[Nearly 200 Chamber members networked at Tuesday's Business After Hours mixer at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Pier 39.]
Chamber Speaks out on Community Choice Aggregation – The Chamber expressed concerns over the city's Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) process to the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission Tuesday. Authorized by state law, the city will soon enroll all energy customers into its energy program. Rates are not guaranteed and customers will automatically be enrolled unless they opt-out at the right time, or risk paying fines. “Community Choice Aggregation does not look like a choice; it looks like a government takeover of electric power in San Francisco that will have negative effects on businesses and residential ratepayers,” said Chamber President & CEO Steve Falk. To receive updates from the Chamber on the CCA program and how to opt-out, contact Patricia Aleman at paleman@sfchamber.com.
Creating a New Economic Engine for Parks & Recreation – Chamber members heard from Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg Tuesday and gave feedback on potential solutions to cut $12.4 million from the department budget due to the city's looming half-a-billion dollar budget deficit. “We need a new economic model for our parks,” said Ginsburg. “And we need the business community to be involved.” The group discussed revenue-generating opportunities including corporate sponsorships, volunteer and apprenticeship programs, parking meters in Golden Gate Park and other measures. To learn more about how businesses can support San Francisco parks and recreation, contact Nicole Avril at nicole.avril@sfgov.org.
Chamber Members Offer Unique Valentine's Day Packages – Whether you're in a long-term relationship, dating someone new or just want to survive Valentine's Day, Chamber members are offering unique packages to celebrate. Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is hosting a day of partner meditation, yoga and massage workshops. SFMOMA is offering an intimate portrait with photographer Jason Winshell. The Exploratorium is hosting an “Ultimate Date Tour” of special love-themed exhibits including the Emotion Tracer, Finger Tingler and Listening Vessel. Chamber member restaurants including Aqua, Venticello Ristorante and others are offering delicious, multi-course, pre-set menus. Make your Valentine's Day reservations with fellow Chamber members today.
Chamber Members Get Tips on Social Media– A packed house of Chamber members heard from social media expert Edith Yeung Tuesday on using Facebook and LinkedIn to market your business. During the hands-on session, members gained strategies for building a brand and growing business contacts on two of the most popular social media sites. “If you have not yet created a Facebook fan page, don't worry, you're still a pioneer,” Yeung assured attendees as she highlighted the viral marketing opportunities that can be gained by harnessing social media. Contact, Paula Zamudio at 415.352.8818.
Local Business Leaders to Attend World Expo in China – The San Francisco Center for Economic Development (SFCED) is leading a business-centric trip to Beijing and Shanghai June 14-25, coinciding with San Francisco Week at the World Expo. Highlights of the trip include: meetings with senior business leaders and government officials, optional sightseeing, and three days of tickets to the Expo. Contact Danny Nguyen at dnguyen@sfced.org or 415-352-8846. Read more 
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Become an Expert Speaker for the Small Business Administration |
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting topic ideas and outlines for their ongoing training programs. SBA presenters are community experts who volunteer their time. Interested speakers should contact Gary Marshall at gary.marshall@sba.gov.
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Take Advantage of Commuter Incentives |
Take advantage of the Chamber's partnership with Commuter Check to reduce your payroll taxes, lower your employees commuting expenses and do your part to help the environment. This affinity partnership provides members with: reduced rates for Commuter Check Direct (a full-service pre-tax transportation benefit program); waived shipping and handling fees for Commuter Check orders; and more. For more information contact Stuart Baker at 510-649-1061 or stuart.baker@accorservicesusa.com.
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Join the Hottest Leads Club
in Town! |
The Chamber's Business Alliance is a structured leads-exchange program meeting twice monthly designed for networking, professional and personal development. Members develop skills and tools to grow their businesses, dramatically expand their network of contacts, and exchange leads, which turn into increased revenue. Contact Maya Lewis at mlewis@sfchamber.com or 415.352.8840. Read more
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