The Focus by Susan Patereau

business

FOCUS

VOLUME 29 NUMBER

A PUBLICATION OF THE GILROY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

April 2010 Business Mixer

8th

Breakfast Club

21th

Networking Cafe

28th

Details on page 12

Chamber Board says “NO” to Proposition 16 The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce supported the recommendation from the Government Review Committee and voted to oppose Proposition 16, the June ballot initiative that would require a 2/3 vote of the electorate before a public agency could enter the retail power business. This would be required before a local government could: • Establish a Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) program; • Use public funding to implement a plan to become a CCA provider; • Expand electric service to a new territory or new customers. The City of Santa Clara Chamber of Commerce also opposes this PG&E funded Initiative. The CCA program, established by law in 2002, allows local governments to purchase blocks of wholesale power to sell to residents and business in their jurisdictions. PG&E would continue to own, operate and maintain the wires and that deliver the power to all users. The new ‘Power Authority’ would compete with the Investor Owned Utilities (PG&E, SCE, etc.) only See 16, continued on page 9

april 2010

GILROY

Chamber Events:

Supervisor, District One

Chamber business leaders endorse Mike Wasserman Following a candidate forum lasting more than two hours with deliberation on solid business issues, the Chamber’s Endorsement Committee conferred and voted to recommend that the Chamber Board endorse Los Gatos Mayor Mike Wasserman to succeed District 1 Supervisor Don Gage. Having a quorum of Board members present, the committee’s recommendation was approved by the board of directors. Points raised in support of Wasserman included personal experience in business and government, a good understanding of balancing the needs of business and agriculture, as well as knowledge of businessrelated, contemporary issues that had transpired at the County that morning.

His positions on the role of government resonated with committee members such as renegotiating labor agreements in difficult financial times and reducing impediments to business as it is the economic engine of the county. Wasserman drove a message for the need to streamline, expedite, facilitate, and incentivize investment in Santa Clara County. Additionally, Wasserman’s track record of supporting property rights, cutting taxes, balancing budgets and concurrently bringing to fruition capital projects such as a new police station and sports complex impressed Board members. The committee agreed with Wasserman’s sentiment that South County needs an advocate on the Board of Supervisors, not just to

Chamber Briefs

support but to be a strong voice for the region. Building communications with the cities and consensus on the board resonated with the Board as an important role in collaborative efforts. Wasserman was strong in his sentiment of the current system of salaries and benefits and clearly stated they See Supervisor, continued on page 9

Representing the interest of business with government Access Sacramento

Join a consortium of business and community leaders on a chartered bus trip to Access Sacramento on Thursday, April 29, for a day of advocacy and advancing priorities to secure the future of Silicon Valley and California. Cost is $75 per person and includes transportation from San Jose, snacks, lunch, briefing materials, and planned meetings with key representatives. For information or to reserve a seat, contact Susan Valenta at 842-6437 or e-mail svalenta@gilroy.org.

Government Relations

The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee (GRC) will feature City Administrator, Tom Haglund, on Friday, April 9, from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at the Chamber headquarters. The presentation will focus on the City budget and CalPERS. The business community is invited to join this monthly meeting which is scheduled for the second Friday of every month to learn about issues affecting the economy.

Major Chamber fundraiser

The Gilroy Chamber is recruiting volunteers to assist with its annual major fundraiser – the Beer Concessions at the Gilroy Garlic Festival, July 23, 24, and 25. Members are encouraged to contact the Chamber for available shifts by calling 8426437 or e-mailing chamber@gilroy.org.

Workforce links

Looking to connect with training services, job opportunities, schools, and more? Check out gilroyworkforce.org. Made possible through a collaboration between the Gilroy Chamber, Gilroy Economic Development Corporation, Visitors Bureau, Gavilan College, the Gilroy Unified School District, and the SCC Office of Education, the site provides valuable links to local services. Check it out, and if you do not find the information you are looking for, write your request in the “Contact Us” box, and it will be added. For information, contact Dr. David Matuszak (SCC ROP-South) at 408-842-0361 or Susan Valenta (Gilroy Chamber) at 408-842-6437.

Chairman of the Board Message

Chamber of Commerce

officers chairman of the board GREGG GIUSIANA • Retired Police Chief Past chairman DAVID BOLL • Heartwood Cabinets chairman of the board-ElecT KATHERINE FILICE • Articulate Solutions Secretary/Treasurer CHAR MARRAZZO • Edward Jones Investments Vc OPERATIONS & DEVELOPMENT JAN PEAT • McDonald’s of Gilroy Vc public affairs TIM DAY • Al Pinheiro Insurance Vc business programs & Services BARBARA ORTH • I FIT Financial Services Vc MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS KATHERINE FILICE • Articulate Solutions

board of directors

LETICIA CLAY • South Valley National Bank DAVID MATUSZAK • Santa Clara County R.O.P., South JULIE ALTER • Recology South Valley ERIC HOWARD •Bruce’s Tire, Inc. KRISTINE CHAVEZ WYATT • Meridian Pacific

chamber staff

Susan Valenta • President/CEO Michelle Garcia Chris Bevilacqua Rosie Vogel Administrative Assistants Sue Thurman Business Relationship Manager

visitors bureau staff

Jane Howard • Executive Director Pam Gimenez • Office Coordinator

edc staff

Richard Spitler • President/CEO Pamela Guerra • Administrative Assistant

to reach the chamber:

http://www.gilroy.org E-mail: chamber@gilroy.org Phone: (408) 842-6437

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Coalition for a Strong Economy sets plan

y first order of business this month is to welcome the new Economic Development Corporation Director, Richard Spitler. This is my first opportunity to acknowledge him in the Focus, so even though he has been working for almost a month, it not to late to say how glad we are to have him in Gilroy. Richard brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and is a welcome addition to our community. And, as seems to be the standard for Gilroy, Richard didn’t even have a chance to change the voice mail greeting on the EDC phone before he was right in the middle of the action. The Chamber has been working with the Visitors Bureau, Downtown Business Association, and the EDC to form some strategies designed to create economic vitality in Gilroy. The outline of the plan was already waiting for him on his first day in town. He and the rest of the team began meeting with the City Administrator and members of the City Council immediately. The plan was also presented to the EDC Board, the

Government Relations Committee, and the Chamber board. What a first week!!! The Gilroy Coalition for a Strong Economic plan has two main parts. The first part is to make certain Gilroy has a business-friendly environment. To do this, the Coalition will be working with the City to streamline processes and examine current policies at the Council level, department level, and division level. The purpose is to eliminate steps and roadblocks which are impediments to business start-up or expansion. The second part is to ensure there is sufficient staff at the EDC to assist businesses through the process. In order to help meet this goal, there are several initiatives in the plan designed to not only be good for business but to eventually become income sources for the EDC. The EDC will market business development in Gilroy just as the Visitors Bureau markets tourism in Gilroy. It is the intention of the Coalition to guarantee that when the economy begins

GREGG GIUSIANA, 2010 Chairman of the Board Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

Business Friendly Environment and Staffing Key to Economic Strength

See Economy, continued on page 9

President Message

Shop local —think BIG (Buy In Gilroy)

hroughout the community, there are businesses that provide a plethora of products and services. Business is the lifeblood of your community. Businesses provide jobs, they generate sales taxes, and they invest in the community. They are the ones that everyone thinks about when there is a fundraiser – think about the times you have asked for a donation for your child’s school, sport team, or special cause. Gilroy is known for its generosity, and there are very few times a business will turn down a request. But, there is a loyalty that needs to be attached to the asking. Your local businesses are struggling – just the same as throughout the country – the difference is that if everyone made the commitment to buy locally, Gilroy could be virtually recession-proof. At our March Breakfast Club, we played with catchy slogans for shopping local. Our new EDC Director, Richard

Spitler, came up with: Think BIG – Buy In Gilroy. Moving forward, a consortium of Chamber, Economic Development, Visitor Bureau, and City representatives will be meeting to develop a shop local campaign. You do not need to wait for this campaign to start – it’s so simple. Make a list of the items you plan to buy in the next few weeks or places in the area you would like to take the family, give us a call at the Chamber, and we’ll provide you with businesses that can fill the need. Make shopping local a habit of choice and you will keep one penny of every dollar in the City coffers (when you have nearly $1 billion in potential taxable sales, it adds up to millions), save $.50 a gallon on your car mileage, ensure that your local businesses can keep investing in the community and providing employment, and show your loyalty to all those generous businesses that have supported you. Shop local – think BIG!

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

SUSAN VALENTA, President/CEO Gilroy chamber of commerce

Business is the Lifeblood of our Community

April 2010

Building a strong local economy

RICHARD Spitler, PRESIDENT/CEO GILROY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Economic Development in Gilroy is truly a Partnership

s the new President of the Gilroy Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) I wanted to give you some idea of who I am and to tell you about the exciting 2010 work program that the GEDC Board has adopted to help build a strong Gilroy economy. My work background began as a community planner in Alaska where I traveled to diverse communities to help them with planning issues. These were fishing, logging and mining villages. What impressed me most was how each had their own traditions and values that made them unique and a “home” to its residents and businesses. I learned that to be effective in my job, I had to take the time to understand who they were and what was important to them. What was it that made the community “tick”? Only by understanding them could I find ways to bring my energy and “fresh” ideas to bring a positive change. After seven years, my wife and I (and our two children) moved back to northern California to be closer to family. I then worked in various com-

munities as a community development director and planner. About 15 years ago I began to work on development projects including residential and commercial development. This resulted in my position as Redevelopment Director for the city of Healdsburg in Sonoma County. In Healdsburg I was in charge of affordable housing development and the revitalization of downtown Healdsburg. I also administered the economic development programs with the Chamber, Visitors Bureau, and the downtown business association. I found that actually building something very satisfying, even though I now had to go through the sometimes painful planning and environmental review process like everyone else. The benefit of this experience is that I can now say that I have worked both sides of the counter and understand the needs of developer and city staff. What attracted me to work with the GEDC in Gilroy? First, I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the board members and the other partners in economic development. They are really committed to making Gilroy a better place. I also liked

Gilroy’s approach towards economic development. It is truly a partnership. The City, Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau, the Gilroy Economic Development Corporation and private businesses (we call our Partners) have agreed to work together to “make it happen.” Yes, there are differences, but they respect each other and are always looking for what is best for Gilroy. We all know that these are challenging economic times. Rather than to give up and wait for the “recovery”, the above “Gilroy economic coalition” believes that now is the time for all of us to regroup and refocus our efforts to keep businesses open, create jobs and to bring new businesses that would be appropriate to Gilroy. To further this effort a “Gilroy economic coalition” action plan has been prepared which contains several initiatives to invigorate our local economy. In the next Focus I will present the details of this action plan. If you have ideas that might help the Gilroy economy, please give me a call at (408) 847-7611.

News from the Gilroy Visitors Bureau

C Jane howard, executive director gilroy visitors bureau

Spring Brings a Welcome Array of Fun Things to do in Gilroy April 2010

hatting recently with the new President of the Gilroy Economic Development Corporation, Richard Spitler, I was reminded of the numerous partnerships the Gilroy Visitors Bureau (GVB) has with organizations in our community. Richard commented about the number of board meetings we attend each month and that this certainly caught his eye as a recent arrival from the City of Healdsburg. Participation on these boards contributes significantly to the GVB’s strong relationships and partnerships with these groups. The list of monthly meetings include attendance at the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, Gilroy Gardens, Gilroy Economic Development Corporation, Gilroy Downtown Business Association, Wineries of Santa Clara Valley, and Central Coast Tourism Council board meetings. All of these organizations are key partners of the GVB and each add value to the mission of the Gilroy Visitors Bureau. Add to this list

the numerous committees we serve on, and it’s obvious the GVB is a viable and relevant organization in this community. How about some recommendations on what to do in the area now that spring has arrived!!! Thanks to a wet winter our hillsides are gorgeous and inviting to enjoy a casual walk or invigorating hike at one of our county parks. Another idea is to take the little ones and visit Gilroy Gardens celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on the weekends in April and 11a.m. – 5 p.m. on some weekdays during spring break, the Park will be a perfect family activity. Can’t forget to mention a special event at the end of April – Wineries of Santa Clara Valley Spring Wine Celebration & BBQ at Casa de Fruta County Park on April 24th from noon to 5 p.m. Meet the winemakers, taste fantastic wines, enjoy a BBQ steak meal and dance to the live music by the House Rockers. By the way,

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

I want to remind you if you are in the 50+ category – a number of stores at the Gilroy Premium Outlets offer 10% off your entire purchase every Tuesday. Take advantage of this offer in our own backyard and shop local which keeps our sales tax dollars in our community. For a complete list of stores offering the 50 Plus Shopper Perks and more information about any of the suggestions I mentioned above visit our website www.gilroyvisitor.org. Finally, I have a “Save the Date” announcement for you – the 2nd annual Tee off for Tourism golf tournament is scheduled for June 18 at Eagle Ridge Golf Club. All proceeds from the tournament benefit the Gilroy Visitors Bureau. Plan a fun day of golf followed by an Awards Dinner Banquet while supporting the Gilroy Visitors Bureau. Call the GVB at 842-6436 for more information.

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Representing the Interest of Business With Government

Know your Workers’ Comp law

by Greg Gallup, Chairman, Government Relations Committee

e all know the importance of safety in the workplace. But in those instances where a work-related injury or illness occurs, we have workers’ compensation to protect both the employee and the employer. Workers’ Comp serves to provide the injured person with medical care and other benefits at the employer’s expense (via workers’ comp). Conversely, Workers’ Comp affords the employer protection: matters arising out of a work-related injury or illness must be exclusively remedied through Workers’ Comp to avoid a crippling lawsuit to the business. This all sounds good, and this actually works well in some states, but we happen to live in a state that is extremely ‘pro-employee’. Settlements for Workers’ Comp can be extremely one-sided in favor of the claimant. Yep, welcome to California where your workers’ comp may be on the hook for paying for a claimant’s housekeeper should the medical provider deem it necessary (Smyers v. Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board). The vast majority of Workers’ Comp claims are legitimate and benefit good, hard-working people who want to return to the life they had before the injury. In cases where the injury is not very serious and the injured person has a great attitude, the life of the claim is relatively short (3 months or less) thanks to the employee being diligent about their medical care and having a genuine desire to return to their job. This type of claim will resolve with no permanent disability, no future medical care, and no permanent work restrictions. The person resumes his or her life as it was pre-injury. Then there is the other type of claim, the one that takes a life of its own and becomes extremely costly. More complicated injuries will tend to extend the life of the claim – more medical treatment and possibly some lost time may be involved with recovery taking longer.

Page 4

And then again, there are claims where the injury is not so medically complicated but somehow the claim just keeps going on and on. The longer the claim is open, the more likely a person is going to seek legal representation which only adds to the cost of the claim and the level of complexity. When such a claim starts taking a life of its own, it is time to apply your knowledge of Workers’ Comp and keep the claim moving. For instance: Do you have a claim where the doctor • keeps prescribing the same work restrictions and there is no marked improvement; • medical treatment is not yielding results but there is no new medical plan; or • the doctor is not willing to discuss a treatment plan? It’s probably time to object to medical treatment and order a QME (Qualified Medical Examiner). Is the person legally represented? Then request an AME (Agree Medical Examiner) – your attorney and the applicant’s attorney agree on a medical examiner and go from there. Usually an AME or a QME will find the injured person to be Permanent and Stationary (P&S) and you can begin discussing settlement. (P&S – the person has reached maximum improvement). If the person is not found P&S then you will need to follow the medical treatment prescribed by the AME/QME. Of course, the QME and AME process does not happen overnight: it can take four months for the Medical Unit to issue a panel of QME providers and the applicant’s attorney may not be so agreeable or quick to agree on an AME provider. This whole process can be frustratingly long. Assuming the injured worker is now Permanent & Stationary and you have agreed on a settlement, you now have to obtain the WCAB’s approval (Workers’ Comp Appeals Board). Obtaining a hearing date with the WCAB, as you may have guessed, does not happen overnight. Once you have the WCAB review your settlement, it may not necessarily be approved.

WCAB’s have been known to reject a settlement and tell you and the injured worker to come up with a new settlement as the one you presented did not afford the claimant enough benefits. It used to be that ‘Permanent and Stationary’ was the finish line – for better or for worse, both the claimant and the employer were stuck with this declaration and the settlement was built around the permanent disability and future medical care resulting from the P&S status. However, recently claimants have challenged just how ‘permanent’ permanent disability is. In the Ogilvie case, the claimant remained unemployed for two years after the settlement of the claim, thus the claimant is now seeking additional permanent disability. Never mind that the labor market is really tight now and that there are many unemployed people – somehow this person’s disability rating was lacking and additional benefits are being requested. Believe it or not, the current state of workers’ compensation laws in California is a big improvement compared to pre2004. The definition of permanent disability was previously very broad before the reform, i.e. it was far easier to claim a high permanent disability (more money). Further, a claimant could seek care with any medical provider regardless of injury type and it was compounded with a the vocational rehabilitation system of “cash it in and spend as you wish”.

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

Naturally, not everyone has been a fan of the changes in California’s workers’ comp laws. Recently, two claims (Almarez/Guzman) have challenged the stricter definitions of permanent disability, and in so doing, have opened the door for other claims to define a permanent disability on anything “within the four corners of the AMA Guides”. The upcoming governor election is going to be key for our current Workers’ Comp laws. Applicant attorneys, medical care providers, and unions have been vocal about their dislike of the 2004 workers’ comp reform; you can expect they will push for a governor who promises to loosen up current laws. Presentations on workers’ compensation are available for anyone injured at work, but all are welcome to attend. These presentations are offered monthly in 24 cities in California free of charge. San Jose offers presentations the first Tuesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. or visit dir.ca.gov/dwc/ Workshop. Greg Gallup is General Manager for Cintas Corporation, a leader in corporate identity uniform programs and support services for 800,000 businesses nationwide.

April 2010

What’s new with Chamber Businesses! sue thurman business relationsHIP manager gilroy chamber of commerce

It’s time for a change--it’s time you looked like a celebrity! Those are the words coming from Pravana Founder and President, Steve Goddard, as he talks about clients seeking a change from the simple, straight and sleekhair look of the 90’s. Gilroy’s beauty and styling expert, Kris Hoenck, says that “today’s women are opting for more romantic styles that are softer, looser and less-defined” and to help achieve those “celebrity styles” she is using a new wave product, Pravana’s Beach Wave, featuring natural amino acids that change how hairs naturally bond without using harsh and damaging chemicals. To learn more and to update your look, call Kris at 408-849-1468 and save with her coupon offering a $45 savings at www.gilroy.org, coupon page. Did you know that Americans eat approximately 450 slices of pizza per second and that each man, woman, and child in America eats an average of 46 slices (23 pounds) of pizza per year? Dutchman’s Pizza owners, Jim and Maria Shuster, hope that you will think of their pizzeria next time you add to those pizza stats! And, If there is a need to raise money for a cause you can always find Dutchman’s Pizza at the top of the list to help. Dutchman’s, 6940 Chestnut Street, is committed to the highest quality foods and service at the lowest possible prices with many family and combo special prices and delivery to Gilroy and surrounding areas — dutchmanspizza.com.

April 2010

Tough times call for new ideas for marketing, improving work skills and finding ways to get the work done more efficiently. Gavilan College’s Contract and Community Education program can help. On April 10, threy are offering a 3-hour intensive workshop, Marketing your Business on a Budget. Right after the end of that class, you can ramp up your skills by attending Microsoft Excel for the Working Person. Other business training classes coming soon include Accounting Fundamentals of Supervision and Management; Introduction to QuickBooks and much more. If you have a need for specialized training for your employees, we can bring that training right to your site. For more information, contact Terry Newman at 408-852-2804 or visit http://gavilan.augusoft.net. Beginning March 22, PennyCakes, 1280 F First St., will be open on Mondays. Their new hours will be Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. New to PennyCakes is a vegan cupcake with vegan icing. It made its first showing in February to great reviews. They will be offering the vegan cupcakes at least once a week and vegan cakes will be available to you by special order. PennyCakes is always interested in new flavor suggestions. Recommend your favorite flavor and if your request is selected, you will receive four free cupcakes of your choice. You can email suggestions to penny@ pennycakes.net, or call them at 408-8460613. Be sure and post to PennyCakes’ FAN Page on Facebook (show your support by becoming a FAN) or just let us know the next time you are in the shop. Don’t forget that Mothers’ Day is May 9, and they have several new cake designs this year, so check out their website www. pennycakes.net. Al Tervalon, ActionCOACH, is excited that Brad Sugars, founder and CEO of ActionCoach Business Coaching, one of USA’s fastest growing franchises, is bringing the “Business is Booming” North American Tour to San Jose on May 25. Discover business-building secrets that has helped others find thousands of dollars in untapped profit opportunities. To

learn more and register for this exciting opportunity, you can contact Al Tervalon directly at (408) 425-4832 or go to www. businessisboomingtour.com using the Ticket Code, ALT001 for your free ticket to learn how to take your business to the next level. Christi Garcia, Edward Jones Investments, invites you to her monthly educational luncheon at the office, 7877 Wren Ave., Suite A on April 15 and learn the Smart Start to Mutual Funds. Please RSVP (408-842-6943 or email christi.garcia@edwardjones.com), if attending this lunch/seminar that begins at 12:30. Fortino Winery, 4525 Hecker Pass Highway, will be busy with three separate and special events in April. On April 9 there will be a Pick-Up Party for Wine Club Members from 7-9 p.m.. April 10, a Bridal Tasting, and on April 24 the annual Spring BBQ for the Wineries of Santa Clara at Casa de Fruta. For information, call 408-842-3305 or visit the website at www.fortinowinery.com. Rebekah Childrens’ Services third annual Bowl-a-Thon will be held on April 16 at Morgan Hill Bowl from 4 6:30.p.m. Teams of four are invited to participate. The person with the highest amount of pledges will win a Kindle, electronic reading device. Other prizes include an iPod Touch, iTunes gift certificates and a digital camera. More information and pledge forms are available at www.bowlathon.net/events/rcs.

Your Fresh Mex fiesta is just a phone call away. Let Chevy’s Fresh Mex Restaurant, 8440 Murray Avenue., help transform your next party! From the traditional buffet, to kick-start fiesta platters, salad fiestas, and sizzling fajitas are just a few of the dishes that will create a Grand Shindig! For years, Chevy’s Fresh Mex restaurant has been providing guests the ideal setting for birthdays, anniversaries, baby or wedding showers and everything in between. Now they’ll help you plan your next event, big or small -- just call Gabriel at 408-847-2726.

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

Spring classes at Studio Three, 7488 Monterey Street, are filling up quickly. Now in their eighth season, Studio Three offers students, youth to adult, the opportunity to learn in an inviting, non-competitive environment with great personal attention. Enjoy individual, personal time for you and your children as you learn ballet (the basis for all dance) that strengthens and provides a whole body work-out, tap, jazz, waltz, tango, swing, cha cha, rumba, foxtrot, lyrical and musical theater. Classes are available Monday through Saturday, afternoon to evening-for a complete schedule visit the website at www.studiothreedance.com or call 408846-5392. Are you planning a wedding? Look great on the dance floor -- adult ballroom classes will be on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. Jennifer Beninger with GoSmallBiz is excited to announce a new service to help all business owners. Do you know how most business owners would like to spend less time on the activities of running a business that does not generate income? Well, what Jennifer is pleased to announce is a new way for all business owners to spend more time generating income and less time in the back office. Jennifer is currently taking 15 minute appointments to show you how to increase profits! Call her today at 408-667-0620. Famous Dave’s to go! A slam dunk for any size party – any size budget. Award-winning sandwiches, wings and hickory-smoked ribs-are the kind of game highlights everyone will remember. And they work with any budget. Whether you want them to handle part of your spread or you want to go whole hog, just make the call, 408842-1400 or visit their website, www. Famousdaves.com.

Enjoy friendly card games at Garlic City Casino. Ky Phuon, owner of the Garlic City Casino, 40 Hornlein Court, wants to help your organization host its next fund-raising Texas Hold’em Tournament. Give Ky a call at 925-487-6355 or stop by any afternoon or evening to discuss details.

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Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac hosts March Mixer

he Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac team hosted a full evening of music, door

prizes, networking, fine hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, surrounded by new model cars throughout their showroom. Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac offers great deals with affordable financing options. Located at 6720 Bear Cat Court, Troy Pelzl and his professional sales and service staff are an integral part of the Gilroy community. They

Member Renewals The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce appreciates the support of our members. Investment dollars are dedicated to vital programs such as economic development, scholarships, business marketing, leadership programs and more. We applaud each of you for helping make Gilroy a better place to live and work.

20 years & over Alpine Landscape C & N Tractors Engraving Company, The Gavilan College Golden 1 Credit Union Mission Linen Supply The Printing Spot St. Joseph’s Family Center Temple-Inland

invite you to stop by their showroom and check out the cars and Troy Pelzl, General Manager and the team at Gilroy Chevrolet Cadillac.

trucks – shop local, save valuable dollars, and drive a little, save a lot!

15 years & over Dequin’s Auto Body & Paint Family Choice Chiropractic LeTip Int. – Gilroy Branch

10 years & over Al Pinheiro Insurance The G.B. Group, Inc. Law Offices of Andrea Fortino Preferred Automotive Round the Clock Tires Santa Clara Valley Water District So. Valley Pregnancy Care Center Visual Edge Optometric Group Wings of History

New Members

5 years & over American General Financial, Inc. Betabel RV Resort Black Bear Diner Chili’s Ernie’s Plumbing & Repair Service Terry Feinberg Fitness for Adults in Transition – Energize Gilroy Flower Shop Gilroy High School Athletic Assoc. Susie Haddock Haran Schoming Agency Integrated Office Interiors Intero real Estate, Kim Mercer-Claus Paps Hecker Pass Liquors South Pacific Orchids, Inc.

The Chamber welcomes new members, Deborah McDonald, Liberty Tax Service, Chris Hoch, CAN Independent Representative, and Roslyn Jacobs, Edward Jones Investments.

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Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

April 2010

New Members

Village Green sponsors March Breakfast Club

D. R. Domenichini

illage Green of Gilroy offers all the amenities of a full service, gated community especially for seniors age 62 or better. Senior residents enjoy a full range of activities and care while their friends and family can have piece of mind knowing that their loved one is being cared for with dignity and respect. Village Green of Gilroy offers a great continuum of housing, services and care options including:

Construction

P. O. Box 1430 San Martin • 691-3283 Construction / Contractor Services Edward Jones Investments-Roslyn Jacobs

2600 Club Drive Gilroy • 846-0637 Financial Advisors Garlic City Casino

40 Hornlein Court Gilroy • 487-6355 Entertainment

Michele Cambra, Marketing Director at Village Green provides an overview of the quality programs and services at Village Green in Gilroy.

Garlic City Computer and Network

1229 Ayer Drive Gilroy • 465-6200 Computer Services

Thank You March Raffle Prizes

USA Sports

Network Café

Mixer

8840 Muraoka Drive Ste. 100 Gilroy • 848-8720 Child / Development Services

Affordable Roofing Fortino Winery Naturals La Siesta Spa Pure Water Bottling

Westmont of

Breakfast

Morgan Hill

Village Green Best Buy Hilton Garden Inn I FIT Financial Liberty Tax Pure Water Bottling

Gilroy Chevrolet/Cadillac Edward Jones, Roslyn Jacobs Fortino Winery Gilroy Today Magazine I FIT Financial Pinnacle Bank Pure Water Bottling Sharon Holloway, Massage Solis Winery Uvas Creek Cellars

1160 Cochrane Road Morgan Hill • 779-8490 Senior Housing

• The Promenade Assisted Living Center with optional services and amenities • The Plaza & Courtyard Memory Care for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia. • The Town Square for active, independent living with moderate-income apartment rentals • The Cottages for active, independent residents who wish to purchase their residence. Village Green is nestled on 22-acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with spectacular views and amenities and conveniently located to shopping, medical services, churches, downtown Gilroy, and neighboring communities.

Supervisor, continued from page 1 unsustainable . Exploring options to contract out services hit home and demonstrated a keen understanding of the challenges that face government agencies that are strapped by contract agreements, and the role of elected officials to ensure economic viability. In a field of very qualified candidates, the Endorsement Committee agreed that Wasserman is the candidate that would best serve the needs of Chamber members and the business community and received the endorsement of the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce for Santa Clara County District 1 Supervisor.

RECYCLING

is good for your business and the environment!

1351 Pacheco Highway Gilroy, CA 95020 842-3358

April 2010

1 Gilroy BusinessRSV_AD_4.5x2.indd Focus • www.gilroy.org

Call Julie Alter at 846-1392 to start a business recycling program. Page 7

12/13/09 10:46:42 AM

Human Resources

New Members D.R. Domenichini Construction

Each month, the Gilroy Business Focus will feature a topic regarding employee/employer issues. Our guest columnist is Joyce Briones, Briones HR Solutions. This month’s topic is on required labor law postings. The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce provides these resources at cost to members.

Q: Do I really need to have a new labor law compliance poster every year? Joyce Briones, Briones HR Solutions A: Yes, the penalties for not having the current State and Federal postings can be up to $17,000! All employers must have the most up to date posters up in an area that employees visit throughout their workday. These are available in both English and Spanish. For those employers with multiple work sites or offices, remember that the law requires a poster at each work site. Not only do the posters have to be up, they should be “filled in” with the contact details for the company’s worker’s comp carrier, the pay day information and emergency contact info. Most employment laws are based on the number of employees on payroll, but several laws, including the need to have current State and Federal postings, are required for all size employers. Visit www. brioneshrsolutions for more information.

408-691-3283 • www.drdcon.com • Owner: David Domenichini All aspects of construction for residential and commercial remodeling and repair projects. Fully licensed, bonded and insured. D.R. Domenichini Construction performs all aspects of construction including residential: kitchens, bathrooms, room additions, garages, plumbing, electrical, flooring, cabinetry, windows, doors, crown molding, roofing, general home improvement, remodeling, repairs and handyman-type work; and commercial: tenant improvements, HVAC, asphalt, concrete, handicap compliance, upgrades, design and build. Hours: 7 a.m.-10 p.m. “We have grown our business from client referrals and want to demonstrate to you our commitment to excellent customer care, integrity, commitment and communication. Receive 20% off the first $1,000 of residential services. Visit www.drdcon.com to see more, and call for your free estimate.” Edward Jones Investments

Roslyn Jacobs • 408-846-0637 Personalized financial services based on a one-to-one relationship. Ask Roslyn Jacobs, Edward Jones Investment for a portfolio review, investment strategies, and other products. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; evening and Saturdays by appointment. Roslyn will be holding seminars and coffee clubs on a regular basis. Call for more information and to included as her guest. Garlic City Computer and Network

408-465-6200 • www.gccan.net • Owners: Walt Maslanka & Chris Coffin Are your applications running slower than they used to? Have you secured your wireless? Is web-browsing becoming increasingly slower? Did your computer crash and lose your data? Are you needing help as you develop your website? GCCAN will set-up and evaluate your new or current computer, printer and network at your home or business, using the latest technology. Having over 30 years experience, Chris and Walt take pride in their work and guarantee: “if we can’t fix it, there is no charge!” Open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Student and senior discounts and monthly on-line specials. Free local pick-up and delivery. Natural La Siesta Spa

I want a bank to grow with my company.

13295 Monterey Road • San Martin • 779-8466 • Manager: Cindi Torres Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Natural La Siesta continues to enjoy success as their 20 year anniversary approaches. Founded in 1990, the company initially focused on hair, nails and makeup and quickly expanded to include skin care, micro-dermabrasion, massages and body treatments, in addition to its retail boutique. Naturals new location in San Martin and in celebration of their momentous anniversary will be offering several specials. For more information visit www.naturalslasiestaspa.com and please join them for appetizers and refreshments at the official grand opening, anniversary celebration on April 16 at 5:30 p.m.

As my business has grown over the past few years, I have needed a bank that could grow right along with me—a bank that could meet my needs as things change and offer solutions that help me work more efficiently and effectively. That’s exactly what I get with Pinnacle Bank. A local-minded team of banking professionals that offer extraordinary service and who treat my small business with big business respect. That’s a crew I want on my team. Dean Filice, Owner, All Season’s Pool Service Gilroy Office (408) 842-8200 7597 Monterey Street Gilroy, CA 95020

Commercial Banking Loans and Lines of Credit Cash Management

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www.pinnaclebankonline.com SBA Preferred Lender

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

Spa Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm Sunday 10 am - 6 pm With two locations to serve you… GILROY

779 First Street 408.842.1646

MORGAN HILL

263 Vineyard Town Center 408.776.1888

www.lavenderluxuryspa.com

April 2010

16, continued from page 1 in the purchase of wholesale power. The Power Authority would also set electric rates for all consumers in its district. Rates for transmission, distribution and metering will continue to be set by the CPUC. Similar programs work successfully in Ohio and New England. The Government Relations Committee (GRC) provided a forum for both proponents and opponents to view their positions on March 12, and a recommendation from the GRC to the Chamber Board was that the ballot initiative was not in the best interest of the economic vitality of Gilroy, and recommended an oppose position. Proponents from PG&E stated that requiring a super majority will ensure that a government-run electricity business will get the public discussion it deserves. PG&E, which reported a $1.22 billion profit in 2009, notified its shareholders that the cost of contributions to the “Yes on 16” campaign will amount to 6-9 cents per share of the stock and expect to spend between $25$35 million on its campaign to get voters to say “yes” to Proposition 16. Opponents from Local Power argued that this special interest initiative would sabotage existing law allowing communities to choose alternatives to PG&E. Over the years, Local Power has provided assistance and encouraged California cities to complete their community aggregation and self-generation implementation plans in time to ward off a massive push for power plant construction by California’s bailed out electric utilities, PG&E, Southern California Edison and Sempra (San Diego Gas & Electric).

What does a “No On Prop 16” mean for Gilroy economic development? The Gilroy Economic Development 2010 Business Plan calls for a feasibility study on Community Choice Aggregation that might provide competitively price energy for business and residential users. Should Proposition 16 pass, a local or regional power authority would be difficult to establish based on the voting threshold needed of a super majority of constituents versus a simple majority vote of the City Council.

Gilroy Assistance League

Featuring the Hillside Homes of Gilroy

Economy, continued from page 2

Starting at 2140 Mantelli Drive, Gilroy

to expand, our community will be well-positioned for the development of current and new business expansion. In the same way we are preparing for the recovery of the economy, it is incumbent on you as local business to do the same. One of the best ways you can do this is to take advantage of all the opportunities provided by the Chamber. There are monthly opportunities to build your business at the Mixer, the Breakfast Club or the Network Café. You can call on Sue Thurman who will be happy to assist you in developing social networking opportunities or give advice on the many other ways to get the word out about your business. Join the Ambassadors! They do a great job supporting the activities of the chamber and are the first to meet our new members. If you are interested in being involved in legislative issues, the Government Relations Committee looks at important issues facing all business and keeping the needs of business in the minds of decision makers. There are many other ways to be involved with the Annual Dinner Committee, the Scholarship Committee and the Finance Committee, just to name a few. So give one of our great staff members or one of the members of the Board of Directors a call and get involved. You get the most out of the Chamber by being active in the Chamber. Don’t forget: “Our business is your business”.

April 2010

Presented by the

Friday, May 7TH and Saturday, May 8TH 2010 Check In Between 10AM - 2PM Hors d'oeuvres & No-Host Wine Tasting Home & Garden Décor Boutique 100% of all proceeds benefit our local youth

Tickets: $25 in advance; $30 at the door • (408)706-6235 www.gilroyassistanceleague.org

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

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Industry Highlight “We love making you look good!”

Michael and Terry Hubbs, Owners of Chaparral Signs & Auto Graphics.

n the floor, drawing signs for local fruit stands in a 30’x30’ shop located in his backyard, is how Terry Hubbs began his business over 32 years ago. Today, in a new state-of-the-art building, located at 195 San Pedro in Morgan Hill, Terry and his son, Michael, work together designing and creating a full range of marketing tools. Michael began working for his Dad as a child, sweeping floors, watching and learning. He also worked at Indian Motorcycle for a period of time, doing their one-of-a-kind, prototypes and prize-winning custom paint jobs, including bikes for Jeff Garcia, Arnold Schwarzenegger, NASCAR drivers, Bobby and Terry LaBonte, Dale Jarret and Jeff Gordon. In fact, he has even painted police bikes for some action movies. Chaparrel Signs and Auto Graphics provides a full array of services including business cards, banners, logo designs, truck/car lettering, and auto-graphics, and professional custom signs. “You name it, we’ll flame it” indicates that the sky is the limit on what they create. Calling themselves the “Dream Team”, Terry and Michael combine 75 years of experience to make customer’s dreams a reality with their innovative, one-of-a-kind designs. Classic to flamboyant, old school to state-of-the-art, from mild to wild, Chaparral Signs & Auto Graphics creates your personal sign for success. For samples of their work, visit their website at www.chaparralsigns.com or give them a call at 408-779-4242.

Patrick Moore receives Good Egg Award

he Gilroy Chamber of Commerce presented the Nob Hill Foods Golden Egg award to Patrick Moore for the 6,000+ hours contributed to the community over the past ten years. He was presented the Good Egg award in 2002, but the continuation of his volunteer services merited a Golden Egg. Moore is the Volunteer Coordinator for the Gilroy Police Department Volunteers in Policing Program. He handles all the administrative responsibilities and is an active responder and trainer for people coming into the program. He has also been the driving force behind Gilroy’s Amateur Radio Emergency Services Group. He coordinates amateur communications for emergency response activities such as the April 2009 cable cut our community experienced. Chairman of the Board Gregg Giusiana, stated, “Whether it is disaster preparedness, supporting the Chairman of the Board, Gregg Giusiana, efforts of our public safety personnel, presents Nob Hill Foods Golden Egg or providing the training and support award to Patrick Moore for outstanding leadership with the Volunteer in Policing, to our community, Patrick Moore emergency services, and amateur Civil has truly earned the Golden Egg Emergency Services. award from the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce.”

This Month the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Features Signs: Chaparral Signs

Young Sign Company

Z Graphics Sign Service, Inc.

195 San Pedro, BldgC9 Morgan Hill • 779-4242

7393 Eigleberry Street Gilroy • 842-4145

7457 Eigleberry Street Gilroy • 842-7755

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Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

April 2010

Youth Opportunities

Downtown Gilroy

Exciting things are happening in downtown Gilroy

Memorial Day Essay Contest

By Eric Howard, Chairman of the Board Gilroy Downtown Business Association

his is an exciting time in our historic downtown district with entertainment and events on the docket. Mark your calendar for May 15 when Gilroy rolls out the welcome mat for a Downtown Wine Stroll. For $20, guests will receive an etched, wine glass and enjoy tasting from fifteen local wineries in various businesses throughout the downtown. This will be a memorable, fun event – and people are already looking to purchase tickets. Then, on June 26, the 9th Annual Garlic City Fun Run Car Show arrives in style. The all-day event will feature some of the finest classic cars in the region, nonstop bands, raffles, and the hospitality that makes Gilroy a fun place to play. Entertainment abounds in the downtown with the Gaslighter Theater comedy shows on the last Wednesday of every month, as well as, the piano bar on Fridays and Saturday evenings. The newly-opened Station 55 has live bands on Friday and Saturday nights, and your hosts, Bobby and Fran Beaudett invite everyone to stop by and enjoy an evening in the historic firehouse. And then there is Flamenco dancing on the last Sunday of the month at the Lizarran Restaurant. The tapas, fine wines, and ambiance of the Lizarran is the perfect place to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a special event. As you can tell, there is a lot of energy and excitement in your downtown, and, on behalf of the Board and businesses throughout our district, we invite you to enjoy the heart of your community – downtown Gilroy!

April 2010

All students in grades 3 – 12 are invited to enter the Memorial Day Essay Contest and win valuable Savings Bonds courtesy of Pinnacle Bank. All student entries must address the theme, “What Memorial Day means to me” and submit essays no later than May 19. Entry forms are available at the Chamber and will be posted online at www.gilroycommunity.org. The Memorial Day Essay Contest is a part of the overall Memorial Day event organized by the Memorial Day Committee through the Gilroy Community Organization. Youth High Five Award

The “High 5” Youth Award is presented monthly by the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce to recognize an outstanding community service, outstanding contribution of service on a school campus; outstanding youth projects, youth leadership, or youth success in Gilroy. Any Gilroy youth (18 years and under), youth group, or youth-oriented organization may qualify, and nominations need to be submitted in writing with sufficient support information to the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce, 7471 Monterey Street, Gilroy. In recognition of the youth, a plaque is presented to the recipient at the monthly “Breakfast Club” meeting with a photo in the Gilroy Business Focus, and a presentation of over $75 in certificates, passes, and gifts from a sponsoring business. For information, contact the Gilroy Chamber of Commerce at 842-6437 or e-mail chamber@gilroy.org. Graduating seniors can apply for valuable scholarships

The Gilroy Chamber of Commerce will be awarding $3,500 in scholarships to graduating seniors. To apply, stop by the Chamber office, go online to www.gilroy. org, or visit the campus counselor in charge of scholarship applications. Deadline is May 14, 2010.

Gilroy Business Focus • www.gilroy.org

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YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS

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Business After Hours Mixer Thursday, April 8 • 5:30 – 7:30 pm Hosted by Bruce’s Tire, 7700 Monterey Street Wine • Hors d’oeuvres • Door Prizes • Networking

Breakfast Club Wednesday, April 21 • 6:45 - 8:00 am Sponsored by Pinnacle Bank Location: Hilton Garden Inn Raffle Prizes • Cash Prize Drawing • Networking • Economic Updates Members: $12 per person $15 without a reservation. For reservations, call 842-6437. Find out what’s new in the business community …can you afford NOT to be there?

Networking Café Wednesday, April 28 • 11:45 am to 1:15 pm Claddagh Irish Restaurant, 1300 First Street, Suite A $20/members • $45/non-member • RSVP required, call 842-6437. The Networking Café is a business lead group designed to develop new contacts.

Photography Larry Mickartz InfoPOWER Communications •IPC

Production & Design J. Chris Mickartz InfoPOWER Communications •IPC

Editor Susan Valenta Gilroy Chamber of Commerce

Production Staff

Reserve your seat at the Networking Café and build your business over lunch.

Focus Sponsors:

Chamber Events Calendar

Congratulations to the City of Morgan Hill for making a splash with your brand new Aquatics Program!

Glad we could help. Articulate Solutions, winner of over 50 international awards including the 2009 Communicator of Excellence Award and 2009 Summit Silver Award.