IN THIS ISSUE: 10 ways the Chamber helped L.A. business this quarter 3 Jobs for L.A.’s youth 6 Chamber A conversation with L.A. County Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke 9 VOICE SUMMER 2008 · VOLUME 7 · ISSUE 3

A quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Building America Together The Chamber advocates for business in Washington, D.C. and Sacramento The Chamber expects to see more movement on its advocacy agenda in the months ahead. During the spring months, members of the Los Brewer III, Board President MÓnica GarcÍa, Board Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce were Vice President Yolie Flores Aguilar and L.A. City Our State’s Capital Councilmembers Wendy Greuel, Janice Hahn and actively advocating on behalf of Southern During Access Sacramento, a delegation of nearly Bill Rosendahl. California businesses in Washington, D.C. 100 business leaders advocated for bipartisan and Sacramento during the Chamber’s Access Over three days of intense lobbying, the delegation collaboration and long-term solutions to our regions trips—the premier advocacy trips in our region. met with more than 125 elected officials and most pressing issues including business and job policymakers on issues including the pending Free growth, California Environment Quality Act (CEQA) Our Nation’s Capital Trade Agreements with Colombia and South Korea; reform, public-private partnerships and much more. This year’s Access Washington, D.C. trip, led by the Chamber in partnership with Seven teams met with more than 50 lawmakers 20 other Southern California business during the visit. Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, organizations, brought more than 200 Senate Pro Tem-elect Darrell Steinberg, outgoing business and civic leaders to our nation’s Senate Minority Leader Dick Ackerman and Senator Capital to advocate on key issues in the Denise Moreno Ducheny, Chair, Senate Budget & region. Fiscal Review Committee addressed the delegation and thanked Chamber members for making their Delegation members met with numerous voices heard. leading officials including: U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA); House Speaker “I urge the L.A. Area Chamber, as a rational voice, Nancy Pelosi (D-CA); U.S. Trade to step forward and say the state must find a more Representative Ambassador Susan C. fair way to govern itself,” stated Senate Pro Tem-elect Schwab; House Majority Whip James E. Darrell Steinberg. Clyburn (D-SC); House Transportation In conjunction with the trip, the Chamber also & Infrastructure Chairman James released the results of its member survey on the Oberstar (D-MN); U.S. Rep. Lucille various state budget proposals and its guiding Roybal-Allard (D-CA) and U.S. Rep. MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD. U.S. Rep. Roybal-Allard welcomes more than 200 business and civic leaders to Washington D.C. on the annual Access Washington D.C. principles for state budget reform. Ed Royce (R-CA). trip April 15-18. “There is no doubt that Southern California provides goods movement-specific funding in SAFETEA-LU a significant return on investment to America. reauthorization; support for the Summer Jobs Act; Reforming California’s With an economy ranking 15th in the world, the funding for local hospitals; support for the Los region has more people, more businesses and more Angeles International Airport (LAX) global entry State Budget international trade than 47 states in our nation,” passenger program; and much more. Chamber members weigh-in on budget said Roybal-Allard. “I thank the Los Angeles Area “Know your power,” said House Speaker Pelosi at a proposals Chamber of Commerce for uniting this group of breakfast briefing during the trip. “When you come, more than 200 business and civic leaders to come to California is no stranger to budget deficits. A it makes a big difference. People listen.” Washington to remind my colleagues of the tremen- recent editorial in the Los Angeles Times high- dous value Southern California adds to our nation’s The trip to Washington, D.C. has already paid off. lighted the economic circumstances and politically- economy.” After members of the delegation, including difficult solutions of at least four former Governors Villaraigosa, Rosendahl and Chamber President & faced with similar budget crises – Governors The prestigious delegation included L.A. Mayor CEO Gary Toebben met with Homeland Security Earl Warren, Pat Brown, Ronald Reagan and Pete Antonio Villaraigosa, Santa Monica Mayor Herb Secretary Michael Chertoff, the department agreed Wilson. And today, Governor Schwarzenegger and Katz, Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook, to add 25 U.S. Customs and Border Protection California’s lawmakers face a $17 billion budget San Gabriel Mayor Harry Baldwin, Los Angeles agents at LAX this summer and fill 22 vacant deficit. Unified School District Superintendent David L. customs agent positions at the airport. As the Summer budgeting season headed into full swing this June, Chamber members made their I thank the Los Angeles Area voices heard through a survey on the various “Chamber of Commerce for uniting spending cuts and tax/fee increase proposals being this group of more than 200 discussed in the Legislature.

business and civic leaders to Nearly two thirds of Chamber members responding

come to Washington to remind to the survey support a combination of spending my colleagues of the tremendous“ cuts and tax/fee increases to address the current value Southern California adds to fiscal crisis. Thirty-two percent favored spending our nation’s economy. cuts alone. Fifty-six percent said they would support reinstating the vehicle license fee to the - Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard pre-1998 level of 2 percent of vehicle value.

Following the trip, representatives from the 65% of Chamber Members Support Metropolitan Water District of Southern a Combination of Spending Cuts California, including Assistant General Manager/ and Tax/Fee Increases to Balance Chief Administrative Officer Gilbert Ivey, a Chamber the Budget Board member, participated in a Congressional and Senate briefing on the quagga mussels, which are With a soft economy and looming budget decisions known to clog water delivery lines, but have not yet poised to affect every business, 67 percent of been detected in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Chamber members opposed a sales tax on services, California State Assembly Speaker Karen Bass addresses a delegation of 100 business leaders at the Access Sacramento delegation breakfast The delegation also discussed this threatening issue 59 percent opposed increasing the state sales tax, in June. with legislators during Access Washington, D.C. Continued on page 4 A better L.A. is our business

Advocating on behalf of business in Washington, D.C. and Sacramento

Thank you to all of our members who participated in Access Washington, D.C., April 15 - 17, and Access Sacramento, June 16 - 17. Everyone who joined us on these important advocacy trips invested their precious Calendar of Events time into building a stronger economy and better quality of life for all Southern Californians. Want to know what’s coming up at the Chamber this summer? Visit www.lachamber.com to view Several elected officials were instrumental to our trips’ success. U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard and her staff and register for upcoming events. Below are some are always the first to assist when our delegation heads key signature events you won’t want to miss: to Washington, D.C. The Congresswoman hosted our delegation’s news conference at the Capitol and was personally involved in helping us plan key events. Event Highlights

U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi also took the time to meet and discuss key issues with our delegation. Access Washington, D.C. participants met with more than 125 members of Congress and Administration officials – an enormously strong statement about the importance of Southern California to the nation’s economy. Thu | July 24 Access Washington, D.C. would not have been possible without strong partnerships L.A.’s Largest Mixer X with nearly two-dozen fellow business advocacy organizations, local agencies and Network with other businesses at the Shrine Auditorium Expo Center. Bringing elected officials. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and his staff as well as together more than 100 exhibitors and more than 3,000 business people, L.A.’s leaders from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, including Largest Mixer X provides the best place for the ultimate business networking Steering Committee Chair Gilbert Ivey, were especially instrumental throughout the experience. For more information, call 323.230.5656 or visit www.lamixer.com. planning process.

Later in June, our Access Sacramento delegation met with more than 50 members of the state Legislature including State Senate President Pro Tempore-elect Darrell The Steinberg (D-Sacramento), Assembly Speaker Karen Bass (D-Los Angeles ), Outgoing Connection Senate Minority Leader Dick Ackerman (R-Irvine) and State Senator Denise Moreno Thu | July 31 Ducheny (D-San Diego), Chair, Senate Budget & Fiscal Review Committee on key Point issues including the state budget deficit, transportation, education and health care. The Connection Point Join us for the July session of The Connection Point, one of a series of seven Access Washington, D.C. and Access Sacramento serve as the centerpieces of our programs designed to help members maximize their networking efforts and year-long efforts to make sure that Los Angeles and Southern California have a strong empower them with innovative techniques to market their way to the top of voice in the federal and state decisions that affect our members and our community. their industry. For more information, contact Program Manager Bridget Netter, The ability of local business leaders, elected officials and concerned citizens to 213.580.7576 or [email protected]. coalesce around a consensus advocacy agenda is essential to making sure lawmakers address our concerns.

Thank you for giving your time to represent business and our community. We invite Access you to join us again next year. L.A. City Hall Thu | Sept. 25 Access L.A. City Hall

Gary L. Toebben Join more than 100 business leaders at L.A.’s premier business advocacy event. President & CEO Hear from city officials on key policy issues and meet with local leaders to discuss Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce how to improve the region’s business climate. Topics discussed will include transportation, housing, public safety, budget, workforce development and more. For more information, contact Public Policy Manager Vanessa Rodriguez, 213.580.7531 or [email protected].

Chamber VOICE is a quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce 350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, CA 90017. For membership information, contact the Chamber at 213.580.7500 or visit www.lachamber.com. Increase your organization’s visibility in Los The Chamber VOICE is produced by the L.A. Area Chamber Angeles and gain new customers by advertising Marketing & Communications department in conjunction with Chamber staff. in the L.A. Area Chamber’s publications and Gwen Oldham, Director of Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, [email protected] Web site. Advertising with the Chamber is Monika Tjia, Communications Manager, 213.580.7516, [email protected] available exclusively to Chamber members. Tavia Jefferson, Communications Coordinator, 213.580.7548, [email protected] Lily Tran, Graphic Designer, 213.580.7573, [email protected] Advertise in: Chamber Senior Staff & Managers Gary Toebben, President & CEO, 213.580.7525, [email protected] Chamber Voice, the Chamber’s Ellie Ramseyer, Executive Assistant/Assistant Corporate Secretary, 213.580.7596, [email protected] award-winning quarterly newsletter David Eads, Senior Vice President & COO, 213.580.7546, [email protected] Noly Lallana, CFO, 213.580.7521, [email protected] L.A. Business This Week, the Chamber’s Kevin Cottrell, VP of Leadership Programs, 213.580.7577, [email protected] award-winning weekly email newsletter Samuel Garrison, VP of Public Policy, 213.580.7568, [email protected] David Rattray, VP of Education & Workforce Development, 213.482.3987, [email protected] lachamber.com, the Chamber’s Michelle Attebery, Director of Events, 213.580.7585, [email protected] nationally recognized Web site Gwen Oldham, Director of Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, [email protected] Alma Salazar, Director of Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7566, [email protected] Pat Clark, Membership Manager, 213.580.7595, [email protected] Bridget Netter, Program Manager, 213.580.7576, [email protected] Maria Dolores Nieto, Education & Workforce Development Manager, 213.580.7599, [email protected] Vanessa Pereda, International Trade Manager, 213.580.7538, [email protected] Alexander Pugh, Senior Public Policy Manager, 213.580.7558, [email protected] For more information, contact Vanessa Rodriguez, Public Policy Manager, 213.580.7531, [email protected] Communications Manager Monika Tjia, Monika Tjia, Communications Manager, 213.580.7516, [email protected] 213.580.7516 or [email protected]. May Tse, Accounting Manager, 213.580.7536, [email protected] Alejandra Velásquez, Public Policy Manager, 213.580.7544, avelá[email protected] page 2 L.A. LIVE, the multi-billion dollar development in downtown Los Angeles is expected to produce an economic impact of more than $10 billion and create more than 25,000 jobs. A better L.A. is our business

10 ways the Chamber helped your business Seen + Heard at the Chamber Your investment in the Chamber helps us build a stronger economy and quality of life in the region. Here are a few ways we helped improve L.A. business this quarter:

HIRING OUR YOUTH. Earvin “Magic” Johnson joins youth at the Chamber in June to speak about the importance of providing jobs for L.A.’s youth. The Chamber sprung into spring as state, civic and business leaders REDISTRICTING. Chamber President & CEO Gary CASH FOR COLLEGE. A high school student signs MOBILITY 21. L.A. City Council President Pro Tempore Toebben, with former Gov. Gray Davis and Gov. up to learn about how to apply for financial aid at one Wendy Greuel, Chamber Board Member Roger Snoble, met to discuss the issues facing the Arnold Schwarzenegger, announces the successful of the hundreds of the Chamber-sponsored Cash For Metro; L.A. City Councilmember Dennis Zine; and region. In June, Los Angeles Mayor gathering of petitions to qualify redistricting reform College workshops held statewide in the spring. former Chamber Board Chair David Fleming, Latham & for the Nov. 2008 ballot. Watkins LLP at the Mobility 21 Coalition meeting in May. Antonio Villaraigosa, former Lakers star Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Helped place redistricting Sponsored education bills Helped college-bound employers from the United Parcel 1 reform on the November 4 to advance Multiple 7 seniors and their families Service and Vons joined the ballot Pathways approach access college financial aid Chamber to urge youth and employers to participate in HIRE LA’s Youth, a The Chamber together with the AARP, The Chamber-sponsored AB 2648 (Bass), The Chamber is awarding 240 high school Chamber partnership that connects Common Cause and the League of Women which requires the state to develop a seniors in the L.A. region more than youth, ages 16-24, with local employers Voters are sponsors of a ballot initiative long-range plan for developing multiple $320,000 in Cash for College Scholarships. for paid full- and part-time jobs. that will make statewide elections more pathways approach, passed out of The Chamber led the local Cash for College Later that month the Chamber and competitive and politicians more the Assembly Education Committee. effort this year, hosting 552 workshops the Central City Association hosted accountable. The coalition gathered 1.2 Chamber-sponsored SB 1677 (Scott), statewide and helping more than 22,500 a reception for new California State million signed petitions to qualify the act which establishes an integrated teacher students complete the forms needed to for the Nov. 4, 2008 ballot. The California credential, passed out of the Senate floor. access state and federal financial aid. Assembly Speaker Karen Bass. At Voters FIRST Act will create a 14-person AB 2078 (Fuentes), which will allow more Bottom line: The future of our economy a special briefing in April, Michael independent citizens commission to draw high school students to earn academic depends on an educated workforce. Lally, Commercial Counselor at the district boundaries for the State Senate, credit for work-based internships, passed California students should have an U.S. Embassy Commercial Service in State Assembly and State Board of out of the Senate and Assembly Education opportunity to access college—it is an Mexico City, previewed his economic Equalization. Committees. investment we should make in our region outlook for Mexico. In May, L.A. City Bottom line: Redistricting reform will Bottom line: All three bills will help and state. Council President Pro Tempore Wendy end the inherent conflict of interest that implement the Multiple Pathways Greuel, L.A. County Supervisor Zev allows state lawmakers to draw their own approach for California students, expanding Voiced support of gang Yaroslavsky and Los Angeles Planning district boundaries. The measure creates opportunities for both college and career. 8 reduction programs Department Director Gail Goldberg a transparent process that requires joined the Mobility 21 Coalition to support from Democrats, Republicans The Chamber testified in support of L.A. discuss improving mobility and Recommended new L.A. and Independents for approval of all new City Controller Laura Chick’s report on bringing transportation dollars to the district lines. 5 city Web portal to help anti-gang efforts and L.A. City Council San Fernando Valley. At the Accenture businesses President Pro Tempore Wendy Greuel’s Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker 2 Advocated for funding in At the Chamber’s Access L.A. City Hall three related motions before the city’s Series in May, California State Washington, D.C. and event last year, members suggested to Audits and Governmental Efficiency Superintendent of Public Instruction Sacramento city officials a one-stop Web portal to Committee. The report and motions call Jack O’Connell, Los Angeles Uni- assist local businesses. In May, Mayor for all existing gang-reduction programs The Chamber visited Washington, D.C. fied School District School Board Antonio Villaraigosa launched the new to be consolidated and placed under one in April and Sacramento in June for the Vice President Yolie Flores Aguilar portal: www.business.lacity.org, which official in Mayor Antonio Villaraiogosa’s Chamber’s annual Access advocacy trips. and Board Member Tamar Galatzan centralizes content currently placed on office. Both trips included large delegations of discussed the challenges of reforming more than 20 separate city Web sites, Bottom line: As gang violence continues business and civic leaders, who met with education in the district. In June, creating easy access to information in to threaten our city, more money must be leading legislators to urge funding for Assemblymember Curren Price, Dr. areas such as permitting, incentives, spent on the programs that work, and critical projects and issues affecting our greening your business, job training ineffective programs eliminated. The L.A. Lucille Jones, chief scientist, Multi region. centers and tax information. The Web site City Council should implement Controller Hazards Demonstration Program for Bottom line: Southern California’s is the latest step in Mayor Villaraigosa’s Chick’s recommendations and Council- Southern California, U.S. Geological economy is essential to the future effort to make Los Angeles a more member Greuel’s anti-gang motions. Survey; Jim Featherstone, general growth and prosperity of the nation. business-friendly city. manager, Office of Emergency Without investment in Southern California Bottom line: www.business.lacity.org is Co-released study on Management for the city of Los ports, airports, public transportation 9 made possible in part by the Chamber’s importance of sports in Angeles; and Fire Chief P. Michael systems, housing and education, our ongoing efforts to reduce bureaucratic Freeman, Los Angeles County Fire lawmakers risk derailing vital job creation L.A. economy red tape and make it easier for businesses Department, discussed earthquake and destabilizing the nation’s backbone The sporting events industry provides a to operate in Los Angeles. preparedness over pancakes. for trade and economic development. tremendous amount of economic growth to the region according to a field study Chamber committees heard from 6 Called for strong health released by the Chamber and the Los several civic and elected officials 3 Ushered in Green Growth care infrastructure Angeles Sports Council. Sporting events including California Assistant at the Ports in Southern California generated an all- Secretary for Higher Education The Chamber testified at the State time high of more than $5 billion in total Vincent Stewart, who discussed The Chamber-supported TraPac project Assembly Health Committee to support economic impact last year. education reform at the Education & at the Port of Los Angeles, was approved needed health care infrastructure that Bottom line: Key findings of the report Workforce Development Committee by the Board of Harbor Commissioners in is vital to the economic well being of our show that the sports industry continues meeting in May. Former Assembly- April. The agreement sets a precedent for region. The Chamber, in partnership with to be a source of economic growth for the future green growth projects at the port, the Hospital Association of Southern member Fran Pavely advised the region. The industry’s annual growth rate is and creates a formula that will fund California and Community Clinic Energy, Water & Environment double the annual growth rate of Califor- substantive environmental mitigations Association of Los Angeles County, held Committee on the benefits of AB 32 nians’ personal income during this period. based on future growth of container traffic. a legislative briefing in Sacramento to in April. L.A. City Councilmember Bottom line: The agreement will serve discuss health care delivery in Los Angeles. Bill Rosendahl joined the Aviation Raised members’ awareness as a template for green growth projects Bottom line: In the last three years, L.A. 10 Committee meeting to review at the port, reducing the amount of time County has lost eight emergency rooms on L.A.’s economic outlook modernization projects for the Los required for the approval of Environmental as emergency visits increase. It’s Chamber members heard from Dr. Angeles International Airport, and the Impact Reports for future port expansion important for the business community Christopher Thornberg, Beacon Economics, Land Use, Housing & Construction projects. to continue to engage in discussions to on what’s ahead for the economy at the Committee heard from Los Angeles develop a new delivery model that most Chamber’s Economic Outlook Briefing in City Planning Commission President effectively leverages public and private the spring. The nation is not in a reces- Jane Ellison Usher on smart growth resources. sion yet, Thornberg told members, but the in the L.A. region. In June, L.A. County country is in the process of falling into one. Supervisor Gloria Molina joined the Thornberg advised members to prepare Health Care Committee meeting. for when the market improves in 2009. Don’t miss out on any of the action Bottom line: Hearing from economists next quarter—visit www.lachamber. keeps Chamber members engaged on com/events for a calendar of issues affecting L.A.’s economy. upcoming speakers and events. page Los Angeles’ entertainment industry generates upwards of $38 billion annually. 3 A better L.A. is our business

Continued from page 1 Focus on public policy: and 55 percent opposed removing business Instant Runoff Voting - a good move for properties from Proposition 13 protections. The Chamber also issued guiding principles for city of Los Angeles long-term state budget reform. These principles, Voters would have the opportunity to rank candidates, which will save millions of dollars which call for bipartisan collaboration and long-term fiscal reforms, will be used by the San Francisco and Oakland already use it. Come Chamber’s Board of Directors in evaluating the specific legislative budget proposals on an November, Los Angeles may join their ranks. individual basis through the summer.

Los Angeles currently uses a two-round system Bipartisan collaborations are essential for a to elect its mayor, city attorney, city council and timely budget. As a result, the Chamber controller. One election is held in early March, supports the recommendations of As- and if no candidate wins a majority of the votes, a sembly Speaker Karen Bass and Governor second election between the top two candidates is Schwarzenegger to establish a panel of elected held in May. The election process is not only officials from both parties to recommend long- expensive it also results in low voter turnout. term structural budget and tax reforms.

Instant Runoff Voting (IRV) would save voter time Another factor in the state’s long-term fiscal and taxpayer money while opening up the political ran much more positive, issue-focused campaigns health is preserving federal investment. The process to more voters and candidates. IRV combines since appealing for second or third place votes has Chamber cautions lawmakers not to cut both the primary and runoff into a single election become an important election strategy. programs that generate matching federal funds – by having voters rank candidates for office by their which will only make worse the current ratio of order of preference. “Instant Runoff Voting will create more competitive 79 cents back on every dollar California sends to races, increase voter participation and save Los the federal government. If one candidate secures more than 50 percent of Angeles taxpayers up to $9 million next year,” said As the budget discussions continue through first place votes, he or she wins. If no one meets that Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben. “The the Summer, the Chamber and its members threshold on the first tabulation then the candidate L.A. Area Chamber strongly urges the L.A. City will make our opinions and positions heard. receiving the lowest number of first place votes is Council and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa to put IRV The complete results of the Chamber’s member eliminated. Voters who supported the eliminated on the ballot this November.” survey on the state budget are available at candidate will have their vote automatically shifted www.lachamber.com/accesssacramento. to their second choice and so on until one candidate With so much civic and financial upside for Los secures more than 50 percent of the vote. Angeles voters, IRV is a good government reform For more information, contact VP of Public that we should all support. Policy Samuel Garrison, 213.580.7568 or San Francisco adopted IRV four years ago to much [email protected]. success. Voter turnout has more than doubled For more information, contact VP of Public Policy citywide and taxpayers have saved millions of dollars Samuel Garrison, 213.580.7568 or by holding one election. In addition, candidates [email protected].

When we work together, the whole community wins.

You see each day for what it is: a new opportunity to work harder, grow stronger and reach higher. In that same spirit, Bank of America is proud to support the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce.

Visit us at www.bankofamerica.com.

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender ~ © 2008 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. SPN-76 page 4 The entertainment industry employs more than 250,000 in the Greater L.A. region, including thousands of self-employed workers. A better L.A. is our business

Public policy priority issues summer 2008 Big dreams for a better L.A. Issue The latest Position For nearly 120 years, the L.A. Area Chamber has advocated Voters FIRST redistricting The Chamber is a principal author of the Voters FIRST Act, which would create an independent SUPPORT and helped establish L.A.’s port, international airport, water reform ballot initiative citizen’s commission to conduct fair, transparent, and equitable redistricting for state legislators and the Board of Equalization. State lawmakers currently draw their own district system, entertainment industry hub and freeway system. We boundaries following each census, which stifles competition and promotes extreme partisanship. Supporters of the initiative collected more than 1 million signatures to place the asked members of the Chamber Board of Directors, what’s initiative on the November 2008 ballot. your dream project or policy idea for the L.A. region that the Chamber can help make a reality? Fundamental state budget With California facing a more than $15 billion budget deficit, the Chamber is advocating SUPPORT reforms for major reforms to stabilize the budget and ensure consistent fiscal responsibility. Strengthening budget reserves rather than continue the current “feast or famine” budget process, improving government efficiency and accountability, and strengthening the state My dream is that one day all Angelenos budget reserves for difficult economic times are all key supported principles. Sacramento will realize that we live in a growing, must develop a bipartisan solution to achieve these long-term goals with a combination of “ spending reductions and increases in revenue. changing and magnificent metropolis where we must embrace change in Educate a 21st century The Chamber is the primary sponsor of three bills aimed at improving public education and SUPPORT order to house and transport all of our workforce in our public workforce development. AB 2078 will allow more high school students to earn academic schools credit for work-based internships. SB 1677 establishes an integrated teacher credential, people and provide for the continued which will allow more teachers to lead cross-subject, project-based curriculum. AB 2648 requires the state to develop a long-range plan for developing multiple pathways for students prosperity and economic vitality of our including thematic small schools, career academies, technical education and other workforce

development opportunities. great city. This will require a concerted

effort towards dialogue and education Daniel Gryczman Develop a comprehensive More than one-third of our region’s water supply comes through the Sacramento-San Joaquin SUPPORT Delta’s system of levees. An earthquake or flood in the Delta will cut off water to the L.A. region that emphasizes long term improvement SVP of Land Use solution to state water “ crisis that focuses on the for years and cause a Katrina-like disaster throughout the state. The Chamber is collaborating and Development with regional business groups, labor unions and elected officials to move the state towards a for all, rather than myopic opposition to Delta TriCal Construction, Inc. policy that fixes the Delta, ensures continued water supply to Southern California and protects progress based on fear and self interest environmental concerns. alone. Instant Runoff Voting for Instant runoff voting (IRV) will save voters valuable time and save taxpayers up to $9 million next SUPPORT the City of Los Angeles year by consolidating the city’s primary and runoff elections into a single election day. Instead of voting for a single candidate to each office, IRV allows voters to rank candidates in each race I believe that everything starts and ends by order of preference. If no candidate receives a majority of first choices, the candidate with the fewest number of votes is eliminated, and the votes cast for that candidate are redistributed to with the quality of our education system.

the remaining candidates according to the voters’ indicated preference. This process is repeated “ until one candidate has a majority among votes for candidates not eliminated. My dream is that one day we can create a

public school system that truly is world Secure greater federal The Chamber co-led more than 200 local business and civic leaders to Washington, D.C. in SUPPORT class and allows equal opportunity for“ investment in local April to advocate for increased, consistent federal funding for local transportation, goods infrastructure movement and other infrastructure projects. This summer, the Chamber in coordination all without bias with respect to race, with Mobility 21, will continue meeting with members of Congress on establishing dedicated funding streams to build new mass transit, improve our highways and rail system, and alleviate religion or social economic class. traffic congestion.

Modernize LAX and Port of The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the Port of Los Angeles are the region’s SUPPORT Edward K. Kim Los Angeles largest economic engines generating more than $160 billion in annual economic output. Executive Vice President The Chamber is an active proponent for continued terminal modernization and safety U.S. Bank improvements at LAX. This is essential to ensuring a world-class passenger experience and attracting more international flights. We are also committed to ending the logjam of development projects at the Port of Los Angeles. Moving forward on more than a dozen port facility projects will ensure continued “green-growth” that will clean up the environment while My dream is to improve parent education creating thousands of good paying jobs for Southern California. programs and stress the importance of Oppose rollbacks of State efforts such as AB 2280 are underway to rollback market-based incentives for the OPPOSE “early childhood education, especially workforce housing construction of workforce and affordable housing. Known as SB 1818, a state law requires incentives local municipalities to offer developers density bonuses in exchange for setting aside units among minorities, to help decrease the Katzfor lower-income Communications residents. The goal is to incentivize Group additional housing construction rather than demand unworkable mandates in difficult economic times. The Chamber opposes these alarmingly high drop out rates. We need

rollbacks, which will lead to further housing shortages and drive up overall housing costs for all to increase the number of children who Californians.

CLIENT: MICROSOFT PREPARED BY: KATZ COMMUNICATIONSgraduate GROUP from high school and move Re-open Martin Luther PUBLICATION:The closure of King-Harbor LA CHAMBER Hospital in South Los Angeles significantly hurts theFILE local NAME: MICROSOFT_LA_CHAMBER_JUL_08SUPPORT on to the many colleges and universities King Jr. Hospital in South community and threatens the health care safety net of the entire region. The Chamber “ Los Angeles ADstrongly SIZE: supports HALF reopening PAGE King-Harbor Hospital under a public-private partnership.FILE REFERENCE:Failure CTZ ADVERTORIALwe PLAY have SAFE so that the L.A. workplace to do so will continue to negatively impact the community and exacerbate overcrowding at Maelia Macin RUNother L.A.DATE: area hospitals.JULY 1 PROJECT NUMBER: 502 becomes the most culturally diverse and Vice President & educated in the nation. General Manager Free Trade Agreements The Chamber supports Congressional ratification of the pending free trade agreement SUPPORT Univision between the United States and Colombia, Panama and South Korea. Trade between the United with key trading Communications, Inc. partners States and these nations has doubled over the past four years and all three countries currently enjoy nearly free access to the U.S. market. Passage of the agreements will allow American businesses to export products almost tariff free.

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ideo games are an increasingly rich and multi- reach agreement on the level of Parental involvement; PLAY SMART, faceted form of interactive entertainment the amount of Access children can have, including who Venjoyed by millions of adults as well as young they are allowed to play and interact with online; the PLAY SAFE people today. Many parents are understandably con- types of Content children are allowed to play or watch; cerned, however, about children being exposed to inap- and the amount of Time children can use media. (PACT propriate content in some games. A few games are can be downloaded at no cost via the URL below.) particularly troubling because they let players pretend We have joined with organizations such as the Na- at violent and antisocial behavior. tional PTA and Boys and Girls Clubs of America to help We at Microsoft agree that not all games are ap- educate parents about safe and age-appropriate gaming. propriate for all ages. We are committed to providing We have partnered also with retailers such as Best Buy technology and tools that help ensure safe, age-appro- and Wal-Mart to ensure that age ratings of games are priate gaming experiences. clearly explained and consistently observed in stores. For example, Xbox was the rst gaming platform to While we recognize the value of freedom of expres- offer built-in parental controls. These user-friendly Fam- sion for game developers and publishers, we also actively ily Settings allow parents to set limits—different ones support the right and responsibility of parents to make for each child—on access to games, movies and TV educated choices about interactive entertainment for content. A new Family Timer feature even lets parents their children. Informed and equipped with the tools they put overall limits on how long kids can play. need, parents are the rst and best lines of defense for Xbox Live allows parents to manage their children’s ensuring that kids are engaged in safe and age-appropri- online communication and the people they play with ate play. online. Easy-to-use parental controls are incorporated We are committed to providing parents, teenagers, into Windows Vista, as well. schools and others with the information and the tools. These controls support the leading game ratings And we are committed to developing interactive entertain- systems in use around the world, including the Enter- ment that is healthy and fun for the whole family. tainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) system used in the United States. Games with an ESRB rating of AO, Technology and tools empower parents to for “adults only,” are simply not allowed on Xbox. We encourage parents to talk with their kids about the choose interactive entertainment that is rules of game play. To aid in these discussions, we cre- right for their families. ated a parent-child contract called PACT. It helps families

Learn more at microsoft.com/about/citizenship

© 2008 Microsoft Corporation page Paramount Studios is the only major studio still physically located within Hollywood. 5 A better L.A. is our business

Focus on education and workforce development: Jobs for L.A.’s youth The Chamber is working with legislators and the mayor to create summer jobs for teens

Summer employment is more than a right of young adults have access to summer employment. passage for youth entering the workforce. Summer By utilizing the Chamber’s LA Youth at Work and jobs provide youth with new skills and productive Work Readiness Certification (WRC) programs, the activities to stay out of trouble when school is out of Mayor’s HIRE LA’s Youth campaign has mobilized session. As Father Gregory Boyle of Homeboy businesses and provided jobs and training to youth. Industries has said, “nothing stops a bullet quite like a job.” In addition, every $1 earned by a teen, These programs provide a win-win solution, allowing generates $3 in economic activity in the local employers to save time and money by selecting economy, according to the Center for Labor Market qualified, entry-level candidates who have received Studies at Northeastern University. a WRC and giving L.A.’s youth access to viable, skill- building employment and internship opportunities That is why the Chamber recently joined forces with with LA Youth at Work and HIRE LA’s Youth. Youth jobs by the numbers: House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC) and U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to help push a national youth summer jobs program that would One out of five, or 93,000, L.A. prepare a stronger workforce and help repair a youth, ages 16 – 24 are out of struggling national economy through the Summer school and out of work. Job Stimulus Act of 2008.  Introducing teens to the work The Summer Jobs Stimulus Act would create 1 world early will help to reduce million new summer jobs for teens this summer - unemployment, and early helping to reduce unemployment, introduce young work experience has been people to the working world, increase their earning shown to raise earnings over a 1 potential in the future and stimulate local economies lifetime by 10 – 20 percent. across the country.  Every $1 earned by a teen “Economic experts have all made clear that a stimulus SUMMER JOBS. At a press conference on Capitol Hill in April, House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) spoke about legislation that generates $3 in economic package must be timely, temporary and targeted,” would create 1 million new summer jobs for teens. From left: LAUSD activity in the local economy. 2 Superintendent David L. Brewer III; L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa; L.A. Clyburn said at a press conference during Access Area Chamber VP of Education & Workforce Development David Rattray Washington, D.C. “There’s no better program to and U.S. Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA).  One of the biggest short-term implement such principles than a summer jobs “To ensure the best future possible for our city needs of employers is the program.” and our nation, we must make a serious, sustained ability to hire qualified entry- 3 In Los Angeles, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, the Los investment in recruiting, training and deploying a level workers. Angeles Community Development Department, skilled workforce that earns higher wages and keeps the Los Angeles Workforce Investment Board and this country riding high in the economy of the Chamber have taken the lead to ensure that tomorrow,” Villaraigosa said. In 2006, the mayor vowed to provide 5,000 jobs

for Los Angeles youth – HIRE LA’s Youth provided 1 Center for Labor Market Studies, Northeastern University. “One out of Five.” 2004. 7,000. In June, HIRE LA’s Youth celebrated reaching 2 Center for Labor Market Studies at Northeastern University. the 2007 goal of 10,000 jobs for young adults in Los 3 Institute for a Competitive Workforce. “Frontline and Hourly Wage Workforce.” 2005. Angeles. This year, Mayor Villaraigosa has challenged the business community to pledge 15,000 jobs for young people across Los Angeles. The Chamber is To learn more about the Summer Jobs Program, visit inviting businesses throughout the region to help www.lachamber.com/summerjobs. To learn how to make this milestone possible. shape a stronger workforce and provide jobs for our future CEOs, visit www.hirelayouth.com or contact Join participating companies including AT&T, Education & Workforce Development Manager Microsoft Corporation, Ralphs, Southern California Maria Nieto, 213.580.7599 or [email protected]. FACE TO FACE WITH CLYBURN. The Access Washington, D.C. education Edison, United Parcel Service, and Vons who have team met with House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (D-SC) to discuss the Summer Jobs Act. From left to right: Alan Helfman, Los Angeles already answered the mayor’s call to action. Building Unified School District (LAUSD); David Rattray, the Chamber’s VP of Education & Workforce Development; LAUSD Superintendent David the competence of L.A.’s youth is vital to the capacity L. Brewer III; Clyburn; LAUSD Board President Mónica García; Helen of our future workforce. They need you today. You’ll Romero Shaw, Southern California Gas Co; and Deane Leavenworth, Time Warner Cable. need them tomorrow.

1. Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben and 2008 Board Chair Tim McCallion, Verizon, speak with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Chamber Snapshots during Access Washington, D.C., April 15 - 18. 2. U.S. Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard addresses the media during Access Washington, D.C. 3. Walt Disney International Chair Andy Bird; International Trade & Investment Committee Chair Carlos Valderamma, Musick Peeler Scenes from some of the Chamber’s key events & Garrett LLP; Kaylynn Kim, Allen Matkins Leck Gamble Mallory & Natsis LLP; and Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben at the during Summer 2008 82nd World Trade Week Kickoff Breakfast in May.

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page 6 The Hollywood Bowl is the world’s largest outdoor amphitheater. A better L.A. is our business

Southern California’s economic engines: Destination Los Angeles Tourism continues to be a key economic driver, despite slowing economy and rising gas prices

To many in our region, summer vacation often means Hawaii, Mexico, the Grand Canyon and many other destinations easily accessible from Los Angeles. To the rest of the nation and the world, however, Los Angeles is a top vacation destination, with more than 25.9 million visitors traveling to the region last year. As the second largest export industry in L.A. County—second only to international trade—tourism is a © Hollywood Chamber of Commerce © Disney key economic engine in the region. foot development, co-developed by KB Urban and Despite a slowing economy and rising gas prices, Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), will open Tourism by the numbers: which are affecting tourism globally, travel and tourism in 2010 at Olympic Boulevard and Georgia Street. continue to generate more than $400 million in local tax revenue and more than $300 million in state tax The development is already expecting thousands of  Tourism is the second largest revenue each year. In 2006, more than 25.4 million visitors once the hotels are up and running. The L.A. export industry for L.A. visitors came to Los Angeles, with visitor spending Live development has already booked 25 conventions County, right behind direct totaling $13.5 billion, according to LA INC. The Los as far out as 2024. The hotels have advance booking international trade. Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau. for more than 600,000 rooms, according to AEG.  Domestic visitors to L.A. “Tourism is a big part of Southern California’s Industry experts expect tourism to slow nationwide County spent an estimated economy—bringing dollars and jobs to our area,” this year due to gas prices and the economy, but $9.5 billion in 2006, a 5 said Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben. “We local tourism authorities remain optimistic about percent gain over 2006. must continue to attract visitors to our region and the summer season in Los Angeles. show off what Los Angeles has to offer.”  4.6 million foreign residents “Tourism is Los Angeles’ second largest industry visited L.A. County in 2006. More than 260,000 people work in tourism- and it is playing a vital role in today’s challenged related industries in Los Angeles including the economy with a weak dollar,” said Chamber Board  L.A. County hotels had the accommodation, amusement park and travel Member Mark Liberman, president and CEO of fourth highest occupancy arrangement industries. The tourism industry is LA INC. The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors rate of the top 25 U.S. poised to create even more jobs in the future as the Bureau. “When we welcome more visitors to Los markets in 2006. city continues to make improvements and add Angeles, we help boost our local economy. In 2007, facilities to accommodate visitors. we had 25.9 million visitors who spent more than  The region around LAX had $15 billion and it is expected that 2008 figures will the highest hotel occupancy When we welcome more visitors to surpass these record-breaking numbers.” rate in 2006, with the San Los Angeles, we help boost our Fernando Valley close behind. “ Fifty-nine percent of leisure travelers said they will

local economy. In 2007, we had 25.9

million visitors who spent more travel as much as last year, according to a recent American Express Retail Index. Another 23 percent Source: LA Inc., The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau than $15 billion and it is expected“ said they will travel more and only 18 percent said that 2008 figures will surpass these they expect to travel less than last year. Despite a record-breaking numbers. slower economy, tourism is expected to continue to For more information, contact VP of Public Policy be a major economic engine in Southern California Samuel Garrison, 213.580.7568 or -Mark Liberman, and the business community is working together to [email protected]. President and CEO make certain this happens. LA INC. The Los Angeles Convention and Visitors Bureau “We are working closely with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) to attract increased airline In downtown Los Angeles, an $800 million services to LAX,” Liberman said. “And to promote 1,001-room facility with 77,000 square feet of meeting the Los Angeles area abroad so potential visitors are space, is under construction as a key part of the L.A. educated about all of the great attractions, culture, Live sports and entertainment district, which will hotels, dining and shopping Los Angeles has to house two hotels, a JW Marriot Hotel and The Ritz- offer.” Carlton Hotel, Los Angeles. The 2 million square

4. Dantee O. Cardenas, E.D. Produce, Inc., receives his Small Business Person of the Year award from (left) Alberto Alvarado, U.S. Small Business Administration, and Chamber Board Chair Tim McCallion, Verizon, at the Small Business Awards in June presented by the Chamber, the U.S. Small Business Administration and presenting supporter Bank of America. 5. Attendees at the 27th Annual Small Business Awards at Dodger Stadium in June. 6. Secretary of the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency Dale E. Bonner meets with the Goods Movement lobbying team during Access Sacramento in June.

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page KTLA, the first commercial television station west of the Mississippi River, began broadcasting in Los Angeles on Jan. 22, 1947. 7 A better L.A. is our business

Member Advantage The Chamber’s member-to-member discount program offers a variety of savings, from hotel rooms to printing to shipping. If you’d like to offer other members a discount on your products or services, contact Membership Manager Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or [email protected].

ADVERTISING HOUSING PRINTING & COPYING Billboard Connection Outdoor Advertising Legacy Partners Residential- Pegasus Apartments Universal Reprographics, Inc. Receive 25 percent off all production charges (includes design) with any Chamber members receive one month free on 12-month contract lease. Receive 15 percent off color copies, posters, B/W digital printing and advertising campaign placed with us. Let us create a cost-effective ad Upon approved credit. Come in today. Call 213.430.9112. copying, CAD plotting and blue printing. Contact Madeline Wilson, campaign to reach your target market using billboards, buses/transit, 213.365.7750. malls, or one of over 50 plus strategic products and programs. Minimum Human Resources $8K total campaign budget. Contact Brian Alexander, 310.429.3900. PUBLIC RELATIONS The Prince Synergy AUDIO VISUAL Receive 10 percent off employers with medical costs, turnover, Weisman Hamlin Public Relations absenteeism and injured staff above national average. In addition, 15 Receive 10 percent off WHPR’s full Public Relations and marketing CCS Presentation Systems, Inc. percent to those who desire innovation or sale at national level. Contact services on an hourly basis. Contact Sydney Weisman, 323.730.0233. Chamber members receive a $75 discount on projector rentals. Contact Judith Sullivan, 310.820.2829 or judith@ThePrince Synergy.com. Gina Riberi, 323.954.7754, ext. 12. REAL ESTATE Visit www.ThePrince Synergy.com. Flanigan Real Estate AUTOMOBILE SERVICES INSURANCE Save $2,000 on your closing cost, buying or selling a home. Contact Enterprise Rent a Car UIP Insurance Services LLC Dane Flanigan, 310.621.4005. Receive 10 percent off our already low prices, mention code 32w2630. If your current auto or home insurance is written with one of the REAL ESTATE/COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL Call 1.800.593.0505 or your local office. insurance companies we are appointed with, we will rebate you 10 High-N Mobile Auto Detailing percent. The rebate will be issued to you after you have paid the policy Venture Commercial Realty Receive 20 percent off auto wash and detail. Services provided at your premium. This rebate does not apply to subsequent renewals periods. Receive 15 percent off commission over $1,000,000 transaction. location. Contact James Douglass, 213.840.3379. Contact Armando Rivas 616.535.8300, ext. 439. Contact Ken Park, 213.580.7561 ext. 305. CLUBS/PRIVATE INTERIOR DESIGN STORAGES LAACO, Ltd. Design Theory Venture Commercial Realty Join the Los Angeles Athletic Club and receive $200 off your initiation Receive 15 percent off design hourly rate or 10 percent off design flat fee. Receive 25 percent off any size storage rental for the first 6 months. fee. Application subject to approval. Call 213.630.5200. Visit www.design-theory.com. Restriction: Month-to-month contract. Call Joe Piombino, 213.481.1010 COMPUTER SOFTWARE PROGRAM INTERNATIONAL MARKETING TELECOMMUNICATIONS Ricco Enterprises, LLC IMD, Integral Market Developer Premier Global Services Save 15 percent on all QuickBooks services, including our QuickBooks Receive a 15 percent service discount on foreign markets, start-up Chamber members receive a minimum discount of 20 percent and up Pro two-day Training Workshops. Contact Robert Ricco, 310.729.3705. marketing and business plans, global distribution, market positioning, to 80 percent off list prices depending on volume of usage. Additionally, e-marketing and market introduction plan. Contact Vicky Panossian, one month free service with 12-month contract agreements on both EDUCATION PROGRAM 310.871.5326. audio and web conferencing. Contact Gary Patten, 310.734.0593. UCLA Anderson School of Management LEGAL/ARBITRATION TELEPHONE Save 10 percent on any Executive Education Program. Acquire to-level Arbitration Mediation Group management strategies and leadership skills to guide your organization. Receive a 10 percent discount on an hourly fee of $250 per hour. Contact Restriction: Cannot combine with any other discount. Call 310.825.2001. Member Highlight David Dresnick, 818.790.1851. Electronic waste & IT Recycling PAYROLL SERVICE Receive a free accessory when signing up for a new MetroPCS service. Only at MetroPCS company owned locations. Contact ECA Co., Asset Management & IT Recycling – “ECA Co.” Elite Payroll Services Leon Bedolla, 714.730.3192. Free computer recycling drop offs and free corporate/company pickups Receive 10 percent off payroll services with a 50 percent discount on one- and clean-outs. SB-20 certified. Contact Eric Lundgren, 360.303.7754 or time set up fees. Promotion offer through telephone orders only. Contact 213.291.9533. Visit www.eCAcompany.com. Stephen Williams, 626.216.5000. EVENT PLANNING PHOTOGRAPHY Fortune Events Architectural Photography & Design Receive 10 percent off final contract; includes floral and event planning Save 10 percent on architectural photography fees - includes exteriors, TRANSPORTATION services. Contact Ivet Fortune, 323.462.8299. interiors, construction progress, and claims for use as promotion purposes or contract. Contact Richard Levy, 213.250.0100. TMO FINANCIAL Receive $250 off any loan application or any business/ equipment loan Los Angeles LDC, Inc. PBF Photography funded. Contact John McGarr, 310.965.0815. $250.00 off any loan application fee or loan documentation charge. Receive 10 percent off normal hourly rates or 15 percent off packages. Contact Patrick Botz-Forbes, 323.309.3332. WallyPark Loans must be $150,000 or less. Contact Rob Lowe, 213.312.9117. Receive 20 percent off valet or self-park service per day with a FRUIT & GIFT BASKETS minimum three-day stay. May not be used with any other discount or offer. Contact Bryan Gusdorf, 800.pk.wally. Melissa’s/World Variety Produce, Inc. Receive 15 percent off any exotic baskets. Contact Frank Labbe, 888.588.0151, ext. 340.

Bottom-Line Benefits Save money and reduce bottom-line costs

Save up to 50 percent by utilizing the advantages provided by the L.A. Area Chamber and its members.

Up to 25 percent off shipping services Save with preferred pricing on DHL’s full suite of shipping services, including next morning, next afternoon, second day and ground, with international service to more than 220 countries, guaranteed on-time delivery, and 24/7 online customer service. Sign up at www.membersales.com/lachamber. We believe in the corner store.

20 percent off LAX parking The biggest shuttle fleet at LAX is at your service, boasting two locations just two minutes from the airport and shuttles every 5-7 minutes. Save 20 percent at the Sepulveda and Century locations. At the Sepulveda location, receive complimentary upgrades from rooftop to valet service and a one- time courtesy pass for three consecutive days of free parking. Keep The Parking Spot discount card from your Chamber welcome kit in For nearly 60 years, we’ve taken care of workers so that your car. If you need a replacement, call 213.580.7590. businesses large and small can feel their healthiest. So as your business community grows, Kaiser Permanente is there to help support you along the way. That’s good business for everyone. Up to 65 percent off office supplies Let the buying power of the Chamber save you up to 65 percent on office supplies from Office Depot, with next-day delivery, monthly reporting to monitor your expenses, and convenient ordering by fax, phone or Web. Call 818.557.1702 to sign up for the program.

For more information contact Membership Manager Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or [email protected]. For more information about Kaiser Permanente, call 1-800-464-4000 or visit us online at kaiserpermanente.org page 8 The Hollywood Walk of Fame’s collection of stars exceeds 2,300 and grows by one or two a month. A better L.A. is our business

Face to face: Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Yvonne B. Burke Every quarter the L.A. Area Chamber speaks with a civic leader on issues affecting the business community in the Los Angeles region.

This quarter we ask Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Yvonne B. Burke, Ending the epidemic of gang violence is a top representing the 2nd District—Carson, Chamber priority that requires a regional approach. Compton, Culver City, Gardena, Hawthorne, What is the county doing in conjunction with local Inglewood, Lawndale, Lynwood, and portions governments, law enforcement and the community to of Los Angeles—about what she wants to help end this lifestyle? accomplish in 2008 and what’s ahead for her after stepping down at the end of the year. Supervisor Burke: We have to have an enforcement component. In some instances our office has been What do you see are the biggest issues facing Los involved in checking on probationers and parolees. Angeles County in 2008? We have to make sure that they have adequate education and that they are directed into other Supervisor Burke: Our biggest issues are financial. kinds of future activities, monitoring them so that We depend on state funds so much, also sales and they don’t get into the same situation that they were property tax. When you start talking about a in before. We have to have different components—

reduction in property tax because fewer properties enforcement, prevention and rehab for those young

are being sold, that has a direct impact on L.A. people who come through our system. The opportunities that I have had County. When the state says they’re going to hold have convinced me that I need to “ “ back funds that we will receive, that has a great You have broken so many barriers in your career – make sure that others realize they impact on us. So we are faced with financial issues you were the first African American woman elected need to try things, even though we and the reality of them. to the California Legislature in 1967, the first African sometimes fail. American Woman elected to the U.S. Congress from California in 1972, and the first African American Health care is also a big one for us, with hospital -Supervisor Yvonne B. Burke closures. We get a difference in terms of reimburse- Woman to serve as Chair of the L.A. County Board ments for Medicaid. We don’t get the same as they of Supervisors in 1993. How did these experiences do in Northern California. Somehow, they’ve put in shape your public policy views and your views of life the U.S. Congress. With the experience of being on different levels of reimbursements. in general? the committee, I understood the finance and how to deal with a large entity on financial decisions—that’s The Chamber is a strong supporter of having a private Supervisor Burke: The opportunities that I have what Bernie Parks will bring. firm reopen and operate Martin Luther King Jr. had have convinced me that I need to make sure Hospital as soon as possible. How is the push for new that others realize they need to try things, even What’s next for you? ownership going and what obstacles are still ahead? though we sometimes fail. Because I’ve failed many times. But the important thing that I hope I’ve gotten Supervisor Burke: I plan to do mediation and Supervisor Burke: I think it’s going very well. I through to people of color and to women, is you dispute resolution. I’m going to work part time. believe we’ll enter into some kind of contract. The have to give it a chance. I’m so pleased to see Karen I’m a lawyer, but I don’t plan on going to a law firm. biggest obstacle is how do you get the money to be Bass as the speaker of the able to reimburse a private operator or provider the Assembly. That says to women, amount that they feel is necessary to take care of you got to be there and you can the uninsured. I think we’ll find a private operator. do it. We’ll negotiate and get the amount they should be reimbursed, and I think we’ll move in that direction You are stepping down at the very fast. end of this year. What are the challenges facing your successor In what areas do you think the Chamber and the and do you have any favorites in business community can be most effective in improving the race? the economy and quality of life in the County? Supervisor Burke: The Supervisor Burke: We have to have jobs here. The unfortunate part of it is that I Chamber can emphasize to its members: Look very don’t believe that when I leave carefully at Los Angeles before you move out any that these financial crises will be functions or you contract overseas for operations. over. I believe the health crisis, We have so many people here who are available to in terms of money, the state do the job. Because unless we have jobs, we see more crisis will still be there—they’ll and more people dependent upon public provisions be giving us less money. I say of services and we don’t want that. We want people to my successor: You’re going working, we want people making money, we want to have tough times. I came in our educational institutions to continue to thrive. 1992, the last recession, and it was not easy. Tough decisions South Los Angeles is poised for an economic resurgence. will have to be made. What have you been doing to foster job creation and economic development in the area? My successor needs to be someone familiar with budgets Supervisor Burke: I have been trying to attract who has had the experience in industries and companies to come in. The only way terms of operating a large entity, you get the jobs is if you can get companies to invest and the experience in terms in South Los Angeles. I was there when they opened of making financial decisions. up the new Fresh & Easy market— the first market That’s why I’m supporting Bernie in Compton for ages, except for maybe a few mom Parks. As police chief, he had and pops. I was very supportive of Target and Home the experience of dealing with Depot coming into Compton. That same thing has a large number of employees, to happen in other parts of South Los Angeles. and he’s on the financial Services have to be there and those services provide committee on the council. I jobs. Not only do you get jobs you get the economic came after being on the viability. appropriation committee of page The Kodak Theatre,WL800454_Los_Angles_Chamber_of_Commerce.indd which opened in 2001 on Hollywood Blvd. at 1 Highland Ave., is the home of the Oscars.5/29/2008 9:43:479 AM A better L.A. is our business

Focus on small business: “It’s the way you have to do business these days,” Spurgeon said. “The traditional ways of doing Small business gets social business have to be supplemented and social media is the way it’s going.” Businesses are using social media as a tool to engage customers For more information on how to expand your S ocial media, or online forums that allow people are looking for and where they’re looking for that marketing reach, join the Chamber for the to interact, collaborate and network, is not just for information. Connection Point series, by contacting Program individuals and bloggers. A growing number of Manager Bridget Netter, 213.580.7576 or Social media is an opportunity to interact with the [email protected]. corporations, traditional media outlets and even people who are most important to the growth of your government Web sites are using social media to business. Blogging has allowed many companies to engage customers, readers and constituencies. Small host, from their own Web site, a commentary journal The Connection Point: to medium-sized businesses are now getting in on the on a range of topics, giving them the chance to share Members making the right action and learning to knowledge and engage in connection utilize these tools to conversations with their increase their visibility consumers. Many professionals network as a part of their among potential clients. business development efforts, but do so without Media pages including a solid strategy for success. At the Chamber’s “Today, consumers are Connection Point series, members learn how to Flickr and YouTube provide network with a purpose and plan. going to different places an opportunity to to get educated on what experience visually what The seven-session Connection Point series in they’re interested in. a company has to offer. 2008 began in April. Don’t miss out on any of the They’re going to the Internet And networking sites such remaining sessions: and looking at specific as Facebook and Myspace niche sites,” said Pete Web 2.0 connect people with Thursday, July 31, 5 - 7 p.m. Nelson, Everywhere Marketing, prospective customers and Learn how to leverage the benefits of new media marketing. and the facilitator of the Chamber’s partners. Connection Point series. “Social media gives Pulling Your Act Together consumers an opportunity to get information they The Chamber recently created a group on LinkedIn, Thursday, Sept. 18, 5 – 7 p.m. need when they want it and gives businesses a an online network of more than 20 million experienced Discover how to capture your clients’ attention and channel of communication to get their message out.” professionals from around the world, representing make your first impression count. 150 industries. Many Chamber members are also on Many small businesses hesitate to get involved with Selling Under Pressure LinkedIn, including Beacon Management Group, Thursday, Oct. 23, 5 – 7 p.m. social media because of a lack of media savvy and Understand “tested” tools of the trade that will help you MitraIT, Women Media Pros and others. the budget to expand, but the upside for many of deliver when the clients show up.

these Web sites is that they don’t require a significant Suzanne Spurgeon, CEO of media consulting firm Mixing Meals and Marketing amount of time and financial investment. Nelson Women Media Pros, has been using LinkedIn for six Thursday, Nov. 6, 5-7 p.m. recommends understanding the value of your service, months, and says if she can do it, anyone can. Learn the fine points of dining when marketing is the purpose of the event or the meal. learning what kind of information your consumers

SCORE Spotlight: Developing a Legal Plan This quarter the Los Angeles Chapter of SCORE discusses why small businesses should have a legal plan

Intellectual property – patents, Human Resources - Employees and trademarks and copyrights Contractors Independent contractors are often an Patents, trademarks and copyrights are attractive option of small businesses collectively known as intellectual property. that don’t have either the resources or the Ask the following questions to understand need for full time employees. But if you where your business stands on intellectual hire contractors, make sure that the property issues. relationship fits within the IRS’s definition  Has your business instituted a trade of contract labor. secret and proprietary information program? Hiring direct employees may be more SMALL BUSINESS. SCORE counselor Jerry Earle advises Timo appropriate for your business. To determine Spekkens, Sound Adventures, on his small business.  Does your business have any brands, whether an individual is an employee under logos, packaging or designs? common law rules, the IRS has identified 20  Can they be trademarked or service factors that are used as guidelines to marked and, if so, are they? determine whether sufficient control is present to establish an employer-employee relationship  Can your business obtain a patent for including behavioral and financial controls, any idea, invention or discovery? and relationships of the parties. More information on hiring contractors or  Is your business planning to develop a Every small business should have a legal plan that employees is available at: new product or use a new process that considers all the activities in the business that could http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc762/html. may have been patented by someone have legal implications. This informal plan will help else? you, as an owner, identify the legal issues you may encounter and provide guidance on how they should  Have you registered Internet domain To learn more about having a legal plan for your be addressed. You should think about: names that may be important to your small business, contact the Los Angeles Chapter of SCORE Counselors to America’s Small Business at  The legal structure of your business business? 818.552.3206.  Applicable regulatory requirements  Do you have copyright protection for  Successor planning the text, graphic, software, audio or SCORE counselors provide free, confidential business film materials that comprise the counseling and training workshops to small business  Discrimination manuals, promotional or training owners. SCORE is a resource partner of the U.S.  Computer fraud and abuse materials of your business? Small Business Administration. Counselors are  Intellectual property available at the L.A. Area Chamber. To make an appointment, contact Alice Ochoa, 213.580.7592 or  Use of contractors and/or employees [email protected]. page 10 For every dollar invested in the Los Angeles Convention Center, the city gets $10 of economic benefit in return. A better L.A. is our business

Member Anniversaries Congratulations to our renewing members! We greatly appreciate your continued support and involvement. *Circle Level Members are in bold. 120-Year Anniversary 15-Year Anniversary Quateman LLP Killefer Flammang Architects Sunbelt International Business Corporation Woodbury University Barragan’s Mexican Restaurant LACC Foundation The Investment Coordinating Board of Indonesia Los Angeles Universal Preschool 10-Year Anniversary translate4me, Inc. Metro PCS 85-Year Anniversary United Pacific Waste & Recycling Services MultiState Associates Childrens Hospital Los Angeles Los Angeles Junction Railway Company Westwood College National MS Society-Southern California Chapter Los Angeles Self Storage, LLC New York Life Insurance Company Water Grill/King’s Seafood Company 80-Year Anniversary 1-Year Anniversary Pacific Electric Lofts Golden State Water Company Arnold & Porter, LLP Packard Lofts 5-Year Anniversary BCS Staffing Palmer, Lombardi & Donohue LLP 45-Year Anniversary AirTran Airways California Certified Farmers Market Paramount Express International American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Anderson Associates Staffing Corp. Ceiland Coast, Inc. ProFusion Consulting Arnie Berghoff & Associates Center for International Trade Development- Radisson USC Los Angeles Downtown 35-Year Anniversary Bergelectric Corporation El Camino College RFS Consultling Burson-Marsteller Clean Agency Shakey’s Pizza Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown Hotel Camarillo Premium Outlets Clothing By Frenzii, Inc. Stuart M. Ketchum Downtown YMCA Dosa, Inc. Cosmo Brand LAB Sushi Pacific Suppliers, Inc. 30-Year Anniversary Employers Direct Insurance Company Crowell & Moring, LLP Takami Sushi & Robata/Elevate Lounge Levine/Seegel Associates Granada Hills Charter High School CSULA-Career Development Center The LAMB Associates Architects, Inc. Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co. L.A. Mart D.A. Business Broker The Salvation Army, Southern California Division Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute Delta Air Lines, Inc. Volunteers of America Greater Los Angeles 25-Year Anniversary at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Discovery Travel International Weston Solutions, Inc. ABD Insurance & Financial Services Manufacturers Bank Hudson Group Women Media Pros Welcome to the Chamber Thanks to our new members, who joined the Chamber during March, April and May 2008. Julian Y. Chung Farmers Insurance Southside Coalition of Community To learn more about Circle Level membership benefits, call 213.580.7500. Julian Chung, 213.388.8771, Insurance Health Center KeepSafe Technologies Nina L. Vaccaro, 323.945.7741 Keesal, Young & Logan California Turkish American DIAMOND Kristian Turner, 310.999.5116 Health Care/Organizations Terry Ross, 562.436.2000 Chamber of Commerce Consultants/Information Technology Stonegate Total Lending Solutions San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Legal, Compliance & Ethics Services Mahmut Altrn, 310.481.1454 Ed Delgado, 909.864.8933, Government Kenwon, Inc. Brian Bridwell, 877.545.1151 L.A. Southpark High-Rise, LP Business Organizations Oscar Huang, 626.215.9629 Financial Services/Venture Capital SILVER Licica Benefield, 213.624.8439, Apartments Canvas LA Importers & Exporters Jenny Colon, 213.977.8866, Apartments Synergy Charter Academy CVS CAREMARK Lee Andrews Group, Inc. Erika C. Chua, 323.459.2463, Schools Rebecca M. Martinez, 951.236.8198 J.T. Ford, 213.891.2965, Public Relations Child Care Alliance of Los Angeles LA Healthcare Ilya Rachman, M.D., 323.654.2020 TATA America International Corporation Retail/Specialty Items Marathon Communications, Inc. Grace Cainoy Weltman, 310.719.1432 Health - Weight Management Toshiyuki Okai, 949.222.6570 Jorge Flores, 323.655.4660 Community Organizations Foley & Lardner LLP Consultants/Information Technology Jack Lasater, 213.972.4500, Attorneys Public Relations/Advocacy Citslinc International, Inc. Lillian Huang Lillian Huang, 949.331.7999 Teach California Charters General Motors Corp. PBS&J Leo Liu, 626.571.0616, International Trade Emily R. Cannon, 310.904.9423, Education Shad D. Balch, 805.373.9758 Andy Nahle, 310.577.3463 CPEhr McCormick Legal Advisors, Inc. Automobiles/Manufacturers Transportation/Planning Service Jerry Sassover, 310.385.1064, Human Heather L. McCormick, 818.545.0110 The College of Executive Coaching Resources Attorneys Jeffrey E. Auerbach Ph.D, 805.474.4124 BRONZE Sunrider International Paul McCabe, 310.781.3800 Diana Ho Merchant Account Providers Consultants/Executive Coaching Armbruster & Goldsmith LLP Health Care/Health & Wellness Products Diana Ho, 310.598.4814 Shico Marciano, 800.774.7597 The Hollywood Group, Inc. Roger S. Golden, 310.209.8800 Consultants/Transportation Credit and Debit Card Processing Amy M. Brown, 310.882.7602 Attorneys/Real Estate STANDARD eInfoPro Naviron Entertainment Belmont Station Apartments 1st Enterprise Bank Ade Rogers, 626.449.4469 Evan M. Harmon, 213.252.9955, Staffing The Law Offices of Sydnee R. Singer, P.C. Paveena Prayonsirisak, 213.250.9771 David Kohn, 213.430.7051, Banks Internet/Search & Online Directory Sydnee R. Singer, 310.540.9977 Apartments Angels Market #2 Oschin Partners, Inc. Extra Space Storage Francine Oschin, 818.907.1130 Attorneys/Business & Civil Litigation Boston Coach Edwin Reyes, 323.261.1713 William C. Whitrock, 323.661.8100 Public Relations/Government Affairs Dede Aguayo, 800.672.7676 Convenience Store Townsend Communications Storage/Self Kerry F. Townsend, 917.806.2550 Transportation Pinnacle Telecommunications Ascentis Extreme Boot Camp Downtown LA Consultants/Public Relations Steve Frank, 714.993.1123 COMFORCE Technical Services, Inc. Jennifer Owens, 800.452.4205, Payroll Danisha V. Hairston, 213.610.3233 Telecommunications VACO Los Angeles Kasee Bojorquez, 310.643.2682, Staffing Services Health Clubs/Fitness Melissa Arnold, 310.693.0490 CUMBRE Insurance Services Atelier L.A. Design & Development, Inc. Preferred Group Fanky International, Inc. Staffing/Accounting Rafe Shoup, 800.998.7986 Dylan F. Fonseca, 310.237.5544, Architects Rebecca Zhou, 626.442.2225 Emad Ghobrial, 323.654.2424, Concierge Venstar Exchange (Holding), Inc. Insurance/Brokers BalancedTrust Consultants/International Trade Ricco Enterprises, LLC. Ryan S. Klein, 800.407.3796 Downtown Diversion Mr. Bryan R. Deehring, 310.882.5516, Robert A. Ricco, 310.729.3705 Foscari Financial Services/International Tom McCurry, 818.485.8200, Recycling Consultants Maria A. Foscari, 714.342.8076, Caterers Financial Services/Training Banerjee & Associates Vision Payment Solutions LLC Easynet Group, Inc. Global Office Equipment S&M Fashion Group, LLC Frances T. Banerjee, 626.808.7500 Eric Hannelius, 207.321.3428 Jose Delapaz, 310.498.4814 Jamil Qureshi, 323.721.9160 Sacha Hason, 213.747.8890 Consultants/Transportation Credit and Debit Card Processing Audio Visual/Video Conferencing Equipment/Office Products Clothing/Women Boardwalk Advisors LLC White’s Medical Recruiting Green Dot Public Schools Green Media Enterprises Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corp. Beth Wessel, 619.237.1338, Accounting/CPA Nanette Y. Blanco, 661.945.4755, Staffing Alma Marquez, 213.621.0276, Schools Kara Kenney, 310.984.6902 Jim Harris, 310.458.8900, Attractions Bugbee Productions xiik Holland Partners Trade Shows/Exhibit Producers SmartSource Computer & AV Rentals Josh McDonald, 360.694.7888 Jill Toledo-Bugbee, 888.816.1809 Christopher Overstreet, 888.900.9445 Horizon Trade Finance Kim Webb, 310.237.5324, Audio Visual Real Estate/Property Management Video & Film Production Web Development Ming Tang, 213.234.9596 Kaplan Higher Education-Corp. Office Cahuenga Place Apartments Financial Services/International Heather Buchner, 310.650.9446 Melinda Yates, 323.969.9149, Apartments Universities & Colleges

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

“The L.A. Area Chamber’s “The L.A. Area Chamber leads “It has been gratifying to “The L.A. Area Chamber consists “The L.A. Area Chamber works advocacy agenda speaks to the vital discussions and serves as participate in such a vibrant ‘can of the city’s best and brightest who tirelessly to advocate for important mission of my career-education an expert opinion on issues of do’ atmosphere at the L.A. Area care deeply about the direction of issues, build relationships and practice.” importance throughout the greater Chamber.” the city.” celebrate the successes created by Los Angeles region.” its members.” Christine R. Bosworth, Ed.D Michael C. Howard Brian Kite President Felicia Brannon Business Development Manager Managing Principal & Vice President Kelly Yang Professional Career Education Executive Director Intechra—Los Angeles Leo A. Daly Marketing Manager Member since 2007 University of California, Los Angeles Recycling Center Member since 1948 Southwest Airlines Co. Member since 2007 As a member of the Education & Member since 2003 Having been a member of the Member since 1999 Workforce Development Committee, As an active member of the Chamber, Intechra’s goal in L.A. is to align our Chamber for more than 60 years, Air travel is important to the L.A. area I have met like-minded members UCLA aligns itself with the Chamber company with the area interests, Leo A. Daly has developed a rapport economy, and with Southwest being the who are responsible for increasing as an advocate and engages in the both public and private, and recycle with the business community over #1 domestic U.S. airline, LAX serves as a adult literacy and workforce skills in various forums for discussions and as much electronic waste as possible. such a long standing period of large operations for us. By participating Los Angeles. The partnerships that issues committees. The Chamber Having moved here recently, it was time—giving us the ability to not only in the Chamber’s Aviation Committee, have resulted from my participation has been a role model of advocacy my priority to become as proactive establish ourselves, but also to help we have has stayed in the foreground with the Chamber, have provided the and stature for all of its members and visible in the Chamber as new entities establish and grow their about the importance of modernizing opportunity to increase our school’s and the communities of Los Angeles. possible. I have attended many business. We have found a greater LAX. The Chamber cares about making community outreach program. Providing forums for discussion and Chamber public policy meetings sense of satisfaction from giving Los Angeles a strong and vibrant city, Through the Chamber’s collective events for networking, along with key to gain a better understanding of back to the community and that has so all Angelenos can live, work and voice, issues that concern me as a information regarding the region, the the area and its challenges and benefited the entire firm. thrive in the most successful way. business owner and educator are Chamber has long been a leader in opportunities. heard and acted upon. page areas of growth and sustainability. Most of California’s film industry employment—more than 85 percent—is in L.A. County. 11 A better L.A. is our business

“Los Angeles is the largest, most diversified economy in “UCLA ranks fourth in the country in research expenditures. America. There’s no other place like it in the world today. The people who issue those competitive grants—NIH, UCLA is a mirror “Entertainment, fashion and pop culture, of course. DOD, NSF and all the others—look at UCLA as a very, of Los Angeles. Manufacturing, services, exports and imports: Huge. An extraordi- very significant research institution with the collective (Actually, maybe nary mass of medical, scientific and high technology that dwarfs the intellect to accomplish what they want to accomplish. more like an Silicon Valley and Greater Boston combined. (Yahoo! planted a “UCLA is a state institution—of, by and for the IMAX.©) flag in Santa Monica. Ditto Microsoft, in downtown Los Angeles.) people of California. Certainly, you want students from other states, “And, one constant in all the variables: a network of top-flight other nations, with different universities. ideas and values and experi- ences. But when you educate Californians, there’s a bonus: Welcome to the. They don’t leave. They stay in California. All of us share the benefits of their education. capital of Now. “UCLA is a big-city school. It’s not out somewhere in No “Universities raise the level of what’s possible. They can draw Man’s Land. It’s here in one upon not just their own resources, but the community at large. of the most important metro- Universities can get academics, researchers, politicians, entrepre- politan centers in the world. It neurs, dreamers and doers in the same room to seize moments, face Richard Ziman is chairman of AVP feeds off that. The city and its Advisors, LLC, the exclusive advisor to issues, define problems, change priorities, do something. American Value Partners. The Center entrepreneurs/creators feed Los Angeles runs “Consider UCLA. for Real Estate at UCLA bears his name. off it, too. on a premium blend “Unequivocally, it’s a first-rank national university. “Our company couldn’t exist without very capable people at of expertise and (There are very few in its class. A dozen, maybe.) It every level. A very large percent of our senior staff are UCLA innovation. Its unique, attracts highly talented, highly motivated students and graduates. I suppose that indicates a certain lack of objectivity start-up-centric research fellows who involve themselves in the UCLA on our part.” economy couldn’t work without a highly experience and go on from there with the UCLA atti- educated work force. tude—a deep commitment to education and inquiry. Richard S. Ziman. UCLA, Unabashed. And vice versa.

350 South Bixel St. Los Angeles, California 90017 213.580.7500 | Fax 213.580.7511 www.lachamber.com Our Mission By being the voice of business, helping its members grow and promoting collaboration, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce seeks full prosperity for the Los Angeles region. Be a part of the Diamond Club L.A. Area Chamber’s The Chamber gratefully acknowledges the support of our largest member investors, the Diamond Club, for their help in fulfilling the Chamber’s mission. Access L.A. City Hall | Sept. 25

AT&T Automobile Club of Southern California Bank of America Chevron Corporation Different sponsorship levels are available. For more information, Kaiser Permanente contact Lee Ligons, 213.580.7523 or [email protected]. Los Angeles Times Majestic Realty Co. Microsoft Corporation Port of Los Angeles Ralphs Grocery Company San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Southern California Edison The Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utility Time Warner Cable Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Verizon Wachovia Bank, NA Wells Fargo The views contained in the Chamber VOICE reflect positions taken by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and do not necessarily reflect the views of our Diamond Club members.

summer 2008 in this issue

10 ways the Chamber helped L.A. business this quarter 3 Jobs for L.A.’s youth 6 A conversation with L.A. County Supervisor 9 Yvonne B. Burke

pageLos Angeles has more than 80 stage theaters and 300 museums, more than any U.S. city.