Business Focus - March 2016 by Whittier Chamber

Business Focus John Hsu, owner of STC Management, meets with incoming Chamber Board President Chris Hardeman

MARCH 2016

for the Whittier area’s

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BEST LOCAL BUSINESSES

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Pick your favorites at www.whittierchamber.com/ bestofthebest

Presort Std. US Postage PAID Whittier, CA Permit No. 1

Turn to page 8 for details

John Chapman from Secure Transportation stopped by to introduce new manager Sean McDonald to the Chamber

A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE WHITTIER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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Connecting the business and residential communities.

VOL. 22 NO. 03

City Council, Mayoral Candidates To Share Plans for Whittier’s Future at Candidates’ Forum Three candidates who are vying for a seat on the Whittier City Council representing District 1, and three candidates who are running for city-wide elected Mayor, will share their visions for Whittier at the 2016 Whittier City Council Candidates’ Forum. The event will be held on Thursday, March 10th at the Whittier Community Center located on Washington Avenue at Mar Vista St. The doors will be open at 5:00 p.m. and the Candidates’ Forum will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. This event is free to the public and is hosted by the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce and the Whittier Uptown Association. This year’s candidates for Mayor are risk management consultant Nick

Donovan, former Political Science professor and current Council member Owen Newcomer, and attorney and current Council member Joe Vinatieri. District 1 candidates include marketing professional Josue Alvarado, volunteer Robert Canales, and Assistant Professor of Administration David Gonzalez. The Candidates’ Forum will give Whittier residents the opportunity to hear city council and Mayoral candidates’ views and opinions on a variety of topics. The information that attendees take from this forum will enable them to make a more informed decision when they vote in the Whittier City Council election on Tuesday, April 12th. The Forum will begin with opening

statements from each candidate. Preselected questions drafted by the Chamber’s Legislative committee and the Whittier Uptown Association will then be asked of each candidate, with each person having a set amount of time to answer. Topics may include economic development plans, the current economy and new businesses to Whittier. In addition, members of the audience will have a chance to submit a question for the candidates. For more information on the Candidates’ Forum visit the Chamber’s website at www.whittierchamber.com. Meet the Candidates on page 9

Long-time Whittier Supporter Hubert Perry, Dies Hubert Perry, one of the early champions of PIH Health Hospital - Whittier, a Past President of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce in 1969, and an all-around Whittier community advocate, died on February 20, 2016 of natural causes. Mr. Perry was born on June 11, 1913 in Whittier, California. Lifelong Whittier resident and community supporter, Mr. Perry was a staunch supporter of PIH Health since before its doors opened. Back in 1955, he was a fundamental part of the grassroots effort to build a new hospital (PIH Health Hospital - Whittier, formerly Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital) that could better serve our community. “Mr. Perry was a dedicated supporter of PIH Health and his efforts through the years have been integral to the success of this organization,” said James R. West, president and chief executive offi cer of PIH Health. “Mr. Perry’s warmth, leadership and generosity will be greatly missed.” Mr. Perry was responsible for pioneering a financial policy that funded historical and replacement depreciation of hospital equipment. PIH Health was one of only a few hospitals at the time to implement such a policy. The benefits of the funded depreciation policy have helped fund PIH Health’s ever-expanding healthcare services and have helped the organization impact more lives. Mr. Perry served on the Board of Directors for more than 40 years and as its Chair from 1976 to 1984. He also served on the PIH Health Physicians Board. From 2011-

2012, he served on the branding committee which oversaw the integration of the many PIH Health entities into one master brand. Mr. Perry also served as Treasurer of the PIH Health Foundation Board from 1993-2013. In 2013 he became an Emeritus Foundation Director. “Mr. Perry was a visionary – a true leader for his time,” said Jane Dicus, Chair of PIH Health Board of Directors. “His legacy and the work he has done for this community will live on forever.” On November 11, 1994, the Hubert C. Perry Health Pavilion (main lobby) of PIH Health Hospital - Whittier was dedicated in his honor. “Mr. Perry was a volunteer supporter of PIH Health for more than 60 years,” said Amy Fitzgerald, executive director of the PIH Health Foundation. “His commitment to the organization and to improving healthcare in our local area was unwavering. He truly lead by example and was a remarkable, dedicated leader in our community.” Mr. Perry’s legacy and impact on the Whittier community is immeasurable and will certainly live on. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested Mr. Perry’s work be supported through a donation to PIH Health Foundation at www.pihhealth.org/support as nothing would bring him more joy than to see PIH Health continue to thrive financially. Please direct donations to PIH Health Foundation in memory of Hubert Perry, 12401 Washington Blvd., Whittier, CA 90602-1006, or please contact the PIH Health Foundation at (562) 698-0811 Ext. 81520.

8158 Painter Avenue Whittier, CA 90602

Best of the Best Business Award Winners to be Announced, New Board Members to be Installed at Chamber Annual Meeting: As we see our 101st year of supporting the business community come to a close, we look back on a great year and all of the exciting things that happened in the Chamber and around the City. The Chamber will be celebrating those things and more on Thursday April 7 at the 102nd Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce Installation Ceremony and Year in Review. Evening highlights at this high energy production will include recognition of retiring board members, installation of new Board of Directors, a recap of the

2015-16 year under the leadership of Chamber Board President Rudy Hernandez and a first look at incoming Board President Chris Hardeman’s vision for the Chamber. In addition, you won’t want to miss the chance to celebrate the winners of the 2nd annual Best of the Best Awards recognizing area businesses for outstanding services and products. Nominations and voting for the Best of the Best Awards are open to the public and will take place throughout the month of March online at www.whittierchamber.com (see

page 8 for details). This year’s Installation Ceremony and Year In Review will be held at the beautiful Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts. The appetizer and networking cocktail hour will begin at 5:00 p.m. with the ceremony and presentations to follow. Tickets to this fun-filled event are only $25 per person. Please call the Chamber today at (562) 698-9554 or log on at www.whittierchamber.com to reserve your seat.

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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MARCH 2016

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 2015-2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Rudy Hernandez

President Rudy Hernandez, RMH Dance & Productions President-Elect & VP Administration Chris Hardeman, DialMED Home Care Immediate Past President Shannon Gimbel-Hammer, Shannon G’s Flowers VP Business Information Elizabeth Martinez, Republic Services VP Networking and Marketing Gary Lee Martinez, The Traveling Traveler VP Finance Greg Nicodemus, Credit Union of Southern California VP Membership Laurie Perschbacher, MAP Property Management

As my term as Chamber President comes to a finish I reflect on this past year and describe it as a year of change. This was the Chamber’s 101st year in existence and this year has had a feeling of “101,” like a freshman in college, taking basic steps towards a bigger goal. This year we experienced changes in our staff and with our Board. Periods of change can be scary, however I am proud to say that we turned those changes into an opportunity to be better and to grow stronger. Throughout this year we have maintained our membership numbers

and we continue to see growth in all of our special events. We are creating new ways for each and every one of you to be involved if you have time, and to feel connected if you don’t have time, to attend our many events. Wake Up Whittier, our morning networking breakfast, has been our standard for many years but this year we introduced speed networking which was a huge hit, and grew our Shop Local Community Expo into something our residents enjoyed. Shop Home for the Holidays, our community-wide campaign to spend money locally during the holiday season, was well received by both residents and businesses. This month we are excited to bring back the Best of the Best campaign to highlight Whittier area businesses. In addition, we look forward to helping you understand the new city election process as we present the City Council and Mayoral Candidates’ Forum on March 10th. I speak on behalf of the Board and our staff when we say “thank you” for

VP Special Events Carolyn Reggio, CAPC, Inc.

$ TAX TIPS

VP Community Affairs Dr. Ramsey Ezaki, Ezaki Dentistry

Executive Directors Carol Crosby & Lyn Carty Event & Member Relations Coordinator Natalie Saenz Receptionist Jessica Reyes Bookkeeper Amber Lawrence Whittier Chamber Business Focus Official monthly publication of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce This publication is mailed monthly to all licensed businesses in the city of Whittier, all Whittier Chamber members and 4,500 Whittier residents in selected areas. Papers are also distributed via various community locations such as Whittier Library, Community Center, Senior Center, City Hall, etc. Total monthly readership is 20,000. We welcome comments, press releases and community interest stories. All submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. The Whittier Chamber reserves the right to approve and edit submitted material. The Business Focus is also an excellent vehicle within which to advertise! For current advertising rates or to submit an article, email info@whittierchamber.com or call (562) 698-9554.

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce

sponsored by their former employer. For most, a tax-free rollover to an IRA is the best move, if the terms of the plan allow a pre-retirement payout. If the distribution from the retirement plan includes employer securities in a lumpsum, the distribution is taxed under the lump-sum rules except that “net unrealized appreciation” in the value of the stock isn’t taxed until the securities are sold or otherwise disposed of in a later transaction. If you are under age 591/2 , and must make withdrawals from your company plan or IRA to supplement your current income, there may be an additional 10% penalty tax to pay unless you’re positioned to qualify under one of several escape hatches. Further, any loans you’ve taken out from your employer’s retirement plan, such as a loan from a 401(k) plan, may be required to be repaid immediately, or within a specified period of your termination of employment, or be treated as it were in default. If the balance of the loan is not repaid within the required period, it will typically be treated as a taxable deemed distribution. Finally, the expenses, including travel expenses, of hunting for a new job in the same trade or business are deductible as miscellaneous itemized deductions if certain requirements are met. If you have any questions concerning this matter, please do not hesitate to call me at (562) 698-9891.

INDEX Meri Rama Owner 16 years

Tracy Amescua Sr. Escrow Officer 29 years

“Whittier’s #1 Escrow!”

Focusing On You

• Fast • Friendly • Reliable • Competitive Fees M

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President’s Massage............... 2 Tax Tips ................................... 2 Financial Update ...................... 3 Mayor’s Message .................... 4 10-4 Tips from the WPD .......... 5 What’s Cool In Your School....... 6 Silver Shield .......................... 11 Community Celebrations........ 12 Tasty Tuesday ........................ 13 Restaurant Row ..................... 14 Calendar................................ 14 Member Marketplace ............ 15 Around Town ....................16-17 Wake Up Whittier ................... 18 Renewing Members............... 18 New Members ....................... 19 Networking Quote.................. 19 Milestone Members ............... 19

8158 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602 (562) 698-9554 • (562) 693-2700 FAX www.whittierchamber.com info@whittierchamber.com

Although terminations can be an extremely traumatic event, depending on your situation, the tax aspects can be quite complex, and require you to make decisions that can affect your tax picture this year and for years to come. Here are just a few of the factors that should be considered. Although severance pay is taxable and is subject to federal income tax withholding, some elements of a severance package may be specially treated. For example: If you sell stock acquired by way of an incentive stock option (ISO), part or all of your gain may be taxed at lower long-term capital gain rates rather than at ordinary income tax rates, depending on whether you meet a special dual holding period. If you received or will receive what is commonly referred to as a golden parachute payment, you may be subject to an

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Richard Scrivanich

excise tax equal to 20% of the portion of the payment that’s treated as an “excess parachute payment” under extremely complex rules, along with the excess parachute payment also being subject to ordinary income tax. The value of job placement assistance you receive from your former employer usually is tax-free. However, the assistance is taxable if you had a choice between receiving cash or outplacement help. You should also be aware that under the so-called COBRA rules, most employers that offer group health coverage must provide continuation coverage to most terminated employees and their families. The cost of any premium you pay for insurance that covers medical care is a medical expense and as a general rule results in a tax benefit to you if you claim itemized deductions and your total medical expenses exceed 7.5% (10% for those 65 and older) of your adjusted gross income. If your ex-employer pays for some of your medical coverage for a period of time following termination, you will not be taxed on the value of this benefit. And if you lost your job as a result of a foreign-traderelated circumstance, you may qualify for a refundable credit for 72.5% of your qualifying health insurance costs. Employees who terminate employment also need tax planning help to determine the best course of action for amounts they’ve accumulated in retirement plans

IER AREA

Leighton Anderson, Bewley, Lassleben & Miller, LLC Greg Gunter, Greg’s Auto Body Bryan Tabizon, Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary Debra Legan, PIH Health Krista Lesa, The Quad at Whittier La Donna Munier, Friendly Hills Bank Kim Praster, Lady Bugs Environmental Termite & Pest Control Tom Rios, Brookdale Uptown Whittier Yuki Sato, Kenkou Acupuncture & Wellness

Tax Aspects of Employee Terminations

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continuing to be a part of a Chamber that believes in its City, community and, most importantly, its businesses. We still have lots to do in building our relationships with all of our current members and with potential members. As we move into a new fiscal year with Chris Hardeman of DialMed Home Care at the helm, you can expect a president who will listen to your needs as a business owner and work with his board to help you build a better business. He believes in the city in which he lives and works and my best wishes go to Chris and his new board. I hope you have found the information I have shared in each Business Focus helpful for your business. My wish for everyone here is that you all continue to experience success, to feel fulfilled in all you do, and to have nothing but positive results with each completed project. While that may be an overly optimistic wish, it is sincere. Continued on page 12

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MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

F I N A N C I A L U P DAT E Planning 2016: New Realities, New Expectations

Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF®

The key to pursuing longer-term financial goals, such as retirement and education funding, is to have a well-thought-out plan that assigns actual dollar amounts to each goal -- and a timetable for getting there. Financial resolutions often fall prey to the same procrastination that hinders personal aspirations. Yet current volatility in the financial markets along with other unsettling factors such as the impending presidential election and widespread geopolitical unrest may have led investors to pause, rethink their financial situations, and set new expectations for the future. Resolutions typically fall into one of three financial “life stages” -accumulation, preservation, or transfer of wealth. In order to establish action plans for these phases, you need to examine opportunities, identify challenges, and add a dose of reality to your planning efforts. Accumulating Assets The key to pursuing longer-term financial goals, such as retirement and education funding, is to have a wellthought-out plan that assigns actual

dollar amounts to each goal -- and a timetable for getting there. On this score, many investors are falling well short of the mark. For instance, research compiled by the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) indicates that a sizeable percentage of workers say they have virtually no money in savings and investments.1 Specifically, among workers who provided this type of information, 57% reported that the total value of their household’s savings and investments, excluding the value of their primary home and any defined benefit plans, is less than $25,000. This includes 28% who say they have less than $1,000 in savings.1 If you find yourself behind in your accumulation efforts for major life expenses, such as retirement, don’t despair. There are many opportunities to jump-start your savings campaign. • Make the most of employersponsored plans. For participants in 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and 457 plans, the contribution limit stands at $18,000 for 2016 with an additional $6,000 in catch-up contributions allowed for those who are 50 or older. • Maximize IRA contributions. In 2016, you can contribute up to $5,500 to a traditional or Roth IRA (or split that amount between the two types of accounts). Add another $1,000 to that total if you are making catch-up contributions. Don’t let procrastination get the better of your best-laid plans. Make 2016 the year you get serious about saving.

Continued on page 7

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MARCH 2016

City Of Whittier

UPDATE MAYOR'S MESSAGE Fernando Dutra

Congratulations to the Whittier Chamber of Commerce for hosting their 18th annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet last month at Pacific Palms. The City of Whittier is extremely fortunate to have its own Police Department and the City Council is proud of each and every sworn and civilian member who answers the call of duty day in and day out. Thank you to the Committee for putting together another successful event and to the many residents and local businesses for their sponsorship and generosity. Silver Shield is always such a special evening, both entertaining and rewarding for all who attend, and I’m always amazed at the many heroic stories of bravery highlighted throughout the night. Congratulations again to all the men and women who were recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to public safety. A safe community is a prosperous community! On behalf of our City Council, I’d also

like to congratulate PIH Health on their recognition at the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2016 Commercial Real Estate Awards last month. PIH Health, Millie & Severson, Inc. and RBB Architects received an award for their collaborative work on the PIH Plaza Tower located at 12401 Washington Blvd. As a result of the Plaza Tower completion, PIH Health is now a 500-bed, full service acute care hospital. The Tower also brings the Hospital into full compliance with California Senate Bill 1953 Seismic Requirements. The project included placing Critical Care beds directly above Surgery with dedicated elevators, as well as the addition of 48 Critical Care beds and 64 Surgery beds to the hospital capacity. PIH Health has continued to make a tremendous difference in our City’s growth through their recent expansion and ongoing developments and we are proud that they have chosen to make a home here in Whittier. Development continues throughout the City this month, including exciting progress on various residential and commercial projects. Whittier has made a name for itself as a great place to eat and we are looking forward to adding Applebee’s, Pieology, Popeye’s and Chick-fil-A to our mix of local restaurants

44th Annual

Purple & Gold Golf Classic Friday, May 6, 2016

10 a.m. Registration 12 p.m. Shotgun Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms Resort Individual Golfer: $250 Foursome: $950 Tee Signs: $100 for more info email Mike Rizzo at mrizzo@whittier.edu or call 562 907-4967

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in the near future. The City also recently hired a consultant to assist us in establishing a new Community Benefit District that will offer a unique opportunity to begin revitalizing and enhancing our Uptown area. Last month we began reaching out to property owners to form a steering committee which will help guide the project. The City Council has tentatively appropriated millions of dollars in Redevelopment Bonds to fund muchneeded infrastructure improvements in Uptown including streetscape design, lighting, maintenance and a multi-deck parking structure. We are looking forward to seeing this initiative move forward and working with Uptown property owners to create a sustainable and vibrant neighborhood for years to come. Community events this month are sure to offer fun for all ages. For adults who love to wine and dine, show your support for the Whittier Host Lions at their 20 th Annual Sight for Kids fundraiser taking place on March 12 at the Whittier Community Center from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Enjoy wine tasting and food samples from local restaurants while bidding on silent auction items and supporting a great cause. Find information on tickets and more by calling Leon Lesa at (562) 714-3518. As for the young

ones, the City of Whittier will host the Eggxtravaganza on March 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Parnell Park where kids can enjoy visits with the Easter Bunny, face painting, crafts and, of course, an egg hunt. Call (562) 567-9400 for more information. As a reminder, the City of Whittier will be conducting a General Municipal Election on Tuesday, April 12, 2016 for the purpose of electing a Mayor and Council Members in Districts 1 and 3. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you have any questions about the election, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 567-9854 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. Speaking of voting, don’t forget to cast your ballot this month for your favorite local restaurants, retailers and service providers during the Chamber’s 2016 Best of the Best contest. Remember to Shop Whittier and help us keep our businesses and community thriving in 2016!

MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

City Of Whittier

UPDATE 10

from t s p i t h -4

Captain Michael Davis

Too good to be true Criminals inundate the public with mail and email scams that are aimed at collecting personal information or financial gains from unsuspecting victims. These scams come in a variety of official looking ways, from bank letters and lottery notices to life insurance documents and charity fundraisers. Although most people ignore such emails and letters, the Whittier Police Department still receives a number of reported victims each and every month. These crime victims report identity theft, grand theft, and credit card fraud as a result of responding to the scams. In this article, I will highlight the four common scams we are contacted about to hopefully help you to avoid becoming a victim. Most of you have received or heard about an email from a member of a Nigerian family with wealth. It is a desperate cry for help in getting a very large sum of money out of the country. A common variation is a woman in Africa who claimed that her husband had died, and that she wanted to leave millions of dollars of his estate to a good church. In every variation, the scammer is promising obscenely large payments for small unskilled tasks. This scam, like most scams, is too good to be true. They will use your emotions and willingness to help against you. They will promise you

a large cut of their business or family fortune. All you are asked to do is cover the endless “legal” and other “fees” that must be paid to the people that can release the scammer’s money. Advanced fees paid for a guaranteed loan or credit card If you are thinking about applying for a “pre-approved” loan or a credit card that charges an up-front fee, ask yourself: “why would a bank do that?” These scams are obvious to people who take time to scrutinize the offer. Remember: reputable credit card companies may charge an annual fee, but it is applied to the balance of the card, never at the sign-up. As for these incredible, pre-approved loans for homes costing upward of a half-a-million dollars: use your common sense and stay away from this scam! These people do not know you or your credit situation, yet they are willing to offer massive credit limits. Sadly, a percentage of all the recipients of their “amazing” offer will take the bait and pay the up-front fee. Alas, far too many victims, pressured by financial problems, willingly step into this con trap. Lottery Scams Most of us dream of hitting it big, quitting our jobs and retiring while still young enough to enjoy the fine things in life. Chances are you will receive at least one intriguing email from someone

saying that you did indeed win a huge amount of money. The visions of a dream home, fabulous vacation, or other expensive goodies you could now afford with ease, could make you forget that you have never ever entered this lottery in the first place. This scam will usually come in the form of a conventional email message. It will inform you that you won millions of dollars and congratulate you repeatedly. The catch: before you can collect your “winnings”, you must pay the “processing” fee of several thousands of dollars. Stop! The moment the bad guys cash your money order, you lose. Once you realize you have been suckered into paying an extreme amount of money to a con man, they are long gone with your money. Do not fall for this lottery scam. Phishing emails and phony web pages This is the most widespread Internet and email scam today. It is the modern day “sting” con game. “Phishing” is where digital thieves lure you into divulging your password info through convincing emails and web pages. These phishing emails and web pages resemble legitimate credit authorities like Citibank, eBay, or PayPal to name a few. They frighten or entice you into visiting a phony web page

and entering your ID and password. Commonly, the guise is an urgent need to “confirm your identity”. They will even offer you a story of how your account has been attacked by hackers to lure you into entering your confidential information. The email message will require you to click on a link. But instead of leading you to the real login Internet site, the link will secretly redirect you to a fake website. You then innocently enter your ID and password. This information is intercepted by the scammers, who later access your account and swindle you for several hundred dollars. This phishing con, like all cons, depends on people believing the legitimacy of their emails and web pages. Because it was born out of hacking techniques, “fishing” is stylistically spelled “phishing” by hackers. Tip: the beginning of the link address should have https://. Phishing fakes will just have http:// (no “s”). If still in doubt, make a phone call to the financial institution to verify if the email is legit. Those legitimate phone numbers can be obtained from the backs of your debit or credit cards. In the meantime, if an email seems suspicious to you, “do not trust it!” Being skeptical could save you hundreds of lost dollars.

Michael Davis is a Captain with the Whittier Police Department and can be reached at (562) 567-9253 or via email at mdavis@cityofwhittier.org

Whittier prepares for District elections The City of Whittier is conducting a General Municipal Election on Tuesday, April 12, 2016 for the purpose of electing a Mayor and Council Members in District 1. In June 2014, Whittier voters approved a change from citywide voting to by-district voting for four council districts and citywide voting for the Mayor. District boundaries were set with expert assistance to adhere to state law and after community input on what neighborhoods should stay together. Pursuant to the adopted charter amendment, Districts 1 and 3 will hold elections in April 2016 and Districts 2 and 4 elections will be held in April 2018. One Council member will

PRECINCT 8 - Palm Park 5703 Palm Avenue, Whittier, CA 90601

PRECINCT 31 - Ritz Gardens 11201 First Ave, Whittier CA 90603

PRECINCT 24 - The Church at Greenleaf 8707 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602

PRECINCT 12 Armando Villegas & Associates Law Firm 12518 Beverly Blvd, Whittier 90601

PRECINCT 5 - Redemption Hill Church 16153 Russell St., Whittier, CA 90603

PRECINCT 48 - St. Mary’s Catholic Church 7218 Pickering Ave Whittier, CA 90602-1217

PRECINCT 19 - Orange Grove School 10626 E. Orange Grove Ave, Whittier 90601

DISTRICT 4: PRECINCT 2 - Laurel Elementary School 13550 Lambert Road, Whittier, CA 90605

DISTRICT 3: PRECINCT 1 - Whittier Area Community Church 8100 Colima Road, Whittier, CA 90605

PRECINCT 4 - East Whittier Women’s Club 14148 Second Street, Whittier, CA 90605

DISTRICT 1: PRECINCT 9 - Girl Scout House 12708 Broadway Avenue, Whittier, CA 90601

PRECINCT 56 - Whittier Community Center 7630 Washington Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602 DISTRICT 2: PRECINCT 6 - Ruth B. Shannon Center, Whittier College 6760 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602

PRECINCT 29 - Parnell Park 15390 Lambert Road, Whittier, CA 90604

PRECINCT 10 - Michael’s Superstore 14502 Whittier Boulevard, Whittier, CA 90605 PRECINCT 13 - Church of the Nazarene 8821 College Avenue, Whittier, CA 90605

Continued on page 10

Important Dates to Remember:

Whittier YOUR VOTE YOUR VOIC VOICE! VO OIICE E E! TUESDAY

APRIL 12

March 14 ................................................................................................................................ Vote-by-Mail Ballots Issued March 28 ...............................................................................................................................Last Day to Register to Vote April 12 .................................................................................................................................................. ELECTION DAY April 26 .....................................................Swearing in ceremony of newly elected District 1 City Council representative, District 3 appointed City Council representative and city-wide selected Mayor

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you have any questions about the Election, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 567-9854 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. All polling locations are ADA accessible.

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WHAT’S COOL IN YOUR SCHOOL

Special Dog Brought Smiles to Many For bringing smiles to many, thank you Capone. You will be missed. Capone, Feb. 10, 2016

Assistant Superintendent Martin Plourde to Lead as Whittier Union’s Next Superintendent “Our exemplary Board approached this process with the determination to make an informed decision and listen to those who would be impacted by the change, and their leadership on this matter has been impeccable,” Thorstenson said. “The quality and dedicated staff across Whittier Union embraces and values our healthy organizational culture and has clearly expressed that they yearn to continue cultivating this precious culture,” Thorstenson said. “Martin Plourde, whom I have worked with side by side for 15 years, has been steeped in and fully embraces the inclusive environment that Whittier Union treasures. I know that Martin will ensure our thriving District is well cared for.” Plourde’s 34-year career in education began at Junipero Serra High School, where he was a basketball coach and English teacher. He was then a teacher and counselor at Paramount High School before beginning his tenure at Whittier Union in 1991, when he was hired as assistant principal of guidance at Santa Fe High School. He was subsequently appointed Santa Fe’s assistant principal of curriculum, serving under Thorstenson, who was principal at the time. He was then principal of Arcadia High School for 10 years before returning to Whittier Union in 2005 as principal of La Serna High School, where he served for four years. Plourde was then appointed assistant superintendent of personnel services, a post he held for five years. He has been assistant superintendent of business services since 2014. Plourde has a master ’s degree in counseling and guidance from Loyola Marymount University and Professional Administrative Services Credential from the University of California, Riverside. He is a member of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO).

Smiles come in all shapes and sizes, all languages, for all reasons. But a smile, ahh… that unmistakable smile, what a priceless gift! “Hey mister, did you know your dog has one blue eye and one brown eye?” “Wow, thanks for telling me… I never knew that!” That amazing proclamation makes us smile every time. The power of a smile never ceases to amaze. Sometimes, the most spectacular smiles comes unexpectedly, sometimes, almost predictably, but whenever it occurs, it is a welcomed gift from one to another that can be shared. A genuine smile is special. Try it sometime… it’s contagious! You probably have seen a very special smile that you will always remember maybe from Mom, Dad, a spouse, a child, a friend, a grandparent. Whomever that person is, it will never be replaced. Capone, a miniature English Bull-dog, is a smile messenger, sharing his smile (yes, dogs do smile) and bringing joy to tens of thousands of children and adults everywhere. Capone’s owners, Melissa and Evan Ezaki, share Capone with Dr. Ramsey Ezaki as a registered service animal. Capone is an emotional therapy animal that accompanies dentist Dr. Ramsey Ezaki to numerous community events including visits to senior citizen homes, charity events, schools, churches , mommy-and-me classes, and MOBILE DENTISTRY for memory-care, Alzheimer’s, convalescent residences and special needs events. Capone’s gentle being and uniqueness, helps decrease stress and anxiety, making dental care with Dr. Ezaki a fun and memorably enjoyable experience. “Thanks Capone for sharing your love and affection with all those who have met you. You are more than a dog. You are that special soul, always giving love and never expecting anything in return.”

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ADMIT ONE

The Whittier Union High School District Board of Trustees on Feb. 9 selected Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Martin Plourde, who has served the District in various leadership capacities for 15 years, as its next superintendent. The selection follows extensive discussions by the Board of Trustees and widespread outreach to solicit input on the qualities, skills and abilities most valued in a superintendent, which included being collaborative and student-centered – tenets Whittier Union has long embraced. Plourde will succeed Superintendent Sandra Thorstenson, who will retire in June after 39 years as an educator and administrative leader in the District, including 14 years as superintendent. “I am extremely humbled to be considered for this position, where I will continue to be driven by the collaboration of a deeply committed staff in making student-centered decisions and proving that demographics do not determine destiny,” Plourde said. “I want to thank the Board of Trustees for having confidence in me. I am committed to working every day to live up to the high expectations of our school community and carrying on the Whittier Union legacy.” Before making its decision, the Board of Trustees held four sessions to discuss the process and selection of a successor to Thorstenson, including a Jan. 9 board study session, a Jan. 12 closed-session meeting, a Feb. 2 special board closed-session meeting and a Feb. 9 closed-session meeting. The Board hired consultant Leadership Associates to advise and facilitate the process. The Board also solicited input through an online survey, which garnered 557 responses that overwhelmingly supported a leader who would continue Whittier Union’s deeply rooted positive culture. A Feb. 2 stakeholder input session gathered additional feedback from 20 participants.

MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS



MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

F I N A N C I A L U P DAT E Continued from page 3 Preserving Assets Holding on to your assets requires a disciplined, long-term view. Most people plan for a retirement to span 25-plus years, but evaluate their portfolios’ performance over the last quarter. Particularly in volatile market environments, investors tend to move in and out of positions too quickly, potentially causing them to sell low, buy high, and abandon asset allocation fundamentals.2 Short-term declines are inevitable and may tempt the most grounded investor to make impulsive investment choices. That is why maintaining an investment policy statement that reflects your long-term horizon is essential. Such a statement should reflect your current investment expectations as well as address the tax consequences of your portfolio. For instance, many investors tend to hold on to a stock because of a low basis without evaluating what it may be costing them in missed opportunities (i.e., building a more diversified portfolio). Alternatively, investors need to be mindful of the tax cost associated with buying and selling securities. Tax efficiency is important in asset preservation, so speak to your tax advisor now about your 2016 strategy, particularly if you plan to rebalance your portfolio. Transferring Assets To leave the legacy that you envision requires significant advance planning. Questions regarding how much you want to leave to loved ones, how long your bequest will last, and how much

will be eroded by taxes are difficult to address. But planning converts uncertainty into real opportunities to make a difference. When crafting your estate plan, be sure that documents are written to be flexible and easily adapted to changing circumstances. For instance, if balances on investment accounts decline, you may need to rethink -- and restate -your intentions, perhaps even change beneficiary designations to reflect changing market dynamics. When faced with these and other important financial planning considerations, a trusted advisor can be an invaluable resource. Working together, you can address new realities by setting practical expectations and crafting a plan for success in 2016. Source/Disclaimer: 1 Employee Benefit Research Institute, 2015 Retirement Confidence Survey, April 2015.2Asset allocation does not assure a profit or protect against a loss. Because of the possibility of human or mechanical error by Wealth Management Systems Inc. or its sources, neither Wealth Management Systems Inc. nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall Wealth Management Systems Inc. be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2015 Wealth Management Systems Inc. All rights reserved.

Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF® is an investment adviser representative with over twenty-nine years of experience in the field. He designs and coordinates investment portfolios to help clients in seeking to achieve their financial goals and objectives. He is highly knowledgeable in the areas of investments, risk management, retirement and estate planning, and the analysis of escrow, endowment and corporate benefit plans. He handles the multidimensional financial affairs for a select group of families and businesses in Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Valley. (562) 945-7787 or (800) 441-0136.

rowand@ceteranetworks.com www.rowanassetmanagement.com www.quantumecon.com Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisor Networks, LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. March 2016 — This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association, the membership organization for the financial planning community, and is provided by Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF®, a local member of FPA.

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MARCH 2016

The Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce & City of Whittier

2 Annual nd

present the

Best of the Best Awards M

F COMMERCE RO E B

OF TY WHITTIE R

ITTIER AREA C WH HA

SHO

P LO C A L

The “Best of the Best” Awards ceremony, sponsored by the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Whittier, will recognize and celebrate the area’s finest local businesses for enhancing and enriching our community. As the largest local business advocacy group, the Whittier Chamber is excited to honor those influential businesses and organizations that continue to make the Whittier area such a great place to live, work, and shop. In an effort to cultivate a sense of community pride and encourage residents and business owners to shop locally, we are encouraging chamber members, businesses, and residents to weigh in on their favorite local businesses.

Cast your vote for categories including Dining, Retail, Beauty, Home Service Provider, and more!

Nominations: Tuesday, March 1 - Friday, March 11 Voting: Wednesday, March 16 - Friday, March 31 All businesses in Whittier and all Chamber members will be eligible to win. Winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting & Installation Ceremony on Thursday, April 7

Tell us who your FAVORITES are!

CAST YOUR VOTE TODAY AT www.whittierchamber.com/bestofthebest

MARCH 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

NICK DONOVAN No information has been submitted for Nick Donovan.

OWEN NEWCOMER The role of elected mayor in our new district system is to unite Whittier’s different interest groups and geographic areas. I am uniquely qualified for this job. With 15 years on the Whittier City Council, 3 as Mayor, 10 on the Whittier School Board, and 40 years teaching government at Rio Hondo College, I have more knowledge and experience in public service than any other candidate. I’ve walked every neighborhood in Whittier multiple times, reaching out and listening to citizen concerns. This personal outreach has given me a broader and deeper understanding of our diverse city than any other candidate. I stand on my record of supporting effective neighborhood policing; responsible budgeting; and efficient and equitable delivery of city services. I believe Whittier can be more sustainable and prosperous, with better businesses and better jobs. In this time of unprecedented change, I will provide the practical, principled, unifying leadership that Whittier needs. That’s why I’ve been endorsed by more than 600 citizens. Owen and his wife Kristina have lived in Whittier since 1976. Owen taught US Government classes at Rio Hondo College since 1975. Now retired, he continues teaching one or two classes each semester. Owen is a graduate of USC, PhD 1980, and California State University Northridge BA 1971. Owen and Kristina will be celebrating 45 years of marriage on election day! Visit Owen4Mayor.com to learn more. CITY COUNCIL APPOINTED ORGANIZATIONS Chair of the Gateway Cities Council of Governments Committee on Homelessness Chair of the League of California Cities Policy Committee on Employee Relations

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

JOE VINATIERI Whittier has been the HOME to three generations of Vinatieris. Joe was born and raised in Whittier, attended Whittier schools and is a partner at the Whittier law firm of Bewley, Lassleben and Miller. Joe and his recently deceased wife, Sandy, are proud parents of three married children: Sarah, Joe and Susanna who attended some of the same Whittier schools as their father. Joe is an expert in California state finance and taxation. His knowledge of state government is a timely resource as Whittier continues to seek new opportunities such as the Nelles/Lincoln Project as well as new fiscal challenges due to state mandates and economic uncertainty. Joe is an appointed voting delegate to the California League of Cities, Revenue and Taxation Committee. Locally, Joe is active with the Greater Whittier YMCA, HOT (Hispanic Outreach Task Force), Boy Scouts of America, and teaching Kid’s Church at Plymouth Congregational Church. Visit joev4whittier.com for more information. CITY COUNCIL APPOINTED ORGANIZATIONS Southeast Area Social Services Funding Authority, Member Southeast Water Coalition, Alternate Gateway Cities Council of Governments, Alternate, SR91/I-605 Corridor Cities LA County Division of the League of California Cities, Alternate League of California Cities Revenue & Taxation Committee, Delegate WHITTIER CITY COUNCIL SUB-COMMITTEES Nelles Sub-Committee All-America City Central Library

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Member of the Whittier Rotary Club

JOSUE ALVARADO I am looking to represent the newly created District 1 in our city council. I have the right background and the experience to be an effective city council member. I was born in Los Angeles to immigrant parents who worked hard to give their children a better life. In 1988 my family chose to move to Whittier where I received the majority of my education. After graduating from high school, I attended Rio Hondo College where I was elected student body president. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Cal State Fullerton and today I’m living the American Dream as a successful marketing specialist for a major telecommunication company. At work I’m accustomed to setting priorities and managing expenditures to ensure that each dollar spent delivers a measurable result. I also have first-hand experience working with vendors, agencies, and contractors. In addition, I’m also a practicing real estate agent with the Real Estate Store in Whittier. As council member, I plan to leverage my hands-on experience to work with our local business community to improve employment opportunities in our beautiful city. Most important, I’m a proud parent and homeowner. I have a personal investment in making sure the neighborhoods in District 1 are secure, and that kids growing up here enjoy the same environment and opportunities as kids growing up in the rest of Whittier. I understand the challenges that working families face and will ensure that the city is sensitive to those needs. I am also a compassionate problem-solver who believes that our city government should be dedicated to improving the health, safety and quality of life of its residents. With your support we can work together to turn our dreams for a better Whittier into a reality.

ROBERT CANALES I was born in the district at Presbyterian Hospital in 1973 and attended local schools, graduating from Whittier High School. I have an AA in Business Administration from Rio Hondo and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Cal State Fullerton. I served in the army for 9 years with one of those years being in Iraq. I am the only veteran running for city council these days and veterans’ issues are very important to me, particularly the lack of housing and jobs. I am the Chair of the Whittier Area Transgender Association and the first transgender candidate in the city’s history. I have run for city council previously in 1994 and 1996 fresh out of high school and while I was still in college. The difference between then and now is that I am much more experienced and knowledgeable of the issues facing our city and our district. I went out and saw how things actually worked. I am running for 3 reasons: Jobs, Affordable Housing, Change and Accountability. I am running for City Council to finish the changes that were started when our residents approved the switch to district based elections. Now that change has arrived, we can’t go back to business as usual. District 1 residents rose up and demanded districts because they weren’t being heard or listened to. It is a priority to me that their voices are heard and that the changes they initiated are completed. If elected I will be the strongest advocate for veterans in our city because I am a veteran. I will be the strongest advocate for low income families because I come from a low income family and I work a low income job as a security guard in San Pedro and here in Whittier.

DAVID GONZALEZ David Gonzalez is a devoted educator, dedicated public servant, and active community leader. As educator, David co-established a successful high school public service academy focused on forensics, police and fire services. Presently, as Professor of Public Administration and Organizational Leadership, he prepares public servants to be strong, innovative and servant leaders in their public organizations and communities. His academic research focuses on democracy, leadership, and community collaboration. Before his current professional role, David held various professional public roles, including Police Jailer, Community Service Officer/Traffic Investigator, and 911-Emergency Communications Officer. David has been in the public service (volunteer and paid) for 23 years; 15 of those were full-time or volunteer before transitioning to teaching and researching in the area of public service. David is still active in the police service as a part-time 911-Emergency Communications Officer. David currently serves as Whittier City Parking and Transportation Commissioner, is a volunteer member of the Board of Directors for the YMCA of Greater Whittier, and mentors at-risk youth at Whittier High School through the Los Angeles County Probation Department. David meets frequently with fellow community members to discuss concerns, exchange ideas about the future of the city, and provide understanding of our local government. What matters most to him are: Public Safety, Community, & Growth Visit gonzalezforwhittier.com.

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

be chosen from each district only by the voters residing in that district. The remaining Council member will be a directly elected mayor serving a term of two years. Elections will continue to be staggered so that two Council members and the mayor will be selected at one election and the remaining two Council members and the mayor will be selected at the next election. This year, Cathy Warner was the only person to file for the position of Council Member for District 3 in connection with the upcoming April Election. On January 26, 2016 the City Council appointed Mrs. Warner, a current Council member, to the new position and cancelled the election for that race. Council member Warner will be sworn

into her new office on April 26, 2016. Voters in District 3 will join those in the other districts to vote for Mayor at the April 12, 2016 election. Here is an at-a-glance guide to voting on April 12: District 1 – residents in District 1 will vote for 1 of 3 candidates to represent them on the City Council: Robert Canales, Josue Alvarado and David Gonzalez. Residents in District 1 will also vote for Mayor. District 2 – Current Council member Bob Henderson is not up for election this year. He will finish out his term which expires in 2018. Residents in District 2 will vote only for Mayor. District 3 – Current Council member Cathy Warner is the only one who filed

to run and was appointed by the City Council and will therefore not appear on the ballot. Residents in District 3 will vote only for Mayor. District 4 – Current Council member Fernando Dutra is not up for election this year. He will finish out his term which expires in 2018. Residents in District 4 will vote only for Mayor. All residents, regardless of what District in which they reside, will vote for Mayor. The three candidates running for the position of Mayor include current Council member Joe Vinatieri, current Council member Owen Newcomer and Whittier resident Nick Donovan. The elected Mayor will serve a 2-year term.

To find in which district your business or residence is located, visit www.cityofwhittier.org/depts/clerk/elections/dist.asp To register to vote, you must be a citizen of the United States and 18 years of age on or before the City of Whittier’s Election Day. Registration cards are available at City Hall, public libraries, post offices, and on the State of California website at www.sos.ca.gov. To vote in the upcoming City Council election, you must be a registered voter of the City of Whittier. The deadline to register to vote in the April 2016 Whittier City Council Election is Monday, March 28, 2016.

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It is with gratitude that we say goodbye and thank you to Shannon Gimbel Hammer for her eight years of service to the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Shannon has volunteered countless hours of service to the business community through her leadership roles at the Whittier Chamber. In additional to serving as the Chamber President in 2014, Shannon has also been a member of the Executive Committee, past chair of the Hathaway Golf Tournament and an involved committee member on the Personnel Committee, Silver Shield Committee, Young Professionals Group and the Annual Business Expo. The last eight years have proven to be amazingly successful for Shannon both professionally and personally. With the support of the community and her family, Shannon has diligently grown Shannon G’s Flowers & Gifts. In 2014 she celebrated the 10th Anniversary of her business and expanded her floral shop to include a clothing boutique that features women’s apparel, accessories and handbags. Personally, during this same time period, Shannon purchased her first home in Whittier, married her wonderful husband Gerald, welcomed her beautiful daughter Reagan to the family and is now in the process of renovating her dream home. Believe it or not, during this same time period Shannon somehow still found a way to continue to give back and support numerous local organizations such as the Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier, the Whittier Community Foundation and CAPC, Inc. Shannon will be missed as a member of the Chamber Board of Directors, but we are pleased that she will continue on as a part of our Past Presidents’ Council and an important Chamber advisor. Thank you, Shannon, for your leadership and dedication to our organization.

MARCH 2016

District Elections - continued from page 5

ov e A ve Be n A ld e r A ve Ad e l e Av e Ca rle y Ave M av is Av e Ro c k n e Av e

Chamber honors retiring board member Shannon Gimbel Hammer

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

M es a gr

d a W hitt

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MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce presents

HONOR • COURAGE • SACRIFICE

Thank You to the Sponsors of the 2016 Silver Shield Awards Badge Sponsors

Bob & Dave's Towing • City of Santa Fe Springs • City of Whittier Chief Sponsors ACRO Printing, Inc. • Angel & Patty • Assemblyman Ian Calderon • Athens Services • Brookfield Homes Cetera Advisor Networks - Doug Rowan • Hadley Tow • Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary • Supervisor Don Knabe Whittier Uptown Association Captain Sponsors Michael Seril Fitness • Republic Services • Topalian & Associates

Silver Sponsors Bewley Lassleben & Miller • Credit Union of Southern California • MAP Property Management & Property Services PIH Health • Radisson Hotel Whittier • Rio Hondo College • G4S Secure Solutions • YMCA of Greater Whittier

Design and Printing

Wine Sponsors

ACRO Printing, Inc.

California Grill • DigiCal PDQ Rentals • Sage

Photography & Videography

Meals for On-Duty Officers

Say Cheese Photography Graham Productions

Entertainment Sponsor Ernie Hernandez, Calendar Entertainment Services

Officer Appreciation Gifts

Lascari’s Deli

Havana House Triangle Distributing

Legislative Proclamations

Specialty Sponsors

Silent Auction Donors

Congresswoman Linda Sanchez • Senator Tony Mendoza Assemblyman Ian Calderon • Supervisor Don Knabe

Quantum Econometrics • Ramsey A. Ezaki, DDS Shannon G’s Flowers The Traveling Travler • WYNK Marketing

Friendly Hills Country Club James Mulligan Art Pacific Palms

Friend Sponsors ARCpoint Labs • Bowers, Susan • Brookdale Uptown Whittier • CAPC, Inc. • First Day • Fisher, Leslie and Howard • Focus Escrow • Friendly Hills Country Club Future Tech 1 • GM Properties - Ben Greer • Greg’s Auto Body • Guyan, Sam • Matrix Oil – Mike McCaskey • McDonnell Group • Merrill Lynch - David Krake Molina’s Automotive • Newport Diversified/SFS Swap Meet • Notary Signing Network • Pacific Western Bank – Maria Segovia • Panagos, Bonnie Jo • Peel, John Promo Guy - Jerry Warner • Richard J. Rinaldi, The Framery • Sargent’s Sporting Goods • Shannon G’s Flowers • Sharpstone Realty • SKILLS Organization Soroptimist Int’l of Whittier • SPIRITT Family Services • State Farm Insurance – Cheryl Estep • Todd, Claudia and Richard • Triangle Distributing Whittier Area Community Church • Whittier Brokers • Whittier College • Whittier Hospital • Whittier Mailing Service • Whittier Republican Women Federated Whole Child, The • Woodruff Properties

Special Thanks to the Silver Shield Committee

Sue Dean, Notary Signing Network, Chair • Ross Gile, Digical • Tom Guerrero, Say Cheese Photography • Officer Chris Leffler Gary Lee Martinez, The Traveling Traveler • La Donna Munier, Friendly Hills Bank • Raoul Pascual, WYNK Marketing • Officer Mike Rosario Officer John Scoggins • Bonnie Watje, ACRO Printing, Inc. • Officer Bradley White

For photos of Silver Shield, please visit www.whittierchamber.com

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

MARCH 2016

President’s Message - continued on page 2 I leave you with the following information on “Broadcasting vs. Narrowcasting.” Thank you for your support this year, and, in the words of the famous broadcaster Paul Harvey, “And Now The Rest of The Story.” Soon, all media will be digital and searchable and given the number of us who consume media almost exclusively on digital platforms, this is already true. The advent of a digital media universe means that finally advertising and marketing professionals can do what we’ve always wanted to do: deliver messages to one person at a time. The advertising business was always headed in the direction of one-to-one marketing. Our goal was always to reach an individual – the best prospect – but we only had a blunt instrument to get us there: mass media. Mass was

always a surrogate for one-to-one. But now we can buy the audience instead of the media. Agencies bought media as proxies for consumer audiences, because they weren’t able to buy the audiences directly. So they placed advertising adjacencies in mass media targeted at broad estimates of the consumers they actually wanted to reach. Now agencies are setting up their own platforms to accumulate data and serve ads targeted to actual individuals. It’s started online and then moved to TV and other electronic media. Not media management but audience management. For agency executives schooled in “mass,” this requires a new skill set. Most agency professionals know demographics, geographics, and

psychographics, but today’s version of targeting requires that you be just as knowledgeable about: • • • • • •

Contextual targeting Behavioral targeting Retargeting Social targeting Semantic targeting Predictive targeting

Another way to look at the move from mass to one-to-one is “broadcasting” versus “narrowcasting.” Broadcasting is about investing a lot of money to produce a little content designed to reach a lot of people. Narrowcasting is about investing a little money to produce a lot of content to reach a few people. To see broadcasting in action, just turn on CBS. To see examples of narrowcasting, go to YouTube. By definition, YouTube reaches people one at a time, and much of the content there absolutely fits the definition of “a little money to produce a lot of content.” One of the classic examples of narrowcasting is the mega-popular series of videos for Blendtec, makers of a kitchen blender capable of blending everything from golf balls to an iPhone (“Yes, it blends!”) Producing scores of videos for hundreds of dollars each and then placing them in medium that costs nothing is an enormously different business model from the traditional advertising agency. The agency business model was built on “mass” from the ground up; the way we produce work, the way we plan and place media, and even the way we get paid. Moving from broadcasting to narrowcasting is not just a change in the way we work, but the way we think. This is the now of advertising and “casting” your business.

Aloha Series Kamaka Ukulele 100th Anniversary Celebration featuring

Herb Ohta, Jr. & Bryan Tolentino Sat., Mar. 12 at 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Presented En Español

“El Chico de la Ultima Fila” by Juan Jose Mayorga

Wed., Mar. 30 at 7:00 pm

Whittier College Bach Festival

The Los Angeles Guitar Quartet Sat., April 2 at 7:30 pm

Whittier College Writers Festival

An Evening with

Stan Ridgway

Sat., April 9 at 7:30 pm

(562) 907-4203 Go to our website to join our e-mail list. Be sure to “Like” us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for early announcements and special offers.

shannoncenter.org

COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS

Laurie Perschbacher from MAP Property Management celebrated a new addition to her business, MAP Property Services, with a ribbon cutting with family, clients, and Whittier Chamber friends and community members

Rose Drieslein from Americana Tax Planning celebrated her new office space in The Marsden Building with friends from the Whittier Chamber and the Whittier Uptown Association

Ross Gile of DigiCal held a ribbon cutting for his new office and joined friends from the Whittier, Santa Fe Springs and Cerritos Chambers in viewing his new testimonial video

Chamber members Veracruz Mexican Restaurant and Rockies Frozen Yogurt rewarded at risk kids from Cal Hi’s ACE program for good grades and attendance in February

Our Ambassadors (bottom row) Kim Praster, Gina Romero, Judy Bradt, Armelynda Negrete, (top row) Scott Radcliffe, Ross Gile, John Peel, Raoul Pascual and Tom Guerrero show a little love to the Chamber on Valentine’s Day

MARCH 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

Whittier Host Lions Club event raises money for eyesight Sight for Kids, a Wine Tasting, Dinner & Auction event presented by the Whittier Host Lions Club, will be celebrating its 20 th anniversary this year on March 12 at the City of Whittier Community Center, 7630 Washington Avenue. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. This casual event features a great opportunity to sample food from many of Whittier’s fine restaurants, and wine from great wineries. This year, 22 restaurants are tentatively planning on participating: Azabu Restaurant, Bailey Street Kitchen, Bambooze Sushi & Brew House, Brickhouse Pizza, Café ’n Stuff Catering, California Grill, Ciao Italia Ristorante, Cilantros Tacos, Four Bricks, Hermosa Catering, Manuel’s Original El Tepeyac Café, New Canton Restaurant, Phlight, Rocky Cola Café, Sage Restaurant & Lounge, Steve’s BBQ, Scotty’s, The Bottle Room, The 6740, Nicole’s Cakes, Simply Irresistible and Aunties. There will be food for everyone’s taste. The Whittier Host Lions have learned over the years how to put on a fun and entertaining evening.

Raffle tickets this year will be sold by the Lakers Girls with the main Raffle Prize being $1,000.00 in cash. There are always many silent auction items and there will be between 7 and 10 live auction items. The funds raised are used for eye glass exams and eye glasses for children and adults who cannot afford them. The club also supports the Whittier Boys’ & Girls’ Club, Interfaith Food Center, CAPC, Inc., PIH Health, Salvation Army, The Whole Child, Women’s & Children’s Crisis Center, the YMCA of Greater Whittier and scholarships for graduating high school seniors. Donation for admission is $50.00 for an evening of supporting the community which includes great food, top wines, exciting auction items, time to spend with friends and a chance to have a lot of fun at one of Whittier’s most popular events. For information on this event, please contact Al Campano at (562) 556-1967, Doug Keeling at (562) 947-2231, or Leon Lesa at (562) 714-3518.

Thank you to DeLuca’s for hosting a great networking event! Tasty Tuesday at DeLuca’s was a great place for Trinity Lutheran School & Church to network and enjoy a delicious lunch

Ross and Gretchen from DigiCal networked with chiropractor Dr. Wendy Kreider and attorney Jessica Diotalevi at Tasty Tuesday

Chamber President Rudy Hernandez shares a meal with Ambassador Gina Romero from ServPro and Jenny and Abe from State Farm Insurance – Cheryl Estep’s office

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MARCH 2016

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March 1 through March 11 Best of the Best Nominating Period @ www.whittierchamber.com Nominate your favorite Whittier businesses as the “Best of the Best.” The top 3 nominees in each category will move on to the voting round as finalists.

March 16 through March 31 Best of the Best Voting Period @ www.whittierchamber.com Vote for the finalists! Winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting & Installation Ceremony on April 7.

March 9 through April 2 “Everything Clay” @ Whittier Art Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) Wednesday through Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. View sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, and more. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

March 2 Ribbon Cutting @ Boys & Girls Club of Pico Rivera (El Rancho High School, 6501 Pssons Blvd.) 4 p.m. Join the Whittier and Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce for a multichamber ribbon cutting. Free. For more information call (562) 698-9554

March 3 Ribbon Cutting @ T&L Pollos (6518 Greenleaf Ave.) 4 p.m. Join us for light networking and refreshments. FREE & open to the public. For more information call (562) 698-9554 “Tom Jones” @ The Whittier Center Theatre (7630 Washington Ave.) 8 p.m. Presented by Whittier Community Theatre. Tickets: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students & military with ID. For more information call (562) 696-0600

March 5 Plein Air Painting Days @ Pio Pico Park (6003 Pioneer Blvd.) 9:30 a.m. Set up your easel in the gardens and paint the historic adobe and grounds. Bring your own art supplies. Free. For more information call (562) 695-1217 Grand Opening @ Whittier Republican Headquarters (14634 Whittier Blvd. Suite A) 1 to 4 p.m. Hear about candidates and receive a complimentary lunch while supplies last. Free. For more information call (562) 335-2581

“Tom Jones” @ The Whittier Center Theatre (7630 Washington Ave.) 8 p.m. Presented by Whittier Community Theatre. Tickets: $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students & military with ID. For more information call (562) 696-0600

March 8 SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier Chamber Office (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will help you and your business open new markets, reach new customers, and achieve new goals. By appointment only. FREE. For appointments call (626) 593-1120

March 10 Whittier City Council Candidates Forum @ Whittier Community Center (7630 Washington Ave.) 5 p.m. Come and hear the 3 candidates who are running for Mayor and the 3 candidates who are running for District 1 share their thoughts and plans for Whittier’s future. Free & open to the public. For more information call (562) 698-9554

March 11 Golf for a Cause @ Candlewood Country Club (14000 Telegraph Rd.) The SKILLS Organization will be holding their 26th annual golf tournament. Sponsorships available. For more information (562) 325-5620

18 19

Club Parnell @ Parnell Park (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Ballroom Night” Learn the Waltz, Tango, Swing, and Rumba. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. For more information call (562) 567-9450

March 20

American Made Car & Truck Show @ Memorial Chapel at Rose Hills (3888 Workman Mill Rd.) 2:30 to 5 p.m. Enjoy pre-1980 muscle, classic, vintage, and performance vehicles presented by Rose Hills for Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. $30 registration fee March 12 for participants. For more information “Everything Clay” Reception @ Whittier contact Phyllis at (805) 341-7269 Art Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) 3 to 6 p.m. Celebrate the show and meet the March 22 artists. Free. For more information call SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier (562) 698-8710 Chamber Office (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will Wine Tasting and Dinner @ Whittier help you and your business open new Community Center (7630 Washington markets, reach new customers, and Ave.) 5:30 p.m. Join the Whittier Host achieve new goals. By appointment Lions Club for their 20th annual Sight only. FREE. For appointments call for Kids fundraiser. Enjoy wine tasting, (626) 593-1120 dinner, and auctions. For tickets call (562) 556-1967

March 24

Ribbon Cutting @ Steve’s BBQ (7007 Greenleaf Ave.) 4 p.m. Join us Wa k e U p W h i t t i e r @ W h i t t i e r for light networking and refreshments. M u s e u m ( 6 7 5 5 N e w l i n Av e . ) FREE & open to the public. For more 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Enjoy your first meal information call (562) 698-9554 of the day and network with other business professionals. FREE for Whittier Chamber members; $20 for March 25 non-members. Call (562) 698-9554 for C l u b P a r n e l l @ P a r n e l l P a r k (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Latin more information Night” Learn the Bachata, Salsa and ChaCha. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez March 18 for an evening of dance lessons and Club Parnell @ Parnell Park fun. $10. For more information call (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Sock (562) 567-9450 Hop” Learn the Swing, Rumba, and Foxtrot. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and March 29 fun. $10. For more information call Tasty Tuesday @ Bailey Street Kitchen (13010 Bailey St.) 11:30 a.m. (562) 567-9450 to 1 p.m. Enjoy business networking and great food! $10 for chamber March 19 members; $20 for non-members. Call Eggxtravaganza @ Parnell Park (562) 698-9554 for more information (15390 Lambert Rd.) 11 a.m. to or visit www.whittierchamber.com 2 p.m. Join the City of Whittier for a fun day including the Easter bunny, face painting, crafts, and more. $5 per child. For more information call Virginia at (562) 567-9400

March 16

MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

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Showcase your business in the Member Marketplace! Affordable rates available.

Whittier-Penn Partners, Ltd. 2609 W. Beverly Blvd., Suite 6 Montebello, CA 90640

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WHITTIER S Q U A R E BUILDING

Paulina R. Martignon President

13215 East Penn Street - Penthouse Suite - Whittier, California 90602 Phone (562) 945-5959 - Fax (562) 945-9319

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

MARCH 2016

AROUND TOWN

Spring Classes Beginning Soon at Technology Training Institute Are you looking for a career in the medical field? Do you have the desire to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)? Are you willing to invest in your future? If you answered “YES” to these questions and are looking for a career in the medical field and have a desire to be trained in a progressive integrated medical program then don’t hesitate, contact Technology Training Institute in Whittier today. Classes are starting this April and you should be enrolled into your future career choice. Receive hands-on training and hospital assimilated one-on-one training. Call TTI at (562) 698-3377 or stop by the admissions office at 13601 Whittier Blvd. #100 to get a head start on your new career. Seats are limited. TTI is the right school, at right time, with the right price, and at the right location!

Harmony Center Hosts Spring Bling Fair with Award Winning Artists and Crafters Just in time for Mother’s Day! Find a wonderful gift, some fresh spring decor, or treat yourself to something beautiful. FREE ADMISSION and open to the public for one day only on Saturday, April 23rd from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Spring Bling Jewelry and Craft Fair is a showcase for outstanding artists and artisan crafts people whose works are juried and selected for original high-quality designs handmade in America. Past offerings include jewelry as well as original paintings, ceramics, photography, stuffed creatures and dolls, crochet and knits, stained glass, mosaics, sewn creations, handbags, and so much more.

The Harmony Center “Spring Bling” Craft Fair is a fund-raising event for Harmony Center for Spiritual Living, a 501-c3 non-profit organization. Artists and Crafters are welcome to apply until April 8th. All submissions will be juried by committee prior to acceptance. For more info visit www.HarmonyArtFair.org or our facebook page HarmonyArtFair. Fair date: Saturday, April 23, 2016 Hours: 10 am - 4 pm Location: Harmony Hall, 6550 Comstock Ave, Whittier Artist/crafter application available by request. Contact Marilyn McCarty at mmc. caligal@yahoo.com or (562) 440-6575

Whittier Historical Society to Offer Home Tours in April

The Whittier Historical Society will be offering home tours from April 23rd through May 8th. The tour will feature a redesigned Friendly Hills Home and a New York style apartment. Tours will be offered Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Lunch will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on all days except Sunday. A “Nite Lites” event will take place on Wednesday and Friday nights from 7 to 9 p.m. Nite Lites will include a tour, music, wine, beer, and hors d’ouvres. A special Mother’s Day breakfast and lunch will be served on Sunday, May 8th at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations must be made for lunch, Nite Lites, and Mother’s Day. For pricing and reservations call (562) 945-3871 or visit www.whittiermuseum.org. Those wanting to docent will receive a complimentary ticket for the tour. For more information contact Ginny Ball at (562) 693-0941 or the Whittier Museum at (562) 945-3871.

13215 E. PENN STREET, SUITE 101 WHITTIER, CA 90602

(562) 698-9891

RICHARD SCRIVANICH, CPA DEBI RHINEHART, CPA VALERIE SULLIVAN, CPA PARTNERS

Health and Wellness is the focus for Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center in 2016. Five years ago, healthcare visionary and CEO, Vince Rubino established a viable health and wellness nonprofit community health clinic where Whittier area residents without consistent access to quality healthcare could finally obtain the healthcare they deserved and needed. Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center (SMCFC) opened the doors to the health clinic at 9209 Colima Road, Suite 4400, Whittier on January 11, 2011. Over the past five years, Santa Maria’s has remained true to its mission “to promote access to quality healthcare at low or no cost, for people who would not even have access to basic healthcare.” Five years later Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center has a team of 17 medically qualified staff who strive daily to provide the best primary quality care to women, children and families in Whittier and surrounding communities throughout Los Angeles. Santa Maria’s is a full service health clinic accepting most health plans, including HMO’s, PPO’s, Medicare, Medi-Cal, and Veterans benefits through their continued dedication to the community. They were recently granted acceptance into the “Every Woman Counts” Program. This program provides free mammograms

and cancer screenings for women. Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center is perfectly positioned for Whittier residents to be a healthcare partner in providing portal of entry health care services to any patient in need of medical assistance. 2016 has started in the healthiest direction with Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center adding a new mobile clinic to expand the healthcare for underserved children, women and families throughout Los Angeles County. No healthcare need is out the reach for SMCFC nonprofit health clinic. In addition to the mobile unit, Santa Maria’s has added the following services: 1) Personalized medical non-surgical weight management program 2) Chiropractic care 3) Physical rehabilitation 4) Mild pain management 5) Trigger point injections These varieties of therapies allow Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center’s medical providers/practitioners to extend more comprehensive care to patients integrating medical care to assist them in progressing through acute pain conditions. Call Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center “For the Health of It” at (562) 907-0777, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit www.santamarias.org.

Breakthrough Treatment Now Available In Whittier

Whittier, CA - Imagine forty years ago if you were told that lasers would replace scalpels in surgery or that robotic instruments would build cars; you may not have believed it. By the same token, would you believe that chiropractic treatments could be performed using a special hand-held instrument developed by NASA scientists; all while you were sitting in an upright position without any turning or twisting movements? According to Dr. Yani Feliciano, “This new form of computerized treatment is so gentle and effective, that it truly amazes even the most skeptical patients. It’s called the ProAdjuster and is the latest, state-of-theart technology in existence today, and the only one in Whittier.” The ProAdjuster can safely and gently analyze and treat the spine and other joints to remove the nerve impingement that is often the cause of pains in the low back, neck, shoulders and elsewhere in the body. It also works on a variety of muscular conditions to loosen tight muscles with ease and comfort. Many patients say that it’s like getting a mini-massage. Even patients with knee, hip and foot problems such as plantar fascitis are being helped. It is also covered by most insurance companies including Medicare. Dr. Yani says that “The secret to the ProAdjuster lies in its ability to deliver an extremely precise and gentle adjustment.” She says that, “Even though traditional forms of adjusting also work, Dr. Yani uses the ProAdjuster to people are drawn to this new technique because of how gentle it is analyze a patient’s spine and pin-point and does not involve any twisting, especially in the neck. areas of nerve impingement syndrome causing malfunction and pain. Many people like getting adjusted with traditional manual techniques, all of which are safe and effective. But there are a large number of people who never get to experience the amazing benefits of chiropractic because they are scared to have their spines adjusted in that way,” says Dr. Yani. Now, there is no longer a reason to be wary. The ProAdjuster is perfect for anyone who has been thinking about going to a chiropractor, but hasn’t yet made that decision. Dr. Yani wants everyone to be able to experience these same benefits and if you have nerve interference causing any of the following conditions, the ProAdjuster may be the answer you’ve been looking for... • Neck & Shoulder pain • Poor Circulation • Low back pain • Sciatic pain • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Arthritis • Headaches • High Cholesterol • TMJ Problems • Fibromyalgia • Scoliosis • High Blood Pressure • Sports Injuries • Planter Fascitis • Knee or hip pain • Diabetes Treatment with the ProAdjuster is consistent, measurable and extremely gentle. Call Isabel at our office today and mention this article to receive a FREE ProAdjuster analysis to pin-point your problem areas and to see how the ProAdjuster can help. Be one of the first five callers and you will also receive an examination that can show the areas of your stress and how it’s affecting your body for only $79 (reg. $250). If you are not completely delighted with the services, you pay nothing! This technological marvel can help you return to a healthier lifestyle. You may no longer have to live with a persistent, painful condition. Call (562) 698-1275 today! "Severe limited range of motion in my neck made cycling long For more information, please distances difficult. I ended up having to turn my whole body contact Dr. Yani Feliciano at: to talk with friends on long rides. Since getting ProAdjuster Friends Chiropractic treatments at Friends Chiropractic, my buddies are amazed at 6736 Friends Avenue how far my head now turns! Love my new mobility!" Whittier, CA 90601 -Mike Gimbel, owner MPG Construction and Cyclist

Tel (562) 698-1275 www.proadjusterchiropractic.net RO BE

F COMMERCE OF TY WHITTIE R

VOTED BEST CHIROPRACTOR BY BEST OF LA TV VIEWERS IN 2011

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Register now for the Shelter’s Right Hand 20 Annual “Stepping Out Against Domestic Violence” 5K Walk to benefit the Women’s and Children’s Crisis Shelter. On Saturday, April 23, 2016, Honorary Chairperson, Barbara Giles, co-founder of the Shelter, and 600+ community members are expected to step out in support of victims of domestic violence. From Central Park, walkers will follow a 3.1 mile scenic walk through the historic residential and business districts of Uptown Whittier. The Shelter’s Right Hand is pleased to announce that Don Knabe, SupervisorFourth District, County of Los Angeles, and Wells Fargo are the presenting sponsors of the Walk. Generous grants from these two sponsors make it possible for all entry fees, sponsorships, and individual donations to go directly to the Women’s and Children’s Crisis Shelter. The members of the Shelter’s Right Hand would like to thank all participating businesses, organizations, and individuals for generously donating to the Walk and partnering with each other to bring hope for renewed lives for individuals fleeing domestic violence. For registration and event information, visit the Shelter’s Right Hand website at www.sheltersrighthand.org, LIKE the Shelter’s Right Hand on Facebook, or call (657) 549-2551. Registration may also be completed online at www.eventbrite.com. Donations to benefit the crisis shelter are payable to Shelter’s Right Hand, P.O. Box 9304, Whittier, CA 90608.

Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center Kicks off a Healthy 2016

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20th Anniversary of 5K Walk in Uptown Whittier

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WINNER OF THE 2015 BEST OF THE BEST - CHIROPRACTOR

MARCH 2016

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

AROUND TOWN From Maddi’s Closet Excited by the Success of Beads of Courage Program Donna Holmes, President and Founder of From Maddi’s Closet shares that even today, 11 years into the battle against children’s cancer, a smile comes to her face when she hears the familiar questions “What is From Maddi’s Closet? “What do you do?” “Why?” Donna says that she smiles through painful memories because although she has shared the story of From Maddi’s Closet countless times with hundreds of individuals, community organizations and corporations, she still embraces the opportunity to tell a story that she believes needs to be repeated countless more times until there is a cure for pediatric cancer. Many now know that From Maddi’s Closet grew out of a personal experience for Neil and Donna Holmes when their 3 year-old daughter, Madison was diagnosed with a rare, inoperable and untreatable brain tumor and given only two to three months to live. Donna says that despite her own challenges, Maddi showed real compassion for the other children she saw during her eleven months of treatment. Maddi quietly reached out to children who were frightened or alone by sharing her own toys that she tucked in her stroller as she

readied for her journey to the hospital. Both family and friends were touched by her efforts to comfort these children and realized that there are thousands of children facing the challenges of cancer who need to know there are people who care about them. From Maddi’s Closet works to provide financial assistance for special needs, hospital visits and programs, public awareness outreach, and support of childhood cancer research. From Maddi’s Closet is very excited about the outstanding success of one of the patient support programs they help provide at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Through the Beads of Courage program, each patient enrolled is given a different color bead, along with a Maddi Bead of Encouragement each time they reach certain milestones or face a challenge. It is a visual way for them to tell their story, and has proven to help boost morale. The program encourages the patients to focus on their successes and gives them courage to face their next hurdle. It has been very successful and now impacts the lives of 400 children. To learn more about From Maddi’s Closet visit www.frommaddiscloset.org.

Young at Heart presented by New Century Singers Whittier New Century Singers Whittier invites the community to a night of fun and fundraising. Young at Heart will take place on March 19 at The Ritz Gardens located at 11201 First Ave. Whittier 90603. Enjoy dinner, entertainment, a silent auction, 50/50, and opportunity gifts. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person. For more information call Jean at (562) 941-7373.

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• Strict & thorough tenant screening - Credit, Criminal, & Eviction • High quality management for properties of ALL sizes • Owners receive personalized service • Bilingual Staff

Earth Day Comes to Whittier Uptown With Info on a Healthier, Greener, Leafier City The Earth Day event in Uptown Whittier to be held on Saturday April 30th, will focus environmentally friendly transportation including electric, hybrid, and fuelcell automobiles. Enjoy the spring weather while you listen to invited speakers, see cutting-edge autos, and visit informational booths. This event will be free and open to the public at no charge to attend from 10am until 2pm in the Greenleaf Grassy Area on Greenleaf Avenue between Philadelphia and Bailey Streets. Cars will be on display with information about new technologies. Speakers will discuss mass transit alternatives for Whittier, hydrogen cell powered automobiles, energy efficient housing, and sustainable lifestyles. Informational booths promoting “green” initiatives will demonstrate what is being done and will inform the public of the actions individuals and businesses can take to do their share. In partnership with the Whittier Uptown Association and Friends of Uptown, the local chapter of the United Nations Association and the Whittier Area Environment Coalition, have organized this event in order to inform the general public what they can do to help lower our local carbon footprint and to enlist the participation of merchants, community organizations and schools for this cause. If you would like to sponsor this event or participate with a booth display, contact Marilyn McCarty at the Whittier Uptown Association. Email: info@whittieruptown. org or (562) 696-2662, or visit www.WhittierUptown.org.

Whittier Uptown Association Presents 21st Annual Spring Art & Antique Street Faire Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 2nd - the date of the 21st Annual Spring Art & Antique Street Faire. Enjoy a springtime stroll along the tree-lined streets in Historic Uptown Whittier while you visit with over 200 eclectic vendors featuring work from local artists and artisan crafters together with the traditional antique and vintage-collectible dealers. You are sure to find something wonderful for yourself, your home, or a gift for someone you care about. Shop early for a unique Mother’s Day gift! Live entertainment throughout the day. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission to the public. If you want to participate as an advertiser, vendor, or food vendor in this outdoor event that attracts an anticipated 5000+ visitors, you can find your application online. Spaces regularly sell-out so apply early for best location. For more information, contact Marilyn McCarty at the Whittier Uptown Association. Email: info@whittieruptown.org or (562) 696-2662, or visit www.WhittierUptown.org.

Everything Clay Show Returns to Whittier Art Gallery The Whittier Art Gallery presents their 4th Annual Everything Clay: Pottery and Sculpture Show Wednesday, March 9 through Saturday, April 2.The Whittier area is noted throughout California for being home to some of the finest potters and sculptors in the state. Since its inception 4 years ago, Everything Clay has become one of the Gallery’s most popular events. Artists and viewers have come from all over the state to be in and see this wonderful show. In addition to the local award winners who call the Gallery home, the show brings talents who are new to the area. Many cultures are represented here and they bring with them a fresh artistic vision. In addition to the pottery, you will also find sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and more, all crafted from clay, both fired and polymer. The reception, which is free and open to the public, will be held Saturday, March 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. Come and meet the artists. For more information call (562) 698-8710.

Whittier Republican Headquarters Grand Opening The community is invited to the grand opening of the Whittier Republican Headquarters and campaign kick off for 57th State Assembly Candidate, Rita Topalian. The grand opening will take place on Saturday, March 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. at 14634 Whittier Blvd. Suite A, Whittier 90605. All state and local candidates, elected officials, have been invited to speak. Hear about the candidates and volunteer opportunities available. A complimentary lunch will be provided while supplies last. This event free and open to the public. For questions call (562) 335-2581.

With over 20 years experience in Property Services, we provide:

• Repairs and complete kitchen and bathroom upgrades • On-staff fully licensed general contractors • In-house bilingual maintenance staff • 24 hour emergency response crew

6 Generations of Service to Whittier

For Information, including Pre-Arrangements, Contact Us:

~ Since 1894 ~

13304 Philadelphia Street, Whittier, California 90601

www.WhiteEmerson.com

Matthew 5:4 FD 217

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

MARCH 2016

RENEWING MEMBERS Thank you for your

WAKE UP WHITTIER

investment in your business and the community! Associated Cabinets (562) 266-1940 California Domestic Water Co. (562) 947-3811 Children’s Happy Teeth (562) 944-8408 Tom Rios, from Brookdale Uptown Whittier, greets Scott Radcliffe from RAD Custom Signs, and Gil Rodriguez from Sharpstone Realty

Chamber President Rudy Hernandez presents a certificate of appreciation to Brookdale Uptown Whittier’s Tom Rios and Suzie Magpayo

Gateway Management Co. (562) 696-6900 x224 Granite Payment Alliance (562) 728-3460 Littleton Joyce Ughetta Park & Kelly LLP (213) 599-8200 Matrix Oil Corporation (805) 884-9624 My Attorney LA (562) 693-5027 Nordbak’s Promotional Products (562) 947-0111

The Chamber welcomed new members to Wake Up Whittier; Laurie Perschbacher from MAP Property Services, Jim Kelly from Friends of the Whittier Hills, Kathy Dowling from Community Escrow, Patty Hernandez from Angel & Patty, Diana Chilin from T & L Pollos, and Tammy Senger from Farmer’s Insurance – John Coffey Agency

Pabst, Kinney, & Associates, Inc. (562) 236-9069 R’Gals Properties (562) 692-5457 RMH Dance & Productions (562) 693-9911 Togo’s Eatery (562) 789-8000

UPTOWN WHITTIER

Uptown Flooring & Design, Inc. (562) 945-4407 Ross Gile from DigiCal is a popular table host at Wake Up Whittier giving away Kindles to lucky guests like Leon Lesa and La Donna Munier

Whittier Area Community Church (562) 945-4500 x122

You are invited to our

Real Estate Open Event Thursday, March 31, 2016 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Whittier Elks Lodge • 13620 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90605

Informational Topics

State of the City

Since 1958

Whittier Resident • Drains & Sewers Cleaned

• Furnaces

• Hydrojetting

• Copper Repiping • Air Conditioning • Water Softeners

• Water Piping • Disposals • Water Heaters

• Leak Detections • Bath Remodeling • Backflow Testing & Repair

by a City of Whittier Representative

24 HOUR SERVICE

Join us to learn

562

How to Save Money Tax Free

State Contractor License #271767

863-5717 • 562 868-7777

by Jesse Alvarado at World Financial Group

TOYOTA & SCION OF WHITTIER

Other Speakers and Topics TBD Seating is limited please RSVP at in info@sharpstonerealty.com, text or call Gil at 562-217-7646 or Irene at 562-631-6753. We look forward to meeting you at this W valuable and informative event that you will enjoy.

BUY LOCAL SUPPORT WHITTIER

BIG SAVINGS *NO HAGGLE • NO HASSLE*

CALL ME

Gil Rodriguez Broker/Owner CA-BRE 01500176 14826 Whittier Blvd • Whittier, CA. 90605 Direct 562-217-7646

RICHARD MARROQUIN Fleet Manager 14577 E. Whittier Blvd. • Whittier, California, 90605

BUS

(562) 698-2591 Ext. 229 • CELL (562) 882-3076

rmarroquin@toyotaofwhittier.com

toyotaofwhittier.com

MARCH 2016

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

NEW MEMBERS COPIERS Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. Steve Michas 1900 S. State College Blvd. Suite 600 Anaheim, CA 92806-6157 Phone: (714) 688-7700 Email:smichas@kmbs.konicaminolta.us Website: www.kmbs.konicaminolta.us Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. is a leader in information management focused on enterprise content, technology optimization and cloud services. Their solutions help organizations improve their speed to market, manage technology costs, and facilitate the sharing of information to increase productivity. Clients trust Konica Minolta to help them envision how they can achieve their goals and deliver innovative solutions to give shape to their ideas. Their mission is to be acknowledged by their customers as a leader, utilizing innovative technology, quality services and unique solutions, to add unmatched value to the global society, always focused on protecting the environment for a prosperous future generation.

FINANCIAL SERVICES Oportun Gia Sanabria 8150 Painter Ave. Whittier, CA 90602 Phone: (650) 417-8394 Email: giovannia.sanabria@progressfin.com Website: www.oportun.com Oportun, formerly Progreso Financiero, was founded in 2005 with the goal of providing credit-building, affordable loans to the approximately 25 million financially-underserved Hispanics in the US, many of whom have limited or no credit history. Since its first loan in 2006, Oportun has helped more than 629,000 customers by disbursing more than $1.9 billion through more than one million small dollar loans. The company delivers customer service with bilingual staff and operates more than 170 locations in California, Illinois, Nevada, Texas, and Utah. As a for-profit, mission-driven, and responsible lender, Oportun provides products and services that are specifically designed with its customers in mind. Visit their location at The Quad to see how they can help you.

REAL ESTATE Angel & Patty, Inc. Angel Hernandez 11027 1st Ave. Whittier, CA 90603 Phone: (562) 696-6515 Email: angel@angelandpatty.com Website: www.angelandpatty.com

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

JOIN ME IN BECOMING A CHAMBER MEMBER TESTIMONIAL

I believe that networking is the natural way to develop and promote a business. It only makes sense to join and take part in the biggest networking group in the city in which your business is located - in our case, that's the Whittier Chamber. I am proud to be a member of the Whittier Chamber. It's an organization of caring and enthusiastic individuals, who have fresh ideas and are always looking for a way to refer their members. Our company has been the beneficiary of referrals from the Chamber on many, many occasions. Some of the best customers we have and have retained to this day have come from the Chamber, some that date back to the 70's. My dad first joined the Whittier Chamber back in 1970. I remember that plaque hanging on the wall in his office when I was just out of high school. I have a closer relationship to leaders and other businesses in the City because of the Business Expo, the Hathaway Golf tournament, and Wake Up Whittier networking events. Great job, Chamber Girls! - Luke Harrison, Harrison Electric and Solar

Congratulations to our Milestone Members this month! 35 years Credit Union of Southern California (866) 287-6225

Angel and Patty have sold over 2,000 homes and offer tailored client care service. What sets them apart is the way they hold themselves accountable by giving their clients the option to cancel anytime at no cost to the client. Take a moment to read all the positive Zillow reviews clients have posted about Angel & Patty. You will be impressed. They concentrate in Whittier and service everything from condos to luxury homes. Give them an opportunity and they guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Whittier Mailing Service (562) 698-7795

RESTAURANTS

15 years

T&L Pollos Diana Chilin 6518 Greenleaf Ave. Whittier, CA 90601 Phone: (562) 698-3344 Email: dchilin@yahoo.com

20 years Banando, Jessie Civic Member

Pacific Western Bank (562) 948-3691

10 years Friendly Hills Bank (562) 947-1920

T&L Pollos opened in January, 2016 in the heart of Uptown Whittier. The restaurant is named after the owner’s two children Tony and Lino. Their menu features grilled and rotisserie chicken as well as burritos, tacos, and nachos with your choice of chicken, carne asada, al pastor, or chorizo. They also offer catering for special events and family deals. T&L Pollos prides themselves on their delicious food and friendly staff. The next time you’re looking for a tasty lunch or a family friendly dinner, check out T&L Pollos.

JC American Enterprises Co. (562) 907-7779 L’Heritage Francais (562) 906-5995 Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc.- David Krake (714) 257-4481

SCHOOLS Inspire Charter Schools Darcy Miller 1470 Huntington Dr. Suite 205 Duarte, CA 91010 Phone: (714) 752-0215 Email: darcy@inspireschools.org Website: www.inspireschools.org Inspire Charter Schools offers Home/Independent Study to all K-12th grade students in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Imperial, and Kern Counties. Students can attend virtually from the safety and comfort of their own home. For the high school curriculum, their great teachers lead students through the APEX Learning courses. APEX courses are fully A-G accredited. The Transitional Kindergarten online curriculum is provided through Embark12. The comprehensive K-8th Grade curriculum through K12 uses a blended online-offline model. Their curriculum is aligned to the Common Core State Standards to ensure that all students are prepared for college, career readiness, and the challenges of the 21st Century.

5 years A Special Event (562) 695-9570 Best RV & Self Storage (562) 692-8687 Catering by Herach & Ara (323) 728-0573 Half Off Books Records Films (562) 945-6708 Heavenly Choice (323) 728-2728 Kaiser Permanente (562) 657-4452

WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS

WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM

MARCH 2016

LET’S BUY A HOUSE TOGETHER.

BUY | REFI | EQUITY LOANS FLEXABLE RATES AS LOW AS

2.375

5/5 ARM Initial rate 2.375% Max. rate 7.375% APR 3.891%

1 The interest rates, and APR listed above are effective 1/1/2016, are based on a FICO above 720 and an LTV below 60% for a No-Cash Out Refinance or Purchase, and are examples of loan pricing offered for a specific product. Loan pricing that you may qualify for can be different based on your credit history, loan-to-value (LTV), occupancy, property type, loan amount, loan purpose, and income/financial obligations. Estimated payment is $3.89 per $1,000 borrowed for 60 months for a 30-year term. Payment example does not include cost of property taxes or insurance, so the actual payment obligation may be greater. Membership is subject to eligibility. All new accounts will be verified through ChexSystems®. Rates and programs are subject to change without notice. NMLS #45478.

866.287.6225 | CUSoCal.org

@CUSoCal

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