Torrance Magazine by Torrance Chamber of Commerce

Check out our Online version! (See How - Page 2)

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In this Issue Our Notes:

DEPARTMENTS Notes from the Publishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Chairman’s Welcome Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 TACC Board of Directors & Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Chairwoman’s Farewell Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Chamber Exec’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

What an incredible issue! As always, this magazine is in production because of the phenomenal support from our members and advertisers!

BUSINESS MOVERS & SHAKERS Convaid — Committed to Being “Best in Class” . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The Port of Los Angeles — America’s Port in South Bay’s Backyard . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SoCalGas “Scores” with its Supplier Diversity Program . . 10 Counseling 4 Kids — The Value of Philanthropy . . . . . .12 Honda — Jobs. Technology. Environmental Consciousness. Local Hero. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Kaiser Permanente’s Health Plan, Medical Group Earns Top Honors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery — A Jobs Multiplier . . . . . 16 Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance — Quality Healthcare for the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Partner Engineering & Science, Inc. — New Kids on the Old Torrance Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Kelly Services — Staffing Companies: Leading the Way in Workforce Solutions for Today’s Employers. . . . . . . 21

FROM THE C ALIFORNIA SENATE Senator Lieu Seeks Streamling Restitution . . . . . . . . . .22

FROM THE CIT Y OF TORRANCE Movers and Shakers in Torrance History . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

FROM TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Business Movers and Shakers, that is you and everyone who has a place in Torrance and the Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Torrance Chamber of Commerce. Green Ink Marketing As the articles, ads, News Briefs, Upcoming Events, Highlights, and more started coming in to our office, we couldn’t help but think: Torrance really is a great place to work. This issue is truly about movers and shakers. As Tara O’Brien terms out as Chair, we welcome Aaron Aalcides, who offers a great background in banking operations and comes with the energy, desire, and excellent continuity of focus to implement the thorough strategic plan from his committed predecessor. In addition, President and CEO Donna Duperron was named Woman of the Year for the 28th District by Senator Ted Lieu. AND, we have new members, and not-so-new members who have - and are an incredible asset to our community and business environment. Welcome Aaron, thank you Tara, welcome new members, and thank you always to all members, contributors, and loyal advertisers; we truly are the Business Movers and Shakers of the South Bay! Our October issue will focus on the Centennial, Celebrating Torrance! We’re sure you have something to say about that! Make sure you contact us NOW, to reserve a space on this very important issue.

The Sky is not the Limit in These Classrooms . . . . . . . 24

Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Co-Publishers, Torrance Magazine

FROM THE TORRANCE CENTENNIAL COMMITTEE Where’s Jared? Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Alumni of Torrance Area Youth Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTS Ambassador Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Woman of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

P.S. Did you notice the QR code on the cover? We have feedback from many of you on how much you enjoy our online version of Torrance Magazine, which is packed with links – this is a great resource for readers and benefits advertisers who want to provide more detail on what they do. This also allows you to forward articles, ads, insights and more to friends and clients. What a nifty tool!

DISTINGUISHED MEMBER AWARDS . . . . . . . . . 27 CHAMBER EVENTS State of the City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 State of Education Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 South Bay Yellow Cab on “Movers and Shakers” . . . . . . . 29 Welcome Supervisor Don Knabe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Adopt-A-School Partnership Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

To read the QR Code, type “QR code reader” in Google to download the most appropriate application for you (we use Kaywa and Red Laser). Once downloaded, open the app, point at the code, and there it is!

UPCOMING DEADLINES For the October 2012 Issue: Celebrating Torrance!

RIBBON CUTTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 UPCOMING EVENTS

Article/Advertising Space Reservation: August 17, 2012 Distribution Date: October 1, 2012

26th Annual Evening Under the Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Coastal Cleanup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Torrance Centennial Hometown Parade . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

NEWS BRIEFS Cherie Davis, Stars of Industry Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 For Our Children Fundraising Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Ray Frew Bestowed the YMCA’s Highest Honor . . . . . . . . . .34 New Appointments at CSU Dominguez Hills . . . . . . . . . . .35 Torrance Memorial Medical Center Under Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Provides Scholarships to Help Local Youth . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Win A Cruise Offered by Home Instead Senior Care® . . . .36

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Advertising: See www.Torrance-Magazine.com or Contact AdSales@Torrance-Magazine.com or 310.317.0841 Articles: Pat Sandt, at Submittals@Torrance-Magazine.com or 310.373.2880 General Information/Marketing Services: Sue Moylan, at info@GreenInkMarketing.com or 310.539.2235 TACC Contact: info@TorranceChamber.com or 310.540.5858 The Torrance Magazine focuses on business stories, events, and who’s who profiles that are of interest to Torrance Chamber of Commerce members and others doing business in the South Bay area. The editorial is positive, information-packed, exclusive news: a diverse mix of feature stories on Torrance and South Bay movers and shakers, businesses, events, local industries, government and business economic development strategies and outlooks.

CHAIRMAN’S WELCOME MESSAGE

Setting Course for Business Success The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization of approximately 750 businesses. Its mission is to create a strong local economy by being the voice of business before government, provide networking opportunities to its members, promote the community and take political action. Through these actions, we help business members to grow and promote collaboration, thus assuring prosperity for the Torrance Area. The Chamber also provides resources and access to the most prominent business leaders in the community who are volunteers in our Chamber organization. Additionally, it provides access to City officials, local legislators, financial organizations, and continued education on business finance, human resources and mentorship from entrepreneurs who are willing to share years of business success and knowledge. This past year, the Chamber leadership has created a fiveyear strategic action plan that puts us on course to create business success. During this fiscal year we have begun to focus on the following: economic development, internal operations, communications and government affairs. With the commitment and involvement of the full board of directors, we have organized a task force for each of the four areas. In support of our membership and creating value for their investment, the Chamber and the City of Torrance are working on the development of a Business Council to represent and advocate for the business community directly to the City of

Torrance. Additionally, the commitment of the City of Torrance and the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce has contributed to the South Bay Entrepreneurial Center (SBEC) which will provide access to new entrepreneurs. The SBEC provides a place where entreAARON AALCIDES preneurs can meet, exchange 2012-2013 TACC ideas, and access mentors and Chairman of the Board business resources to help our local businesses grow, create jobs, and foster economic development in the South Bay. While we express our willingness to work with the City of Torrance, we must not forget that the basic strategy for real economic survival and growth begins with our own business community. It is the innovation, planning, insight, administration and drive within any business organization that ultimately determines the success or failure of that organization. The value of your Chamber membership comes in many forms. The chance to promote your business, the opportunity to expand your knowledge and business skills, the vehicle through which you can serve the community that supports your business, and the option of linking with other local businesses to strengthen your own position and offering. Only your imagination limits the possibilities of what your membership can mean to you. Operating your business from behind your four walls is probably not the best way to survive today’s challenging business climate. We need to know who you are and what you do, and one of the best ways to get your message across is to be an active member of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. I look forward to seeing you in the near future at one of our Chamber functions.

2012-2013 TACC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

(Left to right) Upper Row: Ellenmary Michel, Deborah Fehn, Josh Thomas, Marcella Low, Heidi Cunningham, Charles Gale Jr, Carmen Freeland, Linda Amato, Pablo Borgnino, Shirley Pe, Robert Mendez, Sue Moylan, Craig Leach, Theresa Stanberry, Laurie Brandt, Pat Sandt, Dan Thomas, Karl Schmidt, Tracy Underwood. Lower Row: Steve Napolitano, Sherry Kramer, Aaron Aalcides, Tara O’Brien, Judy Gibson, Mark Waronek, Kathy Towers TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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TACC Board of Directors and Staff

About Torrance Magazine

2012-2013

Torrance (ISSN #0194-5491) Published by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce with Green Ink Marketing. Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce 3400 Torrance Blvd., Ste 100, Torrance, CA 90503. (310) 540-5858; Green Ink Marketing, Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Mailing Address (No Deliveries Accepted): 2785 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 312 Torrance, CA 90505 310.539.2235. Subscription rates: $20.00 per year. E-mail: Info@GreenInkMarketing.com

Executive Board of Directors CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Aaron Aalcides Aalcides Enterprises

Deborah Fehn Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center, Torrance Carmen Freeland Daily Breeze

CHAIR ELECT Sherry Kramer Continental Development Corporation

Judy Gibson Strategic Technology Sources, Inc. Peter Issa CapitalSource Bank

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Tara O’Brien Kaiser Permanente

Robert Katherman Katherman Co. & Water Replenishment District of So. California

VICE CHAIR OF FINANCE Cathy Towers Bank of Manhattan, NA VICE CHAIR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Charles Gale Jr. Metropolitan Water District of Southern California VICE CHAIR OF INTERNAL OPERATIONS Linda Amato DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance - South Bay VICE CHAIR OF REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Pablo Borgnino Exxon Mobil Corporation VICE CHAIR OF MEMBERSHIP Dan Thomas Telepacific Communications

Craig Leach Torrance Memorial Medical Center Marcella Low Southern California Gas Company Robert Mendez Alcoa Fastening Systems Ellenmary Michel Pelican Products, Inc. Sue Moylan Crest Marketing, Inc. Shirley Pe South Bay Yellow Cab Cooperative, Inc. Pam Ryan Torrance Marriott

VICE CHAIR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND PUBLICITY Heidi Cunningham Kelly Services GENERAL COUNSEL Karl Schmidt Parker, Milliken, Clark, O’Hara & Samuelian, APC

Greg Saks CSU Dominguez Hills Pat Sandt Green Ink Marketing Theresa Stanberry Stanberry Laundry Co., LLC Joshua Thomas South Bay Equity Lending

VICE CHAIR OF FOUNDATION and LEADERSHIP TORRANCE Mark Waronek Ek & Ek

Tracy Underwood Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

TACC Staff

2012 – 2013 Board of Directors Joe Ahn Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems Sector Communications Karin Baker American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

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Kelly Hernandez Membership Manager Shatera Luna Administrative Assistant

Laurie Brandt Red Car Brewery & Restaurant

Donna Duperron President and CEO

Lisa Rodriguez Event Coordinator

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Send address changes to: Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce c/o Torrance Magazine 3400 Torrance Blvd, Suite 100 Torrance, CA 90503 Tel: 310.540.5858 All rights reserved. Trademarked. ARTICLES: Torrance Magazine is published quarterly and mailed to TACC members and distributed to selected businesses in the community. The publishers welcome written queries regarding articles for possible publications. Articles are subject to editing and are included on an “as space permits basis” at the discretion of the Publisher, Editors and Editorial Board. ITEMS: Material and photos for inclusion must be received 30 days in advance of the quarterly publication date. Reproduction, in whole or in part without written permission, is prohibited. Photos and articles not returned. DISCLAIMER: All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in Torrance Magazine. The publisher accepts no responsibility for damage arising directly or as a consequence of the use or publication of inaccurate or missing information. The opinions and/or claims expressed by contributors and advertisers are their own, and are not necessarily shared or supported by Torrance Magazine, Green Ink Marketing, its staff, TACC, Board of Directors, or management. Editorial content is intended as general information, and not as specific legal or financial advice; for such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and Green Ink Marketing assume no responsibility resulting from the advertising contained in the publication. Printed on FSC Certified Paper with Soy-Based Inks.

C H A I RWO M A N ’ S FA R E W E LL M E S S A G E

Thriving Business — Builds a Healthy Torrance It’s hard to believe that this column will be my last as your Chairwoman of the Board. What an incredible year I’ve had representing the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and meeting so many business and community leaders! As I pass the chairman duties along to Aaron Aalcides, I feel incredibly confident and excited about our Chamber’s future. We’ve just put the finishing touches on a five-year strategic plan that will ensure the Chamber’s continued growth and vitality. Most importantly, our plan was created with you, our members, in mind. We’re more committed than ever to providing membership value each and every day through our legislative advocacy efforts, improved member communications, top-notch networking opportunities and resources for growing your business. In celebration of this issue’s “Movers and Shakers” theme, I’d like to recognize a few very important people who received Chamber of Commerce and Chairman’s awards for their longterm support of the Chamber: Linda Amato, general manager of the DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance - South Bay, received the George Whittlessey Memorial Award. An active member of our Chamber board since 2002, Linda has been involved in countless events, economic development activities, programs and membership activities. As an executive board member for Discover Torrance, Linda has been instrumental in driving travel and tourism to the Torrance Area.

Mark Applegate of Applegate Insurance earned the J. Walker Owens Award for his ongoing service to the Chamber and our business TARA O’BRIEN community. In addition to holdPast Chairwoman ing many board leadership of the Board positions—including chairman of the board—during his 14year membership in the Torrance Chamber, Mark continues to stay involved as an ambassador. You’ll find Mark welcoming new members and attending one of the many ribbon-cutting celebrations we have every year for our member businesses. I was thrilled to recognize board members Theresa Stanberry, Dan Thomas and Mark Waronek with Chairman’s Awards last month. Theresa has steadily grown our ambassador program, which pays a vital role in welcoming new members to our Chamber. Dan Thomas expanded our Tech Pros networking group from a small gathering to a frequently sold-out crowd of tech-minded professionals; he also brought a lot of energy to his role this year as vice chair of membership. Lastly, Mark Waronek, past chairman of the board, dedicated countless hours during recent years to support the Leadership Torrance trip to Sacramento, the Political Action Committee, the South Bay Association of Chambers trip to Washington, D.C., and many other legislative advocacy efforts. This Chamber is a better organization because of their commitment and service. I’d like to thank the entire Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce staff for their relentless efforts to make the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce the best it can be: Donna Duperron, Lisa Rodriguez, Kelly Hernandez, and Shatera Luna. Lastly, I want to express my appreciation to all of you, our Chamber members, for making this Chamber great! It’s been an honor to serve you.

Current Chairman and several Past Chairpersons of the Board attend ‘State of the City’ TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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CHAMBER EXEC’S MESSAGE he theme of this issue of Torrance Magazine is “Movers and Shakers.” According to Barron’s Business Dictionary, “A mover and shaker is an individual who has a dramatic impact on an organization or a series of events. For example, an individual may be known as a mover and a shaker in a particular business activity because of the ability to get things done quickly and successfully.” .....................................................................................................................................

As I sat down to write this column, I began to think about “who” are the movers and shakers in our community. Because I am a member of the Torrance Centennial Committee, I thought of all of those who opened their first businesses in Torrance. I reflected on all of the individuals who have graduated from Leadership Torrance and have left their footprint in the community. I also considered our City of Torrance leadership throughout the years. I spent several minutes thinking about the vision shared through the previous Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Chairmen of the Board. It is through their guidance and direction that this Chamber has thrived for 73 years. Several Past Chairmen of the Board attended the May 24th, ‘State of the City’ presented by Mayor Frank Scotto and hosted by the Chamber. It was so nice to see so many of them in attendance. As I continue to reflect on the ‘movers and shakers’ in our community, I thought about Chamber members who

step forward in leading a committee or a cause. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is an organization that welcomes participation from our members. Heidi Cunningham, Dan Thomas, Candy Messer, Charles Gale and Pat Sandt have volunteered this past year to provide program and keynote speakers in areas that are of importance to our members. Theresa Stanberry and the ambassadors have truly become an integral component of the Chamber. Through our partnership with Torrance Unified School District in the Adopt-ASchool program, we have witnessed this year the dynamic energy of students attending our schools. Additionally, through collaboration with North High School and Toyota Financial Services, students in the Mentor Program continually reminded us that our community is in good hands.

DONNA DUPERRON President and CEO Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

CO N TAC T I N F O R M AT I O N Ambassadors Mentoring new chamber members Theresa Stanberry stanberrylaundry@yahoo.com

GAP Government Affairs Policy Group Charles Gale Jr. - cgalej@mwdh2o.com

Green Torrance Committee Pat Sandt - Pat@GreenInkMarketing.com

HR Professionals Human Resources Professionals of Torrance Heidi Cunningham -

Yes, according to Barron’s Business Dictionary, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce has had, and will continue to have, individuals who make a dramatic impact on our organization.

cunniha@kellyservices.com

Networking at Noon Our most popular networking lunches TACC - info@torrancechamber.com

PROFS

I thought of all of those who opened their first businesses in Torrance. I reflected on all of the individuals who have graduated from Leadership Torrance and have left their footprint in the community. I also considered our City of Torrance leadership throughout the years.

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Professional Roundtable of Financial Services Candy Messer - Candy@abandp.com

Tech Pros Technology Professionals of Torrance Dan Thomas - danthomas@telepacific.com

To maximize your exposure in the community, or, to request more information, call the Chamber at (310) 540-5858. We will meet with you to create a customized plan to help your business train for success. We want you to succeed and we are able to provide the tools to help you do just that!

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS C O N VA I D —

Committed to Being “Best in Class” Convaid, a Torrance based manufacturing company, has been providing top quality lightweight, compact-folding wheelchairs since 1976. We started in a small building with only one product - a positioning wheelchair that had the look and convenience of a stroller. Since those humble beginnings, we have steadily grown and expanded into new markets with innovative new designs, but our mission of providing quality wheelchairs that are attractive and convenient has remained the same. Our location in Torrance has allowed for great resources and opportunities within our community, including associations with non-profits (Pediatric Therapy Network (PTN) who has offered design feedback). In addition, our President Chris Braun is involved in the South Bay Entrepreneurial Center (SBEC), where he is a Board member and mentor to small businesses. Our recipe for success is simple; we are committed to being “Best in Class.” Through the use of the latest manufacturing techniques including “LEAN” and “Five S,” Convaid is on a mission of constant improvement. Every company process is continually enhanced to maximize efficiency and eliminate waste. Even small, incremental process

over 40 countries with a particularly strong presence in Europe, Japan and South America. International distribution is increasing, and will no doubt play a large role in our future growth. Our success is driven by our people and their commitment to stay true to the company’s core principles. We are proud of our accomplishments and the positive impact that we have made on the industry. Cruiser-Lifestyle Wheelchair

improvements add up quickly, and ultimately provide added value for the customer. We are committed to customer satisfaction. Through our history, Convaid has cultivated a strong network of therapists, rehab technology specialists, and parents that provide us with a steady stream of customer feedback and suggestions for product improvement. And, since our Manufacturing and Engineering is performed in-house, we can implement changes and accommodate custom orders much faster than our outsourced competition. Speed to market gives us a clear competitive advantage.

We invite you to learn more about our company by attending our open house and plant tour on Thursday, July 19th from 10-11:00 a.m. Coffee and donuts will be served. Please R.S.V.P. to helene@convaid.com or call (310) 755-7897. For more information, please visit www.convaid.com

Our commitment to quality and safety is unsurpassed in the wheelchair industry. Through continuous improvement methods and stringent quality checks, we are proud to offer the finest quality wheelchairs available. Nothing leaves our facility without rigorous inspection and quality assurance. All new designs are also subjected to hundreds of hours of accelerated fatigue testing before going to market. But it doesn’t stop there. We perform random checks every day to protect against quality deviations. While Convaid is recognized in the U.S. as the best premier brand in pediatric wheelchairs, we also sell in

Manufacturing-Machine Shop TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS T H E P O RT O F LO S A N G E LE S —

America’s Port® in the South Bay’s Backyard America’s premier port and Southern California’s gateway to international commerce, the Port of Los Angeles is strongly committed to the development of innovative and sustainable operations that benefit the economy, environment and quality of life for the region and nation it serves. A critical economic engine recognized for its environmental stewardship around the world, the Port generates 896,000 regional jobs and $23 billion in California tax revenues each year. The Port’s plan to invest $1 billion in capital improvements over the next five years is expected to spur additional growth. Located in San Pedro Bay, just a few miles from the South Bay, the Port of Los Angeles encompasses 7,500 acres, 43 miles of waterfront and features 25 cargo terminals, including passenger, container, breakbulk, dry and liquid bulk, automobile and warehouse facilities. The Port is also home to the nation’s most secure cruise passenger complex, the World Cruise Center. A self-supporting department of the City of Los Angeles, the Port derives its fees from shipping and other services and is considered a landlord port, leasing property to tenants who, in turn, operate their own facilities. Over the past decade, the Port of Los Angeles has solidified its reputation as America’s Port® by moving more containers than any other port in the nation, more than doubling its volumes over a 10-year period. In 2011, the Port’s cargo terminals handled 7.9 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). The Port’s planned $1.2 billion dollars investment in capital improvements over the next five years will ensure its continued ability to provide superior cargo terminals, rail and warehouse infrastructure, and attract top business tenants from around the world.

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The Port generates 896,000 regional jobs and $23 billion in California tax revenues each year. The Port’s plan to invest $1 billion dollars in capital improvements over the next five years is expected to spur additional growth. Deeply committed to innovating cleaner, greener ways of doing business, the Port is recognized worldwide for its multifaceted approach to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Through a series of landmark initiatives, the Port has been able to show significant reductions in pollutant levels across the board, while still achieving strong economic growth and progress.

at reducing emissions of oceangoing vessel operations, improving water quality in and around the Port, and increasing solar energy use. The Port also seeks to attract innovative technology and “green-collar” jobs to the harbor area through PortTechLA, a not-for-profit business incubator focused primarily on attracting maritime-related, clean-tech companies to the L.A. Harbor area.

Since the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan (CAAP) was adopted in 2006 by the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, and recently revised in 2010, great strides have been made in reducing harmful port-related emissions, including drops in diesel particulate matter (DPM) emissions by 69 percent, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 50 percent and sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions by 75 percent between 2005-2010.

Recognized as one of the safest seaports in the world, the Port puts a high priority on the safety and security of its facilities and operations. The Port and its dedicated 300-member Los Angeles Port Police force work in close collaboration with multiple government entities to monitor and keep safe vast miles of waterfront and land-based facilities, and employs one of the most comprehensive, 24/7 threat detection and incident management systems in the world.

The Port of Los Angeles is also recognized for its many other pollutant-reduction programs, including those targeted

Please visit us at www.portoflosangeles.org/.

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BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS S O U T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A G A S C O M PA N Y —

“Scores” with Its Supplier Diversity Program Program Helps Minority Businesses Grow Diverse business enterprise owners and operators interested in doing business with Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) may want to check out the utility’s SCORE program. The Smaller Contractor Opportunity Realization Effort, or SCORE program, is a multi-team approach to expand the pool of smaller diverse businesses in SoCalGas’ supplier base. SoCalGas achieved a record year in 2011 for contracting with diverse business enterprises (DBEs) with more than $300 million going to minority businesses. SoCalGas’ supplier diversity activities, which started more than 30 years ago, have evolved not only into a key business strategy but also a core company value. DBE companies fall into three categories: Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Women Business Enterprises (WBE) and Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (SDVBE). “I’m proud to say the company has made significant progress implementing programs targeting DBE outreach, collaborated with business and community-based organizations to identify DBEs, and helped diverse firms develop

SoCalGas achieved a record year in 2011 for contracting with diverse business enterprises (DBEs) with more than $300 million going to minority businesses. skills so they can build capacity to take on larger contracts,” said Rick Hobbs, director of supply management and supplier diversity for SoCalGas. “A candid discussion with a group of community members made us realize that despite our success, there were still obstacles that prevented more DBE’s from working with the company. To remove these barriers, we launched our Smaller Contractor Opportunity Realization Effort, or SCORE, program.” As a result of SCORE and other efforts, 2011 was a record year at SoCalGas: • Spending more than $307 million in purchases with diverse firms, representing 38 percent of total purchases. • Exceeding the company’s internal target of 30 percent for the fourth consecutive year and surpassing the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) goal of 21.5 percent for the 19th straight year. • Growing SoCalGas’ purchases with WBEs to an all-time high of $48.8 million.

Need workers with special skills? We can help. We have resources to help you recruit and train new employees through our Customized Training Program. Contact us for more informaƟon.

(866) 848-3321 YourNextHire.biz

a public workforce agency serving the ciƟes of Torrance, Lomita, Signal Hill, and Long Beach This equal opportunity program is Įnancially assisted through WIA Title I. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabiliƟes to request a reasonable accommodaƟon, please call 562.570.4711 or TTY 562.570.4629.

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To learn more about SoCalGas’ supplier diversity programs, go to www.sempra.com/about/supplierdiversity/ or call 866-616-5565. About Southern California Gas Co. Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) has been delivering clean, safe and reliable natural gas to its customers for more than 140 years. It is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing service to 20.9 million consumers connected through nearly 5.8 million meters in more than 500 communities. The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles throughout central and Southern California, from Visalia to the Mexican border. SoCalGas is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE).

The energy of community starts within each one of us. Since 1867, The Gas CompanySM has been proud to partner with the communities where we live and work. We support organizations that take pride in civic involvement in our diverse communities to help enhance the quality of life for us all.

www.socalgas.com ÂŠ 2010 Southern California Gas Company. All copyright and trademark rights reserved.

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS COUNSELING 4 KIDS—

The Value of Philanthropy Corporations have long seen the value of corporate philanthropy; the “receiver” is the main beneficiary, but the benefactor also reaps the benefits in exchange. Fundamental to the long-term success of a company, philanthropic activities often serve to motivate employees, raise positive visibility for the corporation and foster a spirit of good will, while attracting customers, investors and good employees. In the South Bay, many corporations demonstrate the importance of re-investing in their communities, as they support the places where their employees live and do business every day. Counseling4Kids, a 501(c)(3) is a nonprofit organization that provides weekly, in-home therapy to children placed in foster care throughout the South Bay. Counseling4Kids often partners with corporations through a series of programs that benefit the children and the youth the agency serves. In addition, Gifts4Kids, a holiday gift-giving program for the agency, is supported largely through the generosity of employees in the South Bay. This cooperation or partnership is essential to the success of non-profits in our community and elsewhere. Toyota Motor Sales, USA’s Logistics department in Torrance is just one of the companies that held a gift collection drive last holiday season. In addition, company v olunteers were also able to participate in a holiday wrap party where they wrapped the gifts enabling Counseling4Kids to deliver over 500 toys to children in foster care, many of whom would not have received a gift at all. Activities such as these help motivate employees and build a strong social mission for the corporation. Potential customers begin to associate the corporate brand with good-will and community involvement and increase the likelihood that they will continue to patronize the brand. A corporation that has a built-in corporate philanthropy program is more likely to help recruit, retain, and engage employees. Philanthropic activities that include a team building approach where employees are able to participate in a fun activity while also giving back to a great cause can motivate and excite employees. Bowl4Kids, a Counseling4Kids fundraising event held in honor of National Foster Care Awareness Month at PV Bowl in Torrance this past May, did just that. Companies such as Kaiser Permanente, California Credit Union, Malaga Bank, DoubleTree by HiltonTorrance South Bay and many more came together as sponsors for a fun filled evening where employees were able to bowl for

TORRANCE MAGAZINE

JULY 2012

Fundamental to the long-term success of a company, philanthropic activities often serve to motivate employees, raise positive visibility for the corporation and foster a spirit of good will, while attracting customers, investors and good employees.

children in foster care. “Team building is essential for creating a healthy work environment and developing cohesion among team members. Events like Bowl4Kids give us the opportunity to participate in team building exercises whilealso contributing to thecommunity,” stated Jose Luevano, Branch Manager, California Credit Union Torrance. Whole Foods Torrance, the presenting sponsor of the event, brought out two teams of employees, provided food for all participants and gave away gift bags. These business movers and shakers show a commitment by corporations that is remembered long after the event is over. For more information about what we do, our partners and events, visit www.counseling4kids.org

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS A M E R I C A N H O N DA M OTO R C O M PA N Y, I N C .

Jobs. Technology. Environmental Consciousness. Local Hero. Since 1990, Torrance has had the privilege of providing a home to American Honda Motor Company, Inc. (AHM), the North American subsidiary of the Honda Motor Company, Ltd. Founded in 1959, AHM has operated in the United States for over 50 years. Today, the Torrance facility, just steps away from the Torrance bridge, is home to its Research and Development, Sales Operations, and Advanced Technology Vehicles and infrastructure. With the introduction of their first battery-electric car 15 years ago, Honda has continuously been investing in the future and in our community. Honda directly employs over 2,000 associates in Torrance. The company is a long-standing member of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, hosts many events, including wine festivals benefiting both of our medical centers as well as a variety of other organizations in the community. As an environmental ambassador, Honda is regularly recognized by the state’s Integrated Waste Management Waste Reduction Awards Program and partners annually with the City for Coastal Cleanup. In 2007 Honda opened their LEED certified Acura Design Center. Most recently, Honda selected the City of Torrance, along with Stanford University and Google, to work with the company on their Advanced Technology Demonstration Program for alternative fuel vehicles. Working together, Honda and the City of Torrance will be able to further develop uses of alternative technologies to improve transportation systems, infrastructure, and the environment. Honda’s contributions to the Torrance community are immeasurable. By providing jobs, recruiting professionals

from the area or relocating them to our neighborhoods, implementing business and manufacturing practices that are motivated by a conscious desire to improve systems and the environment, Honda is a true and reliable entity and contributor to Torrance’s growth and reputation. The company has demonstrated excellence in sustaining and investing in long-term success, not only for their own business, but for the enrichment of the surrounding community. American Honda Motor Co, Inc. has helped our city achieve its economic development goals and this success earned AHM a place as a winner of the Torrance Advantage Award for 2011, with a special recognition as “Long Term Investor.” It is businesses like American Honda that make Torrance a true leader impacting economic growth in the South Bay, and California. For more information on Honda and its contributions to technologies and communities, visit www.honda.com

Working together, Honda and the City of Torrance will be able to further develop uses of alternative technologies to improve transportation systems, infrastructure, and the environment.

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BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS S O U T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A P E R M A N E N T E M E D I C A L G RO U P

Kaiser Permanente’s Health Plan, Medical Group Earn Top Honors When it comes to clinical quality and patient satisfaction, how does your health plan and medical group fare? The California Office of the Patient Advocate (OPA)—an independent state office established in 2000 to promote quality health care through the publishing of an annual quality of care report card—has awarded Kaiser Permanente’s health plan and medical group top ratings in its most recent Quality of Care Report Card. The report ranks both health plans and medical groups on clinical quality performance and patient satisfaction throughout California. For the fifth straight year, Kaiser Permanente’s Southern California Permanente Medical Group (SCPMG) topped all other medical groups in the Torrance-South Bay area on the OPA’s Annual Health Care Quality Report Card. SCPMG received seven out of eight possible stars for high quality patient care and service. In addition, SCPMG received the maximum score—four stars out of four—on five of the nine clinical metrics, including checking for cancer, chlamydia screening, diabetes care, heart care and getting the right care to children. “We have an outstanding team of physicians, nurses and care professionals who dedicate themselves fully to the

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total health needs of our patients,” notes Douglas J. Killion, MD, area medical director. “The OPA’s report underscores our efforts to become one of the nation’s best medical centers for care and service.” In the Health Plan-Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) category, Kaiser Permanente’s health plan in both Northern and Southern California led the way for clinical quality, earning the most stars—a combined eight out of a possible eight—for meeting national standards of care and patients rating their HMOs. In addition, Kaiser Permanente Southern California earned four stars in all nine of the report card categories for clinical care. Kaiser Permanente’s unique, integrated care delivery model ensures that patients stay healthy by using proven clinical interventions—including screenings, vaccinations and management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease—to promote early detection and management of cancers and diseases. The KP HealthConnect electronic medical records system allows a patient’s entire Kaiser Permanente health care team—from the primary care physician to the specialist and from the nurse to the case manager—to identify the patient’s health care needs quickly and conveniently.

The OPA’s annual report helps health care consumers and purchasers make more informed decisions about their health care. To review the complete report card, visit the OPA’s home page at www.opa.ca.gov

For the fifth straight year, Kaiser Permanente’s Southern California Permanente Medical Group (SCPMG) topped all other medical groups in the Torrance-South Bay area on the OPA’s Annual Health Care Quality Report Card. SCPMG received seven out of eight possible stars for high quality patient care and service.

We believe in a healthy

Torrance

We believe health isn’t an industry—it’s a cause. And there’s no better feeling than knowing we’re growing to meet the needs for a healthier South Bay. At our medical offices in Torrance, you’ll discover a wide range of services under one roof with care delivered by our top notch physicians and care teams. That means better access to quality care right here in Torrance, and more peace of mind knowing that it’s close by. Family medicine

Pediatrics

Internal medicine

Pharmacy

Laboratory

Podiatry

Mammography

Radiology

Obstetrics/Gynecology For more information about Kaiser Permanente, call us at 1-800-464-4000, or at 1-800-777-1370 (TTY for the hearing/ speech impaired).

kp.org

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS E X XO N M O B I L TO R R A N C E R E F I N E RY —

A Jobs Multiplier The ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery strives to be a good neighbor by operating safely, and by being accountable to our community. We produce approximately 10 percent of the gasoline refined in California, mostly sold in Southern California, which makes us an integral part of the Southern California community and a contributor to the region’s economic well-being in a variety of ways. A study conducted by Purvin & Gertz, Inc. demonstrated how California’s major regions benefit directly and indirectly from the existence of the petroleum industry. Results showed that in 2009, through a multiplier effect, for every one direct refinery job created, nine others are created in the region. The industry provided California a total of 333,000 direct and indirect jobs – 1.6 percent of the total California workforce. The state also received approximately $5.7 billion in revenue that year through taxes and fees paid by petroleum industry corporations, employees and consumers. Locally, the Torrance Refinery also provides significant direct and indirect benefits to the local economy in jobs, other industries’ growth, community contributions (especially in education), and taxes. Full-time employees who operate the refinery are supported by a robust network of contractors who help to safely and reliably produce the energy resources that help our state run. On average, the refinery hires about 80 different Southern California companies that assign about 600 contractors to work onsite. Working with these companies provides a significant flow of revenue into the surrounding area. For example, in 2011 alone, the refinery injected $120 million back into the Torrance economy and nearly $300 million into Los Angeles County. In the same year, the refinery also paid $16 million in property taxes and $25 million in other taxes. Our business needs, safety-focus and commitment to education combine to drive benefits that go beyond revenues and taxes. The refinery and its partners also multiply benefits in education. The growth and development of the Occupational Safety Councils of America (OSCA) present an example. The refinery’s need to uphold high safety standards resulted in the development of OSCA in 2008, which offers a centralized training facility for a consortium of petrochemical companies in the South Coast basin,

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including ExxonMobil’s refinery. OSCA evolved when the refinery approached the administrators of Alcohol & Drug Requirements Training with its vision to have a centralized area and more standardized safety training for contractors to better serve ExxonMobil and other petrochemical companies in the region. Its training programs have enhanced contractor safety, reduced injuries and accidents and helped refineries more efficiently meet regulatory compliance. “What was literally a scribbling on the wall actually turned into OSCA. We expanded from an 800 to 18,000 square foot facility and from eight employees to 50 employees,” said Havey Jass, OSCA chief operating officer. “It has created more jobs, and swelled our local labor pool through the 80,000 units of training we provide annually.” OSCA credits ExxonMobil’s commitment and progressive approach to safety for its robust offering of safety training programs, after which others are modeled. OSCA’s training programs have increased the pool of well-trained individuals, which allows for contractor companies to hire locally to meet the needs of employers such as ExxonMobil. The refinery also hires Torrance-based companies when required skills-sets are available. This is a critical step to meet our goal of becoming a valued member in the South Bay community. For example, Neighbor to Neighbor, the refinery’s periodic community newsletter has been printed by Classic Litho and Design, a family-run printing company based right in Torrance for the past 24 years. As part of a large company, the refinery team knows that success comes hand-inhand with responsibility to give back to the community we have considered our own for more than 80 years. We know that helping to drive business opportunities creates benefits to the community that multiply. It’s a big part of how we contribute locally and regionally, and we look forward to doing so for another 80 years. For more information on ExxonMobil, please visit www.exxonmobil.com

Results showed that in 2009, through a multiplier effect, for every one direct refinery job created, nine others are created in the region. J U LY 2 0 1 2

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS P ROV I D E N C E L I T T LE C O M PA N Y O F M A RY TO R R A N C E

Quality Health Care for the Community and A Spark to the Local Economy Essential to economic recovery is innovative thinking — where the possibility existed of a vacated landmark in the heart of the Torrance business district, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance saw opportunity to better serve the community and spark the local economy. The hospital, which has served Torrance for more than 50 years, is building a state-of-the-art medical office complex on the former site of the Daily Breeze’s newspaper operations. With the Daily Breeze relocating, Providence Health & Services eyed the Torrance Boulevard property as the perfect site to build custom medical offices duly named the Providence Breeze Medical Plaza, a $24 million project set to open next year. The new plaza is expected to help stimulate business in the immediate area and provide better outpatient healthcare access to local residents. “We are thrilled we are able first to bring construction jobs to Torrance to build Providence Breeze, and once complete, we will be able to provide fulltime employment in a brand new office building,” said Liz Dunne, the hospital’s Chief Executive. “We have a leasing agent in place who will work with physicians and others who are eager to design their own space in a new and modern building in close proximity to the hospital.”

Providence Breeze Medical Plaza will be a three story, 106,000-square-foot Class A medical office building with a 450space parking garage. The complex will provide convenient healthcare services in the community, including a center for diagnostic imaging, radiation oncology and an infusion center and a hyperbaric advanced wound care center. Nearby, Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance has been an economic engine in the South Bay for more than a half-century, now with close to 2,000 employees, about 900 staff physicians and a stream of prestigious awards that attest to a robust tradition of quality health care. The latest commendation came in April when PLCMMCT was named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals in an annual study by Thomson Reuters, recognizing improvement in the cost and quality of health care. Last year, the hospital was one of just five hospitals in the United States to receive the coveted American Hospital AssociationMcKesson Quest for Quality Prize for leadership and innovation in quality improvement. “The improvement of patient care at all levels is our highest priority, and we are honored to receive this national recognition of our efforts,” Dunne said. “We are committed to providing the highest quality care, delivered compassionately in alignment with the Providence mission.”

Groundbreaking and blessing ceremonies have been held and the Providence Breeze Medical Plaza, less than a mile from the hospital, is scheduled to open in 2013. Leasing information is available through DASCO leasing agents Bart Connolly at (877) 751-5902 or Mark Kearns at (800) 452-8121. For more information on the medical center, visit www.Providence.org

The complex will provide convenient healthcare services in the community, including a center for diagnostic imaging, radiation oncology and an infusion center and hyperbaric advanced wound care center. 18

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HIGH SERVICE! LOW RATES

First California Bank is actively and successfully lending to small and mid-sized businesses. Whether you need a business loan or line of credit, an owner-occupied commercial real estate loan, a commercial real estate investor loan, or a SBA Loan, we are here for you. Not only are we offering low rates, but our ability to provide you with the highest in customer service is unmatched. Call us today.

TONY PHILLIPS Vice President 310-784-3004

JOHN HARRIS

Senior Vice President 310-784-3014

GARY BAKER

Executive Vice President 310-784-3019

ROBERT GARCIA Vice President 310-784-3015

FIRST CALIFORNIA BANK 2200 Sepulveda Boulevard / Torrance, CA 91501 Equal Housing Lender

www.fcbank.com

Member FDIC

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS PA RT N E R E N G I N E E R I N G A N D S C I E N C E , I N C . —

New Kids on the Old Torrance Block Over the past winter, Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. was busy moving and settling into our new headquarters on Torrance Boulevard. We have had a great reception by the Torrance community and its city officials, and have been very happy in our new Old Torrance neighborhood. As many have also been curious about who has taken occupancy of the former Pacific Bell building, I am happy to share a bit about ourselves.

County by the LA Business Journal. We are one of the largest commercial real estate due diligence firms in the country, and were ranked the #1 provider of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments in 2011.* Because of this growth we needed a new home. In Torrance we found a warehouse conversionstyle space that fit our entrepreneurial spirit, Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. President Joe Derhake (left) a manifestation of our mission “to be the best and Partner Energy president home for talented proTony Liou (shown right) on Partner’s rooftop fessionals in our field.”

Who We Are Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. (Partner) is a full service engineering and environmental consulting firm, specializing in evaluating properties in connection with commercial real estate transactions, financing, development or management. Our services include environmental assessments and investigations, environmental cleanups, engineering assessments for property condition and seismic risk, construction risk management services, land surveys, zoning reports and geotechnical studies. Our sister company, Partner Energy, who occupies the first floor of our building, provides commercial building energy audits, energy benchmarking, building commissioning, implementation support, and green building / LEED certification. We are a national company with 23 offices around the country, with Torrance being the headquarters and operational center. Rapid Growth Partner has been fortunate to experience rapid growth since our start in 2007 and was recently named the #5 fastest growing private company in LA

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About Our Building Over the last year and a half, Partner completed a major renovation and green retrofit of the building. Partner’s president Joseph P. Derhake, PE, together with Partner Energy president Tony Liou, designed a plan for many energy efficiency measures to make it a very smart, “green” building. The building features include a large solar array on the roof;

a live roof of drought resistant plants; solar tubes that bring in natural lighting; state of the art Energy Star lighting controlled by timers, motion sensors, and a photocell sensor (which adjusts the brightness according to the amount of ambient light); ultra low flow fixtures; an electric car charging station; and a comprehensive building automation system with temperature and lighting controls and set points. One of our goals for the building was to use it as a showcase for different energy efficiency technologies, especially to those in the sustainable building and finance business. We are eager to share our experience and welcome visitors to come take a tour. We are excited to be a part of the Torrance economy and look forward to supporting and partnering with other local businesses. Torrance Bakery already has some extremely loyal customers in our staff! *According to EDR Scorekeeper, the leading market monitor for the environmental due diligence industry.

Partner Headquarters: 2154 Torrance Blvd., Suite 200

BUSINESS MOVERS AND SHAKERS K E L LY S E RV I C E S —

Staffing Companies: Leading the Way in Workforce Solutions for Today’s Employers

HEIDI CUNNINGHAM

Nationally, the recent recession has brought soaring unemployment and slowing economic trends, creating a storm of uncertainty for businesses and job seekers everywhere. Even in areas such as Greater Torrance, where unemployment is under 6%, employers are hesitant to hire employees on a permanent basis and many are turning to staffing companies.

The core competency of the staffing industry is recruiting, hiring, and retaining a pool of highly skilled employees who can begin and end employment as needed on a temporary, temporary-to-hire, or direct-hire basis, if desired. In addition, there are many advantages to utilizing a staffing services company not only during times of economic fluctuation, but also as a general business model: Efficiency - Eliminates the need to advertise, review resumes, and screen candidates. Competency - Each candidate’s qualifications and skills are reviewed and only candidates who meet all of the requirements are presented to the employer. Flexibility - Employees can be hired on a short-term or long-term temporary basis to strategically balance an employer’s workload and workforce. Evaluation - Hiring on a temporary or temporary-to-hire basis allows the employer to evaluate an employee’s performance prior to making a full-time hiring decision.

workloads, vacations, illnesses, and permanent employee turnover. Ultimately, employers should choose a staffing company that suits an organization’s needs and culture, and can provide the best flexible workforce. Kelly Services in Torrance is seeing a demand for qualified professionals in the industries of oil and gas, healthcare, insurance, finance, science and engineering. We are an equal opportunity employer and take a vested interest in our employees by performing a skills assessment to ensure they are matched to a position that is not only the best fit for the employer, but the employee as well. For more information, call Kelly Services at 310.543.3589 or visit kellyservices.com

Choosing the right staffing company can ensure that a business enjoys uninterrupted productivity not only during times of economic fluctuation, but also during peak workloads, vacations, illnesses, and permanent employee turnover.

As businesses in Torrance face new economic pressures to improve productivity and enhance service, selection of a staffing company should be given careful consideration. The staffing company selected should be well equipped to understand, anticipate, and respond to an employer’s evolving staffing needs. Employers should look for a staffing partner that is constantly developing and optimizing innovative staffing solutions to help weather economic fluctuations, control costs, and improve productivity. The company should be more than a staffing provider – they should be a consultant and an expert in providing a comprehensive range of workforce solutions. The critical element in a working relationship with a staffing company is the quality of the people and the services they provide. Choosing the right staffing company can ensure that a business enjoys uninterrupted productivity not only during times of economic fluctuation, but also during peak TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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F RO M T H E C A L I F O R N I A S E N ATE

Senator Ted W. Lieu Seeks Streamlining Restitution, Speedy Payments to Victims Shirley Mitchell, an 84 year old California widow, was promised financial security and lifetime healthcare. Instead, she lost more than $15,000 and has endured years of uncertainty all because of a smooth-talking scam artist and disbarred lawyer named James A. Walker.

have submitted claims to the fraud-compensation fund for out-of-pocket costs of up to $20,000.

To date, only seven claims have been paid, worth $112,500. Why? According to some, the enforcement language of the 2002 law is deficient, confusing and unclear. One example: The fund’s regulaShirley isn’t alone, and we want people like tions are overly burdensome and repetitious, often Shirley to get the restitution they deserve. Walker requiring most victims to retain an attorney to comripped off hundreds of seniors, declared bankruptplete and submit compensation requests on a case SENATOR TED LIEU cy, and disappeared. There are too many that has already been settled by the courts; these “Walkers” out there; free to take advantage of the innocent. victims usually are people of limited means already wrung through the judicial process. In 2002, in direct response to widespread malfeasance The sad result: Most cases essentially must be re-litigated. by disreputable companies, the Legislature created the Again, this comes after the offending corporations have California Victims of Corporate Fraud Compensation Fund to already been held liable by court. help the innocent recover at least some of their losses. Senator Lieu, 28th District, has presented a measure The fraud-compensation fund is supported by an annual Senate Bill 1058 - addressing deficiencies by eliminating $2.50 fee on corporate disclosure statements, and so far has unnecessary hurdles and applying a common-sense – and raised more than $14.5 million. speedy – approach that promises payment of valid claims. Seeking justice, more than 700 residents – each of whom Specifically, SB 1058 would: judges have determined were victims of corporate fraud – • Pay victims the restitution they deserve within 90 days.

Be Part of the October, 2012 Torrance Centennial Issue:

Celebrate Torrance!

• Stop allowing guilty corporations from contesting payments and blocking appeals.

We Are Looking for Submittals from TACC Member Businesses • as they “look back and move forward” in their businesses, products, and services

• who have recently located to Torrance seeking new opportunities

• with longevity in Torrance as they share their history

• wanting to wish Torrance a Happy Birthday! (starting at $100)

submittals@Torrance-Magazine.com

Share Your Leadership! Advertise! Get a special placement! See rate sheet online at Torrance-Magazine.com AdSales@Torrance-Magazine.com or 310.317.0841

Special Restaurant Section What are we cooking up, Torrance? (Ads starting at $100)

Article/Ad Reservation Deadline: Aug 17th, Publication: October 1st

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• Increase maximum restitution payments from $20,000 to $50,000 per victim.

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• Allow the court’s judgment to stand as proof the victim deserves payment. SB 1058 would revamp the existing fraud-compensation structure, to ensure speedy financial help, if not recovery, for those who deserve it the most. If you agree, let your Senator know, because people like Shirley Mitchell deserve nothing less. Senator Ted W. Lieu, D-Torrance, chairs the Senate Labor and Industrial Relations Committee and represents nearly 1 million residents of Senate District 28, which includes the cities of Carson, El Segundo, Hermosa Beach, Lomita, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach and Torrance, as well as portions of Long Beach, Los Angeles and San Pedro.

For more, visit www.senate.ca.gov/lieu

FROM THE CIT Y OF TORRANCE orrance has had many movers and shakers and some have been honored with facilities named in their honor. They range from the citizens who worked in the community to the elected officials who were active in the community and contributed before seeking public office. We hope you enjoy reading about Torrance’s leadership and the history behind the City’s buildings and facilities that have been named in their honor.

Movers and Shakers in Torrance History 2007 Dee Hardison (Councilmember and Mayor, Educator )

1965 Herma Tillim (Citizen Activist)

1997 Russ Nolte (Advocate for Sr. Citizens)

1964 Ed Ferraro (City Manager, Leader)

1996 Katy Geissert (Female Councilmember & Mayor)

1956 Frank Benstead (Councilmember with Interest in Parks & Recreation)

1993 Ken Miller (Set Term Limits for Mayor and Sister City Advocate)

1948 George Stevens (City Manager, Leader)

1987 James Armstrong (Teacher, Council and Mayor)

1946 (& 1974) Louis Zamperini (War Hero)

1985 Stanley E. Remelmeye (Attorney)

1939 John Bach McMaster (First Fire Chief )

1984 Albert Isen (Longest Serving Mayor)

1922-62 Albert H. Bartlett (City Clerk)

This series will continue in future issues…stay tuned!

Dee Hardison Sports Center

Dedicated to public service, Dee Hardison’s 25 years of civic leadership as a City of Torrance Commissioner, Councilwoman and Mayor, as well as her devotion to the Torrance Unified School District for 26 years as a Special Education teacher speaks of her significant and indispensable contributions to the community.

Her tireless efforts created the nurturing environment in which the City of Torrance was able to make progress in strides, through the completion of many City projects and strong representation in various organizations. Due to her contributions that have made a lasting impact on the high standards of the quality of life in Torrance for generations to come, Dee Hardison, the recipient of many prestigious awards including the Jared Sidney Torrance Award, continues to be a moving force within the community through her unwavering commitment to educational events. The Dee Hardison Sports Center was dedicated in September 2009.

Albert H. Bartlett Senior Center

Albert H. Bartlett served as the second city clerk of the City of Torrance from 1922 to 1962. He settled in Torrance in 1912 and played a significant role in the City’s development, having been an organizer of the Torrance Chamber of Commerce, Fire Department, Athletic Club, Kiwanis Club, and Lions Club. During his long and distinguished career, Albert, affectionately known as “Bart,” conducted his office with efficiency, courtesy to the public, and with great distinction.

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F RO M TO R R A N C E U N I F I E D S C H O O L D I S T R I C T F RO M T H E O F F I C E O F D R . G E O R G E M A N N O N

The Sky is not the Limit in These Classrooms All across Torrance Unified School District, teachers are inspiring students to reach their highest academic potential. In many cases, the classroom is a place to start the educational journey, but with a little imagination the classroom begins to extend out to the glaciers in the arctic, across the DR. GEORGE MANNON virtual landscape of the internet, and Torrance Unified School beyond the solar system into the cosmos. District Superintendent The District has many talented teachers, but in the past year a few have really taken their innovative spirit to new heights. Kevin Tambara, Science Teacher at Bert Lynn Middle School, won the prestigious Einstein Fellowship and will head to Washington D.C. to work with the National Science Foundation. Nicoline “Nikki” Chambers, Astrobiology teacher at West High School, was not only recognized as one of the L.A. County Teachers of the Year, but went on to be one of the seven finalists for California Teachers of the Year. At North High, Mitzi Stover has been offering students the option of taking English classes on-line, the first online-only classes taught at the high school level in the South Bay. Leading by example, these teachers provide their students the opportunities to question what they know about the world, and provide them with the tools to find the answers. Technology has caused teachers to rethink the way they deliver their lessons to today’s iGeneration. Between iPads, iPods, Facebook, and texting, most of today’s students will

never engage in traditional activities associated with learning like using an encyclopedia, but rather use technology resources when looking for information. Understanding his students’ relationship with technology, Mr. Tambara uses interactive technologies like skype and blogging to broaden their knowledge. While on expeditions to the Arctic and Costa Rica, Mr. Tambara skyped with his students about his research, and allowed them to explore with him. Students then blogged with him, creating a collaborative learning experience.

The District has many talented teachers, but in the past year a few have really taken their innovative spirit to new heights. In Mrs. Chamber’s science classes, students often ponder the question – “is there life beyond Earth?” Not typically offered at the high school level and considered an advanced class even in college, Mrs. Chamber’s Astrobiology students make use of several scientific methodologies to explore the realm beyond our universe. Pushing the limits of her students’ understanding, Mrs. Chambers developed the Astrobiology curriculum at West High in order to challenge their own knowledge of life and where it might be found. Two years ago, Mrs. Stover, with administrative support, began offering her students online-only classes. The classes offer students flexibility with their schedules and provide them with a real life glimpse into college style coursework. Online courses require the discipline to set schedules and get homework in on time with little face-to-face time with an instructor. This model is similar to college coursework and advantageous for students to experience, giving them an edge as they pursue their educational aspirations.

“A Passion For The Perfect Sound”

Rheuben Allen Saxophones Kenny G Saxophones Black Diamond Saxophones

USA Educator Instruments Vintage Posters & T-Shirts Music Accessories

www.kdimusic.com The Premier Internet Store For Great Deals for more information please email us at: info@kdimusic.com

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In the last five years the education community has taken budgetary blow after blow, but through it all TUSD has continued to succeed. Our success is the direct result of the exceptional teaching going on in classrooms throughout the District. For more information on TUSD, visit www.TUSD.org

F RO M T H E TO R R A N C E C E N TE N N I A L CO M M I T TE E

City of Torrance Centennial Celebration “WHERE’S JARED?” ONLINE — WEEKLY — PHOTO CONTEST!!!

CONTEST PERIOD: June 11, 2012 to October 22, 2012 Join the fun in trying to guess Jared’s location in Torrance!

Visit: www.TorranceCentennial.org Click on “Where’s Jared?” icon for posting of weekly photos, contest rules, prizes and names of contest winners!

Alumni of Torrance Area Youth Band to Participate in Centennial Hometown Parade on September 16th Patti (Arnett) Fielding played bass clarinet in the Torrance Area Youth Band in the 1970’s. She enthusiastically recalls so many fond memories that she is planning a reunion of former Torrance Area Youth Band members to participate in this September’s Centennial Hometown Parade to take place on September 16th. Patti currently lives in Idaho Falls, Idaho and is corresponding with alumni through Facebook. The Facebook page has over 200 alumni and in excess of five hundred photographs. The Torrance Area Youth Band began in 1946 under the direction of Jim VanDyke. With a growth in popularity, two divisions were created; a senior band and a junior band. Band directors from 1946 through the mid-1990’s

included Jim Davidson, Norman Bailey, Ronald Large, Alex DeLao, Jeff Plum, Carlos Anwandter, Coby Martinez, and Rocky Robles. The band was made up of students who lived in Torrance and surrounding cities. “Many former members are professional musicians now or are band directors. I have received confirmation from 30 Torrance Area Youth Band members, to date, that they will march in the Centennial Hometown Parade,” explained Patti. Information about the Torrance Area Youth Band marching in this September’s Centennial Hometown Parade can be obtained from Patti Fielding at patti-lou@tayb.org

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CHAMBER

HIGHLIGHTS

Ambassador Spotlight – Theresa Stanberry, Stanberry Laundry Co.

WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Who are the movers and shakers? In the Torrance Chamber, they are the Ambassadors. Officially their role serves to acquaint newer members with Chamber benefits. They are the backbone THERESA of the organization and STANBERRY collectively volunteer hundreds of personal hours to advocate, motivate, support and inspire member business. Ambassadors also represent small business, a leading Chamber segment and nationally 65% of the economy. It is not the large but the small individual efforts of the many that will keep our organizations thriving. Their collective efforts provide an infrastructure of support to large and small businesses locally. They are the dry cleaner, the business trainer, the printer, the car repairperson, the financial advisor, the accountant, the graphics design-

Donna Duperron is ‘Woman of the Year’ for the 28th Senate District – Senator Ted Lieu “As President and CEO of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, Donna is a dynamic and accomplished leader of partnership and collaboration to an exciting new level. Her tireless advocacy efforts on behalf of local businesses and community at-large have effected positive change in a very significant way”, stated Senator Lieu.

er, the coffee supplier, insurance agent, realtor, and restaurateur who live, spend, volunteer and employ locally. Small businesses share attributes that benefit their customers and our local economy— a like-mindedness, passion and universal spirit that demands constant innovation and flexibility. Stanberry Laundry, a boutique linen and garment care company,, for example, began in 2003 by serving individuals, and small hospitality and wellness clients. With focused innovation, however, its laundry service serves some of our largest entities and employers, including hospitals. Their choice to expand to commercial accounts and towel services proved to be a great asset in satisfying client needs. While remaining true to their original choice of servicing client-owned linens, Stanberry added rental services to better serve local restaurants. Additional scheduling adjustments also spurred the ability to service employee Annual Conference, is an active member of the Executive Committee of the City Torrance Centennial and the Del Amo Rotary Club and has served as a two-year President of the Kiwanis Club of Torrance.

Donna vigorously contributes her efforts toward advancing the Chamber Board’s directives through revitalizing programs such as the Adopt-A-School Program and the State of Education, as well as the development of task forces to better serve the civic and business communities. In addition to her Chamber responsibilities, Donna has served as a member for the Western Association of Chamber Executives

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gyms while providing free pickup of dry cleaning to organizations as an employee benefit, without compromising quality and with Chamber member testimonials to prove it. Altering communication tactics to incorporate the use of social media including text alerts is an added benefit and tremendous convenience for a growing segment of customers. “All I do is send Theresa a text saying my dry cleaning bag is out, and the clothes are retrieved and returned directly from my house. Its great,” notes Dan Thomas, of Telepacific and Torrance Chamber Board member. From garments and towels to lab coats; to scaffolding rope, teddy bears and Gucci purses…Stanberry Laundry services with a smile. Stanberry also serves the community. She is a Leadership Torrance Alum and served as co-director for LT2011. She assisted Torrance YMCA on the 2012 Major Gifts Campaign and most recently was invited to join a special task force: The Small Business and Job Creation Advisory Council spearheaded by Congresswoman Janice Hahn. The company also began a partnership with Nova Community Church of Torrance in support of the church’s Laundry Love Project which provides free laundry services on the fourth Saturday of the month to financially struggling individuals in the community. Stanberry Laundry also serves as a Torrance Chamber of Commerce and Torrance Arts Foundation Board of Director. Stanberry Laundry is expanding and accepting new Corporate accounts. Please contact Theresa at 310-619-6225, www.stanberrylaundry or StanberryLaundry @yahoo.com for more information and tips.

State Senator Lieu’s representative Jennifer Zivkoivk (left) honored Donna Duperron with Woman of the Year Award

DISTINGUISHED MEMBER AWARDS B O A R D M E M B E R S A R E H O N O R E D AT B O A R D I N STA L L AT I O N

Linda Amato Presented with the George Whittlesey Memorial Award Linda Amato has served on Professionals and Memberthe Torrance Area Chamber ship programs. Last year of Commerce Board since she hosted the International 2002 and on the Executive Visitors Council jointly with Committee for more than the Torrance Area Chamber six years. In this role she of Commerce in which more held the position of Vice than 35 countries were Chair of Membership and represented. Most recently LINDA AMATO most recently as Vice Chair Linda spearheaded the of Economic Development. Hospitality of Torrance Committee During her tenure, Linda has been uniting the City, Chamber, restaurants involved in various projects such as and area businesses that provide the Red Cross Blood Drive, Veterans services to the community and visitors. Fair, Torrance Advantage Awards, She has also served on the Executive Career Fairs, Human Resources Board for Discover Torrance.

Mark Applegate Received the J.Walker Owens Award Mark Applegate is the 2012 recipient of the J. Walker Owens Award for Outstanding Volunteerism. An award named after a Chamber Executive who served the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce for 25 years. Mark served as an Elder on the Council for the Adventure Guides and Princess program at the YMCA. Mark is an adult leader in Troop 718 and is currently working on becoming a certified Assistant Scout Master. MARK APPLEGATE As an Ambassador for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, Mark attends ribbon cuttings, welcomes new members and was instrumental in implementing a Veteran’s Fair, a Career Fair and the Torrance Block Party. Mark has been a member of the Chamber since November 1998; was Master of Ceremonies for Networking at Noon for eight years; a member of the Board of Directors for six years and is a past Chairman of the Board.

Stanberry, Thomas and Waronek Received Chairman’s Awards Theresa Stanberry, Dan Thomas and Mark Waronek were presented with Chairman’s Awards for their support of Chamber programs. Theresa was recognized for her leadership with

the Ambassadors (see page 26), Dan was acknowledged for his guidance with the Tech Pros program, and Mark was applauded for his direction in advocacy.

Michael Shafer Presented with 2012 Distinguished Citizen of the Year Michael Shafer was presented with the Distinguished Citizen Award by Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board Tara O’Brien and 2011 Distinguished Citizen MICHAEL SHAFER recipient Dean Reuter at the ‘State of the City’ luncheon on May 24th. Michael Shafer grew up in Buffalo, New York, where as a child, he would cook for his family and later for his friends. Drawing on his vast culinary craftsmanship and creativity, Chef Shafer opened the Depot Restaurant in 1991 where his ability as an astute businessman led to success in an industry where so many artists fail. He became a Certified Executive Chef with the American Culinary Federation and has been nominated ‘Chef of the Year’ three times by the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. Michael Shafer continues to distinguish himself in the community where he has raised millions of dollars for a wide variety of charities; among them are Pediatric Therapy Network, Scott Newman Center, Torrance and Palos Verdes Education Foundations, Little Company of Mary – For Our Children, The Concern Foundation and Palos Verdes art center. In addition, he donates over $5,000 worth of gift certificates or in-kind donations to other non-profit groups. When a charity event is over, Michael Shafer is very quiet and shy about receiving any accolades. He tells the charities not to spend the money on plaques but to use the money for kids or people who need it the most.

THERESA STANBERRY

DAN THOMAS

MARK WARONEK

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CHAMBER

EVENTS

Mayor Frank Scotto Delivers Powerful ‘State of the City’ Address The Honorable Mayor Frank Scotto addressed the businesses and residents of Torrance in the Centennial theme, “Looking Back and Moving Forward” at the annual ‘State of the City’ luncheon on May 24th. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce hosted this event as Mayor Scotto revisited past challenges, accomplishments and projects designed to enhance the city’s goal of creating a great community to live, work and play. “The Chamber and the City work closely together to support businesses in the Torrance area. We’re thrilled to have Mayor Scotto share his outlook for Torrance with us”, says Tara O’Brien, Chairman of the Board. This year’s program honored 2012 Distinguished Citizen of the Year, Chef Michael Shafer of The Depot Restaurant and Buffalo Fire Department. Senator Ted Lieu presented special recognition to District 28 Woman of the Year, Donna Duperron, President/ CEO of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. Distinguished Sponsor Liz Dunne, Chief Executive, Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance shares, “Congratulations to

our city leaders for continuing their long tradition of working in partnership with Torrance residents, businesses and community organizations to help ensure the quality of life we all enjoy. “Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance joins our city in celebrating another year and extends its gratitude to our Mayor, our City Council and the entire staff at City Hall for the highquality services you provide”. The State of the City address was proudly sponsored by Providence Little

Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, Continental Development Corporation, Exxon Mobil Corporation, iCRco, Torrance Marriott South Bay, Wal-Mart, Alcoa Fastening Systems, First California Bank, Kaiser Permanente, Northrop Grumman, South Bay Yellow Cab Co-op, Southern California Edison, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A, Inc., Daily Breeze, Office Depot, and Roadium Open Air Market.

Chamber Announces Three New Members to Board of Directors

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and Pelican Welcome Congressman Henry Waxman (Front Row) Lyndon Faulkner, President & CEO, Pelican (right) welcomes Congressman Henry Waxman. (Back Row Left to Right) Lisa Pinto, District Director; Donna Duperron, President and CEO, Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce; John Parsons, South Bay Workforce Investment Board; David Herbst, Executive Vice President & COO, Mercury Air Group, Inc.; Mark Waronek, Ek & Ek.

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The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce three new members to the organization’s Board of Directors; Laurie Brandt, Red Car Brewery and Restaurant; Robert Mendez, Alcoa Fastening Systems and Tracy Underwood, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., Inc. The three new board members will begin their terms July 1st under the leadership of Board Chair Aaron Aalcides.

CHAMBER

EVENTS

Chamber Foundation Celebrates State of Education Address The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation hosted the 2012 State of Education address on June 1st at the DoubleTree by Hilton South Bay. Keynote address was presented in tandem by Dr. George Mannon, Superintendent of Torrance Unified School District, and Terry Ragins, President of the School Board. The emphasis of this year’s address was providing understanding of the financing of public schools and how much the State has affected change throughout the years.

Matt Horvath, Kimberly Cockrell, Steve Barrett, Karen Ideno, Thomas Rippo, Matthew Heydon, Ned Stromme, Elena Sacca , Hope Witkowsky, Jamie Schilling, Farrah Benedict, Jim Baudino, Josh Thomas, Julia Wada.

STATE OF EDUCATION (from top to bottom) 1. Sherry Kramer, Vice Chair of Foundation/TACC Chair elect, welcomes everyone to the 2012 State of Education Luncheon. 2. Congratulations to the 2012 Mentors and Mentees for a successful completion of a 3-year program.

Also included in this year’s celebratory program were the graduates of the Toyota Financial Services and Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce’s Mentor Program. For the past three years Chamber volunteer mentors have teamed up with North High School students to provide guidance and assist with leadership development. The 2012 Mentors included: Heidi Cunningham, Michael Chiou, Bob Kelchner, Lisa Chen, Dana Vinke , Maggie Bazua, Charles Chao, Devin Merrill, Courtnie Hallendy, Matthew Low, Mary Jo Moutsios, Elaine Thompson, Rebecca Haeri, Lazaro Martin, Stacia Kato, Ryan Heise, Karen Kindschi,

South Bay Yellow Cab on “Movers and Shakers” South Bay Yellow Cab, believes being a “mover and a shaker” goes beyond effective business sense, and has more to do with how a company’s business policy impacts the people in any given community. South Bay Yellow Cab’s 300+ small business owners and independent contractor drivers (combined) have been providing service to the community since 1936. We pride ourselves with providing transportation for seniors Seniors through each city’s City’s Dial-a-Ride program and the “Home-to-School” transportation program for children. Our active participation with Torrance Chamber is not only through thru events, but also include the upcoming adoption of Magruder Middle School.

online booking, texting, and Passenger Information Monitors (PIMs), allowing passengers to swipe credit cards themselves. With innovation and technology, and a responsibility to meet the needs of individuals in the community, South Bay Yellow Cab is not only a mover and a shaker, but a true leader in their field.

South Bay Yellow Cab’s policy and programs are aimed to not only help businesses and individuals, but also focus in a positive impact on the with the environment by converting to a completely “Green” Fleet by 2013. In addition, our leadership in technology provide other services such as, TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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CHAMBER

EVENTS

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Supervisor Don Knabe On June 7, 2012, the efforts of local law Torrance Area Chamber of enforcement, local busiCommerce hosted ‘Lunch nesses, and Metro execuwith our Leader’ Supervisor tives in the unveiling of a Don Knabe at the Doublemultimedia awareness Tree Hotel by Hilton South campaign aimed at informBay. The penthouse suite ing the public about the boasted of 170 guests from heinous crime of child sex the South Bay interested trafficking. In April, Metro in hearing issues critical to Alice Jeong, North HS Student released 77,000 brochures and Supervisor Don Knabe businesses and organizaaimed at stopping this tions, as well as the current economic crime. Supervisor Knabe was pleased to and political climate in the country. The announce his Arts Education PartnerHonorable Don Knabe is the Supervisor ship Program as part of “Arts Education for the Fourth District, home to over two Week.” In its 11th year, the program million residents including two of the supports high quality arts by matching nation’s largest economic hubs, Ports of funds to non-profit organizations, Los Angeles and Long Beach, and Los community organizations, government Angeles International Airport. He shared agencies and schools across the district. there is much work to be done during the Since 2001, 91 babies have been safely next four years in developing a stronger surrendered in the Safe Surrender prolocal economy and creating jobs. gram established by the Supervisor Highlights of the Supervisor’s recent accomplishments include the joint

which allows a parent or guardian to confidentially hand over an infant three

days old or younger to any hospital emergency room or fire station in Los Angeles County. The supervisor acknowledged Alice Jeong, a North High School student with 4.4 GPA, who was the winner of the 2011 Knabe Cup and set to play at Legacy Challenge at Mission Hills Country Club alongside an LPGA legend. Sponsors for this event included Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center, Continental Development Corporation, Daily Breeze, Doubletree by Hilton Torrance South Bay, Kaiser Permanente, Northrop Grumman, South Bay Yellow Cab Co-operative, Inc., Staples Print & Copy Center Torrance, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, and Exxon Mobil Corporation.

Adopt-A-School Partnership Program What continues to flourish is the Chamber Foundation’s Adopt-A-School Partnership program. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the exemplary partnership. The 2012 Partnerships of the Year recipients are Miyako Hybrid Hotel and Arlington Elementary, Raytheon and Madrona Middle School, and American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and West High School. Exxon Mobil Corporation was recognized for their many outstanding contributions to this community throughout the years. Sponsors of this special event include American Honda Motor Co., Inc, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Continental Development Corporation, First California Bank, and DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton South Bay. Heartfelt appreciation was extended to Karl Jennings, North High School Counselor and Toyota Financial Services for their partnership. The Torrance Area Chamber Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization. To learn more about becoming a sponsor or business partner, contact 310-540-5858.

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RIBBON

CUT TINGS

Let the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrate with You!

For details and to schedule a ribbon cutting, grand opening or ground breaking ceremony, please contact Kelly Hernandez at 310-792-3808 at the Chamber no later than one month prior to the event and provide two preferred dates.

Budris & Van Haren, Attorneys - Family Law 3655 Torrance Blvd. Suite 300 Torrance CA 90503 (800)727-4680 www.budrisaandvanharen.com

T WO B U S I N E S S E S U N D E R O N E RO O F

Coworking Plus Executive Suites 2293 W. 190th Street Torrance CA 90504 (310)856-0208 www.coworkingplus.com

Business Team Business Brokerage 2293 W. 190th Street Torrance CA 90504 (310)539-8300 www.business-team.com

Hollywood Suit Outlet 23030 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90505 (323)828-8923 www.hollywoodsuitoutlet.com

See the Trainer Sports Medicine Stores 3750 Sepulveda Blvd. Torrance CA 90503 (310)378-4088 www.seethetrainer.com

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UPCOMING

EVENTS

26th Annual

July 28th The 26th Annual “Evening Under the Stars,” Gourmet Food & Wine Festival will be on Saturday, July 28th from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Hosted by American Honda, this event celebrates the best in South Bay cuisine while raising funds for nonprofit Torrance Memorial Medical Center. The annual festival is presented in partnership with the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are $125 per person or $200 per pair and can be purchased by calling the Chamber at 310-540-5858, the Torrance Memorial Health Care Foundation at 310-517-4703, or by visiting www.TorranceMemorial.org.

CO A S TA L C LE A N U P September 15th 2010: 520 Volunteers; 2011: 760 Volunteers. 2012: Let’s Make it a Record ! 138 lbs. of Trash and 30 lbs. of Recyclables Were Collected Last Year! On Saturday, September 15th from 9a.m. to noon, volunteers will meet at Miramar Park at Torrance Beach. The event is open to all ages, and students can receive community service hours for participating. There will be giveaway items, special guests and opportunity drawings. If you or your business would like to donate an item for the opportunity drawing or donate water, snacks or free giveaways for the event participants. Sponsor logos/names will be featured on the recognition board at the event. For more information, or to find other cleanup locations, please visit www.healthebay.org

Funds raised from the event will benefit Torrance Memorial’s new Patient Tower and Pediatric Services. This marks the sixth consecutive year that Honda has chosen Torrance Memorial as the event’s beneficiary. For an up-to-date list of participating restaurants, entertainment details and other event information, visit the Festival’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ eveningunderthestars.

Torrance Centennial Hometown Parade September 16th Be in the Centennial Hometown Parade to celebrate the past, present, and future of Torrance! Continue the celebration with the Time Capsule Ceremony and Dedication of the NEW Centennial Plaza! Check-in for the parade will begin Sunday, September 16th at 10:30 a.m., with staging at 11:00 a.m. The parade will begin at 12:00 p.m., on Post Avenue, south of Cravens. Non-profits, youth, schools, churches, neighborhoods and service groups are encouraged to participate in the Centennial Hometown Parade! Visit www.TorranceCentennial.org for information and rules.

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NEWS

BRIEFS

Cherie Davis Recognized at National AH&LA Stars of the Industry Awards The Chancellor Hotel on Union Square, Bardessono Inn & Spa, and Cherie Davis, General Manager of Miyako Hybrid Hotel Torrance, were all honored at the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AH&LA) annual Stars of the Industry Awards at the InterContinental Houston in Houston, Texas. Davis, won a Stars of the Industry Award for Outstanding General Manager of the Year for a medium Property.

The Miyako Hybrid Hotel, which Ms. Davis opened, is ranked first with Trip Advisor in the area and is a LEED certified hotel. Ms. Davis, a 19 year military veteran, believes that to those who have been given much, much is expected - and lives it by giving back at every opportunity.

Congratulations Cherie!

For Our Children Raises Funds for TrinityKids Care and Sandpipers’ Philanthropic Programs Over 900 guests joined together with Sandpipers and TrinityKids Care for The 27th Annual For Our Children Food and Wine Festival, presented by Honda. This event, held on the Honda campus, featured an afternoon of gourmet foods and fine wines from nearly 100 restaurants, wineries and beverage purveyors. As always, guests had the opportunity to bid on fabulous silent and live auction items, and purchased chances to win a trip to the Aulani Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii donated by American Honda Motor Company, Inc. the event’s presenting sponsor. For Our Children raised much needed funds to benefit children and their families through TrinityKids Care, a program of Providence TrinityCare Hospice Foundation and Sandpipers’ philanthropic programs.

2013 Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Business Directory & Resource Guide Reach Thousands of New Customers — Connect with New Prospects! Everything You Always Enjoyed About the Directory is Still Available! PLUS: • NEW Sections Enhancing Your Company’s Market Share • NEW Categories of Businesses & Organizations (such as Eco-Green, Health & Wellness, Education, etc.) • Online and in Print

Stand Out in Your Community! Invest in Your Business by Advertising! Call Jeanne Garrison 310-317-0841 email: info@sienapublishing.com Publication Date January 2013 Sandpipers Committee Members

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NEWS

BRIEFS

South Bay’s Ray Frew Bestowed The YMCA’s Highest Honor Ray Frew, president and CEO of Green Hills Memorial Park and longtime supporter of the Torrance-South Bay YMCA, recently received the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles Association’s highest volunteer honor when he was named to the Y’s Golden Book of Distinguished Service. Since 1934, the LA Association of Ys – 25 branches across 100 miles of Los Angeles County – has acknowledged the long and remarkable service of select volunteers with this award each year. Frew was recognized by an audience of over 500 during the Association’s 130th Annual Celebration held at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel on May 16th. Over the past 14 years, Frew’s dedication to the Torrance-South Bay Y has been transformative. As the chair of the Y’s Building for Tomorrow capital campaign, his leadership was instrumental in raising $4.6 million to construct a

Committee Chair; Annual Community Support Major Gifts Campaigner and Team Captain; and Board Development Committee Chair. In 2011, Frew orchestrated a partnership with the University of Southern California to develop a Military Family Support (Left to Right) Current Torrance-South Bay YMCA Board Chair program at the TorranceSouth Bay YMCA. Steve Fechner, Surf Management; Jerry Marcil, Palos Verdes Investments, Inc.; Torrance-South Bay YMCA Executive Director Collaborating with the Bob Shafer; Ray and Vivian Frew; William B. Oberholzer, USC Center for Innovation Preferred Bank; Dan Vogelzang, M Advisory Group; and and Research on Veterans Heidi Ashcraft, Ashcraft Design and Military Families, Frew spearheaded this unique new community center which is celepairing of a community-based non-profit brating its 10th anniversary this year. and a major private university to create an Frew’s ambassadorship for the Y innovative solution-oriented program for includes service as a member of the service members and their loved ones. Board of Managers, including as Board USC Master of Military Social Work stuChair from 2000 to 2002; Finance dent interns are now working side-by-side with YMCA staff and volunteers to provide critical support – from counseling to alternative therapies to relationship-building activities – to veterans and families in the South Bay community.

CHOOSE THE MEMBERSHIP THAT SUPPORTS YOUR COMMUNITY Torrance-South Bay YMCA At the Y, we exist to strengthen community. Together with people like you, we nurture the potential of kids, help people understand and improve their health, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. So join our cause. And create meaningful change not just for you, but also for your community. Among our offerings: Child Care Health, Well-being and Fitness Senior Nutrition & Socialization Camp and Youth Leadership Volunteerism ENJOY a Free 7-day Pass! www.ymcala.org 2900 W. Sepulveda Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505 (P) 310 325 5885 (W)www.ymcala.org/tsb

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Frew is a prominent South Bay community member, well known for other leadership roles including former partner with Rosenthal, Pearson, Fong & Frew LLP; past Chairman of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce; past Rotary Club of Del Amo President; and Chairman of the Little Company of Mary Hospital Foundation. As the president and CEO of Green Hills Memorial Park, Frew sponsors one of the largest Memorial Day Programs in California, and indeed in the nation, honoring United States military. The Torrance-South Bay YMCA is one of the largest, most diverse non-profit community service organizations in the region. The Y partners closely with community members to promote the safety, health, and happiness of people of all ages, races, faiths, abilities, and incomes. No one is ever turned away for inability to pay.

NEWS

BRIEFS

Hagan Named Interim President of CSU Dominguez Hills

WILLIE HAGAN Interim President CSU Dominguez Hills

Willie Hagan, interim president of California State University, Fullerton, was named interim president of California State University, Dominguez Hills effective June 11. Hagan has served in various senior leadership positions at Fullerton during his 16 year tenure at the campus, including serving as vice president for administration and chief financial officer. Hagan joined Cal State Fullerton in 1996, overseeing the university’s administrative functions and has provided increasing levels of service to the campus during a period of unprecedented growth. From 2000 to 2003, he also served as interim vice president of university advancement and was instrumental in the reorganization of that division. Beginning in 2005, Hagan assumed responsibility for university financial operations,

serving as the chief financial officer for the university. Hagan holds a doctorate in psychology from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. Before coming to CSU Fullerton, he served as associate vice president for administration at the University of Connecticut, and as a lobbyist for the University of Connecticut and the Connecticut Board of Governors for Higher Education at the state and federal level. Hagan’s appointment became effective June 11 when CSU Dominguez Hills President Mildred García became president of CSU Fullerton.

Wen Named Dean of the College of Business Administration and Public Policy of CSU Dominguez Hills

H. JOSEPH WEN Dean of the College of Business Administration and Public Policy CSU Dominguez Hills

California State University, Dominguez Hills named H. Joseph Wen as the new dean of the College of Business Administration and Public Policy (CBAPP), effective July 1. Since 2008, Wen has served as dean of the School of Business at Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan. During that time, he strengthened the school’s partnerships within the business community and other institutes of higher learning, grew the faculty and developed new programs all in the face of budget reductions, and led the school through the accreditation process with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Wen is also the school’s Jones Distinguished Professor of Management Information Systems.

alumni professor at Southeast Missouri State; and served on the faculty at Illinois State University, Rutgers University, and New Jersey Institute of Technology; and as visiting professor at National Cheng Kung University in Taiwan. A scholar in the area of e-commerce strategy and e-learning effectiveness, he has received more than $6 million in research grants and is widely published. A native of Taiwan, Wen earned his doctorate in information systems from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, a master’s in management from Chinese Cultural University in Taiwan, and a bachelor’s in navigation from the National Taiwan Ocean University.

Wen previously had been department chair of accounting and MIS and the endowed business

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NEWS

BRIEFS TO R R A N C E M E M O R I A L M E D I C A L C E N T E R

UNDER CONSTRUCTION 1. Erik Chessmore, Sr. Project Manager, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., shows Karime Santos and her sister Litzy Santos, a former burn patient at Torrance Memorial, how to prepare for the job site.

2. (LtoR) Erin Kill, R.N., Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Burn Unit, works with Robert Jones, a 5-yearold burn patient, and John Sanders, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., Erik Chessmore, McCarthy Building Companies, Inc., and Karime Santos to build miniature renditions of the new Patient Tower, currently under construction on Lomita Blvd.

Provides $12,000 in Scholarships to Help Local Youth Reach Academic Goals Twelve South Bay high school seniors planning careers in the healthcare industry will receive a $1,000 financial boost to aid in their professional aspirations as recipients of the 2012 Torrance Memorial Medical Center High School Scholarship awards. The scholarships are made possible through funds raised through Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s annual Holiday Festival by members of Las Amigas, a philanthropic support group of the Torrance Memorial Health Care Foundation. The recipients are selected based on their academic merit, financial need and enrollment in a healthcare-related study program. “The ever-changing healthcare landscape requires that we continue to attract top talent to see us into the future,” Michele Alarcon, recruiter, Torrance Memorial Medical Center, said. “We hope these scholarships help to provide the encouragement and support they need to springboard them toward the road of success.”

Home Instead Senior Care® to Provide a Family Caregiver the Chance to Win a Free Cruise for Two If you or someone you know is a family caregiver, you understand that the joy and satisfaction of helping a senior loved one is often accompanied by hard work and stressful moments. That’s why the Torrance-based Home Instead Senior Care® office is sponsoring a cruise for one deserving family caregiver and guest. The five-night, six-day cruise, on the Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas, is scheduled to set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on February 25, 2013, and return to dock on March 2. Stops will be made in Labadee, Haiti and Falmouth, Jamaica.

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In addition to the cruise, the winning recipient and guest will receive airfare and an overnight stay in Fort Lauderdale. The services of a Home Instead Senior Care® professional CAREgiver to provide free care back home for the winner’s senior loved one while they are away, will also be provided at no cost. To enter, submit a brief story detailing why the nominated family caregiver should have the opportunity to set sail, along with a guest, on this special caregiver cruise. Nominations can be submitted online at www.homeinsteadcaregivercruise.com,www.facebook.com

/homeinsteadsouthbay or emailed to Home Instead Senior Care, homeinsteadcaregivercruise@gmail.com. Entries will be accepted through September 11, 2011, with the winner scheduled to be announced on September 16.

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce 3400 Torrance Blvd., Suite 100 Torrance, CA 90503

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A ort: n P P IOW I w I o N SH TLE T A B

summertime Ceelebrating 50 Years of

! Fabulous Fa 1961 - 2011

is Fun Time on LA’s Legendary Waterfront. Party on the Patio all summer!

The long days of summer are here!

Enjoy superb hand-crafted food and drink events on weekdays, complimented by a Happy Hour that extends from 3 to 7 p.m. The popular Live Music Saturdays is back again this year! Enjoy a three course Sunset Dining Special in the Dining Room. You’ll ﬁnd the best summertime fun every day of the year, right here on LA’s only Waterfront!

There is no better way to enjoy this lovely time of year and our dynamic Harbor than to spend an evening with Spirit Cruises! We specialize in Event and Award-Winning Dinner Cruising. You can select from three Yachts and packages that feature all-inclusive pricing. With the Award-Winning Sunday Brunch at Ports O’ Call, you’ll receive the 1st Harbor Cruise of the day for FREE!

310 -548-8080 BERTH 77 LA HARBOR

SPIRITMARINE . COM

2011 20th Annual Readers Poll

310 -833-3553 BERTH 76 LA HARBOR

PORTSOCALLDINING.COM