BusinessBusiness LeaderLeader EconomicEconomic DevelopmentDevelopment forfor thethe RegionsRegions ofof LosLos AngelesAngeles CountyCounty www.LAEDC.org Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation Winter 2007-2008

LANCASTER: MOST BUSINESS-FRIENDLY CITY In This Issue: Northrop Grumman and Jack Kyser also honored with Eddy Awards® • LAEDC & WTCA LA-LB Trade Mission to India

• LA Economy &Jobs Committee

• Eddy Awards® Recap

• Business Assistance Team Updates

• LAEDC Committee Updates

• And much more!

LAEDC President and CEO Bill Allen, LAEDC Chief Economist and Eddy Award honoree Jack Kyser, City of Lancaster Mayor Henry Hearns holding the award for the Most Business-Friendly City in LA County, Northrop Grumman Chairman and CEO and Eddy Award honoree Dr. Ronald Sugar, and LAEDC Chairman Ray Holdsworth. For full coverage and photo highlights, turn to page 5. INVESTING IN LA Governor Schwarzenegger Meets with LAEDC Board 2008-2009 California Governor discusses state budget and infrastructure ECONOMIC On January 11, 2008, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger met with FORECAST more than 50 LAEDC Board members at the offices of City &INDUSTRY National Bank one day after unveiling his budget proposal for OUTLOOK the state. He spent more than an hour with the group and dis- cussed the need to reign in state Wednesday spending while continuing to February 20, 2008 improve the state’s infrastruc- ture by attracting private capital Los Angeles to help fund projects through Marriott Downtown public/private partnerships that will enable California to remain More information on page 3. globally competitive in an envi- ronment of severely limited pub- lic resources. Business Opportunities in India World Trade Center Association to lead a trade mission to New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata

The World Trade Center In September 2007, the advance New Delhi is the capital city of Association Los Angeles-Long team, led by Long Beach City India with key opportunities in Beach and the LAEDC in conjunc- Councilmember Dr. Suja defense, energy, environment, tion with the City of Long Beach Lowenthal, WTCA LA-Long Beach healthcare, telecommunications, will embark on a Trade Mission to President Vance Baugham and and transportation. Mumbai, for- India on March 2-9. The Mission LAEDC President and CEO Bill merly known as Bombay, is the will focus on how U.S. companies Allen, visited New Delhi, Mumbai, center for entertainment and can take advantage of an early and Kolkata and had successful media, pollution control, renew- entry into India, an emerging meetings with Indian business able energy, consumer goods, “mega-market.” and government leaders. Indian processed foods, infrastructure, journalists gave broad and favor- airport and ground support LAEDC/WTCA advance team at the When measured on a Purchasing able coverage of the visit and the equipment, and education sec- India Motion Pictures Producers Power Parity basis, India is now March trade mission in the lead- tors. And finally, Kolkata, former- Association welcome reception. the 4th largest economy in the ing Indian media, including the ly known as Calcutta, is the main world, and is growing at approxi- India Express, the Financial commercial and financial hub of mately 8 to 10 percent per year. Express, and the Economic eastern India with growing sec- With such growth, India needs a Times, among others. With this tors in IT, real estate, retail, food- major infrastructure overhaul to successful advance trip complet- processing, healthcare, medical keep up with the change. With a ed, the stage is set for a very suc- devices and airport/sea port population of 1.1 billion and 350 cessful trade mission this March. infrastructure development. million who speak English, India’s middle class is already The Trade Mission will visit New For more information, contact larger than the entire U.S. popu- Delhi (March 2-4), Mumbai (March Greg Moore at (562) 495-6075 lation, and they need and will buy 5-6) and Kolkata (March 7-9). or Lianne Chua at (213) 680- American products and services. 1888.

Committees Engage in LA County’s Critical Issues UPCOMING LAEDC LAEDC members address land use, aviation, and international trade COMMITTEES MEETINGS Attendance at meetings is by Led by David Flaks, LAEDC to retain and attract high-value transform underutilized public membership or invitation Director of Policy Initiatives, the jobs and business from the indus- housing development sites into only. Unless noted, all meet- LAEDC regularly convenes a vari- try clusters important for econom- revitalized housing and high- ings are held at the California ety of advisory committees and ic growth and wealth creation. value job creating neighborhoods. Club, 538 S. Flower Street. task forces that serve to engage our members in the ongoing mis- Under the leadership of Aviation Task Force Land Use Strategic Advisory sion and strategic initiatives of Committee Chair Maura O’Connor Committee the organization and provide (Seyfarth Shaw) and Vice Chair The Aviation Task Force chaired 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. in input on certain key issues that Joe Faulkner (Charles Dunn) by Viggo Butler (United Airports Room 204 affect, or have the potential to members have been invited to Ltd.) continues to focus on issues •March 11 affect the Los Angeles County provide comments on the Revised and develop strategic initiatives •May 13 economy. Draft of the County’s General that support Los Angeles •July 15 Plan, the first revision since International Airport’s (LAX) mod- •September 9 Land Use Strategic Advisory 1980. The Committee also has ernization efforts to conveniently Aviation Task Force Committee been briefed on a variety of and safely accommodate the 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. issues relating to regional land forecasted increase in air pas- Meeting room TBA As the County’s industrial vacan- use policies, including a briefing senger and cargo volumes, •March 19 cy rate continues its downward by the Los Angeles Community reclaim some of its lost market •April 16 trend to below 1.6%, the Land Redevelopment Agency on its share, and boost customer satis- •June 18 Use Committee continues to pro- upcoming land use recommenda- faction. •July date TBD vide a dynamic voice in the effort tions for the City of Los Angeles, •September 17 to preserve our dwindling indus- and a briefing by the CEO of a Recent meeting highlights have trial land base, keep our industri- local bank and member of the included: a briefing by Gina Marie The next International al firms in the County, and Mayor’s Economy and Jobs Committee meeting is TBD. strengthen our region’s capacity Committee on an initiative to (Continued on page 10)

2 LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 All Eyes on LA County 2008-09 Economic Forecast & Industry Outlook focus on investing in Los Angeles region

Despite economic uncertainty across the industry leaders from companies like AEG, The Economic Forecast will also address the country, major investments are being made Related Companies, and TESCO to discuss outlook for the regional economy including in Los Angeles County. From the 4th largest the Los Angeles economy for 2008. the effects of the Writer’s Guild strike and bank in America (Wachovia) to the 3rd largest Longshoremen’s Union contract renegotia- retailer in the world (TESCO), and from the AEG is the developer of LA LIVE. This mixed tion. world’s largest owner of sports teams and use complex is a one-of-a-kind entertainment sports events (AEG) to one of the largest real campus, providing Los Angeles’ residents, “2008 could be a rather nerve-racking year. estate developers (Related Companies), bil- commuters, guests and tourists with a world- The ‘recession’ word is being uttered, and the lions of dollars are being invested here that class sports and entertainment destination. LAEDC Economics Team is on ‘recession will markedly transform the regional economy watch,’” said Kyser. “There are a variety of in coming years. Come hear a panel of indus- The $2.05 billion Grand Avenue project in problems including the health of the global try leaders with these firms explain why they downtown Los Angeles, being developed by financial system, the housing market, and are investing in LA. the Related Companies, is designed to give high energy prices.” Los Angeles a thriving city center. The project 2008 also looks to be impacted by distress in will create over 5,300 long-term jobs and will Register today to reserve your seat for the the housing industry, nervous financial mar- generate over $95 million annually in taxes. Economic Forecast! More information is kets, and labor strife in the motion available online at www.laedc.org/forecast. picture/television production industry. What TESCO, the 3rd largest retailer in the world, can we expect the economic impacts to be? has now opened several Fresh & Easy grocery LAEDC members: Please RSVP to Oakley stores throughout Southern California creat- Boren today for one complimentary registra- On Wednesday, February 20, 2008, LAEDC ing hundreds of jobs for the region. tion per company at [email protected]. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist or (213) 236-4847. Jack Kyser will be joined by California Wachovia is a leading provider of financial Association of Realtors Chief Economist services for retail, small business and com- For sponsorship opportunities, contact Nhien Leslie Appleton-Young, Wachovia Global mercial customers, and a key provider of high Barros at (213) 236-4816. Economist Dr. Jay Bryson, and a panel of quality jobs in the region.

LAEDC 2008-2009 Economic Forecast & Industry Outlook Investing in Los Angeles Wednesday, February 20, 2008, at the LA Marriott Downtown 7 a.m. Breakfast & Networking • 8-10 a.m. Program

Presenting Sponsor:

Hear from industry leaders on why billions of dollars are being invested in LA.

JACK KYSER • SVP & Chief Economist • LAEDC LESLIE APPLETON-YOUNG • Chief Economist • CA Association of Realtors DR. JAY BRYSON • Global Economist • Wachovia

REGISTER TODAY at www.LAEDC.org/forecast

Event Sponsor Media Partner Media Partner

LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 3 New Faces on the Block LAEDC welcomes new staff members in Strategic Relations, Business Assistance, and Administration

GINA BARRO ERIN DRUMMOND MARISA VILLANUEVA Director of Member Relations Program Coordinator, Strategic Relations Regional Manager, South Bay

In October 2007, Gina Erin joined the Strategic Marisa joined the joined the LAEDC to Relations team in November LAEDC in October help attract leader- 2007. She supports the 2007 as the Regional ship from private-sec- department's membership Manager for the tor businesses as well activities, policy committee South Bay region. The as municipal and edu- meetings as well as assist- Regional Managers cational institutions, ing the Marketing team provide assistance to and to engage mem- with LAEDC’s events. existing or new busi- bers in LAEDC programs. nesses interested in expanding or relo- Erin is a recent transplant to Los Angeles from cating to their geographical region of Los Washington D.C. She has a Bachelor's degree Prior to the LAEDC, Gina served as Angeles County. in Speech Communications from the Business Planning Manager at Toyota University of Maryland and was most recently Motor Sales, U.S.A. in Torrance, CA Before joining the LAEDC, Marisa was a Senior Project Assistant in Research Training where she led the effort to institutional- Corporate Developer for the Orange for the American Psychiatric Institute for ize the planning process to better con- County Business Service Center, an affil- Research and Education at the American nect business needs and financial iate of Coastline Community College. Psychiatric Association, Division of Research. plans. She also developed and managed Prior to joining the Orange County internal strategic communications, cov- Business Service Center, she was a ering topics such as the automotive RECENT PROMOTIONS Business Service Representative for the industry and economic outlook, compa- Carson/Lomita/Torrance WorkSource ny sales and profit performance, SEQUOIA HOLIFIELD Center in the Harbor and South Bay employee relations, and key business area. Assistant Manager, Business Assistance initiatives. Gina's career at Toyota and Development spanned over 15 years. Raised in Los Angeles, Marisa received Sequoia has been a Bachelor of Arts degree from Loyola Gina earned a Bachelor’s degree in with the LAEDC for Marymount University and a Master of International Business from Alma eight years and most Arts degree from California State College in Alma, Michigan, and an MBA recently served as the University Fullerton. Marisa is also a col- from Loyola Marymount University in Los Business Assistance lege and university adjunct professor of Angeles. She is also a graduate of the Coordinator. As an Communication for the Los Angeles 2005 Leadership California Annual integral part of the Community College District and the Issues and Trends Program. BAP team, Sequoia is University of Phoenix. responsible for supporting the LAEDC’s mission to attract, expand and retain EMILY FLOYD-VVALENZUELA business growth and economic vitality in SARAH ORTIZ Executive Assistant, Business Assistance and the regions of Los Angeles County. Senior Staff Assistant, Accounting/ Development Administration CANDICE HYNEK Emily has performed as an Associate Economist Sarah joined the LAEDC executive assistant, directly Most recently serving Accounting/Administration supporting senior partners as the Research Project department in November and high level manage- Manager, Candice now 2007. Her main duty is to ment for approximately analyzes and man- support the LAEDC’s CFO, eight years. She has an ages several national, but she also provides Associate of Arts in English state, and local eco- assistance to LAEDC staff and a certificate as a Legal nomic data for LAEDC. with its daily administrative Secretary. She writes the needs. Sarah has also taken on different Construction & Real Estate section of the projects to enhance LAEDC’s mission. Emily comes from a radio telecommunica- Forecast and works directly with the tions manufacturing company where she Chief and Senior Economists to prepare Sarah recently graduated from Loyola directly supported the principal of the compa- economic briefings presented to several Marymount University in Los Angeles with a ny, in addition to wearing many hats. corporate and government entities. Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.

4 LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 100 Steps to a Business-Friendly Los Angeles Los Angeles Economy and Jobs Committee announces 100 recommendations for City of LA

After a year of meetings, research and analy- and Assistant Director Corey Carlton, both of class city must have a world class airport and sis, a select committee appointed by Los whom previously worked with the LAEDC’s LAX is a powerful economic engine that is not Angeles City Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, the Business Assistance Program. running efficiently on all its cylinders today. Its Los Angeles Economy and Jobs Committee loss of many regularly scheduled flights and (LAEJC), has announced a package of 100 The LAEDC Economic Research and millions of passengers since 2000 has cost recommendations to improve the city’s econ- Consulting department heads Jack Kyser and the region billows of dollars in lost revenue and omy and stimulate the creation of more and Greg Freeman also made presentation to the held back job growth significantly. The better jobs for all Angelenos. Committee as did board members David Committee expressed its number one priority Grannis of Planning Company Associates, is for the mayor and the City Council to break The LAEJC was established in late 2006 and LaDonna DiCamillo of Burlington Northern the political logjam that has prevented mean- comprised of a broad cross section of the Santa Fe Corporation, and John Doherty of ingful improvements to LAX safety, efficiency, city's leaders who share with the Mayor a Alameda Corridor Transportation Authority. capacity and passenger satisfaction. common belief that Los Angeles needs to energetically Similarly, the LAEJC expressed nurture and grow its economy an urgent desire to see green and proactively work to create growth projects at the Port of jobs. The mayor asked the Los Angeles expedited includ- Committee--which included ing the addition of on- and representatives from busi- near-dock facilities to increase ness, labor, and education--to the capacity and velocity for focus on establishing priori- goods to flow through our ties, ideas and action recom- region while simultaneously mendations that will help pro- reducing emissions impacting tect and cultivate the city's many assets; fos- our communities. ter a more business-friendly environment that encourages intelligent and environmentally Additional recommendations included inno- sustainable growth; and address the city’s vative ideas for long-overdue redevelopment most pressing weaknesses and needs. of public housing projects in South LA; improvement in workforce development The Committee was chaired by City National including a specific endorsement of the Bank Chairman and CEO Russell Goldsmith, LAEDC’s California Transportation and who was the 2006 LAEDC Eddy Award® Logistics Institute; strategies focused on recipient for outstanding economic develop- growing key LA industries like entertainment, ment leadership. Other members of the 26- apparel, logistics and technology; increased member committee included LAEDC Board business assistance, enhanced customer members Frank Clark of LAXTEC; Randal The LAEJC conducted its work primarily service, reduced business taxes, and a Hernandez of Bank of America; Jolene through five task forces focusing on: building streamlined building development process Koester of California State University, on and marketing LA’s strength; developing and strategies to make LA more business- Northridge; and James Rosser of California LA’s workforce; identifying LA’s most critical friendly; and finally, a strong commitment to State University, Los Angeles. needs; optimizing LA’s governing resources; preserving LA’s scarce and dwindling supply and doing business in LA. of industrial land for its critical ability to sus- LAEDC President and CEO Bill Allen co- tain jobs that pay well and provide career lad- chaired the LAEJC’s Doing Business in LA The task forces identified ten key categories ders than enable greater access to the mid- Task Force along with LAEDC Board Member within which the Committee’s 100 specific dle class for more Angelenos. and Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce recommendations are presented: Los President Gary Toebben. Former LAEDC Angeles International Airport (LAX), Port of The LAEDC, and its many participants in the Chair David Fleming chaired a task force on Los Angeles, South LA’s workforce develop- LAEJC process of developing these 100 rec- optimizing LA’s governing resources. ment, key sector strategies, business climate, ommendations to improve the economy of building development reform, land use, state the most populous city in our county, congrat- The Committee also received valuable staff and federal fair share, and city charter/gov- ulate Mayor Villaraigosa for commissioning support from another LAEDC Board member, ernment reform. this project and we look forward to working Los Angeles City Deputy Mayor Bud Ovrom, with all stakeholders to ensure the timely and new Deputy Mayor for Housing and Some of the specific recommendations implementation of these worthy ideas to Economic Development Policy Helmi include expeditiously improving LAX to enable make Los Angeles more business-friendly Hisserich, as well as from the LAEJC's it to regain its lost market share, and correct its and to create more good quality jobs for its Executive Director Elizabeth “Libby” Williams safety and operational deficiencies. A world residents.

LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 5 Celebrating LAC ountyLeadership Record-breaking Eddy Awards® honor Northrop Grumman, Jack Kyser, and City of Lancaster

More than seven hundred of the region’s top voice and chief interpreter of the Los Angeles business, government, education, and civic County economy for more than 25 years. leaders attended the 12th Annual Eddy Awards® on Tuesday, November 6, 2007, at Jack’s annual forecast report has been the Beverly Hilton to honor aerospace and ranked #1 by the Wall Street Journal and his defense leader Northrop Grumman and the analyses of key industry sectors and econom- LAEDC’s Chief Economist Jack Kyser for their ic trends have helped both the public and pri- contributions to the economic health of Los vate sectors better understand the diversity Angeles County. The winning city of the 2nd and dynamism of the greater Los Angeles Annual Most Business-Friendly City competi- area. As chief economist for the LAEDC, he is tion was also announced at the dinner gala. responsible for interpreting and forecasting economic trends in the five-county area, The annual Eddy Awards®, co-chaired this including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San year by LA BioMed CEO Ken Trevett and Bernardino and Ventura counties, and for Grubb & Ellis Executive President William R. analyzing the major industries of the area. Boyd, are the region’s most prestigious recog- nition of business leadership in economic Jack’s impact is so far-reaching that Allen development. Thanks to our members and announced to the audience that the LAEDC sponsors, with a special thanks to Wachovia, Economic Research department will be this year’s event raised more than $630,000, renamed to the “Jack Kyser Center for beating all previous fundraising and atten- Economic Research” in 2008. They are committed to national and local dance records, to fund the mission and pro- issues that positively impact their surround- grams of the LAEDC. The gala was hosted by Finally, the City of Lancaster was named the ing communities. And they are dedicated to CBS Channel 2 anchorman, Paul Magers. Most Business-Friendly City and took home the educating the future leaders of tomorrow by coveted award. Mayor Henry Hearns accepted maintaining their commitment to programs LAEDC Chairman Ray Holdsworth presented the award on behalf of the city and staff. that improve education, human services and the first award to Northrop Grumman and Dr. culture and that address diversity through the Ronald Sugar, Chairman and CEO, for their We look forward to another memorable Eddy Northrop Grumman Foundation and commitment to providing thousands of quali- Awards® celebration in 2008 as we continue Charitable Giving program. ty jobs for the Los Angeles region. With to recognize companies, individuals, and 20,500 employees, Northrop is one of the cities who have made a positive difference in LAEDC President and CEO Bill Allen presented largest private employers in LA County. the second Eddy Award to Jack Kyser for his the economic success of our region. unwavering commitment to providing eco- Northrop Grumman is not only defining the nomic research and analysis for LA County. Read more about the City of Lancaster on future of the defense and aerospace industry, Jack has led the Economic Research depart- page 7. For photo highlights of the Eddy but they are also a good corporate citizen. ment for the past 15 years and has been the Awards®, see page 8.

The 12th Annual Eddy Awards® Sponsors

~ Presenting ~ ~ Diamond ~ ~ Platinum ~

6 LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 LancasterLancasterThe Most Business-Friendly City in Los Angeles County

The LAEDC opened the sealed envelope and Market Development Zone. Lancaster has “We’re delighted to present our second annu- announced the City of Lancaster as the win- made local business a top priority, offering al award to this very deserving city,” said Bill ner of its annual Most Business-Friendly City businesses affordable land and a stream- Allen, LAEDC President and CEO. “The City of competition at its 12th Annual Eddy Awards® lined development process with less red tape. Lancaster best represents what can be gala on November 6, 2007. Lancaster was Lancaster has seen a large growth in busi- achieved when our city governments work one of six city finalists, including Burbank, ness over the past decade, with the establish- side by side with the business community to Cerritos, Long Beach, Palmdale, create business-friendly environ- and Santa Clarita. ments where quality jobs can grow. Their success can be attributed to Lancaster, which is located in North the proactive attitude of their Mayor Los Angeles County, has created an and City Council.” ideal environment for business expansion and growth and has been Los Angeles County Supervisor successful in creating 5,000 new Michael D. Antonovich also lauded high quality jobs as a result of its the efforts by Lancaster and other pro-business attitude. Throughout finalist cities. its recent growth, Lancaster has retained a family-focused home- “By reducing red tape, regulations town spirit with just over 143,000 and taxes, these cities developed residents in 2007. public-private partnerships to increase business opportunities, The city boasts a local government create thousands of new jobs and which is responsive to the needs of improve the quality of life for all of the business community, including our county residents,” said the Mayor's roundtable where com- City of Lancaster City Manager Bob LaSala, LAEDC President and Antonovich. CEO Bill Allen, Mayor Henry Hearns and Councilmember Ed Sileo panies meet with the Mayor and at the 12th Annual Eddy Awards®. city department heads to discuss In support of the LAEDC’s mission and resolve issues. Lancaster also to retain and attract quality jobs to has an aggressive and pro-business City ment of large distribution centers for national Los Angeles County, the LAEDC announced Council, which take a practical approach to companies such as Rite Aid, Michaels and the Most Business-Friendly City award catego- business. Sygma, as well as smaller local businesses ry in 2006 to showcase the cities within the and national retail and restaurant chains. County that are proactively promoting busi- The city places a high priority on attracting They also have a well-educated and experi- ness-friendly programs and services. Last and retaining businesses by fast tracking per- enced workforce, which contributes to an year, the City of El Segundo was the inaugural mits and other enhanced services offered ideal environment for businesses to thrive winner of the award and Lancaster was through its Enterprise Zone and Recycling and grow. among the finalists.

The 12th Annual Eddy Awards® Sponsors

~ Gold ~

LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 7 Wachovia Executive Vice President Frank Newman LAEDC President & CEO Bill Allen, Northrop Union Bank of California Senior Vice President Les (back row, center) with Wachovia group. Grumman Chairman & CEO and Eddy honoree Dr. and Mary Kay Goodwin, and CB Richard Ellis Ron Sugar and LAEDC Chairman Ray Holdsworth. Executive Managing Director Lew Horne.

East West Bank Executive Vice President K.Y. CBS 2 anchorman Paul Magers hosted the evening El Segundo Parks and Recreation Commissioner Cheng, Susan and past LAEDC Chairman Rod of celebration. Cindee Topar and Mayor Kelly McDowell with Banks, and LAEDC Chairman Ray Holdsworth. Director of the Governor’s LA office Billie Greer.

LAEDC President & CEO Bill Allen, American Barbara and Ken Trevett, Sherry Kramer Jennifer Johnson (Watson Land), Randal Airlines Regional Vice President Cathy Berg, (Continental Development Corp.) and Steven Hernandez (Bank of America), and Celeste and LA INC. CEO Mark Liberman. Napolitano, Field Deputy for Supervisor Don Knabe. Signorino, OCTANe Foundation.

The 12th Annual Eddy Awards® Sponsors

~ Silver ~ CB Richard Ellis • Grubb & Ellis • Housing Authority of Los Angeles • Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute • Los Angeles Business Journal • Majestic Realty • NBC Universal • Pechanga Development Corporation • Port of Long Beach • Sidley Austin • Southern California Gas Company • WalMart • Watson Land

~ Bronze ~ AON Risk Management • AT&T • Auto Club of Southern California • Bain & Co • BNSF • Boeing • Bolton & Co. • Boston Consulting Group • Cedars-Sinai • City of Cerritos • Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles • Cushman & Wakefield • DLA Piper • East West Bank • GPS Partners • Greenberg Traurig • LA Department of Water and Power • City of Lancaster • Latham & Watkins • City of Long Beach • Lowe Enterprises • Mar Ventures • Mayer Brown • McKenna Long & Aldridge • Metropolitan West Asset Management • Robert Half International • Sage Publications • City of Santa Clarita • Squire Sanders • State Farm Insurance • Tejon Ranch • USC University Relations • Windale Group

8 LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 BAP’s Gold-Standard Services Shine Through Gloomy Economy Business Assistance team reaches out to businesses via survey, presentations and other programs

Over the past year, the LAEDC’s team of eight local business climate. been met with increased force by the BAP Regional Managers have found themselves team. Dedicated to providing businesses with increasingly engaged in new areas of commu- LA County still benefits from its diversity, see- world-class service, the entire team has nity involvement and business outreach ing some notable performances on projects already begun to pursue status as a Certified including Business Assistance Program (BAP) throughout the County: Colortone Graphics Economic Developer (CEcD) with the presentations, visits with city economic devel- (retention in the Metro LA region), Fang International Economic Development Council opment staff and offering advice on projects Fashions (expansion in the South Bay), (IEDC), a world renown organization dedicated such as the Most Business-Friendly City Hallett Boats (retention in the San Gabriel to helping economic developers do their job Award, the Los Angeles County General Plan, Valley), Mission Foods (attraction in the San more effectively, create more high-quality jobs, and the preservation of industrial zoning on Fernando Valley), NASA (expansion in the develop more vibrant communities and gener- the Los Angeles River Project. Antelope Valley) and Sealy Mattress (reten- ally improve the quality of life in their regions. tion in the Gateway Cities region). Activity in business outreach and leads gen- “The experienced BAP Team is committed to erated from the department’s second busi- As the world’s 16th largest economy with a providing excellent customer service to busi- ness fact gathering survey recently began. In highly diversified economic base, Los Angeles nesses and local jurisdictions in the eight total, the survey polled up to 5,000 business- County represents a varied and fast changing regions of LA County,” said Carrie Rogers, es in Los Angeles County with 15 or more market--one that is susceptible to abrupt Vice President, Business Assistance and employees. BAP team members have already changes in the national economy. While we Development. “We stand ready to face the started receiving and responding to weekly have seen a favorable economy in years past, challenges businesses experience in a transi- email notifications regarding the level of pri- this year businesses find themselves faced tioning economy.” ority assigned to business survey responses with a new dynamic of economic health. The taken from their regions. Like business con- economy has slowed considerably in Promoting the regions’ business assets and sultations, this activity is not counted in our response to the mortgage crisis, tightened the county’s economic vitality will continue to job success numbers, yet represents an inte- credit standards, energy prices, and unex- be a primary goal of the department. gral part of delivering well-rounded services pected changes in business expansion and to businesses. As a result, efforts of this finding first-rate workers. For more information on the Business nature are starting to be more closely tracked Assistance Program, call 888-4-LAEDC-1. in relation to how industry responds to the The challenge of a transitioning economy has In Memory - Gregory D. Whitney 1947-2007 I 1998-2006 (LAEDC)

Greg Whitney, the former Vice President of al economic development organizations LAEDC’s Business Assistance and Business such as CALED and IEDC (International Development department, colleague, men- Economic Development Council) for his tor, friend, and all around good human expertise. With 30 plus years of economic being, has passed away. Greg lost his short, development experience and as a Certified but heroic battle with pancreatic cancer on Economic Developer, Greg was a true vision- November 18, 2007. ary and had an incredible knack for present- ing strategies for problem resolution. Greg served as the Vice President of Business Assistance and Development at Greg had a great sense of humor and at the the LAEDC from November 1998 through same time respect for his department and December 2006. Even though Greg left the BAP team to aggressively pursue the staff at the LAEDC. Greg was never at a loss LAEDC in 2006, his passing is a tremen- LAEDC’s mission of attracting, retaining, for words which affectionately earned him dous loss and shock for the LAEDC family and growing businesses and jobs for the the title of “Witty Whitney.” With Greg, the and everyone who had the opportunity to regions of Los Angeles County. Under his wit-well never ran dry. Greg was an inspira- work with such a talented and giving person. leadership, the BAP department successful- tion to many of us at the LAEDC family and ly retained or attracted 105,000 jobs. will not be forgotten. Greg led the BAP department to new heights during his tenure. With his incredi- Greg had incredible insights into business, Contributed by LAEDC Regional Manager ble knowledge and expertise in economic industry, and international trade and was Bob Machuca and WTCA Los Angeles-Long development, he pushed the limits of the often sought after by statewide and nation- Beach President Vance Baugham.

LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 9 Membership Update Welcome new board and executive committee members and new member companies

NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Joyce Feucht-HHaviar Laura Warren BOARD OF GOVERNOR MEMBERS Dean, Tseng College of Founder, President Extended Learning Giovinezza Cosmetics Co. 2008 MEETINGS CA State University Northridge Ed Casey Attendance at meetings is by Partner Charlie Forrest NEW MEMBER COMPANIES membership or invitation Weston Benshoof Senior Vice President only. Unless noted, all meet- Stern Brothers & Co. INDUSTRY LEADER ings are held at the California Michael Kessler •Seyfarth Shaw Club, 538 S. Flower Street, Vice President & General Manager Julie Gertler •Weston Benshoof and run from 8:00-9:30 a.m. LA Mart President & CEO with networking breakfast Consensus Planning Group CORPORATE MEMBER starting at 7:30 a.m. Ronald Munman •CA State University, Northridge Associate Director Sharon Keyser •Consensus Planning Group •January 23 Bear Stearns Senior Vice President of •Giovinezza Cosmetics Co. •March 19 Real Estate & Development •Lee & Associates •April 16 Tim Scott Paramount Pictures •Paramount Pictures •June 18 Partner James W. Litz •Sadovnick Partners •September 17 McKenna Long & Aldridge •November 12 Government Affairs Director •Stern Brothers & Co. •December 10 - Holiday Beverly Hills/Greater LA John Welsh AFFILIATE MEMBER Event. 5:00-7:30 p.m. Association of Realtors Managing Partner •City of Irwindale Burke, Williams & Sorensen Mark Sadovnick •El Clasificado In lieu of the February and July Board meetings, members are EVP/Partner •Los Angeles Valley College encouraged to attend the NEW BOARD OF GOVERNORS Sadovnick Partners 2008 Board Meeting schedule is Economic Forecast events. MEMBERS Jose Sanchez listed on the right. •February 20 - 2008-2009 Partner Economic Forecast. (See Deborah diCesare Sidley Austin Dean, Economic & Workforce For membership information, page 2 for more details.) Development Michael Tingus contact Gina Barro at (213) 236- •July 16 - Mid-year Economic 4815 or [email protected]. Los Angeles Valley College President Forecast. Details TBA. Lee & Associates

COMMITTEE UPDATE International Committee forum to discuss, provide input, (Continued from page 2) and help shape the LAEDC’s Chaired by LAEDC Vice Chair Roy forthcoming and eagerly-antici- Lindsey, Executive Director for Los Hearrean (SWI Group), and com- pated Foreign Direct Investment Angeles World Airports (LAWA); a bining the capabilities of the Survey on foreign investment in briefing on the Department of LAEDC and the World Trade Southern California and its con- Transportation’s recent decision Center Association Los Angeles- tributions in strengthening the not to recommend Los Angeles- Long Beach (WTCA) to examine region’s economy, the upcoming Shanghai for new direct U.S.- opportunities and develop strate- India Trade Mission, and policy China service in 2009 and ways gic initiatives that expand global issues relating to trade infra- in which the LAEDC can help lead trade opportunities in goods and structure projects and the effi- the effort to secure this route services, boost direct foreign cient movement of goods from once the 2010-2011 application investment in LA County, and our twin ports, the Clean Air process begins; a report by support our international trade Action Plan (CAAP), and the eco- LAWA’s auditors on LAX’s finan- sector and international business nomic impact of CAAP’s clean cials; and presentations on development, the International truck program. LAWA’s highly-successful Flyaway Committee meetings have been system and ways in which the geared toward developing the For more information about the LAEDC can help expand this sys- WTCA’s strategic plan and align- LAEDC’s strategic advisory com- tem into a self-sustaining pro- ing it with the LAEDC mission. mittees, contact David Flaks at gram that reduces the number of [email protected] or (213) private vehicles to and from LAX. Meetings have also provided a 236-4834.

10 LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 LAEDC Board Meeting Reports A recap of important issues, developing projects, and success stories

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER

Much of Los Angeles County’s economy relies Robert Swayze, Economic Development Bureau on the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Manager, City of Long Beach, gave a brief as reported by Greg Freeman, Vice President, update on the C-17 retention effort. If Boeing LAEDC Economic and Policy Consulting. In does not receive the additional order of C-17s, the recent study, Economic Activity the plant in Long Beach will close in 2009. Dependent on Overseas Flights at LAX, annu- Swayze encouraged the board members to con- al economic activity related to a daily round tact their Congressional Representatives. trip flight produces $623 million in economic output, 3,100 jobs, and $156 million in wages in our region. Lorraine White, California Energy Commission Gina Marie Lindsey, Executive Director, Los Angeles World Airports, added that all major Lorraine White, Energy Commission airports have recovered from 911 except for Specialist, California Energy Commission, LAX. LAX has lost 6 million passengers since presented the findings from the 2007 2000. LAX is in need of modernization in California Energy Commission Integrated order to compete with other airports: LAX Energy Policy Report. north runways are outdated for today’s fleet, the central terminal has outdated facilities After the 2000-2001 energy crunch the legis- and more concession space is needed, and Bill Allen, Kolkata Mayor Bikash Ranjan lature directed the energy commission to passenger processing facilities are needed Bhattacharya, KPC Group Chair Dr. Kali Chaudhuri, develop an integrated energy analysis. 37 Vance Baugham and Dr. Suja Lowenthal at a recep- for 2012 projections. These changes must million people live in California today and the tion hosted by the KPC Group to welcome the be implemented quickly or LAX will continue LAEDC/WTCA delegation to India. population is expected to grow to 44 million to lose business. by 2020. The challenge is to use all energy resources as efficiently as possible with the LAEDC President & CEO Bill Allen, Long Beach lowest economic impact for Californians. City Councilmember Dr. Suja Lowenthal, Vice Chairman KPC Group Dr. Jyoti Chatterjee and Recommendations for change include better WTCA Los Angeles-Long Beach Vance utilization of resources in the electricity sec- Baugham visited India in September to lay tor, the use of natural gas, and changes in the groundwork for the Trade Mission in transportation and land use. March. The participants gave a brief report from this trip, covering the overview of India DECEMBER and its booming economy and available busi- ness opportunities in Kolkata, Mumbai, and The LAEDC holiday party was held in lieu of a New Delhi. (Read more about the India Trade Gina Marie Lindsey, Los Angeles World Airports December Board Meeting. Mission on page 2).

New & existing LAEDC members are cordially invited to attend the NNeeww MMeemmbbeerr OOrriieennttaattiioonn && RReecceeppttiioonn Tuesday, February 12. 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bank of America Plaza, California Conference Room, 14th Floor 333 S. Hope Street, Downtown Los Angeles Orientation 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. • Reception 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Space is limited! Please RSVP by February 1 to Erin Drummond at (213) 236-4864 or [email protected]

LAEDC Business Leader - Winter 2007-2008 11 LAEDC would like to thank the following Economic Leaders:

BUSINESS LEADER is published 3 times a year by the LAEDC Corporate Communications & Marketing Department.

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As the Southern California region’s premier business leadership organization, the LAEDC’s mission is to attract, retain and grow businesses and jobs in the regions of LA County.