Tuesday, January 10, 2006 State of the City Address Dec.2005/Jan.2006 Vol.13 No.1 11:00 a.m. Delivered by The Honorable Mayor Beverly O’Neill California Chamber of Commerce “ADVOCACY PARTNER OF THE YEAR” for 2003, 2004, 2005 Long Beach Convention Center Grand Ballroom “Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a national reputation for cutting edge technology and state-of-the-art care.” Faces of The Chamber Public Policy Year of Accomplishment ICT Selected for Diversity Practices
B usiness Dec. 2005/Jan. 2006 Vol. 13 No. 1 LONG BEACH Faces of The Chamber Public Policy Year of Accomplishment ICT Selected for Diversity Practices 3 6 4 inside ■ ■ ■ California Chamber of Commerce “ADVOCACY PARTNER OF THE YEAR” for 2003, 2004, 2005 F or nearly a century, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center's outstanding record of innovation, medical advances and national recognition has been a source of comfort and pride to the City of Long Beach. The second largest medical campus in the West with 739 beds, 5000 employees, 1500 physicians and hundreds more volunteers and board members, it offers special- ized medical services in cancer, heart, orthopedics, and rehabilitation and specialized centers for women, children and seniors all in one location. Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a national reputation for cutting edge technology and state-of-the- art care. New computer-assisted surgical procedures and new devices are helping doctors make more accurate diagnoses and these tools are making all clinicians even more efficient. From major pieces of equipment to technology that assists clinicians in tracking patients, a variety of new technologies are helping Long Beach Memorial Medical Center provide the most advanced care for patients. Recent advances that are saving lives include a new atrial fibrillation ablation procedure being performed at Long Beach Memorial’s Heart and Vascular Institute. Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heart rhythm affecting more than 2.2 million Americans. Additionally, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center was the very first clinical site in the United States to have the Toshiba Aquilion 16-slice CT scanner. This scanner allows physicians to look at 3-D images of the body, thereby planning a course of treatment that is more accurate and effective. And now, the most advanced imaging technology available, a 64-slice CT scanner, has been ordered and will arrive in 2006. The Todd Cancer Institute is also home to the world’s most advanced and accurate cancer treatment system. Called TomoTherapy, it is described by experts as the first redesign of radiation oncology in 40 years. The revolutionary radiation treatment technology is the first computer tomography integrated device to provide 3-D imaging immediately prior to each treatment to State of the City to Spotlight Memorial’s Centennial verify location of a patient’s tumor. Long Beach Memorial is one of only 10 centers in the country to have this technology. A new technology that is helping Long Beach Memorial keep track of patients is the ED Tracker system. This system (one of only a few such systems in the country) is helping staff in the emergency department keep track of some 250 patients daily. Thus, staff knows at all times exactly where the patient is, what tests have been performed and what tests are still required. In additional to medical and technological advances, Long Beach Memorial has begun the implementation phase of making the hospital entirely paperless. The goal of this endeavor is to have all the hospital’s computer systems interface and is designed so that everything, including physician orders, are entered online. The hospital, as part of the MemorialCare system, is under- taking this project to help physicians and staff be more efficient. “An example of how this system will help us is when a physician enters a medication order for a patient, the system will automatically calculate the ideal dosage for the patient’s weight and warn of any interactions with other medications the patient has been prescribed,” says Byron Schweigert, PharmD, CEO of Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. “These kinds of automatic checks are going to be huge in terms of patient safety.” Another exciting development on the Long Beach Memorial campus is the expansion of Miller Children’s Hospital. With a 25 percent increase in volume in five years, Miller Children's recently broke ground on an expansion project to construct a new building and renovate existing space to create a comprehensive facility planned by the community, patients, physicians and staff. Approved by a Long Beach City Council unanimous vote, the project features a modern day “castle” building inspired from classic hero stories. In explaining parallels between heroes and hospitalized children, Mel Marks, M.D., Miller Children’s chief administrative officer, explains that “heroes overcome obstacles often finding refuge in a castle before triumphing over the enemy. Pediatric patients find refuge in the hospital and triumph over their disease.” Miller Children's is the region's only hospital dedicated to children. Annually, Miller Children’s admits more than 8,000 children and sees 100,000 in outpatient clinics and 25,000 in the ER. Memorial Women’s at Miller Children’s—ranked among the country's safest—annually delivers more than 6,000 babies and cares for 1,000 frag- ile newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit—one of the largest in the state. Pediatric clinics and programs in childhood medicine and an ER staffed exclusively by emergency pediatric physicians, nurses and specialists along with renowned programs in childhood cardiology, orthopedics, rehabilitation, cystic fibrosis, and other diseases are all offered at Miller Children’s. Additionally, the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center provides access to national clinical protocols for childhood cancer, sickle cell and blood disorders. Many of the medical advances that have been achieved by Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’s have been made possible through the generous support of philanthropic friends. The Memorial Medical Center Foundation extends a heartfelt thanks to its thousands of philanthropic friends and volunteers who provide that “extra measure of care.” For referral to a Long Beach Memorial or Miller Children’s physician, call 1-800-MEMORIAL or visit www.memorialcare.org. This coming year, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center will be turning 100 and the celebration will begin at the 2006 State of the City Luncheon. For ticket information, contact Elisa Margoni at (562) 436-2810 or [email protected]. “Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a national reputation for cutting edge technology and state-of-the-art care.” Delivered by The Honorable Mayor Beverly O’Neill Tuesday, January 10, 2006 11:00 a.m. Long Beach Convention Center Grand Ballroom 300 E. Ocean Blvd. at Pine Ave. 2006 State of the City Address
Transcript
BusinessDec.2005/Jan.2006
Vol. 13 No.1L O N G B E A C H
Faces of The Chamber Public Policy Year of Accomplishment ICT Selected for Diversity Practices
3 64iinnssiiddee ■■ ■■ ■■
California Chamber of Commerce “ADVOCACY PARTNER OF THE YEAR” for 2003, 2004, 2005
For nearly a century, Long Beach Memorial MedicalCenter's outstanding record of innovation, medicaladvances and national recognition has been a source ofcomfort and pride to the City of Long Beach. The second largest medical campus in the West with 739beds, 5000 employees, 1500 physicians and hundredsmore volunteers and board members, it offers special-ized medical services in cancer, heart, orthopedics, andrehabilitation and specialized centers for women, children and seniors all in one location.
Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a nationalreputation for cutting edge technology and state-of-the-art care. New computer-assisted surgical procedures andnew devices are helping doctors make more accuratediagnoses and these tools are making all clinicians even more efficient. From major pieces of equipment totechnology that assists clinicians in tracking patients, avariety of new technologies are helping Long BeachMemorial Medical Center provide the most advanced
care for patients. Recent advances that are saving lives include a new
atrial fibrillation ablation procedure being performed atLong Beach Memorial’s Heart and Vascular Institute.Atrial fibrillation is the most common abnormal heartrhythm affecting more than 2.2 million Americans.Additionally, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center wasthe very first clinical site in the United States to have the Toshiba Aquilion 16-slice CT scanner. This scannerallows physicians to look at 3-D images of the body,thereby planning a course of treatment that is moreaccurate and effective. And now, the most advancedimaging technology available, a 64-slice CT scanner, hasbeen ordered and will arrive in 2006.
The Todd Cancer Institute is also home to the world’smost advanced and accurate cancer treatment system.Called TomoTherapy, it is described by experts as thefirst redesign of radiation oncology in 40 years. The revolutionary radiation treatment technology is the first computer tomography integrated device to provide3-D imaging immediately prior to each treatment to
State of the City to Spotlight Memorial’s Centennial
verify location of a patient’s tumor. Long Beach Memorialis one of only 10 centers in the country to have this technology.
A new technology that is helping Long BeachMemorial keep track of patients is the ED Tracker system.This system (one of only a few such systems in the country) is helping staff in the emergency departmentkeep track of some 250 patients daily. Thus, staff knowsat all times exactly where the patient is, what tests havebeen performed and what tests are still required.
In additional to medical and technological advances,Long Beach Memorial has begun the implementationphase of making the hospital entirely paperless. The goalof this endeavor is to have all the hospital’s computer systems interface and is designed so that everything,including physician orders, are entered online. The hospital, as part of the MemorialCare system, is under-taking this project to help physicians and staff be moreefficient. “An example of how this system will help us iswhen a physician enters a medication order for a patient,the system will automatically calculate the ideal dosagefor the patient’s weight and warn of any interactions withother medications the patient has been prescribed,” saysByron Schweigert, PharmD, CEO of Long BeachMemorial Medical Center. “These kinds of automaticchecks are going to be huge in terms of patient safety.”
Another exciting development on the Long BeachMemorial campus is the expansion of Miller Children’sHospital. With a 25 percent increase in volume in five years, Miller Children's recently broke ground on an expansion project to construct a new building and renovate existing space to create a comprehensive facilityplanned by the community, patients, physicians and staff.Approved by a Long Beach City Council unanimous vote,the project features a modern day “castle” buildinginspired from classic hero stories. In explaining parallelsbetween heroes and hospitalized children, Mel Marks,M.D., Miller Children’s chief administrative officer,explains that “heroes overcome obstacles often findingrefuge in a castle before triumphing over the enemy.
Pediatric patients find refuge in the hospital and triumphover their disease.”
Miller Children's is the region's only hospital dedicatedto children. Annually, Miller Children’s admits more than8,000 children and sees 100,000 in outpatient clinics and25,000 in the ER. Memorial Women’s at MillerChildren’s—ranked among the country's safest—annuallydelivers more than 6,000 babies and cares for 1,000 frag-ile newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit—one ofthe largest in the state. Pediatric clinics and programs inchildhood medicine and an ER staffed exclusively byemergency pediatric physicians, nurses and specialistsalong with renowned programs in childhood cardiology,orthopedics, rehabilitation, cystic fibrosis, and other diseases are all offered at Miller Children’s. Additionally,the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center providesaccess to national clinical protocols for childhood cancer,sickle cell and blood disorders.
Many of the medical advances that have beenachieved by Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’shave been made possible through the generous supportof philanthropic friends. The Memorial Medical CenterFoundation extends a heartfelt thanks to its thousands of philanthropic friends and volunteers who provide that “extra measure of care.” For referral to a Long Beach Memorial or Miller Children’s physician, call 1-800-MEMORIAL or visit www.memorialcare.org.
This coming year, Long Beach Memorial MedicalCenter will be turning 100 and the celebration will beginat the 2006 State of the City Luncheon. For ticket information, contact Elisa Margoni at (562) 436-2810 [email protected].
“Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a national reputation for cutting edge technology and state-of-the-art care.”
Delivered by The Honorable
Mayor Beverly O’Neill
Tuesday, January 10, 200611:00 a.m. Long Beach Convention Center Grand Ballroom300 E. Ocean Blvd. at Pine Ave.
2006State of the City Address
And, the journey continues…
So much has occurred since my last column,where do I start? Let’s go with the fact that theenvironmental impact report (EIR) regarding theissue of modernizing the Airport was recentlyreleased. The much anticipated report basicallygives clearance for the City Council to considermodernizing the Long Beach Airport to the maximum square footage of about 102,000 squarefeet. The Long Beach Chamber has previouslygone on record supporting the construction ofpermanent terminal facilities at the Long BeachAirport, as long as such changes support the current permitted commercial flights set by ordinance (41 commercial air carrier and 25-commuter air carrier flights).
We recently had a briefing from the LongBeach Airport Alliance that outlined the contentsof the EIR. Over 16 months of community inputestablished the foundation for the recent draftEnvironmental Impact Report (EIR) that concludes:• “Neither the Proposed Project [102,850
square feet, 14 jet parking spots] nor any of theproject alternatives would add passengers orflights to the airport.” (Section 5-3)
• “The Proposed Project is able to meet all of theproject objectives...” (Section 1.13)
• “The Proposed Project is the environmentallysuperior alternative.” (Section 1.13)
I talked about the great foundation yourChamber has built as we strive to create the bestpossible climate for business stability and prosper-ity. A modernized airport that retains the bestarchitectural and customer-friendly aspects of ourcurrent airport amenities is consistent with yourChamber’s position. We need to make sure we stayinformed and engaged on this subject
As the holiday season approaches, let’s beextra careful and spend time with family andfriends. For, at the end of the day, all we reallyhave is family and friends. Yes, I know how impor-tant it is to run a healthy business. It allows us toserve the needs of our fellow citizens and meetother needs in the global marketplace. But, wecannot run healthy businesses with healthyemployees without the support of our families andfriends. So, let’s take the time to enjoy what lifehas to offer and serve our community well.
And the journey continues…
LONG BEACH BUSINESS2
Chairman’s Message Larry WhitleyBoeing IntegratedDefense Systems
“A modernized airport that retains the bestarchitectural and customer-friendly aspects
of our current airport amenities is consistent with your Chamber’s position.”
The Chamber is urging employers to be aware of new laws and regulations now in effect or that will takeeffect in 2006. Products are available to help businessescomply with both state and federal laws.
Starting January 2006, new laws will be in effect in the following areas: • Final wages may be paid by direct deposit to an
employee's previously authorized account, providedthat all other requirements for payment of final com-pensation are met.
• Hearing notices for Labor Commissioner wage claimproceedings may be served by substitute service.
• The period for filing discrimination claims by minorsunder the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)is extended to one year from the minor's eighteenthbirthday.
• A collective bargaining agreement for employees inthe motion picture or broadcast industry (coveredunder Wage Orders 11 or 12) that provides meal peri-ods and a monetary remedy if a meal period requiredby the agreement is missed, supercedes the LaborCode and applicable Wage Orders.
• A new federal law requires proper destruction of doc-uments that contain personal information of the typeobtained in credit reports.
Chamber Urges Employers to Complywith New 2006 Laws and Regulations
One World Trade Center, Suite 206Long Beach, California 90831-0206PH (562) 436-1251 ■ FAX 436-7099 w w w . l b c h a m b e r . c o mw w w . l o n g b e a c h a d v o c a c y . b i z
Mission StatementThe Chamber is the platform for business toprovide leadership, education and advocacy so thatthe Long Beach area thrives in the 21st century.
Vision StatementThe Chamber will be the acknowledged leader increating community consensus to support local,regional, and international business.
Members wishing to submit articles, press releases, or membernews items for upcoming issues of Long Beach Business, please fax to (562) 436-7099, attn: Jackie Kuhl, or [email protected].
Circulation: Long Beach Business is mailed directly to more than2400 Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce members, electedofficials and community leaders.
Laws already in effect for 2005 include:• Starting June 1, 2005, a new federal law requires
proper destruction of documents that contain person-al information of the type obtained in credit reports.
• Starting June 10, 2005, new regulations were imple-mented for injured workers seeking independentmedical review of diagnosis and treatment recom-mendations of physicians within a medical providernetwork.
• Starting June 10, 2005, new regulations establishedthe permanent disability rating schedule under work-ers' compensation reform legislation passed in 2004.
• Starting August 1, 2005, new regulations implement-ed the Supplemental Job Displacement Voucher pro-gram for injured workers with permanent disabilities.
• Starting September 15, 2005, new regulations wereestablished concerning care for injured workers bymedical provider networks.
• Starting August 22, 2005, new regulations estab-lished safety guidelines for employees working out-doors who may be at risk for developing heat illness. Information about all these new laws and regulations
will be covered in the 2006 California Labor Law Digest.To purchase this Digest and additional compliance prod-ucts, visit The Chamber Store at www.lbchamber.com.
Save Big with The Chamber’s Bottom-Line BenefitsLet the buying power of The Chamber help you save up to 60% on office sup-
plies from Office Depot. As a Chamber member, you have exclusive access toadditional discounts. You can streamline your ordering by taking advantage oftimely next day delivery. And you can even monitor your expenses through
monthly reporting, and save time by ordering whichever way is most convenient for you—fax, phone, or online. Also,ask about obtaining a store purchasing card to enable your purchases to be billed to your new account. Save big oneveryday business purchases and take advantage of this “Chamber Member's Only” benefit. To get started, log onto:http://www.benefits-corp.com/LongBeachChamberSignup.php.
Creating a Stronger Community
LONG BEACH BUSINESS3
“I wanted to thank youpersonally for all that you doon behalf of business in LongBeach. During the 13+ yearsI have been with Toyota andthrough my participationeither on committees or theboard of The Chamber, youhave never lost focus.Thanks for being the ener-gizer bunny that keeps
thumping for business. The collaboration and mix ofbusiness partners coupled with the proactive stance ofthis Chamber makes me proud!”
Pat MurphyCommunity Affairs Coordinator, TABC, Inc.
“I’m pleased to reportthat Incredible Journey hasrecently become the travelvendor for Linda DuPlaineGray’s company, A WeddingStore and Special Events.Had I not rejoined TheChamber, I doubt this oppor-tunity would have presenteditself. This is a great exampleof how Chamber member-
ship can work for small businesses within the Long Beachcommunity, as long as members are willing to takeadvantage of all the networking opportunities Chambermembership offers.”
Pat EllingtonTravel Consultant, Incredible Journey
Faces of The ChamberMembers talk about what their Chamber membership means to them
"Just a note to thank TheChamber for the lunch, pres-entation and dialogue attheir Better Business in 90Minutes customer serviceseminar recently. I found thecomments useful and a goodreminder to managers ofsome of the principles we allknow but need refreshingfrom time to time. Also valu-
able was the Q & A session as many people offeredobservations and suggestions to problem solving thatwere useful. It made the event even more enriching.Thanks again for the seminar and please extend ourthanks to those involved in its execution."
Randy KemnerProprietor, The Wine Country
"I love the Long BeachArea Chamber of Commerce!My membership has provento be profitable for me fromthe first month that I joined!My largest client to datefound me on The Chamberof Commerce web site – thefirst month I was posted! Ijust can’t think of a better, ormore economical way to
develop such an extensive network in the dynamic andgrowing business community of Long Beach. I highlyrecommend anyone interested in doing business in LongBeach to join today."
Cindy AllenOwner, Money Mailer of Long Beach
“I am pleased to receiveyour Special Election reminderin the Long Beach ChambereAlert. My family and community will vote basedon your recommendations.Thanks for putting it togeth-er. All the best.”
Paul C. BlancoFederation of Filipino American Associations
Pat Murphy
2005-2006 Chairman’s CircleDiamond
DeVry University ■ Hilton Long Beach ■ Long Beach Memorial Medical Center ■ Port of Long BeachPress-Telegram ■ Verizon
PlatinumLong Beach City College ■ The Boeing Company
GoldCity National Bank ■ Community Hospital of Long Beach ■ Epson America, Inc. ■ Farmers & Merchants Bank
Holthouse Carlin & Van Trigt, LLP ■ Hyatt Regency Long Beach ■ Keesal, Young & Logan ■ NextelSt. Mary Medical Center ■ Seaside Printing Company, Inc. ■ Sound Energy Solutions
Toyota Affiliated Companies ■ Universal Care
SilverBP Products North America, Inc. ■ California State University, Long Beach ■ Catalina Express
Denso Sales California, Inc. ■ Lennar Corporation ■ Long Beach AirportLong Beach Business Journal ■ Long Beach Ice Dogs ■ Long Beach Towne Center
BronzeAEG Home Depot Center ■ Aquarium of the Pacific ■ Boeing Realty/Douglas Park ■ Brookfield Homes
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. ■ Center for Judicial Advocacy ■ Camden Development ■ Charter CommunicationsColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage ■ Color Broadband ■ Comerica Bank ■ Construction Consultant Services, Inc.
Davis Group ■ DDR/City Place/The Pike ■ DirectTV-California Broadcast Center ■ Earth TechEnsemble Investments LLC ■ Ford West ■ Genesis Real Estate ■ Guzman & Gray, CPAs ■ HR-Network
Long Beach Armada Baseball Team ■ Long Beach Convention & Entertainment CenterLaserfiche Document Imaging ■ The Marketing Arm ■ Matson Navigation Company, Inc. ■ Moffatt & Nichol Engineers
Paragon Steel ■ Parkers’ Lighthouse ■ The Queen Mary ■ Spirit Cruises ■ Tax Technology ResearchTHUMS Long Beach Company ■ Urban Pacific Builders ■ Via Media Graphic Design
Water Replenishment District of Southern California ■ Watson Land Company ■ The Westin Long Beach
The “Chairman’s Circle” is a special group of members that have committed to support the LBACC through sponsorships at various financial levels and at special events. If your company would like to become a member
of the Chairman’s Circle, please contact Randy Gordon, President/CEO, at (562) 432-7830 for details.
For more information, contact your broker or Universal Care at 800-380-2522.
Serving as the Voice of Business
LONG BEACH BUSINESS4
Chamber’s GordonIntroduces Governor
A few days before last month’s SpecialElection, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger held amidmorning press event atop a Pike area parkingstructure with the Port of Long Beach as a backdrop.The Governor was urging for the passage of Proposition 76 (the “Live Within Our Means”measure) as a reform needed to control the budgetand ensure consistent funding for infrastructure...including Port growth and the 710 freeway.
Chamber President and CEO Randy Gordon deliveredthe Governor’s introduction in front of a hundred Prop76 supporters. Gordon said, “We are here to support a leader and his visionary reforms, a leader who understands the importance of running the state government like a business.”
Matthew L. Kinley, Esq.Partner, Tredway, Lumsdaine & Doyle, LLP & Vice Chair of Public Policy, Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber continues to lead for the business com-munity in influencing public policy at the local and statelevels. Consider The Chamber’s work for 2005:
Political Action Under our political action committee, Dave Neary
chairing, The Chamber initiated and conducted a first ofits kind Candidate Academy, which schooled twenty-fivepotential new candidates on the campaign process. ThePAC was also the first organization in the City to endorsebusiness friendly candidates for mayor and city councilin the 2006 elections.
Local IssuesThe Government Affairs Committee (“GAC”) continued
its great work with a strong committee. This past year saw the GAC, with support from The Chamber Board,challenge our local leaders to do right by business. Itstrongly supported Long Beach Airport improvements,a position that was validated by the EnvironmentalImpact Report issued about the airport last November.The Chamber was instrumental in opposing several ideasthat would have hurt business in this city, including drastic changes in our redevelopment process, a housing policy which would have hurt neighborhoodsand housing for our workforce, and The Chamber stoodsteadfast against any new taxes or fees.
The Chamber successfully opposed the Peace Labor
Agreements and the Project Labor Agreement. Both ofthese policies would have harmed small local businessesin the City. Peace Labor Agreements restrict how hotelswould do business in the City and would have preventedthe construction of new hotels on city land. If the CityCouncil had passed project labor agreements, the newlaw would have virtually assured that small business couldnot bid on city construction projects.
State IssuesThe Chamber also continued to have the voice of
business heard in Sacramento, as well. GAC just issuedits report cards on our locally elected state officials, whichshows that all of them voted seventy-five percent of thetime against business.
Long Beach continues to have the highest povertylevel in the State, with many economic problems in ourCity. Educating our elected officials about our problemswill help improve our City’s economic performance. TheChamber opposed unilateral efforts by the legislatureto pass restrictive laws and new taxes on our port.The Chamber has worked for a cooperative effortbetween our port, the City and Sacramento to create aport which is safe from terrorism, which leads the world in pollution control and which creates good jobs for ourcitizens.
The Chamber is also working hard to make sure thatEnterprise Zones continue in our City. Right now, theZones are set to expire in 2007, and the legislature hasfailed to act to continue these important incentives forbusiness. GAC has continued to monitor Workers’Compensation reform to make sure the reform benefitsas many businesses and their employees as possible. The Chamber also worked hard in the recent SpecialElection to speak up for business, and continues to speakout against new taxes and regulations which harm commerce.
This last year, GAC created a new service to the busi-ness community, the Center for Judicial Advocacy,which monitors decisions by state and federal courts thatwill change the way you do business. Check out this new
service at www.longbeachadvocacy.biz/cja.Please review our record at our website,
http://www.longbeachadvocacy.biz. If you run an enter-prise in our city, you’ll be happy we’re here.
Influencing Public Policy for Business—A Year of AccomplishmentBy: Matthew L. Kinley, Esq.
Highlighting the Membership
LONG BEACH BUSINESS5
Aerolease Long Beach,dba Aeroplex Aviationannounced recently thatSignature Flight Supporthas acquired Long Beach
Million Air, Inc, the FBO service provider operating out oftheir Long Beach Airport aviation facility. AeroleasePresident and CEO Curt Castagna had the followingcomments. “We are very pleased to welcome SignatureFlight Support to the Long Beach Airport and our FBOfacility. Signature’s presence at Long Beach is yet anothermilestone in the City of Long Beach’s effort to promoteits airport as a key corporate destination servingSouthern California. We look forward to hostingSignature’s operations here at the Aeroplex AviationCenter and working together with them in promoting thefacilities and airport.”
The Aerolease Group, with facilities at Long Beachand Van Nuys, has a successful 30 year history in devel-oping and managing aviation properties. The AeroleaseGroup can be found at www.aeroplex.net.
ues to grow with the recent opening of its latest franchiseserving the towns of Lakewood, Signal Hill and LongBeach. Cindy Allen is thrilled to operate one of more than275 Money Mailer franchises nationwide. Money Mailerprovides a wide range of direct mail advertising solutionsincluding its main product, the famous oversized red,white and blue envelope filled with money-savingcoupons. A former police officer with the Long BeachPolice Department, Allen found herself determined tocontinue building relationships within the community byfocusing her attention on the relationships between busi-nesses and their consumers. “Through the use of MoneyMailer, I am able to offer business owners a wide range ofdirect mail advertising options that will enable them topowerfully communicate their great services and valuesto customers so that everybody wins,” said Allen. CindyAllen, owner of the Money Mailer franchise of LongBeach can be contacted at (562) 331-1620.
George’s Greek Deli, one of the most popular spotsto eat on Pine Avenue in Long Beach, is coming soon toBelmont Shore. Jimmy Loizides, the owner of George’s,recently purchased Malvasia at 5316 E. Second St. andplans to convert the space to a second George’s GreekDeli. George’s is popular downtown first and foremostbecause it is quality Greek food at an affordable price.What’s more, the place has the kind of friendly familyatmosphere that should be a big hit in Belmont Shore. It will be a while before the escrow and liquor licenses change hands, so look for George’s to open onSecond Street after the first of the year. The originalGeorge’s Greek Deli is at 318 Pine Avenue, Long Beach,(562) 437-1184.
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After 35 years of service toLong Beach Memorial MedicalCenter and Miller Children’sHospital—the last 6 as CEO—Byron Schweigert has been pro-moted to a newly created role asChief Education and GovernmentAffairs Officer of MemorialCare
Medical Centers. “I have seen many changes in my yearsat LBMMC/MCH and plan to continue playing a part inthe future of the MemorialCare system. Working inWomen’s Hospital, being part of the move of pediatricpatients from 4-West to the new Miller Children’sHospital, helping to create and enhance the clinical phar-macy services at Long Beach Memorial and, ultimately,having the privilege to work as CEO have all been won-derful experiences for me,” Schweigert wrote to employ-ees when announcing the move. Beginning January 1,2006, Byron will assume his new role with theMemorialCare system. MemorialCare operates four sep-arate medical centers in Southern California: Anaheim,Orange Coast, Saddleback, and Long Beach. A group ofboard and medical staff leadership will be working close-ly with Barry Arbuckle, CEO of MemorialCare MedicalCenters, in selecting the future CEO of Long BeachMemorial, which actually is 6 hospitals in one, and thelargest of MemorialCare’s operations. As Chair-Elect forThe Chamber, Byron will fulfill his commitment asChairman of the Board for 2006-2007 beginning in July.
Bradfield Design, Inc.,located in downtown LongBeach, recently celebratedits 20-year anniversary. Thefirm opened its doors in1985 with a mission of creating strong visual mar-keting and promotional
packages for its clients. Over the years, BradfieldDesign has provided a complete range of customized graphic design services for numeroussatisfied clients representing various markets and professions. Industries served include healthcare, manufacturing, commercial and residentialdevelopment, government agencies, nonprofitorganizations, education, restaurant/hospitality andconsulting services. The services Bradfield Designoffers to businesses include planning, research, concept development, design, implementation andproduction to develop brand identity, logos,brochures, catalogs, ads, promotional materials andWeb sites. Agency founder, Debra Bradfield hasreceived numerous awards in the visual communica-tions industry since opening her firm. Debra wouldlike to thank all of her clients, past and present forher great success as an entrepreneur.
If you’d like more info, visit her online portfolio atbd4graphics.com.
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If you pro-vide good prod-ucts at goodprices, you likelyare going to dowell, which is
why Friedmans Appliance Center needed to get abigger home. In 2004, owner Bob Atkins and hiswife Pat began construction of the new space, a26,200 sq. ft. building which triples the prior show-room floor space. Bob and Pat continue to honor theFriedmans’ philosophy and are designing their newstore for the customer’s convenience and shoppingenjoyment. Friedmans is celebrating their move thismonth at the new location, 1827 Spring St. in LongBeach. Friedmans has a huge selection of appliances— washers, dryers, refrigerators and more — as wellas talented staff who can help you do just about any-thing, including redesign your kitchen. For moreinformation, give them a call at (562) 989-7756.
ThankYou to
Epson Americafor hosting The Chamber’s November Board of Director’s meeting.
41,631 member listings were requested in October 2005 on the Business directory ofwww.lbchamber.com
The top five categories requested were: Hotels & Motels, Things to See & Do, Restaurants, Aquarium, Catalina Island
The top five members requested were: Dockside Bed & Boat, Holiday Inn, Vagabond Inn,Hyatt Regency Hotel, Courtyard by Mariott
Web
Sta
ts -
LONG BEACH BUSINESS6
Focusing on Small Business
Microsoft Rollsinto Town forTechnology Expo
Microsoft is rolling into town in a state-of-the-artMicrosoft Across America truck loaded with excitingtechnical solutions to help you achieve your businessgoals. The Chamber, Professional Business Services(PBS) and Bond Consulting Services (BCS) invite you toparticipate in the first-ever Long Beach Technology Expoon January 24, 2006 at the Long Beach Marriott from8:30am–12:30pm.
PBS and BCS, bothChamber members andboth Certified Microsoftpartners headquarteredhere in Long Beach, haveproduced a hands-on,interactive event that willgive you the informationyou need to answer manyof your key business concerns. How can I usemy computer system andnetwork to: Become morecompetitive? Tighten net-work security? Improvemy bottom line? How canI make my computers work as hard as I do? You will hearguest speakers from Microsoft and other technologycompanies give you an inside look at products and serv-ices that address these questions. You will also see livedemonstrations on the Microsoft Across America truckthat show these cost-effective tools in action. You willattend break out sessions that specifically focus on yourarea of interest. And…while you are there, you will havea chance to win valuable free prizes and register for pri-vate demonstrations customized for your company. To Register
Space is limited, so reserve your spot TODAY for this unique Technology Expo. Call Bobbie Spohn at (562) 436-1251 ext. 118 or register online at www.clicktoattend.com (Professional Business Services Event105041).
International City Theatre (ICT) is being honored by theWorkforce Diversity Committee of the Long BeachChamber for its commitment to workplace diversity aswell as its outreach to groups based upon race, ethnicity,age, religion, sexual orientation and disability.Presentation of the Best Diversity Practices award will takeplace at the Good Morning Long Beach meeting onWednesday January 18, 2006 at 7:30 a.m. at The Grand.
ICT, the resident theater company at the Long BeachPerforming Arts Center, is led by founder/artistic direc-tor/producer Shashin Desai, whom is of Indian descent,and his wife caryn, general manager. Diversity is stated inwriting in the Employee Handbook and followed in hiringa diverse workforce from the in-office staff to the actorsand crew necessary for ICT’s six productions each year.
The philosophy on diversity is stated best in ICT’sbusiness plan: “Audiences are brought into a world wherethey are able to see the human side of someone who maybe different from them. It is in this identification with peo-ple who are “different” that we discover how people,everywhere, are alike. We all laugh. We all cry. We all suf-fer. We all die. We all share the same range of humanemotions and this is our link. This is what theatre can do.Quality, professional theatre is necessary for stimulatingthought. ICT can and does make a positive impact on the
ICTSelectedfor BestDiversityPractices
community, embracing all ages and ethnicities from ouryoung people to our senior population.”
caryn desai, who purposely writes her name all inlower case explains “we aim not just to entertain but toeducate and enlighten as well.” ICT’s first play, 20 yearsago, presented a gay couple struggling with AIDS, whenthe disease was very new and not understood. In thatproduction, as well as others that followed, Shashin Desaibelieves “it is our responsibility to bring diversity togeth-er and what better way to do it than through art and cul-ture.” He has done so by breaking tradition. He proudlytells of casting a black actor as the father of a blondechild. Upon learning who was playing his daughter, theactor protested and identified himself as a black actor.Desai advised that he did not teach black acting ratheracting. The play went on as planned and now the actorproudly introduces himself as an actor, not a black actor.
Hugely successful also is ICT’s Summer YouthConservatory where young actors age 6 to 14 learn thetheater firsthand. By the end of the session their dreamsbecome reality on stage in the Center Theatre. ICT hastaken this hands-on approach into Long Beach Schoolswith it Performing Arts Classroom Teaching for thirdgraders, which is now requested more than one hundredclassrooms. To meet the demand, ICT has recently hiredtwo more program teachers.
In the words of Desai, “the idea of diversity is toaccept people for their capabilities without thinkingabout the issues that divide us; but on the other hand, wemust have the awareness to incorporate all people intothe process.”
“The idea of diversity is to accept people fortheir capabilities without thinking about the
issues that divide us…”
Young actors between the ages of 6 to 14 learn theater firsthand by participating in ICT’sSummer Youth Conservatory. By the end of the session, their dreams become reality onstage at the Center Theatre in Long Beach.
LONG BEACH BUSINESS7
Volunteer Opportunities
WC Seeks Support for Food Finders
Women’s Council is furthering its mission to providea supportive environment for business professionals tonetwork, to achieve personal growth and to contributeto the betterment of the community. Our work thus farhas laid a solid foundation for exciting opportunities toimprove both our businesses and our community.
Our Holiday Luncheon was held earlier this monthand it was an elegant occasion. The cultured ambianceof the Museum of Latin American Art was the setting foran affair to remember. Thank you to our generous spon-sor Doris Jordan from DJ Risk Management InsuranceServices and to Syndi Croad and Moon Dance Catering.
The Women’s Outreach Committee of Women’sCouncil has arranged for our sponsorship of FoodFinders. Food Finders is an organization that providessupport ranging from clothing and toiletries to food foremployment challenged and homeless individuals, manyof whom are single-parent women with children. Ourcontribution to this group is made possible only throughyour generous support. Thank you.
Our Experience Speaks event will take place onFebruary 23, 2006. It will be an excellent opportunity foryou to speak face-to-face with your Federal and Statepolitical representatives.
WC in Action, the cable interview show on CharterTelevision Channels 65 and 69 at 6 p.m. every Thursday,has a full slate of energetic business women through theend of the year. For your 15 minutes of fame, contactClare Dellemann at 562-434-1541.
We need your assistance and support to advanceWomen’s Council’s mission. If you have not already doneso, please renew your membership today, encourage afriend to join, and get involved by joining a committee.
InternationalBusinessAssociationPresident, Terry GeilingProfessional Business Services
WorkforceDiversityCommitteeChair, Janet McCarthy Goodwill Industries of LongBeach—South Bay
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Memorial Occupational Medical Services Memorial Maritime Clinic450 E. Spring, Ste. 8 150 S. Pico Ave.(562) 933-0085 (562) 432-2821
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Our Experience Speaks event will take placeon February 23, 2006.
IBA Sponsors China Trip in March
The holidays are here and we are already half waythrough the IBA year. My how time flies when you’re having fun!
In the first half of the year, the IBA certainly steppedup to its goal of educating the community on industrytrends and directions. As a part of our monthly lunchprograms:• Bruce Wargo, President of PierPass, gave an overflow
audience of industry execs an update on his successin reducing prime shift truck trips by 30%.
• Jim Flanagan, Sr. LA Times business editor, demon-strated to trade and transportation managers howthey have all become part of a more global economy.
• Capt. Peter Neffenger USCG, Captain of the Port,outlined to community and industry leaders the plansand organizations in place to help prevent and/orrespond to future disasters.And…there is more coming. In January, Dick Steinke,
Executive Director of the Port of Long Beach, will deliv-er his annual State of the Port address, and in March TheChamber and IBA will sponsor a first class, 9-day business and pleasure tour of China.
For its 2nd goal of helping local companies increasetheir exposure to audiences of industry decision makers,the IBA now offers corporate sponsorships to its wellattended lunch events. The benefits of sponsorship include:• Publicity in community wide press releases• Seating at a dedicated head table of 10 (Including
the keynote speaker)• Sponsor recognition in the meeting program• A corporate profile presentation by the IBA president• Opportunity for the senior executive to introduce the
guest speakerAll of this is only $1,000. This is the best promotion
deal in town. For more information on how your compa-ny can become a corporate sponsor, or for informationon the China trip, or any of our events, please call JudyNelson at (562) 432 8128.
Building Business Together
Increasingly, the case for workplace diversity as a busi-ness imperative is gaining recognition by leaders in ourcommunity. At the recent Long Beach ChamberWorkforce Diversity regional business breakfast, nearly200 attendees were provided education and resourcesfrom an esteemed panel of workplace diversity experts.
The panel was eloquently moderated by Dr. E. JanKehoe, Superintendent & President of the Long BeachCommunity College District, who brought forth the fol-lowing advantages from the panelists that support rea-sons to tie workplace diversity to organizational strategicgoals and objectives: greater adaptability and flexibilityin a rapidly changing market place; attracting and retain-ing the best talent; reducing costs associated withturnover; return on investment from initiatives such aspolicies and practices; gaining and keeping greater/newmarket share (locally, regionally and globally) with anexpanded diverse customer base and an increased bot-tom line resulting from sales and profits. If you missedthis great diversity business breakfast, you can attendthe third annual Diversity Breakfast, next October 2006,date to be determined.
(L to R:) Randy Lowe, Sr. Vice President of Corporate Employment& Diversity for Union Bank of California; Larry Whitley, Chairmanof the Board for The Chamber; Dr. E. Jan Kehoe, Superintendent &President of the Long Beach Community College District; BarbaraSullivan, CEO, Sullivan International and an expert in the field ofDiversity and Human Resources; John Hill, Chief of Staff for LACounty Supervisor Yvonne Burke, and former County of Los AngelesAffirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Compliance Officer; andJanet McCarthy, Chair of the Workforce Diversity Committee.
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