Business Focus - February 2016

Business Focus Mayor Fernando Dutra greets Chamber President Rudy Hernandez at the 2016 Business Expo

FEBRUARY 2016

Connecting the business and residential communities.

Co-chairs Gina Romero and Scott Radcliffe strike a pose during the Superhero-themed Business Expo.

More photos on pages

A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE WHITTIER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

9-11

VOL. 22 NO. 02

Business Community to Honor Whittier Police Department Silver Shield Awards Banquet to Highlight Life-Saving Actions by Officers, Staff & Volunteers

Honoring individuals for their outstanding service to the cities of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs will be the focal point of the 18th Annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet being held on Friday, February 26 at the Pacific Palms Resort in the City of Industry.

The Silver Shield event is designed to give businesses and individuals the opportunity to say thank you to our police department. The event will highlight the accomplishments and outstanding efforts of active officers, civilian staff and volunteers. Awards will be given in multiple categories to deserving individuals and retirees will be honored

for their service to our community. “This year’s program will recognize the unique men and women of the Whittier Police Department and the extraordinary things they have done this past year to protect the cities of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs,” stated Community Relations Officer John Scoggins.

The Whittier Police Department provides a variety of law enforcement services to the citizens of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. The Department is comprised of the Patrol, Investigation, Support Services and Administration Divisions. The Police Department features a great team comprised of 120 sworn police officers and 50 civilian staff. One of the outstanding programs developed by the WPD is the highly successful Community Based Policing Program. A cornerstone of this model program is a partnership between the Police Department, city residents and businesses to produce a high quality of life for all citizens. “The Police Department’s relationship with the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce and the surrounding business community is one that is strong and respected. This

Dean from Notary Signing Network.

Friend Sponsorships are only $100 and include a listing in the dinner program (which goes home with over 500 guests) and recognition in the Business Focus Newspaper. Individual tickets can be purchased for only $100 and include a 6 p.m. cocktail reception, networking, and dinner and awards beginning at 7 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, but still want to show your support, you can purchase advertising space in the tribute program. “It is very rewarding to be involved with this event and I encourage the community and our members to find ways to participate this year,” stated Hernandez. “A safe community is a prosperous community and we thank the Whittier Police Department for keeping us safe,” he added.

For more sponsorship and marketing information please contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554. Tickets and sponsorships can also be purchased online at www.whittierchamber.com.

For a complete list of Silver Shield Sponsors, turn to page 5

Superintendent Sandra Thorstenson to Retire After 39-Year Career at Whittier Union

Presort Std. US Postage PAID Whittier, CA Permit No. 1

8158 Painter Avenue Whittier, CA 90602

relationship enables our department to serve our citizens and has bolstered the partnership that drives effective enforcement efforts. The men and women of the Whittier Police Department feel extremely fortunate to enjoy this relationship with our community partners,” explained Chief Jeff Piper.

This year’s event will feature a police expo inside the beautiful ballroom at the Pacific Palms Resort. Musical entertainment will once again be provided

by Ernie Hernandez and photography

by Say Cheese Photography. “It is an honor for the Whittier Chamber to host this special event again this year,” stated Chamber Board President Rudy Hernandez from RMH Dance and Productions. “We are proud of our partnership with the Whittier Police Department and it is our privilege to coordinate this event to highlight all that they do for our community on a daily basis,” he explained.

“There are many ways to participate, but I want to personally invite you to be a Friend Sponsor which covers the cost for an officer to attend the event at no charge,” stated Silver Shield chair Sue

After a 39-year career as a teacher and administrator in the Whittier Union High School District – including over 14 years as District Superintendent – Sandra Thorstenson has announced she will retire in June 2016.

During her distinguished tenure as an educator, administrator and instructional leader at the local and state levels,

Thorstenson has become a renowned force that has successfully instituted a culture of support, collaboration and unity among teachers and staff for the benefit of every single student.

“These 39 years at Whittier Union have been fulfilling, memorable and heartfilled. It has been a joy to be a part of the wonderful strides we’ve made to develop a culture of collaboration that supports student achievement and teacher and staff development,” Superintendent Sandra Thorstenson said. “The success of Whittier Union has always been about collaboration, about

SAV E THE SAVE T HE DATE DAT E Friday, February 26, 2016 6:00 P.M. Pacific Palms Resort, City of Industry Tickets - $100 For more information, contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554

talented, deeply committed staff with a powerful conviction that demographics do not determine destiny, and that every decision we make be student-centered.

Those core values have deep roots in our District that our Board of Trustees has promoted and stood behind, and our teachers and staff have embraced.

There is no question that Whittier Union is special because of the people. I will truly miss everyone here.”

Continued on page 6 • COURAGE • SACRIFICE HONOR

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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FEBRUARY 2016

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 2015-2016 What a Difference BOARD OF DIRECTORS A Day Makes EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE &

President Rudy Hernandez, RMH Dance & Productions

Rudy Hernandez

President-Elect & VP Administration Chris Hardeman, DialMED Home Care Immediate Past President Shannon Gimbel-Hammer, Shannon G’s Flowers VP Business Information Elizabeth Martinez, Republic Services VP Networking and Marketing Gary Lee Martinez, The Traveling Traveler VP Finance Greg Nicodemus, Credit Union of Southern California VP Membership Laurie Perschbacher, MAP Property Management

30 days hath September, April, June and November, All the rest have 31, Excepting February alone.

Which only has but 28 days clear And 29 in each leap year What’s with all this talk about winning the Powerball when you truly know that the odds are so against you? As a small business owner every day the odds are against you so why add the “stress” of hoping you will win the Powerball when you have no control of the outcome?

We do it for the entertainment value and that fleeting moment of “what would I do if I did win?”

The Powerball is truly the luck of the draw. However, the month of February we are given an extra day, 24 hours, 1,440 minutes. It is a leap year and what are you going to do with that extra day?

Think about just how much happens every single day, and different ways to quantify a day.

For example, how much do companies earn on a daily basis? Check out the financials on companies like Apple, Netflix or Ford, and calculate their daily revenues, net income and labor costs.

Many workers are paid yearly salaries, which means they earn a set amount of money per calendar year. Since salaries are typically not adjusted for leap year, this means that, during a leap year, an employee will probably end up working one extra day for the same yearly salary.

How much does this “free day” affect your daily wages? Check out average yearly salaries for positions like an architect in Los Angeles, and calculate the average daily pay by dividing the

yearly salary by 365. Divide the salary by 366 to compute the average daily pay for a leap year, and compare. How much does leap year cost workers? As a small business owner we create our own salary based on how often we work, how much we sell or how many clients we see. Advantage: small business.

Some people like to think of leap day as a quadrennial gift, a free 24 hours that exists outside our normal routines. I encourage you to find a way to use your free day to do something different. This is the day that you take your rededication and intention from the past month and you go out and do something for someone else. Here are some ideas of things you can do to make a difference in our city.

• We have many non-profit organizations, churches and schools in Whittier that will accept your volunteerism, donations & support • Go to our local libraries and volunteer to read • Get a recommendation for a new book to read. YES an actual book not Continued on page 11

VP Special Events Carolyn Reggio, CAPC, Inc.

$ TAX TIPS

VP Community Affairs Dr. Ramsey Ezaki, Ezaki Dentistry

Executive Directors Carol Crosby & Lyn Carty Event & Member Relations Coordinator Natalie Saenz Receptionist Jessica Reyes Bookkeeper Amber Lawrence Whittier Chamber Business Focus Official monthly publication of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce This publication is mailed monthly to all licensed businesses in the city of Whittier, all Whittier Chamber members and 4,500 Whittier residents in selected areas.

Papers are also distributed via various community locations such as Whittier Library, Community Center, Senior Center, City Hall, etc.

Total monthly readership is 20,000.

We welcome comments, press releases and community interest stories. All submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

The Whittier Chamber reserves the right to approve and edit submitted material.

The Business Focus is also an excellent vehicle within which to advertise! For current advertising rates or to submit an article, email Katie Galvin at katie@whittierchamber.com or call (562) 698-9554.

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce

A $5,000 penalty applies to any person who submits an application for a compromise or an installment agreement if any portion of the submission is either based on a position which IRS has identified as frivolous, or reflects a desire to delay or impede the administration of federal tax laws. However, this penalty is clearly aimed at those who abuse the process and should not deter taxpayers with legitimate applications from using the compromise or installment agreement processes.

Once a return is filed, generally, the IRS has three years in which to audit it.

After that, the return is final. If no return is filed, there’s no statute of limitations.

IRS can come after the taxpayer at any time, even many years later.

Some non-filers are actually entitled to refunds. A return claiming a refund can be filed at any time, but only the tax paid within the three years before the return was filed can be recovered.

Tax withheld during a calendar year is considered paid on April 15 of the next year. Estimated tax is considered paid on the return due date, which is generally also April 15. Thus, a return filed more than three years late will likely be fruitless as a refund claim.

If you have any questions concerning this matter, please do not hesitate to call me at (562) 698-9891.

INDEX President’s Massage............... 2 Tax Tips ................................... 2 Mayor’s Message .................... 4

Meri Rama Owner 16 years

10-4 Tips from the WPD .......... 5 Member Marketplace ............ 14 Restaurant Row ..................... 15

Focusing On You

Community Celebrations........ 15

• Fast • Friendly • Reliable • Competitive Fees

Around Town ....................16-17 Milestone Members ............... 18 Networking Quote.................. 18

F COMMERCE RO BE

OF WHITTIER

New Members ....................... 19

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TY

Renewing Members............... 18

Tracy Amescua Sr. Escrow Officer 29 years

“Whittier’s #1 Escrow!”

Calendar................................ 14

CI

8158 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602 (562) 698-9554 • (562) 693-2700 FAX www.whittierchamber.com info@whittierchamber.com

If anyone you know has failed to file tax returns when due, it’s important that they be aware of the ways to resolve such a problem. Many non-filers missed a year for one reason or another, and now are afraid to re-enter the tax system. But in fact, taxpayers who file overdue returns on their own are often treated reasonably well, much better than those who are caught.

For taxpayers who can’t pay their entire tax bill at once, there’s an installment payment option. IRS will also consider an offer-in-compromise on any of the following grounds: (1) where a taxpayer is unable to pay the tax, (2) where there is doubt as to the taxpayer’s liability for the tax, (3) where collection of the full amount would cause economic hardship for the taxpayer, or (4) where compelling public policy or equity considerations exist that provide

CH A

STAFF

Richard Scrivanich

a sufficient basis for compromise.

An offer to compromise hasn’t been rejected until IRS issues a written notice to the taxpayer or his representative, advising of the rejection, the reason(s) for the rejection, and the taxpayer’s right to an appeal of the rejection. IRS can’t notify a taxpayer or taxpayer’s representative of the rejection of an offer to compromise until an independent administrative review of the proposed rejection is completed. The taxpayer may administratively appeal a rejection of an offer to compromise to the IRS Office of Appeals if, within the 30-day period commencing the day after the date on the letter of rejection, the taxpayer requests such an administrative review in the manner provided by IRS. A streamlined offer-in-compromise program is available for taxpayers with annual incomes up to $100,000.

In addition, participants must have tax liability of less than $50,000.

IRS has an independent procedure to review its own proposed rejection of requests for an installment agreement.

This internal IRS review must occur before IRS notifies the taxpayer of actual rejection of the installment agreement request. IRS also has a procedure to allow taxpayers to appeal—to the IRS Office of Appeals—IRS’s rejection of any request for an installment agreement.

IER AREA

Leighton Anderson, Bewley, Lassleben & Miller, LLC Sue Dean, Notary Signing Network Greg Gunter, Greg’s Auto Body Bryan Tabizon, Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary Debra Legan, PIH Health Krista Lesa, The Quad at Whittier La Donna Munier, Friendly Hills Bank Kim Praster, Lady Bugs Environmental Termite & Pest Control Tom Rios, Brookdale Uptown Whittier Yuki Sato, Kenkou Acupuncture & Wellness

Non-filers

ITT WH

DIRECTORS

SHO

P LO C A L

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FEBRUARY 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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FEBRUARY 2016

City Of Whittier

UPDATE MAYOR'S MESSAGE Fernando Dutra

Whittier began 2016 with no shortage of action. The City’s infrastructure held up very well during the first storms of El Nino and our public works crews were hard at work ensuring that residents had sandbags and sand in case protection was needed. At our first meeting of the new year, the City Council adopted an election procedures ordinance that set details for the 2016 election in April—the first opportunity for Whittier residents to directly elect a Mayor and the first time to vote for Council members by district. That meeting also saw the Council approve an exclusive franchise agreement to provide solid waste collection and recycling services that will save our customers money every month and will provide a substantial boost to the City’s 2016-17 budget.

January was also an exciting month for development. Townhome developments on Mar Vista Street at the Greenway Trail with 55 units as well as the former Beverly Boulevard Masonic Lodge with 40 units are coming along through the construction process, as is the 72-unit luxury apartment project on Whittier Boulevard at Catalina. The remodel underway at Toyota of Whittier is making great progress and Chick-fil-A is working on their design plans to bring a restaurant to the Whittwood Town Center that will be a great addition to the City.

The Planning Commission unanimously

approved a new commercial center that will serve the east side of town to be anchored by OSH home and garden center at the former Ford and Cadillac sites, beginning the development of the final vacant auto dealership on Whittier Boulevard. Activity in Uptown continued to grow as the City began reaching out to property owners to form a steering committee to assist in the establishment of a community benefits assessment district. This is the first step toward our investment to provide much-needed infrastructure improvements in the Uptown area.

January was also the month where the Chamber of Commerce held its annual business expo and it was, once again, an overwhelming success.

The City prides itself on having a great relationship with both individual businesses and with the Chamber. It is through these partnerships that a team approach to the economic vitality of the City is fostered. In keeping with that spirit, the City is very pleased to welcome Katie Galvin-Surbatovic as our new business development manager, filling the shoes of Angelica Frausto. Katie has been with the Whittier Chamber for almost 10 years and was most recently their director of public relations. The business development position is vital to the City as it provides a direct link to not only existing businesses but new ones hoping to locate in Whittier. I hope you will all join me in welcoming Katie to our staff.

Please help us spread the word about the City Council and mayoral election in April. I encourage you all to participate and vote. For more information, please see the City’s webpage at www.cityofwhittier.org.

Happy Valentine’s Day to all (and especially my sweetie pie!) and remember to shop Whittier

Whittier Hosts Spring Eggxtravaganza and Family Faire Youngsters may enjoy fun, food and activities at the annual Eggxtravaganza and Family Faire sponsored by the City of Whittier Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 19, at Parnell Park, 15390 Lambert Road. In the event of rain, the rain out date will be Saturday, March 26.

With the purchase of a $5 wristband, children may enjoy visits with the Easter Bunny; inflatable attractions;

face painting; Family Faire information booths; and egg hunts for all ages. If 4 or more wristbands are purchased, another wristband will be provided for free.

The egg hunts will be held by age groups throughout the day, so that all the children will be able to get their share of the goodies.

Ve n d o r s w i l l a l s o b e a t t h e Eggxtravaganza with food for purchase.

For more information, call the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 567-9400.

Whittier Community Foundation announces dancers and dates for Dancing with the Whittier Stars 2016 They’re off and dancing for the 2016 Dancing with the Whittier Stars event.

Dancing with the Whittier Stars is a highly popular annual event sponsored by the Whittier Community Foundation.

This event pairs local community “stars” with professional dancers Rudy and Maria Hernandez from RMH Dance & Productions. The result is a highly entertaining and inspirational show that raises funds for projects in the Whittier community that are determined by the Whittier Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. New this year, each dancer will be able to donate a portion of their fund raising efforts to a Whittier non-profit of their choice.

Tickets for “Dancing” are $45. Three performances are scheduled for this year, all held at the Whittier Center Theatre, 7630 Washington Avenue: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25, and 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 26, preceded by a reception at 6 p.m.

Twelve dancers will be featured in this year’s event: Judy Bradt, A Special Event; Janet Campfield, Assistance League of Whittier; Tom Drozdowski, T&J Sausage Kitchen, Inc.; Ross Gile, DigiCal; Dean Harako, Whittier Host Lions Club; Oscar Hernandez, Whittier Boys and Girls Club; Nick Kiouftis, California Grill;

Jessica Magdosku, Friendly Hills Country Club; John Scoggins, Whittier Police Department; Virginia Santana, Whittier Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department; Lori Tiffany, YMCA of Greater Whittier; and Stephanie Warner, Whittier Area Community Church.

The Whittier Community Foundation’s mission is to provide projects and programs to enhance the quality of life in Whittier. Projects that benefit the whole community are determined by the Foundation’s Board of Directors and proceeds from Foundation events help fund each project. A sample of past projects fully or partly funded by the Whittier Community Foundation include the recently completed Dog Park, the Whittier Police Memorial, the renovation of Kennedy Park, play equipment at Michigan Park, a new Emergency Disaster trailer, and new animals and equipment for the Parnell Park zoo. This year the Foundation is hoping to raise money to create a firstclass multi-purpose event room at the Whittier Community Center.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, call the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-567-9400 or log onto www.whittiercommunityfoundation.com.

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SAVE THE DATES Wednesday, May 25, 2016 4:00 pm – Matinee Performance • 6:00 pm – Reception 6:00 pm – Reception • 7:00 pm – Performance

Thursday, May 26, 2016 6:00 pm – Reception • 7:00 pm – Performance Whittier Community Center Theatre 7630 S. Washington Ave. Whittier, CA 90602

Jessica Magdosku Friendly Hills Country Club

Judy Bradt A Special Event

Janet Campfield Assistance League of Whittier

Virginia Santana Whittier Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department

Dean Harako Whittier Host Lions Club

Tom Drozdowski T&J Sausage Kitchen, Inc. Ross Gile Digical

Lori Tiffany YMCA of Greater Whittier

Stephanie Warner Whittier Area Community Church

Nick Kiouftis California Grill Oscar Hernandez Whittier Boys & Girls Club

TICKETS - $45 PER PERSON

John Scoggins Whittier Police Department

FEBRUARY 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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City Of Whittier

UPDATE 10

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Avoiding Crime In the New Year - 2016

Captain Michael Davis During 2015, crime was steady and showed a minor increase in Whittier.

Make no mistake about it; just as criminals continue working hard to take away your money and valued possessions; the Whittier Police Department is working just as hard to prevent you and your family from becoming victims of their criminal acts. Vigilance coupled with taking simple steps throughout your day will help reduce your chances of being targeted by criminal activity.

The most prominent property crimes in our community in 2015 continued to be vehicle burglaries, thefts from vehicles and thefts of vehicles. A high percentage of reported car burglaries and thefts from vehicles involved the loss of valuable items that were left in plain view by owners while away from their

vehicles. Items such as purses, laptops, cell phones, designer sunglasses, GPS units, backpacks, packages were left on seats, floorboards, or on the dash and change left in plain sight. In many of the cases, criminals broke the window or punched the door lock and stole the items. In some cases, owners left car doors unlocked, which made it very easy for criminals to obtain their loot. You can reduce your chances of becoming a victim by NEVER leaving any items in plain view while away from your vehicle.

This includes phone chargers, spare change and miscellaneous paperwork that may invite a criminal to break your window in search of more items.

While we saw a decrease overall in violent crimes for 2015, that is no reason to let your guard down when it comes to avoiding becoming a crime victim in 2016. Robbery is a violent crime where force or fear is used to obtain property from the victim. Pedestrians are an easy target for robbers on streets, in parking lots or in areas with low lighting.

As with burglaries, criminals look for an easy target. They size up weaknesses in potential victims and always examine the person for visible valuable items.

With the continued increase of smart phones, IPads, iPods, and other small and handheld valuable electronics, criminals do not need to go far to find potential victims with headphones on.

Such victims will never hear the criminal coming. When in parking lots and on the street, STAY ALERT, walk confidently, and avoid displaying those items that criminals can easily grab. Remember that life is much more important than property – during a robbery be smart – avoid fighting with a suspect to protect property.

As a continued reminder, fraud, identity theft and unauthorized computer access remains on the rise and impacts victims for a long time after the crime is detected. Make sure to change your passwords frequently, using letters, numbers, and symbols when composing your passwords. Also, shred all bills and

mail with your personal information and make sure to SECURE YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS WIRELESS INTERNET CONNECTION AND NETWORK. An unsecured wireless connection will open the door for criminals to access your system for the purpose of theft and fraudulent activity.

Most importantly, never think twice before calling the police when you see or hear something suspicious. As I speak with people in the community I continue to hear “I didn’t want to bother you guys,” or “I know you have bigger things to deal with.” In our view, small things lead to big things and suspicions many times lead to the capture of criminals – so please, call us anytime and we’ll be glad to assist!

If you would like additional crime prevention information, please visit www.cityofwhittier.org/depts/police/.

Michael Davis is a Captain with the Whittier Police Department and can be reached at (562) 567-9253 or via email at mdavis@cityofwhittier.org.

Silver Shield - continued from front page

2016 Silver Shield Sponsors Committed as of 1/20/16 BADGE SPONSOR City of Whittier • City of Santa Fe Springs • Bob & Dave’s Towing CHIEF SPONSORS ACRO Printing, Inc. • Athens Services • Cetera Advisor Networks, Douglas M. Rowan • LA County Supervisor Don Knabe, 4th District Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary • Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce • Whittier Uptown Association CAPTAIN SPONSORS Michael Seril Fitness SILVER SPONSORS Bewley, Lassleben & Miller • MAP Property Management & Property Services • PIH Health • YMCA of Greater Whittier ADVERTISERS Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier • DialMed Home Care • First Day • Friendly Hills Bank • Ralph & Jeanne Muhlestein So Cal Home Loans • Toyota of Whittier • Tri-Cities ROP • Uptown Wellness Center • The Whole Child • Woodruff Properties FRIEND SPONSORS ArcPoint Labs • Bowers, Susan & Paul • DialMed Home Care • First Day • Fisher, Leslie & Howard • Friendly Hills Country Club Future Tech 1 • GM Properties – Ben Greer • McDonnell Group • Merrill Lynch - Krake, David • Notary Signing Network – Sue Dean Pacific Western Bank • Peel, John & Laurie • Santa Fe Springs Swap Meet • Sargent’s Sporting Goods • Soroptimist Int’l of Whittier State Farm Insurance – Cheryl Estep • Todd, Claudia & Richard • Whittier Area Community Church • Woodruff Properties OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Wine Sponsors: California Grill • DigiCal • PDQ Rentals • Sage Ernie Hernandez • RMH Dance & Productions • Say Cheese Photography • The Traveling Traveler • Havana House • Ezaki Dentistry

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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Do you LOVE your business?

We do too!

At the Whittier Chamber, we are in the business of helping you build a better business.

We do that through: Referrals Networking Opportunities Business Education Legislative Advocacy Marketing Opportunities Advertising Programs City Updates Economic Development News Business Resources Business Development Events Job Postings Member Discounts And more!

For more information

CALL the Whittier Chamber today at 562.698.9554 VISIT the office at 8158 Painter Avenue SIGN UP online at www.whittierchamber.com

At the Whittier Chamber… we mean BUSINESS!

Join the Whittier Chamber 2016-17 MEMBERSHIP DUES INVESTMENT SCHEDULE Membership Dues are based on employee count. Employees are defined as any person on your payroll working 40 hours or more per week, including the owner(s). Minimum employee count is one. Part-time employees working less than 40 hours per week should be added up to the equivalent of a full-time employee.

All employees are able to participate in Chamber events and activities to represent your business.

I.

Retail, Commercial, Industrial, Sales & Service, Real Estate, Financial, Medical, Hospitals, Educational Institutions, Utilities* II. Apartment Owners $ 237 III. Service Clubs, Churches, Organizations $ 237 IV. Civic Membership (non-business) $ 115 Company Name: City:

Main Contact:

Title:

Zip:

)

Fax: (

Email:

)

Website:

I give the Whittier Chamber permission to contact me via ___fax ___email ___both Authorized Signature Business Classification:

(category in which you would like to be listed for the Business Directory and the website)

Tell Us About Your Business: (for Business Focus newspaper write-up)

# of employees______ Dues $ ______ Processing Fee $ 40.00 Total $ ______ Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce 8158 Painter Avenue, Whittier 90602 phone: 562 698-9554 • fax: 562 693-2700 whittierchamber.com

GM Properties, a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and property management company servicing Southern California for over 50 years, has extended its area outreach by acquiring the regional property management division of 63-year-old Villelli Enterprises, Inc. of La Habra.

GM Properties, which manages more than three million square feet of commercial real estate encompassing an area from Valencia to San Diego, adds 12 new accounts to its portfolio with the Villelli management acquisition. The properties, located in the San Gabriel Valley, South Bay, Inland Empire and Orange County, include multi-tenant retail, multi-tenant industrial, multi-tenant office and single tenant retail.

Jason Jamison, President GM Properties

GM is in a growth mode and this transaction expands our footprint in our focused service areas of orth Orange County, mid-counties and the San Gabriel Valley. We re excited to carry the torch of the respected service Villelli provided for over six decades, ason amison, President of GM Properties said.

Serving Southern California, including Los Angeles, Orange, iverside, San Bernardino and San Diego Counties, GM Properties was recently ranked number 10 on the LA Business ournal s top 20 list of industrial property management firms, also being ranked on the ournal s top 25 list overall among property management firms.

For more information about GM Properties vist www.GMPropertiesInc.com.

Thorstenson has served Whittier Union in multiple positions since 1977, including assistant superintendent of educational services, principal, assistant principal and classroom teacher. During her tenure, Thorstenson worked in four of the six campuses in the District and was a student and parent at each of the other two schools. As superintendent for more than 14 years, Thorstenson has made it a priority to visit every classroom throughout the District several times a year.

Whittier Union includes five comprehensive high schools, a continuation school, an independent studies program and the Whittier Adult School. Thorstenson has spearheaded the transformation of the District – which serves more than 13,000 mostly Latino high school students and 7,000 adult school students – into a highachieving district recognized across the nation as a model.

Thorstenson was selected as the AASA State Superintendent of the Year in 2012. She is a member of Soroptimist International of Whittier and was a past board member of the Whittier Chamber.

Thorstenson said she is looking forward to her retirement and plans on spending more time with her family. The Board of Trustees will determine next steps for appointing the next superintendent and is interested in community input.

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GM Properties acquires southland management division of 63-year-old Villelli Enterprises

Sandra Thorstenson Continued from front page

We’d LOVE to help your business grow – membership is affordable and effective. Join over 600 businesses and become a member of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce today!

Address:

FEBRUARY 2016

* Employees 1-5 6-10 11-25 26-35 36-50 51-75 76-99 100+

Annual Rate $320 $368 $437 $505 $578 $694 $820 $1,067

WHITTIER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • SIGN ME UP • MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

FEBRUARY 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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Minimize Your Risk of Litigation

The 8 top ADA violations you need to know to not be sued The Whittier Chamber recently partnered with Senator Tony Mendoza to provide an excellent seminar on ADA Compliance. With so many frivolous lawsuits popping up, here are the 8 top ADA violations your business should be aware of as outlined by attorney and speaker Rachelle Golden.

As an attorney, I often hear that many people don’t understand how Americans with Disability Act (“ADA”) lawsuits work.

I’d like to take the opportunity to explain how these lawsuits work - and what you can do to minimize your risk of litigation.

Let’s look at one of the most pervasive types of ADA lawsuits in California - lawsuits alleging violations of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s comparable laws. First, someone visits a business and sees something - no matter how small - that is a technical violation of the ADA. It could be faded paint on disabled parking spots, or square handrails instead of round ones. A business owner might think because they have the handrail and parking spot they are in compliance, when in fact they are not. The construction-related standards under the ADA and the California Building Code are very specific, and if a business is not strictly in compliance with the applicable code, the business/ tenant and the landlord are exposed to costly penalties.

Whatever the violation, the visitor then sues the business owner, seeking on average $5,000 to $10,000. Plaintiffs’ lawyers ask for as much as they want, and because of the high costs of actually going to court, businesses are often

forced to pay. The reality is that often times the businesses that have been sued, are forced to close their doors and displace the employees who worked for them. It’s simply too costly to stay in business and fight against a lawsuit.

While the lawyers will claim they are working in the public interest, the reality is that these lawsuits are damaging the public’s perception of people with disabilities. It’s rare to see an attorney visit the business after a lawsuit has been settled to check on whether improvements are actually made. It’s because they have already received what they were after - a settlement check.

Because of its unique ADA laws, California is home to about 40 percent of the nation’s ADA lawsuits. Instead of California laws educating and informing business owners, the law puts them in a position of being sued.

Here are frequent ADA violations that Plaintiffs sue for: 1) Restroom Accessories: Lawsuits arise when a mirror is in the wrong place, the paper towel dispenser is too high, the sink is too low, and/or the toilet grab bars are placed in the wrong position and/or are improper in length.

2) Accessible Parking Stalls: Parking stall striping, slope, and signage are frequently the source of lawsuits.

3) Service Counters: Often times service counters are too high.

However, even if the counter is the right height, clutter on top of the counter with business card holders, brochures, convenience store items

HILLCREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS

(i.e. candy, gum, etc.), can make a business non-compliant. There are not only height requirements but there is also a “clear space” requirement for counter tops.

4) Door Hardware: Entrance and restroom doors often have knobs, which require one to pinch, twist, or grab to open. It is important to have levers in the place of knobs.

5) Parking Signage: The California Building Code has very specific requirements for accessible parking lot signage. It is the first thing a potential Plaintiff sees when accessing the property and it is imperative that parking signage meets the applicable code.

6) Exterior Route Access: There must be a clear path of travel from the public right-of-way (i.e. sidewalk), and from the accessible parking stall, to the front entrance of the building. Amongst other things, there are sloping requirements for any concrete and/or asphalt, and the path must be a specific width.

7) Interior Route Access: Frequently, aisles within a business will be too narrow, or they will have display cases within the aisle. Either one of these barriers will make one vulnerable to a lawsuit.

8) Curb Ramps: The width, slope, and placement of curb ramps are often the subject of lawsuits.

ADA compliance is very technical and requires specialized knowledge in order to achieve compliance. The best thing you can do to minimize your risk of getting sued, is to hire a Certified Access

Specialist (“CASp”) who will come to your property and do an inspection of the premises. It is imperative that once a CASp inspection has taken place, you begin making the changes specified in the CASp report. It is also highly recommended to consult with an attorney who regularly practices in this area. Remember, the only way to bulletproof yourself from litigation, is to become ADA compliant.

If you have specific questions, please contact, Rachelle Golden, Esq., with Overstreet & Associates, at (559) 221-2771, or via email at: rtg@oa-law.net. Rachelle is an attorney who represents clients in pro-active ADA compliance and also defense litigation.

She sustained a spinal cord injury from a snowboarding accident in 1999 and is now a small business advocate.

Rachelle represents CJAC, the Civil Justice Association of California, an organization that works to protect California business owners from frivolous lawsuits by educating the public about lawsuit abuse and how it harms consumers and your business.

CJAC advocates for fair legal reform in the California Legislature in order to protect businesses of all sizes, but particularly to help small businesses.

For more information on CJAC, visit www.cjac.org or facebook.com/cjac.

For more information on ADA compliance, visit the California Commission on Disability Access at www.ccda.ca.gov or the Department of General Services - CASP FAQ at dgs.ca.gov/casp.

Melanie Bickley

February 26, 27 and 28, 2016

Celebrating 56 years of showcasing fine arts!

Friday & Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sunday 11:30 am – 5:00 pm

On exhibit and for sale: watercolor and oil paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, pottery, handmade jewelry, glass, woodwork, mixed media, hand-woven clothing, Arts & Crafts Boutique.

Starving Artist Café food provided by Simply Irresistible

Heart & Home

Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts 2000 West Road, La Habra Heights North on Santa Gertrudes from E. Whittier Blvd. in Whittier

www.hillcrestfestivaloffinearts.com www.hillcrest-church.org

(562) 947-3755

Whittier’s REALTOR WHITTIER BROKERS 562 693-3757 x 124

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Nominate your favorite local businesses to receive the honor of being the

2015-2016 Best of the Best in their category

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The Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce & City of Whittier present the

2nd Annual

Best of the Best Awards Nominations and voting will be available online at www.whittierchamber.com and at the Chamber office (8158 Painter Ave.)

Nominations Tuesday, March 1 - Friday, March 11 The top 3 nominees in each category will move on to the voting round as finalists

Voting Wednesday, March 16 - Friday, March 31 Winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting & Installation Ceremony on Thursday, April 7 Our local businesses help make Whittier a great place to live, work, and shop!

Nominate your favorites in the month of March!

For more information, call the Whittier Chamber office at

(562) 698-9554

FEBRUARY 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

You are invited to our

Real Estate Open Event Thursday, February 25, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Whittier Elks Lodge • 13620 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90605

Informational Topics: City Update from the City of Whittier Representative

What Every Home Owner and Real Estate Professional Should Know From the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office: Homeowners’ Exemption, Parent/Child Exclusion, and Senior Citizen Replacement Dwelling Benefits, by Carol Wong Quan Living Trust and Probate presente presented by My Attorney LA, Liz Apodaca Seating is limited please RSVP at info@sharpstonerealty.com, text or call Gil at 562-217-7646 or Irene at 562-631-6753.

We look forward to meeting you at this W vvaluable and informative event that you will enjoy.

Gil Rodriguez Broker/Owner CA-BRE 01500176 14826 Whittier Blvd • Whittier, CA. 90605 Direct 562-217-7646

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FEBRUARY 2016

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FEBRUARY 2016

Five Reasons to Use A Professional Property Manager Laurie Perschbacher, MAP Property Management & Property Services

Have you considered buying rental property but hesitated because of the added responsibilities that come with that investment? Owning rental property is profitable, but it can be a 24/7 job.

Are you ready to handle 3 a.m. emergency calls? Find new tenants? Know all the laws you need to abide by? It’s at these times when a professional property management company comes in to save the day! Here are five great reasons to hire a professional property manager so you can get back to enjoying your life.

1 - Screening Tenants This is the most important step you can take as a landlord. Verifying their credit, criminal and eviction history is a crucial part of this process. With the current eviction laws, when a tenant is evicted, they can get their case sealed so it won’t show up on the eviction search.

Verify current and previous landlords and listen for what they say. If they are vague, it could be a red flag. The court system is not making it easy on landlords. Be aware!

2 - Showing the Property Your time is valuable. Not only do you need to get the property ready to rent which means after work and on weekends, but then there are making appointments to show your vacancy.

This means taking more time away from family and work. Wouldn’t you rather that time be spent doing something else? With a property management company they do it all for you. At MAP Property Management, we show the prospective tenants the unit personally.

We are able to meet and interact with prospective tenants and help them paint a picture of where their furniture could go and how they could enjoy living in your rental.

3 – Ethics and Legal Issues

5 – Maintaining the Property

Many homeowners-turn-landlords are not up to date on current state laws regarding evictions. Fair Housing Laws are also an area where there can be problems as to what you can and can’t say to prospective tenants.

Making a mistake when filling out a 3 Day Notice to Pay Rent or Quit might mean starting the eviction process over. Every year new laws come into effect on January 1st. Are you aware of those new laws? Feel free to check out our blog for more information at www.mapmanagement.com.

Property maintenance has to be the most time consuming and expensive part of being a property owner. A rental property increases those expenses and time commitments even more.

Every time a tenant moves out there are more expenses such as re-keying or changing locks, painting, cleaning and more. If there are upgrades that need to be done that will take more time and money. We have licensed general contractors on staff and both have their EPA Renovator Certification.

Then there is marketing, advertising, showing, screening and signing a new lease just to name a few. Having the home or apartment in good showing condition is key to getting high market rents and attracting a qualified tenant.

4 – Rent Collection Chasing down your tenants every month for their rent payment can be very frustrating. Professional Property Management Companies have software

Live Theater!

programs that assist in collecting rents.

Our tenants can pay their rent online and we are able to track all transactions for each tenant. Tenants can also report any maintenance issues online.

“The Meeting�

Wed., Feb. 10 at 7:30 pm ‹

Classical Music

The Felici Piano Trio Sat., Feb. 13 at 7:30 pm ‹

Whittier College Theatre Arts Dept. presents

The Merchant of Venice

by William Shakespeare Mar. 3-5 at 7:30 pm Mar. 6 at 2:00 pm ‹

Aloha Series Kamaka Ukulele 100th Anniversary Celebration featuring

Herb Ohta, Jr. & Bryan Tolentino Sat., Mar. 12 at 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

(562) 907-4203 Go to our website to join our e-mail list.

Be sure to “Like� us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for early announcements and special offers.

Hiring a professional property manager is a great way to avoid missing some of life’s important moments like a dance recital or the big game. Take back your life and your investment! Call MAP Property Management and ask for Laurie (562) 945-3404 and we can handle everything for you including after hour emergency calls. Property Management is our business, our ONLY business!

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Special discount with this ad.

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FEBRUARY 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

Under Construction:

Toyota of Whittier Building New Experience for Guests Toyota of Whittier is getting a facelift, 7 years after their last remodel which took place after they acquired the McCormick Mortuary property in 2009.

“The facility is tired,” explained Vice President and General Manager Curt James. “We look forward to having a place where we can treat our guests with a nicer experience,” he continued.

The new look, part of Toyota USA’s new Image II branding, will feature an expanded showroom, 2 new service bays bringing the total to 29, 2 new car delivery stalls, and a comfortable waiting room for customers which will include TVs, a coffee bar, a parts boutique and a quiet room where guests can privately connect to the internet and work on their computers without interruption.

Other changes include the expansion of the entrance into the dealership off of Whittier Boulevard and more cars

on display towards the corner of the Boulevard and Highland Avenue.

The ‘several million dollar’ remodel is expected to take 9 months. Curt and his team are hoping for a September date to unveil the new look to the community. So, what’s happening now at Toyota? They need to move cars and make room on the lot so they are having a big Construction Sale. “Right now is a great time to buy a car and get your service done,” says Curt. While it has taken some time to coordinate the move into the temporary trailers that have been set up for the sales and service departments, there has been no interruption in the quality service Toyota of Whittier provides to the community.

The Toyota of Whittier team works well together and is spending time focusing on helping their customers understand and navigate the new flow of traffic on

Richard Marroquin, Fleet Manager, John Hoss, Director of Parts & Service Operations, Curt James, Vice President and General Manager and Cynki Podlaski, Business Manager stand in front of the demolished Toyota building

FHA-Conv-Jumbo-Units VA Loan Specialists - First Time Home Buyer Programs

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NMLS # 1150921

the lot and creating a comfortable area for them while they wait.

The Chamber Board of Directors applauds Curt’s decision to invest in Whittier and improve the look of his business on the city’s major thoroughfare. “Whittier is a great place to live,” says Curt, a Whittier resident himself whose parents lived here in the late 1940s. “California is a transient state; there are few places where you have 2 or 3 generations of families staying in the city,” he continued. “We are excited about Toyota’s new look and appreciate all that Curt has personally done to support the Chamber and many organizations in town,” stated Rudy Hernandez, Chamber board President.

Toyota’s tag line is ‘Let’s Go Places’ but we’re glad Toyota of Whittier isn’t going anywhere!

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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FEBRUARY 2016

MEMBER MARKETPLACE Se Habla Español

Cheryl Estep, LUTC,

To advertise in the MEMBER MARKETPLACE contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554

Agent Lic. #0D29004 State Farm® Providing Insurance and Financial Services cheryl@cherylestep.com www. cherylestep.com

8022 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602-2507

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February 2 through 12 “The Art of Making Art” Show @ The Whittier Art Association and Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. View the exhibit featuring live demonstrations. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

February 17 through March 5 “The Bruce Wood Memorial and Family Exhibit” Show @ The Whittier Art Association and Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

February 19, 20, 26 & 27 Diary of Anne Frank @ The Whittier Center Theatre (7630 Washington Ave.) 8 p.m. Presented by Whittier Community Theatre. Tickets: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students & military with ID. For more information call (562) 696-0600

February 27 & 28 56th Annual Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts @ Hillcrest Congregational Church (2000 West Road, La Habra) 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free and open to all art enthusiasts of any age! Enjoy displays, contests, workshops, children’s art, food and fun. Visit www.hillcrestfestivaloffinearts.com or (562) 947-3755 for more information

February 4 Youth of the Year @ Ruth B. Shannon Center (6760 Painter Ave.) 6 p.m. Help us recognize the Boys & Girls Club of Whittier outstanding youth and be present for the 2016 Youth of the Year award. $25. For more information contact Sarah at (562) 945-3787 x114

February 11 Rock & Roll Concert Fundraiser @ The Whittier Center Theatre (7630 Washington Ave.) 6 p.m. Join Chief Jeff Piper of the Whittier Police Department and SPIRITT Family Services for music, fun, and dessert. $20. For more information contact SPIRITT at (562) 903-7000 x121

Bus 562.693.7788 Fax 562.394.0304

February 12 SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier Chamber Office (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will help you and your business open new markets, reach new customers, and achieve new goals.

By appointment only. FREE. To make an appointment call (626) 593-1120 Dinner with Kris Paronto @ Ritz Gardens (11201 First Ave.) 6 p.m. Whittier Republican Women Federated invite you a special dinner featuring Kris Paronto, author of the book 13 Hours in Benghazi.

Contact Ginny Ball for pricing and more information at (562) 665-6963

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“Cabaret: An Evening of Dinner, Dancing, and Entertainment” @ The Crystal Marquis (13007 Philadelphia St.) 6 p.m. Join Soroptimist of Whittier for the premier of their new fundraiser. $75. For more information call Caren at (562) 400-6955

Tasty Tuesday @ LOCATION TBA. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy business networking and great food! $10 for chamber members; $20 for non-members. Call (562) 698-9554 for more information or visit www.whittierchamber.com

February 15

February 26

WHITTIER CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF PRESIDENTS DAY

SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier Chamber Office (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will help you and your business open new markets, reach new February 17 Wake Up Whittier @ Brookdale Uptown customers, and achieve new goals.

Whittier (13250 E. Philadelphia St.) By appointment only. FREE. To make 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. FREE for Whittier an appointment call (626) 593-1120 Chamber members; $20 for nonmembers. Call (562) 698-9554 for more 56th Annual Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts @ Hillcrest Congregational Church information (2000 West Road, La Habra) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free and open to all art enthusiasts February 18 of any age! Enjoy displays, contests, Ribbon Cutting @ DigiCal (12411 workshops, children’s art, food and fun.

Slauson Ave. Suite A) 4 p.m. Visit www.hillcrestfestivaloffinearts.com Join us for light networking and or (562) 947-3755 for more information refreshments. FREE & open to the public. For more information call Rio Hondo Symphony Concert (562) 698-9554 Preview @ First Friends Church (13205 Philadelphia St.) 10 a.m. Guest speaker is Russ Litchfield. Free. For February 19 3rd Annual Comedy Night @ Swiss Park more information contact Brigitta at Banquet Park Center (1905 Workman (562) 698-7394 Mill Rd.) 6 p.m. East Whittier Lions Club invites you to their Comedy Night 18th Annual Silver Shield Awards featuring Adam Christing and Melissa Banquet @ Pacific Palms Conference Villasenor. $75. For more information Center (One Industry Hills Pkwy., City of Industry) 6 p.m. Registration, contact Fran at (310) 994-9961 7 p.m. Dinner. Awards banquet and Club Parnell @ Parnell Park (15390 appreciation dinner honoring the Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Motown men of women of the Whittier Police Night” featuring classic hits from the Department. Individual tickets $100. If 1960’s. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez you would like to become a sponsor for an evening of dance lessons and or have questions, please contact the fun. $10. For more information call Chamber at (562) 698-9554 (562) 567-9450

Club Parnell @ Parnell Park (15390 Ribbon Cutting @ Americana Tax Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Disco Night” Planning (6709 Greenleaf Ave., Suite Enjoy the hits of the 1970’s and 1980’s.

Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an 213) 4 p.m. evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. February 20 For more information call (562) 567-9450 Bruce Wood Memorial and Family Exhibit reception @ Whittier Art Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) 4 p.m. Celebrate the show. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

February 28 “Tom Jones” @ The Whittier Center Theatre (7630 Washington Ave.) 2:30 p.m. Presented by Whittier Community Theatre. Tickets: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students & military with ID. For more information call (562) 696-0600

FEBRUARY 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

RESTAURANT ROW PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1996

(562) 907-7017 02/29/16

COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS

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President’s Message Continued from page 2 a Kindle, iPad or your phone, but a book • Get a recommendation for a new (or old) movie to see (with a library card you can check out old movies from vending machines at local Community Centers) • Take a walk or a bike ride on our Greenway Trail and pick up some trash (help to keep our community clean) • Try a new restaurant that you have heard great things about but “haven't had the chance” to go to yet • Take your dog for a walk and visit the Dog Park (many people still don’t know that Whittier has one of the nicest dog parks in Southern California) • Take an extra class at the gym (you made a rededication to yourself to get into better shape, right?)

• Watch the sunrise or sunset from the top of Hellman Trail • Go to one of our many senior facilities and offer to read, talk, sing or dance with or for the seniors • Visit the Chamber office for more information on any of the above recommendations. The staff can direct you to the correct person or location or give you more suggestions There is so much to do in Whittier and this is just a small list. The goal is to Take a Leap!

I leave you with the lyrics of one of my favorite songs and in this month of romance (Valentines Day) that includes an extra day this year, we have much to be grateful for, so make a difference for someone or for yourself in these extra 24 hours.

“What A Difference A Day Makes”

S. Sharma Tax celebrates their ribbon cutting with family members and Chamber friends

Ben Greer, GM Properties, greets Greg Gunter, Greg’s Auto Body

Students from Cal Hi and other high schools gained business experience at the Chamber’s Expo

What a difference a day makes Twenty-four little hours Brought the sun and the flowers Where there used to be rain My yesterday was blue, dear Today I'm a part of you, dear My lonely nights are through, dear Since you said you were mine What a difference a day makes There's a rainbow before me Skies above can't be stormy Since that moment of bliss, that thrilling kiss It's heaven when you find romance on your menu What a difference a day made And the difference is you What a difference a day makes There's a rainbow before me Skies above can't be stormy Since that moment of bliss, that thrilling kiss It's heaven when you find romance on your menu What a difference a day made And the difference is you

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FEBRUARY 2016

AROUND TOWN Friends Rally to Help Rebuild Whittier Jewelry Mart

The Whittier Jewelry Mart was broken into and robbed during the weekend of December 12, creating a loss in excess of $3 million for local owner Alberto Montes de Oca. The burglars disabled the alarm and video systems, punched a hole in the roof to enter the store, drilled and cut a fortified safe to gain entry, and removed all the contents from the store and safe.

Alberto’s Whittier Jewelry Mart has been in Whittier for over 40 years. “This business has been a cornerstone for our community and friends would like to reach out and help Whittier Jewelry Mart move forward and rebuild and stay in our community,” explained Whittier resident and friend Ron Copley.

Alberto and his wife, Sharon, have been an integral part, and have given back, to the community for many years. “They have spent many, many hours donating their time and talents to improving our community,” said Copley. “We believe it is time to help Alberto rebuild the Whittier Jewelry Mart. The insurance will not come close to covering everything,” he continued.

Ron, along with friend Larry Dicus, is asking for donations to the Whittier Jewelry Mart Rebuilding Fund. Checks should be made out to “Alberto Montes De Oca” and mailed to Ronald Copley, 15352 Mar Vista Street, Whittier, CA 90605. Note the Rebuilding Fund in the memo section of the check. If you would like to remain anonymous, checks can be made payable to “Ronald Copley” and note the Rebuilding Fund in the memo section of the check. Ron will then get the money to Alberto. “We are collecting the donations because Alberto is overwhelmed with dealing with the significant day-to-day issues of rebuilding the store and getting it up and running again,” Ron explained.

Tom Jones to open at Whittier Community Theatre

Whittier Community Theatre is proud to present its stage production of Tom Jones, by David Rogers, based on the novel by Henry Fielding. The community is invited to take a romp through 18th century England with the hapless foundling, Tom Jones, as he pursues fortune, happiness and the adorable Sophia Western.

All the romance and adventure of the novel, the colorful characters and amazing plot twists are here, with all of the boring stuff taken out! Treat your valentine (and yourself) to an evening that will warm your heart and tickle your funny bone.

This production of Tom Jones, directed by Eric Modyman, and featuring a host of talented local thespians, will open on Friday, February 19th, and will play Friday and Saturday evenings through Saturday, March 5 with one matinee performance on Sunday, February 28.

Performance dates are February 19, 20, 26, 27 and March 4 and 5th at 8 p.m., and Sunday, February 28 at 2:30 p.m., at the Whittier Center Theatre, 7630 Washington Ave, Whittier CA 90602. Tickets are $15, with discounts available for seniors (62+), students, and active military with ID, and may be purchased online at the theatre website or at the theatre box office, which opens 30 minutes prior to each performance.

To make reservations or for more information, call the Whittier Community Theatre reservation line at (562) 696-0600. You may also visit their website at www.whittiercommunitytheatre.org.

Spring Bridal Showcase at Friendly Hills Country Club

Friendly Hills Country Club, located at 8500 S. Villaverde Dr. in Whittier, presents their Spring Bridal Showcase on Sunday, February 28, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore a romantic setting with picturesque views, enjoy delectable hors d’ oeuvres, and champagne while preparing for your big day in a setting almost as beautiful as how you feel inside. FHCC wedding partners will be available to assist develop self-confidence, self-expression you in planning your special day from start to finish. All brides will have a chance to and to become future leaders in our win prizes including a free ceremony at FHCC, and those who book their wedding the day of the event will receive 50% off their ceremony site fee. For questions community,” Piper continued.

“Chief Piper is truly a role model for or to RSVP, contact Brittany Kuramoto at (562) 698-0331, ext. 303 or via email to bakuramoto@friendlyhillscc.com. Come ready to reserve your preferred date! our community. His partnership with SPIRITT Family Services to provide free music lessons to low-income youth is an example of law enforcement building The Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts will be be a special exhibit by Bra-Vo, the and maintaining community engagement. celebrating its 56th year of showcasing local organization that gives breast SPIRITT’s guitar class provides youth a wide variety of art on Friday, Saturday c a n c e r p a t i e n t s , s u r v i v o r s , a n d an outlet to express their emotions, and Sunday, February 26, 27 and 28, caregivers an opportunity to express fosters social connections, and enhances 2016. One of the premier juried art themselves creatively by turning bras self-confidence,” explained Elvia shows in the West, the weekend event into art and story. As an outreach of Torres, Executive Director of SPIRITT attracts thousands of art aficionados, Health Partnership, Bra-Vo’s bra art Family Services. workshops provide a creative outlet both young and old, from all over The goals of SPIRITT Family Services’ California. Admission and parking are for women to share their stories about Guitar Class are: breast cancer and find a place to free for all attendees.

• Reduce social isolation through the The festival has an extensive variety of connect with other survivors.

Children can create artwork in the development of healthy communities art on display and available for purchase and social/interpersonal connectedness; at a wide range of prices: watercolor and free art workshops on Saturday and • Increase economic opportunities and oil paintings, unique jewelry, ceramics, Sunday. Festival attendees can browse, acrylics, pottery, hand-woven clothing, shop, enjoy musical entertainment, and development; and, • Increase access to and utilization photography, stained and fused glass, have lunch at the Starving Artist Café, metal and wire sculpture, woodworking, sponsored by Simply Irresistible. of beneficial services, activities, Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and a great selection of handcrafted gifts resources and supports. in the Arts & Crafts Boutique. There will and Saturday and 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whittier’s Chief of Police Rocks and Rolls with “SPIRITT” SPRITT Family Services, The Bigsbys, and Levi Petree and The Radio Publica will be holding a Rock & Roll Concert Fundraiser on Thursday, February 11 at 6 p.m. at The Whittier Center Theatre, 7630 Washington Avenue, Whittier. Tickets are only $20 each and can be purchased through the Whittier Community Center or SPIRITT Family Services.

This past summer Whittier Chief of Police Jeff Piper partnered with SPIRITT to provide guitar lessons to youth of families attending counseling and parenting classes. As a 9-year old raised by divorced parents, Chief Piper, was lost and confused. The landlord of the apartment complex that he lived in loaned him a guitar and taught him how to play three chords to a Johnny Cash song. “This became a focal point in my life. Because of my experience, I understand the importance of encouraging students to cultivate their talents and interests,” Piper said. “This is why I’m passionate about this guitar class. We are helping students

About SPIRITT Family Services Since 1972, SPIRITT Family Services has provided a critical range of mental and emotional health programs to children and families in Eastern Los Angeles County. Through adaptive education, case management, support, and counseling services, SPIRITT supports families in crisis stay together and learn ways to support themselves. Headquartered at 8000 Painter Avenue, Whittier CA 90602, SPIRITT Family Services is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information, visit www.spiritt.org or call (855) 714-8800.

Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts Returns This Month

also be many artists demonstrating their skills throughout the weekend, including weaving, painting, jewelry-making, wood-turning, and ceramics. Each year many new artists, as well as long-time favorites, are selected to participate.

Local high school students will be showcasing their artwork in an exciting new exhibit that will highlight their talents and skills. There will

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on Sunday. As always, admission and parking are free. Overflow parking and free shuttle service on Friday is at Redemption Hill Church on Russell Street and at La Serna High School on Saturday and Sunday.

Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts is located at 2000 West Road, La Habra Heights.

Visit www.hillcrestfestivaloffinearts.com or call (562) 947-3755.

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AROUND TOWN Dancing with the Whittier Stars contestant holds special Valentine’s Day Fundraiser

Let A Special Event be your Cupid this Valentine’s Day and donate to the Whittier Community Foundation at the same time! Judy Bradt, owner of A Special Event, will be one of the dancers this year at the Dancing with the Whittier Stars event benefiting the Whittier Community Foundation. Judy has agreed to “play Cupid” this year by offering a jumbo hot air balloon and basket filled with cookies and treats to be delivered (locally) to your valentine for only $50! All proceeds will go directly to the Foundation through the DWTWS program. Just imagine the ooh’s and aah’s your valentine will receive when A Special Event’s “Captain Romance” personally delivers this valentine delight and texts you a photo of the happy recipient!

Orders must be received by February 4 for delivery the week of February 8 through 12. Please contact Judy at (562) 619-4236 or judy@aspecialeventdecor. com to place your order today!

Two Arts Shows to be featured at the Gallery during February

Soroptimist International of Whittier Invites Community to Cabaret

Soroptimist International of Whittier will present Cabaret on February 13 from 6 to 11 p.m. Enjoy an evening of dinner, dancing and entertainment at the Crystal Marquis in Uptown Whittier. 1920’s dress is optional. This event supports efforts to benefit women and girls in Whittier through programs such as the Live Your Dream education awards, SART (Sexual Assault Response Team in cooperation with Whittier Police Dept and PIH Health), Women’s Conference at Rio Hondo College, support to Women and Children’s Crisis Shelter, Whittier YMCA, Boys & Girls Club of Whittier, Project Sister, and Parents in Partnership. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Tickets are $75 per person. For tickets or more information, contact Dr. Caren Grisham at (562) 400-6955. Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. Come to the Cabaret!

PIH Health Physicians - Group Division is a Medicare Advantage Stars Winner

From February 2 through February 12, the Whittier Art Association and Gallery will present The Art of Making Art. Live demonstrations will be given by artists who are masters in their media. There will be demonstrations on origami, jewelry, pastel, batik, rice paper collage, water color and much more. For specific times of the demonstrations and names of the artists, please call the Gallery. The switchboard will be active every week day beginning with the Tuesday opening until the final Friday. There is no charge, and this is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who would like to see and learn how art is made.

The Bruce Wood Memorial and Family Exhibit will be featured from February 17 through March 5. The Gallery is honored to be the site of the Memorial Show for the highly acclaimed artist Bruce Wood. Wood had long been a staple of the Southern California and Whittier art scene. He is one who inspired art in all who knew him and several family members are successful artists; four of them will be shown at the Gallery as well. This is exciting, innovative work and a must see. The reception is Saturday, February 20 at 4 p.m. and the public is most enthusiastically invited. There is no admission fee.

PIH Health Physicians - Group service measures through its 5-star Division has been named as a 4.5 rating system. Medicare star ratings Star Award winner by the Integrated are intended to help beneficiaries select Healthcare Association (IHA), for higher-quality health plans. Building on their performance in the Medicare the MA star rating system for health Advantage 5-Star Rating System (P4P plans, the IHA uses a subset of 13 Stars). This award is based on PIH clinical measures to award star ratings Health Physicians performance. at the physician organization (PO) level “We are honored to receive this in California. Measuring performance award, said PIH Health Physicians at the PO level allows IHA to aggregate Chief Operating Officer Ramona Pratt. data from participating health plans to “We take tremendous pride in providing identify performance variations that can the highest-quality healthcare to the help plans and POs target quality community we serve.” improvement efforts.

Since 2008, the Centers for Medicare IHA is a nonprofit statewide leadership and Medicaid Services (CMS) has group that promotes quality improvement, publicly reported the performance accountability, and affordability of of Medicare Advantage (MA) health healthcare for patients across California plans on a variety of clinical quality, and the nation. For more information, tickets must be pre-ordered as well. A VIP member experience and customer please visit www.IHA.org. reception will be held at 5:30 p.m., general About PIH Health admission will begin at 6:30 p.m., and PIH Health is a regional nonprofit healthcare delivery network dinner is at 7 p.m. that serves more than 2.1 million residents in the Los Angeles, The prices for the event are as follows: Orange County and San Gabriel Valley region. The fully integrated • Table for Eight Sponsorship $760: network is comprised of PIH Health Hospital - Whittier and PIH Includes 8 VIP reception and dinner Health Hospital - Downey and features a host of outpatient tickets, 16 drink tickets and 8 books medical offices, a multispecialty medical group, home health and • Single ticket $100: Includes 1 VIP hospice care, as well as heart, cancer and emergency services. Recognized by reception and dinner ticket, 2 drink Truven Health Analytics for the past three consecutive years and Hospitals and tickets and 1 book • Couple tickets $165: Includes 2 VIP Health Networks as one of the nation’s top hospital systems for best practices reception and dinner tickets, 4 drink and cutting-edge advancements in both quality and healthcare technology, PIH Health also invests millions each year in community education and free and lowtickets and 1 book cost services to support those with the greatest need. For more information, visit • Individual ticket $50 PIHHealth.org.

• $30 for the book • $5 for each drink ticket Tickets can be purchased by calling (562) 900-3734, emailing maryallwest@aol.com, or visiting www.wrwf.org. Please include your The Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier has been recognized by the Boys’ & Girls’ name, phone, and email address. The Club of America for their extension site at El Rancho High School and will be list of guests attending must be mailed celebrating their brand new Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Pico Rivera charter with a ribbon one week prior to the event. Seating is cutting ceremony. This multi-chamber ribbon cutting event will be held on March limited, reserve tickets early. Checks can 2nd at 4:00 p.m. at the El Rancho High School Boys’ & Girls’ Club. For more be made payable to WRWF and mailed information please contact Sarah Salazar at the Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier at to PO Box 16, Whittier, CA 90608.

(562) 945-3787 or sarah@bgcw.org.

Tickets Still Available for Kris Paronto, Speaker on Benghazi Kris Paronto is a former Army Ranger and the co-author of the book turned movie, 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi. Kris is an independent contractor and was hired by the US Government to protect American people in Benghazi. He gives a detailed report on what actually happened in those 13 hours in Benghazi. Kris was a member of the six man US Security Annex team that responded to the American Ambassador’s residence on September 11, 2012. He fought heroically to save the lives of State Department officials in the 13 hours following the attack. He will share his perspective of what took place in Benghazi before, during, and after the attack. Kris will also be available for book signings and questions.

He will be speaking one time only on Friday, February 12, 2016 at the Ritz Gardens, 11201 First Avenue in Whittier.

All tickets must be paid in advance as no tickets will be sold at the door. Kris Paronto’s book, 13 Hours, and bar drink

Boys & Girls Club of Whittier Expands to Pico Rivera; Sets Grand Opening Date

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Congratulations to our Milestone Members this month!

FEBRUARY 2016

RENEWING MEMBERS Thank you for your investment in your business and the community!

20 years:

Advanced Benefit Center (562) 947-0625

L.E.A.R.N. (562) 945-0150

P.C. Help Desk, The • (562) 869-4435

Aikido Ai – Tai Chi (562) 696-1838

La Serna High School (562) 698-8121 x6010

15 years:

Bewley, Lassleben & Miller, LLP (562) 698-9771

Law Office of Robert L. Haendiges (562) 947-7758

Seasons at Hoover • (562) 696-1848

Birt, Cindy • Civic Member

M&M Glass Co. (562) 945-6212

10 years: RMH Dance & Productions • (562) 693-9911

5 years: First Christian Church • (562) 698-0556 Granite Payment Alliance • (562) 728-3460 Legacy Running Co. • (562) 907-7523 My Attorney LA • (562) 693-5027 Pro-Tech Carpet & Tile Care, Inc. • (562) 447-4300 Residual Solution 4 Life • (562) 715-7826

JOIN ME IN BECOMING A CHAMBER MEMBER TESTIMONIAL As I looked around at the Expo yesterday I realized just how much my Chamber membership means to me. Yes I’ve gotten some great events from fellow members, but more importantly I feel like we are one big extended family. I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime. How can you put a price or value on that benefit of membership?

- Judy Bradt, A Special Event

Blake P. Sanborn Insurance Agency, Inc. (562) 943-7174 Bob & Dave’s Towing, Inc. (562) 693-9596 Bridge of Faith (562) 322-5265 Brookdale Central Whittier (562) 698-0596 Brookdale Uptown Whittier (562) 945-3904 Cal Hi Market Place (714) 310-8205 California Arborist (562) 698-3280 California High School (562) 698-8121 x3314

Petropulos, T. Broker/ Realtor (562) 947-1863 Pioneer High School (562) 698-8121 x5000 PIP Printing & Marketing Services (562) 921-5188 RNC, LLC (562) 696-3888 Shannon, Ruth B. • Civic Member Sir Speedy Printing Center (562) 698-7513 SKILLS Organization (562) 325-5620 SoCal Post-Acute Care (562) 698-0451 Southerland, Sylvia • Civic Member

Chorale Bel Canto (888) 460-9222

Stone, Barbara S. • Civic Member

County Line Animal Hospital (562) 697-6725

Super Market La Venadita (562) 693-8989

Frontier High School (562) 698-8121 x1200 Garber’s Independent BMW (562) 941-9545 Harrison Electric (562) 695-8321 Help for Brain Injured Children, Inc. (562) 694-5655 Hillcrest Congregational Church & Country Day School (562) 947-3755

Tanabe, Theodore A., D.D.S. (562) 698-0387 Thorstenson, Sandra (562) 698-8121 x1000 Town House of Whittier (562) 236-9069 xMGR Trinity Worldwide Reprographics (562) 567-2050 Whittier College (562) 907-5043 Whittier Elementary Teachers Association (562) 693-8411

J.R. Howard Enterprises, LTD (626) 961-9651

Whittier Hearing Center (562) 698-0581

Kreider, Wendy, D.C. (562) 943-2431

Whittier Union High School District (562) 698-8121 x1000

FEBRUARY 2016

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INSURANCE Farmers Insurance – John Coffey Agency Tammy Senger 23161 Mill Creek Dr. Suite 100 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Phone: (949) 586-2313 Email: staff.jcoffey1@farmersagency.com Website: farmers.com The John Coffey Insurance Agency was established in 2015 in the Laguna Hills, Orange County area. They are currently expanding into the Whittier area with their mobile staff to meet all your insurance needs. At Farmers, they aim to be the best multi-line insurance policy provider by clearly understanding and anticipating their clients’ needs and exceeding their expectations. Therefore, they instill confidence, security, and peace of mind in their clients by helping them get smart about insurance, plan for potential risk and quickly restore their lives after a loss. The John Coffey Insurance Agency offers many different lines of insurance including personal (auto, home, renter’s, and life), and business (auto, liability, small business and worker’s compensation). In addition, they have many resources available within the Farmers family to help the hard to insure such as, young drivers, SR-22s and water losses for homeowners. They have the most dedicated team members, who challenge the norm and strive to be better every day!

Chamber Board members Chris Hardeman, Gary Lee Martinez, Tom Rios, Laurie Perschbacher and President Rudy Hernandez enjoyed the Chamber’s first ever Speed Networking event

ORGANIZATIONS Friends of the Whittier Hills Association Jim Kelly P.O. Box 247 Whittier, CA 90608 Phone: (626) 622-6541 Email: jb123kelly@earthlink.net

Thanks to Jay Arroyo from Phlight for allowing the Speed Networking event to take place at his restaurant

Founded 37 years ago after the successful Save Our Hills referendum and Save Our Hills Again initiative drives, the Friends of the Whittier Hills is an educational organization dedicated to the preservation of the hills and its wildlife. They advocate the responsible recreational use that promotes a sustainable habitat and the continued expansion of the Puente-Chino Hills Wildlife Corridor. Contact them for more information about their organization.

RESTAURANTS Auntie’s Restaurant Gio Alonso 6506 Greenleaf Ave. Whittier, CA 90601 Email: galonso@llgaholdings.com Website: www.auntieswhittier.com

Chamber members John Peel, Concept 7, Diane Britton, Women’s & Children’s Crisis Shelter, Meg Rottman, Aikido-Ai and Maria Hernandez, RMH Dance & Productions network at The Artisan Building

Auntie’s Bakery and Cafe will be a destination for brunch in Whittier, CA. Their bistro-style restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and pastries accompanied by their specialty coffee. Auntie’s will be suitable for enjoying “home cooking” and hosting events. Their philosophy “community is family” is a perfect example of why they believe Auntie’s will be a great addition to Uptown Whittier. They plan to establish a second home for local Whittier residents to enjoy quality food in a community oriented environment. Their goal is to become a contributing factor in the revitalization of Uptown Whittier. They believe that investing in local resources means investing in the quality of life in Whittier.

La Casa del Cocinero Santiago Elivonvo 14323 Whittier Blvd.

Whittier, CA 90605 Phone: (562) 295-6678 Email: jonmwoods@yahoo.com Website: www.lacasadelcocinero.com

Developer Matt Waken meets Jessica Magdosku, Friendly Hills Country Club and Anne James, Reliance Mortgage Service

La Casa del Cocinero is run by the great Santiago, aka, Santi. He was born in 1974 in the small town of Tala located in Guadalajara, Jalisco. As a child his passion to cook ran through his veins. Santi feels he is happiest and is most fulfilled when he is in the kitchen cooking. He uses nothing but the freshest ingredients and the best meat. He stands by his word to give you great food at an amazing price, bringing the best of Mexican food and fun to you. La Casa del Cocinero also offers catering for special events. The next time you are looking for a delicious molcajete, sopes, or fajitas, look no further. La Casa del Cocinero is a perfect place for date night or to watch the Dodger games!

TILE Forever Tile & Stone Tina Koromelos 11720 Washington Blvd.

Whittier, CA 90606 Phone: (562) 789-1800 Email: tina@forevertileandstone.com Website: www.forevertileandstone.com Forever Tile and Stone was established 2008 in Whittier, California by John and Tina Koromelas. It is their goal to help make your dream project come to life no matter how small or big it is. Between the two of them they have over 55 years of experience and have helped a countless number of people build their dream project. It was only a matter of time that the two of them would create their own hard surfaces showroom. They decided to open the doors during a time when the country was going through its worse economic state. Some would think this would be crazy and that business would not survive. Due to their hard work, their quality of work, and the following from their amazing clients they were able to push through the country’s economic downfall and actually grow year over year. Their hands on customer service cannot be compared and is something they pride themselves on. The next time you have a project, no matter the size, visit Forever Tile and Stone because they will make your dream a reality.

Sandy Lopez from Xtreme Tint is pleased to meet ACRO Printing, Inc.’s Sean McAfee

Great partnerships were formed during Speed Networking in January

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