April 22, 2022
News
Torrance Chamber Opposes 4-Day Workweek Proposal
For years, employees have expressed their desire for the kind of workplace flexibility that would allow them to set a flexible daily schedule or alternative workweek. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the California Chamber of Commerce found that 91% of polled voters agree that the state’s labor laws should be changed to allow for more flexibility.

Yet rather than proposing a real solution that will meet workers’ and employers’ needs, California legislators are proposing a law that will dramatically raise labor costs, expose employers to litigation, and has the potential to kill hundreds of thousands of jobs — all under the false promise of giving employees more flexibility. Read More...
Chamber to Host Manufacturing Workforce Roundtable
The Torrance Chamber of Commerce invites members in the manufacturing field to participate in a workforce roundtable on Wednesday, April 27th, 2022. This event will be virtual and begin at 9:00 am. Speakers include: Jerry Farrell, Vice President, Technical Operations and Information Technology, Virco Manufacturing Corporation; Marty McGough, Chief Operating Officer, 3DEO, Inc.; Sanjay Murty, Chief Operating Officer, Aura Seating; and Kim Russo, Regional Human Resources Director - Eastern USA, Pelican Products. Discussion will be moderated by Andrea Sala, Vice Chair of Education and Workforce.
Karl Schmidt Facilitated Well Attended Candidates Forum
The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce held a Candidates Forum, attended by 79 individuals, at the George Nakano Theater this past Wednesday. Karl Schmidt moderated the Forum.

Candidates running for Mayor, City Council and Treasurer were asked questions provided by the chamber's Government Affairs Policy (GAP) group. The Forum provided the opportunity for members of the community to hear candidates' responses to questions in the areas of homelessness, housing, SB9, the proposed 32 hour work week, among others.
Business Awaits Upcoming Port Worker Negotiations
Major port congestion and the global supply chain have made headlines frequently over the past two years. With labor talks set to begin May 12 ahead of the July 1 expiration date of the current contract between the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), there is both tension and cautious optimism in the air.

To ensure today’s challenges to California’s supply chain are not compounded, the CalChamber is focused on the upcoming contract negotiations and a timely and satisfactory resolution that advances the needs of both the workers and ports to avoid further backups, delays and higher costs. U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh has stated publicly he will be watching the negotiations closely and, in remarks at an American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) event, urged all involved, as well as interested observers to maintain an even keel. Read More...
Job Killer Pay Data Publication Bill to Be Heard in Senate Next Tuesday
A California Chamber of Commerce job killer bill that will encourage lawsuits against businesses and make hiring more burdensome will be heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

The bill, SB 1162 (Limón; D-Goleta), encourages litigation against employers based on the publication of broad, unreliable data collected by the state. The proposal also undermines employers’ ability to hire, imposes administrative and record keeping requirements that are impossible to implement, and subjects employers to a private right of action and penalties under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). Read More...
Let Your Voice Be Heard - Take the BizFed Pulse Poll Today
BizFed unites more than 210 chambers, trade associations, minority business groups, economic development organizations and business improvements to speak out for a strong economy. As an active member of BizFed, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce encourages each of our members to take the annual Pulse Poll.

The insights gleaned from member responses will determine how BizFed ranks their policy priorities, maps out their advocacy work, and makes decisions about how best to serve you in the coming year. BizFed needs your time, attention, and unique insights to get this right.

A historically busy election season is upon us and a class of new leaders will soon take the reins. BizFed needs to conduct a full business community check-up before that happens. It starts with the 2022 BizFed Pulse Poll.

Click the link below to complete their 32-question poll.
Torrance Fire Department Holds Promotional Ceremony
The Torrance Fire Department held a Promotional Ceremony yesterday at the James R. Armstrong Theater. The 2022 promotions included those promoted to Fire Fighter, Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Assistant Chief, new employees, and to the Community Risk Reduction Division.

Fire Captain Adam Brown provided opening remarks, welcomed guests, and introduced Torrance Mayor Pat Furey and City Officials. Mayor Furey provided a Congratulatory Address followed by a Fire Chief's Address by Fire Chief Martin Serna. A presentation of new Fire Fighters, badges and assignments and a badge ceremony also took place.
SBDC Small Business COVID-19 Impact Survey
The Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) of California are collaborating with the State of California Office of the Small Business Advocate and California’s Women’s Business Centers to conduct a survey on the impact of COVID-19 on small business.
 
The survey results are crucial in order to better understand COVID-19’s impacts on small business as the state is debating on legislation and the upcoming budget.
 
Please note that the survey closes on April 24th.
Educate, Celebrate, and Elevate Diversity Awards 2022
The Torrance Chamber of Commerce is proud to present its annual Educate, Celebrate, and Elevate Diversity Awards Reception at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Torrance - South Bay on Thursday, April 28th at 4:00 PM. This event will honor six businesses in multiculturalism and diversity.

The Educate, Celebrate, and Elevate Diversity Awards will honor the following individuals for their indelible marks they have made in our community: Latrice McGlothin from Kinecta Federal Credit Union, 'Advocate Award'; Tara Nierenhausen from Community's Child, 'Catalyst Award'; CommUnity Walk Against Hate, El Camino College, 'Outstanding Diversity Program'; Hands Across Campus, Torrance High School, 'Outstanding Diversity Program'; Bob and Laurie Brandt from Red Car Brewery and Restaurant, 'Rising Star Award'; and Male Success Alliance, California State University Dominguez Hills, 'Vanguard Award'.

Thank you to the following sponsors for supporting this event. Presenting Sponsor: Kinecta Federal Credit Union. Distinguished Sponsors: Torrance Refining Company, El Camino College, and Sunrider International. Supporting Sponsors: Kaiser Permanente and California State University Dominguez Hills.
Advertising Opportunities Available to Members
Member Minute is a benefit available to all Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce members as a marketing tool to promote business events, special offers, news, and more. The cost is $50 to place a one-page flyer created by the member to be featured and sent out to all our members. Member Minute is sent out on Fridays. To place an ad in an upcoming issue of Member Minute, please contact Jonisha at (310) 792-2339 or jonisha@torrancechamber.com.
Fox to Receive Bob Kleist Award
Congratulations is extended to Past Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board Guy Fox. Fox will be presented with the Bob Kleist award for his leadership and advocacy in the field of International Trade at the 2022 World Trade Week Southern CA in May.
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For more information about the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, call (310) 540-5858 or