional photographer specializing in fashion, weddings and commercial photography-for more information, isit www.michaelhawkphotography.com.

Scentsy’s December warmer of the month is Blizzard.  Escape the winter chill with the warm glow of Blizzard. When unlit, Blizzard’s snowflakes charm as they fall across the glossy white base and scalloped dish — turn Blizzard on and perfectly placed cutouts cast a whimsical winter wonderland pattern. The scent of the month is Comfort & Joy: Spicy, familiar woods marry with surprising white florals, pure citrus, and just a nibble of gingerbread for a winter fragrance that’s anything but ordinary.  For more information on this warmer and scent contact Marsha Becht at www.marshabecht.scentsy.us or 408-842-0383.

Regent Financial & Insurance Services, 8339 Church St., Ste 117, invites you to a Holiday Open House, December 8th, 3 – 6 p.m.  Enjoy music and refreshments and bring an unwrapped toy or canned foods to give to those in our community. Don’t miss their January Guest Speaker, Mario Moreno. Mario is an accredited Massage Therapist who travels to your home, office or even workshops like their Morning Mix! So, come hear the latest up-to-date Market news and be one of the lucky guests who will be enjoying a free massage as Mario talks about the benefits of relaxation. Truly a treat after the busy holiday season! This workshop is open to the community. Please call to reserve a seat for you and a friend.  (877) 457-4567 or check out their website for upcoming seminars at www.regentfinancial.net

Congratulations to Weston Miles Architects, 17500 Depot Street, Morgan Hill,  for being honored as Green Business of the Year by the Santa Clara County League of Conservation Voters.  Their recent eco-friendly designs for two new educational facilities, Brownell County Annex and Gateway School and the transformation of the historic Isaacson Granary speak to the environmental stewardship they bring to their work.

Affordable Roofing & Solar is pleased to announce the appointment of their new Chief Operations Officer, Thomas Dinette. Tom brings a wealth of executive management experience, working for a Fortune 500 company, a Venture Capital funded start-up, and his own company for over 20 years. He will assist Affordable Roofing & Solar with upcoming expansion plans.  To learn more about this Bay Area Green Certified Company, call Pamela Garcia, CEO, WBE at 408-779-3333 or visit www.affordableroofing.com.

Bay Area Equity Group is proud to announce the expansion of investment opportunities into three new areas:  Memphis, Atlanta and South Bend.  To learn how you can enjoy watching your investment portfolio grow, visit their website, www.bayareaequitygroup.com or contact an Investment Specialist at 408-369-9244 or email support@bayareaequitygroup.com.

Patti Tartaglia, the Food Fixx Chef is pleased to announce that she is teaching gluten-free Christmas Baking and can be reached at 408-838-2810 or email patti@thefoodfixx.com for more information on times/dates.

Suzanne Fensin, Life Coach, New Consciousness Facilitator and Author, has returned from Florida after taping a segment as a guest Author for The Balancing Act on Lifetime Television. She and host Kristy Villa discussed her award-winning visionary fiction novel, Gaia’s Emissary in which Suzanne illustrates how getting back to basics and living more from our hearts instead of our minds greatly increases our ability to create opportunities for ourselves and our community. For more information call 408-843-4953 or visit www.suzannefensin.com.

R S Business Services, 401 First Street, provides Tax and Accounting services for individuals and businesses. To learn more about the personalized service that this friendly, knowledgeable, competent, professional, local, competitively priced company offers, visit www.rsbusinessservices.com or call Karen Stice at 408-657-9051.

California Passport, LLC has trips planned in December that will take you to a Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival or Christmas at the Adobe, both in Monterey or a Holiday concert by the South Valley Symphony at Gavilan Theater on December 11. To ride in their beautiful new 14 seat van, contact Ana at 408-659-0050 or visit their website at www.california-passport.com.

Christi R.Garcia’s philosophy (Financial Advisor-LPL Financial) is straightforward; she believes in an investment approach that is diversified, built for long term and has undeniable quality.  Her office is located (8339 Church St, Suite 102) in the community where she lives and raises her family. She educates clients on the principals of investing and philosophies for attaining financial freedom. Join her at the Holiday Coffee Corner, December 2 at 8 a.m. where you will meet new people and enjoy exciting conversations.  Learn what is happening locally, smart philosophies of investing that are being used in today’s markets, and how we can help local business owners grow their businesses.  Reserve by calling 408-842-5200.

The Central Coast Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and Hospice has been awarded a grant to support VNA end-of-life care throughout Monterey and San Benito County. This money awarded by the Wells Fargo Bank Foundation will enhance patient care and safety providing those additional services that have no reimbursable source but which are necessary for patient comfort.  To learn more visit www.ccvna.com or call 831-648-3734.

Is your child struggling or could he or she benefit from small class sizes?  Have you noticed a difference in your child that concerns you?  Anchorpoint is here to help with junior high though high school with small class sizes combined with teaching techniques that make it easy for your student to learn. The staff works with families and offers help for those in need.  Anchorpoint is an affordable, private educational facility located in Gilroy. Visit www.anchorpointgilroy.org or call 408-846-6642.

The Cancer Care Institute (CCI) in Morgan Hill is offering its first free community cancer screening clinic, Monday, December 12 from 1:30-6 p.m. with a focus on the early detection of prostate cancer and is open to men age 50 and over or men age 45 with a family history of prostate cancer. Early detection can result in more effective treatment options and lead to increased life expectancy. CCI’s friendly bi-lingual staff welcomes you to attend this clinic and visit their new office at 18511 Mission View Drive, Ste 140, Morgan Hill. Call 408-779-1400 for more information.

Organize your next school fund-raiser at the Gilroy Grocery Outlet, Bargain Market located at 333 10th Street.  Call Gilbert or Janice at 408-427-7868 and arrange to have 5% of  your grocery bills donated back to your school — just another way that the Gilroy Grocery Outlet is giving back to the community.

Talking Health at Saint Louise Regional Hospital, provides a platform for diverse, comprehensive and interactive health education.  It is an opportunity for community members to meet other people with similar health conditions and provide support.  The December 14 topic is Healthcare Issues Important to Today’s Women and will be presented by Dr. James Watson (Ob/Gyn).  For more information call 408-848-4940 or visit saintlouiseregionalhospital.org.

Lisa Faria and Peter Fleming, the LPF Team for Intero Real Estate, take pride in combining professionalism with a personal touch.  With over 17 years of combined Real Estate experience in buying, selling and investing in property, they will provide a high quality of service and a “hands-on” approach as they assess your needs to help you achieve your dreams.  Contact them at 408-857-9924 or visit www.LPFteam.com.

Identify and gain loyal customers; track customer spending; motivate and reward customers and measure results are just some of the ways that Raquel Crowell of ShopGilroy.com will support and help you market your business.  For as little as $20 a month you will receive valuable visibility, greater exposure that allures local shoppers.  To learn more call 408-201-4292 or email to Raquel@shopgilroy.com.

 

 

Posted in Chamber Of Commerce | Leave a comment

Representing the interest of Business with Government Action Report

Posted on November 29, 2011 by gilroychamber

The 2010/2011 Action Report — Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

By Susan Valenta, President/C.E.O.

The Government Relations Committee (GRC) has taken the lead in representing business on a local, regional, and state level. For the past two years, Greg Gallup (Cintas Corporation) has chaired the GRC. As a major employer, Cintas understands the importance of a business-friendly environment so that the economy can grow and businesses can prosper.

At the November meeting, a White Paper was presented to give a recap of the GRC actions from 2010 to present. The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce takes pride in the efforts and the successful outcomes of legislation fought on behalf of our businesses.

Beginning in January 2012, Christi Garcia (Christi Garcia LPL Financial) will Chair the GRC continue with the legislative advocacy. The following is a brief snapshot of the actions over the past two years as well as the presentations that took place at the monthly meetings:

2011 Chamber Positions

February

Oppose AB 10 (Alejo) – Minimum wage hike with annual California CPI indexing.  Failed at State level.

Chamber approved a loan for PAC start-up expenses not to exceed $5,000 payable back to the Chamber within three years.

April

408/449 Overlay – Chamber supported overlay recommendation.  PUC/State approved.

May

Gilroy Chamber sent a letter to GUSD expressing that the Chamber considers education a high priority and that there was an interest in continuing the conversation in finding a solution to the state budget.

Gilroy Chamber recommended approval of County redistricting Map 1 and opposing Map 5.  – Map 1 selected by the County Board of Supervisors

July

Oppose – Gilroy Chamber opposed SB 653 (which evolved to SB 1 X 23) – a local taxing authority measure – Failed at the State level.

Oppose –Gilroy Chamber opposed SB 469, a land use issue that created another unnecessary layer of government that were already handled on a local level.  Failed at the State level.

Support – Gilroy Chamber of Commerce recommended that Gilroy be aligned with inland regions and communities of interest on the Senate district lines.

September

Support – Gilroy Chamber of Commerce recommended approval of the draft Habitat Conservation Plan with caveats.  A letter to Council addressed those concerns.  City Council approved moving forward with Draft Plan.

Gilroy Chamber re-affirmed that the organization is in opposition to Card Check in any form.  Bills vetoed by Governor Jerry Brown or failed at the Senate level.

Recap of 2011 Presenters:

October           High Speed Rail – Don Dey

September       Santa Clara County Habitat Conservation Plan:  Speakers:  Ken Schreiber, Santa Clara County HCP/NCCP; Stan Ketchum, City of Gilroy; Supervisor Mike Wasserman, County of Santa Clara

July                  Panel Presentation – Santa Clara County Habitat Conservation Plan:  Speakers:  Ken Schreiber, Santa Clara County HCP/NCCP; Rob Eastwood, County Planning; Jennifer Williams, Santa Clara County  Farm Bureau; Kristi Abrams, City of Gilroy; and Jeff Martin, Land Owner.

June                 High Speed Rail Visioning – Don Dey

May                 Gilroy Unified School District – Dr. Debbie Flores

Santa Clara County Redistricting – Jane Howard

April                408/669 Area Code Discussion – Katherine Stokes Morehouse, Regulatory Analyst, Communications Division, California PUC

March              Presentation –  Habitat Conservation Plan, Jennifer Williams, Santa Clara County Farm Bureau; Ken Schreiber, Santa Clara Valley Habitat Conservation Plan.

Presentation – Santa Clara Valley Water District, Don Gage, Chair

February          Presentation – Gilroy Climate Action Plan, Stan Ketchum, City of Gilroy

Presentation – Habitat Conservation Plan, Stan Ketchum, City of Gilroy

January            High Speed Rail Panel – Steve Geil (Fresno EDC); Jessica Zenk (Silicon Valley Leadership Group; Ben Tripousis, City of San Jose, Transportation; Dave Mansen, San Jose to Merced Section of HSR, Gary Kennerley, Program Manager, San Jose to Merced HSR

2010 Chamber Positions

February          Gilroy Coalition for Stronger Economic Development formed

March              Oppose – Proposition 16 (PG&E) – Ballot measure failed.

April                Oppose – AB2483 (Water Act, SCVWD) – Legislation failed to move forward.

Oppose – Alcohol-Related Harm and Damage Services Act of 2010 (Legislation not able to move forward)

July                  Support letter to California High Speed Rail requesting that economic impacts, urban decay, and traffic impacts be included in the Gilroy portion of the Rail alignment considerations, and that the CAHSR approve and fully fund the City of Gilroy’s funding request for local review of the project’s impacts.

August            Support – Proposition 23 – would have suspended air pollution control laws under AB 32 – measure failed with 62% of voters opposing.

Support – Proposition 22 — Prohibits the State from Borrowing or Taking Funds Used for Transportation, Redevelopment, or Local Government Projects and Services – measure passed with 60.7% of voters supporting.

September       Support – Proposition 26 – Required supermajority Vote to Pass New Taxes and Fees Act – measure passed with 52.5%

Endorsed for City Council: Dion Bracco, Russ Valiquette, and Paul Kloecker

Endorsed for State Assembly:  Robert Bernosky

Oppose – Proposition 25 — Majority Vote for the Legislature to Pass the Budget Act – measure passed with 55.1% of voters in favor.

 

 

 

Posted in General Information, Government Relations Committee | Leave a comment

Past-President/Chair Luncheon

Posted on November 7, 2011 by gilroychamber

November 4, 2011

Twenty-two Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Board of Director Presidents/Chairs gathered for lunch at Westside Grill on November 4 to be briefed on the current State of the Chamber by the 2011 Chair, Katherine Filice. Early Board President, Dale Connell (serving from 1955-57) joined in sharing highlights and challenges from their years of service:  Sewer-gate; the Allen Meat Packing Company; the Ostrich Festival; the Doo Doo Derby; the Garlic Festival Beer Concessions ; creation of a PAC; purchase of the Chamber’s headquarters; and formation of both the Visitors Bureau and the EDC were just some of the many milestones of the Chamber.

In attendance were Katherine Filice (2011); Dale Connell (1955-57); Al Greco (1983); Ken Harlan (1992-93); Ed Mauro (1994); Linda Trelut (1978-79); Gregg Giusiana (2010); Susan Patereau (2008); Joe Filice (1971); David Boll (2009); Mike Ternasky (1993); Greg Edgar (2004); Eric Howard (2012); Brigitte Nicholls (2003); Vic Vanni (2002); Bob Dyer (1982); Al Pinheiro (1997-98); Jane Howard (1996-97); Dr. Eric Nagareda (1991); Joan Lewis (1999); Tim Day (2005) and Susan Jacobsen (2000).

The Past Presidents/Chairs of the Board provide an important, institutional knowledge base for the Chamber and have volunteered to meet as an advisory group to the organization.

Posted in Chamber Of Commerce, General Information | Leave a comment

Members Who Joined the Chamber in June….

Posted on July 12, 2011 by gilroychamber

               South Valley Chiropractic:  Dr. Richard Monsour, 408-848-6454

               Phil Fortino: Bank of America,  831-637-0729

               Cheryl Hurlbut: 408-430-6013

               Terri Aulman: 408-842-0195

               Gilroy Historical Society: Connie Rogers, 408-846-0446

               Meritage Homes of California: Josh Roden, 707-359-2018

               Frank’s Garden Florist: Sheila Alvarez, 408-847-5888

               Human Resources: Bev Stenehjem, 408-705-6537

               AAMCO:  Kevin Bladow, 408-782-9966

               Christi Garcia: LPL Financial, 408-842-5200

               Suzanne Fensin, CC, 408-842-8953

               Media Pix Web Design, 408-807-6348

               See Grins RV: Randy Scianna, 408-683-4652

Posted in General Information | Leave a comment

Networking Tips for Wall Flowers

Posted on May 31, 2011 by gilroychamber

From the website:  Dumb little Man-Tips for Life

Some people are naturally good at networking. You see them shaking hands, introducing themselves to everyone, handing out business cards, etc.  All the while, you stand on the sidelines simply watching the action, feeling too unimportant to do the same……

Some people aren’t natural networkers, but if that’s not you, then here are some ways that you can still keep up friendships and make new contacts:

1.   Be Yourself

Don’t try to force yourself to network in a way that feels uncomfortable to you.  Go for the personal and authentic approach that suits you.

2.  Be A Good Friend

Networking does not have to be a cold, corporate activity.  Instead, good networking goes hand in hand with being a good friend.  That means asking clients how they’re doing and taking a genuine interest in their life and their concerns.  This does not mean be falsely chummy — just be yourself; if a friendship doesn’t seem to developing naturally, just leave it and move on.

3.  Stay in Touch

Simply let people know what you’re up to: an occasional “newsletter” or taking time to send out cards or gifts.  Don’t keep trying to expand your network whilst neglecting or forgetting about those already in it.

4.  Use Twitter

This is a non-intrusive networking tool is a brief communication that is fun, geared towards informality and conversations.  Start by following your contact first if you are intimidated.  Try to make your Twitters relevant to big happenings in your work and life.

5.  Join A Club

A Club does not have to be something that’s just set up for people to push their wares at one another.  Why not get together with colleagues in your industry, on a regular basis, or even network through a hobby or passion that you have?

Posted in General Information | Leave a comment

…For more contact information see the Chamber Business Directory under the following categories:

Posted on May 9, 2011 by gilroychamber

Physician & Surgeons
The Cancer Care Institute, Dr. Dowlatshahi, 779-1400
Healthcare
Villalon/First Aid/AED Training, Daniel Villalon, 831-637-0691
Pet Services
D an K Pet Sitting & More, Inc, Kit Little, 840-1260
Auto Services
DC Tires & Wheels/Davis Auto, Carol Clevett/Dean Davis 683-5677
Real Estate
Keller Williams, Brenda McKenna, 722-8289
Restaurants
Sandy’s Café, Sandy Moretti, 848-1200

Posted in General Information | Leave a comment

……one of the most successful investors in the world, Warren Buffett, describes what a business formula of success must contain:

Posted on April 19, 2011 by gilroychamber

 Knowledge is the most important part of the key of success.  Without knowledge, we will not be able to know what investments to make and when.  Armed with this key, you will be able to use information to analyze your investment to determine if the investment or business is a viable one.

Experience is proven to be a powerful success deciding factor.  Without it we will have to learn through the school of trial and error-not the best way to learn anything.  Minimize your losses by gaining experience prior to launching your business.

Money is the third component; seed money and working capital.  It takes money to make money, whether it is your own money or the money of someone else.  You will need money and lots of it.

The fourth is strategy.  Success begins with strategy.  It is your line of attack or your tactics.  It is your plan and policy for winning.  If you want to start a business and you don’t have money, you must have a strategy to get that money.  If the market that you are looking to enter is very competitive, then you must develop tactical policies to blow your competition out of the water. 

The final part of the formula is having a support staff.  No one is an island.  We need a support team in order to carry out our plans, goals and dreams.  Success is attainable but we must have the right resources to make it happen.

Today is your day for success-you will win today.  Keep your thoughts on success and keep reaching for your goal!

Posted in General Information | Leave a comment