Encinitas First, February 2011

www.encinitaschamber.com

Volume 7, Issue 1

FEBRUARY 2011

Chamber brings on Hometrax

Routing slip Share Encinitas First with others in your organization:

INSIDE Local business owners mingled and had a good time at the Chamber’s monthly Sundowner PAGE 5

The US Chamber of Commerce notes an increase in the number of small businesses sold recently PAGE 2

The Encinitas entrepreneurial community got a chance to make some connections at the Chamber’s Networking Lunch PAGE 3

Rancho Coastal Humane Society is helping to promote businesses that are friendly to pets

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ENCINITAS, CA 92024 PERMIT NO. 94

PAGE 9

in the ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pacific Station in downtown Pacific Participating Encinitas on Jan. 28 are, from left, City Council members Maggie Houlihan, Teresa and Jerome Stocks, Scott Kelley from DeWald & Associates, Mayor Jim Bond and John DeWald. See story and more photos on Page 8.

Station Barth Photo by Bianca Kaplanek

Chamber to lead business mission to China ENCINITAS — With the end of the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, all of the world’s eyes continue to focus on China.

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce is offering an up-close look at the country for those who want to develop business ties or just see the sights of an ancient land.

The chamber is sponsoring a nine-day trip to Beijing and Shanghai in October, billing it as a business trade mission. But the trip is open to anyone interested in visiting China.

“It’s a trip that immerses you into the culture and does it in an easygoing manner,” said Andy Phemister, who became executive director of the ❚

see China on 10

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce is taking a trip to China in October that will include some sightseeing of historic landmarks such as The Great Wall, above.

Courtesy photo

ENCINITAS — The Encinitas Chamber board of directors has entered into an agreement with Rancho Santa Fe-based Hometrax to provide a new online networking experience for chamber members.

Hometrax is a new social media application for small businesses and consumers with a local, community focus. It has established a footprint in North County by associating with chambers of commerce and realtors in the region, and will be available free to chamber members. It provides an opportunity for members to market any product or service to this growing community of local, recommended businesses.

When the chamber members are enrolled in the Hometrax network, they will be able to display a “profile” of their business that includes a link back to their website, lots of photos, and a connection to their community and the Encinitas Chamber. They can post events and connect with other local groups and communities. They can display special offers and promote those offers to their connections, other chamber members, groups and other Hometrax users both on the site and through the Hometrax newsletters.

“We are creating a social network that is focused on local small business” says Matt Harmon, founder of Hometrax.com. “Our goals and the Encinitas Chamber’s goals are very similar. We both want to support and create a valuable resource for these businesses. We all want to reach out to our local communities and find great deals, right here.”

“The chamber plans to ❚ see Hometrax on 10

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ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Calendar

CHILDREN’S ENT

The next Encinitas Chamber of Commerce

Sundowner

will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15.

See www.encinitaschamber.org for details.

NETWORKING LUNCH

The monthly networking luncheon is set for Feb. 3, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Garcia’s Restaurant at 1486 Encinitas Boulevard. The cost is $20 for potential members, $15 for members. Bring a donation prize and you and your business get featured. Attendees are encouraged to bring lots of business cards. Local member restaurants volunteer to host the chamber.

Feb. 7

Feb. 3

AARP San Dieguito Chapter 239 announces a presentation on Case Management Services by Rita Zeigler, director of Senior and Disabled Services ICS, at its next General Meeting at 1 p.m. Feb. 7.

Location is Belmont Village Senior Living at 3535 Manchester Ave. in Cardiff-bythe-Sea. The public is invited and refreshments will be served. For more information, call Doreen at (760) 944-3876.

A lecture/demo on Framing your Art by Yael will be presented by the San Dieguito Art Guild from 1:30 to 3:30 Feb. 3 at the San Diego Botanic Garden in the Ecke Room, 230 Quail Gardens Drive. The event is free. For more info, visit www.OffTrackGallery.com.

Feb. 4 Will Reaching Back Move Us Forward will be presented

by Dr. Juanita Browne, history ❚

see Calendar on 11

Slight increase in businesses sold CALIFORNIA — With a total of 3,615 small and midsized businesses sold throughout California in the last three months of 2010, the closed escrow volume showed improvement over the fourth quarter of 2009, reversing the declines recorded for much of last year, according to figures compiled by the BizBen.com Index.

“What we’re seeing is the impact of the innovative strategies employed by California’s small business entrepreneurs,” said Peter Siegel, MBA, founder and president of BizBen.com, parent group of the Index.

“Sales were down for most of the first nine months of 2010 compared with the same periods the previous year, because of reduced access to funds and uncertainty about the economy.

But resourceful business buyers, owners/sellers and their intermediaries have gone back to the drawing board to come up with ways to successfully complete transactions, despite those hurdles.”

The BizBen.com Index reported the fourth 2009 quarter total of closed business deals was 3,461. The volume for all of 2010 was 13,329, representing a 6.6

percent decline from the 14,277 sales completed during 2009.?Among the measures used to overcome some of the problems that had discouraged business sales earlier in the year were “increased instances and greater dollar value of seller financing, earn-out strategies and sales of portions of companies offered on the market, with the owner/sellers retaining a portion,” Siegel said.

Southern California’s largest counties registered fewer closed escrows in 2010 compared with the prior year. Los Angeles County posted 3,557 transactions last year, and 3,769 in 2009. Orange County buyers took over 1,205 small and mid-sized businesses in 2010 vs. 1,336 in the prior 12 months. San Diego County sales dropped from 1,401 in 2009 to 1,150 for 2010. Some 577 businesses changed hands last year in San Bernardino County, a decline from the 713 deals completed the year before.

The biggest Northern California counties showed improvement during that period, with San Francisco posting 535 deals in 2010 and 502 in 2009, and Santa ❚

see Businesses on 11

Dr. James Ochi and Children’s ENT of San Diego celebrated a ribbon cutting on Jan. 13. Children’s ENT is located at 477 N. El Camino Real, C303 in Encinitas. Above, chamber ambassadors join Dr. Ochi as he cuts a ribbon to celebrate the opening of his new office. In addition to his successful practice in pediatric ear, nose and throat work, Dr. Ochi participates in charitable missions to clinics in Uganda and Cambodia. Joining the ambassadors are Andy Hoang, Patti Ochi, Tricia Ochi, Larry Michel DDS and Ann Hedges. For more information on Dr. James Ochi and Children’s ENT in Encinitas, visit www.ent4mykids.com. Courtesy photo

MiraCosta integrating needs of region MiraCosta College seeks, acknowledges and integrates the perspectives of local civic, community, education, business and elected representatives served by the college. This tradition continues as MiraCosta undertakes a significant and timely project, the development of a comprehensive educational planning document known as the Master Plan, which will help guide the college’s future programs, services and facilities.

MiraCosta College strives to be a leader in educational excellence, innovation and student success.

The college currently offers credit courses for students to earn vocational certifi-

FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ Spotlight on Higher Education cates or associate degrees in more than 65 areas and disciplines. Enrollment is at an all-time high with nearly 18,000 credit and noncredit students enrolled at one of our three campuses in North County and/or taking courses online. Upon completion of their respective programs, these students are transferring to universities across the nation and entering the local workforce.

The college has now positioned itself for growth, and with the needs of our

local community in mind, has called upon the expertise of our business and education partners to help us envision what the college can look like in 2020. This past year, MiraCosta College conducted surveys to gauge what our community leaders and members currently know about the college, and to see the types of programs and services the community may need in the future. This engagement continued at a December “Report to the Region,” when dozens of local business, educational and community leaders met to discuss the college’s goals and identify the ways in which these goals could be realized. The discussion at the Report to the Region was

visionary and exhilarating, with our local business and community partners heralding the college for its excellent transfer and jobtraining programs, as well as its commitment to student success. The surveys and dialogue provided the college with valuable ideas and suggestions that are being explored and integrated into our Master Plan.

Community members expressed a desire for the college to play an even larger role in the coming decades.

For example, MiraCosta could position itself to become a national model for environmental education and sustainability.

MiraCosta already has made ❚ see MiraCosta on 11

U.S. trade deficit narrowed in November From www.uschamber magazine.com

Retail sales?

Total retail sales rose for the sixth straight month, increasing 0.6 percent in December following a 0.8 percent increase for November.

Gains were spread across many retail categories. The largest declines came from miscellaneous store retailers (1.3 percent), general merchandise (-0.7 percent), and electronics and appliance stores (-0.6 percent). Sales are 7.9 percent above their yearago level, the fourth consecutive month of near 8 percent growth. Total sales in 2010 were 6.6 percent above their 2009 level. These latest numbers confirm that the pace of consumption picked up in the fourth quarter of last year and we expect these gains to continue this year.

Consumer Price Index line prices there remains little year, rose to 76 percent from The consumer price index rose 0.5 percent in December after rising 0.1 percent in the previous month.

The increase in headline inflation was driven by energy prices, which surged 4.6 percent in December. Gasoline prices rose 8.5 percent in December, which accounts for the spike in energy prices.

Food prices were up 0.1 percent in December. Over the year the CPI is up only 1.4 percent. Food prices rose 1.5 percent over the past year while energy prices were up 7.9 percent. Core prices, excluding food and energy costs, rose 0.1 percent in December after remaining unchanged for the last three months. Over the year the core CPI is up 0.6 percent.

Despite the rapid rise in gaso-

pressure on prices and infla- 75.4 percent in November.

While the difference between tion remains benign.

November and December Industrial production can be mostly attributed to Industrial production the increase in utilities prorose 0.8 percent in December duction, consumer demand after rising by 0.3 percent in is firming and capacity levels November (revised up from a are slowly increasing.

0.2 percent decline). The increase reflected a pro- International trade nounced jump in utility proThe U.S. trade deficit in duction, which increased 4.3 goods and services narrowed percent after growing by 1.5 to $38.3 billion in November percent in November. from $44.6 billion in Production in the mining and September. Exports increased manufacturing industries 0.6 percent to $159.6 billion increased 0.4 percent in and imports increased by 0.6 December. Motor vehicle percent to $198 billion. sales, a component of manu- Export growth picked up a bit facturing, were down 0.2 per- in November after falling in cent after a more severe October. The trade deficit decline of 5.3 percent in the continues to improve and we previous month. Capacity expect net exports to be less utilization, which has gradu- of a drag on GDP in the fourth ally improved over the past quarter and into this year.

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Guide to fun in the city online

3

KUMON LEARNING CENTER

ENCINITAS — The city of Encinitas Recreation Guide brochure is online with a ton of great programs for the winter months and the new spring season brochure will be online at the end of the month.

Zumba classes in Encinitas Zumba is a fantastic way to have fun and get into shape.

Stop by the Community Center front desk to get a pass for a free Zumba class to check it out. Call (760) 943-2261 for info or find it online.

On Jan. 21 the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce welcomed the Kumon Learning Center, 162 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road in Encinitas. The ribbon cutting was followed by a reception. Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. Through daily practice and mastery of materials, students increase confidence, improve concentration and develop better study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centers in 46 countries and more than 4 million students studying worldwide. For more information about Kumon Learning Center, call (760) 942-1799. Courtesy photo

Full-service salon offers extras at affordable prices

By Suzanne Perez Swanson ENCINITAS — The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce was fortunate enough to be able to hold its first networking luncheon of the year at award-winning Brett’s BBQ in Encinitas.

For anyone who hasn’t been to Brett’s you owe yourself a trip. We were treated to wonderful sandwiches, salads, side dishes and their amazing sauce.

Softball and kickball

Senior center serving up lunch ENCINITAS — Come enjoy a delicious meal served in the Little Oaks Café at the Encinitas Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive.

Reservations are required and can be made up until 8 a.m. of the day you would like to have lunch by calling (760) 943-2258.

For seniors 60-plus there is a suggested donation of $4. For those under 60 there is a $6 fee.

Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more details call (760) 943-2257.

Some special dates to remember: — Feb. 8 is the Hot Fudge Sundae Birthday Recognition Party.

— Feb. 14 is the Valentine’s Day Party.

— Feb. 16 is Bingo for Prizes from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Junoon Beauty Lounge is located at 996-A N. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. They are open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. For more information, call (760 452-6699 or visit www.junoonbeautylounge.com. Courtesy photo

some great deals. “We pro- adding that the atmosphere vide excellent customer is very relaxing. service with prices marked Junoon Beauty Lounge 50 percent off for our grand ❚ see Salon on 11 opening,” Jay Sapal said,

Neighborhood Savings for Residents of NORTH COUNTY!

Art activities planned at Lux ENCINITAS — Lux Art Institute welcomes Alison Saar as its current artist-inresidence for the 2010/2011 season. Saar will be in-studio Feb. 3 through March 5 and on exhibit through March 16, underwritten by The William Hall Tippett and Ruth Rathell Tippett Foundation The Institute is open to the public Thursdays and Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

An opening reception was held Jan. 15. Saar will be living and working at Lux while carving a large-scale, columnar figure from wood.

Visitors can “see art happen” while she is in-studio and can view her sculptures and works on paper.

In addition, Lux has the following upcoming events scheduled: — Lux@Night, 7 to 9 p.m.

Feb. 16, sponsored by the county of San Diego at the recommendation of Supervisor Pam Slater-Price.

Conversation, merriment, beer provided by Stone Brewing Co., and a chance to view Saar’s exhibit for free.

— Kids-in-Residence with Alison Saar from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursdays through March 3, for ages 8 through 12. To register or for more details, e-mail education@ luxartinstitute.org or check out the Lux Kids blog.

— Kids@Lux from 10 a.m. to noon Feb.12 for ages 6 through 12. Register for a two-hour studio tour and

art-making adventure. Free for Lux Kids (children of members); $20 for nonmembers. E-mail kleen@lux artinstitute.org to register.

— Free Saturday at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19, funded, in part, by the city of Encinitas and the Mizel Family Foundation Community Grant Program.

Enjoy free admission all day, guided tours, refreshments, live music and an art project in the Lux classroom.

— Studio Series at 6 p.m. Feb. 22 featuring an artist talk with Saar. Cost $5 for members; $10 for nonmembers. E-mail kleen@ luxartinstitute.org to reserve a spot.

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ENCINITAS — Junoon Beauty Lounge recently opened in Encinitas offering a variety of regular and special treatments and a few extras, too.

The lounge was opened in January 2011 by TJ and Jay Sapal.

“We offer full-service massage along with hair, nail, facials, peels, waxing, microdermabrasion, detox body wrap and spray tan,” partner Jay Sapal said. They also have a lounge on the second floor for customers to relax where they offer coffee and free WiFi. Because of their recent opening, they are offering

The service is excellent and Brett was there making sure we were well taken care of and that no one went away hungry.

Andy Phemister, executive director, talked briefly about the chamber and its plans for 2011 including a trip to China open to anyone who would like the opportunity at a great price.

Business cards were ❚ see Networking on 11

E sc on

Ever thought of getting a team together for softball or kickball? If you are looking for a way to have fun with friends, or create team-building with co-workers while getting some exercise, then get a team

Chamber’s January Networking Luncheon held at Brett’s BBQ

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ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

527 Encinitas Blvd.

Suite 106 Encinitas, CA 92024 Phone: (760) 753-6041 Fax: (760) 753-6270 asst@encinitaschamber.com

Executive Director Andy Phemister Execdir@ encinitaschamber.com

Executive Board Board of Directors President Angel Haag angelhaag@hotmail.com Secretary Suzanne Perez Swanson Suzanne@ business-blossoms.com Treasurer Vanessa Keller Comerica Bank VRkeller@ comerica.com

Board Members Lynn Banda lynn.banda@ uniontrib.com Al Delino al@aldelinodesign.com Robert Gattinella Gatinella Construction bob@ gattconstruction.com Alfredo Gonzales Garcia’s Restaurant alfredo_l_gonzales@ yahoo.com Jim Silveira Rancho Costal Humane Society jsilveira@ rchumanesociety.org

Advertising/ Production COAST NEWS GROUP 828 North Coast Hwy. 101, Suite C

(760) 436-9737 E-mail: encinitasfirst@ coastnewsgroup.com

SUBMISSIONS: To submit articles, photos and press releases for consideration for an upcoming issue, please e-mail: encinitasfirst@ yahoo.com ©2009 ENCINITAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a trade mission to mainland China this fall … and you are invited!

One may ask why a local Chamber of Commerce would be interested in taking a trip across the Pacific on a trade mission, something usually done by governors and senators.

Just as governors and senators go to China to promote California products, as local chamber members you can connect with manufacturers and distributors through our ANDY trade mission and create the PHEMISTER kind of relationships that foster growth and acquire new customers for companies on either side of the Pacific.

Our partners, CITSLINC, have been successful in the past of connecting people and companies to create a cross-investment to build a $3 mil-

lion metal rolling plant in Shandong Province, an auto parts factory in Zhejiang Province and numerous other successful ventures.

The trip also provides the opportunity to dispel many myths and prejudices about China and its people. In addition, travelers will be able to see some of China’s most historic sights, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, the Ming Tombs, the Summer Palace and Tien Mein Square. The tour also includes factories and company stores in the economic and commerce capital of China Shanghai.

The trip is an incredible deal. This nine-day adventure includes all transportation, as well as bus transportation from Encinitas to LAX, all your meals, 4- and 5-star hotels, all transfers, English speaking guides and all admissions for attractions for $1,999. Non-chamber members can come along for an additional $100.

Another question I keep hearing is how can it be so inexpensive? The answer is that the trip is subsidized by the Chinese government. They

believe it is in their best interest to bring business people and community leaders to China so they can see first-hand what is happening in this very dynamic country.

The Chinese government also recognizes that by inviting Chambers of Commerce to visit China, they are reaching into the heart of the American economy, where the entrepreneurs and community leaders can be found in towns across the United States.

So come join us! We are now taking deposits of $200 or $300 and the balance is due on July 21. I went on this trip with the East County Chamber of Commerce in 2008 and it was unforgettable. I encourage you to travel with us and invite your friends and families to join you.

The trip is not really suitable for children, but we had a number of teenagers on our trip that had a blast!

Call me at the chamber at (760) 753-6041 if you have any questions or would like more information.

Acquire and keep Startups stymied by policy local customers

By Ramon Ray TECHNOLOGY EVANGELIST

Customers are increasingly using technology to help them search for local products and services, including tutors, accountants, plumbers, restaurants and local entertainment.

To acquire and keep local customers, small businesses need to leverage the web, social media, and mobile technology.

Here are a few tips: — Partner with Groupon, Buywithme, 8Coupons and other online services to offer

deals to customers. Use these technologies properly so that a great deal doesn’t turn into a money-losing horror for your business.

— Create a mobile website. More and more, customers are using their mobile devices for both business and entertainment purposes, such as locating local restaurants and hotels. Make sure that your website displays well on mobile devices. If consumers have to scroll up and ❚

see Customers on 10

Initial unemployment claims on the decline From www.uschamber magazine.com

Consumer confidence The Conference Board index of consumer confidence declined in December after improving slightly in November.

Consumer confidence decreased to 52.5 from 54.3 (revised from 54.1).

Consumer confidence fluctuated within a narrow band in the second half of 2010, though it is down from the first half of the year. December’s decline was driven by weak assessments of both current conditions and expectations for the future. The expectations component fell to 71.9 from 73.6. The present situation component declined to 23.5 from 25.4.

ISM manufacturing The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) manufacturing index increased in December to 57, from 56.6 in November. The index has been above the

expansionary threshold of 50 since the middle of last year. While only four of the 10 underlying components were positive, the gains were strong enough to drive an increase in the headline number. The modest gain was consistent with prior gains and suggests that despite considerable weakness in the economy, business confidence remained robust throughout 2010.

Weekly jobless claims For the week ending Dec. 25, initial claims for unemployment insurance dropped 34,000 to a seasonally adjusted rate of 388,000. Claims for the prior week were revised upward slightly to 422,000 from 420,000.

This is the first time claims have dropped below 400,000 since July 2008. The four-week moving average of 414,000 is down from the previous week’s revised average of 426,500. While ❚

see Claims on 11

From www.uschamber magazine.com Startups are critical to job growth but are being stymied by immigration policy, a lack of financing and regulatory barriers, according to experts.

“To create new jobs, we’ve got to create new companies,” Bob Litan, vice president for research and policy at the Kauffman Foundation, told an audience at a November U.S. Chamber event sponsored by the Chamber’s Campaign for Free Enterprise and the National Chamber Foundation, the chamber’s public policy think tank.

Most new jobs created between 1980 and 2005 were by companies in existence for fewer than five years, according to Litan.

However, the percentage of startups is declining.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the number of companies with at least one employee fell by 100,000 in the year that ended March 31, 2010. That 2 percent drop represents the second worst performance in 18 years — right behind the 3.4 percent drop

in the previous year.

Vivek Wadhwa, senior research associate at Harvard University and adjunct professor at the Pratt School of Engineering at Duke University, contends that U.S. immigration and visa policy is driving highly educated immigrant entrepreneurs back to their home countries, instead of starting businesses here.

“The U.S. is experiencing a brain drain and doesn’t even realize it.”

Wadhwa pointed out that 25 percent of all tech and engineering companies started in the United States were founded by legal, highskilled immigrants. Yet many of today’s future entrepreneurs are “stuck in immigration limbo” while they try to get a green card in the United States, she said.

One solution, Wadhwa suggested, would be to give green cards to legal, highskilled immigrants who start a company in the United States after the company has passed the five-year mark. Tim Kane, senior fellow in research and policy with the Kauffman Foundation, recommended

reviewing current visa caps and identifying categories, such as engineers, that could be decoupled from the overall cap.

Startups are also stalling because of a lack of available financing. While there is plenty of capital in reserves — including more than $2 trillion being held by corporations and dedicated small business funds at banks — the current environment of uncertainty is forcing everyone to hold onto their money or proceed with caution, according to Andrew Sherman, a partner at global law firm Jones Day. High regulatory compliance costs and a punitive tax structure have also inhibited entrepreneurship, said Scott Shane, professor of entrepreneurial studies at Case Western Reserve University.

The chamber is at the forefront of the effort to tear down barriers to entrepreneurship.

It recently launched the This Way To Jobs initiative to showcase the sheer volume of regulations being imposed in a number of policy areas.

Mobile marketing: easy as 1, 2, 3 Rob C.Masri

ness if used properly.

Implementing a successful From the moment a busi- mobile loyalty campaign ness opens, it searches for loy- involves three components. alty among its customer base.

Most businesses cannot sur- Generating customer vive without repeat business. participation You must determine interThe key to profitability is to est and build a user base. A provide existing customers simple text-in campaign for with an incentive to return and to convert new customers an in-store offer redeemable into regulars. Instead of relying only at your cash register is a on outdated and unreliable good place to start. More elabtools like loyalty cards, orate solutions that digitize coupons, or the personal loyalty card programs and knowledge of an owner to more accurately capture inforattract, identify, retain, and mation from the phones of reward these regulars, busi- customers also exist. nesses may want to consider a Building customer mobile loyalty program.

Mobile phones have loyalty You have to get the cusbecome the remote control of people’s lives and can become tomers who opted in to your a gold mine for a local busi- initial mobile advertising cam-

FOUNDER AND CEO CARDAGIN NETWORKS FROM WWW.USCHAMBERMAGAZINE.COM

paign to remain opted in and to return to your store. To do that, build a relationship with them by offering exclusive, mobile-only loyalty club rewards delivered straight to their phones. This will allow you to track redemption rates and usage.

Also, send targeted, personalized incentives to your most loyal patrons. Mobile is a way to identify which customers redeem what offers and enables customers to easily recommend your business to others.

Rewarding repeat business Using mobile loyalty to build and retain your customer base drives profits by ❚

see Marketing on 10

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

5

Cardio Year off to a good start at Comerica Bank Sundowner group presents free talks COAST CITIES — The Cardiovascular Disease Foundation annual American Heart Month Lecture Series presents four free interactive talks in February 2011. All talks are open to the public and free of charge.

Managing Stress and Not Letting it Control You will be presented by Dr. Robert Solomon, M.D. from noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 9 at the Magdalena Ecke YMCA 200 Saxony Road in Encinitas.

How to Get Kids to Eat Great and Love It will be presented by Dr. Christine Wood from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Feb. 9 at the meeting room meeting room in the Dove Library 1775 Dove Lane in Carlsbad.

Your Heart/Women and Heart Disease will be presented by Dr. Franklin Zalman from 9:45 to 10:15 a.m. Feb. 10 at Emmanuel Faith Community Church, 639 E. Felicita Ave. in Escondido.

Dementia and Heart Disease will be presented

by Dr. Franklin Zalman from noon to 2 p.m. Feb. 24 at Silverado Senior Living Center, 335 Saxony Road in Encinitas. Two CEU units will be offered.

RSVP prior to Feb. 18 to Silverado at (760) 2304200.

For talks on Feb. 9 and Feb. 10, RSVP to Nancy at (760) 730-1471 or ❚ see Talk on 10

Tiffany Brock of La Costa Canyon High School.

Courtesy photo

By Suzanne Perez Swanson The first Encinitas Chamber of Commerce Sundowner of the year was a wonderful way to start 2011.

Many who were attending for the first time said that thanks to the welcoming atmosphere, good food, fun prizes, display tables and great networking, they will be back.

The excellent appetizers from Chili’s, Figaro’s Pizza, Flippin’ Pizza, Froots, Ralph’s and St. Tropez didn’t help those New Year’s resolutions to slim down but were so good.

McDonald’s contributed the ice for the water, soft drinks and chilled wine. It was a party!

PATCH, North County Health Services, Reagan Plastic Surgery, Class Act, Greenasium, Dr. Debra Burnett and Dr. Arnie Miller set up tables to display and present information about

their businesses.

At times, there were lines at each table to see what was available. The check-in line was long but that was another opportunity to network.

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce ambassadors made sure that new attendees were greeted and introduced to others, especially those businesses that might benefit from working together.

Rock Swanson, pilot and part-time chamber bartender, donated a whale watching flight in his Cessna T210 for three.

Denise Joseph, of Vigilucci’s Restaurant Angel Haag and Adam Rowe of erowe design. Courtesy photo Group, was the high bidder so she will be taking her husband and son on an amazing flight.

Angel Haag, president of the Encinitas Chamber of ❚ see Sundowner on 11

Chamber ambassadors Claudia Yates, Get Fit S.D., and Mario Valdez, Union Bank. Courtesy photo

A large crowd turned out for the first Sundowner of 2011 at Comerica Bank. Courtesy photo

Emotion Good news for parents of children support with ear, nose and throat problems group starts up ENCINITAS — A dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, group will begin under the direction of Debra Burnett Psy.D CGP on Feb. 8 for 16 weeks.

The group will meet at 355 Santa Fe Drive Suite 200, and will feature a free initial 20-minute group session to determine if participants are a “good fit” for the sessions.

The group will focus on issues such as feelings of being stressed out, being overwhelmed, anxiety, depression and low selfesteem. The sessions will utilize DBT therapy techniques. For more information and insurance options, contact Dr. Debra Burnett of the DBT Group at (760) 6353310

ENCINITAS — James W. Ochi, MD, of Children’s ENT of San Diego Inc. has the important job of taking care of children with ear, nose and throat problems.

Dr. Ochi began his practice in August of 1992.

In Encinitas, a city that prides itself on its quality health care, Dr. Ochi stands out with his unique approach to serving his patients.

“I strive to see patients on schedule and give them as much time as possible so that all of their concerns can be addressed,” Dr. Ochi said.

Which means less time in the waiting room for busy moms and dads.

Children’s ENT of San Diego joined the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce because Dr. Ochi realized it was important to his practice to be a part of the Encinitas business commu-

nity.

What can Dr. Ochi and Children’s ENT of San Diego bring to Encinitas? “There are many fine doctors at North Coast Health Center and I am looking forward to being part of the Encinitas medical community,” he said.

The best part about having a practice in Encinitas?

It’s the patients, according to Dr. Ochi. “Families in Encinitas and surrounding communities choose their physicians with a great deal of thought and consideration,” he said.

“My practice is different than most other medical practices in that I do not

JAMES W. OCHI, M.D.

overload my schedule so as to deliver the best care possible,” Dr. Ochi said.

Children’s ENT of San Diego Inc. is located at 477 N. El Camino Real, Suite C303 in Encinitas. They are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more information, call (858) 792-4800 or visit www.ENT4MyKids.com.

Carmenza David of SD Small Business Connections and Angel Haag, president of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce board of directors. Courtesy photo

Welcome!

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome all new and renewing members.

New members

• GEO OPT • The Greener Things • HomeTrax • Globalinx • Joonan • Beyond Net Markets

Renewing members

• • • •

• Bliss 101 • Children’s ENT of San Diego • Edward Jones, Don Gunter • Frugal2Go., Inc.

• Alleshire Accountancy Corporation • Alphagraphics • AT&T • Brad’s Foreign & Domestic • Business Blossoms • Cardiff by the Sea Apartments • C & H Gardens Artistic Landscape Advisor • California Music Studios • Don Edson Architect INC. AIA • EDCO Disposal • El Torito

New member plaques supplied by:

• • • • • • • • •

Encinitas Blue Book Encinitas Coin & Jewelry Furgerson’s Garage Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant and Catering Law Offices of Fuhrman & Camera Lux Art Institute Olivenhain Self Storage Rancho Coastal Humane Society Raphael’s Party Rental Reagan Plastic Surgery San Diego Gas & Electric San Diego Union Tribune Steve Laverson M.D.

6

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

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ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

7

Plenty on tap at San Diego Botanic Garden Desert to Rainforest Garden Photography Workshop from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Feb. 12.

Acclaimed flower and garden photographer Bob Bretell will take attendees on a photo nature safari that will explore two amazing yet very different worlds within the garden. Participants will begin their adventure in the New World desert where Bob will show how to creatively modify sunlight by using mirrors, reflectors and filters.

From there Bretell will demonstrate his new “Wall of Light” technique. Learn how to simplify your composition for maximum impact, how to use fill flash in a new creative way — even how to enhance your composition in the garden using an ordinary flash light!

This workshop is for all levels regardless of whether you are using a point and shoot, or an expensive single lens reflex. Photos will be projected and critiqued by the group and the instructor. Students must bring a digital camera and may want to bring a bag lunch.

Cost is $75 for members and $85 for nonmembers.

Register by Feb. 9.

Jewels of Nature: Hummingbirds in Your Garden from 10 to 11 a.m. Feb. 26 Monique Rea will introduce a variety of ways to attract hummingbirds to your garden. Having worked with and rehabilitated these wonders of nature for the past 14 years, she will also share tips on what to do when you find a lost hummingbird. There will be plant lists, book and DVD recommendations, samples of their nests, a hummingbird legend, and much more. Cost is $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers.

Register by Feb. 23.

duce that these farms can provide. His commitment to the community is extensive and includes the Farm to School pilot program. Cost is $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers. Register by Feb. 23.

Tired of Corn Beef and Cabbage?

Learn to Make Mulligatawny Stew Instead from 1:30 to 4 p.m. March 5

Try this wonderful Indian inspired, but Irish in origin, Mulligatawny Stew for a change in your St. Patrick’s Day menu. Learn the tradition behind Colcannon and Irish Farmer’s Bread “Barm ‘From Terra’s Table’ Brack.” Recipes and tastings Cooking Demo and offered of each dish. Taught Book Signing from 2 by Chef Elizabeth, the Opera to 4 p.m. Feb. 26 Singing Chef. Cost is $25 for Jeff Rossman, author of members, $30 for nonmemthe much acclaimed “From bers. Register by March 2.

Terra’s Table,” will do a cooking demo and book signing. Free Sustainable Rossman will show you how Landscaping for to make pumpkin bisque and caramelized fennel members from salad, recipes from his new 10 a.m. to noon book. Through his Terra March 10 Styles are always changRestaurant in Hillcrest, Rossman has built long- ing. From fashion to hairstanding relationships with styles to music and food area farmers and purveyors choices nothing stays the and is dedicated to featuring same. Landscaping is no difthe best local, organic pro- ferent. What works in one

Free monthly e-waste collections

Y

ENCINITAS — Make room for your new electronic gadgets and toys by bringing your discards to The Solana Center for Environmental Innovation. The Solana Center is holding monthly electronic waste drop-offs at their site at 137 N. El Camino Real. They are located at Via Molena, just

AH

past the sheriff’s station.

The events are co-sponsored by the city of Encinitas and Recycle San Diego.

They are held on the fourth Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon.

Future dates are Feb.22, March 26, April 23, May 28, June 25, July 23, Aug. 27, Sept.

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There are none in November or December. For details, visit www.solana center.org or call (760) 4367986, ext. 213. No hazardous waste please. For information on home pickups for hazardous waste, call (800) 7141195.

part of the country is not always the best choice for Southern California. As part of a statewide effort by the Master Gardener Association, the San Diego

Chapter has put together a comprehensive presentation focusing on sustainable practices for the Southern California garden. Topics will include water manage-

ment, soil improvement, plant selection and maintenance, pest control, saving energy, and encouraging ❚

see Garden on 10

8

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Ribbon cutting held for new Pacific Station On hand for the event were several representatives from Whole Foods Market, including, from left, Ray Kau, Roxanne Moore, Encinitas resident Michelle Payne and Tom Ashe. The 23,000-square-foot natural and organic foods store will showcase locally grown and produced items and is designed to be a community hub, with courtyard eating areas and cooking, eating and educational events. Photos by Bianca Kaplanek

Above, Melanie and 3-year-old Wyatt Garcia of Cardiff-bythe-Sea and Leucadia resident Tanya Cutter, right, munch on complimentary snacks before the ribbon cutting. Wyatt said his favorite part of the event was the strawberries. Left, Peder Norby, left, Highway 101 coordinator, said his first meeting about the development with John DeWald, right, "got off to a rocky start, but it ended well." Once Whole Foods Market opens in early summer, Pacific Station residents "can walk to get milk in your slippers if you want, and that will be a great thing," Norby said.

By Bianca Kaplanek ENCINITAS — About 100 area residents, business owners and politicians were on hand for a Jan. 28 ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of Pacific Station, a $40 million mixed-use development at 687 S. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas.

The project was more than five years in the making, including two years of construction. About 90 percent of the commercial space is under contract and more than half of the office space is leased, according to John DeWald of Cardiff-based DeWald & Associates, lead developer for Pacific Station.

The development also features underground parking spaces and 47 residential units, including two-story townhomes and lofts and single-story flats

ranging from approximately 600 to 2,400 square feet priced between $300,000 and $700,000.

Whole Foods Market, the anchor tenant, is scheduled to open in late June or early July, store representatives said.

Clothing stores and restaurants are also scheduled to open soon.

DeWald said he was pleased with the end result but admitted it wasn’t always easy.

“Encinitas is a tough town because everyone wants things done right,” he said.

Mayor Jim Bond called Pacific Station “a fantastic addition to the city.”

Encinitas resident Laurie Michaels said she was “in awe of the whole thing.”

“Where once there was nothing, now there is life,” she said.

Why joining The Encinitas Chamber is like ‘A Day At The Beach!’

Because...

We’ve Got You Covered - Joining with the Chamber

gives you access to the combined strength of 575 fellow members.

We Blanket Encinitas - The Chamber’s fine-tuned network promotes your business in all three local markets; residential, tourist or business-to-business! From lagoon-to-lagoon!

We Get You Connected - As a member you are plugged into the most powerful marketing-tools available to Encinitas businesses, period! An average of 200,000 visitors to the Chamber website each month, 7500 newsletters carrying your message per month, an e-mail update on special events and city news; every Friday.

We Tell Everybody About You - When you are a member, we promote you on the Chamber website,tell your story to the entire city in Encinitas First, including your photo and deliver it into 1000 businesses and 3000 better homes in your new member profile.

527 Encinitas Blvd., Ste. 106 Phone: 760-753-6041 Fax: 760-753-6270 info@encinitaschamber.com

www.encinitaschamber.com

We Give You The Tools - We operate the City’s Official Visitor Center! Our knowledgeable staff can help you with a variety of media; direct-mail, directed e-mail, bulk-mail, home-delivery, point-ofpurchase display; special events! It is the single most-integrated and comprehensive media-marketing system in the City of Encinitas, period.

There is combined strength in numbers with the new Encinitas Chamber of Commerce. Meet new people, make new friends, gain new customers, every day with the Chamber.

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, it just works!

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Dudek will be FEBRUARY Diane Artist of the Month for at St. Tropez ARTIST OF February Bakery & Bistro located The Lumberyard. She help raise funds for THE MONTH inwill North County Solutions for Change for their “Finding Our Way” initiative, a North County community effort that is leading 200 families out of homelessness and rebuilding futures for 400 children. Dudek’s exhibition will show her original oil paintings of local beach scenes, back country scenes and views from Torrey Pines Reserve.

St.Tropez is located at 947 S. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. Courtesy photo

Child model, talent agency launches ENCINITAS — A new child model and talent agency, Minikin Model & Talent, has launched in Encinitas representing newborns to tweens for print and commercial work within the entertainment industry. Founded by moms who have worked within entertainment and have their own children who work within entertainment, the

agency seeks to capitalize upon the abundance of local talent in the San Diego area.

Minikin has also launched Minikin Brand, bringing together a team of San Diego streetwear veterans to create a fashion-forward collection of graphic Tshirts for young ones ages 3 ❚

see Agency on 10

MiraCosta College offers online learning COAST CITIES — MiraCosta College’s online, not-for-credit career-training programs assist students in developing expertise in their desired career fields and/or preparing for industry certification exams. Each self-study, online course has an instructor assigned to answer student questions and solve student problems. This is the perfect in-depth professional-level program for people who wish to continue working while learning, or who need a flexi-

ble study schedule. These programs are designed by a team of professionals from each field, who work to provide the most effective Web-based learning experience available today.

Classes are offered in the following disciplines: health care, business/legal, construction, automotive, video game design, networking, Internet, Microsoft certification and electronics. For additional information, call (760) 7956820.

Off-Broadway Theatre comes to Encinitas ENCINITAS — Awardwinning writer and producer Carol Roper has brought her successful, original comedy theater company to Encinitas to establish the Seaside Off-Broadway Theatre at the Seaside Center, 1613 Lake Drive, Encinitas. “I like bringing live theater, high-quality,

original comedy to the community,” Roper said. “We have a theater company of professional level actors.

There is extraordinary talent right here in our beach community, and we’ve been lucky enough to find them.”

Seaside Off-Broadway ❚

see Off-Broadway on 10

9

Last Good War, The Faces and Voices of WWII” is a coffee table book that honors the BOOK TOUR “The World War II experiences of the everyday person. Photographer Thomas Sanders, who is the brainchild behind the book, recently stopped by the Belmont Village Senior Living Community of Cardiff for a book signing and reunion event with some of the veterans that he photographed for the book. Pictured above from left are Councilwoman Maggie Houlihan, Executive Director Inan Linton, San Marcos resident and Seaman First Class Robert Watson, U.S. Navy (ret.) and Thomas Sanders. Courtesy photo

No end in sight for Leucadia flooding ENCINITAS — It’s no secret that Leucadia’s lowlying commercial strip, portions of Vulcan Avenue and other residential streets and alleys are prone to flooding.

The solution is also not a mystery according to some residents who are constantly inconvenienced by the pools of water that form during heavy rains.

Tim Calver, a Leucadia resident since 2004, lives in one of the lowest-lying parts of the community. He contends that the so-called fix for Leucadia’s flooding problem, a tide-flex valve installed at Roadside Park, is being misused by the public works department. “If the valve is shut then we drain fine,” he said, “but when public works opens it up it stops Leucadia’s drain flow.”

Larry Watt, the city’s public works director, said that his department is in charge of maintaining the pumps that control the flooding.

“Maybe once or twice a storm season we have to do it (open the valve). But he said the recent rains have

made the practice more common.

“Leucadia Roadside Park is at the bottom of the bowl,” Watt said.

Leslie Ross, a lifelong resident, knows the consequences of opening the valve to relieve the over-burdened drainage system. Her home, which is situated off the alley behind the Leucadia Plaza building, was flooded twice within two years.

In 2004 and 2006, Ross watched as the water bubbled up from the newly installed valve and rushed into her home. She estimates the damage from both floods at $100,000.

“I’ve talked to city staff on several occasions, I’ve presented drainage questions to the council in private and public,” she said, but to no avail. “I’ve gotten nothing, no tangible response.”

“Our water has nowhere to go when the system is overwhelmed with the water being pumped from Union and Vulcan,” Ross said. She settled a claim against the

city in 2004 but said the city did nothing in 2006 when her home was flooded a second time. “It’s a diversion of water.”

Ross said the streetscape improvements scheduled to begin this year don’t include drainage. “They’re going to make it all pretty but where’s the water going to go?”

The valve, installed in 2004, was supposed to relieve puddle water from Leucadia but it’s been used to relieve old Encinitas’ water and ends up flooding Leucadia according to Ross and Calver. “They have no idea how much stress they have caused me,” Ross said.

A 2004 study by Rick Engineering recommended a system that would send overflow water through a main drainpipe, running from Batiquitos Lagoon to Leucadia Roadside Park, that would range from 5 to 10 feet in diameter and cost $36.2 million to install.

“For some reason we send all of our water up north to Batiquitos instead of Cottonwood Creek,”

Calver said. “It (Cottonwood Creek) was designed to hold overflow water, so I don’t understand why it isn’t being utilized.”

Calver said the biggest issue regarding improper drainage is safety. “It makes it dangerous in Leucadia.

For example, an ambulance can’t get down the alley, houses have been flooded, not to mention the inconvenience,” he said.

“It just leaves the biggest mess,” Calver said. “This isn’t clean water we’re talking about either.” His shed and tools were damaged in a recent flood.

“There really isn’t any need to pump over the bluff at Beacon’s Beach,” Calver maintained. “It feels like their Leucadia has always been treated second best.”

However he said he holds out hope that the problems will be fixed. “I know our engineers can figure this out. They can fix this issue once and for all.” A call to the city’s engineering department was not returned.

Pet-friendly businesses get a boost

By Promise Yee ENCINITAS — Ever wonder what businesses allow you to take Fido along when you are out running errands around town? Now the Rancho Coastal Humane Society website posts an online list of Pet Alliance Club businesses that welcome pets.

The list also includes petfriendly businesses that provide animal services and support animal causes. The fees businesses pay to be listed on the website help support the Rancho Coastal Humane Society.

So far about two dozen businesses are signed up.

“They really are excited that they will now have a struc-

tured way to show their support of needy animals in our community,” Nick Winfrey, community liaison director for Rancho Coastal Humane Society, said.

“We are initially starting with coastal cities, all the way east to Escondido,” Simran Noon, spokesperson for Rancho Coastal Humane Society, said. “Eventually we’ll include all of San Diego, countywide, as we grow. We saw that there was the need out there for an online service like this.”

Leaping Lotus in Solana Beach is one business that is already signed up as a Pet Alliance Club member.

“We’ve always been petfriendly,” Cindy Cruz, execu-

tive director at Leaping Lotus, said. “Sometimes we’ll have 12 to 15 dogs in the store. It’s amazing how well-behaved they are.”

The website will help locals and visitors find pet friendly businesses. “The primary objective is to allow those people coming to the San Diego area an easy and immediate way to identify those merchants who either welcome pets or support those that do,” Jim Silveria, CEO for Rancho Coastal Humane Society, said.

The types of businesses vary. “They are restaurants with pet-friendly patios, a bakery that sells dog biscuits, and a real estate office that donates proceeds to pet

organizations,” Noon said.

The online list will also alert pet owners to petfriendly events sponsored by local businesses.

While the list guarantees that the businesses are petfriendly, it is still the responsibility of pet owners to make sure their pets are on a leash and well-behaved. Pets that have a difficult time with other animals are best left at home, Noon said.

For a list of pet friendly businesses or to find out how to sign up your business to be a member of the Pet Alliance Club, see www.rchumanesociety.org. Proceeds from the program benefit the Rancho Coastal Humane Society, a nonprofit organization.

10

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Garden continued from 7 beneficial wildlife. The beauty of the Mediterranean and its adaptability to our climate will be featured. The class is free for members. Register

by March 7.

Waterwise Gardening From the Ground Up: Soils, Plants, Design, Irrigation and Mulches from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 12 Learn to create a waterwise garden from the ground up using an integrated approach: soil organics, appropriate plants,

Marketing continued from 4 increasing the amount a customer spends. By tracking what your customers are buying, you can offer new items that complement their standard favorites.

As the mobile Internet

Customers continued from 4 down or left and right several times to view your site, you are likely to lose sales.

— List your business on major local search engines, including Google Places and Yelp. When someone types “flower shop” and enters his or her ZIP code or city, does your flower shop appear within the top results?

Improve your search results organically by including on

China

water harvesting, garden design, efficient irrigation, and mulch. This workshop includes: — The use of compost and soil microbes to capture, store and transport water through the soil to plant roots — Ways to harvest gray water and rainwater to use in the garden — Highlights of our enormous waterwise plant palette, including low water edibles — The basics of waterwise garden design for yearround color and interest — An inspiring walking tour of the waterwise gardens at San Diego Botanic Garden

— An update on low water irrigation technologies including the basics to retrofit existing irrigation, install new irrigation, and manage irrigation in a waterwise garden — Mulches that hold water in the ground while feeding the soil and the plants Instructors are Sharon May, director of sales and marketing at Agri-Service and designer; and Nan Sterman, botanist, garden designer, low water plant expert and author of the books “California Gardener’s Guide VII” and “Water-Wise Plants for the Southwest.”

Cost is $80 for members

and $100 for nonmembers room, the trip is a revenue and includes lunch. Pre- continued from 1 producer for the chamber. registration required by The chamber has a block of March 8.

Encinitas Chamber of 100 for the trip. The chamber Commerce in November. has scheduled another Build Your Own China trip in March 2012?.

Nonmembers pay an addiDetails Hydroponic Spring Phemister organized tional $100 for the entire trip.

Garden from 9 a.m.

The trip is operated by three similar trips when he to noon March 26 International, During this dynamic headed the travel depart- Citslinc which has been organizing ment for the San Diego East hands-on workshop, you trips for business people to County Chamber of will learn the principles of the hydroponic wick Commerce. He said that China since 1995. The cost method — a fun and easy although some business for the trip includes airfare, sustainable gardening tech- opportunities grew from the hotel, food, tour buses, nique. You will then build trips, the most important attraction tickets and airyour own sustainable gar- goal was showing off the port taxes.

More than 450 business den to take home, filled with changes that China has chambers around the coungone through economically spring veggies. Produced by try have taken group trips to and politically.

Ag Pals. Fee includes materiwith Citslinc, At $1,999 per member China als. Cost is $70 for members, $90 for nonmembers. for a double-occupancy Phemister said.

Register by March 23.

evolves from a messaging platform into a marketing platform, businesses can capitalize on immediacy, reach, effectiveness, affordability, and viral communication.

Moreover, two gamechanging advantages that the mobile Internet provides are personalization and the

ability to finally close the advertising loop from ad broadcasts that acquire customers to loyalty programs that retain customers.

Imagine being able to create a direct link between coupon distribution and coupon redemption. You would be able to understand what it means to have a long-term

and loyal customer and more readily calculate the ROI value of a particular advertising campaign. It may not yet be time to dismiss expensive and nontargeted broadcast advertising outlets (print, radio, TV, direct mail), but a mobile loyalty program that retains existing customers may be the first step.

your website lots of content and links for search engines to index. The more content and links, the higher your search engine ranking. You can also purchase keywords to ensure that your website is listed when those keywords are typed into the search engine.

— Leverage social media. Users of Foursquare check in to an establishment to earn points. Twitter is an emerging venue for paid local advertising and

keyword advertising.

Facebook has developed a solution that enables local businesses to engage with local customers who check in. The local marketing dimensions of social media platforms are growing.

— Once you’ve interacted with customers, ask for their contact information.

Get their e-mail addresses and cell phone numbers to send them targeted advertising and a regular enewsletter. Do this only with

permission.

— Provide great customer service. It’s the nontech things that matter most. Treat each customer with a smile!

When it comes to local search, marketing, and advertising, start slow, test and experiment. After a short time, you’ll be able to determine what works best for your business and gives you the highest ROI.

Hometrax continued from 1 add members to the Hometrax online community this month, and chamber members will be given the opportunity to opt out if that is their preference,” said Chamber Executive Director Andy Phemister.

Off-Broadway continued from 9 Theatre will present two matinees: one at 3 p.m. Feb. 12 and one at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 13 of “Love In Many Flavors,” six off-beat relationship comedies by six award-winning playwrights in a more-than-a-staged reading, and less-than-a-full production, format. The

Agency continued from 9 months to 12 years. The line includes playful spins on grown-up graphic trends, as well as original character art. A mock “hipster” scarf is just one of 16 iconic, tongue-in-cheek designs in the premier line. The line will be sold online as well as through select local bou-

Talks continued from 5 Nancy@cvdf.org.

The Cardiovascular Disease Foundation (www.CVDF.org), currently celebrating its eighth year of wellness services to the community, is a nonprofit

The service also hosts real estate listings. Realtors can post their listings and feature them several ways in the site. They and their properties will be found in searches and in social media.

For more information, contact matt@hometrax.com or the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce.

Sunday matinee includes brunch at 12:30 p.m. of salad and quiche or waffles, for a suggested donation of $7. You may reserve for just the show with no donation.

For more details, visit www.celebrationworks.org.

Make reservations via email at celebrationworks @gmail.com or by calling (760) 421 8406.

tiques.

Minikin celebrated their launch event with a party and fashion show in the Cardiff Towne Center on Nov. 7. The fashion show featured Minikin talent modeling Minikin Brand and select brands from Babies by the Sea Boutique and M.O.M Boutique.

For more information, visit www.minikinmodel. com.

501(c)(3) charitable organization based in Carlsbad. Its mission is to improve the quality of life by promoting cardiovascular health through prevention, wellness and education. The Cardiovascular Disease Foundation office is located at 3088 Pio Pico Drive, No. 202 in Carlsbad.

We Want Your News!

Encinitas First wants to help you share your business news. Any type of business news you’d like to share, we want to hear.

From ribbon cuttings to new hires to change of location, no news is too big or too small for Encinitas First.

Whether you’re a member of the Encinitas

Chamber of Commerce or not, Encinitas First is the place to let everyone know what’s going on in local businesses.

Please submit your news to encinitasfirst@ yahoo.com.

If you are submitting a picture, please include full names of anyone pictured.

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Claims

Sundowner

continued from 4

continued from 5

the weekly data is especially volatile during this time of year, the consistent fall in the four-week moving average for initial claims is an indication of a deceleration in the pace of layoffs. Nonetheless, a number above 400,000 is historically consistent with a contracting labor market.

While the labor market is slowly improving, considerable challenges remain.

Commerce board of directors, made a few brief announcements about upcoming chamber events.

On Feb. 3 will be a Networking Luncheon at

Salon continued from 3 joined the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce because they wanted to be a part of the business community of Encinitas.

When asked what they can bring to Encinitas, Jay Sapal touted their excellent customer service and reasonable prices that everyone can afford in these tough economic times.

The best part about having a business in Encinitas? “The city of Encinitas offers an excellent environment for small businesses and coastal communities.”

Among Jay Sapal’s favorite things to do in Encinitas are to enjoy the very nice coastal weather, attend the street festivals and eat all the different kinds of food the city has to offer. Junoon Beauty Lounge is located at 996-A N. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. They are open from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. For more information, call (760) 452-6699 or visit www.junoonbeauty lounge.com.

Networking continued from 3 shared and collected and a drawing was held, which was won by Dr. Arnie Miller.

Chris Kydd, of The Coast News, informed us of some new advertising opportunities that will be available to the business community.

Chamber board members and ambassadors were there to greet the guests and answer questions.

Attendees included Bob Gattinella, board member, Gatt Construction; Vanessa Keller, board treasurer, Comerica Bank; Mario Valdez, ambassador, Union Bank; and Suzanne Perez, board secretary, Business Blossoms Florist.

We were joined by Byron Spratt, from Greenasium Gym, who walked across the parking lot to join us and we probably should have gone back to the gym with him!

See you Feb. 3 for the next luncheon. Check our website for details.

11

Fun

Garcia’s Restaurant; On Feb. 15 will be the Sundowner at 10 a.m. Feb. 23 there will be a Small Business Workshop at the Encinitas Library Community Room presented by Mother Lode regarding new tax information; and a Cinco de Mayo Salsa

Contest will be held on May 1. Angel also reminded everyone to check the chamber website.

Executive Director Andy Phemister did his usual fine job of keeping people smiling and connecting.

The chamber thanks

Vanessa Keller and the staff at Comerica for all their hard work putting together the 2011 opener. The bar has been set high.

Sundowners are held on the third Tuesday of the month (except June and December).

sale of small businesses in California, by county, (available at the BizBen.com December Statistics page) is as follows: Alameda: 51, Amador: 1, Butte: 6, Contra Costa: 29, El Dorado: 6, Fresno: 44, Humboldt: 3, Imperial: 2, ern: 31, Lake: 1, Lassen: 3, Los Angeles: 295, Madera: 1, Marin: 3, Mendocino: 1, Merced: 2, Mono: 1, Monterey: 17, Napa: 1, Nevada: 5, Orange: 110, Placer: 12, Riverside: 74, Sacramento: 27, San Bernardino: 52, San Diego: 95, San Francisco: 78, San Joaquin: 18, San Luis Obispo: 13, San Mateo: 19,

Santa Barbara: 23, Santa Clara: 83, Santa Cruz: 12, Shasta: 8, Solano: 11, Sonoma: 33, Stanislaus: 16, Sutter: 15, Tehama: 4, Tulare: 13, Tuolumne: 1, Ventura: 31, Yolo: 1, Yuba: 1.

BizBen has been an important factor in California’s sale of small and mid-sized businesses since 1994. It is comprised of 1) www.BizBen.com, a vibrant online market offering 7,000+ California businesses for sale (with 200 new listings added daily), plus valuable information and ideas provided through a daily blog, webinars, arti-

cles and online radio programs; 2) BizBen Network of 16,000 business buyers, 4,000 business owners/sellers, 1,800 brokers, agents and intermediaries, and 600 advisors/resource providers; and 3) BizBen Index which gathers small business sales data throughout the state and provides vital, up-to-theminute statistics regarding the sales of small and midsized California businesses.

BizBen.com is available via Twitter (bizbenlistings), FaceBook (bizbenbusinesslistings) and LinkedIn (in/bizbenlistings).

could become even more of a model by enhancing the programs that prepare students to enter the green workforce, including architecture and drafting, horticulture and landscape design, radiation protection technology, and automotive hybrid technology.

Two other objectives dis-

cussed were the college’s partnerships with local industry to develop educational programs, and the continued strengthening of the college’s assistance to small business development.

Our nationally accredited Small Business Development Center offers consultation, training and assistance to

local small businesses at low or no cost. MiraCosta College’s Community Services Program offers certification programs online, oncampus and on-site at local businesses. The college looks forward to developing additional ways to better serve our community and region.

More meetings with local

sketch to live music.

Refreshments will be served. For continued from 2 more information, visit professor, in honor of Black www.Studio2ndStreet.com.

History Month at 1 p.m. Feb. 4 at Feb. 12 MiraCosta College’s San Elijo A Pancake Breakfast will take Campus, 333 Manchester Ave. in Cardiff-by-the-Sea in room 201. place from 8 a.m. to noon Feb. 12 at the Encinitas Community & The presentation is free.

Senior Center, 1141 Oakcrest Park Drive. Tickets are $4 and Feb. 4 The Cardiff School District proceeds benefit the Encinitas presents Cardiff Movie Night at 6 Youth Basketball program. For p.m. Feb. 4 at Cardiff Town more information, call (760) Center, 2031 San Elijo Avenue. 943-2260.

The event is free. For more inforFeb. 12 mation, call (760) 632-5890 or A concert by the Hutchins visit www.CardiffSchools.com.

Consort, Gypsy, will take place at 10 a.m. Feb. 12 at the Encinitas Feb. 6 A pre-Super Bowl concert Library, 540 Cornish Drive. The with Jimmy and Enrique will free concert will feature music of take place at 2 p.m. Feb. 6 at the a wandering culture across the Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish continents of Asia and Europe Drive. The event will feature gui- and around the world. tar and percussion and is free Feb. 12 and sponsored by the Friends of An artists’ reception will be the Encinitas Library. held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12 at Off Track Gallery, 937 S. Coast Feb. 7 A Playwright’s Forum: The Highway 101, Suite C-103. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. event is free and will feature Hyde by Robert L. Stevenson Carol Korfin, fused glass; Tom and adapted by Loralie McGill Shannon, watercolors; Terry will take place from 6 to 7:30 Oshrin, mosaic jewelry; Pamela p.m. Feb. 7 at the Encinitas Fox Linton, paintings Grace Library. The event, presented by Swanson, gourds; Jackie Tyree, Encinitas Theatre Consortium, is paintings. Presented by the San free and open to actors, play- Dieguito Art Guild. For more wrights and the public. For more information, visit www.OffTrack information, visit www.ETCinfo. Gallery.com. net.

sunset stroll through the garden, champagne, appetizers and hors d’oeuvres, cake, chocolate, flowers, music, a rose and professional photo. Couples can also win a special $15,000 all-inclusive wedding at the garden. Visit www.SDBGarden.org/valentines.htm to learn more.

information, visit www.luxart Undertaking by Joe Powers will institute.org. take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 28 at the Encinitas Library, presented by Encinitas Theatre Feb. 20 A free concert by the Aiana Consortium. The free event is String Quartet performing open to actors, playwrights and music from Mozart and Brahms the public. Refreshments will be will take place at 2 p.m. Feb. 20 at served. For more information, the Encinitas Library, 540 visit www.ETCinfo.net.

Cornish Drive. Aiana is the newly appointed String Quartet ONGOING in Residence at San Diego State University in association with Farmers Market Mainly Mozart. For more inforSundays from 10 a.m. to 2 mation, visit www.AianaString p.m. at Paul Ecke Central Quartet.com.

Elementary School Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. at Flora Vista Elementary School Feb. 24 A Visual Art Workshop, Try It, You’ll Like It, will take place from Yoga for Seniors 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 24 at San Wednesdays from 3:30 to Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail 4:30 p.m. at the Cardiff Library, Gardens Drive. Cost is $20 for 2081 Newcastle Avenue. For two sessions. Registration is more information, visit www.silrequired. Experience a variety of verageyoga.org. media, taught by skilled SDAG artists. The event is presented by Horseshoe Pitching the San Dieguito Art Guild. For Age 12 and up, Tuesdays and more information, visit www. Thursdays at 5 p.m. at Oakcrest OffTrackGallery.com.

Park. For more info, call the Cardiff Riviera Horseshoe Club at (760) 436-5166.

Feb. 26 A Hands on Art event for families will take place from 10 Encinitas Library to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 26 at the Figure Drawing Group Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Will take place from 12:30 to Drive. The free event is present- 3:30 p.m. Fridays from April 2 to ed by Prodigy Kids Performing April 30 at 540 Cornish Drive.

Arts and will feature live theatre, Call (760) 942-8738 for more visual art, a drum circle and information. dance. Enjoy a performance by the Prodigy Players and take Flea Market home your art projects. RSVP to A flea market will be held www.ProdigyKidsPerformingArt every second Sunday of the s.com. month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ducky Waddles Emporium, 414 N. Coast Highway 101. For more Feb. 28 A Playwright’s Forum: The information, visit www.ducky Game Theory — A Philosophical waddles.com.

Businesses continued from 2 Clara County registering 768 sales for the just completed year, up by 50 sales from the year before. There were 393 closed transactions in Fresno County in 2010, compared to 388 the year before.

The Index also reported that December 2010 sales were up throughout the state by about 5 percent, to 1,253 closed deals from the 1,193 figure posted in December of 2009. The BizBen.com Index December report on the

MiraCosta continued from 2 a strong commitment to sustainability. “Going green” is evident in our facilities usage and planning, maintenance and grounds, and with our long-term relationship with the San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy. The college

Calendar

Feb. 14

Feb. 11 A second Friday Sketch Jam will take place at 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at Studio 2nd Street, 528 2nd Street.

The event is free and artists are invited to bring their pads to

Valentine’s Day at the Garden will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 14 at San Diego Botanic Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Drive. Tickets are $50 per couple. Couples will enjoy a

Feb. 17 A workshop on Getting the Most from Your Digital Camera will take place from 2 to 4 p.m.

Feb. 17 at the Encinitas Library, Computer Literacy Lab at 540 Cornish. Instructor will be Mike McMahon. Session 1 will cover how to understand your camera's settings; how to shoot great photos. Session II will cover using your computer to download and manage images (for both Mac and PC users). Limited seating, RSVP required. Call (760) 753-7376 or register at the reference desk in person.

Feb. 18 A Winter Poetry Slam will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 18 at La Paloma Theater, 471 S. Coast Highway 101. The event is free and will feature outstanding local poets competing for cash prizes. For more information, call (760) 944-6027 or visit www.fullmoonpoets.org.

Feb. 19 A Free Saturday will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 19 at Lux Art Institute, 1550 S. El Camino Real. The free event will feature guided tours, view sculptures by artist Alison Saar, hear live music and see an art project in the Lux classroom. There will also be refreshments. For more

continued from 3 together for spring Softball and Kickball leagues. Games take place at Cardiff Sports Park and game times vary between 6:15 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Pancake Breakfast Support the city of Encinitas Parks and Recreation Department’s Youth Basketball League and enjoy pancakes made by the Greater Encinitas Kiwanis Club on Feb. 11 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Encinitas Community and Senior Center. Tickets are $4 and can be purchased at the Parks and Recreation Department office or the Encinitas Community and Senior Center.

For further information, contact Recreation Supervisor Ken Rundle at (760) 943-2261.

business and community members will be scheduled in 2011, and we encourage anyone interested in helping shape the college’s vision to participate. To get on our mailing list for campus updates, and to receive invitations to future events, contact my office at (760) 7956612.

ENCINITAS FIRST • FEBRUARY 2011

Choose a great lifestyle.

Imagine starting your day with a little exercise at the ďŹ tness center followed by a refreshing dip in the pool.

After your work-out, you enjoy a healthy breakfast served to you in a beautifully appointed, restaurant-style dining room. In the afternoon, you join the group for an outing in town, returning just in time for dinner with friends and a movie in the private screening room. Imagine all of this, plus the support of a well-trained staff when you need it. Imagine yourself at Belmont Village.

Choose Belmont Village s )NDIVIDUAL APARTMENTS WITH NO BUY IN s #HEF PREPARED RESTAURANT STYLE DINING WITH DAILY MENU CHOICES s &REE SCHEDULED TRANSPORTATION s 3OCIAL ACTIVITIES AND lTNESS PROGRAMS s 3WIMMING POOL AND SPA s )NTERNET AND EMAIL s (OUSEKEEPING AND LAUNDRY s !SSISTANCE WITH DAILY LIVING s ,ICENSED NURSE ON SITE s $EDICATED !LZHEIMER S PROGRAM ÂŽ s #IRCLE OF &RIENDS MEMORY PROGRAM

Cardiff by the Sea (760) 436-8900 Sabre Springs (858)486-5020

RCFE License 374601056, 374602803 Š 2011 Belmont Village, L.P.

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