Chamber of Commerce
Serving and Supporting the Business Community Since 1923
November 2010 • Vol 1, No. 1 • www.norwalkchamber.com • info@norwalkchamber.org
Three chamber network breakfast draws over 100 businesses Thursday, October 21st, the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce held a Three Chamber Networking Breakfast, which
Close to 100 members and potential members of the three Chambers were in attendance. They were provided
Demian Ross, Executive Director La Mirada Chamber and John Kelsall, Executive Director Lakewood Chamber
Gary Murphy of Norwalk Florist with Chamber President Betty Chacon of Wells Fargo Bank.
John Kelsall, Lakewood Chamber President/CEO, Vivian Hansen, Norwalk Chamber Executive Director and Damien Ross, La Mirada Chamber Director.
Maria Gonzalez of Norwalk Union 76 Service Center won the long stem red roses provided by Norwalk Florist.
was hosted by the Norwalk Doubletree Hotel. Included in the breakfast were the La Mirada and Lakewood Chambers of Commerce. This was a first time event for the Norwalk Chamber and proved to be extremely successful.
with a wonderful buffet breakfast from the Norwalk Doubletree Hotel and experienced “speed networking” at their tables. Norwalk Chamber Executive Director Vivian Hansen, along with
welcomed all who were in attendance. Demian then explained the “speed networking” concept. Each table had a short amount of time to find out all they could about those sitting with [See BREAKFAST Page 2]
Keystone Bowl hosts 2nd annual Great Pumpkin Bowl The Norwalk Chamber of Com- n’ Stuff and Mary Jane McIntosh. participate in the Pumpkin Bowl conBowlers began sharply at 4:00pm, test. As the teams showed off their merce held its 2nd Annual Great Pumpkin Bowl at Keybowling skills, a few parstone Bowl on Thursday, ticipants stood out in the October 28th. Great fun crowd. They were recwas had by all who parognized at the end of the ticipated, from the bowlevening with some speing competition, cial awards. The Buzzard t-shirts contest and the Award went to Hannah Pumpkin Bowl contest; Messina, Trick or Treat it was an evening to reAward to Scotty of Vermember. nola’s Towing, Graveyard Our “Freaky FranAward was give to Aubrey kenstein” sponsors were Spilsbury and the Pumpthe City of Norwalk and kin Award was handed to Supervisor Don Knabe. John Christopoulous and Our “Wicked Witch” Tom Hansen. sponsors were ThompAs teams finished son Bookkeeping, Wells their first games, scores Fargo Bank, Outback were tallied and those that Restaurant, Camino Fedadvanced to the Pumperal Credit Union and kin Bowl Contest for top 1st place team– Jose Munoz, Damian Rosales, Paul Weldon, Sal Vernola’s Tow Service. scores were Tom Hansen, Ortiz, Sal Gutierrez pictured with Mayor Gordon Stefenhagen and Lane signs were sponJenny Venegas of CamiChamber President Betty Chacon from Wells Fargo Bank. sored by Mayor Gordon no Federal Credit Union, Stefenhagen, Norwalk and Gilbert Mosqueda of La Mirada Plumbing & HVAC, Com- vying for the ultimate championship Thompson Bookkeeping. The botmunity Family Guidance Center, Golf ribbons along with an opportunity to [See BOWL Page 2]
Norwalk businesses invited to Citywide Business Watch Meeting All Norwalk business owners are invited to a Citywide Business Watch Meeting hosted by the Department of Public Safety. Topics of discussion will include: available services and resources for all businesses, improving safety and security in and around your business, an opportunity to meet with City representatives to discuss business related concerns. Norwalk Arts & Sports Complex, Multi-Purpose Room 13000 Clarkdale Ave Norwalk, CA Wed Nov 17, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
Social media seminar Do you still feel like Social Media is just for social networking? Have you ever thought of using Social Media as a business tool to enhance sales and increase profitability? Many successful small businesses are connecting with customers as we speak. Social Media is a new way of putting yourself in front of your customers. The Small Business Development Center at Long Beach City College is hosting a Social Media Seminar that will teach you how to successfully promote your business and increase your brand's awareness. In this seminar you will learn the following: • How to create and maintain a Facebook Group Page. • How to join "Groups" on LinkedIn and remain connected with business professionals throughout the world. • Why 140 characters on Twitter are significant in helping increase brand visibility and strengthen customer service. • How YouTube can be used to enhance sales and promote your business website. Time Thursday, November 18, 2010 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. Location: Norwalk Arts & Sports Complex – Hargitt Room 13200 [See SOCIAL Page 2]
go to: www.yourcitycoupons.net
2 NORWALK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • NOVEMBER 2010
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
Norwalk
Chamber Of Commerce
12040 Foster Road, Norwalk, CA., 90650 Phone: 562.864.7785 FAX: 562.864.8539
info@norwalkchamber.com
Executive Committee PRESIDENT
Betty Chacon
Wells Fargo Bank VP FINANCE
Jesse Urquidi
NEW MEMBERS
Soroptimist International of Norwalk Marilee Stefenhagen P.O. Box 125 Norwalk CA 90650 562-505-0633 mmlibrarian@hayoo.com
RENEWING MEMBERS
Joseph Derthick
AFLAC VP COMMUNICATIONS/ SECRETARY Thompson & Associates IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
The following companies and individuals renewed their membership with the Norwalk Chamber of Commerce and the services we provide are made possible by of their support. “Support the Businesses that Support Economic Growth in Norwalk” 33 Years
14 Years
Teri Bazen
23 Years
12 Years
Board of Directors
19 Years
8 Years
17 Years
3 Years
Norwalk La Mirada Plumbing
Reggie Berry
Goals For Life Coast Plaza Hospital
Rob Cazares
Outback Restaurant
Rita DeBenedictis Café n’ Stuff
Lynda Fisher WalMart
Maria Gonzalez
Norwalk Unocal 76
Toni Grijalva
Cerritos College
Jennifer Kocaoglu
Costco Wholesale - Norwalk
Richard LeGaspi TNT Fireworks
Gary Murphy
Norwalk Florist/Flowers by Alan
Tracy Polley Kelco Sales
Lesley Watkins
Community Family Guidance Center AMBASSADOR CHAIR
Joseph Derthick AFLAC EVENTS CHAIR
Susan Arthur
Norwalk Toyota CHAMBER DEVELOPMENT CHAIR
Burger Basket
Norwalk Masonic Lodge #273
Sonoco
Norwalk Union 76 Service Ctr
Norwalk Dialysis
F.O.C.I.S.
Helpline Youth Counseling
BOWL
Continued from page 1 tom three that advanced were Aubrey Spilsbury, Jesus of Supervisor Knabe's team and Crystal Garcia of the City of Norwalk. The audience watched with bated breath as the bowling began. After all the pins were bowled down, Jenny emerged as the 1st place winner of the top scorers and Jesus took home the title for the bottom. All were awarded a special bowling pin trophy and ribbons. One of the big winners of the night was Karla Butler, of Thompson Bookkeeping. She was the winner of $300.00 from the Norwalk Chambers Opportunity Drawing. As teams go, the third place team of the evening was the Norwalk Rotary, 2nd place went to Camino Federal Credit Union, while the top spot went to the City of Norwalk Team #2. Best TShirt award was given to Golf n’ Stuff and their Peanuts shirts. This was the close of another successful Pumpkin Bowl, with many assuring the Norwalk Chamber that they would be back next year to defend their titles!
WHY PAY MORE TO PRINT?
Teri Bazen
Norwalk La Mirada Plumbing LEGISLATION CHAIR
Julia Emerson
So. Cal. Gas Company
Cheri Kelley
City Council Liaison
Chamber Staff Executive Director
Vivian Hansen
Membership Services Director
Caren Spilsbury
Anthology Fabrics Peter Cho 14745 Carmenita Rd Norwalk CA 90650 562-404-5611 Chotime@gmail.com
Integrated Account & Financial Services Larry McIntosh 11245 E. 183rd St. #265 Cerritos CA 90703 562-259-7827 larry@iafservices.com
Norwalk Lions Club PRESIDENT ELECT
Karla Butler
Franklin Career College Linda Estrella 12440 Firestone Blvd. Suite 200 Norwalk CA 90650 562-651-1626 lestrella@ franklincareercollege.com
Watt Companies Karin Gilbert 2716 Ocean Park Blvd. #3040 Santa Monica CA 90405 310-314-2466 kgilbert@wattcompanies.com
Northgate Gonzales Markets
BREAKFAST
Continued from page 1 them. Then after ten minutes everyone switched tables to meet and network with new people. Those in attendance were able to meet many different business owners and managers, rather than just those they ate breakfast with. After the networking wrapped up, raffle prizes were handed out to many at the event. When leaving, each person was offered a warm cookie by the Doubletree Hotel staff. From the positive comments that were heard by Chamber staff, this event is one worth holding every year. Special thanks to all who donated raffle prizes. The Norwalk Chamber of Commerce looks forward to making available every networking opportunity it can to members and potential members. Look for upcoming networking events offered by the Norwalk Chamber. Located near popular Southern California theme parks as well as dozens of world-class golf courses, the DoubleTree-Norwalk, hotel's accommodations offer something for everyone. Beyond great attractions, Doubletree Los Angeles-Norwalk is also close to other Southern California destinations, such as Santa Fe Springs, Downey, Whittier, Cerritos, Commerce, and Buena Park. Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Long Beach Airport (LGB), John Wayne Airport (SNA) and Ontario Airport (ONT) - we're just minutes away.
SOCIAL Savings
Quality
$4
OFF INK REFILL
$10
OFF TONER REFILL
Environment
Cerritos 13245 South St Cerritos, CA 90703 www.cartridgeworldusa.com
562-402-1035
One per customer. Not valid with other offers. Expires 9/30/2010. Code CCN
Continued from page 1 Clarkdale Ave, Norwalk 90650. Cost: $45 – MAKE ALL CHECKS TO LBCC. To sign up for this workshop please call (562) 864-7785, seating is limited or email info@norwalkchamber.com
2 Years
Norwalk Community Hospital Karen Codman FSC 1 Year
Capistrano Gardens Apartment Homes Realty World Classics
THANK YOU!
After hours mixer Salon De Leon & The Norwalk Chamber of Commerce invite you to an after hours mixer! Looking for a place to Connect and build business relationships and have a good time too? Enjoy an evening of fun and positive networking with other proactive business owners and professionals • Delicious Appetizers Prizes • Build New Business Relationships Wednesday- November 10 2010 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. 12074 Rosecrans Avenue, Norwalk 90650. Call or e-mail the Chamber to make reservations. Phone 562.864.7785 email: info@norwalkchamber.com NO FEE TO ATTEND!
President elect Joseph Derthick named to Oversight Committee The Cerritos College Board of Trustees has appointed Joseph Derthick, a 26-year resident of Norwalk, to the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee. “The Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee was established in 2004 and is responsible for overseeing the college’s use of bond funds to ensure that the bond proceeds are only used for the projects included in the bond measure project list” said Aya Abelon, the college’s media relations coordinator. Each committee member serves a two year term. Mr. Derthick retired from SBC-Pacific Bell in 2002 and currently works as an independent insurance agent for AFLAC. He has also performed professionally for various musicals, including the Fullerton Civic Light Opera and Cerritos College productions, as well as chamber and symphony orchestras since 1974. He is a member of both the Norwalk and Cerritos Chambers of Commerce and is currently the Ambassador Chair for the Norwalk Chamber.
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
NORWALK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • NOVEMBER 2010
3
BUSINESS AND LABOR LAW CORNER uestion: “uniform,” depending on the circum10 tips for improving your cash flow Is a black shirt with a company stances, once an advertising insignia Cash flow is a key factor in the success or failure of a small business— now, more than ever before. Here are 10 tips you can use to ensure your cash keeps flowing: 1. Find good accounting software. If you’re not already using accounting software, check out packages tailored to small business such as QuickBooks or Peachtree. Automating your accounting makes it easier to see what’s going in and what’s going out. 2. Generate monthly financial statements. (In today’s economy, some companies are reviewing their financial statements weekly.)Accounting software lets you easily generate an income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement. Use these tools to stay on top of your financial picture and pinpoint potential problems early. 3. Send invoices promptly. Customers can’t pay you if they haven’t been billed. Send invoices along with the shipped product, or as soon as a project is completed. For even faster results, send invoices by e-mail, or look into e-billing. 4. Create effective invoices. If your invoices are confusing, or get sent to the wrong department or person, precious time will be lost while the customer tries to figure out what they owe and to whom. Make sure key information, such as where to send payment, amount due and date due, is clear and easy to read. Contact the customer to verify the address, department and person the invoice should be sent to so there’s no chance for error. 5. Penalize late payers. State on your invoices that customers will be charged a late fee for every month that the payment is past due. 6. Incentivize early payments. Offer discounts if your customers pay
sooner than net 30 days (such as 5 percent off if they pay within 10 days). Depending on your industry, offering a discount for paying in cash could also help your cash flow. 7. Stay on top of your accounts receivable. If a payment is not received on time, follow up immediately. Often, you’ll find the late payment is due to a miscommunication (such as in Tip 4 above). If this isn’t the case, be polite, but firm, when dealing with late-paying customers. 8. Work with late payers. Something is better than nothing, so if a customer is in trouble and can’t pay the full amount, work out a payment plan. If you choose to deal with these customers again going forward, protect your business by requiring at least partial payment upfront before any work is done or product shipped. 9. Watch your spending. When it comes to maximizing your cash, what goes out is just as important as what’s coming in. Where can you cut costs without harming your product or service? Typically, overhead expenses such as utilities and office products are easy to trim, as are business travel and entertainment. Go over your monthly expenses and look for places to cut back. 10. Maximize cash in the bank. Deposit checks as soon as you get them, and pay your own bills as late as you can (unless you can benefit from an early payment discount). If you use online bill paying, you can pay bills the day they are due. This keeps the money in your own account working for you. Use business credit cards to pay smaller expenses; this way, you don’t have to expend any cash until the credit card payment is due.
Q
logo a uniform that must be provided by the employer?
Yes. If an employer requires employees to wear any specific clothing of a distinctive design or color, it is considered a uniform pursuant to the Industrial Welfare Commission orders, Section 9(A) or Section 8(A) in Order 16: “When uniforms are required by the employer to be worn by the employee as a condition of employment, such uniforms shall be provided and maintained by the employer. The term ‘uniform’ includes wearing apparel and accessories of distinctive design or color.” "Usual/Generally Usable" The Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) has historically allowed some leeway with regard to clothing that is usual and generally usable in a particular occupation. The Industrial WelfareCommission (IWC) explained this concept in its Statement as to the Basis: “The definition and [DLSE] enforcement policy is sufficiently flexible to allow the employer to specify basic wardrobe items which are usual and generally usable in the occupation, such as white shirts, dark pants and black shoes and belts, all of unspecified design, without requiring the employer to furnish such items. If a required black or white uniform or accessory does not meet the test of being generally usable in the occupation the employee may not be required to pay for it.” Although a black shirt or blouse of any design might not be considered a
or logo is part of the shirt’s design, it becomes a uniform subject to the IWC order and the employer must pay for it. Not only is it a distinct design, but the employee certainly would not be able to use the shirt while working at his or her “occupation” with another employer. Specific Designs Are you required to pay for the uniform, or image, you want portrayed in your business? Besides logos, other specific designs that are tied to advertising raise the question. It is not always as clear cut as employers would like it to be, but the DLSE has provided guidance. In one instance where an employer wanted a specific image, the DLSE took the position that tropical shirts and rugby pants must be provided by the employer. At issue in DIR v. UI video (1997) 55 Cal App 4th 1084 was a required blue shirt and tan or khaki pants that DLSE considered to be a uniform subject to the IWC regulation.Before requiring specific clothing, review the IWC requirements, DLSE opinion letters as well as the DLSE Manual. Take into consideration that historically the IWC did not want employees to bear the expense of work clothing that is not standard in the occupation. The Labor Law Helpline is a service to California Chamber of Commerce preferred and executive members. For expert explanations of labor laws and Cal/OSHA regulations, not legal counsel for specific situations, call (800) 348-2262 or submit your questions at www.hrcalifornia.com.
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Brighton Collectibles store in Brea donates $2,800 to PIH Foundation
Proceeds from first week of the “Power of Pink” event, sales to benefit PIH’s Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center.
Pictured at the check presentation are, from left, Jeanette Zavala-Fasone, PIH Foundation Board Member; Karen Shepard, Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center Advisory Committee member; Carla Guess, Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center nurse navigator; Michal Dawson, PIH Foundation Board Member; Flo Gellman, Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center mammography technical supervisor; Ivonne Munoz, Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center director; Tamara Rush, Brighton Collectibles Brea Mall assistant store manager; Aida Maya, Brighton Collectibles Brea Mall store manager; Robin Renek, PIH Foundation Board member (seated); and DawnMarie Kotsonis, PIH Foundation executive director (seated). The Brighton Collectibles store is located near Nordstrom and JC Penney at 1065 Brea Mall, Brea. Members of the Brighton Collectibles Brea Mall store presented a check for $2,800 to representatives from Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital’s (PIH) Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center for donations collected during the first week of the store’s “Power of Pink” bracelet sales. Each year Brighton Collectibles creates jewelry in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and $10 from
the sale of the jewelry goes to support breast cancer research or treatment. For the last five years, the Brighton Collectibles Brea Mall store has raised money in support of the Patricia L. Scheifly Breast Health Center. This year’s jewelry item is an ID-style “Love” bracelet to which charms can be added. Brighton sold the bracelets through October.
4 NORWALK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • NOVEMBER 2010
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
A Handy Reminder
Open enrollment season is here — and it’s important to remember that the medical group you choose now also links you to a hospital. Bright Health Physicians is the only medical group exclusively affiliated with Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH). If you want assured access to the area’s preferred hospital, switch to Bright Health Physicians.
Making the switch is as easy as 1, 2, 3: 1. Choose a health plan. 2. Choose Bright Health Physicians as your medical group. 3. Choose any Bright Health Physicians primary care doctor, and you’ll have access to PIH should you require hospitalization.
The doctors of Bright Health Physicians are trusted experts who take the time to get to know you and your family, and provide you with the personalized, high-quality care you deserve. We have over 150 primary care physicians and more than 180 specialists available to you. Chances are, you can switch to Bright Health Physicians and keep your current doctor. And we’re convenient — providing same-day access for primary care in most of our offices and an urgent care center to accommodate evening, weekend, and holiday needs.
Call the member services department of your health plan now, and make the move to Bright Health Physicians.
Call the Bright Health Physicians Information and Referral Service at
1.877.285.DOCS (3627) for more information or to find your own Bright Health Physicians doctor. www.brighthealth.com Convenient Locations in: Whittier | Santa Fe Springs | La Mirada | La Habra | Norwalk | Hacienda Heights