Business Focus - February 2011 by Whittier Chamber

A Publication of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce

FEBRUARY 2011 • VOL. 17 NO. 2

Chamber Proudly Honors Officers, Staff and Volunteers of the Police Department 13th Annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet and Recognition Dinner Set for March 4

8158 Painter Avenue Whittier, CA 90602 phone (562) 698-9554 fax (562) 693-2700 info@whittierchamber.com www.whittierchamber.com Supporting the Business Community Since 1914

WHAT’S INSIDE

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce Presort Std. 8158 Painter Avenue US Postage PAID Whittier, CA 90602

Whittier, CA Permit No. 1

We Mean Business

2011 Silver Shield Sponsors BADGE SPONSOR City of Whittier • City of Santa Fe Springs CHIEF SPONSORS ACRO Printing, Inc. • Financial Network, Douglas M. Rowan Hadley Tow • Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce CAPTAIN SPONSORS Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, 4th District State Farm Insurance • Toyota of Whittier Whittier Hospital SILVER SPONSORS Banco Popular • Rio Hondo College The SKILLS Foundation • Southern California Edison Whittier Host Lions Club ADVERTISERS Boys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier • First Day Friendly Hills Bank • GM Properties- Ben Greer Harrison Electric • Harvey & Parmelee, CPAs Lambert Inn • Jeanne & Ralph Muhlestein Soroptimist of Whittier • SPIRITT Family Services Woodruff Properties FRIEND SPONSORS Coldwell Banker – Gil Rodriguez • Consolidated Disposal Credit Union of Southern California • Crepes & Grapes DialMed Home Care • Chris George, Financial Network First Day • Fix Auto • Friends Chiropractic Future Tech 1 • Greg’s Auto Body • HNS Auto Hunter Security • Innovent Solutions • Lambert Inn LS Real Estate • Merrill Gardens – Tom Rios Miller & Angevine • Notary Signing Network- Sue Dean Pacific Western Bank • Bonnie Jo and Lee Panagos John & Laurie Peel • Henri and Diane Pellissier Road Runner Towing • Secure Transportation Maria Segovia • Servpro of Whittier SPIRITT Family Services • WAPADH Whittier Mailing Service • Whittier Rio Hondo Kiwanis Club The Whole Child • Women’s & Children’s Crisis Center YMCA of Greater Whittier • Zoe Christian Fellowship OTHER CONTRIBUTORS WINE SPONSORS PDQ Rentals • California Grill • Sage Restaurant & Lounge CENTERPIECE SPONSOR Shannon G’s Flowers RAFFLE SPONSORS The Traveling Traveler

Honoring retirees for their outstanding service to the cities of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs will be the focal point of the 13th Annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet being held on Friday, March 4 at the Pacific Palms Conference Resort. There are 9 retirees being honored this year including Lt. Bill Webster, Lt. Wyatt Powell, Sgt. Dan Lowe, Communications Supervisor Stephanie Walker, Corporal Marc Durant, Corporal Mike Hinson, Officer Ray Palmer, Officer Mike Karson and Chief Dave Singer. This special group represents over 200 years of service to the community. “These retirees have all helped to shape our department in their own unique ways and each will be missed,” stated Officer Mike Dekowski. This year’s program will recognize the contributions of retirees while at the same time highlighting the accomplishments and outstanding jobs of the active officers, civilian staff and volunteers. The Whittier Police Department provides a variety of law enforcement services to the citizens of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. The Department is comprised of the Patrol, Investigation, Support Services and Administration Divisions. The Police Department features a great team comprised

of 120 sworn police officers and 50 civilian staff. The Whittier Police Department has developed a highly successful Community Based Policing Program. A cornerstone of this model program is a partnership between the Police Department, city residents and businesses to produce a high quality of life for all citizens. “The Police Department’s relationship with the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce and the surrounding business community is one that is strong and respected. This relationship enables our department to serve our citizens and has bolstered the partnership that drives effective enforcement efforts. The men and women of the Whittier Police Department feel extremely fortunate to enjoy this relationship with our community partners,” added Officer Dekowski. Silver Shield is designed to give individual businesses the opportunity to say thank you to our police department. “There are many ways to participate, but I want to personally invite you to be a Friend Sponsor which covers the cost for an officer to attend the event at no charge,” stated Chairman Doug Rowan of Financial Network. Friend Sponsorships are only $100 and include a listing in the dinner program (which goes home with over 500 Continued on page 8

AAARRRGH You Ready For the Biggest Networking Event of the Year? “X” Marks the Spot at the 2011 Whittier Chamber Business Expo

Corporate Sponsors PIH, BHP and the Radisson Hotel Whittier invite you to join them at this year’s pirate-themed Business Expo for networking, food and fun! The 2011 Whittier Chamber Business Expo will be held on Thursday, March 24 at the Radisson Hotel Whittier! This popular showcase gives Whittier Chamber members the opportunity to network, promote and sell their products and services to the over 1000 people who attend the tradeshow. Taking place from 4 – 7 p.m., the Expo will feature over 100 Chamber businesses, organizations and restaurants and is free to the public to attend. Again this year RMH Productions will help set the mood by providing entertainment

and audio support throughout the event. The Business Expo Booklet, designed and sponsored by ACRO Printing Inc., will be distributed to all attendees and features contact information for the Chamber members participating in the Expo. The Business Expo Booklet is a great tool for following up on leads and referrals. Expo tables must be reserved by March 9 to ensure inclusion in the booklet. In addition, when guests arrive they will receive a Treasure Map that encourages them to visit specific Chamber businesses throughout the Expo rooms. You can help drive people to your table by having your logo on the Treasure Map for only $50. Attendees will be asked to visit each table Continued on page 11

Wake Up Whittier

Aram Melkonyan (far right) of Renaissance Repair Shop and son Sarkis welcomed Elizabeth Soto of Trinity Worldwide Reprographics and Jatinder Singh of Pre-Paid Legal to Wake Up Whittier at The Whole Child. For more Wake Up Whittier photos see page 8

(13250 E. Philadelphia St • Whittier 90601)

February 9, 2011 7:30-9:30 a.m.

Members of the Chamber’s Whittier Beautiful Committee enjoyed a special presentation given by Dr. Ted Martinez Jr., President of Rio Hondo College, during their quarterly meeting. See more Community photos on page 9

Whittier Business Focus

www.whittierchamber.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Motivational quotes can be inspirational, thought provoking and a great way to encourage your workforce. A favorite quote of the Chamber staff is by legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden and reads, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Sports quotes often transfer easily to the workplace because they are team focused and goal oriented. Most of the time business success is achieved as the result of a well prepared team effort with the owner acting as the “coach,” and employees fulfill the role of “players.” The following are some principles I recently read in an article by Chris Widener entitled Secrets of Successful Teams. When implemented on a regular basis, they can help make your business Dean Harako team outstanding. Pay Advance Payroll Communication Leader The leader needs to communicate the vision, set the pace, and let everyone know where they are going so the team can follow. The leader should communicate the vision frequently, so the team knows where they are at and what changes need to be made. Team Watch a good basketball team. They talk to each other all of the time. Helping one another out, encouraging one another, praising one another, and telling each other how they can make changes so the same mistakes aren’t made again. The same is true of successful teams in the professional world and in life in general. Excellence Truly great teams are committed to excellence. In everything they do, their goal is to achieve at the highest level. And this commitment is held throughout every level of the team. A successful team cannot have members who are not committed to excellence because in the end they will become the weak link. Followership The secret to getting things done lies not only in great leadership, but in how well the rest of the team follows the leader. Good teams are filled with people who are committed to following and getting the job done. Understanding Roles Every team works best when the members of the team have clearly defined and understood roles. Some do one thing, others do another. One job isn’t more important than the other, just different. When everyone fulfills the responsibilities of their roles, the team wins. Strengths and Weaknesses Every team member has strengths and weaknesses. The successful teams are those who on a regular and consistent basis enable the members to work to their strengths. One person’s strengths will cover another’s weakness. This is teamwork, enabling all of the bases to be covered. Fun The team that plays together stays together. Is your team all work and no play? If you’re smart, that will change. Get your team out of the office once a month and go have some fun. Enjoy one another. Enjoy life. It will bring a sense of bonding that can’t be made even in “winning.” Common Goals and Vision Goals should be short, simple and clear. Can you say it in less than 30 seconds? Is it simple? Can you and others understand it? Does the team know what they are working together to achieve?

Continued on page 14

FEBRUARY 2011

MAYOR’S MESSAGE Last month, new Governor Jerry Brown proposed to eliminate redevelopment agencies by July 1, 2011 to help fix the California budget deficit. The Whittier City Council, which also serves as the Whittier Redevelopment Agency Board, understands the difficulty of passing a budget in these times of limited resources. And, Whittier, like many cities across California, has been forced to make difficult decisions to bring our own budget into balance. However, we believe the Governor’s proposal to eliminate redevelopment is short-sighted public policy that can damage our local economy. This proposal is especially frustrating since it’s unclear whether eliminating redevelopment agencies and taking the available redevelopment funds will bring relief to the State budget. Greg Nordbak, Whittier City Mayor Needless to say, our City Administration and Staff have been busy looking at the potential negative impacts this could have in the City of Whittier. Before going any further I’ll quickly explain what many of you may be thinking, “what exactly is redevelopment?” In a nutshell, redevelopment is a tool that is used by cities to eliminate physical and economic blight. Additionally, the taxes that are generated in redevelopment areas stay in the area. Following are a few recent examples of redevelopment projects in the City:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

New Police Headquarters Building Whittwood Town Center New street lights on East Whittier Blvd. from Valley Home to Santa Gertrudes Uptown and Whittier Boulevard Specific Plans Affordable Home Ownership Program at the Gables Townhomes LimeWorks Commercial Façade Improvement Project Etching Shield (Glass Replacement) Program in Uptown 50% Subsidy in Zoning Entitlement and Building Permit fees for fiscal years 2009-10 and 2010-11

Now that you have a better understanding of what redevelopment does in Whittier, you can see why we are concerned with the Governor’s proposal. The impact of eliminating redevelopment agencies in the state can be detrimental to our local economy and community. The state will take (or steal) millions of dollars from Whittier that could have been used to redevelop some of the vacant car lots, for example. It may also affect the development of the Fred C. Nelles site. As a reminder, Nelles is the largest piece of undeveloped land in Los Angeles County, where, from 2006-2009, the state had considered the site for a prison hospital. Nelles is a perfect example of physical and economic blight which could be assisted through redevelopment. If Nelles is developed under Redevelopment Law, the City will be able to use the tax increment (increased property taxes) for improvements here, locally. Under the Governor’s proposal, the City would likely receive very little of that money and it will be at the discretion of people who don’t live in Whittier but who work for the state and county. While the Governor’s proposal may change before it is adopted, unfortunately, it looks like redevelopment will be negatively affected one way or another. On a different and lighter note, the Council and I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Silver Shield Awards sponsored by the Chamber and scheduled for Friday, March 4th to celebrate the brave men and women of the Whittier Police Department. For more information on the Annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet or to purchase tickets, please contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554.

When “Too Big To Fail” becomes “Too Big To Serve You” consider: BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gus Arriaza, Cartridge World Russell Castaneda-Calleros, Rio Hondo College Ernie Ceja, Vinatero Wine Shop EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Jin Chon, Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary President Shannon Gimbel, Shannon G’s Flowers Dean Harako, Pay Advance Payroll Ana Gutierrez, Whittier College Immediate Past President Norm Kirschenbaum, Tri-Cities ROP Cheryl Estep, State Farm Insurance David Krake, Merrill Lynch President-Elect & VP Membership Fran Shields, City of Whittier Terri Starkman, Ben Greer, GM Properties Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital VP Special Events Bonnie Watje, ACRO Printing, Inc. Roy Hanna, Bright Plaza Home Medical Equipment VP Marketing STAFF Sue Dean, Notary Signing Network Carol Crosby & Lyn Carty, Executive Directors VP Community Affairs Jessica Schreiner Magdosku, Ginny Ball, Woodruff Properties Director of Membership VP Business Information Katie Galvin, Leighton Anderson, Director of Public Relations Bewley, Lassleben & Miller Amber Bookil-Lawrence, Bookkeeper VP Finance Natalie Saenz, Jeff Ball, Friendly Hills Bank Event & Member Relations Coordinator VP Administration Nico Garcia, Whittier College Intern John Peel, Concept 7 Brittaney Leon, Whittier College Intern

2010-2011 Board of Directors

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 circulation is 8,000. 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, please contact Katie Galvin at (562) 698-9554.

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

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FEBRUARY 2011

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UPTOWN UPDATE Whittier Uptown Association Adds New Events The Uptown Association will be adding new promotions to our calendar this year and are pleased to announce our proposed events for 2011. As in years past, the Uptown Car Show continues to be a hit with up to 600 cars shown. The streets are full of beautiful automobiles, music and a number of booths relevant to the car enthusiasts. It seemed only appropriate, due to the popularity of the event, to run a second event. Our first new proposed event slated for May 7th will allow for custom cars of all types, while Allan Nakken, Executive Director our second Car Show scheduled for August 20th will feature hot rods, muscle cars, and exotics. Our second proposed event will be called the Sunday Market Place, which will resemble our Farmers Market that we run every Friday. Unlike that event, the Sunday Market Place event will be more diversified and will allow crafts, food, produce, floral, and artesian elements. We are excited to bring new life to Uptown on Sunday. We believe our members are hungry for additional sales on Sunday and we hope that this event will bring new traffic into the Uptown Whittier area. These events are planned to run in the parking lot adjacent to Greenleaf between Vinatero Wine Shop and Sage Restaurant. On April 23rd, we will once again host the King Richard's Antique Fair on Philadelphia Street. This year’s spring event will feature vendors displaying various types of antiques and collectables. Chuck and Martha Garcera will once again spearhead this popular event and will bring new additions to the lineup including a Vintage Dog Contest and a Pie Sampling Contest as well. This event continues to grow and is enjoyed by all who attend. For those of you that love the Family Festival, it too will be back with a 25-week Wednesday evening program featuring a wide range of food and vendor items. The event kickoff is scheduled to begin April 6th and run through September 28th. I hope to see you at our spring events and on behalf of the Whittier Uptown Association, I thank you for your continued support. To view a complete list of upcoming Uptown events, visit our website at www.whitttieruptown.org or call the Whittier Uptown Association office at (562) 696-2662 for more information.

Whittier Business Focus

LABOR LAW Employers May Rescind Conditional Job Offers If… Sunny Lee, HR Advisor

We hired an employee and now want to rescind the offer. Do we have any liability? The answer to this question depends on whether the offer is a firm or conditional offer, and whether the applicant has detrimentally relied on that offer. Conditional and Firm Offers Making an offer of employment to an applicant is a commitment to hire. You may make it contingent on other factors, such as successfully passing pre-employment drug testing and/or a criminal background check. Employers clearly have the right to condition offers on job-related pre-employment screens that may affect whether the candidate will become employed. Employers also have the right to make an offer subject to the approval of others in the company. An offer does not become binding until the applicant accepts it; therefore, you are free to change the terms or withdraw the offer if the applicant has not accepted the offer or detrimentally relied on it. If the applicant counters with different terms, you may consider your offer rejected and withdraw it. The Helpline often gets calls about employees who are not ready to start work after an offer has been made and accepted. Clearly, if the employer makes an offer with a firm start date, then that date becomes part of the offer. If the applicant cannot start on that date, regardless of the reason, the employer may withdraw the offer. Internet Searches Employers have to be careful about using non-work-related information as a basis for withdrawing an offer; this may include information learned by doing an Internet search of the person or visiting social networking sites. In California, the right to privacy contained in the California Constitution may protect the privacy rights of applicants and employees. Because this is a new area and there is little guidance from the courts, consult with your labor and employment attorney before withdrawing an offer, and discuss the factors involved. Liability A situation may occur where the employer finds a better applicant after making an offer. Where no conditional offer has been made (subject to further screening or the approval of the CEO, or some other supervisory persons involved in the search), the applicant may have relied on the offer and given notice to his/her present employer. If you revoke an offer after that notice was given, the applicant may lose that job, seniority and benefits. If the applicant has moved closer to the new job in reliance on the offer, you may be held liable for resulting damages. The reliance on an offer that causes detriment to an applicant may subject the employer to a lawsuit. Therefore, before withdrawing an offer of employment, an employer should consult with legal counsel. An applicant may seek double damages in a civil action if he/she was persuaded, influenced or enticed to move his/her place of residence based on misrepresentation about either the length of time a job would last, the character of a job, compensation or the existence of a labor dispute or strike. Labor Code Sections 970 and 972 Continued on page 14

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Whittier Business Focus

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FEBRUARY 2011

PIH Foundation Announces James P. Fitzgerald As New Chairman of the Board; Sudhaker H. Nayak, MD Joins Board of Directors

Rose Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary Is proud to present

Business Resource and Veterans Beneﬁts Fair March 26 and 27, 2011 Bringing the Business Community to Our Veterans For details on how your business may participate in this outreach to all of our veterans Call 562-463-4501 Or visit our web site www.RoseHillsVets.com

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PIH Foundation recently announced that James P. Fitzgerald, MD, of Whittier, has been elected the new chairman of its Board of Directors following the retirement of Frank L. Scott, who was concurrently appointed chairman emeritus after more than two decades of service to PIH including 13 years as chairman of the Foundation Board of Directors. “Mr. Scott is leaving an incredible legacy here at PIH and we will remain forever grateful for his tremendous contributions which have touched every area of the hospital—including revolutionizing our golf tournament and his magnificent impact on our nursing program,” said DawnMarie Kotsonis, James P. Fitzgerald Executive Director, PIH Foundation & Community Benefit. “And, we are excited to have Dr. Fitzgerald lead our efforts going forward. As a highly regarded physician with deep roots in the community coupled with his genuine love for the hospital, Dr. Fitzgerald is the ideal choice to lead the Foundation’s vital work to ensure that PIH remains a viable community asset for decades to come. As a founding member of PIH’s original medical staff established in 1959 and member of the Foundation board of directors since 2000, Dr. Fitzgerald will lead PIH Foundation’s fundraising efforts in support of the Plaza Tower and play a vital role in launching PIH’s Legacy Society—a new Planned Giving Program that will enable long-time community members, hospital volunteers, Auxilians, physicians and staff to make gifts of stock, annuities and estate gifts that will sustain the progressive work being done by the organization’s medical professionals every day. Dr. Fitzgerald’s dedication to PIH and excellent patient care has also included service on numerous committees including the Nursing Services Committee, the Utilization Committee, Surgical Evaluation Committee, the Emergency Room Committee, the Tumor Board, the Program and Education Committee, the Cancer Committee, and the Medical Evaluation Committee. PIH also recently announced the appointment of Sudhaker H. Nayak, MD, as a new Board of Directors member. The governing board of voting directors includes physicians and business and community leaders who meet each month to help guide the policies of the hospital. Dr. Nayak received his medical degree from Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad, India. He completed a Residency in Pediatrics at the Institute of Child Health in Hyderabad, India, and in Internal Medicine at Prince George’s General Hospital and Medical Center in Chervely, Maryland. Additionally, he was selected for Fellowships in Cardiology at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan, and in Interventional Cardiology and Electrophysiology at Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Los Angeles. He is Board Certified in Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, and Cardiology and his recertification in Interventional Cardiology is pending. Additionally, Dr. Nayak has received numerous awards, is involved in research and also teaches. He has published research data on measles vaccinations and he is also a faculty member of the Family Practice Residency Program at Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital. He is the Chair of the Department of Cardiology for Bright Health Physicians (PIH’s affiliated medical group), and he is the Medical Director of the PIH Catheterization Laboratories. For more information on Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital call (562) 698-0811 or visit www.pih.net. Sudhaker H. Nayak

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FEBRUARY 2011

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Whittier Business Focus

Tax tips Tap Your IRA Avoid the Early Withdrawal Penalty

Richard Scrivanich, Harvey & Parmelee LLP

When you withdraw money from your traditional IRA, you probably will owe income tax. Moreover, the R in IRA stands for retirement, so the tax code discourages early withdrawals. You probably will owe a 10% penalty tax if you take money from your IRA before age 59½. This surtax can be especially painful for individuals facing financial difficulties. Example 1: Matt Peters was laid off from his publishing job at age 52. He is working as a freelance editor this year, but his income is sharply lower than it had been. Matt takes $10,000 from his IRA

to help pay his bills. This year, Matt’s income will put him in the 15% tax bracket. Therefore, he owes $1,500 in federal income tax on his IRA withdrawal: 15% of $10,000. Matt also owes a 10% surtax of $1,000 (10% of $10,000) because he is under age 59 ½. As you can see, the yearly withdrawal penalty increases his tax obligation sharply, from $1,500 to $2,500.

10% solutions Fortunately, the tax code includes several exceptions to this 10% penalty. They include: • Death. You won’t owe a penalty if you are the beneficiary of an IRA after the IRA owner’s death. • Disability. You can take penalty-free distributions from your IRA if you are disabled. • College costs. You can withdraw an amount equal to or less than what you pay for higher education expenses in a calendar year. • Home acquisition costs. You can use the distributions to buy, build, or rebuild a home. • Medical insurance. If you lose a job and collect unemployment insurance for at least 12 consecutive weeks, you can tap your IRA for an amount up to your costs for health insurance. • Medical expenses. If you have unreimbursed medical expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income, you can withdraw the excess amount from your IRA. • Annuity payouts. Distributions avoid penalties if they are taken as a series of substantially equal periodic payments (SOSEPP).

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The two-year hitch Some of these exceptions come with fine print. For the home acquisition exception, the home buyer can be the IRA owner, the IRA owner’s spouse, either spouse’s ancestor, or either spouse’s descendant. You can take money from your IRA to provide your son with a down payment on a home, for example, and avoid the 10% surtax. In addition, every home buyer must be a “first-time” buyer. That is, he or she cannot have owned a principal residence in the two years prior to the purchase. If the buyer is married, both spouses must pass this two-year test. Finally, this exception to the 10% penalty is limited to $10,000. That $10,000 is a lifetime amount, per taxpayer. Thus, a married couple can each withdraw up to $10,000, penalty free, to finance a home purchase if all the other requirements are met.

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Whittier Business Expo March 24th

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The Felici Piano Trio Sat. February 5 8:00 p.m. 

Whittier College Theatre Arts Dept.

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74th Annual Bach Festival Bach & The Flute Mar. 20 - 2:00 p.m. 

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Whittier Business Focus

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FEBRUARY 2011

BuSINESS OWNERS SEMINAR SERIES Walking the Firing Line: Hiring/Firing Dr. Renée Florsheim, Seminar for Supervisors Whittier College Professor, to Speak on Management and Marketing for On Thursday, February 24th from 8:30 a.m.– 11 a.m., the Whittier Chamber will host an important Employment Law Small Businesses Seminar at the Historic Depot (on Greenleaf Ave. across the street from the Radisson Hotel Whittier) Back by popular demand, Irma Rodríguez Moisa of Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, A Professional Law Corporation will review the employment process and highlight potential areas for costly mistakes. She will provide suggested actions to reduce the chance your company will be sued and provide practical guidelines when making personnel decisions and interacting with employees. In addition, attendees will gain valuable insight for recruiting the right people and addressing the challenges of Irma Rodríguez Moisa terminations. “I attended the first half of this seminar and thought the content was very informative and found the presentation by Irma Moisa to be very dynamic,” stated Whittier Chamber President and owner of PayAdvance Payroll Dean Harako. “I look forward to the second half of the seminar and I’m confident that participants will leave with some helpful tips for hiring and firing employees.” Irma Rodríguez Moisa has extensive experience working with companies and public agencies to help HR managers avoid the myriad of legal issues which they face each day. She is also a skilled labor negotiator. She has litigated matters in state and federal courts in the areas of discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, FMLA/CFRA, disability discrimination, wrongful termination, and the First Amendment. Ms. Moisa has conducted close to 1,000 training seminars and provided advice and counsel to various entities and professional associations on topics such as: preventing discrimination, retaliation, and harassment; embracing diversity; conducting disciplinary investigations; responding to EEOC and DFEH complaints; understanding employee privacy rights; properly maintaining personnel files; managing employee leaves; and imposing employee discipline. The seminar is only $25 for Whittier Chamber members and $35 for non-Whittier Chamber members to attend. However, the registration fee is waived for members of the Whittier Chamber’s B.O.S.S. (Business Owners Seminar Series) Program. Individuals who paid for the first half of the Employment Law Seminar need not pay again. Not sure if you qualify for B.O.S.S. or want to learn more about seminars that can benefit you? Please call the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554 with questions or to RSVP for the Employment Law Seminar. Reservations for the seminar can also be made online in the Chamber Mall at www.whittierchamber.com.

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February Business Seminar Series set for February 17

The City of Whittier and the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce Dr. Renée Florsheim as the next speaker in the Business Seminar Series scheduled for February 17 th . Dr. Florsheim’s presentation “Management and Marketing for Small Business” is targeted to small business owners and will focus on managing your business BUSINESS OWNERS SEMINAR SERIES Brought to you by the for today and the future. She will also talk about “new marketing” techniques, Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce such as building your brand, the power of creativity, the new guerrillas and managing local and virtual communities. We are proud to partner with Whittier College on the Business Seminar Series and look forward to Dr. Florsheim’s special presentation. The seminar will be held on Feb. 17th at 8:00 a.m. at the Whittier Central Library and is free for all businesses to attend. Please call the Chamber at 698-9554 or the City at 464-3380 to RSVP, as space is limited. Dr. Renée Florsheim is currently Visiting Professor of Business Administration at Whittier College. A native of Long Beach, she began her career in the restaurant industry, eventually earning her bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Cal Poly Pomona, followed by an MBA from UCLA, a Ph.D. in Marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, and a J.D. from Loyola Law School. Before coming to Whittier College, she served as a faculty member and administrator at Temple University in Philadelphia, Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, and at Champlain College in Burlington, VT, among others, and has taught in a variety of countries throughout Europe, Asia, and Latin America. A specialist in Consumer Behavior and Services Marketing, Dr. Florsheim has published work in such publications as The Journal of Business Research, The Journal of Consumer Research, and The Service Industries Journal. She taught a course in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Marketing to MBA students at Loyola Marymount University for many years.

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Whittier Business Focus

WHAT’s COOL IN YOUR SCHOOL Whittier High School Wins Golden Bell Award

The Golden Bell Awards program promotes excellence in education by recognizing outstanding programs in school districts and county offices of education throughout California. Golden Bell Awards reflect the depth and breadth of education programs necessary to address students’ changing needs. The CSBA is a collaborative group of virtually all of the state’s more than 1,000 school districts and county offices of education.

Whittier High School recently received the prestigious Golden Bell Award from the California School Boards Association (CSBA) for its innovative daily schedule that provides students with tutorial time (embedded support) during classes, thus increasing students’ academic success. “As a result of our embedded support within class periods, students get the teacher time and assistance they need to succeed and receive a clear message that they will not be allowed to fail,” said Whittier High School Principal Lori Eshilian. “Student success has soared!” Whittier High School’s vision is to support all students in completing the courses required for entrance into the University of California and California State University systems, known New Locks Needed for Community Colleges and K-12 as the A-G college entrance requirements. In 2006, Whittier High School’s faculty identified the need for additional intervention time for those students who were not successful. School Modernization Projects Faculty also expressed the need for time to develop effective professional learning communities that would continue to align curriculum to state standards, develop common Assemblymember Tony Mendoza (D-Norwalk) introduced AB 85 last week, a bill that assessments across all curricular areas, and conduct thorough data analysis in order to improve would require safer locks for K-12 school modernization projects and on California Community teaching practices and increase student success. College campuses. Mendoza authored AB 211, similar legislation that had bipartisan support Through a collaborative brainstorming session, the administrative team came up with a and was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger in 2010, that requires all new public creative adaptation of a traditional blocked bell schedule that has added 20-minutes of embedded school construction projects to have safer locks installed in classrooms as well. Many classrooms support time to every class period, Tuesday through Friday, as well as a 90-minute common in K-12 schools and community colleges have locks that can be locked from the inside, and teacher planning time on a Monday “late start” schedule. this is problematic in times of emergency. The bill is sponsored by the California Federation “This innovative schedule has invigorated Whittier High School’s faculty, and students of Teachers. have experienced significant improvement in reaching our district goals. There has been an “Violent or potentially violent incidents on school campuses and community colleges improvement in grade point averages, an increase in students on track to graduate on time, and in the immediate neighborhoods surrounding those campuses are increasing at an alarming an increase in students meeting A-G college entrance requirements, rate,” says Assemblymember Mendoza. “Lockdowns are an effective thus giving more students the opportunity to go on to a four-year way school campuses facilitate the safety of both students and staff college,” Eshilian said. during a violent or potentially violent situation, but student safety is The A-G completion rate soared from 27.1% in 2006 to 44.9% in jeopardized if an instructor has to exit a classroom to lock the door.” 2009. Whittier High School’s “on target rate” to graduate has also Many teachers, faculty and staff keep keys in areas where they increased from 77.2% in the 2005-06 school year to 91.3% at the do not have immediate access to them. The locks in many school end of the 2009-10 school year, which is the highest school-wide classrooms, offices, and other rooms where students and school staff on target rate in the District. Over this same period of time, Whittier gather can only be locked from the outside. High School’s API scores have increased by 63 points and its similar “When I was teaching, we had a violent incident occur near school ranking has moved up from a 5 to a 9, school officials said. campus during parent conferences,” Assemblymember Mendoza The block schedule quickly became a model for the District. recalls. ”I taught in a portable building away from the main building Today, all of the District’s comprehensive high schools have an of the school, and there was a shooting near my classroom. Our door alternative bell schedule that provides for daily embedded support required an “L” wrench to lock and unlock it from inside. Finding the for students and weekly professional collaboration time. “L” wrench and fiddling with the lock in an emergency situation takes “We’re thrilled that Whittier High School received the Golden Whittier High School administrators with the school’s too much time. This bill is critical to make sure teachers, faculty and CSBA Golden Bell Award. From left, Bell Award for their pioneering efforts,” said Superintendent Sandra staff can lock doors in a hurry in an emergency lock down.” Thorstenson. “Our teachers came together to solve a problem Dean Randy Castillo, Assistant Principal of Guidance Assemblymember Mendoza, a public school teacher and current and Attendance Devon Monson, Principal Lori and came up with a creative, innovative and positive solution Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, proudly serves Eshilian, New Horizons Director Chris Cortez and that benefited not only Whittier High School, but also all of our Assistant Principal of Curriculum Bill Schloss. the 56th District. District schools.

Mendoza Introduces Bill To Improve Safety At Schools And Community Colleges

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Whittier Business Focus

Wake Up Whittier Maria Segovia of Pacific Western Bank greets Bruce Lazenby of Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary at the monthly networking breakfast

Whittier Chamber President Dean Harako presents The Whole Child’s Charlene Dimas-Peinado with a certificate of appreciation for hosting another successful networking event

www.whittierchamber.com “Silver Shield” - continued from page 1

guests) and recognition in the Business Focus Newspaper. There are additional ways to participate in Silver Shield. Corporate Sponsorships range from $900-$1500 and include a table at the dinner and event marketing. Individual tickets can be purchased for only $90 and include a 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception, networking, and dinner at 6:30 p.m. This year guests of the event will also have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to win a cruise that has been generously donated by The Traveling Traveler. If you’re unable to attend, but still want to show your support, you can purchase advertising space in the tribute program. For more sponsorship and marketing information please contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554. Tickets and sponsorships can also be purchased online through the Chamber Mall at www.whittierchamber.com. “It is very rewarding to be involved with this event and I encourage our members to look at how they can participate this year,” stated Chamber Board Member Bonnie Watje of ACRO Printing, Inc.

Chief David Singer

Whittier city Mayor Greg Nordbak made a guest appearance at the monthly breakfast and enjoyed some early morning conversation with the lovely ladies of CAPC, Inc.

FEBRUARY 2011

Lieutenant Wyatt Powell

Communications Supervisor Stephanie Walker

Lieutenant William Webster

Corporal Marc Durant

Officer Ray Palmer

Sergeant Dan Lowe

Corporal Michael Hinson

Officer Michael Karson

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member spotlight Friendly Banking Done Right Friendly Hills Bank ("FHB") was founded in 2006 by a group of local business leaders who recognized the value of establishing a relationship focused bank for the local community. FHB is organized as a Commercial Bank under the laws of the State of California and provides deposit insurance through the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The bank's motto, "Do Business Locally," says a lot about why FHB opened a community bank in Southern California, currently operating out of two locations in Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. Friendly Hills Bank is dedicated to promoting the concept of bringing local businesses, professionals, residents and organizations together for the economic and social benefit of the community. A strong commitment to customer service has helped attract consistent growth in client relationships which has fostered strength in both loans and deposits. With an entrepreneurial approach to the marketplace, an established reputation for rapid response and the ability to adjust to market conditions, FHB plans to expand when and where opportunities arise. “At Friendly Hills Bank, we understand that it is our people that make the difference. That is why we are proud to offer a higher level of service to our clients by having representatives who are responsive and understanding to your banking needs. Being locally based gives us a better opportunity to know our customers and their needs. With Friendly Hills Bank, you will not be reliant upon some 800 number that goes to a nondescript call center, a loan request hotline to some distant underwriting division or a computer-based phone system with insulting prompts for information. Instead we provide you with direct access to a live person who is eager to know you and will be helpful so that you can focus on your business. Come give us a try and see how FRIENDLY your banking experience can be. After all – it’s in our name.” – Jeff Ball, President and CEO of Friendly Hills Bank To learn more about Friendly Hills Bank, call their local Whittier branch at (562) 947-1920 or visit www.friendlyhillsbank.com.

Whittier Business Focus

COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS z New Chamber member Hollywood Brows celebrated the opening of their new store location in the Whittwood Town Center alongside Whittier Chamber Board members and Ambassadors

Family members and friends gathered for food and fun during the ribbon cutting ceremony at Hollywood Brows

Whittier Chamber President Dean Harako and Angelica Frausto, City of Whittier Business Development Manager, thanked Michael Tye and Diana Gonzalez of Advanced Benefit Center for giving an informative Health Care Reform presentation during the Chamber’s monthly business seminar

Matrix Oil – a business partner with the Whittier community since 2001 The independent Draft Environmental Impact Report concludes that the Consolidated Central Site and the Landfill Road are the environmentally superior alternatives. We look forward to working with the residents and City to further refine these recommendations. Our goal is to make sure we minimize any possible impacts for residents and maximize the benefits for everyone in Whittier. For more information about the Consolidated Central Site and the Whittier Oil Project Oil, please visit: www.whittieroil.com

MATRIX IS PROUD TO BE IN WHITTIER AND CONTINUING OUR PRODUCTIVE AND SAFE PARTNERSHIP

Whittier Business Focus

www.whittierchamber.com

FEBRUARY 2011

FEBRUARY COMMUNITY CALENDAR Wednesdays in February: Community Yoga classes @ Friends Chiropractic (6736 Friends Ave., Whittier), 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Bring a yoga mat. Certified Instructor: Rebecca Merlino. Free – donations accepted. Contact Friends Chiropractic (562) 698-1275

FEBRUARY 2011

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

3. 2011 Mega Chamber Networking Lunch @ Boys & Girls Club of Whittier (7905 Greenleaf Ave., Whittier) 11:30 a.m. $15 Chamber members, $18 nonmembers. Contact (562) 945-3787 for more information 4. 16th Annual Victorian Feast Dinner Theater @ Whittier Museum (6755 Newlin Ave., Whittier) 6 p.m. $65 Museum members; $75 non-members. Mutli-course dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Contact (562) 945-3871 for more information

Youth of the Year Awards Dinner @ Boys & Girls Club of Whittier (7905 Greenleaf Ave., Whittier) 5:30 – 9 p.m. $40 per person. Contact (562) 945-3787 for more information

5. Felici Piano Trio Concert @ Ruth B. Shannon Center, Whittier College (6760 Painter Ave., Whittier) 8 p.m. Adults $15, senior $10. Contact (617) 281-0404 for more information

Oralingua School for the Hearing Impaired Fundraiser @ JT’s Beach Club (15334 E. Whittier Blvd., Whittier). All day event. Contact (562) 945-8391 for more information

Business Training Workshop @ Zoe Christian Fellowship (10252 Mills Ave., Whittier) 8:30 – 11 a.m. FREE to attend. Sponsored by the Joseph Business School. Contact (562) 906-5000 Ext. 300 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JBSLA

16th Annual Victorian Feast Dinner Theater @ Whittier Museum ( 6 7 5 5 N e w l i n Av e . , W h i t t i e r ) 6 p . m . $ 6 5 M u s e u m m e m b e r s ; $75 non-members. Mutli-course dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Contact (562) 945-3871 for more information

6. 16th Annual Victorian Feast Dinner Theater @ Whittier Museum (6755 Newlin Ave., Whittier) 6 p.m. $65 Museum members; $75 non-members. Mutli-course dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. Contact (562) 945-3871 for more information 9. Wake Up Whittier Monthly Networking Breakfast @ Merrill Gardens (13250 E. Philadelphia St., Whittier) 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. FREE for Chamber members; $20 non-members. Contact the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554

Special ribbon cutting @ Pioneer High School (10800 E. Benavon, Whittier) 1 p.m. Featuring new Konica Minolta Digital Press. Contact the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554

12. The Heart of a Child Gala @ Langham Hotel (1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106) 6 p.m. Cost TBA. Benefits The Whole Child. Contact (562) 698-0811 ext. 269 for more information

13. Rio Hondo Symphony’s Russian Rhapsody Concert @ Vic Lopez Auditorium, Whittier High School (12417 E. Philadelphia St., Whittier), 3 – 5 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 698-8626 for more information 16. “NovelTea” An Evening of Tea & Talk @ Whittier Public Library (7344 Washington Ave., Whittier) 7 p.m. Tickets $20. Contact Whittier Public Library for information at (562) 567-9900 17. FREE Business Seminar Series: Management & Marketing for Small Businesses @ Whittier Central Library, Nixon Room (7344 Washington Ave., Whittier), 8 a.m. Contact the Whittier Chamber to RSVP (562) 698-9554 18. President’s Day Celebration @ Posada Whittier (8120 Painter Ave, Whittier) 2 – 3 p.m. Desserts served and special performance. Contact Posada (562) 945-2651 for more information 19. B u s i n e s s T r a i n i n g Wo r k s h o p @ Z o e C h r i s t i a n F e l l o w s h i p (10252 Mills Ave., Whittier) 8:30 – 11 a.m. FREE to attend. Sponsored by the Joseph Business School. Contact (562) 906-5000 Ext. 300 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JBSLA 21. ***CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED FOR PRESIDENT’S DAY*** 22. Tasty Tuesday Networking Lunch @ Portofino’s (651 W. Whittier Blvd., Whittier) 11:30 a.m. Cost TBA. Contact the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554 24. B.O.S.S. Seminar Series: Hiring & Firing @ Whittier Historic Depot (7333 Greenleaf Ave., Whittier) 8 – 11:30 a.m. FREE for B.O.S.S. members; $25 for Chamber members; $35 for non-members. Contact the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554

Ribbon Cutting & Open House @ Heartwise Fitness and Longevity Center (8038 Painter Ave., Whittier) 4 p.m. Contact the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554

25. New Member Orientation @ the Whittier Chamber Office (8158 Painter Ave., Whittier) 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. FREE to attend and light lunch is provided. RSVP to the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554

AAUW Math & Science Conference @ Rio Hondo College (3600 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier) time TBA. Contact Mirian Locke by e-mail at univminn57@yahoo.com

Abbey Road @ Blue Moon Theatre (16200 Amber Valley Dr., Whittier) 7:30 p.m. Premier seating (first five rows) $40; general $20. Contact (562) 480-7351 for more information

51st Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts @ Hillcrest Congregational Church (2000 West Rd., La Habra Heights) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 947-3755

26. Atomic Punks @ Blue Moon Theatre (16200 Amber Valley Dr., Whittier) 7:30 p.m. Premier seating (first five rows) $40; general $20. Contact (562) 480-7351 for more information

51st Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts @ Hillcrest Congregational Church (2000 West Rd., La Habra Heights) 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 947-3755

“Clear Day” Self-Healing Workshop @ Office of Dr. Wendy Kreider, Chiropractor (16262 Whittier Blvd., Suite 23, Whittier) 12 – 4 p.m. Cost $60. RSVP to (562) 943-2431

27. 51st Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts @ Hillcrest Congregational Church (2000 West Rd., La Habra Heights) 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contact (562) 947-3755 28. “Help Increase Your Energy” Workshop @ Friends Chiropractic (6736 Friends Ave., Whittier) 7 p.m. Free. Contact (562) 698-1275 for more information

Denotes Chamber Events.

NETWORKING QUOTE As a Past President and proud member of the Whittier Chamber, I encourage my fellow members to support one another. I recently had the opportunity to visit Aram with Renaissance Repair Shop to show my support and extend myself as a point of contact before his ribbon cutting celebration. My visit with Aram will always hold a special place in my heart because he helped my husband (of almost 25 years) rebuild my wedding ring. I’ve had the privilege of having many moments such as these because I continue to support fellow Whittier Chamber members. I am fortunate to be a part of such a giving and helpful community of businesses. We will only grow stronger by working together. - Carolyn Reggio, Executive Director CAPC

FEBRUARY 2011

www.whittierchamber.com

“Whittier Chamber Business Expo” - continued from page 1

listed on the Treasure Map and have their Map stamped. Each completed Map will be eligible to win the grand prize vacation generously sponsored by The Traveling Traveler. As always the Business Expo will feature a variety of food vendors representing some of Whittier’s finest restaurants, caterers and eateries! Free samples from each vendor’s menu will be showcased and enjoyed by all Expo attendees! Any restaurants or caterers interested in participating should call the Chamber office for details regarding a complimentary table at the Business Expo. There are several ways to participate in the 2001 Whittier Chamber Business Expo! TABLES & BOOTHS IN “TREASURE ISLAND” (Main Ballroom): All tables and booths in “Treasure Island” include linens, chairs, free electricity, a sign for your business, free marketing package (see details below) and an excellent table location in the Expo’s Main Ballroom. * Treasure Island Table (6-foot): $275 * Treasure Island Booth (8’x10’, with two classroom style tables): $395 TABLE IN “CAPTAIN’S QUARTERS”- $175 (Board Room): A standard table in this very popular room located across from the Main Ballroom includes a 6’ table with linens, chairs and a sign for your business. A limited amount of space with electricity is available for an additional $15. TABLE IN “THE PLANK”- $160 (Hallway): A standard table in this high traffic area includes a 6’ table with linens, chairs and a sign for your business. A limited amount of space with electricity is available for an additional $15. TABLE IN “THE GALLEY”- $160 (Bar Area): A standard table in this unique location includes a 6’ table with linens, chairs and a sign for your business. A limited amount of space with electricity is available for an additional $15. MARKETING PACKAGE (included with all Treasure Island tables and booths): Only $50 The Marketing Package includes themed table décor, recognition in the Business Focus Newspaper before and after the Expo, complete listing in the Expo Booklet including all business contact information and company logo, one E-Newsletter advertisement and acknowledgment at Chamber events prior to the Business Expo. TREASURE CHEST PRIZE DONATION The Treasure Chest game, hosted by CAPC Inc., offers Expo attendees the chance to win prizes by purchasing a Treasure Chest Key. Businesses that donate prizes will be acknowledged in the Treasure Chest Marketing. Prizes should be a minimum value of $10 each. TREASURE MAP SPONSOR: Only $50 Drive people to your table by having your logo on the Treasure Map. Attendees will be asked to visit each table listed on the Treasure Map and have their Map stamped. Each completed Map will be eligible for the grand prize drawing sponsored by the Traveling Traveler. The Business Expo is a stellar event that you don’t want to miss! Chamber members can reserve their space in the Business Expo or sign up for additional marketing by calling the Chamber at (562) 698-9554 or by visiting the Chamber Mall at www.whittierchamber.com. In past years this has been a sold-out event! Don’t delay…reserve your space today!

Whittier Business Focus

OFFICE LIFE Office Life: Love at Work

By Michele Marrinan, Monster Contributing Writer Dating someone from work is natural for many people. After all, who has time to meet someone when you’re working 60 hours or more per week? You may find that understanding your mutual work lives can deepen your relationship. And instead of rushing home each evening, you may be willing to work late, especially if you can do it alongside your beloved. Despite the upsides, the downsides can be pretty daunting. First, there’s no escape if the romance goes sour. You still have to see and interact with that person daily. A failed workplace romance can also hurt your career and reputation. People may view a promotion or raise as favoritism, no matter how much you deserve it. And even if the relationship works out, it can be tough to work with your lover. “You get sick of each other,” says Judy Kuriansky, PhD, author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Dating. Whether you should or should not date someone at the office isn’t always a clear-cut decision. It depends on your situation and personality. But if you decide to make the leap, tread carefully over these issues. Make Sure You Can Take the Consequences “If you decide to wander down that illicit path of meeting somebody in your office, remember to take the good with the bad,” says Paul A. Falzone, CEO of The Right One and Together, two dating franchises. “The biggest problem about interoffice relationships is that if it doesn’t work out, you still have to face that person every single day.” Make sure that you can. Be Smart You don’t want your entire life to be an open book. Before you ask your love interest out for a drink, be certain he isn’t the type to share your innermost secrets around the water cooler. Date Up, Not Down Dating a subordinate isn’t smart. Your relationship could be misconstrued as a power play - “date me, or you won’t get that promotion.” If things go badly, you could get hit with a lawsuit for sexual harassment, even if the relationship was mutual. Some companies require managers to report workplace romances and both parties to sign an agreement stating they willingly entered the relationship. Be Discreet Some people keep workplace romances a secret. That’s the route Falzone recommends. But Kuriansky disagrees. She says that secrets can cause issues among coworkers. The key is to be discreet. Don’t hold closed-door meetings, don’t make overt displays of affection in the office and stay focused on work. Get a Life It’s important not to spend every waking hour with your lover and your work. That’s not good for any relationship. Pursue other interests together and individually. And make sure you have more in common than your jobs.

Whittier Business Focus

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FEBRUARY 2011

AROUND TOWN Local Lions Get Set to Host “Sight for Kids” Wine Tasting & Auction Event

Tickets are now available for the 15th annual Sight for Kids sponsored by the Whittier Host Lions Club. The popular evening event will feature wine tasting, food sampling and two auctions, one silent and one live. It is slated for Saturday, March 19, at the Whittier Community Center, 7360 Washington Ave. The Sight for Kids event brings the local community together to promote preventative eye care and provide financial assistance to children and young adults who are unable to afford proper eye care. The theme for this year’s event is “Some Enchanted Evening,” and will begin at 5:30 p.m. Once again Joe Tadlock will serve as the auctioneer and community favorite Jerry Perisho will be master of ceremonies. Enjoy food and wine sponsored by various Whittier area restaurants and bid on specialty auction items. Tickets are available from any member of the Whittier Host Lions Club, which is seeking a $50 donation for each ticket. This is the club’s major fund-raising event of the year. For more information on this event or to purchase tickets, contact event Chairman Rich Casford at (562) 698-7795.

Community Yoga Classes At Friends Chiropractic

All levels of yoga are welcome on Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. at Friends Chiropractic, 6736 Friends Ave. Learn how yoga can help you increase your flexibility, improve your range of motion enhance your posture and much more! Bring a yoga mat or one will be provided for you. Certified Instructor: Rebecca Merlino. Call (562) 698-1275 to reserve your spot. Cost: voluntary donation.

Free Community Workshop to Help Increase Your Energy

Are you like 95% of the population who complains of not having enough energy? Come learn everything you need to know about how to increase your energy and productivity! You will be given the tools to implement the “7 Step Peak Energy Solution” that will increase your energy and productivity by 40%, decrease your stress by 50% and help your body function optimally. Don’t let fatigue ruin your life! Call to register for the workshop on Monday, February 28 at 7 p.m. at 6736 Friends Avenue, Whittier, CA 90601. Featured speaker will be Dr. Yani Feliciano, Board Qualified Chiropractic Orthopedist and Wellness Advisor. Free booklet, materials and ProAdjuster Scan included for all participants. Call (562) 698-1275 to reserve your seat. You’ve got nothing to lose, but your fatigue!

Whittier Place Celebrates 10 Years in Whittier

Please “save the date” as Whittier Place Senior Living celebrates 10 years of serving the community on Wednesday, March 23. There will be entertainment, food, games and prizes, so be sure to stop by and enjoy yourself with us! Last year, together with the Whittier community, Whittier Place collected more than 545 suitcases for Concept 7, gathered more than 1500 pounds of canned food for First Family Church, and collected more than 100 scarves, mittens and hats for homeless families in Whittier. There is much to celebrate at Whittier Place Senior Living! For more information, call (562) 321-9401 or visit www.whittierplaceseniorliving.com.

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Annual Art Festival Celebrates 51 Years in February

The 51st anniversary of the Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts is coming up on the last weekend in February. Hosted by Hillcrest Congregational Church UCC, the festival is one of the premier juried art shows in the West running Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 25, 26 & 27, 2011 in the city of La Habra Heights. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Parking and admission are free. The festival showcases an extensive variety of art available for purchase at a wide range of prices: watercolor and oil paintings, unique jewelry, ceramics, acrylics, pottery, handwoven clothing, photography, stained and fused glass, sculpture, woodworking, and a great selection of handcrafted gifts in the Arts & Crafts Boutique. There will be many artists demonstrating their skills throughout the weekend, and free art workshops for children are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Festival attendees can browse, shop, enjoy free live entertainment, and have lunch or a snack at the Starving Artist Café. This year’s Featured Artist is the noted and established international landscape and architectural photographer Vern Clevenger. From an adventure-filled life of sojourning in the Sierra Nevada, he has developed an ability to respond with an unerring sense of place to feel and to frame a day’s shifting light, a season’s shifts of color and mood and the constant drama of mountain landscapes. Started 51 years ago, the festival attracts art lovers from all over California who visit each year to see all the beautiful artwork and to purchase art at great prices. Each year many new artists, as well as long-time favorites, are chosen to participate. Hillcrest Congregational Church is located near the border of Whittier and La Habra Heights at 2000 West Road. For more information call (562) 947-3755 or visit www.hillcrest-church.org.

Important Community Directory Now Available at Library Branches

The 2011 edition of Whittier Public Library’s Directory of Whittier Area Clubs and Organizations is now available. The directory contains descriptive and contact information for more than two hundred local civic, philanthropic, social, political and common-interest organizations. Copies may be obtained, free of charge, at the Reference Desk at Central Library, 7344 S. Washington Avenue, or the Whittwood Branch, 10537 Santa Gertrudes Avenue. For more information about the Club Directory, please call Central Library’s Reference Desk (562) 567-9903.

Whittier A.M. Y’s Men Serve Pancakes and the Community at Upcoming Breakfast

The Whittier A.M. Y’s Men’s Club will be hosting their pancake breakfast on March 5, 2011 at the Uptown Whittier YMCA location, 12510 E. Hadley St., from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. The breakfast menu will include traditional favorites such as scrambled eggs, juice and sausage, and of course pancakes! Tickets are $5 each and children under 5 are free. All proceeds support local youth basketball and other youth programs. For more information contact the YMCA at (562) 907-2727.

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AROUND TOWN SKILLS Foundation Invites Community Members to Golf for Kids

Come out and “golf for kids” at the SKILLS (Supporting Kids in Living and Learning Successfully) Foundation’s 21st Annual Golf Tournament. The fundraiser takes place Monday, March 7, 2011 at Candlewood Country Club, 14000 Telegraph Rd. Proceeds raised will help fund prevention, enrichment and academic programs for youth. Interested businesses and individuals may sponsor a tee for a $100 donation. Golfer registration is $195 per person. Registration includes the following: cart and green fees, boxed lunch, opportunities to win prizes, on course drinks, putting contest entry, polo and dinner. Individuals wishing only to attend dinner can purchase a ticket for $35. The SKILLS Foundation’s youth and community programs include Red Ribbon Week, Club Dexter and Club Orchard Dale (After School Youth Programs), Friday Forum (an enrichment program) and Students Against Violence (SAV). To register as a golfer or sponsor, please contact Toni Banuelos at (562) 325-5620.

Local Chiropractor Hosts “Clear Day” Workshop for Self-Healing

Kick start the new you – for good! Do you feel stuck? Would you like to change? Experience a “Clear Day” at the office of Dr. Wendy Kreider on Saturday, February 26 from 12 – 4 p.m. Immerse yourself in the powerful, vibrant and unique energy of Network Care. During this interactive workshop, Dr. Wendy and Dr. Kristen will train you in the self-healing technique of Somatic Respiratory Integration. Additionally, all participants will receive two Network Spinal Analysis treatments. The cost of the “Clear Day” workshop is $60. Please RSVP to (562) 943-2431 as participation will be limited. Everyone is welcome!

Symphony Presents 3rd Admission-Free Concert of 78th Season

“Russian Rhapsody,” the Rio Symphony’s third admission-free concert of its 78th season, will be performed on February 13, 2011 in the Vic Lopez Auditorium at Whittier High School, 12417 Philadelphia St. The orchestra’s dynamic and innovative new conductor, Kimo Furumoto, said that “Russian nights are long and cold, but the passion in the music of Romantic masters will warm the heart and soul.” Russian-born Mikhail Korzhev, a major talent, will perform Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini. It has 24 variations of Paganini’s famous solo Violin Concerto in A Minor. Many listeners will recognize the haunting nocturne of the 18th variation, as well as the use of the Dies Irae plain chant in the 7th and 10th variations. Furumoto will begin the concert with Glinka’s Russlan and Ludmilla. The widely popular composition has joyful and perky melodic lines interlaced with furious strong lines. The orchestra attracts an audience of almost 1,800 to the 2400-seat auditorium. It is sponsored by Whittier, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, and by Rio Hondo College. The Symphony Guild is its major support group. For more information, please call (562) 698-8626 or visit the website at www.riohondosymphony.org.

Local Students Embark on Math & Science Excellence at Annual Conference

More than 475 girls from 23 middle schools in the Greater Whittier area will be attending the 18th Math/Science Conference for Eighth Grade Girls at Rio Hondo College on Friday, February 25, presented by the Whittier Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). With the theme of “Potential Unlimited,” the conference will begin at the Campus Inn with a keynote speaker, Rio Hondo Trustee Angela Acosta-Salazar, addressing the group. Each girl will hear from six speakers. The occupations of the 30 presenters, all requiring the knowledge of math and/or science, range from such diverse fields as NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), nursing, Federal Bureau of Investigation, dentistry, planetary science and obstetrics/gynecology. AAUW member Marian Locke, Chair of the event, may be contacted for further information by e-mail at univminn57@yahoo.com.

L.A. Times Book Critic to Speak at Whittier Public Library

David L. Ulin, author and Los Angeles Times book critic, will be the featured speaker at NovelTea, an evening of “tea and talk” at Whittier Public Library on Wednesday, February 16 at 7 p.m. Ulin will discuss his latest book, The Lost Art of Reading: Why Books Matter in a Distracted Time, published last November. He also wrote The Myth of Solid Ground: Earthquakes, Prediction and the Fault Line Between Reason and Faith, and edited the award-winning Writing Los Angeles: A Literary Anthology. Ulin’s work has appeared in the Los Angeles Times Magazine, the New York Times Book Review, the Atlantic Monthly, Newsday and the Nation, as well as on NPR’s “All Things Considered.” In June of last year, after five years as an L.A. Times book editor, Ulin became a book critic. He is also a “guiding light” for the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Tea, with cookies baked by Library staff, will be served at NovelTea. Ulin’s books will be available for purchase and signed by the author. Tickets at $20 per person may be purchased at the Central Library, 7344 S. Washington Avenue. Please note that seating is very limited. For more information, call the Whittier Public Library at (562) 567-9900.

Free Business Opportunities Offered Through the Joseph Business School

The Joseph Business School is a certified vocational entrepreneur training program, offered through Zoe Christian Fellowship, that provides proven hands-on instructional vs. theory based training. Experienced instructors help each individual develop a workable plan to grow an existing business, identify promising new product/service opportunities or pull together a strong plan to launch a new business concept. Attendees can sample the quality of actual class instruction, ask instructors questions and learn keen business insight. Seminar dates are listed below from 8:30 - 11 a.m. Space is limited so reserve your seat now! Contact the Joseph Business School at (562) 906-5000 Ext. 300 or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JBSLA. February 5, 2011 - Financing the Business/The Financial Side of Pricing/Financial Analysis February 12, 2011 - Finance Workshop

CREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS

February 26,FESTIVAL 27, & 28 HILLCREST CREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS day & Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm OF FINE ARTS ndayHILLCREST FESTIVAL 11:30 am –ARTS 5:00 pm OF& FINE February 26, 27, 28 February 25, 26, & 27

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Celebrating our 51 year! 11:30 am – 5:00 pm

Sunday

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Friday & Saturday Sunday

10:00 am – 5:00 pm th – 5:00 pm 11:30 am

Celebrating our 50 year! Celebrating our 50th year!

Enjoy a wide variety of art for sale: watercolor and oil paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, pottery, handmade jewelry, glass, woodwork, hand-woven clothing, and the Arts & Crafts Boutique. Food and entertainment, too - all in a family-friendly, festival atmosphere. Children’s free art workshops on Sat. & Sun.

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Real-life therapy that incorporates food prep and cooking. nd entertainment, too -Whittier allin in a aBlvd. family-friendly, festival atmosphere. from E. in Whittier) rtainment, too -www.hillcrest-church.org all family-friendly, festival atmosphere. Children’s free artFESTIVAL workshops onARTS Sat. & Sun. Here’s what Carol Cossette has to say about HILLCREST OF FINE

Children’s free2000art workshops on Sat. & Sun. West Road, La Habra Heights (Just head north on Santa Gertrudes from E. Whittier Blvd. in Whittier) www.hillcrest-church.org

HILLCREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS HILLCREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS 2000 West Road, Habra Heights 2000 West Road,La La Habra Heights (Just head northon on Santa Santa Gertrudes HILLCREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS (Just head north Gertrudes from E. Whittier Blvd. in Whittier) 2000E. West Road, Blvd. La Habra Heights from Whittier in Whittier) www.hillcrest-church.org

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Whittier Business Focus

www.whittierchamber.com “President’s Message” - continued from page 2

Thank You

Renewing Members of the Whittier Chamber Advanced Benefit Center (562) 947-0625

Sanborn Insurance Agency, Inc. (562) 943-7174

American Red Cross (562) 945-3944

Santa Fe High School (562) 698-8121

Business Plan Preparation Service (562) 944-3344

Seasons at Hoover (562) 696-1848

California Arborist (562) 698-3280

Sir Speedy Printing Center (562) 698-7513

Emeritus at Whittier (562) 698-0596

SoCal Post-Acute Care (562) 698-0451

Friendly Hills Inn (562) 698-6731

Starbucks 6758 S. Greenleaf Ave. (562) 789-9258

Hacienda Golf Club (562) 694-1081 Hunter Security, Inc. (562) 754-4322

FEBRUARY 2011

Appreciation All through the “game,” successful teams appreciate one another and show it in a variety of ways. The coach shows it to the players, the players show it to the coach, and the players show it to one another. I want to thank the Chamber team, specifically the Board of Directors, Ambassadors and staff for playing an important role in the success of the organization this year. Together Everyone Achieves More! “Labor Law” - continued from page 3

Starbucks 12376 Washington Blvd. (562) 693-6160

Dr. Wendy Kreider, D.C., (562) 943-2431

Starbucks 13520 Whittier Blvd. (562) 945-0054

Kruse Properties, LLC (562) 690-4969

Stone Tapert Employee Benefits (714) 292-2738

Landmark Certified Development (562) 690-6400

Theodore A. Tanabe, D.D.S. (562) 698-0387

Love to Wrap (562) 397-2895

The Town House of Whittier (650) 854-1598

LS Real Estate (562) 696-7001

Trinity Worldwide Reprographics (562) 567-2050

Matrix Oil Corporation (805) 884-9624

Union Bank (562) 693-9636

Pure Rock Studios, LLC (562) 695-4500

Whittier Transfer & Storage (562) 692-0833

allow an applicant to sue any person, agent or officer for double damages for knowingly making any false representation. In addition, a person who is guilty of violating Section 970 is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to six months, or both. The hiring process is important for both the employer and applicant. Being clear about the hiring process and what the job entails (pay, benefits and start date) are essential to forming a good working relationship. Making an offer of employment, whether it is verbal or in writing, can be binding if the applicant accepts the offer. Therefore, it is important to be clear about contingencies and the approval process before offering an applicant a job. The Labor Law Helpline is a service to California Chamber of Commerce preferred and executive members. For expert explanations of labor laws and Cal/OSHA regulations, not legal counsel for specific situations, call (800) 348-2262, or submit your question at www.hrcalifornia.com.

“Tax Tips” - continued from page 5

Precise payouts Many taxpayers use a series of substantially equal periodic payments (SOSEPP) to take money from an IRA penalty free before 59½. A SOSEPP can be used by any taxpayer, so you don’t have to fit into a particular situation (disabled, first-time home buyer, and so forth) to qualify. There are several ways to calculate a SOSEPP, which means that you have a great deal of flexibility in determining how much you want to take from your IRA. On the other hand, once you begin a SOSEPP you must maintain it for at least five years or until age 59 ½, whichever comes later. If you withdraw more or less than the required amount, you will owe the 10% penalty on all your withdrawals before age 59 ½. The more the merrier Now for the good news: a Tax Court case in 2009 indicated that you can use more than one exception to increase penalty-free IRA withdrawals. In this case (Benz v. Commissioner), the taxpayer was taking a SOSEPP. One year, she took out the SOSEPP amount and also withdrew $22,500 to pay college costs for her son. She did not pay any penalty on these withdrawals. The IRS allowed penalty-free withdrawals for her college costs, under the exception for higher education expenses, but the IRS also said that taking out the extra money for college spoiled her series of substantially equal periodic payments. Therefore, the IRS assessed a 10% penalty for some of her IRA withdrawals. The Tax Court decided in favor of the taxpayer, ruling that her penalty-free withdrawal for college costs did not interfere with her scheduled SOSEPP. Therefore, it appears that you are allowed to use more than one exception to the 10% penalty for early IRA withdrawals. If you have any questions regarding the above discussed topic or any other tax matter, please feel free to give me a call at (562) 698-9891. Richard Scrivanich, Partner For Harvey & Parmelee LLP

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Nobleza Tequila, Inc. was founded by Paula Torres in 2006 with the goal of providing ultra premium Nobleza Azul Tequila in three varieties (Blanco, Reposado and Anejo) to the U.S., Mexican and European markets. Paula's family has been producing award winning premium blue agave for the tequila industry for over five generations. They are proud to be the first female founded Tequila Company in history and look forward to serving you soon.

Where do you go for objective investment advice? Objective investment guidance starts with objective research. As America’s largest independent brokerage firm,* LPL Financial is one of the few sources of unbiased research – uninfluenced by investment banking activities or corporate relationships like some other firms. The LPL Financial Research team performs in-depth research on bonds, mutual funds, annuities and investment managers across every asset class. This unbiased, independent research is the foundation for investment recommendations that are truly in your best interest. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a one-on-one consultation. *As reported by Financial Planning Magazine, June 19962010, based on total revenue.

EDUCATION/MUSIC Friends of the East Whittier Middle School Instrumental Music Program Roxanne Witzl 13502 Whittier Blvd., Ste. H Whittier CA 90605 (562) 201-4032 rwitzl@gmail.com www.cwmsimp.org

PM Page 1

MASSAGE & HEALTHCARE The Zen Den Spa Dr. Sandy Vidal 7750 Painter Ave. Whittier, CA 90602 (562)945-2490 sasyvidal@yahoo.com

The Friends of East Whittier Middle School Instrumental Music Program are excited to join the Whittier Chamber of Commerce and support other businesses in the community. Their Board members assist Mrs. Carnahan, East Whittier Middle School Music Director, in raising funds to help support over 300 student musicians. Funds are needed to cover costs for instrumental repair and replacement uniforms, bus transportation and festival fees.

Get ready to relax…The Zen Den Spa is a place to visit and experience ultimate relaxation. Dr. Sandy Vidal offers a wide range of services: Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Sports Massage and Physical Therapy. Also you can choose various world Massage Spa therapies: Thai-Bali-ShiatsuIndian-Swedish-Aromatherapy-Swedish-Reflexology. Call Dr. Sandy today to book your appointment.

Jade Tax Service offers exceptional tax preparation and tax consulting services specializing in Individual and Small Business Federal and State Income Tax Preparation and E-Filing with friendly and personal service. They want to make your annual income tax experience as stress free as possible and they stand behind you every step of the way. Educated and trained by H&R Block, they are also a Registered Tax Preparer with the state of California CTEC and an Active Member of NATP - National Association of Tax Professionals meeting all federal and state requirements for professional tax preparers.

TOWING Road Runner Specialty Towing & Transportation Angel Flores 7844 Chatfield St. Whittier, CA 90606 (562) 692-8260 angel.flores@roadrunnertowing.com www.roadrunnertowing.com Road Runner Specialty Towing & Transport Inc. provides towing for all types of vehicles and equipment, from your common car, tractor trailer to a 44 ton excavator. Available 24 hours a day 7 days a week, Road Runner has been owned and operated since 1990 by founder Angel Flores. Road Runner recently relocated to 7844 Chatfield St. Whittier, CA 90606 from Pico Rivera. They are excited to be a part of this community and look forward to many years of partnering up with the community and local non-profit organizations to help residents and help meet local goals.

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Reach over 12,000 businesses and residents on a montly basis! One time & annual rates available. We’ll design your ad at no additional cost. Call the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554

(562) 698-9891

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

Looking for a return on investment? It pays to advertise!

COMMERCIAL • Drains & Sewers Cleaned • Copper Repiping • Air Conditioning • Water Softeners

e y

Since 1958 • Furnaces • Water Piping • Disposals • Water Heaters

RESIDENTIAL • Hydrojetting • Leak Detections • Bath Remodeling • Backflow Testing & Repair

11661 Firestone Blvd., Norwalk 24 HOUR SERVICE 562

State Contractor License #271767

863-5717 • 562 868-7777

www.whittierchamber.com has a new homepage but are you on it? The Chamber offers a variety of website marketing options at affordable prices...

BUSINESS CARDS - LOGOS CATEGORIES - BANNER ADS Contact Katie Galvin today for more information!

(562) 698-9554 katie@whittierchamber.com

Whittier Business Focus

www.whittierchamber.com

ORG JUIC ANIC EB & DE AR LI

KEEP A HEALTHY HEART!

FEBRUARY 2011

“Whittier’s Premiere Multi-Family Property Specialists”

ANIC • ORG UCE D O R •P MIN • VITA ENTS LEM SUPP CERIES R •G O

CALL US TODAY FOR A

COMPLIMENTARY REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS James Blaylock President and Founding Principle 562.902.2288 james@inclusiverealty.com DRE 01015593

CATERING TO YOUR SPECIAL DIET NEEDS

• OPEN 7 DAYS • MON.-SAT. 9 TO 7 • SUNDAY 9 TO 4

60 FWY Whittier

Colim

Imperial

5 FWY

Harbor

Herbies

57 FWY

13310 E. WHITTIER BLVD., WHITTIER

605 FWY

Brendan Maun Associate Real Estate Advisor 949.610.3444 bmaun@inclusiverealty.com DRE 01883063 15820 E. Whittier Blvd., Ste A • Whittier, CA 90603 Office: (562) 902-2288 • Fax: (562) 902-0357 • DRE 01374983