business focus - january 2016

Connecting the business and residential communities.

Business FocusBusiness FocusBusiness Focus

JANUARY 2016 A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE WHITTIER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE VOL. 22 NO. 01

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Thank you to Crepes & Grapes Café owner Sandra Hahn and her staff for serving up a delicious Tasty Tuesday event in November. For more photos from the

monthly luncheon see page 14

Assemblymember Ian Calderon, alongside members of the Whittier City Council and Whittier Chamber, joined representatives from Google and Facebook for an internet crawl in Uptown Whittier to learn more about how local owners are using the internet to strengthen their businesses. Thank you to Yolanda Garcia of Casita Del Pueblo for

sharing her experience last month

The Tutoring Center helps struggling students catch up

and get ahead in schoolThe Tutoring Center in Whittier aims

to help students catch up and get ahead in school. Founded in 1994 by Dr. Thalheimer, Ph.D., The Tutoring Center has helped thousands of students across the nation succeed. The new Whittier location at 11869 Whittier Blvd. was opened in January of 2015 to serve the City of Whittier and its nearby communities.

It is the mission of Alan Kan, the Center Director in Whittier, to help students from K-12 succeed in school and in life. Having helped his own daughters get into full-time universities at the ages of 14 and 15, he found it most rewarding to help children succeed and possibly change their lives for the better.

Classrooms feature an effective learning environment that combines “The Rotational Approach to Learning™” and One-To-One Instruction. Their innovative system gives students far more one-to-one instruction than he or she will ever receive in a classroom full of children, or even in a small group.

As parents, you have many choices available for your child, and you should make the choice that’s in your child’s best interest. For instance, many schools provide after-school tutoring or intervention programs for students who are having difficulty in school, and maybe your child has been offered one

in the past. Even though these programs are free to families, current research indicates that these programs are inefficient and time-consuming. Since they focus mostly on completing your child’s homework, they cannot offer you a permanent solution that addresses the skill gaps developed from prior school years. While school-based tutoring may provide your child with short-term homework help, The Tutoring Center’s intense One-to-One Instruction and “The Rotational Approach to Learning™” actually provide your child with long-term skills that will last a lifetime.

The individualized approach taken by The Tutoring Center is unique and highly effective. Students not only improve rapidly in their academic skills but also in their concentration and attitude towards learning. Many students, including those with learning disabilities or who need special education, get the help to catch up, and their parents are relieved to fi nd that their children can get back to a solid foundation for their future. The following are some of the testimonials received from Whittier parents:

“First I would like to thank Mr. Alan and the tutoring team. I came to The Tutoring Center very desperate to help my son improve and ever since my son started he has shown great improvement. My son for the fi rst time has been able to

retain 85% of his lectures and studies from school [which has not happened since Pre-K] and thanks to that he was the Student of the Month for the fi rst time ever. My son has been put into the ‘highest level’ of his 5th grade! Thank you so much!”

“While doing homework and in the classroom, I notice that she is so much more independent and confi dent. Her confi dence level has risen in multiple ways, and not just in education but her public speaking too.”

“The Tutoring Center has been great for my daughter. She was behind in math and since enrollment she has improved dramatically. She is much

more confi dent in her math class and is even raising her hand which she wouldn’t have done before.”

“I met with the school for his current IEP (individual education plan) and it was determined that he is now academically in his grade level or slightly above. Therefore, he no longer requires to be under special education.”

Thank you parents for trusting The Tutoring Center to help your children!

For high school students who need to take the SAT or ACT in the near future, they should be aware that the SAT will undergo substantial changes starting in March of 2016. Given the many questions and uncertainties surrounding this “redesigned SAT,” and the somewhat lesser-known alternative test called ACT, parents and students need to make the most informed decision to maximize their chances of getting their highest scores from these tests. The Tutoring Center’s expertise can help. From offering free diagnostic assessments and consultations to their excellent SAT/ACT test preparation programs, The Tutoring Center can help students get prepared for the SAT and ACT. Knowing which test to take and getting a good score on the test can maximize the students’ chances of getting into their desired colleges and universities, as well as scholarship opportunities and a brighter outlook for a better future.

For more information and many other parent testimonials for The Tutoring Center in Whittier, please visit the website at whittier.tutoringcenter.com, or give Alan a call at (562) 699-0218. Your child’s education is most important and The Tutoring Center hopes to help you and your child succeed.

Whittier ChamberWhittier ChamberWhittier Chamber

BusinessBusiness Expo 2016 Expo 2016BusinessBusiness Expo 2016 Expo 2016BusinessBusiness Expo 2016 Expo 2016

WednesdayJanuary 20, 2016

4- 7 P. M.CORPORATE SPONSORS

at the 2016 Business ExpoConnectConnectConnectPOWPOWPOWBAMBAMBAM

JANUARY 2016WHITTIER BUSINESS FOCUS WWW.WHITTIERCHAMBER.COM2

Whittier Chamber Business FocusOffi cial monthly publication of the

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce

This publication is mailed monthly to all licensed businesses in the city of Whittier, all Whittier Chamber members and 4,500 Whittier residents in selected areas. Papers are also distributed via various community locations such as Whittier Library, Community Center, Senior Center, City Hall, etc. Total monthly readership is 20,000. We welcome comments, press releases and community interest stories. All submissions are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. The Whittier Chamber reserves the right to approve and edit submitted material. The Business Focus is also an excellent vehicle within which to advertise! For current advertising rates or to submit an article, email Katie Galvin at [email protected] or call (562) 698-9554.

Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce8158 Painter Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602(562) 698-9554 • (562) 693-2700 FAX

[email protected]

2015-2016BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STAFF

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DIRECTORS

INDEX

Executive DirectorsCarol Crosby & Lyn Carty

Director of Public RelationsKatie Galvin-Surbatovic

Event & Member Relations CoordinatorNatalie Saenz

ReceptionistJessica Reyes

BookkeeperAmber Lawrence

PresidentRudy Hernandez, RMH Dance & Productions

President-Elect & VP AdministrationChris Hardeman, DialMED Home Care

Immediate Past President Shannon Gimbel-Hammer,

Shannon G’s Flowers

VP Business InformationElizabeth Martinez, Republic Services

VP Networking and MarketingGary Lee Martinez, The Traveling Traveler

VP FinanceGreg Nicodemus,

Credit Union of Southern California

VP MembershipLaurie Perschbacher,

MAP Property Management

VP Special EventsCarolyn Reggio, CAPC, Inc.

VP Community AffairsDr. Ramsey Ezaki, Ezaki Dentistry

Rudy Hernandez

&

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Leighton Anderson, Bewley, Lassleben & Miller, LLC

Sue Dean, Notary Signing NetworkGreg Gunter, Greg’s Auto Body

Bryan Tabizon, Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary

Debra Legan, PIH HealthKrista Lesa, The Quad at Whittier

La Donna Munier, Friendly Hills BankKim Praster,

Lady Bugs Environmental Termite & Pest ControlTom Rios, Brookdale Uptown Whittier

Yuki Sato, Kenkou Acupuncture & Wellness

TAX TIPS$

Richard Scrivanich

Casualty Gains (Part 2 of 2)

What is your intention?

Continued on next page

Now that the holidays have come and gone and you've exchanged “that gift” for something you really wanted, it’s now time to focus on the New Year and your business. Last month I shared about rededicating yourself to your beliefs instead of New Year’s Resolutions. This month is about “intention.” The word has many interpretations but the bottom line is (for your small business) it’s a goal to achieve something.

I am going to borrow an article from the New York Times Small Business Summit for AMEX OPEN. American Express has many online seminars as well as helpful articles for small businesses. It has been a great resource for my small business and I

recommend that you look into it for your business. I hope this article helps you as much as it has helped me. Enjoy the new year and best of luck with your rededication and intention plan.

How To Attract and Retain CustomersIt’s certainly a big topic, but I love that

attract and retain are used in the same setting because they are certainly linked arm in arm in a business that wants to build any kind of marketing momentum. In fact, you could argue, and I do, they are one in the same.

Far too often marketers spend all of their attention on the chase and the sale and not enough on the retain and remarkable experience. The funny thing is if you get great at the later, the former will take care of itself.

Actually, I’m not a fan of the word retain, it seems a bit like satisfy. The real magic is referral and that comes from something a little more over the top.

Here’s the system I plan to share today.

You attract by building know, like and trust:• You must know whom you are ideally

suited to attract• You must be able to communicate a

difference that makes you stand out• You must create content that

addresses a need of a narrowly defi ned customer

• You must advertise and generate word of mouth buzz surrounding your content

• You must be in so many places and linked to so many sources that you are easily found

• You must build a team of strategic partners, sponsors and customer champions willing to help prospects fi nd you

You retain customers by focusing on repeat and referral• You must study every potential

customer contact point and turn it into a remarkable experience

• You must develop a customer orientation process as part of your lead conversion process

• You must communicate fully, often and truthfully during transactions and service

• You must build follow-up routines that include opportunities to share additional education, training and content

As you may recall, in last month’s Tax Tips we began a discussion concerning the IRS rules applicable casualty gains. In this article, we’ll wrap up our discussion of the IRS rules concerning casualty gains.

Principal residences. Where the property damaged by the casualty is the taxpayer’s home it may be even easier to avoid tax on a casualty gain. As you may be aware, if you used your home as your “principal residence” (e.g., not merely as a vacation home) for at least two years out of the previous fi ve, you can exclude up to $250,000 of gain on its sale ($500,000 for married couples

fi ling jointly, as long as the use tests are met by both spouses). This exclusion cannot be used more than once in a two-year period.

Signifi cantly, for our purposes, these exclusion rules apply to gains from the destruction of the home as well. Thus, casualty gains of up to $250,000 ($500,000 for married couples) can be excluded from gross income if the destroyed property is a principal residence.

If the casualty gain on a home exceeds the amount of the exclusion, the excess amount can be deferred under the involuntary conversion rules. In this case, to defer the remainder of the gain, the cost of the replacement property need only be equal to the insurance proceeds minus the excluded amount.

Example. A single taxpayer’s home is destroyed by a hurricane and the taxpayer is paid $400,000 by his insurance company. The taxpayer’s basis in the home was $100,000 so the casualty gain is $300,000. The fi rst $250,000 of this gain is excluded from gross income under the rules that apply to sales or exchanges of principal residences. The remaining $50,000 of gain is deferred under the

involuntary conversion rules as long as $150,000 ($400,000 minus $250,000) of the insurance payment is spent, within the required period, on replacement property.

Finally, additional tax help may be available if your home is destroyed by a casualty that is part of a Presidentially declared disaster. Special rules make it easier to avoid gain on insurance payments you receive for your personal property damaged in the disaster. And the involuntary conversion timing rules are expanded to allow you a four-year period calculated similarly to the two-year period described above. Further, a fi ve-year period calculated similarly to the two-year period described above applies for certain disasters designated by statute.

In summary, while casualty gains may be taxable, a variety of rules can be used to defer or avoid tax in many cases. The rules can be complex, however, and frequently large amounts are at stake.

If you have any questions concerning casualty gains, please do not hesitate to call me at (562) 698-9891.

President’s Massage............... 2

Tax Tips ................................... 2

Financial Update ...................... 3

Mayor’s Message .................... 4

10-4 Tips from the WPD .......... 5

Labor Law ............................... 9

Member Marketplace ............ 10

Calendar ................................ 10

Restaurant Row ..................... 11

Milestone Members ............... 11

Community Celebrations ........ 11

Around Town ....................12-13

Tasty Tuesday ........................ 14

Renewing Members ............... 15

New Members ....................... 15

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F I N A N C I A L U P DA T E

How Might Rising Interest Rates Affect Your Stock Investments?

Continued from previous page - President’s Message

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• You must create a process that allows you to measure and communicate the value of your product or service delivered to a customer

• You must stop what you are doing often and show appreciation fully• You must fi nd ways to bring your customers together and facilitate building

community for them• You must expect to receive a referral from 100% of your customers and help

them bring value to others they would like to help

Accomplishing everything on both lists above is the secret to success for any business, regardless of industry or geography – there’s actually nothing very hard about it, the key is intention. If you intend to thrill every customer, you will attract and retain.

The Whittier Chamber’s intent is to make each networking event, seminar, meeting or program a remarkable experience for its members. Being a Chamber member brings value and credibility to your business which, in turn, helps create a positive image for your customers. One great way to gain visibility is by participating in the Chamber’s upcoming Business Expo on January 20 at the Radisson Hotel Whittier from 4-7 p.m. There are still tables available, but more importantly we want everyone to come out and see some of the wonderful businesses in and around the Whittier area. For more information visit www.whittierchamber.com.

Happy New Year!

History paints a picture of the effect that rising interest rates have had on the stock market in the past. Be prepared for what might lie ahead by using these lessons to your advantage.

The Federal Reserve’s actions can have a marked infl uence on the economy and fi nancial markets. For instance, some market analysts believe that the Fed’s massive, multi-year bond-buying program coupled with a record-setting period of near-zero interest rates fueled the six-year bull market for stocks. Now that the Fed raised short-term rates last month .25%, for the fi rst time since the fi nancial crisis, what might that action mean for stocks.1

While many market watchers have speculated about the effect of rising rates, history provides a window into how stocks have reacted to such policy shifts in the past.

A Look BackResearch that looked at the past 35

years (and six rate-hiking cycles) found that stocks don’t necessarily follow a straight path up or down in reaction to a rate hike. Instead, they present a

mixed bag of performance. For instance, analysis reported on CNBC.com found that in two of the six cycles, stocks, as represented by the S&P 500, were lower a year after the initial rate hike. Even so, the average gain for all six periods was 2.6%. And on average, a year and a half after the fi rst rate hike in a cycle, the market was up 14.4%.2

What’s Different This Time?While heightened volatility is often a

byproduct of the Federal Reserve initiating a rate hiking cycle, there are unique variables at play this time that may help to lessen the market’s reaction.

First, with the federal funds rate set at 0% to .25% for nearly seven years -- far below its starting point for the previous several rate hiking cycles -- it is believed that the Fed has a lot of leeway to move rates up before creating a significant drag on the economy. Second, many economists and Wall Street analysts expect that as the Fed continues raising rates, it will do so slowly in an attempt to minimize market disruption.3

Considerations for InvestorsGiven the inevitability of continued

interest rate hikes looming on the horizon, you may be cautious in your outlook for your stock portfolio. But don’t let your emotions get in the way of potential investment opportunities. Consider discussing the following strategies with your fi nancial advisor at your next meeting.• Buy on the dips. If stocks do swoon

when the Fed acts, many analysts feel the drop will be short-lived and may in fact prove to be a good time to selectively add to your portfolio.

continued on page 11


City Of Whittier UPDATEUPDATE

MAYOR'S MESSAGEFernando Dutra

As 2015 drew to a close and I began thinking about 2016, I was struck by the incredible successes that defi ne us in Whittier. Throughout Los Angeles County and Southern California there are stories every day about cities facing economic, political, and social challenges. I am so very proud of our accomplishments, our sense of community and the caring spirit that

continues to make Whittier the best city in which to live and work.

During December the City pushed forward with several major initiatives. In addition to reestablishing a design review board that will help ensure the quality design for future development that we all expect, the City Council selected a consultant to lead the effort in establishing an Uptown benefits assessment district. This district will help set the future course for Uptown and lay the foundation for the City Council to program approximately $13 million in bond funds for infrastructure, a parking garage, and streetscape improvements. Notably, the City Council also set the direction for a new waste hauling contract with Athens

Business Community to Honor Whittier Police DepartmentNominations sought for Community Service Award

and Santa Fe Springs,” stated Community Relations Offi cer John Scoggins.

The Silver Shield event is designed to give businesses and individuals the opportunity to say thank you to our police department. Again this year is the chance for residents and business owners to nominate an offi cer who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help. Nominations can be sent to [email protected] and must include your contact information, the name of the offi cer(s) and a brief description of the incident or event. The Silver Shield committee will select an offi cer from the submitted nominations and he or she will be presented with a Community Service Award at the event.

This year’s event will feature a police expo inside the beautiful ballroom at the Pacific Palms Resort. Musical entertainment will once again be provided by Ernie Hernandez from Calendar Entertainment and photography by Tom Guerrero of Say Cheese Photography. “It is an honor for the Whittier Chamber to host this special event again this year,” stated Chamber Board President Rudy Hernandez from RMH Dance and Productions. “We are proud of our partnership with the Whittier Police Department and it is our privilege to

coordinate this event to highlight all that they do for our community on a daily basis,” he explained.

The Whittier Police Department provides a variety of law enforcement services to the citizens of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. The Department is comprised of the Patrol, Investigation, Support Services and Administration Divisions. The Police Department features a great team comprised of 120 sworn police offi cers and 50 civilian staff. One of the outstanding programs developed by the WPD is the highly successful Community Based Policing Program. A cornerstone of this model program is a partnership between the Police Department, city residents and businesses to produce a high quality of life for all citizens. “The Police Department’s relationship with the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce and the surrounding business community is one that is strong and respected. This relationship enables our department to serve our citizens and has bolstered the partnership that drives effective enforcement efforts. The men and women of the Whittier Police Department feel extremely fortunate to enjoy this relationship with our community partners,” explained Chief Jeff Piper.

“There are many ways to participate,

2016 Silver Shield Sponsors Committed as of 12/20/2015

BADGE SPONSORCity of Whittier • City of Santa Fe Springs • Bob & Dave’s Towing

CHIEF SPONSORSACRO Printing, Inc. • Athens Services • Cetera Advisor Networks, Douglas M. Rowan • Hadley Tow • LA County Supervisor Don Knabe, 4th District

Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary • Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce • Whittier Uptown Association

SILVER SPONSORSBewley, Lassleben & Miller • Michael Seril Fitness • PIH Health • MAP Properties

ADVERTISERSBoys’ & Girls’ Club of Whittier • DialMed Home Care • First Day • Friendly Hills Bank • Ralph & Jeannie Muhlestein • Toyota of Whittier • Tri-Cities ROP

Uptown Wellness Center • The Whole Child • Woodruff Properties

FRIEND SPONSORSBowers, Susan and Paul • DialMed Home Care • First Day • Fisher, Leslie & Howard • Friendly Hills Country Club • GM Properties – Ben Greer • McDonnell Group

Merrill Lynch – Krake, David • Notary Signing Network – Sue Dean • Pacifi c Western Bank • Peel, John & Laurie • Santa Fe Springs Swap MeetSargent’s Sporting Goods • Soroptimist Int’l of Whittier • State Farm Insurance – Cheryl Estep • Todd, Claudia and Richard

Whittier Area Community Church • Woodruff Properties

OTHER CONTRIBUTORSCalifornia Grill • DigiCal • PDQ Rentals • Sage • Ernie Hernandez • RMH Dance & Productions • Say Cheese Photography

The Traveling Traveler • Havana House • Ezaki Dentistry

Services that will consolidate all trash operations, save residents money and provide additional revenue to the City—a true win-win.

Development activity continues to grow by leaps and bounds. The proposed commercial center at the former Ford and Cadillac sites is tentatively scheduled before the Planning Commission in January and the proposed 32 unit residential project at the former ICC site off Workman Mill and Beverly will follow shortly. Demonstrating once again the strength of our economic growth, the very popular Super Mex restaurant chain is coming to Uptown. They have purchased the building at the corner of Greenleaf and Bailey. Not only will they be opening a great new restaurant next door to Crepes

& Grapes but they are also proposing to open a banquet facility in the former Amber Blu site. On behalf of the City Council, I want to welcome another great family owned business to Whittier.

The Whittier City Council elections in April will mark the fi rst time that voters will elect council members by district and will directly elect a citywide Mayor. We encourage you all to participate and vote. For more information, please check the website at www.cityofwhittier.org or call the election line at (562) 567-9854. We hope you and your families had a wonderful holiday season and that you are well rested because 2016 is going to be an amazing year in Whittier!

but I want to personally invite you to be a Friend Sponsor which covers the cost for an offi cer to attend the event at no charge,” stated Silver Shield chair Sue Dean from Notary Signing Network. Friend Sponsorships are only $100 and include a listing in the dinner program (which goes home with over 500 guests) and recognition in the Business Focus Newspaper. There are additional ways to participate in the Silver Shield event. Corporate Sponsorships range from $900-$1500 and include a table at the dinner and event marketing. Individual tickets can be purchased for only $100 and include a 6 p.m. cocktail reception, networking, and dinner and awards beginning at 7 p.m. If you’re unable to attend, but still want to show your support, you can purchase advertising space in the tribute program. “It is very rewarding to be involved with this event and I encourage the community and our members to fi nd ways to participate this year,” stated Hernandez. “A safe community is a prosperous community and we thank the Whittier Police Department for keeping us safe,” he added.

For more sponsorship and marketing information please contact the Whittier Chamber at (562) 698-9554. Tickets and sponsorships can also be purchased online at www.whittierchamber.com.

Honoring individuals for their outstanding service to the cities of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs will be the focal point of the 18th Annual Silver Shield Awards Banquet being held on Friday, February 26 at the Pacifi c Palms Resort in the City of Industry. The Silver Shield Awards Ceremony will highlight the accomplishments and outstanding efforts of active offi cers, civilian staff and volunteers. Awards will be given in multiple categories to deserving individuals and retirees will be honored for their service to our community. “This year’s program will recognize the unique men and women of the Whittier Police Department and the extraordinary things they have done this past year to protect the cities of Whittier


City Of Whittier UPDATEUPDATE

10-4 tips from the

www.RealtyExecutivesCornerstone.com

Ron Ridout & Meri Rama

562.698.0348

where the real estate experts are13604 Whittier Blvd, Whittier

Realty Executives Cornerstone A Formula for SuccessAlways on the Corner, Realty Executives Cornerstone

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Michael Davis is a Captain with the Whittier Police Department

and can be reached at (562) 567-9253 or via email at

[email protected].

Auto Theft PreventionOver most of this year, one of the

City of Whittier’s most popular crimes has been auto theft. Taking simple precautionary measures can minimize your chances of becoming an auto theft victim. In the United States a vehicle is stolen an average of every 33 seconds. Not only does auto theft cost the victim time and money, but it costs society because it drives insurance premiums up and many times stolen vehicles are used to commit other violent crimes like drive-by shootings, robberies, and burglaries.

Car thefts seem to occur with greater frequency where large groups of cars are parked for extended periods of time in places such as shopping centers, sporting events, movie complexes, and large apartment complexes. However, car thefts can occur anytime at random on different days of the week and times

of the day, depending on the locations.According to the Auto Insurance

Organization, 50% of stolen cars are left unlocked by the owner and 15% have keys in the ignition, making it very easy for a car thief to complete the crime without making a noise or attracting attention. Some vehicles are more desirable than others by car thieves, either for joy rides or specialty replacement parts. In California, the National Insurance Crime Bureau ranked the Honda Accord as the most stolen vehicle in California for 2014, followed by Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Pick-up (full size), and the Acura Integra.

Below are some tips you can use to avoid being the victim of a car theft:• Never leave your car running

unattended, even to dash into a business, store, etc.

• Never leave any keys in the car or ignition, inside a locked garage, or in hide-a-key boxes

• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home

• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight. Do not leave your garage door opener in a vehicle parked outside of the garage

• Always park in high-traffi c, well-lighted areas, when possible

• Look into the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen model vehicles

• Never leave personal identifi cation documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle

• If you must leave your key with a

valet, attendant, or mechanic, leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable fi rm

• If your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately

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Whittier Chamber board member Gary Lee Martinez of The Traveling Traveler, president Rudy Hernandez of RMH Dance & Productions, incoming president Chris Hardeman with DialMED Home Care and R.D. McDonnell of The McDonnell Group talked business during the Chamber’s

annual Holiday Lunchtime Mixer at Four Bricks

Representatives from the Whittier Uptown Association, The Whole Child and Congresswoman Linda Sanchez’s offi ce enjoyed mixing and mingling with fellow chamber members during the Holiday Mixer

Ross Gile (right) and team member Gretchen with DigiCal, Inc. got to know Jason Madsen with MRC Smart Technology Solutions while enjoying a special menu from Four Bricks in

Uptown Whittier

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Whittier, CA - Imagine forty years ago if you were told that lasers would replace scalpels in surgery or that robotic instruments would build cars; you may not have believed it. By the same token, would you believe that chiropractic treatments could be performed using a special hand-held instrument developed by NASA scientists; all while you were sitting in an upright position without any turning or twisting movements?According to Dr. Yani Feliciano, “This new form of computerized treatment is so gentle and effective, that it truly amazes even the most skeptical patients. It’s called the ProAdjuster and is the latest, state-of-the-art technology in existence today, and the only one in Whittier.”The ProAdjuster can safely and gently analyze and treat the spine and other joints to remove the nerve impingement that is often the cause of pains in the low back, neck, shoulders and elsewhere in the body. It also works on a variety of muscular conditions to loosen tight muscles with ease and comfort. Many patients say that it’s like getting a mini-massage. Even patients with knee, hip and foot problems such as plantar fascitis are being helped. It is also covered by most insurance companies including Medicare.Dr. Yani says that “The secret to the ProAdjuster lies in its ability to deliver an extremely precise and gentle adjustment.” She says that, “Even though traditional forms of adjusting also work, people are drawn to this new technique because of how gentle it is and does not involve any twisting, especially in the neck.Many people like getting adjusted with traditional manual techniques, all

of which are safe and effective. But there are a large number of people who never get to experience the amazing benefi ts of chiropractic because they are scared to have their spines adjusted in that way,” says Dr. Yani. Now, there is no longer a reason to be wary.The ProAdjuster is perfect for anyone who has been thinking about going to a chiropractor, but hasn’t yet made that decision. Dr. Yani wants everyone to be able to experience these same benefi ts and if you have any of the following conditions, the ProAdjuster may be the answer you’ve been looking for...

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For more information, please contact Dr. Yani Feliciano at:

Dr. Yani uses the ProAdjuster to analyze a patient’s spine and pin-point areas of nerve impingement syndrome causing

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CalChamber also released the latest CalChamber Capitol News Report, which features Erika Frank, CalChamber vice president, legal affairs, and general counsel, and Jennifer Barrera, CalChamber policy advocate, calling attention to the many challenges California employers face—including juggling new laws involving gender pay equality, employee time off for school or child care, and another hike in the minimum wage.

Another Minimum Wage IncreaseThe CalChamber also reminds

employers that the minimum wage increases on January 1, 2016, to $10 an hour. The increase is not a new law, but is the last mandatory increase from the legislation signed into law in 2013. Employers are reminded that the minimum wage law can affect both nonexempt and exempt employees.

Discrimination/RetaliationThe Fair Pay Act clarifi ed existing state

law that prohibits employers from paying unequal wages based solely on gender.

“If you have a wage differential that’s based upon someone’s education, training, experience, seniority, merit-based system within the company—all of those are nongender-related reasons why an employer can have a wage differential, and that’s consistent with the Fair Pay Act,” Barrera explains.

The act also creates a private right of action for retaliation and discrimination.

School Activities LeaveA school activities law expands the right

of employees to take protected time off from work when searching for a school or childcare provider.

“It still applies to employers with 25 or more employees,” notes Frank. “An employee may use eight hours in a calendar month with a total of 40 hours in a calendar year.”

In addition to expanding the categories of employees eligible to take time off for a child, SB 579 allows an employee protected time off to find a school or a licensed child care provider and to enroll or re-enroll a child, and time off to address child care provider or school emergencies.

Private Attorneys General ActA new law that took effect in October

2015 gives employers a limited right to correct two types of itemized wage statement violations before an employee can sue.

“AB 1506 amended the Private Attorneys General Act under the Labor Code to specify that an employer has 33 days to cure specifi c violations with regards to paystubs,” explains Barrera. “Employers have been hit with multimillion-dollar lawsuits for minor violations.”

An employer will now be allowed to correct violations involving: (1) a failure to provide employees with an itemized wage statement that contains the inclusive dates of the pay period; or (2) a failure to provide employees with an itemized wage statement that contains the name and address of the legal entity.

Full List of New Employment LawsA full list of 2016 new employment laws

is available in a free CalChamber white paper, available at www.calchamber.com/hrcalifornia/Pages/new-laws-2016.

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JANJANJAN 1WHITTIER CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

JAN 8SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier Chamber Offi ce (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will help you and your business open new markets, reach new customers, and achieve new goals. By appointment only. FREE. To make an appointment call (626) 593-1120

Club Parnell @ Parnell Park (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Ballroom Night,” featuring the Foxtrot, Waltz, Rumba and East Coast Swing. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. For more information call (562) 567-9450

JAN 9“Through the Center of the Heart” Reception @ Whittier Art Association and Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) 2 to 5 p.m. Celebrate the show and meet the artist. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

JAN 12Soroptimist International of Whittier Luncheon @ Radisson Hotel Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave.) 12 noon to 1 p.m. “Human Traffi cking Awareness,” with guest speaker Marina Rojas. $17. RSVP to Mary Venegas at (562) 447-7462

January 6 through January 30“Through the Center of the Heart” Show @ The Whittier Art Association and Gallery (8035 Painter Ave.) Wednesday through Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m. View the exhibit featuring Hannah Lee. Free. For more information call (562) 698-8710

Inside Latin Jazz @ The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts (6760 Painter Ave.) 8 p.m. Enjoy fascinating onstage interviews with leading Latin Jazz artists. Free. For more information email boxoffi [email protected]

JAN 14Speed Networking Morning Mix & Mingle Event @ Artisan Building (6737 Bright Ave.) 8 to 9 a.m. Guests will have the chance to “mix and mingle” before participating in a high energy Speed Networking session! Doors will open at 7:45 AM for coffee and pastries. FREE for chamber members; $20 for non-members. Please RSVP to (562) 698-9554

JAN 15Trinity Speakers Forum @ Cerritos Center fo r the Per forming Ar ts (12700 Center Court Dr. Cerritos) 9 a.m. Hear a great message from Ray Comfort, founder and CEO of Living Waters, and enjoy a light breakfast. Free. For more information call (562) 567-2050

C l u b P a r n e l l @ P a r n e l l P a r k (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Sock Hop,” featuring the Swing, Rumba and Foxtrot. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. For more information call (562) 567-9450

JAN 16Free Frozen Yogurt & Tour @ Children’s Happy Teeth (12265 La Mirada Blvd.) 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy a tour of Children’s Happy Teeth and receive a toothbrush and coupon for 4 free ounces of Menchie’s frozen yogurt. Free. For more information call (562) 944-8408

Whittier Area Genealogical Society January Meeting @ Whittier Masonic Lodge (7604 Greenleaf Ave.) 1 p.m. “Advance your Family History through Social Networking” with Gena Philibert-Ortega. Free. For more information email [email protected]

The Makaha Sons featuring Jerome Koko & Friends @ The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts (6760 Painter Ave.) 2 & 7:30 p.m. performances. Enjoy traditional Hawaiian music. $47. For more information email boxoffi [email protected]

JAN 18CHAMBER OFFICE CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY

JAN 202016 Business Expo @ Radisson Hotel Whittier (7320 Greenleaf Ave.) 4 to 7 p.m. FREE to attend; table sponsorships vary. Don’t miss the biggest networking event in Whittier! Contact Natalie Saenz to reserve a table at (562) 698-9554

Muriel Anderson with Mino Cinelu @ The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts (6760 Painter Ave.) 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a night a great music. General $25; seniors $20. For more information email boxoffi [email protected]

JAN 22SCORE Consultations @ The Whittier Chamber Offi ce (8158 Painter Ave.) 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. SCORE mentors will help you and your business open new markets, reach new customers, and achieve new goals. By appointment only. FREE. To make an appointment call (626) 593-1120

C l u b P a r n e l l @ P a r n e l l P a r k (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Latin Night,” featuring the Bachata, Salsa and Cha-Cha. Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. For more information call (562) 567-9450

JAN 23Quetzal & Cambalache @ The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts (6760 Painter Ave.) 7:30 p.m. Join Los Angeles based Chicano rock band Quetzal and Chicano jarocho ensemble Cambalache. General $25; seniors $20. For more information email boxoffi [email protected]

JAN 26Tasty Tuesday @ De Luca’s Italian Restaurant (16503 E. Whittier Blvd.) 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy business networking and great food! $10 for chamber members; $20 for non-members. Call (562) 698-9554 for more information

JAN 28FREE “How-To” Business Seminar Series @ Whittier Public Library (7344 Washington Ave.) 8:30 to 10 a.m. “How To Keep your Business on Track – New Laws for 2016,” with Jessica Diotalevi. FREE & open to the public. To RSVP call (562) 698-9554

JAN 29C l u b P a r n e l l @ P a r n e l l P a r k (15390 Lambert Rd.) 6 to 10 p.m. “Big Band Night.” Join Rudy and Maria Hernandez for an evening of dance lessons and fun. $10. For more information call (562) 567-9450

Eric Buss Comedy Show @ The Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts (6760 Painter Ave.) 7:30 p.m. Enjoy entertainment from professional comedy magician Eric Buss. Free. Tickets are required. For more information visit www.shannoncenter.org/ericbuss.htm

JAN 30Whittier Area Genealogical Society’s 33rd Annual Seminar @ Whittier Masonic Lodge (7604 Greenleaf Ave.) 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attend the annual seminar featuring Thomas MacEntee. $40 before 1/16; $45 after 1/16. For more information visit www.cagenweb.com/kr/wags

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Whittier Mayor Fernando Dutra, Assemblymember Ian Calderon, Whittier Chamber president Rudy Hernandez and Whittier Uptown Association president Rick Gonzales celebrated the Whittier Christmas Parade during a VIP reception at Four Bricks Restaurant in

Uptown last month

The Workman family and their dedicated staff members celebrated the grand opening of their newly relocated family business, Herbie’s Natural Foods and Herbie’s Active, with a

community ribbon cutting in December

A systematic purchasing plan, also known as dollar cost averaging, can help in volatile times, as it provides for regular purchases over a period of time, taking the guesswork out of specifi c timing of purchases.4

• Consider high-quality dividend stocks. Equity investors looking to limit volatility may want to consider an income-producing strategy via dividend-paying stocks. Although a company can potentially eliminate or reduce dividends at any time, a dividend may provide something in the way of a return (i.e., income plus any potential price appreciation) even when stock prices are volatile.

• Review sector allocations. History supports the notion that Fed actions affect equity sectors in different ways.5These are just a few of the strategies

you may want to consider heading into a rate-hiking cycle. Work with your fi nancial advisor to review your unique circumstances and make changes, as deemed appropriate, for your situation.Source/Disclaimer:1Investing in stocks involves risks, including loss of principal.2CNBC.com and Nuveen Asset Management, “When the Fed raises rates, here’s what happens,” September 17, 2015.3CNBC.com, “Wall Street history says stocks can survive Fed rate hike,” September 15, 2015.4Dollar cost averaging involves regular, periodic investments in securities regardless of price levels. You should consider your fi nancial ability to continue purchasing shares through periods of high and low prices. This plan does not assure a profi t and does not protect against loss in any markets.5Forbes, “How Rising Interest Rates Will Affect The Stock Market And Your Investments,” May 19, 2015.Required AttributionBecause of the possibility of human or mechanical error by Wealth Management Systems Inc. or its sources, neither Wealth Management Systems Inc. nor its sources guarantees the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or availability of any information and is not resposible for any errors or omissions or for the results obtained from the use of such information. In no event shall Wealth Management Systems Inc. be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages in connection with subscriber’s or others’ use of the content. © 2015 Wealth Management Systems Inc. All rights reserved.Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF® is an investment adviser representative with over twenty-nine years of experience in the fi eld. He designs and coordinates investment portfolios to help clients in seeking to achieve their fi nancial goals and objectives. He is highly knowledgeable in the areas of investments, risk management, retirement and estate planning, and the analysis of escrow, endowment and corporate benefi t plans. He handles the multi-dimensional fi nancial affairs for a select group of families and businesses in Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Valley. (562) 945-7787 or (800) 441-0136.rowand@ceteranetworks.comwww.rowanassetmanagement.comwww.quantumecon.comSecurities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisor Networks, LLC (doing insurance business in CA as CFGAN Insurance Agency), member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.January 2016 — This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association, the membership organization for the fi nancial planning community, and is provided by Douglas M. Rowan, CFP®, CMFC, AIF®, a local member of FPA.

Financial Updatecontinued from page 3


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East Whittier Lions Club is hosting its 3rd Annual Comedy Night, February 19, 2016 at Swiss Park Banquet Center, 1905 Workman Mill Road, Whittier. This is their major fundraiser; tickets are $75 per person or two for $140. Adam Christing, founder of Clean Comedians, will host the event and also perform. The second star of the night is Whittier’s own, Melissa Villasenor. This is a very special event because East Whittier Lions is also celebrating its 75th anniversary of charter on February 25, 1941. Proceeds benefi t East Whittier Lions supported projects. Local support is asked in order to continue serving the Whittier community and especially their premier project, Eyeglasses for Kids, in the East Whittier City School District. For more information, please email Lion Fran at [email protected] or contact Fran by cell, voice or text at (310) 994-9961.

East Whittier Lions is a community service group of men and women committed to serving the Whittier Community. The club meets Fridays at 7 a.m. at Rey’s Little Kitchen, 12320 Penn Street, Whittier. Lions Clubs International is the largest service organization with 1.35 million members in over 200 countries and territory’s worldwide. Visit the East Whittier Lions Club website at www.eclubhouse.org/sites/east.org/sites/eastwhittierca and fi nd them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastwhittierlions.

East Whittier Lions Club to Hold 3rd Annual Comedy Night

The YMCA of Greater Whittier and key community partners and residents celebrated the seven years of collective impact of Activate Whittier. The YMCA of Greater Whittier serves as the convener and fi scal sponsor of Activate Whittier. “Solving our obesity problem is not something a single person or organization can do alone. The hard work of our partner organizations and engaged residents are the reason for Activate Whittier’s success.” Lori Tiffany, Vice-President of YMCA of Greater Whittier and Chair of Activate Whittier. The meeting was capped off with the announcement that Analaura Amezquita and Josue Balderas Jr., Whittier High School Sophomores, will ride on the Kaiser Permanente Rose Parade Float in recognition of their community service work with Activate Whittier.

Accomplishments over the past 7 years include:- 22 smoke-free parks in Whittier as a

result of advocacy efforts;- 67, number of residents trained as

community advocates through “Change Starts with Me” leadership training

- $700,000 total amount in grant funding awarded to support Activate Whittier’s

Activate Whittier Celebrates 7 Years of Building a Healthy Active Whittier

work (6 grants)- 89% increase in funds raised by school

mud runs vs. food-based fundraisers- 11, number of local schools with salad

bars as a healthy lunch option for students and staff

- 16 community assessments conducted with local organizations on policy/environmental change

- 700 volunteer hours contributed to Activate Whittier annually

- 11, number of community organizations represented on Activate Whittier’s Board of Directors

- 18, number of community partners, including three local school districts

About Activate WhittierSince in 2008, Activate Whittier has

been building a healthy, active Whittier through community engagement, and partnerships with a focus on policies to improve the health and wellness of those living, working, learning and playing in our community. Today, Activate Whittier has been awarded $700,000 in grant funding and has the support of many community residents and partner organizations. Together, a community action plan has been created that features health promotion initiatives for the community-at-large, community organizations, and local schools. For more information contact Penny Lopez, Activate Whittier Project Manager at (562) 907-6530 or [email protected]. Like Active Whittier on Facebook at facebook.com/ActivateWhittier.

Through the Center of the Heart at Whittier Art Gallery

Whittier Art Association and Gallery proudly present Hannah Lee in her new show, Through the Center of the Heart from January 6 through January 30, 2016. This is the second time this internationally acclaimed artist has chosen the Whittier Art Gallery for her venue and the WAA is honored. Korean born, the artist in her own words says: “My paintings strongly emphasize the inseparable existence of the balance and contrast of yin-yang such as heaven and earth, God and man, Spirit and fl esh, life and death. The verticality of wooden sticks is contrasted with the fl exible curves of bonsai wires. Korean architecture and Korean traditional art highly infl uence my work.” This is a must see. Her last show in 2012 was one of the Gallery’s most popular and it is still talked about to this day. The reception will be held on Saturday, January 9 from 2 to 5 p.m. There is no charge and the public is invited to come and meet the artist. For more information call (562) 698-8710.

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Carden School - Whittier Student Invited to Ride in Rose Parade

Carden School – Whittier Student, Anya Shah, was invited to be one of fi ve City of Hope cancer survivors to ride on the City of Hope fl oat in this year’s Tournament of Roses Parade. The fl oat’s theme “The Miracle of Science with Soul” adds a deeper dimension to the parade theme “Find your Adventure.” It was quite the honor as she was the only child to be featured on the fl oat. Anya was diagnosed with leukemia at the age

of eight. Now, four years later, she is in remission and has decided on a new career path. “I wanted to be president, but after going through all of this, my priorities have changed. I realized that I want to treat other kids with cancer and be a pediatric oncologist.” Anya continues to make her parents proud of her accomplishments and she is frequently asked by City of Hope to share her story at conventions.

This year, the Whittier Police Offi cers Association is changing the lives of three Whittier and Santa Fe Springs families with a focus on families who have children with special needs and the elderly in need. The Family Adoption project is a very powerful community initiative, which has grown tremendously in just six years. This project involves sworn personnel, civilian personnel, volunteers, and several organizations and businesses throughout the cities of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. Together, they are able to accomplish the project’s mission of existing to provide hope and encouragement for families in need. The winners of this year’s holiday fundraiser basket raffl e were Celeste Perez, Grand Prize Winner, Patricia Contreras, 2nd Place Winner, and Sheryl Saurer, 3rd Place Winner. Thank you to all who contributed to the fundraiser this year!

Whittier Police Offi cers Association Focuses on Families

Whittier Republican Women Federated Present The Truth About Benghazi

Kris Paronto is a former Army Ranger and the co-author of the book turned movie, 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi, will share his perspective of what took place in Benghazi before, during, and after the attack which took place on September 11, 2012. Kris is an independent contractor and was hired by the US Government to protect American people in Benghazi. He gives a detailed report on what actually happened in those 13 hours in Benghazi. Kris was a member of the six man US Security Annex team that responded to the American Ambassador’s residence on September 11, 2012. He fought heroically to save the lives of State Department offi cials in the 13 hours following the attack. Kris will also be available for book signings and questions.

He will be speaking one time only on Friday, February 12, 2016 at the Ritz Gardens, 11201 First Avenue in Whittier. Early bird reservation deadline is January 12, 2016. All tickets must be paid in advance as no tickets will be sold at the door. Kris Paronto’s book, 13 Hours, and bar drink tickets must be pre-ordered as well. A VIP reception will be held at 5:30 p.m., general admission will begin at 6:30 p.m., and dinner is at 7 p.m.

The prices for the event are as follows:- Table for Eight Sponsorship $680;

$760 after January 12, 2016: Includes 8 VIP reception and dinner tickets, 16 drink tickets and 8 books

- Single ticket $100: Includes 1 VIP reception and dinner ticket, 2 drink tickets and 1 bookTickets can be purchased by cal l ing (562) 900-3734, email ing

[email protected], or visiting www.wrwf.org. Please include your name, phone, and email address. The list of guests attending must be mailed one week prior to the event. Seating is limited, reserve tickets early. Checks can be made payable to WRWF and mailed to PO Box 16, Whittier, CA 90608.

- Couple tickets $165: Includes 2 VIP reception and dinner tickets, 4 drink tickets and 1 book

- Individual ticket $50- $30 for the book- $5 for each drink ticket


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The Whittier Area Genealogical Society (WAGS) presents its 33rd annual seminar featuring Thomas MacEntee on Saturday, January 30, 2016 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Whittier Masonic Lodge, 7604 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier. Thomas MacEntee is a genealogical professional specializing in the use of technology and social media to improve genealogical research. He describes himself as a “tech guy” with a love of history. His genealogy related business, “High Defi nition Genealogy” helps companies, non-profi ts, and individuals focus on family history. He also created GeneaBloggers, which has grown into a family of over 3,000 family history bloggers.

The seminar includes four sessions on the following topics: Genealogy Do-Over: A Year of Learning from Mistakes, Successful Collateral and Cluster Searching, After you’re Gone: Future-Proofi ng your Genealogy Research, and Genealogy: The Future is Now. Early registration (before January 16) is $40, late registration is $45, and an optional lunch can be ordered for an additional $10. There is a discount for WAGS members who register before January 16. For more information, visit the WAGS website at www.cagenweb.com/kr/wags and click on annual seminar.

The Whittier Area Genealogical Society presents 33rd Annual Seminar

January 11 has been designated by the UN General Assembly as a day to develop awareness for human traffi cking. Awareness has been growing, but effective remedies are slow and uncoordinated. These remedies often are not accessible to victims of traffi cking due to gaps between setting international standards, enacting national laws, and then implementing them in a humane way.

On Tuesday, January 12 from 12 noon to 1 p.m., the Soroptimist International of Whittier regular luncheon meeting will feature guest speaker Marina

Rojas, District Director for LA County Probation Department on the topic “Human Traffi cking Awareness.” She will provide current information and insights into the critical issues surrounding this horrifi c crime, especially as it impacts the local area. Cost is $17 for lunch at Radisson Hotel Whittier. Please RSVP to Mary Venegas at (562) 447-7462. All are welcome to attend.

Soroptimist International of Whittier is announcing the premiere of their new fundraiser, “Cabaret: An Evening of Dinner, Dancing and Entertainment.” Save the date and enjoy a unique Valentine’s Day experience at the Crystal Marquis in beautiful Uptown Whittier on Saturday, February 13, 2016. Tickets are $75 per person. Proceeds will serve to provide fi nancial assistance to local women and girls as they pursue their educational goals to improve the lives of their families and community by improving their education, skills and employment prospects. Join them for a relaxing and fun evening! For more information visit www.siwhittier.org.

Soroptimists Support Women in the New Year

Area Residents Join Fight Against Children’s Cancer at From Maddi’s Closet Event

More than 150 area residents joined the fi ght against children’s cancer at a fundraiser sponsored by From Maddi’s Closet at the Friendly Hills Country Club on November 13.

The “Butterfl y Wishes and Golden Dreams” themed dinner was From Maddi’s Closet’s major fundraiser for its efforts to help children fi ghting cancer. In recent years, the local non-profit group has donated more than $230,000 to help with children’s cancer research and provide emotional and financial support to thousands of patients and their families.

“Childhood cancer is the number one disease-related killer of children in our country, and we appreciate our local community’s strong support for the fi ght against this terrible disease,” says

Donna Holmes, president and founder of From Maddi’s Closet.

Seve ra l ma jo r awards we re presented at the event to individuals and organizations that have championed efforts to fi ght children’s cancer.

The Albert & Bettie Sacchi Foundation was recognized with the Golden Dreams Award for its generous fi nancial support for the battle against children’s cancer.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe received the Dare to Dream Award for his support and efforts to improve the health of children throughout Los Angeles County.

The Spiri t of Care Award was presented to several prominent medical professionals for their collaborative efforts to solve the mysteries of children’s cancer and support children battling the disease. Recipients included: Leonard Sender, M.D., Children’s Hospital Orange County; Tom Belle Davidson, M.D., UCLA Medical Center; Anna Evans, CPNP, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles; and Karla Garcia, LCSW, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Major sponsors for the event include: Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, The Capital Group, Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, Ralphs / Food 4 Less, and R.K. Knight Plumbing.

From Maddi’s Closet is a local nonprofi t organization started a decade ago after Madison Leslie Holmes lost her battle with cancer at four years of age.

Maddi’s family and friends began the organization to carry on the extraordinary spirit of generosity and compassion the young girl showed to other children fi ghting cancer. Despite her illness, Maddi befriended other children undergoing treatment, giving her own toys and clothing to those in need. She urged her family to sit with other children who were more sick, frightened or lonely when they had no family members at the hospital.

Since its early days, participation in From Maddi’s Closet has grown, and its efforts to support children with cancer have broadened. Funds are raised for pediatric cancer research, and the group offers support to ill children and their families whose emotional and fi nancial needs are unmet by other assistance programs. The group provides many services from an annual toy drive to events and activities geared for patients at Children’s Hospitals in Orange County and Los Angeles.

From Maddi’s Closet also involves children in helping children. A Junior Advisory Board composed of middle school and high school students represents the organization at many public events, operates public awareness booths, hosts inpatient and outpatient projects, and assists at the annual We Can Family Camp for children with cancer.

The honorary committee for the event

included: Robert and Virginia Ball; Whittier Mayor Fernando Dutra and Mary Dutra; La Mirada Councilmember Ed Eng and Catherine Eng; Whittier Chamber of Commerce President Elect Chris Hardeman; Randy and Joyce Herbon of Relay for Life; Steve and Janice Jones of La Mirada; Art and Rita Leslie of La Mirada; Tom and Priscilla Robinson of TR Management Services, Inc.; Dr. Gerald Roodzant, DDS; Brian and Sandy Sherman, Seventh Son Gourmet Catering and Events; and Pastors Kelly and Stephanie Warner, Whittier Area Community Church. Janice Roodzant, Details Business Organizer, serving as chair of the event. The master of ceremonies for the program was Andrea Avila, field representative for Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe.

From Maddi’s Closet carries its message about the battle against children’s cancer to local groups. Holmes has spoken with local Chambers of Commerce, service clubs, businesses and numerous other community organizations. She is available to speak to groups that are interested in learning more about the importance of working together to improve the lives of children and families facing this diffi cult battle. Persons interested in additional information on the fi ght against children’s cancer may visit frommaddiscloset.org.


Thank you to Crepes & Grapes for hosting

a great networking event!

Gilbert & Sylvia Becerra with R’Gals Properties dined with local chiropractor Dr. Wendy Kreider during the Chamber’s fi nal Tasty Tuesday of the year in November

Steve Lopez and Arlene Flores with In2Vision Supported Employment Programs, Inc. passed out business cards and greeted fellow chamber members during the Tasty Tuesday lunch at Crepes & Grapes Cafe

These ladies made the most of their minutes by

networking before and after their meal catered

by Crepes & Grapes Café in Uptown Whittier

House hunting starts with knowing how much you can buy and Malissa and Jose Juarez began their hunt in February of 2015 in their pre-qualifi ed FHA price range. With a monthly mortgage insurance of $313 adding to their debt load, the pool of homes became smaller as did the size.

“We got tired of looking at houses,” Malissa said. With three small children, the space was less than their family home. In addition, Malissa’s mother, Cora Garcia, also

cared for her grandchildren while both parents worked at the Whittier Union High School District - Malissa for nine years and Jose Jose for eight.

An opportunity for Malissa and Jose opened up when mother, Cora, asked if she could provide a down payment for them. She would take a loan out on her home as she was planning to downsize anyhow. But wait, why not let them buy the larger South Whittier home? Referred to as a ‘Gift of Equity’ from a relative, 20 percent of the equity of the sales price would stay in the home loan as their down payment and mom would keep the rest for her future downsized home. With the 20 percent down, the mortgage insurance disappeared as well, giving them a home with everything the Juarezes wanted in an affordable payment.

As mortgage brokers, we are always brainstorming to put together a loan package and payment that has the potential to help both the buyer and the seller. “The space, the loan amount and the pool made a huge difference,” Malissa said. “We can’t thank you and Christian Herrera enough for the guidance.”

Another lender-certifi ed, fi rst-time homebuyer tax break offered state-wide, the Mortgage Certifi cate Credit Program (MCC) provided another $270 a month (or $3,240 annually in cash rebate) for the life of their loan. Income limits go over $100,000 for a family of four. Veterans may use and re-use the MCC Program and reduce the effective mortgage payment to qualify as well to receive 20 percent cash back in tax refund of the annual mortgage interest. The other 80 percent of interest is taken as the regular tax break.

Mother Cora Garcia came up with an idea of giving a down payment, but its our responsibility as mortgage lenders to make it fi t Fannie, Freddie or FHA guidelines. In this case, the ‘Gift of Equity’ is not taxable to either parent or child, and an available fi rst-time homebuyer program, MCC, took another big bite out of the monthly housing expense. For information about ‘Gift of Equity,’ MCC and other home loan options, please call Anne James or Christian Herrera at (562) 320-0510.

Home Loan Tips: Taking the ‘Hunt’ Out of

House Hunting

Reliance Mortgage Service, Inc. is a Whittier mortgage brokerage company located at 14831 Whittier Blvd. Ste 204. Anne James, CEO/Broker, is a Certifi ed Military Specialist in VA loans, FHA, Conventional and Small Commercial loans. Anne has more than 25 years of experience in the real estate and fi nancial arenas including serving as Senior Lender in the Centex Homes builder division, Guild Mortgage and Directors/Norwest Inc. NMLS#1150921 BRE#0194232

Anne James, Reliance Mortgage

Service, Inc.


NEW MEMBERS

CIVIC MEMBERS

NETWORKING GROUPS

ORGANIZATIONS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND REAL ESTATE

TIRE & WHEEL RETAILER

RENEWING MEMBERSThank you for your investment in your

business and the community!

Assistance League of Whittier(562) 693-6533

Costco Wholesale(562) 524-0002

GM Properties(562) 696-0200

Leon Lesa’s Cabinet & Handyman Service(562) 696-3521

Magic Smile Family Dentistry(562) 692-5311

MAP Property Management, Inc.(562) 945-3404

Piña Reading Academy (562) 698-7323

Remedy Shop(562) 698-0921

SERVPRO of Whittier (562) 698-5368

Shea Rehabilitation & Health Care(562) 693-5240

Shelter’s Right Hand(562) 692-3358

Suburban Water Systems(626) 543-2531

Whittier Art Association & Gallery(562) 698-8710

Wilkinson Barneson Insurance Agency(562) 789-5704

S & R Air Conditioning and Heating Maria Shaw625 S. Palm St., Suite HLa Habra, CA 90631Phone: (562) 694-0110Email: [email protected]: www.srairconditioning.com

S & R Air Conditioning and Heating is a locally operated, family owned business that has been dedicated to serving the air conditioning and heating needs of the local community for more than 25 years. Since 1987, S & R has taken pride in providing honest and dependable HVAC service to fellow businesses and homeowners. From their professional technicians to their friendly offi ce staff, they strive to not only meet, but exceed, your heating and cooling needs. In the fast paced, ever-expanding HVAC fi eld, S & R Air Conditioning and Heating continues to be a leader in energy management, without compromising their “customer fi rst” policy. They may not be able to stop the Earth’s climate change, but they can help you manage yours.

David Gonzalez • Joseph Vinatieri

Team Referral Network – WhittierAyman BotrosWhittier, CAPhone: (562) 773-2938Email: [email protected]: www.teamreferralnetwork.com/chapters/ca/whittier

Team Referral Network - Whittier is a professional group that strives to provide the very best of face-to-face and online networking with professionals growing their businesses through effective networking. The network is centered around building the right relationships. Their 90 minute weekly meetings are very informative and provide you the tools that you need to help your business grow. You will have an opportunity to give a one minute commercial about your business and products or services you provide, along with the type of referrals you would love to have. Team Referral Network – Whittier is a diverse collaborative community of like-minded entrepreneurs that understand the dynamic power of referrals and relationship marketing. When people work together as a TEAM...Together Everyone Achieves More!

Whittier Area Genealogical SocietyRick FrohlingP.O. Box 4367Whittier, CA 90607-4367Phone: (562) 754-4245Email: [email protected]: www.cagenweb.com/kr/wags

The Whittier Area Genealogical Society (WAGS) was established in 1981 to provide a resource for those interested in family history and genealogy. WAGS offers interesting speakers and regular classes on a variety of topics, as well as a friendly group of genealogists, at their monthly meetings, held on the third Saturday of each month at the Whittier Masonic Lodge at Greenleaf and Mar Vista. WAGS sponsors a Life Story Writing group at the Uptown Senior Center on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and maintains a genealogical library collection at the Wardman Library at Whittier College. Every winter, WAGS presents an all-day seminar featuring a nationally known speaker. WAGS mission: “Discovering our family stories. Helping others do the same.”

Roberts Real Estate & Property ManagementJohn Roberts11325 La Mirada Blvd.Whittier, CA 90638Phone: (562) 903-1139Email: [email protected]: www.afuturehome4u.com

Roberts Real Estate & Property Management is one of the oldest companies of its kind in Whittier, celebrating its 60th year. The original company was started by Don C. Roberts, with support from his father in law, in 1955 and it has been in the family ever since. John C. Roberts is the current, third generation owner and has over thirty seven years of knowledge and experience in real estate sales, purchases and property management needs. He has been joined in the business by his son, Adam Roberts, as the fourth generation. The company currently manages over 250 units comprised of multi-family units, single family residences and commercial properties and looks forward to ongoing growth. The seasoned staff at Roberts REPM takes pride in offering their clients in depth assistance in every facet of successful ownership, from the acquisition and daily management of real estate to the sale of a property. The goal of these well versed professionals is to continue serving the surrounding communities in all aspects of their real estate needs.

Tires & Wheels Unlimited 13314 Whittier Blvd.Whittier, CA 90604Phone: (562) 325-5744Email: [email protected]

Tires & Wheels Unlimited is a family owned and operated business established in 2015 but has 20 years of experience in the automobile industry. It is run by Joe Garcia and his wife Quiana Adams. They offer services including tires and wheels, brakes, alignment, shocks, struts, full suspension service, lifting and lowering of cars and trucks, window tinting, full customization and fabrication, wheel repair, powder coating and chroming, vehicle decals and wraps, accessories, and lighting. Tires & Wheels Unlimited is your true one stop shop for your automobile improvements.

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Voted 2015 Best of the Best - Body Shop

www.GregsAutoBody.com

WHI

TTIE

R A

REA


HITTIER

SHOP LOCAL

Auto Body Collision & Paint Repair ServicesAuto Body Collision & Paint Repair Services

2 Locations to2 Locations to Serve You Better Serve You Better

WHITTIERWHITTIER12745 Whittier Blvd12745 Whittier Blvd

(562) 789-1300(562) 789-1300M-F 8-5:30 • SAT 9-12M-F 8-5:30 • SAT 9-12

SANTA FE SPRINGSSANTA FE SPRINGS9347 Santa Fe Springs Rd9347 Santa Fe Springs Rd

(562) 946-5400(562) 946-5400M-F 8-5:00M-F 8-5:00

EARNING YOUR TRUST SINCE 1970

business focus - january 2016

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