brawley chamber of commerce march 2013 newsletter chamber of commerce march 2013 newsletter page 2...
TRANSCRIPT
Inside this issue:
Letter from
the Director
1
Business of
the Month
2
Partner
Spotlight
2
Enterprise
Zone
3
Article from
the IID
3
HR Tip of
the Month
3
Upcoming
Events
4
New
Members
6
Renewing
Members
6,7
Advanced
Meter
8
Joint Strike
Fighter
5
Feb. Mixer
Chili Trophy
8
Brawley Chamber of Commerce
March 2013 Newsletter : Issue 3
March is a defining month for business as we see new
legislation introduced at the state level and the end of the
first quarter of 2013. This is the time to review and revise goals and take charge
of the balance of the year! Are you using business resources available to promote
your business and capture sales? The Brawley Chamber of Commerce is joining
with the SBA and SBDC to bring SBA Day and Lender Fair to the Imperial Valley
on April 16th. Register for this powerful day of information that will help you to
use SBA, USDA, SBDC, and other services to increase your business. Archi’s
Acres will share their success story training veterans in small scale organic farming.
The SBA, USDA, and SBDC will outline their programs for business and the
agricultural community. Local lenders will discuss how to access capital in today’s
financial market. Thanks to our sponsors, this event is no cost and includes lunch!
Please be sure to set up your webpage that is housed on the chamber website!
We have experienced a dramatic increase in website traffic, referrals and requests
for information at the Chamber and we are working to make the new website a
valuable tool for your business. You can upload photos and information about
your business, link to your larger website and Facebook, post jobs, promote your
“hot deals”, and increase your search ability on the web! If you need help, we will
walk you through how to get your information on the site. You will need a
username and password, so call or email the Chamber to get started!
Thank you to all who support the Chamber in its mission to promote and
champion business growth in our community!
Katie Figari, Executive Director
Business of the Month
Brawley Plaza Auto Wash, Wax, & Detail
Your One Stop Auto Shop
Hand Wash
Hand Wax
Detail
Upholstery Cleaning
Auto
Trucks
Boats
R.V.s
Motorcycles
Fleet Washing
Heavy Equipment
Monday - Friday
8am - 4pm
Saturday
8am - 2pm
132 S. Plaza, Brawley, CA
(760) 344-0786
Page 2 Brawley Chamber of Commerce March 2013 Newsletter
Chamber Partner Monthly Spotlight
First and foremost, we want to sincerely thank the Chamber of Commerce for organizing the "Good Morning Brawley" 3rd Annual Mayor's Breakfast and State of the City Address. It was a well organized, attended, and presented event. Next, we would like to make you aware of some current projects the City was fortunate enough to receive grant money toward expanding our community services. Cattle Call Park is receiving some needed lighting and pedestrian
enhancements. The new Emergency Operations Center is being constructed adjacent
to the Police Department. The Brawley Transit Transfer Terminal is also being constructed on
the corner of South Plaza Street and G Street. Finally, we would like to make the Chamber and the public aware of some upcoming City Council meetings and workshops related to the 2013-2014 budget. On Monday, March 19 at 5:30 PM, the City Council will meet at the Brawley City Council Chambers to discuss Strategic Planning for the City. Additionally, on Tuesday, April 9 and Thursday, May 9, the Council will hold budget workshops at 5:30 PM. These two workshops are tentatively scheduled to be held at the Del Rio Community Center on I Street. The Council then expects to adopt the budget at the regularly scheduled meeting held at the Council Chambers on Tuesday, May 21, 5:30 PM . These are all open meetings and the City would greatly appreciate any input that you and the public may have to contribute. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you there.
Gordon R. Gaste, AICP Planning Director City of Brawley
Issue 3
Thank you to all who attended: “Good Morning Brawley”
Mayor’s Breakfast & State of the City Address
Sponsored by:
SoCal Gas Co
Photos By: Chris Furguson Photo By: Lloyd Miller
HR Tip of the Month
Deadline Approaching to Claim Small Business
Health Care Tax Credit
As the March 15 corporate tax filing deadline approaches, California’s small businesses need to know they may qualify for an important health care tax credit available under the Affordable Care Act.
The Small Business Health Care Tax Credit provides a credit equaling up to 35 percent of the health insurance premium costs that a small business incurred for insuring its employees. The credit is designed to help small businesses and tax-exempt organizations that primarily employ moderate and lower-income workers either maintain existing coverage or offer health insurance to their employees for the first time.
Certified Public Account and tax expert Conrad Davis, Crowe Horwath LLP, explains that more businesses need to be made aware of this benefit of the law aimed at small employers. “Right now the credit is underutilized,” Davis said in an interview with CalChamber News. “The studies show that not as many businesses that are eligible are participating.” According to a recent study, more than 375,000 small businesses in California are eligible for health insurance tax credits for a total value of more than $1.8 billion.
Small employers that pay at least half of the premium for employee health insurance coverage may be eligible for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, according to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Brawley Chamber of Commerce March 2013 Newsletter
Imperial Valley Enterprise Zone: Benefits of operating an EZ business
I. Tax Benefits Enterprise Zones can save a business thousands of dollars through tax credits and other benefits. The Enterprise Zone credits and deductions are available to individuals, sole proprietors, corporations, estates, trusts, and partnerships operating or investing in the zone. Examples: 1. Hiring tax credit 2. Sales or use tax credit 3. Net operating loss carryover 4. Business expense deductions 5. Lender interest income deduction Enterprise Zone Benefits in Detail Click here to find details on the many enterprise zone tax credits and how they work. It is recommended that a business reviews the financial benefits and incentives with a tax professional. Franchise Tax Board Publications: Here you will find instructions for Enterprise Zone Businesses. It will show you how to claim deductions and credits. Further inquiries can be directed to the Franchise Tax Board’s hotline at: 916-845-3464 II. Preference points when selling to the state Businesses located in Enterprise Zones can get preference points or state bids. You may be eligible to receive preference points if you are a company that supplies goods and services to the state. Here you will find details on how preference points work. Click here to obtain forms regarding preference points and the Enterprise Zone Act. III. Other Programs/Zones & Financing Options for EZ Businesses Business Support Services From hiring new employees, finding the right property to locate to getting free consulting services to manufacturers, Click here to learn about other incentives existing in the IVEZ. IVEZ Financing Options Click here to learn about financing for businesses available in the IVEZ and the area. RABOBANK offers special rates and financing for businesses located in the IVEZ: Click here for details. Other zones inside the IVEZ From HubZones that give small businesses the leg up selling to the government to a Manufacturing Enhancement Area which gives tax credits to manufacturers, learn what other incentives exist in the IVEZ by clicking here.
Page 3 Issue 3
Brawley Chamber of Commerce March 2013 Newsletter
2013 Calendar of Chamber Events Page 4 Issue 3
Put your Chamber membership to work for you — participate in any of our 2013 special
events listed here. Attend professional development opportunities, be seen at
networking events, get involved and volunteer.
When you’re a member of the Chamber, you belong!
January 31, 2013 Chamber Mixer
February 8, 2013 Good Morning Brawley Breakfast
February 28, 2013 Chamber Mixer
March 8, 2013 Good Morning Brawley “Mayor’s” Breakfast
March 28, 2013 Chamber Mixer
April 16,2013 SBA Day & Lender Fair
April 25, 2013 Chamber Mixer
May 3, 2013 Good Morning Brawley Breakfast
May 23, 2013 Chamber Mixer
June 6, 2013 Branding Iron Award
& Annual Dinner
June 27, 2013 Chamber Mixer
July 25, 2013 Mega Mixer
August TBD Annual Teachers Luncheon
August 22, 2013 Chamber Mixer
September 6, 2013 Good Morning Brawley Breakfast
September 26, 2013 Chamber Mixer
October 19, 2013 Cattle Call Queen Coronation
October 24, 2013 Chamber Mixer
November 2, 2013 Chili Cook Off
November 4, 2013 Cattle Call Kick Off Mixer
November 6, 2013 Mariachi Night
November 9, 2013 Cattle Call Parade
December 12, 2013 Chamber Mixer
Upcoming Events 03/14/13 IVROP: Showcase &
Recognition Ceremony
5:30pm, IV Expo: Casa de
Mañana Building
03/16/13 “Drive for Hams” 8am,
United Way Office
03/16/13 Gospel Brunch 11am
Church of Latter Day
Saints, El Centro
03/16/13 Doves Monte Carlo Night
6pm, Stockmen’s Club
03/18-19/13 BloodDrive at Pioneers
Hospital Parking lot 12-6pm
03/22/13 Lunch & learn 12-1pm
Small Business
Tax Responsibilities
03/25/13 Kiwanis Bunco Night
6:30pm, Stockmen’s Club
03/28/13 March Chamber Mixer
5:30 - 7pm, U.S. Fitness
Call to
Schedule Your
Mixer, Ribbon
Cutting, or
Sponsorship
Marriott Fairfield Inn & Suites 503 Danenberg Dr., El Centro, CA Phone: (760) 353-2600 Website: http://www.marriott.com/iplfi
Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites, El Centro takes every opportunity to provide the Marriott experience. Our property consists of clean and comfortable accommodations from a central location. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, parking and high speed internet access.
Marriott Towneplace Suites 3003 South Dogwood Road, El Centro, CA Phone: (760) 370-3800 Website: http://www.marriott.com/iplts
Hotel: TownePlace Suites by Marriott® is an extended-stay hotel where you can balance work and life as you like, with the comfort, flexibility and affordability you require. Relax and feel at home with a fully equipped kitchen and high-speed Internet access.
Horton, Knox, Carter, Foote, LLP 195 South 2nd Street, Brawley, CA Phone: (760) 370-3800 Website: http://www.hkcf-law.com
Attorneys at Law: Labor and Employment, Personal Injury, Estate Planning, Business Law, Governmental Law, Water Law, Environmental Law, General Litigation, Commercial Litigation, International Law.
Rubin Seed, LLC. 4746 HWY 111, Brawley, CA Phone: (760) 344-0166 Website: www.rubinseeds.com
Seeds: Handles a multitude of seed products. These include but not limited to alfalfa, Bermuda grass, sudan grass, wheat and various kinds of grass and vegetable seeds.
Green Construction 758 C Street, Brawley, CA Email: [email protected] Phone: (760) 344-0725 Alt: (760) 427-8022
Construction Company: General contactor services and construction: Residential and Commercial Repairs, and New construction. From tenant improvement to office space - kitchen or bathroom remodeling and more.
Imperial valley Small Business Development Center 1850 West Main Street, El Centro, CA Phone: (760) 312-9800 Website: http://www.ivsbdc.org
Non-profit Organization: Dedicated to increasing the economic vitality of the community by helping small businesses and entrepreneurs build a foundation for success. Their center staff and consultants are there to assist in answering your business questions along with providing many resources that can help you start and/or expand your business. Services are provided at No Cost to their clients.
Brawley Express PO Box 1304, 897 Shank Road, Brawley, CA Email: [email protected] Phone: (760) 344-7888 Alt: (760) 427-6516 Website: http://brawleyexpress.ambz.com/
Trucking & Hauling Service: Brawley Express has been in the trucking and storage business for over 5 years. Our impressive fleet of trucks and storage vehicles can accommodate any civilian or industrial consumer request. We offer more than just trucking and hauling services. Brawley Express offers quality trucking for the lowest prices around. When you choose Brawley Express, you are not only choosing a trucking company, you are selecting a team that is fully dedicated to helping you get your items to their destination securely.
Rosario Araguás, DPM 4231 Highway 86, Suite 5, Brawley, CA Phone: (760) 550-6259 Website: http://www.desertfootandankle.org/
Foot & Ankle Specialist: Dr. Araguás completed a bachelor’s degree in Biology at Whittier College. She is a graduate of the California School of Podiatric Medicine. She finished her residency at the Department of Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System. She holds a license from the state of California for ankle surgery and from the California Department of Public Health as a fluoroscopy and X-ray supervisor and operator.
Conveyor Group 2419 Imperial Business Park Drive, Imperial, CA Email: [email protected] Phone: (760) 355-1500 Website: http://www.conveyorgroup.com
Professional Design Firm: Home of the Imperial Valley’s leading professional visual communications firm, specializing in design, marketing, advertising, and custom website development. Since 1997, Conveyor Group has built a solid reputation for providing creative and innovative solutions in strategic brand development and functional, high quality products.
PMH Foundation PO Box 1571, Brawley, CA Phone: (760) 351-4498 Website: http://www.pmhd.org/Foundation/index.html
Non-profit Organization: The Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501 (c) (3), not-for-profit organization that solicits, receives and processes gifts and grants for the benefit of Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District.
Mary Frances Fleming Phone: (760) 344-3619 Individual Member
Imperial Valley’s Penny Shopper 1560 Ocotillo Dr., Ste. G, El Centro, CA Phone: (760) 336-2500 Website: http://www.ivpennyshopper.com
Non-profit Organization: The Pioneers Memorial Hospital Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501 (c) (3), not-for-profit organization that solicits, receives and processes gifts and grants for the benefit of Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District.
Congratulations
National Beef!
1st Place
2012 Chili
Cook-off
Page 8 Issue 3 Brawley Chamber of Commerce March 2013 Newsletter
www.brawleychamber.com
Grand Opening
& Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Brawley Chamber of Commerce 204 South Imperial Ave. ~ P.O. Box 218 ~ Brawley, CA 92227
Phone: (760) 344-3160 ~ Fax: (760) 344-7611 ~ Email: [email protected]
Thank You To Our Chamber Partners
Advanced Meter Installation
Photos By: Lloyd Miller
Presented with our New Perpetual Trophy
SoCalGas is upgrading their metering system with
advanced meters, which automatically and
securely transmit gas usage data to their customer
service and billing center. These meters give you
online access to view hourly, daily and weekly gas usage, as well as up
to 13 months of monthly data (depending on how long you’ve been
enrolled in My Account). By better understanding how much gas
you’re using and when, you can better identify ways to save.
Click Here: to view a video