VOICESpring 2013 · VOLUME XII · ISSUE 2 A publication of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

Follow the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce on and at lachamber.com.

BOLD IN INNOVATIONThe L.A. Area Chamber has a history of fostering collaboration and innovation, from aerospace to cleantech. The Chamber is doing even more in

this arena, with the creation of the Emerging Commerce Council last year, the recent establishment of the Los Angeles Regional STEM Hub and the

upcoming launch of a new initiative that will provide technical assistance for entrepreneurs in the technology realm.

BIXEL EXCHANGE

The Chamber has partnered with the U.S. Small

Business Administration, the Los Angeles

Regional Small Business Development Center

Network and the LA Cleantech Incubator to

create Bixel Exchange, which will assist tech

companies to overcome the challenges in a

startup’s lifecycle and reach commercialization.

Growing L.A.’s emerging tech ecosystem

will help create jobs, grow the economy and

showcase L.A. as a technology leader. Feedback

from the Emerging Tech Salon Series has

been instrumental to the development of

programs and services that will be offered by

Bixel Exchange, which officially launches this

summer.

LOS ANGELES REGIONAL STEM HUB

In March, the Chamber officially launched

the Los Angeles Regional STEM Hub during

a workforce seminar at Northrop Grumman

Corporation. With the support of The Boeing

Co. and the California STEM Learning Network,

the Chamber has developed the Hub to enhance

and expand the teaching of science, technology,

engineering and mathematics (STEM). The

Hub will connect the region’s leading STEM

professionals with educators in an effort to

provide students with access to high-quality

education and provide pathways for STEM

workforce and skills development.

LEARNING CONNECTING GROWING

Celebrating a month of world trade in May

STRENGTHENINGGLOBAL

STRATEGIES

WORLD TRADE WEEK KICKOFF BREAKFAST

Thursday, May 2, 20137:15-10:30 a.m. Breakfast & Program

Keynote Speaker

TyLER BRySON Enterprise & Partners Group SouthwestDistrict General ManagerMicrosoft Corporation

JW Marriott at L.A. Live900 W. Olympic Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90015

RSVP at worldtradeweek.com.

For corporate table purchase, contact Jasmin Sakai-Gonzalez at 213.580.7569 or jgonzalez@lachamber.com.

EMERGING COMMERCE COUNCIL

The Chamber created the Emerging Commerce

Council in 2012 to identify and engage with

business clusters that have economic growth

potential — including signature, emerging and

innovative industry groups. The Council promotes

policies that will strengthen these industries,

elevate their global reach, drive job creation

and achieve regional economic prosperity. In

May, the Council launched the Emerging Tech

Salon Series to foster engaging discussions with

relevant content, bringing together entrepreneurs,

investors, corporate executives and thought

leaders. The series fosters a new community for

entrepreneurs from emerging markets including

web technology, social media, video gaming and

cleantech.

The Stanley T. Olafson Bronze Plaque Award presented to:

JOSEPH A. CzyzyKMercury Air Group, Inc.

The Bob Kleist Leadership Award presented to:

FRI | MAy 10HIRE LA’s youth Employer BreakfastLearn how your organization can help increase opportunities for young adults by sponsoring a youth or providing them with a job or internship opportunity at our annual breakfast. Contact Maria Dolores Nieto, 213.580.7599 or mnieto@lachamber.com.

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 213.580.7592 or visit lachamber.com.

The Chamber VOICE is produced by the L.A. Area Chamber Marketing & Communications department in conjunction with Chamber Staff.

Mandy Denaux, Director of Marketing & Communications, 213.580.7532, mdenaux@lachamber.com

Monika Medina, Senior Interactive Marketing Manager, 213.580.7516, mmedina@lachamber.com

Amber Wilson, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, 213.580.7588, awilson@lachamber.com

Katherine Wu, Graphic Designer, 213.580.7509, kwu@lachamber.com

Chamber Senior Staff

Gary Toebben, President & CEO, 213.580.7525, gtoebben@lachamber.com

David Eads, Executive Vice President & COO, 213.580.7546, deads@lachamber.com

Benjamin Stilp, Vice President of Finance and Administration & CFO, 213.580.7521, bstilp@lachamber.com

David Rattray, SVP of Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7515, drattray@lachamber.com

Carlos J. Valderrama, SVP of Global Initiatives, 213.580.7570, cvalderrama@lachamber.com

Ruben Gonzalez, VP of Public Policy & Political Affairs, 213.580.7568, rgonzalez@lachamber.com

Alma Salazar, VP of Education & Workforce Development, 213.580.7566, asalazar@lachamber.com

Brian K. Williams, VP of Leadership Programs, 213.580.7577, bwilliams@lachamber.com

Lee Ligons, VP of Business Development, 213.580.7523, lligons@lachamber.com

Michelle Attebery, Director of Events, 213.580.7585, mattebery@lachamber.com

Jessica Duboff, Director of Public Policy, 213.580.7558, jduboff@lachamber.com

Event HighlightsTHU | MAy 287th Annual World Trade Week

MON-TUE | MAy 13-14ACCESS SacramentoJoin the Chamber for our annual advocacy trip to our state’s capital as we meet with Gov. Jerry Brown’s administration, and State Assembly and Senate leadership on issues important to business. Contact Tina Hossain, 213.580.7531 or thossain@lachamber.com.

More than 500 business executives and members of the diplomatic corps will gather for our annual World Trade Week Kickoff Breakfast at the JW Marriott at L.A. Live. Contact Jasmin Sakai-Gonzalez, 213.580.7569 or jgonzalez@lachamber.com.

Want to know what’s coming up at the Chamber? Visit lachamber.com/events to view and register for upcoming events. Below are some key signature events you don’t want to miss:

Calendar of EventsFostering Innovation since 1888

On March 10, 1910, D.W. Griffith released the first motion picture ever made in Hollywood.

Contact Monika Medina, 213.580.7516 or mmedina@lachamber.com.

TUE | JUNE 11Small Business Awards & BootcampJoin the Chamber and the U.S. Small Business Administration – Los Angeles District Office as we celebrate small business excellence in Los Angeles at the annual luncheon. Contact Michelle Attebery, 213.580.7585 or mattebery@lachamber.com.

Soon there will be another place to find the financial answers you need.

Flagship branch scheduled to open April 22, 2013.

Announcing a new Citibank branch in your neighborhood.Our specially-trained bankers are looking forward to helping you meet your financial goals.

Wilshire & Westwood Branch

10900 Wilshire Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90024(310) 840-2907

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pmFriday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pmSaturday: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm

©2013 Citigroup Inc. Citibank N.A. Member FDIC. Citibank with Arc Design is a registered service mark of Citigroup.

To learn more, scan the code or visitgrandopening.citibank.com/CYRP

page

BOLD IN BUSINESS

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griculture. Aerospace. Manufacturing.

I’m especially excited to share with you news of Bixel Exchange — a new technology center born out of a collaboration between the Chamber, the U.S. Small Business Administration and other partners in L.A.’s growing technology community. Housed in the Chamber, Bixel Exchange is focused on growing L.A.’s tech scene — which has grown rapidly over the last several years from a small cadre of companies to a burgeoning and sustainable community with many similarities to Silicon Valley.

When it comes to nurturing and encouraging innovation in L.A., we know that the work starts long before business plans and angel investors. It starts in our schools. Throughout its history, the Chamber has been involved in transforming education and workforce outcomes. Our leadership of the L.A. Compact in recent years, has greatly impacted L.A.’s future workforce. On page 6 you can read more about how you can be a part of these efforts by supporting work-based learning opportunities.

Additionally, the Chamber has recently launched the L.A. Regional STEM Hub, which will provide students with access to high-quality education in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and pathways for workforce development.

As we highlight a bold vision for innovation in L.A., it’s also important to place a spotlight on areas in which we continue to succeed. On May 2, the Chamber will kick-off a month-long celebration of international trade in L.A. with its 87th annual World Trade Week breakfast. I invite you to join me, area business leaders and Microsoft Corporation’s Tyler Bryson, this year’s keynote speaker, as we celebrate an industry that pumps more than $400 billion into our economy each year.

Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber and our bold vision for L.A.’s future.

Gary L. ToebbenPresident & CEOLos Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce

AEntertainment. The Los Angeles region has been a hub of innovation and commerce since its earliest days. Likewise, the Chamber has been a vocal advocate of emerging and innovative industries since its start in 1888. As you’ll see in our cover story, the work we started 125 years ago continues today with the launch of our Emerging Commerce Council, the Los Angeles Regional STEM Hub and Bixel Exchange. Today, the Chamber’s efforts to foster innovation are stronger than they have ever been.

L.A.-based toy company Mattel unveiled the adult-figured fashion doll Barbie in 1959. page

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10 WAyS THE CHAMBER HELPED yOUR BUSINESSyour 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 last quarter:

1 Advocated for a bold future at ACCESS Washington, D.C.

A delegation of more than 150 business and civic leaders traveled to our nation’s capital for the Chamber’s annual ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill trip to advocate for issues important to our region, immigration reform, transportation investments, renewable energy, and trade and commerce through the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and our ports. The delegation attended a special White House briefing and heard from U.S. Health & Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Sen. Barbara Boxer, House Speaker John Boehner, House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy, Rep. Xavier Becerra and many more.Bottom line: The Chamber is ensuring that the voice of L.A. area businesses is heard in Washington, D.C., through this trip and consistent year-round advocacy efforts.

2 Supported separation of LAX’s North Airfield

The Chamber continued to advocate for the modernization of LAX and the Specific Plan Amendment Study recommending moving the north runway 260 feet. The Chamber testified in support at the L.A. City Council, Airport Land Use Commission of the County of Los Angeles, and advocated for it in Washington, D.C. "The north airfield of LAX has been a concern of the FAA for many years," said Michael Huerta, the administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. "It is essential to separate the two runways and create a taxiway for large aircraft to eliminate excursions. We regard this improvement at LAX as a project of national importance." Bottom line: After nearly 20 years of studies and delays, we need to ensure that our elected officials make the necessary decisions to finally give L.A. a 21st century airport at LAX.

3 Championed key development projects

The Chamber testified in support of the Millennium Hollywood development before the L.A. City Planning Department and City Planning Commission, both of which approved the development. The Millennium Partners/Argent Ventures project will generate more than 7,000 jobs during construction and upon completion, with a positive annual economic impact of $230 million at full development. The Chamber also testified in support of the NBCUniversal Evolution Plan, which passed the L.A. County Regional Planning Commission and will be reviewed by the L.A. County Board of Supervisors. The 20-year project represents a $1.6 billion investment in L.A., creating more than 30,000 jobs during construction and operations.Bottom line: Quality development projects create good jobs and opportunities for our region.

4 Argued on behalf of property owners in L.A. County

The Chamber spoke out against a stormwater fee measure that would have levied a new mandatory parcel fee on all L.A. County property owners — both commercial and residential. The Chamber argued that the measure lacked the proper process for public input, critical transparency and accounting standards. The County Board of Supervisors voted not to proceed with the proposed fee measure. Bottom line: The Chamber champions the voice of businesses on issues to ensure a proper process for public input.

5 Supported consistent signage policy

The Chamber continued to voice its support for the establishment of a clear and consistent policy on digital billboards in the City. The Chamber participated in the City’s Billboard and Visual Landscape Visioning Group and is a member of Sign Up LA, a coalition that supports the reasonable use and location of digital signs in Los Angeles.Bottom line: Digital signs provide the City economic, public safety and community benefits.

6 Helped a record number of students access cash for college

The Chamber and its Cash for College partners hosted 140 financial aid workshops across Los Angeles County from Jan. 1 to March 2. The workshops were attended by 8,160 students — a 23 percent increase from last year. These students, many of whom aspire to be the first in their families to attend college, received one-on-one assistance from hundreds of volunteers in submitting their financial aid applications, leveraging tens of millions of dollars in state and federal financial aid.Bottom line: A path to higher education is vital to the future of our region’s skilled workforce.

7 Supported candidates who champion job creation and business investment

The L.A. Jobs Political Action Committee (PAC) supported the following candidates who either won or will move on to the runoff elections in May:u L.A. Mayor – Wendy Greuelu L.A. City Council

› District 1 – Gil Cedillo› District 7 – Felipe Fuentes› District 11 – Mike Bonin› District 15 – Joe Buscaino

u LAUSD District 2 – Mónica GarcíaBottom line: The L.A. Jobs PAC strives to elect candidates who support job creation, business investment and fiscal solvency in Los Angeles.

8 Supported gateway for ports

The Chamber testified in support of BNSF Railway Company's Southern California International Gateway (SCIG) at the L.A. Board of Harbor Commissioners meeting. SCIG will provide cleaner air, reduce traffic and create up to 1,500 construction jobs per year over three years of construction. SCIG will also generate about 250 operational jobs in 2016 and 450 direct jobs by full build-out in 2023.Bottom line: SCIG is a win for both the environment and the economy.

9 Advocated for comprehensive immigration reform

The Chamber addressed immigration reform during its annual ACCESS Washington, D.C. trip. House Speaker John Boehner, Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy and Minority Whip Steny Hoyer all addressed immigration reform, indicating that it was time for action on this important national issue. "The time to do it is now, not later. It won't get any easier," said House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer on immigration reform. Conversations also took place with Sen. Charles Schumer and senior staff to Sen. Jeff Flake, both of whom are members of the bipartisan Gang of Eight drafting immigration reform.Bottom line: Comprehensive immigration reform is critical to a vibrant economy.

10 Partnered with local businesses to help eligible employees through citizenship process

With more than three quarters of a million Green Card holders in L.A. Country who are eligible to become citizens, the Chamber is working with businesses to facilitate the citizenship process for their employees. In March, the Chamber, in partnership with more than five local and national community partners, hosted a citizenship information session for more than 250 workers at American Apparel, Inc., LLC. The Chamber, American Apparel and partners will gather again in April to help eligible employees complete their applications. Bottom line: Through naturalization assistance, businesses can help create an expanded base of workers, consumers, taxpayers and entrepreneurs, which will increase productivity and drive a more robust economy.

ADVOCATED FOR BUSINESS IN D.C.: Chamber President & CEO Gary Toebben met with House Speaker John Boehner to discuss issues important to business during ACCESS Washington, D.C. in March.

FACILITATED CITIzENSHIP PROCESS: Hundreds of workers at American Apparel, Inc., LLC find out what they need to do to become citizens.

PROVIDED GUIDANCE TO ACCESS CASH FOR COLLEGE: A student takes the time to fill out her financial aid application for college at a Cash for College workshop.

ACCESSMay 13-14, 2013Sacramento

For more information or to register, visit lachamber.com/accesssacramento.

For sponsorship information, contact Lee Ligons at 213.580.7523 or lligons@lachamber.com.

In 1913, Georgia “Tiny” Broadwick became the first woman to parachute from an airplane, over Griffith Park.page

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1 I was so fortunate to be part of the team that helped get the approvals to

build Disney’s California Adventure, which opened in 2001. I have a lot of memorabilia that reminds me about building the park and the very special people I got to work with at

Disneyland. Opening day was especially unforgettable because it was so exciting

to stand there as the first guests entered the brand new park.

2 There are several political photos in my office, and the whole political spectrum is represented. This photo of Gov. Jerry Brown is one of my newest additions and I love it. It doesn’t look staged — it’s Christmas morning, he’s with his dog Sutter, and it looks like he’s just finished opening up some presents. He very nicely signed it : “To Lisa and the kids."

3 I purchased this postcard of President Harry Truman more than

20 years ago when we visited the Truman Library in Independence, Missouri. My dad served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and he credited President Truman’s leadership as to why

he survived the war and was able to come home. I have read several

biographies on President Truman and I’ve always respected his willingness to

make difficult decisions and also accept responsibility for them. He is one of my heroes.

4 My friend Kate gave this to me a long time ago. It’s called a “personal ego booster” and when I’m having a difficult day, I look at it and smile. And on the really tough days, I look at the photos of my family — my kids (thankfully) think I’m a superstar.

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Each quarter, we get a peek inside the office of some of L.A.’s most prominent business leaders. This quarter we visited with Lisa Pitney, VP of Government Relations for The Walt Disney Company, at her office in Burbank.

Photo by ImageActive

5 Valerie, whom I’ve worked with for 13 years, gave this to me after we had

been working together for just a short time. When she gave it to me, she said: “This is you.” This little paper now looks a little tattered, but I still love the message on

it — it reminds me that even in the most difficult circumstances, you

can never give up. I’m tenacious — I always have been.

6 A lot of the objects on my bookcase remind me of major

Disney milestones — I got the "Cars" figures after Disney acquired Pixar, the Marvel Encyclopedia after the Marvel Entertainment announcement,

and the Darth Vader figure after Lucasfilm became part of Disney.

When the Disney family grows, so do the toys and books in my office!

STATEWIDE REFORM

California Environment Quality Act Modernization The Chamber is the Southern California lead on a business and stakeholder coalition advocating for statewide legislation to fix CEQA so that it allows job growth and economic development while living up to its original intent. Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg’s SB 731 (see page 9) bill addresses some abuses.

Statewide Pension ReformThe Chamber strongly supports Gov. Jerry Brown’s 12-point plan for pension reform, which if fully implemented, is estimated to have an impact between $4 and $11 billion over 30 years. The Legislature passed some of the recommendations in the 2012 session; we urge further action.

Cost-Effective Implementation of AB 32’s Cap-and-Trade Program Auction proceeds from the implementation of the State’s cap-and-trade program are projected to generate $660 million to upwards of $3 billion in 2013-14 for statewide greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects and programs. The Chamber is developing a three-year investment plan that mitigates the cost of implementing the program for L.A. businesses and consumers and that invests a proportionate share of the proceeds for projects and programs that benefit Southern California.

Securing a Reliable and Affordable Source of WaterState policy-makers are in the process of developing a multi-billion dollar statewide plan to improve California’s water supply infrastructure. The Chamber is co-chairing a statewide coalition of business advocacy organizations to secure reliable and affordable sources of water for L.A. businesses and residents.

BUSINESS CLIMATE

Reforming the City of L.A.'s Uncompetitive Business TaxThe Chamber successfully advocated in a City Council committee for approval of the first phase of the reduction plan for the gross receipts tax and also helped create a council ad-hoc committee to address implementation.

L.A. City Planning & Permit ReformThe City of L.A. is undertaking a five-year process to revamp its outdated zoning code to provide clear guidelines for development and to streamline the permitting and building process. The Chamber is forming an internal task force to develop positions to share during its participation on a blue-ribbon task force. Major priorities include advocating for consistent, clear and fair guidelines that facilitate economic growth.

REGIONAL ECONOMIC ENGINES

Los Angeles International Airport ModernizationThe recently-released Specific Plan Amendment Study report to modernize LAX recommends the north runway be moved 260 feet north. The Chamber has advocated for that option at the Board of Airport Commissioners, the County Board of Supervisors and the L.A. City Council.

Local Ports & Goods MovementThe ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are economic engines; supporting pro-customer priorities and infrastructure improvements are essential to maintaining competitiveness. The Chamber advocates for expediting terminal improvement projects, including near-dock rail, such as BNSF Railway Company's Southern California International Gateway, ensuring an economically feasible clean air action plan and opposing mandates or new fees on port customers.

Transportation Infrastructure InvestmentThe Chamber is working with Metro to continue the momentum of the federal passage of the America Fast Forward (AFF) TIFIA program with an AFF Bond program. This would allow for increased leveraging of federal tax incentives, creating jobs, relieving congestion and improving the quality of life in Los Angeles.

BUSINESS ADVOCACy PRIORITIES

In the Office of Lisa Pitney

OPEN

In the late 1950s television station KTLA becomes the first to use a news helicopter. page

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GOVERNANCE & FISCAL REFORML.A. City Budget Crisis & Public Pension ReformThe City Council and Mayor have taken initial steps to deal with pension obligations, but much more action is needed. The Chamber supports reforms to the City's budget process that includes: (1) major pension reform; (2) a focus on the delivery of essential city services; (3) privatizing nonessential city functions; and (4) strengthening the reserve fund.

L.A. JOBS PAC2013 Elections in Los AngelesThis is an unprecedented opportunity for the L.A. Jobs Political Action Committee (PAC), sponsored by the Chamber, to weigh in on these races and change the face of public policy in the City of Los Angeles. In the primary, the PAC endorsed in five Council races, winning three outright with a fourth candidate qualifying for the general election. The PAC also endorsed L.A. City Controller Wendy Greuel for Mayor, who finished in the top two and advances to the general election in May. The PAC announced additional endorsements for the May runoff elections.

REGIONAL STEWARDSHIPHome for Good – a Partnership with United Way of Greater Los AngelesThe Chamber and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles continue to lead the Business Leaders' Task Force, working on the implementation of the Home For Good report — a five-year strategic plan to end chronic and veteran homelessness in Los Angeles via permanent supportive housing.

Development and Implementation of Regional Air Quality Management PlansThe Chamber will continue to play a leadership role in developing the South Coast Air Quality Management District's Air Quality Management Plans that help the region attain federal air quality standards while maintaining the global competitiveness of Southern California’s economy.

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENTHelping California Community College Students Succeed The statewide policy successes of SB 1143, SB 1456 and SB 1440 have set the stage for significant transformation in California’s community college system. The Chamber will continue to be a leader in implementing reforms to improve student outcomes and help students — including immigrant students — become a skilled and educated workforce.

Supporting Linked Learning and K-12 EducationThe Chamber strongly supports Linked Learning, which brings together strong academics, demanding technical education and real-world experience. This year's priorities also include legislation promoting work based learning, local control funding, and implementation of SB 1458 (Steinberg), signed into law in 2012, which would include college and career measures in the state school accountability system, the Academic Performance Index.

Investing in Early EducationThe Chamber supports efforts to maintain funding for early childhood education and policies that improve California’s quality early education rating system, development of a seamless education transition from infancy through grade 12, and policies that support efforts to guarantee a skilled early childhood education workforce to ensure all students are school ready.

Big dreams for a better L.A.or 125 years, the L.A. Area Chamber has championed L.A.’s port, international airport, F

water system, entertainment industry and freeway system. We asked members of the

Chamber’s Board of Directors, what’s your dream project or policy idea for the L.A. region

that the Chamber can help make a reality?

Seen + Heard at the Chamber

In traveling to other cities, I am always interested to see how engaged they are in the emerging tech field and the advancements they provide. Los Angeles has the capacity to not only compete in this field, but to lead the charge. I believe the Chamber has the tools it needs to help shape this great city’s reputation as the world leader in emerging tech in the years to come.

S. Chris ParkVice PresidentHanjin International Corporation

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Dennis RodriguezChief City ExecutiveSiemens Industry, Inc.

As the nation’s largest domestic air carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, Southwest Airlines’ big dream for a better L.A. is to continue our focus on providing outstanding customer service and a convenient and robust flight schedule with the LAX Terminal 1 Modernization Program.  Through this project, we will dramatically improve the lobby, concourse, checked baggage system and security checkpoint at Terminal 1. Once completed, we expect an enhanced customer experience and the capacity for future growth in the L.A. area!

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“ With new developments like Wilshire Grand revitalizing downtown, I envision Los Angeles being an epicenter for the flourishing of world trade, commerce and tourism. For more than 40 years, Korean Air and Hanjin have been partners in the dynamic growth and development of L.A. and we are excited to see how the new Wilshire Grand will strengthen the bond between L.A. and the Pacific Rim. We are committed to making L.A. the gold standard for world-class destinations.

Lidia S. MartinezManager, Community Affairs & GrassrootsSouthwest Airlines Co.

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IN JANUARy …• Rick J. Caruso, founder and CEO of Caruso Affiliate,

Chamber's Board of Directors meeting

• L.A. City Councilmember Jose Huizar, Energy, Water & Environmental Sustainability Council

• State Sen. Ed Hernandez, Health Care Council

• California Community Colleges Chancellor Brice Harris, Accenture Pancakes & Politics Speaker Series

IN FEBRUARy …• Cynthia Ruiz, deputy executive director of external

relations, Port of Los Angeles, and Marnie O'Brien Primmer, executive director of Mobility 21, Transportation & Goods Movement Council

• David Panush, director of External Affairs for Covered California, Health Care Council

• Mark Hass, president & CEO, Edelman U.S., Power Hour Speaker Series

• Kevin Klowden, director of the California Center, Milken Institute, Global Initiatives Council

• Art Leahy, Metro CEO, Accenture Pancakes & Politics Breakfast Speaker Series

• Alan Bell, deputy director, L.A. Department of City Planning, Land Use, Construction & Housing Council

IN MARCH …• L.A. County Board of Supervisors Chair Mark Ridley-

Thomas, Chamber's Board of Directors meeting

• Chance Barnett, Crowdfunder; James Siminoff, Nobel Biz and Edison Jr.; Adam Chapnick, Indiegogo; and DeKoven Ashley, thrdPlace; Emerging Commerce Council’s Tech Salon and Small Business Council joint meeting

Don’t miss out on the action! Go to lachamber.com/events for a calendar of upcoming speakers and events.

Photo by Northrop Grumman Corporation

In the Office of Lisa Pitney

- California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson at the STEM Workforce Seminar, co-hosted by the Chamber in March at Northrop Grumman Corporation.

The STEM subjects are critical as we prepare students for the world they will enter once they leave our classrooms and connect their education with the economy.

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The Los Angeles Flower District is the largest wholesale flower district in the United States.page

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Be a part of the solution — support work-based learningSpotlight on education:

Scenes from some of the Chamber’s key events in 2013

Chamber Snapshots 1. More than 1,500 business and civic leaders attended the Chamber's 125th Anniversary Inaugural Dinner at the JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE in February. Newly installed Board Chair Alan Rothenberg, 1st Century Bank, receives the gavel from 2012 Board Chair Karen Hathaway, The Los Angeles Athletic Club. (ImageActive) 2. Former Chamber Board chairs and presidents celebrate the Chamber’s 125th Anniversary. From top left, counter clockwise: Dick Poladian, 2000; Timothy McCallion, 2008; George Kieffer, 2003-4; Dennis Poulsen, 1997; Sheldon Ausman, 1992; Joseph Czyzyk, 2011; Ray Remy, Chamber President & CEO, 1984-96 ; Fran Inman, 2009; Charlie Woo, 2001; Patty DeDominic, 2002; David Fleming, 2007; Karen Hathaway, 2012. (ImageActive) 3. The Chamber and its Cash for College partners hosted 140 financial aid workshops across Los Angeles County from Jan. 1 to March 2, including this one at Bethel A.M.E. Church of Los Angeles.

he L.A. Compact, signed in 2010, brings together leaders from business, education, civic, labor and nonprofit sectors to break through traditional siloed systems and embrace a shared vision to transform education and workforce outcomes in the City from cradle to career.

As the convener and signing member of the L.A. Compact, the L.A. Area Chamber and its affiliate UNITE-LA, Inc. pledged to help youth and young adults develop the workforce skills needed to succeed in the 21st century global economy by expanding quality work-based learning opportunities.

As business leaders, we encourage you to play a critical role in preparing L.A.’s future workforce. There are several ways that your organization can get involved and support work-based learning opportunities:

Provide employment, internships and summer jobs: Early work experience allows youth to explore careers, learn workplace etiquette and work ethic, and develop valuable “soft” skills such as teamwork, decision-making, communication and critical thinking. These experiences can put youth with otherwise limited labor market experience on a pathway to long-term economic opportunity.

Since 2006, the Chamber has partnered with the City of Los Angeles to connect youth to employment opportunities

T through the HIRE LA’s Youth campaign. As the end of the school year quickly approaches, thousands of L.A. youth are looking for and will benefit from summer jobs that provide crucial first time work experiences. Learn more at hirelayouth.com.

Connect work to school through Linked Learning: Youth exposure to the workplace is even more powerful when career exploration is connected to learning in the classroom. Linked Learning transforms the high school experience by bringing together strong academics, demanding technical education and real-world experience to help students recognize the relevance of a high school education to their futures, both in college and the workplace.

Through Linked Learning, students follow industry-themed pathways in a wide range of fields including arts and media, health, and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This integrated approach produces higher graduation rates, greater earning potential and better prepared, more productive employees for L.A.’s workforce.

Businesses can support Linked Learning through the Chamber’s Pillar initiative. Pillar matches businesses with industry-themed schools to enhance career exploration and integrated learning for students.

Business leaders can provide classroom speakers, serve on a school advisory committee, offer job shadowing opportunities, or assist teachers’ professional development. Most importantly, businesses can provide internships that show students how classroom learning is applied in the world outside of school. Learn more at pillarla.com.

The prosperity of L.A. rests on the success of our workforce, but schools alone cannot prepare students for the challenging jobs of the future. Businesses can support the work-readiness of today’s youth by expanding opportunities for work-based learning.

In March, the Chamber led a delegation of more than 150 people for our annual two-day advocacy trip — ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill. There, business and nonprofit leaders were joined by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and five members of the City Council to advocate on behalf of the region on a wide range of policies.

The entire delegation heard from Sen. Dianne Feinstein on cyber security and keeping America safe; from Sen. Barbara Boxer on transportation and water infrastructure; and from Rep. Xavier Becerra, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, on sequestration and the current fiscal environment. The group also attended a breakfast featuring Health & Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, who spoke about the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and had a high-level White Housing briefing on key delegation priorities including immigration reform, international trade and infrastructure.

In smaller meetings, House Speaker John Boehner, Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy and Minority Whip Steny Hoyer all addressed immigration reform and indicated that it was time for action. Productive

conversations also took place with Sen. Charles Schumer and senior staff to Sen. Jeff Flake, both of whom are members of the bipartisan Gang of Eight drafting immigration reform.

Multiple delegation teams advocated for the economic engines of Southern California: the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the ports of L.A. and Long Beach. Michael Huerta, administrator for the Federal Aviation Administration, reiterated his support for the modernization of LAX and the Specific Plan Amendment Study, which recommends moving the north runway 260 feet.

As a follow-up to the inclusion of America Fast Forward (AFF) TIFIA language in last year’s surface transportation reauthorization, delegates met with Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood on the creation of an AFF Bond program.

The health care team advocated for full implementation of the ACA, while the energy and environment teams discussed the development of renewable energy, natural gas infrastructure investments and energy efficiency policy issues.

In the face of deep sequestration cuts to funds used for permanent supportive housing for the chronically homeless, the housing and homelessness team held productive meetings with Dr. Susan Angell, executive director for Homeless Veterans Initiatives at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Mark Johnston to emphasize L.A.’s unique needs for federal assistance.

To ensure our city is prepared to address the needs of returning veterans of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the workforce development team met with Keith Kelly, assistant deputy secretary of Veterans’ Employment and Training Service at the U.S. Department of Labor.

The K-12 education team advocated for legislation to increase graduation rates and work-based learning opportunities for students.

The work conducted by these 150 Angelenos on behalf of our region will do much for business growth, improved transportation, renewable energy, trade through LAX and our ports, improvements to health care, education and workforce development and helping our veterans move off the street.

Contact Jessica Duboff, 213.580.7558 or jduboff@lachamber.com.

To learn more or get involved, contact Carrie Shapton, 213.580.7591 or cshapton@lachamber.com.

Advocating for a bold futureFocus on advocacy:

The first 3-D feature film premiered at the Ambassador Hotel Theater in Los Angeles in 1922. page

ChamberVOICE

4. Taste of the Chamber More than 200 guests mingled and sampled hors d’oeuvres at the 11th Annual Taste of the Chamber Mixer, hosted by L.A. Mart in downtown Los Angeles. Champagne Bakery was one of 12 Chamber member restaurants and caterers offering samples. 5. On March 13, Sen. Barbara Boxer spoke about the sequestration’s impact on California with the ACCESS Washington, D.C. – Los Angeles on the Hill delegation in a special briefing at Capitol Hill. (AP) 6. The Chamber led more than 150 business leaders and elected officials to advocate for the L.A. region in Washington, D.C.

7

Southern California's economic engines:

4 5 6

125 years of innovationn a city of entrepreneurs, thinkers and creators, Los Angeles has long been known as the place where ideas are born and where dreams become

reality. Since 1888 the Chamber has been a supporter of many of the industries that are thriving here today. Many of these industries can be credited for helping making L.A. the innovative capital of the nation.

I

AerospAceThe aerospace industry was

fundamental in making Southern

California an industrial powerhouse.

The industry has undergone a shift

in the last several decades, however

aerospace firms continue to provide

a significant number of high-paying

jobs and are an important incubator

for technological innovation.

International Air Meet at Dominguez Field.

1stAirplane factories in Southern California

employed about 1,000 people. That number jumped to more than

280,300 in 1943.

Leading U.S. military contractors — all of

whom have big presences in Southern California — include Northrop

Grumman Corporation, Lockheed Martin,

Raytheon Company, General Dynamics and The Boeing Co. These

companies were formed as early as 1916.

BIoMeDIcALThe biomedical industry includes

all life sciences-based research and

commercial organizations that pursue

innovative research and technological

development to benefit human health.

L.A. County is the home of numerous

biomedical breakthroughs and where

startups and spinoffs launch.

More than 2,300 biomedical firms reside in

California, employing more than 267,000 statewide

including more than 42,000 in L.A. County

alone.

Some of L.A. County's largest biotech companies

have been around since the 1930s. Southern

California universities have been staunch supporters

of innovative biotech firms.

The most advanced cochlear implant

technology worldwide and the first insulin pump are developed in L.A. County.

INTerAcTIVeSeveral gaming studios are located

in L.A. County, including Activision

Blizzard, Inc. and THQ, while big

name studios EA and Sony have a

big presence in the region. Southern

California universities including UCLA

and USC, offer game design courses,

helping generate new talent every year.

Video games were first developed, but not available to the

general public.

cLeANTechLos Angeles’ primary economic growth

strategy is to drive innovation in clean

technologies. The L.A. region has

become the largest green economy

in the nation, with more than 700

cleantech companies in the area.

The LA Cleantech Incubator launched and is funded by

the CRA/LA and Los Angeles Department of Water & Power.

It is a result of the CleanTech L.A. alliance between the

mayor’s office, the Chamber, local research institutions, and

other business and government organizations.

In March, Clean Tech Los Angeles and the LA Cleantech

Incubator joined forces to increase efficiency and impact.

The La Kretz Innovation Campus, a center for

cleantech innovation and commercialization activities,

is expected to open in the near future.

2011

1910 1916 1933 TODAY

Final assembly of aircrafts still takes place in Southern California,

including the Boeing C-17 and Northrop Grumman Global Hawk unmanned

aircraft.

1930s 1960s 2010 TODAY

The Los Angeles Regional STEM Hub is

conceptualized. In Spring 2013, the hub becomes

operational.

L.A. County has about 100 video game

studios — the second most in the nation

behind San Francisco.

Commercial game development began with first generation video game consoles

and home computers.

1960s 1970s 1995 TODAY

L.A. hosts several industry conferences every year, including the premier industry

conference, E3, which debuted in 1995.

2013

2nd

TODAY

Chamber organizes

ACCOUNTING

Encore Tax Consulting Group, Inc.10 percent off on our Enterprise Zone and/or Research & Development Tax Credit Study Services. Restrictions: new customers only. Contact Armando Jamjian, 213.412.2000 or ajamjian@etaxgroup.com.

Paragon Business Solutions, LLC25 percent discount on bookkeeping and payroll services on flat rates or hourly rates. Restriction: new customers only. Contact Alex Parajon, 818.482.0612 or info@paragonbizsolutions.com.

ADVERTISING

Billboard Connection Outdoor Advertising 40 percent off all production charges plus free graphic design with any advertising campaign. Minimum $3,500 total campaign budget. Contact Brian Alexander, 310.429.3900.

SEO Networker10 percent discount on our marketing services and FREE business overview analysis. Contact Ramiro Ceballos, 323.942.9983 or Ramiro@seonetworker.com.

WireMedia Communications, Inc.10 percent discount on website design, logo design and print design. Restrictions: new clients only, applies to first project. Contact Marcy Rye, 323.315.0400 or touchbase@wiremedia.net.

ADVOCACy

Move LA10 percent discount for the next 12 months to all our events, including the Transportation Conference 3 in June and the third annual “We Love LA” celebration event in February 2012. Contact Amy Williams, 310.310.2390 or amy@movela.org.

ARCHITECTURE

ziese Architecture, Inc.10 percent off professional architectural services. Restrictions: discount is taken after expenses. Contact Daniel Ziese, 323.275.1340 or Daniel@ziesearchitecture.com.

AUDIO VISUAL

CCS Presentation Systems, Inc.$75 discount on projector rentals. Contact Gina Riberi, 323.954.7754, Ext. 12.

Black Tie Studios, LLC15 percent off any corporate, promotional or business related video production. Restriction: may not be used with any other discount or offer. Contact Charles Lopez, 323.426.6139 or info@blacktiestudios.net.

AUTOMOBILE SERVICES

Enterprise Rent-A-Car10 percent off already low prices, mention code 32w2630. Call 1.800.593.0505 or your local office.

Pareto Point Industries10 percent off patented advanced filtration system for vehicles, equipment and machinery using lubricating oil. Saves money, time and environment. Restriction: minimum order of three units. Contact Bob Hammer, 323.726.2199 or info@paretopoint.com.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTAll City Employees Benefits Service AssociationSave 10 percent on AMC movie tickets, 10-45 percent on Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Magic Mountain tickets and 25 percent on See’s Candies gift certificates. Contact Sylvia Amponsah, 213.485.2485.

CERTIFICATIONG&M Compliance, Inc.10 percent discount on all product safety certification services. Contact Norgene Ketchum, 714.628.1020 or norgene@gmcompliance.com.

COMMUNICATIONS CoolerEmail, Inc.20 percent sign-up discount on any email marketing service plan. E-mail Dan@cooleremail.com with LAChamber in subject. One discount per account.

COMPUTER & AV SmartSource Computer & AV Rentals30 percent off all rental equipment, not including delivery and tax fees. Restriction: Discount is on equipment subtotal only. Contact Kim Webb, 310.237.5324.

CONFERENCE CENTERUCLA Conference Center – Lake Arrowhead10 percent off total conference invoice. Valid for conferences from November to April. Restriction: Chamber membership to be indicated in writing prior to the contract being accepted and agreed to. Contact Steve Caloca, 909.337.2478 or scaloca@ha.ucla.edu.

CONSULTANTSMajestic Hospitality Group15 percent off all fixed-fee bids. Does not apply to hourly fee contracts. Contact Christopher Henry, 310.895.7925 or chris.henry@majestic-hospitality.com.

EDUCATION PROGRAMSArc20 percent off team building low ropes courses. Call 310.671.4400.

ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMSzebra Entertainment and Events10 percent off entertainers and variety shows, animal programs, circus acts, carnival rides and company picnics. Restriction: discount applies to dunk tanks but not carnival booth rentals. Contact Shelly Mazer, 818.368.2818 or info@callzebra.com.

FACILITIES Golden Eagle HospitalityFree room rental with $24 All Inclusive Buffet which includes salad, entree, two sides, desert, drink, room set-up, servers and gratuity. Restriction: Minimum 15 people per event. Contact Amanda Tapia, 323.343.6770 or ATapia9@cslanet.calstatela.edu.

Member AdvantageThe Chamber’s member-to-member discount program offers a variety of savings, from hotel rooms to printing and shipping. If you’d like to offer other members a discount on your products or services, contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595 or pclark@lachamber.com.

FOOD

Member Highlight

10 percent off catering food order. Restrictions: Minimum Food Order $1,250 and Must Be Chamber Member. Contact young Ho yoo, 323.315.0253 or youngho@kogibbq.com

FINANCIALLos Angeles LDC, Inc. $250.00 off any loan application fee or loan documentation charge. Loans must be $150,000 or less. Contact Rob Lowe, 213.312.9117.

PROAMÉRICA BANKSBA7a/504: $2,000 loan packaging fee waiver on applicable loans booked. EQUAL OPPORTUNITy LENDER. Contact Angel Chang, 213.787.2843.

PROAMÉRICA BANKFee credits up to $100 per month for six months on applicable new accounts. Contact Roberto Manzano at 213.787.2833 or Roberto.Manzano@PromericaBank.com.

FRUIT & GIFT BASKETSMelissa’s/World Variety Produce, Inc. 15 percent off any exotic baskets. Contact Lori Hirai, 888.588.0151, ext. 340.

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS Exquisite Family Mortuary$100 off direct cremations and 10 percent off funeral services over $3,000, including pre-arrangements. Contact Reola Whitfield, 323.753.0788 or exquisitefamilymortuary@yahoo.com.

FURNITURE KIDS ONLy FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES20 percent off any item in the store. Contact Kevin Aghayan, 818.841.5544 or info@kidsonlyfurniture.com.

HOUSING Oakwood Corporate Housing10 percent off daily rate for a fully-furnished one-bedroom apartment in downtown Los Angeles. Contact Nancy Walsh, 800.595.3102.

Pegasus ApartmentsOne month free on 12-month contract lease, upon approved credit. Come in today. Call 213.430.9112.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Design Theory, Inc.15 percent off design hourly rate or 10 percent off design flat fee. Visit design-theory.com.

Palatin Remodeling10 percent off any remodeling service. Restriction: must be a L.A. Chamber member. Contact Gil Palatin, 888.586.2323 or info@palatinremodeling.com.

Robinson Environmental Design$250 for two hour consultation, with sketches of ideas and solutions. $500 towards Design Package which consists of Plan View, two elevations, plant plan and description. Contact Ralph Robinson, 310.387.3548 or rr4redesign@aol.com.

INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS

DHL Express24-44 percent off international shipping. Contact Peter Klevecz, 805.200.6464 or peter.klevecz@dhl.com or visit simplydhl.com/lachamber.

JANITORIAL SERVICES

Elite ServicesNew clients receive two hours of cleaning or janitorial services. May not be used with any other discount or offer. Contact Rose McCoppin, 323.982.9500.

PET CARE

Bark Avenue10 percent discount on award-winning dog daycare, boarding, grooming, training, pet parties, pickup and delivery. Restrictions: Speed Scrub Club. Contact Jay Blumberg, 213.748.7485 or jay@barkavela.com.

PHOTOGRAPHyPBF Photography10 percent off normal hourly rates or 15 percent off packages. Contact Patrick Botz-Forbes, 323.309.3332.

PRINTING & COPyINGUniversal Reprographics, Inc. 15 percent off color copies, posters, b/w digital printing and copying, CAD plotting and blue printing. Contact Madeline Wilson, 213.365.7750.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Newleaf Training and Development30 percent off training and development. Contact Paul Butler, 661.288.1004 or paulbutler@newleaf-ca.com.

PUBLIC RELATIONSWeisman Hamlin Public Relations 10 percent off Weisman Hamlin Public Relations’ full public relations and marketing services, on an hourly basis. Contact Sydney Weisman, 323.730.0233.

SHIPPING

DHL Express24-44 percent off international shipping. Contact Peter Klevecz, 805.200.6464 or peter.klevecz@dhl.com or visitsimplydhl.com/lachamber.

TECHNOLOGy – INFORMATION

Tech Erase, Inc.30 percent off digital shredding. Visit techerase.com and use code lachamber18. Restriction: does not apply to onsite and pick up service charges. Contact Noah Bleich, 855.372.7300 or noah@techerase.com.

TECHNOLOGy – MOBILE PHONE APPLICATION VezTek USA15 percent discount off all retail prices on all services and $105 Google AdWords Voucher. Contact Sani Abdul-Jabbar, 310.928.3514 or info@veztekusa.com.

TELEPHONESprint10-15 percent off monthly bill for new accounts. Contact Marvin Lee, 213.256.7344 or marvin.lee@sprint.com.

TRANSPORTATIONSuperShuttle Los Angeles Sedan Services: $10 discount on airport transfer. Book online at execucar.com; use discount code HKCKA. Restrictions, if applicable. Contact Jose Alcocer, 310.222.5500 ext.10519.

TMO Business Capital$250 off any loan application or any business/equipment loan funded. Contact John McGarr, 310.223.0824.

WallyPark20 percent off valet or self-park service per day with a minimum three-day stay. May not be used with any other discount or offer. Contact Bryan Gusdorf, 800.PK.WALLy (800.759.2559).

WASTE MANAGEMENT Republic Services25 percent off our most competitive rates for new service. Applies to commercial and industrial services in non-franchise areas only. Restriction: residential services not included. Contact Mark Beckman, 310.242.1324 or mbeckman@republicservices.com.

WEB DESIGN

Fouts Ventures, LLC10 percent off entire software or website project. Free hosting for one year. Contact Matthew Fouts, 800.277.5221 or Matthew@foutsventures.com.

* Lew McCreary, “Kaiser Permanente’s Innovation on the Front Lines,” Harvard Business Review, September 2010.

† ”Another American Way,” The Economist, May 1, 2010.

kp.org/choosebetter

In an industry built on fee-for-service

care, Kaiser Permanente succeeds

because we’re built around prevention

and the highest quality care. One

Harvard Business Review article

described our care as “untainted by

any economic conflict of interest.”*

And in an industry report by

The Economist, Kaiser Permanente’s

care was described as promoting

economy and quality care with

“no financial motive to order

unnecessary procedures.Ӡ

Discover a better way.

YOU DON’T PROFIT FROM SICK EMPLOYEES. WHY DOES YOUR HEALTH PROVIDER?

Increase your organization’s visibility in Los Angeles and gain new customers by advertising in the L.A. Area Chamber’s publications and website. Advertising with the Chamber is available exclusively to Chamber members.

Contact Monika Medina, 213.580.7516 or mmedina@lachamber.com.

“We need our economy to grow now more than ever. The L.A. Jobs PAC has been dedicated in

moving us forward and continues to do so.”— Peter Whitton, Whitton Industries, LLC

To get involved or learn more, contact Ruben Gonzalez, 213.580.7568 or rgonzalez@lachamber.com.

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BOLD IN BUSINESS

8 The progenitor of Internet, the first ARPANET signal, was sent from Los Angeles to SRI in Menlo Park.

In 1953 the “four level” interchange, the first of its kind, connecting the Hollywood, Pasadena and Harbor freeways opened.

Face to face:

Senate pro Tem Darrell SteinbergEach quarter, the L.A. Area Chamber speaks with a civic leader on issues affecting the business community in the L.A. region.

his quarter we spoke with Senate pro TTem Darrell Steinberg about his stance on public education as it relates to the business community and what he is doing to help streamline the environmental review process for projects in California.

As an advocate for improving the business climate in California, what are your plans to ensure that we tap into our state’s human capital?

Pro Tem Steinberg: For far too long we have separated academic and career relevance in our public schools. As a result we have high dropout rates, and we have business leaders complaining that we aren’t producing enough educated and trained graduates for the high tech and 21st century workforce. We can change that and we don’t have to start from scratch.

One first step toward that end was through my bill last year, SB 1458, which limited standardized test scores in high school to no more than 60 percent of a high school’s academic performance index. The result will be to include more relevant information when measuring school success, including elements like graduation rates, and college and career preparedness. To build on that, I’ve now introduced what I hope will be another very significant piece of legislation, Senate Bill 594, to expand career pathway programs in California schools.

What is the most important role of business when it comes to helping students and public education improve?

Pro Tem Steinberg: Business and industry need to have more skin in the game, which is exactly my goal in SB 594. What my bill does is create the incentive for businesses to invest in the development of these career pathways.

Some school districts and high schools from around the state are pioneering career-oriented curriculum that combines rigor and relevance, without sacrificing either. Every student in a career pathway program has an opportunity to learn these courses that, frankly, come alive as opposed to when they’re taught simply and strictly out of the old textbook in the traditional classroom model. Yet there just aren’t enough of these programs.

Systemically, one of the things that’s missing is an industry or business commitment for sustained investment in California’s high schools. In my proposal we intend to authorize California to sell high school dropout prevention and workforce development bonds to leading growth sector, high-wage industries as an investment in career pathways and create other potential incentives. To be eligible to purchase these bonds or access incentives, these high-wage businesses and industries must commit to actually work with high dropout, high unemployment districts throughout California to develop the curriculum that is relevant to the industry, as well as provide internships, mentorships, after school programs, post-secondary scholarships for college or professional licensing programs, and ultimately jobs for young people in their particular industry.

The Chamber is encouraged by the expansion of Linked Learning in the past several years. How can the business community help partner to ensure that every high school student gets access to quality education?

Pro Tem Steinberg: Yes, we’ve been working very closely with the L.A. Area Chamber for years on these concepts. The Chamber has been a very strong guiding light when it comes to pushing for education, and I thank them for that.

Many in the business community are already engaged in some form of public-private partnerships to encourage, develop and expand Linked Learning. But right now, only about one-third of our students have access to Linked Learning programs. We can, and we must, do more.

You recently introduced SB 731, what changes does this bill make to the California Environmental Quality Act?

Pro Tem Steinberg: This measure sets the framework to encourage smart, environmentally sound growth by streamlining the environmental review process without compromising the quality of life Californians deserve and expect in our communities. We’ve worked hard with representatives of the business community, labor and environmental groups to preserve public input over proposed development while updating the environmental review process to speed up good, clean projects that keep our economy growing.

What SB 731 does not do is adopt the wholesale standards approach that some have advocated, whereby a project that meets local or regional plan standards wouldn’t have to conform to CEQA. That would be flawed public policy that doesn’t add up intellectually, and here’s why: One of CEQA’s strengths is that it requires a project’s environmental impact to be analyzed on the project’s impact on any local and adjoining uses. The standards approach doesn’t necessarily look at the cumulative impact of the projects that came before the project proposed, or the projects that are reasonably anticipated to come afterward. CEQA does.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t a whole host of things that are represented in my bill that I think can be improved upon when it comes to CEQA. For example, if there has been a recent specific or general plan where a CEQA analysis has already been done at the higher level, current law arguably allows the project to utilize “tiering,” to forego having to re-do an environmental document. I say arguably because we need to tighten up the law. As long as these plans are recently updated, we need to allow more of this tiering so you don’t have to analyze a project two or three times. The problem now is that a lot of these plans are so old that they don’t take into account new information; many general plans have not been updated for 15 or 20 years. My bill proposed to appropriate $30 million in new funding for local jurisdictions to update those plans.

On the other hand, there are some standards relating to land use that we can, in fact, substitute for CEQA; levels of traffic service, for example. If a city defines what the traffic levels ought to be and the project meets that requirement, that should be the end of the discussion. There shouldn’t have to be a subsequent CEQA analysis for that. Similarly, why is CEQA analyzing aesthetics? That should be a city, county or local government standards decision.

On the litigation side of CEQA, our goal is to create more efficiency and streamlining. We want to eliminate or limit the problem of “document dumping,” where a late hit document can then extend the whole process for a long time. We want to allow for contemporaneous production in the administrative record,

— Senate pro Tem Darrell Steinberg

“The Chamber has been a very strong guiding light when it comes to pushing for education, and I thank them for that.

For information on fees and other costs related to business checking and payroll services, please visit bankofamerica.com/smallbusiness. Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. © 2012 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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“ which is a wonky issue but very important, because why should you have to wait until a lawsuit is filed before you begin producing the administrative record?

Then there’s the whole issue of what happens when a judge rules that there is a specific CEQA violation. In many cases now, the entire Environmental Impact Report has to go back down to the city or the county. That’s another year or two delay. We want to allow more jurisdiction in the hands of the judge at the court level for fixing the violation, so the judge can decide, “Okay, you fix the traffic report or that one element that was deficient, and the project can then go forward.” That can eliminate the time-consuming hop-scotch and the repeated back and forth between the courts, the city and the counties.

Making changes to CEQA is a controversial issue, how do you plan on bringing all parties to the table?

Pro Tem Steinberg: When you’re talking about an issue like CEQA, I think it is really important to create an atmosphere where advocates on all sides have to find ways to talk to each other and work with each other.

The end product needs to be something that may not be happily embraced by everyone but is at least acceptable by all sides. There are two ways to look at difficult legislation. One is to consider the politics first and then form the substance around it. The other is to put together the substance of policy, figure out how to actually improve the statute and then work out the politics. We’re doing the latter, with an acute awareness of the politics as well.

So we’re getting in there and will figure out in this two-year session how to make it better. I'm not afraid to get roughed up a little bit in the process.

How can the business community help?

Pro Tem Steinberg: Well, be a constructive voice. Recognize that it’s appropriate to push. It’s appropriate to ask for what you think would be the best. It’s our job to try to strive to accomplish the best solution. Progress means moving forward in a real, meaningful way, but compromise means nobody in this process gets absolutely everything they want, especially on issues with these kinds of strongly held passions. I would ask the Chamber and the business community to approach it with the right kind of mindset; as strong advocates not being afraid to push but also with a commitment to be problems solvers.

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ChamberVOICE

9

In 1909, L.A. becomes the first large city in the nation to adopt zoning laws to distinguish between commercial and residential properties.

siemens.com/answers

©Siemens AG, 2013. All Rights Reserved.

In San Diego, our light rail system is getting commuters home faster. We’re powering a neighborhood in Anaheim with a substation that stays out of sight. And in Houston, we’re helping a hospital care for the youngest generation. All across the country Siemens is helping cities become the kinds of places where both people and businesses can thrive. Somewhere in America, our team of more than 60,000 employees spends every day creating answers that will last for years to come.

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A tech company finds ground in Los Angeles

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BOLD IN BUSINESS

10

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

Find out more at lachamber.com/bottomline. For more information contact Pat Clark, 213.580.7595

or pclark@lachamber.com.

The Chamber has adopted the next generation eCert technology

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Los Angeles Area Rx CardAs an L.A. County resident, you and your family have access to a FREE Discount Prescription Drug Card program. Download and print a Los Angeles Area Rx Card. lachamber.com/rxcard.

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Focus on small business:

Tell us about your company.Mike Colosimo: ThrdPlace is a platform that brings local consumers together with for-profits and nonprofits to drive community development projects. We’re changing the model by creating a dynamic story-based market where the needs and resources within our communities can find each other. Anyone can use thrdPlace to create their own project, share their story, and crowdsource the funding, supplies and volunteers to take action. In the short time since our beta launch in the fall of 2012, we've seen some really amazing partnerships form just by being transparent about the needs and resources that are available.

What challenge are you currently facing in your business or what challenge have you faced in the beginning stages of forming your company?Colosimo: Where to start … running a business is tough. There are challenges every step of the way and we don't foresee them going away anytime soon. For us, validating our idea in the eyes of our market was the first challenge. Making contact with corporate partners willing to take a leap with us wasn't easy. Then a funny thing happened. Once we found those partners, the real work began — executing. We've had long days and plenty of sleepless nights. The biggest challenge we have faced thus far, is sitting around the table together and telling each other that we're gonna make it happen. We just have to keep grinding. Our challenge right now is scaling. We are figuring out how

to create a sustainable business — what is the right speed of growth, how to capitalize the business to support our growth and where do we focus our limited resources to give us the best chance of being successful.

What advice would you give to other small companies?Colosimo: Keep going! Starting a business is really hard and running a business is even harder. Surround yourself with smarter people than you. Don’t be afraid to admit that you don’t know the answer. Pay it forward — good things come to good people and help other people as much as you can. And don’t forget to laugh … it’s contagious.

Why did you decide to start your company in Los Angeles?Colosimo: We are Angelenos. Where else would we start a company?! In all seriousness, our mission is about connecting people and resources based on shared interests. It’s about joining together citizens and organizations to solve problems that exist in our backyard. L.A. is an amazingly diverse and resourceful city. There is so much identity and pride in each pocket of the city. It is the perfect place for us to start thrdPlace. Not to mention the buzz of innovation that’s happening across all of our streets. It is really exciting to be part of this groundswell.

What do you think is the future of the technology industry in Los Angeles?Colosimo: L.A. has great entrepreneurial talent, an incredible incubator network and some good sources of investment capital to help L.A. take its place as a tech leader. There's also great emerging support from civic organizations like the newly formed Bixel Exchange, an emerging technology center. We really like the energy from people like Linda Bidrossian who are thinking about new ways to provide the financial and technological infrastructure start-ups need to leap the gap to growing their businesses in Los Angeles.

This quarter we talk with Mike Colosimo, co-founder and CEO of thrdPlace, on taking an idea and transforming it into a community-driven platform online.

CHALLENGE CORNER

Leveraging corporate partnerships

In the “Focus on small business” column, Mike Colosimo of ThrdPlace mentions the challenge behind start-up corporate partnerships. For startups, partnerships can lead to investment dollars and clients, as well as mergers and acquisitions, greater insight into market dynamics, and the ability to scale quicker through the alignment of a known brand. For corporations, partnering with startups can boost their ability to be creative and innovate quickly, which can lead to advantages in the market. Moreover, large corporations like to be aware of what’s going on in their field and gain insight into emerging technologies.

Startups and corporations are looking for each other, which is why Bixel Exchange and the Chamber’s Emerging Commerce Council’s Tech Salon Series are co-hosting a panel that includes first-hand accounts of startups and corporations who have successfully navigated these partnerships and how they did it. The panel will be on Wednesday, May 15 at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. Register at lachamber.com/events.

To learn more about how Bixel Exchange can help your business, contact Joaquin Beltran, 213.580.7587 or jbeltran@lachamber.com.

The thrdPlace team from left to right: Mike Colosimo, Woody More and L. DeKoven Ashley.

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ChamberVOICE

11

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

Welcome to the ChamberThanks to our new members who joined the Chamber during December, January and February. To learn more about membership benefits, call 213.580.7595.

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

“As co-chair of the L.A. Area Chamber’s Small Business Owners Roundtable and graduate of Leadership Southern California, I am able to tap into an extensive network of thought-leaders and industry experts to gain insight into upcoming trends and challenges that businesses face.”

Christina MosesPresident3shades designMember since 2010

By being actively involved with the Chamber, we are able to translate the knowledge gained from meaningful conversations, facilitated by the Chamber, to better serve our clients as we develop design and marketing solutions that create confidence in our clients’ brands. Our involvement with the Chamber allows us to see the big picture in business, to build valuable and lasting relationships with partners and clients, and to have a voice at the table as the Chamber works to make the L.A. area a great place to do business.

“The L.A. Area Chamber and Southern California Leadership Network offer a tremendous platform for me to identify where and how best to deploy the vast resources of my larger GM team so we can make a difference and be part of the solution in our local communities.”

Dave BarthmussGroup Manager, West Coast

CommunicationsGeneral Motors Corporation Member since 2008

As a Leadership L.A. and California Connections fellow, I have received access to many local, regional and statewide leaders and policy experts, which has enhanced my understanding of some very complex issues. These programs provided me with a valuable blueprint to advance a more mindful approach to personal, professional and civic development. I very much believe a leader is only as good as those they surround themselves with, and that's why I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the SCLN family.

“I recently relocated to Los Angeles and live and work downtown — the L.A. Area Chamber is a wonderful opportunity to learn about L.A. County.”

Anne GreyExecutive DirectorOneLegacy FoundationMember since 2002

OneLegacy has been a member of the Chamber for more than a decade. I attended the Chamber’s New Member Orientation for the first time last fall shortly after joining the OneLegacy team. I am so excited to be part of creating the OneLegacy Foundation and also about participating in Leadership L.A. with the Chamber. I have met some wonderful people and continue to learn about how the OneLegacy Foundation can make a greater impact in our community to inspire people to register to become organ and tissue donors.

In 1904, L.A. establishes the first Playground Department in the United States.

“The L.A. Area Chamber allows us to get to know and support local companies that may be aiming to expand their business operations into the United Kingdom and other global markets.”

Mike RosenfeldVice ConsulBritish Consulate General/UK Trade

& InvestmentMember since 2011

The Chamber’s Trade Commissioners Networking Group and Global Initiatives Council provide us with an ideal way to carry out our role as the British Government’s international business development department to assist UK companies that are seeking to access business opportunities with L.A. area companies. Through the Chamber we are able to connect with the L.A. area business community, its leaders and elected officials to address current global and economic issues vital to the prosperity of both L.A. and the UK.

“I regularly participate in L.A. Area Chamber councils that impact my profession, including the Land Use, Construction & Housing and Transportation & Goods Movement meetings. I also find value in the Chamber’s annual advocacy trips to City Hall, Sacramento and Washington, D.C.”

Shiraz D. TangriPartnerAlston & Bird LLPMember since 2003

The Chamber provides a forum for L.A. business leaders to learn from each other, and to work together to influence public policy on cutting-edge issues. Chamber events provide opportunities for the private sector to have a focused and informed discussion with elected officials and other public sector leaders on the issues impacting business in our region. you get to learn from the leaders in the fields that you’re working in, including people in the public policy side, and hear from other private sector leaders on how all these issues affect their business while spotting trends on the public and private sectors.

DIAMOND

Port of Long BeachJ. Christopher Lytle562.437.0041Port Authority

GOLD

Delta Air LinesRanjan Goswami310.258.6014Airlines

Kinecta Federal Credit UnionMark Steiman310.643.5400Financial Services

SILVER

Health Net, Inc.Carol Kim818.676.6775Health Care

Martin Project Management, LLCKenneth J. Aspis213.674.8855Real Estate

WalgreensTri Leu714.671.3161Pharmacy & Gift Shop

Chick-fil-A, Inc.Donald E. MacHarg, III888.232.9378Restaurants/Fast Food

BRONzE

American Fruits and Flavors dba American Fruit Processors & Mutual FlavorsLaurie Katalbas818.899.9574Food Products/Manufacturers

California State University Los Angeles - College of Business & EconomicsDr. James A. Goodrich323.343.2800Universities & Colleges

CJ AmericaEllie Kwak213.427.5566Distributors

Corinthian Colleges (Everest, Heald, Wyo-Tech)Darryl L. Robinson800.611.2101Education

EQUINOXMatthew A. Tilburg213.677.0180Health Clubs

Feld Entertainment, Inc.Darren Baum818.596.0930 Ext. 2Entertainment

Hanjin International CorporationS. Chris Park213.674.8853Contractors/General

Homeboy Industries Veronica Vargas323.526.1254Community Organizations Loews Hollywood HotelDee Doak323.856.1200Hotels & Motels MemorialCare Health SystemPeter J. Mackler714.377.2900Hospitals

Owens & Minor Distribution Inc.Ken Miranda909.444.6500Distributors

Pathfinder Renewable Wind Energy, LLCJosh B. Jamison816.592.0368Energy Conservation Services & Products

Veronica Perez & AssociatesVeronica Perez213.221.7161Consultants/Public Relations

Soda Mountain Solar, LLCAdriane E. Wodey301.228.8110Energy Conservation Services & Products

Water Conservation PartnersRonald R. Gastelum310.750.7930Water

Westwood College - Los Angeles CampusDeWayne R. Johnson866.930.3256Universities & Colleges

William A. JohnsonWilliam A. Johnson, II626.744.6000Consultants

STANDARD

1ST Consulting, Inc. John K. Chan909.786.1919Consultants

1-Stop Translation USA, LLCPricilla Niode213.480.0011Translation/Interpreting Services

Advantage Capital Funds, LLCNick Shams800.828.0306Financial Services/Venture Capital

Amerijet International, Inc.John Akopyan213.629.9033Air Freight

City Constructors, Inc.Bryson V. Reaume213.628.8882Contractors/General

Clark Robinson CapitalTchad Robinson617.407.0164Investment Services/Management

College BridgePedro F. Cevallos310.903.8022Education/Programs

CSH Los AngelesMolly Rysman213.623.4342Public Relations/Advocacy

Educate CaliforniaEric Moore310.491.6560Education/Services

Environmental Compliance Solutions, Inc. Erin Sheehy310.664.1396Consultants/Environmental

Euro VAT Refund, Inc.Daniela Treptow310.204.0805Financial Services/International

The Fraser Firm, P.C.Keith Fraser213.864.1395Attorneys/Patent Law

Fund My Business, Inc.Jeffrey Hildebrandt800.803.0013Financial Services/Venture Capital

Gamboa & AssociatesRichard Gamboa661.510.3196Construction/Management

Hospitality Training Academy Adine Forman310.597.1898Training Programs

Hotel SolaireOscar Gonzales213.616.3000Hotels & Motels Image CubeEric Boyajian866.899.2823 Graphic Designers/Reproduction & Printing

Innovative ProductionsIrazmi Perez323.544.5276 Marketing and Design

Isidore RecyclingKabira Stokes323.222.3322Recycling

K. Curtis Financial GroupKelly Curtis800.375.3553Financial Services

KW3 Consulting LLCKirk Williams888.764.1112Consultants/Information Technology

Les Noces Du FigaroJonathan Mgaleth213.622.2116Restaurants

Manuel's Original El Tepeyac CafeDeborah M. Duran-Wade562.695.2277Restaurants

Morning Bridge International, Inc.John Zhao626.403.9725Travel Agencies

Northridge ToyotaFrederick Hitchcock 818.734.5600Automobiles/Dealers

Novotech Nutraceuticals, DBA Novotech NutritionJennifer L. Li805.676.1098Health Care/Health & Wellness Products

OneClick CleanersCharles Williams855.672.5425Laundry

Regus - LAXBrandell Davis310.881.2700Executive Suites

Silvia Manukian - Financial EducatorSilvia Manukian818.903.1209Financial Services

Smart & Horses, LLC dba CRIPPENSusie Crippen213.389.4449Clothing/Wholesale & Manufacturers

Solutionz Conferencing, Inc.Caitlin Mammen310.571.1207Telecommunications

South Bay Family Health CareLiz Odabashian310.227.8100Health Care/Services

Storrier Stearns Japanese GardenDeanie Nyman626.399.1721Facilities/Event Venue

SunPower Corporation - Andrew FishAndrew Fish714.787.3810Solar Building Products

United Remodeling Construction, Inc.Steven E. Lenchner818.776.8800Construction

Wakunaga of America Co., Ltd.Albert Dahbour949.855.2776Health Care/Health & Wellness Products

XPO SalesRemo Weber310.674.3000Automobile/Buying & Purchasing Services United Friends of the ChildrenTim Hackett213.580.1850Community Organizations/Youth Programs

125 year Anniversary

90 year AnniversaryUPS

80 year AnniversaryUnited Airlines

50 year AnniversaryInstitute of Heating & Air Conditioning

Industry

45 year AnniversaryUnited Way of Greater Los Angeles

40 year AnniversaryLowe Enterprises, Inc.Sheraton Los Angeles Downtown Hotel

25 year AnniversaryOakwood Temporary HousingSCI California Funeral Services Inc.

20 year AnniversaryMacy's

15 year AnniversaryCalifornia Costume Collections,

IncorporatedKaroon Investment CompanyThe LA Hotel Downtown

10 year AnniversaryAlston & Bird LLPArgos Engineers, Inc.Butterfield Communications, Inc.Consulate General of New ZealandLos Angeles Biomedical Research

Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center

Rogers Finn Partners

Five year AnniversaryBob Burke & AssociatesCity National SecurityCohnReznick LLPCVS CAREMARKEE Business Solutions & Insurance

Services, LLC

Emerson & AssociatesHabitat for Humanity of Greater Los

AngelesHerbalife, Ltd.HMSHost CorporationKatten Muchin Rosenman, LLPMockingbird CommunicationsNubar Cosmetic ProductsThe Campaign for College Opportunity

One year AnniversaryAdwest Mailers, Inc.Aquarian Associates, Inc.Archer NorrisDun & Bradstreet Credibility Corp.Emirates AirlinesENVIRON International Corporation

EOS ConsultingExxonMobilFamilies In SchoolsJarrow FormulasJocott Brands, Inc.Kogi Group CorporationKTBC ManagementNRG EnergyPenners Bergen A Law CorporationRoosevelt LoftsShangri-La Construction, LPSilverado Senior Living-Beverly PlaceStarside Security & Investigation, Inc.

350 S. Bixel St., Los Angeles, California 90017213.580.7500 | Fax 213.580.7511lachamber.com

Our MissionBy 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 ClubThe Chamber gratefully acknowledges the support of our largest member investors, the Diamond Club, for their help in fulfilling the Chamber’s mission.

AT&TAutomobile Club of Southern CaliforniaBank of AmericaChevron CorporationCitibank N.A.Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc.JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.Kaiser PermanenteMajestic Realty Co.Microsoft CorporationOccidental Petroleum Corp.Port of Long BeachPort of Los AngelesRalphs Grocery CompanySiemens CorporationSouthern California EdisonSouthern California Gas Company, a Sempra Energy utilitySouthwest Airlines Co.Time Warner CableToyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.UPSVerizonThe Walt Disney CompanyWells 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.

Be a part of the L.A. Area Chamber’s signature events by becoming a sponsor.

Different sponsorship levels are available. Contact Lee Ligons, 213.580.7523 or lligons@lachamber.com.

World Trade Week | MAy 2

ACCESS Sacramento | MAy 13 - 14

Small Business Awards | JUNE 11

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BOLD IN BUSINESS

USC established the first schools in the U.S. for cinema-television, gerontology and urban planning & development.