SEPT 2013 – Covered California Healthcare Exchange Gearing Up For Enrollment

Covered California Healthcare Exchange Gearing Up For Enrollment

With less than four weeks before the October 1 deadline the officials at the Covered California Healthcare Exchange are scrambling to launch the online enrollment system. If tests prove to show the system is still lacking, phone centers and paper applications are available for consumers ready to go.

The state is trying to reach as many as 5 million Californians who are uninsured or do not receive health insurance through their employers. The goal for Exchange enrollment is 1.4 million by December, 2014. Another 1.4 million Californians may be eligible for an expansion of Medi-Cal, the state’s Medicaid program for the poor.

An issue for California as well as other states building their own exchanges is that they must verify people’s income, Social Security numbers and other information with a federal data hub.

A government audit conducted in August raised concerns about whether the federal system would complete testing for data security in time for an Oct. 1 launch. The testing is crucial to show that the system can safely transmit tax information and other data among state exchanges and federal agencies.

Citing that audit, Republicans in Congress have questioned whether people’s personal and financial information will be secure in these government systems, given the lack of testing. Federal officials say the data hub remains on track.

Two Covered California service centers were expected to start taking general calls in August. Nearly 800 people have taken a state exam to become certified for outreach and education work. Officials said 95% passed the exam with a score of 80% or higher. Covered California also has plans to provide training and certification for about 9,000 insurance agents.

A state advertising campaign will start in selected markets next month with a broader rollout in October. A Field Poll released this week found that just 25% of California voters younger than 65 said they had heard a lot or some about Covered California. Awareness was even lower among the uninsured: only 18% of those voters said they knew much about the new state-run market.

SEPT 2013 – Krikorian Discounted Movie Tickets Available To Chamber Members

As the cost of just about everything continues to rise, one of the added values of Chamber membership is the ability to escape into the world of movie magic at discounted prices. In partnership with Krikorian Theatres the Redlands Chamber offers discounted tickets to members providing substantial savings when it’s time to go to the movies.

Whether the tickets are used for personal enjoyment or as an incentive for customers or employees, they are a terrific reward for a job well done or a gift for customer loyalty.

Tickets are available at the Chamber office for members only during normal office hours, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM (closed 12 –1). Each ticket is $8.00 each (Cash or Check Only Please). For large orders call in advance to insure there are adequate tickets available. (909) 793-2546

Discounted movie tickets; another benefit of chamber membership!!

SEPT 2013 – Do You Know About The Redlands Chamber Night Light Run????

Do you know about the Redlands Chamber Night Light Run????

You’re probably asking yourself…”What the heck is a Night Light Run??? And why should I run in a Night Light Run… and what should I do to train for a Night Light Run…. And do I need to buy special gear for a Night Light Run….. Can my grandma run with me in the Night Light Run??????”

Well here are the brilliant answers to those questions and others that are asked over and over……………..

How does it work?

You show up at the Start/Finish in Downtown Redlands, off Eureka St. all lit up…. decked out in your neon best…..!!!!

Why should I?

As you travel through this mixed up crazy journey we call life you are going to be challenged with one decision after another why not throw caution to the wind and just BE……

Well this run has nothing to do with any of that philosophical mumbo jumbo. The Redlands Chamber Night Light Run is the best time you’ll have running (other than from the law) all year. It’s twinkly and sparkly and glittery and shiny ….. need we say more. Slide into your ubber bright official Light Run T-shirt, strap on your glow in the dark necklace and bracelet  and anything else that sparkles in the night and run for your life…. or just the fun of it.  It’ll brighten your day literally and figuratively; it’ll liven up your Facebook page, give you hours of new conversation and

What do I get with my registration?

You get an awesome Neon Bright Official best thing in your closet Redlands Chamber Nigh Light Run T-shirt…a dazzling glow in the dark under your bed, in the closet or down a dark alley necklace and bracelet…..g   Add your own creative spark.. by showing up in all things that glow, twinkle and shine. You will be emailed about 10 days prior to the race with information on dates and locations for the Packet Pick-up Party!!

Do I need to be “in the best shape of my life” runner to do this
OH NO!  There are plenty of other great 5ks out there to test speed and performance. This event is all fun, friends and lights. You can run, walk, crawl, skip, meander just make it back to the fabulous finish line where we’ll be waiting for you with a fabulous light show!

Is this a timed event?

Nope! This is not a race it’s an experience….take it all in… have fun with the lights, the sounds the fun….

Can I run with a jogging stroller and my kids?
On one condition…if you are prepared to be one of the hippest moms/dads on the planet!  As long as they are cute and like to have fun…all kiddos 6 and under can run with an adult FREE of charge and do not need to register! Decked out strollers are way cool… and decked out kids even better.

Can Dogs participate?

Sorry no dogs allowed. Sorry Charley !!!

Is there an age limit for younger runners?
No age limits:) If they can cover (running, jogging, walking, strolling) the 3 miles of the Night Light Run course, they can absolutely do the 5k! Remember though, as soon as they turn 7 they will need to register and have a race bib!

Is there a packet pick up for the event? How does all that work?
Yes.  The exact details will be posted on the official website and emailed to each registrant 7 days prior to the run.

Can someone else pick up my packet for me?
If you fill out a Pick-Up Waiver, someone else can bring your completed waiver and grab that packet to give to you.

Can spectators attend the pre/post-race Night Light Run party?
Absolutely.  You’ll want to celebrate with everyone you know and have them cheer you on as you twinkle over the finish line …that’s when the party starts!!!! Then have them join you as  you visit the downtown businesses after the party.

Are there refunds?
Unfortunately, we cannot issue refunds.  The logistics of setting up and planning the event make it impossible.  Just make sure you are good to go before signing up.  If for some reason you can’t make it to race day, at least come to the check in, pick up your gear, and say hi to us!

If I register early is there a fabulous discount?

You bet …you know what they say the early bird catches the worm…or in this case the cheapest deal and who doesn’t like to save money? You can spend your savings on fancy schmancy glow wear, tutus, tiara, neon socks, find it and wear it!!!!…. Register on line at www.redlandschambernightlightrun.com and SAVE SAVE SAVE!!!

What if I have a really intelligent question that isn’t answered here?
Please email us at www.redlandschambernightlightrun.com  and we will hook you up with an answer.  If your question is awesome enough, we might even publish it on the official Redlands Chamber Night Light Run FAQS page.

And let’s be honest, when was the last time you acted like a 12 year old? Unless you are now 13 years old, this was probably a long time ago. If you’re 13, you’re not our target demographic anyway. Don’t you have homework to do?

 

 

 

SEPT 2013 – Member Profile – Braswell Family Senior Care

As your loved ones age, it can often become harder and harder for them to be as independent as they once were. Everyday tasks such as meal preparation or dressing themselves, compounded with illness, can become a struggle.

When such a time comes, an assisted living facility such as Braswell Family Senior Care can help restore this comfort by easing some of these burdens.

The trained, caring staff at Braswell Family Senior Care has the knowledge and compassion to assist your loved one in enjoying their golden years in comfort and safety.

Since 1963, Braswell Family Senior Care  has  helped the elderly and disabled of the Inland Empire (including the San Bernardino and Riverside County areas) feel at home and yet still retain as much independence as possible, for as long as possible.

To accommodate the interests and wishes of all of their residents, at Braswell Family Senior Care, they offer a variety of activities and services.

The trained, caring staff at Braswell Family Senior Care has the knowledge and compassion to assist your loved one in enjoying their golden years in comfort and safety.

Services include:

Independent Retirement Living:
These communities are specially designed for independent senior adults in a home-like setting with 24-hour on-site supervision.  Services usually include, but in some cases are optional: meals, laundry, and housekeeping.  Social activities are usually entertaining and educational and help to foster a great sense of community among the residents.

Assisted Living:
Assisted living is a type of residence for seniors who may need help in managing certain basic activities of daily living, such as cooking meals, bathing or dressing themselves, doing laundry, or taking medications. Assisted living is for people who need some specific services or a basic level of supervised care but are otherwise free of serious mobility, mental or healthcare issues.

Adult Day Care:
Designed to provide care and companionship for seniors who need assistance or supervision during the day, the program offers relief to family members or caregivers and allows them the freedom to go to work, handle personal business or just relax while knowing their relative is well cared for and safe.

Post-Acute Rehabilitation:
Intensive medical and physical rehabilitation care for patients recovering after a hospital stay from an acute illness or episode such as a fracture, stroke, surgical recovery, etc.
Licensed Physical, Occupational, Speech, and Respiratory therapies along with specialty recovery programs are offered to enhance patient recovery – giving patients the opportunity to regain their highest level of functioning prior to returning home

Short-Term Rehabilitation:
Offers rehabilitative treatment and progressive restorative services, services may include continuous intravenous (IV) therapy or daily rehabilitation such physical, occupational or speech therapy. The goal of our licensed professional is to enable patients to return to the most independent setting possible, as soon as possible.

Skilled Nursing:
Care provided to people who require constant nursing care and have a significant deficiency with activities of daily living. Skilled Nursing offers both short-term and long-term care based on the needs of the patient. Care is managed by licensed staff professionals. Patients are also offered a broad range of daily recreational, social, and religious activities.

Long-Term Care:
Also known as Custodial Care, is a level of care for people who require assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, personal hygiene, eating, maneuvering in and out of bed and/or incontinence. Licensed Nurses manage and supervise patient care.

Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care:
Specialized care for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s / Dementia, the plan of care includes variety of activities and socialization programs targeted to maximize mental stimulation

Secured Memory Care:
Secured Memory Care provides a safe and secured environment for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s / Dementia who might be at risk for wandering. Braswell Family Senior Care is proud to offer a secured environment in both skilled nursing and assisted living level.

Short-Term Respite Care:
Respite care is short-term care where your loved one stays in skilled nursing and assisted living facility. This gives the caregiver a block of time to rest, travel, or attend to other things.

Hospice:
Hospice is a type of care and a philosophy of care that focuses on the palliation of a terminally ill patient’s symptoms. Many patients or families chose to continue this care in a facility setting, when the care at home becomes more challenging

The highly trained staff at all the Braswell Family Senior Care facilities are dedicated to working with their residents and their families, providing a home-like atmosphere of warmth and friendliness that maximizes comfort, gives support and encourages independence.

Call Braswell Family Senior Care at (909) 792-6050 to setup a free consultation.

 

SEPT 2013 – Member Profile – General Technique

General Technique…your business partner

General Technique located at 1426 Industrial Park Ave., is a full service technology provider that specializes in helping businesses develop and maintain all aspects of their business technology including digital advertising, information technology and managed services.

Since every business is different, they provide personal, one-on-one service to their clients. This ensures that each solution is designed and implemented specifically for the needs of each individual client.

When it comes to network support, no two organizations have the exact same needs. General Technique offers a highly flexible service plan that makes it simple for your business to plan and budget for appropriate IT services. They provide more than just reactive IT support. Their entire approach is based on proactivity: making sure that you’re best equipped for the now – while also preparing you for the future. They offer full, high-level advisory and consulting services as part of every engagement, and we don’t hide in a data centre – we work directly with you!

Today the Cloud is receiving a lot of attention, but most businesses still depend on their office network to execute their day-to-day tasks. And that’s not going to change anytime soon. When it comes to your office servers, desktop PCs, routers, switches, firewalls, printers, wireless devices, cabling and the rest of your in-house network infrastructure, General Technique is right there on-site with you to ensure it all runs smoothly. From routine backups – to maintenance – to advice, we’ve got every aspect of your office technology covered.  If you are currently looking into a Cloud strategy, they will recommend which in-house systems should be transitioned to the Cloud – and which ones shouldn’t.

Server Installation, Configuration and Support

Is your company growing and looking to upgrade its network functionality? A new server can provide secure storage, advanced email functionality, as well as shared calendars and other features. General Technique specializes in Microsoft Windows Server and Small Business Server technologies to help you maximize your investment.

Branch Office Support

Does your company have multiple offices, but no IT staff in the branch locations? General Technique has you covered. They provide same day service in in the Inland Empire and Orange County and can work with your existing IT team to resolve issues at your branch locations.

Cloud Services

Cloud computing is changing the way businesses access and leverage their data and IT infrastructure.

What exactly is Cloud computing? In a nutshell Cloud computing comes into focus when you think about what IT always needs: a way to increase capacity or add capabilities on the fly without investing in new infrastructure, training new personnel, or licensing new software.

What is Cloud service? A Cloud service has three distinct characteristics that differentiate it from traditional on-premise solutions:

  • Services are provided to you on demand
  • It’s elastic – you can have as much or as little of a service as you want at any given time, which means you only pay for what you need.
  • The service is managed is by Dataprise – all you need is a personal computer and internet access

IT software and services hosted on remote servers and accessed over the Internet are exceptionally reliable, always available and secure. Most importantly – you don’t have to invest in costly hardware. If you’ve been looking for affordable, scalable services that just work, Cloud computing is for you.

Office 365 for professionals and small businesses

  • Email, calendar, contacts, personal archive, and 25 GB mailbox storage with 25 MB attachments with Exchange Online
  • Online document viewing and basic editing capabilities for Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote with Office Web Apps
  • Consistent file formatting from desktop Office versions to web versions with Office Web Apps Sites to share documents and information with SharePoint Online
  • Easily design and maintain a professional-looking public website with SharePoint Online
  • Instant messaging, presence, online meetings, and PC-to-PC audio/video calls with Lync Online
  • Share your desktop with colleagues and partners with Lync Online
  • Premium antivirus and anti-spam filtering with Microsoft Forefront Online Protection for Exchange

Data Backup and Recovery

Disaster recovery planning is often times an afterthought that comes to light when disaster strikes. Very seldom do companies fully recover from loss of critical data which could lead to loss of business. They can Help you implement the best Plan to meet your business need including General Technique Online Backup Service provides a powerful Backup and Restore program designed to leverage Amazon S3 storage to make your disaster recovery plan simple, reliable, and affordable.

Computer Set-Up

Take the hassle out of computer and computer
peripherals with their PC setup service. They will set up your computer (including monitor, mouse, keyboard and speakers), install software applications, external peripheral devices, configure your existing internet configurations and existing e-mail account and test your PC for proper functionality.

Slow Computer Issues

Is your computer a few years old? Is it slow booting up? Are you running out of hard drive space? They can breathe new life into your PC by upgrading some of its critical components. Even if your system is fairly new, you can still upgrade your PC to accommodate your growing collection of digital photos, movies, files, or video games.

Computer & Laptop Repair

Is your computer sluggish, giving you the “blue screen of death”, perhaps a hardware failure or trouble connecting to the internet? They can fix any problem you may have with your computer. They can send a specialist to your home or office, connect remotely to your computer over the internet, or you can drop it off at their repair centre. General Technique makes it easy and convenient to get the service you deserve.

Virus & Spyware Removal / Protection

Today’s viruses, spyware and adware are getting so difficult to identify and isolate many of these malicious programs are cleverly cloaked as harmless programs – some even duplicate there appearance of important programs your computer or laptop needs to use each day. General Technique not only performs a deep, thorough scan of your system’s registry, but tracks and follows the path of the malicious infection to find its root location and eliminates it completely the first time. Repair or replace important system files and safe guard important data, photos and music whenever possible. There are a variety of virus protection programs they offer to fit any budget and will recommend and install it for you.

Networking

While a wireless connection has its advantages, if it’s not configured correctly it can cause new computer problems for you. They make sure your Network is configured to restrict access to any other wireless device in your area as well as position it to receive the strongest signal from your network. They will connect & configure all routers, adapters and other wireless networking devices. Will make sure all computers & accessories are connected to the wireless network and configured for maximum speed and efficiency.

Hardware Upgrades

General Technique will choose, purchase and install the correct memory for your computer. Then configure your computer to take advantage of the additional RAM and virtual resources. If you want to upgrade or replace any internal hardware or internal device, they will install that hardware for you. They pride themselves in being fast and yet completely thorough and professional.

Data Back- Up / Recovery

Data backup is often times an after-thought only when the unthinkable has occurred and valuable data photos and hours of music have been lost. Safe guard your data before its lost. General Technique can guide you through what options are available including external drives, RAID Technologies, DVD & CD etc. As well as General Technique Online Back-Up Services. And if the unthinkable does occur rest assured we will do whatever we can with the most up to date technologies try to recover it.

Contact them at info@genraltechnique.com or call 909 793-7400 f

SEPT 2013 – New Chamber Members – August 2013

AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF SO. CALIFORNIA
Leslie Farris
1330 Industrial Park Avenue
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  307-2514
Web Site:  www.aaa-calif.com
 
CARING COMPANIONS AT HOME
Stephanie Duff
San Bernardino, CA  92404
Phone:  247-0222
Web Site:  www.caringcompanionsathome.com
 
CASH AMERICA PAYDAY ADVANCE
Karina Hernandez
2094 W. Redlands Blvd, Suite 1
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  748-7200
 
EL KIOSCO EXPRESS
Erik Morden
802 W. Colton Avenue, Suite B
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  894-3190
 
EUREKA BURGER
Justin Harris
345 Pearl Avenue, Suite 130
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  335-5700
Web Site:  www.eurekaburger.com
 
HIBU – YELLOW BOOK
Stacey Rasada
71847 Highway 111, Suite C
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone:  760-341-6892
Web Site:  www.hibu.com
 
OZEL JEWELERS OF REDLANDS
Emanuel Jacobson
2 East State Street
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  793-7986
Web Site:  www.ozeljewelersofredlands.com
 
SIGNS NOW REDLANDS
Phil & Sheri Stahlheber
404 E. Redlands Blvd
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  792-5577
Web Site:  www.signsnowredlands
 
UNLIMITED CARPET CARE
Francisco Guerrero
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  708-1877
Web Site:  www.unlimitedfloorcare.com
 
US BANK
Natina Lasher
1786 Lugonia Avenue
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  760-951-1763
Web Site:  www.usbank.com

SEPT 2013 – Renewing Chamber Members – August 2013

A STORAGE PLACE
Natalie Barker
650 New York Street
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  792-0185
 
AYRES HOTEL REDLANDS
Chris Ehorn
1015 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  335-9024
 
BREWCAKES
Sarah Sillers
1150 Brookside Avenue, Suite J1
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  792-1399
 
BROOKSIDE HEALTHCARE CENTER
Vangie Bravo
105 Terracina Blvd
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  793-2271
 
COLTON-REDLANDS-YUCAIPA ROP
Stephanie Houston
1214 Indiana Court
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  793-3115
 
CONGREGATION ETZ HADAR
Michael Humack
516 Texas Street
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  792-8792
 
COVINGTON ENGINEERING CORPORATION
Dan Drouault
715 W. Colton Avenue
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  793-6636
 
EAST VALLEY PET HOSPITAL, INC.
Dr. Chauhan
1748 E. Lugonia Avenue #128
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  794-1888
 
EL CAMINO RANCH
LaVesta Locklin
11363 Walnut Street
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  794-1086
 
FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE
Michael Broderick
300 W. Redlands Blvd
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  793-3373
 
KINDER MANAGEMENT CONSULTING
Deborah Kinder
P. O. Box 8803
Redlands, CA  92375
Phone:  798-1052
 
KING HOUSE DENTAL GROUP
Steve Tatevossian
529 Brookside Avenue
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  792-5000
 
LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER
Gian Dudley
11215 Mountain View, Suite 165
Loma Linda, CA  92354
Phone:  558-3453
 
MARY KAY COSMETICS-LAURIE SHUMATE
Laurie Shumate
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  714-875-5334
 
OUTBACK PHYSIOTHERAPY CENTRE
Teresa Rogers
1189 W. State Street
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  307-9121
 
PRIME LENDING
Nancy Kenny
1980 Orange Tree Lane, Suite 210
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  801-3510
 
PROCARE PHYSICAL THERAPY
Ed Castro
1751 Orange Tree Lane
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  307-2244
 
REDLANDS AUTO ELECTRIC
Jim Cooper
349 No. Eureka
Redlands, CA  92374
Phone:  792-4776
 
REDLANDS BASEBALL FOR YOUTH
Dave Easton
P. O. Box 7875
Redlands, CA  92375
Phone:  793-4895
 
REDLANDS BENCHWARMERS
Al Sanchez
P. O. Box 9421
Redlands, CA  92375
 
REDLANDS PRINT SHOP & COPY CENTER
Earl Luevano
409 E. Citrus Avenue
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  792-7221
 
SAN BERNARDINO CO. SUPT OF SCHOOLS
Susan Oberhelman
601 North “E” Street
San Bernardino, CA  92405
Phone: 386-2413
 
SANTA CLAUS, INC.
Karen Di Carlo
824 E. 6th Street
San Bernardino, CA  92410
Phone:  885-0090
 
STATER BROS MARKETS #18, #89 #112
Laura Dickerson
301 South Tippecaneo Avenue
San Bernardino, CA  92408
Phone:  733-5000
 
THATCHER ENGINEERING & ASSOCIATES
Victoria Valenzuela
1461 Ford Street, Suite 105
Redlands, CA  92373
Phone:  748-7777

SEPT 2013 – How To Get The Most of Networking Events

How to get the most of networking events big or small….

Sixty-five percent of businesses join a Chamber because of networking so it’s important to know how to best take advantage of every opportunity presented.

Here are seven tips that are sure fire winners.

1. Cultivate a genuine interest in seeing others succeed…. and help them do it:

When you meet somebody for first time focus all your attention on asking probing questions to learn about THEM such as: What brings you here today? Who are you trying to connect with? Who would be an ideal prospect for you? What is your biggest frustration?

2. Listen…Listen…. and then Listen some more:

When engaged in a conversation, BEFORE you respond to somebody, pause and briefly summarize what you just heard before you share what you were going to say.  This is a simple yet powerful technique to make the other person feel understood and demonstrates that you care what they have to say.

3. The “Three Second Rule”

As soon as you enter a room, start a conversation with the first person you see within the first 3 seconds.  DO NOT HESITATE, don’t look for somebody you know and don’t go to the bar.  It doesn’t matter who you approach, just go talk to somebody!

The goal here is to build confidence, get outside ‘your head’ and build the habit of proactively meeting people.  At most events there is usually a registration desk.  Try and view this as the “warm up”.  Use this opportunity to speak to the person beside you as you sign in or receive your name tag.

4. The soft touch:

You may have noticed what typically happens at networking events is people form small groups (usually consisting of friends or office colleagues) who then talk amongst themselves.  This situation presents a challenge for most people.

Here is a very non-threatening way to approach one of these groups if you know somebody in the group (even if you don’t know them very well).  As you are walking by simply “soft touch” the person you know on the shoulder, smile, and say hi, making sure to address them by their name.  Don’t motion to shake their hand, and instead simply give a small wave as you keep walking (shaking hands is usually too much of a commitment in this situation). This seemingly small gesture accomplishes the following goals:

a) Strengthening the relationship with the person you know.
b) In some situations the individual will stop you and say “James, have you met…..” and bring you into the group to introduce you to everybody else (although this is a possibility- do not expect it)
c) It gives you unconscious face time with the other people in that group.  Some of them will notice you and you now have a small connection with them for generating a future conversation.
d) If you really wanted to meet somebody from that group and didn’t get an opportunity to at the event, you can call the person you know and say “Hey I noticed you speaking to….I would love to meet them. Would you mind introducing us?”

5. Smile

The whole time smiling conveys happiness, fun, positive, and so many other great emotions!   Maya Angelou is quoted as saying

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

This is profound. How do you want to make people feel?

6. Introduce people to each other:

Anytime you have a chance to introduce people who can benefit from knowing each other do it.  Sending a quick email introduction is a great habit to get into.

“Help enough people get what they want and you’ll get what you want” – Zig Zigler

7.  Keep in touch by sending things of value:

Most people contact others when they want something.  This is okay once in a while, but if this is the only instance in which you touch base with somebody, sooner or later they are not going to screen your calls.  Ironically, you can have a lot of success in doing the complete opposite.  If 80% of the time you contact somebody to offer them something of interest or value they are going to open your email or take your call every time.

A simple way to do this is keeping your eyes open for events, articles, and blogs that would interest your contacts. Other ideas include sending email introductions or cards to congratulate them for achieving success or maybe offering tickets to a sports game or event that they may enjoy.  These little gestures go a long way if you are doing it because you genuinely care.  You will not only grow your relationship with that individual but they will WANT to hear what you have to say every time you contact them.  In addition to making somebody else feel good you will personally feel like a million dollars when you make the time do something like this!

Follow these simple rules of engagement and your success rate at networking will increase the very first time you practice them.

AUG 2013 – City News by Council Member Pat Gilbreath

It may be summer, but there are no lazy days here. The City continues to make progress in infrastructure rehabilitation, economic development and health and recreation opportunities for our residents.

The City’s streets are improving and looking great with road resurfacing and reconstruction under way and more to come. And Southern California Edison is continuing its efforts to upgrade the City’s electrical grid system to avoid business interruptions due to power outages and major disasters such as underground explosions. Last month SCE replaced three antiquated transformers in the historic downtown district in an effort to improve reliability. While a daylong power outage necessary to safely replace the equipment created some inconvenience, the work was done quickly and will allow residents and visitors to continue enjoying our wonderful downtown.

New businesses are opening and others keep growing. Yogurtland frozen yogurt has opened a new location on Orange Street between Rubio’s and Starbucks.  Hopefully they will experience the outpouring of support from our citizens. We continually hear how new businesses are having exceptionally successful openings.

Epic Management has relocated their operations into a new 31,086-square-foot facility on Orange Tree Lane. We would expect this will generate new job opportunities as well.  Moving can be so disruptive I am sure they must address the relocation before they think about expansion.

The City is offering assistance to businesses with Federal grant and loan programs. The first is the Microenterprise Grant Assistance Program (MAP). This grant does not require repayment and ranges from $5,000 up to $25,000 to purchase equipment or provide working capital.

The second program is the Economic Development Loan Program (EDLP). This loan program offers funding from $25,000 up to $150,000 for the creation of new jobs for low and moderate income folks. These loans have interest rates of 2 percent and periods of 5 to 15 years to repay.

These programs are part of the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Funds and are limited to our annual allocation. City staff is currently reviewing applications received over the past two weeks. Once the review is complete, staff will determine if funds are still available and, if necessary, reopen the application process. Check the City’s website (http://www.cityofredlands.org/cdbg) to explore either of these grant or loan programs.

Healthy Redlands is alive and WELL!  We are currently in the process of providing a morning summer camp at the Community Center.  We have 100 children registered with about 30 children in attendance every day. Staff worked out an arrangement for Boys and Girls Club staff and their kids to come use our fabulous gym during this very hot summer and provide the exercise programs for our kids at the same time.

Healthy Redlands is also partnering with the Fire Department for Fire Prevention Week and we will be providing a Health Fair on Oct. 12 at Fire Station No. 1. If you are a health provider and wish to participate in a booth or hands-on demonstration please contact either me or Fire Chief Jeff Frazier to indicate your participation.

Remember to be safe and have an enjoyable rest of the Summer!

 

 

 

Redlands Chamber Announces “Electrifying” novelty run coming to Redlands in December

ARE YOU TOO LAZY TO GET OUT OF BED AT THE CRACK OF DAWN

JUST TO RUN TIL YOUR FEET HURT AND YOU’RE LUNGS CRY OUT “NO MORE”!!

WE HAVE THE SOLUTION!!!

http://beta.active.com/redlands-ca/running/redlands-chamber-night-light-run-2013

STAY IN BED!!!!!       THAT’S RIGHT STAY IN BED!   ALL DAY!

THEN JOIN US FOR THE FIRST EVER

GLOW IN THE DARK  5K REDLANDS CHAMBER NIGHT LIGHT RUN

WEAR YOUR BRIGHTEST, SHINIEST NEON BATTERY OPERATED OUTFIT

AND MEET US DOWNTOWN

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH, 6:00 pm

WHERE WE’LL HIT THE STREETS OF REDLANDS

(So maybe won’t really be running… maybe we’ll be meandering, strolling, skipping, lollygagging…)

BUT HAVING ALL KINDS OF FUN

WE’LL END UP AT SMILEY PARK WHERE A FABULOUS LIGHT SHOW AND UBBER ENTERTAINMENT WILL ELECTRIFY YOU, CHARGE YOU AND DOWN RIGHT AMUSE YOU!

THEN IT’S OFF TO THE DOWNTOWN SHOPS, RESTAURANTS AND BARS FOR EVEN MORE FUN….STILL DECKED OUT, WHERE DISCOUNTS FOR THE “GLOWING ATHLETES” WILL BE WAITING!

EARLY REGISTRATION MEANS DISCOUNT SIGN-UP… http://beta.active.com/redlands-ca/running/redlands-chamber-night-light-run-2013

Don’t forget to like us on our Facebook Fan page Redlands Chamber Night Light Run, to be entered into the our “Get Glowing” Contest……