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L.A. BUSINESS THIS WEEK

February 23, 2024

March Primary 10 Days Away

We encourage all eligible Los Angeles voters to get to the polls. This is our opportunity to have our voices heard in government. The L.A. Jobs PAC sponsored by the L.A. Area Chamber had the opportunity to meet with many of the candidates for the upcoming primary election, and we have reviewed their policies, platforms and proposals as they sought an endorsement. The Chamber also reviewed relevant ballot measures. See the Chamber's voter guide. Click here to find your polling place or click here to find a ballot drop-off location.

 

Lief Labs Celebrates 15th Year With Senator Padilla

Lief Labs, a manufacturer of dietary supplements, celebrated its 15th anniversary with Senator Alex Padilla. President & CEO of Lief Labs, Adel Villalobos, shared the company’s efforts to raise awareness about health and healthiness. During the pandemic, Lief Labs provided supplements to frontline workers. The company has also established partnerships with L.A. Mission Community College and College of the Canyons to help provide students looking to start a career in engineering and technology with industry experience. The Chamber's President and CEO, Maria S. Salinas was proud to join the celebration.

 

Chamber Welcomes Sen. Josh Newman at Pancakes & Politics

This week the Chamber hosted State Senator Josh Newman, Chair of the Senate Education Committee, for Pancakes and Politics. Attendees heard about his latest efforts to support career pathways to bolster the professional education system, increase equitable and accessible education programs, and curricula to prepare the workforce of tomorrow.

 

Construction Begins on Frank Gehry-designed Performing Arts Center in DTLA

Construction began on the $335 million expansion to the Colburn School this month, a 1,000-seat venue named "the Colburn Center," will expand options for mid-size venues in downtown Los Angeles. Slated for completion in 2027, this addition to the performing arts institution will be the third building designed by noted architect Frank Gehry on Bunker Hill, which already includes the Disney Concert Hall and the Grand L.A. mixed-use complex.

 

POLICY & ADVOCACY

Affordable Housing Meeting with Rep. Jimmy Gomez

On Thursday, the Chamber attended the affordable rental housing roundtable hosted by the FHL Bank of San Francisco, with Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34). The Chamber and a diverse group stakeholders discussed with the Congressman, the issues of affordable housing in Los Angeles and California, as well as future goals and solutions to ensure housing for all.

Assemblymember Chris Ward Shares Housing Priorities

This week the Land Use, Construction, and Housing Council and the Ad Hoc on Homelessness committee spoke with Assemblymember Chris Ward, Chair of the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, in a joint council session. Assemblymember Ward shared his priorities for the committee, including protecting housing dollars in the state budget, sustainable housing funding, and beginning committee work on new bills in the next few weeks. The council and the Assemblymember also discussed how the business community can help support these efforts.

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT

January Volumes Up at Port of L.A.

Following sizable investments in California's supply chain infrastructure to help increase sustainability and competitiveness, earlier this month, the Port of Los Angeles announced its second-best start to a year in port history, handling 855,652 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in January. “With updates in infrastructure, digitalization and zero-emission projects at the Port of Los Angeles, California’s supply chains are moving goods efficiently, accelerating the decarbonization of the state freight sector, all while creating high-quality jobs,” said California Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis. For more information read the full release.

COMMUNITY COLLABORATION

Careers in Tech

In partnership with the T. Howard Foundation, the L.A. Area Chamber Foundation is hosting Careers in Tech on February 29, 2024. This event, will feature panel discussions with speakers from top tech companies and aims to advise college students from local universities on how to start a career in technology. Students will have the chance to meet with industry leaders, receive resume reviews from company recruiters, and gain invaluable insights. Learn more about how to get involved with the T. Howard Foundation’s Diversity-Tech Internship program.

Drought-Resistant Landscaping Rebate

Transform your yard and save water with SaveOurWater.com - Yard Transformation Rebate. This program offers financial incentives for replacing water-intensive lawns and drought-resistant landscaping. Make a positive environmental impact towards a more sustainable future.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

As tax season approaches, it's important to remember the value of the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This crucial tool aids taxpayers without Social Security Numbers in complying with tax laws and accessing financial services. An ITIN not only facilitates tax filing but can also broaden your access to additional financial opportunities. View more information in English, Spanish, Chinese, and Korean.

CHAMBER BUSINESS NEWS

Metropolitan Water District Business Fair

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is hosting a free networking event and career fair on March 7 in Carson. These events provide both entry-level and experienced industry professionals the chance to network and learn about new contract opportunities.

Ed Bastian Receives John Wooden Award

Congratulations to Delta CEO Ed Bastian on receiving the 2023 John Wooden Global Leadership Award from the UCLA Anderson School of Management on February 20, 2024. Bastian was recognized for his leadership and service to the community during the pandemic.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating Black History Month

We recognize executive Erin M. Smith, Senior Vice President and Chief Talent, Culture, and Operation Officer for the SoCal Gas. Erin is responsible for talent strategies that create sustainable business advantages aligned with the SoCalGas mission. Erin serves on the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the UCLA Human Resources Roundtable.

 

New Member

Member Anniversaries

COUNCIL MEETINGS & EVENTS

Innovation and Technology Council

Tuesday, February 27, 2:00 p.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT


Register for our next Innovation and Technology Council meeting to hear more about digital inclusion in L.A. County and broadband access.

Energy, Water, & Environmental Sustainability Council

Wednesday, February 28, 10:00 a.m.
MEMBER ONLY EVENT


Join our next Energy, Water and Environmental Sustainability Council for a special session on key environmental legislative policies to promote economic growth in the business community.

ACCESS D.C. 2024

March 12 - 14, 2024

Join the Los Angeles delegation for ACCESS D.C. — the region's largest business advocacy trip to our nation’s capital. The program connects business and civic leaders with federal lawmakers and administration officials on issues of importance to the greater Los Angeles region. Register today.

Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
350 S. Bixel Street
Los Angeles, CA 90017

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