HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE L.A. AREA CHAMBER
The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce wishes our friends and members a Happy Thanksgiving. Thank you for helping us make a difference in the economy of Los Angeles throughout the year. The Chamber's office will be closed starting Thursday, Nov. 24, reopening Monday, Nov. 28.

Chamber continues to oppose cumbersome banking ordinance
A proposed banking ordinance that will create a new city bureaucracy that taxpayers cannot afford is still at issue at L.A. City Hall. The ordinance will be back in committee in the next several weeks. It would siphon money and staff from other City services and evaluate banks with criteria that violate state and federal law. The Chamber thanks the City's Administrative Office for trying to come up with a proposal that would protect consumers, guard the City from a new bureaucracy and save taxpayers $58 million. Contact Beverly Kenworthy, 213.580.7531.

Chamber co-hosts the Binational Mayor's Conference
On Friday, L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Under Secretary of International Trade Francisco Sánchez hosted the Binational Mayor’s Conference at the Chamber. The discussion focused on promoting trade between the U.S. and Mexico, and the challenges and opportunities of the U.S.- Mexico border. "Mexico is the United States' third largest trading partner and second largest export market," said Sánchez. "In order to achieve full economic recovery, it is imperative that we continue to strengthen this relationship and to ensure it provides both greater opportunities and benefits for all of our peoples." Nine mayors representing cities in California and Baja California were in attendance. Contact Carlos J. Valderrama, 213.580.7570. Photo courtesy of Business Conexión.

Leadership L.A. studies neighborhood development in South L.A.
Leadership L.A. 2011 Fellows discussed what's shaping South L.A. on Friday. "We really need to be occupying the solutions, rather than just serving to the symptoms," said Tim Watkins, president & CEO, Watts Labor Community Action Committee, which hosted the Fellows. Panelists, including L.A. City Councilmember Jan Perry, covered important issues facing the South L.A. community and provided their input on how to connect people to enhance the area's quality of living. "We have focused our energy on Central Avenue by adding new housing, a community center, a church, and a healthy living center where citizens can take part in culinary and zumba classes," said Perry. Read more on Twitter. Contact Alexander Pampalone, 213.580.7547.

California State University Dominguez Hill president featured on news show President Mildred García, left, was recently profiled on the ABC7 show Vista L.A., which highlights issues in the Latino community. President García discussed education and her role as the first Latina president in the California State University system. View the clip. Click here to submit your member good news.