ASCCA San Jose ~ Holiday Party & Christmas In The Park Walk on December 10

Holiday Party & Christmas in the Park Walk

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10 @ 6:30 PM Dinner & Beverages, 7:45 PM Christmas in the Park Walk

Five Points Bar
169 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose, CA 95110

ASCCA Chapter Event

Experience the magic of the season as we kick off a night of celebration at Five Points Bar, a tribute to the historic Five Points neighborhood in New York.

The cost is $38 per person and includes dinner and beverages, as well as the traditional door prizes!

We’ll start off by enjoying a hearty winter meal and delightful drinks in the heart of downtown San Jose.

After dinner and drinks, we’ll venture on a short 10-minute walk down South San Pedro Avenue to Christmas in the Park at Cesar Chavez Park, where a winter wonderland awaits with 40+ musical and animated exhibits, a 65-foot illuminated Christmas Tree, and glittering lights. While you’re there, you can visit Santa or enjoy nightly entertainment.

We look forward to celebrating this magical night with you!

ASCCA Chapter Event

Registration

Registration includes dinner & networking, beverages, and prizes!

  • ASCCA San Jose Members attend this event for $38 per person
  • ASCCA Members of other Chapters attend this event for $38 per person
  • Nonmembers of ASCCA $46

Directions & Parking

Downtown Christmas in the Park

Christmas in the Park’s traditional walk-thru event takes place at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park in downtown San Jose at 194 South Market Street between San Carlos and San Fernando. There is no public parking at the park.

From Caltrain: Christmas in the Park is a 15–20 minute and 0.7 mile walk from the Diridon station. Exit the station, turn right, then left on San Fernando Street. Christmas in the Park is located between San Fernando and San Carlos Streets. Exit at the Parkcenter stop.

Light Rail: Exit at the Santa Clara Street stop. Walk to San Fernando Street, then walk west, toward Market Street. Christmas in the Park is located between San Fernando and San Carlos Streets.

City View Plaza and 50 West Parking

San Pedro Square Market Parking

San Jose City Parking Garages

Some of the most popular garages for Christmas in the Park are all within walking distance and you can park free for 90 minutes! Rates and fees differ from garage to garage. Check https://parksj.org for parking rates.

An interactive parking map is available here: https://parksj.org/parking-map/

ASCCA Chapter Event
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Part 2 of our Legal Series: ADA & Employment Law for Auto Shop Owners on October 28

Presented jointly by ASCCA Inland Empire & San Jose Chapters

The ASCCA Inland Empire and San Jose Chapters are proud to present a 2-part legal series tackling two of the most important—and often misunderstood—areas of compliance facing California shop owners today: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Employment Law.

👉 Register Now for Part 2 – Free for ASCCA Members

Part 2: Employment Law Update & Legal Traps to Avoid
📅 Tuesday, October 28
6:30 PM (networking + pizza) | 7:00 PM start
📍 Onsite in Riverside, CA & Live On Zoom

If you think you’re safe from ADA-related lawsuits… think again.

Join us for Part 2 of our Legal Series with attorney Rachelle Taylor Golden, Esq., where we’ll break down the ADA laws that catch most businesses off guard—and what you can do right now to protect yourself and your business. For this session, Rachelle will focus on employment law and upcoming changes that will have an effect on business over the next few months.

This is not just a legal lecture—this is your resource to increasing your knowledge to avoid expensive compliance mistakes.

👉 Register Now for Part 2 – Free for ASCCA Members

Onsite attendees enjoy free pizza and drinks.
This session is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

About Our Special Guest

Rachelle Golden, Esq. is a Director in Fennemore’s Business Litigation practice group. With over a decade of legal experience, Rachelle has built a reputation as a trusted legal advisor and litigator for businesses and public entities, guiding them through complex accessibility issues from construction compliance to website usability, and employment-related matters.

Since 2013, Rachelle has represented a broad range of clients, including small businesses and large institutions, in litigation and compliance consulting. Prior to joining Fennemore, Rachelle was President of Golden Law and served as an associate attorney at local firms, where she specialized in accessibility defense litigation, both in the built environment and in the digital space, and defended businesses against employment-related claims.

Beyond the courtroom, Rachelle is a sought-after educator and consultant. She regularly trains employers on sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation prevention and has advised lawmakers on accessibility legislation at both the state and federal levels. Her insights have contributed to bills such as the COMPLI Act (H.R. 241), SB 1142, and AB 3158. Rachelle is a strong supporter of the ASCCA and speaks at Chapter and State Association meetings throughout California.

👉 Register Now for Part 2 – Free for ASCCA Members

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When They Hand You the Keys: Listening That Builds Trust on September 23

Presented jointly by ASCCA Inland Empire & San Jose Chapters

The ASCCA Inland Empire and San Jose Chapters are proud to present a session with special guest Juliana Sih that proves the most valuable tool in your shop isn’t in your toolbox—it’s your ability to truly listen.

In the automotive business, success isn’t just about repairing vehicles—it’s about maintaining clear, effective communication that keeps your shop and relationships running smoothly. In the fast-paced, demanding world of auto repair, listening often gets overlooked. This session is designed to elevate your listening skills where they matter most.

You’ll discover how to:

  • Tune in to what’s really being communicated before misunderstandings escalate
  • Handle challenging conversations calmly and confidently—whether with customers, team members, or partners
  • Build stronger trust and collaboration so your shop functions at its peak performance

Listening isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a critical part of running a successful shop where teamwork, reduced stress, and strong relationships drive peak performance.

👉 Register Now – Free for ASCCA Members

🗓️ Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
📍 Location: California Smog & Automotive Institute, 3001 Chicago Ave, Riverside, CA 9250
⏰ Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
🍽️ Note: Onsite attendees enjoy free pizza and drinks.

About Our Special Guest

Juliana Sih works with creative, ambitious and driven individuals who have a deep desire to create impact. She partners with her clients to empower their dreams, create new neuropathways, break up the ruts, eliminate barriers so that clients live a life filled with purpose, fulfillment and joy. Through powerful questioning, coaching, partnership, accountability and effective support structures, clients experience new levels of self-awareness that move them into action from a powerful place. Working with Juliana is a space to shift your relationship with yourself and others and generate sustainable, long lasting results.

Register Now – Free for ASCCA Members

Bring a friend or colleague!

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Meet & Greet on Wednesday, September 3 @ 6:30 PM with Napa leaders!

We’re excited to invite you to a very special evening hosted by NAPA!

This is more than just a meeting — it’s a chance to connect directly with NAPA leadership, our chapter board, and fellow members while getting an exclusive behind-the-curtain look at the San Jose NAPA warehouse.

📍 Location: 
NAPA, 1335 N 10th St, San Jose, CA
Park in the back lot.

🕠 Time: 
Wednesday, September 3, 6:30 PM

You’ll have the unique opportunity to see how one of the most important parts of our supply chain operates — from how parts are stocked and managed, to how they make their way out the door and into your shops. This “insider’s tour” is designed to give you a better understanding of the systems that help keep your shop running smoothly every day. 🏭➡️🔧

In addition to the tour, you’ll enjoy dinner generously provided by NAPA, along with plenty of time to network, share ideas, and ask questions. It’s the perfect setting to build stronger relationships with industry leaders, get to know your Chapter Board, and connect with peers who understand the opportunities and challenges of running an automotive repair business.

Why Attend?
🔍 Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the San Jose NAPA warehouse and distribution center
👋 Meet NAPA leadership and local chapter board members in a casual setting
🥘 Enjoy dinner, conversation, and networking with your peers
📦 Gain a better understanding of how your trusted supplier supports your business every day

This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to strengthen your professional network, deepen your industry knowledge, and enjoy a great evening together.

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Part 1 Legal Series: ADA & Employment Law for Auto Shop Owners on May 27

Presented by ASCCA Inland Empire & San Jose Chapters

The ASCCA Inland Empire and San Jose Chapters are proud to present a 2-part legal series tackling two of the most important—and often misunderstood—areas of compliance facing California shop owners today: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Employment Law.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Pizza & Networking at 6:30 PM; Program starts at 7:00 PM Onsite and on Zoom
Hosted by ASCCA Inland Empire + San Jose Chapters

The ASCCA Inland Empire and San Jose Chapters are partnering again with our next two part topic, tackling two of the most important—and often misunderstood—areas of compliance facing California shop owners today: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Employment Law.

Part 1: ADA & Physical Premises
📅 Tuesday, May 27
6:30 PM (networking + pizza) | 7:00 PM start
📍 Onsite in Riverside, CA & Live On Zoom

Part 2: Employment Law Update & Legal Traps to Avoid
📅 Wednesday, October 8
6:30 PM (networking + pizza) | 7:00 PM start
📍 Onsite in Riverside, CA & Live On Zoom


Part 1
If you think you’re safe from ADA-related lawsuits… think again.

Join us for Part 1 of our Legal Series with attorney Rachelle Taylor Golden, Esq., where we’ll break down the ADA laws that catch most businesses off guard—and what you can do right now to protect your physical shop and website.

✅ An overview of key ADA requirements
✅ Top issues that trigger lawsuits!
✅ Website accessibility: what your vendor should already know
✅ Proactive strategies to protect your business

This is not just a legal lecture—this is your resource to increasing your knowledge to avoid expensive compliance mistakes.

👉 Register Now for Part 1 – Free for ASCCA Members

Onsite attendees enjoy free pizza and drinks.
This session is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

About Our Special Guest

Rachelle Golden, Esq. is a Director in Fennemore’s Business Litigation practice group. With over a decade of legal experience, Rachelle has built a reputation as a trusted legal advisor and litigator for businesses and public entities, guiding them through complex accessibility issues from construction compliance to website usability, and employment-related matters.

Since 2013, Rachelle has represented a broad range of clients, including small businesses and large institutions, in litigation and compliance consulting. Prior to joining Fennemore, Rachelle was President of Golden Law and served as an associate attorney at local firms, where she specialized in accessibility defense litigation, both in the built environment and in the digital space, and defended businesses against employment-related claims.

Beyond the courtroom, Rachelle is a sought-after educator and consultant. She regularly trains employers on sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation prevention and has advised lawmakers on accessibility legislation at both the state and federal levels. Her insights have contributed to bills such as the COMPLI Act (H.R. 241), SB 1142, and AB 3158. Rachelle is a strong supporter of the ASCCA and speaks at Chapter and State Association meetings throughout California.

👉 Register Now for Part 1 – Free for ASCCA Members

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ASCCA San Jose Chapter @ San Jose Giants

Join ASCCA for some summer fun!
Thursday, June 12
6:00pm Private Deck Opens, Networking & Refreshments begin
6:30pm First Pitch 

San Jose Giants Stadium
588 East Alma Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112

Our group will be part of the action as we watch the Giants from the PRIVATE Field-level Party Deck.

Your registration package includes game tickets, BBQ meals and two (adult or soda/water) beverages per guest, as well as designated servers and staff to wait in line for food so you won’t miss any of the fun!!

Each guest will have the opportunity to win Lucky Prizes during the game with their very own Scorecard and Bingo card, as well as read up on the history of the team in the program.

Choose one of the four delicious meals (order at the game) and enjoy two adult or other beverages, while enjoying the game on the private party deck.

Bring your friends, family, shop employees, or potential chapter members!

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED!

No tickets at this reduced pricing will be available onsite.

Purchase your tickets by 12 noon on June 11. Pick up registration packets and tickets at Will Call window at the San Jose Giants Municipal Stadium ticket booth.

COUNTDOWN TO GAME NIGHT

June 12, first pitch @ 6:30 pm

1749776400

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

ASCCA 42 @ SJ Giants

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Meet & Greet ~ ASCCA San Jose Board Welcomes State President David Kusa

📅 Date: May 14, 2025

🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

📍 Location: Al Castello Ristorante Italiano, 2083 Camden Avenue, San Jose, CA 95124

Join us for an engaging and informative evening with the ASCCA San Jose Chapter on Wednesday, May 14, as we welcome ASCCA State President David Kusa for a special networking event.

David will share key updates about ASCCA’s current initiatives and offer a preview of what’s ahead in 2025 and beyond. This is a great opportunity to learn how our statewide organization is advocating for independent automotive shops, strengthening member benefits, and supporting the next generation of industry professionals.

San Jose Chapter President Larry Moore will preside over the evening, and our local board members will be on hand for a casual meet and greet. This is your chance to get involved, share your input, and help shape upcoming chapter activities—including our 2025 holiday party and other future events.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND

✅ See who’s leading your local chapter in 2025 – Meet the San Jose board members and get to know the leadership team representing you.

✅ Offer your ideas and feedback – Influence upcoming chapter plans, including social events, educational topics, and community outreach.

✅ Build visibility within the local industry – Introduce yourself to other shop owners, vendors, and leaders in the San Jose area.

✅ Experience a relaxed, informal setting – No formal agenda beyond great conversation, good company, and a shared commitment to growing the industry.

✅ Bring a guest—free of charge – No membership required to attend, making this a perfect opportunity to invite a colleague who hasn’t experienced ASCCA yet.

✅ Check out a local favorite restaurant – Held at Al Castello Ristorante Italiano, it’s a great excuse to enjoy dinner at a well-loved local spot.

Register now!

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Sales and Use Tax for Auto Repair Shops with Special Guest Lance Christiansen, CDTFA

TUESDAY, MARCH 25 @ 6:30 – 8:30 PM PACIFIC
ONSITE AND ONLINE MEETING ON ZOOM

Running a successful auto repair shop means more than just fixing cars—you also need to understand your tax obligations. Join us for this specialized training to “open the hood” on sales and use tax laws specific to automotive repair businesses.

Why You Should Attend

In this informative session, you’ll gain clarity on:
✅ The taxability of parts and labor—when to charge sales tax and when it’s exempt
Tools and supply items—what’s taxable and what qualifies for an exemption
Proper invoicing—how to structure your invoices to stay compliant
Use tax & resale certificates—when and how to apply them correctly
Sublet repairs—tax implications when subcontracting work
Vehicles for resale—special rules for repair work on dealer-owned vehicles
Tires, batteries, glass, paint, and bodywork—unique tax considerations for these items

Whether you’re a shop owner, service advisor, or accountant, this class will help you navigate California’s complex tax regulations and avoid costly mistakes.

Don’t miss this opportunity to ensure your shop stays compliant and financially efficient!

For more details on California sales and use tax, visit the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA).

Here’s what you need to know:

📅 Date: March 25, 2025

🕡 Time: 6:30 PM – Onsite; 7:00 PM – Welcome, Industry Updates, Program

📍 Location: Online and Onsite:
Onsite in Riverside: 3001 Chicago Ave Riverside, CA 92507
Online on Zoom: register to receive the login information

Our meetings are open to ASCCA members throughout California, not just San Jose. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and connect with fellow professionals.

  • All ASCCA Chapter Members and their guests attend this event for free
  • Non-member guests will be invoiced for $50
  • REGISTER NOW to get the Zoom link:
    www.ascca-03252025.eventbrite.com

Bring your friends, family, shop employees, or potential new chapter members!

Don’t miss this chance to ask questions, learn, and get advice from professionals in the industry.

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ASCCA San Jose ~ Holiday Party & Christmas In The Park Walk

Holiday Party & Christmas in the Park Walk

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 @ 6:30 PM Dinner & Beverages, 7:45 PM Christmas in the Park Walk

Five Points Bar
169 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose, CA 95110

ASCCA Chapter Event

Experience the magic of the season as we kick off a night of celebration at Five Points Bar, a tribute to the historic Five Points neighborhood in New York.

The cost is $35 per person and includes dinner and beverages, as well as the traditional door prizes!

We’ll start off by enjoying a hearty winter meal and delightful drinks in the heart of downtown San Jose.

After dinner and drinks, we’ll venture on a short 10-minute walk down South San Pedro Avenue to Christmas in the Park at Cesar Chavez Park, where a winter wonderland awaits with 40+ musical and animated exhibits, a 65-foot illuminated Christmas Tree, and glittering lights. While you’re there, you can visit Santa or enjoy nightly entertainment.

We look forward to celebrating this magical night with you!

ASCCA Chapter Event

Registration

Registration includes dinner & networking, beverages, and prizes!

  • ASCCA San Jose Members attend this event for $35 per person
  • ASCCA Members of other Chapters attend this event for $35 per person
  • Nonmembers of ASCCA $45

Directions & Parking

Downtown Christmas in the Park

Christmas in the Park’s traditional walk-thru event takes place at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park in downtown San Jose at 194 South Market Street between San Carlos and San Fernando. There is no public parking at the park.

From Caltrain: Christmas in the Park is a 15–20 minute and 0.7 mile walk from the Diridon station. Exit the station, turn right, then left on San Fernando Street. Christmas in the Park is located between San Fernando and San Carlos Streets. Exit at the Parkcenter stop.

Light Rail: Exit at the Santa Clara Street stop. Walk to San Fernando Street, then walk west, toward Market Street. Christmas in the Park is located between San Fernando and San Carlos Streets.

City View Plaza and 50 West Parking

San Pedro Square Market Parking

San Jose City Parking Garages

Some of the most popular garages for Christmas in the Park are all within walking distance and you can park free for 90 minutes! Rates and fees differ from garage to garage. Check https://parksj.org for parking rates.

An interactive parking map is available here: https://parksj.org/parking-map/

ASCCA Chapter Event
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Legislative Update with Special Guests Jack Molodanof & David Kusa

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9 @ 6:30 – 8:00 PM PACIFIC
ONLINE MEETING ON ZOOM ONLY

ASCCA Chapter Event

Stay informed and protect your business by attending this crucial virtual session with Jack Molodanof, ASCCA’s legislative advocate, and David Kusa, Chair of ASCCA’s State Government Affairs Committee and owner of AutoTrend Diagnostics. They will provide key updates on the latest legislative and regulatory developments that directly affect the automotive industry.

Why You Should Attend

Protect Your Business: Legislative changes can have a major impact on how you run your shop. Jack and David will help you understand these changes so you can stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes.

Be Prepared for New Regulations: Get the latest information on ongoing bills and regulatory activities from ASCCA’s dedicated Government Affairs team, so you’re never caught off guard.

Exclusive Industry Insights: Jack will share key themes and trends from real-life inquiries he receives from shop owners like you, offering valuable insight into common challenges and solutions across both auto body and auto repair sectors.

Direct Access to Experts: With a dedicated Q&A session, you’ll have the chance to get answers to your specific questions, directly from the experts who are on the front lines of legislative advocacy for the automotive industry.

Don’t miss out—reserve your spot today to get the Zoom login link.

ASCCA Chapter Event

Here’s what you need to know:

📅 Date: October 9, 2024

🕡 Time: 6:15 PM – 8:00 PM Pacific

📍 Location: Online on Zoom only; register to get the login link

Our meetings are open to ASCCA members throughout California, not just San Jose. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and connect with fellow professionals.

  • All ASCCA Chapter Members and their guests attend this event for free
  • Non-member guests will be invoiced for $50
ASCCA Chapter Event

Bring your friends, family, shop employees, or potential new chapter members!

Don’t miss this chance to ask questions, learn, and get advice from professionals in the industry.

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