Gold Silver. Bronze CORNERSTONES. Passing the Gavel. Board of Directors to Take Oath of Office

It is the mission of the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce to build solid relationships, provide quality services that support chamber members and busines...
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It is the mission of the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce to build solid relationships, provide quality services that support chamber members and businesses in order to promote the economic vitality of our community. January 2006

Volume 26, Number 01

Passing the Gavel

The

CORNERSTONES of Irwindale Commerce

Gold Silver Bronze ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Corporate At the City Council meeting of December 6, 2005, newly elected Mayor Julian A. Miranda commended and thanked outgoing Mayor Mark A. Breceda.

Board of Directors to Take Oath of Office The Installation and Awards Dinner will be held Friday, January 20, 2006. This event is to install the Officers and Directors, recognize the Joe DiShanni Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year, Employee of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and Citizen of the Year recipients. We are pleased to announce that the event will be held at the Pomona Valley Mining Company, 1777 Gillette Road, Pomona. The rustic looking restaurant features a panoramic view of the glittering lights of the valley. Congratulations to the newly elected members of the board. The following members were recently elected to serve a two year term from January 2006 through December 2007: Vance Baugham, San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership; Dennis Chiappetta, Athens Services; Elisa Clifford, Southern California Edison; John Gasparian, American Reclamation; Sammy Kim, Ayutla Market; and Jerry Selby, Dick Martin Sales and Leasing. They will be installed with continuing Board Members Ray Anderson, Waste Management; Marissa Buckish, Picasso’s Café*Catering*Bakery; Vee Clark, SCE Federal Credit Union, Cathy Gonzalez, Securitas Security Services; Kim Travanty, Vineyard Bank; Jesus Rodriguez, Decore-Ative Specialties; Kevin McDonald, Foothill Transit; Mark Rodriguez, Ready Pac Produce; and Gilbert Ruiz, Miller Brewing Company. Each one of our board members is (Oath of Office-continued on page 6)

Save The Date Installation & Award Dinner Friday, January 20, 2006 @ Pomona Valley Mining 6 pm

Inside this issue: Calendar of Events

3

Member News

4-8

Homeland Security

9-12

Irwindale Rocks!

13-16

Seminars/Workshops

18

Chamber/City Information

19

Phone: (626) 960-6606 Fax: (626) 960-3868

www.irwindalechamber.org

2

3

Calendar of Events January 2006 New Year’s Day is every man’s birthday. --Charles Lamb 3

Ambassador Meeting

8:00 a.m.

Senior Center

4 10

Environmental Committee

Noon

City Hall

Irwindale Education Foundation

7:30 a.m.

TBD

11

Business Development Committee

7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

12

Let’s Do Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Edison CTAC State of the Chamber Presented By: Picasso’s Cafe

16

Martin Luther King Day

18

HR Roundtable Labor Law Update

20

Installation & Award Dinner 6:00 p.m. Presenting Sponsor: Vulcan Materials

23

Board of Directors Retreat

26

GMI Breakfast-Mini Expo Presented By: Picasso’s Cafe

Chamber Open 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. City Hall Council Chamber Pomona Valley Mining Company

9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.. Monrovia Canyon Park 7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

February 2006 America did not invent human rights. In a very real sense... human rights invented America. ~Jimmy Carter 1

Environmental Committee

Noon

Chamber Offices

7

Ambassador Meeting

8:00 a.m.

Chamber Offices

8

Business Development Committee

7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

9

Let’s Do Lunch 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Holiday Inn Speaker: David Guftafson, Breaking Through Dynamic LLC

14

Irwindale Education Foundation

7:30 a.m.

20

President’s Day

Chamber Closed

22

Heart Beat for Irwindale Heart Body and Soul

23

GMI Breakfast Presented By: Foothill Transit

7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

27

Board of Directors Meeting

11:30 a.m.

Chamber Offices

Chamber Offices

9:00 a.m -3:00 p.m. Embassy Suites Arcadia

March 2006 Why should you never iron a 4-leaf clover? You don’t want to press your luck.--Daryl Stout 1

Environmental Committee

Noon

Irwindale City Hall

7

Ambassador Meeting

8:00 a.m.

Chamber Offices

8

Business Development Committee

7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

9

State of the City Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Edison CTAC Presented by Picasso’s Cafe

14

Irwindale Education Foundation

7:30 a.m.

Chamber Offices

23

GMI Breakfast-Mini Expo Presented By: Picasso’s Cafe

7:30 a.m.

Picasso’s Cafe

27

Board of Directors Meeting

11:30 a.m.

Chamber Offices

4

Member Events

Ray Anderson 626-969-1384 Fax: 626-969-4971 www.wm.com

The Good Morning Irwindale Breakfast & Mini Expo took place on Thursday, November 17, 2005 at Picasso’s Café, Bakery & Catering. Representing the event sponsor, Kevin McDonald, Deputy Executive Director for Foothill Transit spoke on the many levels in which Foothill Transit participates in the community and their goal for continued excellent customer satisfaction. The five member companies that participated in the Mini Expo were: Rachel Leyba, Allstate Insurance; Karen Carr-Crawford, Small Business Development Center; Celia Smith, Pegasus Building Services; Karl Hoff, CandyWarehouse.com; Kerry Freeman, Neighborhood Homework House. Mini Expo is a great opportunity to introduce yourself, your company and your product to your fellow chamber members. If you are interested in participating in Mini Expo please contact the Chamber office at (626) 960-6606. The Chamber Holiday Luncheon sponsored by Southern California Edison was held on December 8, 2005 at the Holiday Inn in Monrovia. PresentorGregory Sharp gave a brief overview of EdisonCTAC (Customer Technology Center) and (L-R) Rona Lunde, Jan’s Application introduced Loretta Corpis, Towing & Loretta Corpis, City of Irwindale Public Public Works Analyst with the City of Irwindale. Loretta, who Works Analyst is also a professional singer, then led the group in holiday song, which also included a fun rendition of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Special thanks to Ambassador Rona Lunde of Jan’s Towing for her assistance with the program and the door prizes. Thank you also to the following businesses for donating door prizes: Picasso’s Café, Bakery & Catering, CandyWarehouse.com, Vineyard Bank, Gerry Caccamo, Artemis Concepts, Jan’s Towing, Pegasus Building Services, Miller Brewing Co, Cal Wax, Vulcan Materials, and Onyx Environmental for theEnvironmental Committee smoke detector battery give away.

Ambassador of the Month

621 N. Azusa Ave. (626) 339-7337

106 S. Grand Ave. (626) 967-6450

Congratulations to Kim Travanty, Assistant Vice President/Community Banking Manager of Vineyard Bank in Irwindale our Ambassador of the Month for December!

5

Members Spotlight

FRESHPOINT Southern California

Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration. Chamber member CandyWarehouse.com celebrated its grand opening on December 6, 2005 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house. Attendees received a sweet tour of the facilities and a goody bag filled with assorted candies. CandyWarehouse.com is one of the leading internet candy service providers in the United States. What’s Good For Your Heart Is Good For Your Bottom Line! Neighborhood Homework House is a charitable non-profit serving as a haven for children of two tough, economically disadvantaged neighborhoods in Azusa. Neighborhood-based tutoring centers offer daily free individualized tutoring and mentoring to 140 atrisk youth, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential. Sponsorship of our Fundraiser offers public relations benefits for your business. Your investment will impact the achievement and choices of our disadvantaged youth. Please partner with us in equipping vulnerable lives with the skills and hope to achieve their potential of becoming successful citizens and future leaders of our community. Deadline for publicity as Corporate Sponsor is February 6th. Auctions items are welcome through March 1st. Sponsorship levels and Auction Contributorships are detailed at www. NeighborhoodHomeworkHouse.org or call 626-969-7051. Spring Auction and Fundraiser Connecting Hearts and Hands Friday, March 10, 2006, 7 P.M. Heritage Café, Azusa Pacific University Comedian Michael Rayner is returning by popular demand as Auctioneer!

Verne Lusby President The Fresh Produce Specialist 5301 Rivergrade Rd. Irwindale, CA 91706 800-252-9168 626-962-4435 (Fax)

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2006-2007 Chamber Directory MORE BUSINESS IS OFFERED TO MEMBERS The Irwindale Business Directory has proven to be a useful business resource. Good things happen when members do business with each other. The best way to keep the dollars in the Irwindale community is by using the user-friendly Business Directory as the primary resource for new businesses and services. Helping the chamber produce the latest edition of the Business Directory will once again be award-winning member Century Publishing. Century won 10 new ACE “Awards for Communications Excellence” from the American Chamber of Commerce for their directory publications in the 2005 national contest. An award-winning quality publication is now being planned for Irwindale. The Business Directory is a major success story for Irwindale as it brings more business to members, new business into the community, and helps everyone do more business locally. Businesses prominently displayed in the new upscale Directory will receive continuous marketing exposure. As premium spaces sell out quickly, members are encouraged to respond immediately. Space reservations will be accepted according to the earliest Directory fliers returned to the chamber. Terry Shapiro will again help members achieve their marketing strategies. To make it convenient for chamber members, credit cards will be accepted.

Join in and be a part of the Irwindale economic success story by having a presence in the new Irwindale Business Directory.

(Oath of Office-continued from cover page)

dedicated and has made a commitment to be a leader of this community. Once again following the program and silent auction, there will be casino-like gaming fun available until 11:30 p.m. There will also be live music during both the cocktail hour and during the casino-like fun. Those who cash in their “winnings” for raffle tickets will be eligible to win a Grand Prize Trip donated by 1 Of A Kind Casino. Please plan to join us for a wonderful evening. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact the Chamber office for more information 626-960-6606.

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Golf Tournament Swings Into Gear The Chamber’s 26th Annual Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 1, 2006 at the beautiful Sierra La Verne Country Club. Last year this event sold out ten weeks in advance! We anticipate another full field sell out so mark your calendars and don’t wait to sign up. Last year’s goodie bag items were provided by: Medical • Modis Consulting- Tees • American Response -Pens • Monrovia Floral-Envelope • Boy Scouts of Americaopeners Popcorn • Morton Safety-Sunscreen • Champion Awards-Ball wipes holders • Picasso’s Café and • City of Hope-Chapstick Catering –Water, Coupons • Costco -Snacks • R. Leyba Insurance –Golf • El Pollo Loco-Discount balls coupons • Rancho Duarte Golf • Facility Supply, Inc-First Course –Golf items Aid Kits • *Ready Pac Produce• *Foothill Medical CenterInsulated cooler bags Ice Packs • SCE Federal Credit Union • Fresh Point Produce- Golf towels Fresh fruit • Vulcan Materials-Stress Aggregates• Hanson rocks Sleeves of golf balls • Weinerschnitzel-Discount • Harrison Nichols - Tees key tags • Jan’s Towing–Tees, Snacks * Commitment for 2006 The following items are on our wish list for this year’s goodie bags: Golf Balls Ball Retriever Golf Towels Head Covers Ball Marker Pens Granola Bars Golf Gloves Snacks First Aid Kits Can/Bottle Openers Sunscreen Can Coozies/coolers Gift Certificates ($5 or more Brush Tees for local restaurants, etc) Hats or Visors To donate any of the above items for our golf tournament, please contact the Chamber Office. We request that you provide 175 pieces. Don’t know where to order personalized promotional items? Please contact the following Chamber members: Artemis Concepts Diane Fonseca 626)914-9663 (626)914-5303 Fax Member Since: December 2001 [email protected] Business Casual & Apparel Gil Nevarez (626)357-7133 (626)357-7193 Fax Member Since: October 1994 www.businesscasualapparel.com/ [email protected]

Champion Awards & Specialties Phil Rodriguez (909)944-6693 (909)944-6694 Fax Member Since: January 2004 www.champawards.com/ [email protected] Lewis Engraving Inc. Renee Lewis (626)967-1234 (626)331-6864 Fax Member Since: September 1990 www.lewisengraving.com/

Medo Company Mindy Chen 626)851-9157 (626)851-9057 Fax Member Since: November 1996 [email protected] Proforma Rick Marshall (626)967-2814 (626)967-2874 Fax Member Since: February 2002 www.proformausa.com/ [email protected]

8

Customer Satisfaction

Welcome to freecheckability. You think that only BIG banks offer free checking. You read this and realize we offer free checking...with no strings attached.  No minimum balance requirement  No monthly service fee  Free in-branch transactions  Free minimum order of Corporate Image Checks

Irwindale Branch - George Poliszuk, VP-Relationship Manager 5155 Irwindale Ave.  (626) 814-1441  www.foothillbank.com  Member FDIC

THE GAS COMPANY RANKS HIGHEST IN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IN WESTERN UNITED STATES For the third time in four years, Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) earned the top ranking for customer satisfaction among the major natural gas utilities in the western United States and second nationwide, according to the research firm J.D. Power and Associates. The study was based on a random survey of residential natural gas utility customers. “Earning top marks in the J.D. Power study reflects the dedication of all our employees to going above and beyond the call of duty to meet our customers’ needs,” said Anne Smith, senior vice president for customer service of The Gas Company. “The repetition of this award demonstrates our employees’ continual delivery of safe, reliable energy and exceptional customer service. This award recognizes and acknowledges the valuable contributions they make every day.” The Gas Company’s employees continuously update their services to meet customers’ changing needs, added Smith. “Our employees are friendly, helpful and responsive, as well as being good problem-solvers. Their professionalism and commitment to excellence translates into treating our customers with care and concern as well as the utmost respect – all attributes that drive customer satisfaction. Our employees are the ones who have truly earned this award for the company.” The J.D. Power study assigned The Gas Company a customersatisfaction score of 113, the top score among nine utilities reviewed in the region. The average score for these utilities was 104. On a nationwide basis, The Gas Company ranked second among all natural gas utilities, scoring only one point behind the top-ranked utility in the study. The J.D. Power study ranked 56 of the country’s largest natural gas utilities and interviewed more than 12,000 customers during April and June 2005. The scores for each utility were based on five factors (in order of importance): company image, price and value, billing and payment, customer service and field service. The Gas Company received the highest ratings in the region in all five factors. The Gas Company is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.5 million consumers through 5.5 million meters. The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California. The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community. The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.

9

The Green Pages January 2006 Brought to you by the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce Environmental Committee Designed to be a pull out section for you to 3 hole punch and save in a Health and Safety binder. Submitted By, Dominique Yates, Irwindale Chamber

HEARTBEAT FOR IRWINDALE 2006 February is “Heartbeat for Irwindale” month for the Chamber of Commerce and the Environmental Committee. With 2004’s success with CPR and AED training, and 2005’s success with the Drug Recognition and Awareness Forum, the Environmental Committee is targeting February 2006 for the “Heartbeat For Irwindale: Heart, Body & Soul” event. We believe that healthy employees make for healthy businesses. The goals of this event will be to educate, inform and share pertinent information regarding heart disease and healthy lifestyles for the greater Irwindale business community as well as provide resources for CPR and AED training and a multitude of other resources related to physical and emotional health. This year’s event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Arcadia from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. We are currently meeting with interested businesses and are seeking participation in various capacities. For example, if your business offers a service and/or product related to heart, body or soul, perhaps you would consider hosting a seminar, training course and/or providing information at an expo booth. Sponsorship opportunities are also still available The rhythm and balance of any healthy community is in the health of its business and surrounding community. Please join us in making this year’s event a success by contacting the Chamber office at (626) 960-6606 to discuss your participation. Heartbeat For Irwindale is brought to you annually by The Irwindale Chamber of Commerce Environmental Committee.

The Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA) An opportunity to apply for the GEELA came to the Chamber’s Environmental Committee in mid-2005 for the accomplishments in the year 2004. A subcommittee to submit the application was chaired by April Kelcy of Earthquake Solutions. Members of the subcommittee also included the chair of the Environmental Committee, Richard Iniguez of Onyx Environmental Services, Thomas Rascop of Reichhold, and Patricia Sullivan, who is the Irwindale City Librarian. Tight rules on the application wording were challenging, particularly since the Committee’s accomplishments have been so unusual and represented significant contributions to our community. Some of the Committee’s information and qualifications are summarized below: The committee evolved in 2000, aimed at reducing safety risks, increasing environmental and safety education, building unified relationships, and improving quality of life. Projects in 2004 provided $25,000 in training programs to about 500 people free of charge, and also contributed over $22,000 in heart defibrillators and other donations to the community. Over 800 volunteer hours, worth well over $20,000, were contributed by an expert coalition of businesses, civic volunteers, local government, non-profit organizations and public utilities. Projects included “Heartbeat for Irwindale – One”, “Heartbeat for Irwindale – Two” and our first annual Homeland Security Forum. The Committee also educates regularly through the Chamber’s “Green Pages”, and a web page. The Committee is forward thinking, unique, sustainable, and is believed to be the only one of its kind. It leads the changing face of environmentalism, which increasingly considers human and economic factors, rather than focusing solely on the natural environment. It has strengthened bonds between residents, businesses, law enforcement and civic leaders. Committee members are vested in the community. The Committee meets regularly, reports to the Chamber’s Board, has completed major events, and will produce at least two major events each year going forward. Our position is this: Through quality education, informed citizens, business owners and civic leaders will make better decisions about the environment and safety. A better human environment includes physical health and well-being, safety and security, resources, education, and improved relationships with others. The Committee provides educational and relationship-building activities for residents, businesses, and city agencies. Specific objectives for 2004 included three major events, publishing the Green Pages, and a used cell phone recycling program. Selected environmental and economic benefits include: 9 The first Heartbeat for Irwindale provided over $22,000 in heart defibrillators, and 640 CPR-AED training hours worth approximately $7,200, free to the community. Heart defibrillators increase survivability from less than 5% to 74%. 9 The Homeland Security Forum provided high-quality education, with top-notch speakers and resources, including Erroll Southers, of the California Department of Homeland Security. Over 250 hours of volunteer labor brought the (Governor’s Award-continued on page 11)

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Sick Building Syndrome By: Celia Smith, Pegasus Building Services

What Is Sick Building Syndrome? Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a situation in which occupants of a building experience acute health effects that seem to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a particular room or zone, or may be widespread throughout the building. What Are the Symptoms of SBS? Building occupants complain of symptoms associated with acute discomfort. These symptoms include headaches; eye, nose, and throat irritation; a dry cough; dry or itchy skin; dizziness and nausea; difficulty in concentrating; fatigue; and sensitivity to odors. With SBS, no clinically defined disease or specific chemical or biological contaminant can be determined as the cause of the symptoms. Most of the complainants feel relief soon after leaving the building. SBS reduces worker productivity and may also increase absenteeism. What Causes SBS? While specific causes of SBS remain unknown, the following have been cited as contributing factors to sick building syndrome. These elements may act in combination or may supplement other complaints such as inadequate temperature, humidity, or lighting. • Chemical contaminants from outdoor sources: Outdoor air that enters a building can also be a source of indoor pollution. Pollutants from motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, and building exhausts (bathrooms and kitchens) can enter the building through poorly located air intake vents, windows, and other openings. Combustion byproducts can also enter a building from a nearby garage. • Chemical contaminants from indoor sources: Most indoor air pollution comes from sources inside the building. For example, adhesives, upholstery, carpeting, copy machines, manufactured wood products, cleaning agents and pesticides may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including formaldehyde. Research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known carcinogens. Low to moderate levels of multiple VOCs may also produce acute reactions in some individuals. Environmental tobacco smoke and combustion products from stoves, fireplaces, and unvented space heaters all can put chemical contaminants into the air. It can also come from synthetic fragrances in personal care products or in cleaning and maintenance products • Biological contaminants: Biological contaminants include pollen, bacteria, viruses, and molds. These contaminants can breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in humidifiers, drain pans, and ducts, or where water has collected on ceiling tiles, insulation, or carpet. Biological contaminants can cause fever, chills, cough, chest tightness, muscle aches,

The Irwindale Chamber of Commerce Environmental Committee E-mail your environmental questions to our committee and one of our committee members will respond to you. Chair: Richard Iniguez- Onyx Environmental Services Ann Croissant- San Gabriel Mountain Conservancy Craig Doerr- American Reclamation Jayne Foote- Onyx Enivronmental Services Roger Haanpaa- Biosense Webster, Incorporated Rudy Hernandez- Irwindale Police Department April Kelcy- Earthquake SOLUTIONS Kevin McDonald- Foothill Transit Thomas Rascop- Reichhold, Inc. Michael Reynolds- American Medical Response Celia Smith- Pegasus Building Services Patricia Sullivan- City of Irwindale Public Library Johnny Villalobos- Foothill Transit Lisa Bailey- Irwindale Chamber of Commerce Dominique Yates-Irwindale Chamber of Commerce E-mail: [email protected]

Mission Statement To prepare, inform and advocate, on behalf of the business and residential community, environmental concerns and emergency preparation and response planning. Join the Committee If you care about health and safety issues that affect community business, or the environment, you should consider this committee. Meeting: 1st Wednesday of each month Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Location: Irwindale Chamber of Commerce, 16102 Arrow Highway, Irwindale (one block east of Irwindale avenue)

Website:www.EnviroCommittee.com

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Avian Bird Flu By: Celia Smith, Pegasus Building Services

Although all of us are subject to the media blitz about the impacts of a pandemic flu outbreak and the concerns offered up under that scenario are real, the reality is at this time there is not a pandemic flu outbreak from this virus. At present the research has shown that there is little evidence of this virus being transmitted from one human-being to another, as well, there are no reports suggesting that domestically there are outbreaks of the virus in our poultry or has our human populous contracted this virus via any other means of transmission. Allow me, if you will to offer my “take” on the subject. The reporting of “possibilities” has effected business for some. The concern? Something yet to occur has impacted the bottom line of business based on “what ifs”, conjecture, misunderstood and, or misinterpreted information that then fuels a fear factor that without real cause effects the normal functions and production of business. A simple example. Four times a year, the Bird Mart is hosted at the Fairplex located in Pomona, typically this event brings in thousands of people, whole-sellers, retailers and consumers, all at these events are there to either sell or buy birds, pet birds and the things needed for the care of these pets. The last Bird Mart hosted in November 2005 was very poorly attended and many people expressed that it was over the concern of “contracting” or “spreading” the Bird flu. Bottom line, less attendees resulted in less selling and buying. It is a very simple example, but one that can be easily related to, less selling of these birds did not only effect the people in the business of selling birds, it impacts those who distribute for means of business, cages, feed, supplies, literature, well you get my point. There is little reporting and no evidence that pet birds are at risk or that pet birds are putting people at risk of contracting the Bird Flu. Loss of business based on fear versus reality is a problem. More obviously, we have heard that people with means are “hording” vaccines in preparation for “what if” there is an outbreak. How could that kind of “what if” effect your business? Lower quantities of vaccine available to address the current and real threat of the current flues that hits millions each year with documented and proven impact. Recently I had a conversation with a Director of Human Resource who works for a company that for years offered their employees the benefit of inoculations on site and free of cost to protect them from an illness that often times keeps people out on sick leave for several days and is often associated with reoccurrences. To the disappointment of this local company an explanation of hording had created shortages and therefore the Company was unable to offer this benefit to their employees this year. Bottom line? That Company is certain to have people out of the workforce and production will suffer for the same reasons that birds were not sold, fear based reactions of, “what if”. Don¹t get me wrong, preparedness has become my personal mantra! I believe those who were trying to protect their employees from the current flu epidemics felt strongly about preparedness as well! I am however struck with the lack of rumor control and its’ impact on business. So what to do? Try our best to share facts, control rumor, control fear, teach good practices and take care to prepare appropriately. The information shared in a report from the CDC contains the FACTS to date and these facts are much stronger evidence of what we need not fear at this time AND evidence that there are appropriate resources of information AND actions are underway to address the “possibility” of a change in this virus that may impact us. Please look up this report and know that you are sharing fact, not rumor http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/gen-info/facts.htm. (Governor’s Award-continued from page 9)

forum to over 160 people. Fifteen hundred DVDs of the event were distributed for free, and a second DVD has been airing regularly on local cable. 9 Heartbeat for Irwindale II donated over 500 hours of free drug awareness training, worth at least $11,000. 9 About 800 monthly Green Pages went to businesses, residents and civic leaders with articles on drought tolerant landscaping, household hazardous wastes, energy conservation, earthquake safety, D.A.R.E, car restraints for children, summer sun and water safety, and OSHA updates. Submitted By: April Kelcy, Earthquake Solutions

12 and allergic reactions. One indoor air bacterium, Legionella, has caused both Pontiac Fever and Legionnaire’s Disease. • Inadequate ventilation: In the 1970s the oil embargo led building designers to make buildings more airtight, with less outdoor air ventilation, in order to improve energy efficiency. These reduced ventilation rates have been found to be, in many cases, inadequate to maintain the health and comfort of building occupants. What Are the Solutions to Sick Building Syndrome? Solutions to SBS problems usually include combinations of the following measures: • Increasing the ventilation rates and air distribution is often a cost-effective means of reducing indoor pollutant levels. At a minimum, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems should be designed to meet ventilation standards in local building codes. Make sure that the system is operated and maintained to ensure that the design ventilation rates are attained. If possible, the HVAC system should be operated to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 62-1989. If there are strong pollutant sources, air may need to be vented directly to the outside. This method is especially recommended to remove pollutants that accumulate in specific areas such as restrooms, copy rooms, and printing facilities. • Removal or modification of the pollutant source is the most effective approach to solving a known source of an indoor air quality problem when this solution is practicable. Ways to do this include routine maintenance of HVAC systems; replacing water-stained ceiling tiles and carpets; banning smoking or providing a separately ventilated room; venting contaminant source emissions to the outdoors; using and storing paints, solvents, pesticides, and adhesives in closed containers in well-ventilated areas; using those pollutant sources in periods of low or no occupancy; and allowing time for building materials in new or remodeled areas to off-gas pollutants before occupancy. • Air cleaning has some limitations, but it can be a useful addition to source control and ventilation. Air filters are only effective at removing some, not all, of the pollution. • Education and communication are important parts of any air quality management program. When everyone associated with the building, from occupants to maintenance, fully understands the issues and communicates with each other they can work more effectively together to prevent and solve problems. Environmental Health Center A Division of the National Safety Council 1025 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20036 (202) 293-2270 (tel); (202) 293-0032 (fax)

Recycle Used Motor Oil, Filters, and Household Hazardous Waste

for More information call (888) - CLEANLA Or take your used motor oil and filters to:

LA Lube 201 Live Oak Ave., Irwindale, CA (626) 294-1936

Muro Tire Services 213 Live Oak Ave., Irwindale, CA (626) 254-9345 A reminder from the city of Irwindale. Funded by a grant from the California Integrated Waste Management Board. Zero Waste - You Make It Happen!

13

IRWINDALE ROCKS (Previously the City Corner)

As Provided by City Staff

Council Roundup – November 16, 2005 • At the City Council meeting of November 16, 2005, the Council approved the installation of surveillance cameras at Jardin de Roca Park and the Irwindale Police Department. • At the City Council meeting of December 6, 2005, Councilman Julian A. Miranda was elected Mayor and H. Manuel Ortiz and David Fuentes were sworn in as new Councilmembers. Donations Sent to Louisiana In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and its devastating impact on all Americans, the Irwindale Police Department was designated as a collection point for money and/or goods to donate to the affected areas. Our support efforts will aid deputies in St. Bernard Parish, and hopefully make a difference to the victims of this tragic natural disaster. The items were dispersed from the Irwindale Police Department on Wednesday, November 23, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. DHL donated their services to ship the items to the deputies assisting with the disaster of Hurricane Katrina and the monetary donations were presented to the Red Cross.

Veterans Monument Dedication On November 11, 2005, the Mayor and City Council commemorated the groundbreaking of the City of Irwindale’s Veterans Monument. This monument will serve as permanent recognition to the sacrifices they made to keep our country safe and strong. Whether it be in Europe, Asia, the Middle East or in peace time, those individuals who have called Irwindale their home will be prominently displayed on this monument. The list of individuals will be in random order as the City receives their proof of service. We thank them for the years they spent keeping our country strong and safe (Left) Pictured breaking ground for this special tribute directly in front is Councilman Garcia, next is Councilman Miranda, Mayor Breceda, Councilman Tapia and Mayor Pro Tem Ramirez.

Attending the Veterans Monument Dedication were two veterans who served to protect our country. Pictured on the left is resident Gilbert Lopez, who served in WWII, and the other gentleman is John Gallegos, from Covina, who served in the Korean War. .

Our City Council and members of the community are reciting the Pledge of Allegiance during the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Veterans Monument. The ceremony was attended by over 100 residents.

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IRWINDALE ROCKS (Previously the City Corner)

On December 1, 2005, the City of Irwindale held their annual holiday and awards luncheon. Pictured is Mayor Mark A. Breceda and Pat Sullivan, Librarian, who received her 5-year service pin.

Mayor Mark Breceda presented Officer Greg Gomez with a 5year service pin at the holiday and awards luncheon..

At the City’s holiday and awards luncheon Delphine Osterheim, Senior Recreation Leader, received a 15-year service pin from Mayor Mark A. Breceda. Also receiving a 15-year service pin but was not present, was Joan Gonzales, Police Dispatcher.

As Provided by City Staff

Our own outgoing City Manager, Steve Blancarte, received his 5-year service pin from Mayor Mark A. Breceda at the annual City holiday and awards luncheon.

Officer John Fraijo received his 5-year service pin from Mayor Mark A. Breceda at the City’s annual holiday and awards luncheon on December 1, 2005.

David Acero, Park Maintenance received a 5-year service pin from Mayor Mark A. Breceda at the City’s holiday and awards luncheon.

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IRWINDALE ROCKS (Previously the City Corner)

As Provided by City Staff

Left At the City Council Reorganization meeting of December 6, 2005 Assemblyman Ed Chavez congratulated newly elected Councilmembers H. Manuel Ortiz and David Fuentes and wished them well in their new positions. Pictured from left is Councilman H. Manuel Ortiz, Assemblyman Ed Chavez, Councilman David Fuentes and Mayor Breceda.

Right At the City Council Reorganization meeting of December 6, 2005, Assemblyman Ed Chavez presented outgoing Councilmembers Manuel Garcia and Rosemary Ramirez with a certificate commending them for their outstanding accomplishments as Councilmembers for the City of Irwindale. Pictured from left is Councilman Manuel R. Garcia, Assemblyman Ed Chavez, Mayor Pro Tem Rosemary Ramirez and Mayor Breceda.

Left At its meeting of December 6, 2005, the City Council commended the STAR Training Graduates for investing their time, talents and efforts into learning about the many factors involved in creating safer lives for themselves and the Irwindale community. The graduates participated in learning new skills essential in the personal and community preparedness for all types of disaster. Pictured are all the STAR Graduates, Mayor Miranda and Police Chief DeLadurantey.

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IRWINDALE ROCKS (Previously the City Corner)

At the City Council meeting of December 6, 2005, members of the Election Board were commended for their outstanding contribution and service to the City of Irwindale by serving as inspectors at the General Municipal Election held November 8, 2005. Pictured with outgoing Mayor Mark A. Breceda and newly elected Mayor Julian A. Miranda are in back, Margaret Tapia, Carol Hartman, Councilman Joe Tapia, newly elected Councilmember David Fuentes, and in front, Bertha Martinez, newly elected Councilmember Manuel Ortiz, Luz Diaz, and Lina Campa.

As Provided by City Staff

At its meeting of November 16, 2005, the City Council welcomed two new employees to our staff. First was Ben Garcia our new Janitor/Maintenance worker. He is a resident of Irwindale and is newly married with a nine year old daughter. Ben stated that working for the City of Irwindale is a great opportunity. He also thanked the Council and everyone involved in the consideration of his employment. Next was Leonard Orosco, Jr. our new Park Maintenance I worker. He also is a resident of Irwindale, is married and has three children. Prior to being hired by our City, he worked for Ralphs Grocery Company for 12 years. Leonard also thanked the City Council for giving him the opportunity to work for such a great City. We congratulate Ben and Leonard and we wish them the best on their new employment. Pictured from left (back) is Councilman Tapia and Mayor Pro Tem Ramirez. Front left is Councilman Garcia, Ben Garcia, Mayor Breceda, Leonard Orosco, and Councilman Miranda.

Mayor of Tijuana Visits Irwindale On November 14, 2005, the City of Irwindale had a very distinguished guest. Our Mayor Mark Breceda welcomed Ing. Jorge Hank Rhone, the Mayor of Tijuana. His visit was the culmination of combined efforts to donate two 24passenger vans to our Sister City of Salvatierra. The vans were officially delivered on November 10, 2005. During his visit, Mayor Rhone was given a key to our City, toured City Hall and the emergency center at the Police Department, and visited some of our famous pits. We were happy to have the opportunity to meet Mayor Rhone and show off our great City.

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Investigating Harassment Complaints By: California Chamber

In a recent decision, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has held that an employer who fails to investigate a sexual harassment complaint may be excused if the complaining employee expresses the desire to handle the situation on his or her own and fails to provide management with more than vague allegations of unwelcome conduct. The Court decided that the employer had not acted unreasonably under the circumstances. It excused the employer’s failure to conduct an investigation because the complaining employee wanted to deal with the situation on his own and did not provide sufficient details about the unwanted conduct to impose upon the employer the duty to investigate. Hardage v CBS Broadcasting, Inc. 2005 U.S. App. LEXIS 23551 (2005) What Should You Do? • Create and communicate a strong zero-tolerance policy to all employees regarding all types of unlawful discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment in particular. • Treat all complaints of unlawful harassment seriously. • Investigate all allegations of harassment, requiring the complaining party to fully disclose the details of the harassing conduct so you can determine if a more complete investigation is warranted. • As this case was decided by a two-to-one majority, with the dissenting judge asserting that the employer should have investigated further, consult with employment counsel before deciding not to undertake an investigation of a sexual harassment claim. For more information about employer responsibility to conduct harassment investigations, Online and Preferred members can view the Employer Liability section of HRCalifornia.

Offering FREE Informative Seminars in Lighting, HVAC, and Electrical Training!

x Lighting Controls for Energy Management *i Wednesday, November 16, 2005 #13633 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

x High Intensity Discharge Lighting *i Thursday, December 1, 2005 #14114 1:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. with Dinner

x Advanced Lighting Technologies *i Wednesday December 14, 2005 #13634 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Call 1-800-336-CTAC or visit our web site at: www.sce.com/energycenters

6090 N. Irwindale Ave., Irwindale, CA 91702 *These programs are funded by California utility customers and administered by Southern California Edison under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. i These classes are jointly offered by California Energy Centers operated by CTAC (Southern California Edison Company), the Energy Resource Center (Southern California Gas Company, a Sempra Energy Utility), the Pacific Energy Center (Pacific Gas and Electric Company) and San Diego Gas & Electric, a Sempra Energy Utility.

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Disability Protection in California By: California Chamber In an important recent decision, the federal Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has again reminded us that the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) goes farther than federal law in protecting employees and applicants with disabilities. The decision points out two important differences. First, FEHA says a medical condition is disabling if it merely “limits a major life activity,” while the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires a “substantial” limitation. Second, when considering the major life activity of working, the court said an individual is disabled under California law if he or she is prevented from working a particular kind of employment, something less than a substantial class or broad range of jobs as under federal law. As a result of finding the employees had a qualified disability, the court turned to UPS to show a business justification for excluding employees who could not meet its vision requirement from certain driving jobs. The court ruled that even a modest safety risk caused by employees with monocular vision would justify not hiring them, if the potential consequences were very serious. In this case, if UPS could show a potential safety risk, it would be justified in excluding those employees from the driving jobs. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission v. United Parcel Service, Inc. 424 F.3d 1060 (9th Cir., 2005). What Should You Do? •





Prohibit discrimination on account of disability or perceived disability in your equal employment opportunity policy and employee handbook. Train hiring managers on both federal and state protections for disabled applicants, including the obligation to provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process. Train all managers to recognize when a disability may require reasonable accommodation for an employee or applicant, including one returning from a work-related injury.

For more information about disability discrimination, Online and Preferred members can view the Identifying, Hiring and Promoting Workers with Disabilities section on HRCalifornia. There is also a more detailed version of this story, available in the News Articles section in the right-hand column of that same page.

Making Criminals Out of Businesspeople By: Bill Leonard Speaking of state tax law making life difficult for people, be aware of a new law that goes into effect January 1, 2006. Anyone who holds a sales and use tax permit and makes average monthly tax payments of $10,000 or more will now be required to pay their sales and use taxes by electronic funds transfer. EFT is a good program and an efficient means of collecting taxes, but forcing businesses to participate is not a good idea. So far, thousands of California business owners who are mandated to register for this requirement have failed to do so. I believe that we will be making criminals out of many businesspeople who simply do not know about this new requirement. Spread the word and help keep your favorite business owner out of trouble.

LABOR LAW UPDATE Presented by: Robert Bekken Law Firm of Musick, Peeler & Garrett January 18, 2006 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Irwindale City Hall - 5050 N. Irwindale Ave. RSVP @ 626-960-6606 Sponsored by:

Small Business Consulting The SBDC is an economic development project of the U.S. Small Business Administration and the California Community Colleges, operating as a full service business assistance center. The SBDC services include one-on-one business counseling, loan application assistance, business development seminars, and onsite consulting. Please call the SBDC at 800-450-7232 to schedule your FREE consultation, or to register for an upcoming workshop. Developing Your Business Plan Wednesday, January 11, 2006 5:30pm-8:30pm How to Start and Manage a Business Wednesday, February 1, 2006 5:30pm-7:30pm Marketing Your Business Wednesday, March 15, 2006 5:30pm-7:30pm The preceeding workshops will be held at: Vineyard Bank 16008 Foothill Blvd. Irwindale, CA 91706

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IRWINDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Street Address: Mailing Address: Phone: E-Mail: Website:

16102 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale, CA 91706 P.O. Box 2307, Irwindale, CA 91706-1168 (626)960-6606 • Fax:(626) 960-3868 [email protected] www.irwindalechamber.org

2006 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair of the Board: Vee Clark SCE Federal Credit Union 1st Vice Chair: Kevin McDonald Foothill Transit 2nd Vice Chair: Marissa Buckisch Picasso’s Cafe*Bakery*Catering Treasurer: Elisa Clifford Southern California Edison Secretary: Jerry Selby Dick Martin Sales & Leasing Past Chairperson: Gilbert Ruiz Miller Brewing Company

Directors: Ray Anderson Vance Baugham Dennis Chiappetta John Gasparian Cathy Gonzalez Jesus Rodriguez Mark Rodriguez

Waste Management SGV Economic Partnership Athens Services American Reclamation Securitas Security Services Decore-Ative Specialties Ready Pac Produce

Kim Travanty Directors Steve Blancarte Ex-officio: Lisa Bailey

Vineyard Bank Irwindale City Manager President/CEO

Staff:

Dominique Yates

Membership Event Manager

Veronica Orosco

Administrative Assistant

CHAMBER MEETINGS Ambassadors

1st Tuesday 8:00 a.m. at the Chamber Board of Directors 4th Monday 11:30 a.m. at the Chamber Environmental Committee 1st Wednesday 12:00 noon at the Chamber Luncheons 2nd Thursday (Dark July & August) Location Varies Business Development 2nd Wednesday 7:30 a.m. at Picasso’s Cafe Networking Breakfast 4th Thursday at Picasso’s Cafe 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Toastmasters Every Wednesday 7:00 a.m. (Visitors always welcome!)

IRWINDALE SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Am-Vets Post 113 16124 Calle de Paseo, Irwindale, CA 91806 Meets 1st Friday at Am-Vets Park (626) 338-4440 Ben Aguayo Irwindale Educational Foundation P.O. Box 2307, Irwindale, CA 91706-1168 Board Meets 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 a.m. at the Chamber Irwindale Lions Club P.O. Box 2093, Irwindale, CA 91706 Meets Tuesdays, 11:45 a.m. at Covina Bowl Irwindale-Salvatierra, GTO, Mexico Sister City Corporation P.O. Box 2054, Irwindale, CA 91706 Meets 2nd Tuesday, City Council Chambers at 7:00 p.m. Knights of Columbus 5223 N. Morada Street, Irwindale, CA 91706 Meets 1st Wednesday, 8:00 p.m., at the Hall behind stone church on Morada Street Sociedad Progresista Mexicana, Inc. (626) 337-1193 Antonio Salazar Meets once a month (usually Tuesday), City Council Chambers V.F.W. Irwindale Post 9895 P.O. Box 2054, Irwindale, CA 91706 Meets 3rd Thursday at 4117 Alderson Street, Baldwin Park, CA

City of Irwindale City Hall 5050 Irwindale Avenue Irwindale, CA 91706-1168 Phone: (626) 430-2200 Fax: (626) 962-4209 (City Hall) Fax: (626) 962-2018 (Building Dept.) Website: www.ci.irwindale.ca.us e-mail: [email protected] City Council Mayor: Julian A. Miranda Mayor Pro Tem: H. Manuel Ortiz Council Members: Mark A. Breceda, David Fuentes, and Joseph F. Tapia City Council Meetings 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall City Staff City Manager: Assistant City Manager: Dir. of Public Works/City Engineer: Finance Director & City Treasurer: Dir. of Planning: Personnel Manager: Economic Development Manager: Deputy City Clerk:

Steve Blancarte Camille Diaz Kwok Tam Abraham De Dios Tonya Pace Kathy Guerrero Elaine Cullen Linda Kimbro

Planning Commission Chair: Larry Burrola Vice Chair: Robert Hartman Commissioners: Richard Chico, David Fuentes and Arthur Tapia Parks & Recreation Commission Chair: Dan Diaz Vice Chair: Belen Zepeda Commissioners: Erlinda Duran, Paula Fraijo, and Carol Hernandez Senior Citizen Commission Chair: David Martinez Vice Chair: Maggie Guzman Commissioners: Stella Breceda, Nellie Tapia and Patricia Trippy

******************************************** Library..................................(626) 430-2229 City Librarian: Pat Sullivan 5050 Irwindale Avenue Fax: (626) 430-2266 Recreation...............................(626) 430-2224 16053 Calle de Paseo Fax: (626) 962-3022 Recreation Manager: Dan Grijalva Recreation Supervisor: Carol Acosta Recreation Supervisor: Priscilla Zepeda Senior Center..........................(626) 430-2283 16116 Arrow Highway Fax: (626) 430-2275 Senior Citizen Coordinator: Jackie Delgado Assistant To Senior Citizen Coordinator: Sara Ponce Service Yard............................(626) 430-2280 16034 Calle del Norte Public Works Manager: Mike Rados

******************************************** Police Department Chief of Police: Joe De Ladurantey Emergency......................... 9-1-1 Phone (non emergency)...(626) 430-2244 5050 Irwindale Avenue Fax: (626) 856-0471 Los Angeles County Fire- Irwindale Station Emergency......................... 9-1-1 Phone (non emergency)...(626) 337-8919 15546 Arrow Hwy, Irwindale

For Waste Collection & Recycling Services Contact Craig Doerr or Joe Pimental

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 288 COVINA, CA

P.O. BOX 2307 • IRWINDALE, CALIFORNIA 91706 “Jardin de Roca” Garden of Rocks Is this newsletter properly addressed? Please verify the information on the mailing label. If any changes are needed please call (626) 960-6606 or fax them to (626) 960-3868.

It is the mission of the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce to build solid relationships, provide quality services that support chamber members and businesses in order to promote the economic vitality of our community.