Tracy Press

A quick look at what's happening in the local business community.

Farmers gives to Larch Clover

Farmers Insurance’s regional office in Pleasanton donated $1,000 to Larch Clover Community Center last week.

The center plans to put it toward its summer youth enrichment program, which takes about 20 boys and girls on various field trips and activities.

Each Farmers Insurance employee is invited to submit an essay to suggest causes that are worthy of a donation. Mike Kobel, a customer service representative at the company and a former volunteer at Larch Clover, wrote about the community center’s services.

"They do such good things for so many people," Kobel said. "I wanted to find a way to give back."

Business workshop

Patricia J. Munson and Jack R. Elliott will host a four-week workshop called Embracing Change, part of a series of seminars and workshops known as the Platinum Portfolio. The two will talk about how to deal with loss and expectations and how to capitalize on opportunities born out of change.

The workshop, based on Munson’s book "What Works, Works," will be from 6:45 to 9 p.m. Monday and May 5, 12 and 19 at Platinum Conference Center, 902 Central Ave.

Tuition is $99 for the series or $39 each evening.

For information: 835-2244 or www.platinumbcc.com.