Diablo Networking Circle of BNI Term Results for 2009

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Victor Mataraso Vice President: John Pearson Secretary: Lincoln Haven Treasurer: Julia Kostina

The Diablo Networking Circle of BNI would like to announce the final numbers for the term from 4/01/2009 to 9/31/09!

• Total Closed Business: $394,612
  
• Total Referrals Given: 474
  

This has been our most productive term since the groups inception in 2004. Thank you leadership and more importantly the members for making this chapter of BNI one of the most dynamic and sought after BNI Chapters in not just Contra Costa County and Walnut Creek but in the entire Bay Area!

New Leadership BNI in Walnut Creek Contra Costa Bay Area

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

Message from Incoming President Victor Mataraso: Thank you all for your enthusiastic response to the call for Leadership Team members.  As I mentioned in our last meeting, we had more volunteers than we have available spaces.  It is great to work with such a talented and supportive group.  John and I tried to put the puzzle pieces together in a way that would make the most of people’s talents and desires to be a part of the team.

If you are not a part of the Leadership Team, please know that we very much appreciate your willingness to serve and will value the input of all the group members as we move into the new term.  Should additional positions open up mid-term, the opportunity will be reopened.  Now, here is your new Leadership Team:

President : Victor Mataraso

Vice-president: John Pearson

Education Coordinator: Derek Tinder

Membership: Paula Pollock

Membership: Steve Arbabi

Membership: Sabine Webb

Membership: Jason Lohe

Membership: Lisa Ferrerr

Secretary: Lincoln Haven

Treasurer: Julia Kostina

Visitor Host (pre): John Kitts

Visitor Host (pre): Leslie Reitzes

Visitor Host (post): Dess Benedetto

Visitor Host (post): Wade Cantrell

Event Coordinator: Christine Geddes-Sinclair

Team members, please plan on attending the upcoming Leadership Training as indicated below:

Tuesday, Sep 15, 2009

8:00 am – 1:00 pm

Holiday Inn Concord, 1050 Burnett Avenue, Concord

This training is an important first step in laying the foundation for the continued success of our chapter.  Should you have any conflict with attending, please let me know ASAP as there are some alternate dates and times available at more distant locations.

New Leadership at Diablo Networking Cir of BNI | Bay Area Referral Networking

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

We are in a transition for Leadership Team at the Diablo Networking Circle. At of October 1st our new chapter President will be Victor Mataraso with Reliable Receptionist and his Vice President will be John Pearson with Carpet NOW. Together they will be selecting a leadership team. There will also be a Mandatory Leadership Team in Concord CA on Sept 15th at the Holiday INN.

If you are looking to grow your business by referral in the Contra Costa County and in the Great Bay Area, you need to visit us at least once! We feature business from Walnut Creek, Concord, Pleasant Hill and the the surrounding cities.

Our Weekly Events are Back After 4th of July Break

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

We had a great leadership team meeting today for the Diablo Networking Circle and our BNI Chapter is on fire. You can download our current stats to the right. Some of the main topics discussed at the Leadership team meeting were.

We are back from our 4th of July Break and our regular schedule is returning this week. Join us this week in Walnut Creek or from anywhere in the Contra Costa surrounding areas. Our weekly meetings are an event not to be missed where you can find business partners that will refer to your business on a regular basis. Get in touch with us and reserve a spot today!

Ten Ways to Waste Your Networking Time

These Concepts were learned from Ivan Misner

Success in a networking group comes when the rest of the group members trust you enough to open up their best referrals to you. Until they’ve seen your work, you have to earn that trust by demonstrating your professionalism to them. Since BNI was founded almost 25 years ago, we've discovered many ways NOT to spend you time in the group.

Here are the top 10 ways to waste your time in a networking group (avoid all of them):

• No. 10. Go ahead, air your grievances among your fellow networkers and guests; after all, they really want to hear about your complaints.


• No. 9. Wing it in your 60-second presentations; you’ve got plenty more chances anyway.


• No. 8. Use one-to-one meetings to talk about your networking group’s issues instead of learning a lot more about each other.


• No. 7. Focus your efforts on selling your services primarily to the members of the group.


• No. 6. Don’t rush following up on a member’s referral. They know where you are.


• No. 5. Use others’ 60-second presentation time to think about what referrals you can give that week.


• No. 4. Why invite your own guests? Just focus on those who show up.


• No. 3. Don’t worry if you get to the meeting late. No one will notice.


• No. 2. Be absent; it’s no big deal. You can just call in your referrals . . . right?


• And the No. 1 way to waste your time in networking groups . . .


• No. 1. It’s OK, take that phone call or text message during a meeting. It won’t bother anyone, and it’s a real sign of professionalism that everyone admires.

So there it is–The Top 10 Ways to Waste Your Time in a Networking Group! Print this out. Memorize it. Share it with your fellow networking members. Above all–avoid these mistakes! You’ll get a lot more out of your group and so will your fellow members.

I’d love to hear some more ways that are big time wasters in a networking group. Please leave your comments below. Let’s add to this list.

Oh, and to visit a good networking group in your area, feel free to Click here.

Until Next time Here is to your success! Jason Wheeler 866-833-7413 | Come to a FREE Bay Are Seminar |

Get FREE MP3 of Think and Grow Rich and download the ebook by Napoleon Hill!

Walnut Creek BNI Leadership Meeting 5/21/2009

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

We had a great leadership team meeting today for the Diablo Networking Circle and our BNI Chapter is on fire. You can download our current stats to the right. Some of the main topics discussed at the Leadership team meeting were.

• Chapter Health - we have seen major growth in the last six months and we are now 32 members strong and averaging three guests to each meeting. In less than two months we have produced about $145,000 worth of closed business for each other. We give our chapter health and A+
  
• Attendance Policy - While most members are great about attendance and substitutes the leadership team has decided to become more consistent about our chapter attendance policies. If you are consistently absent don't be surprised to hear from the Membership Committee.
  
• Disruptions - We pride ourselves on having a fun meeting however with 30 plus people in the room we need to be careful to control chatter and interruptions. If you are an offender you know who you are.
  
• New Leadership - Before we know it we will need to select a new leadership team. If you are a leader then please speak up to your chapter President.
  

Diablo Networking Circle Family Picnic in Pleasant Hill

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

Diablo Networking Circle will be hosting a “Family” picnic. All BNI members and their families are invited to attend.

Date: Sunday, May 17th

Time: 11:00am to 6:00pm

Where: Pleasant Hill Park 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill CA Contra Costa County  (Area #3)

BNI will provide the meat, soda and water. We are asking BNI members to bring a dish to share. There will be a sign up sheet at the meeting on Thursday. We did purchase a alcohol permit, so if you would like to bring your favorite beer or wine that it ok. Children are welcome to bring friends to hang out with.

We have the option of softball and volleyball, please respond by e-mail if you are interested playing either or both games. We need a count so we can reserve the fields.

Hope to see you all out at the park!!!

Accessing Capital for Bay Area Dentists!

Accessing Capital and Managing Assets

For the Dental Professional

Position your practice to thrive during tough economic times

Presented by:

Safeguard Financial Services

and

Providence Capital Funding

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location:  Vodafone Plaza – Safeguard Office

2999 Oak Road – Walnut Creek (across from Pleasant Hill BART)

Date:  Tuesday, April 28th  2009

Time:  6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. *Check in at 6:15

The presentation will be led by:

Jason Lohe, CSFP –  CEO/President – Safeguard Financial Services

Contra Costa BNI Meeting Update Concord & Walnut Creek

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

Hello Diablo Networking Circle!

Thanks to all of you who attended Leadership Training in either Oakland or Concord.  Special thanks to Monica, Shellie, and Lisa…all attended without being a part of the leadership team! J

Tardies, Absences, and subs

There have been some questions and misunderstandings about attendance, so I will be spending a few minutes on the topic at our next meeting.

Presenters for 03-19-09 

Don’t miss presentations from Ursula Behiel and Jason Lohe!

Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar she sent out and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!

Business card box. 

PLEASE check your card levels!  The box is still VERY low.  You are really doing yourself a disservice by not having the box full at all times!

Lunch procedure!!! 

*** I think that we are in the groove with the new lunch menu!  PLEASE pay attention to getting your food and getting in your seats BY 12:15

MSP Details. 

**New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership.  There are no more dates available until January!  These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates:  THURSDAY, April 9th  See below link:

http://www.bnisfbay.com/calendar/index.php?act=calendar&cal_id=1&code=showevent&event_id=221

For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit the “calendar” tab at:  www.bnisfbay.com

If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and alert Dess when you have done so.

Chapter Openings. 

While we are definitely growing, there are several professions not yet represented in our chapter, so put on your thinking caps and let’s see about filling those spots!  

Missing a Nametag? Wishing for Some BNI Gear? 

All the BNI supplies and merchandise you could ever want are available for purchase online. If you are missing a name badge, business card  holder, lapel pin…or if you would like to upgrade to a badge neck cord, a larger card holder, or indulge in some other fancy BNI items, please visit:   http://store.bni.com/c-3-promotional-items.aspx

Weekly VP Report. 

Will be presented at our meeting.

Regional Director Meeting 2/5/2009

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

Hello Diablo Networking Circle!


Tomorrow is a big day!  Trey McAllister our Regional Director will be visiting out chapter along with our new Assistant Director Melissa Donald.  It will be a GREAT day to invite a guest so that they can not only hear how BNI works, but see it with their own eyes!  Trey will be doing a 20 minute presentation in lieu of our regular speaker schedule.




***PLEASE make an effort to arrive 15 minutes early!!!  By this I mean 11:45.  We want to show them that we are an active group and just how we can create that pre-meeting buzz!

Walnut Creek BNI Meeting 1/29/2009

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

**Keep in mind that the week of February 2nd through February 6th is International Networking week!  We will have Trey McAllister who is the Executive Director of our BNI region visiting our chapter.  He will be speaking to our group in lieu of our typical weekly presentations.  You won’t want to miss his presentation so please be sure that you are in attendance for this week!

Also…February 3rd  will be the third installment of my 5 week program with the Antioch Chamber.  Considering it is International Networking Week, that will be the topic and focus of this week’s program.  We have stolen….uh…borrowed Trey from another event, and he will be presenting on this day.  I’d love to see you all in attendance to show those attending the power of networking and BNI!

Presenters for 1/29/09. 

Don’t miss presentations by Darren Anderson and Derek Tinder!

Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!

To view the presentation calendar please visit:  http://walnutcreekbni.blogspot.com

MSP Details. 

**New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership.  There are no more dates available until January!  These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates:  THURSDAY, February 12th  See below link:
http://www.bnisfbay.com/calendar/index.php?act=calendar&cal_id=1&code=showevent&event_id=219

For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit the “calendar” tab at:  www.bnisfbay.com

If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and notify the chapter president.

Business card box. 

PLEASE check your card levels!  You are really doing yourself a disservice by not having the box full at all times!

• Welcome New Members!


• No new members to report at this time.
  
• Chapter Openings. 


• While we are definitely growing, there are several professions not yet represented in our chapter, so put on your thinking caps and let’s see about filling those spots!  
  
• Missing a Nametag? Wishing for Some BNI Gear? 


• All the BNI supplies and merchandise you could ever want are available for purchase online. If you are missing a name badge, business card  holder, lapel pin…or if you would like to upgrade to a badge neck cord, a larger card holder, or indulge in some other fancy BNI items, please visit:   http://store.bni.com/c-3-promotional-items.aspx
  

Walnut Creek BNI 1/15/2009 Meeting

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary:: Dess Benedetto Treasurer: Wade Cantrell

If you are NOT planning on doing a big event for International Networking Week, that is perfectly fine.  However, Dr. Misner would still like you to recognize International Networking Week.  He is suggesting that you do this by implementing both of these simple suggestions at your regular BNI meeting during the week of February 2nd—6th:


A)      Present Dr. Misner’s downloadable video which discusses International Networking Week. 


To view and download the International Networking Week video, please visit: http://www.gocec.com/bni/


B)  Utilize the special BNI meeting exercise, the details of which are outlined here:   


***SPECIAL BNI MEETING EXERCISE FOR IMPLEMENTATION DURING INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING WEEK (February 2nd-6th, 2009)***


Our special meeting exercise for International Networking Week this year is to invite local chambers to the meeting to come see not only what it is that BNI does, but how we are Raising the Bar in 2009 despite the fluctuating economy!  Inviting local chambers to come celebrate International Networking Week will expose them to BNI and our philosophy of “Givers Gain,” it will create community and strategic connections for BNI Members, and continue to build the BNI brand.  So start sending out invitations to your local chambers now!


Here are some suggestions to involve your local chambers:


1)       Tell them to bring their business cards and then show them how we network!  


2)       Send them the link to view Dr. Misner’s International Networking Week Video prior to their scheduled attendance at your meeting.  Then, ask them to give a 60 second commentary on their predictions on how BNI and International Networking Week will raise the bar in the world of business this year (Make sure they have agreed to do this beforehand).


This is a great opportunity to really start showing people in your local community how we are refusing to participate in a recession by Raising the Bar in 2009and to ultimately expose more of the general public to the benefits of business networking and BNI—so let’s get those invitations rolling!


P. S.—Be sure to Watch the 2009 International Networking Week Video now and share it with BNI members and non-members alike!

Walnut Creek BNI Meeting 1/8/2009

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

Hello there Diablo Networking Circle!!! We hope that everyone had a most enjoyable Thanksgiving weekend!  The holidays are definitely in full swing!Now it’s back to business! Since I missed the last week before the holiday, it will take me a little bit to get into the flow of things.

1. Business card box. 

Last I noticed that there are quite a few slots in our business card box that are either getting very low, or completely empty.  You are really doing yourself a disservice by not having the box full at all times!

1. Tardies, Absences, and subs.

**Let’s keep working on this.  We are getting busier each week and it is critical to arrive on time and network.  Let’s create that buzzzz!!!! J

And while absences are still improving…please do need to work to get a sub to take your place if you are going to miss a week.  Let’s also continue to show up ON TIME!  This means that while our meeting officially starts at NOON, we are supposed to be there 10-15 minutes early (11:45-11:50).  Arriving late disrupts the meeting and causes delays in getting things started…which makes it harder to get everyone out on time.  It’s also not a good reflection on our visitors.

Again…one thing that I will NOT be doing going forward.... is to have a sub list.  I believe that the best subs are people who know you best…friends, family, colleagues, and clients…and ultimately this will work out in your best interest as well as our group’s.  This is not to say that you cannot use someone from another chapter.  This is also BNI’s preferred method as well.

1. Presenters for 12/4. 

Don’t miss presentations by Dess Benedetto and Julie Cheshire!
Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!
To view the presentation calendar please visit:  http://walnutcreekbni.blogspot.com

1. Welcome New Members!

I missed the week before last, so I need to catch up with membership to see what we have pending.

1. MSP Details. 

**New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership.  There are no more dates available until January!  These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates:  THURSDAY, January 14th  See below link:
http://www.bnisfbay.com/calendar/index.php?act=calendar&cal_id=1&code=showevent&event_id=218
For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit the “calendar” tab at:  www.bnisfbay.com
If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and notify the chapter president.

1. Chapter Openings. 
   

While we are definitely growing, there are several professions not yet represented in our chapter, so put on your thinking caps and let’s see about filling those spots!  

1. Missing a Nametag? Wishing for Some BNI Gear? 
   

All the BNI supplies and merchandise you could ever want are available for purchase online. If you are missing a name badge, business card  holder, lapel pin…or if you would like to upgrade to a badge neck cord, a larger card holder, or indulge in some other fancy BNI items, please visit:   http://store.bni.com/c-3-promotional-items.aspx

1. Weekly VP Report. 

Will be presented at our meeting.

BNI Meeting 12/4/2008

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

Don’t miss presentations by Dess Benedetto and Julie Cheshire! Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!

Diablo Networking Circle of BNI Holiday Party!!

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

SAVE THE DATE


Diablo Networking Circle Holiday Gathering!!!
Thursday, December 11th
Master Diamond
More details to follow
6 pm


Come gather for an evening with friends food and wine. See you there!

BNI Meeting 11/6/08

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

• Presenters for 11/6. 

Don’t miss presentations by Jason Wheeler and Jason Lohe (I think he traded with Varton?).  Either way…we’ll have two great speakers! J

Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!

1. Welcome New Members!

Victor Mataraso joins us starting this week!

Weekly VP Report. 

You can download our chapter's current stats and production at the upper right hand corner of this page.

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Dess Benedetto

Meeting Week 10/30/2008

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

• Presenters for 10/30. 




• Don’t miss presentations by Wade Cantrell and Casey Strand!


• Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!


• To view the presentation calendar please visit:  http://walnutcreekbni.blogspot.com




• Welcome New Members!




• Victor Mataraso joins us starting this week!

• MSP Details. 

• **New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership.These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates:   November 20th  See below link:

Weekly VP Report. 

You can download our chapter's current stats and production at the upper right hand corner of this page.

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Dess Benedetto

Walnut Creek BNI Network Week of 10/23/2008

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map). Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

Chapter Officers President: Steve Arbabi Vice President: Jason Wheeler Secretary Treasurer: Dess Benedetto & Wade Cantrell

Presenters for 10/23. 

Don’t miss presentation by Meghan Mahler and Mark Fawcett!

Dess Benedetto has assigned presentation dates -- be sure you check the calendar and know when YOU are scheduled to speak!  Please be prepared and have your raffle prize with you!

To view the presentation calendar please visit:  This Link

Welcome New Members!

We may have a yet another new member to induct this week…so stay tuned!

Have You Paid Quarterly Dues? 

Quarterly dues were due THREE WEEKS AGO so please submit your checks (or cash) in order to not be charged a late fee. Quarter dues are $165/member and can be paid to the chapter via cash or check.

Please make checks payable to: Diablo Networking Circle      SEE WADE FOR DETAILS AND TO MAKE YOUR PAYMENT!!!

MSP Details. 

New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership.These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates:   OCTOBER 23rd  See below link: BNI Website

For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit the “calendar” tab at:  www.bnisfbay.com

If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and notify the chapter president.

Chapter Openings. 

There are several professions not yet represented in our chapter, so put on your thinking caps and let’s see about filling those spots!  

Missing a Nametag? Wishing for Some BNI Gear? 

All the BNI supplies and merchandise you could ever want are available for purchase online. If you are missing a name badge, business card  holder, lapel pin…or if you would like to upgrade to a badge neck cord, a larger card holder, or indulge in some other fancy BNI items, please visit:   BNI Online Store

Weekly VP Report. 

Wow only Three weeks into the Term and our Chapter has closed Over $25,000 worth of business! If you want a peice of this action contact our chapter today!

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Dess Benedetto

BNI 7/31/08

Presenters for 7/31. Don’t miss presentations by Jason Lohe (Safeguard Financial) and Vartan Toutikian (Master Diamond).
To view the presentation calendar and see when you are scheduled to speak, please visit: http://walnutcreekbni.blogspot.com

New Leadership Team The selection process for our new Leadership Team has begun! Steve Arbabi will be stepping in as our chapter’s next president – his term will begin October 2008. Hip-hip-hoooray for Steve!
Based on the preferences each member listed on their business cards a couple meetings back, the rest of the leadership team positions will be selected/determined.
If you missed the meeting when these cards were submitted, please get in touch with me and let me know what leadership positions are of interest to you.

Chapter Visitor Day – Planning in Progress The current leadership team met last week to discuss a few topics and possibly upcoming events. We would like to plan for a chapter visitor day to take place Thursday, September 25th.
There will be some “homework” expected of each of us in order to make this event a success. We will be discussing further details at this week’s meeting and in upcoming weeks.

MSP Date for August. New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership. These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us takes place in Pleasant Hill – upcoming dates: Thursday, August 28th, 4:30-7:00pm.
For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit http://www.bnisfbay.com
If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and notify the chapter president.

Chapter Totals. We have surpassed $100,000 in closed business this term!!! Don’t miss Dess’ report to hear what our chapter did last week!

No Excuses…Sub List Attached! Summer vacations are upon us and we can certainly tell by our chapter attendance. PLEASE schedule a sub if you must miss a meeting. The SUB LIST ATTACHED has been updated and there are several contacts that have expressed intereted in subbing for our chapter’s members.

BNI This Week 6/11/2008

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) our speakers this week are Steve Arbabi with Providence Capital and Staci Burnaugh with E-Chx. Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

• Presenters for 6/12.  Don’t miss presentations by Theresa Coffman (Minuteman Press) and Christine Geddes-Sinclaire (ReMax Accord)  


• Please be sure YOU are on the calendar! See the schedule at http://walnutcreekbni.blogspot.com


• 12:00pm means NOON!  Please be reminded that our BNI meetings start at 12:00pm. Please be sure you are arriving ON TIME and making good use of the networking time that is built into our weekly agenda. The meeting agenda begins promptly at 12:15pm. If you arrive after 12:00pm you are considered “late” and this does count against your attendance. 


•  


• Welcome New Leadership Team Members.  A round of applause and BIG thank you to Steve Arbabi and Holli Beam - Our newest members of the leadership team! The Membership Committee is 2 members stronger.


• Attention Leadership Team…  All members of the leadership team should arrive at the meeting prior to 12:00pm. This allows us to appropriately welcome guests/visitors and also aids in establishing a much more positive and professional appearance for Diablo Networking Circle. The “Early” Visitor Host typically arrives 15 minutes early (11:45am) and needs the whole team to help in getting visitors settled and introduced to others.


• If you have questions about your role and/or duties as a members of the leadership team, please don’t hesitate to talk with me about this.


• Upcoming MSP Dates.  New BNI members must attend an MSP workshop within the first 60 days of membership. These workshops offer great information about BNI and insight on how to be a better and more effective networker – great refresher for current members too! There are usually several MSP workshops scheduled each month in various locations. The MSP closest to us this month will take place in Pleasant Hill on Thursday, June 26th.   For a calendar of upcoming workshops and for more information, please visit www.bnisfbay.com
  
  If you plan to attend a MSP workshop, please register online and notify the chapter president.


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  1. Closed Business.  I know the numbers are climbing!!! Don’t miss this week’s meeting for our latest total – surely we have surpassed $50,000 in closed business so far this term!   
  
  

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Jason Wheeler

Meeting 6/5 Thursday

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map)

Presenters for 6/5. Don’t miss presentations by Jason Lohe (Safeguard Financial) and Christine Sampson (State Farm.)

Please be sure YOU are on the calendar!

Summer Vacation, Anyone? Schedule a Sub! If you have a summer vacation scheduled and know you will be missing a BNI meeting, please be sure to plan ahead and arrange for a substitute to attend meetings that you will have to miss. Sending a substitute helps the chapter and improves your professional standing. Send a friend, client, colleague, or ask someone from the “sub List” (attached.)

Closed Business. Our chapter has recorded some pretty impressive numbers so far this term! To date (since April) our chapter has turned in closed business totaling $49,326 – OUTSTANDING!

Keep Up This Trend… Be sure to submit ALL closed business you have received as a result of BNI. If you have questions about how to submit or what amounts should be submitted, please ask one of our leadership team members to explain. Keep up the great work!

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Jason Wheeler

Meeting on 5/15

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) our speakers this week are Jason Wheeler Mortgage Consulting and Tara Nemeth with Pet Lane. Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Jason Wheeler

Next Meeting 5/8 Thursday

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) our speakers this week are Steve Arbabi with Providence Capital and Staci Burnaugh with E-Chx. Don't miss our speakers this week. We'll see you there.

If you would like to schedule a speaking time please contact Jason Wheeler

Meetings Held Weekly Thursday at 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) If you would like to schedule yourself to speak please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Next Meeting 2/28/2008

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Jason Lohe with Safegaurd Financial. And Arline Beardsly from Bridgepoint. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Next Meeting 2/7 at 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Casey Strand Chiropractor and Shannon Koffman with Next Energy. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Next Meeting 1/31 at 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Theresa Coffman with Minuteman Press and Beri Kasper with Kasper Accountancy. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Next Meeting 1/24 at 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Simon Black with Xango and Christine Sampson with State Farm Insurance. We have no other speaker scheduled at this time. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Diablo Networking Circle Announcments 1/10

Vice President Chair is now open.  As VP you are responsible for attendance and chapter stats.  Attendance is crucial for this spot and you should have some good computer skills. A job well done will yield a membership credit upon completion of your term!  We need a Leader to step up!

Chapter Growth is very important to help our chapter and help you expand your network! We can significantly boost the chapter membership is each of us commits to set aside time for 10 phone calls each week. Simply ask the question "Are you open to growing your business by referral?" If yes invite them to a meeting!

MSP is coming in Pleasant Hill on 1/24.  This is required for new members and great for brush ups for old members RSVP with Misty

Next Meeting is 1/17/2008 at 12 Pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Christine Geddes Sinclair with Remax Accord and Sabine Webb with the Law Offices of Riedel and Webb. . If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Our Next Meeting 1/10/2008 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Mark Fawcett with Precision Building and Vartan Toutikian of Master Diamond. We have no other speaker scheduled at this time. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Our Next Meeting 1/3/2008 At 12 PM Happy New Year!

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speaker this week is Christine Geddes Sinclair with Remax Accord. We have no other speaker scheduled at this time. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Get Ready to Mingle with Our Network Holiday Party!!

Diablo Networking Circle’s Holiday Gathering is on 12/20 we will be meeting at Master Diamond light snacks wine and beer will be provided by our chapter however you are welcome to bring your own bottles to share or whatever you wish.  Bring your best credit cards so we can buy some Diamonds too!!

Please bring anyone you wish!  Vartan has made it clear that we are all welcome along with friends and family.  You can show up as early as 5pm and we will party until whenever.  Let’s take off our business hats and mingle!

Next Meeting 12/13/2007 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek. (Get Map) Our key note speaker this week is our Area Director Kim Webb, she will be giving important information about improving your results as a BNI member!.

If you would like to schedule yourself to speak please let us know! Don't miss these presentations!

Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself, and your business.

Next Meeting Thursday 11/29 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Francoise Greenwalt and Staci Burnaugh with E-Chx Inc. We have no other speaker scheduled at this time. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Diablo Networking Circle Holiday Schedule

The Diablo Networking Circle will not be meeting the following dates due to the coming holidays. November 22nd for Thanksgiving, December 20th and 27th for Christmas and New Years! You can download the entire schedule of speakers to the left where it says Current Speaker Schedule.

Our Next Meeting 11/15 from 12pm to 1:30

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Jason Lohe with Safegaurd Financial. We have no other speaker scheduled at this time. If you would like to schedule yourself please let me know! Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Next Meeting 11/8/2007 12:00 PM

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Theresa Coffman with Minute Man Press and Misty Walker Lohe with Safegaurd Benifits. Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself and your business.

Tri BNI Visitor Day

In order to BOOST membership we will be putting together a Visitor Day along with two other local chapters! We are thinking an evening cocktail and cheese presentation possibly at Grissini's at the Concord Hilton in mid January!. The idea of the Visitor Day is for everyone to invite at least 25 people from professions that are not yet represented in our Chapter. We expect a large turn out and we will have an Area Director give an overview of BNI and how we can help grow small business. Typically a successful Visitor Day will yeild a chapter 7 to 10 new members and some great new energy.

Next Meeting 11/1/2007 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Wade Cantrell with Computer Sales & Service and Casey Strand Chiropractor. Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Our Next Meeting Thurs 10/25 at 12pm

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Christine Sampson with State Farm Insurance and Russ Gorman with GLT Sign Solutions. Don't miss these presentations! Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.

Renewals Currently Due

We would like to thank the members below for participation and contribution to our network for the last year. It is time for you to renew your membership.

Theresa Coffman
Casey Strand
Vartan Toutikian
Sabine Webb

Please bring a check for $330 to your Treasurer ASAP. If your payment has not been received by November 15th there will be a $20 late charge.

Quarterly Dues

Quarterly dues are now being collected. All members please bring a check for $165 in order to pay for your next three months lunches.

Next Meeting Thursday 12pm 10/18

Our next meeting will be held at Pyramid Alehouse in Walnut Creek
(Get Map) Our key note speakers this week are Gerri Levitas of Bay Healing and Shannon Koffman with Next Energy. Visitors are welcome to sit in and please bring plenty of business cards to promote yourself.