Chamber VOICE Spring/Summer 2016 by LA Area Chamber

VOICE Spring/Summer 2016 · VOLUME X · ISSUE 1

A publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Bixel Exchange celebrates three years of strengthening Los Angeles’ tech sector BIXEL EXCHANGE CELEBRATES OUR

The Los Angeles region has been a hub of innovation and commerce since its earliest days. But as recently as five years ago, the City − known for its bright lights and big screens -- was still very much in the shadows of Silicon Valley when it came to technology. Recognizing the resources needed to support the growth of a more robust technology sector in the L.A. region, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce used its business, government and community leadership to develop a plan to help the growing technology economy. The Chamber, which has played a role in developing new industries and supporting innovators for more than 128 years, partnered with the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network to form a new technology center: Bixel Exchange.

Hosted at the Chamber, Bixel Exchange envisions a thriving and inclusive economy that enables Angelenos to pursue their ambitions and prosper. Offerings include initiatives and events that ignite creativity, empower entrepreneurs and cultivate talent to strengthen the tech ecosystem, and create a more prosperous L.A. Today, the region boasts a vibrant and diverse tech sector with startups, companies, universities, think tanks, venture capitalists and incubators, all working to grow the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. So, how has the Chamber's technology center helped drive L.A.’s tech sector over the past three years? Building entrepreneurs and businesses Bixel Exchange serves entrepreneurs through its specialized Startup Development Program, and through collaboration with accelerators, incubators, co-working spaces, venture capitalists, angel investors and private equity firms, universities, research institutions, innovation labs and government. Through these partnerships with corporate and civic organizations throughout

Powering our economy through small business success

L.A., the center connects technology businesses with mentors and business advisors to get them the “I-wish-I’d-known” insights they need to grow.

Earlier this summer, more than 500 people gathered at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City to recognize the power of small business at the 2016 Small Business Awards, hosted by the Chamber and the Small Business Administration.

Bixel Exchange focuses on advising ventures that are within the rapidly evolving segments of the tech ecosystem, including — but not limited to — e-commerce, adtech, cleantech, digital media, gaming, mobile and social media, among many others.

Small businesses account for the vast majority of U.S. job growth in recent years, and California's 3.5 million small businesses employ more than half of the private sector workforce.

The Startup Development Program works with more than 200 startups each year, connecting them to mentors and resources to help them succeed.

Congratulations to this year's Small Business Award winners who exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of the L.A. region!

Nurturing regional talent The Tech Ed Partnerships program connects schools and colleges to local technology companies through career enrichment activities for youth and young adults. To accomplish this goal, Bixel Exchange serves a critical role, reaching out to industry leaders and developing volunteer opportunities that contextualize student learning experiences and nurture their tech career aspirations. These opportunities include company tours, hackathons, classroom visits, mentorships, internships and professional development for students and educators.

SMALL BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR

OMAR RODRIGUEZ X-IGENT Printing, Inc.

Travis Mack

In March 2015, President Obama launched TechHire, a national initiative to develop city and regional strategies to train the workforce for high-paying jobs in the tech industry. Under Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti's leadership, the Los Angeles High Impact Information Technology, Entertainment & Entrepreneurship, and Communications Hubs (LA HI-TECH) regional consortium was recognized as one of the first 20 programs working toward fulfilling the President's call to action.

Saalex Solutions, Inc. 8(A) Graduate of the Year

Prime Aerotech International, Inc.

Jeffrey Tedja, President Small Business Exporter of the Year

Women's Economic Ventures (WEV)

Since launching Tech Ed Partnerships, Bixel Exchange has partnered with eight community colleges and 30 high schools through LA HI-TECH. To date, the program has served more than 1,350 students and educators, and engaged 40 companies and government agencies, including Snapchat, Riot Games, Dollar Shave Club, Rubicon Project, IBM, CGI, City of Los Angeles Information Technology Agency and many others.

Leah Gonzales, Director Women’s Business Center of Excellence

Chet Seto

CJSeto Support Services, LLC Veteran Business Champion of the Year

Connecting tech leaders to civic innovation projects Bixel Exchange has joined up tech leaders to civic innovation projects with the city of L.A. and connected tech community volunteers to opportunities to help solve some of region's most difficult challenges.

Teri Kelsall

The Jonas Project Women in Business Champion of the Year

To learn more about Bixel Exchange, visit bixelexchange.com.

Tail Lights, Inc.

Sami Gros, CEO Innovation Through Technology Business of the Year

University of La Verne, SBDC Sean Snider, Director SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award

Ventura Transit System, Inc. Masood Babaeian, CEO Family Owned Business of the Year

Mark Morales

Homestreet Bank Financial Services Champion of the Year

Bianca Vobecky

Vobecky Enterprises Minority Small Business Champion of the Year

For more photos from the event, visit lachamber.com.

Members can change lives and shape our workforce

Offer an internship today F

or 10 years, the Chamber has helped thousands of youth throughout Los Angeles find jobs through its L.A. Youth at Work program. This year, the Chamber is making a special push to encourage businesses to commit to offering internships. Zulma Ramos, a student who participated in the L.A. Youth at Work programs noted, “L.A. Youth at Work is partnering up with great companies that are willing to give us a chance to develop skills that are essential to be considered a competitive candidate when applying to a job.I just had an internship where I got to get my

feet wet, and see what it is like to work in a corporate environment." Through internships, young people experience not only the excitement of a new job, but also build their resume and marketable skills. An internship is often the first step on the road to meaningful employment, and can help young people develop skills like leadership, critical thinking, collaboration and communication. Internships also benefit businesses by expanding their workforce capacity and building a pipeline for future

Follow the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce on

employees. Shape your future workforce by giving young people the opportunity to earn and learn. One internship can make a difference. Learn more at LAYouthAtWork.org/employers or contact Maria Dolores Nieto, mnieto@lachamber.com or 213.580.7599.

and at lachamber.com.

BOLD IN BUSINESS T his fall, voters will face one of the most crowded

Calendar of Events

ballots we’ve ever seen. The combination of a presidential election and the shift to only allowing initiatives on the November ballot has created a situation in which voters will be faced with nearly two dozen state propositions and local ballot measures to vote on, in addition to the standard elected offices.

Want to know what’s coming up at the Chamber? Visit lachamber.com/events to view and register for upcoming events. Below are some key signature events you don’t want to miss.

The Chamber Board of Directors has spent months analyzing, debating and taking positions on the 17 state propositions, two county measures and four city

Event Highlights

measures.

FRIDAY | SEPT. 23

In some cases, the Chamber was deeply involved in crafting the substance, as part of our long-standing advocacy work in those areas. In particular, a few local items I’d like to draw attention to:

Accenture Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series This breakfast speaker series features distinguished panelists discussing politics today, and is designed to foster dialogue between the business community and influential opinion leaders. This event is open to Circle Level and Board Members only. For more information, contact Maribel Flores, 213.580.7571 or mflores@lachamber.com.

• L.A. County Measure M- Metro’s Transportation Improvement Plan, which will add another ½ cent sales tax to our initial 2008 Measure R infrastructure investment, generating an estimated $860 million a year for transportation projects. The Chamber strongly weighed in on the project list and ensured that over half the money would go to capital investments. SUPPORT.

ACCESS

L.A. City Hall

•

TUESDAY OCT. 11, 2016

JOBS • BUSINESS • ECONOMY • NOW L.A. City Measure HHH- Homelessness Reduction and Prevention, Housing

WED | OCT. 11

and Facilities Bond, which would finance $1.2 billion for the acquisition of or THE VOICE OF BUSINESS AT CITY HALL improvement of real property for extremely low income orBEvery low income individuals and families who are homeless or chronically homeless to provide supportive housing, temporary shelter facilities and affordable housing, including veterans housing. The Chamber has worked for seven years with the United Way to address homelessness and identify a funding stream for permanent supportive housing. SUPPORT.

ACCESS L.A. City Hall

8 a.m. | Registration 8:30 | Breakfast Reception with Elected Officials 10 a.m. | City Council Session

Join business leaders from throughout the region as we meet with L.A. City Councilmembers and city-wide elected officials. Admission is $15 and open to the public. For more information, contact Jessica Duboff, 213.580.7585 or jduboff@lachamber.com.

RSVP NOW

Join the L.A. Area Chamber for an action-oriented morning at City Hall. Meet with elected officials about the issues that matter most to the business community of the Southern California region. $15 admission includes: u Breakfast u Meet and greet with elected officals u Los Angeles City Council Districts 2016 Economic Report

• L.A. City Initiative Ordinance JJJ- Affordable Housing and Labor Standards Related to City Planning. Drafted as an attempt to address our city’s housing and affordability crisis this proposal will drive up the cost of housing and make it INVITED harderELECTED OFFICIALS for renters and first time home buyers. OPPOSE. L.A. City Mayor Eric Garcetti

L.A. City Attorney Mike Feuer

For a full list of Chamber recommendations, please visit our voter guide at lachamber. com/advocacy/endorsements-positions/. Sincerely,

Gilbert Cedillo

Paul Krekorian

David Ryu

Bob Blumenfield

L.A. City Controller Ron Galperin

FRI | NOV. 4 Principal For a Day

L.A. City Council President Herb J. Wesson, Jr.

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Paul Koretz

Nury Martinez

Curren D. Marqueece Harris-Dawson Price, Jr.

Mitchell Englander

Mike Bonin

Mitch O’Farrell

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS GOLD

Jose Huizar

Joe Buscaino

Get firsthand experience in today’s educational setting. Shadow a principal, administrator or lead teacher to learn more about the successes achieved and the challenges faced, along with interacting with students who aspire to enter your industry or profession. For more information, contact Geraldine ContrerasJaimerena, 213.580.7553 or gcontreras@lachamber.com.

SILVER

BRONZE

Port of Los Angeles

Cedars-Sinai Health System Metro Southern California Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utility Southern California Partnership For Jobs Southwest Airlines Co.

List as of 8.29.16

For more information or to register, visit lachamber.com/accesslacityhall.

Gary L. Toebben President & CEO Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

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Chamber VOICE is a quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce 350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, CA 90017. For membership information, contact the Chamber at 213.580.7592 or visit lachamber.com. The Chamber VOICE is produced by the L.A. Area Chamber Marketing & Communications department in conjunction with Chamber Staff. Claudine Battisti, Director, Education Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7516, cbattisti@lachamber.com Sareen Davidian, Coordinator, Design & Marketing, 213.580.7588, sdavidian@lachamber.com Mandy Denaux, VP, Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, mdenaux@lachamber.com Sandy Van, Coordinator, Marketing & Communications – Technology, 213.580.7581, svan@lachamber.com Anna Williamson, Manager, Digital Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7565, awilliamson@lachamber.com Katherine Wu, Graphic Designer, 213.580.7509, kwu@lachamber.com

Chamber Senior Staff Gary Toebben, President & CEO, 213.580.7525, gtoebben@lachamber.com Sean Arian, VP, Innovation & Emerging Technology, 213.580.7587, sarian@lachamber.com Alysia Bell, VP, Education Business Coalitions, 213.580.7535, abell@lachamber.com Erika Borg, VP, Strategic Partnerships, Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7567, eborg@lachamber.com Mandy Denaux, VP, Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, mdenaux@lachamber.com David Eads, EVP & COO, 213.580.7546, deads@lachamber.com Jessica Duboff, VP, Public Policy, 213.580.7585, jduboff@lachamber.com Lee Ligons, SVP, Sales & Business Development, 213.580.7523, lligons@lachamber.com Nancy Olson, VP, Leadership Programs, 213.580.7577, nolson@lachamber.com David Rattray, EVP, Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7515, drattray@lachamber.com

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Dr. Alma Salazar, VP, Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7566, asalazar@lachamber.com Benjamin Stilp, CFO & VP, Finance and Administration, 213.580.7521, bstilp@lachamber.com Carlos J. Valderrama, SVP, Global Initiatives, 213.580.7570, cvalderrama@lachamber.com

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In the United States, the first chamber of commerce was created in 1768 in New York City.

AAA membership requires the separate payment of annual dues and an admission fee for new members. * Discounts may apply to select drivers, coverages, vary by policy and are conditional. The auto + home multi-policy discount requires an active auto policy and homeowner policy through the Auto Club. AAA insurance is a collection of AAA branded products, services and programs available to qualified AAA members. AAA personal lines insurance is provided by Interinsurance Exchange of the Automobile Club. Copyright © 2016 Automobile Club of Southern California. All Rights Reserved. CA DOI Lic. #0003259.

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Chamber

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10 WAYS THE CHAMBER HELPED YOUR BUSINESS

Your investment in the Chamber helps us build a stronger economy and a better quality of life in the region. Here are 10 ways we helped improve L.A. business recently:

Supported Los Angeles as the United States Olympic Committee’s selection for the U.S. Bid for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games

After the United States Olympic Committee's initial selection of Boston fell through, L.A. stepped up to bid on bringing the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games to the U.S. The CA bid will be the most fiscally responsible and sustainable in history. With a revitalized urban core, a vast majority of venues already in existence and billions of dollars in transportation and airport projects already underway, L.A. is a top contender to bring the Summer Games back to the U.S. for the first time in 28 years. The Chamber Board of Directors approved a formal support resolution, and the Chamber made advocating for infrastructure to support the bid a central theme of this year’s ACCESS Washington, D.C. trip. Bottom line: The Chamber recognizes the importance of the Olympic and Paralympic Games as a platform to bring communities together through the power and joy of sports. The successful LA ’84 Games left a lasting legacy in this City and the ’24 bid is an opportunity to showcase a 21st century L.A.

Helping small business employers navigate the Affordable Care Act

Small businesses are America’s number one job creators, and 50 percent of Americans depend on employer-sponsored health coverage. Yet, the percentage of employers offering coverage in California continues to decline, especially in the small business market. Thus, the L.A. Area Chamber is now working as a “hub” for employee health insurance education and the enrollment. Our activities are aimed at educating employers and employees in the L.A. region who need help navigating the health insurance market place. Bottom line: The Chamber continues to serve as a health insurance resource for all businesses, helping to navigate the new world of health care under the Affordable Care Act.

Further expanded the Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group for International Trade Needs

Formerly known as the Trade Commissioners Networking Group, the Chamber's Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group is proud to now include more than 40 members, recently adding the Consulate Generals of Angola, Egypt, Germany and Hungary. The group was founded in 2009, with an initial membership of four countries to assist diplomats and commercial and trade officers in developing and implementing programs, leveraging resources and professional contacts in the L.A. region to achieve their professional objectives. Bottom line: The Chamber brings together one of the largest concentrations of foreign diplomats in the United States, who represent their countries and are key players in the economic

Victories on top federal priorities

Years of advocacy on multiple fronts culminated in the second half of 2015 with a number of successes in Washington DC. Congress passed, and the President signed, a five-year, $305 billion transportation reauthorization bill, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST ACT), the first federal law in over ten years to provide long-term funding certainty. Quickly following that, Congress approved the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) to replace No Child Left Behind. Building on the Senate approval in June of Trade Promotion Authority, the US and 11 other Pacific Rim countries came to a final agreement on the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which will come before Congress this year for final approval. Bottom line: Long-term advocacy priorities came to fruition in the areas of transportation, education and trade.

Growing programs that develop extraordinary leaders

In March, the Southern California Leadership Network (SCLN) and the Los Angeles Junior Chamber of Commerce (LAJCC) Charity Foundation announced the LAJCC Leadership Institute’s transition to SCLN. The program — through a new partnership with former L.A. Mayor Richard Riordan and The Riordan Foundation — has returned to its previous name, Riordan Leadership Institute (RLI). The program continues cultivating early- to mid-career professionals for lifelong community engagement and leadership on nonprofit boards. Bottom line: RLI joins SCLN’s existing leadership fellowships that have collectively graduated nearly 2,000 professionals in SCLN’s 30-year history.

I am proud to have planted the seed that started this wonderful program 25 years ago. It is a joy to know that the legacy of the program will continue under the leadership of SCLN.”

Connected industry tech leaders to local education efforts, and L.A. startups to the resources needed to succeed

Bixel Exchange, the Chamber’s tech initiative aimed at supporting the growth of the tech ecosystem in L.A., had a record 2015. Just in its first year, Bixel Exchange's Tech Ed Partnerships program — in partnership with the LA HITECH regional consortium of 30 high schools and eight community colleges — helped secure relationships with 47 L.A. companies, such as Snapchat, Riot Games and IBM. This was done to facilitate work-based learning opportunities for students, and introduce them to career pathways in technology. Additionally, the Startup Development Program at Bixel Exchange, part of the L.A. Regional Small Business Development Center Network, enrolled a record 200 L.A. startups, and logged more than 1,300 advisory hours to help mentor entrepreneurs needing assistance with everything from strategic marketing, lega and finance, to community building and team management. Bottom line: The Chamber, through Bixel Exchange, aims to empower entrepreneurs and cultivate talent to strengthen the tech ecosystem and create a more prosperous L.A.

– Former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan

Advocated at the City and County for economic development

The Chamber supported efforts in both the L.A. County and City as they dedicated more resources to economic development. The County took advantage of new state legislation to create and implement a plan using leftover Community Reinvestment Act dollars, which will support small businesses and manufacturers, invest in emerging technology sectors, and attract foreign investment. Meanwhile the Chamber worked with L.A. City Council to weigh in on the formation of a new committee to focus on job creation and continue the process of eliminating the gross receipts tax. Bottom line: The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce stands ready to help L.A. County and City leaders rethink, re-envision and rebuild our approach to economic development and job creation.

For those of us who have been working on this challenge for years, we see these new efforts for what they are, a sea of change. We believe that this ‘unprecedented collaboration’ will enable Los Angeles County to throw off the title ‘homeless capital of the country’ at long last." – Gary Toebben, President & CEO, L.A. Area Chamber

Advocated for collaboration on homelessness solutions

According to the latest count by L.A.’s Homeless Services Authority, 44,000 people are homeless in L.A. County on any given night. The latest numbers represent a rise of 12 percent in the homeless population over the last two years. This past fall saw L.A. City and County come together unlike ever before to address the growing homeless crisis in L.A. The Chamber, in partnership with the United Way, has worked for years on the Home for Good Plan to house the chronically homeless and veterans, and strongly supported local government’s stepped up commitment and increased funding. The Chamber is working to help pass November's Measure HHH to create a funding stream for permanent supportive housing. Bottom line: A stronger economy is dependent on a healthy community and the Chamber is dedicated to improving the lives of everyone in the L.A. region.

Launched new online business education and training portal

Earlier this summer, the Chamber, in partnership with Zip Ed Tech, launched a comprehensive online business education and training portal. Accessed through the Chamber’s website, lachamber.com, the mobile friendly portal features cuttingedge content taught by expert instructors. Courses range from software and communications , to time management and productivity. In addition to general business training, the portal also features many California-specific law and compliance courses. Courses are offered to Chamber members at a discount and many offer certification upon completion. Bottom line: The Chamber continues to help member companies grow by offering an extensive online business training portal at lachamber.com

Helped young people achieve collegereadiness and workforce-success

For years, the Chamber has been the proud local organizer of the statewide Cash for College campaign. We held dozens of workshops throughout the L.A. region, helping thousands of college-bound students and families fill out their financial aid forms line-by-line. But college should not be the only route to a successful career. The Chamber also partnered with Starbucks and the 100k Opportunities Initiative to connect young people who are out-of-work and out-of-school with entry-level jobs at a hiring fair attended by more than 5,000 youth. Many Chamber members hosted booths to recruit young people, and many volunteered as mock interviewers to help prepare youth for the real thing. Bottom line: Young people are our future workforce; so, the Chamber wants to ensure their success by helping them access college and careers.

development of the region.

Founded as a national federation in 1912 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., the national chamber was instrumental in persuading the federal government to institute a national budget and in gaining passage of the Federal Reserve Act.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS Focus on nonprofit:

SPOTLIGHT: T4T.org Name: Leah Hanes, Ph.D. | Role: Executive Director, T4T.org Leah Hanes is the Executive Director of the nonprofit, T4T.org. The name was originally Trash for Teaching, however after significant feedback from school districts they decided to take out the ‘Trash” and are now officially T4T.org. This member company’s mission includes saving manufacturers cast-offs and mistakes and supplying that material to teachers, students, and artists for use in project-based-learning. Hanes is at the helm of an organization that “inspires students, educators, businesses and communities to rethink what others overlook.” T4T turns what would be tossed-away materials into useful tools. How so? We are several things at once depending on who is asking. To manufacturers, we are a way to play a role in education, acquire a tax deduction for donating materials rather than spend money on landfill charges, and support the L.A. County initiative to reduce solid waste. To educators, we are a method of engaging students in learning through doing. There are many researchers and documentary filmmakers following a trend in schools to “flip the classroom.” To us, that means we engage students with exploration. A good example is our method of teaching how sound is transmitted by having the students make a working head set out of up-cycled materials. We call this, “Beats By Me!” They don’t easily forget the process, as most of them will try several times before they hear their favorite music playing through their own creation. When was T4T.org established? How many team members are there? Do you work with volunteers? What is the role of the Board? Steve and Kathy Stanton, the manufacturers of the heart shaped boxes for Sees Candy, started the company in 2004. They were concerned with the amount of waste in the manufacturing process and began to take cardboard hearts and fabric hearts to their son’s pre-school. Over the course of the next few years, they began to collect from other manufacturers. They retired in 2013, and that is when they hired me as Executive Director. Now, we are mostly educators who use the materials for professional development with teachers attempting to adapt to best practices for education. We are preparing students for careers that, for the most part, don’t yet exist or at least not in the form they will be expected to practice. The best way to do that is to create problem solvers. We want them to embrace the mistakes and celebrate the knowledge that mistakes create. We don’t want students to follow instructions as much as we want them to apply critical thinking and creative thinking to answer challenges. We want education directed by students with teachers as their guides, mentors and support team. No lectures. No sitting still taking notes from the expert. Our team now is small but mighty. We are five full time people and four part time people with hundreds of

volunteers. We work with Easter Seals volunteers, high school volunteers, and also often have company volunteer days. Who inspires you? People who are willing to challenge common wisdom inspire me, not for the sake of challenging but because they have a sense that things need to be reshaped. People who have faced great challenge and have found a way to create something inspire me. For example, Mark Twain, whom we think of as a humorist, had a life filled with pain and agony, but that isn’t what he wrote about. He challenged society to rethink what was acceptable at the time. His characters said what was unpopular and needed to be exposed. In his own words, he was a maverick and a political commentator of great note. When I was 13, I discovered a restaurant in the town near my home in Canada would not serve people of color. I was outraged. I told Mr. Moore, my English teacher, who was British Guiana about this, and he took all the Canadian press that would attend, and he went to the restaurant to be served. The restaurant refused, the story was published all over the country and the restaurant closed rather than change. Mr. Moore inspires me. And, finally, Noel Massie, President, UPS, Southern California District inspires me. I met Noel on the Chamber’s 2014 Access Sacramento trip and was impressed with his leadership. He later came to our warehouse with his leadership team to volunteer. The way Noel moved through Sacramento with grace and authority was mirrored in the way he worked with his team and then with our team as a volunteer. There is an authenticity in his manner that is clear in each of these roles. Noel shared his personal story with our class in the Southern California Leadership Network, and I left there even more impressed than when I interacted with him and watched him with his executive team. Noel Massie is a natural leader and I aspire to have his calm, directed leadership style. Why did you join the L.A. Area Chamber? You are a smallersized, nonprofit. Did you encounter some push back? I did encounter some push back when I joined. Some Board members thought it might be too ambitious. I convinced them they should let me experiment with it for a year and then reevaluate. It was my business background, and a visit

from Frank Lopez (former L.A. Area Chamber public policy director) that convinced me it was a good idea. Our current Board President, Brent Bushnell of Two Bit Circus and the current Board see the long-term value in having a voice in the conversation as education is going through such intense change. The L.A. Area Chamber’s educational programs are future focused and in line with our approach to developing talent for the future generations of Los Angeles. What advice would you give other nonprofits or small businesses regarding networking or taking advantage of Chamber member programs/services? Join because you have a seat at the table on the issues you work on and build relationships. It is important to realize you are not there to ask for anything. All that has come of this for T4T is a result of people getting to know what we do and wanting to be involved. I don’t think it would have happened if I had come asking or looking just for what was in it for us. I am at the table to take part and offer what I can to the conversation. If people want to know more about your organization or how to be involved, what is the best way to do that? I am always happy to talk with people about T4T so my email leah@t4t.org or our website T4T.org and the good old fashion telephone also works 310.527.7080.

Be sure to check out Leah Hanes’ full interview at lachamber.com, and click on Happening Now: VOICE Member Spotlight.

BUSINESS ADVOCACY PRIORITIES STATEWIDE REFORM Energy Reliability and Affordability Southern California is facing unprecedented grid reliability concerns due to the permanent closure of San Onofre Nuclear Generation Station; a looming state deadline that will require extensive retrofitting or closure of multiple coastal power plants in the next few years; and uncertainty over Aliso Canyon. The Chamber is advocating for a comprehensive state energy plan that will ensure short and long-term grid reliability and energy affordability for Southern California businesses. The Chamber is also categorically opposed to municipal and county ordinances that would unnecessarily drive up fuel costs for businesses by banning oil and gas well drilling operations. Reliable and Affordable Water Supplies The Chamber is co-chairing a statewide coalition composed of local and regional business associations working collectively to secure a reliable, long-term supply of water for the State’s businesses and residents. The Chamber supports CalFix and EcoRestore, the Governor’s plans to restore the Delta’s ecosystem and improve California’s fragile water infrastructure. The Chamber worked to amend a multibillion-dollar water bond measure that passed successfully in November 2014. Implementation of Affordable Care Act California has taken the national lead in Affordable Care Act (ACA) implementation. The Chamber has, and will continue, to advocate for regulatory stability for the health care industry as it adjusts to market changes and regulations resulting from the ACA. Through a new Small Business HUB, the Chamber also educates and outreaches to small businesses about the health care choices available through the public and private market places.

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OPEN

BUSINESS CLIMATE

Reforming the City of L.A.’s Uncompetitive Business Tax The Chamber was successful in the initial reduction of the City’s Gross Receipts Business Tax over the next three years. The Chamber will work with L.A. City Mayor and L.A. City Council to increase and expand this reduction further. L.A. City Zoning Code Update The City of L.A. is undertaking a five-year process to revamp its outdated zoning code to provide clear guidelines for development and to streamline the permitting and building process. The Chamber's priorities are for consistent, clear and fair guidelines that provide greater certainty for development and facilitate economic growth. Oppose attempts to curtail construction and housing development A proposed initiative for the March 2017 ballot would place a two year moratorium on the construction of housing, hospitals, schools, parks and any project that requires a General Plan Amendment. While L.A.’s planning process needs updating, this poorly written measure goes too far and would cost taxpayers millions of dollars. The Chamber has helped spearhead an unprecedented coalition to work together to defeat this initiative. The Chamber is also spearheading opposition to November's Measure JJJ, which is a labor-backed initiative that could impose labor and inclusionary zoning mandates. Support Passage of Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) The Chamber has advocated for the passage of CIR, including a pathway to citizenship, to ensure that the U.S. remains the world's leading home for innovators and globally competitive businesses.

REGIONAL ECONOMIC ENGINES Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Modernization LAX recently unveiled plans for a $5 billion Land Access Modernization program to connect the airport to Metro, construct a consolidated rental car facility and two intermodal transportation centers. The Chamber will continue to advocate for these transformative projects, which, combined with significant improvements to almost every terminal and the ongoing construction of the Midfield Satellite Concourse, will create the 21st century LAX Los Angeles deserves. Local Ports & Goods Movement The Chamber advocates for expediting terminal improvement projects, including near-dock rail, such as BNSF Railway Company's Southern California International Gateway and the upcoming project proposal by the Union Pacific Railroad Co. Transportation Infrastructure Investment Congress recently enacted a long-term surface and rail transportation bill (FAST Act) that provides certainty and creates new programs that benefit our economy. While Congress was able to find the funding to support the five-year FAST Act, the Chamber will urge Congress to start working on the development of sustainable funding sources to complement the current Highway Trust Fund/ Federal Gas Tax, as well as robust funding for programs that have helped L.A. fund critical infrastructure projects, such as the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recover (TIGER) and New Starts. The Chamber testified at hearings during the Special Session on Transportation the Governor called last summer and will continue to support draft proposals in Sacramento that call for creative funding mechanisms to fill the gap in the gas tax.

The L.A. Area Chamber partners with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) to do a Fellowship for Education Attainment, allowing us to have a national impact on education & workforce development.

Chamber

VOICE

Fleet Week Comes to Los Angeles

This year, Los Angeles will become an official Fleet Week market! Fleet Week is a United States Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and Army tradition in which active military ships recently deployed in overseas operations dock for one week in major US markets like New York City, Seattle, San Francisco and San Diego. Once the ships dock, they open for public tours and military personnel go ashore to engage in site-seeing, public relations and community relations activities. LA Fleet Week will run through Labor Day at the Port of Los Angeles, with ships beginning to arrive on the L.A. Waterfront in the days preceding the end-of-summer holiday weekend. The event will offer Angelenos greater access to ships, equipment, and sea service life than ever before. “As a Navy reservist, representing a City and Port with a rich military history, it’s an honor to announce the addition of Los Angeles to the Navy’s annual Fleet Week roster,” said Mayor Garcetti. “LA Fleet Week at America’s Port will be great annual traditional for Angelenos to visit the L.A. Waterfront, tour ships, enjoy a variety of activities, and gain a deeper appreciation of our enlisted men and women.”

“We are excited to host L.A. Fleet Week on the L.A. Waterfront,” added Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka. “It’s our goal to work with our military partners, sponsors and local supporters like the L.A. Area Chamber and its interested members to develop L.A. Fleet Week into a world-class event and honored Labor Day holiday tradition here in Southern California.” An LA Fleet Week Foundation has been established to raise donations and secure sponsorships to offset the cost of the event, which is expected to have an attendance of 200,000 to 300,000 in its inaugural year. L.A. Waterfront businesses and attractions from the Battleship IOWA to the downtown San Pedro Historic Business District, to the CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles marketplace and new Brouwerij West production brewery and tasting room in the outer harbor will be buzzing with sailor and visitor activities. The main event area at the World Cruise Center will feature food, entertainment and a STEM Expo for people of all ages to enjoy. Fleet Week will also include military aircraft fly-overs and the popular Labor Day morning “Conquer the Bridge” run from downtown San Pedro across the Vincent Thomas Bridge and back. Reservations for ship tours will be available online in mid-August and free tour passes also will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis at the event. For more information, visit LAFleetWeek.com.

“LA Fleet Week will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the greatest fleet and Sailors in the world and further strengthen the connection between the citizens of the Los Angeles region and their Navy,” said Vice Admiral Nora Tyson. “"We look forward to participating in this exciting event and appreciate the opportunity to bring the Fleet to L.A.”

GOVERNANCE & FISCAL REFORM L.A. City Budget Crisis and Public Pension Reform The City Council and Mayor have taken initial steps to deal with pension and health care obligations for city retirees, but more action is needed to reduce the City’s annual deficit and continue to provide essential services. The Chamber supports reforms to the City's budget process including major pension reform, a focus on the delivery of essential City services, privatizing nonessential City functions and strengthening the reserve fund.

L.A. JOBS PAC 2016 & 2017 Elections in Los Angeles The L.A. Jobs PAC has interviewed candidates in the races to replace outgoing Supervisors Don Knabe (District 4) and Michael Antonovich (District 5). The PAC chose to endorse Steve Napolitano (District 4) and Kathryn Barger (District 5) and is now strategizing on how best to support their candidacy. The PAC started interviewing candidates for the 2017 City election for Citywide offices and odd-numbered districts.

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REGIONAL STEWARDSHIP

Ending Chronic and Veteran Homelessness in Los Angeles The Chamber and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles cosponsor the Business Leaders' Task Force to implement Home For Good — a strategic plan to end chronic and veteran homelessness in Los Angeles via permanent supportive housing. The partnership has helped house more than 10,000 chronically homeless and veterans, and has generated $200 million in public-private investments. We are moving forward with pilot expansions of a coordinated entry system Countywide, which will dramatically

+HEARD

SEEN

AT T H E C H A M B E R

IN FEBRUARY … • Norma Ortega, Caltrans; Duane L. Kenagy, Port of Long Beach; Transportation & Goods Movement Council • Barbara Rocha, Barbara Rocha and Associates; Small Business Owners Round Table • Michael Cohen, California Department of Finance; Edgar Cabral, Legislative Analyst's Office; Chris Hoene, California Budget Project; Education & Workforce Development Council • Chief Ralph Terrazas, LAFD; Innovation and Technology Council • Myron Brilliant, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Global Initiatives Council • Natalie Gouche, L.A. Social Media Trainer Inc.; Westside Connect • Hon. Felipe Fuentes, L.A. City Council, District 7; Energy, Water & Environmental Sustainability Council • Sarah Dusseault and Wendy Greuel, Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority; Land Use, Construction & Housing Council • Hon. Hilda Solis, County Board of Supervisors; Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series IN MARCH … • Kristine Boyden, Edelman U.S. Western Region; Edelman Trust Barometer • Eden Lovejoy, YourBusinessLifestyle.com, Inc.; Small Business Owners Round Table • Kris Perry, First Five Years Fund; Michele Siqueiros, Campaign for College Opportunity; Education & Workforce Development Council • Brandon Shamim, Beacon Management; Katie Burbank, Yelp; Small Business Council • Hon. Bob Blumenfield, L.A. City Council, District 3; Innovation & Technology Council • Oscar E. Bazán, Canal De Panamá; Global Initiatives and Transportation & Goods Movement Councils • Tony Brasil and Lezlie Kimura Szeto, California Air Resources Board; Energy, Water & Environmental Sustainability Council • Raymond Chan and Frank Bush, Los Angeles Department of Building & Safety; John Vidovich, Fire Marshall; Land Use, Construction & Housing council • Hon. David Ryu, L.A. City Council, District 4; Health Care Council • Dr. David Meyer, L.A. Biomed, Diplomatic & Commercial Officers Group IN APRIL … • Hon. Jim Frazier, California State Assembly; Phil Washington, Metro; Transportation & Goods Movement Council • Anthony Rendon, California State Assembly Speaker; Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series • Eric Garcetti, L.A. Mayor; ACCESS Washington, D.C. IN MAY… • Matthew Toledo, Publisher & CEO, Los Angeles Business Journal, • at the Small Business Awards on Tuesday, May 24 • Marla Clemoh, Regional President, Wells Fargo, at the Small Business Awards on Tuesday, May 24 • Victor Parker, District Director, Los Angeles District, U.S. Small Business Administration, at the Small Business Awards on Tuesday, May 24 • Senator Carol Liu, California State Senate, Chair of Senate Education Committee, at the Education & Workforce Development Council meeting on Friday, May 13 Don’t miss out on the action – go to lachamber.com/events for a calendar of upcoming speakers and events.

reduce the time it takes to house individuals. The Chamber has taken a leadership role in supporting the City's proposed Go Bond (Measure HHH) for November.

$71.9 billion through Prop 98, multiyear investments for early childhood education, professional development for early education educators and efforts to strengthen the early education workforce sector.

Equitable Development of Regional Air Quality Management Plans The Chamber is working with the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) to improve the process used by the agency to develop Air Quality Management Plans. The Chamber supports efforts that improve regional air quality while maintaining the global competitiveness of Southern California’s economy. The Chamber opposes a regulation being considered by SCAQMD that could lead to new tariffs, lease renegotiations and the mandatory purchase of new technologies for port-related businesses should the emission reduction goals of the 2007 San Pedro Bay Ports Climate Action Plan not be attained.

K-12 The Chamber is committed to supporting efforts that prepare all students for college, career and life in the 21st Century. The Chamber supports more meaningful learning. This includes acquisition of knowledge, language, lifelong learning skills and dispositions students need to succeed in today’s world, which supports ideas of the Linked Learning and Deeper Learning approach for K-16 education. We strongly support California’s pathway towards the creation of a better accountability and continuous improvement system for our students. This system must rest on a foundation of student success, rely on high standards and equitable distribution of resources (through Local Control Funding Formula), and trust local educators and communities to design the educational structures and supports our students need to reach full potential.

Supporting the Los Angeles bid for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games In 2015, the US Olympic Committee chose L.A. to be the US bid city for the 2024 Games. Hosting the 2024 Olympics is an opportunity to showcase L.A. and expedite transportation and airport projects already in the works. The Chamber Board of Directors has approved a formal resolution supporting the Games, is participating in the planning for the bid; made advocating for federal support and completing necessary infrastructure projects a centerpiece of our Washington, D.C advocacy; and is advocating for a state bill to show California support for the bid.

 EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Early Learning Gov. Jerry Brown signed a $171 billion state budget for 2016-17 that included major wins for the Chamber's cradle-to-career education priorities to prepare California's 21st century workforce. Wins include

The Chamber also encourages Smart Justice reforms to dismantle the school to prison pipeline and reinforces the need for targeted resources and cross-agency collaboration to improve school stability, education attainment, and workforce readiness of transition-age foster youth. Higher Education System Coordination and Workforce Competitiveness The Chamber supports improving post secondary student outcomes by expanding access and affordability, while promoting system innovation and institutional effectiveness. We support improved innovation and increased investment in community college career technical education (CTE) programs and enacting workforce development strategies that meet labor market demand. Additionally, the Chamber supports clear and open accountability systems that provide access to student success data, and the development of comprehensive P-16 career pathways that create a systemic approach to meeting the needs of high-demand industry sectors.

Chambers are made up of businesses seeking to further their collective interests, while advancing their community, region, state or nation.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS Guest Writer Dave Barthmuss

Haters really can be huggers W

e often think of leadership as the act of leading our own teams to victory and success. But what about those who lie outside of our chain of command? How do we convince people to think as we do? In a word? Advocates. Let me give you an example. What would you think if you read this on the cover of the latest Iggy Pop album? “This is the best damn album I’ve heard in a decade.” — Iggy Pop It’s ridiculous, right? I mean, what else would Iggy think of his own work? And yet that’s the kind of thing we – as marketers, advertisers and public relations practitioners – are often called on to do for our companies. We tout the merits of our products and policies, but is anybody listening? More importantly, does anybody believe us? After all, we’re being paid by the companies we promote. Now imagine that you saw this quote on the cover of Iggy Pop’s latest album: “This is the best damn album I’ve heard in a decade.” — Dave Grohl You probably don’t have a problem with that quote, do you? For some reason, praise like that is a little more palatable coming from someone you trust who really doesn’t have any skin in the game. This gets to the heart of a concept I call Advotocracy -- the act of leading through advocacy In my 20-plus years in PR, I’ve learned that most difficult situations involving outside detractors are best solved by being transparent and trying to understand your critic’s point of view. By finding common ground with your detractors -- even the most determined ones -- you can actually turn them into your partners and, eventually, your most vocal advocates. That’s what Advotocracy is all about. As the Advotocracy roadmap shows, there are three basic steps to engage and transform a detractor into an advocate (or a “hater into a hugger” as my daughters would say): identify the issue, open up and be transparent, and keep your foot on the gas. Persistence, perseverance and determination are also key. They are tools that can be found in every effective leader’s toolbox, and are among the key building blocks of any successful Advotocracy.

Identifying the issue is the most critical and often the least understood part of the equation. I’ve counseled many leaders who falsely think they know the real issues behind the challenges they face with hostile audiences. All too often, however, they fail to fully consider the other point of view, and don’t really fully understand the reasons folks don’t see the world as they do. Frankly, it’s an easy mistake to make; it can be considered basic human nature to look at the world through your eyes alone. But if you want to build a successful Advotocracy, you really have to set aside preconceived notions, unconscious bias, and fully look at things from as many different perspectives as possible. And that can be very uncomfortable.

the state. My SCLN experience, which continues to this day, given my role as the Board’s vice chair, made me a better leader by showing me how others think and the different values that are placed on issues, products and behavior.

Enter the Southern California Leadership Network (SCLN), a terrific organization offering four civic leadership fellowships designed for working professionals, exposing cohorts to the inner workings of Los Angeles, the region and the state. I’m a graduate of two of them: Leadership L.A. and California Connections. The SCLN journey opened up and challenged my Detroit-based, Midwest mindset from many different perspectives, and really helped me identify and grow an ability to build the kinds of engaging bridges that have turned the most determined of detractors into proactive third-party advocates.

SCLN taught me to be humble, how to understand and show empathy for folks I used to consider adversaries, embrace transparency, and the value of persistence. Frankly, I found that my most vocal detractors weren’t all that different from me, and once I learned to find our common ground, I was able to build something great with them. And so will you.

My preconceived notions were challenged by an amazing diversity of opinions and worldviews presented by my fellow classmates, guest speakers, and many of the remarkable places we visited across

Chamber Snapshots Scenes from some of the Chamber’s key events in early 2016 page

And with the addition of the Riordan Leadership Institute to SCLN’s portfolio, early- to mid-career professionals will have access to the tools they need for lifelong engagement with the nonprofit community through board service. As SCLN gears up to celebrate its 30th anniversary next year, there’s no better time to enroll in the fellowship that best meets your needs, and become a part of a growing alumni network that represents many of the region’s current and future movers and shakers.

Dave Barthmuss was group manager of communications for General Motors until early 2016, and now serves as an independent consultant and senior counsel for clients and agencies. He also serves as vice chair of the Southern California Leadership Network, and is a bronze member of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, vice president/secretary of the Public Relations Society of America (Los Angeles Chapter), and president of Advotocracy, where he builds proven communications strategies to improve image and reputation, develop brands, engage influential stakeholders and change conversations. He can be reached at dave@advotocracy.com, or 805.660.1914. To learn more about SCLN, visit LeadershipNetwork.org or 213.580.7549.

2 1. The Chamber partnered with the California Student Aid Commission to host the L.A. Cash for College program that hosted more than 150 free financial aid completion workshops across the greater L.A. region from January through March. 2. The Inaugural Dinner in February celebrated the installation of 2016 Chair of the Board, Thomas S. Sayles, University of Southern California and thanked outgoing Chair, Bill Caswell, Kaiser Permanente. 3. Edelman U.S. Western Region President Kristine Boyden presented the company's annual findings of the Edelman Global Trust Barometer at the Chamber in March.

In the majority of countries, the use of the term "chamber of commerce" is regulated by statute, though this is not the case in the US.

Chamber

VOICE 5 Facts You Need to Know about the Trans Pacific Partnership

A win for the future of all students

Every Student Succeeds Act becomes law

The TPP will not only expand existing trade between California and six current U.S. free trade agreement (FTA) partners, it will also open new markets for California with five Asia-Pacific countries that are not current U.S. FTA partners, benefitting California businesses, farmers and workers. Trade with these economies already supports 1.7 million jobs in California, and this new deal will result in job growth.

he Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) is one of the most comprehensive regional agreements that the U.S. has ever negotiated in global markets. Our nation with Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Vietnam, Chile, Brunei, Singapore and New Zealand are expecting the formal approval by our respective governments. Upon this approval, we will benefit from an increase in trade and investment among all these countries in the Pacific Rim. The Los Angeles region is considered the “trade hub” linking the Pacific Rim and the Americas. The Chamber’s Global Initiatives Council has been a promoter and supporter of free trade agreements to make our regional firms more competitive in global markets. The objective of “creating regional employment through exports” has been showcased by all our seminars and conferences. The Chamber is involved in making sure the TPP’s benefits and adjustments to be made by executives within the legal framework of the agreement are fully understood and properly implemented. The five facts below represent its importance. 1. Last fall, President Obama released the full text of the TPP, showing this regional trade agreement will have great benefit on the L.A. economy and U.S. trade. According to The Los Angeles Times, it would be the largest regional trade pact in the world, binding together economies that make up nearly two-fifths of global economic output by eliminating duties on thousands of goods and setting uniform rules on intellectual property, labor rights, the environment and other areas affecting trade and investment across borders. 2. If we want good paying jobs in the U.S. and a better quality of life for all members of our society, we must grow our share of the world economic pie. Removing barriers to trade with other countries is an effective strategy to achieve that goal, and the TPP does that.

3. According to the International Monetary Fund, the world economy will grow by more than $20 trillion over the next five years, and nearly half of that growth will be in Asia. U.S. workers and businesses need access to those markets. The TTP should be considered as the marketing tool and strategic business plan enhancing our manufacturing and exporting firms’ commercial and industrial market presence in the Pacific Rim.

Chamber ACCESS Washington, D.C. advocates fought for years to reauthorize the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), and in December of last year, President Obama signed into law the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which reauthorizes ESEA.

4. The Chamber has had the privilege of hosting U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman to discuss the TPP. Ambassador Froman pointed, to dozens of examples of U.S. agricultural, industrial and intellectual products that now face a 20-30 percent tariff in other countries. Those barriers to entry would go to zero under the terms of the new agreement. That is why nearly every industry group in the U.S. recognizes the TPP as an opportunity to sell more American-made products and services to consumers in eleven rapidly growing economies.

All students, including our youngest learners, will now have equal access to a quality education no matter their background. For California to maintain its position as the sixth largest economy in the world, our education system needs to prepare all students for a globally competitive workplace. California is making progress by implementing substantial changes to our educational standards, better and more streamlined testing and accountability systems, and granting local control over funding. California high school graduation rates have improved from 75 percent in 2010 to an all-time high of 81 percent in 2014.

5. No trade agreement in history or in the process of negotiation today has ever focused on labor and environmental issues to the extent of TPP. The TPP will set a new regulatory standard for these issues because Froman and USA negotiators were at the table. None of these new regulations on international trade will go into effect if the U.S. Congress does not ratify TPP.

Want to learn more about TPP: Visit ustr.gov or contact Carlos Valderrama, 213.580.7570.

California needs a federal system that complements our recent state policy improvements and provides flexibility to our schools. Now, we call on the U.S. Department of Education to work collaboratively with California and other states, the business community and other stakeholders to develop streamlined regulations that preserve and don’t defeat the increased flexibility embodied in this legislation.

The U.S. has a choice, whether to take a leadership role in writing the rules for global trade, or watch other countries do so for themselves. California has the largest delegation in Congress and we have more to gain from TPP than any other state. We continue to urge our members of Congress to vote “yes” on TPP in 2016.

Want to learn more about TPP: Visit ustr.gov.

4. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti addresses the crowd of more than 800 at this 90th Annual World Trade Week Kickoff Breakfast. 5. California Connection fellows get an intimate look into the California-Baja border region, which included a tour of Cross Border Express, a first-of-its-kind binational airport passenger terminal in San Diego. 6. Omar Rodriguez, of X-IGENT Printing, Inc., accepts his award as Small Business Person of the Year at the 2016 Small Business Awards luncheon.

A 2012 study conducted by the Schapiro Group found 49 percent of consumers were more likely to think favorably of a local business if it was a member of the local Chamber.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS

Member Advantage The Chamber’s member-to-member discount program offers a variety of savings, from hotel rooms to printing and shipping. If you’d like to offer other members a discount on your products or services, contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or pclark@lachamber.com. ADVERTISING

Member Highlight

10 percent off standard flat fee pricing for website design and development. 10 percent off brand audit workshop. Purchase 12 months brand strategy retainer and get the 13th month free. Offer valid for new clients and applies to the first project. Contact Marcy Rye at 310.955.4900 or hello@wiremedia.net. Visit wiremedia.net for more information. ADVOCACY Move LA 10 percent discount for the next 12 months to all our events. Contact Amy Williams, 310.310.2390 or amy@movela.org. AUTOMOBILE SERVICES Enterprise Rent-A-Car Apply a 5 percent discount off the standard, undiscounted daily, weekly & monthly rates charged at all the participating commercial truck, home city and airport locations. Call 1.800.593.0505 or call your local office. Enter account# L32c403, pin # LOS. CONFERENCE CENTER UCLA Conference Center – Lake Arrowhead 10 percent off total conference invoice. Valid for conferences from November to April. Restrictions: Chamber membership to be indicated in writing prior to the contract being accepted and agreed to. Contact Steve Caloca, 909.337.2478 or scaloca@ha.ucla.edu.

CONSULTANTS Majestic Hospitality Group 10 percent discount on property development and customer service management consulting fees. Contact Christopher Henry, 310.895.7925 or chris.henry@majestic-hospitality.com. RevLocal 50 percent off set up fee for any of our services you select, plus a FREE consultation. Contact A.J. Shull, 310.405.1339 or ashull@revlocal.com DENTISTRY Environdental 15 percent off all dental services at our eco-friendly office. Restrictions: Discount cannot be combined with dental insurance. Contact Matthew Caligiuri, 213.534.6856 or info@environdentalla.com. FINANCIAL Los Angeles LDC, Inc. $250 off any loan application fee or loan documentation charge. Loans must be $150,000 or less. Contact Rob Lowe, 213.312.9117. PROAMÉRICA BANK SBA7a/504: $2,000 loan packaging fee waiver on applicable loans booked. Equal opportunity lender. Contact Angel Chang, 213.787.2843. PROAMÉRICA BANK Fee credits up to $100 per month for six months on applicable new accounts. Contact Roberto Manzano at 213.787.2833. FOOD Kogi BBQ 10 percent off catering food order. Restrictions: minimum food order of $1,250 and must be a Chamber member. Contact Luisana Valdez, 323.315.0256 or luisana.v@Kogibbq.com. Sprinkles Cupcakes LLC 15 percent off Sprinkles cupcakes, cookies and ice cream pre-orders placed through Marissa Hanley. Restrictions: orders must be placed directly to mhanley@sprinkles. com, discount is on product only not service fees, delivery, etc.

moving forward

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Bottom-Line Benefits Save up to 50 percent by utilizing the advantages provided by the L.A. Area Chamber and its members. Certificcates of Origin The Chamber has adopted the next generation eCert technology as our standard to process your Certificates of Origin.

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lachamber.com/bottomline Find out more at lachamber.com/ bottomline. For more information contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or pclark@lachamber.com.

Helping you build business success on a

Keeping America globally competitive, moving forward and growing strong requires a commitment to high-speed broadband IP technology that reliably delivers dynamic services. IP innovation. It’s one of the ways everything works together so you can connect to your world, faster.

strong foundation of community spirit, expert analyses, sound guidance and trust. That’s the power of a local connection, with you year by year, wherever you want to grow. Gwen Givens-Jones SVP, Senior Relationship Manager 213.345.2325 bofaml.com/yourcorner

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For marketing disclaimer, visit bankofamerica.com/disclaimer. ©2016 Bank of America Corporation A 2012 study conducted by the Schapiro Group found 80 percent of consumers were more likely to purchase a product or service from a Chamber member. GCB-150-AD | ARF684XT

Chamber

VOICE Face to face:

Michelle King Each quarter, the L.A. Area Chamber speaks with a civic leader about issues affecting the business community in the L.A. region.

we recently spoke with Michelle King, who was named Los Angeles Unified School District Superintedent earlier

this year. She replaces Ramon C. Cortines, who retired Jan. 2. King has spent her career with LAUSD, starting as a student aide in 1978.

King: Having played multiple roles in L.A. Unified — student, parent, teacher, principal, and senior leader — I have familiarity with the broad range of unique communities that make up this District. Through my experience, I have developed a deep appreciation for the many diverse perspectives that make this organization remarkable. I rely on my experience each day as I work to find common ground among all who contribute to the welfare of our students. My background also positions me well to address the District’s complex challenges. I have seen first-hand how many of our students face barriers, such as coming from low socio-economic backgrounds or learning to speak and understand English. Despite these challenges, many of our students excel every day. One of my goals is to help increase the spotlight on these successes so we can learn what works well and capitalize on that in our plans to get every student to graduation college-prepared and careerready. I believe strongly and have been very vocal about the importance of collaboration. Having an understanding and respect for everyone who plays a role in the education process goes a long way in promoting true, effective collaboration. I know how this district works and where there is the potential to be even greater. I can use that as I work with the Board and my team to shape a roadmap for success for all of our students. LAUSD faces a host of challenges. What are your top priorities leading the District? King: My top priorities are 1) getting every student to graduation having successfully completed the course requirements needed to be college-prepared and careerready, 2) balancing the budget for the next three years, creating a stable platform on which to promote high quality instruction for all, and 3) effectively engaging every family and school community. We have strategies in place to accomplish each of these objectives. We are taking a serious look at the data concerning student enrollment and performance in their A-G courses. We are using that information to identify and strengthen pathways that prepare our students to excel in those courses when they reach high school. For example, we are expanding programs like transitional kindergarten, because we know that the road to college preparation begins in the pre-school years. We are taking a very deep look at instruction in our middle schools, as success in grades six through eight is a significant predictor of success in high school and beyond. I am pleased the Board recently passed a resolution to assemble a task force to evaluate our district’s approach to middle school instruction and reform as needed to promote student preparation for high school. We are moving forward rapidly with that effort. We are balancing the budget for the next three years, creating a stable platform on which to promote high quality instruction for all students. I am pleased that for

the first time in years, our finance team has managed to find a way to reconcile revenue and expenditures for the year ahead without the need to make cuts to staff. The road ahead remains challenging, however, and we are hard at work to find the best solutions to stabilize the budget outlook for years to come. We are working to capitalize on the recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Panel, a team of experts who carefully analyzed our financial situation and provided guidance to address it. I plan to convene study sessions with the Board in which we take deep dives into the recommendations from the panel and find common understanding on how to invest wisely in our educational priorities. We are carefully examining how to engage our many diverse communities effectively. I have assembled teams to develop comprehensive plans to engage community partners and determine the best way to invest our limited resources so that we are maximizing opportunities for all students. Our students’ potential for success rises when their communities get behind them. And, nobody understands the needs of students as well as their families and those in their own neighborhoods. We have generations of parents and families with diverse perspectives. We are leveraging technology to engage families in more personalized ways. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to strengthen those connections. Only then will we move closer to our goal of 100 percent graduation. Charter School advocates claim they improve public education by providing parents with more choices, increasing competition, and piloting innovations. How can LAUSD support the scaling of best practices and innovations, both from charter schools and traditional public schools that are leading the way in improving student outcomes? King: As superintendent, I am responsible for creating the conditions for success for all students. I believe that choices are of paramount importance in driving success in education. Charter schools are great spaces for innovation in educational practices and offer choices for students and their families. They are not the only way we are innovating in L.A. Unified. Another great example of innovation are pilot schools, where groups of teachers with new ideas develop concepts for school models that demonstrate success through their implementation. Esteban Torres High School in East Los Angeles, for example, consists of five unique pilot schools, collectively administered by a collaborative group of teacher-leaders and community members. Augustus Hawkins High School is another great example. We have female teachers there paving the way for more young ladies to explore careers in math, science, and technology. It’s incredible what can happen when you have employees and communities really believe in our kids, and it’s evident in our charter, pilot, magnet and traditional schools. LAUSD is known for a history of conflict with its teachers’ union in the past. What is your approach to engaging with United Teachers Los Angeles? King: The key to working effectively with bargaining units is recognizing that they have very important goals: principally to protect the rights of the workers they represent. Having played the role of a teacher and an administrator, I know first-hand the challenges these employees face every day, and I have an appreciation for the struggles our labor partners face. Looking at our partnerships through this lens and respecting all

“

I believe strongly and have been very vocal about the importance of collaboration. Having an understanding and respect for everyone who plays a role in the education process goes a long way in promoting true, effective collaboration. — LAUSD Superintendent Michelle King

“

You have worked at the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) for a number of years, including your role as interim Superintendent. How has that background prepared you to lead this organization? What are the benefits – and challenges – you bring as an “insider” to this position?

perspectives helps reduce tensions among groups and keeps us moving forward together rather than engaging in conflicts that are liable to disrupt the learning process. The Chamber and LAUSD are founding members of the L.A. Compact – a commitment since 2008 by cross-sector leaders to transform education outcomes from cradle to career by working collaboratively toward shared goals. What role can collaboration play in ensuring all LAUSD students succeed, from cradle to career? King: I am glad you mentioned the word collaboration, because it really defines my approach to leadership. The L.A. Compact has done an excellent job modeling collaborative and cross-sectoral approach to education. The most central collaboration that occurs around student learning is the relationship among the student, the teacher, and the parents or guardians. Everything we do in terms of strategy and shaping policy as a district is to support that. Our task forces are working to create the conditions necessary to nurture and support those relationships. Even more important is the recognition that nobody succeeds on their own. When we create the spaces to talk, share ideas, and increase respect for one another, we all succeed at what we are trying to do, and ultimately our students accelerate toward their own goals. As superintendent, I am committed to listening, learning, and promoting collaboration within families of schools.

While most chambers work closely with government, they are not part of government although many consider the process of appropriately influencing elected/appointed officials to be one of their most important functions.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS Faces of the Chamber Members talk about why they invest in the L.A. Area Chamber

“I’m proud to be a member and very, very happy that the Chamber exists and functions to bring about an ever-better Los Angeles.” Wally August

“The L.A. Area Chamber provides a platform to share knowledge, experience, innovation, ideas, and business opportunities.”

“The L.A. Area Chamber is a key catalyst for economic empowerment for Los Angeles businesses.”

Kat Janowicz

President Fanciful Member since 2014

Principal 3COTECH, Inc. Member since 2015

At Fancifull Gift Baskets we believe that business is personal. We are in the business of sending messages telling someone they are loved, admired, and important. The Chamber helps make business personal. The mixers give us all access to fascinating people and companies we might not otherwise encounter. The educational opportunities from Chamber functions are invaluable, both through Chamber sponsored educational programs and meetings with government entities that are rich with information that can be invaluable to us.

Although 3COTECH has been a member of the L.A. Area Chamber for less than a year, we have taken full advantage of the opportunities the Chamber provides. 3COTECH helps our clients integrate profitable sustainability, energy and resiliency planning into their business operations. We appreciate that unlike some other member organizations, our annual dues enable us to participate in a wide range of Chamber sponsored activities. Businesses benefit from the Chamber and at the same time the Chamber benefits from our participation. Together we have a stronger voice.

Danita Johnson

Vice President of Sales Los Angeles Sparks Member since 2011

“The L.A. Area Chamber has been a great partner in helping spread our lifesaving message and make a positive impact on the Los Angeles community.” Larry Sandoval

We’ve been in L.A. for 20 years and with the Chamber as members for most of this time. We’re members because for the Sparks, it’s important to not only play a role in L.A.’s recreation, but in its growth as well. The Chamber shares the Sparks common goal of enhancing the communities where we live, work and PLAY.

Senior Market Manager, Community Engagement American Cancer Society Member since 1995 The American Cancer Society’s vision is a world free from the pain and suffering of cancer. Our purpose is to achieve it. We are a united force against all cancers and we’re on a mission to save lives and celebrate life. Every single day. The L.A. Area Chamber helps us in reaching this goal by providing opportunities to create partnerships with organizations and people within Los Angeles that share our vision. From specific council meetings to mixers, the Chamber has offered great resources and support necessary for us to succeed and meet our goals.

“When looking at where to invest my time and resources, I recognize that the single most important thing I can do is to build relationships. In joining the L.A. Area Chamber, there have been many opportunities for me to connect with other members.” Sam Robinson

Founder/Owner Flowers by Sam Member since 2015

From the Small Business Council meetings to ConnectForLunch to the Referral Network Meetings and the social events across the city, I have met and have been able to hire other members to support my business in areas such as accounting and marketing. Building relationships is building trust. Thank you L.A. Area Chamber for trusting in Flowers By Sam!

When you invest in the community, everyone appreciates the return. Investing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow We are committed to helping mid-sized businesses across the Los Angeles area achieve their goals. Just like you, your dedicated banker is a part of the community and understands the unique needs of the businesses that operate here. Through our partnerships with each client, we deliver tailored financial solutions and first-class client service to position them for success. We take pride in strengthening the communities we serve by helping local businesses thrive. Let us do the same for you.

Citibank is proud to support the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. We thank you for making the world a better place and we are honored to be a part of it. We have more than 140 Branches in the greater Los Angeles area.

Contact Robert Lagace, Region Manager Los Angeles South at (213) 621-8102 Contact Brennon Crist, Region Manager Los Angeles North at (818) 775-6197

Please visit www.citibank.com to find the most convenient location for you.

Visit jpmorganchase.com/commercialbanking for more information.

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Diamond Club Sponsorship Ad_V2_03172016.indd 1

There are roughly 3,000 chambers of commerce in the US with at least one full-time staff person and thousands more established as strictly volunteer entities.

3/17/2016 7:50:26 PM

Chamber

VOICE Member Anniversaries Congratulations to our renewing members! We greatly appreciate your continued support and involvement. *Circle Level Members are in bold.

120 Year Anniversary

Bank of America Ralphs Grocery Company 100 Year Anniversary PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 95 Year Anniversary

Farmers Insurance Group of Companies

70 Year Anniversary Gibson Dunn

Six Flags Magic Mountain & Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

California Manufacturing Technology ConsultingÂŽ (CMTC) CIT Bank, N.A. G Fiori Floral Design, LLC Lockton Insurance Brokers, LLC Move LA PUENTE Learning Center Secretariat International The Janel Group of Los Angeles, Inc. Woodcraft Rangers

15 Year Anniversary

One Year Anniversary

40 Year Anniversary

Daily Journal Corporation Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP

30 Year Anniversary

The Parking Spot

Five Year Anniversary

American Export Lines Brookfield Property Partners

Andrew Christian Inc. Burns & McDonnell Engineering Co., Inc. California Grocers Association CicLAvia Inc. Constant & Associates Eighth & Grand

Environdental Five Keys Charter Schools Fortress Guard Services Garuda Promo & Branding Solutions Hecate Energy Huffman Public Affairs, LLC iFly Indoor Skydiving Los Angeles Football Club McKissack & McKissack Mixed Roots Foundation Pacific Merchant Shipping Association Rodriguez Strategies Southern California Grantmakers The Anti-Recidivism Coalition Uber Technologies, Inc. Your Choice Insurance Services Zhuhai Commercial Service

Welcome to the Chamber Thanks to our new members who joined the Chamber between January and April. To learn more about membership benefits, call 213.580.7595. SILVER PERMACITY Mika Ogisu 323.692.9264 Solar Building Products

FMT Consultants LLC Alex Encarnacion 787.930.6484 Consultants Hawkins Parnell Thackston & Young, LLP John H. Ernster 213.486.8000 Attorneys

BRONZE American Eagle Transportation Corp. John C. Kim 909.378.2222 Transportation/ Services Boys & Girls Club of Carson Kimberly A. Washington 310.522.0500 Community Organizations/Youth Programs BUILD Christopher J. Brown 650.241.0471 Community Organizations/Social Service Organizations California State University, Long Beach Dr. Jane C. Conoley 562.985.4121 Education CenterCal Properties, LLC Peter Houck 310.563.6900 Real Estate/Property Management Cybozu Corporation Yu Tanabe 415.692.6546 Information Technology Fineman West & Company Wendy On 213.688.9898 Accounting

A2Bio Corp. Nancy Park 424.542.1688 Cosmetics/Skin Care & Fragrances Aable Security Mike S. Azer 310.652.8700 Security/Guard Systems

Maggiano's Little Italy Lawrence J. Scorca 323.965.9665 Restaurants/Full Service

Advotocracy Dave Barthmuss 805.660.1914 Consultants/Public Relations

Moffatt & Nichol Randy L. Paulson 562.590.6500 Transportation/ Planning Service

AFLAC/Juanita Burks & Associates Juanita Burks 310.590.7820 Insurance

Norton Rose Fulbright US, LLP Rose B. Sorensen 213.892.9200 Attorneys

Alta Environmental Ghina Yamout 562.495.5777 Consultants/ Environmental

SWCA Environmental Consultants Phoebe Hyun 626.240.0587 Consultants

AMARA ONONI Event Design Miss Amara Ononiwu 213.290.4166 Event Management/ Event Services

Wallis State Bank Fawad Ismail 213.406.3692 Banks WeWork Alon Schwartz 847.648.4000 Coworking Office Space SMALL BUSINESS A.N. Deringer Inc. Mark Hirzel, LCB, CCS 310.885.9777 Logistics Provider

ATAK Interactive Josh Goodman 310.526-7493 Web Development Backhand Production, Inc. Jeff D. Atlas 626.351.4390 Television/Production Bakersfield Business Conference Linda J. Hartman 661.371.2202 Event Management Baskin-Robbins Laurel White 781.737.5530 Restaurants

Black Drop Coffee Roasters Krystle B. Stiles 323.926.0251 Beverages/Coffee & Tea The Blue Law Group Inc. Vanessa Meza 909.945.0121 Attorneys Brothers Cleaners, Inc. Vaughn A. Thomas 310.553.5567 Laundry Canine Companions for Independence Katie Tuttle 760.901.4300 Community Organizations Consulate General of Angola in Los Angeles, CA Honorable Martin Codo 323.219.0014 Consulate Offices Consulate General of Hungary Honorable Tamas Kovacs 310.473.9344 Consulate Offices Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany Honorable Hans J. Neumann 323.930.2703 Consulate Offices Cross Campus Elizabeth Reynolds 310.395-3500 Coworking Office Space CyberCopy Inc. Angelica Krupitsky 310.736.1001 Printers/Digital

CERTIFICATES OF

ORIGIN FREE SALE &

Dental Healing Chester L. Yokoyama 213.484.2625 Dentists

Indie Printing Andy Rosillo 213.745.6395 Printers

Dress for Success Worldwide - West Lisa Atia 323.461.1021 Community Organizations/Social Service Organizations

Inner City Law Center Adam Murray 213.891.2880 Attorneys

Economic & Commercial Office Consulate General of Egypt of Los Angeles Yasser M. Moustafa 310.575.4090 Consulate Offices Emerald Isle Greg Massimino 323.550-8100 Interior Design Energy Remodeling, Inc. Keshia Ajani 877.245.4672 Solar Building Products Estelle & Kennedy, APLC Brandy Estelle 909.608.0466 Attorneys The Gabriella Foundation Julia A. Miele 213.365.2491 Community Organizations Goldco Precious Metals Trevor Gerszt 855.465.3472 Financial Services Historic Core Dental Care Pedram Sooferi 213.629.9222 Dentists

JetNest, LLC Ekaterina Lyapustina 215.917.5007 Business Organizations JWCH Institute, Inc. Daniela E. Rodriguez 323.201.4516 Community Organizations LA Furniture Varun Tandon 866.397.0933 Furniture The Los Angeles Trust for Children's Health Maryjane E. Puffer 213.241.3511 Community Organizations MOR Financial Services Briyonna Jackson 866.937.6676 Financial Services Non-Fiction Business Paul D. Benevich 773.220.2468 Consultants/Business Noted Content Eli Bailey 872.356.6001 Marketing and Design Ono Hawaiian BBQ Christine Jan 213.745.9888 Restaurants/Full Service

OPCC and Lamp Community Kait Peters 213.488.9559 Ext:109 Community Organizations ORLY International, Inc. Kathy Axelrod 818.994.1001 Ext:158 Cosmetics Outward Media Inc. Jon-Thomas Royston 310.274.5312 Ext:104 Business Incorporation Services Pacific Machine & Equipment Appraisal, LLC Grant E. Estep 800.991.6523 Equipment Plenary Group Dale Bonner 424.278.2178 Developers Rodriguez Law Group Mariano Rodriguez 213.995.6767 Attorneys/DUI Criminal Defense Servpro of Hollywood Hills Meroujan S. Kitsinian 323.667.3100 Contractor/Emergency Clean-up

Specialty Family Foundation Carol Rowe 310.899.9700 Community Organizations Sunshine Industries Saffet Uslu 626.915.0615 Importers & Exporters Tigran's Tutoring Company Tigran Avakyan 323.327.2226 Education Triumph Strategic Consulting Dawn L. Goodman 888.992.9603 Consultants U-Haul Company of Los Angeles West Jose F. Ramirez 310.532.9434 Movers & Storage Unlimited Handyman Services Rene Garcia 323.866.9964 Contractor/Emergency Clean-up XSL USA, Inc. Ri X. Zhu 949.262.9165 Cargo ZipEdTech, LLC Maria C. Acosta 310.582.5858 Education/Programs

Shred-It Josh Amaya 562.789.1100 Document Services Special Olympics Southern California Eloise Crawford 562.502.1101 Sports

A R E YO U E X P O RT I NG ? The Chamber makes it quick and easy to meet your export documentation needs. As a service to the greater business community, the Chamber offers both Certificates of Origin and Certificates of Free Sale. Through our Certificates of Free Sale and eCertify program, you can save time and money. Get these crucial documents needed to clear your goods through customs with ease.

L E A R N MO R E BY V I S I T I NG: lachamber.com/internationalservices

In February of this year, the L.A. Area graduated our second cohort of 2015-16 Fellows participating in the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executivesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (ACCE) Fellowship for Education Attainment.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS

350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, California 90017 213.580.7500 | Fax 213.580.7511 lachamber.com

Our Mission

The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce champions economic prosperity and quality of life for the Los Angeles region by being the voice of business, promoting collaboration and helping members grow.

Diamond Club

The Chamber gratefully acknowledges the support of our largest member investors, the Diamond Club, for their help in fulfilling the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission.

AT&T Automobile Club of Southern California Bank of America Chevron Corporation Citibank N.A. Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc. Comcast | NBCUniversal JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Times Majestic Realty Co. Microsoft Corporation NBCUniversal Port of Long Beach Port of Los Angeles Ralphs Grocery Company Siemens Corporation Southern California Edison Southern California Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utility Southwest Airlines Co. Tesoro Refining & Marketing, Los Angeles Refinery Time Warner Cable UPS Verizon The Walt Disney Company Wells Fargo The views contained in the Chamber VOICE reflect positions taken by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and do not necessarily reflect the views of our Diamond Club members.

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Be a part of the L.A. Area Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature events by becoming a sponsor. ACCESS L.A. City Hall | OCT. 11 Principal for a Day | NOV. 4 State of L.A. Infrastructure | NOV. 15

Different sponsorship levels are available. Contact Lee Ligons, 213.580.7523 or lligons@lachamber.com.