PaloAltoChamber.com | Event Calendar | Business Directory | Leader's Circle

Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce eBlast

Friday, November 16, 2007
What's New at the Chamber:
  • Welcome New Members
  • Thank you to renewing members
  • Jobs Available at the Chamber
  • Register for the Community Alert System, CANS
  • TriCity - South Business Mixer in January
  • FOCUS event a huge success!
  • Member news from Star One, SV Business Journal, Crowne Plaza Cabana, Trader Vics, Stanford Hospital and more
  • Acterra Business Environmental Awards
  • Chamber Magazine now available
  • It's not too early to think of PACE in Feb. - breakfast with the Mayor
  • Holiday Mixer and Toy Drive
  • SBA Outstanding Small Business Nominations
  • Recycling Guide for Business
  • Welcome Silicon Valley Business Journal to Leaders Circle!

Chamber News

FOCUS PALO ALTO 2007/Building a Sustainable Cleantech Economy - A Huge Success

The panel discussion about clean technology issues Silicon Valley, the United States and the world, "FOCUS PALO ALTO 2007/Building a Sustainable Cleantech Economy" featured Silicon Valley notables Scott Elrod, PhD, Manager, Hardware Systems Laboratory, PARC (Palo Alto Research Center); Erik Straser, Cleantech Investment Team Leader, Mohr Davidow Ventures (MVD); and Steve Westly, CEO, The Westly Group. Scott Budman, Business and Technology Reporter, NBC Channel 11 moderated the discussion that centered on what business, government and the community have to do to build and sustain this new economy. Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce/Palo Alto Business Goes Green sponsored this landmark event on Thursday, November 8, 2007 at Arrillaga Alumni Thank you Lathan & Watkins, Title SponsorCenter, Stanford University. Stanford University and the City of Palo Alto cosponsored. Latham & Watkins was the title sponsor. Read the entire recap at paloaltochamber.com.


Jobs at the Chamber
Begin an exciting career at the Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce! Where else can you be at the heart of business in one of the most vibrant cities on the Peninsula? We’re looking for new team members for the following positions:

  • Data & Publication Manager
  • Program & Events Manager

Email your resume to info@paloaltochamber.com.


2007-08 Chamber Magazine is now available!
Every member will receive a copy of our popular, full-color soft cover book featuring the best of Palo Alto and a complete business directory of all of our members. If you would like extra copies for distribution to your customers, contact info@paloaltochamber.com.

  
Chamber Events

Holiday Mixer and Toy Drive at the Cardinal Hotel
Host: Cardinal Hotel, Power Partner: THe Private Bank of the Peninsula235 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto; 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Power Partner: The Private Bank of the Peninsula
Food & Beverage Sponsors Include: Mantra, Satura Cakes, Coupa Cafe & Fogarty Wines
$10.00 Member / $20.00 Non
Showcase your business by giving holiday coupons to every guest and increase your visibility! Download our coupon registration form for more info.
Toy Drive provided by Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. Download the donation form for a detailed list of toys needed.


February PACE Breakfast: Leadership with the Mayor
Friday, February 1, 2008
7:45 - 9:15 a.m.; The Westin Palo Alto
Topic: Leadership -
Join us and meet Larry Klein, the new Mayor of Palo Alto, who will share his goals for the new year.
$20. Member/$30. Non
Sign up online at www.paloaltochamber.com


TriCity-South Business Networking Mixer
Palo Alto Los Altos & Mountain View Chambers
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
5:30-7pm; Crowne Plaza Cabana
4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto
$10.00 Members and Non
Showcase tables are limited and available online.


29th Annual Tall Tree Awards Nominations Open!
Thursday, April 17th at the Crowne Plaza Cabana
Tall Tree 2008 Nomination form can be found on the Chamber website
Nomination deadline is Friday, December 14th by 5pm to the Chamber


   
Community Events

Work Up a Healthy Appetite at the SVLG Silicon Valley Turkey Trot!
Start Thanksgiving Day off on the right foot at the Applied Materials Silicon Valley Turkey Trot. Before the big games, the big meal, the parades and the pies why not get in a little run and a lot of fun while benefiting local charities? It's an event the whole family will enjoy and a great way to kick off Thanksgiving Day. The November 22 registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; the race starts at 9 a.m. Location: Confluence Meadow, Guadalupe River Park, between Autumn St. and Hwy. 87, San Jose. Contact the Silicon Valley Working Group for details: 408-501-7864.


Palo Alto Welcomes the Second Annual Tour of California
Featuring the Prologue on Sunday, February 17th ending with a Health Fair at Stanford University. A Tour de France-style cycling road race, the 2008 Amgen Tour of California will challenge the world’s top professional cycling teams to compete along a demanding 650-mile course from Palo Alto and Stanford University to Pasadena, February 17-24, 2008. Palo Alto will get the chance to see, firsthand, a lineup of some of the best and most recognizable teams and cyclists in the world at the Prologue on February 17 in Downtown ending with a Health Fair at Stanford University. For further information and a complete downloadable course maps, please visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com.  Additional resources such as log sheets, elevation profiles and recommended viewing locations will be added to the official site in the coming weeks. 

The tour will also raise funds for cancer care and treatment. Founded in 2005, Breakaway from Cancer™ is a complementary component to Amgen's race sponsorship. Breakaway from Cancer raises awareness and funds to support valuable services and programs, provided free of charge, that help people living with cancer. This year, the initiative will support The Wellness Community and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship.

  
Member News

Palo Alto Chamber Welcomes their newest Leader Circle Member Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal! www.sanjose.bizjournals.com
The Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal has been serving the business information needs of Silicon Valley for 25 years with a circulation of 12,000. In addition to breaking news, our paper features executive profiles, a calendar of events and an extensive list of leads. Our average reader spends 43 minutes with the Journal every week and 55% of our readers hold executive level positions. Our content however serves all those interested in the happenings of business in Silicon Valley.
The Journal is offering an attractive subscription discount to Chamber members. Get 52 issues of the Business Journal and the 2008 Book of Lists for just $69.99. To start delivery, call 408-295-3800 and ask for the Circulation Department or read the full letter for details from paloaltochamber.com.


Stevenson House - Bridge of Hope
For nearly forty years, Stevenson House has provided affordable housing for low-income seniors 62 years and older.  Our 130 residents are active, independent adults from diverse cultures and careers who form a vibrant, international community.  We welcome your visit.


Celebrate with Star One Credit Union
Star One Credit Union, a new Chamber member, is having their grand opening ceremony on Wed., Dec. 5th at 2 pm. All Chamber members are invited to attend and enjoy the refreshments. Star One is located at 3903 El Camino Real, between Page Mill and Arastradero.


CELEBRATE THE SEASON, CELEBRATE LIFE! with Common Ground
Linda Lenore instructs Saturday, December 1, 2007, 2:30 - 4:30 pm $35
Register by calling 650-493-6072, Common Ground Garden Supply and Education Center, 559 College Avenue, Palo Alto CA 94306
This holiday season, give yourself an incredible gift of nurturing, peace, joy, and beauty with this Saturday afternoon event by connecting to the true essence of your home. Today's gathering will offer a new twist to the traditional aspects of Feng Shui - bringing added meaning and a sense of heart back into your living environments. More about this event and many others at commongroundinpaloalto.org.


Members in the News
November 2007 issue of Gentry features the chefs of two of our member restaurants including Junnoon and Zucca European – learn more at
http://gentry.bantapubnet.com/peninsula2007.


Flu Vaccine Research Program
The Stanford-LPCH Vaccine Program is seeking adults for a flu research
study. Standard, licensed flu vaccine given. You must be 70-100 yrs
old and in good health. Participants will be compensated.
Contact: Stanford-LPCH Vaccine Program (650) 498-7284
vaccines_program@stanford.edu


Big Band Sounds at The Cabana Hotel
Put on your dancing shoes or just sit and enjoy the music as The Crowne Plaza CabanaCabana Hotel hosts the big band sound of Joanie Brant and The Nob Hill Knights on November 18 and December 16. The “Sunday Tea Dance” starts at 5 pm on both dates. For reservations, call 650-628-0114. A $10 cover charge applies. Don’t miss the fun!


Plan an Island-Style Party at Trader Vic's
Are you organizing the office party or throwing an intimate party for family and friends? Delight your guests with an island-style celebration at Trader Vic's. We have banquet rooms to suit parties of 10 to 250 guests and a variety of menus featuring tropical-themed and continental cuisine. Trader Vic's exotic cocktails add to the festivities. Please call 650-798-1306 to book a holiday luncheon, reception or dinner party at Trader Vic's. Remember to book early, to get your choice of room and date!


Small Business Class CD offer
The American Institute of Small Business is giving away 2,500 copies of their course titled: "Quick Cash Secrets - 3 Ways to Build Revenues in 9 Days or Less". Each program comes with an audio CD and an Action Plan to help implement the ideas in the course. This program normally sells for $49.95, but chamber members can have it for only $5.95 to offset shipping and handling. Call Judy at 1-800-328-2906 by December 31, 2007 to order your audio program. The Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce does not endorse or profit from this offer.


Acterra Business Environmental Awards
Founded in 1990, Acterra’s Business Environmental Awards highlight and honor innovative programs and outstanding achievements that contribute to a sustainable Bay Area. Any private or public business entity, division or facility located in Alameda, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara or Santa Cruz County is eligible to apply. Non-profit organizations are eligible if environmental work is not their central mission. Download an application at www.acterra.org/bea. For more information, contact Awards Program Manager Ariane Erickson at awards@acterra.org or 650-962-9876 x350

  
Government Action

The Next GAC meeting is November 29, 2007
Topics include: Update reports from Cost of Doing Business Task Force: Business Contribution; Alliance for Livable Palo Alto; Healthy Workers; and Meet the New City Council Members. PACC welcomes the new council members to this meeting to share their goals for their term in office.


Let's Work Together to Improve Accessibility
In an effort to make Palo Alto's sidewalks just as easy to navigate by wheelchair as by foot, the Chamber supports the City of Palo Alto's campaign to clear the sidewalks in order to make it easier for our disabled neighbors and friends to enjoy shopping and dining downtown. We ask that downtown merchants and restaurants cooperate with the City's code enforcement officials in helping to make our city a great place for everyone to enjoy. Contact Jon Abendschein, Jon.Abendschein@cityofpaloalto.org, for more details about how you can help in the effort.

An Invitation to our Green Businesses
The City of Palo Alto would like to honor you at a reception December 3, 2007. The reception will include recognition of your organization by the Mayor and City Council for your efforts to conserve resources, minimize waste and reduce pollution in Palo Alto.
By achieving Green Business certification, you are setting a solid example to others that it is possible to move toward more sustainable business operations. Thank you to your organization for helping build awareness in the broader community about the benefits of implementing green business practices, and thus encouraging your members to support the environment by becoming “green” businesses themselves.
Monday, December 3, 2007, 5:45pm, 1st Floor reception area
Palo Alto City Hall, 250 Hamilton Avenue
coffee/tea and cake will be served
R.S.V.P. requested (number attending from your organization) to Annette.puskarich@cityofpaloalto.org by noon, Monday, November 26th

 
General Announcements

Santa Clara County Tells us to Beware of Bad Checks this holiday!
Merchants tend to let their guard down during the holidays creating opportunities for bad check writers, but there are ways you can protect your business using guidance from the Santa Clara County District Attorney. Following some simple procedures such as training your employees to spot suspicious checks, requiring ID and establishing firm policies are some of the ways you can prevent fraud. Inevitably, some checks will be returned so its also important to learn about your options of recourse including the Santa Clara County Bad Check Restitution Program. Read more about prevention tips and the county restitution program online or print the official brochure. Contact Danny Prokosch, Community Relations Representative for the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office at (877) 208-8491.


Help us build the City’s New Community Alerting Network System – SIGN UP!
After months of planning and preparation, the City of Palo Alto launched a new Community Alert and Notification System (Palo Alto CANS) and is encouraging residents to sign-up for the new system. Palo Alto CANS will enable the City to share information with residents regarding time-sensitive matters, such as unforeseen events or emergencies. Residents can sign-up to provide complete information (up to three phone numbers and two e-mail addresses) by visiting the PALO ALTO CANS – SERVICES BY CONNECT-CTY Website or www.cityofpaloalto.org and follow the links.


City of Palo Alto Recycling Guide – for Business
We’re happy to help spread the word about the City of Palo Alto’s newest tool to help your business in its recycling efforts. Download the latest Palo Alto Business Recycling Program brochure to make the best decisions for your organizations sustainable practices.


SBA Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Businesses and Advocates
The San Francisco District of the Small Business Administration will celebrate “Small Business Week” from May 12-17.  Activities include awards that recognize businesses and advocates that have made significant contributions to the small business community this year.  Nominations can be made prior to Nov. 23.  For more information, contact Gary Marshall, SBA, at (415) 744-6771 or e-mail to gary.marshall@sba.gov.


City News
Frank's Weekly Memo for November 16, 2007
A weekly summary of highlights and events of note in Palo Alto.This weekly memo includes Award Won by City, 'Golden Guardian' System Tested and more...


MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

Thank you to our membership for supporting business through the Palo Alto chamber!
We value each and every one of our members. You all make a difference in the business community here in Palo Alto and beyond. Thank you!


Welcome New Members
Thank you for demonstrating your commitment to the community by joining the Chamber. A special welcome is extended to our newest members: Harrell Remodeling; Kate Matin DDS; New Resource Bank; Silicon Valley Business Journal; and Xerox.


Thank you to our Renewing members
The following members have renewed their dedication to developing business in our community with the chamber: FASTSIGNS®; Michael Shteynberg; No Excuses, Your Fitness Partner; Palo Alto Dental Group; Palo Alto Medical Foundation; Palo Alto Weekly; Pierce & Shearer LLP; Princeton Capital; and The Country Inn Motel.

 


Chamber Events

Wednesday, December 12
Holiday Business Mixer & Toy Drive
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
Location: The Cardinal Hotel

Wednesday, January 23
January Business Mixer TriCity South
Time: 5:30PM to 7:00PM
Location: The Crowne Plaza Cabana

Friday, February 1
February PACE Breakfast
Time: 7:45AM to 9:15 AM
Location: The Westin Palo Alto.


About your Chamber

Your Partner Building Economic Vitality
· Supports a strong economy
· Promotes the community
· Provides networking opportunities
· Represents business to government
· Engages in political action


Contact us

Question, concerns or comments? Please contact us:

Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce
122 Hamilton Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94301
650-324-3121
Fax: 650-324-1215
www.paloaltochamber.com

Sandra Lonnquist
CEO/President
e-mail
650-324-3125

Carol Flaherty
Office Manager
e-mail
650-324-3121

Wendy Quaccia
Programs & Events
e-mail
650-324-3127

Evelina Fishman
Administrative Assistant
e-mail


Board of Directors

CHAIR

Deborah Pappas
Borel Private Bank & Trust Company

VICE CHAIRS

Mehran Farahani
Comerica Bank

Tommy Fehrenbach
Stern Mortgage Company

Michelle Flynn
Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLC

John W. King
Alhouse King Keller Williams Realty

Lee Weider
Access Land Development Services, Inc.

DIRECTORS

Jo Coffaro
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital

Kayla Cundiff
HSBC Bank

Carla Cumpston

Edward Jones

Sunny Dykwel
Alain Pinel Realtors

Sidney Espinosa
Hewlett-Packard Company

Barbara Gross
Garden Court Hotel

Alex Haedrich
Roche Palo Alto LLC

Carroll Harrington
Harrington Design

Skip Justman
Law Offices of Harold Justman

Julie Kelly
Stanford Shopping Center

Robin Kennedy
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP

Jean McCown
Stanford University

Bonnie Packer
Palo Alto Art Center Foundation

Jim Rebosio
The Sheraton & Westin Palo Alto

Joel Spolin
Absolute Mortgage Banking

Julie Stern Fukuhara
Stern Mortgage Company

Heather Trossman
Heather Trossman Architecture & Planning

Lanie Wheeler
Palo Alto Child Care Center

PRESIDENT & CEO

Sandra Lonnquist


 
Leaders Circle Hewlett-Packard Company Roche Leaders Circle Stanford Hospital and Clinics Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Palo Alto Medical Foundation Palo Alto Weekly Borel Private Bank and Trust Stanford University The Westin Palo Alto Sheraton Palo Alto Garden Hotel Vincci Hoteles Stanford Shopping Center
Interested in becoming a Leaders Circle Sponsor? More info>>

E-Blast Promotion Opportunities
Put your news here with your logo! Cost is $50.00 for 50 words plus your logo or a graphic of your choice, to be included in the next email blast. Send your info to the Chamber at programs@paloaltochamber.com.

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Palo Alto Chamber of Commerce | 122 Hamilton Ave. Palo Alto CA 94301 | 650-324-3121