Chamber member Sean Socks, Ricoh USA, Inc., enjoys a Scoma's crabcake at the Business Showcase Tuesday.

Local Businesses Shine at Business Showcase
Nearly 1,000 people attended the 2012 Business Showcase Tuesday at the Hilton San Francisco to network and visit exhibits from more than 150 local businesses. “This year’s event brought the city’s diverse business community together and put a spotlight on the local companies that are powering our economy,” said Chamber President & CEO Steve Falk. “The Chamber thanks Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Recology and our many other supporters for making this important event possible.” The Chamber is also proud to announce the winner of the #SFBizShowcase raffle – Renea Eure, Alaniz Marketing. Contact Nadia Chan at nchan@sfchamber.com by May 21 to redeem two tickets to the Giants vs. the Diamondbacks on May 28 at AT&T Park.

Celebrate Small Business Week –The eight annual San Francisco Small Business Week (SF SBW) kicks-off Monday celebrating the contributions of local small businesses and entrepreneurs to the city’s economy and community. Presented in partnership with the Chamber, SF SBW will connect more than 4,000 small business owners through a week of events, workshops and seminars designed specifically for small businesses. “San Francisco’s small businesses are the backbone of the local economy and we are pleased to honor them during Small Business Week,” said Chamber Chief Marketing Officer and SF SBW Co-Chair Leslie Milloy. The Chamber encourages everyone to join the celebration by attending the Flavors of San Francisco kick-off (use promo code SFSBW2012-SFChamber for free admission), participating in the free conference, attending the awards ceremony and joining the many other events and celebrations planned throughout the week. Read more.

Employer Regulations Clarified – Chamber members received tips and advice on how to comply with California’s meal and rest period regulations at the Public Policy Forum on Tuesday. Littler Mendelson partner Richard Hill explained the recent California Supreme Court ruling (Brinker Restaurant Corporation v. Superior Court) and offered guidance on how to create a compliant policy for the workplace. “It’s harder to be an employer in California than anywhere else,” said Hill. “This is another example of the unique obligations that are required.” Businesses seeking more information on the Brinker ruling and other employment and labor legal matters are encouraged to contact Richard Hill at rhill@littler.com. Read more.

New Golden Gate Bridge Pavilion – The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District and National Park Service unveiled the new Bridge Pavilion Tuesday as part of the many activities planned in conjunction with the icon’s 75 Anniversary Celebration. The 3,500-square-foot building serves as the landmark’s visitor center and includes an information desk, a small collection of historic and interpretive displays, and a wide range of gifts and keepsakes, many created by local artists. “The new Bridge Pavilion will enhance the visitor experience for our city’s most cherished landmark,” said Chamber President & CEO Steve Falk. "This – and other planned improvements – are helping to keep our city a top tourist destination." Read more. Click here to learn more about the projects and events paying tribute to the Golden Gate Bridge 75th Anniversary.

Voice your Support for Scene in San Francisco
San Francisco’s film rebate program – Scene in San Francisco – is scheduled to sunset on June 31. The Chamber-supported program, which provides rebates on qualified production costs, has helped attract numerous productions to the city, create thousands of jobs and bring millions of dollars to the local economy. On Wed. May 16, the Board of Supervisors Budget & Finance Committee will consider extending the program. The Chamber encourages members to voice your support by attending the hearing on May 16 at 10 am at City Hall, Room 250 or by contacting your supervisors today! Read more and take action.