Oakland Business Review October 2011

April 2010 | 1

MAYOR JEANQUANFeatured speaker at WIBR luncheonMentor, educate and build partnershipswith business |Page 5

THE AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE OAKLAND METROPOLITAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE |

Oakland Business Review

OUSD SuperintendentTony SmithPower Breakfast, Nov. 8Page 6

www.oaklandchamber.com | VOL XXXVIII NO. 10 October 2011

Win Southwest Airlines ticketsRefer a memberPage 20

Oakland RestaurantScene – Bocanovaand The Fat LadyPage 24

> Remember Them unveiled; Honors 25 international humanitariansRemember Them: Champions for Humanity, aworld-class monument and a unique bronzesculpture dedicated to diversity, was unveiledduring a ceremony on Sept. 6 at the new HenryJ. Kaiser Memorial Park in downtown Oakland.

An inspirational and educational world-classmonument, Remember Them: Champions forHumanity had its first three sections unveiledhonoring 14 of the 25 international humanitariansincluding Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., MotherTeresa, Chief Joseph, Susan B. Anthony, OskarSchindler, Thich Nhat Hanh, Helen Keller andothers.

The unveiling featured Remember ThemHumanitarian Ruby Bridges and family membersof honored humanitarians, including Donzaleigh

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Abernathy (daughter of Rev. Ralph DavidAbernathy), Guy Johnson (son of poet andeducatorMaya Angelou), Marlena Kiteley (nieceof Oskar Schindler), Julianna Roosevelt(granddaughter of President Franklin Roosevelt),Ambassador Attallah Shabazz (daughter ofMalcolm X) and AliceWithers (great-great-granddaughter of civil rights leader FrederickDouglass).

Lead donor Kaiser Permanente wasrepresented by George Halvorson, chairmanand chief executive officer, and by BernardTyson, president and chief operating officer.

“I’m privileged to be included in thismonument with some ofmy heroes – Dr. King,Mahatma Ghandi andMother Teresa,” said

Bridges, who in 1960 became the first person tointegrate public schools in the United States.She is depicted in Norman Rockwell’s famouspainting, “The ProblemWe All LiveWith.”

“It is incumbent upon those of us here todayto continue to strive for justice and quality forall,” Bridges said. “Wemust remember them.”

Halvorson told an enthusiastic crowd ofmorethan 1,000 people that, “This site is a celebrationof healing people – very real people whomadereal choices in the real world tomake the worldbetter and healthier. The 25 people celebrated inthis place of healing were people who reached outin enlightenment and love to their fellow humanbeings.”

Get ready for the annual America’s Children’sHoliday Parade, 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3

— continued on page 2

| OBR Oakland Business Review | www.oaklandchamber.com2

Oakland native andmaster artist Mario Chiodo developed theproject following the fateful events of 9/11 as an expression of howdifficult times can call forth humanity’s best efforts.

Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Joe Haraburdapresided over the unveiling. “Nearly ten years in themaking,” saidHaraburda, “Remember Them is not just a work of art in a city knownfor its artists. It’s more than just a statement of diversity in a cityknown for its great collection of peoples and languages. It’s a symbolof freedom in a country known around theworld for its many free-doms and privileges.”

And speaking of Chiodo, Haraburda said, “I’ve heard first-handMario’s vision, observed hiscreativity, his dedication, and his love of country. He’s an inspiration tome and to his staff, andmost who have had the opportunity tomeet with him.”

The Sept. 6 unveiling also featured a performance bymembers of the Oakland East BaySymphony Brass Ensemble, by theMoreau Catholic High School Honors Choir, the Northern LightSchool Peace Choir, and the Oakland Symphony Chorus. In addition, actor and director PeterCoyote read the Remember Them Poem.

Following the unveiling, some 70 doves were released as a symbol of freedom.Then on the following Saturday evening, Sept. 10, the black-tie Remember ThemGalawas held

at the Fox Theater, featuring humanitariansMaya Angelou and Ruby Bridges, with an audience thatexceeded 500. The E family featuring recording artist Sheila Eand theOakland Interfaith Gospel Choir provided theevening’s entertainment.

The followingmorning, Sunday, Sept. 11, the 10thanniversary of theWorld Trade Center disaster, a silentcandlelight vigil was held at themonument site beginning atapproximately 5:45 a.m., the exact time that the first planestruck the buildings on Sept. 11, 2001. The vigil helpedremember the lives that were lost as well as honor thefiremen andworkers from around the country who visitedNew York to help in the rescue and recovery of victims.

The Remember Themmonument is a 501(c)(3) nonprofitproject of the OaklandMetropolitan Chamber of CommerceFoundation. Phase I of themonument was installed, which includes three of four sections. Thecompleted sculpture will stand 52 feet wide by 25 feet tall, cover 1,000 square feet and usemorethan 40,000 pounds of bronze. A fourth section is slated to be installed next year (assuming $2.25million is raised), alongwith a special feature that will allow the visually impaired to explore life-sized bronze busts of each humanitarian.

Other major donors of Remember Them include AT&T, Bank of America, Catholic HealthcareWest, The Clorox Company, Horizon Beverage Company, Rotary Club of Oakland #3, RamsellHolding Corp., Securitas, Wells Fargo and TheWhalen Family Foundation. Southwest Airlines isthe official carrier of Remember Them.

In themeantime, fundraising continues for the unveiling of the fourth section of themonument.

For more information about themonument and tomake a donation, visitwww.remember-them.org. �

another humanitarian visits oaklandThich Nhat Hanh, often referred to as themost beloved Buddhist teacher in theWest and amanwho has been honored onMario Chiodo’s Remember Them: Champions for Humanitymonument,visited Oakland recently tomeet with California Governor Jerry Brown and propose a course of“MindfulnessMeditation” for educators and students.

Thich, an 85-year-old Vietnamese Buddhist monkwhoworked tirelessly for reconciliationbetweenNorth and South Vietnam during the Vietnamesewar, was afforded an opportunity tovisit the Remember Themmonument uponwhich he is honored. He alsomet with Chiodo, a cityadministrator, a representative from the Oakland Unified School District, and the heads of theOaklandMilitary Institute and the Oakland School for the Arts.

Remember Them unveiled — continued from page 1

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� U.S. CongresswomanBarbara Lee presents aproclamation to artistMario Chiodo that sheinitially read to theHouse of Representativesin Washington, D.C.honoring Chiodo anddescribing themonument.

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onoring localchampions

Remember Them: Champions forHumanity monument artist Mario Chiodohas named eight “local champions” whoare featured on the back of the bronzemasterpiece. Those eight champions areOleta Kirk Abrams, Carmen Flores, Dr.Marcus Foster, Henry J. Kaiser, FredKorematsu, Joaquin Miller, Joyce Taylorand Mother Wright. Their briefbiographies follow:

Oleta Kirk Abrams 1927–2005Kirk Abrams founded the first rape crisiscenter in the country right here inOakland, collaborating with the OaklandPolice Department to increase women’ssafety and raising awareness about therealities of sexual assault. Her organiza-tion, Bay Area Women Against Rape(BAWAR), has since served as a model forsimilar organizations worldwide.

Carmen Flores 1932 – 1998Flores lived a life of compassion, focusingon empowering others in her Fruitvalecommunity. A tireless advocate for thepoor and economically dispossessed, sheworked with both government and grass-roots agencies to affect change on localand state levels.

Dr. Marcus Foster 1923 – 1973Dr. Foster was a firm believer in the powerof education and collaboration tostrengthen communities. The first AfricanAmerican superintendent of the OaklandUnified School District, he proved histheory to be true time and again.

Henry J. Kaiser 1882 – 1967Known as “The Father” of modernAmerican shipbuilding, Kaiser’s innovationand entrepreneurship helped makeOakland a world-class city. His compassionled him to build a hospital with the missionof providing quality healthcare to all.

Fred Korematsu 1919-2005An Oakland native, Korematsu wasarrested for challenging the U.S. incarcera-tion of Japanese Americans during WWII.After many years the Supreme Courtoverturned their ruling against him, andKorematsu became known as a resoluteadvocate of civil rights education.

Cincinnatus Hiner “Joaquin”Miller 1837 –1913The namesake of many Oakland sites,Joaquin Miller was an audacious poet, aconservationist, and an ally to Chinese im-migrants during the Chinese Exclusion Act.

Joyce Taylor 1957 – 2010Serving on the boards of many differentOakland organizations, Taylor was knownfor her active public interest in ourcommunity. Less known was her staunchcommitment to terminating childprostitution.

“Mother” Mary Ann Wright1921–2009Though she had very little material wealth,Mother Wright used what she had to feedOakland’s impoverished and homelesspopulations. The Mother Mary Ann WrightFoundation still serves 450 people eachday. �

H

October 2011 | 3

— Joe Haraburda

His proposal calls for “cultivating the foundation for an ethical life,” and isoffered to educators who wish to cultivate peace and well being in their own livesand contribute to creating happier and more peaceful students and teachers.

His lifelong efforts to generate peacemoved Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tonominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize in1967. He continues to advocate for socialchange through his books and lecturesabout nonviolence, peace and reconciliation.

REMEMBER THEM UNVEILED

‘he’s an inspiration to me’The following are excerpts of the speech by Chamber President Joe Haraburdaat the monument unveiling:

“Nearly ten years in the making, Remember Them is not just a work of art ina city known for its artists. It’s more than just a statement of diversity in acity known for its great collection of peoples and languages. It’s a symbol offreedom in a country known around the world for its many freedoms andprivileges.”“It’s indeed my honor to preside over these ceremonies. I’ve heard first-handMario’s vision, observed his creativity, his dedication, and his love of country.He’s an inspiration to me and to his staff, and to those who have had theopportunity to meet him.”“As Remember Them reminds us, we can all make a difference and be partof history, no matter our lot in life. And today I’m especially pleased to thankthose who helped make a difference – those who contributed financially,given of your time, helped with suggestions, and spent your personal timeand energy to help make this monument a reality. Each one of you helpedbuild Remember Them.” �

“This is indeed a grand day for Oakland. This monument

of diversity could stand proudly in any city in the world, but it will be here, in Oakland, one of the most diverse cities

in the most diverse state in the union. We are eternally grateful to Mario Chiodo and we thank him for his work.”

� Thich Nhat Hanh, walkingthrough Henry J. KaiserMemorial Park with artistMario Chiodo, seems moved byhis likeness on the RememberThem: Champions for Humanitymonument.

� Thich Nhat Hanh (center, standing directly below his image), along with“Monastics” (monks and nuns who are following his teachings), joins MarioChiodo and others at the monument.


October 2011 | 5

> Jean Quan to speak at ‘WomenWho Inspire’ luncheon

Oakland Mayor Jean Quan, the first Asian-Americanwoman mayor of a major U.S. city, will be thefeatured speaker at the Friday, Oct. 7 luncheon of theEast Bay Women in Business.

As a 32-year Oakland resident, Mayor Quan hasdedicated her life to making government work forpeople. For more than two decades she has worked forchange in education, public safety, parks, and sustain-ability. She will inspire attendees to learn the nextsteps for our city, and howwe can help mentor,educate and build partnerships with business.

The luncheon, held at the Waterfront Hotel in JackLondon Square from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will also

feature a drawing for two round-trip tickets to any Southwest Airlines destination.You must be present to win.

The event is being sponsored by SouthwestAirlines and by Visit Oakland.

Bring a friend or co-worker along with plenty ofbusiness cards, and be ready to mingle. You’ll enjoygood food, savvy women (men are welcome, too!), lively networking and the

opportunity to win two Southwest Airlines tickets.The luncheon is $35 for Chamber members and $45

for non-members.For reservations and information, visit www.oak

landchamber.com or contact Amanda Medina at theChamber at (510) 874-4800, ext. 319 or at [email protected]. �

Mayor Jean Quan

Show your support for the Oakland police

A safe city must be our priority

From the President | Joe Haraburda

Support additional tools for our Oakland Police Department.It’s essential!

We at the Chamber believe programs for our young people are important;they can provide the opportunity for education and entertainment! We supportthe city and the Oakland Unified School District in making programs availablewhen there are sufficient budget dollars.

However, we also believe we cannot go easy on those who thrive on criminalactivity.

A safe city must be our priority!Therefore we recommend support for the Rule Committee’s action of

Sept. 22 to put on the agenda for the Oct. 4 Oakland City Council meeting thefollowing items:

• Adopt an ordinance adding OMC Chapter 9.58 prohibiting Loitering inPublic for the purpose of engaging in illegal drug activity.

• Establish a juvenile protection curfew to apply to youth under the age of18 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and11:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Further, directing the City Administratorand Chief of Police to come back to the City Council within 30 days with animplementation plan.

• Amend the policy adopted on May 17, 2011 by the Council precludingfurther gang injunctions until the city conducts a study of the effectiveness ofthe Fruitvale and North Oakland Gang Injunctions, to authorize and direct theCity Attorney and the City Administrator to evaluate and bring back options tothe Council to initiate gang injunction litigation in East and West Oakland.

“...we cannot go easy on those who thrive on criminal activity.”

These measures – while not the total answer – are necessary to provide theOakland Police Department the tools to improve public safety!

Congrats to CloroxCongratulations to The Clorox Company for their donation to provide custommobile laptops for the Oakland Police Department! If you or your company is inter-ested in contributing to this valuable equipment enhancement, please give me a callor write [email protected] – or call the Mayor’s office at (510) 238-3141.

Contributions identified for OPD Laptops can be made to the OaklandMetropolitan Chamber of Commerce Foundation, a 501C3, and will be directed in fullto support laptop purchases. Estimated cost pre laptop: $5,000.

More networking and socializingTo learn more about the problems of our youth and ways to improve their education,thereby providing a better future workforce, join us at the Chamber Power Breakfaston Tuesday, Nov. 8 featuring Dr. Tony Smith, superintendent of the Oakland UnifiedSchool District.

Dr. Smith is an outstanding, motivational speaker who is certain to pique yourinterest in the workforce of tomorrow.

Join us on Tuesday, Nov. 8 at the Waterfront Hotel in Jack London Square for thisimportant address. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The breakfast runs from 8 to9:30 a.m.

To register or for more information, visit www.oaklandchamber.com or contactAmanda Medina at the Chamber at (510) 874-4800, ext. 319 or [email protected]. �


If you are self-employed or the owner of asmall business, then you probably understandthe difficulties in finding and keeping qualifiedemployees. There are many factors that anemployee will consider when deciding where towork. One that may be overlooked is theavailability of a tax-qualified retirement plan.

According to a recent survey by the Employee BenefitResearch Institute (EBRI), 25 percent of small businessowners stated the most important reason for offering aretirement plan was recruiting and retaining employees.Another 19 percent said the positive effect on employee

attitude and performance was the most important reason they offered a plan.The Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) and Savings Match plan for Employees

(SIMPLE) plans are two tax-qualified plans available to employers. If a plan isconsidered tax-qualified, contributions are not subject to current federal incometax. All earnings grow tax-deferred until withdrawn, and taxes are payable by theparticipant when benefits are actually received, generally at retirement when theparticipant may be in a lower tax bracket and entitled to an additional standarddeduction at age 65.

Unfortunately, a number of employers are unaware of the tax-qualifiedretirement plans available. The 2003 Small Employer Retirement Survey conductedby EBRI indicated that 47 percent of business owners had not heard of SEP planswhile an additional 26 percent had heard of them but knew little about them. Thenumbers for SIMPLE plans were 32 percent and 20 percent respectively.

An advantage of the SEP plan is the ease in establishing and maintaining theplan. Any business with one or more employees, including the owner/employee,may set up a SEP IRA. The plan may be set up by completing IRS Form 5305-SEPand no employer tax filing is required.

As an employer, you decide each year: 1: Whether you will contribute to the plan, and 2: If a contribution will be made, the amount of the contribution to each

employee’s SEP IRA. Employees are immediately 100 percent vested in the SEP IRA proceeds.A SIMPLE IRA is a salary reduction plan with little administrative paperwork.

If you have 100 or fewer employees in your business, you are eligible to begin aSIMPLE IRA by completing IRS FORM 5305-SIMPLE. SIMPLE IRAs are funded byemployee salary reduction contributions dollar for dollar up to 3 percent of theirsalaries, or contribute 2 percent of each eligible employee’s salary. Eligibleemployees are immediately 100 percent vested.

Employees may take withdrawals from a SEP or SIMPLE IRA at any time.However they will generally be subject to a 10 percent tax penalty if they are underage 59 1/2 at the time of the withdrawal. The tax penalty increases to 25 percent forSIMPLE IRA withdrawals made during the first two years the employee participatesin a SIMPLE IRA.

An Individual (k) is a plan for business owners who have no employees otherthan a spouse. While the plan itself may not be very well known, it can be anappropriate way to provide income during retirement.

An Individual (k) is similar to the more popular 401(k), with contribution limitswell above those of Individual Retirement Accounts. Contributions for the 2011 taxyear are limited to $16,500 as long as they don’t exceed 100 percent of your com-pensation. There is even a $4,400 catch-up provision for persons age 50 and older.

The deadline for establishing an Individual (k) is the last day of your company’stax year. If not, the deadline would be the last day of your current fiscal year.

Finding qualified employees who will stay on the job can be difficult. Fortu-nately there are retirement plans available to make your business more attractive tojob seekers. Make an appointment with a qualified financial professional to discusswhich retirement plan is appropriate for your business. Your retirement plan shouldinclude retiring! �

Jain Williams is a State Farm agent in Oakland specializing in commercialinsurance and retirement planning. She can be reached [email protected] or visit www.jainwilliams.com.

ASK THE EXPERT

> Ahead of the hiring curve

SPECIAL SECTION Small business

by Jain Williams

Jain Williams

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARKS

> Discover local treasuresThe Tilden Park merry-go-round in Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley isone of the Park District’s most beloved local treasures. The carousel, whichunderwent extensive restorations in 2008, celebrates its centennial this year.Visitors of all ages make it an annual tradition to visit the carousel in the late fall,when evening hours, spectacular decorations and festive treats make a visit tothe historic merry-go-round even more memorable.

The Christmas Fantasy in the Woods will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. everyevening from Nov. 25 through Dec. 23.

October programs

•Oct. 1 – Beginning Cycling, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline• Oct. 1 – Using Poles for Hiking, Redwood Regional Park

•Oct. 1 – Equinox Hike, Roberts and Redwood Regional Parks•Oct. 8 – Canoe Exploration, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline•Oct. 9 – Llama Hike, Redwood Regional Park•Oct. 11 – Hikes for Tykes, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline•Oct. 15, 22, 29 – Shoreline Explorations, Martin Luther King Jr. RegionalShoreline

•Oct. 16 – Sunday Stroll, Lake Chabot Regional Park•Oct. 19 – Wednesday Walk, Redwood Regional Park•Oct. 22 – Road Bicycling, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline•Oct. 22 – Hike, Sibley Regional Volcanic Preserve•Oct. 23 – Sunday Stroll, Redwood Regional Park•Oct. 25 – Hikes for Tykes, Sibley Regional Volcanic Preserve

The East Bay Regional Park District operates 65 parks throughout Alameda andContra Costa counties. For program times, directions and more information onoutdoor opportunities available in the regional parks, visit www.ebparks.org, orcall (888) 327-2757. �

OAKLAND SCHOOLS

> Power breakfast with Dr. SmithOn Tuesday, Nov. 8, the Chamber will hold another in ourseries of Power Breakfasts, with this one featuring Dr. TonySmith, superintendent of the Oakland Unified SchoolDistrict.

Do you want to know how our schools have beenprogressing? What’s in sight for the future?

Dr. Smith is an outstanding, motivational speaker who iscertain to pique your interest in the workforce of tomorrow.

The breakfast is sponsored by Southwest Airlines and by Wells Fargo.Join us on Tuesday, Nov. 8 at the Waterfront Hotel in Jack London Square for

this important address. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The breakfast runs from8 to 9:30 a.m.

To register or for more information, visit www.oaklandchamber.com orcontact Amanda Medina at the Chamber at (510) 874-4800, ext. 319 or [email protected]. �

Dr. Tony Smith

Dawnn Hills, the sales and marketing director for VantageBusiness Support & Insurance Services, has been named theChamber’s Ambassador of the Month. “I’m an advocate andeducator who enjoys being of service to the community aswell as to youth and other individuals who want to betterthemselves,” she says.

Hills is busy indeed. Besides being a member of theAmbassador Committee, she’s also involved with the EastBay Women in Business Roundtable and ToastmastersInternational, and can be found at most Chamberfunctions. “As a community advocate I volunteer with

October 2011 | 7

California may be the home of sun, surf, redwoods,and recovering Hollywood starlets; but, it also hasthe well-deserved reputation as the country’s mostemployee-friendly state. California labor laws areconsidered by many to be a minefield foremployers. On a regular basis you hear of Californiacompanies that choose to relocate citing the difficultyof navigating California laws. Unfortunately, a newCalifornia appellate decision just made it even morearduous and potentially expensive for Californiaemployers who choose to stay.

The lawsuit was brought by a cashier, Eugina Bright,employed at a 99¢ Only Store in Los Angeles. She filed a class action suit againsther employer for failing to provide her and other cashiers with a seat. In herlawsuit, she sought civil penalties under the Labor Code’s Private AttorneysGeneral Act (“PAGA”) for the seat violation. The requirement to provide employeeswith a seat, if the nature of the work reasonably permits, is found in the state'sIndustrial Welfare Commission Wage Orders.

The trial court initially dismissed the lawsuit finding that Bright and her fellowcashiers could not recover penalties under the PAGA because she was suing onlyfor a violation of the Wage Order. The Appellate Court disagreed, finding thatWage Order violations alone are sufficient. The court reinstated the class actionlawsuit allowing Bright to seek monetary compensation for her company’snon-compliance with the Wage Orders.

Those unfamiliar with the minefield that is California employment law mayreact to this decision with a yawn or a “who cares.” The informed, however,understand that this case could signal a whole new wave of employment litigationin California.

Why? In California, in addition to complying with the State Labor Code, thereare 17 Wage Orders which are specific to the industry or occupation it covers.Within each Wage Order, you can find regulations on topics as diverse as:•Hours and days of work •Minimum wages •Overtime • Rest periods• Alternative work weeks • Reporting time pay • Record retention• Seats • Temperature •Meals and lodging • Cash shortage and breakage• Elevators •Meal periods •Uniforms and equipment • Change rooms and resting facilities • Special licenses for disabled workers

Many employers in California were not even aware of the requirements ofthe Administrative Wage Orders, and for those that were aware, it was generallyassumed that violations could only be enforced through government prosecution.Now, unless the California Supreme Court revisits the issue, employees and theirattorneys are free to find violations of these obscure regulations and sue for penal-ties not only on their own behalf, but on behalf of their co-workers.

Under PAGA, employees may sue for civil penalties of up to $200 for each payperiod that a violation occurs. In a class action brought on behalf of an entireworkforce, it is easy to see how these penalties can add up quickly. As an example,by failing to acquiesce to their cashier’s request for a chair, 99¢ Only Stores couldowe over $1 million, for just one year of violations. Of course, this does not evencount the attorney’s fees that would also be recoverable in most instances.

In light of this floodgate opening decision, employers would be wise to takethe following steps to diminish their risk at being targeted for such a claim:

1. Determine which Wage Order applies to their business and familiarizethemselves with all of the Wage Order working condition requirements.

2. Post the Wage Order which applies in a break room or other place where youremployees are notified of important items. Failure to do so is itself a violation ofthe Wage Orders.

3. Conduct an audit to make sure business operations are consistent with theWage Orders.

4. Retain an experienced employment attorney to assist the business in navigat-ing California’s labor laws, including the Wage Orders. It will be an investment thatwill pay off in the long run. �

Cathy L. Arias is the chair of Burnham Brown’s Employment Law Departmentand specializes in counseling and representing employers. She can be reached at(510) 835-6806 and [email protected].

SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATE

> California employers beware –A new wave of litigation is coming

SPECIAL SECTION Small business

by Cathy L. Arias

Cathy L. Arias

COMMUNITY SERVICE

> Ambassador of the Month

Dawnn Hills

> Nominations accepted for CivicPride ‘community service’ awardCivic Pride, Inc., a volunteer nonprofit, is currently accepting nominationsfor its “Civic Award for Distinguished Community Service.” Since 1991, thisaward has been presented to outstanding individuals, businesses and organiza-tions for improving the lives of youth, families and seniors within the Oaklandmetropolitan area.

Although many local youth, families and seniors continue to face barriers toeducational opportunities, affordable housing, economic stability, and politicalempowerment, there are exceptional individuals and entities making adifference.

To make your nomination, visit www.civicpride.net or send an email [email protected] by Thursday, Oct. 13. Award recipients will be honored atthis year’s Civic Pride Youth Ambassador Scholarship & Awards Dinner onThursday, Oct. 27 at the Waterfront Hotel in Jack London Square.

At the dinner, local firefighters, police officers, and members of the Red Crosswill receive special recognition for service given to our community. “This yearmarks the tenth anniversary of 9/11, and this volunteer civic organization intendsto do its part,” says executive director Carol Lee Tolbert.

Since 1989, Civic Pride volunteers, in partnership with corporate and publicsupporters, have worked tirelessly to engage local youth in activities that inspirecivic participation, foster good character, promote responsible leadership skills,and emphasize the importance of a quality education – all of which is thefoundation for developing vibrant, caring and productive young people.

A “Knowledge is Power” Youth Leadership Forum and College-Career OptionsFaire will follow on Saturday, Oct. 29, also at the Waterfront Hotel.

For additional information, contact Carol Lee Tolbert at (510) 450-1844. �

numerous organizations whose values are in alignment with my own,” shesays.

In the meanwhile she’s a financial professional, and her career points to aconsistent theme of service and advocacy. “As my insurance practice grows,I have every intension of continuing to provide the same level of advocacy,education and service to my clients,” she says.

Vantage is an insurance agency and brokerage that provides businesssupport and asset protection for nonprofits as well as for-profitorganizations. �


SPECIAL SECTION Small businessSELLERS AND BUYERS BEWARE

> Fixing the decaying sewer lateralproblem

Beginning this summer, East Bay property owners aretaking a more active role in the preservation of the SanFrancisco Bay. The East Bay Municipal Utility District(“EBMUD”), in cooperation with the United StatesEnvironmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) and stateand regional water quality control boards, has developeda program to reduce the amount of untreated sewagereleased into the bay by requiring inspections and repairsof certain private sewer laterals in the cities and districtsin EBMUD’s service area.

A private sewer lateral, or “PSL,” is the pipeline orseries of pipelines running downhill from a privately-

owned structure to the sewer main, typically located under the nearest publicstreet. Maintenance of a PSL is the property owner’s responsibility; however, mostproperty owners do not become aware of any problems with their PSLs until aflush of the toilet creates a most unwelcome response.

Studies have shown that as the older PSLs age, holes and cracks in the line arecommon. Although they may not be large enough to block the flow, these holesand cracks are often prevalent enough that during periods of heavy rainfall,ground water seeps into these PSLs, and thus into the sewer system. This problemoften creates an excess flow of water in the system (estimated by the EPA to be ashigh as ten times normal flow), making it impossible for the local treatment plantsto treat all of the sewage before it is released into San Francisco Bay.

In 2009, dissatisfied with how this overflow was being handled, the EPA andthe state and regional water quality control boards took legal action, suing EBMUDand some of its satellite cities for violation of various clean water requirements.The result of this litigation was a stipulated order acknowledged to be a first stepin the right direction to control and ultimately cure this problem. One result ofthat order is EBMUD’s plan to attack the problem upstream in the system, at thePSL level. Information about that plan, titled the East Bay Regional Private SewerLateral Program (the “PSL Program”), is available on the EBMUD website(www.ebmud.com).

Under the PSL Program, any one of three events (selling of property, buildingor remodeling in excess of $100,000 and water meter change) may trigger therequirement of an inspection and certification that the PSL is without defects andhas proper connectors. The certification requirement applies only to PSLs that areolder than ten years, and any PSL older than ten years that is replaced (not justrepaired) will be considered new as of the date of replacement under the PSLProgram.

As anticipated in the stipulated order with the EPA, the PSL Program is part ofan evolving process. It will not impact the large portion of private property in theEBMUD service area that does not fall into one of the three triggering categories.

Implementation of the PSL Program has also started gradually, taking effectfirst in the smaller cities within EBMUD’s service area – Emeryville and Piedmontin August. In October, the Stege Sanitary District (El Cerrito, Kensington andRichmond Annex) will be added, and finally in Oakland, in January of 2012.

The PSL Program also acknowledges that under certain circumstances,inspection and repair will be a complicated task, and a different approach will benecessary. Larger properties, like school campuses, business parks and shoppingcenters, may have their own network of PSLs that may need to be evaluated inparts, possibly requiring testing methods other than the standard water or airverification tests.

According to the information pamphlet on the EBMUD website, ownersof these larger properties will have until July of 2016 to develop a ConditionAssessment Plan describing how all PSLs on the property will be inspected, andby July of 2021, the property owner must complete the assessment and submita Work Plan to the Regional PSL Program detailing the condition of the sewersystem on the property and the plan to complete needed repairs or replacements.

While it is certainly practical to allow more compliance time for larger proper-ties, these exceptions and grace periods raise some questions:

• Which properties will be large enough to qualify for these extendeddeadlines and individualized plan opportunities?

• How widespread will the inspection and repair/replacement work need to be,and for how long will the resulting certification be valid?

• How do these extended deadlines relate to the three triggering events?• What will be the EPA’s involvement in developing these standards?• How will sellers and buyers of these large properties allocate the costs of

these plans, inspections and repairs/replacements?Owners of large properties will be well advised to pay attention to these issues

as information is gathered from the implementation of the PSL Program withsmaller properties and new guidelines are published by EBMUD and the affectedmunicipalities. �

Douglas A. Crosby is a partner at Donahue Gallagher Woods LLP, where hespecializes in commercial real estate transactions and counseling businessentities. He can be reached at (510) 451-0544 or at [email protected].

Morning is the most promising part of the day for many people. If you’vehad a good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast, your energy level is atits peak and you’re ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way.

But as anyone who has managed in an office environment knows, workers’batteries begin to run down as morning turns into afternoon, and by 3 or 4 p.m.,the energy that was so palpable only several hours earlier is often gone.

It doesn’t need to be that way, though. Encouraging office workers to take afew moments to care for their bodies and spirits can help them remain energizedall day.

Here are some easy steps anyone can take to keep their batteries charged andstay focused and productive all the way until the end of the day. Post these tipsin the cafeteria, break room or department bulletin boards. And don’t forget tofollow them yourself.

Take regular breaks – Avoid sitting still for too long by taking short move-ment breaks and changing positions frequently. Moving around helps musclesrelax and recover from static positions and increases blood flow. Ideally, movearound at least every 30 minutes. Take a moment to stand up, look out thewindow, or stretch at your workspace. Use this time to do something that takesyou away from the computer screen. After the mini-break, you can return toyour work feeling refreshed and energized.

Drink fluids – Keeping your body hydrated is vital to maintaining energy.This doesn’t mean more coffee or soda. The caffeine in coffee (and some sodas)can actually dehydrate you. The sugar in soda may give you a momentary boost,but it doesn’t last. Good old water is best. Keep a bottle or cup handy and sipfrequently throughout the day. Instead of sugary drinks, try adding a slice oforange or lemon to your water for a boost of flavor.

Snack – Several hours after lunch, blood-sugar levels drop and energy wanes.A mid-or late-afternoon snack is the antidote, but make sure it’s the right snack.Candy or other sweets offer only a momentary boost. Consider fresh fruits orvegetables, whole grain crackers, a small serving of nuts, or some low-fat yogurt.These revive energy in a way that lasts longer than candy.

Walk –During a couple of those regular, timed breaks during the day (tryfor mid-morning and mid-afternoon), get up and leave your desk for five or tenminutes. If possible, walk outside and enjoy the sunshine a bit. If not, take a lap

around your floor, walk up and down a couple offlights of stairs, or take a stroll to the loading dockand back. Exercise stimulates blood flow through-out your body, including your brain, and allows youto return to your work refreshed and refocused.Remember, short physical activities can contributeto your 30 minutes of recommended daily exercise.For information about walking as regularexercise, visit www.everybodywalk.org.

None of these tips is costly, but the benefitscan be priceless. For you as an employer, the payoff likely will be a boost inproductively. But your employees also have plenty to gain, and they might eventhank you for showing them how to enliven their workdays.

For more tips on how to eat better and stay active, at work and at home,use the tools on the free kp.org website,(https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health/care/consumer/health-wellness/live-healthy). If prompted, choose Northern California as your area. �

Melissa Rodgers is program director for Employer Engagement and WorksiteWellness, Regional Health Education, Kaiser Permanente of NorthernCalifornia.

ASK THE EXPERT

> Easy steps to keep energized all dayby Melissa Rodgers

� Your employeesdon’t have to get on anexercise bike to keepenergized. Encouragingoffice workers to takea few moments to carefor their bodies andspirits during officehours can help themremain active all day.

by Douglas A. Crosby

Douglas A. Crosby

October 2011 | 9

Public PolicyCreating a strong economy

That would have been the headline100 years ago as California becameone of the first states in the countryto give women the right to vote.

The amendment to the U.S. Constitutionguaranteeing that right nationwide would comenine years later.

While it was men who had to vote to createthat right, women helped lead the political effortto make the change. And two women leading thecelebration of the centennial, Annalee Allen andSandra Threlfall, spoke to Chamber members lastmonth at our Inside Oakland breakfast.

Winning the right to vote was part of anextended political effort. The first statewide voteto give women the vote in 1896 came up short.Not to be deterred, a group of women in 1908made a statement in Oakland. It was the firstsuffrage parade in the state of California. On thatday 300 women marched down Harrison Avenueto a Republican Party convention to lobby for asuffrage plank to the party platform.

Part of the celebration of the centennial ofwomen’s suffrage will be a reenactment of theSuffrage Parade on Sunday, Oct. 2. People willgather at the bandstand in Lakeside Park nearChildren’s Fairyland at 11 a.m. Mayor Jean Quanand other elected women will be part of theprogram.

The Oakland Centennial Suffrage ParadeCommittee, which consists of community lead-ers, historic associations and civic organizationsunder the leadership of Threlfall, are engaged inoutreach throughout Oakland and AlamedaCounty. They’re inviting groups and residents tojoin in the celebration.

Parade participation is free, but sponsorshipsand donations are appreciated to defray permitand parade logistics costs.

For more information about the women’ssuffrage parade, call the League of Women Voters of Oakland at (510) 834-7640. �

Paul Junge is the Chamber’s director of public policy.

> Winning the right to vote!by Paul Junge

> Council impacting Oakland’sbusiness

A number of property owners turned out tocomplain to the Council about large fines andseemingly arbitrary blight determinations made byinspectors. One woman explained that her housewas demolished because she had not responded tonotices that were sent to the wrong address. Otherowners complained that prospective liens wereplaced on their property, making it impossible forthem to get loans that would allow them to fix the

problems for which they were being cited. Others complained of an appeals process thatwas difficult to understand and was often a review by the very people, or their colleagues,who had cited them in the first place.

The City Administrator and the City Council vowed to make changes. Among thepotential reforms –

• More clear definitions of blight and better training for inspectors.• An improved appeal process, independent from the office issuing the original citation.• Moving from a complaint-driven process to an entire neighborhood approach.• Eliminating or delaying until much later the placement of liens on a property.• Requiring the City Administrator to personally sign off on any demolition order.• A review of practices in other cities with comprehensive blight enforcement strategies.At the same meeting the Council put up more roadblocks to the development of the

Army Base. Due to a change in corporate ownership, Council needed to amend theagreement with the developer of the Army Base. Council decided to attach to this routinechange new requirements about how contractors will be selected and requiring CityCouncil approve every contract above $50,000.

Not only will these requirements likely slow the project – bad enough in a difficulteconomy where investment is needed now – but because this funding (not city money)expires if projects are not underway by a deadline, there is a very real possibility that thecity will lose the money altogether. �

by Paul Junge

� The first suffrage parade in thestate was held in Oakland in 1908.

� At the Inside Oakland BreakfastForum, guest speakers AnnaleeAllen (center) and Sandra Threlfallwere greeted by Paul Junge, theChamber’s director of public policy.

JOINChamber members for this informative breakfastat the Oakland Chamber of Commerce, 475 14th Street.This event is free to Chamber members and $10.00

for non-members. To attend, you must RSVP byWednesday, October 19.VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND REGISTER ONLINE

www.oaklandchamber.com. Have questions? Contact Scott Peterson at (510)

874-4817 or at [email protected].

Come to “Inside Oakland Breakfast Forum” and hear frompeople who affect the policies andprogress of the city in which welive and do business.

Come to “Inside Oakland BreakfastForum” and hear from people whoaffect the policies and progress of thecity in which we live and do business.

Desley BrooksOakland Vice Mayor

Friday, October 218:30–10 a.m.

This year’s Alameda CountyGrand Jury report included a

great deal of criticism aimed atthe city of Oakland’s BuildingServices Division. At the City

Council meeting in September,the outlines of the city’s

response started to take shape.


> Rotary showcase: Spotlighton effective community service

Rotary invites Chamber members for a glassof wine and a close-up look at the inspiring andeffective service projects at its annual “RotaryShowcase” on Wednesday, Oct. 19. Visitors areinvited to meander through table displays, net-work, and meet members who are providingmentors and scholarships for Oakland students,working with Laney College students to build af-fordable housing, helping youth learn to read,and funding everything from soccer balls tocooking equipment to video cameras.

The Showcase, free of charge to attendees,will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The CaliforniaBallroom, 1736 Franklin St. 2nd Floor.

Concerns about Oakland’s youth drivemany local Rotary projects. In mid-MarchRotarians distributed more than 13,000books during its “Oakland Reads: 3 BooksFor Every 3rd Grader” program. Every stu-dent in Oakland was presented with a back-pack containing three new books. “For manystudents, their home library is either nonex-istent or very small, and these books helpshape their identity as a reader,” said TravisNeal, co-chair of the project. “Third grade iskey – students who are not reading at gradelevel by then will have difficulty keeping upwith their peers.” This year the project will evolve to stress the importance ofreading together as a family.

Other projects include support for the Dreamcatcher program to shelterhomeless youth in Oakland – a small donation of $2,000 gets matched byfunds from Rotarians as far away as Brazil, resulting in $30,000 for the localproject.

The ability of Rotary to leverage the individual efforts of its members is akey attraction for members. Business leader John Protopappas says, “Havinggrown up and built a business in Oakland, I am always looking for ways toimprove our city. Oakland Rotary has given me that opportunity and beeninstrumental in building my business at the same time.”

International projects span the globe from Asia to Africa to Central andSouth America, with projects as diverse as clearing land mines and providingclean water.

Federal Bankruptcy Judge and Rotary Past President Ed Jellen recalls, “Myfirst visit to Rotary was as a speaker, and I was caught. Through Rotary I havetraveled the world, working on projects that included removing land minesin Cambodia, providing polio vaccines in Ghana and clef palate surgeries inGuatemala. Rotary has enriched my life.”

But it isn’t all about doing good work. Oakland Rotary is also a place tomake new friends and get the inside scoop on important civic and socialmatters. Weekly lunch speakers cover a variety of topics and have recentlyincluded civic leaders Mayor Jean Quan, Police Chief Tony Batts and Superin-tendent of Schools Tony Smith, sports figures such as Oakland Raiders CoachHue Jackson and Cal Director of Athletics Sandy Barbour, business leaderssuch as Ahmed Rahim from Numi Tea and Kirsten Tobey from RevolutionFoods, as well as speakers on movies, international affairs and chocolate.

Says Sean Marx, owner of the office supply company Give SomethingBack, “For me, enlightened living is about helping others. For 20 years I havebeen fortunate to be able to make my living giving back to our community.Aside from my company, Give Something Back Office Supplies, Rotary hasbeen one of the best ways for me to make a difference here in Oakland andaround the world. Beyond my appreciation for our club’s impact through ourcommitted efforts, I have created relationships with incredible people thatwill last my lifetime.”

For more information or to receive a ticket to the Rotary Showcase onOct. 19, contact Lori Sinclair at Oakland Rotary at (510) 451-2120, ext. 10 or [email protected]. You may also RSVP for the event at www.oakland-rotary.org and click “RSVP Rotary Showcase”). �

� Rotarians DannyMai (left), Jillian Loh andPatrick Dailey co-chairthe annual EnterpriseInstitute, where 80 highschool juniors retreat tothe Aptos Mountains tolearn about entrepre-neurship, develop abusiness, and presentbusiness plans to a mockboard of directors.

For the past 103years Oakland Ro-

tary has led the wayas Oakland’s pre-

miere service club.More than 300 mem-bers of Oakland Ro-tary share their time,knowledge and fundsto help others bothlocally and around

the world.

The Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Citslinc International,invites you to join us for the 2012 Trip to China. This nine-day adventure isscheduled for March 22-30, 2012.

The trip, which costs just $1,999 per person (based on double occupancy), in-cludes roundtrip airfare, four- and five-star hotel stays, three full meals every day,deluxe bus tours, English-speaking tour guides, and admission to countless touristattractions in Chinese cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.

An optional – and highly recommended – side trip to Xi’an to see the famous Ter-racotta Warriors is available.

For more information visit www.oaklandchamber.com or contact AmandaMedina at the Chamber at (510) 874-4800, ext. 319 or [email protected]. �

> Chamber’s China trip departs March 2012

In an industry typically known for grease and grime, the owners at UptownBody & Fender have added something a bit unusual – grace and charm.Located at 401 26th St. in the heart of Auto Row, Uptown showed off its sparklingclean facility for the sixth consecutive year at the Chamber’s After Five Reception inSeptember.

Pictured at the mixer were (left to right) Uptown owners Lisandro Allende andGiovanna Tanzillo and Chamber President Joe Haraburda.

Uptown’s motto is “Smooth out life’s little wrinkles. One car at a time.” �

> Grace and charm at an auto repair facility

October 2011 | 11

> Sustainability, A practitioner’s view

SPECIAL SECTION Green Business

There are two basic approaches to designing

and constructing a sustainable project. The

first involves meeting the mandatory sustain-

ability requirements of the state code and

local ordinances. The second involves meeting

the voluntary requirements of one of the

third-party rating programs.

In January 2011 the state of California

began enforcing the first mandatory sustain-

ability code in the country with CALGreen,

which is a part of 2010 California Building

Code. This code applies to most new construction projects in

California. The state code is similar to many but not all aspects of the

voluntary requirements of third party rating systems. Additionally,

in January 2011, the city of Oakland began enforcing its own

sustainability ordinance for private projects in Oakland.

Obviously, all new projects in Oakland designed after January 2011

must comply with the new state building code as well as the city of

Oakland sustainability ordinance; however, above and beyond

meeting those codes and ordinances a business or organization can

elect to design and construct projects that achieve certification by

one of the recognized standards such as LEED, CHPS or Build It Green.

By choosing a third party to verify the sustainable components of a

project the organization or business and the public can be assured

that those sustainable features have been implemented.

There are costs associated with third party certification, but there

also are benefits –the building’s sustainable features will be verified

and the building will be formally identified as a sustainable project.

The LEED program administered by the U. S. Green Building

Council, one of the most widely known programs, addresses a variety

of project types – neighborhoods, new and existing buildings,

interiors, schools, housing,

core and shell, operations

and maintenance and tenant

improvements at four levels

of achievement – certified,

silver, gold and platinum.

CHPS, or the Collaborative

for High Performance

Schools, specifically

addresses K-12 schools. The

GreenPoint Rated program,

administered by Build it

Green, promotes healthy,

energy and resource-efficient

homes in California. These

and other sustainability

rating programs rely on

achieving a certain number

of qualifying points for

certification.

Many owners or clients are

not able or willing to commit

to the certification process

because they feel it will cost

more than a “normal” project.

This may have been the case a

number of years ago when the

rating systems where first

developed, but as the process has become more widespread and

accepted the measures undertaken to become certified have become

more the norm and the costs have been dropping.

One approach to take when projects will not be formally certified

is to design into them sustainable features that don’t affect the

project budget. After evaluating the potential sustainable features

that could be incorporated into a series of school projects in an East

Bay school district, for example, murakami/Nelson determined that

the projects did not include enough work to achieve LEED or CHPS

certification. Rather than ignore sustainability, we chose to

incorporate as many features as we could that did not impact the

budget. Some of those features were low or no VOC paints and

finishes, energy efficient lighting, recycled/reused materials,

post-consumer waste content in products, etc. The resulting projects

met their budgets, had sustainable features, and met the design,

appearance and performance objectives of the program.

When a project is more comprehensive and the owner or client

is fully committed to sustainability, the process can be more

straightforward and the results more dramatic. For example,

murakami/Nelson and WRT, Landscape Architects had a mandate

from the city of Oakland to design the rehabilitation of Lake Merritt

Municipal Boathouse to achieve LEED Silver. Having the support of

the city of Oakland and Alameda County StopWaste.org allowed the

design team to make design, product and material selections with

that in mind. We were so successful in incorporating sustainable

features into the project that it was awarded a Gold Certification

from the USGBC. This is the first Gold Certified city-owned building

in Oakland. This project also recently received an award from the

California Preservation Foundation confirming that preservation and

sustainability can effectively be part of the same design process.

One thing that any business can do to promote sustainability is to

operate as a green business. In Oakland the green business program

is administered by Alameda County. Pursuing that certification

requires a business to evaluate their energy consumption, lighting

levels, use of green cleaning products, recycling efforts, consumable

purchases among other

criteria.

A good place to start is

to conduct an internal audit

to find how many of the

requirements your firm

meets. If compliance is

within reach, schedule

evaluation visits from the

Alameda County Green

Business Program, EBMUD,

PG&E and the city of Oakland

to confirm your analysis and

comply with all mandatory

requirements. Once a busi-

ness receives confirmation

from those organizations

your business will be

acknowledged as a Bay Area

green business. �

John Nelson, LEED AP, is

principal at murakami/Nelson,

an Oakland-based architecture

and planning firm, and is the

Chamber’s Chairman of the

Board. murakami/Nelson is

a certified Bay Area green

business and has five LEED

accredited professionals on

staff.

by John Nelson

� Water-side view of themunicipal boathouse.

photo by Paul Dyer

Sustainability ismore than just

energy efficiency.It is really aboutcreating healthyenvironments forliving and workingthat make use of

our limitedresources.


> ‘Green if good’ is getting better and brighter


A year ago, I argued that while “Wall Street’s” GordonGekko’s mantra “greed is good” was the business philosophyof the 80s and 90s, “Green is Good” should be the motto ofthe new millennia. I presented the benefits, both financiallyand environmentally, of “going green.” Well, I’m the first toadmit when I’m wrong … the benefits are even better thangood.

With energy costs continuing to rise at double digit rates, in the lastyear, the financial benefits of “going green,” especially for PV solarenergy systems, have gone down dramatically, exceeding many people’sexpectations. Solar panel costs have dropped an estimated 20 to 25percent in one year and, according to industry experts, they willcontinue to decrease, although not at the same rate in the foreseeablefuture. According to experts at SunPower Solar Co., the average costtoday for a commercial solar installation is estimated to be $5 perkilowatt, down from $6.50 in 2010, a decrease of almost 25 percent. At atime when controlling or even reducing expenses is a high priority formost businesses, that fact plus the 60 percent reduction of your energybill from “going solar” is a significant savings.

And best of all, the solar industry has responded to market demands bycreating a number of alternative financing options that allow commercial aswell as residential customers to lease their solar systems rather than makingthe “heavy” up-front cash investment in equipment and hardware that wasrequired just a year ago. However, it should be noted that by opting for a solarlease, you will sacrifice the 30 percent federal tax credit available to solarsystem purchasers.

For some businesses and property owners that may not be inconsequen-tial. Either way, the bottom line is still the same – a substantial savings on yourmonthly energy bill on a long term basis by “going solar.”

Energy Efficiency Assessments are another critical ingredient in determin-ing how to best save energy and money using new solar and other greentechnology. As one of the few licensed Solar Contractors also certified as anEnergy Efficiency Assessment Professional, Oakland’s own Fidelity RoofCompany recommends that before making a final decision about “goingsolar” or what size solar system to install, its customers first undertake anevaluation to determine where energy is currently being wasted in theirbuilding and what steps can be taken to address those needs. They havefound that in many cases, literally thousands of dollars could be saved on aclient’s current energy bill by simply correcting their existing problems.

Often times, after doing a complete energy audit, it is determined that bysimply adding outside wall and/orroof insulation, switching to LEDlighting, re-coating an existingroof with a Title 24 compliantreflective coating or possiblyreplacing energy-draining doorsand windows, a customer can notonly cut their existing energy billby up to 40 percent, but alsopotentially reduce the size andtherefore cost of the proposedsolar installation by a comparableamount.

Look at it this way – if you’reconsidering solar with a 100kilowatt system, which is whatgenerally would be recommendedfor a 10,000-square-foot building,that could mean as much as a$200,000 savings on the cost ofinstalling a solar energy system.And as Gordon Gekko might say in“Wall Street,” “That ain’t hay.”

Unfortunately, in California,the state’s Solar Rebate Fund hasbeen more or less depleted;fortunately, the federal tax creditof 30 percent is still in place. Andremember that’s 30 percent of thecost of your solar system equip-ment and installation right offyour bottom line tax liability.

It should also be noted thatalthough Energy EfficiencyAssessments are strictly volun-tary today, there is talk at boththe state and local levels tomake them mandatory for anycommercial or residentialproperty before it can be sold ortransferred. With that being said,no matter what regulations areenacted, doing an EnergyEfficiency Assessment by alicensed, certified professionalmakes good business sense asa way to control energy costswhether you’re considering solaror not. �

Steve Parry is marketing directorfor Fidelity Roof Company andcan be reached at [email protected].

by Steve Parry

� Solar installation at the JapaneseCultural & Community Center in SanFrancisco.

October 2011 | 13


The 12th Street Reconstruction Project ac-

counts for $32 million of the bond and is the

most extensive piece of the restoration. In

March 2010, the project was awarded to local

Oakland general contractor McGuire and Hes-

ter.

Having recently finished work on the land-

scaping and site work of another section of

Measure DD work, the Municipal Boat House

renovation around the Lake Chalet Restaurant,

Oakland residents were familiar with the pres-

ence of McGuire and Hester along the shoreline

of Lake Merritt. On May 4, 2010, work on the

12th Street Project broke ground, which began

the start of reconfiguration of the previous 12-lane expressway that

dominated the area between Lake Merritt and the Kaiser Convention

Center, into a six-lane, tree-lined boulevard with signalized intersec-

tions and crosswalks as well as a landscaped median. This portion of

work is expected to be completed in June 2012.

The new roadway is being constructed further away from the shore-

line and will allow for the creation of a new four-acre park with a water-

front overlook at the south end of Lake Merritt. The lake itself will

receive a facelift with new pedestrian and bike paths and open-water

bridges running over what are now culverts at 12th Street and 10th

Street (renovation at 10th Street is a separate and future project). All

pre-existing unsafe and unsightly pedestrian tunnels were removed, and

throughout the construction process, McGuire and Hester has remained

faithful to its commitment to green

and sustainable construction prac-

tices by reducing, reusing, and recy-

cling all possible materials and

debris that the 12th Street recon-

struction project generates.

Earlier this month work began on the construction of new lake-side

walkways, and traffic has now been officially routed onto the new bridge

over what will soon be the open channel to the Estuary. Pathways under

this bridge will lead from the lake to the Estuary and passing by the Oak-

land Museum, the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center and Laney College,

altogether providing Oakland residents and visitors with safer pedes-

trian and cyclist access along the perimeter of the lake.

Over its life span of 150 years, Lake Merritt has moved further and

further away from its natural habitat. Many people assume that the lake

is man-made, and most residents cannot remember a time when it was

not stagnant and polluted. However, Lake Merritt is actually a natural

tidal slough connected to the bay by a channel that over history has

been continuously filled in as construction projects enveloped the area

due to Oakland’s growth and the need for new roadways and interstates.

In some sections the channel was completely buried with water pass-

ing between the lake and Estuary through an underground box culvert,

which has remained that way for the past 100 years.

Part of the 12th Street Reconstruction Project will include re-

establishing a section of open channel and removing the buried culvert

at the interface with the lake. This open canal is the first phase of what

will eventually allow travel by kayak from the lake to the Oakland

Estuary, once the 10th Street and other related projects are complete.

The open channel will also increase tidal flushing of the lake.

Tidal flushing is the action of salt-water entering an estuary twice a

day during the high tides. It renews the salinity and nutrients to the

estuary. This means a cleaner water quality in Lake Merritt and improved

habitat for fish and wildlife.

Overall the 12th Street Reconstruction Project will be a very signifi-

cant improvement for the environment as well as for the city of Oakland.

�

� McGuire and Hester and

subcontractor Sliverado did a

recent demolition of lakeside

retaining walls, sidewalks and

roadway. This is the site of the

future waterfront overlook.

> New construction in Oakland –Bringing the estuary to the lakeIn November 2002,

Oakland voterspassed a bond meas-ure known as Meas-

ure DD – theOakland Trust for

Clean Water and SafeParks. The purposeof the $198 millionbond was to fund avariety of projectsrelated to clean

water and parks inthe city of Oakland.

Erik Nieman

n


> Considerations for a companyready for Series A financing


Oakland is the home of cleantech companiesranging from early-stage ventures to maturecompanies developing large utility scale powerprojects. At whatever stage of financing, butparticularly in the initial stages, companiesneed to strategize about how to maximizetheir value to potential investors.

A few initial questions to ask yourself if youare a company looking for professional investors /Series A financing are:

• Where is your company in the productdevelopment cycle?

• Do you need funding to complete development?• Do you need funding to build a commercial prototype?• Do you need funding for beta testing?• Do you need to build a manufacturing plant?• Do you already have customers?• Do you understand your investor’s motivations and economics?• Do you understand what you care about in negotiating the terms

of financing – valuation, product control, vision control, board control?If you have customers interested in your product, try to obtain orders

and advance payment. Advance payment deposits can help buildproduct. It increases the value of your idea and furthers your progress indiscussions with potential investors. An added bonus is a demonstratedinterest in your company by the consumer. It is equally helpful to haveorders in hand when going to talk with potential investors.

Potential investors look to see how much founders have at stake inthe prospective company. Have founders taken substantial cuts in theirown compensation to further the company? Is there demonstrablereinvestment in the company by the founders?

It is common for companies, particularly in the initial stages, tooutsource executive functions for cost cutting: a part-time chief

financial officer, marketing manager, controller, or human resources manager.Note that potential investors may require that a percentage of equity be“reserved” for full-time hires for certain executive positions. Investors wantto be confident that the company’s finances will be properly managed.

Once you get the basic questions ironed out, the next step is to negotiatea letter of intent setting out the terms of the investment agreements with theprospective investor. There are many terms that entrepreneurs shouldfamiliarize themselves with in advance, including common v. preferred stock,liquidation preferences (participating – full or capped), convertible securities(conversion rights – automatic or voluntary), antidilution provisions(“weighted average” or “ratchet down”), redemption (when and on whatterms), protective provisions (special approval rights) – board seat.

Negotiating the terms of the investment agreements is often a complexprocess and is often a trade off between valuation and terms. What compli-cates it even more is that the Series A terms form the basis for all futurerounds of financing, so the valuation sets the stage for the next round offinancing.

Wendel Rosen will be presenting and discussing this topic in more detailat the Grow-California Cleantech Conference on Nov. 2-3 at the Kaiser Centerin downtown Oakland. Separately, Wendel Rosen has a weekly Saturdaymorning radio show at 11:30 a.m. on KKGN Green 960 AM radio, where wediscuss what’s happening in the green economy with industry leaders.

Finally, to leave you with an interesting anecdote, what happens to thefinancing when a start-up company changes direction? Take the example ofnewly-public Solazyme, whose president was interviewed on our radio show.Solazyme develops bio-engineered algae that produce oil for fuels, foods,chemicals, and cosmetics. Solazyme started out with the idea of developingalgae that produces oil for fuel only. This was the plan pitched to investors.However, after spending significant development time and funds, manage-ment decided to broadly expand the scope of the business, a major departurefrom plan. They realized that other kinds of oils sell for much higher pricesthan oil for fuel. When the plan changed, the investors were comfortable withthe shift because they were confident in management. They invested in theinitial plan, but, more importantly, they invested in the people. �

Anagha Dandekar Clifford, an attorney at Wendel, Rosen, Black & Dean LLP,is a member of the firm’s Green Business group and may be reached [email protected] or at (510) 834-6600.

by Anagha Dandekar Clifford

The news of Solyndra’s bankruptcy last month directly affected workersand their families, and it is truly unfortunate. The closure gave all of us apause, but it is probably more reflective of the company than of the stateof green business development and growth in the East Bay.

On the same day we heard about Solyndra’s closing, the Oakland Tribunereported that Solaria, another Fremont solar company, is looking for a second siteto keep up with demand. In the big picture, the East Bay remains at the center ofthe nation’s growth and development of clean, green, sustainable technologies.

One reason is that the Bay Area’s stability is not dependent on just one tech-nology as so many other regions are. In the East Bay, we have solar companies,bio-fuel producers, battery manufacturers, fuel cell developers, electric vehicles,grid management, green building and recycling enterprises. Even among solarcompanies we have a variety of technologies represented, not just photovoltaic.

Professional investors in the venture capital community seem to agree on thecommercial potential of the East Bay’s clean tech companies. The East BayEconomic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA) has estimated that in 2010 alittle over 20 percent – $335 million – of the nation’s entire venture investmentin clean energy and technology came to the East Bay.

Another reason is that the East Bay has extraordinarily strong researchcapabilities that has enabled us to attract $635 million for bio-fuel researchalong with the Joint BioEnergy Institute (JBEI) and the Energy Center for ArtificialPhotosynthesis, which will share in a $122 million grant to create a way totransform water and carbon dioxide into transportation fuel by using sunlight,nanoparticles and the thin film technology used in making solar cells. Theseinstitutions are significant because they have been designed from the start tolead to adaptation in commercial products.

There are developing industries that offer opportunities for the formerSolyndra workers impacted by the closing of the plant. In the meantime, theAlameda County Workforce Investment Board is extending services to workersincluding stress counseling, career counseling and extra government assistancein occupational skills and educational training programs, and employment.

We regret the sudden demise of Solyndra and the impact of its closing on itsemployees and families. However, we must not lose sight of the many contribu-tions of East Bay companies competing to solve our global energy challenges. �

Keith Carson is a member of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors,representing District 5, and is chair of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance,a public-private partnership promoting economic vitality in Alameda and ContraCosta counties. Karen Engel is the executive director of the East Bay EconomicDevelopment Alliance.

> Solar industry remains strong in East Bay despite Solyndra closingby Keith Carson and Karen Engel

Anagha DandekarClifford

October 2011 | 15


The conservation and protection of ournatural resources is a top concern for our tenants.With that in mind, we have turned the OaklandCity Center into one of the greenest collectionsof office buildings in the East Bay.

Being “green” in Oakland means LEEDcertification, plain and simple. LEED (Leadershipin Energy and Environmental Design) is the toprating system certifying the greenest performingbuildings in the world, and is the internationallyrecognized benchmark for sustainability. LEED-certified buildings benefit our tenants and thecommunity because they 1) reduce maintenanceexpenses, 2) are water and energy efficient,3) are safer and healthier for employees, and 4)are ultimately more desirable business locations.

We are proud to report that in 2011, five moreCB Richard Ellis buildings at Oakland City Center became LEED certified.1300 Clay Street and 505 14th Street both earned LEED Gold certification,499 14th Street and 500 12th Street both earned LEED Silver certification,and 501 14th Street also earned LEED certification. These buildings join555 12st Street and 1111 Broadway, both of which have previously earnedLEED Gold certification.

In addition to being the right thing to do for the environment, thechanges instituted to earn LEED certification result in a greatly improvedtenant experience. Tenants see lower operating costs due to increased energyefficiency practices, healthier indoor environments and increased employeeproductivity. The prestige that comes with earning LEED certificationprojects a great image for tenants’ employees, clients and shareholders.We are very proud to provide LEED-certified office space for our tenants.

> Greener buildings at OaklandCity Center mean happier,healthier tenants

Best-in-classamenities have

always been partof the tenant

experience in the CBRichard Ellis-ownedoffice buildings at

Oakland City Center.But these days, first-rate services mean

more than just luxu-rious accommoda-

tions and greatdining options.

by Diana Hernandez

And LEED certification is no easyfeat. It involves a multitude of up-grades and the implementation ofseveral new programs. 1111 Broad-way’s 2009 LEED Gold certificationhas helped the building reduce water usage by 1.9 million gallons a year.It also helped reduce energy usage by 2.5 million kilowatt hours a year.Eighty (80) percent of all trash from 1111 Broadway is diverted fromlandfills, and 100 percent of electronic waste is diverted from landfills.

Every employee in the building is provided with blue recycling binsfor their desks, and each tenant kitchen has green (compost), blue(recycling), grey (plastic bags), and brown (waste) bins.

It’s a pleasure to see the changes we have instituted here inspiringpeople to become greener and less wasteful at home. Most residentialneighborhoods don’t provide for plastic bag or electronic wasterecycling, and we love seeing our tenants’ employees bring that wastefrom home to take full advantage of our comprehensive recyclingopportunities. It is also very rewarding to get feedback from our tenants’employees, saying that CB Richard Ellis’s dedication to greener livinghas inspired them to implement many of our practices at home. �

Diana Hernandez is senior real estate manager at CB Richard Ellis.

� (Above Left) LEED GoldCertified 1111 Broadway.(Above right) LEED GoldCertified 555 12th Street.


> Effective ways to improveyour recycling program


It’s possible to increase participation rates,decrease contamination, and lower costs foreveryone involved. With simple, straightforwardeducation, participants and janitors will knowwhat goes where.

Here are seven actionable strategies used bycompanies with successful recycling programs.Use these as a checklist, or pick and choose thestrategies that will work best for your facilities.

1. Signage over recycling bins – Post signs andplacards. Signs are important to convey whichmaterials go where, and to help the janitorial staffreturn the bins to the correct locations. Colorcoding the signs and bins is helpful as well: greenfor food scraps and other “organic” compostablessuch as paper towels; blue for recycling paper,plastic, bottles and cans; and black or gray forgarbage to landfill.

Signs should also be posted at final collectionlocations such as the trash compactor orrecyclables bins to ensure that materials are notimproperly mixed after collection.

Use signs and stickers with pictures, andconsider Spanish or other languages as needed.

Visit www.stopwaste.org/partnership/freeresources to download postersand order free stickers at www.stopwaste.org/orderonline.

2. Training and incentives – Train tenants, staff and janitors on theenhanced recycling program (e.g. – placement of bins in strategic loca-tions around the floor(s), importance of proper separation of recyclablesfrom non-recyclables, etc.) and the associated incentive program (whereapplicable). Check with your recycling service provider(s) on importantdetails such as using clear bags for the bin liners.

3. Bulletin boards – Post recycling reminders or signage in breakrooms and bulletin boards for general announcements. This will serve toreinforce the importance of recycling alongside other day-to-day noticessuch as safety messages and upcoming events.

4. Broadcast email – A simple email to tenants and/or staff outlininghow and what to recycle (i.e. – paper, bottles and cans, food scraps /organics) will help reinforce the recycling education message. Resendingan email quarterly will help keep interest up about the program andconfirm that recycling is still in place. Where emails aren’t practical, asimple flyer sent or posted periodically will keep participation in place.

5. Form a Green Team –Most employees support their companies’efforts to become more sustainable, and not only that – given the chance,staff will often volunteer to take an active role in the process. To form aGreen Team, encourage interested staff from different levels and parts ofyour organization – from senior management and interns to facilitymanagers and human resources personnel – to get involved. Thenschedule a kick-off meeting to gather input and start a plan of action.

6. Newsletters – A short article that includes the management’s viewson corporate sustainability information is one way to reach participants.You can also mention the progress the program is making and anymilestones that have been reached. Participants enjoy seeing numbersimprove, and non-participants are encouraged to participate when theysee their colleagues separating their recyclables and compostables.

7. Recycling roll-out presentations or lobby displays – Place or staff adisplay in the building lobbies or common areas to give out informationabout what can be recycled and where to put it. Place the booth in a hightraffic area at a time of the day when most employees will pass by. Thebooth could have posters and simple brochures explaining the program,samples of the recycling bins used, as well as samples of what can andcannot be recycled. This could also be hosted at corporate parties orevents such as Earth Day (April 22).

Education in action – Clorox headquartersThe Clorox Company’s corporate headquarters expands over 22 floors indowntown Oakland’s Clorox Building. The building has had collection serviceof commingled recyclables for years, with a waste diversion rate hoveringaround 54 percent. In time for Earth Day 2010, the Oakland General Office’sall-volunteer Eco Network organized a “re-launch” of the recycling program,rolled out a new composting program, and announced an aggressive wastereduction goal of 90 percent.

After internal outreach via email and newsletters, the volunteersreduced the offices’ trash cans to only central locations and distributednew desk-side recycling bins to all 1,500 employees and contractors.“When our colleagues walked in on Earth Day morning, we greeted eachwith a blue recycling bin and information about the program,” recalls EcoNetwork member Suzanne Henricksen. Picking up their own bins engagedeveryone and gave the Eco Network volunteers an opportunity to answerquestions.

Earth Day 2010 also marked the rollout of a food scraps collectionprogram at Clorox’ Oakland office. “We now have bins for compostablesin all kitchens on every floor, and are collecting paper towels from thebathrooms,” says Henricksen. The new program has been a success – eachmonth the building collects almost five tons of food scraps and othercompostables, which were previously destined for the landfill. As ofOctober 2010 the Oakland office reached a 70 percent diversion rate, andis aiming for more in 2011.

Oakland Chamber members interested in setting up their own wastereduction program are invited to contact the StopWaste Partnership forfree expert advice, site-specific consulting, employee education andgrants for purchasing recycling bins. Contact [email protected] visit www.StopWastePartnership.Org to learn more.�

Rachel Balsley is program manager at StopWaste.Org.

by Rachel Balsley

Oakland is home to more than 100 certified green businesses, andthe city of Oakland has a goal to certify 100 more through the BayArea Green Business Program.

Oakland Recycles is offering free technical assistance to Oaklandbusinesses that are interested in becoming certified green businesses.To jump-start the certification process, green business experts will becontacting Oakland businesses to introduce the Green Business Programand shepherd interested businesses through the certification process.

Distinguish your business in the marketplace as an environmentalleader through the Green Business Program.

Interested in a free assessment? Contact Oakland Recycles at (510)238-SAVE (7283) or email [email protected]. �

> Oakland business is green business

When it comes torecycling andcompostables

collection, buildingand facility

managers faceone of two hurdles– low participation

rates or trashcontaminating therecycling and food

waste bins.

Rachel Balsley

October 2011 | 17


The bill is an extension of theCalifornia Global WarmingSolutions Act of 2006. The bill,called “CALGreen,” requires that thestate’s greenhouse emissions returnto 1990 levels in 2050.

Buildings contribute to a large part of greenhouseemissions. Leadership Energy and Environmental Design(LEED) was developed by the United States GreenBuilding Council (USGBC) to provide a rating system thatmeasures the building’s use of resources such as energy,water, natural light and air quality. The LEED ratingsystem has four certifications – Platinum, Gold, Silverand Certified.

Oakland is nationally recognized as one of America’s greenest cities.Oakland adopted a Civic Green Building Ordinance in May 2005 thatrequires all new and heavily renovated municipal buildings meet LEEDguidelines. These guidelines require on-site recycling programs anddiversions of waste generated in demolition. The first renovationproject to fall under this ordinance was the Lake Merritt Boat House.

Exemplary of Oakland’s environmental awareness, all 29 buildingsin downtown Oakland’s Class A office market, which total 9,842,645square feet, have in some way participated in the LEED program.Additionally, as Joe Haraburda, president of the Oakland MetropolitanChamber of Commerce, points out, LEED certified buildings areadvantageous because of “lower costs of operation going forwardand setting a positive example for sustainable urban development.”

“We are not only seeing a push towards greener office space frombuilding owners and management in Oakland,” says Ken Meyersieck,managing director of Colliers International Oakland office. “The desirefor a building that participates in the LEED program ranks high on the

> Oakland – A leader inthe ‘Green’ movement

California has amandatory new

building code thatwent into effect onJan. 1 of this year.

by Catherine Arlinlist of criteria for an overwhelming number of corporateusers.”

Meyersieck adds, “Green buildings have proven todeliver real and quantifiable energy, water and financialsavings to consumers and governments alike – thebenefits of building green extend far beyond the buildingfootprint and deep into the community. Green buildingcreates jobs, reduces strain on public infrastructure andresources, creates and maintains a healthier indoor andoutdoor environment, and inspires growth and innovationin the local economy.” (U.S. Green Building CouncilWebsite)

As of 2010 there were LEED projects in all 50 stateswith 114 countries participating. In Oakland, there were 13LEED certified buildings, six of which were Gold certified.

We expect to see this number increase in the coming years as there areplans for more certified buildings in the works.

Colliers International Oakland is located in the Gold certified LakeMerritt Plaza. “Lake Merritt Plaza is the first existing LEED Gold certifiedbuilding in Oakland,” says Trent Holsman, senior vice president atColliers International.

Colliers International is a global leader in real estate services withmore than 15,000 professionals operating out of 480 offices in 61countries. Colliers provides a full range of services to real estate users,owners and investors worldwide including global corporate solutions;sales and lease brokerage; property and asset management; projectmanagement; hotel investment sales and consulting; property valuationand appraisal services; mortgage banking and insightful research.Colliers Parrish International, Inc., dba Colliers International, is head-quartered in San Jose and has 11 offices in California and Nevada. Foradditional information, visit www.colliers.com. �

Catherine Arlin is operations manager at Colliers International Oakland.

Colliers International Oakland is located in the Goldcertified Lake Merritt Plaza.

�


> Using ‘Integrated Green’achieves green building goals

Pankow uses a process we call “IntegratedGreen” to help clients successfully achieve avariety of green building goals. Many builderssimply add on cost and time for green. Wehave proven that integrating green goals intoall phases of construction can positivelyimpact schedule, quality and price.

Step 1 – Assess client goalsThere are many ways to reduce your environmentalimpact (resource reduction, local product selec-tion, non-toxic materials, energy reduction, use of

natural lighting, use of natural ventilation, reduction in carbon emissions,LEED Certification…). We help clients articulate their priorities and showthem proven strategies to achieve these goals within existing budget andschedule constraints.

Benefit to client: Early view of green building options and theirrespective cost and benefit.

Step 2 – Project planningOnce goals have been established, Pankow integrates them into traditionalcost, schedule and quality planning. For instance:

• If the goal is water savings, Pankow provides cost neutral options forwater savings as well as the quantity of water saved by each option.

• If the goal is Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), Pankow can provide superiorIAQ during construction at no added expense and help reduce costsnormally associated with IAQ testing or flushout. IAQ management leadsto a safer construction environment which assists in schedule management.

• If the goal is LEED certification, Pankow can take the role of LEEDconsultant, thereby reducing costs.

• If the goal is non-toxic product selection, Pankow can provide feed-back on new and old products that can best help achieve these goals.

Benefit to client: Green goals are rolled into established cost, quality andschedule needs often resulting in reductions in cost or time.

Step 3 – PerformanceIn the field and in the office Pankow has the personnel management tools aswell as information management tools to ensure green goals are being met.In addition, we have established partnerships with vital energy modeling,commissioning, financial modeling, and indoor air quality experts that canhelp the team achieve their goals at a low cost. Our experience on numerousgreen/LEED projects, of all types, saves the client arbitrary cost increasesthat come with those new to these practices.

Benefit to client: Diligent management of green goals with proven tools.Ongoing cost and schedule management as work associated with greengoals is anticipated.

Step 4 – Goal measurementPankow understands the project is not complete at move-in, but ratherwhen the goals are achieved. We provide comprehensive energy systemstraining to ensure clients use their building in an efficient manner. As well,we assist with post-occupancy evaluations to make corrections within thewarranty period. Our follow-through with financial modeling checks actualbuilding energy costs and compares them to modeled predictions. If youplan to mirror LEED certification, we can provide documentation to quantifythe results achieved.

Benefit to client: Client has thorough verification that goals wereachieved.

Pankow green building toolsAlmost every LEED project we have worked on has exceeded originalcertification goals. This is the result of strong team efforts, and use of thefollowing Pankow specific tools.

• In-depth knowledge of local incentives and rebates• Historical LEED cost log for six local projects• Subcontractor green contract language• Sample green specifications• Athena carbon calculator• Erosion and Sedimentation control plans• Construction waste management log (resources to divert almost every

material from landfill)• LEED information/Submittal log• IAQ management plans that exceed the standards of SMACNA

guidelines• LEED field management monitoring tools• Experience with BIM modeling• Tenant green construction guidelines• Tenant green cleaning guidelines• Green product database (for product evaluation and comparison)• Sample owner project requirements and basis of design

by Eric Kisshauer

LEED project certification checklistBased on the project scope of work, we recommend LEED-CI as the appro-priate rating system to evaluate your building. The following is a LEED-CIchecklist that includes the credits and prerequisites that can be achievedat no additional cost. We believe this project can achieve LEED-SilverCertification at a minimum.

The necessary costs of LEED are: Project registration and certification(approximately $3000), LEED consulting (negotiable), commissioning(negotiable), and energy modeling (negotiable). Our expertise and keypartnerships would reduce these costs to a minimum were you to chooseLEED certification. �

Eric Kisshauer is the director of business development at Pankow.

> Providing solutionsfor mandatory commercial recyclingby Karen Stern

December 1 marks the countdown to the new statewide manda-tory Commercial Recycling law, AB 32. Does your business orcommercial property have a recycling plan in place? WasteManagement of Alameda County (WMAC) offers a comprehensiveone-stop shop for all your recycling needs. Just ask NestléDreyer’s Ice Cream in Oakland.

A leader in sustainability initiatives, Nestlé Dreyer’s engaged WasteManagement to help design its employee recycling center. Unveiled inMarch, the center incorporates many of the recycling programs offeredby Waste Management.

“Waste Management is our recycling partner,” said Lawrence Arevalo,facilities project manager. “From the outset, the staff focused on ourneeds, designing a program for our unique setting. They even helpeddesign our promotional materials to educate our employees.”

Regardless of the volume of waste your business or propertyproduces, WMAC’s experienced staff can help design a program tocapture recyclables and reducewaste destined for landfills.Whether it’s common materialslike food scraps, cardboard,

bottles and cans or compact fluorescent bulbs, batteries or electronics,you can recycle them conveniently. In some cases, you can also reduceyour disposal bill. In all cases, you will contribute to a greenerenvironment.

Waste Management staff conducts site visits to evaluate the varietyand quantity of waste produced. With their knowledge of local collectionservices, they are able to site the best bins and schedule for collectingmaterials. Their goal is to design a collection service that minimizesweekly hauls. The benefit is two-fold. The customer is charged for fewerhauls and the environment benefits from fewer carbon emissions.

Another low carbon solution is a pre-paid, mail-back program forhard-to-recycle materials. Waste Management has a comprehensiveoffering of recycling kits that allow you to safely collect and storefluorescent bulbs and tubes as well as batteries, syringes, and electronics.Once the kits are full, you simply seal and leave them for the postman tocollect. It’s that easy. To learn more, visit www.lamptracker.com or call(510) 613-8700. �

Karen Stern is communications manager at Waste Management of

Alameda County.

� Beyond glass, paper and plastic,Nestlé Dreyer’s employees can nowrecycle other materials with thehelp of Waste Management.

Eric Kisshauer

SPECIAL SECTIONGreen Business

October 2011 | 19

SPECIAL SECTION Green Business> Oakland restaurants –Improving our environment

I wrote an article for Oakland Business Review lastmonth that focused on how neighborhood restau-rants support the community. That article started aseries on “Restaurants and the Oakland community.”This month focuses on how Oakland restaurants im-prove the environment and actually play a role inimproving the quality and taste of food we all buylocally.

Food that is used by Oakland restaurants starts aninteresting and unique cycle that improves the lives of allOakland residents. Restaurants consume large amounts ofraw food products each day – meat, fish, poultry and

produce are all delivered to Oakland restaurants on a daily basis. During the foodpreparation process, some portion of the food is not actually served to customersand becomes a major component of the restaurant’s food scraps. Food scraps consistof raw product, food that was cooked in preparation of the menu items and food thatis left over from the dishes restaurants serve.

Oakland restaurants spend a great deal of energy separating their food scrapsfrom the typical land fill waste stream. They spend additional resources separatingthe food scraps, having additional containers in the kitchens to collect the foodscraps and the additional handling necessary for the food scrap storage and process-ing by garbage companies.

If restaurants did not make the extra effort to separate their food scraps, the foodscraps would be handled as typical garbage and taken to one of our local land fills.

StopWaste.org reports that food scraps produce methane gas, which is a23 percent more potent green house gas than the carbon dioxide that is producedby automobiles. By separating their food scraps, Oakland restaurants reduce theamount of trash they produce and which is taken to land fills by 35 percent.

Restaurant food scraps are typically picked up from Oakland restaurants byWaste Management or Recology. Waste Management processes the food scraps theycollect at a facility in Hayward and ultimately take them to a compost facility in theCentral Valley. Waste Management-produced compost can be purchased at manyhome improvement and gardening centers under the WM Earth Care brand.

Recology’s collected food scraps from Oakland restaurants take one of twoenvironmentally friendly paths. Oakland restaurant food scraps may be taken to themethane gas producer at the EBMUD waste treatment facility next to the Bay BridgeToll Plaza. The methane gas produced, by EBMUD, is used to produce electricity thatis placed back into the local electrical grid. Some of the electricity that Oaklandrestaurants use to prepare food was actually produced from the food scraps therestaurant’s separated several weeks earlier.

Recology also mixes their collected food scraps with organics collected fromresidences at a facility in Berkeley and ultimately has the food scraps delivered to acompost facility.

The primary user of composted food scraps are the local organic farmers. Thecompost produced from Oakland restaurants contains very high levels of naturallyoccurring nitrogen – an element essential for plant growth. Typically the largercommercial farms inject or spray chemically-produced nitrogen on their soil result-ing in run off of the excess nitrogen into our waterways. The naturally-producednitrogen found in Oakland restaurant’s food scraps is retained in the soil, preventingrun off. It also bonds with water, making the soil more drought resistant and reducesthe amount of water necessary to irrigate the crops.

The organic produce grown with the organic Oakland restaurant food scraps ismore nutritious, better tasting and healthier than many commercially producedfruits and vegetables. The largest consumer of locally grown organic fruits andvegetables are Oakland restaurants. It is interesting that the food scraps segregatedat Oakland restaurants find their way back to the restaurant several months later asthe raw fruits and vegetables that they originally started as.

Oakland restaurants also separate and recycle paper and cardboard, plasticbottles, cans glass and waste oil. The typical Oakland restaurant has reduced theamount of garbage being taken to landfill by more than 75 percent over the lastdecade. Some Oakland restaurants have diverted more than 90 percent of their“garbage” to recyclables and food scrap composting.

Used cooking oil, for many years a staple of soap production and livestock feed,is now primarily being converted into bio fuel. A local company, Blue Sky Bio Fuels,located in Oakland, actually purchases used cooking oil from Oakland restaurants.A portion of Blue Sky’s purchase is given to Oakland public schools. Many of thedelivery trucks that deliver fresh food to local restaurants are burning the bio-dieselthat Blue Sky produces. It is interesting that the truck that delivered fresh cookingoil to many restaurants is being powered by the same oil that was separated by therestaurant and collected several weeks earlier.

While Oakland restaurants play an important role in bringing our communitytogether for friends and family to enjoy a delicious meal, it is also important torealize that Oakland restaurants and their partners, Waste Management, Recologyand Blue Sky, play an important role in making our Oakland environment a healthierand more enjoyable place to live and work.

Next month’s article will focus on Alameda County’s Green Business Program,and why we should support green businesses. �

Mark Everton, the co-chair of the Oakland Restaurant Association, isgeneral manager of the Waterfront Hotel and Miss Pearl’s Jam House inJack London Square.

by Mark Everton

Mark Everton


> Talking economic development strategy

New supermarkets in East and West Oakland. A plan to tie in with theretail development in Emeryville. And a declaration that big box retailersare interested in Oakland.

These were just a few of the observations made by Walter Cohen, directorof Oakland’s Community & Economic Development Agency, during a recentvisit with the Chamber’s Economic Development Committee. Cohen’s visit wasparticularly appreciated coming as it did just a day after his departure from thecity was announced.

Cohen was joined by Michael Caplan, director of the Office of Economic

Development in Berkeley, and byHelen Bean, director of economicdevelopment in Emeryville. The threeeconomic development leaders sharedideas on how to spur growth and workcollaboratively with business groupsgenerally and the Chamber ofCommerce in particular.

Cohen expressed appreciation forthe Chamber’s efforts in hosting the

by Paul Junge

MegaRegion Summit each of the last two years and working with the cityto keep the offices of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)and Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) located in Oakland.

The fate of redevelopment agencies, eliminated by state legislation thatwill be decided by the state Supreme Court in January, was also covered.Interestingly, whatever the outcome, the impact will be very different inthe three cities. Berkeley has no redevelopment agency and therefore isnot impacted. Emeryville does have a redevelopment agency with a $36million budget, all of which goes to capital projects and property develop-ment. It is in Oakland, where the redevelopment agency has a nearly $100million budget that any change to redevelopment agency law would hit thehardest. Not just because the dollar amounts are greater, but also becauseit is the only one of the three cities funding hundreds of personnel slots,dozens of which would face layoffs if the redevelopment agency isdisbanded or reduced.

All three economic development directors spoke positively about thefuture of the region, emphasizing the educated workforce, strong anddiverse economic base, and quality of life issues that will continue toattract companies and economic opportunity. �

Paul Junge is the Chamber’s director of public policy.

� Presenters at the Chamber’sEconomic Development Forum wereOakland’s Walter Cohen (far right),Emeryville’s Helen Bean (next toCohen) and Berkeley’s MichaelCaplan (middle) – each an economicdevelopment director in his or herrespective city. They were joined byChamber Board members SolomonEts-Hokin (far left) and CharissaFrank, the committee chair.

> Win Southwest Airlines ticketsDo you know a business that wouldbenefit from Chamber membership?If you refer a potential member – andthey join – you will be entered into adrawing to win two Southwest Airlinesroundtrip tickets valued at $800.Chamber applications must be received byThursday, Oct. 20 to qualify. The winner will be selected and announced at theChamber’s October After Five Reception on Thursday, Oct. 27 at the OaklandAsian Cultural Center, 388 9th St., suite 290. For more information contactTriche Christmon at [email protected] or at (510) 874-4800,ext. 321. �

October 2011 | 21

5 1 0 . 6 5 3 . 2 1 5 3 • c c @ c h e r i e c a r t e r d e s i g n s . c o mC O M M U N I C A T I O N D E S I G N T H A T R E A L L Y M E A N S B U S I N E S S

BrandstormingWe work with you and your team to connect your product

or service with your target. We create quality publications

that help build your brand – annual reports, brochures,

logos, corporate newsletters

and sales kits.

==C A R T E RD E S I G N S

> Leadership Oakland – Leading the wayby Cat Brewer

Have you ever wanted to learn more about the city in which you liveor work, specifically Oakland? Have you ever wanted to feel moreconnected to what’s going on in your community and meet like-mindedpeople? Do you have a desire to make positive change in your communitybut aren’t sure how to go about doing it?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you might beinterested in a program called Leadership Oakland, a program of theOakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce that focuses on knowl-edge, network, and know-how. Through the program, you gain a betterunderstanding of the city of Oakland, participate in valuable networking,and acquire the know-how to makechange in your community.

To make Oakland a better city,one has to have knowledge of thevarious aspects of it. Participantsof Leadership Oakland gain aworking knowledge of the cityand community by engaging in anine-month program that paysspecial attention each month tothe following topics: Government,Education & Cultural Arts, Health & Human Services, Transportation &Environment, Business, Media & Communication, and Public Safety. Keybusinesspeople, city officials, and chief executive officers discuss andexplain various issues specific to Oakland during each session includinga session devoted to exploring how to join a city board or commission ora board of an active nonprofit.

In addition to learning about the city, participants gain a newcommunity of business associates with their classmates, creating avaluable network of contacts. Participants will build and foster relation-ships with up to 20 other individuals from diverse backgrounds – bothpersonally and professionally. These connections prove valuable foryears to come, and increase after graduation by joining the LeadershipOakland Alumni Association with more than 300 members.

Moreover, not only do participants make connections with theircohorts, they also meet key people in the community. These connectionsprove valuable because when you have an idea for change, you’ll know

who to visit to begin the process.And while fostering these relation-

ships, participants get practice utilizingtheir leadership skills by facilitating ses-sions and exploring their own leadership styles in relation to others in asafe and respectful environment.

After gaining knowledge and creating a network of associates,participants are equipped to make a difference because they acquire theknow-how to make change in their community. This know-how comesfrom gaining inside knowledge of the workings of the city of Oakland; bybecoming familiar with and strengthening their own leadership style andskills, and by fostering connections made with guest speakers andclassmates.

Consider the questions posed at the beginning of this article anddecide if gaining knowledge of the city of Oakland, creating a network ofcontacts with other participants and the key leaders in the community,and acquiring the know-how to make change in Oakland appeals to you.If so, join Leadership Oakland today!

Space is still available for participants to join the 2011-2012 program.Contact me at [email protected] or call (510)755-0627. �

Cat Brewer is executive director of the Chamber’s Leadership Oakland

program.

� The Leadership Oaklandclass of 2011 at the KTVUstudios on Media Day.

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.”– John C. Maxwell

> Linked Learning – A student’sguide to employment

Throughout the district there areindustry-specific academies and careerpathways that help to teach youth not onlyacademic lessons, but valuable technicalskills and 21st Century work competence aswell. The model is referred to as LinkedLearning.

Linked Learning students followindustry-themed pathways in a wide rangeof fields, such as engineering, arts andmedia, biomedicine and health. Thesepathways prepare high school students fora career and a full range of postsecondary

options, including attending a two or four-year college or university, anapprenticeship, the military and formal employment training. A well-designedpathway consists of four core components – strong academic core, technicalskills, work-based learning opportunities and supportive systems. Currentlythere are 27 academies and pathways within the district representing an arrayof industry focus.

The College and Career Readiness Office (CCRO) is spearheading theoutreach to the business community in an effort to expand relationships forwork-based learning opportunities. Last spring CCRO hosted a health careersmeeting to discuss the role of industry in high school education and specifi-cally what advice those professionals at the table had for youth. Those presentalso conversed about how businesses and companies can help to improve thedevelopment of OUSD students in relation to college and career readiness.

Additionally, in May, a larger meeting was held to draw on the professionaladvice of a greater range of industry professionals with the same goal in mind– helping our youth succeed. More than 180 business and communitymembers attended this work meeting in order to obtain ideas on how toimprove the career pathways within the district. Keynote speaker Mayor JeanQuan and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tony Smith both spoke about thelasting powerful impact of quality work-based learning opportunities andcalled for more business involvement.

There are great things happening in the district. With the start of thenew school year comes the prospect of new opportunities. Presently, thereare several high school academies that are participating in a new programdesigned around workshops that expound the concept of Linked Learningby incorporating classroom lessons with college and career offsite visits. Theprogram, ECCO!, is a national model that is newly adopted by OUSD. There isa plan to implement this comprehensive curriculum and model across thepathways within the district in order to further advance the impact of LinkedLearning within the lives of OUSD students.

On the OUSD Linked Learning website, www.linkedlearningousd.org, thereis a more detailed explanation of what the 27 pathways and academies are,where they are located, as well as each pathway’s industry focus. There is alsoa link for “Community Partners,” which explains how to get involved. Feel freeto contact the College and Career Readiness Office. �


Imagine a day where nonprofits and faith agencies intentionally putaside all differences and join together to focus on shared goals. That dayis set, and it’s Thursday, Nov. 10. The event is called ALIGN – Alameda LinkingInterfaith Groups with Nonprofits, and will be hosted at the InterstakeCenter on Mormon Temple Hill, 4788 Lincoln Ave.

The running theme of ALIGN is finding ways to build partnershipsbetween faith agencies and nonprofits to meet common communityneeds. The event will feature free workshops, trainings and learningsessions on topics of interest to agencies serving our community. Topics

> Calling all nonprofits – It’s time to ‘ALIGN’

> Yone Noguchi exhibit at Chamber mixer

Oakland author Nina Egert’s photo essay is ondisplay at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center, 3889th St., suite 290, where the mixer will take place.The exhibit is based on her book, “Noguchi’sCalifornia, Poetic Visions of a 19th Century DharmaBum.” She will join the Chamber attendees. Boththe exhibit and the book trace the life of Japanese

poet Yone Noguchi (1875-1947), who apprenticed under Joaquin Millerbeginning in 1893.

Egert is a member of the California Writers Club (CWC), which formed inOakland on Miller’s lands in 1909 when Jack London, poets George Sterling andIna Coolbrith, California’s first poet laureate, and other famed authors met forinformal outdoor salons – “a blanket and a basket of chow.”

Upon Miller’s death in 1913, the CWC led the campaign to persuade the cityto purchase Miller’s 68 acres and create a park. The CWC then led the effort todesign and build the Woodminster Theatre plus the cascades, fountain, pool,and the California Writers Memorial Grove. During these early days, theOakland Chamber of Commerce helped sponsor CWC writing conferences,which were held at the Hotel Oakland.

Today, Joaquin Miller Park has grown to 500 acres and is believed to be theonly urban redwood forest in the United States. For more information, visitwww.oaklandnet.com/parks/joaquinmiller.�

will include using the latest socialmedia tools, innovative fundraisingtechniques, finding corporate spon-sors, locating grant opportunities,obtaining / protecting tax-exemptstatus, and connecting with studentsand young adults, with a specialfocus on collaborating withreligious groups. Participants willbe able to choose from up to 16workshops offered.

This will be an afternoon ofideas, resources, and networkingto assist nonprofit organizationsof every type to accomplish moreduring these challenging timesand to partner with faithorganizations.

Participating nonprofitorganizations will be invited topresent in an interactive posterdisplay. Table top displays willbe presented by organizationsoffering special assistance tononprofits.

A complementary banquetdinner will be provided for some125 agency representatives whoparticipate in the ongoing planninginitiative, poster displays, etc.Following the dinner, briefpresentations will be made byrepresentatives of the largerreligious denominations introducingtheir membership, what kindsof charitable work they look toengage in, and how to contactthem for involvement. In addition,some non-religious agencies will comment on short-term urgent needsin the community.

Registration is now available online at http://align.eventbrite.com orby downloading the registration form, which was emailed on Oct. 1. Eachnonprofit organization participating in the planning process and postersession will be limited to a maximum of two registrants for the banquetdinner.

Come join the nonprofit community for a day of interaction, sharingand networking while we put aside all the issues which otherwise mightdivide us – and let’s work together to accomplish a far greater good. Signup and reserve your space.

The ALIGN event is being brought to you by CARD – CollaboratingAgencies Responding to Disasters, the Oakland Metropolitan Chamberof Commerce and community partners.

The ALIGN advisory committee includes representatives from ChabotSpace and Science Center, the Alameda County Community Food Bank,BART, the Alameda County Public Health Department, The Church of JesusChrist of Latter-Day Saints and CARD.

For more information, to help sponsor the event, or to offer in-kinddonations, email Ana-Marie Jones or Tom Brighton [email protected]. �

> ChamberDay at GoldenGate FieldsNov. 11The annual Chamber Dayat the Races, a special dayat Golden Gate Fields, willbe held on Friday, Nov. 11beginning at 11:30 a.m.

For just $35 Chambermembers will receive valetparking, admission, reservedseating, a daily racing programand a Turf Club buffet. A specialrace will also be named in theOakland Chamber’s honor. Inaddition, members of other localChambers will be participating,making the event an excellentopportunity to network.

Buffet hours run from11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first racebegins at 12:45 p.m.

Don’t miss your chance for abig win.

To reserve your tickets andfor more information, contactAmanda Medina at the Chamberat (510) 874-4800, ext. 319 or [email protected].�

The Oakland UnifiedSchool District (OUSD)

is committed to thesuccess of Oakland youth.One of the ways that thedistrict encourages the

growth and developmentof its high school agedstudents is through

school-based programswith a focus on collegeand career readiness.

The Chamber’s AfterFive Reception onThursday, Oct. 27promises a walk

through Oakland’sliterary history.

October 2011 | 23

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OBR OAKLAND BUSINESS REVIEW (ISSN 1092-7220)is published monthly at $100.00 a year by the OaklandMetropolitan Chamber of Commerce, 475 14th Street,Oakland, CA 94612-1903. Membership dues includesubscription. Periodicals postage at Oakland, CA.Contents can’t be reproduced without permission.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to OAKLANDBUSINESS REVIEW, 475 14th Street, Oakland, CA 94612.

Editor

HHAANNKK MMAASSLLEERR,, ((551100)) 887744--44880088

[email protected] | www.oaklandchamber.com

Design/Production Editor

CCAARRTTEERR DDEESSIIGGNNSS

The articles published in this publication do not necessarily

reflect the policies or opinions of the Oakland Metropolitan

Chamber of Commerce.

EEXXEECCUUTTIIVVEE CCOOMMMMIITTTTEEEEChair of the BoardJOHN NELSONmurakami/Nelson

Vice Chair MARIO CHIODOChiodo ArtDevelopment

Vice Chair SHANNON PEDDERBRAND: CREATIVE

DAN COHENFull Court Press

ERIC KISSHAUERPankow Builders

ZACK WASSERMANWendel, Rosen, Black & Dean LLP

KENNETH WHITEFidelity Roof Company

MICHAEL ZIEMANNSummit Bank

BBOOAARRDD OOFF DDIIRREECCTTOORRSS

MANETTE BELLIVEAUOakland Convention &Visitors Bureau

ALICIA BERTPG&E

TERRY BRADYSecuritas SecurityServices

DAVE CANNONBarney & Barney LLC

ANA CHRETIENABC Security Service

KIM DELEVETTSouthwest Airlines

CHRIS DONOHOECIM Group

SOLOMONETS-HOKINColliers International

MARK EVERTONWaterfront Hotel /Miss Pearl’s Jam House

ALLYSON FATTORESunwest Bank

CHARRISA FRANKSwinerton Manage-ment & Consultants

JOHN GOODINGThe Quadric Group

GEORGE GRANGERAT&T

TODD HANSENClear Channel Outdoor

STAN HEBERTCalifornia State University, East Bay

MICHAEL HESTERMcGuire & Hester

VICTORIA JONESThe Clorox Company

MICHAEL LEBLANCPican

KEN MAXEYComcast Cable

IKE MMEJEAlta Bates SummitMedical Center

NATHAN NAYMANVisa

NATHANIELOUBRE, JR.Kaiser Permanente

MICKY RANDHAWAWells Fargo

EMILY SHANKSBank of America

DICK SPEESConsultant

DAVID TUCKERWaste Managementof Alameda County

ELÑORA TENA WEBB,PH.D.Laney College

RICHARD WHITEFitzgerald Abbott &Beardsley LLC

JOSEPH HARABURDAPresident and CEO

East Bay Women in Business luncheon –Mayor Jean Quan, a “woman who inspires” | featured speaker October 7

All events held at Chamber offices, 475 14th Street, unless otherwise noted. Call 874-4800 to confirm dates and times. Meetings are open to all Chamber members.

Keeping you connected and informed

> OCTOBER

7 | East BayWomen inBusinessluncheon |11:15 a.m. -1:30 p.m.featuringOakland MayorJean Quan,sponsored bySouthwestAirlines and VisitOakland, Waterfront Hotel, 10 WashingtonSt. in Jack London Square

12 | Ambassador Committeemeeting |noon - 1 p.m.

12 | Economic DevelopmentForum |3 - 4:30 p.m.

18| Nonprofit RoundtableCommittee meeting|2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

20 | Breakfast at the Chamber|7:30 - 9 a.m.an update of Chamber activities forprospective, new and long-time

members, hosted byPaychex

21 | Inside Oakland BreakfastForum |8:30 - 10 a.m.featuring guest speaker Oakland ViceMayor Desley Brooks, no charge forChamber members, $10 for non-members

Inside Oakland Breakfast Forum| October 21Featuring Oakland Vice Mayor Desley Brooks

Oct.27 After Five Reception

Power Breakfast| November 8OUSD superintendent Dr. Tony Smith

27 | After Five Reception |5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Oakland Asian Cultural Center inconjunction with the Oakland ChinatownChamber of Commerce, 388 - 9th St.,suite 290, no charge for Chambermembers, $15 for non-members

> NOVEMBER

8 | PowerBreakfast| registrationbegins at7:30 a.m.,breakfast from8–9:30 a.m.

featuring OaklandUnified SchoolDistrictSuperintendent Dr. Tony Smith,Waterfront Hotel in Jack London Square,sponsored by Southwest Airlines and

Wells Fargo



15 | Nonprofit RoundtableCommittee meeting|2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

17 | After Five Reception |5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Youth Uprising, 8711MacArthur Blvd., nocharge for Chambermembers, $15 fornon-members

25 | Happy Thanksgiving!

> DECEMBER

3 | 12th Annual ComcastAmerica’s Children’s HolidayParade | 2 p.m.

marching up Broadway in downtownOakland, featuring children’s cartoonand storybook characters, beautifulfloats, enormous balloons andmarching bands



388 - 9th St., Suite 290 between Franklin and Webster StreetsNo charge for Chamber members. • $15 for non-members. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Mayor Jean Quan

Dr. Tony Smith


> How well do you know Oakland’s restaurants?

SPECIAL SECTION

Oakland’s restaurants have tapped into the local and international sustainable foodproduction markets.

Please take a minute and test your knowledge of Oakland’s restaurants and their menus.This month’s quiz is a three-way match. To be successful you will need to match the menuitem with the restaurant and the description of the sustainable farm or ranch.1. Prather Ranch pork loin – tamarind glaze, chayote & jicama slaw2. Sauteed Laughing Bird shrimp3.Happy Boy Farms little gems, marinated beets4. Fogline Farms chicken

a. Lake Chaletb. Florac. Bocanovad. Plume. The Fat Lady

I.Certified Organic beef ranch located near Mt.Shasta

II. Freedom Foods’ award-winning sustainable fish farm in ScotlandIII.Organic inland farm in BelizeIV. Family-run organic farm in Freedom, Calif.V.Organic farm at 900 feet above Monterey Bay in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Answers: 1. c I 2. a III, 3. b IV, 4. d V, 5. e II

Scoring: You need to have matched four of the five menu items with their correspon-

ding restaurants and descriptions

Prize: A $10 gift card for Pican or Miss Pearl’s Jam House – If you scored a perfectmatch, email your snail address to Mark Everton at [email protected]. Please includethe name of at least one restaurant (hopefully your favorite) from any of the neighborhoodsthat was left off the above list. �

The new Oakland Restaurant Association

Brought to you by the Oakland Restaurant Association • www.oakrest.orgRick Hackett, Bocanova,55 Webster St. in Jack

London Square, Oakland

www.bocanova.com

(510) 444-1233

BACKGROUNDA Culinary Institute of

America alum – graduated in

1978. Worked for one year

with a very talented chef,

Yanick Cam at Le Pavillion in

Washington, D.C. It was like

studying for a Masters Degree in cooking technique!

Once I moved to the Bay Area I worked at Bay Wolf,

Chez Panisse, Santa Fe Bar & Grill, Florio and Postrio.

I was the opening chef at Oliveto, Enrico’s, Tavolino,

Bandol and MarketBar. Part owner of Enrico’s,

Tavolino, Bandol and Bocanova.

First job? Dishwasher at Piper’s Diner inKalamazoo, Michigan.

Education? AOS Degree from the CulinaryInstitute of America in Hyde Park, New York.

Residence? Oakland

BUSINESS STRATEGYHow’s business? Excellent, especially when you

consider the Jack London Market has yet to open.

Now they say it will open in the summer of 2012.

Biggest challenge that you face?Consistency of food and service.

Personal goal yet to be achieved? To be moreinvolved in the local community.

Why people like working for you? ? I investin people. I have employees that have worked under

me for up to ten years. I think I’m fair, honest and very

straightforward.

Mentor? Joseph Graham, one of the owners ofMarketBar.

What do you like most about your job? Beinginvolved with the small farms, cooking with wonder-

ful products, creating new dishes and most of all,

watching customers enjoy the end product.

What do you like least about your job? Havingto let an employee go.

Best meal/dish you ever created and to whomwas it served? When Meredith and I were on a

two-year bike trip through Portugal, Spain and France

I cooked some wonderful dishes on a single burner

while we camped. We carried everything on our bikes.

Most respected competitor? I respect all of my

competitors, but especially Alice Waters.

PREFERENCESStranded on a desert island; what

cookbook would you want? I love Marcella Hazan.

Lunch with Julia Child - one question for her?Was she really a CIA spy?

Favorite cause?Oakland and the localcommunity.

Favorite movie? Amadeus.

Favorite restaurant? ? Chez Panisse Café.Favorite way to spend spare time? I love to

read!

On your iPod? Classical jazz.Automobile? VW Jetta – waiting for an affordable

electric sports car! �

> Chef’s CornerRick Hackett

Documents

Oakland Business Review October 2011