Chamber Responds to Wildfire Disaster
We are heartbroken. Los Angeles has experienced one of the worst disasters with the ongoing wildfires. The federal government and state have declared a state of emergency for L.A. County, unlocking additional resources. The L.A. Area Chamber is committed to supporting disaster recovery efforts for immediate assistance and long-term rebuilding. While the full extent of the damage is not yet known, we do know that we have a long road ahead to recovery. We are fully activated to help. Visit here for information and resources. The Chamber will provide regular updates with information for recovery.
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Chamber Launches Small Business Disaster Recovery Fund
The Chamber has launched the Small Business Recovery Fund. The impact on our small business community is extensive. Many of these neighborhoods lost their “main street”, local shops and restaurants. The Chamber is actively supporting recovery efforts, through the Chamber Foundation, by providing services to foster disaster recovery. Join our efforts to support our small business community impacted by this crisis. Together, we will help Los Angeles recover and rebuild. Donate today.
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Assessor Announces Property Tax Relief for Those Impacted by L.A. County Fires
The Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office is actively monitoring the ongoing fires across the county and is committed to supporting property owners during this challenging time. While a comprehensive damage assessment is underway, resources are being prepared to assist affected residents, including: On-the-Ground Support: assessor staff will be available at Local Assistance Centers to offer guidance and resources, and Expedited Property Tax Relief: the County will process "Misfortune and Calamity" claims for tax relief on properties damaged or destroyed by the wildfires. For more information and to download the claim form, visit here or call (213) 974-3211.
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Assembly Speaker Introduces Legislation Package for L.A. Response
On Thursday, California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas held a briefing on the Los Angeles area wildfires and the actions Assembly members are taking in response. He announced plans for the Assembly to advance legislation supporting recovery efforts, including Assembly Bill 226, The FAIR Plan Stabilization Act, introduced by Assemblymembers Lisa Calderon and David Alvarez. AB 226 seeks to assist in issuing catastrophe bonds and help finance the costs of insurance claims. The Chamber is actively monitoring the legislation and will provide updates as this progresses through the legislature.
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City Council Approves $1 Billion Television City Expansion
This week the Television City (TVC) 2050 Plan was unanimously approved by the Los Angeles City Council. This transformative plan will modernize and expand media production facilities on the 25-acre TVC site, creating jobs, improved walkability, public safety measures, and support for small businesses. The TVC project is expected to contribute to the regional economy with the addition of office space, soundstages, production facilities and retail space.
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Port of Long Beach Achieves Busiest November
The Port achieved its busiest November, handling 884,154 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), a 20.9% increase from the previous year and a 12.8% rise from November 2020. Imports grew by 21.8%, and exports rose 9.5% equaling 119,083 TEUs. The movement of empty containers through the port increased by 24.5%. Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero noted that strong consumer demand drove imports, with retailers moving cargo out of concern for labor negotiations at other ports.
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Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) in Los Angeles County
Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to start your Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) with subsidy funds available to waive the initial application fee. This program supports local entrepreneurs by making it easier to launch and grow your home-based food business. Apply today and secure your spot! Learn more and apply here.
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Equity in County Contracting
Join the County of Los Angeles Internal Services Department event on January 22 to discover how to access valuable resources and opportunities in government contracting. This event is designed to empower small businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs to navigate the contracting process with confidence. Don't miss out! Secure your spot today and take a step toward success. Please email here for more details.
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Remembering Socorro Herrera: Beloved Founder of Yuca’s Restaurant
Socorro Herrera, the beloved founder of Yuca’s Restaurant, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Fondly known as “Mama Yuca’s,” she was a cherished figure to customers, regulars, and celebrities at Yuca’s Hut on Hillhurst Avenue in Los Feliz. Over its 48-year history, Yuca’s grew from a tiny taco stand into a beloved institution, adored by generations of families. In 2005, the restaurant received a prestigious James Beard Foundation Award in the America’s Classics category. In recent years, Socorro’s daughters, Dora and Margarita Herrera, took over daily operations, allowing “Mama Yuca’s” to embrace her role as the restaurant’s “must-hug” ambassador.
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Rose Parade
Congratulations to Chamber member Pasadena Tournament of Roses on the successful 136th Rose Parade, held on January 1. This year’s theme, "Best Day Ever!", celebrated life’s joyful moments. Tennis legend and Long Beach native Billie Jean King served as the Grand Marshal. We also extend our congratulations to Chamber members who were honored as float winners:
Bob Hope Humor: Boys & Girls Club
Extraordinaire: One Legacy Donate Life
Isabella Coleman: City of Hope
Leishman Public Spirit: Cal Poly Universities
Wrigley Legacy: Kaiser Permanente
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COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS
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2025 Inaugural: Building a Legacy Together
Join us for the L.A. Area Chamber's annual Inaugural reception on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 —the region’s premier business event! For sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Luna here.
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Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017
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