December 2011 VOL. 22 NO.

12

2011 PRESIdENTS CIRCLE

PREMIER SPONSORS
The Valleys Daily News Source

COMMERCE
YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS.
Promoting The Community

Simplifying Workplace Rules AnnuAl DinnER 2012: HARvESTinG THE GooD Stimulates Economic Growth California Chamber of Commerce Policy ouT of CHAllEnGES Advocate Jennifer Barrera yesterday provided
The theme for the 2012 Annual Dinner membership meeting, Breathe, Balance, and Bold, is supportive of what our business community has been 2012 experiencing and reflects our incoming chairperson, Debra Dommen of Treasury Wine Estates, and her position in and passion for the wine industry. Breathe, Balance, and Bold are terms typically used in evaluating wine vintages. In 2011 our economy experienced a year similar to our 2011 harvest... the kind of year that tests nerves, skill and the capacity to deal with conditions out of your control and find ways to be creative and sustainable. We took a deep breath and worked more with our networks, managed more with less and reflected on fundamentals. Balance brought a process of harvesting the good out of challenges and reconnecting with whats important. The boundaries (community, regulatory and business climate) have been stretched and they wont go back to the old shape, so we must blend what weve learned and boldly move forward, thriving as a community. See GOOd on page 2

Representing Business to Government

DIAMOND LEVEL SPONSORS

Breathe Bold Balance Balance Breathe

Breathe

Bold

Business Growth Strategies

Marketing Group

Breathe Balance Bold

an employer perspective on the need for more workplace flexibility at an informational hearing of the Senate Labor and Industrial Relations Committee. She pointed to alternative workweek schedules as one means of providing flexibility, as did Michael Pope, in-house counsel for Securitas Security Services USA Inc. Another employer representative, Rick Albiero from The Telecommuting Advantage, talked about telecommuting.
Employer Struggle

Markstein Beverage Company Redwood Credit Union Comcast Napa Valley Marketplace Magazine Silverado Resort and Spa Exertec Health & Fitness Napa Recycling & Waste Services Home Depot Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Bank of Marin
Travis Credit Union Golden State Warriors Mark Coleman, State Farm Napa Planner Financial Group

Net-Flow Corporation Influence Internet

LABOR LAW UPDATE FOR 2012

What You Dont Know CAN Hurt Your Business! Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011
1556 First Street, Napa

California has some of the most stringent and complex labor laws in the nation, Barrera said, which means that employers struggle with meeting the overwhelming employment requirements imposed, rather than being able to focus on trying to develop and grow their businesses. Significant hurdles for employers in California discourage growth and job development, providing no flexibility for either the employer or the employee to develop alternative work schedules or options, Barrera said. Barrera highlighted two areas in which California can provide relief to employers and employees: Minimizing the procedures for adopting alternative workweek schedules; Minimizing the risk of litigation for California employers.

Special Offer!

See

GROwTH on page 2

8:30 - 11:30 a.m. Napa Chamber Board Room

$40 Chamber members $65 prospective members
Register online at n a p a c h a m b e r. c o m

Napa Chamber members who sign up and attend this event will receive a 50% discount on the 2012 Required Labor Poster with Poster Protect. Only one poster per company at this discount rate: Regular (member-only) sale price is $40.00. Your price will be $20.00!

INSIDE

Presented by Richard Rybicki of Rybicki & Associates, P.C., a management-side employment law firm based in Napa.

Free Webinar to keep employees safe at work! Welcome New Members!

Biz Alert: FUTA Tax Increase Member Spotlight: Connecting the Dots Chairmans Focus: The Year in Summary

NAPA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTING COMMERCE TO COMMUNITY

1556 First Street | Napa CA 94559 | 707.226.7455 | napachamber.com

GOOd

The event also recognizes major community contributors with awards for the Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and Family Friendly Business of the Year. The Chambers Annual Awards offer the community a springboard from which to honor notable citizens who routinely go above and beyond to support building a strong local economy and who take extra steps to ensure that the town of Napa is a healthy, growing and inclusive community. The Citizen of the Year is chosen each year by a designated committee, who this year have selected Gary Garaventa as honoree. Garaventa is the owner of Napas Garaventas Florist & Gifts and he has spent his entire adult life giving back and serving the Napa Valley community where he grew up. His contributions include Past President of the Boys and Girls Club, Napa Valley Unified Education Board, Napa Valley Hospice Board and Queen of the Valley Medical Center Foundation Board. He has also served on the Napa Valley College Foundation Board and is an Honorary Trustee at Queen of the

continued from page 1...

Valley. He is currently President of Napa Valley Country Club and is serving on the Queen of the Valley Community Benefits Board. This doesnt include numerous Trade Association positions over the years as well as involvement at St. Apollinaris Church and Justin-Siena High School. When informed of his award Gary, with characteristic humility, said; Im honored its not about just one person, Im one of many who work towards making Napa the best place to live in the Bay Area. Im taken aback and so very honored. Garaventa Florist & Gifts has been a family owned business for over 40 years and Gary is first to point out that he could not accomplish all that he does without the help and support of his wife, Patty. Selecting Gary Garaventa as Citizen of the Year is a superb choice, not only is Gary is a successful businessman, but he is a devoted and successful citizen as well. If I were to describe Gary in one word, I would use the word passionate. Hes passionate about his business, his city and his family. Im proud to be his friend. Ed Henderson, former mayor of Napa and President of Queen of the Valley Foundation.

Gary is an example of someone who gives tirelessly to the community for no personal gain other than helping others. Steve Silva, long time friend and associate, President, Steve Silva Plumbing Inc. His roots in this community run deep and true, and combined with his business acumen helped to guide our organization during challenging times. Linda Gibson, CEO Napa Valley Hospice & Adult Day Services Award winners in the remaining categories will be revealed over the coming weeks. The Napa Chambers Annual Dinner is to be held on January 20, 2012 at The Marriott Hotel and Spa in Napa. This festive annual gala includes dinner, a silent auction and the installations of the incoming Chairman of the Board, Debra Dommen, the Executive Officers and the Board of Directors. Tickets can be purchased for $110, or tables of ten for $1000. Tickets may be purchased online at www.napachamber.com.

Edward Shenk pictured with Ryan Gregory receives a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of 10 Years of Dedicated Service as Chair of the Infrastructure & Transportation Task Force (ITT) Committee

Breathe Bold Balance Balance Breathe

Breathe

Bold

GROwTH

continued from page 1... Alternative Workweeks

Given the current interpretations and/ or requirements surrounding these issues, there is limited flexibility for employers to work with employees and adjust work schedules to accommodate the employees requests. Simplifying these requirements and providing the employee and employer with more authority to manage the work environment will alleviate some of the burden on employers while still addressing employee needs, Barrera told the committee. Million-dollar class action lawsuits regarding alleged missed meal periods are rampant throughout California, and have a devastating impact on all industries, Barrera said. She cited several cases in which settlements exceeded $1 million but a significant portion of the judgment went to the attorneys who litigated the cases, leaving limited monies for employees.
Telecommuting

Telecommuting is becoming increasingly popular in todays work environment because of technological advances, Barrera told the
November 2011

committee. Although many California employers would like to offer this option to their employees, these arrangements generate a number of legal issues relating to federal and state wage-and-hour laws, she said. For example, with the employee off-site, it becomes difficult to track time worked, overtime liability, compliance with meal-and-rest periods, and work off the clock. Regardless of the challenge, employers must ensure compliance with federal and state wage-and-hour laws, Barrera noted. Telecommuting arrangements also raise questions concerning federal and state workplace safety laws. Although an employer doesnt control an employees premises and workstation, employers still bear responsibility for the safety of their employees, she said. In addition, injuries that arise out of and in the course of performing the job are compensable under workers compensation.
Reprinted with permission from the California Chamber of Commerce. | COMMERCE | Page 2 |

Breathe Balance Bold

2012

Napa Chamber of Commerce

Friday, January 20, 2012

ANNuAl DiNNer
Annual General Membership Meeting and Installation of Officers and Directors

Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa

3425 Solano Ave, Napa

Join us in celebrating...
Citizen of the Year - Gary Garaventa Ambassador of the Year Business of the Year
(nominations are open until December 5)

To Donate to the Silent Auction or for more information please call 707.226.7455 6:30pm $110.00 pp
Table of 10: $1000.00 black tie optional
connecting commerce to community

Register online at napachamber.com

or call 707.226.7455

napachamber.com

BUSINESS

continued from page 1... hairman

s FoCus

changes are necessary. This will require creativity and new ideas in other words, a departure from business as usual. We will need to focus more on membership benefits and value in general. We will need to rethink our membership rates and become more flexible to accommodate the needs of our business community. We will need to reconnect with our members, reprioritize THE YEAR in SummARY the Chambers functions and reconstruct our business model accordingly. The Chamber Well, I cant believe that my year as has started the work necessary to create this Chairman of the Board for the Napa Chamber change, and I look forward to seeing it get of Commerce is almost over. It has been a implemented and pay dividends next year. challenging and rewarding experience, and it What came completely unexpected? Who was truly an honor to lead the Chamber. As knew that during my year as Chair we would I reflect on the year, I think back on what we see the unplanned departure of our President/ did well, what is left undone and what came CEO? The latter part of this year has been completely unexpected. Despite my carefullydominated by this and efforts to recruit our laid plans for 2011, the year had a mind of its next CEO. But, thanks to the extraordinary own. efforts of the Chamber Staff and Board, the What did we do well this year? We made Chamber continues to run smoothly in the strides to improve the Chambers operations meantime. And thanks to the tireless work and efficiency. The Chambers Five Year and countless volunteer hours of the CEO Vision was updated and is ready to guide us in Search Committee members, we decision-making through the next are well on our way to finding five years. Our financial audit was it has been a challenging and rewarding our next CEO. What makes this completed and we passed with daunting task manageable is the experience, and it was truly an honor flying colors. Adjustments to our exciting opportunity it presents corporate bylaws have been made to lead the Chamber. to find a CEO that has the to reflect current practice and our vision, leadership and skill-set policies and procedures have been to plan and execute the important compiled into one comprehensive governance improvements and changes described above. Development Lunch to Business Develop & guide for easy reference by staff, volunteers and Dine. Along with the new name and graphic This year has been a roller coaster ride. Directors. We held our award-winning mixers, design elements, we listened to you to improve As Chair, the successes have invigorated conferences and networking events providing the content and tighten the schedule to provide me and the challenges have stretched me business leaders a chance to socialize, network a richer business development opportunity. and made me stronger. Most of all, I will and compare notes. Through your current feedback weve done a look back and remember the relationships I We were diligent in delivering one of wonderful job on this redesign and will continue have built this year with the community, the the Chambers core membership benefits to improve our events in the coming year. Chamber Staff and members of the Executive advocacy, being proactive and standing up for Committee and Board of Directors. These What work is left undone? One of our issues that our member businesses care about. are some of the most incredible people in 2011 initiatives was to grow our membership by We defended Napa Countys agricultural Napa, and I am so pleased that they choose to increasing membership retention and reaching preserve by taking a position on the Mishewal spend their time with the Chamber. Thanks out to new businesses and non-members. Wappos request for tribal status and insisting However, despite strong efforts by the Chambers to all of you for your assistance, support, that resulting land development projects be professionalism and dedication this year. sales staff, our membership renewals and new subject to our local land-use requirements. member sales stayed flat much of the year and In closing, if nothing else, this year I Realizing that the ordinances governing Napas began to decline toward the end of this year, was a strong steward of the Napa Chamber food truck industry were outdated, we led an which is currently indicative to the Chamber of Commerce and worked hard to leave it effort to bring this to City Councils attention industry as a whole. Members are still struggling in better condition than when I started. Next and supported the creation of a stakeholder with the economy, and they are seeking years Chair Debra Dommen and her Board group to update the ordinance. When we heard maximum value for their dollar. We are finding are ready to continue this stewardship and that the first draft of the Citizens Redistricting that this new economy is having a significant complete the work that needs to be done. And Commissions maps severed American impact on the Chambers business model. I look forward to continuing my involvement Canyon from the rest of Napa County, we In order to move forward and become in the Chamber next year as Immediate Past quickly sprung into action, took an opposing a sustainable organization for our members, Chair and beyond. by Ryan Gregory, Vice President, Riechers Spence and Associates 2011 Napa Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board position and were successful in supporting significant change. We implored our elected State representatives to keep Napas Redevelopment Agency intact and instead look at other reforms and opportunities to balance the budget. In 2011 we took positions and made your voice heard with Federal, State, County and City officials and even took a trip to Capital Hill to deliver our message in support of Napa Valleys economic vitality. In addition to our comprehensive advocacy benefits, the Chamber has also been successful in our money-saving and no-cost marketing avenues. We have improved upon connecting with members by developing a new program, Napa Chamber Cares that focuses on visiting members to gain a better understanding of their products, services, and long-term goals. This boosts our promotional efforts through social media, advertisements, online materials and marketing collateral. We are in the process of evaluating our event frequency and content; with marketing research, we recently transformed the event formerly known as First Friday Business from @Napadowntown

#THAnkS foR THE TWEETS!

from @NapaValleyPenCo

RT @NapaAttorney: this is a good trend for downtown Napa... http://ow.ly/7bgeJ

@NapaChamber (on article from Northbay Business Journal: Napa downtown continues as center of excitement; wine industry driving many deals)
November 2011 | COMMERCE |

Thanks to @NapaChamber for putting on the Mixpo last night! Fun and very well done event. Just wish we won the chainsaw in the raffle!
| napachamber.com

Page 3

expenditures for office supplies by using the Napa Office Depot and Staples benefit programs! Also, through a partnership with BEN-E-LECT, a leading provider of Employer Driven Health Plans, small businesses may save as much as 30% on their group healthcare costs. 4. Chamber representation for legislative action issues. Details of each of these actions can WHAT ARE YouR REAl be found on our website under Legislative Action; CHAmBER BEnEfiTS? please see the Chairs article (page 3) for a recap The Napa Chamber of Commerce on advocacy during 2011. serves the business community and makes In the coming months we will hire a new Napa a better place to work, live and grow. CEO to take these benefits to a new level, Chamber members are proud and provide even more to our to belong to an organization i wanted to take some time to outline the membership. that plays such a key role in many other reasons being a member of the Our conferences were rated the community. During the the Best of 2010 by North Bay Chamber is a benefit to your business and last two years the Chamber Biz Magazine, and we believe this give you a brief report card for the year. membership was relatively flat. years conferences and Expo were We had projected growth for better than last year. The feedback potential customer. 2011, but it just didnt happen as we had from those who attended our E3 Conference in But its not all about marketing Here are hoped. In making calls to members recently October was that it was the best of our economic other powerful benefits: I have discovered there is a perception the conferences in many years. 1. Business Products available for Chamber is simply a marketing expense Being a Chamber member is much more than purchase at a discount. The savings on Labor to many of them. I wanted to take some time getting help with your marketing. It gives you Law Updates and posters each business is to outline the many other reasons being a a powerful voice in the community that reaches required to publish each year alone can be member of the Napa Chamber is a benefit all the way to our Nations Capitol. If you have worth your entire membership fee. to your business and give you a brief report questions about any of these services you can visit card for the year. 2. Access to marketing expertise to our website at NapaChamber.com or you may help you edit your ads and press releases to While its true, the Chamber offers contact me directly at 707.254.1146. make them more powerful at no cost to you. several ways for its members to market Only members have access to our marketing their business, some of them are not as department resources in this way. easily traceable as others. Our Chamber BIZ ALERT: FUTA Tax Increase directory with your listing is published to 3. Save 15% to 25% on your total annual by Randy Martisen, President/CEO, Accelerated Marketing Group 2011 Napa Chamber of Commerce Interim CEO

over 10,000 businesses and visitors each year. You get FREE Press Releases for your company and Ribbon Cuttings by our Chamber Ambassadors. You have access to our Chamber E-Sheets, social Mixers and Business Develop & Dine lunches where you can access great relationship building opportunities for your business. Dont forget our very popular annual events: Napa Valley Business Expo, Benefit Golf Tournament, and E3 Conference. In fact, there are over 50 events each year and every event is an opportunity for you to make a new friend and

Keep Your Employees Safe: Free Green Cleaning Webinar!

SuPPoRTinG A SuSTAinABlE fuTuRE

When: Tues. Dec. 13, 2011 Time: 10:30 a.m. to Noon Registration is FREE but must be done by Dec. 9th! (see below) Do you know whats lying in your janitorial supply closet? Many conventional cleaners can cause serious harm to employees through toxic chemicals that can cause asthma, cancer or irritating burns to eyes and skin. Furthermore, when released into the environment, many of these conventional cleaners, especially those containing phosphates, can cause great damage to aquatic ecosystems. The use of environmentally friendly cleaning equipment can greatly reduce harmful affects to human health and the environment. Please join the Spare the Air Employer Program for a free webinar on how to successfully utilize green cleaning equipment for your organization. The

webinar will cover best practices such as identifying cleaners that have been certified as safer for workers and the environment by independent eco-labels, how these cleaners often perform as well or even outperform conventional counterparts, and how the implementation of green cleaners can save your organization money in many ways. Speakers will include Alicia Culver, Director of the Responsible Purchasing Network (RPN) and Chris Geiger, Green Purchasing Program Manager at the San Francisco Department of the Environment. Alicia will provide a comprehensive overview of green cleaning equipment and must-know information for purchasers. Chris will tell us about the Citys real-world experience with switching to environmentally friendly cleaning equipment. This webinar is FREE to attend, but advanced registration is required by Friday, December 9. To register, and for more information, please go to:

http://bit.ly/freewebinargrn
| COMMERCE |

In the coming months you will see a FUTA Tax increase. This happens when states lack the funds to pay UI benefits, and they obtain loans from the federal government. To assure that these loans are repaid, and in accordance with Title XII of the Social Security Act, the federal government is entitled to recover those monies by reducing the FUTA credit it gives to employers, which is the equivalent of an overall increase in the FUTA tax. This process is commonly called FUTA Credit Reduction and was designed as an involuntary repayment mechanism. The credit reduction starts at 0.3 percent and increases 0.3 percent each year the state has not repaid the federal loans. The California FUTA tax increase will be 0.3%, this applies to the first $7000 you pay each employee as wages throughout 2011. Therefore the FUTA credit reduction results in an additional $21 per employee ($7000 x 0.3% = $21). The additional money will be due with the final filing of the Federal Form 940, Line 11 and Schedule A Line 2 on January 31, 2012. 20 other states are effected. This vital Biz Alert is brought to you by Payroll Masters, Where Everday is Payday! 707.226.1428

November 2011

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napachamber.com

W elcome N eW m embers!
Architects

NVAE - Dean Jones Architects Dean Jones, 707-255-4422 www.DeanJonesArchitect.com NVAE - Estudio Verde Architects David Horobin, 707-337-4144 1915 Second St, Napa www.estudioverde.com
Architectural Ornamental Features

Financial Services

Resa Shore - Certified Financial Recovery Coach Resa Shore, M.B.A., C.F.R.C., 707-252-1423 www.yourmoneyhealth.com
Gas / Propane / Oil - Marketers & Distributors

Podiatrists

DiPasqua Podiatry Katrina DiPasqua, D.P.M., 707-224-8865 2017 Jefferson St, Napa
Search Engine Optimization

Copper Iron Designs, Inc. Andrew Bradford, 707-252-1949 849 Jackson St Unit 5B, Napa copperirondesigns@yahoo.com www.copperirondesigns.com
Bookkeeping Services

Napa Valley RV & Marine, LLC Melanie Glover, 707-252-6944 480 Soscol Ave, Napa
Gold / Silver / Platinum Buyers

Louden Leads Sean Louden, 707-879-1850 www.LoudenLeads.com

Signs

Beyond Bookkeeping Barbara Felsch, 707-258-6100 1832 Soscol Ave Ste 116, Napa
Catering

Napa Gold & Silver Jason Bowman, 707-252-2188 3033 California Blvd, Napa www.napagoldandsilver.com Wine Country Coin Gold and Silver Don Cameron, 707-265-6500 1509 W Imola Ave, Napa www.winecountrycoin.com
Graphic Designers

Sign Dimensions Craig Rode, 707-226-5311 1726 Tanen St, Napa info@signdimensions.com www.signdimensions.com
Wildlife Rescue

Amy Troutner Catering Amy Troutner, 707-299-9019

Credit Card Processing

Wildlife Rescue Center of Napa County WRCNCPhyllis Hunt, 707-224-4295 PO Box 2571, Napa www.napawildliferescue.org
To learn more about membership benefits and a complete listing of Napa Chamber members, updated daily, visit napachamber.com or phone us at 707.226.7455
Connect with us...

Beyond Bookkeeping Barbara Felsch, 707-258-6100 1832 Soscol Ave Ste 116, Napa
Dentists

Linn Design Studio Amy Linn, 707-363-4254

Non Profit Organizations

Parkview Family Dentistry Mojgan Yousefzadeh, D.D.S., 707-255-7477 720 Jefferson St, Napa parkviewfamilydentistry@gmail.com Valley Dental Care Cheryl Hoey, 707-254-7600 1077 Trancas St, Napa info@napavalleycosmeticdentistry.com www.napavalleycosmeticdentistry.com

Napa Valley Architects Exchange Chris Craiker, 707-224-5060 3154 Browns Valley Road, Napa info@nvae.net www.nvae.net V.O.I.C.E.S. - On The Move Jackie Davis, 707-251-9432 780 Lincoln Ave, Napa jacquelineldavis@gmail.com www.voicesyouthcenter.org

S u p p o r t Yo u r C o m m u n i t y W i t h o u t S p e n d i n g A n E eMber xtra Dime! enefit

SPENDING YOuR DOLLARS IN THE CITY WHERE YOu LIVE HELPS CREATE A STRONG LOCAL ECONOMY! Your dollars will support YOuR community by:

SHOP LOCALLY!

Know someone who needs to be a member? Please contact: Sherrell Harper - 707.257.4598 Cathy Lavaroni Hall - 707.738.6763

b ulletin

S u p p o r t Yo u rjobs in YOUR city n i t y W i t h o u t Keeping C o m m u d i n g A n & emergency services STRONG S p e n Keeping police, fireE x t r a D i m e !
Maintaining LOCAL roads and you will promote SUSTAINABLE environment SPENDING YOuR DOLLARS IN THEaCITY WHERE YOu LIVE by HELPS CREATE ASAVING on gas! STRONG LOCAL ECONOMY!

SHOP LOCALLY!

create a strong local economy!

For more information and a complete business resource directory, visit napachamber.com
Dont forget, shopping locally includes everything from business supplies to marketing & advertising resources!
Visit our business directory online to help guide your search!

Spending $Money$ WHeRe you live HelpS

Your dollars will support YOuR community by:

Keeping jobs in YOUR city Keeping police, fire & emergency services STRONG Napa Town Center Maintaining LOCAL roads Napa Premium Jefferson Square Northwood (First St & Coombs) (Jefferson St & Outlets Shopping by and you will promote Trancas) a SUSTAINABLE environment Ctr (First St & Factory (Trancas St & Downtown Napa SAVING on gas! Stores Dr) Jefferson) Grape Yard Oxbow Public Market Redwood Plaza Shopping Ctr Auto Row
(First St & McKinstry)

Wal-Mart Center

(Solano Ave & Redwood Rd)

(Jefferson St & Claremont Way)

(Soscol Ave) (Yountville)

(Soscol Ave & Lincoln)

Napa Town Center Main Street Shops (First St & Coombs)

(North of Third St.)

Bel Aire Plaza Napa Premium (Trancas St & Outlets Hwy 29)

Silverado Plaza Jefferson Square (Trancas St &

(Jefferson St & Soscol Ave) Trancas)

V Marketplace Northwood St. HelenaCtr Shopping (Trancas St & Marketplace

Downtown Napa South Dr) Stores Napa Napa West End Oxbow Public Market Market Place (1400s of First St.) Redwood & Soscol) (Imola Ave Plaza
(First St & McKinstry) (Solano Ave & Redwood Rd)

(First St & Factory

River Park Village (St. Helena) Jefferson) Grape Yard (Imola Ave & Shopping Ctr Auto Row Jefferson St)
(Jefferson St & Claremont Way)

(Soscol Ave)
(707) 226-7455

promoting the community Wal-Mart Center creating a strong local economy supporting a sustainable future Marketplace November 2011 V | COMMERCE (Soscol Ave & Lincoln) Bel Aire Plaza Silverado Plaza (Yountville) (Trancas St & (Trancas St & Main Street Shops St. Helena Hwy 29) Soscol Ave) (North of Third St.) Marketplace

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napachamber.com

miXPo at

River Terrace inn

Visit our FB page for more photo albums of fun!

PRoviDinG nETWoRkinG oPPoRTuniTiES

facebook.com/napachamber

Sherell Guyot, Catering Sales Manager and Cesar Cabrera of Cuvee, our wonderful hosts of the night. Ariana Miller explains how Napa Electric offers specialty energy efficient light bulbs and how they are also a drop off for recycling light bulbs as well.

Our Third-Thursday event in November was a special MIxPO held at River Terrace Inn. The mood was set for an evening of successful networking. Everyone who attended was in agreement; the businesses display tables were well-done and informative as always! Great connections were made in a relaxed environment with delicious snacks provided by River Terrace Inn and Fridas Mexican Grill. Wonderful wine and beer provided by Markstein Beverage Company, Castello di Amorosa and Napa Smith Brewery & Winery. PLAN AHEAD: Dont miss this months MIxER December 15th at Blue Oak School!

s
Welcome New Members:
Maria Castro and Martha Llamas co-owners of Napa Spa Solutions!

s explains the unveiling of his big new

project, coming out soon!

Seth Herbey of Herbey Productions

napa Chamber of Commerce presents the 23nd Annual

and After-Hours miXER

Call Lynn Page for more information and to register your booth by phone: 707.254.1145

s
November 2011 |

Susan Sharman of Sharman Studios shows off her beautifully designed marketing materials.

The Umpqua Bank table had amazing chocolates, delicious coffee to take home and tons of other goodies. They know how to make banking fun! Tim Woods, Traci Taylor and Scott Taylor

meriTage resorT

mARCH 20, 2012

875 Bordeaux Way, napa 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
aNd

Tuesday,

Attendee Admission is ONLY $5!

* *
spa
| napachamber.com

Mary Cervantes of NVC Small Business Development Center speaks with Sue Schwitalla of Edward Jones.

Presidents Circle Members: February 7, 2012 Members: February 14, 2012 Non-Members: February 28, 2012

Booth registration dates:

+ Extras, Electrical/Extra Table

Members: $350 Non-Members: $500

Booth Pricing:

we will Introduce You To

the Service Youve Been Searching for...

Youll find everyone at the napa valley Business Expo!

| Page 6

Open to the Public Visit over 70 local businesses!

COMMERCE

We Focus oN busiNess
Chamber Member Spotlight:
Holly Krasner launched her communications and marketing consultancy, Connecting the Dots, in 2009 at the height of the recession. A bold move from a bold and energetic professional. Holly moved to Napa from San Francisco in 2000 as Marketing Director for the fledgling Copia Center for Wine, Food and the Arts. In that role she was instrumental in bringing the farmers market to the Copia parking lot and instituting the community free day at the center. From there and until 2009 she served as Marketing Director for Diablo Publications, which publishes multiple regional lifestyle magazines, including Napa Sonoma magazine. On taking that bold move in 2009 Holly says; I had a great desire to focus efforts on the community in which I live and all of my clients to date have been located in Napa. Holly has more than 20 years of experience working with a range of businesses and nonprofits, including; positions in media (TV, radio, and print), at agencies (both PR and advertising), for nonprofits (visual and performing arts), in politics (including running a county-wide campaign to develop an environmental educational center in San Francisco), and with numerous clients as a consultant. Gelow Coaching Co.
707.255.5528 gelowcoaching.com 707.815.3518 grapebomb.com

ConnECTinG THE DoTS

Connecting the Dots focuses on marketing arts and culture, education, environment, hospitality, retail and, of course, food and wine. Hollys client roster includes a large range of local businesses. She specifically and intentionally does not include wineries among her clients so as not to directly compete with friends and colleagues. Her emphasis is on connecting the dots through marketing, communications, strategic partnerships, community and government relations, Web 2.0, facilitation and more. Her clients are unanimous in their accolades: Holly is a smart, enthusiastic, strategic marketer with creative ideas and a no nonsense approach. She has worked with Oxbow Public Market for over two years now, managing our newsletter, social media and special marketing programs. Hollys marketing savvy and ability to tell Oxbows story have been instrumental in helping bring Oxbow to the next level -- we now have 12,000 newsletter subscribers and 3,500 Facebook fans -- and have made our mark as the local gathering place for great food and wine in Napa Valley. - Steve Carlin, Founder, Oxbow Public Market Holly is an active community contributor, serving on several local Boards Sharman Studios
925.228.0686 sharmanstudios.com

and non-profits. Upon launching her consultancy one of Hollys first moves was to join the Napa Chamber of Commerce, I enjoy working with leaders in our community to make our community stronger, the Chamber serves as a valuable source of information about key issues. Membership has provided me a great opportunity to network with local business leaders and has encouraged me to shop local with member-to-member discounts. Napa Mayor Jill Techel says of Connecting the Dots; Hollys company name is so perfect. She makes things happen and takes you from idea to completion.... connecting the dots! Holly thinks big picture and has the talent to get the job done. During her year in Leadership Napa Valley her group raised $90,000 to do a tourism study and they hired Purdue University to do it. Amazing! Holly is just fun to be around. She is so upbeat and tackles every issue with that can do attitude. Holly lives in Napa with her husband Daniel Dawson, owner of 1st Streets Back Room Wines. CONNECTING THE DOTS 707.252.7281 holly@hkconnects.com

3 rock marketing

707.227.4273 3rockmarketing.com

Leading Edge Marketing Solutions

707.294.2666 LeadingEdgeMarketingSolutions.com 707.257.2585 hcnapa.com

GrapeBomb.com

Baillargeon Connect
707.927.5750 baillargeonconnect.com

designthis!

707.252.9425 designthis.com

Huffman Communications HC Napa

Grove-Associates

650.274.3439 grove.associates.com

BB&B Business Group

707.557.3182 bbandb.businessgroup.com

Jack Wright Productions

801.710.2361 jackwrightproductions.com 707.927.3789 whitesandspromedia.com

NVC Small Business Development Center 707.253.3210

napasbdc.org

1250media

707.927.5822 1250media.com

Big Vine Wines, LLC

707.252.7607 liquidtradesolutions.com

White Sands Pro Media

Prime Market Access International

707.934.5154

DAB Enterprises
707.254.9899 dabenterprises.net

CBPR

707.255.5997 cbpublicrelations.com

Local Happenings

707.557.3182 localhappeningsmagazine.com

Louden Leads

707.879.1850 LoudenLeads.com

Cornucopia Creations
707.226.6560 cornucopiacreations.com

Napa Web Consultants

707.258.8566 napawebconsultants.com 707.255.0300 adamswalter.com

Jeni Olsen Design

707.479.1734 jeniolsendesign.com 707.363.4254

The Derbin Group

707.224.6430 thederbingroup.com

Adams Walter Communications

Linn Design Studio

First Press Productions

866.380.5746 firstpressproductions.com
October 2011 |

Accelerated Marketing Group

707.251.0346 mymconsulting.com
| Page 7

listed are some more useful marketing resources for your business. Please check our business directory online to see if they offer member-to-member discounts!

napachamber.com/business_directory
| napachamber.com

COMMERCE

Well
December 15

For more information call 707.226.7455 or visit our website at napachamber.com

E veNT c aleNdar
January 18
Wake Up Your Business Wednesday

meeT you There!

January 20

Mixer
Napa Chamber of Commerce As the membership organization for business, we promote our communitys economic vitality and quality of life through leadership development, advocacy, facilitation and education.

miSSion

Blue Oak School

1436 Polk Street
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

$10 Members $30 Prospective Members

7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Napa Chamber Boardroom

Essential Practices

ANNUAL DINNER
Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa
3425 Solano Ave, Napa

$20 per person Bring a friend for free

Register by calling SBDC at 707.253.3210

6:30 p.m.
Registration Required: napachamber.com 707.226.7455

BEnEfiT from being a member of the napa Chamber of Commerce

Creating a Strong Local Economy Promoting the Community Providing Networking Opportunities Supporting a Sustainable Future Representing Business to Government Engaging in Political Action

All Member Briefing

Napa Chamber Boardroom 1556 First Street
8 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

January 26

February 3
Business Develop & Dine

Community Awards
Give the Gift of Recognition Nominate a Hero Today:
bit.ly/nomformCA

No Fee! Learn more about

how to utilize your Napa Chamber membership! Registration Required: napachamber.com 707.226.7455

For membership information call Sherrell Harper - 707.257.4598 Cathy Lavaroni Hall - 707.738.6763

Hilton Garden Inn 3585 Solano, Napa

11:30 - 1:00 p.m.

$30 Members $60 Prospective Members

Randy Martinson, Interim CEO 707.254.1146 randy@napachamber.com Katherine Zimmer, VP Marketing & Communications 707.254.1147 katherine@napachamber.com Sherrell Harper, Membership 707.257.4598 sherrell@napachamber.com Cathy Lavaroni Hall, Membership 707.738.6763 cathy@napachamber.com Paula Wick, Customer Service Manager 707.226.7455 paula@napachamber.com Lynn Page, Executive Assistant 707.254.1145 lynn@napachamber.com Angelica Mancuso, Marketing Coordinator 707.254.1144 angie@napachamber.com Christine Sullivan, Administrative Assistant 707.254.1143 christine@napachamber.com Caryl Chakerian, Communications 707.738.6053 caryljc@gmail.com

napa Chamber of Commerce STAff

nAPA CHAmBER 2011 offiCERS

Ryan Gregory, Chairman of the Board ................ Riechers & Spence Associates, Inc. Debra Dommen, Chair-Elect ...................................................... Treasury Wine Estates Cherie Knox, Vice-Chair Advocacy ........................................... Redwood Credit Union Kent Kuhlmann, Vice-Chair Resources ........................ Kuhlmann Associates Financial Richard Rybicki, Vice-Chair Membership ................................ Rybicki & Associates Pamela Gleeson, Treasurer ...........................................................Business Consultant

nAPA CHAmBER BoARD of DiRECToRS Scott Adams, Comcast; Dr. Edna Baehre-Kolovani, Napa Valley College; John Cardinale, State Farm Insurance; Ken Frank, La Toque; Clay Gregory, The Napa Valley Destination Council; Paul Hicks, Payroll Masters Inc; Cathy DAngelo Holmes, Coldwell Banker Commercial; Bill Lockhart, Edward Jones; Barry Martin, City of Napa; Kevin Massie, Napa Ford Lincoln Mercury; Sherry McKillop, Follow Your Compass; Shawn Milburn, Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa; Beth Painter, Balanced Planning; Linda Parks, Lixit Corp.; Dennis Pedisich, Rabobank; Jaime Penaherrera, Queen of the Valley Medical Center; Suzanne Shiff, Napa Valley Coalition of Nonprofit Agencies; Don Shindle, Westin Verasa Napa; Brenda Speth, Napa Valley Register; Rex Stults, Napa Valley Vintners; Dr. Patrick Sweeney, Napa Valley Unified School District; Kevin Teague, Holme Teague Roche Anglin LLP; Jay Williamson, Williamson and Company. HONORARY DIRECTOR: Julian Weidler, in Memoriam.
| COMMERCE | Page 8 | napachamber.com

COMMERCE editorial is exclusively produced by

the Napa Chamber of Commerce, 1556 First Street, Napa, CA 94559. 707.226.7455

EDITOR: Katherine Zimmer Please email submissions to katherine@napachamber.com

napachamber.com
October 2011