Business Focus - January 2012 by Whittier Chamber

A Publication of the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce

JANUARY 2012 • VOL. 18 NO. 1

Gain Exposure For Your Business at the Rockin' Chamber Business Expo

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

Start your year off on the “right note” by participating in the Whittier Chamber’s Rock ‘n Roll Business Expo! Being a part of this very successful event is a surefire way to get your business plan rolling in the new year. The 2012 Business Expo will be held on Thursday, January 26 at the Radisson Hotel Whittier. “This event typically occurs in March, but we are excited to move it to January as a way of kick starting 2012”, stated Chairman Rudy Hernandez of RMH Dance and Productions. “Annually, this is one of our most popular events and the response from our members regarding the date change has been outstanding.” Taking place from 4 – 7 p.m., the Expo will feature over 100 Chamber businesses, organizations and restaurants. This event is free to the general public to attend and again this year we are anticipating a crowd of nearly 1000 community members.

The Business Expo gives Whittier Chamber members the opportunity to network, promote and sell their products and services to all who attend. It is designed to showcase our awesome Chamber businesses and give participants the opportunity to network with other local businesses, Chamber members, residents and community members alike. In three short hours you will have the chance to meet prospective customers and potentially reconnect with some old ones too. 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. Any restaurant or caterer interested in participating should call the Chamber office for details regarding a complimentary table at the Business Expo. Restaurants already signed up to participate are: California Grill, Phlight, Lascari's Italian Deli,

“The Whittier Chamber’s Business Expo is always well attended and very high energy. It’s one event we never miss because for us it’s all about meeting new people and getting new leads. We’re really looking forward to participating this year!” – Elizabeth Soto, Trinity Worldwide Reprographics

Piara Pizza, Radisson Hotel Whittier, Sam’s Club, Casita Olvera, Bon Appetit- Whittier College, Costco, Senor Peppers and Wing Master Café. Another exciting feature of the Expo will be the $10,000 Cash Giveaway. Only 200 tickets are being sold by Chamber committee and board members for $100 each so get together with your co-workers, family or friends for your chance to win! For more ticket information, call the Chamber at (562) 698-9554. Continued on page 9

Redesigned Website Drives More Business to Members Thanks to the valuable input and feedback from Chamber members, a dedicated committee, and a creative technical team, the Whittier Chamber recently unveiled its newly designed website! The new www.whittierchamber.com site is easy to navigate and features important information that can be found right on the homepage. “We are already getting positive comments on the fresh, modern look of the site,” said Katie Galvin, Director of Public Relations. “Members are saying that it is easy to find what they are looking for and they love some of the new advertising features for their business.” The new website is beneficial and easy to use for Chamber and community members alike. The benefit to members is easy access to Chamber information like a calendar of upcoming events, as well as important news and updates. These things make it easy for members to stay connected to what is happening in and around the business community. The searchable business directory is a great tool for business referrals and its user-friendly format will help drive more business to Chamber members’ doors. All Chamber members have their name, address, phone number and contact information listed on the new site, however members are able to enhance their business description by adding more information about their company, including a link to their own website, for an

additional fee. The brand new “Member Login” section will allow members to make changes to their listing, register for events, and make payments online for membership renewals, advertising items and events. Photos from recent Chamber and community events are updated regularly. Keep Chamber members coming back for more! For businesses thinking about joining the Chamber, information is readily available to help them make their decision. Easy to find items include a list of member benefits, as well as information about Chamber networking events and marketing opportunities. And what better proof will they need… testimonials from members on how the Chamber has helped their business grow are available right from the homepage! Best of all, prospective members can join the Chamber safely and securely right from the homepage with the “Join the Chamber” button. Community members can also access general information including important phone numbers, a listing of local school districts, demographic information, a list of area legislators, a listing and description of Whittier parks and more. And, whether they are looking for a reputable business to clean their carpets, need help finding an apartment, or are searching for a caterer or DJ for that special event, they can find it all via the

searchable business directory. Users of the site can search for a business by name or by category. The Events button located at the top of the homepage also features a wonderful community calendar which displays events that the general public can attend. Do you have an event to put on the community calendar? Simply press the “click here to submit your event” button on the homepage and fill out the required fields. Once Chamber staff approves the event, it will show up on the community calendar for all to see. It’s that easy! Lastly, the very Business Focus you are reading right now, full of pictures, ads, and great informational articles, is available for all to see online in a PDF format each month. The new look was created by Chamber member DigiCal, Inc. with input from an ad hoc website committee chaired by Bonnie Watje of ACRO Printing, Inc. “Our committee and Chamber staff took their time, researched hundreds of Chamber and other websites, and developed a look that was clean and functional,” said Bonnie. “Combined with a new database system, the redesigned site will allow the Chamber to communicate more quickly and effectively with its members and visitors worldwide.” For more information on the new website or how to enhance your business listing, visit www.whittierchamber.com or contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554.

Wake Up Whittier @

Whittier Chamber Ambassadors Elizabeth Soto of Trinity Worldwide Reprographics, Susie Ausdal with Union Bank and Galia Mariscal (far right) with Trinity Worldwide Reprographics welcomed new and prospective members during the Chamber’s Meet ‘n Greet Open House. For more community celebration photos, turn to page 3

(8100 Colima Road)

January 18, 2012 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Taking a break between bites! Alex Manriquez of My Social Calling, Gary Lee Martinez with The Traveling Traveler and Pam Rivera with The Traveling Traveler stopped to say cheese during the Tasty Tuesday networking lunch at Crepes & Grapes Café. For more photos from the monthly event, see page 8

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

MAYoR’S MESSAGE

On behalf of the Whittier Chamber, let me be the first to wish you a happy and prosperous New Year! It’s back to business around here! Now that the holiday season has officially ended, you've probably experienced that exciting resurgence of energy that comes with the start of a new year. For many, that means making a New Years’ resolution. To ensure that your resolution is not all but forgotten by February, you must first choose the right resolution for the right reasons. Perhaps it is to increase your business presence in the community or to be more strategic with your marketing dollars; maybe it is to add that additional employee in order to take your business to the next level. It could be Ben Greer, a personal goal to lose those 10 extra pounds from all those holiday GM Properties treats. No matter what your resolutions are, the key is to give some thought to what you really want and why you want it. One of my personal resolutions is to continue to utilize businesses in our Chamber and in our community first. I encourage you to look to our Chamber and our city first for vendors, services and customers. We will continue to partner with local businesses to help ensure that they grow as we grow. As we begin 2012 and officially close the books on yet another arduous economic year, it is imperative that we turn to each other and continue to help strengthen our community. The Whittier Chamber has all of the resources you will need to reach your goals this year, whether they are business or personal. If you are not a Chamber member, I encourage you to become one. What are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to make that investment in your business and let the Chamber help you grow your business. If you are a member, are you utilizing all the benefits of your membership like regular networking events, free business seminars each month, affordable marketing opportunities and more? Have you made it part of your business plan to get more involved? Call the Whittier Chamber (562) 698-9554 or visit our newly redesigned website at www.whittierchamber.com to find out more about the many Chamber programs and services available to you. Take advantage of the opportunities we have to offer and let the Whittier Chamber help make 2012 your most successful year in business. Kick it off with us at the first Wake Up Whittier of the year on Wednesday, January 18 at Whittier Area Community Church and make sure to reserve your table for the annual Business Expo taking place at the Radisson Hotel on January 26!

Happy New Year! After a long year, the Whittier City Council is pleased to begin 2012 with good news. Last month we reported that Panda Express will be joining the Whittwood Town Center family. Also, Chipotle and The Habit Burger Grill have signed leases. We are confident that the new restaurants will be a major plus for Whittwood. Most people are already familiar with Chipotle and Panda as they have had restaurants in the area for a few years now. Boy, are we in for a treat! The Habit specializes in charbroiled hamburgers with caramelized onions. They also serve malts and shakes in various flavors including chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, Cathy Warner, mocha and coffee. Be forewarned, the food is known to be “habit Whittier City Mayor forming!” For those of you looking for a lighter meal, they also have sandwiches such as a chicken club or albacore tuna steak sandwich. The Habit also offers a variety of salads. We wish the Whittwood Town Center and the new restaurants much success. The Whittwood Town Center area will be busy with activity between the new restaurants and construction at the Branch Library which is undergoing a $5.3 million renovation. If you live on the other side of town, near Whittier High School, you may have noticed that construction is well underway at the corner of Philadelphia and Pickering. The Mosaic Gardens housing development project, a 21-unit residential complex, will enhance and improve the gateway to Uptown, especially since the site sat vacant for over 22 years! The property’s onsite amenities will include a spacious courtyard with a tot lot playground, barbeque and picnic areas, and a large community space where resident services, programs and other events will take place. The building will be designed with three stories over a onelevel parking garage. Both these projects are expected to be complete before the end of 2012. The California Supreme Court has promised a decision on the lawsuit filed by the California Redevelopment Association and the League of California Cities on ABX 1 26 and 27, the new redevelopment laws passed last summer, by January 15th. The Whittier City Council who serves as the Whittier Redevelopment Agency Board, along with redevelopment agencies across the state, is anxiously waiting the decision as the case could significantly affect future development projects. The City Council remains hopeful the California Supreme Court will side with redevelopment so that we can continue to offer businesses assistance through the Commercial Façade Loan Program and redevelop the Fred C. Nelles site in Whittier, for example. Finally, for those of you who have resolved to be more organized at work, we recommend that you attend the January BOSS seminar entitled, “Organizational Tools for Maximum Profit,” presented by Evelyn Gray, a licensed productivity expert and peak performance coach. Her slogan, “If you can’t find it in 30 seconds, it’s in the wrong place”, says it all. Attend the seminar to learn tips and techniques on being more organized to save you time and money. The seminar will be held at the Whittier Central Library on January 12th from 8 to 9:30 a.m.

Happy New Year to all and remember: at the Whittier Chamber… we mean business!

Focus on your Business. Advertise in the

Business Focus.

Reach over 8,000 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

2011-2012 Board of Directors EXECUTIVE CoMMITTEE DIRECToRS Gus Arriaza, CW Supplies President Ernie Ceja, Vinatero Wine Shop Ben Greer, GM Properties Heather Crawford, Immediate Past President Prudential California Realty Dean Harako, Pay Advance Payroll Eric Day, VP Administration & President-elect Credit Union Of Southern California Sue Dean, Notary Signing Network Greg Gunter, Greg’s Auto Body VP Business Information Ana Gutierrez, Whittier College Leighton M. Anderson, Norm Kirschenbaum, Tri-Cities ROP Bewley, Lassleben & Miller Carolyn Reggio, CAPC, Inc. VP Community Affairs Shannon Gimbel, Shannon G’s Flowers STAFF VP Finance Carol Crosby & Lyn Carty, Jeff Ball, Friendly Hills Bank Executive Directors Jessica Schreiner Magdosku, VP Marketing Director of Membership Rudy Hernandez, RMH Dance & Productions Katie Galvin, VP Membership Director of Public Relations David Krake, Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. Amber Bookil-Lawrence, Bookkeeper VP Special Events Natalie Saenz, Event & Member Relations Coordinator Bonnie Watje, ACRO Printing, Inc.

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

May you have a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

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

(562) 698-9891

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

JANUARY 2012

www.whittierchamber.com

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

Whittier Says Goodbye to Long Time City Manager Stephen W. Helvey will pass the Whittier City Manager torch to Chief Assistant City Manager Jeffrey Collier, effective January 1. Helvey, the sixth city manager in Whittier’s history, attended Sierra High School and Rio Hondo College before graduating from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in Business Administration. Appointed by the City Council on April 1, 2000, Helvey has guided the City of Whittier through many changes, dealing with the opportunities for growth and development and the more recent challenges of a declining world economy and its trickle-down effect on local government. At a recent meeting, the Whittier City Council presented Helvey with a Proclamation to honor his years of service in Whittier. “It has been a pleasure to work with Steve,” said Mayor Pro Tem Owen Newcomer. “He started in the City two weeks before I was elected. Three things stand out in my mind about Steve. The first is his humor. The second is I never saw him get mad at anyone. And the third is that he is a real teacher – he is able to make complex issues understandable to a new Councilman.” Council Member Greg Nordbak, a personal friend of Helvey’s, recalled how, after former City Manager Tom Mauk resigned from Whittier, Nordbak called Helvey and said “How would you like to come home?” and encouraged him to compete for the City Manager’s position. “He has done a marvelous job,” Nordbak said. “He demands performance from his staff and gets it.” Nordbak also complimented Helvey on the development of “The Hook,” a summary of City matters that is sent to Council Members on a weekly basis. “This is a fabulous tool for an elected official.” Helvey, obviously moved after hearing a number of statements from all of the current Council Members, noted that “I always felt good coming here (to work in the morning).” He complimented the City staff, saying, “Everybody here works hard. It’s been a great ride and I loved it.” Major City facility projects that came to completion under Helvey’s leadership include the new Whittier Police Station; the opening of the Whittier Greenway Trail; the Whittier Historic Depot and Surface Transportation Museum completions and grand openings; Parnell Park renovation and new Community/Senior Center building; major improvements to the Main Library, including a new parking lot and access ramp at the main entrance; and completion of plans for the expansion of the Whittwood Branch Library. In the area of business and economic development, he was actively involved in the Whittwood Town Center renovation, and the preparation of three economic development plans, the Uptown Specific Plan, the Uptown Parking Plan and the first draft of the Whittier Boulevard Master Plan. Helvey was also successful in the efforts to have the State of California sell Nelles for private development. Although Helvey spent the first part of his career working for other cities, he is a longtime Whittier resident. He still remembers old neighborhoods and former residents, and his early jobs at the Painter Avenue McDonalds, the Jack in the Box at Painter and Telegraph, and working his way through college at Sears Automotive in Santa Fe Springs as a mechanic and evening service advisor. His two sons also attended Whittier schools. Helvey and his wife, Paula, plan to move to San Diego to be closer to family and a new grandchild. He plans to continue to do part-time consulting in municipal administration, finance, development and negotiations – with some time set aside for golf.

CoMMUNITY CELEBRATIoNS z Whittier City Mayor Cathy Warner and fellow Council and City staff members celebrated the official groundbreaking for the expansion project of the East Whittier branch of the Whittier Public Library

Staff and friends at The Original Roadhouse Grill gathered with Whittier Chamber supporters during their official grand re-opening and ribbon cutting ceremony in Whittier

Members of the Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary staff celebrated the completion of Phase 1 at their new Mission Hills development with local area dignitaries, Whittier City Council Members and Whittier Chamber supporters

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012

New Employment Laws Will Impact Businesses in 2012 New employment laws that go into effect in 2012 can have a significant impact on businesses in California. In addition to the new employment laws, an order by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) is also impacting businesses in California. By January 31, 2012, most privatesector employers must begin displaying an 11”x17” poster that provides information to their employees about unionizing and their right to strike. If you haven’t purchased your updated employment poster, call the Whittier Chamber now at (562) 698-9554 and purchase yours. New Laws Unless specified, the following is a list of all new legislation goes into effect on January 1, 2012. For the complete list of new laws and additional information, please visit the CalChamber website at www.calchamber.com. Credit Check AB 22 prohibits employers and prospective employers, not including certain financial institutions, from obtaining and using consumer credit reports (credit information) about applicants or employees. The prohibition does not apply to “managerial positions,” defined as those who qualify for the executive exemption from overtime. Pregnancy Disability Leave SB 299 requires all employers with five or more employees to continue to maintain and pay for health coverage under a group health plan for an eligible female employee who takes Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) up to a maximum of four months in a 12-month period. Written Commission Agreement AB 1396 requires employers who have commission pay arrangements to put those agreements into a signed written contract. The written contract must set forth the method by which the commissions will be computed and paid. The bill is effective January 1, 2013. Employers have the entirety of 2012 to bring their commission agreements into compliance. Notice of Pay Details AB 469 requires employers to provide nonexempt employees, at the time of hire, a notice that specifies: The rate of pay and the basis, whether hourly, salary, piece commission or otherwise, including any overtime rate; allowances, if any, claimed as part of the minimum wage, including meal and lodging allowances; the regular pay day designated by the employer as required under the Labor Code; the name of the employer, including any “doing business as” names; the physical address of the employer’s main office or principal place of business and any mailing address, if different; the telephone of the employer; the name, address and telephone number of the employer’s workers’ compensation carrier. Gender Expression AB 887 amends the Fair Employment and Housing Act to further define “gender” to include both gender identity and “gender expression” and to make clear that discrimination on either basis is prohibited. AB 887 also amends Government Code relating to dress codes to include that an employee must be allowed to dress consistently with both the employee’s gender identity and gender expression. Administrative Penalties AB 240 allows an employee that alleges a minimum wage violation to recover liquidated damages pursuant to any complaint brought before the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE). This new law would allow the Labor Commissioner to also award such damages. Under the new liquidated damages provision, the employee would be entitled to recover an amount equal to the wages unlawfully unpaid, plus interest.

Melanie Bickley

Wage Penalties AB 551 increases the maximum penalty from $50 to $200 per calendar day for each worker paid less than the determined prevailing wage and increases the minimum penalty from $10 to $40 per day for violations of prevailing wage obligations. It also increases the penalty from $25 to $100 per calendar day, per worker, against contractors and subcontractors that fail to respond to a written request for payroll records within 10 days. Insurance Non-Discrimination Act SB 757 closes an existing loophole and prevents employers that operate in multiple states from discriminating against same-sex couples by not providing the same insurance coverage for domestic partners as they do for spouses. State Contracts – Gender or Sexual Orientation Discrimination SB 117 outlaws the state of California from entering into contracts of more than $100,000 with companies that discriminate against the employees on the basis of gender or sexual orientation with regard to benefits. The new law makes it clear that companies doing business with the state of California cannot deny equal benefits to same-sex spouses. Workers’ Compensation Legislation The governor signed these five workers’ compensation bills that were all supported by CalChamber: AB 335 – Requires the workers’ compensation administrative director (AD) to work with the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC) to develop regulations regarding notices to injured workers; requires AD and CHSWC to develop and make accessible a booklet written in plain language about the workers’ comp claims process; streamlines and simplifies other notices to employees. AB 378 – Lowers workers’ compensation costs by establishing guidelines for dispensing compound drugs, the circumstances under which those drugs would be covered and the reimbursement amount, and removes the incentives for physicians to refer patients to pharmacies in which the physician or physician's family has a financial interest. AB 397 – Seeks to address the underground economy problem by singling out contractors that do not have workers’ compensation coverage but requiring contractors that are exempt from having coverage at the time they are licensed to certify they are still exempt or have gotten coverage at the time of their license renewal. AB 1168 – Lowers costs for employers and insurers by establishing a fee schedule for vocational experts' services. AB 1426 – Streamlines the workers’ comp process and eliminates duplicative bureaucracy and inconsistency by eliminating the court administrator position. The governor also signed a Workers’ Compensation related bill that CalChamber took no position on: AB 228 – Amends California Insurance Code to authorize the State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF) to provide workers’ compensation coverage to a California employer whose California employees temporarily work outside the state and whose injuries while performing out-of-state work might lead to workers’ compensation liability in some other state.

Is Housework Killing Your Back?

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The repetitive back bending movements of raking the leaves, vacuuming, emptying the dishwasher, mowing the lawn, running errands or even just the simple task of picking up your child are enough to make your back scream out in anguish. Taking care of your spine is imperative to your health. There are ways to ensure that the stress put on your back is minimal when you are working around your home. Bend From the Knees - I can’t stress enough that you should always bend from your knees. I’m certain you’ve heard this a million times, but when you have to choose to bend from your lower back or from your knees, choose your knees. Hold Heavy Items Close to Your Body - Once you have picked something up (from your knee) hold it as close as possible to your chest. Imagine holding a gallon of milk to your chest. Easy right? Well now imagine holding it at arm’s length. You will feel tremendous pressure on your lower back. Ice Your Sore Spots - If your back gets sore, make sure to apply ice 20 minutes per hour, 3 times a day.

Pressure Point Therapy January 16th & January 30th 6:30 p.m.

Whittier’s REALTOR WHITTIER BROKERS 562 693-3757 x 24

Simple Ways to Make Your Housework “Spine Friendly”

Our office has experienced considerable success in relieving pain associated with housework. We utilize the state-of-the-art technology, the ProAdjuster, to identify the source of your ailments. In fact, the ProAdjuster’s revolutionary technology has received a patient satisfaction rating of over 92%. If you or someone you know is suffering from back pain, you may want to consider being evaluated with the ProAdjuster. Please contact our office, and we will send you more information about this advanced technology, or you can call our office today to schedule your evaluation. “I was afraid to vacuum because it would always cause lower back pain. After 8 ProAdjuster treatments, and in less than a month, I was able to get to Boot Camp and workout with NO back pain at all. That’s amazing because I didn’t think I could do it. Thank you!” - Ruth Castillo

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JANUARY 2012

www.whittierchamber.com

TAX TIPS Depreciation Rules for Automobiles Although you may take the depreciation deduction for an automobile you use in your trade or business; however, special limitations apply which may result in it taking longer for you to depreciate a car than it would other business property. First of all, note that a separate depreciation allowance for a car only comes into play if you choose to determine the cost of its business use by the “actual expense” method. If, instead, you use the standard mileage rate (for 2011, 51¢ per business mile driven from January 1, 2011 through June 30, 2011, and 55.5¢ per business mile driven from July 1, 2011 through Richard Scrivanich, December 31, 2011), a depreciation allowance is built in as part of the rate. Harvey & Parmelee If you are using the actual expense method in calculating the LLP depreciation allowance, an automobile is treated as an asset with a 5-year recovery period. Under the regular depreciation tables, the cost of an automobile is actually depreciated over a 6-year span according to the following percentages: Year 1, 20%; Year 2, 32%, Year 3, 19.2%, Years 4 and 5, 11.52%, and Year 6, 5.76%. Six years are involved because depreciation is deemed to start in the middle of Year 1 and end in the middle of Year 6. (These percentages are not available for cars used 50% or less for business purposes. For these, straightline depreciation is required.) However, under additional limitations applicable to cars, you are limited to specified depreciation ceilings, under “luxury automobile” rules. These ceilings, which are indexed for inflation, operate to extend depreciation beyond the sixth year for cars costing more than what the total depreciation allowance would be over the six years. For most cars first put in service in 2011, the ceiling is $11,060 for that year ($3,060 for cars for which additional first-year depreciation does not apply, including a car purchased used or not used more than 50% for business). The annual ceiling amounts for later years are $4,900 for the second year, $2,950 for the third year, and $1,775 for all later years. Slightly higher ceiling amounts apply for certain light trucks and vans (passenger autos built on a truck chassis, including minivans and light SUVs) first placed in service in 2011. You cannot avoid these limitations via an election to “expense” the car (a Section 179 election). With the limitations applying, it may take longer than the regular 6 years to depreciate the entire cost of the car, if it is not disposed of sooner. If the car is used partly for business purposes and partly for personal purposes, the limits are reduced to the business percentage. For example, the maximum depreciation deduction for a qualified automobile first placed in service in 2011 and used 75% for business is $8,295 (75% of $11,060) for the first year. The “personal” 25% portion ($2,765) is disallowed. What is the impact of these limitations from the standpoint of the business decisions you must make? They raise the “after-tax” cost of automobiles used in your business. That is, the true cost of regular equipment used in the business will be its actual cost reduced by the tax benefits enjoyed via depreciation deductions. To the extent these deductions are reduced (deferred to future years, actually), the tax benefits are less and the true cost is higher. It may be advisable to consider this factor in deciding how much to spend on automobiles used in your business. Please note that these limitations cannot be avoided by leasing a “luxury” car instead of buying it. Although the mechanics of the tax rules are different with leases, essentially your taxable income is increased to mirror the tax savings you would have lost had you bought the car. (These rules do not apply to car rentals for less than 30 days.)

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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.

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Classical music performed by

The Felici Piano Trio Sat., Feb. 4 & Mar. 3 8:00 pm Check our website for upcoming performances and to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

(562) 907-4203

www.shannoncenter.org

Call (562) 698-9554 for membership info today!

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

Order Your 2012 Employment Posters Today! Federal law requires every covered employer to post specific labor information in an effort to protect the wages, health benefits, retirement security, employment rights, safety, and health of America’s workforce.

The Whittier Chamber is now offering the 2012 California Employment Notices Poster, which contains all 16 current California and federal notices every California business must post, all on one compact poster (26”x 39.75”). This year’s poster set also includes the new NLRA notice that is mandatory for 2012. These posters, which fit easily on a door, in a break room or a main hallway, are required whether you have one employee, or 1,000 employees, The 2012 California Employment Notices Poster includes required notices about: · Equal employment opportunity; · Employment Development Department notice to employees; · Minimum wage (federal and state); · Military leave benefits under the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA); · Safety and health (Cal/OSHA) requirements; · Workers’ compensation guidelines; · Discrimination and harassment (Department of Fair Employment and Housing); · Family/medical leave and pregnancy leave (federal and state); · Whistleblower protection; · Time off for voting; · Polygraph protection; · Unemployment insurance, disability insurance and paid family leave; · Plus space for your local emergency and Cal/OSHA contacts, and your payday schedule, which must be posted.

2012 Employment Notices Poster (Paper with Poster Protect** Service)

_____ @ $35 (Whittier Chamber member rate) _____ @ $45 (non Chamber member rate) **Poster Protect service entitles you to receive a free updated poster if there are any mandatory changes in 2012 Posters also available for special order in Spanish. Call 562 698-9554 for info

Name: ___________________________ Ph. Number ______________________ Business: _________________________________________________________

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012

FINANCIAL UPDATE How is Europe’s debt crisis affecting U.S. markets? Here’s an overview of the European Union, why the euro is in danger, and what the crisis could mean to American investors. Even if you regularly read the Financial Times and otherwise keep up with world financial news, you may be wondering how the crisis in Europe came to be and what effect it might have on the U.S. economy. Believers in the doomsday prophesies would argue that fear is justified, that global market and economic deterioration will be reminiscent of 2008, or even worse. But the flaw with that argument is that the 2008 Douglas M. Rowan, experience, together with the widespread awareness of the carnage that CFP®, CMFC, AIF® a euro breakup would bring, virtually assures that the world’s major policy-making bodies will do whatever they can to prevent it. Here’s the backstory, along with possible scenarios for how it might play out at home and abroad. The European Union - In 1951, six European nations came together to form the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) for the purpose of preventing future war between France and Germany and to create a common market for coal and steel. Out of this evolved the European Economic Community (EEC), later called the European Community (EC), which expanded the markets and eventually led to the European Union (EU), an economic and political union that now comprises 27 member states located primarily in Europe. The goal of the EU is to ensure the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital by abolishing passport controls and maintaining a single market through a standardized system of laws that apply in all member states. Today, the EU has a combined population of over 500 million inhabitants and comprises about 26% of the global economy. The euro - To facilitate trade, in 1995 the euro was officially adopted as the currency of the EU. To participate, each member state had to meet strict criteria, including low inflation, interest rates close to the EU average, a budget deficit of less than 3% of their GDP, and debt that is less than 60% of their GDP. Not all member states met the criteria. Those that did officially exchanged their national currencies for the euro on Dec. 31, 1998. Today, 17 of the 27 members of the EU have adopted the euro as their currency. Members of the eurozone are Austria, Belgium, Cypress, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain. Of the 10 remaining EU members, seven are obliged to join the eurozone as soon as they meet the entrance requirements, while three others, Denmark, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, have opt-out provisions. European Central Bank - Monetary policy for the eurozone is managed by the European Central Bank (ECB). Current President Mario Draghi, like his U.S. counterpart Ben Bernanke, is charged with keeping inflation low — under, but close to, 2%. However, the ECB operates somewhat differently. When it is necessary to pump money into the system to stimulate the economy, the U.S. central bank does it primarily by buying Treasury bonds. In the eurozone, the ECB lends cash to member banks via short-term repurchase agreements backed by collateral such as public or private debt securities. The borrowing banks list the deposits as liabilities on their balance sheets. The ECB lists the contracts as assets. It is presumed all the securities listed as collateral are equally good and equally protected from the risk of inflation. However, most countries in the eurozone no longer meet those requirements. At the end of 2010, the average debt-to-GDP ratio for the eurozone as a whole was over 80%. For Greece and Italy, it was well over 100%. European sovereign debt crisis - As debt levels have risen in certain countries — Continued on page 14

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

2012-2013 BoARD MEMBER NoMINATIoNS

Miguel has been a resident of Chino for over 15 years where he lives with his wife and ten year old son. Miguel will be finishing his MBA in Marketing and Strategic Leadership from the The Chamber’s fiscal year is in its last quarter and plans are already in place to hit the floor University of La Verne in May of 2012. In his spare time Miguel enjoys working with his hands and has remodeled homes from running as we start our 98th year of serving the Whittier area business community on April 1, 2012. demolition to completion. He also enjoys camping and traveling. Miguel devotes most of his Our nominating committee has been in the process of filling vacancies on our Board of Directors spare time to helping with little league and serving as a coach. and we are proud to present a list of outstanding candidates to fill open spaces on our Board and “I am extremely happy to be nominated to the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce Board welcome back 2 board members for another term. These are people who are all leaders in their own right and have made a commitment to furthering the goals and objectives of the Whittier of Directors and I look forward to the opportunity to serve the Whittier business community,” added Miguel. Area Chamber of Commerce. To All Chamber Members:

According to our by-laws, the Chamber must present to the entire membership the slate of candidates nominated to fill vacancies on our Board of Directors. The by-laws state: Additional nominations may be made by petition. Any such petition shall be effective to nominate one or more candidates, not exceeding the total number of candidates as were nominated by the Nominating Committee. Petitions must bear the genuine signatures of at least 25 qualified members of the Chamber. All such petitions must be delivered to, and received by, the Executive Director, within 21 days after January 1, 2012. In the event of any conflict between this statement and the provisions of the by-laws, the by-laws shall govern. If no petition is filed within the designated period, the nominations shall be closed. The election shall take place at the annual meeting (Installation) which will be held in late March. New Board Members (elected to 2 year term – April 2012-March 2014): Suzanne Ausdal Suzanne Ausdal, know as Susie around the Chamber, is the branch manager of Union Bank. She has been with Union bank for 32 years and has worked in Whittier for 8 years. Susie stays busy as a volunteer. One of her favorite organizations is the SOLA Lions of Whittier, which supports the Special Olympian Athletes from Whittier and Los Angeles. She also enjoys volunteering at Rabbit Rescue. Susie is the current Ambassador of the Year. Our main function is to work hand in hand with the Chamber to help grow business, to network and help the City of Whittier to prosper.” Susie was honored and thrilled when she learned she was being considered for the Whittier Chamber Board. “Whittier is my home and what better way to serve my community than to be involved with the businesses and residents of Whittier,” added Susie.

Melanie Bickley Whittier Brokers is a family business, and for three generations has helped families call Whittier home through real estate sales and property management. Whittier Brokers has been a member of the Whittier Chamber since 1961. Melanie became the operating Broker for Whittier Brokers in 1996 but has been active in the Whittier real estate community for over two decades. In 1990 Melanie served as president of the Whittier Chamber. “The Whittier Chamber is our most important business relationship; as it allows various community interests to cooperate in making and keeping Whittier viable as a desirable place to live, work & shop,” says Melanie. Melanie currently serves as a board member and past president of Soroptimist International of Whittier. She is married to Maurice, and they happily LIVE, WORK and SHOP in Whittier. Some of Melanie’s favorite things include the ocean, great food and old friends. Miguel Granados For the past five years Miguel has worked in Operations for Rose Hills Memorial Park and Mortuary and is currently the Director of Mortuary Operations. He has been with Rose Hills for 13 years and originally started in the Finance and Accounting Department.

Gary Lee Martinez Gary Lee Martinez is the owner of The Traveling Traveler currently celebrating their 20th year in the Travel Industry (1992-2012). Gary’s agency, located in the Whittier Commerce Building, specializes in leisure travel which is, Vacation Packages, Cruises, Group Travel, Escorted Tours and Honeymoons. Gary’s true passion is travel and he has been fortunate to travel to many exotic destinations. Gary is very proud to be a member of the Whittier Chamber of Commerce as well as the Whittier Lions Club. He also enjoys working with several of the local non-profit organizations such as C.A.P.C., Inc. As a resident of Whittier, Gary has a special interest in building the business community and is looking forward to representing Whittier Chamber members on the Board of Directors in a positive and supportive manner at all times and in all places. Gil Rodriguez Gil has worked as a realtor in the Whittier area at Coldwell Banker Alliance Realty for over 5 years. He is excited and happy to be a part of the Whittier community, both as a resident and a business owner. He has seen his business grow and is thankful to have joined the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce where he currently serves as an Ambassador. Gil is happily married to his wife Jacque and they have three wonderful sons. In his spare time, Gil likes to play golf, he enjoys running, and practices martial arts. He enjoys nature and loves hiking in the mountains. Monique Rodriguez Monique is the Public Relations Manager for Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH) and Bright Health Physicians where she oversees public and community relations. She works with the media, plans community events, handles government relations, writes and edits enterprise publications, advertisements and more! Monique is very active in Whittier and the surrounding communities. She attends many of functions held by local chambers of commerce and other not-for-profits. She is a member of the Regional Chamber Alliance (RCA) committee and a current Board member with the Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Monique is a member of the Public Relations Society of America. A resident of Santa Fe Springs, Monique is close to her parents and two younger brothers. Monique loves music and attending concerts. She likes to travel and enjoys going to sporting events. Monique is currently attending California State University Long Beach and is in the Masters of Public Administration Program. Monique loves people and is excited to help businesses connect with one another to grow and retain a strong business network in Whittier. “It is all about relationships and keeping business local and working with people you trust,” says Monique. Current board members up for renewal of their 2-year term: Shannon Gimbel, Shannon G’s Flowers Gus Arriaza – CW Supplies

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

TASTY TUESDAY z These Whittier Chamber members filled up on little networking at noon during the monthly luncheon at Crepes & Grapes Café in Uptown Whittier

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012

Wake Up Whittier Whittier Chamber’s Monthly Networking Breakfast 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

2012 Schedule Jan. 18th Whittier Area Community Church 8100 Colima Rd.

Feb. 15th Merrill Gardens

13250 E. Philadelphia St.

Crepes & Grapes Café Owner Sandra Hahn and her staff members served up some delicious dishes for their Whittier Chamber guests while hosting the Tasty Tuesday event

March 21st Radisson Hotel Whittier 7320 Greenleaf Ave.

April 18th City of Whittier– Community Center 7630 Washington Ave.

May 16th Whittier Hospital

9080 Colima Rd.

June 20th Harmony Center for Spiritual Living 12907 E. Bailey St.

July 18th Credit Union of Southern California Whittier Chamber Ambassador Anne James of Reliance Funding brought along her husband Mike (far left) for some friendly conversation with fellow Chamber member Angel Flores of Road Runner Specialty Towing during the monthly business card exchange and luncheon

8028 Greenleaf Ave.

Parking Structure rooftop (Bright Avenue)

Sept. 19th Candlewood Country Club 14000 Telegraph Rd.

8434 S. Greenleaf Ave.

Nov. 21st Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital 12401 Washington Blvd.

Eat Healthy Exercise Join the Chamber If your New Year’s resolutions include focusing on your business, let us help! The Whittier Chamber is a great resource to help you build a better business. Think of us as an extension of your marketing department!

Over 625 business owners can’t be wrong! Join the Whittier Chamber to:

• Network with other professionals at monthly events • Educate yourself and your staff on business issues at our FREE monthly seminars • Promote your business through affordable marketing programs • Submit press releases about your staff and your company • Make your voice heard on business legislative issues • Stay connected with what’s happening in your own city • Build your business through a reputable referral system • Gain a competitive edge by advertising in the Business Focus • Participate in the Business Expo – the best business development tool around

Make joining the Whittier Chamber the first thing you do in the new year! Sign up today at our new and improved website: www.whittierchamber.com Or call our office at (562) 698-9554 8158 Painter Avenue ∙ Whittier, CA 90602 info@whittierchamber.com

At the Whittier Chamber…we mean BUSINESS!

Business. Great networking with nearly 200 people, great food and great fun! Win door prizes! Exchange business cards! Promote your business! Wake Up Whittier is FREE for Whittier Chamber members. Prospective members and guests pay $20 at the door.

Aug. 15th Whittier Uptown Association

Oct. 17th Family Church Whittier

THINGS TO DO IN 2012

We mean

3rd Wednesday each Month 7:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m.

JANUARY 2012

www.whittierchamber.com

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

"Business Expo" - continued from page 1

There are several ways to participate in the 2012 Whittier Chamber Business Expo: TABLES & BOOTHS IN “AMERICAN BANDSTAND” (Main Ballroom): All tables and booths in the “American Bandstand” room 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. * American Bandstand Table (6-foot): $275 * American Bandstand Booth (8’x10’, with two classroom style tables): $395 (limited number available) TABLE IN “MTV ROOM” - $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 “WHISKY A GO GO” - $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 American Bandstand tables and booths): Only $50 The Marketing Package can be added to any standard table purchase and 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.

WALL OF FAME (available only for Expo participants) - $25 Get more visibility at the Expo by having your name on a “45 record” and hung on our Rock ‘n Roll Wall of Fame which will be prominently displayed for all expo-goers to see. ROCK AROUND THE CLOCK MAP: Only $50 Drive people to your table by having your logo on the Rock Around the Clock Map. Attendees will be asked to visit each table listed on the Map and have their Map stamped. Each completed Map will be eligible for the grand prize drawing sponsored by The Traveling Traveler. MARKETING SPECIALS FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT HAVE A TABLE AT THE EXPO:

ALBUM SPONSOR - $100 Not promoting your business with an Expo table this year? Get great visibility with your name and logo on an Album that will be hung on our Rock ‘n Roll Wall of Fame which will be prominently displayed for all Expo-goers to see. All participants will also be listed in the Expo booklet distributed to all attendees. JUKEBOX PRIZE DONATIONS The Jukebox game offers Expo attendees the chance to win prizes by purchasing a song on the Jukebox. Businesses that donate prizes will be acknowledged in Jukebox marketing materials. Prizes should be a minimum value of $20 each. The Whittier Chamber’s Business Expo is one of the best business development tools around. If you are serious about growing your business in the new year, get your groove on and sign up for your favorite spot early!

Come Visit These Amazing Chamber Members at the 2012 Business EXPO

ACRO Printing, Inc. ∙ Advanced Benefit Center ∙ All American Trophy ∙ A Special Event ∙ Atlantic Dental ∙ Beverly Hospital ∙ BMV Construction ∙ Bright Health Physicians of PIH ∙ Broadoaks School of Whittier College CAPC, Inc. ∙ City of Whittier ∙ Comfort Keepers ∙ Credit Union of Southern California ∙ DialMed Homecare ∙ Dr. Lowe & Rossopolous ∙ Ebony Couture ∙ First Day ∙ Fix Auto ∙ Friendly Hills Bank Gemlife Financial Services ∙ Gil Rodriguez & Associates – Coldwell Banker ∙ Global Dentistry ∙ H&R Block ∙ Harrison Electric ∙ Heavenly Choice ∙ Herbies House of Health Lady Bugs Environmental Pest Control ∙ LEADS ∙ LPL Financial ∙ Macy & Thomas Veterinary ∙ MAP Property Management ∙ Mary Kay- Ginny Ball/Linda Amodeo ∙ My Social Calling ∙ Norwalk/La Mirada Plumbing ∙ Orbit Event Rentals ∙ Ortho Engineering Inc ∙ PIH ∙ Plainsite Business Systems ∙ Popular Community Bank ∙ Radisson Hotel Whittier ∙ Renew Massage & Skincare ∙ Rio Hondo College Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary ∙ Rousselle Exterminators ∙ RMH Dance and Productions ∙ Saving Grace Renovations ∙ Scentsy ∙ Sierra Nursery & Landscaping ∙ Smokey Joe's Chimney Sweep Soroptimist Int'l of Whittier ∙ SPIRITT Family Services ∙ St. Paul High School ∙ Traveling Traveler ∙ Tri-Cities ROP ∙ Trinity Worldwide Reprographics ∙ Uptown Flooring ∙ White Emerson Mortuary Whittier Hospital ∙ Whittier Network Connection ∙ Whittier Police Department ∙ Whittier Republican Women's Federated ∙ The Whole Child

A special thank you to our Platinum and Gold Record Sponsors: Corporate Sponsors

10K Raffle Ticket Printing sponsor

Wall of Fame and Décor Sponsor

Entertainment sponsor

Rock Around the Clock Map Sponsor

Trip Sponsor

Bag Sponsor

Event Rental Sponsor

5 2 $1

To sign up for your spot today, call the Chamber office at (562) 698-9554 or visit our website at www.whittierchamber.com.

2012 = OPPORTUNITIES. Call Gil!

MAKING DREAMS HAPPEN CELL: (562) 217-7646 EMAIL: gil@gilrodhomes.com www.GilRodHomes.com

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125

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East Whittier Branch today: 7355 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier Bob Sands, Branch Manager 562-945-3724 15175 Whittier Boulevard, Whittier Katherine Miller, Branch Manager 562-693-4691

May 2012 be the best year ever

-The Men and Women of Rose Hills Whittier FD #970

Minimum opening deposit is only $50. Bring in your debit card and unused checks from another financial institution and we’ll pay you up to $25. The first ACH direct deposit of $100 or more must be received within 60 days of account opening to receive the $50 cash payment. However, you may have up to an additional 1–46 day grace period beyond such initial 60-day period for the first ACH deposit of $100 or more to be deposited to your account. The duration of such grace period, if any, is dependent upon the day in the calendar month in which you open your account. The first bill must be paid by Bill Pay service within 60 days of account opening to receive the $50 cash payment. The cash payments for direct deposit and Bill Pay are limited to one payment per household, are subject to IRS form 1099-INT, and will be credited to your checking account within 60 days after all conditions have been met. Your account must be open to receive the cash payments. If the account has fewer than five transactions per month for three consecutive months, the account will be converted to Flat Fee Checking. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Limit one gift per new account. We reserve the right to substitute an item of similar value. ©2011 Banco Popular North America. Member FDIC.

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY CoMMUNITY CALENDAR Special events in January:

JANUARY 2012

JANUARY 2012 SUNDAY

MoNDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

All Month, “Start the Year Healthy” @ Friends Chiropractic (6736 Friends Ave., Whittier). Mention “Start the Year Healthy” and receive a free consultation and ProAdjuster screening. Contact (562) 698-1275 for more information

Every Monday, Pathways Support Group @ American Red Cross (6701 Friends Ave., Whittier), 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 698-0304 for more information

Every Wednesday, Community Yoga Class @ Friends Chiropractic (6736 Friends Ave., Whittier), 6:30 p.m. Cost: Voluntary Donations. Contact (562) 698-1275 to reserve your spot

"Life and Its Phases" Art Exhibit @ Whittier Art Gallery (8035 Painter Ave., Whittier), 12:00 p.m. to 5: 00 p.m. From Jan. 4-29. New Exhibit by acclaimed Korean American Haesook “Hannah” Lee. Contact (562) 698-8710 for more information

Open House @ Primanti Montessori School (10947 Valley Home Ave., Whittier), 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 943-0246 for more information

Rio Hondo Symphony Benefit Concert @ SkyRose Chapel at Rose Hills (3888 Workman Mill Rd., Gate #1), 2:00 p.m. $50 donation; $100 VIP donation includes preferred seating. Enjoy Broadway songs and music from Carmen & La Boheme. For more information call (562) 698-8626

Meet Artist Haesook “Hannah” Lee @ Whittier Art Gallery (8035 Painter Ave., Whittier), 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. FREE. Contact (562) 698-8710 12.

B.O.S.S. Seminar @ Whittier Public Library (7344 Washington Ave., Whittier), 8:30 a.m. FREE. Contact Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554 for more information

14.

Ribbon cutting @ Life Builder Women’s Resource Center (6512 Greenleaf Ave., Whittier), 11:00 a.m. FREE. Contact Kimberly Gutierrez (562) 945-2647 ext. 16 for more information

18.

WA K E U P W H I T T I E R M O N T H LY N E T WO R K I N G BREAKFAST @ Whittier Area Community Church (8100 Colima Ave., Whittier), 7:30 a.m. FREE for members; $20 for non-members. Contact the Chamber office at (562) 698-9554 for more information

19.

Ribbon cutting @ Rio Hondo College (3600 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier), 10:00 a.m. FREE. Contact (562) 908-3403 for more information

20.

Ribbon cutting @ H&R Block (13534 Whittier Blvd., Whittier), 12:00 noon. FREE. Contact Lori Coelho (562) 945-5816 for more information

24.

Ribbon cutting @ Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center (9209 Colima Rd. Suite 4400, Whittier), 12:00 noon. FREE. Contact Ana Moncada (562) 907-0777 for more information

25.

“Wednesday Night Live” @ Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, Whittier College (6760 Painter Ave., Whittier), 7:00 p.m. Admission TBA. Sponsored by Soroptimist Int’l. of Whittier. Contact (562) 652-7072 for more information

26.

ANNUAL BUSINESS EXPO @ Radisson Hotel Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave., Whittier), 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. FREE. Grow your business with networking and marketing opportunities and enjoy food and prizes. For more information contact the Chamber office at (562) 698-9554

27.

Ribbon cutting @ Chase Bank (in the Marketplace) (11817 Whittier Blvd., Whittier), 12:00 noon. FREE. Contact Martin Padilla (562) 692-4767 for more information

31.

TASTY TUESDAY MONTHLY NETWORKING LUNCH @ DP’s Pizza (1501 W. Whittier Blvd., La Habra), 11:30 a.m. Cost $10 all inclusive. Enjoy networking and support a fellow Chamber member restaurant! For more information contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554

Denotes Chamber Events.

NETWoRKING QUoTE When I first learned about networking in high school, I hated the idea. In my youth I was introverted to say the least, and my passion to become an entrepreneur was seriously hindered by learning I would always have to network! Then I met Warren Buffett for the first time. Sharing a few minutes with him severely clarified everything for me: business, networking and ethics are an all inclusive package that, if separated from one another, will undoubtedly cause any business to fail. I see daily that the Whittier Chamber understands the importance of networking, and that this awareness is backed by solid business & ethical practices. I don't make all the meetings, and I don't plan on ever doing so, but I know the ones I do make will be worth it, especially the evening mixers! In all seriousness, I plan on ALWAYS being a Chamber member, and ALWAYS supporting everything they do! Keenan Roark, Half-Off Books

JANUARY 2012

www.whittierchamber.com

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

WHAT’S CooL IN YoUR SCHooL Superintendent Sandra Thorstenson Named California’s National Superintendent of the Year Whittier Union High School District Superintendent Sandra Thorstenson has been selected as California’s National Superintendent of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators, becoming ACSA’s nominee for the 2012 American Association of School Administrators’ National Superintendent of the Year. “It is a great honor for Sandy to receive this nomination from her colleagues and from ACSA’s executive board considering California has more than 1,000 school districts,” said Alice Petrossian, President of ACSA. “Sandy has received ACSA’s nomination for the national honor based on her qualifications, Whittier Union’s rising student achievement and for her commitment as an advocate for quality public education in Whittier Union and beyond the district. Her commitment to every student’s success is an inspiration.” “Sandy is the finest example of leadership in the superintendency,” said ACSA Executive Director Bob Wells. “She is focused on student learning, and she has created a team that is succeeding in raising achievement and closing the achievement gap. She is a leader among leaders, and ACSA is proud to count her as a member. This award is recognition from her peers, and we are proud to nominate her for the National Superintendent of the Year honors.” "This recognition is deserved by every staff member across Whittier Union as they have demonstrated that they believe in our students and believe in their ability to make a difference in their lives,” said Thorstenson. “Our teachers work very hard to improve our students' wellbeing and ability to achieve. They have continued their collaborative and dedicated efforts despite the fiscal crisis we have all had to endure. These teachers and staff members never give up on their students. They are heroes." Under her leadership the past decade, Thorstenson has spearheaded Whittier Union’s transformation into a high-achieving district with five comprehensive high schools serving 13,400 mostly Hispanic students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. She has also actively advocated for quality and equity in public education at a local, state and national level as a member of many professional and community organizations. “This nomination is a testament to Sandy Thorstenson’s exceptional leadership abilities and to the dedication, commitment and caring with which she does her job each day,” said Leighton Anderson, President of the Whittier Union High School District Board of Trustees. “She deserves to receive this award every year.” One of Thorstenson’s favorite mottos is “demographics do not determine destiny,” and she has proven this to be true. At the same time that the District has seen dramatic increases in the percentage of its students living in poverty, its achievement levels have climbed steadily upward. Furthermore, the higher levels of learning are not occurring in isolated schools but in all of the District's high schools. With Thorstenson at the helm, the Whittier Union High School District has attained and sustained significant increases in student academic achievement, becoming one of the top school districts in Los Angeles County. The latest student achievement data show that the district’s overall Academic Performance Index has increased steadily by more than 100 points in the last few years, reaching 777 in

2010-11. Nearly 100% of Whittier Union’s seniors pass the California High School Exit Exam and 93 percent graduate, 48% complete all courses required for entrance into fouryear universities, and 95% are going on to higher education or trade schools. Whittier Union is also one of a small number of districts in California to have significantly narrowed the achievement gap. Currently, there is only a 6 percent difference between the highest and lowest performing students. “As a native of Whittier, raising student achievement while narrowing the achievement gap has been extremely close to my heart.” Thorstenson said. “Our faculty has worked hard to prove that demographics do not determine destiny,” Thorstenson said. "Thanks to our faculty, staff and Board of Trustees, Whittier Union provides high expectations within a caring learning environment which gives students the ability to flourish.” Whittier Union’s impressive gains have garnered the attention of local, state and national leaders in education. The District’s success most recently was chronicled in Leading Change in Your School, by Dr. Doug Reeves; and in Raising the Bar, Closing the Gap, by Dr. Rick DuFour. Both books discuss the District’s focused efforts to help students reach higher levels of academic achievement through its “Whatever It Takes” initiative. Through this initiative, high-functioning professional learning communities implement common assessments for the purpose of improving instructional practice and a Pyramid of Interventions provides targeted student support. “The more I learned as I studied the district for the book I was writing, the more I came to regard Sandy as the model of an exemplary superintendent,” said DuFour in support of Thorstenson’s nomination. “Her mantra ‘Whatever It Takes’ has been brought to life in every school in the district as she has transformed traditional schools into model professional learning communities.” Born and raised in Whittier, Sandra Thorstenson has served as Superintendent of the Whittier Union High School District for 10 years. She is a graduate of Whittier High School and Whittier College with her Master’s Degree in Education from California State University, Fullerton. Thorstenson has spent her 34-year career in the Whittier Union High School District and began her career as a teacher. She was later promoted to Assistant Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and finally Superintendent. Thorstenson serves as president of the California City Superintendents Association, and as a member of the ACSA Superintendency Council, the Southern California Superintendents Association, and Pivot Learning Partners board. She is also a member of Soroptimist International of Whittier and the Whittier College Corporate Leadership Council. Thorstenson now joins nominees from each state to vie for the national title of Superintendent of the Year. Four finalists were selected by a national blue-ribbon panel of judges in December, with interviews conducted in January. The 2012 Superintendent of the Year, as well as national and state finalists, will be honored at AASA’s National Conference on Education in honored at the Conference on Education in Houston, Texas, Feb. 16-19.

Background on ACSA The Association of California School Administrators was established in 1971. ACSA is the largest umbrella organization for school leaders in the nation, serving more than 16,000 school leaders. The mission of ACSA is to support California’s educational leaders; ensure all students have the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel; and champion public education.

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

UPToWN UPDATE

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012

ARoUND ToWN Friends of the Whittier Public Library Receive Special Recognition

President's Message Welcome to 2012, another year of successful events and business growth! This year leads us into thinking differently, working together and investing in the City of Whittier and “Uptown.” We are all so very thankful for your support of our 58th Annual Christmas Parade. This was our largest and most successful parade that we have ever conducted. We hope as you reflect back on this event you will think of this parade as a tradition and will continue to participate in our future parades. Sandra Hahn, We would like to thank our sponsors as well as everyone's Crepes & Crepes Café participation on one of our most successful Christmas Parades. President The weather couldn't have been better, but more importantly, our volunteers gave it the true spirit of Christmas by giving their time. We would also like to thank the City of Whittier for their help and resources, along with coordinating the logistics on the 2011 parade. I would also like to thank our fearless leader and driving force of this organization, Executive Director Allan Nakken, and his wonderful staff, Eileen Alvarez, Office Manager and Marie Ortiz, our Art & Marketing Manager, as well as the WUA Board of Directors for their dedication and support. Just before the holiday shopping season last month, The Whittier Uptown Association, along with many retail merchants in the area, launched the Shop Local campaign, an ongoing program which is intended to reward customers for shopping and dining locally in Uptown. The program participation is voluntary for Uptown Business Owners. Savings vary with each participating business. Customers may pick up their Customer Value Card at participating businesses and can also identify these businesses by seeing their Shop Local & Save decal in their storefront. A complete list of the Shop Local & Save participants can be found on the Whittier Uptown Association's website at www.WhittierUptown.org. Just as a reminder, the Spring Antique Street Faire is just around the corner in April. The Whittier Uptown Association will be promoting this event in the coming months and King Richard's Antique Center plans to put together a bigger show than ever! If you’re looking for exposure in marketing your business or organization, this is a great way to do so. Our Vintage Auto Show is slated for May 19th and it is sure to delight many vintage automobilbe enthusiasts! This event is brought to us with the support of Dad's Club of Whittier. We are looking forward to 2012 and anticipate the completion of our ultimate goal, which is the lighting of our streets and the continued beautification of the Uptown Whittier area. We are looking forward to seeing you at upcoming Whittier Chamber and Uptown Events and wish everyone success and prosperity in the New Year! Sandra Hahn President Whittier Uptown Association

The Friends of the Whittier Public Library was recently recognized at the 2011 CALTAC Awards as the Friends Group for Outstanding Service to a Library. The group has donated approximately $1.3 million in unrestricted funds to the library since its founding in 1964. Our Friends earn almost all of the money from the sale of used books via their freestanding bookstore which is open four days a week. These donations also pay for the cost of the Summer Reading Club programs and more. The Friends are also vocal in their support of the Library at Chamber functions and other community events with a representative on the Whittier Public Library Foundation Board and are active in various organizations and groups around town. The lives of many in our community are enhanced by the continued efforts and service of the Friends group. Photo Caption: Nancy Krug, Deborah Doyle (CALTAC President), Francis Minerd, Margaret Martyn, and Rob Settlage (President, Library Board of Trustees).

Life and Its Phases: New Exhibit by Acclaimed Korean-American Artist Haesook “Hannah” Lee

In October of last year, the Whittier Art Association presented a very well received show featuring The Korean Art Association. This is the second opportunity for the people of Whittier to see work from this very exciting and rapidly emerging art scene from January 4 through January 29. Hannah Lee was a successful graphic artist in her homeland of Korea, and came to this country while in college, later studying at the University of Illinois. Her art explores the “meaning and way of life through love and love through life.” Her work is unique in that it shows no regional restraint. She gets inspiration from Western biblical passages, but she also relies on, in her own words, “the subtle linearity of Korean traditional art.” This beautiful show is a must see for all lovers and students of art. The public is invited to come meet the artist at a special reception which will be held January 8, 2012 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Whittier Art Gallery (8035 Painter Avenue). For more information on upcoming events at the Whittier Art Gallery, contact (562) 698-8710.

“Start the Year Healthy” at Friends Chiropractic

During the month of January, Friends Chiropractic is pleased to announce the “Start the Year Healthy” special to new clients. Just mention the “Start the Year Healthy” special and receive a free consultation and ProAdjuster screening. If you choose to have other services that same day, such as complete examination and/or x-rays, those services will be priced at 25% off their regular prices. If you are not completely delighted with the services provided, you pay nothing! Call Dr. Yani Feliciano at (562) 698-1275 for more information or to schedule a free consultation. You’ve got nothing to lose except your pain!

Chiropractor Hosts Community Yoga Classes

Yoga classes are held on Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. at Friends Chiropractic. All levels are welcome! 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. Location: 6736 Friends Avenue. Call (562) 698-1275 to reserve your spot. Cost: voluntary donation.

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JANUARY 2012

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

ARoUND ToWN New Homes at The Gables Are More Affordable Than Renting

Chamber, City to Host Free Business Seminar January 12

The Whole Child Begins New Family Housing Program

Tri-Cities Regional Occupational Program Welcomes All to Open House

Home buyers who purchase one of the stately new town homes or condominiums at The Gables of Whittier may qualify to receive up to $170,000 from the Whittier Redevelopment Agency Affordable Home Ownership Program (AHOP), a little-known new home ownership program targeted to first-time home buyers. “We’re excited about partnering with a city committed to increasing home ownership opportunities to individuals who might otherwise be unable to purchase a new home in this struggling economy,”explained Scott Lissoy, President of Far West Industries, the developer of The Gables of Whittier. “This program allows first-time home buyers all the tax deductions and other advantages of home ownership with a monthly mortgage potentially as low as $1,600 – less than the average rental for this area – making home ownership once again a far better choice than renting,” Lissoy continued. The Gables at Whittier includes 96 town homes and condominiums with uniquely designed structural facades reminiscent of the elegant, tree lined estates of East Coast urban living. “The design of our fresh, urban community is consistent with Whittier’s ongoing re-invention and provides new families, professionals and empty-nesters with a comfortable yet fashionable neighborhood for modern, in-city living,” said Lissoy. Far West Industries is a prominent, family operated, Southern California builder whose solid reputation for excellence in design and craftsmanship has been built on a long standing commitment of over 35 years to meeting the individual needs of the new home buyer while working in partnership with city planners. The Gables are conveniently located on Whittier Boulevard between Santa Gertrudes Avenue and First Avenue. The sales office is located at 16050 Whittier Blvd. and those interested should call (562) 947-2233 for more information or to schedule a tour. The Whole Child is pleased to announce the official start of their Family Housing Program, a new service that will enable the agency to expand its mission and increase its impact on the Southeast Los Angeles Region. The non-profit organization will not only provide children and their families with the skills and support they need to experience emotional well-being, but they will now also provide them with the security that comes from stable housing. Working within the community since 1957, The Whole Child has witnessed unstable housing jeopardize children’s ability to be successful in their families, schools and society. When the opportunity arose in 2011 to acquire the Rio Hondo Temporary Home, the agency seized it. Instead of utilizing one building for temporary housing, The Whole Child has implemented scattered housing, a new service model to improve the long-term outcomes for families and the community as a whole. The Family Housing program identifies appropriate housing in the community for eligible families, subsidizes it for a period of time and provides a host of support services, including counseling, education and social services, which will help them to stay in that housing permanently. The program is built on the belief that homelessness ends when the family is provided with critical services and support that empower them to maintain permanent, affordable housing. For more than 50 years, The Whole Child has been committed to providing children and families with the skills and support they need to build emotionally healthy lives. Expanding services to include family housing is an invaluable extension of those core capabilities. Staff from the Family Housing program can be contacted at (562) 204-0640 or you can find additional information online at www.thewholechild.info.

For those of you who have resolved to be more organized at work, you must attend the January B.O.S.S. (Business Owners’ Seminar Series) seminar on “Organizational Tools for Maximum Profit” presented by Evelyn Gray, a certified productivity expert and peak performance coach. Her slogan, “If you can’t find it in 30 seconds, it’s in the wrong place,” says it all. Attend the seminar to learn tips and techniques on being more organized to save you time and money. Evelyn Gray is one of a few who are certified professionals from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, a worldwide organization. Evelyn works with the AD/HD (attention deficit/hyperactive disorder) community and people who struggle every day who are disorganized. She coaches the unstructured professional, small business and corporate environment. She teaches people to recognize the crucial factors of how to identify, simplify, strategize and organize. Employees learn simple and effective time management and communications skills, records management, and much more. Her main priority is to improve health, greater focus, awareness and clarity while raising productivity levels 25% to 40% in the workplace. Savings in time and money and increasing clarity and focus are only a fraction of the value you can realize. Ms. Gray is the author of two books, “Simple Organizing Strategies for AD/HD and the Chronically Disorganized,” and “No More Paper Junk Mail.” Another book is coming out in 2012 on the subject of simple organizing strategies for the creative, unstructured employee in the workplace. The free seminar will be held at the Whittier Central Library, 7344 Washington Ave., on January 12 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and is brought to you by the City of Whittier and the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce. All are encouraged to attend and the event is free to the public. Space is limited; please call (562) 567-9230 to RSVP.

Tri-Cities Regional Occupational Program (TCROP), a public career and technical education school in Whittier, will celebrate 25 years of Accreditation by the Western Association of Schools & Colleges (WASC) at their upcoming open house for the community to be held Thursday, February 2 from 12 noon until 8 p.m. at 12519 E. Washington Blvd. Members of the Whittier, Santa Fe Springs and Pico Rivera Chambers of Commerce are invited to attend a ribbon cutting at noon to kick off the celebration of the silver anniversary of WASC accreditation. Lunch will be served and information will be available to Chamber members advising how Tri Cities ROP can be a benefit to them in not only providing a pool of potential employees, but also in providing training for their existing employees. Lunch and hors d’oeuvres have been donated by the following local restaurants: Crepes & Grapes, Dattilo, Lascaris and Senor Peppers. Chamber members will also be able to take tours of the TCROP facility, talk to students and instructors and see actual classes in action. TCROP classes are offered in 15 different Industry Sectors and each sector has two or more career pathways. A career pathway is a coherent sequence of rigorous academic and technical courses that allows students to apply academics and develop technical skills in a curricular area. TCROP is proud to offer courses to both high school students and adults that lead to not only industry certifications but a range of state certifications as well. For more information on the open house event or on TCROP programs available to you, please call (562) 698-9571.

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"Financial Update" - continued from page 6

JANUARY 2012

"Financial Update" - continued from previous column

primarily Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, and Spain — international traders have questioned their ability to pay and have priced the securities lower in the marketplace. So the collateral backing the ECB loans is now worth less than the face value of the notes. This forces the ECB to mark down those assets and creates an imbalance between the liabilities listed on the banks’ balance sheets and the assets listed on the ECB balance sheet. To preserve the reputation and value of the euro, these imbalances must be reconciled. One way to restore balance and help the struggling countries avoid default is for the EU and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to bail them out under the terms of the newly created European Financial Stability Facility. Over the past year and a half, Greece, Italy, and Portugal have all accepted rescue packages. In return, they have agreed to extreme austerity measures. Austerity measures for all - Today, the austerity movement is spreading throughout Europe as governments seek to raise taxes and cut government spending in an effort to strengthen their balance sheets. In “Europe Enters Era of Belt-Tightening,” Financial Times noted, “Each eurozone country is taking the measures it must take or can take — from pursuing tax cheats in Spain and Greece, to reducing child benefits in Ireland and controlling public spending almost everywhere — to reach a budget deficit target of 3% of GDP in the next three or four years.” Despite public protests, austerity measures seem to be appropriate, given the fact that the central bank can do only so much to fix struggling member nations, each of which has its own tax structure and separate economy. With interest rates near zero and limited options for monetary policy, all that’s left is tight fiscal policy if weak EU members hope to gain access to capital. Each country must slash spending in its own way if it wants to get debt levels below 60% of GDP. The problem is that GDPs are dropping as well, even in the healthier countries. Germany’s quarterly economic growth slowed in the second quarter of 2011 to 0.1% of GDP. France failed to grow at all. And Greece — well, the Economist calls the austerity plan “doomed to fail,” saying a “debt restructuring is the only really likely outcome here.” Double dip? - The biggest fear is that austerity programs will threaten an already precarious economic recovery. The recession that hit the United States following the 2008 financial crisis spread to Europe as businesses around the world, cut back on orders to reduce inventories. But the recession in Europe has been deeper and longer-lasting than in the U.S. Now, just as Europe is starting to emerge from recession, austerity measures are killing chances for growth. Even the IMF, which was responsible for imposing austerity measures on the nations it bailed out, is warning developed countries not to pursue belt tightening so fast that it imperils recovery. “For the advanced economies, there is an unmistakable need to restore fiscal sustainability through credible consolidation plans. At the same time, we know that slamming on the brakes too quickly will hurt the recovery and worsen job prospects. So fiscal adjustment must resolve the conundrum of being neither too fast nor too slow,” said Christine Lagarde, the new IMF chief, in a Financial Times op-ed piece. By the second quarter of 2011, none of the six largest high-income economies had surpassed output levels reached before the crisis hit. Germany and the U.S. have fiscal room for maneuvering — i.e., they are able to spend more to jump-start the recovery. “But, alas, governments that can spend more will not and those who want to spend more now cannot.” It seems that austerity is here to stay, at least for a while. The United States hasn’t yet instituted austerity measures as extreme as those in Europe — except for forced austerity at state and local levels — but in a world of free exchange rates, budget cutting by one country is soon transmitted to other countries, leading to contraction elsewhere. Here’s how it works: Europe slashes spending. It then needs to borrow fewer euros, which results in less demand for the European currency.

Interest rates fall, investors then switch to investments denominated in other currencies. That makes the euro cheaper against the U.S. dollar, which drives up the prices of our goods and reduces demand for U.S. exports. This time is different - Europe and the United States have been through economic cycles before. But the downturn that began in 2008 may turn out to be more protracted than any since the Great Depression. Carmen Reinhart and Kenneth Rogoff write in “A Decade of Debt”: “The combination of high and climbing public debts (a rising share of which is held by major central banks) and the protracted process of private deleveraging makes it likely that the ten years from 2008 to 2017 will be aptly described as a decade of debt.” They say that high public indebtedness doesn’t always end in high interest rates and hyperinflation — a fear many people have right now. Rather, the high debt levels may cast a shadow on economic growth, even when the sovereign’s solvency is not called into question. In addition to outright austerity programs whose effectiveness they say will be limited by subpar economic conditions and rising debt servicing costs — sovereign nations will deal with this debt through “financial repression,” a subtle form of debt restructuring that includes “more directed lending to government by captive domestic audiences (such as pension funds — this is already happening in Europe), explicit or implicit caps on interest rates, and tighter regulation on cross-border capital movements.” In other words, there’s a good chance that interest rates will remain low and inflation will remain in check over the long deleveraging process that has only just begun. Thank you to Elaine Floyd, CFP ® for her research and dedication in providing this overview. Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF® is an investment adviser representative with over twenty-five 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 multi-dimensional 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@financialnetwork.com www.rowanassetmanagement.com The views are those of Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF® and should not be construed as investment advice. Additional risks are associated with international investing, such as currency fluctuations, political and economic stability, and differences in accounting standards. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. All economic and performance information is historical and not indicative of future results. Securities offered through Financial Network Investment Corporation, member SIPC Elaine Floyd, CFP®, is the Director of Retirement and Life Planning at Horsesmouth, where she focuses on helping people understand the practical and technical aspects of retirement income planning. Horsesmouth is an independent organization providing unique, unbiased insight into the most critical issues facing financial advisors and their clients. Horsesmouth was founded in 1996 and is located in New York City.

Continued in next column

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JANUARY 2012

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NEW MEMBERS

DENTISTRY

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WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

oRGANIZATIoNS/HEALTH CLINIC

Santa Maria’s Children and Family Center Vince Rubino 9209 Colima Rd. Suite 4400 Whittier, CA 90605 (562) 907-0777 vrubino@santamarias.org Global Family Dentistry offers all of your dental needs from general dentistry, oral www.santamarias.org surgery and orthodontics. Dr. Rah has over 20 years experience; her gentle touch is what has The mission of Santa Maria’s Children & Family Center is to provide quality, affordable kept her clients coming back every year. She believes each person’s mouth deserves to be and comprehensive healthcare to the City of Whittier and its surrounding communities. They taken care of and needs a thorough cleaning at least twice a year. The Global Family staff offer several free programs that cater to pediatric, adult, prenatal and senior patients. They is very friendly; they always greet you with a warm smile; in person or on the phone. Call have a social worker on site to help patients/patrons apply for Medi-Cal, Healthy Families, Global Family Dentistry today to make an appointment. Healthy Kids and Cal Fresh (formerly know as "Food Stamps”). Please do not hesitate to call with questions, concerns or interest in any of these programs and how you qualify. Hours of GRoCERY SToRE operation are Monday-Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and third Saturday of every month. Smart and Final Wendy Lopez PAYRoLL SERVICES Paychex 11460 E. Washington Blvd. Carlos Romero Whittier, CA 90606 500 N. Brand Blvd. Suite 1400 (562) 695-1093 Glendale, CA 91203 Wendylopez0903@yahoo.com (424) 731-2658 www.smartandfinal.com Smart & Final is the smaller, faster warehouse store where businesses and households cromero@paychex.com find great savings on quality food and supplies. They have everything you need for cooking, www.paychex.com entertaining and cleaning-up afterwards. With convenient locations and smaller warehouse design, you get in and out quickly. Their exceptional combination of low warehouse prices and restaurant–quality products provide you outstanding value, and the membership fee never changes. Find produce, fresh meat, frozen foods, dairy, deli and grocery basics like cereal, yogurt, bread and snacks. The stores also carry a large selection of “Club Pack” sized products for stocking-up and a broad assortment of foodservice, janitorial and other supplies for businesses and organizations. Whether you are stocking up, planning a party or preparing a meal for your family, visit your local Smart & Final or Smart & Final Extra!

INSURANCE

Farmer’s Insurance Oscar Guido 7200 Greenleaf Ave. Suite 150 Whittier, CA 90602 (562) 464-1962 oscar.guido@guidoinsuranceagency.com

Interested in outsourcing payroll services or switching providers? Paychex was founded in 1971 as a small business with a great idea and a commitment to make it work. Fast forward 40 years and Paychex has grown to become a nationally recognized leader in providing payroll, human resource and employee benefits solutions to small and medium-sized businesses. In an effort to help entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve similar success, Paychex is launching a new website, BuildMyBiz.com, that provides tools and resources for starting, growing and managing a business. Paychex, Inc. is a recognized leader in the payroll, human resource and benefits outsourcing industry, with a steadfast commitment to success and a record of achievement that continues a tradition of delivering excellence. Say Cheese Photography Tom Guerrero (562) 843-2560 scp@saycheesephoto.net http://scp.saycheesephoto.net

Since 1928, Farmers stands as a symbol of superior service to their customers at every stage of life. The Oscar Guido Insurance Agency has been servicing the business community in the Whittier area for over 17 years. They pride themselves in delivering excellent customer service and making sure your insurance needs are taken care of. They offer a full range of insurance products and services for your home, car, specialty vehicles, commercial property and family. Farmers currently offers discounts for Occupational Groups (Doctors, RNs, Dentists, Teachers, Police, Firefighters, CPAs, Business Owners, etc.), Homeowners, Life, Good Student, Good Driver and many more! Farmers is here to exceed your expectations by providing superior products and service and appreciate the opportunity to serve you as your local insurance agency.

JANIToRIAL SERVICE

Southern California Maintenance Robert Aloyian/Michael Aloyian (562) 699-7742 mrascm@gmail.com

PHoToGRAPHER

Say Cheese Photography is a Whittier based company that serves a varied clientele. Owner Tom Guerrero has over 25 years in the photography business and his work has been featured on music CD covers and in Sports Illustrated. Services available include wedding packages, corporate events, school photos, family events, photo booths, senior portraits, family portraits, sports photography and candid photography. Say Cheese Photography enjoys serving the needs of the Whittier area and pride themselves in providing a professional product at an affordable rate.

TANNING SALoN

L.A. Bronze Tan Charlene Beltran 8317 Painter Ave. #3 Whittier, CA 90602 (562) 696-5566 LABronzetanning@hotmail.com

Whether you’re a tanning connoisseur or a seasonal tanner, L.A. Bronze has a program Southern California Maintenance has been family owned and operated for 30 years! to fit your needs. At L.A. Bronze, you can expect excellent customer service combined with The business first began in 1921 after saving up enough money to buy a horse and wagon to exceptional skin care products providing an experience well beyond a simple tan. The L.A. start a trash collection business. In 1941, the business had grown to the point that trucks were Bronze Tan Staff will teach you how to use the best products and services to suit your tanning needed. In 1982, Southern California Maintenance was officially launched and has prided needs. They are committed to searching for new products that will protect and enhance not themselves on building business that was built on hard work, determination and the will to only your skin, but also your perfect tan. Call L.A. Bronze to learn more about their different succeed. Southern California Maintenance offers full janitorial services, carpet cleaning, hard levels of tanning beds and their all natural island spray tan. Illuminate in your inner glow! floor care, plumbing, pressure washing, electrical, painting, window cleaning, upholstery RESoTRATIoN (FIRE, WATER, MoLD DAMAGE) cleaning and gardening services. ServiceMASTER by C2C Restoration Dennis Brody LAW ENFoRCEMENT/YoUTH GUIDANCE 18618 E. Washington Blvd. Suite F Los Angeles County Probation Whittier, CA 90606 Randy Herbon (562) 228-7964 (562) 940-2719 Dennis@svmbyc2restoration.com rbherbon@aim.com http://www.svmbyc2crestoration.com How can the Chamber of Commerce as a group, or you as an individual, help to tip ServiceMASTER Recovery by C2C Restoration is one of the largest damage restoration the scales toward a healthy lifestyle rather than allowing our youth to follow the pipeline to companies in Southern California. It services from four different locations in the Los Angeles prison? For every successful person, there is someone or some organization that has given and Ventura Counties, and specializes in commercial and residential fire damage, water damage them the opportunity to believe that they are worthwhile. They can succeed when someone cares enough about them to make them want to be better. With a small investment of your and mold remediation services. ServiceMASTER Recovery by C2C Restoration will be at your time, you could be a mentor for support and a positive role model of what is out there for door, ready to work with you and your insurance provider, to restore your loss as painlessly them if they don’t give up on themselves. Call Randy for more information on how you can and efficiently as possible. They offer complete damage restoration services, including damage caused by fire and smoke, water and flooding, as well as pack-out and content cleaning, get involved with the L.A. County Probation office at (562) 940-2719. residential carpet and upholstery, mold remediation, construction services and more.

Thank You Renewing Members of the Whittier Chamber Advanced Benefit Center (562) 947-0625 ∙ 19 Years

Complete Escrow (562) 947-5502 ∙ 3 Years

Applecare Medical Group (714) 452-5056 ∙ 3 years

Costco La Habra (562) 524-0002 ∙ 3 Years Digical, Inc. (562) 696-2222 ∙ 15 Years Don Steves Autoplex, RV and Collision Center (562) 691-6704 ∙ 5 Years

Calvary Baptist Church (562) 698-8058 ∙ 11 Years Children’s Museum at La Habra (562) 905-9693 ∙ 1 Year Chili’s (562) 693-7300 ∙ 5 Years Chorale Bel Canto (909) 224-6116 ∙ 4 Years Coldwell Banker, Ted Petropulos (562) 947-1863 ∙ 8 Years

Friends of Family Health Center (562) 690-0400 ∙ 1 Year Gregory Moegling, DDS (562) 698-9903 ∙ 24 Years H&R Block in the Quad (562) 945-5816 ∙ 3 Years Hacienda Golf Club (562) 694-1081 ∙ 1 year

East Whittier City School District Herbie’s House of Health (562) 907-5900 ∙ 25 Years (562) 945-1322 ∙ 7 Years Emeritus at Casa Whittier Hillcrest Congregational Church (562) 943-3724 ∙ 9 Years (562) 947-3755 ∙ 3 Years Emeritus at Whittier HOW House (562) 698-0596 ∙ 36 Years (562) 777-1222 ∙ 14 Years Financial Network Investment, Inclusive Realty Christopher J. George (562) 902-2288 ∙ 14 Years (562) 945-7787 ∙ 12 Years

Juan Great Fiesta (562) 945-1785 ∙ 9 Years

Ruth B. Shannon Center (562) 907-4203 ∙ 16 Years

The Whittier Conservancy (562) 644-4882 ∙ 5 Years

Landmark (562) 690-6400 ∙ 5 Years

Sandra Thorstenson, Civic Member 24 Years

Town House of Whittier (650) 854-1598 ∙ 16 Years

Leon Lesa Handyman Service (562) 696-3521 ∙ 16 Years

Servpro of Whittier (562) 698-5368 ∙ 1 Year

U-Haul of Leffingwell (562) 943-7294 ∙ 3 Years

LPL Financial (562) 945-7400 ∙ 1 Year

Seta dine:lounge (562) 698-3355 ∙ 3 Years

Uptown Flooring Co. (562) 945-4407 ∙ 12 Years

Magic Smile Family Dentistry (562) 692-5311 ∙ 4 Years

Shannon G’s Flowers (562) 789-5808 ∙ 8 Years

Whittier Auto Transmissions (562) 708-6043 ∙ 2 Years

Memory Garden Memorial Park (562) 694-6571 ∙ 11 Years

Shelter’s Right Hand (562) 695-8888 ∙ 18 Years

Merrill Gardens @ Chateau Whittier (562) 945-3904 ∙ 16 Years

Sir Speedy Printing Center (562) 696-0550 ∙ 23 Years

Whittier Elementary Teachers Association (562) 708-6043 ∙ 22 Years

Rudy Cervantes, Civic Member 12 Years

The Traveling Traveler (562) 907-7938 ∙ 3 Hours

Whittier Hearing Center (562) 698-0581 ∙ 24 Years Whittier Secondary Education (562) 698-8121 ∙ 53 Years

WHITTIER BUSINESS FoCUS

www.whittierchamber.com

JANUARY 2012