September 20, 2007

Retail Roundup

Shopping tops Pyle’s upcoming business forum

District 10 Councilmember Nancy Pyle invites San Jose residents to “Retail Coming Attractions,” a District 10 forum Wednesday, Sept. 26 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Pioneer High School’s new auditorium, 1290 Blossom Hill Road.

“My objective in hosting this forum is to present residents with information regarding the city’s efforts to support existing businesses while attracting new, highly desired retailers to our community. By receiving residents’ input and feedback, we will be able to better serve our community’s retail needs and increase the flow of retail revenue which is so critical to the success of our city’s local economy,” said Pyle.

The forum will feature presentations from the city’s Office of Economic Development highlighting the city’s new shopping center revitalization pilot program at the Via Valiente Shopping Center, an update from San Jose’s Redevelopment Agency on the new Whole Foods in Almaden and a presentation of results from the retail survey targeted to South San Jose residents. In addition, Westfield Oakridge will announce new retailers and the evening will conclude with a drawing for 10 $100 gift cards provided by Westfield Oakridge.

For more information about “Retail Coming Attractions,” call the District 10 office at 535-4910.

Almaden Business Association discusses past, looks to future

The Business Building Committee of the Almaden Business Association hosted the third of several “Member Best Practice Sessions.” At this meeting, the ABA continued its “Best Practice Forums” focusing on people management.

Employees and independent contractors, both of whom were represented by panel members, explained communications and taught members about different methods and techniques used to communicate job expectations used to get results.

The Almaden Business Association panel discusses people management. From the left are Ellen Lovelace, Rich DeLaRosa, Cathy Spielberger Cassetta and Tony Thurman.

Ellen Lovelace, president and founder of Quicksilver Concierge and Errand Service, a lifestyle management company, discussed how she and her team of independent contractors have the personal freedom to run their day-to-day business while enriching the company as a whole.

Rich DeLaRosa of Allstate Insurance and Latin America Imports discussed the differences in being a part of a franchise business and owning and operating a company with employees.

Cathy Spielberger Cassetta of the Tabard Theatre shared her experiences with a mixed team of paid professionals and volunteers and the positive approach of using affirmation and encouragement to motivate her team.

Tony Thurman of Money Mailer provided stories of positive motivation he used in his career owning a recreational vehicle dealership and managing in the auto industry. Most notable was the story of an awards dinner for his team consisting of “Steak or Beans,” depending upon the individual’s performance. Humor and being personable was the key to Thurman’s success.

The ABA also has several events planned for fall, including the Tri-Association Mixer with the ABA, Cambrian and Winchester business associations from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 23 at the Winchester Mystery House, 525 South Winchester Boulevard, San Jose. Call (408) 247-2101 for information. Map link: http://www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/directs.html. The first 100 people will get to enjoy a flashlight tour of the mansion (adults only please). RSVP for the event by noon on Monday, Oct. 22. Cost is $10 per person and includes food and beverages. RSVP by e-mailing Ken Bryant at kenbryant@mediate.com.

The second first annual Almaden Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament is Saturday, Nov. 10 at the Santa Clara County Horseman’s Association, 20350 McKean Road. The benefits from the fund-raiser will go to the Doris Dillon Children’s Library Visiting Authors Speaker Series at the Almaden Branch Library. There will be a $100 entry fee and $25 for dinner and beverages. There also will be door prizes. To RSVP, e-mail Tony Thurman at tthurman@moneymailer.com or call (408) 807-5329.

The ABA will hold an employment law breakfast sponsored by Hoge Fenton Jones & Appel from 8:15 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2 at the San Jose McEnergy Convention Center, Room K, 150 West San Carlos in downtown San Jose. To register and to receive more information, contact Robert Coelho at RMC@hogefenton.com.

A breakfast meeting is set for 8 to 9:30 a.m. Nov. 1 at Amato’s Pizzeria, 6081 Meridian Ave., #60 in Almaden.