February 3, 2025

Out and About

Donna Attends Honda's Battle of the Bands

This past Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the Honda Battle of the Bands at SoFi Stadium. Honda made a commitment in 2003 to highlight the heart-stopping musical talent of Historically Black College or University (HBCU) marching bands.

Honda Battle of the Bands has served as the blueprint for showcasing one of the most recognizable and celebrated examples of HBCU culture and tradition to the rest of the world. Performances this year included Hampton University, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, Alabama A&M University, Southern University - Human Jukebox Marching Band, Alabama State University and North Carolina A&T University.

News

Employer Rights & Responsibilities During a Federal Worksite Raid

The topic of immigration is front and center for many in our country this week. U.S. businesses are advised to prepare for a potential federal investigation by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Homeland Security Investigations (HIS). Even a U.S. employer, without any foreign workers on staff, could still encounter immense difficulties as the result of a federal investigation if they do not have sound policies, procedures, and action plans in place if/when ICE or HSI knocks on their door. This article aims to provide high-level guidance for employers on how to plan for a potential worksite enforcement raid or investigation. Read More...

Law Now Requires Written Contract for Independent Contractors

Do I need a written contract if I have an independent contractor working for me?

In California, the relationship between businesses and independent contractors is subject to strict legal standards. As of January 1, 2025, having a written contract with certain types of independent contractors is required by law. Read More...

Metro Connect Presents… MEET THE PRIMES 2025

Join us for "Meet The Primes," a dynamic networking event designed to connect Prime Contractors with small and diverse businesses looking for subcontracting opportunities. This event, scheduled for Feb 13 from 5PM to 8PM at the Metro Headquarters Building. Small businesses will have the opportunity to build valuable connections and explore partnerships in a collaborative setting, fostering meaningful relationships, expanding networks, and gaining access to Prime Contractors working on Metro projects.

Full Details

(Certified) Torrance Residents Sought for Commission Opening

The Mayor and City Council of the City of Torrance invite certified citizens interested in serving their community to apply for the following vacancies: Civil Service Commission and Commission on Aging Applications are available our website www.TorranceCA.Gov or by calling (310) 618-2870. Applications may be dropped off in the City Clerk’s Office, emailed to CityClerk@TorranceCA.gov (must be signed) or mailed via U.S. Mail to the Office of the City Clerk, 3031 Torrance Blvd. Applications must be received in the Office of the City Clerk no later than Thursday, February 20, 2025 by 5 p.m. POSTMARKS NOT ACCEPTED. Applicants must be an elector in the City of Torrance and current on their Commission Certification. Applicants are responsible to schedule interviews with the Mayor and Council. Commissioners are paid a stipend of $20 for each meeting attended and stipends are paid quarterly.

24th Annual Black History Celebration to Honor Community Leaders

The 24th Annual Black History Celebration, hosted by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Thursday, February 13th, 2025, at the Torrance Marriott South Bay. This event will honor outstanding individuals, including Reggie Cheney of Sunrider International, Natisha Echevarria of Valor Christian Academy, Josh Gezahegn of The Volunteer Center South Bay - Harbor - Long Beach, Evelyn Lynch of C.L. Lynch Mortuary, and Brenda Thames of El Camino College. Registration begins at 4:00 PM, followed by a reception from 4:30 to 5:30 PM. Don’t miss this opportunity to recognize and celebrate these remarkable leaders. Read More...

Join Us for Navigating the Intersection of Business and Healthcare 2025

Executives from Kaiser Permanente, Providence Little Company of Mary, Torrance Memorial, and UCLA Health will lead a panel discussion on the state of healthcare in the South Bay at Navigating the Intersection of Business & Healthcare on February 19, 2025, at Sunrider International. Hosted by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce, the event will explore how healthcare trends and policies affect businesses and their employees. Read More...

Left to right: Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District) and Congressman Ted Lieu (36th District).

Hear from Congress on Key Regional Updates at State of the Region

The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is set to host the highly anticipated State of the Region Address on February 18, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Torrance – South Bay. This premier event will bring together Congresswoman Maxine Waters (43rd District) and Congressman Ted Lieu (36th District), offering attendees a unique opportunity to hear updates on key regional priorities and legislative developments shaping the future. Read More...

Rodney Davis (left), Director of Leadership Torrance 2025, and Edward Apodaca (right), Co-director of Leadership Torrance 2025.

Spotlight on Leadership Torrance 2025: Building Tomorrow’s Leaders

The 2025 Leadership Torrance (LT25) program is off to an exciting start, bringing together a diverse group of professionals eager to strengthen their leadership skills and make a lasting impact on the Torrance area community. This year, the program is guided by two passionate and dedicated individuals who bring unique perspectives and energy to the initiative. Read More...

Chamber Board Participates in LA28 Olympic Presentation

Board members had the opportunity to participate in an informative presentation by Vic Nol, Director, Venue Cities Relations. Nol stated that this is the third time Los Angeles will be hosting the Olympics, but the first time they will host the Paralympic Games. He shared that 15 thousand athletes will be competing in over 40 sports. The athletes will come from 205 countries and the overall operation will take 60 days.

The Women in Business event, “Bank on Yourself,” brought Torrance Area Chamber members together to explore how to invest in yourself personally and financially. Thank you to Sacha Duncan, Senior Vice President/Retail Banking Manager at Malaga Bank, and Athena Paquette, Senior Mortgage Advisor, for sharing their expertise.

Expand Your Network at Business at Noon

Join a monthly gathering of Torrance Area professionals at Business at Noon on February 6, 2025, at 11:45 AM at Torrance Tavern. This event offers a chance for Chamber members to connect with local leaders, exchange ideas, and enjoy a casual lunch. Don’t forget your business cards, and reservations are required.

Understand Torrance's Retrofitting Ordinance

Dive into a critical discussion on Torrance's Soft-Story Ordinance with insights from Optimum Seismic. This Government Affairs Policy (GAP) meeting, held on February 13, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce office, will cover compliance and retrofitting requirements, providing valuable information for local businesses.

RSVP Here!

Connect & Unwind with YPG at Hermosa Brewing

The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) invites you to an evening of casual networking at Hermosa Brewing Company on February 20, 2025, at 5:00 PM. Relax after hours, connect with fellow professionals, and enjoy games in a lively atmosphere designed to help build meaningful connections. Open exclusively to Chamber members.

Ensure Compliance with 2025 Labor Laws

The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting orders for 2025 California and Federal Employment Posters and Compliance Pamphlet Kits. These materials are essential for maintaining compliance with updated labor laws, including mandatory workplace notices. To secure your materials, download the order form, select your options, and submit it to charlotte@torrancechamber.com. Orders will be ready for pickup at the Chamber office. Contact 310-540-5858 for more information.

Download Order Form

The 2025 Torrance Magazine & Resource Guide Is Now Available!

The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the release of the 2025 Torrance Magazine & Resource Guide! This digital publication highlights the Chamber’s events, programs, and resources that support local businesses and strengthen the community.

Explore the guide to discover how the Chamber fosters growth, connection, and opportunity throughout the Torrance area. From advocacy efforts to networking and community engagement, this resource showcases the many ways the Chamber makes a difference.

Access the Digital Guide Here