HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM THE L.A. AREA CHAMBER
All of us on the staff of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce want to thank our 1,600 members and their 650,000 employees for the economic contributions you make to our city, county and region. We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and an exciting and prosperous new year. Please note, our offices will be closed Monday, Dec. 24 - Tuesday, Jan. 1. We will resume regular office hours on Wednesday, Jan. 2. Click on the image above to see our holiday wish to you.


Chamber joins coalition in support of skilled worker immigration reform
The Chamber announced this week its participation in "Business for Skilled Worker Immigration," a coalition of 25 chambers of commerce from across the country working together to advance skilled worker immigration reform as a means of driving job creation, innovation and other economic growth. The coalition will urge Congress to address this important talent issue as part of broader-based immigration reform expected to be taken up in the new Congressional session. Contact David Rattray, 213.580.7515.

Seeking nominations for Small Business Awards
The U.S. Small Business Administration - Los Angeles District Office, in collaboration with the Chamber, is currently accepting nominations for business awards for local small business owners and business champions including the 2013 Small Business Person of the Year Award for National Small Business Week. The deadline to apply is Thursday, Jan. 3. Apply now or contact Patrick Rodriguez, 818.552.3222.

Leadership Southern California travels to Inland Empire
The Leadership Southern California Class of 2013 traveled to the Inland Empire on Friday, Dec. 14 for a better understanding of the people, places and trends currently shaping the inland region of Southern California. Beginning with an economic overview and forecast from Jordan Levine, Beacon Economics, Fellows learned that the Inland Empire is the most diverse region in the United States and home to more than 4.3 million residents. Leaders discussed what makes the Inland Empire a unique asset including a steady and growing population, affordable housing, less congestion and access to higher education institutions. Contact April Tam, 213.580.7526.

Chamber member raises money for storm relief efforts With the effects of Hurricane Sandy still impacting people on the East Coast, Torrey Pines Bank hosted an opportunity for employees to take part in "A Day of Giving" last month to raise money for super storm relief efforts. The bank's employees, including those in L.A. and Beverly Hills, donated $5,800, and the bank itself matched $5000 for a total of $10,800 to be donated to support the American Red Cross efforts for Hurricane Sandy Relief. Read more. Click here to submit your member good news.