Business LO N G
B E A C H
May/June 2005 Vol. 12 No. 4
California Chamber of Commerce “ADVOCACY PARTNER OF THE YEAR” for 2003 & 2004
Press-Telegram is the 2005 “Destination Tomorrow” Honoree
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he road was dirt in front of the Long Beach Press in l897. From that spot, near the corner of First Street and Pine Avenue, pioneer journalists could see and hear thundering surf pound the coast. They could feel salt on their skin. They could hear the sounds of horses clopping and the clanging of a nearby blacksmith’s shop. The Press-Telegram traces its roots back to this modest beginning when The Press was a twice-a-week newspaper serving some 2,000 residents of a small town calling itself Long Beach. The Long Beach Daily Telegram, which published its first edition in l904, merged with The Press, creating The Press-Telegram, which moved into a gleaming new buildMark Stevens, ing at Sixth Street Publisher of the Press-Telegram and Pine Avenue in l925 under the ownership of Publisher William Prisk. As the city grew, so did the Press-Telegram. In l952, Ridder Publications bought the Press-Telegram and another newspaper, which had sprouted in Long Beach, The Independent. In l974, Ridder Publications merged with Knight Newspapers, creating Knight-Ridder, Inc. MediaNews Group purchased the Press-Telegram in l997. The Press-Telegram territory now encompasses 23 cities and surrounding communities covering more than 2l4 square miles in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The Press-Telegram has received numerous journalistic awards, including the Overall Excellence Award for the best newspaper in Los Angeles County in l999. For more than a century, the Press-Telegram has been the dominant provider of local
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news and information to more than 330,000 readers in the Greater Long Beach area. The Press-Telegram has faithfully recorded the history of Long Beach and its people for more than l00 years. But the Press-Telegram has done more than just record history. It has been the watchdog for the public and has spoken out with a strong, independent voice as the community conscience. The Press-Telegram is committed to covering and speaking out on critical local issues, without fear or favor, and taking strong “For more than a century, the Press-Telegram has been the dominant provider of local news and information to more than 330,000 readers in the Greater Long Beach area.” positions when leadership is needed. The Press-Telegram is a staunch advocate for the communities it serves and, when necessary, a constructive critic. The newspaper supports local organizations and contributes to reader knowledge. The main mission of the Press-Telegram is to improve the quality of life in the Long Beach area by exposing and reporting on problems and, at the same time, offering solutions. The Press-Telegram is committed to providing news and information that affect the way people live. As the community grows and changes so, too, will the Press-Telegram as it continues to meet the needs of readers in the 2lst Century. The Press-Telegram is proud of its role in helping the Long Beach area grow into one of California’s great cities. “We have a strong commitment to public service, journalistic excellence and providing a voice to all residents,” according to Mark Stevens, Publisher of the Press-Telegram. For more than l00 years (l08 to be exact), the Press-Telegram has covered stories,
big and small, voiced its opinions unwaveringly on local issues and has been a supporter and advocate for programs leading to a better community. The Press-Telegram is proud of its deep involvement with all of the people in the Greater Long Beach area. The newspaper also is honored to have its efforts rewarded by being the dominant provider of local news and information in the area. We will continue to work hard to serve readers and to give back to the community. The Chamber will present the Press-Telegram with its highest and most prestigious honor—the “Destination Tomorrow”Award—at the 114th Inaugural Gala on June 23rd at the Hilton Long Beach.
“Building Bridges, Connecting Cultures” Celebrating World Trade Week 2005
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hanks to DeVry University, the Port of Long Beach, and our generous members who sponsored, recipients will receive nearly $100,000 in scholarships and cash awards. The IBA Speech and Poster Contests award cash prizes to winners in each of three divisions represented by Long Beach State, Long Beach City College and the Long Beach Unified School District. Each year the IBA recognizes a company with the International Achievement Award. This award is given to a company that has consistently contributed to education and a greater understanding of world trade issues and/or pioneered innovative new methods, technologies or products that have contributed to California’s world trade efforts and has demonstrated community involvement in the support of international trade. We are proud to name Sisco as this year’s recipient. The luncheon will be held at the Hilton Long Beach Hotel on Friday, May 13th, 11:00 a.m. registration and the program begins at 11:30 a.m. The cost to attend is $45. For more information or registration, please contact Judy Nelson at (562) 432-8128 or jnelson@lchamber.com.
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Chairman’s Message
2005-2006 Policy Platform of Issues
6 Center for Judicial Advocacy Established
Chairman’s Message Lou Anne Bynum
Long Beach City College
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’ve had the privilege as Chairman of the Board the last 12 months to see first hand the commitment to mission by everyone involved that goes into serving our members. I have come to appreciate much more the painstaking effort that is required at all levels to keep this organization relevant and increasingly influential as a “voice for business.” The Board and I started out 12 months ago with four strategic goals for the year: 1. Address more effectively small business needs 2. Put more emphasis on significant economic development issues in the region. 3. Outreach more effectively to businesses in the community—especially ethnic businesses, and finally, 4. Continue to build our public policy and advocacy efforts to ensure that our members have a voice in major business policy decisions and legislative efforts. This column does not allow for a full review but I am pleased to say that we have made some significant progress and initial headway in the goals that we set for this year. I hope you can join us at the Chamber’s Inaugural on June 23rd when I plan to share our “report card” with our members and the public in more detail. In looking back the past 12 months, I am also reminded of how fortunate this organization is to have such quality leadership. My deepest gratitude goes to our board and Leadership Cabinet for their tireless work, wise counsel and unwavering support. Adlai Stevenson once said that “It’s hard to lead a cavalry charge if you don’t know how to ride a horse.” Our Leadership Cabinet, in particular, not only showed me how to ride better, but also pointed me—and the horse— in the right direction. It is a particularly impressive combination when you tie this group with the unfailing leadership of our President and CEO, Randy Gordon and his excellent staff who quietly go about providing the highest level of excellence in delivering programs and services in support of the Chamber. My tenure this year is neither the beginning nor the end for me or in terms of the Chamber’s direction. It is a continuation and this organization will be in the best of hands next year with Larry Whitley as chair and Byron Schweigert as chair elect. I am very honored to have served you all and I look forward to supporting Larry and the Board in the coming year as the Long Beach Chamber keeps “leading the charge” on behalf of business in our community.
Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’s Hospital Honored with Diversity Best Practices Award
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unning a busy healthcare facility in one of the most diverse cities in the nation can present some unique challenges. Nevertheless, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Miller Children’s Hospital, the second largest not-for-profit communitybased medical campus west of the Mississippi, have set the standard for diversity and inclusion. "Our organization is committed to workforce diversity, and it is incorporated into our daily life in this community. Our policies regarding diversity are presented to new employees during orientation and they continue to be communicated throughout the person's employment,” states Byron Schweigert, Chief Executive Officer. "Our organization is committed to workforce diversity and it is incorporated into our daily life in this community.” At Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’s, special efforts are made to create a health care environment that is culturally sensitive, for staff and their patients. It begins with recruiting and hiring employees that reflect the community. This helps them meet the cultural and linguistic needs of the people they serve. In fact, the medical centers employ translators that can interpret up to 24 languages. The pastoral care department has staff members who are trained to ministry to people of all faiths. Additionally, on an as- requested
basis, the pastoral care department has access to representatives from religions within the community to meet the spiritual needs of patients, their families and staff. Pastoral care also works with the food and nutrition department to adhere to the various dietary needs associated with religious holy days. The food and nutrition department also offers a variety of ethnically appropriate foods in observance of cultural traditions. “Because we are a reflection of the community, people feel comfortable coming to us for their health care,” states Mr. Schweigert. Activities such as health fairs for children, adults and seniors keep Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’s in touch with the community and provide outreach to underserved populations. Miller Children’s Hospital alone houses 17 California Children’s Service Centers providing a full range of health care to infants through teens varying from dental work to orthopedics. As many fortune 500 companies can attest, the effort is paying off. “By being a diverse employer we ensure the growth and development of our community, its residents and our own hospitals,” states Mr. Schweigert. For these reasons, and many more, The Chamber’s Workforce Diversity Committee has recognized Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and Miller Children’s Hospital with the Diversity Best Practices Award. Congratulations to Mr. Schweigert and all 4,947 of his employees.
2004-2005 Chairman’s Circle Diamond City National Bank
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DeVry University ■ Hilton Long Beach ■ Long Beach Memorial Medical Center Port of Long Beach ■ Press-Telegram ■ Verizon
Platinum Boeing Realty / Douglas Park
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Long Beach City College
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The Boeing Company
Gold Community Hospital of Long Beach ■ Farmers & Merchants Bank ■ Keesal, Young & Logan Marriott/Renaissance Properties ■ Nextel ■ St. Mary Medical Center ■ Seaside Printing Company, Inc. Toyota Affiliated Companies ■ Universal Care
Silver BP Products North America, Inc. ■ California State University, Long Beach ■ Catalina Express DENSO Sales California, Inc. ■ Epson America, Inc. ■ Ensemble Investments LLC Long Beach Airport ■ Long Beach Business Journal ■ Long Beach Ice Dogs The Queen Mary ■ Sea Launch ■ WestLand Construction Inc. ■ Windes & McClaughry Accountancy Corp.
Bronze AEG Home Depot Center ■ Aon Group ■ Aquarium of the Pacific ■ Bryson Financial Group Center for Judicial Advocacy ■ Camden Development ■ Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage ■ Color Broadband Comerica Bank ■ The Davis Group ■ DDR/City Place ■ DIRECTV–California Broadcast Center ■ EarthTech Ernst & Young LLP ■ Ford West ■ Genesis Real Estate Group ■ Guzman & Gray, CPAs ■ Holthouse Carlin & Van Trigt, LLP Hyatt Regency Long Beach ■ Lennar Corporation ■ Long Beach Armada Baseball Team Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center ■ Long Beach Towne Center ■ LaserFiche Document Imaging Moffatt & Nichol Engineers ■ Paragon Steel ■ Parkers’ Lighthouse ■ Ratkovich & Associates ■ Southern California Edison Spirit Cruises ■ Tax Technology Research ■ Thums Long Beach Company ■ Urban Pacific Builders, LLC Via Media Graphic Design ■ Water Replenishment District of Southern California ■ Watson Land Company ■ The Westin Long Beach The “Chairman’s Circle” is a special group of members that have committed to support the LBACC through sponsorships at various financial levels and at special events. If your company would like to become a member of the Chairman’s Circle, please contact Randy Gordon, President/CEO, at (562) 432-7830 for details.
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Creating a Stronger Community
International City Theatre Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence This Season
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nternational City Theatre (ICT) is a professional, award-winning, non-profit theatre committed to bringing the Southern California community affordable, quality, professional theatre that will be entertaining, intellectually stimulating and emotionally satisfying, and to continuing our growth as a major regional theatre in the United States. ICT performs a five-play season, a holiday show and seven community and educational outreach programs. This season continues with two West Coast premiers: JUDGMENT AT NUREMBERG, and the family musical, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD, along with the classic comedy CHARLEY’S AUNT, and the circus themed A CHRISTMAS CAROL— perfect for holiday parties. Under the leadership of ICT’s founding Artistic Director/Producer Shashin Desai and General Manager, caryn desai, ICT continues to be recognized with more than 190 prestigious awards for excellence in profes-
(Left) ICT’s founding Artistic Director/Producer Shashin Desai and General Manager Caryn Desai
sional theatre. The City Council of Long Beach officially and unanimously named ICT Long Beach’s resident professional theatre company at the Performing Arts
One World Trade Center, Suite 206 Long Beach, California 90831-0206 PH (562) 436-1251 ■ FAX 436-7099 w w w . l b c h a m b e r . c o m www.longbeachadvocacy.biz
Chamber Staff: Randy Gordon . . . . . . President & CEO . . . . . . . . . (562) 436-6723 Judy Donley . . . . . . . . Administrator . . . . . . . . . . . . (562) 437-8823 Janet Nguyen. . . . . . . VP Government Affairs . . . . (562) 983-1241 Shaun Lumachi . . . . . . Advisor, Government Affairs (562) 843-0947 Jackie Kuhl . . . . . . . . . VP Special Events . . . . . . . . (562) 436-2810 Judy Nelson . . . . . . . . VP Business Councils . . . . . . (562) 432-8128 Michele Woods . . . . . VP Member Services . . . . . . (562) 590-9234 Kelly Stortz . . . . . . . . . Assistant to the President. . . (562) 432-7830 Bobbie Spohn . . . . . . Receptionist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ext 100 Alice Curran . . . . . . . . Member Services Executive . . . . . . . ext 108 Vivian Tondreault . . . . Member Services Executive . . . . . . . ext 111 Linda Izzo . . . . . . . . . . Member Relations Executive . . . . . . ext 101
Graphic Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Via Media Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Seaside Printing Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Goodwill Industries Members wishing to submit articles, press releases, or member news items for upcoming issues of Long Beach Business, please fax to (562) 436-7099, attn: Jackie Kuhl, or e-mail jkuhl@lbchamber.com. Circulation: Long Beach Business is mailed directly to more than 2400 Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce members, elected officials and community leaders.
Mission Statement
Vision Statement
The Chamber is the platform for business to provide leadership, education and advocacy so that the Long Beach area thrives in the 21st century.
The Chamber will be the acknowledged leader in creating community consensus to support local, regional, and international business.
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Center. The New York Times cited ICT as one of the most innovative U.S. theatres, and the Los Angeles Times has named ICT one of the top 10 theatres in Southern California. In 2000 ICT received the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle’s Margaret Harford Award for Sustained Excellence in the Theatre—the first time a Long Beach theatre has received this prestigious award. Community support for ICT is exemplified by the strength of its Board of Directors, comprised of business and community leaders and led by Board President, Larry Uyeda ICT relies on ticket sales and donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and the government for support. Last season, single tickets sales increased by $100,000 over the prior year. ICT has a history of fiscal responsibility and except for two years following 9/11, ICT has remained in the black. LA County Supervisor Don Knabe has said that ICT “is a cultural treasure”. By expanding community partnerships and growing outreach programs, ICT productions and programs are reaching more than 75,000 people a year. ICT continues to work with the Long Beach Unified School District with its Performing Arts and Classroom Teaching (PACT) and Students to Stage programs. ICT’s PACT Program was selected as a featured participant by the LA County Arts Commission in the LA County Regional Blueprint for the Arts and its Arts Ed Directory to improve education in county schools. “ICT productions and programs are reaching more than 75,000 people a year.” Other programs include a FREE Saturday Family Theatre Series, Summer Youth Conservatory, Internship Program, Traveling Children’s Theatre, and a Senior Program. For information, please call 562-495-4595. Website: www.ictlongbeach.org Think about an office party, a fun family outing or a group event at ICT!
Serving as the Voice of Business
Chamber Tracks 2005 State Legislation Will Issue Vote Record on Local Legislators Lowenthal, Oropeza and Karnette This October
2005-2006 Policy Platform of Issues Unanimously Approved by GAC April 14, 2005 Bill
Chamber Position
AB 6 (Chan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Personal income tax: rates AB 20 (Leslie) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Disabled persons: access: technical violations AB 48 (Lieber) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Minimum wage AB 89 (Horton). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Health care: employer coverage: disclosure AB 391 (Koretz) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Unemployment compensation benefits: locked-out workers AB 280 (Oropeza) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WATCH Harbor facilities: crimes AB 640 (Tran) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Employment: work hours AB 761 (Jones). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Health facilities: staffing AB 793 (Benoit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Unemployment insurance taxes: Employment Tax Amnesty Act of 2006 AB 1406 (Karnette) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Ports and harbors: freight security fee ACA 11 (Oropeza) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Transportation funds: loans SB 301 (Murray) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Healthcare
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dvocating priorities for the business community is rooted in our Policy Platform of Issues. This blueprint, developed by the Government Affairs Council (GAC) in late 2002, continues to serve as the foundation for our advocacy efforts. In April, The Chamber’s Government Affairs Council (GAC) voted unanimously to track the following 2005 state legislative bills that align with our 2005-2006 Public Policy Platform of Issues. Due to time, we were unable to discuss and approve all recommended bills so we will return to GAC on May 12, 2005. You can log onto our award-winning advocacy
website to track state legislative bills at: www.longbeachadvocacy.biz. If these bills are passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor, they will have an impact on the Long Beach business community. Coming this October, The Chamber will publish the voting record of our local legislators on how they voted on the bills that we tracked throughout the year: Senator Alan Lowenthal, Assemblywoman Jenny Oropeza and Assemblywoman Betty Karnette Resources: Track Legislation http://www.longbeachadvocacy.biz/bizleg2005.htm
Will Return to GAC for Approval • May 12, 2005 Bill
Chamber Position
Bill
Chamber Position
AB 169 (Oropeza) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Gender pay equity
SB 760 (Lowenthal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE $30 per teu fee for the Port of LA/LB
AB 1101 (Oropeza) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Air pollution: Diesel Magnet Sources
SB 761 (Lowenthal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Air resources: Marine Terminals–Truck Turn Times
AB 1407 (Oropeza) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE California Environmental Health and Air Quality Funding Act of 2005
SB 762 (Lowenthal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Vehicular sources: California Intermodal Port Congestion and Environmental Quality.
AB 1678 (Saldana) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WATCH Ports and harbors: cruise ships: docking: plug-in energy source
SB 763 (Lowenthal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Priority berthing program
AB 1799 (Wyland) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Workplace postings SB 101 (Battin) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Employee compensation SB 177 (Poochigian) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Workers’ compensation: alternative dispute resolution: State of California. SB 178 (Poochigian) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Workers compensation: private self-insurance program
SB 764 (Lowenthal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Air resources: South Coast Air Quality Management District: Ports (LA/LB Emission Cap). SB 840 (Kuehl) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Single-payer health care coverage SB 855 (Poochigian) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Special access: liability SB 862 (Perata) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Minimum wage increase
SB 285 (Maldonado). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Employee Wages
SB 1105 (Committee on Banking, Finance and Insurance) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Insurance fraud: chiropractors
SB 300 (Kuehl) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPPOSE Family and medical leave
ACA 4 (Plescia & Harman) . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Transportation Investment Fund AJR 8 (Canciamilla). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPORT Marine Pollution: MARPOL 73/78
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Highlighting the Membership
Long Beach Memorial Medical Center’s CEO Byron Schweigert has been selected to serve as the Chair-elect of The Chamber’s Board of Directors this coming year and will assume the Chairmanship in July 2006. He will follow Larry Whitley who is incoming Chair this July 2005. Byron has been an active board member for five years and a member of The Chamber’s Leadership Cabinet, most recently serving as the Vice Chair of Economic Development which hosted the Business Forecast conference in April. Byron has been with Long Beach Memorial Medical Center for 30 years. As CEO, he works closely with the Senior Vice Presidents, medical staff leadership and managers responsible for the day-to day operations of the 752 bed medical center including over 4,500 employees and an annual budget of more than $300 million. ■
HCVT
Holthouse Carlin &Van Trigt LLP
CPA firm Holthouse Carlin & Van Trigt LLP has been ranked as the top CPA firm headquartered in Southern California by trade journal Accounting Today. Accounting Today annually ranks the Top 100 firms in the country based on annual revenue. HCVT’s calendar 2004 revenue resulted in a rise from 4th position in 2003 to the 1st place in Southern California for the most recent calendar year. HCVT also made a jump from the 92nd position nationally in 2003 to 85th place overall in 2004. According to HCVT Partner Blake Christian, “HCVT continues to view Long Beach as a critical community to effectively service and grow our South Bay, Orange County and Inland Empire clients. The partners value our strong relationships with the Long Beach Chamber, the City and other key business leaders.” Victor Gonzales, a Long Beach resident and Tax Partner, adds: “Long Beach offers HCVT a diverse client base and the City continues to prosper with skilled leadership in both the public and private sector.”
The Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners has named Donald B. Snyder as the new director of Trade and Maritime Services for the Port of Long Beach. In his new position, Snyder—who joined the Port in 2003 after managing import/export logistics for Mattel Inc. for six years—will coordinate sales and marketing, port operations, and customer service. He will also manage the Port’s nine overseas offices. ■
Million Air Long Beach has hired Eric Hill as general manager. Hill joined Million Air with more than 15 years of aviation experience. He most recently worked for two years at OK3 Air in Heber City, Utah where he served two roles: director of line services for the company’s FBO locations and manager of the Ogden, Utah FBO facility. He also worked for 14 years at Great Western Aviation in Ogden where he worked in a variety of positions, including director of business operations, member of board of directors, general manager, FBO manager, and line supervisor.
The Long Beach Museum of Art presents California Landscapes, featuring paintings, watercolors, photographs and ceramics, drawn largely from the Museum’s permanent collection, supplemented by loans from artists and collectors from throughout Southern California. California Landscapes depicts the unique beauty of the Golden State as envisioned by artists who call, or called, California home. The exhibition fills the entire Museum with vivid images of the California landscape, including works from the turn of the 20th Century to today. The exhibition features the work of early California Plein Air painters, later works by California Scene painters of the 1930s and 1940s, and concludes with contemporary works that both capture and respond to California’s unique urban and natural landscape. California Landscapes is organized by the Long Beach Museum of Art for presentation from June 3 through August 21, 2005. For more info, visit www.lbma.org.
ThankYou to
Long Beach Memorial Medical Center for hosting The Chamber’s March Board of Directors meeting!
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The City of Carson broke ground recently on its first LEED certified building. The 15-acre BP Carson Campus will house 480 employees and be completed in fall 2006. The $30 million facility is being developed by Long Beach-based JCA Resources and constructed by Kajima International. Recognizing that buildings account for a large portion of our energy, water and raw material use, as well as waste production, the U.S. Green Building Council developed the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system to encourage businesses, governments and homeowners to voluntarily lessen their impact on the environment by rethinking the way they construct and renovate buildings.
You’ve made a commitment to your health.
So have we.
For more information, contact your broker or Universal Care at 800-380-2522.
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Web Stats
Byron Schweigert Announced as Chamber Chair-Elect for 06-07
46,089 member listings were requested in
March 2005 on the Business directory of www.lbchamber.com The top five categories requested were: Hotels & Motels, Things to See & Do, Restaurants, Catalina Island, Aquarium Auto Racing The top five members requested were: Dockside Bed & Boat, Holiday Inn, Vagabond Inn, Coast Long Beach Hotel, Courtyard by Mariott, Hilton Hotel
Congratulations to Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, a new member, who received the most non-hotel requests!
Focusing on Small Business
The Chamber Announces an Unprecedented Effort Establishes the Creation of a Center for Judicial Advocacy
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n January 2005 the Long Beach Chamber Board of Directors unanimously approved the creation of the Center for Judicial Advocacy. This new Center enables Long Beach businesses to shape judicial policy at the local level. “The Center is an unprecedented undertaking by a local chamber of commerce, and will call attention to an area of advocacy that is often overlooked by businesses and their organizations,” stated Eric Cioffi, the Long Beach Chamber’s Center for Judicial Advocacy Advisor. Laws affecting business interests are made in the courts as well as in the Legislature. Indeed, decisions by state appellate courts establish legal trends and rules that can reverberate throughout the nation. Businesses and organizations that want to shape judicial policy at the local level must be aware of pending court cases and be prepared to leverage their power to get heard. “Businesses need to 'get heard' at the judicial level for their advocacy efforts to come full circle. Otherwise,
they run the risk of sitting idly by, while a court decision is rendered that can adversely impact their interest, even if they weren't a party to the law suit,” stated Randy Gordon, President and CEO of The Chamber. The mission of the Center for Judicial Advocacy is simple: The Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce will provide its membership with information regarding the judicial branch, primarily information on certain pending court cases that may impact business interests. Information is provided to our members via a special section of the www.LongBeachAdvocacy.biz Web site. To accomplish its mission, the CJA offers its members the following tool: A section of the www.LongBeachAdvoacy.biz Web site is dedicated to providing information on certain pending court cases and cases that have already been decided that are of interest to the Long Beach business
community. The information on the Web site will also include: • Certain cases pending before the California Supreme Court including a short description of cases and their potential impact on business. • Certain cases pending before the California Courts Of Appeal and a short description of cases and their potential impact on business. • Certain important recent court decisions and a short description of the case and impact on business. Please log on to: http://www.longbeachadvocacy.biz/cja.htm for more information.
Better Business in 90 Minutes Seminar
Governor Meets With His First “Citizens’ Kitchen Cabinet” Members in Long Beach
Make Your Computer System Work as Hard as You Do!
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ot enough time and too few resources? As a business manager you have to work with limited budgets, restricted staffing and tight deadlines, and you have to face these business challenges: • Protecting your network from viruses and unauthorized access • Keeping your company information secure • Maintaining a dependable computer system • Helping employees be as productive as possible • Providing professional communications with clients If you are spending more time on managing these issues than you are managing your business, come to the Better Business in 90 Minutes Seminar. You will hear the president of a local company tell how he was able to address his “technical challenges,” increase the availability of his system while reducing his service costs. You will pick up tips on ways to make your computers work as hard as you do. This FREE seminar on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 is co-sponsored by The Chamber, TriNet, Administaff, and Professional Business Services. Long Beach Marriott Hotel, 4700 Airport Plaza Drive from 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Complimentary lunch will be served. Seating is limited. Sign up online at www.clicktoattend.com (Professional Business Services Event # 102555) or call Michelle Woods at (562) 590 9234.
Photos Courtesy of Steven Georges
Kathleen Thurmond, owner of Best Washington Uniform Supply, and Ed Wallace owner of Midwest Landscaping, thank the Governor as he ends his first “Citizens’ Kitchen Cabinet” meeting at Thurmond’s home in Long Beach.
Governor Schwarzenegger shares a laugh with (from left) Edward Wallace; Janet Nguyen; Bobbie Smith; Cheri Kinley; Doug Carpenter, owner of Paragon Steel; and Chamber Chairman, Lou Anne Bynum.
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Volunteer Opportunities
International Business Association
Women’s Council
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orld Trade Week is a 79-year tradition for the Long Beach and Los Angeles area. In 1926, Stanley T. Olafson of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce conceived the first World Trade Week to bring attention to our two local ports and to celebrate the contributions of trade to our economy. Just as our neighboring ports have grown, World Trade Week has spread across the country. The week of May 9th through May 13th will be full of activities in celebration of the trade and commerce from our local ports. The International Business Association concludes the week with our biggest luncheon of the year on Friday, May 13th at the Long Beach Hilton Hotel. The keynote address will feature Taylor Guitars. We will unveil our winning World Trade Week poster designed by a local student during the lunch. Posters will also be distributed to all in attendance. With the help of DeVry The week of May 9th through May 13th will be full of activities in celebration of the trade and commerce from our local ports. University and the Port of Long Beach over $100,000 in scholarships will be awarded in support of our education program. In addition we will recognize Mort Stuhlbarg, President of Sisco, as the recipient of our 2005 International Achievement Award.
WC Luncheon Thursday May 19
Gaining Strength in Numbers
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ur annual Scholarship Luncheon was held on April 21, 2005. Congratulations to all recipients, you inspire us all. Our three $1000 winners were Rachel Adams, Suzanne Kahlil and Katya Liemert. Our five $500 winners were Van Nguyen, Meardy Min, Patricia Sidotti, Thu Nguyen and Vanamali Tay. Our last luncheon of the fiscal year will be on Thursday, May 19th at McKenna’s Restaurant in the Long Beach Marina. No luncheon will be held in June or July, so let’s send this year off with a “bang!” “Our last luncheon of the fiscal year will be on Thursday, May 19th at McKenna’s Restaurant in the Long Beach Marina.” Installation of our new Board and President, Ivy Goolsby, will be held on June 8, 2005 at The Reef. All are welcome and please join us for a special evening beginning at 5:30 pm. We will be presenting our annual awards for Member of the Year, Business of the Year and Community Spirit Award. No host bar and great networking, as usual. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ivy and her new Board and wish them great success this next year. I am honored to have served as President for these past two years and have benefited tremendously, both personally and professionally, as a result.
The Chamber would like to say Thank You...to the following Premium Homepage Sponsors of www.lbchamber.com (in alphabetical order): Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage— Rosemary Voss Long Beach Memorial Medical Center— Dr. Byron Schweigert
Long Beach Towne Center Mall— Bill Mendelsohn Parkers' Lighthouse—Mike Cole Tax Technology Research—Chuck Swenson
LONG BEACH MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES The one source for occupational health services with two Long Beach locations.
Memorial Occupational Medical Services 450 E. Spring, Ste. 8
(562) 933-0085 Buffum Medical Pavillion Long Beach Memorial Medical Center
President, Alan Armijo My Web Stand Tech International
President, Lori M. Lofstrom Holmes and Lofstrom, LLP
President, Jim Conner Lockwood Greene Engineers
WTW Luncheon Friday, May 13th
Tech Point Technology Committee
Memorial Maritime Clinic 150 S. Pico Ave.
(562) 432-2821 Port of Long Beach
LONG BEACH
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BUSINESS
ayor O’Neill asked about Long Beach, “What are we going to be when we grow up?” That is the same question that we are asking in Tech Point and about technology in Long Beach. You are “grown up” when your actions produce productive and tangible results. Technology in Long Beach is not grown up; it exists, but you can not quantify it like you can in the Bay Area, San Diego or Irvine. These cities have technology icons enabling them to be recognized as technology headquarters. Long Beach is not a technology city...yet. Tech Point’s role is not to make Long Beach a technology town. However, we are contributing and becoming noticed. Tech Point’s membership database is increasing and gaining strength in numbers. “May 23rd, Tech Point is again partnering with Carnival Cruise Lines to present a unique luncheon experience.” We formed a Business Development Committee designed to help bring our members business from both inside and outside The Chamber. Tech Point has a wealth of technological resources and we are working to be THE major resource for technological vendors, products or services. Tech Point was on the panel at Mayor O’Neill’s Technology Industry Breakfast. The meeting featured briefings by the City Manager's office and Marie Jones Consulting who has been working on a Jobs & Business Strategy for the city. On May 23rd, Tech Point is again partnering with Carnival Cruise Lines to present a unique luncheon experience. Everyone is invited to attend. Our event includes our luncheon / networking and entertainment. Please register by May 9th by visiting www.lbtechpoint.com.
Upcoming Events May/June 2005 See Enclosed Flyers
World Trade Week Luncheon “Building Bridges—Connecting Cultures” FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2005 11:00AM REGISTRATION • 11:30AM PROGRAM Hilton Long Beach Judy Nelson (562) 432-8128 • jnelson@lbchamber.com
2nd Annual Tech Point Luncheon & Comedy Event Aboard Carnival Cruise Lines MONDAY, MAY 23 • 10:45AM (RSVP BY MAY 9TH!) Michele Woods (562) 590-9234 • mwoods@lbchamber.com
Women's Council Installation Dinner WEDNESDAY, JUNE 8, 2005 5:45PM REGISTRATION • 7:00PM DINNER & PROGRAM The Reef Restaurant Judy Nelson (562) 432-8128 • jnelson@lbchamber.com
The Chamber’s 114th Inaugural Gala THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 2005 6:00PM RECEPTION • 7:00PM DINNER & PROGRAM Hilton Long Beach Elisa Margoni (562) 436-2810 • emargoni@lbchamber.com
California Visionaries Luncheon Series TUESDAY, JUNE 28, 2005 • 11:30AM–1:30 PM Coast Long Beach Hotel Featuring: The Honorable Steve Westly, California State Controller Janet Nguyen (562) 983-1241 • jnguyen@lbchamber.com
Business Expo WEDNESDAY, JUNE 29, 2005 • 4:30PM–7:30PM The Grand, 4101 E. Willow Street Michele Woods (562) 590-9234 • mwoods@lbchamber.com
Help put veterans back to work! How? By working with VETERANS INDUSTRIES! Veterans Industries can place veterans at your worksite or perform the work at our onsite sheltered workshop. How can working with Veterans Industries benefit you? • Reduces your costs because there is no workers’ compensation, social security, medical insurance, vacation/sick pay • • • • •
One World Trade Center, Suite 206 Long Beach, California 90831-0206
or other “employee” costs. Performs assembly, packaging, sorting, labeling, and other jobs at our workshop. Provides you with a pool of pre-screened workers. Lowers your costs while meeting your production needs. Brings together qualified veterans and employers for the benefit of both. Competitive bids without cost or obligation.
For more information please contact Cheryl Iwata at (562) 826-5590 or e-mail at cheryl.iwata@med.va.gov. Visit our national website at www.va.gov/vetind.
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE
PAID PERMIT NO. 416 LONG BEACH, CA