How do you give a business a fightingchance during a less than desirable economy?Better yet, how do you try to make it so a busi-ness, its employees and the community do notfail during one of the toughest markets inrecent history?

UNITE HERE Local 11, the Los Angeles-based union attempting to organize the LongBeach Hilton, has an interesting approach tothese questions. Their answer: use irresponsibleintimidation and illegal tactics to place theirneed to boost their coffers before the needs ofour community and the very employees whomthey so desperately want to become dues-pay-ing members.

“Their tactics may whip up a little fervoramong the rank and file,” stated Randy Gordon,President and CEO of the Long BeachChamber, “but let’s stop and look at how theirlatest stunt fits with the reality we face every day.”

Right now, in Long Beach, the unemploy-ment rate is soaring and thousands of peopleare looking for work. Our local business commu-nity is shrinking. Yet, the leaders of UNITE HEREfeel it is in the best interest of the Hilton employ-ees to stop business from coming, period. Notonly have they called a boycott against thehotel but they have proceeded to use sirens,drums and bullhorns at the incredibly earlyhour of 6:00 a.m. outside of the hotel to dis-turb the peace of the guests, the employees,and the city of Long Beach. Luckily, the Long

Beach Police Department was there to protectthe laws of this city and issued misdemeanorcitations to stop the noise.

Everything about the action from the unionsmacks of irresponsibility, intimidation andnow illegal activity. From its timing to its blatantdisregard for the well being of the employeesand our community, it must be squashed.

Regardless of the state of our economy,businesses, and their employees, must alwaysbe afforded the opportunity to operate freefrom intimidation. Moreover, there is no place inour community for the counterintuitive tacticsbeing used by UNITE HERE Local 11 because,UNITE HERE does not accurately representevery voice they claim to represent.

Take Maria Castro, for example. Singled outby the Press Telegram in a recent article, Castrostood with anti-union workers in front of theDowntown Long Beach Hilton holding signsthat read “Union X” and “We love Hilton.”

According to Castro, “I don’t have nothingagainst their right to decide whether you be inthe union or not, but they’re talking for every-body, and it’s not everybody. We have familiesto support. We have bills to pay.”

So, how do you try to make it so a business,its employees and the community do not failduring one of the toughest markets in recenthistory? The Chamber and our entire communitymust work together to find ways to supportlocal businesses so they can create more jobs.

Chamber ShinesLight On UnionsFighting Hilton

An award-winning quarterly publication of the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce Fall 2009

Chairman of the Los Angeles County Boardof Supervisors Don Knabe will take the podiumon Wednesday, November 4, 2009 to deliverthe third annual Chamber-hosted, Port of LongBeach-sponsored State of the County Address.Each year, Supervisor Knabe, representing LA’sFourth District, delivers his address before anaudience of over 1,100 people at the Long BeachConvention Center providing a detailed updateon the many issues impacting the entire county andthe lives of his more than 2 million constituents.

In this Issue: 2 Small Business CEOs Share Strategies 4 Long Beach Arts Goes Global 5 Defining the Economic Benefits of Parks

Chamber Trains Candidates for Public ServiceLBUSD School Board member Felton Williams,to name a few, are all alumni.

The Chamber’s Candidate Academy is one-of-a-kind. In four consecutive Thursdayevenings, attendees learned the skills and toolsneeded to run a well-funded, structured andsuccessful campaign from some of the greatestminds in the political arena—including thosewho have used these tools to achieve theirpolitical dreams. Congresswoman Richardsonserved as the first speaker of the 2009 class fora discussion on developing the passion to runfor office.

The goal of the Candidate Academy is togive an opportunity to those who feel the call

Supervisor Don Knabe to Deliver Stateof the County Address on November 4Port of Long Beach will share news of job-creating construction boom as keynote sponsor of this event

The Long Beach Chamber hosted its fourthCandidate Academy this summer giving theLong Beach community an opportunity tolearn what it takes to run for public office.Whether a person’s passion is best served as amember of the City Council, the School Boardor even at the State or Federal levels of gov-ernment, The Chamber gave all interestedpeople an opportunity to learn what it takes infour classes held during the month of August.

The Chamber’s Candidate Academy hasbeen a political springboard for several publicofficials over the last few years. Congress-woman Laura Richardson, State Senator RodWright, City Councilman Gary DeLong and

“The Chamber is committedto developing quality leaders,because that’s what’s best forLong Beach”

“Their tactics may whip up a littlefervor among the rank and file,but let’s stop and look at howtheir latest stunt fits with the reality we face every day.”

look forward to making a difference in theirneighborhood and our City, and we think theydeserve the chance to try,” continued Neary.

to serve. “I am proud of all 27 members of thisyear’s class who took the time to learn what ittakes,” stated Dave Neary, chairman of the LongBeach Chamber Candidate Academy. “They all

boom which will employ thousands. In slug-gish economic times like these, you mightexpect a slowdown in construction at the Portof Long Beach. Not so. These days the Port isabuzz with the sounds of excavators, concrete

“This vibrant activity at the Portis providing a major economicboost throughout the SouthernCalifornia region and generat-ing thousands of constructionand support jobs.”

mixers and jackhammers as blueprints arerolled out for environmental upgrades, traffic-flow improvements, shipping terminal mod-ernization projects and more.

This vibrant activity at the Port is providing amajor economic boost throughout theSouthern California region and generat-ing thousands of construction andsupport jobs.

The Port’s current projects—part of about $2.6 billion inplanned improvements in thenext decade—have been in theplanning and environmentalreview stages for some time andare now moving into construction,despite the economic downturn.

Construction projects now underway include:• A new administration complex at Pier G

for terminal operatorInternational Transpor-tation Service is generat-ing 220 jobs a year overthree years.

• A $70 million soilcleanup at Pier AWest is supporting555 jobs for one year.

• Adding environmen-tally friendly shorepower (which cuts airpollution from ships atberth) at Matson’s PierC container terminal isgenerating nearly 60jobs over the 400-dayconstruction period.

• Storm-water runoff con-trol improvements Port-wide are generating 27 jobs over one year.

• A refrigerated shipping container projectrecently completed at Pier G generated 34jobs over the project’s one-year duration.

Approved projects that will start construc-tion in the next few months (by January 2010)include:• The $750 million Middle Harbor Redevelop-

ment Project to modernize two older shippingterminals and cut air pollution by 50 percentwill generate up to 1,000 jobs a year for 10years (and another 14,000 permanent jobsduring operation).

• A new maintenance/repair facility at Pier Gwill support up to 400 jobs a year on averageduring the 27-month project.

The Port of Long Beach will serve as thekeynote sponsor of the third annual State ofthe County Address and will share some of thespotlight to discuss a new Port construction

Continued on page 6

• Renovations to improve Pier G’s on-dock railcapacity and reduce the need for truck tripswill generate about 500 jobs during the 17-month project.

Funding for Port terminal developmentprojects comes from Port revenues, receivedmostly from leases with private shipping

terminal operators.

Elected to the Los Angeles County Board ofSupervisors in 1996 and overwhelmingly reelectedin 2000, 2004 and 2008, Supervisor Knabe repre-sents the Fourth District—a uniquely diverse areathat includes the Ports of LA and Long Beach and theLos Angeles International Airport and stretchesfrom Marina del Rey to the Palos Verdes Peninsulato Long Beach, Catalina and San Clemente Islandsall the way east to Diamond Bar.

In addition to thousands of temporaryand permanent jobs being created by the newdevelopment, the Port already supports about30,000 jobs in Long Beach, 316,000 jobs in

the Southern California region and 1.5 millionjobs across the nation.

Attend the State of the County onWednesday, November 4 to hear about thisPort construction boom and listen toSupervisor Knabe illustrate how the County ofLos Angeles impacts you and what you can doto play a role in furthering the many issues ofimportance to America’s largest County. Theluncheon begins at 11:00am at the LongBeach Convention Center in the GrandBallroom. Individual tickets are $50 and variouslevels of table sponsorships are available. Toreserve your table or individual seat, registeronline at www.longbeachadvocacy.biz.

MediaNotes &QuotesLBPOST.com“As a CPA I tend to look at the economy a bit more conservatively than others. While there are various statistics such as a drop in thenational unemployment rate, increasing equipment, home and car sales in July, I believe these one-month positive statistics do not establish a trend. The real wild card is when the commercial real estate and credit card company fall-out will hit. While there are a few bright spots,I do believe there will be more pain before the real recovery,” said Blake Christian, immediate past chairman of the Long Beach ChamberBoard of Directors.

“Experts Consensus: We Have Likely Hit Bottom”LBPOST.com, September 1, 2009

Los Angeles Business JournalThe potential hike in commercial property taxes is of great concern to the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. “A split-roll propertytax would mean a $7.5 billion tax increase on employers, further deepening the impacts of this tough economy and doing nothingtoward creating jobs,” said Randy Gordon, chief executive of the Long Beach Chamber.

“Business Groups Boo Tax Boosts”Los Angeles Business Journal, August 31, 2009

Los Angeles Times“It’s about time that Mr. Ellis finally admitted to himself that he’s not a good school board member and he’s not doing what the residentselected him to do,” said Randy Gordon, president and chief executive of the chamber.

“Long Beach school board member resigns”Los Angeles Times, August 7, 2009

Press-TelegramEvery year or two, the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a candidate academy to give would-be candidates a little guidanceand a sense of what it takes to run for office. “Although throwing one’s hat in the ring may seem appealing, many people jump into itwithout thinking, not realizing the time, money and work involved,” said Chamber President and CEO Randy Gordon. The four-dayacademy is designed to “scare (candidates) away” or “give them the incentive to run,” Gordon said.

“Inside City Hall: Becoming a Candidate 101”Press-Telegram, August 26, 2009

Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Randy Gordon said that Long Beach overall provides more opportunitiesfor Tesla employees, especially freeway access and housing stock. “Our city, the services, our city’s capacity to support this operation havegot to be greater than the smaller city of Downey," Gordon said.

“Long Beach lures Tesla to Boeing site with state enterprise zone”Press-Telegram, September 5, 2009

One World Trade Center, Suite 206 Long Beach, CA 90831-0206 n www.lbchamber.com n PH (562) 436-1251 n FAX 436-7099 n www.longbeachadvocacy.biz

Chamber Staff:Randy Gordon . . . . . . (562) 436-6723

President/CEO

Judy Donley . . . . . . . . (562) 437-8823Executive Vice President

Judy Nelson . . . . . . . . (562) 432-8128Vice President, Business Councils

Joel Perler . . . . . . . . . . (562) 590-9234Vice President, Membership

Sarah Nguyen . . . . . . (562) 432-7830Executive Assistant to President/CEO

Shaun Lumachi . . . . . (562) 843-0947Consultant, Public Policy

Administrative Staff (562) 436-1251Leanna Rodgers . . . . . . . . . . . . . ext 113

Consultant, Trade Missions

Kelly DeSimas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ext 103Administrative Assistant

Sandy Wong. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ext 100Administrative Assistant

Siomara Castaneda. . . . . . . . . ext 100Community Information Specialist

Linda Izzo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ext 110Member Relations Executive

Jackie Kuhl . . . . . . . . . (562) 843-0951Media Manager

Graphic Design . . . . . . . . . . . Via MediaPrinting . . . . . . . . . . . . . Seaside PrintingAssembly . . . . . . Goodwill Industries

Members wishing to submit articles, pressreleases, or member news items forupcoming issues of Long Beach Chamberof Commerce’s Your Advocate, pleasefax to (562) 436-7099, attn: Jackie Kuhl,or e-mail jackie.kuhl@gmail.com.

Circulation: Long Beach Business ismailed directly to more than 1500 LongBeach Area Chamber of Commercemembers, elected officials and communityleaders.

Our Mission The Chamber is the plat-form for business to provide leadership,education, and advocacy so that the LongBeach area thrives in the 21st century.

Our Vision The Chamber will be theacknowledged leader in creating com-

munity consensus to support local,regional, and international business.

Our Core Competenciesn Economic Development: Creating a

Strong Local Economyn Public Policy: Representing the

Interest of Business with Governmentn Community Development:

Promoting the Communityn Membership Services: Providing

Networking Opportunities

California Chamber of Commerce’s

“Advocacy Partner of theYear” for 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

“Political Partner of the Year” for 2008

Leadership Cabinet

Chairman of the Board Lori M. LofstromManaging Shareholder, Holmes Lofstrom, PC

Chairman-ElectJames H. EatonPresident, Airdrome Precision Components

Immediate Past ChairmanBlake E. ChristianPartner, Holthouse Carlin & Van Trigt LLP

Chief Financial OfficerPei Pei WangPartner, Windes & McClaughry Accountancy Corp.

Vice Chair of Economic DevelopmentJerry MillerManaging Partner, IMC Municipal

Vice Chair of Community DevelopmentCindy WymoreDirector of Government & Public Affairs, BP America, Inc.

Vice Chair of MembershipLaDonna DiCamilloDirector of Government Affairs, BNSF Railway

Vice Chair of Government & Public AffairsJoanne DavisPresident, Davis Group

At LargeTony ChavezPresident/Plant Manager, AES Alamitos GeneratingStation

At LargeJan MaizeVice President, The Maize Tuebner MaizeGroup/Smith Barney

At LargeJohn HowardOwner/Operator, Chick-Fil-A

Legal CounselRobert StemlerPartner, Keesal, Young & Logan

President & CEORandy GordonLong Beach Area Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors

Chairman’s Message

Small Business CEOs Share Strategies andBest Practices to Help Weather the Storm

It is such a difficult time for business. Themost poignant quote that sums up what manybusiness owners are currently feeling came notfrom a famous pundit but instead from a busi-ness colleague of mine. She said, “I’ve neverworked so hard, for so little and been so thank-ful!” So often the conversation these daysturns to the struggles that business owners areexperiencing, including concerns about mak-ing payroll, keeping the doors open just longenough to “ride out the storm” or the numberof weeks or even months since the owner tooka paycheck and the resulting stress on owners,families, and organizations. This conversation isalmost a form of therapy to in fact verify thatwe are not alone and to search for possiblesolutions from others that we discover are inthe same or similar circumstance. I truly believethat the only way to get through this difficulttime successfully is by helping each other,learning from each other, sharing information

that under “normal” circumstances we wouldlikely never think of divulging.

Since I became chairman of The Chamberin July, I have remained committed to my goalof helping small business, especially during thisyear, since I believe this will be a “make it orbreak it” year for many small businesses. Asbusiness attorneys, our firm sees clients andcolleagues going through extremely challeng-ing times, the likes of which most have neverexperienced. Our franchisor clients, like the

most critical concerns of small business, is the“Small Business CEO Roundtable.” We plan onhaving these quarterly, with a different group ofCEOs to provide a forum to openly discuss themost pressing issues CEOs are facing in bothsmall and large companies such as cash flow,lines of credit, expense management and newbusiness generation.

The first such Roundtable was held justrecently and we invited 10 different CEOs fromdifferent industries to participate. The discussionbegan with a pledge of confidentiality to encour-age open communication and, my hope is, thatafter the two hour meeting, we provided infor-mation, a strategy or a resource that made apositive difference for those attending.

I want to thank Chamber President and CEORandy Gordon and the staff for pulling this firstSmall Business CEO Roundtable together. I alsowant to thank accountant and Chamber mem-ber, Joan Green (of Green Zahn & Associates)for volunteering her assistance and serving as avaluable resource on tax and accounting issues.Finally, “Thank you!” to all of the brave CEOswho shared openly and added their owninsights to try to help offer some “best prac-tices” of their own to their fellow entrepre-neurs. It was inspiring.

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by Lori M. LofstromManaging Shareholder

HOLMES LOFSTROM, PC

“One of the new Chamber programs we have set up thisyear designed to address themost critical concerns of smallbusiness, is the “Small BusinessCEO Roundtable.”

AudrianneAdams-LeeHR Network

Dan AlfDENSO Sales CA, Inc.

Kristi AllenHilton Long Beach

Mike BafanTABC, Inc./Toyota

Thomas BergJetBlue Airways

William BettisonEnterprise Rent A Car

Becky BlairBlair Commercial Real Estate

GregoryBurnightNewell, Curtis, Nelson& Burnight LLP

David CameronCity National Bank

Syndi Croad-DaltonMoondance Catering

John CrochetInvestor

Jimmy CrosbyParamount Petroleum

Mark DeVossThe Boeing Company

Robert GareyCushman & Wakefield,Inc.

Tom GoodMatson Navigation Co., Inc.

Jeffrey GreenLaserfiche

Simon GrieveGazette Newspapers

Michele GrubbsPacific MerchantShipping Association

Del HeinzCharterCommunications

Diana Hendel,PhDLong Beach MemorialMedical Center/MillerChildren’s Hospital

Edward HerroFarmers & MerchantsBank

Ken HoupUHS Insurance Agency

Kjell KarlsenSea Launch Company,LLC

Frank KominTHUMS Long Beach

Larry LabradoSouthern CaliforniaEdison

Chris LytlePort of Long Beach

Glenn MaddalonCommunity Hospital of Long BeachFoundation

JosephMagaddinoCal State UniversityLong Beach

MichaelMcCarthyMoffatt & Nichol

Bob MichellTurner Construction

Jill MorganHalcrow

Eloy OakleyLong Beach CityCollege

Kristie PabstPabst, Kinney &Associates

Andy PerezUnion Pacific Railroad

William PhillipsComerica Bank

Ed ProenzaEnsemble Real Estate

Aaron RiosWal-Mart Stores, Inc.

Bill ShumardSpecial Olympics ofSouthern California

Mark StevensLong Beach Magazine

John WagnerSt. Mary Foundation

YOURADVOCATE

franchise industry in general, are experiencingrecord low sales due to the credit crunch andthe difficulties that prospective franchisees arehaving obtaining loans to buy franchises.

One of the new Chamber programs wehave set up this year designed to address the

Diamondn City National Bank n DeVry University n Holthouse, Carlin & Van Trigt, LLP n Long Beach Magazine n Port of Long Beach n Ristorante da Vinci n Wal-Mart Stores,Inc./Sam’s Club

Platinumn BNSF Railway Company n Long Beach CityCollege/Small Business Development Center n Long Beach Memorial Medical Center/MillerChildrens’ Hospital n Press-Telegram n St. Mary Medical Center n Verizon

Goldn BP America, Inc. n Community Hospital ofLong Beach n Epson America, Inc. n Farmers & Merchants Bank n Hilton Long Beach n JetBlue Airways n Keesal, Young & Logan n Laserfiche Document Imaging n Moffatt &Nichol n Paramount Petroleum/ALON USA n Southern California Edison n TABC,Inc./Toyota n Universal Healthcare SolutionsInsurance Agency n Yellow Book USA

Silvern AES Alamitos LLC n California StateUniversity, Long Beach n Catalina Express n Charter Communications n CitslincInternational, Inc. n Comerica Bank n DavisGroup n DENSO Sales California, Inc. n HyattRegency Long Beach n INCO/IMC MunicipalConsulting n Long Beach Airport n Long BeachBusiness Journal n Long Beach Convention &Entertainment Center n Marriott/RenaissanceProperties n Paragon Steel n Seaside PrintingCompany, Inc. n The Boeing Company n The Queen Mary/Save the Queen n THUMSLong Beach Company n Turner Construction n Union Pacific Railroad n Windes &McClaughry Accountancy Corporation

Bronzen Aquarium of the Pacific n City Light andPower, Inc. n Color Broadband, Inc. n Downtown Long Beach Associates n DirecTV—California Broadcast Center n Ensemble Investments, LLC—Beach BusinessBank n Guzman & Gray, Certified PublicAccountants n Holmes Lofstrom, PC n HR NETwork, Inc. n Jobing.com n LegacyPartners n Parkers’ Lighthouse n SavorCatering by SMG n Tredway Lumsdaine &Doyle LLP n Valero n Via Media Graphic Design

The “Chairman’s Circle” is a special group

of members that have committed to support the

LBACC through sponsorships at various financial

levels and at special events. If your company would

like to become a member of the Chairman’s Circle,

please contact Randy Gordon, President/CEO,

at (562) 436-6723 for details.

2009-2010Chairman’s

Circle

“It was a pleasure to attend TheChamber’s recent Better Businessin 90 Minutes Seminar on HumanResource solutions. This seminarcame at a perfect time as we areupdating our employee hand-book and will be incorporatingtheir suggested HR policies andprocedures. Also helpful were thetips on managing and keepingemployees during these tougheconomic times. I applaudThe Chamber for thiseducational and worth-while seminar.”

–Maria E. CochranDramatic Results

“Of all the email news that comesto my mailbox from The Chamber,I most enjoy the “Strictly Business”letters from Chamber Presidentand CEO Randy Gordon. Thesefrequent updates keep meapprised on the issues facing ourbusiness community. They areinformative and upbeatand make me feel goodto be doing business inLong Beach. When the goinggets tough, I know our Chamberis there to support business.Period.”

–Cynthia ByrdVia Media Graphic Design

Members Reveal Positive Returns on Their Investment

Creating a Strong Local Economy

President’s Message

Trucker Unionization is Bad for Business

For many decades, the Port of Long Beachhas been a particularly strong point of pride forour city, both as an economic engine and amajor employer. Massive amounts of containertraffic passed through our harbor each and everyday, helping to make Southern California’s sec-ond-largest port essential to the financial healthof the entire country.

The Port has been an economic steward forso long, and has taken on a new role as an envi-ronmental caretaker in recent years after imple-menting new practices to reverse environmen-tal harms that they have caused to the region.

It has been a noble and successful fight as thePort of Long Beach has become one of themost environmentally-friendly ports in America,and the world.

The nearby Port of Los Angeles joined intothe spirit of this new “Green” transition, butwith a few small differences. Unfortunately,today we are seeing that these differences havecaused huge rifts in the transportation industrythat may negatively affect business in the entireregion, and prove that the Port of Los Angeleswas using the veil of environmental efficiencyto attempt an industry takeover based onpower and greed. Now, when the shippingindustry is slowing rapidly and ports should doeverything they can to attract business, the Portof Los Angeles is pushing potential clients awayand alienating those that work long, dangeroushours for them. And they may be dragging thePort of Long Beach down with them.

The Port of Los Angeles is lobbying theFederal Aviation Administration AuthorizationAct (F4A) so they can have greater control overthe trucking industry. Their ultimate goal: toprevent independent truckers from operatingat their Port that will lead to full unionization ofall truckers. The Port of Long Beach is not participating in this advocacy sham. Obviously,

the Port of Los Angeles signed up withthe Clean Trucks Act not to

tations (thanks to the Port of Los Angeles), ship-ping companies have made it no secret thatthey prefer to take their business elsewhere.

In about five years, a widening of thePanama Canal will make it easier for Asian com-panies to bypass the West Coast and head tothe other side of the nation—something theywill gladly do to avoid higher fees. Meanwhile,Gulf Coast and East Coast ports are expandingin anticipation of the surge in business.

The Port of Los Angeles is lobbying hard topass their bullying tactics into the F4A. Well, wemust lobby Congress even harder to ensurethat their efforts are not successful. The Port ofLong Beach has been an excellent communitypartner for many decades, and it’s time we stepup for them.

3

“On behalf of the employees atInterface Systems, I would liketo thank and acknowledgethe Long Beach Chamberfor the warm welcomethat we received at therecent Good MorningLong Beach breakfast. Asa new member of The Chamber,Interface is excited at the oppor-tunity to be moving 40+ employ-ees into the Douglas Smart ParkDevelopment this November. TheGMLB breakfast was a greatchance to network with otherbusinesses.”

–Adam HarroldInterface Systems

“Once again, the LongBeach Chamber providesnothing but the best withthe who’s who of politicsat their biannual Candi-date Academy. Guest speak-ers such as LA County SupervisorDon Knabe, U.S. CongresswomanLaura Richardson, State SenatorRod Wright, just to mention afew, complement each other andset a standard that is hard to beat.If you’re interested in the politicalcampaigning process this is oneevent you will not want to miss!”

–Mike HedgesCandidate for Long Beach5th District City Council

“Obviously, the Port of LosAngeles signed up with the CleanTrucks Act not to improve theenvironment, but to impose itswill on its business partners.”

improve the environment, but to impose its willon its business partners.

Why does this matter in Long Beach? Well,the two ports are in such close proximity to oneanother that they are often confused to be onelarge port, and any bullying tactics used in LosAngeles could also be negatively attributed toLong Beach. Ultimately this will make shippingcompanies less willing to do business here.Such a chain reaction would be devastating tothe Port of Long Beach, which has seen contain-er traffic steadily decline for the last two yearswith no signs of relenting. In fact, because ofincreasing fees, taxes and generally poor repu-

by Randy Gordon President and CEO

Spain’s Costa del SolMarch 10-18, 2010China,Yangtze River

March 23-April 1, 2010For tour itineraries and more information, contact Leanna Rodgers, Trade Development Consultant travel@lbchamber.com • (562) 436-1254

Join the Chamber Trade Missions to:

Italy’s Amalfi CoastFebruary 17-25, 2010

Consider the plight of the hard-working employee who’s earnedthe right to obtain benefits from their employer after years of loyalservice—a coverage plan that works for the employee and is afford-able for the employer. All of a sudden, that efficient agreement isinterrupted by a government attempt to interfere and mandate theterms of the employee’s coverage while possibly instituting new fees(or even fines) to the employer.

The Congress and President Obama insist on interfering in the per-fectly efficient way that employees across the nation receive healthcarecoverage. Many businesses and employees long ago figured out howto come to an agreement on proper coverage terms, with both sidescoming away satisfied. And that’s the way it should be. The govern-

4

Signature Events

Members of the International Business Association strate-gize for the coming year at their annual board retreat.

(L to R) Kelly King, Joen Garnica, Laura Foster, Anne Millerand other members of the Women’s Business Council col-laborate during a summer planning session.

(L to R) Chamber President & CEO Randy Gordon; Ron Piazza,president of Ronald McDonald House Charities of SouthernCalifornia; Steve Goodling, president & CEO of the LBConvention & Visitors Bureau; Mayor Bob Foster; Kam Babaoff,founder and managing director of Ensemble Real Estate;Patti O’Keefe, regional vice president of CFRST Hotels; andMaster of Ceremonies Jim Gray at the grand opening ofthe Residence Inn by Marriott Long Beach Downtown.

Kavikas Grill and Bar hosted The Chamber’s recent net-working Mixer. Shown above are team members from theGuest House Hotel in Long Beach.

(L to R) Tony Isaac, president of Lodgeworks, parent com-pany of AVIA Hotels; John Cantele, sr. vice president ofLodgeworks; Mayor Bob Foster; Rafael Llorente, director ofgroup sales for AVIA Long Beach, and Ken Dickson, generalmanager of the AVIA Long Beach at the AVIA housewarm-ing event on September 14.

(L to R) The Museum of Latin American Art’s President &CEO Richard Townsend; Chip Conley, founder and CEO ofJoie de Vivre Hospitality and parent company of the HotelMaya; along with Kam Babaoff, founder and managingdirector of Ensemble Real Estate, give welcoming remarksat the grand opening celebration of the Hotel Maya.

Nationally, the nonprofit arts and culture industry generated$166.2 billion in economic activity last year—$63.1 billion inspending by organizations and an additional $103.1 billion inevent-related spending by their audiences. This level of economicactivity is equivalent to 5.7 million jobs. By any objective stan-dard, the arts are an important part of our overall national econ-omy. Likewise, local arts activity creates real jobs and stimulatesstrong economic benefits…think “dinner before the concert,artists buying supplies, shopping after the Museum visit, per-formers picking up paychecks and paying rent.”

At the Arts Council for Long Beach we are trying to improvethe cultural AND economic climate of the city. As the officialnon-profit “arts agency” for the City of Long Beach, we takethese challenges seriously. One way we are doing this is to “re-invent” the annual recognition of our national “October is Artsand Humanities Month” celebration. Across the nation, com-munities take time in October to emphasize the contributions

made by local artists and arts groups. We are taking this severalsteps further by the creation of GLOBAL…a new, annual,month-long arts festival intended to showcase the best of thearts locally, but more than that…growing it into an event thatwill attract regional and international visitors.

Partially inspired by a recent column by Mary Barton in theLong Beach Business Journal, we are hard at work building thisfestival. Barton wrote, “Imagine Long Beach as a magnet thatattracts thousands of visitors here to enjoy the best our culturehas to offer—a festive celebration of literature and arts! Imaginethat throngs travel here to captivate their imaginations, laugh tilltheir sides ache, experiment with their own creativity and findfriendships through exploring new dimensions of talent. They willcome back year after year for a grand time… Imagine taking it to

another level: national sponsors providing a finan-cial foundation, television rights going to the

highest bidder andpeople flocking fromall over the countryto stay in our hotels,stroll our beautiful

streets and beaches, and enjoy the brilliant events of Long Beach.Travelers for arts events are reputed to stay longer and spend morethan other tourists—it could be a bonanza in our hometown.”

We couldn’t agree more and are helping to make it happen!With over fifty different arts groups and business partnersonboard and more on the way, this year’s GLOBAL celebrationwill be an “appetizer” for the full-course meal we intend toserve in years to come. Anchored by a block-buster openingweekend for the month that includes Green Port Fest at thePort of Long Beach, a Southeast Asia festival at the Aquarium,free admission at the Museum of Latin American Art,SoundWalk in the East Village, the Mid-City Studio Tour andmore…GLOBAL already has over 120 events and performanceslisted on the master calendar. For more details, go to the festi-val’s website at www.globalLB.com. We are still looking forarts-friendly business partners who see the arts “mean busi-ness” and there are natural and mutually beneficial ways toharness the creative depth of our local arts community.

“Local arts activity creates real jobs andstimulates strong economic benefits.”

Long Beach Arts Goes Global

Chamber Opposes Federal Healthcare Plan

ment’s plan is to provide healthcare for any and everyone. The LongBeach Chamber expressed its strong opposition to these proposedhealthcare reforms being considered in the United States Congress.

The Chamber believes that the current form of healthcare reform

by Craig Watson CEO, Arroyo Communications

Executive Director, Arts Council for Long Beach

The Chamber has started a new Restaurant Loyalty Program as another benefit for members. All you haveto do is present your Restaurant Loyalty Rewards card to receive a 10% discount on your food bill. And somerestaurants are offering more than 10% off so be sure to inquire within. Contact Kelly DeSimas at kdesimas@lbchamber.com or call (562) 436-1253 to receive your rewards card. Bon appetite!

The following Long Beach restaurants are participating in the program as of August 2009:

Dine Out, Save, and Support Area EateriesChamber Membership saves you money at restaurants with new rewards program

“Obama should reconsider a plan thatadds unneeded strain to those that aren’tasking for it.”

Buono’s Pizzeria401 W. Willow StreetLong Beach, CA 90806562-595-6138

Chick-fil-A7681 Carson Blvd.Long Beach, CA 90808562-425-4232

Extreme Pizza at the Pike21 The PaseoLong Beach CA 90802562-901-9700

Frenchy’s Bistro4137 E Anaheim StLong Beach CA 90804-4201562-494-8787

Fresh Foods Café340 Golden ShoreLong Beach CA 90802562-980-9200

Gladstones330 S. Pine Ave.Long Beach CA 90802562-432-8588

Johnny Rebs’ SouthernRoadhouse4663 N Long Beach BlvdLong Beach CA 90805-6929562-423-7327

KAVIKAS Grill & Bar95 Aquarium WayLong Beach, CA 90802 562-432-8700

Michael’s on NaplesRistorante5620 E. Second St.Long Beach, CA 90803562-439-7080

Naples Rib Company5800 E. Second St.Long Beach CA 90803562-439-7427

Parkers’ Lighthouse435 Shoreline Village Dr.Long Beach CA 90802-4550562-432-6500

Pizza Place & Garden Café1431 E BroadwayLong Beach CA 90802-4033562-432-6000

Renaissance Bar & Grill 111 East Ocean Blvd.Long Beach, CA 90802562-499-2533

Ristorante da Vinci2801 E. Spring St., Suite 300Long Beach CA 90806562-685-8111

Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery1 Pine AvenueLong Beach, CA 90802562-308-2255

The Sky Room40 S. Locust Ave.Long Beach, CA 90802562-983-2703

Smooth’s Sports Grille144 Pine AveLong Beach CA 90802562-437-7700

Stefano’s Pizza & Pasta429 C Shoreline Village Dr.Long Beach CA 90802-4541562-437-2880

Tides Restaurant at theHyatt Regency Long Beach200 S. Pine Ave.Long Beach, CA 90802562-624-6020

WOKCANO199 The Promenade NorthLong Beach, CA 90802562-951-9652

being pushed through the Congress should be reconsidered andaltered in order to provide new quality care to some, while preservingquality care that others already enjoy.

“President Obama and his team may well be on their way to a rev-olutionary new healthcare system that provides the best possible cov-erage at a reasonable rate,” stated Randy Gordon, president and CEOof the Long Beach Chamber, “But this is not that plan.”

The Long Beach Chamber would like to join the 64% ofAmericans that said they do not believe President Obama’s healthcareplan is a good one (according to a recent Wall Street Journal & NBCNews survey). With a majority of his citizens against him, and an ail-ing business community struggling to free itself from the reigns ofrecession, Obama should reconsider a plan that adds unneeded strainto those that aren’t asking for it.

President Obama’s healthcare plan will hurt more people than itwill help, but this does not mean that our voice can’t be heard. Weneed help from legislators, businesses, and YOU to make it knownthat we will not stand for further government interference into ourhealthcare problem.

Log on to www.LongBeachAdvocacy.biz for more information onthe Long Beach Chamber’s award-winning advocacy efforts.

Photo credit: ninefourfour.com

Photo credit: Caught in the Moment Photography

Adrienne Gunde Photography

First District Councilmember Robert Garcia shares hisrecent experience running for Long Beach City Council.

2009 Candidate Academy: (Standing L to R) Thomas Leary,Mike Hedges, Terry Ulaszewski, Denny Moore, RaymondChavarria, Jon Schultz, Otha Ray Scott, Scott Schultz, JamesJohnson, Steve Blount, and David Kuoch. (Seated L to R) JanaShields, Anna Ulaszewski, Ranell Makeever, Jill Hill, JasminCarlson, Pauline Stenberg, Polly Thomas, and Marie Deary.

5

2009 Candidate Academy

Representing the Interest of Business with Government

Picking issues for a campaign and sticking to them are keyto consistent messaging, according to Senator Rod Wright.

(L to R) Ryan ZumMallen of LBPost.com, Dave Wielenga ofThe District Weekly and Paul Eakins of the Press-Telegramshared their insight about how the media cover electionsand what it means to be a candidate.

Congresswoman Laura Richardson addresses The Chamber’sCandidate Academy attendees on her experience as a citycouncilmember, state assembly member and U.S.Representative.

L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe gives his point ofview for running a successful campaign.

Defining the Economic Benefits of Parks

There are many factors that impact the health of our busi-ness community. Certainly the overall economic climate createsan effect that everyone feels. However, at the local level, it isimportant to understand that we build our economic strengthon the foundation of our community, and that a solid and sus-tainable local economy is dependent upon a vibrant, thrivingcity that provides a great quality of life for its residents. Andparks are a significant contributor to that…by any definition.

“The city with the most appealing parksthat offer multiple recreation oppor-tunities will have a competitive edgewhen it comes to attracting and retaining the best employees.”

by Diane WileyExecutive Director,

Partners of Parks

When asked what makes a great city people will often citeparks, open spaces, and recreation amenities as a key definer ofquality of life. But as a businessperson struggling to survive inthese uncertain times, you may ask, why are parks important toyou and your business? The answer is one of simple economics.

Well-planned and well-maintained parks are a posi-tive economic force in thecommunity. Granted, theeffects may not be as easilymeasured as crime statistics,but they are there nonethe-less. There are three primarybenefits of parks to our localLong Beach economy: 1)Workforce quality of life, 2) Real estate values, and 3) Tourism.

According to William B. Rogers, CEO of the Trust for PublicLand, “In America’s new service and technology economy, qual-ity of life for our workforce has become a tremendous compet-itive driver.” When comparing two different job offers of equalmerit, an employee will often use the community’s quality oflife, which is defined in part by recreation amenities and openspace, as the determining factor. Consequently, the city with themost appealing parks that offer multiple recreation opportuni-ties will have a competitive edge when it comes to attractingand retaining the best employees.

Along with quality of life is the impact on real estate values.It is thoroughly documented that proximity to well cared for parks

“The grant is a win-win for everyone,” stated CindyWymore, community development vice chairman of the LongBeach Chamber Board of Directors. “Walmart does their part toserve the community they operate in, the Conservation Corpsreceives some much-needed assistance, and the City of LongBeach benefits as opportunities increase for our youth and ourdesire to become more environmentally-friendly as a city is ful-filled,” continued Wymore.

New programs can be pursued now that Walmart’s grant hasreached the hands of the Conservation Corps. Recycling andenvironmental services like planting new trees are a core func-tion of the organization, but new sustainable technologyemerges each and every day. This grant allows the ConservationCorps to keep up with the latest industry developments andkeep their workers sharp. In this way, at-risk youth are not onlylearning skills so that they can work now; they’re learning skillsthat are going to keep them employed in the environmentalfield for a long, long time.

One of the most environmentally-conscious cities inAmerica, Long Beach has a wide range of Green initiatives rang-ing from solar energy to water quality. But there is always morethat can be done, and the training going on at the ConservationCorps will keep our city on the cutting edge of sustainability.

In 2009, being a good business partner doesn’t just mean turn-ing a profit. It means giving back. It means providing opportunities.It means understanding the needs and priorities of the community.

Walmart has shown time and time again that they are thatkind of corporation, and proved it once more recently with thepresentation of a $550,000 check to fund environmental servicesand youth job training at the Conservation Corps of Long Beach.

Walmart presented six of these checks to the US Conferenceof Mayors and asked them to decide which programs across thenation were most worthy of receiving the funds. TheConference quickly pointed to the Conservation Corps of Long

Beach, an organization that provides job training to at-riskyouth by teaching them sustainable and environmental skillslike recycling and solar installation. The young workers developstrong work ethics and learn valuable skills, and are required toattend school while enrolled in the program.

“Being a good business partner doesn’tjust mean turning a profit. It meansgiving back.”

Chamber Thanks Wal-Mart for Youth Job Funding

can have a significant positive effect on residential and commer-cial property values. In the mid-1800’s, the concept of increasedreal estate value attributed to park proximity was recognizedand used to make the argument for capitalization of park landsdue to the long-term financial benefit to the community. Morerecently, in a study conducted by the American PlanningAssociation, market value of properties within a three-blockradius of a developed park (with appealing landscaping, benches,picnic tables, etc.) was found to be between 5% and 20%higher than those properties located beyond the park’s influence.

Finally, beautiful parks, open spaces, and beaches attracttourists and visitors. Long Beach is able to host outdoor eventsthroughout the year, and the numerous festivals, parades, andspectator events that take place in and around our parks and on ourbeaches bring in millions of dollars annually. As visitors supportlocal businesses—such as hotels, restaurants, tour operators,equipment rental shops, and gift shops—there is a trickle downeffect: local businesses not only provide jobs, but spend in the localcommunity as well…which, in turn, supports other businesses.

In July 2009, the Long Beach City Council voted to approvethe construction of the Hotel Sierra to be built Downtown. TheHotel was aggressively supported by The Chamber and the CityCouncil ultimately agreed. Just as a hotel would not turn awaysomeone interested in a room, The Chamber believed the CityCouncil should not turn away someone interested in developinga new hotel downtown. Approving the project meant LongBeach gains much needed jobs in this struggling economy.

This is a troubling time for the hotel industry, but hotel devel-oper Lodgeworks has years of experience and a sterling repu-tation that should put any concerns at ease. If Lodgeworks see anopportunity in investing further in the area with a new hotel,The Chamber believes they should be supported to take the chance.

City Council Approves Chamber-Supported Hotel

The Pike has so much commercial potential that it is stillstriving to fulfill. Progress at the Pike has been slow, which iswhy the Hotel Sierra may just be the kick-start that the Pikeneeds. More importantly, given the current crisis in our financialmarkets, Lodgeworks has already secured the needed financingfor the construction of Hotel Sierra.

“The jobs created by building and operat-ing Hotel Sierra cannot be overstated.”

The Chamber was a loud advocate for the Hotel convincingthe City Council that any friction between the Council and thedeveloper should be solved before the hotel came back toCouncil for consideration.

“We made our point very clear to the entire Council that ifthey attempted to delay this project at all, it will solve nothingbut increase construction costs,” stated Lori Lofstrom, chairmanof the Long Beach Chamber Board of Directors. “And, any delaywould have surely killed the project. We thank the City Councilfor moving forward with this project.”

Also, in this climate of mass unemployment, the jobs createdby building and operating Hotel Sierra cannot be overstated.The construction industry has been crippled by the economiccrisis, but a five-story hotel with 125 rooms will not build itself. Itwill provide relief to many construction workers looking for a project.Once built, the Hotel Sierra will employ nearly 30 fulltimeemployees who will be provided with benefits, and Lodgeworksboasts an outstanding record of providing competitive wages.

Additionally, the Hotel Sierra will provide an estimated$650,000 per year in increased tax revenue, not to mention park-ing revenue and money spent in local shops and restaurants. TheHotel Sierra will be a Long Beach gem, a new beginning for thePike, and a benefit for workers and city funds facing hard times.

Long Beach Business Journal photograph

OCTOBER1 Brain Injury & Rehabilitation Network –

“Brain Storm” Concert (714) 625-72251 Boy Scout’s Shipping Transportation

Dinner (562) 427-0911 ext. 2724 American Diabetes Association’s

“Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes”(323) 966-2890

8 Goodwill SOLAC – “Eco-Couture” Fashion Show (562) 435-3411

9 Food Finders – Autumn Harvest Ball(562) 598-3003

11 Long Beach International City BankMarathon – www.runlongbeach.com

12 American Red Cross – 11th Annual GolfTournament (562) 490-4002

17 Aquarium of the Pacific – SEA FARE(562) 951-1606

22 Leadership Long Beach – Excellence inLeadership Luncheon (562) 997-9194

22 CCEJ – 35th Annual Food & BeverageHumanitarian Awards Dinner(562) 435-8184

23 Long Beach City College Foundation – Hall of Fame Induction LuncheonCeremony (562) 938-4134

26 Opportunity Schools – 6th Annual GolfTournament (714) 761-5062

29 Long Beach Day Nursery – Open Golf Tournament (562) 591-0509

30 Soroptimist International of Long Beach –Monster Bash (562) 596-6859

NOVEMBER4 The Chamber’s State of the County with

Supervisor Don Knabe (562) 983-12419 Miller Children’s Hospital 8th Annual

Wally Joyner Golf Classic (562) 933-167614 St. Mary Medical Center Foundation –

29th Annual Dinner (562) 491-9000 x224116 Boy Scout’s 35th Annual Golf Tournament

(562) 427-0911 ext. 27219 Children Today – 12th Annual Holiday

Cheer (562) 432-122421 Community Hospital of Long Beach

Foundation – Condit Dinner (562) 494-0576

DECEMBER3 Young Horizons Annual Dinner & Auction

(562) 437-89917 Toyota Symphony Golf Classic

(562) 436-3203 ext 228

JANUARY 29 The Chamber’s State of the Port

(562) 432-8128

FEBRUARY6 Miller Children’s Hospital Gala — “Dancing

for our Stars, too” (562) 933-165614 Long Beach Playhouse – 80th Anniversary

Celebration Dinner (562) 494-1014

MARCH13 Elwyn California – 12th Annual Bowlathon

(714) 557-631320 Jewish Community Center Gala

(562) 426-7601

APRIL2 YMCA – Annual Good Friday Breakfast

(562) 279-17008 Long Beach Commercial Real Estate

Council Annual Luncheon (562) 495-607010 Catalina Conservancy Ball – (562) 437-8555

ext. 23110 Long Beach Symphony Orchestra –

CRESCENDO: 27th Annual Gala (562) 436-3203 ext 228

12 Long Beach Grand Prix Foundation CharityGolf Tournament (562) 490-4509

14 Long Beach Grand Prix Foundation Ball(562) 490-4509

24 LB Cancer League Dinner (562) 437-0791

MAY1 55th Annual Boys & Girls Club of Long

Beach Gala (562) 595-59451 Rancho Los Amigos Foundation – 24th

Annual Amistad Gala (562) 401-70536 The Chamber’s City National Bank

Entrepreneur of the Year Luncheon (562) 432-7830

8 Special Olympics Southern California – “A Bid of Excitement” (562) 354-2606

15 Long Beach State Athletics – Jewels of the Night (562) 985-4662

20 CCEJ – 47th Annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner (562) 435-8184

JUNE4 Community Hospital of Long Beach –

28th Annual Community Golf Classic(562) 494-0835

12 Aquarium of the Pacific – Ocean Conservation Awards Gala (562) 951-1606

12-13 Special Olympics Southern California – Summer Games at CSULB (562) 354-2606

24 The Chamber’s 119th Inaugural Gala(562) 432-7830

SEPTEMBER23 The Chamber’s Annual Golf Classic

(562) 436-1251

OCTOBER

SEPTEMBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY 2010

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

Nonprofit Event Master CalendarWe are pleased to feature a calendar listing major fundraising events for our nonprofit mem-bers in the greater Long Beach area. If you would like to promote a nonprofit event, contactJackie Kuhl at jackie.kuhl@gmail.com.

When you have a choice, choose the best.

6

Welcome New MembersWe are pleased to welcome our newest investors in The Chamber, who joined during the months of July and August.

Airship Ventures, Inc.Pamela Wright (650) 969-8100www.airshipventures.comAttractions – Things to See & Do

Americana Termite Co., Inc.Gary & Patty Schlenk (562) 494-6737www.americanatermiteco.comPest Control

Architects McDonald, Soutar & Paz, Inc.Mike Soutar (562) 427-5007www.architectsmsp.comArchitects/Architectural Designers

Best Buy Corey Otero (562) 431-5026http://stores.bestbuy.com/1009/Stores & Retailers

Buchalter NemerJack Scharringhausen (213) 891-0700www.buchalter.comAttorneys/Law Firms

The Business Card HolderAlisa Moffett (562) 421-7979www.thebusinesscardholder.comMarketing & Advertising

Cash America Payday AdvanceMelinda Andry (562) 424-6000www.cashamerica.comFinancial Services & Advisors

Catalina Island ConservancyJen Poyer (562) 437-8555www.catalinaconservancy.orgNon-Profit Organizations

Clear Channel Interspace AirportsJudi Boyer (800) 628-6800www.iaateam.com Advertising

EverythingLongBeach.comBarbara Holbrook (562) 230-4449www.everythinglongbeach.com News Media

Fineline PrintingTerri Norman (714) 690-6494www.finelineprinting.com Printing & Copying

Gold’s GymSherry Robeson (562) 436-4653www.goldsgym.com/longbeachHealth Clubs

Heery International, Inc.Richard Dilday (562) 437-4020www.heery.comArchitects/Architectural Designers

K1 Speed, Inc.(310) 532-2478http://k1speed.com Indoor Go-Kart Racing

Kensington Investment CounselJeff Wimbish (562) 983-6677www.kensingtonic.com Investment Advisors

KJAZZ 88.1 FM – America’s Jazz & Blues StationKane Biscaya (562) 985-2999www.jazzandblues.org Radio Stations

Labor ReadyTommy Dube (562) 432-3521www.laborready.com Employment Agencies & Services

Laufer Group InternationalEric Hamre (562) 628-1111www.laurfer.comImports/Exports & Distribution

Laugh Factory Long BeachJamie Masada (562) 495-2844www.laughfactory.com Comedy Club

Long Beach PlayhouseJoan Van Hooten (562) 494-1014www.lbph.com Theatres

Los Angeles Helicopters, LLCMichael Rogers (562) 377-0396www.lahelicopters.comAircraft – Charter, Leasing, Rental & Sales

Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Investment ServicesBrendan Thomas Erickson (562) 257-1234www.marcusmillichap.comReal Estate – Investments

Marcus & Millichap Capital CorporationMichael Derk (562) 257-1271www.marcusmillichap.comReal Estate – Finance

Optimist Youth Homes & Family ServicesJennifer D’Alvarez (323) 443-3127www.oyhfs.org Non-Profit Organizations

Panama Joe’s Mexican RestaurantFabius Rizk (562) 434-7417www.panamajoescantina.comRestaurants

Pilates JoeKimberly Marsh (562) 286-4028www.pilatesjoe.com Fitness

Platinum Properties, Inc.Luis Castro (424) 224-7651www.platinumpropertiesinc.comReal Estate – Commercial Leasing & Prop. Mgmt.

Primal Alchemy CateringDana Buchanan (562) 708-6998www.primalalchemy.comCatering & Banquets/Food Service

Professional Service Industries, Inc.Jeffrey Davies (562) 597-3977www.psiusa.com Engineering

Quality Inn Long BeachBrenda Harris (562) 597-3374www.qualityinnlongbeach.comHotels/Motels

Regal Entertainment GroupStacy Peterson (562) 429-3321www.regalcinemas.com Movie Theater

ROEL Construction Company Inc.Mike Kearon (800) 221-0363www.roel.com General Contractors

The Shirt TaleCarolyn Evans (562) 544-4741http://theshirttale.com Men’s Custom Shirts

ThisWeekinLongBeach.comTheresa Spalding Grimaldi (310) 317-8488www.thisweekinlongbeach.comCommunity Online Information Services

U.S. HealthworksSonia Lovato (562) 432-2821www.ushealthworks.comOccupational Medical Services Provider

Valley Power Products, Inc.Gary Denton (562) 437-4734www.valleypowersystems.comMarine Services or Supplies

VNT IMEX LLCDuke Quach (562) 425-0393www.vntimex.comImports/Exports & Distribution

Wordsmith ConsultingGenevieve Zuidervaart (562) 219-3261www.wdsmithconsulting.com Marketing

Candidate AcademyContinued from page 1

Al AustinAlex Cherin

Alfredo HernandezAlvaro Castillo

Becky BlairBill Grisolia

Charlie LegemanDan Pressburg

Ed Barwick

Edward AcevedoFelton Williams+Gary DeLong+John Meyer+

Laura Richardson+Michael A. JacksonRoderick Wright+

Val Lerch+

The Chamber’s Candidate Academy is a non-partisan program. This is not about TheChamber’s views or positions on issues.

“This program is about providing people withthe tools necessary to rise to public service sothey can let their voice be heard and let theirleadership show,” stated Lori Lofstrom, Chair-man of the Long Beach Chamber Board ofDirectors. “The Chamber is committed to devel-oping quality leaders, because that’s what’s bestfor Long Beach,” continued Lofstrom.

“This year’s class was The Chamber’sfourth Candidate Academy class since 2005,”stated Randy Gordon, president and CEO ofthe Long Beach Chamber. “Prior to this year,we trained a total of 76 people to run for pub-lic office. Of the 76 people, 17 actually ran foroffice and of those 17, six won and are currently

serving in some capacity ranging from LongBeach City Council, to the State Senate toCongress,” continued Gordon.

Log on to www.LongBeachAdvocacy.biz formore information on the Long Beach Chamber’saward-winning advocacy efforts.

The following 17 alumni of the 2005, 2006and 2007 Candidate Academies ran for publicoffice between 2005 and 2009. The plus “+”sign next to a name indicates they are cur-rently serving in public office:

lence in sales and service. It is the third-largest volume Dodgedealership in California and the oldest established Charger deal-er in the country.

Long Beach Balloon Artists Win Top HonorsDanny and Bambi Bremgartner, owners ofAah-Inspiring Balloons based in LongBeach, have won the “2009 Designer ofthe Year Award” presented at this year’sInternational Summer Balloon Conferenceheld in Las Vegas. They finished in firstplace in two main categories, Large

Balloon Sculpture and Small Round Balloon Sculpture. Capturingthese two top finishes is how they grabbed the title of “Designerof the Year.” As Certified Balloon Artists, and members of theworldwide Qualatex Balloon Network,™ their creations havebeen seen on the 80th Academy Awards (The Oscars) in 2008,in various television shows, in films, and at various corporate andprivate functions.

Pathways Volunteer HospiceInstalls New ChairLeigh Clausen, vice president and regional man-ager of Gateway Business Bank in Lakewoodhas been installed as the new Board Chair forPathways Volunteer Hospice. Ms. Clausen hasbeen on the Pathways board since 2004, the

last two years serving as Vice Chair. Board Member Jim Edwards,Council Member for the City of Cerritos, will serve as the newVice Chair. Pathways is a community-based Volunteer Hospicethat began as a community outreach program in 1985 in part-nership with Lakewood Regional Medical Center. Since 1987,they have operated as a separate entity, incorporated in the Stateof California as a 501c (3) agency.

Storage Solutions Acquires More Square Feet Storage Solutions, through itsaffiliates, Barker Pacific Group(BPG) and Union DevelopmentCompany (UDC), has acquired

Elsinore Valley Self Storage, a self-storage and RV storage facilitylocated in the city of Lake Elsinore, in western Riverside County,from DGS Development Partners, a California company. Theacquisition includes over 100,000 square feet of rentable spacewith 600 storage units and RV parking spaces on six acres.Storage Solutions is a growing leader in the self-storage industry.The transaction brings Storage Solutions’ total number of storesto 19 serving the Southern California markets of Los Angeles,Orange, Santa Barbara, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.

Cerritos College Names NewSuperintendent/PresidentThe Cerritos College board of trustees hasnamed Dr. Linda Lacy as the new superintend-ent/president of Cerritos College. Dr. Lacy iscurrently serving as vice chancellor of studentservices and operations at Riverside City

College. Dr. Lacy has dedicated 23 years to serving Riverside CityCollege in multiple capacities beginning in 1986 as an instructorand coach. She also served twelve years as an instructor andassistant principal in a K-12 system in Oklahoma. Her start dateis still to be determined. William C. Farmer, who has led the col-lege as acting president since July 2008, will continue to servethe college as vice president of academic affairs.

Long Beach Day Nursery Named “Unsung Hero”Long Beach’s own DayNursery www.lbdn.org was

one of just three organizations honored in the “Education” cat-egory by the California Community Foundation and The EisnerFoundation at their annual Unsung Heroes award night. Fifteennon-profits from around Los Angeles County were recognizedfor their outstanding work in under-served communities. Eachorganization being honored received a $5,000 prize. LongBeach Day Nursery is the only honoree from the entire SouthBay area that was honored. The Nursery teaches social skills tochildren—aged six months to five years—in an area where theservice is not readily available. Over 90% of the children attendthe Day Nursery with the assistance of California public educa-tion subsidies.

Glenn E. Thomas Dodge Marks 100th YearGlenn E. ThomasDodge Chrysler

Jeep Company in Signal Hill celebrates its 100th year of sellingcars in the Long Beach area. The company has sold more than100,000 vehicles in its 100-year history and this year also marksthe 75th year as a Chrysler franchise. Since the beginning, theGlenn E. Thomas Company has been a staple in the Long Beachcommunity and has been recognized nationally for its excel-

Members Making News

Long Beach PlayhouseCelebrates 80 YearsEstablished in 1929, the LongBeach Playhouse is a landmark in

the City of Long Beach. The Playhouse produces 16 showsannually with a new play or musical every three weeks on theThe Mainstage, or upstairs in the Studio Theatre. Long Beach’sflagship professional theatre is entirely self-supporting throughticket sales and membership support. In celebration of 80 yearsof continuous operation in Long Beach, The Playhouse presents“An Evening at the Speakeasy,” on Sunday, February 14, 2010at the Westin Long Beach. Following a VIP reception, guests willenjoy ragtime and jazz music as they dine on elegant 20s fare.Visit www.lbph.com for more info.

New President for Leadership Long BeachCarolyn Smith Watts joins Leadership LongBeach as the new president for the 2009-2010year. Smith Watts is the founder of Boloph’sSpecialty, a company that specializes in com-munity marketing, corporate training, politicalcampaigning, and event planning. The formerMichigan police officer came to Long Beach

two decades ago where she has been active in the community.She was also named “Woman of the Year” by the CaliforniaSenate 25th District in 2009.

New Management Takes Helm at Queen MaryDelaware North Companieswill take over daily manage-ment aboard the QueenMary this fall, after it final-izes agreements with ownerGarrison Investment Group.

Replacing Hostmark Hospitality Group, Delaware North oper-ates 15 properties throughout the country, including SequoiaNational Park, Yosemite National Park, the Kennedy SpaceCenter, and Niagara Falls State Park, to name a few. BradleyAnderholm, chief operating officer of Delaware NorthCompanies Parks & Resorts will facilitate initial operations at thehistoric hotel and ship. Uwe Roggenthien, a seasoned industryveteran with more than 30 years experience, will take over asthe new general manager.

LBUSD Wins $250K Broad PrizeThe Long Beach Unified School District wasawarded $250,000 as one of four runners-up for the Broad Prize for Urban Education,which recognizes the nation’s most

improved school districts. The money awarded will be used tofund college scholarships for Long Beach’s high school stu-dents. The award marks the second consecutive year that LongBeach has come away as a finalist, and the district has accept-ed nearly $1.4 million in awards from the Broad Foundation inthe past six years.

If you would like to submit information for Members Making News, please send a 75-word statement to Jackie Kuhl at jackie.kuhl@gmail.com.

7

Providing Networking Opportunities

Please return the completed ticket with payment to:Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce1 World Trade Center, Ste. 206Long Beach, CA 90831-0206

M 1 ticket for $25 (not eligible for credit toward future trip)

M 5 tickets for $100 (may credit toward a future trip—limit $100 per person)

Name Phone

Address City, State, Zip

M My check made payable to the Long Beach Area Chamber is enclosed.

M Please charge my credit card: M Visa M MasterCard M American Express M Discover

Card # Exp. Date: Security Code:

Billing Address City, State, Zip

Signature

Win a Trip to Spain for Two! Here’s How…Press your luck and take a chance at winning an all-expense paid

trip to Spain for two people on March 10-18, 2010 by entering inThe Chamber’s opportunity drawing. Spend only $25 for one chanceor $100 for five chances for a trip valued at $3,800. The winningticket will be announced on January 29, 2010 at The Chamber’sState of the Port Luncheon.* If you’ve been considering this tour, orknow someone who has, this is a great opportunity with an addedbenefit: If you purchase five tickets for $100 and your ticket is notpulled, you can apply the $100 as a credit towards this tour of Spain or any other future Chamber tour. Good luck!

* Winner need not be present

Your confirmation and receipt will be mailed to the address listed below.

Chamber Hosts Free E-Waste CollectionHelp Long Beach get rid of electronic waste (E-Waste) the rightway by sending it to a proper recycling process and not into thelandfills! On Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14,The Chamber is hosting a free E-Waste collection event. E-Waste isany consumer electronic equipment that has reached its ‘end-of-life’ or ‘end-of-usage,’ whether in full or non-working condition.It includes most electronics or electric appliances with a cord orcircuit board such as: Computer monitors, television sets, PC sys-tems, printers, laptops, copiers, scanners, fax machines, toner car-tridges, etc. Drop off your E-Waste items in the Broadway parkinglot of the World Trade Center in downtown Long Beach from 9:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more information, call (562) 436-1251.

Plan Ahead… Find out about these upcoming events and more at www.lbchamber.com or call (562) 436-1251.

PRESORTEDSTANDARD

US POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 416

LONG BEACH, CA

State of the CountyNovember 4, 2009

State of the PortJanuary 29, 2010

Trade Mission to Italy’sAmalfi CoastFebruary 17-25, 2010

Trade Mission to China,Yangtze RiverMarch 23-April 1, 2010

Trade Mission to Costa del Sol, SpainMarch 10-18, 2010

Entrepreneur of the YearMay 6, 2010

One World Trade Center, Suite 206 Long Beach, CA 90831-0206