Torrance Magazine - Our Last Issue by Torrance Chamber of Commerce

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In this Issue DEPARTMENTS

Our Notes:

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

GROWING BUSINESS A Customized Approach to Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A Key Indicator of Business Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Helping Businesses Grow in the South Bay . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Businesses Growth Strengthens Community . . . . . . . . . 10 Solar Power and Conscientious Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Carol Kulencavich Joins PDM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 5 Tips for Transitioning Careers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 New Torrance Memorial Specialty Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Is Your Net Working? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Real Estate Strategy Helps Growing Companies to Succeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 A Sensible Balance Between Fiscal & Environmental Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Education & Growth to Better Serve the Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 & 20 The SBEC — Where Innovation, Technology, Business and Investment Come Together. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 & 20 Torrance Welcomes Animal Plaza USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Green Hills Memorial Park Expands to Serve the Needs of the South Bay’s Diverse Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

FROM THE CIT Y OF TORRANCE Business Resources & Tools for the New Year . . . . . . . . 22 A New Year Chimes in with Growth for the Music Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

FROM TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Educating the Next Generation of Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . 23

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS POLIC Y From Elections Come Relationships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

FROM THE SOUTH BAY 3 Good Reasons to Prepare for Cooler Weather . . . . . . . 25

CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTS Chamber and TUSD to Partner with New Venture . . . . . 26 Convaid Adopts LAUNCH Pre-School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Ambassador Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Thank You Moylan and Sandt! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Happy 2013 to all!— A year in review brings forth thoughts of losses and gains; a feeling of natural dualities, but in business, we look ahead. Today’s recent data Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, show that single family home Green Ink Marketing sales are up, unemployment is down, energy prices have eased, and the household debt burden, which allows people to spend more to help boost the economy, hit a 29 year low. So this January 2013 issue is about Business Growth, and Torrance has once again proven to be the perfect medium for business success; Torrance remains a land of opportunity to grow and succeed, backed by a Chamber that supports its members and offers the necessary tools and networking opportunities for advancement. Like so many other businesses, at Green Ink Marketing, we were blessed with growth and gains in 2012, but the year ahead brings changes. This January 2013 issue of Torrance Magazine will be the last for this publication. 2013 comes with a new direction and focus for the Chamber, its publications, and how it will communicate with its membership. We look forward to new developments. Publishing Torrance Magazine has been an incredible opportunity, one which gave us first hand access to the pulse of Torrance through articles and news briefs as well as events and stories from fellow Chamber members, our local government, and the great people within our community. Our advertisers made the publication possible through their financial support and their belief in our Chamber and its members. We are very grateful to all of you for giving us an opportunity to be part of your business growth. Happy 2013 to all Torrance Chamber Members, wishing you health and every success for your business. Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Co-Publishers, Torrance Magazine

CHAMBER EVENTS Congressman Waxman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Women in Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

RIBBON CUTTINGS

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-31

UPCOMING EVENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 NEWS BRIEFS Convaid Creates New Program for the Community . . . . 32 TMMC 29th Annual Holiday Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 PLCOM Sellabration Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 William H. Hannon Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Fong & Associates, CPAs Expands to Better Serve the South Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Rotary Club of Del Amo Honors Music Students . . . . . . . 35

CHAMBER BENEFITS

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

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A M E S S A G E F RO M T H E C H A I R M A N O F T H E B O A R D

Then, Now, and in the Future: Success Requires A Set Course Greetings and Happy New Year! Each new year allows us time to reflect on the highlights from the past year. This year is no different from any other. Our chamber saw many successful events, from our Annual JBA/TACC Grand Mixer, this year aboard the USS Iowa, to our State of the Region, featuring Congresswoman Janice Hahn. We witnessed the City of Torrance turn 100, along with watching yet another election cycle come and go. But looking forward there is great excitement in store for our chamber. One of the perks being Chairman of the Board is coming up with a theme for my term. The theme for my year as chairman is “Setting Course for Business Success,” and this time of year complements my overall direction for the chamber. One aspect from the vision of my theme is through our advocacy. In July 2012, the chamber made its first steps in improving its advocacy for the membership. With the hiring of its first Governmental Affairs Coordinator, the chamber’s voice now has representation that will help bridge the offices of business with the halls of government. In this short amount time, we have seen an increase in attendance at our monthly Government Affairs Policy (GAP) meetings and a greater involvement between our members and government officials. GAP is a group of business leaders looking to promote and advocate for strong business practices. Our policy platform, through the involvement and inclusion from representatives of all industries, embodies the business priorities our chamber will be promoting through the course of the year. It is our goal to represent all business in and around Torrance to help sustain a strong business climate and to promote those policies that will help strengthen it.

I believe relationship building is a vital step in business. One way GAP sponsored this course of action for the membership is through their Meet ‘n Greet event with the Field Representatives from the AARON AALCIDES 2012-2013 TACC offices of our elected officials. Chairman of the Board This allowed business leaders to interact with the representatives they will be working with over the course of the next legislative year. From Federal and State levels down to our local government, GAP has connected and conducted work with all representatives. We are working hard to gain the respect from all levels of government in order to rightfully voice our concerns for a stronger economy. We are proud to have the respect from the City of Torrance. From Mayor Frank Scotto to the members of the City Council, we applaud each for working with us in building and promoting a stronger business foundation to work from. The recent 6-0 City Council vote to bring the TACC-supported Rock & Brews Restaurant to Torrance, shows the weighted value both the city and the chamber have for each other. This chamber is proud to stand by any business that supports this community and economy through healthy business practices. As you can see, we are “Setting Course for Business Success” and look for higher returns through your involvement. I am very fortunate to serve as Chairman of the Board. Your Board is working hard each and every day to set that course for your business success. Please let any of us know what we can do to better serve you and your business needs.

In July 2012, the chamber made its first steps in improving its advocacy for the membership. With the hiring of its first Governmental Affairs Coordinator, the chamber’s voice now has representation that will help bridge the offices of business with the halls of government. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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TACC Board of Directors and Staff

About Torrance Magazine

2012-2013

Torrance (ISSN #0194-5491)

Executive Board of Directors

Chris Braun Convaid Products

Published by the Torrance Area Chamber of Carla Delgado South Bay Yellow Cab

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Aaron Aalcides Aalcides Enterprises CHAIR ELECT Sherry Kramer Continental Development Corporation IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Tara O’Brien Kaiser Permanente VICE CHAIR OF FINANCE Cathy Towers Bank of Manhattan, NA VICE CHAIR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Charles Gale Jr. Metropolitan Water District of Southern California VICE CHAIR OF INTERNAL OPERATIONS Linda Amato DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance - South Bay VICE CHAIR OF REGIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Pablo Borgnino Exxon Mobil Corporation VICE CHAIR OF MEMBERSHIP Dan Thomas TelePacific Communications VICE CHAIR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND PUBLICITY Heidi Cunningham Kelly Services VICE CHAIR OF FOUNDATION and LEADERSHIP TORRANCE Mark Waronek Ek & Ek

Liz Dunne Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center, Torrance

Mailing Address (No Deliveries Accepted):

Peter Issa CapitalSource Bank

Torrance, CA 90505

Robert Katherman Katherman Co. Water Replenishment District of So. California Craig Leach Torrance Memorial Medical Center

2785 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 312 310.539.2235. DISCLAIMER: All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in Torrance Magazine. The publisher accepts no responsibility for

Ellenmary Michel Pelican Products, Inc.

of the use or publication of inaccurate or miss-

Sue Moylan Crest Marketing, Inc.

expressed by contributors and advertisers are

Shirley Pe All Yellow Cab

supported by Torrance Magazine, Green Ink

Pam Ryan Torrance Marriott

or management. Editorial content is intended

Pat Sandt Green Ink Marketing

TACC Staff Donna Duperron President and CEO

Joe Ahn Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems

Kelly Hernandez Membership Coordinator

Karin Baker American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Shatera Luna Projects Coordinator

Laurie Latham Brandt Red Car Brewery & Restaurant

Brian Rosario Government Affairs Coordinator

Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt,

Marcella Low Southern California Gas Company

Maria Applegate Marketing Coordinator

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Torrance, CA 90503. (310) 540-5858;

Judy Gibson Strategic Technology Sources, Inc.

Board of Directors

3400 Torrance Blvd., Ste 100, Green Ink Marketing,

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

2012 – 2013

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

Carmen Freeland Daily Breeze

Joshua Thomas South Bay Equity Lending

GENERAL COUNSEL Karl Schmidt Parker, Milliken, Clark, O’Hara & Samuelian

Commerce with Green Ink Marketing.

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damage arising directly or as a consequence ing information. The opinions and/or claims their own, and are not necessarily shared or Marketing, its staff, TACC, Board of Directors, as general information, and not as specific legal or financial advice; for such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and Green Ink Marketing assume no responsibility resulting from the advertising contained in the publication. ©2013 All rights reserved. Trademarked. Printed on FSC Certified Paper with Soy-Based Inks.

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CHAMBER EXEC’S MESSAGE Happy New Year! — Another Chamber year is well underway and the Chamber staff and many volunteers are making it a successful one.

always meant a quality workforce, an education system that drew more business translating into a more vibrant economic environment.

Talented and successful people are attracted to the Chamber because it has a reputation for getting things done. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce thrives as a result of the strong support of our members and the strong partnerships with the City of Torrance, local institutions and our business members. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce collaborates with our fellow Chambers and business advocacy organizations throughout the region, state and nation on a wide range of issues and initiative. We also maintain very strong relationships with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels.

The Adopt-A-School program invites businesses to become formal adopters of individual schools in the Torrance Unified School District, the mentor program encourages business members to become one-on-one mentors to students at a local high school and the State Department of Education provides our members with an update on our schools by Superintendent George Mannon.

The Government Affairs Policy (GAP) committee continues to engage policymakers and to aid in the formulation and review of proposed legislation and regulations. By explaining to leaders at City Hall, in Sacramento and Washington D.C. how laws and regulations can be created so that they’re more conducive to job creation and private investment, GAP works to influence policy at all levels. One of the Platforms of our Legislative Policy is Education and Workforce Readiness. Education has long been a priority with the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. For over 25 years, the Chamber’s ‘business-education partnerships’ have been role models for chambers throughout the Western region. Commitment to the public education system within the Torrance area has

Like all organizational programs, each of the above has undergone changes to meet the needs of the student today. In October, the Chamber convened a selection of individuals from business and education to meet collectively and open a dialogue pertaining to workforce readiness. As a result of this meeting, the Chamber will host in partnership with TUSD, a “Principal for a Day” event on March 27th. Principal for a Day (PFAD) programs have a long track record of success in many school districts. Inviting corporate leaders to shadow a principal for a day is a concept designed to help participants understand the rewards and rigors of the Principalship. PFAD programs have resulted in appreciation and respect for schools, teachers, and principals, and they have built lasting public relations benefits. Education is everyone’s business. The Torrance Chamber will continue to seek to enhance the educational experience in meaningful, relevant and pragmatic ways now and in the future.

DONNA DUPERRON President and CEO Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

CO N TAC T I N F O R M AT I O N Ambassadors Mentoring new chamber members Marianne Brooks gourmetgrindz@yahoo.com Mark Applegate aplg8ins@yahoo.com

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

Green Torrance Committee Pat Sandt - Pat@GreenInkMarketing.com

HR Professionals Human Resources Professionals of Torrance Kathleen Taylor kt@businessinquirysolutions.com

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

PROFS Professional Roundtable of Financial Services Angela Sayersangelasayerscpa@verizon.net

Tech Pros Technology Professionals of Torrance

Education has long been a priority with the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. For over 25 years, the Chamber’s ‘business-education partnerships’ have been role models for chambers throughout the Western region.

Dan Thomas - danthomas@telepacific.com

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

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G R O W I N G

B U S I N E S S

T H E R E M E DY P H A R M

A Customized Approach to Healthcare Are ALL of the ingredients in your medicines right or necessary for you? Would customization of ingredients/ quantities be more beneficial? Are there some natural approaches that would suit you better? These questions can be answered at The Remedy Pharm. If you’re looking for a full-service neighborhood pharmacy, look no farther than the Remedy Pharm, conveniently located in south Torrance on Hawthorne Boulevard. Their focus is on the individual’s needs, from custom compounding prescriptions to health education and nutritional services. They specialize in offering products and services to help people live a healthy, pure, and organic lifestyle. The first time you step inside the Remedy Pharm you can tell it’s no ordinary pharmacy. The space is large and friendly, with a reading room right in the front of the store inviting you

to browse through a large collection of books and articles or watch educational videos on a variety of topics for the health-conscious visitor. There’s also a computer with a large reference for visitors to review natural remedies as alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Even the store itself lives up to the promise of eco-friendly and natural. A plaque near the front of the store proudly describes the design philosophy of the store, which was to create a soothing, relaxing space using as much natural sustainable or recycled building products as possible, including use of linoleum made from natural raw materials and cabinets using wheat board made from post-harvest straw waste. Owner Nick Bhakta explains, “If you truly want to live a natural, healthy lifestyle, it makes sense to immerse yourself in a natural soothing environment. That’s what I wanted to create for our customers here at the Remedy Pharm.” This philosophy extends to the rest of the store as well. They offer a large assortment of natural and organic products, including skin and body care, make-up, household cleaners, and bath products. Not surprisingly, the Remedy Pharm also offers a wide array of professional quality nutritional supplements. You can find supplements from many prominent companies, but also natural and organic options that are hard to find elsewhere. Best of all, you can consult with a pharmacist or nutritionist for advice on what to choose. Because the Remedy Pharm is focused on the individual, they offer a surprising number of services in the store, including facials using all-organic products, chair massage, and natural pain management. The Remedy Pharm is located at 23811 Hawthorne Blvd in Torrance, just south of Torrance Memorial and Little Company of Mary hospitals. They can be reached by phone at (310) 375-0655. For more information and events, visit www.TheRemedyPharm.com.

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G R O W I N G

B U S I N E S S

F O N G & A S S O C I AT E S , C PA’ s

A Key Indicator of Business Growth — Accounting Services WHERE ARE WE IN THE B U S I N E S S C YC LE ?

New Developments Under the American Taxpayer Relief Act Affecting Small Businesses

Are we at the bottom of a growth curve, or on the way up? Are we at the peak, and ready for a downturn? Are we in the middle of transition “with a capital T,” where the word of the day is “change?”

One of the major factors inhibiting growth of small business in 2012 was the uncertainty over the effects of tax legislation. Recent developments provide some relief:

A key indicator – accounting services! When entrepreneurs are forming new ventures, when businesses are growing, they seek advice on ownership structures, filing requirements, tax issues and strategic planning. They turn to trusted advisors, their CPAs. Downturns in business cycles always generate accounting service activity, bankruptcy and restructuring work, analysis of cost-cutting opportunities and creative strategies, and this cycle was no different.

S U B S TA N T I A L T U R N OV E R I N S M A LL B U S I N E S S O W N E R S H I P I S D E F I N I TE LY O N T H E U P - SW I N G Many small business owners are deciding to sell in uncertain economic times and an ever-changing tax environment, or, just because the price is right. Many new entrepreneurs are stepping in to purchase and expand existing businesses. We are seeing a recirculation of investment capital from those who have

monetized one business and are now parlaying the proceeds into another. How does a small, boutique accounting firm respond to these needs, in this environment? We’ve learned from experience that: • Many small business owners focus most of their time on operating their businesses and not on monitoring and reporting. • Most successful business owners/ managers take the time to imple ment sound internal controls and accounting processes. • A good accountant is really a partner in a business’ success. • A good accounting firm will assist in determining how a business can deploy the fruits of success for future growth, and prepare for bringing in outside capital.

New Tax Provisions Extended through 2013: Code Sec. 179 Expensing – Dollar limits set at $500,000 with a $2,000,000 investment limit, retroactively for 2012 as well, where it would have been $125,000 with a $500,000 investment limit. Bonus Depreciation –Extends 50% bonus depreciation through 2013 for “first use” property. Research Tax Credit – Extends credits for qualified research expenditures. Work Opportunity Tax Credit – Credits for small businesses employing targeted groups of employees. Qualified Small Business Stock – 100% exclusion for capital gains on sale of qualified “Angel” investments. Most small businesses utilize some, if not all, of these provisions. Contact your CPA for further information on other aspects of the Act and how you might plan for anticipated legislation surrounding sequestration and the debt ceiling negotiations.

FONG & ASSOCIATES, CPAs is a team of professionals who have provided accounting services in the South Bay and Los Angeles area business and entrepreneurial community for decades. In 2012, we assisted multiple clients through that phase of “transition with a capital T,” and we’re proud that we helped many more start a new enterprise. Let us know if you’re ready for us to help you!

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B U S I N E S S

GREEN INK MARKETING

Helping Businesses Grow in the South Bay How many businesses have “marketing” as one of their strategic goals or do they allocate a marketing budget to help reach their growth and revenue goals? In 2013 more than ever, marketing has become a critical success factor. As many of you know, marketing takes many forms and utilizes many communication vehicles. Many businesses think that any marketing is too expensive and simply hope that their excellent product or service will be recognized so that business will soon follow. Sad to say, only a handful of successful businesses can claim that tactic for their success. To start, there are critical components to marketing that are not high cost items but have huge returns for your business.

MARKETING YOU • Many of you are the owners of your business, so YOU are the critical key to your business’ success • Perception plays a huge role; not only do you have to live and breathe integrity, knowledge, and skill, but this image needs to be constantly reinforced in every client engagement and networking event

BRANDING Branding is not just about your logo or the products or the services you provide. Your brand is the entire experience your clients get when they are doing business with you. In these tough times, when potential or current customers can do their comparison shopping so easily online, they are expecting more while paying less. Ensure you offer a special benefit and value, and reinforce this in all your marketing and public relations efforts. The goal is to build a loyal customer base, based on authentic value, and turn them into raving fans! More business is then likely to follow. Your brand involves not only the services you provide but includes how well you keep up with and meet your customers’ needs. More than ever, you need to pay attention to what is going on around you so you can capitalize on trends and niche markets. The good news, there is a wide variety of marketing resources and tools (from traditional to social media) to help you grow your business, communicate with your customers, and promote your value!

M M

Follow-up: do what you said you would do

Honor your contracts and commitments

Green Ink Marketing is a full-service marketing agency that provide strategies and marketing tools to help businesses grow.

WISHING YOU ALL MUCH SUCCESS IN 2013!

Listen to your customers’ needs

Keep communicating to your customers while doing their job, especially during rough patches

For more information visit www.GreenInkMarketing.com or call us at 310.539.2235

• To grow and maintain a successful business, you and your staff need to incorporate into your business culture, the following behaviors:

• If you can, be involved in community projects. This is a great relationship building opportunity and speaks volumes on your commitment to your community.

Guarantee your work; if something goes wrong, work with your clients on how to best handle the situation– don’t ignore them

Branding is not just about your logo or the products or the services you provide. Your brand is the entire experience your clients get when they are doing business with you. 8

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Our Last Torrance Magazine—

Thanks for Your Support! W

hen in 2008, Torrance Magazine, a product of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

(TACC), was about to lose its publisher of 30 years,

We want to thank our advertisers for supporting Torrance Magazine for the past 4 years!

Green Ink Marketing jumped at the opportunity to keep it alive with the intent of developing it into a strong voice for TACC’s members. For the past four years, we have truly enjoyed working with each and every one of you. This January issue of Torrance Magazine, however, will be its last, as the Chamber will be analyzing new strategic directions and focus for their publications. We want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your great participation. We owe the success of the magazine to all who showed their support by submitting articles or news briefs, as well as sustaining the production of Torrance Magazine through advertising. Thank you for working with us to make it possible for every business to have an opportunity at visibility; and we look forward now to new opportunities brought about by TACC. We hope to see you at future events, and also at continuing to support your marketing needs. Wishing you a successful 2013! —Pat Sandt and Sue Moylan GREEN INK MARKETING

www.GreenInkMarketing.com tel 310.539.2235 - fax 310.868.2627

Providing strategies and marketing tools to help businesses grow: Consulting | Message and Creative for Multiple Media | Eco-friendly Printing | English & Spanish

Actuarial Consultants Affordable Bookkeeping and Payroll All Yellow Taxi* American Business Bank AMG Enterprises Barrister Suites Boys and Girls Club Harbor City Brookdale at Pacific Inn Business Compass Comfort Keepers Continental Development Convaid Crowne Plaza - Redondo Beach CSU Dominguez Hills Cyberminds DoubleTree Hotel Torrance -South Bay Eco Smog El Camino College Everybody’s Pilates ExxonMobil* Farmer Brothers First California Bank FlipSwap Fong & Associates Pacific Gateway Workforce Investment Group* Geiger West General Motors Goodwill Industries Green Hills Memorial Park Hammons & Baldino LLP Harbor Regional Center Kaiser Permanente KDI Kelly Services LTK Consulting Luminit MAdvisory

Mail Masters* Malaga Bank Miyako Hybrid Hotel National University UPC Gym NVision One-Stop Windows & Doors Pacific Porsche Audi VW Pitbull Legal Help Port of LA Premier Business Bank Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center* Raytheon Robinson Helicopters Signarama So Fresh Market SoCal ROC So Bay Environmental Services Center South Bay Hyundai South Bay LeTip South Bay Yellow Cab* Spirit Cruises* Stanberry Cleaners State Farm Insurance Tech Go Green The Gas Company Torrance Care Center Torrance Family YMCA Torrance Memorial Medical Center* Torrance Transit Toyota* University of Redlands US Hybrid Virco Manufacturing Waste Management Zdonek & Wolowicz Accountancy Corp * Advertiser in EVERY Issue!

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B U S I N E S S

E X XO N M O B I L TO R R A N C E R E F I N E RY

Business Growth Strengthens Community

PABLO BORGNINO ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery Manager

As the manager of the ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery, which has been operating in Torrance for over 80 years, I’m proud that we’re one of Torrance’s earliest business citizens. Our operations have grown while the city evolved into what it is today – a thriving home for diverse industries and a center for business development in the state.

We believe the refinery’s primary role – and most important benefit to the community – is to safely provide reliable and affordable supplies of energy, and to do so in an economically, environmentally and socially responsible manner. The refinery produces approximately 10 percent of the gasoline refined in California, which makes us a contributor to the region’s economic well-being in a variety of ways. Our industry has a proven record of helping to drive business growth. Results of a study conducted by Purvin & Gertz, Inc. showed that in 2009, through a multiplier effect, every one direct refinery job created leads to nine others in California. The petroleum industry provided California a total of 333,000 direct and indirect jobs – 1.6 percent of total California workforce – and approximately $5.7 billion in revenue that year through taxes and fees.

It is ExxonMobil’s mission to contribute to the social and economic development of the communities in which we operate. Our refinery provides significant benefits to the local economy, providing jobs, which supports growth in other

industries; community contributions, especially in education; and taxes paid. Many contractors we hire are Torrance-based companies, and they provide support services to our facility. These companies and their employees provide a significant flow of additional revenue into the surrounding area. Beyond jobs and revenues, our business helps to improve education. Our company believes that education is the key to progress, development and economic growth. That is why we focus on promoting STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education in our schools to help prepare our students to be competitive in our increasingly high-tech world. We hope this will result in a stronger future workforce and community contributors. With the new year upon us, I look forward to continuing our refinery’s history of investing in the Torrance community. You can be assured that our team remains dedicated to safe and reliable operations. Also, I have the privilege of serving as the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President of Economic Development Committee to help businesses to strengthen our local community. Together with the City and the Chamber, we’ll support efforts to attract, sustain, and nurture business in Torrance. —By Pablo Borgnino, ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery Manager For more information about ExxonMobil Torrance Refinery visit www.torrancerefinery.com and for Exxon Mobil Corporation visit www.exxonmobil.com.

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PERLIGHT SOLAR

Solar Power and Conscientious Growth W h y Fa m i l i e s a n d B u s i n e s s e s A re G o i n g S o l a r To d a y ! There’s a huge push to go green, but what does this really mean? This idea encompasses many different aspects and ultimately boils down to reducing the impact of our individual lifestyles and businesses on the world around us. We’ve become more conscious about the goods we purchase, improving energy efficiency and reducing trash production. Yet no matter how much we conserve and recycle, we’re still getting our electricity from power plants burning fossil fuels. Solar power is one of the very few ways to change this while saving you money in the process. Photovoltaic (PV) panels work by directly transforming incident light into DC electricity. This is done silently and

without moving parts by large silicon cells that are essentially oversized computer chips. The panels are mounted on a rooftop or other structure and the electricity is fed through an inverter to be transformed into standard AC electricity before plugging it into your building’s main power panel. This is a grid-tie system and the utility grid functions like

Carol Y. Kulencavich Joins PDM, LLP The Partners of PDM, LLP (formerly Piazza, Donnelly & Marlette, LLP), one of the largest public accounting firms headquartered in the South Bay, are pleased to announce that Carol Kulencavich, CPA, MST has joined their firm as Tax Partner. Carol joins PDM after more than 20 years at a smaller Torrance based CPA firm where she headed up the tax department, working with closely held businesses, family groups, and local business owners in various industries, providing her clients with hands-on support and trusted advice.

Partner, Hank Parker, comments, “When the opportunity presented itself for Carol to join PDM, we recognized that Carol’s culture of CAROL client service and KULENCAVICH personnel development was congruous with PDM’s Pledge of Excellence.” Carol adds, “PDM’s strong commitment to their clients and employees – where everyone is treated with fairness, appreciation, integrity, and respect – is very unique. I’m very pleased to be a part of the PDM team.”

your battery. The power produced by your solar system is either consumed directly in-house or exported back onto the grid for other buildings to use. You get credited for the excess electricity that is sent back to the grid by your utility company and this offsets any grid power you consume at night, all this while dropping your electric bill down to almost nothing and literally running on sunlight! Solar power systems used to be out of the reach of most homeowners and businesses, but dramatic declines in component pricing over the past 2 years have cut costs in half. With available incentives as well as innovative financing options you’ll find that in many cases a solar power system will be saving you money from day one. The simplest financing option is where you own the system outright and are given a loan to cover the costs of installing the system. The other major financing option is to have a third-party financier own the system. They then either lease the system to you or sell you the electricity it produces, almost acting like a micro-utility company on your roof. In either case the financing is structured so that your electricity savings are larger than any finance payments, so you always come out ahead. You’ll want to make sure that whoever installs your solar system is a reputable contractor with experience. They can step you through the financing options and clearly demonstrate the benefits and savings of your solar system. Like any great investment the earnings from your system increase over time and with electricity rates going up much faster than inflation, you’ll want to get up and running now! For more information about Perlight Solar visit www.perlightusa.com.

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TRANSITIONING:

is your go-to source for no-cost Business Services Recruitment & Hiring Customized Training Youth Hiring & Internships Resources & Workshops

An Opportunity for Growth 5 Tips for Transitioning Careers Program Specialists at Pacific Gateway see hundreds of job seekers weekly. Below are five commonly expressed tips for those who are thinking of transitioning careers.

CHRIS GALLEGOS TAKE YOUR TIME Sort out your interests and priorities. Ask yourself, “What is it that I like about my current/previous job?” Zero-in on the things you found most rewarding and use them as a “motivational compass” to help you narrow down your options.

FLEXIBILITY Flexibility means sometimes having to sacrifice pre-conceived expectations on salary, distance, or even title. Letting go of some expectations does not mean you are letting go of your dignity. Once you have accepted that, you can move forward.

RESEARCH When researching a job, do not focus squarely on a specific title. Remember, some companies may offer different job titles for the same job. Be prepared for the possibility that your desired job may be called something you have never heard of.

NETWORK Networking is the best way to get out there. Find people that work in the field you are interested in and ask questions, call them, or even have lunch with them. This will benefit you in the future, having a better understanding of your desired career.

Pacific Gateway is the region’s public workforce agency, serving the cities of Long Beach, Signal Hill, Lomita, Torrance, and the Los Angeles Harbor area.

Pacific-Gateway.org Equal Opportunity Employer/Programs. Auxiliary aids and services upon request to individuals with disabilities.

TRANSFER YOUR SKILLS Skills such as customer service, administrative assistance, and project management are examples of transferable skills. Learn what your transferable skills are and use them to your benefit. Line up your skills against their specifications, word it as they do. Remember, when in Rome… —By Christopher Gallegos Communications Specialist Pacific Gateway TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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New Torrance Memorial Specialty Center E X PA N D S AC C E S S TO O U T PAT I E N T S E RV I C E S Torrance Memorial Medical Center is poised to serve its community better than ever in 2013 with the new Torrance Memorial Specialty Center. The 65,000square-foot building opened in late summer just a stone’s throw from the main medical center on Lomita Blvd. The center is now home to many Torrance Memorial outpatient departments and private practice physician groups. These include the Delpit Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, Outpatient Diabetes Care, Medical Nutrition Therapy Department, Infusion Services, Cardio Health Achieved Through Nutrition Guidance & Exercise (CHANGE) program, and several specialty clinics or practices, including cardiology, pulmonary rehabilitation, nephrology, infectious disease, cardiothoracic surgery, endocrinology and family practice. V I S I TO R S C A N “ R E V I V E ” AT F U LL - S E RV I C E C A F E Patients and visitors can enjoy a snack or meal at Revive, a café that offers deli sandwiches, soups, salads and hot and cold beverages. The land, and demolished building the Specialty Center replaces, were already owned by Torrance Hospital Association (the parent company of Torrance Memorial Medical Center), so revamping the property to expand outpatient services was a natural evolution. “With physician office space at a premium in the South Bay, we’re very excited about this continuation of the Lomita Blvd./Skypark medical corridor conveniently located just 500 yards from the medical center,” said Barry Sheppard, senior director of physician network development, Torrance Memorial Medical Center. “The building will provide a one-stop location for a variety of outpatient services.”

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A M P LE PA R K I N G A N D G R E E N CO N S T RU C T I O N The contemporary design is complemented by aesthetically-pleasing, water-efficient landscaping, such as ornamental grasses, date palm trees and fast-growing bamboo. A roundabout driveway at the main, northfacing entrance provides convenient patient drop-off points. On the north side ample visitor parking includes 34 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant spaces. Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by familiar Torrance Memorial Auxiliary volunteers dressed in blue, as well as a bright, airy lobby, which features vaulted ceilings, a glass bridge and natural wood and stone textiles. The building’s design incorporated the latest design and engineering methodologies to exceed the standards set forth by both Energy Star and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) sustainability “Certified” or “Bronze” rating systems. The materials were carefully selected to reduce future

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maintenance and consumption of harmful products to the environment, such as exterior paints, coatings and sealants. A high efficiency interior lighting system exceeds standards for energy consumption and maintenance. On the third floor, Infusion Services was carefully designed to maximize patient comfort with recliner seating and individual TV entertainment for each patient. The spacious environment offers bright, natural light and views of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. An open house and ribbon cutting is being planned in spring of 2013 for the community to learn more about what services the new Specialty Center will offer. —By Colleen Farrell, TMMC For up to date information on the new Torrance Memorial Specialty Center visit www.torrancememorial.org.

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Is Your Net Working? Networking is a very effective way of increasing business. Business relationships honed over time and tended to with care will lead to growth through referrals. While there are a number of ways to accomplish this, virtually all involve an emphasis on the “Work” part of networking.

NUMBERS: A group with less than thirty, or so, members may not have good strategic partners for your business. Larger groups offer greater opportunities for referrals.

One effective way to network is to join a networking group whose SOLE purpose is exchanging qualified referrals between members. By joining, your business immediately has an outside sales force of 30, 40, or more, individuals promoting you to friends, coworkers, relatives; in other words, everyone they come in contact with. With a number of local networking groups, how do you choose the best group for you?

FINANCES: A strong treasury means promotion of the group won’t be limited by a lack of funds.

To start, attend one or two meetings as a guest to meet other members and see a meeting in action. Quality networking groups have the following characteristics— LONGEVITY: A newer group will not yet have formed strong referral relationships.

STEVE GOLDSTEIN

CONVENIENCE: Regular attendance is a must. People will not refer you if they don’t know and trust you. One way of judging the effectiveness of a marketing expense is to determine your return on investment (ROI). Networking groups are a low cost way to advertise and ROIs of 40%, 50% and more, year after year, are the norm and cannot be casually dismissed. You just don’t get those kinds of ROIs anywhere else. Join a networking group today to grow your business and your wealth. —By Steve Goldstein, Payroll Management Solutions, Inc.

Learn more business tips by visiting www.payrollmanagementsolutions.com

SOUTHBAY LETIP SOUTHBAYLETIP.COM

SOUTHBAY’S OLDEST, LARGEST, MOST EFFECTIVE NETWORKING GROUP SINCE 1991 10-20 YEAR TENURE IS THE NORM BECAUSE THIS GROUP PUTS DOLLARS IN THEIR POCKETS! EXCLUSIVE CATAGORIES: ONE MEMBER PER BUSINESS Join and instantly Add 45 people to your sales force. On average, 30 business referrals (tips) are passed each week. Join us for a free breakfast at Sizzler’s 2880 Sepulveda, Torrance at 7:00 am any Tuesday by calling 310-491-3467 to RSVP. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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A P E X C O M M E R C I A L R E A L E STAT E

Real Estate Strategy Helps Growing Companies to Succeed As business owners consider their 2013 goals, including commercial real estate planning in strategic discussions will lead to greater success. Imagine a manufacturer, whose mission statement includes a vision for “lean manufacturing,” yet over time finds itself operating within a building and location with functional and economic obsolescence.

Some cases are more subtle. A firm exercises an option to extend their lease and fails to check the market conditions while all other departments are striving to cut costs. Real estate could have been a key driver but was overlooked. Start-ups or early stage companies needing to find functional space need help identifying landlord “fit”.

Mid-growth curve companies needing flexibility may choose to lease vs. own because return on capital is greater in the business vs. in property. It would be difficult to achieve strategic competitive advantage because the real estate and business strategy are at odds.

This is to preserve their operating capital to fuel future growth and position the firm with maximum flexibility.

Small and mid-market companies can learn lessons from big firms. As times change so must companies change with them. Here are a few tips: 1. STAY CURRENT: Discuss industry changes with your team. If you were making Twinkies you might want to know that currently there is a move toward healthy snacks.

On the other hand, ownership of a property vs. continued leasing makes sense for owners who plan to sell their firm and desire an income stream for future retirement after company disposition.

2. BE READY: A well run business that successfully executes business basics (AR controls, HR policies, billing and pricing) along with eliminating expenses will allow a firm to be nimble enough to take advantage of new opportunities. 3. REMAKE YOURSELF: If Kodak had considered digital photography a bit earlier their story might be different today. 4. TAKE A CHANCE: Are you investing in change, do you have a social media/internet marketing focus? Your company/brand may live or die on the internet.

ARNOLD NG

Arnold Ng, MBA, CCIM, President of Apex Commercial Real Estate Inc. in Torrance, alifornia. He may be reached at (310) 714-9500. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

BONUS: Learning from Hostess and Kodak

Mid-growth curve companies needing flexibility may choose to lease vs. own because return on capital is greater in the business vs. in property.

The bottom line is companies at all stages will benefit by including their real estate decision earlier as a strategic cotributing factor to their success in 2013.

Small warehouse/office space for early stage firms result in capital preservation.

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Learning lessons and adapting will lead to greater success in 2013. David Whitehead, Vice President of Business Acquisitions & Sales at Apex Commercial. He may be reached at (424) 354-1974.

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C O N ST R U C T I O N S E RV I C E S A N D I N S P E C T I O N C O M PA N Y

A Sensible Balance Between Fiscal and Environmental Responsibility A lead innovator and pioneer Aryn Sieber, is the founder in the green energy field, CSI of the Construction Services takes pride in maintaining leadand Inspection Company, an ership within the community. innovative certified Building Through public programs such Performance Contractor and as the Property Assessment consulting firm based in Clean Energy (PACE), Energy Torrance, CA. Educating and Upgrade California, The participating in the communiARYN SIEBER Volunteer Center, Ride to Fly ty plays a large part in making CSI Founder and Happy Hats for Kids and us who we are, says Sieber. being a member of the Palos Verdes “It is this mentality that sets us apart Peninsula Rotary Club, Aryn Sieber and from other contracting and consulting the CSI Company are committed to firms and allows us to effectively grow developing and maintaining partnerour business.” ships in the Torrance community and By striking a sensible balance South Bay at large. between fiscal and environmental It is because of community growth responsibility we increase a building’s that CSI has entered into a phase of performance, comfort and indoor airgrowth of its own. Founded in 2005, the quality. Certified in building performcompany has grown exponenance inspections and technologies, the tially in the last seven years, CSI Company performs comprehensive and has been recognized localnoninvasive energy assessments, identily and nationally for its work. fying the areas of most importance to Community projects, outreachsave energy, for the least investment to es and national programs have achieve the greatest impact. reached out to CSI for assisAs active members of the National tance, which is gladly providGreen Building Community, the CSI ed. They remain active volunCompany is capable of complete reconteers in numerous events struction or small-scale repairs. In throughout Southern California February 2013, they will debut their first to benefit both non-profit zero-net energy home in Torrance, organizations and underpriviwhere the home generates the amount leged community members. On of energy it consumes, noting a smaller a broader spectrum, CSI has than usual array of solar panels will be been asked to participate in used to meet the zero-net energy goal. the national “Homes for Our

Troops” program, where they help design and build “Energy Star” homes for severely wounded members of the armed forces. The CSI Company’s philosophy and mission is simple: Involving and educating the community to reduce energy before producing it and by striking a sensible balance between building economics, health, safety, and comfort. —By Aryn Sieber, CSI Founder For more information please visit us on the web at www.thecsico.com.

It is because of community growth that CSI has entered into a phase of growth of its own. Founded in 2005, the company has grown exponentially in the last seven years, and has been recognized locally and nationally for its work. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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

Education and Growth To Better Serve The Community Emma Ryan, her parents’ “little miracle,” was home for Christmas. This after spending her first five months in the state-of-the-art neonatal ICU at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance. The initial odds didn’t favor Emma, just 1 pound, 2 ounces at birth, but this little miracle fought and won. “She fit in my hand,” said her mother, Faby Ryan, who was with Emma nearly every day in the hospital’s newly redesigned NICU, the first of its kind in Los Angeles County, with private rooms that promote family bonding. Dan Zenka, too, celebrated the holidays with his family, still doing well after prostate surgery. Zenka is senior vice president of communications for the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and knew exactly the treatment he wanted after learning he had cancer. Zenka chronicled his positive experiences at PLCMMCT, including radiation therapy and hormone therapy, on his popular cancer blog, mynewyorkminute.org. Urologist Garrett Matsunaga, M.D., who has performed more than 700 prostatectomies, performed Zenka’s surgery, using PLCMT’s da Vinci robot, a less invasive tool that promotes faster healing. Every day, Providence celebrates successes and looks for advancements to continue providing the best possible outcomes for every patient. The latest developments are practiced in the Emergency Department where PLCMMCT is certified for stroke care and for treating the most severe heart attacks. It was the latter expertise that brought two South Bay men, teammates on an adult softball team, to the ED just a few weeks apart. Gary Wayland and Marc Missioreck underwent hypothermic treatment upon their arrivals by ambulance. ED physicians quickly evaluate heart attack patients to determine if they suit the criteria for this cooling treatment. Pads are applied to the torso and thighs, cooling those areas under very controlled conditions, slowing the heart rate and thus the body’s blood flow. “You’re cooled to such a state that it preserves your brain functions,” said Catrice Nakamura, RN, critical care nurse manager. “We’ve seen very good outcomes utilizing this therapy.”

Both men are home recovering, with no signs of damage from lack of blood flow. And they’re both looking forward to returning to the softball field in 2013. Physicians, nurses and other clinicians at PLCMMCT are on a constant quest for new ways to treat patients with the goal of improving outcomes. This dedication was awarded in April 2012 when the hospital was named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals in an annual study by Thomson Reuters. This award signifies that the leadership team, medical staff and employees have set national benchmarks for high performance and have outstanding systems in place to deliver quality, affordable and safe care. In the fall, PLCMMCT earned five-star ratings by Healthgrades in orthopedics, pulmonary, prostatectomy, gastrointestinal and critical care as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery. Also in 2012, The Joint Commission named the hospital as a Top Performer on Key Quality Performance Measures, placing it in the top 18 percent in the nation. PLCMMCT hosts one of the most advanced simulation laboratory programs where physicians, nurses and others hone their skills on high-tech mannequins to help improve care. And Torrance is home to the Providence Nursing Institute where nurses are urged to conduct research, broaden their knowledge and mentor newer colleagues. Last year, a hospital team, attended a conference in San Diego and learned about practices to encourage ICU patients on ventilators to get out of bed and walk about. Often these patients are sedated to ensure the optimal performance of the life-saving apparatus, but the sedation and the lengthy stay in bed can cause delirium. Research shows those patients who are encouraged to move about have sharper cognitive skills and improved circulation after long hours in bed. This group brought the idea back to the ICU. A patient, a man with chronic respiratory problems, was fitted with a portable ventilator and managed to walk about 200 feet. Flanked by doctors, nurses and therapists, he walked down the hall and back, a victorious lap. A small crowd cheered, and when the patient returned to his room and sat down, unable to speak because of a tube in his throat, Continued on page 20

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T H E S O U T H B AY E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L C E N T E R

Where Innovation, Technology, Business and Investment Come Together. The South Bay Entrepreneurial Center (SBEC) is a non-profit business incubator and educational center started by a group of local business and civic leaders who recognized that the majority of new jobs are created by start-ups and emerging growth companies. Its purpose is to provide a place where entrepreneurs can meet, exchange ideas, and access mentors and business resources to help local business grow, create jobs, and foster economic development in the South Bay. Working closely with major corporations, educational institutions, and governmental entities, the SBEC offers resources such as office space, facilities, technology, administrative services, and ongoing advice, and assists member entrepreneurs with a host of services: R&D Collaboration, Strategic and Financial Planning, Funding, Visibility, and Support.

75% of incubated businesses are still in business after 5 years versus less than 20% without incubation…The system works! Mentors at the SBEC are seasoned professionals in a variety of fields who volunteer their knowledge, expertise, and time to help member entrepreneurs. Mentors are experts in developing business plans, building management teams, and solving start-up problems. A short list of diverse entrepreneurs on the SBEC website www.thesbec.org is telling of the multifarious skill-sets among its members. Scott Herring (ZenCX), shares his story on what led him to the SBEC, “I’m in several startup and technology groups on Meetup.com, almost all of which are based in Santa Monica or Culver City. I received an email announcing an open house at SBEC, and having lived in the South Bay for 18 years, it sounded like a timely and worthwhile idea. When I visited the open house, I met several mentors and could tell SBEC was going to be the real deal.” ZenCX creates software that helps banks reduce customer churn and increase their profitability using data analytics to create better customer engagement. The broader the relationship that banks can create with their customers, the

The SBEC is a place where entrepreneurs can meet, exchange ideas, and access mentors and business resources.

longer the customers stay. Stronger customer engagements result in better retention, lower acquisition costs, and higher profitability for accounts. Speed-to-Contact is a service company that provides a cloud based phone platform to help businesses connect with consumers faster & more efficiently. The company specializes in integrations with (CRM) Customer Relationship Management Systems in many major Lead Generation industries such as consumer finance. StarQuick Solutions produces TheraQuick®, a state-of-theart electronic medical record application for mental health professionals. After the engineering phase, TheraQuick® went live in 2010 and has a target market of over 400,000 professionals in need of this solution; there is an enormous market opportunity. Performance Branding Services caters to businesses in the Health and Beauty sector that want to extend their brands through creating their own personal care product line. They help clients turn great ideas into profits through strategic planning, product formulation, manufacturing and establishing operational infrastructure. They operate a warehouse with assembly, fulfillment and shipping services for emerging brands in any business sector, and own a product line - DoshaCare Customized Ayurvedic SkinCare – that demonstrates their expertise through Performance Branding Services. Continued on page 20 TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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Continued from page 18 PLCMMCT

Continued from page 19 THE SBEC

he applauded his care giving team.

Digitsy provides Cloud Augmentation solutions allowing businesses of all sizes to extend existing systems with advanced functionality, while reducing risks and preserving existing business processes. ElasticWCM - A radically new type of Web Content Management offers a unique feature: Catalog Augmentation; providing the ability to extend existing catalogs with additional content relevant to groups of products.

Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance is dedicated to top quality care with a heavy dose of compassion, treating each patient as they would a family member. Faby Ryan calls Emma’s care team family. By Thanksgiving this little miracle was up to 9 pounds, 10 ounces, her mother recording each milestone on video. “I can’t stop smiling when I talk about her now,” Ryan said. “I used to cry when I talked about her. We are so fortunate to have had such incredible care.” For more information visit us at https://california.providence.org/ torrance/

MX Digital is a leading US-based developer and distributor of brandedonline-gambling games. MX Digital designs, produces and distributes game content to the largest international game platforms in the US, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean.

remarkable. SBEC provides a variety of services, support and networking for its members and meets the needs of an always growing business community in the South Bay area. The South Bay Entrepreneurial Center We empower innovation. 1108 Sartori Avenue, Suite 120 Torrance, CA 90501 (424) 271-7140 Conveniently located in Old Town Torrance www.thesbec.org

Since opening their offices in Torrance, growth and acceptance have been

Torrance Welcomes Animal Plaza USA ANIMAL PLAZA has been the leading dog training company in Japan, and has been in business at various locations throughout Tokyo and Osaka for over 10 years. Animal Plaza USA is the first US location that is located in South Bay’s Torrance, CA, and is involved in all aspects of dog training, including the education and certification of dog trainers. Animal Plaza USA Puppy Kindergarten’s certified trainers use only positive reinforcement training techniques to foster a strong and trusting bond between the owners and dogs. Modeled after the children’s kindergarten concept, our Puppy Kindergarten service offers a structured supervised setting to teach your puppy or dog basic obedience commands while socializing them to confidently interact with other dogs, people, and the environment. We offer free consultations with anyone that has concerns with their puppy or dog, or just want to get training for them! Give us a call at 310-329-2914.

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G R E E N H I L L S M E M O R I A L PA R K

Expands to Serve the Needs of the South Bay’s Diverse Population Green Hills Memorial Park has been serving the South Bay community since 1948. Located on the hills of the Palos Verdes Peninsula on Western Avenue, Green Hills is the only memorial park in the Los Angeles area with views of the ocean. When they first opened their gates in 1948, San Pedro and the Palos Verdes Peninsula were growing post-war communities in need of more expansive cemetery options. In a partnership between local business owners and community members, 120 acres of property were acquired and transformed into an extraordinary coastal park-like setting. Today, with a growing population, the needs are even greater. Over the years, the South Bay’s population has been growing tremendously both in population and diversity. Aware of the community’s needs, Green Hills has been expanding in developments and options, embracing the variety of traditions, religious and/or spiritual beliefs, needs, and budgets of this growing and changing population.

Studies have shown that since 1933 the cost of dying has increased 25% faster than the cost of living. Many families are afraid of the cost of inflation. Coupled by a tremendous rise in the need for property options, an increasing number of families are choosing to “pre-plan.” Pre-planning allows for families to choose particular settings, purchase companion plots, and secure at today’s prices; and even at pre-completion pricing incentives.

Families are proactively ensuring they do not leave the financial burdens and decisions to their loved ones. For three generations, Green Hills has offered a beautiful and meticulously maintained setting for families. Drive through the park and become familiar with how it is choosing to serve its growing community. For more information, contact 800-536-6826 or visit our website www.GreenHillsMemorial.com.

Green Hills has been expanding in developments and options, embracing the variety of traditions, religious and/or spiritual beliefs, needs, and budgets of this growing and changing population.

Families in the South Bay have come to trust Green Hills as the place to help them in the most trying of times. With these increases in demands, the park developments have expanded. Most of the new construction accommodates burial and cremation niches. Family members can choose to remain close, regardless of their varying choices. This April, high on the hill and overlooking the entire park and the Harbor, Pacific Terrace will open to offer indoor mausoleums, as well as traditional burial on the terrace. Similar in offerings will be Inspiration Slope, offering both indoor and outdoor mausoleums. These developments follow the most recent openings of Arroyo Vista, The Churchyard (the relocated St. Peter’s Church), and Chapel View on the lowerWest area of the Park. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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FROM THE CIT Y OF TORRANCE TO R R A N C E — T H E B U S I N E S S F R I E N D LY C I T Y

Business Tools and Resources for the New Year A Message from the City of Torrance Economic Development Office Dear Torrance Business Community:

CITY OF TORRANCE BUSINESS WATCH PROGRAM

Consider the Economic Development Office your business partner, resource and tool. We are keeping busy doing research and reaching out to our contacts to bring you opportunities, best practices and resources to help you—and your business—bloom in 2013!

• A free service through the Torrance Police Department to provide security inspections, crime watch, immediate notification of activity after business hours, safety presentations

TORRANCE ADVANTAGE AWARDS

We are happy to promote the following resources currently available in our community:

• Business recognition and awards program to take place April 2013. The business community is welcome to apply for nominations and to attend.

RECYCLE MARKET DEVELOPMENT ZONE • Financial, marketing and technical assistance to companies that use recycled products in manufacturing, or recycle refuse after the manufacturing process is complete

For more information regarding these opportunities, please contact the City of Torrance Economic Development Office at: EconomicDevelopment@Torrance CA.Gov or (310) 618-5807.

California Manufacturing Technology Consulting:

Did you know?

SMALL MANUFACTURER’S ADVANTAGE (SMA) • Federally funded business support to include company assessment, development of manufacturing-specific business plan, sales and marketing coaching and referrals to low- and no-cost business assistance resources

The Economic Development Team- comprised of City staff from all City departments- conducts visitations to create a personal connection in the business community. Interested in meeting with the team? Email DomenicaMegerdichian @TorranceCA.gov or call (310) 618-5893.

A New Year Chimes in With Growth for the Music Industry With every New Year, we look forward to change and improvement. This New Year we are looking forward to a Great Year in Music Arts Education! It is time to balance our work and our personal lives; always moving forward. At KDI Music, our mission is to help, and assist, individuals and organizations in need of musical instruments and their accessories.

We believe in giving back to a community that has always helped us grow. We help the Disneyland Alumni Club with technical support, and volunteer for any special events; we volunteer where ever we can for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Corporate Volunteer Council – So Bay; and we sponsor the Nisei Week Foundation Marching Band

Always looking to grow our Company, all we need is a little push to take us over the edge by turning to new products or suggestions from our staff of musicians. This year, as part of our desire to change, grow, and improve, we will be attending the National Association of Music Manufacturers (NAMM) to look for new products to enhance our offerings on our website, as well as additional savings to the end user. We like to tell our clients that when in doubt on any purchase from our website, they are urged to contact us at support@kdimusic.com so

we can give them a hand.

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every August for the Grand Parade held in Little Tokyo, by providing logistics and loan instruments for the music players. Please come out and Support the Band! Become a Fan/Like us on Facebook, and for insights and more in the Music Industry, visit:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/ KDI-Music/297106148071

“A Passion For The Perfect Sound”

Rheuben Allen Saxophones Kenny G Saxophones Black Diamond Saxophones

USA Educator Instruments Vintage Posters & T-Shirts Music Accessories

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

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

Educating the Next Generation of Leaders In the business community, survival and success are achieved through continuous growth. In the education community, growth and forward momentum are also essential to ensure students success. TUSD is tasked with laying the strong foundation upon which students can further build their educational and career goals. Part of the TUSD mission statement is to maximize individual potential and develop lifelong learners who will be contributing Astronaut Bernard Harris (center) at Magruder Middle School with the iLead students and Board Member Terry Ragins. members in a global society. We accomplish this by having a strong strategic plan, by providing our employees with on-going professional development, and by creating programs that allow our students to achieve both Another important aspect in preparing students for academic success and participate in leadership opportunities. different careers paths is giving them the opportunities to meet and speak with professionals who are leaders in their The education community must stay in tune with the needs respective fields. Last year, a group of iLead students had the of the work force and foster the next generation of leaders. chance to sit down with Astronaut Bernard Harris and engage In recent years there has been a shift towards an emphasis in small group discussions with him about his experiences on STEM education â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Science, Technology, Engineering, and with NASA and walking in space. Recently, volleyball AVP Mathematics, in order to better prepare students for careers Champ, Jose Loiola, visited a TUSD elementary school and in science and technology. TUSD has been providing students spoke to the students about their athletic aspirations and with the resources to cultivate an interest in STEM careers what it takes to succeed as a professional volleyball player. long before this shift began. Our middle and high school proHe later conducted a lesson with a small group of students, grams provide students with hands on experience where they providing them the rare opportunity to learn from an athlete are able to apply STEM concepts and develop critical thinking who had participated in the 2000 Olympics. and problem solving skills. Thanks to community and business collaborations, our District has been able to offer proGrowing student potential is a purposeful effort that grams like Girls in Gear, Trek Tech, Robotics Clubs, and most requires a team of dedicated professionals, passionate recently began offering college level courses in the Principles teachers, support from parents, community members and of Engineering. These programs and partnerships give our the business community. TUSD is fortunate to be part of students a competitive edge when applying to colleges and a community that is invested in the success and future of eventually when they enter the work place. its students.

Another important aspect in preparing students for different careers paths is giving them the opportunities to meet and speak with professionals who are leaders in their respective fields.

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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

POLIC Y

G A P - A C H A M B E R L I N K F O R I N F O R M AT I O N O N P RO P O S I T I O N S & M E A S U R E S

From Elections Come Relationships The November 6, 2012 Election Day marked the beginning for those politicians who ran a winning campaign. Outside of our City of Torrance elected offices, the TACC is represented by 8 members of federal and state government compared to the 6 it had prior to Election Day. Sitting in a virtual gold mine, the TACC has two United States Senators, two members of Congress, two state Senators, an Assemblyman, and a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor.. That is why the Government Affairs Policy (GAP) group was excited to host a Meet ‘n Greet with the business leaders and members of the TACC, and the field representatives from the 5 of the 8 elected offices (three representatives were not present due to scheduling conflicts). This meeting was held at the chamber offices and served as an avenue to introduce the TACC leadership and its members to those GAP will be working with over the next session of government. Present were Michael Davies (Senator Diane Feinstein), Aaron Wilensky (Congressman Henry Waxman), Bill Orton (CA Senator Rod Wright), Jennifer Zivkovic (CA Senator Ted Lieu), and Sergio Carrillo (Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi), whom all were asked questions from membership about their positions

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and experience, including light-hearted “get-to-know” questions that added some entertainment value. Look for more of these meetings with the field representatives to take place every 3-4 months, if schedules permit. Another project that stems from Election Day and a new session of the legislature is the annual platform and priorities of the TACC. Being the advocacy group of the chamber, GAP develops their legislative priorities and presents the platform to the TACC Board of Directors in late January. The Board then discusses and votes on the platforms for the 2013 legislative year. From this document that will represent all business related issues that are important to the Torrance business community, GAP will develop their Top Priorities which will be the issues GAP will be advocating to the appropriate legislative representatives. For your voice to be heard, or if you would like to present an issue at a GAP meeting, please contact Brian Rosario, Governmental Affairs Coordinator at the TACC. Also, look for updates from GAP online at www.TorranceChamber.com.

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FRO M T H E S O U T H B AY

Three Good Reasons to Prepare for Cooler Weather: Cost Savings, Energy Savings and Safety Issues As temperatures cool down South Bay Environmental Services Center (SBESC) and Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) are advising customers to inspect their home-heating appliances and perform any needed maintenance necessary to avoid any health or safety hazards.

Tips from SoCalGas for a safe, warm, and energy-efficient winter: • Have natural gas furnaces checked at least once a year by a licensed heating contractor or SoCalGas. • Vacuum and clean regularly in and around the furnace, particularly around the burner compartment to prevent a build-up of dust and lint. • Never store items in, on or around the appliance that can obstruct airflow. • Most forced-air units have a filter that cleans the air before heating and circulating it throughout the home. Check furnace filters every month during the heating season and clean or replace the filter when necessary.

Furnace Maintenance

IT’S FOR SAFETY - Now is the time to perform maintenance on home-heating appliances to check that they can be operated safely and efficiently. Home owners and renters alike are beginning to turn on their furnaces for the first time in months. Heating appliances should be serviced annually to keep them operating safely and efficiently. A licensed heating contractor or SoCalGas can provide this service. IT’S FOR HEALTH - Failure to perform annual maintenance on gas appliances may result in exposure to carbon monoxide, which can cause nausea, drowsiness, flu-like symptoms, and even death. IT SAVES MONEY - Since home heating typically accounts for more than half of the monthly winter gas bill, the best way to keep bills lower is to get gas appliances serviced.

A GREEN TIP Save water to save money. Take shorter showers to reduce water use. This will lower your water and heating bills too.

• When installing a new or cleaned furnace filter, be sure to re-install the front panel door of the furnace properly so it fits snugly; never operate the furnace without the front-panel door properly in place because doing so may create the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. • Check the appearance of the flame. If the flame is yellow, large and unsteady, the furnace needs to be inspected immediately by a licensed heating contractor or SoCalGas to have the condition corrected. • Using an unvented gas heater in your home is dangerous and a violation of the California Health and Safety Code. • Never use your oven, range or outdoor barbecue to heat your home because these appliances are not designed for this purpose. While maintaining natural gas appliances is always the homeowner’s responsibility, at a customer’s request, SoCalGas can perform free appliance safety checks. To schedule an appointment, go to socalgas.com (search “SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT”) or call SoCalGas at (800) 427-2200 or (800) 342-4545 in Spanish. For more information on furnace safety, visit SoCalGas’ website at socalgas.com (search “FURNACE SAFETY”). For other energy saving information, contact the South Bay Environmental Services Center (SBESC) – a program of the South Bay Cities Council of Governments @ www.sbesc.com 310-371-7222 and ask about our programs.

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CHAMBER

HIGHLIGHTS

Chamber and TUSD To Partner With New Venture The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC), in collaboration with the Torrance Unified School District (TUSD), will implement two programs that will focus on workforce readiness. Recently, TACC brought together business and education leaders to discuss ideas and issues concerning the employment needs, future workforce numbers, and how to bridge the two to help grow and strengthen the workforce. A strong workforce is vital for a strong economy, and the TACC would like to take it one step further. The chamber’s Workforce Readiness Task Force met in October to discuss all needs from both industry and education. The first of four scheduled meetings, issues ranged from unpaid internships to education policies focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) for students in K-12. Both programs promote hands-on training and industry awareness and will be implemented in the spring 2013. PRINCIPAL FOR A DAY is a program that pairs up business executives with individual TUSD school principals, and invites those executes to see first-hand the successes and challenges each principal is facing on a day to day operation. Each principal will develop their own agenda for the day and can showcase their school any way they would like.

THE BUSINESS FOR A DAY program invites students to local business for a half-day job shadowing, multiple presentations, and/or any other programming the business may want to do in order to inform those students about the business and what skills are needed for those positions. This program connects skill and curriculum with applicable, real-world positions within companies and business. Both events will be followed by a larger, more national view on education and where workforce readiness is being implemented across the nation. For example, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for a Competitive Workforce will be one organization invited to present on their findings and research with the return of investment on higher education, reengineering education, and how middle schools strive to close achievement gaps and much, much more. The TACC and TUSD both look forward to new ways to infuse students into the workforce to learn the skills needed to be hired, as well as, putting business leaders into the schools to see how schools are preparing their students with adequate training for their future professions.

A D O P T- A - S C H O O L PA RT N E R S H I P P RO G R A M

CONVAID Adopts LAUNCH Pre-School in Torrance As Part of Their Community Outreach Efforts As part of Convaid’s commitment to the Torrance community, company has adopted LAUNCH pre-school on November 8, 2012. The Adopt-A-School program brings all elements of the community together and, in so doing, provides role models for students, career awareness experiences, and provides Convaid employees the opportunity to volunteer at the pre-school. “Adopting LAUNCH pre-school is very special to us,” said Convaid President Chris Braun. “We are fortunate to be in a city that offers great programs like this one that allows us to be involved in the city’s schools and get our employees volunteering for such a great cause. Everyone at Convaid is excited to start working with the children and volunteering at the school.”

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The pre-school specializes in early intervention to prepare children with learning disabilities/special needs (such as speech issues, Autism, etc.) for elementary school. Convaid employees will be assisting the pre-school with volunteer work, such as helping with special events, cleaning up around on the school, reading to kids or anything else LAUNCH needs assistance with. Adopt-A-School, a partnership program between schools and the private sector stimulates business, industry and government involvement in support of the Torrance Unified School District. For more information on Convaid’s Community Outreach Programs and their products please visit http://www.convaid.com/ or call 1-888-CONVAID. LAUNCH Pre-School Address: 4000 W 27th ST, Torrance, CA 90505

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CHAMBER

HIGHLIGHTS

Ambassador Spotlight: MARIANNE BROOKS, GOURMET GRINDZ “The most important segment of the Chamber of Commerce is its membership and active volunteer leaders.” Our team of Ambassadors couldn’t agree more with President and CEO, Donna Duperron.

MARIANNE BROOKS

Ambassadors, by definition, support and serve the chamber and its members. As representatives of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce (TACC), their primary purpose is to help new members realize the value of their chamber membership, and keep local businesses thriving through networking, advertising, education, and training opportunities. Ambassadors are well acquainted with the local culture and its people, and are a natural fit when it comes to serving the needs of local businesses, and the community. Serving others comes naturally for Marianne Brooks, President of Gourmet Grindz. Marianne launched Gourmet Grindz with the mission To serve and delight our customers with fresh espresso and specialty beverage service, while supporting community outreach.

Since May 2008, Marianne and Gourmet Grindz have been serving and delighting clients by placing super automatic Italian espresso machines at their businesses, giving local businesses the chance to serve their customers and employees with that extra touch alongside a product or service.

In uncertain economic times, when perks are cut, freshly brewed hot beverages in the break room or waiting area is a way of telling customers and employees that things are hopeful. Clients rely on Gourmet Grindz to serve their business in a way that supports their ability to motivate employees, impress clients, and create a positive business culture. Satisfied clients like Thomas W. LaGrelius, M.D., F.A.A.F.P., Concierge Doctor from Torrance, CA. have been providing gourmet coffee service to patients and staff since July 2008. “The gourmet coffee service offered by Gourmet Grindz forms part of the total care experience I provide my patients. The service has been enthusiastically embraced by patients and staff alike. With an excellent balance of cost and value,

I would unhesitatingly recommend Gourmet Grindz to any business owner who wants to enhance the total experience of their clientsor employees.” Gourmet Grindz’s commitment to serve doesn’t stop with customers. Anyone who knows Marianne, knows she’s passionate about community support. Marianne and Gourmet Grindz provide gourmet coffee service and use of Italian specialty beverage machines for numerous causes and events including the Torrance YMCA, ACS Relay for Life, Honda Evening Under the Stars, and the El Segundo Education Foundation. Marianne Brooks is happy to serve on the TACC Lunch and Learn Series Committee as well as other programs in the greater South Bay. These are the hallmarks of Gourmet Grindz: • Excel in service standards • Integrity in doing business • Impact the community • Serve clients For more information contact Marianne Brooks at Gourmet Grindz 310.658.1942.

Thank You Moylan and Sandt!

his issue of Torrance Magazine is the final publication for Green Ink Marketing. It is with heartfelt appreciation that we thank Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt for the outstanding publications of Torrance Magazine they have published. The magazine content and photographs, under their direction, has been extraordinary. They have provided the Torrance business community with timely articles and outstanding information. Thank you Pat and Sue, for your vision and your commitment to our business community. The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors & Staff TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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CHAMBER

EVENTS

Congressman Henry Waxman Meets With Business Leaders To Begin a Working Relationship With the Chamber When defining speed, government usually isn’t represented by the hare. Sometimes the tortoise is even faster. But when the redistricting and redrawing of the lines by the California Citizens Redistricting Commission (CRC) happened before the 2012 elections, elected officials quickly moved to introduce themselves to their new constituents, to get to know their new district, and to receive the necessary votes to remain in office. As the dust settled from the 2012 elections, Congressman Henry Waxman was re-elected and is now the representative serving part of Torrance and the South Bay. A chamber of commerce serves its members in many ways, the Torrance Chamber of Commerce (TACC) quickly showed its value when Congressman Waxman’s office called to schedule a meeting amongst the Congressman and the chamber. Within minutes, the TACC had a room full of business leaders ready to meet with the Congressman to discuss many of the pressing issues within our business community. With representatives from all sizes of business, and also from the City of Torrance, the discussion was able to touch on many issues from public safety and enforcement to the process of getting loans to finance the opening of businesses. The Congressman was pleased to hear from Exxon Mobil Corporation, PNC Mortgage, Mesko Ventures, Toyota Motor Sales North America, and the Fleet and Public Works managers from the City of Torrance, along with the Torrance Police Chief, John Neu about the top issues and ideas each had for Torrance and the community. Congress Waxman stated he is excited to learn more about the Torrance area and figure out how he can better serve and represent this region. Jon Mesko, business partner of Michael Zislis, and who is opening Rock & Brews Restaurant in Torrance said he “was pleasantly surprised to have our Congressman make a local visit and specifically take time to listen to the needs of small business owners.” Torrance Police Chief, John Neu, added, “Our meeting with Congressman Waxman gave me an opportunity to discuss pertinent public safety issues that are taking place in his region, changes that we have made in the law enforcement community to address these issues and areas where we need his assistance because of the difficulties that have been created with the recent budget reductions at the state level.” The TACC has enjoyed outstanding relationships with all elected officials who represent the Torrance area, and now looking forward to building a working relationship with Congressman Waxman and his office to help strengthen the business climate and to represent business well. To contact Congressman Henry Waxman, go to http://waxman.house.gov.

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CONGRESSMAN WAXMAN VISITS TORRANCE 1. TACC meeting with Congressman Waxman and local business leaders. 2. (Left to Right) Chairman of the board Aaron Aalcides welcomes Congressman Henry Waxman (center) to the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. Pictured with Congressman Waxman are Jon Mesko, Mesko Ventures; Daymond Rice, Exxon Mobil Corporation; Yvette McCullough, PNC Mortgage; Rob Beste, City of Torrance; David Socolofsky, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Jason Botiller, City of Torrance; Barbara Graham, Exxon Mobil Corporation; LaStanja Baker, Toyota Motor North America; Brian Rosario and Donna Duperron, Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce.

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CHAMBER

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Women in Business Over 150 women took part in the 2nd Annual Women In Business (WIB) Royal Holiday Tea & Boutique that took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance – South Bay. The event was opened by a warm welcome from Aaron Aalcides, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board. He welcomed all the attendees and thanked all of the vendors and sponsors for their participation in the event. The guest speaker for the second annual event was one of Torrance’s own, Cherie Davis (General Manager of the Miyako Hybrid Hotel). Cherie’s speech was informative and motivational, bringing so many of the attendees to tears, provoking many to extend themselves further during this holiday season. Cherie touched on her missionary

trip taken last year to the poverty stricken country of Myanmar; and how its orphanages affected her. That trip left such a lasting impression on her, that she announced at the event, that she will be returning there for the holiday season to continue her efforts.

personalized handmade cards for the kids. Cherie went on to share her story of how the children of Myanmar loved cards; however there was never enough to go around last year. She thanked Donna Duperron, President & CEO CHERIE DAVIS Miyako Hybrid Hotel of the Torrance Chamber General Manager for providing over 200 Cherie also shared the cards created by Kay Brown and Pat overwhelming amount of Carnahan, volunteers at the Chamber support they received from North which will be taken to Myanmar. Torrance High School, Arlington Cherie stated, “Thanks to their efforts, Elementary School and the Torrance no child will go without a card this Area Chamber of Commerce. The day holiday season.” before the event, students from North Torrance High School presented Cherie Her passion and personal experiwith a check and over 14 large bags of ences inspired all that heard; and clothes. Arlington Elementary providresulted in one unforgettable event. ed her with bags full of clothes and

SPONSORS OF WIB EVENT: Kaiser Permanente Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance - South Bay Daily Breeze Torrance Tribune Exxon Mobil Corporation Wells Fargo Insurance Services USA, Inc. See’s Candies All Yellow Taxi

WIB COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Barbara Graham Exxon Mobil Corporation Dawn Shepard M Advisory Group Anne Trinh M Advisory Group Judith Diamond Pediatric Therapy Network Kristen Roby-Garcia Scentsy Stephanie Yee DoubleTree by Hilton Shatera Luna Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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RIBBON

CUT TINGS

Let the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrate with You!

For details and to schedule a ribbon cutting, grand opening, anniversary, or ground breaking ceremony, please contact Kelly Hernandez at 310-792-3808 at the Chamber.

FROOTS 21219 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90503 (310)543-9183 www.froots.com

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The Remedy Pharm 23811 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90505 (310)375-0655 www.theremedypharm.com

SIGN*A*RAMA - South Bay 1820 W. Carson Street, Suite 204 Torrance CA 90501 (310)935-4343 www.signarama-southbay.com

Harbor Freight Tools 4310 Artesia Blvd. Torrance CA 90504 (310)370-0860 www.haborfreight.com

Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Photo 23845 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90505 (310)375-7014 www.PaulsPhoto.com

Active Rx 3858 W. Carson Street, Suite 121 Torrance CA 90503 (310)543-9333 www.activerx.com

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CUT TINGS

RIBBON

The Salvation Army Stillman Sawyer Family Service Center 820 Lomita Boulevard Harbor City, CA 90710

The South Bay Entrepreneurial Center 1108 Sartori Ave., Suite 120 Torrance CA 90501 (424)271-7140 www.thesbec.org

Vodality, LLC 2807 Oregon Court, #F1 Torrance CA 90503 (310)982-2656 www.Vodality.com

South Bay Equity Lending 215 Ave I, Suite #104 Redondo Beach CA 90277 (310)516-3444 www.southbayequity.com

UPCOMING

EVENTS

February 22, 2013

March 21, 2013

May 9, 2013

Black History Celebration Torrance Marriott Cost: $50 per person Table of 10 with preferred seating: $600 Reservations: www.torrancechamber.com or (310) 543-3113

Spring Mixer in Torrance Hong Kong Association of Southern California, Southbay Chinese American Chamber of Commerce and Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Location: Holiday Inn 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Cost: $15 member/ $20 non-member Reservations: (213) 622-9446

State of the City Address Presented by Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto Location: Torrance Marriott 11:30 A.M. – Registration Reservations: (310) 543-3113

Visit www.TorranceChamber.com to see ongoing events or meetings put on by various groups. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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NEWS

BRIEFS

Convaid Creates New Program To Help Give Back to the Community For the past 36 years, Convaid has been dedicated to helping children with special needs through their lightweight, folding pediatric wheelchairs. To continue to help these children, Convaid has launched a Community Outreach Program, specifically designed for charitable donations and to reach non-funded end users, non-profit organizations and schools with special education programs. The program was created to help build relationships within the community and to establish outreach programs, attend end user tradeshows, volunteer & participate in community and marketing events and also develop relations with school’s Special Education Programs.

CIRCLE OF COMPASSION: (Left to Right) Barbara Roberts, Phillip Jue, Peggy Buker

“This is something that we have been working on for quite a while now,” said President Chris Braun. “We recently got a big push to get this program up and running from our online community. They have shared their stories with us – although some can call them nightmares – about getting denied by their insurances for various reasons or just not having the funds to purchase them themselves. This program is one way to give back to these families in need.”

The “big push” came after Convaid ran a Facebook promotion earlier this year. It started as a photo contest where people submitted a photo in hopes of winning a free Cruiser Wheelchair. However, it turned into much more than that. It had thousands of people from across the country rallying together to help these children who cannot afford a lightweight wheelchair, due to funding issues with the state or their current insurance providers. These families are just a small percentage of the population that face the reality of not getting the funding for the medical equipment they need for daily living. With federal and state reimbursements dwindling, the need for alternative funding and charitable donations has risen. “The challenges that families are facing for getting funding for wheelchairs and other mobility related equipment is far greater than it was even two years ago,” adds Braun. Convaid hopes the new Community Outreach Program will be a successful resource for these families to help secure the equipment they require. For more information on the program, the company or any of their products please visit www.convaid.com or call 1-888-CONVAID.

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NEWS

BRIEFS

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

29th Annual Holiday Festival Brings in $2 Million FOR NEW PATIENT TOWER Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s 29th Annual Holiday Festival raised $2 million toward the hospital’s $200 million capital campaign to fund construction of the new Patient Tower. More than 5,000 community members enjoyed the six-day event hosted under a 22,000 sq-ft white tent on the Torrance Memorial campus. Festivities included a display of 32 decorated trees, a Fashion Show, Gala Dinner, Santa Lunch, two Seniors Days and Holiday Shopping Boutique. During Friday evening’s Gala, Richard and Melanie Lundquist raised their paddle for a $1 million bid during the heartwarming “Gifts from the Heart”opportunity for guests to come forward with donations starting at $1,000. Three separate $100,000 bids came from Loraine and Ralph Scriba, Billee and John Gogian, and Jeff Neu. As a bonus to the week’s festivities, Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. donated a 2013 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid as the Opportunity Drawing Grand Prize, which raised $42,300.

Additional live auction items included two separate “Dinners for 10 at the Lundquists with Strand House Chef Greg Kozinsky,” purchased by Priscilla Hunt and also Milla and Ron Buss of the Teague Foundation for $11,000 each. Andrea and Michael Zislis and the Zislis Group donated multiple live auction packages, including three “Spectacular Napa…A Wine Lover’s Paradise” trips hosting five couples for three days/two nights at the Sutter Home Victorian Inn. The package includes five VIP private tastings and tours and reservations at Michelin three-star restaurant French Laundry. These were each purchased for $11,000 by Nick Tell, Julie and Jackson Yang, and also Marc & Joanne Moser, Norman Panitch, M.D., Aileen Takahashi, M.D., and John McNamara, M.D. Torrance Memorial’s new patient tower, a seven-story, 256-bed replacement project, is currently under construction and scheduled for completion in early 2015. So far $126 million has been raised toward the capital campaign.

TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER’S MILLION DOLLAR DONORS: (back row) Sam and Rose Feng, Christina and Phil Pavesi, Ralph Scriba, Michael Rouse, Phylis and Rene Scribe, Gerald and Patricia Turpanjian; (front row) Richard and Melanie Lundquist, Priscilla Hunt, Beth and Louis Graziadio and Sam Menzelos.

FESTIVAL SPON SORS Festival Benefactors– Billee and John Gogian, and The George and Reva Graziadio Family Foundation; Festival Sponsors– McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. and Torrance Memorial Medical Staff; Major Sponsors – Keenan & Associates; Dinner Sponsors– American Honda Motor Corporation, Ayne and Jack Baker, COR Healthcare Medical Associates, Jackie and Greg Geiger, Lenore and Irving Levine, Ellen and Patrick Theodora, and Loraine and Ralph Scriba; Reception Sponsor – Angela Hanis; Fashion Show Benefactor – Angela Hanis; Boutique Sponsor – Patricia and Richard Lucy; In-Kind Benefactors – G.S. Gaudenti Brothers, Morrow Meadows, Newport Printing, Redondo Van & Storage, Rolling Hills Flower Mart , Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., and The Zislis Group; In-Kind Sponsors – Classic Tents, Lowes (store #2278), Sam’s Club (store #6628), Vineyard 29 and Pat Yates; and Media Sponsors – Daily Breeze, Palos Verdes Peninsula News, and The Beach Reporter. The 2012 Holiday Festival Committee includes: Festival Co-Chairs – Carolyn Snyder and Bev George; Facility Chair – Ray O’Dell; Boutique Chairs – Ruth Daniels, Chris Pavesi and Linda Roehm; Children’s Market Place Committee – Florence Tebbets, Carol Rippstein and Andrea Gargaro; Design Committee– Ginny Frazier, Michelle Rand and Angie Scott; Entertainment Chair – Jeannine Frandsen; Silent Auction Co-Chairs – Song Klein, Helaine Lopes, Kathleen Wilson and Helle Catallo; Fashion Show Co-Chairs – Nadine Bobit, Linda Perry, Kelli Piken and Mae Sinkowitz;FFinance Co-Chairs – Betty Broughton, Jean O’Dell and Barbara Smith; Luminaries Representatives – Gail Hayashi Hubbard and Debbie Uba; Opportunity Drawing Co-Chairs– Judy Grohne and Ginny Olney; and Volunteer Chair: Irene Wilson.

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NEWS

BRIEFS

Providence Little Company of Mary’s Sellabration Breaks Gala Fundraising Record Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation’s Sellabration Gala – presented by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. – recently generated a record $706,000 for Providence LCM community outreach programs and medical center services. Nearly 500 guests celebrated at the sold-out event at The RitzCarlton, Marina del Rey. Foundation trustees Paula Del Vicario and Betsy Miller served as gala co-chairs. Speaking on behalf of the Foundation and Sellabration committee, Betsy Miller said, “Sponsorship was at an alltime high for Sellabration Gala! We cannot thank the community enough for their incredible support of these important medical programs and services.” The Spirit of Healing Award was presented to Phyllis R. Monroe, MD, of Providence LCM Medical Center San Pedro and Glen I. Komatsu, MD, of Providence LCM Medical Center Torrance. Their consistent leadership throughout decades of service has demonstrated the strength, hope and compassion necessary in caring for their patients and families, peers and the hospital community. In addition to American Honda Motor Co., Inc. as presenting sponsor, the Jacqueline Glass Family was a diamond sponsor. Platinum sponsors included Advanced Imaging of the South Bay, Inc.; Affiliated Pathologists Medical Group; the Centofante Family; Del Amo

Gardens Care Center and Gardena Convalescent Center; Driftwood Healthcare Center; Bob and Kathie Eckert; Emergency Specialist Physicians Medical Associates, Inc.; John and Billee Gogian; The Jankovich Company; John Keenan; Betsy and Chuck Miller; Providence LCM Medical Center San Pedro; Providence LCM Medical Center Torrance; Providence LCM San Pedro Medical Staff; Ralphs; the Scharffenberger Family; South Bay Anesthesia Medical Group; Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. and Wells Fargo. The Sellabration committee included Cathy Alessandra; Seema Alverson; Gwyn Dilday; Kathie Eckert; Cindy Hagelstein; Shelley Joyce, RN; Nancy Kolanz, RN; Anne Lemaire; Yvonne Liu; Steve Morikawa; Karen Olds; Nina Patel; Barbara Paullin; Marilyn Prindle; Shannon Ryan; Elaine Scott; Dawn Shepard; Lynn Watson; Linda Wenglikowski and Stephanie Wenglikowski. San Pedro resident Yvonne Bogdanovich was the winner of the opportunity drawing for a 2013 Acura MDX generously donated by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The opportunity drawing raised $75,375. For information about partnering with Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation, please contact 310-3035340 or visit www.plcmfoundation.org.

SELLABRATION GALA 2012

1. Jim Kinney and Diamond Sponsor Jacky Glass with Mary and Steve Morikawa of Presenting Sponsor American Honda Motor Co., Inc. 2. Sr. Renee Cunningham, LCM; Sr. Mildred Radziewicz, LCM; Sr. Sharon Ann Walsh, LCM; Sr. Terrence Landini, LCM; Sr. Gloria Harper, LCM, and Sr. Kathleen McIntyre, LCM 3. Gala Co-Chairs Betsy Miller and Paula Del Vicario with Foundation President Joseph Zanetta 4. Spirit of Healing Award honoree Dr. Phyllis Monroe and Providence LCM San Pedro Chief Executive Nancy Carlson 5. Spirit of Healing Award honoree Dr. Glen Komatsu with his wife Joyce and children Emi and Eric 6. Providence LCM Torrance Chief Executive Liz Dunne and Sr. Terrence Landini, LCM

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NEWS

William H. Hannon Foundation Supports South Bay’s Only Comprehensive Bereavement Support Center

The William H. Hannon Foundation has become a sponsor of youth Bereave-ment Support Groups at The Gathering Place, the South Bay’s only comprehensive bereavement support facility. The Gathering Place opened in 2000 and is Providence TrinityCare Hospice’s Center for loss and life transitions, offering counseling to those who have suffered the death of a loved one. “My late uncle, our Foundation’s founder, William Hannon, lived in Redondo Beach and was supportive of many South Bay organizations. Our support of The Gathering Place carries on his belief that communities need a network of social service providers that can help people cope with life’s transitions,” said Kathleen Hannon Aikenhead, President of the William H. Hannon Foundation. Providence TrinityCare Hospice is part of Providence Health & Services, a non-profit health system committed to providing a comprehensive array of services to meet the needs of communities across five states. Providence continues the legacy of the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of the Little Company of Mary in the West, spanning more than 150 years of service. “The Gathering Place is the only comprehensive bereavement support facility in the South Bay. Since its opening in 2000, we have experienced a steady growth in the numbers served and the demand for services. The William H. Hannon Foundation’s support allows us to continue to meet the growing need for quality, affordable bereavement counseling,” said Barbara J. Roberts, Executive Director of Providence TrinityCare Hospice Foundation.

BRIEFS

Fong & Associates CPAs Expands to Better Serve the South Bay On January 24, Fong & Associates CPAs celebrated the move to their new offices at 2980 Columbia Street in Torrance. The move is a positive step in response to a growing need for specialized and trusted accounting professionals. The self-standing two-story building boasts of expansive office space and conference RIBBON CUTTING: Merrietta Fong with Councilmen Tom areas, and is located half a Brewer, Bill Southerland, and Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto mile from the Torrance a concentration in Accounting. Shawn Courthouse. Fong & Associates has has been working as an accountant with extended tenant opportunities to likea local CPA firm in the South Bay, is a minded professionals, expanding its Redondo Beach resident and is fluent reach to the community. in Persian. As part of this expansion, Fong & The team of professionals assembled Associates welcomes Wendy Brennan at Fong& Associates is a knowledgeable and Shawn Motalebi to their team. group of individuals of broad experience Wendy brings extensive film production and expertise, and poised to meet the and finance experience, having prodiverse needs within our community. duced feature films with legendary film They are leaders in the field of accountexecutive Sid Sheinberg at The Bubble ing, tax, estate planning, estate and Factory. Wendy is a graduate of trust administration, and business conCalifornia State University, Long Beach, sulting services for privately held busihas a Certificate in Accounting from nesses, non-profit organizations, and UCLA Extension and is a member of high net worth individuals. CalCPA and the AICPA. Shawn Motalebi is a graduate of Mount St. Mary’s College, L.A. with a degree in Business Administration, and

For more information, visit www.Fong-CPAs.com, or call 310.539.9400.

MUSIC HONORED: The Rotary Club of Del Amo recently hosted a music contest for students of West and North High Schools. Students sang, played piano, ukele and clarinet. TO R R A N C E M A G A Z I N E

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CHAMBER

BENEFITS

What are the benefits of being a member of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce? GAP (Government Affairs Policy group) GAP is comprised of Chamber members who act as legislative and regulatory analysts for local business by reviewing bills on local, county, state and federal levels and who lobby for support or opposition to proposed legislation.

Green Torrance The City of Torrance and the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce partner to promote and introduce environmental initiatives and eco-friendly companies in the South Bay.

Human Resources Professionals Human Resources Professionals network and are presented with information on current compliance laws and trends.

Networking at Noon Networking at Noon is offered monthly at local Chamber member restaurants. This event allows members to promote their businesses, introduce themselves and their company with a 30 second self introduction and to possibly be chosen as a spotlight speaker for a future Networking at Noon.

‘MEMBERS ONLY’ BENEFITS • Credibility as a Chamber member • Free Business listings in the Membership Directory/Business Resource Guide • Free Business listed in web directory at www.TorranceChamber.com • Access group meetings, events and business leaders • Daily office referrals of TACC members via phone, fax, e-mail or walk in visitors • Advertising opportunities in the TACC website and Member Directory • Advertising access to E-mail blasts

Political Action Committee (PAC) Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee seeks, endorses and supports candidates whose views represent the businesses of this region to run for public office at the city, county, state, and federal levels.

P.R.O.F.S. (Professional Roundtable of Financial Services) PROFS is a monthly meeting that gives opportunities to network with others in the financial field, as well as expand your education within the industry.

Tech Pros Tech Pros brings together technology related companies and professionals (Hardware, Software and Services) as well as those wanting to be educated in making their business tech savvy. Members grow and benefit through networking, support, education and have opportunities for group presentations.

• Sponsorship and hosting opportunities at Chamber events • Opportunity to participate in annual Premier Investors program • Enhancement of visibility with a Ribbon Cutting to commemorate a Grand Opening or Anniversary • Free SCORE counseling; once a week and by appointment only • Free and unlimited Certificate of Origins

TO R R A N C E A R E A C H A M B E R O F CO M M E R C E 3 4 0 0 To r ra n c e B l vd . S u i t e 10 0 , To r r a n c e , C A 9 0 5 0 3 T ( 3 10 ) 5 4 0 - 5 8 5 8 F ( 3 10 ) 5 4 0 - 7 6 6 2 w w w. To r ra n c e C h a m b e r. c o m • I n f o @ To r ra n c e C h a m b e r. c o m

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TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU! Staffed by Torrance Memorial Physicians • No Appointment Necessary • Accepting Most Insurance Plans • Wait Time Usually Less Than 30 mins. • THIPA Accepted at Both Locations

NEW TORRANCE

Carson St.

Anza Ave.

T ORRANCE M EM O R IA L U R GENT C A RE

Lom

ita

MANHATTAN BEACH

T O R R A N C E M EMORIAL U R G EN T C A R E

Manhattan Beach Blvd.

91 Artesia Blvd.

www.TorranceMemorial.org/UrgentCare

Sepulveda Blvd.

e Av

Poinsettia Ave.

ore

310-939-7873

Pacific Ave.

855 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Ste. 101 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 HOURS: Monday—Friday: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sunday & Major Holidays: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Blv

Hawthorne Blvd.

310-921-7100

HOURS: Monday—Friday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday & Major Holidays: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

vd.

Maple Ave.

Sepulveda Bl

Just south of Sepulveda, near Gable House Bowl

Madrona Ave.

22411 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505

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

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PAID

Torrance, CA Permit No. 54