Chamber Weekly | News & Events

June 14, 2023

Out & About with Donna

Donna Visits Transit Center's Grand Opening

This past Friday, I had the opportunity to attend the Grand Opening of the Mary K. Giordano Regional Transit Center. It was a very special day for the City of Torrance, and the family of Mary Giordano.

Kim Turner, Director, Transit Department provided the welcome and was master of ceremonies. Kim enthusiastically introduced ten speakers to the podium to offer their congratulations. The brand new facility, which spans over five acres along Crenshaw Boulevard, will become the last stop on the Metro C Light Rail, providing transportation to some of the Southland's most popular destinations.

News

COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Grants Available

Eligible California small businesses may apply now for a state program that awards funds for costs incurred from the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave.

Under the California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program, eligible businesses may be awarded between $5,000–$50,000. Funds are limited and will be awarded based on eligibility and availability of funds. Read More...

Thank you Virco and the Port of Long Beach

Since 1980, Leadership Torrance has been the premier leadership training program of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce. Leadership Torrance is a six-month program that provides participants the opportunity to gain exposure to key community leaders and explore important community issues.

This past week, members of this year's class were welcomed by Virco Manufacturing Corporation and the Port of Long Beach for tours and introduced to leaders at both locations. Leadership Long Beach also participated in the Port of Long Beach tour.

Applications Being Accepted for America's Top Small Business

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the very best in American small business. Beginning this year, the newly reimagined America's Top Small Business Awards (formerly Dream Big Awards) will honor the achievements of small businesses and highlight their contributions to America’s economic growth. The 2023 America’s Top Small Business Awards are presented in partnership with Iron Mountain and Dell Technologies.

How to apply for America's Top Small Business 2023:

Click here to begin your application for the 2023 America's Top Small Business Awards. (Deadline for submission: Friday, July 7, 2023).

Power Savers Rewards Program Provide Bill Credits

Earn bill credits by conserving household energy during scheduled Power Saver Rewards program events. A typical customer who participates throughout the summer season can earn $40 in bill credits.

Events may be scheduled between May 1 and October 31 and occur between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. Enrollment is free and participation is voluntary. There are no penalties if you do not reduce usage during an event.

Enroll Now

Congratulations to the honorees of the Impact Awards. Your commitment to the community is celebrated and appreciated.

Honorees include: Stan Gray, J. Walker Owens Volunteerism Award; Larry Halvorsen, George M. Whittlesey Memorial Award; Virco Manufacturing Corporation, Large Business of the Year; Brenda Hidalgo - State Farm Insurance Agency, Small Business of the Year; John Schoen, Chamber Impact Award; Mike Cirona and Taylor Roll, Emerging Leaders; DoubleTree Hilton Torrance - South Bay, Excellence in Business; ICAN California Abilities Network, Nonprofit of the Year; Sunrider International and Volunteer Center South Bay, Harbor, Long Beach; Sakura Finetek USA (not pictured), Legacy Award; Glen Golightly, Ambassador of the Year; Wine Shoppe, Hidden Gem; Ana Straser, Young Business Executive; Roadium Open Air Market, Exceptional Community Business.

Thank you to Mark Waronek for being the Master of Ceremonies.

Cybersecurity Webinar Offered to Small Organizations and Nonprofits

The FBI St. Louis Citizens Academy Alumni Association (CAAA) if offering basic cybersecurity awareness to help small organizations that don't have a cybersecurity team. This webinar will take place on Thursday, June 15th from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. CT.

Presenter is Mr. David Wren, who has 20+ years experience in the Information and Cyber Security Industry. In addition to his consulting practice, he is President of InfraGard, a partnership between the FBI and members of the private sector for the protection of U.S. Critical Infrastructure.