In D.C. with One Voice After a Successful Southern California Trip to Our Nation’S Capital, Chamber Plans Advocacy Trip to Sacramento in May

Chamber VOICE

IN THIS ISSUE: 10 ways the Chamber helped L.A. business this quarter 3 Chamber Exploring the benefits of global trade 4

What does the Chamber offer small business members? 6

Spring 2007 • Volume 6 • issue 2 VOICE A quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce In D.C. With One Voice After a successful Southern California trip to our nation’s capital, Chamber plans advocacy trip to Sacramento in May

More than 200 business and civic leaders—the largest-ever delegation of bipartisan Southern California leaders in the Chamber’s history—joined forces for the annual Access Washington, D.C. trip, March 26-28 to advocate for important issues affecting our region. The delegation made it loud and clear that Southern California is a national asset. The region is the top entry point for goods, visitors and immigrants to the United States. “There is no question that the impact of Southern California can be felt nationwide,” said Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben. “During Access Washington, D.C. we asked Congress to invest in this national asset, which delivers tremendous return on investment to the United States.” The group met with elected officials and policymakers on critical issues,

including investment in our region’s infrastructure, homeland security funding, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA TOGETHER. L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa addresses the media at the Access Washington, D.C. press conference, assistance with health care, gangs and affordable homes, and increased investment flanked by the more than 200 member delegation, including 20 Southern California partnering organizations. in student financial aid, career academics and workforce development. The delegation included L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Anaheim Mayor Curt Next Stop: Our State’s Capital Pringle, Santa Monica Mayor Richard Bloom, L.A. Police Chief William Bratton, Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent David L. Brewer III, LAUSD Board With the end of Access Washington, D.C., the Chamber is ramping up for Access President Marlene Canter, Los Angeles City Councilmembers Janice Hahn, Eric Sacramento, May 15-16. Garcetti, Wendy Greuel and Bill Rosendahl, and more than 20 Southern California During last year’s Access Sacramento trip, the Chamber worked to get the business and trade organizations. infrastructure bonds on the November ballot. On this year’s trip, the focus will be “I’m a big believer in collaboration,” said Bill Allen, president and CEO of the Los on what projects in Southern California will receive funding from the $19.9 billion Angeles County Economic Development Corp. “The Chamber has shown such great Proposition 1B, how California can leverage investments through federal matching leadership in bringing regional organizations together. Having these many voices funds and preparing for a second round of infrastructure bonds. delivering messages on core issues is necessary to make a With the large flow of goods through sufficient impact on the Congressional audience.” Southern California, funding our The delegation met with numerous elected officials “The Chamber has shown such great leadership region’s infrastructure is critical to and the president’s administration, including Secretary of in bringing regional organizations together. Having relieve congestion and gridlock in our Commerce Carlos Gutierrez, Sen. Barbara Boxer, Sen. Dianne these many voices delivering messages on core transportation corridors. Feinstein, Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.), Sen. Joseph issues is necessary to make a sufficient impact on the The Access Sacramento delegation will Biden (D-Del.), Congressional audience.” also provide the business perspective Speaker of the - Bill Allen, president and CEO, Los Angeles County Economic to the statewide debate on health care House Nancy Development Corp. reform, urging legislators to pass an Pelosi, Rep. Jim initiative that will cover more Oberstar (D- uninsured and spread the financial Minn.) and Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard. burden of health care costs. For the last three years Richard On the education front, the delegation will advocate for the Chamber’s “Cash Macias, Macias Government Relations, for College” bill, which was recently introduced by Assembly Majority Leader Karen has participated in Access Washington, Bass. AB 1540 would expand the Chamber-led program statewide to educate young D.C. But this year’s surpassed trips in people on how to navigate the college admissions process and obtain financial aid, the past. especially Cal Grants. “It’s been a great experience. The delegation plans to meet with numerous state officials, including Gov. The word has gotten around Capitol Hill Arnold Schwarzenegger, State Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez, State Senate that business is organized,” Macias said. President pro Tem Don Perata and Majority Leader Bass. “It shows that we care enough about our For more information, contact Director of Public Policy Samuel Garrison, TALKING POLITICS. Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben speaks with Sen. Joseph Biden (D-Del.) after a March 28 meeting about the issues to come together as one.” 213.580.7568 or [email protected]. senator’s gang violence legislation. Access Washington, D.C. Partnering Organizations 26th Annual Small Business Awards Luncheon Honoring Small Business Success: The L.A. Way

Central City Association Orange County Transportation Wednesday, May 30, 2007 Foreign Trade Association of Authority Southern California Pasadena Chamber of Commerce The Chamber and the U.S. Small Grant Peterson, one of two who will FuturePorts Port of Los Angeles Business Administration will co-sponsor receive the Financial Services Champion of the Year award, helped start the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Santa Monica Chamber the annual luncheon in downtown L.A. with presenting supporter Bank nonprofit organization 28 years ago with Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce of America. the goal of helping small businesses of Commerce Southern California Association At the luncheon, individuals transition from renting to owning their Los Angeles Business Council of Governments exemplifying excellence in small business own facility. Los Angeles County Economic Torrance Area Chamber will be honored. Categories include “We provide the financing that Development Corporation of Commerce family-owned businesses, home-based businesses need for day to day Manhattan Beach Chamber U.S. Chamber of Commerce businesses, exporters, women in business operations,” Grant Peterson said. “We help businesses grow.” of Commerce Valley Industry & Commerce and more. For more information on the event, Metro Association One of this year’s winners is Regina Grant Peterson, executive director of contact Director of Events Michelle Mobility 21 World Trade Week Advantage Certified Development Attebery, 213.580.7585 or Orange County Business Council Corporation in Long Beach. [email protected]. A better L.A. is our business

Making our voices heard in Washington, D.C. Calendar of Lobbying trips to Washington, D.C. are not unusual. Events Thousands of interest groups descend on the nation’s capital every year to meet with members of Congress and administration officials. So what made last Visit month’s Access Washington, D.C. trip different? www.lachamber.org More than 200 business and civic leaders—the largest-ever delegation of bipartisan Southern to view and register California leaders in the L.A. Area Chamber’s for upcoming events. Below are some key signature history—joined to advocate on behalf of our region’s events you won’t want to miss: 18 million residents. For the first time in decades, we came together to collectively lobby on issues that matter to all of us, including increased investment in public transportation projects and infrastructure for passengers and containers passing through Southern EVENT HIGHLIGHTS California; a fair distribution of homeland security funding to regions most at risk of terrorism; and increased investment in student financial aid, career academics and TUE | MAY 1 workforce development. ST The message was clear: Southern California is a national asset. No other region 81 World Trade Week is more integral to the United States’ success in the global marketplace, delivers more Breakfast: Globalization goods to the rest of the country or sends more tax dollars to our nation’s capital than and Beyond Southern California. The federal government should and must partner with us as we With 43 percent of all U.S. imports invest in our future. entering through the ports of Los Washington, D.C. lawmakers, who traditionally view Southern California as an Angeles and Long Beach, world trade unorganized constituency, now understand that the strength of our voice matches the is the economic engine in Southern strength of our economy. Our advocacy efforts don’t stop there. In this issue, you’ll California. Join more than 500 business leaders at the Sheraton Los read about our other advocacy trip, this time to our state’s capital. In May, more than Angeles Downtown Hotel to kickoff the annual event recognizing the 150 business and civic leaders will advocate on our region’s behalf for our annual benefits of world trade to our region. L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Access Sacramento trip. will open the breakfast, followed by keynote speaker Howard Shatz of The International trade will be the focus of our 81st World Trade Week breakfast on RAND Corporation and the Public Policy Institute of California. For May 1. International trade defines our region, with $293.9 billion flowing through the more information, contact International Trade Manager Vanessa Pereda, Los Angeles Customs District annually—the largest in the nation. 213.580.7538 or [email protected]. When so many engaged citizens and leaders from across the political spectrum join together with one common purpose, the results are always tremendous, as our Access trips have proven. Access Washington, D.C. has set the stage for Southern TUE-WED | MAY 15-16 California to feature prominently in upcoming appropriations bills and other Access Sacramento important federal legislation, and Access Sacramento will do the same on state Join more than 150 business and civic legislation. leaders in Sacramento as we advocate I look forward to reporting back on substantive developments as they happen for our fair share of state appropriations, and encourage each one of you to join us in Sacramento and to look ahead to next relating to transportation projects, year’s Access Washington, D.C. trip. education, health care and other state programs. For more information, contact Senior Public Policy Manager Alexander Pugh, 213.580.7558 or [email protected].

Gary L. Toebben WED | MAY 30 President & CEO 26th Annual Small Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Join the Chamber and the U.S. Small Business Administration, with presenting supporter Bank of America, as we celebrate 26 years of honoring small business in Los Angeles. The annual luncheon honors excellence in small business, with categories Chamber VOICE is a quarterly publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce including family-owned businesses, home-based businesses, exporters, 350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, CA 90017 women in business and more. For more information, contact Director of For membership information, contact the Chamber at 213.580.7546 or visit www.lachamber.org. Events Michelle Attebery, 213.580.7585 or [email protected]. TheChamber VOICE is produced by the L.A. Area Chamber Marketing & Communications department in conjunction with Chamber staff. Monika Tjia, Communications Coordinator, 213.580.7516, [email protected] Kerry Blosten, Communications Coordinator, 213.580.7548, [email protected] Clarissa Castellanos, Graphic Designer, 213.580.7573, [email protected] In the News Chamber media highlights Chamber Senior Staff & Managers Gary Toebben, President & CEO, 213.580.7525, [email protected] Ellie Ramseyer, Executive Assistant, 213.580.7596, [email protected] “Members of the delegation — led by Mayor Antonio David Eads, Senior V.P., 213.580.7546, [email protected] Noly Lallana, CFO, 213.580.7521, [email protected] Villaraigosa and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Kevin Cottrell, V.P. of Leadership Programs, 213.580.7577, [email protected] David Rattray, V.P. of Education & Workforce Development, 213.482.3987, [email protected] Commerce — delivered a unified message to members Michelle Attebery, Director of Events, 213.580.7585, [email protected] Samuel Garrison, Director of Public Policy, 213.580.7568, [email protected] of Congress: The Los Angeles area powers much of the Alma Salazar, Director of Education & Workforce Development, UNITE-LA Director, 213.580.7566, [email protected] Pat Clark, Membership Manager, 213.580.7595, [email protected] nation’s economy and therefore deserves to reap its fair Bridget Netter, Program Manager, 213.580.7576, [email protected] Maria Dolores Nieto, Education & Workforce Development Manager, 213.580.7599, [email protected] share of federal dollars.” Vanessa Pereda, International Trade Manager, 213.580.7538, [email protected] Alexander Pugh, Senior Public Policy Manager, 213.580.7558, [email protected] -“Leaders in D.C. to Pitch L.A.’s Wish List,” Los Angeles Times, March 28. May Tse, Accounting Manager, 213.580.7536, [email protected] “‘We are the ATM for the United States and we’re coming here to get refilled,’ David Fleming told the gathering at a Stow your car before flying away breakfast meeting with Sen. Dianne Feinstein. ‘It’s time we Last year nearly 1,000 L.A. Area Chamber members used The Parking Spot before put a few bucks back in.’” catching a flight. As a Chamber member, you can save 20 percent off airport parking at both locations—Sepulveda and Century Blvd. Discount cards expiring December 2006 -“United Leaders Plead For More Funding,” Los Angeles Times, March 27. will still be accepted or to receive a new card, contact Membership Coordinator Terence Oriee, 213.580.7590 or [email protected]. “The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce… will install The Chamber’s member-to-member discount offers a variety of savings, from hotel rooms to printing to shipping. If you’d like to offer Chamber members a discount on your David Fleming as its chairman, the first time in its 118-year products or services, contact Membership history that a Valley resident will take the reins.” Manager Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or [email protected]. - “Valley Finds New Clout in L.A,” Los Angeles Daily News, January 25.

PAGE 2 With just 88 residents, Vernon has the smallest population among all cities in L.A. County. Chamber VOICE

7 Began dialogue on the Seen + heard 10 ways the next steps to stopping at the Chamber the cycle of gang violence in our community Chamber helped The danger of gang violence and the need to work together to stop gangs from proliferating was a hot topic this quarter. your business With gang violence affecting us all the Chamber began conversations on the issue with experts, including Connie Rice, co- director of the Advancement Project. Your membership investment in the Chamber helps us build a Bottom line: Our region needs a dedicated stronger economy and quality of life in the region. Here are a few funding stream for anti-gang intervention, ways we helped improve L.A. business this quarter: prevention and re-entry programs to stop gang violence from spreading. The Chamber A HEALTHY DIALOGUE. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is committed to joining forces in our discusses his proposal to reform the state’s health community and to advocate for federal and care system on Jan. 19 at the Chamber. From left Advocated for federal Continued to oppose to right: Chamber Board Member Carol Jackson, 1 4 state funding to help deter gang violence. Macy’s West; Juan Rodriguez, Kolor Graphics Bureau; funding in nation’s L.A. City Council’s living Renee White Fraser, Fraser Communications; Schwarzenegger; and Daniel Zingale, senior advisor to capital with more than 200 wage ordinance for Century 8 Met with ambassadors the governor and chief of staff to Maria Shriver. Southern California business Boulevard hotels near the Los and mayors from The Chamber was bustling with and civic leaders Angeles International Airport around the world to discuss activity in the last quarter as civic and The Chamber and 20 partnering After the L.A. City Council approved a international trade community leaders visited to discuss organizations—the largest-ever bipartisan substitute ordinance establishing a living Doing business and building relationships issues facing the L.A. region. Health delegation in the Chamber’s history— wage requirement for privately owned hotels with foreign countries was a focal point stormed Capitol Hill in late March for Access adjacent to LAX, the Chamber and the Hotel during the winter at the Chamber. New care and gang violence were at the top Washington, D.C., to spread the message Association of Los Angeles continued to Zealand Ambassador to the United States of the list, which were also part of the that Southern California is a national asset. speak out against the law and against efforts Roy Ferguson briefed the Chamber on trade advocacy agenda at this year’s Access The delegation met with numerous federal for a boycott of affected hotels. in the Asia Pacific Rim. Business relations Washington, D.C. trip in March. L.A. legislators, including Sen. Edward Kennedy, Bottom line: This anti-business measure with L.A. were discussed with Mayor Miguel Sen. Dianne Feinstein and Sen. Barbara will threaten the very jobs it seeks to protect, Lifschitz of Rosario, Argentina, Mayor Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa stopped Boxer to seek funding for critical issues and is a legally questionable extension of the Younong Lian of Beihai, China, Dr. Ali in at the Chamber’s March Board affecting our region. city’s police powers. The measure sends the Abbasov, minister of communications and meeting to emphasize the importance Bottom line: We have made great strides wrong message to L.A. businesses and will information technologies of Azerbaijan and of the trip—Southern California’s to continue to invest in our shared future, likely result in more jobs leaving the city. Governing Mayor Klaus Wowereit of Berlin, but our region does not receive its fair Germany. largest business advocacy event share of federal investment. As America’s Educated business people Bottom line: With 43 percent of all U.S. to the nation’s capital. Gov. Arnold economic gateway to the world, Southern 5 on what it takes to be a imports flowing through the ports of Los Schwarzenegger engaged business California generates a tremendous return on Angeles and Long Beach, international leaders at the Chamber about his investment and our significance to the entire Principal For a Day trade is the economic engine of Southern nation cannot be ignored. More than 150 executives and 150 principals California. Building relationships with our comprehensive plan to reform the participated in the Chamber’s annual foreign trade partners is essential in a global state’s health care system. Secretary Principal For a Day event Feb. 23 at L.A. area economy. of the U.S. Department of Health and schools. Business executives learned about the successes and challenges in the education Human Services Michael Leavitt talked sector. Los Angeles Unified School District about his value-driven health care Superintendent David Brewer III and initiative, State Sen. George Runner Board President Marlene Canter shared the shared his health care proposal with challenges the district is facing and their hope for the future at the event’s annual the Chamber’s Health Care Committee luncheon sponsored by Merrill Lynch. and State Assembly Speaker Fabian Bottom line: It is vital to have a business- Núñez talked about his proposal at SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN D.C. Sen. Barbara Boxer meets education exchange on public education with the Access Washington, D.C. delegation on March 27. BUSINESS IN GERMANY. Governing Mayor Klaus Wowereit the Chamber’s Accenture Pancakes & From left to right: Boxer, Chamber President & CEO Gary issues so that both sides can share ideas, of Berlin, Germany gave a briefing at the Chamber on March Toebben and L.A. City Councilmember Janice Hahn. resources and a sense of responsibility for 15. Above, Wowereit with L.A. City Councilmember Politics. Federal Bureau of Investigation our public schools. Principal For a Day and Tom LaBonge. Director Robert S. Mueller III visited Engaged civic leaders on 2 Executive For a Day, which will be held in to discuss the FBI’s efforts to use April, allow businesses and public schools to Furthered civic health care reform 9 intelligence, local partnerships and partner for the future of our children. leadership in Southern proposals federal indictments to combat gang Several health care reform proposals are on California violence. At Pancakes & Politics, Connie the table, including ones from Gov. Arnold 6 Sponsored Cash for The Southern California Leadership Schwarzenegger, State Sen. George Runner, College bill introduced in Network trained emerging community Rice, co-director of the Advancement State Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez and leaders on the issues shaping L.A. County Project, L.A. City Attorney Rocky State Sen. Pro Tem Don Perata. The Chamber Sacramento and Southern California through Leadership Assembly Majority Leader Karen Bass Delgadillo, L.A. City Councilmember met with these leaders and members of their L.A. and Leadership Southern California introduced a bill to strengthen funding for Tony Cardenas, L.A. Deputy Mayor for staff to understand their respective proposals. Classes. The two programs continued to hear the Cash for College program coordinated Bottom line: With more than 6.7 million from top business and civic leaders about homeland security and public safety in the L.A. region by the Chamber. AB 1540 Californians lacking health insurance, it is their surrounding community, including Arif Alikhan and Los Angeles Urban would provide additional funding to educate imperative to identify ways to reduce overall from State Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez young people on how to navigate the college League President and CEO Blair H. costs, share financial responsibility and and San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris. admissions process and obtain financial aid, Taylor talked about the issue of gangs ensure that the best possible care is delivered. Bottom line: For more than 25 years, especially Cal Grants. The Chamber’s Health Care Task Force will Leadership Southern California and in depth. Meanwhile, the Transportation Bottom line: The future of our economy review all the proposals to determine the Leadership L.A.—the region’s two premier & Goods Movement Committee met depends on a workforce with the skills for best reform to support. providers of leadership training—have today’s jobs. Cash for College is helping to with Assemblymember Pedro Nava trained and developed a network of build a 21st century workforce. This year on how money from Propositions 1A exemplary and diverse leaders in the Convening stakeholders more than 80 workshops were conducted 3 business, government and community through 1E will be distributed. L.A. City in L.A. and more than 400 workshops to modernize the Los sectors who are armed with the knowledge Councilmember Jan Perry briefed the statewide, helping more than 20,000 students Angeles International Airport to address critical challenges facing the apply for financial aid. Chamber’s Land Use, Construction & With the last update of LAX done nearly Southern California region. Housing Committee on redevelopment a quarter century ago, modernizing our efforts near downtown. The Education airport is long overdue. Not only is LAX old Sponsored high-value and outdated, the airport faces the challenge 10 & Workforce Development Committee member events of serving the new class of global airplanes. discussed combining career and A majority of travelers have chosen to bypass Hundreds of Chamber members attended technical courses while integrating L.A. entirely, which equates to millions of the Chamber’s Business After Hour Mixers dollars in lost tourism, business and jobs. including the Taste of the Chamber in strong academic courses with Bottom line: Passenger traffic at the airport January and the March mixer at the House State Sen. Patricia Wiggins. The of Blues. The Chamber also hosts referral fell 1 percent during 2006 and is down 9.3 International Trade & Investments percent since Sept. 11, 2001. LAX served 6 networks throughout the year to provide COLLEGE PREPARED. Students and parents received opportunities for high-quality business Committee heard from L.A. Harbor million less passengers last year than it did hands-on help applying for financial aid at Cash for College in 2000. To keep up with airports across workshops, sponsored by the L.A. Area Chamber. Above, connections among members. Commissioner Kaylynn L. Kim on the students and parents at Belmont High School on Feb. 10. the country and around the world, the Bottom line: Networking is an important implications of a possible free trade part of business. The Chamber offers a modernization of LAX must start now. agreement with South Korea. Visit variety of events for our members to expand their networking circle. www.lachamber.org to make sure you don’t miss a thing in the spring.

L.A. County is home to 88 incorporated cities. PAGE 3 A better L.A. is our business

The power of The Chamber is preparing to advocate on several international trade issues in 2007, including:

Collaborate with trade agencies, Improve the movement of goods. New international trade professionals and diplomats to actively development projects and planning policies promote trade. The Chamber supports must be created that will enhance the flow of fostering collaboration with other goods in and out of the region. The Chamber The impact of international trade and prospects that are developing. Chambers, government entities, trade supports transportation improvement and globalization in Los Angeles is The Chamber is committed to helping organizations, country and region specific projects to keep cargo moving without profound: The value of two-way trade prepare and educate our students to organizations, educational institutions congestion. in the L.A. Customs District is $293.9 compete in the global economy. and diplomats to support trade promotion efforts. Increase awareness to the community billion—the largest in the nation. The Increasing awareness of world on the benefits of trade. International United States would lose an estimated trade’s benefits to our youth is a Expand business opportunities abroad trade brings many economic advantages $1 billion per day without our ports. cornerstone of the Chamber’s annual for American companies. The Chamber to the state. Policymakers, businesses and Nationwide, 3.3 million jobs are linked World Trade Week. Every year grants supports free trade to ensure the growth students must continuously be educated on to trade in our region. and scholarships are given to encourage and expansion of business opportunities the benefits of trade in the L.A. region. L.A.’s economy is dependant on a focus on international studies in to American workers. Legislation that international trade and the growth the classroom. The Word Trade Week eliminates trade barriers, allows for fair and opportunities that it presents are program also hosts the International competition and protects investments and increasing. World trade provides more Business University Competition, in property rights is critical. jobs and economic impact to the region which college students from across the than any other industry. The export of country apply their knowledge about U.S. goods and services are on the rise international business in a real world Opportunities for the United States U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, and the global economy will continue to setting. in the global economy are abundant. at a recent International Trade & expand. But the federal government is not Investment Committee meeting at “The rise of prepared to take action and seize these the Chamber. “No, but they provide international trade has opportunities, as apparent with the a platform and level of growth. helped our Southern stalling of free trade agreements with FTAs provide alliances and greater California economy several countries, including Colombia, opportunities.” recover and has provided Panama, Peru, the Republic of South The Trade Promotion Authority is strategically important Korea and the expiration of the Trade set to expire in June 2007. If Congress diversification,” said Promotion Authority. does not support the extension, Jim MacLellan, director FTAs open markets for Americans negotiating trade agreements will be of marketing for the and bring significant benefits. Those more difficult. Prior to its restoration in Port of Los Angeles. passed prior to 2005 have shown that 2002, the U.S. sat on the sidelines while “More than ever before, exports are growing twice as fast to other countries negotiated FTAs, placing both the United States these partners. The just concluded FTA the U.S. in a competitive disadvantage. and California are with the Republic of South Korea if The World Trade Organization’s international trading passed by Congress, would eliminate Doha rounds are also stuck in muddy

economies.” TRADE TALK. Israel Hernandez, assistant secretary for trade promotion and director farm tariffs that average 52 percent on waters. With so much potential for With trade as the general of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, receives an update on the port citrus, soybeans and almonds. Tariffs American businesses, Congress must from Port of Los Angeles staff, including Michael Christensen, deputy executive economic engine of our director, development and Julia Nagano, director of corporate communications. would also be eliminated on computers, move past partisanship and allow for region, we must continue electronics and transportation America to be a leader in global trade. to react to the challenges equipment. “With international trade powering “Are FTAs the answer our region, we must do all we can to to everything?” asked make sure that we stay competitive, Israel Hernandez, while keeping an emphasis on goods International trade by the numbers assistant secretary for movement and infrastructure,” said trade promotion and Chamber President & CEO Gary director general of the Toebben. The value of two-way trade in the L.A. Customs District is $293.9 billion — the For more largest in the nation, with the amount of trade expected to double by 2020. information, contact The direct international trade industry is the number one employer in L.A. International County and is second in the five-county region. Trade Manager Vanessa Pereda, The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach support nearly 900,000 jobs 213.580.7538 or throughout California. vpereda@ lachamber.org. The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach generate nearly $7 billion in state and local tax revenues.

Source: Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation and Trade Impact Study Final Report by BST Associates. PORT OF LOS ANGELES. The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach rank 5th in the world based on volume.

signature events Scenes from some of the Chamber’s key events during winter 2007.

1. John Anderson receives the Distinguished Business Leader award at the Chamber’s 118th Annual Inaugural Dinner Jan. 25 at the Beverly Hilton. 2. Richard Riordan and Nancy Daly Riordan celebrate their Civic Medal of Honor award at the Chamber’s Inaugural Dinner Jan. 25. 3. The Chamber’s 2007 Board Chair David Fleming, Latham & Watkins, LLP receives the gavel from 2006 Board Chair David Nichols, AT&T, at the Chamber’s Inaugural Dinner Jan. 25. 4. At the Chamber’s annual Principal For a Day event Feb. 23, Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor Anthony Nguyen greets a student with Playa del Rey Elementary School Principal Karin Diskin. 5. Actor Brandon Routh spent the day with University High School Principal Elois McGehee at the Chamber’s Principal For a Day event Feb. 23. 6. Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben speaks about the importance of the Chamber’s Principal For a Day event. 7. Chamber Board Chair David Fleming, flanked by L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, L.A. city councilmembers, L.A. Police Chief William Bratton andLos Angeles Unified School District Superintendent David Brewer III, addresses the media at the Access Washington, D.C. press conference on Capitol Hill, March 27. 8. Left to right, Michael D’Antuono, board chair of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce; Helen Duncan, executive director of the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce and Rep. Adam Schiff (D.-Pasadena) at a March 28 meeting on Capitol Hill during Access Washington, D.C. 9. Members of the Access Washington, D.C., 2007 delegation.

1 2 3 4 5 PAGE 4 Central downtown L.A., Griffith Park and the industrial east side of downtown L.A. are the top three filming locations in the city. Chamber VOICE

High School. “They help with curriculum “The Chamber serves as a champion for Small Learning Communities advising, planning and evaluation of small learning communities,” said Chamber students’ work.” President & CEO Gary Toebben. “We Put Education First Business partners encourage the business community to take provide SLC students with an active role in motivating and engaging At Jordan New Tech High School and other him for Executive For real-life learning experiences students.” high schools throughout Los Angeles, a Day on April 20 at and companies gain by For more information or to learn how students don’t only learn from textbooks. a conference on film’s investing in the development to get involved with emerging small learning They have the opportunity to connect with impact on student of L.A.’s future workforce. communities, contact V.P. of Education & Grammy-award winning artists and use achievement. Research shows that Workforce Development David Rattray, state-of-the-art digital media equipment SLCs, like those personalized small learning 213.482.3987 or [email protected]. courtesy of Apple. at Jordan, Westchester, environments produce “One of our goals is to help students Santee and Monroe significant results. Students find their voices and to encourage them to provide specialized in SLCs show improved test Big dreams for a scores, increased attendance have successful futures through technology,” learning environments CAREER READY. During the Chamber’s better L.A. said Michael Hoy, senior executive for Urban for students to focus Principal For a Day on Feb. 23, Nadia Allaudin, and graduation rates, reduced Merrill Lynch, looks on as Chester Kansicio Initiatives at Apple. on career pathways. works on a project at Monroe High School. discipline problems and are For nearly 120 years, the L.A. Area Chamber The academic and career themed Los Angeles more likely to go to college and has advocated and helped establish L.A.’s pathways at these schools said Hoy, are Unified School District Superintendent succeed in the working world. port, international airport, water system, breaking through to students in innovative David Brewer III recently announced his The Chamber’s affiliateUNITE-LA entertainment industry hub and freeway and effective ways like at Jordan New Tech approval of more than 150 small learning assists LAUSD educators and stakeholders system. We asked members of the Chamber High School. communities, with an anticipated total of in developing high-performing urban high Board of Directors, what’s your dream Hoy participated in the Chamber’s 300 SLCs. schools. UNITE-LA is facilitating SLC study project or policy idea for the L.A. region that Principal For a Day program and connected “We couldn’t have a program without tours around the nation, visiting SLC models the Chamber can help make a reality? with Jordan New Tech Administrator Felipe our business and community partners,” said in Seattle in March and Minneapolis and St. Velez. Hoy has arranged for Velez to shadow SLC Coordinator Nikki Siercks, Monroe Paul School Districts in April. “Finish the historic LAUSD program to build 140 new schools. Not since Mulholland brought water to the city 100 years public policy priority issues - spring 07 ago has there been a construction program of greater importance Issue What’s going on now Position to the social and economic future of Statewide Health Care The Chamber is working with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s office, the state legislature and other SUPPORT the region. Challenges Reform stakeholders to substantively reform our state’s health care system. Primary objectives include expanding remain. The Chamber must coverage to all uninsured children, reining in spiraling costs, sharing the financial burden and improving access for all Californians. be steadfast in its advocacy and support to complete this enterprise by 2012.” LAX - Aviation Los Angeles International Airport continues to lag behind other major airports in congestion, facilities and SUPPORT Modernization ability to accommodate the next generation in aircraft. Our region is losing key international business and - Jim McConnell, president, SGI Construction tourism travel to other west coast cities. The Chamber supports reinvigorating a master plan process that Management and former chief facilities executive includes major improvements to LAX along with the expansion of regional airports. for Los Angelels Unified School Discrtict

Cash for College The Chamber is a sponsor of AB 1540, which would establish about $3 million to expand the highly-successful SUPPORT “Complete our work on building a replicable Expansion Legislation Cash for College program statewide and place it under the direction of the Student Aid Commission. model for community transformation. The Assembly Majority Leader Karen Bass, Senator Tom Torlakson and Senator Mark Leno are the principle co- authors of this important legislation to expand college education opportunities for low-income first generation Los Angeles Urban League, college-bound students. in collaboration with numerous partners, Ports Clean Air Action The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have developed a joint clean air action plan to improve SUPPORT is launching a model Plan / AQMD Clean Air environmental quality at our local ports. The Chamber continues to work with the ports and businesses WITH to ensure that the final action plan succeeds in both growing and greening these economic engines. AMENDMENTS focusing on changing Plan Supported goals include encouraging market-based mechanisms and incentives to accelerate the move to outcomes in education, cleaner technology. employment, safety, Maximize Proposition The Chamber is working with local lawmakers to ensure that Southern California receives much needed SUPPORT health and housing in a 1B Funding for funding from last fall’s infrastructure bonds. The Chamber was successful in getting funding for top priorities 70-block geographical area including new carpool lanes along the 405 Freeway’s Sepulveda Pass, Interstate 215 and Route 91, along with Transportation surrounding Crenshaw High important upgrades to the Interstate 5 corridor between Orange County and L.A. School. The role and support of business New Approach to The Chamber encourages the city of L.A. to adopt a new approach for combating gang violence. The city SUPPORT is critical for this work.” Combating Gang currently operates dozens of different anti-gang programs spread among multiple departments with little coordination or ability to measure results. A new approach should eliminate ineffective programs, implement -Blair H. Taylor, president and CEO, Los Angeles Violence performance thresholds, promote innovation and improve coordination with law enforcement and educators. Urban League

Film Production & Runaway film production continues to negatively impact our local economy. The Chamber supports targeted SUPPORT “My dream is that LAX—the gateway to the Retention Tax Credits tax credits and incentives to keep film production here in Southern California, including greater efforts to region, national and global foster growth in the post-production and technology-related fields. businesses and tourism L.A. City Industrial Land As the city of L.A. reviews its industrial land use policy, the Chamber continues to work with stakeholders to WATCH markets—reclaims its Policy ensure the protection of vital industrial lands and related jobs, while recognizing that housing and mixed-use position as a premier, developments may be more appropriate for certain areas. Key areas for review include downtown L.A., the world-class aviation San Fernando Valley and along the L.A. River. The Chamber supports creating a regional industrial use plan facility. We are that encompasses all local cities and communities. committed to the Los Improving L.A.’s The Chamber remains committed to working with the L.A. City Council and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s office SUPPORT Angeles marketplace Business Climate to make the city more business friendly, especially in light of the mandated wage referendum. The Chamber is and to working with the an active member of the L.A. City Council’s newly-created Business Retention & Attraction Task Force as well Chamber, City of L.A. and as the Mayor’s Los Angeles Economy and Jobs Committee. Los Angeles World Airports to develop an Free Trade Agreements The Chamber supports the concluded free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, Peru and South Korea. SUPPORT acceptable modernization plan for LAX.” and Extension of the If the free trade agreements are approved by Congress, all tariffs and other trade barriers with the countries will be removed. The Trade Promotion Authority expires in June 2007 and has been an essential part in -Melinda Yee Franklin, director, government and Trade Promotion negotiating free trade agreements. The renewal would allow for new free trade agreements. Public Affairs, Western region, United Airlines Authority signature events

5 6 7 8 9 The rose garden at Exposition Park has more than 10,000 rose bushes. PAGE 5 A better L.A. is our business

The Connection Point Small business spotlight: Price Hammer clients include wholesalers who sell to small and mid-size Members Make the Right Connections discount stores and other retailers. Volume and efficiency are the most Many professionals network as a part Chamber members of their business development efforts, important elements to procurement in bulk but do so without a solid strategy for quantities, Bajaj said, and one of his main success. At the Chamber’s Connection business priorities includes addressing port Point series, members learn how to fit for fashion inefficiencies, which would allow for easier network with a purpose and plan. processing. downtown L.A. The first-of-its-kind retail As a Chamber member, Bajaj “The program offered great outlet for women sells more than 1,000 high- participates in the annual Access trips to tools, excellent discussions end business suits. Washington, D.C. and Sacramento and role-playing examples to As a Chamber member, Kumar takes advantage of the Chamber’s to make his voice use while networking, whether networking events, including the heard with other it was in a social setting, in an Referral Network, where she interacts business leaders elevator or over dinner.” with business women—her primary to advocate for customers. Kumar also attends the issues critical to the –Aimee Lopez, business development engineer, Turner Construction Co. Small Business Owners Roundtable region, including to discuss common issues, from international “The Connection Point forced marketing challenges to opportunities trade and goods me to analyze what I was doing for business development. movement. and assess whether my self- “Retail is one of the most To learn more difficult areas in the L.A. fashion about Chamber learned habits were helping or market, especially with fashion in L.A. programs and hurting my objectives.” constantly changing,” Kumar said. SHIP OUT. Gaurav Bajaj, Price Hammer benefits that will “When you’re new, you learn quickly distributes clothing from one side of the allow you to get –Mark Washington, career resource advisor, world to another. Los Angeles Unified School District that you need other people and can the most out of learn from their experiences.” your membership, Kumar is a part of the largest retail contact Membership Manager Pat Clark, This first three sessions in the six-part sales market in the country. L.A. has more 213.580.7595 or [email protected]. Connection Point series in 2007 SUIT UP. Vani Kumar opened her business in 2005. than 7,000 fashion-related businesses and will include: had $75 billion in sales in 2005. And has Chamber members Vani Kumar and Gaurav surpassed New York City as the top apparel Bottom-Line Benefits Eyes on the Prize: How to Prepare, Plan Bajaj have deep-rooted passions for apparel manufacturing center in the nation. and Succeed at Networking and have proven they have the business On another side of the business Thursday, April 19: 5 – 6:30 p.m. Save money everyday—a benefit of acumen it takes to succeed in a city known is Gaurav Bajaj, who has worked in his your membership. Intentional Networking: The Insider’s for setting fashion standards. family’s apparel distribution company Price Secret to Creating Successful Results Both 25-year-olds are fairly new to the Hammer, Inc. since 2005. Bajaj came armed Because you are a Chamber member, Thursday, May 17: 5 – 6:30 p.m. apparel sector by industry standards, but with an understanding of all facets of the you have the key to unlock Bottom- have made significant headway into building industry through a 25-year family history Line Benefits--big savings on everyday Speak Your Business in 30 Seconds or their respective businesses. spanning three continents: manufacturing business costs, including shipping Less: How to Increase Interest in What “Niche markets are driving the business in India, retailing in Germany and finally with DHL Express, airport parking at You Really Do and there is not one way of doing things,” wholesale distribution in L.A. The Parking Spot, discounts on office Thursday, June 14: 5 – 6:30 p.m. said Ilse Metcheck, executive director of the Last year the L.A. apparel industry supplies with Office Depot and savings California Fashion Association. “We are a generated $24.1 billion in wholesale volume. with NationJob Network. For more For more information, contact Program city of entrepreneurs.” Apparel/textiles and related products are information, contact Membership Manager Bridget Netter, 213.580.7576 For Kumar, finding an alternative to the second largest aggregated imported Manager Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or or [email protected]. the Men’s Warehouse chain was one reason commodity in dollar value coming from the [email protected]. why she opened The Suit Closet last year in ports of L.A. and Long Beach.

PAGE 6 The largest lotus pond in the United States is in Echo Park. Chamber VOICE

Member anniversaries Congratulations to our renewing members! We greatly appreciate your continued support and involvement. *Circle Level Members are in bold

95 Years KPMG LLP Art Institute of California- Los Angeles 1 Year All Student Loan Prague Street Advisers 85 Years C. W. Cole & Company, Incorporated Artisan Creative AXA Advisors Serious Clothing 80 Years Verizon Barrington Realty Beacon Management Group Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, LLP 75 Years Hotel Association of Los Angeles Christensen, Glaser, Fink, Jacobs, Blue Shield of California Foundation The South Group 50 Years Limoneira Company Weil & Shapiro, LLP BRJ & Associates, LLC Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & 25 Year Los Angeles Department of Water & Corporate Translations, Inc. Clean Energy Steiner LLP Power EIN SOF Communications Community Partners USI of Southern California 20 Years The Original Pantry Cafe First Republic Bank Continental Colorcraft Company 15 Years Jenkins Gales Martinez, Incorporated Mera Maintenance Company FilmL.A., Inc. UPGRADE to Silver Metro PG Communications KimmelMedia American Apparel, Inc. LLC Party Planners West, Incorporated Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LA Best Babies Network UPGRADE to Bronze Vanir Construction Management LLP Law Offices of Dominick W. Kleinfelder 10 Years Cort Furniture Rental Platt College Rubalcava National Human Resources Longo Toyota Raytheon Company Linear City LLC Association – LA Affiliate 5 Years Abram Friedman Occupational Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & MAP-Management Action Program Center Hampton, LLP

WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER Thanks to our new members, who joined the Chamber during December 2006, January and February 2007. To learn more about Circle Level membership benefits, call 213.580.7500.

PLATINUM MEMBER Los Angeles Newspaper Group Cosmo Brand LAB Nicola Borland Photography Watt Companies Bill Van Laningham, 877.289.5264, Publishers/Newspapers Tom Claypool, 310.401.0082, Merchandising/Mass Nicola Borland, 323.240.4407, Photography Raymond A. Watt, 310.314.2475, Real Estate/Industrial & Commercial Los Angeles Universal Preschool Creative Answers, Inc. Office of the Los Angeles City Attorney Matt Auron, 213.416.1200, Community Organizations Josie Starling, 310.854.8822, Business Solutions Rosemary Anaya, 213.978.8738, Government GOLD MEMBERS National MS Society-Southern California Chapter D.A. Business Broker Orchid Hotel Clark Construction Group - California, LP Jim S. Elfine, 310.479.4456, Health Care/Organizations Allan Wu, 323.363.0345, Consultants/International Trade Rebecca Sanares, 213.623.9904, Hotels & Motels Marc Kersey, 714.429.9779, Construction Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP Discovery Bank Pacific Electric Lofts FedEx Services Ronald Gastelum, 213.683.6226, Attorneys Jim Dorian, 213.792.2545, Banks Steve Short, 213.627.5600, Apartments Wilson H. Parma, 901.263.4224, Transportation/Services Volunteers of America Greater Los Angeles Don Schilling & Associates Packard Lofts SILVER MEMBERS Roger Reck, 213.389.1500, Community Organizations Don Schilling, 818.903.4451, Consultants/Marketing Melissa Hoffner, 213.688.1133, Apartments Aetna Brian Ternan, 818.932.6468, Insurance/Group YELLOWPAGES.COM Espy Hair Penguin PR, Inc. Nancy Pavelonis, 626.585.5398, Advertising/Internet Shira H. Jacobs, 310.657.4777, Hair Restoration Dawn M. Wilcox, 310.745.1712, Public Relations Englander & Associates Harvey A. Englander, 213.741.1500, Government STANDARD MEMBERS Excalibur Travel ProFusion Consulting Adviseinc Forte’ Carter, 323.938.1352, Travel Agencies Charles O. Wingate, 818.291.6261, Consultants/Management Shell Oil Company Peter C. Soh, 818.755.9230, Accounting/CPA Alison Abbott Chassin, 323.758.7541, Petroleum/Products Fortun Events Puma Travel Group, Inc. Ahura Systems, Inc. Ivet Fortun, 323.462.8299, Event Management/Event Services Ren Zhang, 626.282.1678, Travel Agency - Corporate Travel Winner and Associates Siavash Gholami, 310.928.3899, Web Development Ethan Winner, 818.385.1900, Public Relations/Government Affairs GreyBridge Solutions Restorative Acupuncture Algrita, Inc. Michael Gat, 310.305.2682, Consultants/Information Technology Gilian N. Lata, 323.969.9606, Acupuncture Clinic BRONZE MEMBERS Karen L. Doolittle, Consultants/Information Technology American Mobile Dental Corp. Intre, Inc. RFS Consultling Andrew P. Randolph, 818.716.9600, Dentists APTCI Jishu Izu, 310.566.7410, Food Products/Wholesale & Distributors Ron Shinkman, 818.848.8510, Public Relations Guy Shamis, 818.772.0622, Importers & Exporters Beverly Oncology and Imaging Killefer Flammang Architects Share Space Networks, Inc. Ruth T. Lopez Novodor, 323.517.9800, Health Care California Occupational Clinic Karin Liljegren, 310.399.7975, Architects Eric A. Menzel, 818.344.2544, Information Technology/Services Sandra L. Suarez, 213.745.6106, Health Care/Occupational Feldman Spurgeon Group, Inc. Medicine LA Condos and Lofts Realty Spectrum Benefits Group Charles S. Feldman, 323.656.1536, Consultants/Executive Coaching Victor Vicia, 818.362.9202, Real Estate Ted J. Aldershof, 818.883.2102, Consultants/Employee Benefits Center for International Trade Development-El Camino Fireball Run Circuits LLC College lxw design Studio for Southern California History Larry Luchtel, 310.402.2098, Architects Sharon Sekhon, 213.229.8890, Attractions/Museums J. Sanchez, 407.425.5646, Entertainment Maurice Kogon, 310.973.3173, International Trade

First 5 LA China America Biz Ops MBI Media Sushi Pacific Suppliers, Inc. Mary F. McCormick, 909.444.1822, Media Fabila Ariadna, 323.278.9202, Importers & Exporters Evelyn V. Martinez, 213.482.5902, Community Organizations/ Dr. Henry J. Leyser, 707.795.7765, Consultants/International Trade Youth Programs Clean Agency Mindex Diversified, Inc. The Footlose Librarian Adaora Nweke, 310.513.9600, Consultants/Management Ann-Marie Lariccia, 323.810.5135, Consultant/Research iSpace, Inc. Ken Eskenazi, 626.744.9178, Advertising/Graphic Designers Mickey Walker, 310.563.3800, Consultants/Information Technology Clothing Showroom Inc/dba Apparel Showroom.com Morgan Stanley-Pamela Stinson Venture Commercial Realty-Ken Park Pamela D. Stinson, 310.543.3980, Financial Services Ken Park, 213.380.7561, Real Estate/Industrial & Commercial Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Liz B. Castro, 213.746.2611, Clothing/Retail - Apparel Dr. Jonathan E. Fielding, 213.240.8117, Health Care/Services Commerce West Bank Mozaic Apartment Weston Solutions, Inc Veronique Ledox, 213.617.9501, Apartments Clay A. Sandidge, 818.464.7080, Environmental Services Los Angeles Federal Credit Union-Headquarters Aaron Thomas, 310.719.9536, Banks Crystal Johnson, 877.695.2328, Credit Services/Unions

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

“The L.A. Area Chamber puts me “The Chamber provides us with “The L.A. Area Chamber stands “Chamber programs focus “The Chamber’s work on housing, in front of decision makers and an opportunity to meet other out as a vital link and strong on the dynamic policy and transportation and workforce allows me to affect change in the businesses in L.A., allowing us advocate for companies in the Los economic issues intrinsic development is imperative to community.” to work with them as well as Angeles region.” to L.A. as well as the overall retaining L.A. as a strong and contribute to the growth of other Southern California perspective.” competitive force.” Michael Kelly Chris Floyd businesses in the area.” Executive Director Manager of California Government Mary-Elizabeth Michaels Peter Villegas Relations Los Angeles Opportunities Janice Hoffmann Manager, Corporate First Vice President and Industrialization Center The Boeing Company Communications & National Manager, Community & Principal Member since 1963 Member since 2006 Hoffmann Search LLC Government Affairs External Affairs Member since 2006 Mattel, Inc. Washington Mutual “Fostering a dialogue and sharing “Our membership and close Member since 1950 Member since 2000 relationship with the Chamber information goes both ways. As a “As a local business owner I’m forms a great partnership with those “Being involved as an active Chamber member, I have learned involved in the Chamber to help “Los Angeles is one of the most efforts that help improve the overall member of the Chamber not only about issues from all areas of support the economic health of important markets in the country business climate in California. These helps me stay current on issues of the spectrum. Our corporate L.A. Environment, housing and and it is vital that business leaders efforts are key to making sure that interest to Mattel, but gives me the stakeholders connected me to the urban infill issues discussed at the position themselves as civically the needs of our more than 28,000 opportunity to connect and network Chamber and I feel closer to the Chamber’s committee meetings engaged. The Chamber provides Boeing employees who live and with other area business leaders. problems and solutions in L.A. Now allow me to follow issues important updates on current affairs and gives work in the Southern California Working with the Chamber’s I know what’s really going on and it to me and my business.” us a feel for issues that may be takes a venue like the Chamber to region are met.” committees, I have been able to coming down the pipeline.” hear it being discussed.” help shape critical policy, while also sharing best practices with colleagues.” Historic Route 66 winds through the easternmost part of L.A. County to the coast in Santa Monica. PAGE 7 A better L.A. is our business

Explore the power of World Trade in Southern California. Want to affect change in Sacramento on issues you care about? Register now for these events and more at www.lachamber.org. 350 S. Bixel Street Los Angeles, California 90017 213.580.7500 • Fax 213.580.7511 www.lachamber.org

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.

Diamond Club The Chamber gratefully acknowledges the support of our largest member investors, the Diamond Club, for their help in fulfilling the Chamber’s May 1 May 15-16 May 30 mission. Celebrate the benefits that Be the voice for L.A. business on Honor small business leaders who AT&T world trade brings to Southern the Chamber’s annual trip to the have achieved excellence in their Bank of America California with L.A. Mayor Antonio state capital. fields. Chevron Corporation Villaraigosa. Kaiser Permanente Latham & Watkins, LLP Los Angeles Times Majestic Reality Co. Port of Los Angeles Southern California Edision The Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utility Time Warner Cable Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. 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.

Spring 07 IN THIS ISSUE:

10 ways the Chamber helped L.A. business this quarter 3

Exploring the benefits of global trade 4

What does the Chamber offer small business members? 6

Mount San Antonio is the highest point in L.A. County at 10,064 feet.