1. art and entertainment
2. shows and events
3. classical concert

BUSINESS
Connections
May/June 2009
Volume 65
No. 3
How to Navigate the Changing
Job Market
By Sean McCarthy, Board member and
Co-Chair of Government Affairs
Being proactive in this job market will
have a positive impact on meeting the
needs for those who recently find
themselves unemployed. Be
productive while searching for a job,
maintain dignity, and preserve
families.
We Must Look Outside Ourselves for
the Answers
More than ever, we all need to
depend on the kindness of strangers.
Networking is the most essential
ingredient in any successful job search
and this recession is no exception.
E-mailing Resumes is an E-waste
of Time
Anyone who spends hours writing
cover letters and emailing resumés
knows all too well that there is no
response coming. The companies
placing ads on the internet are
recruiters and companies that are
stockpiling resumes with the idea of
calling applicants back when the job
market picks up.
Reach Out and Touch Someone
Job seekers must all work on their
interpersonal skills. Direct contact by
phone and in person is the best method
for job seekers to arrange interviews
and to get hired. They will be
significantly more successful if they
can verify that a particular opportunity
is available by phoning the company
and speaking directly to the hiring
authority. The alternative is to wait for
responses to your emails which might
come many months from now.
Link This!
The best tool for adult professionals to
network with is Linkedin.com. It is
extremely effective in connecting users
with the right people. My clients use
Linkedin.com as more than just a
network tool. They use it to identify
companies that hire people with their
particular skill information but make it
clear that you are open to any
reasonable offer.
Compensation Negotiations
The key to successful salary
negotiation is understand your present
value and what specific parts of any
salary offer are negotiable. Do not be
shocked if your next job pays
substantially less than your previous
job. You probably need to take half a
step back to take a full step forward.
Options
Job seekers should always consider
working part time while looking for
work. Candidates must be willing to
(continued on page 8)
© Jim Brammer / www.stateoftheartimages.com
W O O D L A N D H I L L S - TA R Z A N A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
Jen knows how to
“Work It!”
By Jen Svejda,
Director of Business
Development
The question I’m
most frequently
asked by members
is how to work
the chamber
effectively. In my position, I see and
hear it all and have come to find that
the answer is quite simple. Stop selling
and start building relationships!
At April’s new member orientation,
Max Haghighi of Syndicated Insurance
Agency spoke on the topic during his
Networking 101 presentation. When
Max attended his first WHTCC mixer,
he hid in the corner. Max explains,
“I was apprehensive to meet or talk to
anyone because I did not want to be
sold to and I thought that’s what the
chamber was all about. I was
approached by one of the chamber
Ambassadors who was wondering why
I was hiding in the corner?” The
Ambassador explained to Max that the
chamber, through its various functions,
provides a safe environment for its
members to (continued on back)
W H AT ’ S I N S I D E
Chairman’s Message . . . . .
Chamber Report . . . . . . . .
Strategy Lesson. . . . . . . . .
Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . .
Calendar of Events . . . . . . .
Member Spotlight . . . . . . .
Message Strategy . . . . . . .
New members . . . . . . . . . .
Committees . . . . . . . . . . .
Dr. P. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Concerts in the Park . . . . . .
Renewing Members . . . . . .
Ambassadors of the Months
Firsthand Experience . . . . .
. . . . 2
. . . . 2
. . . . 3
. . 3, 9
. . . . 4
. . . .5
. . . .5
. . . . 6
. . . . 8
. . . . 9
. . . 10
. . . 11
12, 13
. . . 13
Community Events
Jan./Feb. 2009
Chairman’s
Message
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 1,
Woodland Hills,
CA 91365
By Deborah Sable,
2009 Board of Directors
DEBORAH SABLE, Corefit
Chairman of the Board
SUSAN HAMERSKY, California Concierge
Executive Vice Chair & Vice Chair of Programs
JIM KINSEY III, Valley Cultural Center
Vice Chair Special Events
PAUL LAWLER, Paul Lawler Risk Management
Vice Chair Operations
SEAN McCARTHY, JacksonMcCarthy
Co-Chair Government Affairs
CYNTHIA ELKINS, ESQ.,
Law Offices of Cynthia Elkins,
Chamber Counsel
JENNIFER MILLER, State Farm Insurance
Corporate Secretary
LOIS CURRAN-KLEIN, LCK Enterprises
Past Chair
DIANE DEATS, Deats Design
Chair Marketing/P.R., Education Committee Chair
STEVE H. HORNSTEIN,CPA, LL.M.,CFP™,
Hornstein Law Offices
Chair Wine Tasting Committee
Chief Financial Officer
COLLEEN LANGFORD,
Holiday Inn Woodland Hills
Special Events Chair
TRACY MYALL, Premier America Credit Union
DEBBI LUND, Mortgage Consultant
DAVE RIBBLE, The Company Image
ROCKY RHODES, Rocky Roaster
Chair Festival in the Park.
DAVID ASPLUND,
Providence Tarzana Medical Center
DAVID TILLMAN, Motion Picture & TV Fund
ERICK KLAFTER
General Manager, Westfield
CLAY ANDREWS
General Manager, Warner Center Marriott
BOB GARBER, President, Pierce College
FRANCOIS KHOURY
General Manager, Hilton Woodland Hills
TIMOTHY COLLINS
World Financial Group
Staff:
DIANA WILLIAMS, Executive Director
JEN SVEJDA, Director of Business Development
FELICIA PAUST, Executive Assistant
DEATS DESIGN: Newsletter Production
Photo by John Moss
Chairman of the Board
20121 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 309
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
(818) 347-4737 • Fax (818) 347-3321
Business Connection
WOW! What a
way to start the
first quarter….
I’m happy to
report that this
newsletter will
reach our entire membership which
is over 700 members strong!
Thanks Jen for a fantastic job in
demonstrating the value of
membership to new members. It’s
no wonder that the WHTCC is so
strong, just look at our staff. Diana
is getting the office in shape and
making sure things run smoothly
for our members. Felicia is doing
well as Executive Assistant very
nicely and of course Jen who is
without a doubt a star with our
members.
The WHTCC is getting ready to
launch some new and exciting
events and ideas to give our
members more bang for their buck!
Speaking of bucks, I’m also happy
to report that our members are
extremely happy when doing
business with other chamber
members. We all need to save a
little right now and for those of
you who are offering discounts for
chamber members... THANK
YOU!
As we get ready for our next
huge event, the Family Festival, I
want to encourage all of you to get
involved. This is one of our largest
events that historically attracts
from 5,000 to 10,000 people on
that day. Look for an added little
twist this year. We are having our
first “Talent Showcase”! Our local
dance studios are participating and
the winners will take home some
really nice prizes and plaques!
I want to take just a minute to
share with you a personal belief.
As we all (continued on page 13)
Chamber
Report
© Jim Brammer / www.stateoftheartimages.com
Page 2
By Diana Williams,
Executive Director
We are not doing
business as usual.
It’s necessary to
get creative and
start hitting the
pavement again.
So that’s what we do. The members
of the Woodland Hills~Tarzana
Chamber of Commerce are leaders
in showing that we can drive the
economic engine of our community.
Your chamber staff is right alongside
you doing what we need to do to
thrive. Contribute to the growth of
our community. Are you doing all
your shopping in your neighborhood?
Use the Chamber for referrals. Be a
part of less “for lease” signs on
Ventura Boulevard. Councilman
Dennis P. Zine spoke with us at a
recent lunch. He covered many topics
from water conservation to what we
can do to contribute to a thriving
Ventura Boulevard. Surviving is one
thing, thriving is another. Be a part of it.
“Your Woodland Hills-Tarzana
Chamber of Commerce is gaining
momentum and expanding our
membership. There is no reason to
expect or accept less.”
We are upping our game— taking
risks, trying new events, providing
more benefits. The WHTCC is
offering new benefits such as:
• Expert Forums that are a fraction
of the cost to our members.
• Free one-hour reservations of our
Chamber Conference Room are
now available for Brown Bag
Brainstorm. This is an option with
the same structure as a Satellite
Business Lunch.
• We have created a new lunch
format that you don’t want to miss.
• We are hitting the pavement to
welcome new businesses and new
homeowners to the neighborhood.
(continued on page 13)
www.woodlandhillscc.net
Andrew Sokol’s
Strategy Session
How to Use Fortune 500 Marketing
Strategies for Your Small Business.
The most important thing to know.
The most important thing you need
to know about growing your business
can be summed up in two words:
“Strategy First.”
I define strategy as “the creation of
a perception of a point of difference
between you and your competition.”
That point of difference can be
developed in different ways; however,
for now it might be most helpful to
mention words that do not make
effective strategies. Those words
include: service, value, quality, best,
integrity, honesty, experience, and other
similar words.
Why aren’t those words effective?
Because everyone uses them. So the
words you’re using to differentiate your
business from your competition, are the
very words your competition is using to
describe themselves, which means
you’re not differentiating yourself at all.
We’ll look at words that are effective
in future “Strategy Session” articles.
Andrew Sokol is an International
Business Consultant and Branding
Strategist. He can be reached through
his website at
www.SokolStrategicConsulting.com or
by phone at 661-257-4341 g
The YMCA kicked off their new sports turf!
Chamber View
May/June 2009
Page 3
Reserve a Booth!
June 28
Applications online at
www.woodlandhillscc.net,
or call the office:
818.347.4737
Ribbon Cuttings!
Ask Jen how to do a ribbon cutting.
All eyes were on Eco-friendly buys at All Green Things ribbon cutting!
Page 4
Community Events
Jan./Feb. 2009
Business Connection
Calendar of Events
Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting
Henry’s Farmers Maket
Wednesday, May 6
21812 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills CA 91364
Business Networking Breakfast
Wednesday, May 6
7AM to 8:45AM
Sponsor: Striving Artists/Custom
Picture Framing - Boris Smorodinsky
Woodland Hills Country Club
Address: 21150 Dumetz Road
RSVP REQUIRED by noon on
Tuesday. (818) 347-4737
Walk-Ins Welcome add $5 at door
Members $15,
Non-members with One-Visit Trial
Price and Walk-Ins $20.
There will be assigned seating
Business Networking Luncheon
Wednesday, May 20th
11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
Sponsor: Fast-Teks On-Site
Computer Services - John Carr
La Finestra
Complimentary Valet Parking
Address: 19647 Ventura Blvd.
RSVP REQUIRED by noon on
Tuesday. (818) 347-4737
Walk-Ins Welcome add $5 at door
Members $25,
Non-members with One-Visit Trial
Price and Walk-Ins $30
Business Networking Mixer
Wednesday, May 27th
Business Networking Luncheon
Friday, June 17th
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Holiday Inn
Address: 21101 Ventura Boulevard
RSVP REQUIRED (818) 347-4737
Members $0, Non-members with
One-Visit Trial Price $5
11:30 AM – 1:15 PM
Sponsor: Promotionally Minded Ad
Specialties - Hank Yuloff
Warner Center Marriott
Address: 21850 Oxnard Street
RSVP REQUIRED by noon on
Tuesday. (818) 347-4737
Walk-Ins Welcome add $5 at door
Members $25,
Non-members with One-Visit Trial
Price and Walk-Ins $30
Business Networking Breakfast
Wednesday, June 3
7 AM to 9 AM
Sponsor: Lister Jewelry - Ernie Lister
Woodland Hills Country Club
Address: 21150 Dumetz Road
RSVP REQUIRED by noon on
Tuesday. (818) 347-4737
Walk-Ins Welcome add $5 at door
Members $15,
Non-members with One-Visit Trial
Price and Walk-Ins $20.
There will be assigned seating
Call us to be an event
sponsor.
(818) 347- 4737
Business Networking Mixer
Wednesday, June 24
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Address: 21028 Ventura Blvd.
RSVP REQUIRED (818) 347-4737
Members $0, Non-members with
One-Visit Trial Price $5
Festival in the Park
Sunday, June 28
Warner Center Park
5800 Topanga Canyon
Family Fun begins at 2 PM.
Non-Members Welcome. With respect to our valued members, we limit
attendance to guests who are interested in membership. You will be
recognized and welcomed by our staff to one of each event. (1 breakfast,
1 lunch and 1 mixer). This begins your trial membership. Your interest in
membership is very important to us.
Suzanne Kane Bassani
“Let me be your Executrix”
EXECUTIVE SERVICES FOR TRUSTS & PROBATES
info@yourexecutrix.com • voice 818.704.5513 • fax 818.883.1136
EXPERIENCED • PROFESSIONAL • ETHICAL
7U
DQVI
RU
PL
QJ
L
PDJHU
\
L
QW
R
DU
W
E\
SDL
QW
L
QJ
\RXU
YL
VL
RQ
ZL
W
K
P\
FDPHU
D
)
L
Q
H
$U
W
_
3
R
U
W
U
D
L
W
X
U
H
_
&R
PPH
U
F
L
D
O
3
K
R
W
R
J
U
D
S
K
\
Chamber View
www.woodlandhillscc.net
May/June 2009
Member Spotlight Kandis Landmann
Get more from your
marketing dollar with
a proven team.
Award Winning Graphic Design
• image and key art creation
• marketing campaigns
• brochures
• web and print
• catalogs
818.887.7203
diane@deatsdesign.com
deatsdesign.com
Health and Dental Insurance for seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries;
including Medicare advantage, Medicare supplement, and Part D
prescription drug plans. Independent agent, representing several of the
major carriers for these programs in the Los Angeles area.
Voted by readers
of the
Daily News
as
Best Insurance Agent
for 2002-2008
DN447720 102608
Sometimes in life, planning to build your
business by relationships may open more
doors than one can imagine. Priority
Mailing Systems plants seeds all over
LA County and I am interested in
planting seeds in local business, too.
My short term of 30 days as a WHTCC
member has opened a rainbow of
Kandis Landmann
events... as evidenced by this Months
Member Spotlight and being welcomed into this Chamber:
it is “My Pot of Gold”.
As VP of Business Interiors Division, my position is to
design space using our custom ergonomic furniture or one of
our 350 lines of case goods. We apply the following:
1. Space Management & Organizational Skills to optimize
your office:
2. Silent Wall Panels that look like artwork on the wall but
are acoustical panels which can reduce sound up to 50%:
3. We offer 3-D CAD renderings so you can see exactly
how it will be laid out:
4. Accessories like anti-fatigue mats, monitor arms,
keyboard trays, high density filing, and much more that
we call a one-stop-shopping experience:
5. Our target market is any office space, medical buildings,
large mailing centers, or offices that need updating or
relocating.
If you know of someone who is looking to work with an
upbeat person, who is on time, responsible, detail oriented,
meets deadlines… Kandis Landmann (805) 777-7972 or
klandmann@pm-hn.com. Thank you for being the incredible
chamber with “a beautiful heart”. g
Paul Davis
California Lic.
0669770
The more you know about the person
you are talking to; the more you know
how to deliver your story or message.
You hear us speaking often of business
following relationships and about people not wanting to be “sold to”.
You are going to do business with
people you know, like and trust. Our
networking events provide opportunities
to build new relationships. Our new
interactive website is a great place to
become acquainted with other members.
Assuming that somebody either can
or cannot use your service is a big mistake. There might not be an obvious
connection. The process of getting to
Paul Davis & Alberta Bellisario
I N S U R A N C E
S E R V I C E S
(818) 888-0880 • (800) 487-0880
Email: paul@pdinsure.com
FIND OUT HOW to Volunteer at the Chamber to hone
your skills. Get Retrained.
on about themselves and their business? It’s easy to start thinking about
what you are going to say when you
know someone opens doors. The confinally get a chance to speak. How
nections reveal themselves while you
much do you really hear from the other
are learning about them. During this
person? Let the other person speak
conversation, you will also learn who
first. You are the one who will really
they know. Think of all the members
listen and ask questions. Then when it’s
who have lived in the Valley their entire your turn to speak, you will have their
life. You will learn about their commu- undivided attention. What you hear
nities outside of the Chamber. You will from them will guide the direction of
remember each other when talking to
your message.
friends and family. You will refer people
Be a good listener. Customize your
you know.
message to the individual with whom
Have you
you are speaking. Refer your friends in
ever had
the Chamber. You joined this Chamber
someone
to increase your network and to bring
approach
about more business. Your message
you and start will be heard if you take time to listen
going on and to others’ messages. g
Using a Message Strategy
by Diana Williams, Executive Director
Page 5
Welcome New Members
May/June
Page 6
Jan./Feb. 2009
Community Events
The Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce Board
of Directors welcomes our newest members to the Chamber!
We encourage you to make the most of your membership
by becoming involved – join a committee, attend meetings,
participate in events, make your presence known to all of us!
Farahani Law Offices
Vishta Farahani
(818)989-3333
15501 San Fernando Mission
Blvd., Suite 308
Mission Hills, CA 91345
ashourilaw.com
counsel@vishtafarahani.com
Former prosecutor committed
to reaching the best outcome
for my clients in a general
practice including, criminal
defense, personal injury, and
real estate. I work alongside
Patrick Ashouri, Esq. who
specializes in real estate and
business transactions.
Negotiated excellent results
for loan modification clients
with our patent pending Loan
Modify Pro. Free consultation.
Antman Design - Web
Design & Development
Anthony Franze
Phone: (818)348-9339
4201 Topanga Canyon Bl., #7
Woodland Hills CA 91364
antmandesign.com
ajfranze@yahoo.com
Antman Design has been
designing and hand-coding
websites for almost 10 years.
We build your site with search
engine optimization techniques built-in from the
ground up. We can build your
site from scratch or maintain a
site you currently have.
California Salad Company
Daniela Tasu
(818)888-3899
6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Food Court 4
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Executive Credit Services,
Inc.
Laura Calemine
(818)222-3300
229900 Ventura Blvd., Ste 265
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
executive-credit.com
laura@executive-credit.com
The original “Credit Doctor”
of 14 years, Laura Calemine
and long time financial management specialist Michael
D’Ull, have finally teamed up.
Together they formed one of
the country’s only licensed
and bonded (C.S.O.) credit
restoration companies,
Executive Credit Services,
Inc. Ms. Calemine’s knowledge and skills are extremely
effective and she continues to
train our entire staff on an
ongoing basis. People come to
Executive Credit Services
when they are finally fed up
with their debts and poor credit rating. Sometimes they
come after the frustration and
expense of dealing with other
“so called” credit repair companies claiming they could
help but do little or nothing of
a substantial nature.
Synaptic Systems
Martin Carman
(818)710-0647
7657 Winnetka Avenue, #130
Canoga Park, CA 91306
synapticsystems.biz
martin.carman@synapticsystems.biz
Martin Carman, “The
Computer Doctor,” will provide you with the expertise
needed to make your comput-
er system satisfy your needs
and requirements. From custom tutorials through comprehensive hardware and software services, Martin’s 42
years of experience will
assist you in making the right
choices - cost-effectively.
“The Computer Doctor”
makes office and house calls.
Good to Go Fitness
Ethan Bowlin
(818)439-8944
19235 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, CA 91356
goodtogofitness.com
goodtogofitness@gmail.com
Good to Go Fitness is the end
of your frustration. The gut
you’re trying to lose. Gone.
The smaller butt and thighs
you wish for. Yours. Finally
feeling better about yourself.
Done.How?Hybrid-Training.
3 instructors take 10 members
through more than a class -they experience group-training with a personal touch.
Yours in abundant fitness,
wellness, and health!
LA Web Reps
Roger Rignack
(818)655-2728
23852 Pacific Coast Hwy #377,
Malibu, CA 90265
LaWebReps.com
Roger@lawebreps.com
LA Web Reps sells online
Business Connection
advertising for CBS2 TV and
KCAL9 TV portfolio of web
properties as well as certain
CBS Radio LA products. In
addition, LA Web Reps handles online advertising for
LANG Media sites comprised
of Daily News, Long Beach
Press Telegram, Pasadena
Star, Daily Breeze as well as
geo-targeted Internet advertising for MSN.com.
BTrueNaturals
Jessica Unbewust
(866)765-7015
1125 Lindero Canyon Rd
Westlake Village, CA 91362
BTrueNaturals.com
jessu@BTrueNaturals.com
BTrue Naturals is an online
guide to help you choose safe
and effective natural skin care
products and cosmetics.
Research has show there may
be long term, gradual effects
linked to chemical ingredients
used in beauty products and
cosmetics. At BTrue Naturals
we bring you companies that
focus on using natural ingredients and who are environmentally aware. BTrue Naturals
has sought out to create higher
standards to follow when
choosing companies we carry.
Get active!
See committees, page 8.
Chamber View
www.woodlandhillscc.net
Pet Happy
Caroline Feingold
(818)489-8147
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
pethappypets.com
caroline@pethappypets.com
Whether you are at work or
away, we keep your pet happy
and busy each day! I know
first hand what it’s like to
worry about pets being at
home while at work or on
vacation. They are lonely, no
one around to play with, no
one to walk them. Well, here
I am to save your day. I come
over, greet your pet with lots
of love and belly scratches, go
on a walk so they can do their
business...whatever that may
be, come back home for more
playtime and hugs. I love
everyday that I can be part of
helping out your pets feel at
home while being at home!
Contact me for prices and
time slots.
Waste Management
Lisa Collins
Phone: (818)262-5469
9081 Tujunga Ave.
Sun Valley CA 91352
www.wm.com
lcollins@wm.com
Waste Management, Inc. is the
leading provider of comprehensive waste and environmental services in North
America. Drawing on our
resources and experience, we
actively pursue projects and
initiatives that benefit the
waste industry, the communities we serve and the environment. Waste Management
works to make a positive difference for the environment in
every aspect of its business
May/June 2009
Page 7
Nueva Vision Community
School
Joel Valle
Phone: (818)235-2281
18858 Erwin St.
Tarzana CA 91335
jvalle@nuevavisioncs.org
Nueva Vision Community
School started in May 2005 as
a community outreach. The
school provides music classes:
piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar,
Drums, Saxophone, Violin,
Flute, and Vocal Lessons.
Ages: between 5 and 16 yrs
and adults. The cost is
between $30-$75. No one is
ever turned away. We provide
scholarships. We accept donations: Toys, clothes, school
and office supplies and miscellaneous for our fundraising
activities which help us to
cover the costs of our students.
“It’s Crazy, Your Cartridge Shouldn’t Cost More Than Your Printer”
INKJETS / LASER TONERS
SAVE * SAVE * SAVE
WWW.CRAZYINKJETS.COM
(818) 346-5538
Tarzana Surgery Center, Inc.
Henry’s Farmers Maket
Dr. Mike Mikhail / Heidi Ward
Phone: (818) 654-0595
Fax: (818) 654-0516
18425 Burbank Bl. Suite 105
Public Rd., Tarzana CA 91356
tarzanasurgerycenter.com
mmikhail@tarzanasc.com
Robbie Hill – Store Director
Phone: (818)887-6473
21812 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills CA 91364
henrymarketplace.com
Radiance Group, LLC
Barbeques Galore
Paul Durfee
(818)345-7314
19215 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana CA 91356
www.bbqgalore.com
10123sd@bbqgalore.com
Rewa Kandathil
Phone: (818)472-2045
6320 Canoga Avenue, Ste 1500
Woodland Hills CA 91367
rewa@radgroupllc.com
Child’s World School
Evan Levi / Melinda Pressman
Phone: (818)342-4905
The Team Connection
Fax: (818)342-5117
(Pinnacle Real Estate)
Cindy Walkov
6100 Lindley Avenue
Encino CA 91316
(818)993-7370
childsworldschool.com
9137 Reseda Blvd.
Northridge CA 91324
evanlevi@hotmail.com
TheTeamConnection.net
Child’s World School serves
Homes@TheTeamConnection. children six weeks through
Kindergarten. We are comnet
mitted to providing a loving,
Cindy Walkov & Carolyn
safe, fun & nurturing enviKureghian of The Team
ronment for our students and
Connection represent over 22
years of combined Real Estate to help develop a strong sense
of family and community.
experience with Pinnacle
Estate Properties in Northridge We focus on academics and
developmental growth. We
Offering in house Escrow,
Title, and Lending, we special- believe in the “Total Child”
approach to education.
Look for us on Facebook under ize in connecting buyers, sellers, and investors with the
WoodlandHills Tarzana
Ask about becoming an
right property to best meet
Chamber of Commerce.
Ambassador!
their real estate needs.
Grand Opening
Ribbon Cutting
Wednesday May 6th at 9am
Henry’s Farmers Market is a
family of friendly neighborhood food stores which call to
mind the 1950s era of momand-pop grocers and corner
butcher shops. Our friendly,
knowledgeable team is ready
to serve you with farm-fresh
produce, including many local
and organic selections, all-natural signature meats; quality
products affordably priced,
delicious sausages prepared
in-house, fresh fish and
seafood delivered fresh daily,
and much more.
Prepaid Legal
Linda Pochter
Phone: (714)345-7151
Woodland Hills CA 91364
lpochter@roadrunner.com
Melanie Rome
College Admissions
Consultant
Phone: (818)881-3232
18141 Rancho Street
Tarzana CA 91356
melanierome.com
melaniemrome@yahoo.com
Community Events
Jan./Feb. 2009
The Laser Image
Casa Di Pizza
Desiree Tooson
Phone: (818)996-7910
Fax: (818)708-8826
18411 Clark Street, #101
Tarzana CA 91356
thelaserimage.com
thelaserimage@aol.com
Steve Cohen
Phone: (818)347-4992
7543 Fallbrook Ave
West Hills CA 91307
34Pizza.com
steve@34Pizza.com
Come enjoy pizza, subs, salads and more. Casa Di Pizza
is reopening their newly renovated space under new management on May 1st.
Appetizers include chicken
wings, jalapeno poppers,
french fries and garlic cheese
bread. Enjoy the NFL, NBA
and MLB on our 8 plasma
TV’s. Arcade and video
games for the kids. Great destination for your youth team
party! g
Kathryn Scott
Phone: (310)846-4703
Fax: (310)216-1500
6033 W. Century Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90045
lightthenight.org/los
kathryn.scott@lls.org
Get Personal
Jason Peterson
Phone: (818)914-4301
Fax: (818)914-4303
22751 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills CA 91364
getpersonal818@yahoo.com
Get Personal features the
finest quality invitations, stationery, cards, gifts and much
more! We offer exceptional
personalized service to create
the most incredible invitation
for your event. We offer the
largest selection of inventory
for all your social and party
needs. Please visit our boutique and receive a special discount of your first order.
Northwestern Mutual
Jeff Reynolds
Phone: (818)610-7054
21800 Oxnard St., Suite 800
Woodland Hills CA 91367
jeffrey.n.reynolds@nmfn.com
Call the office to find out
how to be an event
sponsor.
1.818.347.4737
(continued from page 1)
consult in your own field or possibly even take on a part
time job to make ends meet. Job seekers can’t be too proud
to provide for necessities.
Conclusion
Be prepared to face the uncertainty of the current times.
Remember to adapt to the changed market conditions. g
Be friends with your Chamber Staff
on LinkedIn and connect with our
connections: Diana Williams,
Jen Svejda, Felicia Paust
Bring this ad for a 20% discount.
Offer expires June 30, 2009. Cannot be combined with other discounts.
Committees
The Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society
Changing Job Market
Business Connection
© Jim Brammer / www.stateoftheartimages.com
Page 8
Programs
Contact: Susan Hamersky
(818) 883-8550
Membership/Ambassador
Contact: Paul Lawler, (818) 881-4900
Leslie Kaz, (818) 322-1566 ext. 102
Education
Contact: Diane Deats
(818) 887-7203
Special Events
Contact: Colleen Langford
(818) 883-6110
Beautification & Streetscape
Contact: Jennifer Miller
(818) 702-0148
Government Affairs
Contact: Sean McCarthy
(818) 389-1876
Marketing/PR
Contact: Diane Deats
(818) 887-7203
Chamber View
www.woodlandhillscc.net
May/June 2009
Page 9
recent Sunday evening, Mrs. Dine Out
suggested that we call Flemings on the
way home from the beach, even though
we had little hope of dining there at the
last minute. The phone rang ONE time
and we were greeted by Stephanie’s
cheerful and enthusiastic greeting.
She assured us she would accommodate our last minute request. What a
relief dinner at last.
The drive over Topanga Canyon
went by very quickly in anticipation of
a great steak dinner experience.
We arrived at Flemings and were
greeted by the valet with a hearty
the Main Filet Mignon and Prime Rib
Eye. We had a heated discussion about
the fantastic side dish choices, we
settled on sautéed sweet corn, grilled
By Paul Lawler
asparagus and Flemings awesome
baked potato we agreed to compromise
One Awesome Sunday Night at
and order chocolate lava cake, a must
Flemings Prime Steak House.
for the ultimate chocolate experience.
Steak houses here, there and
The steaks, and sides were delivered
everywhere, but are they really PRIME
before
we expected which was to our
Steak Houses?
pleasant surprise.
One of the members of the
The plated presentation was very
Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of
tasteful and a delight visually.
Commerce is the FABULOUS
The chocolate lava cake was the
Flemings Prime Steaks & Wine Bar.
conclusion of a fabulous, most pleasant
Flemings is easy to find, the
and, relaxing evening.
Woodland Hills location
We had the pleasure of
sits purposefully on the
“Flemings belongs to the age before fast food,
southwest corner of when people cared about the service they provided.” commenting to Frank
Kliegel that we
Victory and Topanga
“Welcome
to
Flemings
Sir!”
I
felt
like
I
appreciated
everything
and would look
Canyon Boulevard, directly across
had returned to the Officers Club at the forward to our continuing saga to try
corner from the Westfield Center who
Pentagon, where the Senate, Congress, every dish on Fleming’s menu. We will
is also a member of the Woodland
Generals and Admirals dine.
be back!!
Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce.
We
were
shown
to
our
table
in
a
On the Doctor’s scale of 1-10
In the Untied States steak houses
warm wood paneled room at the south
Flemings is a solid 10.
were a sign of the times since the
end
of
the
restaurant,
and
immediately
Flemings at 818-346-1005.
1840’s, Railroads increased farming
provided with a most extensive Wine
Tell them The Doctor sent you!
productivity and more wealth meant
List,
leather
bound
menu
and
smile
— The Doctor g
that a good steak was easier to find.
from our server.
19th Century Harvey Steak Houses
We explored the extensive menu
populated every train stop from the
Atlantic to the Pacific. We fast forward and choose the Wedge which is crisp,
New Member Orientation
to 2009 and there are many ancestors of chilled iceberg lettuce, sweet grape
tomatoes, red onions and, crumbled
those original Harvey’s.
Flemings Prime Steaks & Wine Bar blue cheese.
Wednesday July 8
We witnessed the delivery of the
is what the U.S Air force Supersonic
8am to 9am, Holiday Inn
Chilled Seafood Tower, which was
F22 is to the Railroads of the 19th
21101 Ventura Boulevard
enjoyed by the party at the next table.
Century. Flemings belongs to the age
By Invitation (818) 347-4737
The Tower disappeared quickly.
before fast food, when people cared
We then choose two prime steaks:
about the service they provided. One
The Continuing
Adventures of
Dr. P. Dines Out
BREAKFAST
Ribbon Cuttings!
Executive Suites owner Laura Calemine knew the benefit of joining the WHTCC. Her Les Sumpter with A Rental Connection really knows
how to throw a 25th Anniversary Party.
father Larry Calemine (front row second from right) was our President in 1965.
All ribbon cutting photos courtesy of: Jim Brammer ‘State of the Art Images’
Page 10
Jan./Feb. 2009
Concerts
in the Park
Valley Cultural Center (VCC)
has announced their F R E E
Concerts in the Park schedule
for 2009. “We are pleased to
present our lineup which includes one of the most power
packed and diverse schedules
of our 34-year history”, said
Jim Kinsey III, CEO and President of VCC. “We are also
pleased to announce that Wells
Fargo Bank is on board as our
2009 Presenting Sponsor.” g
Warner
Park
Sunday
June 28
Community Events
Business Connection
2009 Concert Schedule
June 7 Playboy Jazz Community Concert 5pm – 8pm
El Camino Real Jazz Band – Susie Hansen Band –
Ed Shaughnessy Quintet – Diane Schuur
June 14 Sha Na Na 6pm – 8pm
June 21 Pat Longo Hollywood Big Band
Tribute to Cole Porter, featuring vocalist, Phil Jeffrey 6pm – 8pm
June 28 Orleans Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce Festival
2pm – 8pm
July 4th Dennis P. Zine Fireworks Extravaganza Don Sweeney and the SRO Big Band and More
26-Minute Fireworks Display set to live Music, MC Charlie Tuna
6pm – 9:36pm with fireworks at 9:05pm
July 12 Preservation Hall Jazz Band 6pm – 8pm
Festival Vendor Applications are
available online at
www.woodlandhillscc.net.
July 19 Classic Rock All Stars – Featuring Jerry Corbetta formerly of
Sugarloaf, Peter Rivera formerly of Rare Earth,
Mike Pinera, formerly of Iron Butterfly and Dennis Noda,
formerly of Cannibal and the Headhunters 6pm – 8pm
July 26 Desperado – Tribute to The Eagles 6pm – 8pm
August 2 Pierce College Symphonic Winds – Tribute to our Armed Forces
6pm – 8pm
Advertise in Business Connection
1/8 page: $50 1/4page: $200
1/2 page: $300 Full page: $400.
Add $150 for back cover.
Supply flyer inserts for newsletter
$175.
Web site banner $250 for 3 months
Email blast the whole membership
$125.
Sign up today for the 2009
Breakfast and Luncheon
Sponsorships
for a fee of $300. Information is
included on the Notification flyer and
email distributed to the membership.
You will have the opportunity to
speak to the attendees at the event
for five minutes and you will be
invited to distribute your promotional
and informational materials to each
seat at the event. This fee also
includes one ticket to the event.
August 9 Asia, Featuring John Payne 6pm – 8pm
August 16 Ticket to Ride – Tribute to The Beatles
Winnetka Family Earth Day, 4pm – 8pm
August 23 The Lettermen 6pm - 8 pm
August 30 Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr., 6pm – 8pm
In addition to the outstanding talent, VCC
has expanded their Food Court to 18 vendors,
serving a variety of food and beverage to
satisfy everyone in the crowd. Concertgoers
may also visit the many sponsor, vendor and
local business booths and take advantage of
special concert offers not available in stores.
Parking is available for a $8 donation (per
car) in three nearby parking structures; Califa
Street between Topanga and Owensmouth
and Owensmouth Avenue between Oxnard
and Califa. Parking for July 4th is $15.
Proceeds offset the overall cost of concerts.
For more information or to become a member,
park for FREE and receive FREE incentives,
contact VCC at (818) 704-1358 or visit
www.valleycultural.org.
Valley Cultural Center
21550 Oxnard Street, Suite #470
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
www.valleycultural.org
vcultural@sbcglobal.net
INFO LINE
1-877-704-3456
www.woodlandhillscc.net
1971
Pratt & Whitney
Rocketdyne, Inc.
Pam Campeau
1974
West Hills Hospital &
Medical Center
Beverly Gilmore
2003
2006
Grassini & Wrinkle
Lawrence P. Grassini
Southern California
Auto Center, Inc.
Scott Tiffany
Hypnotherapist, Cht.,
Sheri Neuberg
Sheri Neuberg
Wendy’s Old Fashioned
Hamburgers
Ron Ross
So Cal Home Improvement Barry’s Ticket Service
Referral Service,Inc.
Jeri Brown
Penny Spark
Irwin Zigmond CPA
Skyline Financial Corp.
Irwin Zigmond
Ann Carlton Bose
Phillips Law Office
State Farm Insurance
Carolyn D. Phillips
Gwyn Petrick
Striving Artists/
Kenneth P. Roberts APLC Custom Picture Framing
Kenneth Roberts
Boris Smorodinsky
Melnick Consulting
Group, Inc.
Mike Melnick
19 9 5
19 81
19 9 6
Topanga Warner
Financial Center
Norman J. Kravetz
Louisville High School
Sister Myra McPartland,
S.S.L.
19 8 8
19 9 9
Primerica Financial
Services
Eli Sank
2000
Groves Accountancy Corp.
Daryl Groves
Ramada Limited Canoga Park
Hank’s Tire Service, Inc.
Sanjay Patel
Steve Goldberg
Hilton Woodland Hills
Francois Khoury
2 0 01
19 8 9
State Farm
Insurance Company
Kathy Watrous
Franklin’s Hardware
Chip Kurzeka
Hornstein Law Offices
Steve Hornstein
19 91
Maria’s Italian Kitchen
Madelyn Alfano
19 9 3
Warner Center Dental
Group
Adam C. Kleiger, DDS.
2002
I.C.O.N. Line Inc.
Mily DeLauro
Child Development
Institute
Joan Maltese, PhD
Elkins Employment Law
Cynthia Elkins ESQ.
Tarzana Inn
Silvia Eck
g
Page 11
19 94
AutoGallery
Jeff Zwerling
State Farm Insurance
Michael and Jennifer Miller
May/June 2009
T h a n k Yo u R e n e w i n g M e m b e r s
Northrop Grumman
Navigation Systems
Mary Casillas
19 8 2
Chamber View
2004
Jacoby Drapery, Inc.
Cory Jacoby
AKidzDream Trophies
and Promotions
Chris Finney
The Pattons
Pat Patton
WJ Bradley Mortgage
Capital Corp.
Bill Johnson
Wells Fargo Woodland
Hills
Joel Fitzgerald
FastSigns – Tarzana
Neal Kanoff
Lister Jewelry
Ernest Lister
Coldwell Banker Real
Estate
Debbie Soden
Mel Sofian
Mel Sofian
2005
Ben Bridge Jeweler
Jordan Rothstein
Carnahan & Associates
Marva Tagg
Lockheed Federal
Credit Union
Walter Franklin
Law Offices of
Ronald Melin Supancic
Ronald Melin Supancic
Zelinsky Chiropractic
Robert Zelinsky
Touch of Life
Physical Therapy, Inc
Neil Scott Dreben MPT, OCS
Tri-Valley Special
Olympics
Laura Mayo
Free basic profile with membership. Build your online profile.
Hypnosis Motivation
Institute
George Kappas
Crazy Inkjets
Yaniv Levi
2 0 07
Poms & Associates
Insurance Brokers
Karen Sabourin
Assistance League
San Fernando Valley
Marge Gardner
Gelson’s Market
Yvonne Manganaro
Sign-A-Rama Tarzana
Griselda Rodriguez
ProspectDB
Rose Talbert
Quintana Law Group, APC
Andres F. Quintana
Drain Rooter Plumbing,
Inc.
Larry Madrid
Duran and Parry
Betty Duran
Cronami Investments
Liliane Trent
Kiwanis Warner Center
Dominique Cavelier
Mortgage Solutions
America
Jeff Harmon
2008
La Finestra
Greg Randall
L.T. Electric Lighting
& Generators
Sandra Ramirez
Gladius Technologies
Michael Rukov
Aduris
JeanClaude Razac
Prime Financial Service
Robert Satnick
Property Service
Associates
Frank Siciliano
Culligan Water
Dan Alexander
State Of The Art Images
Jim Brammer
Penny Lane
Nydia Barakat
Monaco Motors, Inc.
Wade Lennan
Page 12
Chamber View
May/June 2009
Business Connection
MARCH Ambassador of the Month Brian Cohen
APRIL Ambassador of the Month Leslie Kaz
Enjoying my work is what I like to do.
Especially when it benefits you.
Creating visibility in a special way.
Using a promo so you can say “We are a
company with a story line”. Let Cohen
Marketing deliver just in time. With a
promotional product that sets you apart
And gives you the edge and a flying
Brian Cohen
start. CMi creates visibility for clients
using imprinted promotional products. These include
1000’s of logoed items used for trade shows, conventions,
training programs and product launches. Embroidered
caps, polo shirts and jackets as well as screened wearables
make up our clothing division. Executive gifts,
customized awards and recognition products are one
of our specialties. g
Leslie Kaz is the President and Chief
Operating Officer of Syndicated
Insurance Agency, the Limited Liability
Company he co-founded in 2004. Born in
Park Ridge, Illinois, to parents with
strong Midwestern values, Leslie
attended Western Illinois University in
Macomb before exchanging that region’s
Leslie Kaz
brutal winters for life in southern
California in 1989. After acquiring his Life and Health
Agent License in 1994, he did his initial training with
Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, where he
specialized in helping public and private school teachers
maximize their retirement benefits. Later he became Senior
Account Manager at GNW-Evergreen Insurance Services.
There he spent ten years managing group and individual
policies of all types and sizes. To further his knowledge
of the industry, Leslie completed his Registered Health
Underwriter (RHU) designation in 2003.
As an active member of the community Leslie is a:
• Co-Chair of the Ambassador program for the Woodland
Hills-Tarzana Chamber of Commerce 2008 – 2009
• California Jaycees State Treasurer 2008
• Charter member of the San Fernando Valley Jaycees, 2006
• Secretary on the Board of Directors for the San Fernando
Valley Jaycees 2007
• Member of the North Valley Regional Chamber of
Commerce, Board of Directors
• Chair the Ambassador’s program for the North Valley
Regional Chamber of Commerce 2006 & 2007
• Logistics Chair for the 2007 Van Nuys American Cancer
Society’s Relay for Life
• Recipient of the San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s
2007 40 Under 40 Award g
Thank
You
Thank you to the
Woodland Hills-Tarzana
Chamber of Commerce
from:
Radiance Group, LLC
Trillium Towers Center
6320 Canoga Avenue
Suite 1500
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
818-227-5037
WOODLAND HILLS BRANCH
21520 Victory Blvd.
866-767-5328
-ONDAY &RIDAYnAMnPMs3ATURDAYnAMnPM
9ES9OU#AN*OIN
P. Zine
Fireworks Extravaganza
July 4 Dennis
Don Sweeney and the SRO Big Band and
More: 26-Minute Fireworks Display set
to live Music, MC Charlie Tuna
6pm - 9:36pm, Fireworks at 9:05pm
New Members
Welcomed at
Orientation
Breakfast in April
www.woodlandhillscc.net
Chairman’s Message
(continued from page 2) know, we are
living in a time of many uncertainties.
These uncertainties can make us very
stressed and feeling sick or worse.
Nothing ages you, allows sickness to
enter in your life or makes you feel less
competent and productive than being
stressed. As I approached yet another
birthday, I was forced to really look at my
life and where I was going with the next
phase. I love being older and in “good
condition”! I want to encourage all of you
to take a look at your life no matter what
age you are. Take the time to see what
changes you need to make in order to be
more healthy and fit. As I always say “If
you don’t take care of your body where
are you going to live?
I’m so excited that we have several
options right here in our chamber to help
our members chose the right path for
their own personal fitness/health goals.
Starting with several members who can
help you plan the right eating program
that fits your life style to choosing the
right workout program and or gym that
can work in your daily routine. Let’s not
forget after all that working out and
eating right we have several
chiropractors that can keep your body
maintained and massage therapists to
make you feel and look great as he/she
works out those kinks and sore muscles.
Now more than ever we need to help
one another. Look around and see who
you have been missing for a little while.
Check up on that person and extend a
hand to see what they need and how we
might be of service to them. Fortunately,
this time of uncertainty won’t last forever
but your kindness and thoughtfulness
toward yourself and others will be
remembered for a very long time!
Best to you in Health, Deborah.. g
Chamber View
Firsthand
Experience
Page 13
FEBRUARY
Ambassador
of the Month
By Felicia Paust,
Patrick
Meherin
Executive Assitant
In October 2008, I
experienced firsthand, how being laid
off due to cutbacks, has no prejudice.
It just happens. The other entity that
also has “no prejudice” is the support
of family, friends and community. I
have always understood and
appreciated the importance of family
and friends and now realize the
impact and significance of being
supported by my community.
Advice came from everywhere,
even voices on the telephone from
people I would never meet in person
but still meant so much. One of the
best suggestions I received was to
volunteer! I was able to a learn a new
trade which helped me with various
computer programs, several aspects
of event planning and of course the
great benefits of networking with so
many wonderful people!
I am so thankful a position opened
up in the Woodland Hills-Tarzana
Chamber of Commerce because I
knew right away I loved being a part
of it! I want to thank everyone for all
their kind words, Deborah Sable and
the Board for allowing me this
opportunity, Jen Svejda for making
me laugh daily and being so
supportive and last but not least,
Diana Williams for completely
believing in me and working so hard
for me to be a permanent fixture in
the Chamber office and for being a
great teacher.
I cannot measure my gratitude.
I am proud to be part of the WHTCC
Office staff! g
MAy/June. 2009
Patrick Meherin is a
native of Southern
California. His past careers included
teaching chess to over 10,000
elementary school students with a nonprofit organization, and teaching rockclimbing at a private school. He uses
this experience to help educate
business owners on how to most easily
and affordably accept credit-card
payments and other forms of electronic
transactions. He is an extremely active
Ambassador, having won Ambassador
of the Month several times. g
Patrick Meherin
Chamber Report
(continued from page 2)
• Partnering with other Chambers for
mixers that introduce our members to
other Chambers’ members.
• We are attending events which
allows us a voice to be advocates on
behalf of business concerns.
• We have begun use of Online
Surveys to see what you want and
what is important to you with your
Chamber membership.
• Our Interactive Website is your
“Facebook” social network for the
WHTCC business community. How
many friends do you have? Make
more friends now.
These additions are just a beginning to
what you can look forward to with
your membership in 2009.
Stay Connected, Diana. g
Your Government Affairs Committee.
Your Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber joined with other members of the United Chambers
of Commerce on a conference call with the Governor on Thursday, April 30th regarding the
New Budget Reform. We continue to educate ourselves on the pressing issues that involve
the businesses in our community. We have a very active Government Affairs Committee
with a powerful voice in legislative matters and community issues. The Chamber is here to
promote, support and advocate for you on matters that directly impact your business. g
Festival Vendor Applications are available online at www.woodlandhillscc.net.
WOODLAND HILLS-TARZANA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Post Office Box 1
Woodland Hills, CA 91365
PRST STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
MMP DIRECT
Tarzan and The Golden Lion © 1923 Edgar Rice Burroughs
“Work It!”(continued from front)
build relationships. When relationships are built and
nurtured, then the individual would be willing to open up
their contacts for referrals. Max continues, “Think of the
members in the chamber as your sales force. Who wouldn’t
want over 700 individuals to sell for them?”
During his presentation Max said, “Syndicated Insurance
Agency has a corporate policy that we only do business
with chamber members. I have 4 or 5 cigar shops within 2
miles of my house, but they
are not chamber members. I
support those who support the
community so I drive from
my house in Northridge to
purchase cigars at XO Fine
Cigar & Wine.”
Thanks to an Ambassador who cared, Max is now an
Ambassador who shares his experience with other new
members. The Ambassadors are a great resource for
members to be successful in the chamber. As we often hear
our Ambassador chair say, “Glob on to them. They are your
tour guides. They know everyone you need to meet!”
In closing, attend as many functions as you can, build those
relationships and use the resources, such as Ambassadors,
that the chamber provides and you will be successful. g
woodlandhillscc.net
A website dedicated to YOU,
our members.
Interactive and user-friendly, the
only Chamber website of its kind.
Showcase your business like never
before – a Home Page MUST!
Vision Statement
The Woodland Hills-Tarzana Chamber of
Commerce is comprised of professional
business men and women who are dedicated to improving the quality of life for
those who live and work in the southwest
San Fernando Valley.
Since its inception in 1930, the Chamber
has been dedicated to community service,
organizing special events that benefit charitable groups and coordinating various
committees and programs to address the
social, political and economic concerns of
residents and businesses in the Woodland
Hills-Tarzana area. The Chamber’s 22
member Board of Directors and full-time
office staff work throughout the year to
guide Chamber members and serve the
needs of the community. g