Chamber Weekly | News & Events

May 6, 2024

News

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Small Business Month

This May, as we observe Small Business Month, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to shine a spotlight on the vital role that small businesses play in our local economy. According to the Small Business Administration's 2023 report, California boasts approximately 4.15 million small businesses, which constitute 99.8% of all businesses in the state and employ about 7.5 million people.

In the Torrance area, our small businesses span an impressive array of industries beyond the essential services of healthcare, transportation, and professional services. We are also home to thriving small enterprises in the retail, manufacturing, and technology sectors, as well as innovative startups in green energy and digital media. Each of these sectors contributes uniquely to the economic vitality and diverse character of our community.

Torrance Armed Forces Day 5K for Freedom Unites Community to Honor the Armed Forces

On the morning of May 18th, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce proudly hosts the 5K for Freedom, an essential element of our city's Armed Forces Day celebrations. This event, starting at 8:00 AM, promises to bring together our community in a shared expression of fitness, fun, and tribute to our military forces.

The 5K for Freedom is a vibrant part of a longstanding tradition. Now in its sixth year, and coinciding with the 62nd annual Armed Forces Day Parade, the event highlights our community's enduring respect and support for the armed forces. Jac Folkert, Area Director of Marketing, Community Outreach & Development at UCLA Health notes, "The Torrance Armed Forces Day Celebration has a rich tradition, and the 5K event adds a wonderful opportunity for community members of all ages to come together in celebration." Read More...

More Information Here

Become a Sponsor for the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce 110th Celebration

Since its inception in 1913, the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce has been a vital support system for local businesses, offering advocacy, resources, and networking opportunities across various industries. This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Chamber, a significant milestone that underscores its longstanding commitment to business excellence in the Torrance area.

We invite you to join us in celebrating this special occasion. With a sponsorship of just $110, your company will be featured during the 110th Celebration on June 6th, 2024. This is a unique opportunity to display your company’s name and demonstrate your support for the business community. Join us as we honor our past achievements and look forward to the future possibilities we can achieve together.

Click Here to Become a Sponsor

Duperron and Miller Join Captain Rick on the Boating Hour

Donna Duperron and Jonisha Miller were recently interviewed by Captain Rick on the Boating Hour podcast. Captain Rick, a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary asked questions about the upcoming Armed Forces 5K for Freedom, a Tribute to Louis Zamperini. The Boating Hour airs on Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. on AM870 and provides the most current and essential information about everything that sails, floats, or motors upon the high seas. Information can be found at www.theboatinghour.com

Listen to The Boating Hour Here

(L to R front row): State Senator Ben Allen, State Senator Steven Bradford and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi are joined by event sponsors at the 'State of State'.

Legislators Address Housing, Crime, American Democracy at State of the State

The Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed State Senators Ben Allen and Steven Bradford and Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi to the annual 'State of the State' event this past Friday. Read More...

View Photo Gallery Here

Torrance Fire Department holds 2024 Promotional Ceremony

The Torrance Fire Department held its 2024 Promotional Ceremony last Thursday at the James R. Armstrong Theatre. In all, 13 were promoted to the position of firefighter, and ten received promotions to Fire Engineer, Fire Captain, Assistant Fire Chief or Fire Marshal.

Fire Chief Dave Dumais, Mayor George Chen, Assistant City Manager Danny Santana, Assistant Fire Chief Blayne Baker, TFFA President Captain Ryan Mendivil and Fire Captain Christian Johnson participated in the presentation of New Firefighter, Badges and Assignments. Deputy Fire Chief Alec Miller provided opening remarks and served as master of ceremonies.

Young Professionals Group: The Power of a Growth Mindset with Philip De Souza

Philip De Souza

Founder

Aurora IT

Get ready for a session with Philip De Souza, the Founder and president of Aurora IT, a national cybersecurity and compliance firm. He is a leader who scaled a startup organization into a multimillion-dollar success story. Philip engages a vast international professional network of industry leaders across finance, technology, and software to create lasting value and spearhead growth. As a cybersecurity expert and industry thought leader he will be discussing the power of a growth mindset in business and personal success during this session.

This month’s Young Professionals Group will be held on Thursday, May 9th at the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce from 8:30 am to 9:30 am. Gain insights from Philip's experience scaling a cybersecurity firm and navigating industry challenges. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a seasoned leader.

RSVP Here

Join us for Business at Noon hosted at Local Kitchen

A monthly networking event, Business at Noon, will be held on Tuesday, May 14th at Local Kitchen at 11:45 am. Leslie Cortez, the Senior Administrative Analyst, from the City of Torrance, will be the master of ceremonies and facilitate self-introductions of chamber members. Admission of $27 includes lunch, a beverage, tax, and gratuity.

Business at Noon is a great opportunity for businesses of all sizes to network so please arrive promptly and check in at 11:45 am. During lunch, each attendee will take 30 seconds to introduce themselves and their business. Make sure to bring your business cards and feel free to bring a raffle item to promote your business.