APRIL 2012VOL. 35, NO. 2

You’re 200 miles from home and the sun is going down. In front of you is a large semitruck crawling its way up

a hill that never seems to end. There’s only one thing to do: put your foot on the pedal and gun it. Fortunately,

that’s not a problem for the aerodynamic 2012 Toyota Camry. Because with an available 268-horsepower

engine ready and willing, you’ll have all the power you need to get ahead of trouble and back on schedule.

Prototype shown with optional equipment. Production model may vary. *268-horsepower V6 engine available on SE and XLE models only. ©2011 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

toyota.com/camry

http://www.providence.org/torrance

It’s hard to believe we’re in the2nd quarter of 2012! So muchhas happened already, and yetso much lies ahead.

We had a lot of fun piecingtogether this Education issuefor you, and love sharing thegreat information our commu-nity has to offer; just look atthe many events and programsthat have already taken place!

As residents and business owners in the South Bay, we arethrilled at how educational resources in our area continue to grow.Our Torrance schools alone are a testament of amazing efforts.Despite economic challenges and cuts, our district schools stillmanage to rank 8 out of 10 in national rating systems. Our highschools have shown a dramatic improvement in ranking since 2010. In recent years, however, we have seen a great increase ofcommunities, businesses, and organizations realizing the need of investing in their own futures.

It is no surprise that so many companies choose to locate inTorrance. Employees enjoy great opportunities for their families,and employers and entrepreneurs continue to expand on professional talents. Read about how Dominguez Hills, NationalUniversity, So Cal ROC, and Pacific Gateway are contributing to continuous improvement, as are niche programs, like that offeredby Fong & Associates.

If you’re not sold yet, read on!

Special thanks to our loyal advertisers and contributors who helpus get the word out and promote the many advantages and oppor-tunities Torrance has for us all.

July’s issue will focus on Business Shakers. Yes, You! Show yourleadership. Be part of Torrance Magazine!

—Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Co-Publishers of Torrance Magazine

UPCOMING DEADLINESFor the July 2012 Issue: Business ShakersArticle/Advertising Space Reservation: May 18, 2012 Distribution Date: July 2, 2012

CONTACT US:Advertising: See www.Torrance-Magazine.com or Contact AdSales@Torrance-Magazine.com or 310.317.0841 Articles: Pat Sandt, at Submittals@Torrance-Magazine.com or 310.373.2880General Information/Marketing Services: Sue Moylan, atinfo@GreenInkMarketing.com or 310.539.2235TACC Contact: info@TorranceChamber.com or 310.540.5858

The Torrance Magazine focuses on business stories, events, and who’s who profiles that

are of interest to Torrance Chamber of Commerce members and others doing business in

the South Bay area. The editorial is positive, information-packed, exclusive news: a diverse

mix of feature stories on Torrance and South Bay movers and shakers, businesses, events,

local industries, government and business economic development strategies and outlooks.

In this Issue Our Notes:

Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt,

Green Ink Marketing

2 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

DEPARTMENTSNotes from the Publishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2A Message From the Chair of the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3TACC Board of Directors & Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Chamber Exec’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

EDUC ATIONHigher Education: Essential to Economic Prosperity . . . 6Flexible Scheduling and Affordable Tuition . . . . . . . . . . 8The Benefits of Music in Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9ExxonMobil a “Plus” for Math & Science Education . . . . 10SoCal ROC—Education with a Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Camping at the Y Keeps Youth Learning

All Summer Long . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Want to Improve Your Bottom Line? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15Educating Young Entrepreneurs-Why! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16CEO Forums in the South Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Raytheon—A Community Partner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1810 Tips for Using Social Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20A Letter to Our Community — From UEI President . . . . . . 21South Bay Yellow Cab and Magruder MS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21The Science of Awakening Curiosity

and Inspiring Wonder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Controlling Congestive Heart Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

ADOPT-A-SCHOOLInvesting in a Better Tomorrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25

FROM THE TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICTSuperintendent’s Spring Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

FROM THE CIT Y OF TORRANCEHoarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

FROM THE TORRANCE CENTENNIALHonoree, Walter Crenshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

RIBBON CUTTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

CHAMBER HIGHLIGHTSThe Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

Foundation Mentor Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

CHAMBER EVENTS15th Annual Black History Celebration . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Chamber Ushers in the “Year of the Dragon” . . . . . . . . 31

UPCOMING EVENTSUpcoming Chamber and Community Events . . . . . . . . . 32

NEWS BRIEFSProvidence Trinity Care “Hospice Angel” . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Providence Little Company of MaryBenefits from Ralphs Generosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Landi Renzo USA Receives 2012 CARB CNG Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Torrance Memorial Celebrates Midway Point of Completing A New Patient Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Pediatric Therapy Network Receives Proceedsfrom 2011 Rat Beach Bike Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Torrance Memorial Achieves Magnet® Recognition . . . . 35Luminit Announces New Hybrid Glass

Light Shaping Diffusers® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

CHAMBER BENEFITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

High-Performing Schools Contribute To Our Thriving Business Economy

A M E S S A G E F R O M T H E C H A I R O F T H E B O A R D

Thank you for taking time to read this issue of TorranceMagazine. I’m especially excited that we’re highlighting education in this issue, because our business community and our educational community need each other in order to be successful.

That’s right: high-performing schools contribute to ourthriving business economy, and vice versa.

For example, many business owners choose to locate their businesses in Torrance because they want to send their children to our high-performing Torrance Unified SchoolDistrict. Torrance-area businesses also have an advantage inrecruiting highly skilled professionals to live and work in acommunity with competitive schools.

Many people move to Torrance because of the reputation ofits schools—and by choosing to live and do business here,these residents help support our local business economy.

Great school districts ignite a lifelong love of learning inour youth and better prepare them for the business world.We are also lucky to have strong vocational schools, collegesand universities that play critical roles in the development of our future workforce. By staying in tune with current andfuture workforce trends, our educational community supportsthe Torrance area’s future economic growth.

In turn, our learning institutions benefit tremendouslywhen they partner with local businesses. Please take amoment to read about the Chamber’s Adopt-A-School, JuniorLeadership and mentoring programs in this issue of TorranceMagazine. Thanks to the support of many Torrance Chamberbusinesses and our partnership with Torrance Unified SchoolDistrict, we’re developing the next generation of business andcommunity leaders—one student, one classroom and oneschool at a time.

I’m proud that so manyTorrance area businessesremain dedicated to support-ing our local schools, especial-ly in this difficult economy.Forward-thinking businessesunderstand that investing inour future workforce will payoff in the long-term. So, to allof the Chamber business leaders who share your time,talent and resources with ourlocal schools, I thank you foryour support.

This symbiotic relationship between schools and our localeconomy is the very reason why the Torrance Area Chamberof Commerce remains dedicated to supporting our local educational institutions. If you’d like to find out more abouthow you can get involved in the one of the Chamber’s education partnership programs, please call us at (310) 540-5858.

TARA O’BRIEN2011-2012 TACC

Chairwoman of the Board

I’m proud that so many Torrance area businesses remain dedicated to supporting our local schools, especially in this difficult economy.

Forward-thinking businesses understand that investing in our future workforce will pay off in the long-term.

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TACC Board of Directors and Staff About Torrance Magazine

2011-2012Executive Board of Directors

CHAIR OF THE BOARD Tara O’Brien Kaiser Permanente

CHAIRMAN ELECTAaron AalcidesAalcides Enterprises

VICE CHAIR OF FINANCECathy TowersBank of Manhattan, NA

VICE CHAIR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS Charles Gale, Jr. Metropolitan Water District of SouthernCalifornia

VICE CHAIR OF TACC FOUNDATIONSherry KramerContinental Development Corporation

VICE CHAIR OF PROGRAMSHeidi Cunningham Kelly Services

VICE CHAIR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTLinda Amato DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Torrance - South Bay

VICE CHAIR OF MEMBERSHIPDan ThomasTelepacific Communications

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMANMark WaronekEk & Ek

General Counsel Karl SchmidtParker, Milliken, Clark, O’Hara & Samuelian

2011-2012 Board of Directors

JJooee AAhhnnNorthrop Grumman Aerospace SystemsSector Communications

KKaarriinn BBaakkeerrAmerican Honda Motor Co., Inc.

PPaabblloo BBoorrggnniinnooExxon Mobil Corporation

SSccootttt EEaasstteerrddaayyOutback Steakhouse

DDeebboorraahh FFeehhnnProvidence Little Company of Mary Medical Center

CCaarrmmeenn FFrreeeellaannddDaily Breeze

JJuuddyy GGiibbssoonnStrategic Technology Sources

MMiicchhaaeell HHeerrrreerraaBoys & Girls Clubs of the South Bay

PPeetteerr IIssssaaCapitalSource Bank

RRoobbeerrtt KKaatthheerrmmaannKatherman Co.Water Replenishment District of Southern California

DDaann KKeeeettoonnTorrance Community Church of the Nazarene

CCrraaiigg LLeeaacchhTorrance Memorial Medical Center

MMaarrcceellllaa LLoowwSouthern California Gas Co

EElllleennmmaarryy MMiicchheellPelican Products, Inc.

SSuuee MMooyyllaannCrest Marketing, Inc

SShhiirrlleeyy PPeeSouth Bay Yellow Cab Cooperative, Inc.

PPaamm RRyyaannTorrance Marriott

GGrreegg SSaakkssCSU Dominguez Hills

PPaatt SSaannddttGreen Ink Marketing

TThheerreessaa SSttaannbbeerrrryyStanberry Laundry LLC

JJoosshhuuaa TThhoommaassSouth Bay Equity Lending

TACC Staff

Donna DuperronPresident and CEO

Kelly HernandezMembership Manager

Shatera LunaAdministrative Assistant

Lisa RodriguezEvent Coordinator

Torrance (ISSN #0194-5491)Published by the Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce with Green Ink Marketing.Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce 3400 Torrance Blvd., Ste 100,Torrance, CA 90503. (310) 540-5858;Green Ink Marketing, Sue Moylan and Pat Sandt, Mailing Address (No Deliveries Accepted):2785 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 312Torrance, CA 90505310.539.2235. Subscription rates: $20.00 per year. E-mail: Info@GreenInkMarketing.com

Send address changes to:Torrance Area Chamber of Commercec/o Torrance Magazine 3400 Torrance Blvd, Suite 100Torrance, CA 90503 Tel: 310.540.5858

All rights reserved. Trademarked.

ARTICLES: Torrance Magazine is publishedquarterly and mailed to TACC members anddistributed to selected businesses in thecommunity. The publishers welcome writtenqueries regarding articles for possible publi-cations. Articles are subject to editing andare included on an “as space permits basis”at the discretion of the Publisher, Editors andEditorial Board.

ITEMS: Material and photos for inclusionmust be received 30 days in advance of thequarterly publication date. Reproduction, inwhole or in part without written permission,is prohibited. Photos and articles notreturned.

DISCLAIMER: All reasonable efforts havebeen made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in Torrance Magazine.The publisher accepts no responsibility fordamage arising directly or as a consequenceof the use or publication of inaccurate or miss-ing information. The opinions and/or claimsexpressed by contributors and advertisers aretheir own, and are not necessarily shared orsupported by Torrance Magazine, Green InkMarketing, its staff, TACC, Board of Directors,or management. Editorial content is intendedas general information, and not as specificlegal or financial advice; for such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Torrance Area

Chamber of Commerce andGreen Ink Marketing assume no responsibility resulting fromthe advertising contained in thepublication.

Printed on FSC Certified Paperwith Soy-Based Inks.4 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

The Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce is working to enhance

the critical partnership between busi-ness and education in the South Bay. It goes without saying that maintainingthe academic excellence is good for thecommunity and good for business.

Education has been a priority with theTorrance Area Chamber of Commerce.We extend heartfelt appreciation tothose who had a vision in 1982 to createthe Adopt-A-School program. As thisprogram celebrates its 30th yearanniversary, Chambers from across theWestern region have seen this business-education partnership as a role model.

Commitment to the public educationalsystem within the Torrance Area hasalways meant a quality workforce, aneducation system that drew more busi-ness translating into a vibrant economicenvironment. Like all organizational programs, the Adopt-A-School programhas undergone changes to meet theneeds of the student today.

According to the recent publicationCreating Certainty in An UncertainEconomy by the California Chamber ofCommerce, Schools are in Crisis:Producing Highly Skilled WorkersCritical to California’s Future Economy.While lawmakers, businesses and indi-viduals have been busy trying to weath-er the recession and the nation’spainfully slow recovery, a much greaterthreat has been lurking.

Employers have long understood the importance of a quality education system because their survival in the

competitive global economy depends on it. In 2009, a council of CEOs con-vened by the Wall Street Journaldeclared that, “Education is our topnational priority – well ahead of healthcare, climate change and financial regulatory reform and government andbusiness policies need to reflect that. If we don’t address this, we endanger our children, economy, business andnational security.”

A recent report by America’s Edge, anational organization of business lead-ers working to strengthen businessesand the economy through proven invest-ments in children, identified Californiaas particularly behind in producingworkers for middle-skill jobs or thosethat require more than a high schooldiploma, but less than a four-yeardegree. Middle-skill jobs tend to belocal, hands-on and less likely to be out-sourced, making them a welcome partof the job market. Although demand forthese jobs is growing, the schools arenot currently producing enough workersto fill the existing jobs. In 2009, forexample, approximately 47% of jobs inthe state were middle-skill jobs, but it isestimated that only 38% of workerswere appropriately trained for them.Instead, the state has continued to pro-duce too many low-skill workers for ashrinking number of low-skill jobs.

Education is everyone’s business. The Torrance Chamber members willcontinue to enhance the educationalexperience in meaningful, relevant andpragmatic ways now and in the future.

C H A M B E R E X E C ’ S M E S S A G E

DONNA DUPERRONPresident and CEO

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce

To maximize your exposure in the community, or, to request more information, call theChamber at (310) 540-5858. We will meet with you to create a customized plan to helpyour business train for success. We want you to succeed and we are able to provide the tools to help you do just that!

AmbassadorsMentoring new chamber members

Theresa Stanberry -

stanberrylaundry@yahoo.com

GAPGovernment Affairs Policy Group

Charles Gale Jr. - cgalej@mwdh2o.com

Green Torrance CommitteePat Sandt - Pat@GreenInkMarketing.com

HR ProfessionalsHuman Resources Professionals of Torrance

Heidi Cunningham -

cunniha@kellyservices.com

Networking at NoonOur most popular networking lunches

TACC - info@torrancechamber.com

PROFSProfessional Roundtable

of Financial Services

Candy Messer - Candy@abandp.com

Tech ProsTechnology Professionals of Torrance

Dan Thomas - danthomas@telepacific.com

CONTACT INFORMAT ION

Access Washington D.C.: Mark Waronek, Immediate Past Chair and Donna Duperron,President & CEO recently traveled to Washington D.C. as part of a delegation of local government officials and leading business groups to advocate for Southern California. This 175 member delegation met with members of Congress and the president’s staff on key issues.

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E D U C A T I O N

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The South Bay area, like otherregions throughout the stateand nation, continues to sufferfrom the ongoing economic crisis that has had a negativeimpact on our society and onalmost every aspect of ourdaily lives. However, now morethan ever, the region cannotallow these challenges to distract us from envisioning abrighter and different future,and strengthening communitycollaborations and higher education that will contributeto a more vital community.

The Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce has identified key industriesthat are crucial to the region’s economichealth—they include internationaltrade, information technology and bio-technology, and aerospace anddefense. The South Bay’s only publicuniversity, CSU Dominguez Hills, provides an educated and well-trainedworkforce for these critical areas, graduating thousands of students annually. Strong partnerships betweenthe university and area businesses andindustry are essential for the competi-tiveness and expansion of these industries.

With the South Bay located in theheart of the busy trade corridor betweenLAX and the Port of L.A. and LongBeach, the continued growth of interna-tional trade is a key driver of theregion’s economy. Students at CSUDominguez Hills have opportunities fordirect exposure to this complex hub of

global commerce through internshipsand programs that augment the educa-tion they receive on campus andenhance their skills and knowledge. Thestudent population at CSU DominguezHills is among the most ethnically andculturally rich in the nation, and thisexposure to a diverse community makesour graduates better equipped for success in the global marketplace thatis vital to the region.

Information technology and theemerging biotechnology industry areother key industries for the South Bay,and although California continues tolead the nation in the high-tech industry,it is losing ground. To remain competi-tive, a close connection to colleges anduniversities is necessary for the educa-tion of a large pool of well-trained tech-nical and scientific labor. The aerospaceand defense industry will continue to beone of the South Bay’s leading economic

sectors, playing a key role inthe nation’s economy and itsposition as a world leader. Inorder for South Bay high tech,aerospace and defense indus-tries to continue to prosper,their 21st century workforcewill need to be well preparedin science, technology, engi-neering and math (STEM)fields.

Among CSU DominguezHills’ top priorities is thedevelopment of under-represented students’ skillsand knowledge in criticalSTEM areas such as bio-

chemistry, computer technology andinformation systems, micro-biology, andphysics, to name a few. The universityactively collaborates with regional businesses and industries, and non-profit and government agencies todevelop innovative STEM educationalexperiences and programs.

By keeping an eye towards a brighterfuture and making a commitment to providing the necessary education andskills for its future leaders and citizens,the region’s economy will grow and thrive,and help California to recover andstrengthen its role as a world leader.

Visit www.csudh.edu for more infor-mation on academic programs offeredat CSU Dominguez Hills that help toprepare students for vital careers in theSouth Bay.

Higher Education:Essential to Economic Prosperity

In order for South Bay high tech, aerospace and defense industries tocontinue to prosper, their 21st century workforce will need to be wellprepared in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

Poster Presentations at the 2012 Student Research Day held in

February at California State University, Dominguez Hills.

We are proud to serve as an eminent educational and cultural center for the South Bay and the metropolitan Los Angeles region, featuring:

� Outstanding academic programs and faculty� Convenient location in the South Bay� Exciting new majors and facilities� Career preparation and workforce training� Financial aid and scholarships available

� Beautiful park-like campus

LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITIESLEADERS

C A L I F O R N I A S T A T E U N I V E R S I T Y , D O M I N G U E Z H I L L S

UPCOMING ISSUES

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8 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

E D U C A T I O N

Flexible Scheduling and Affordable Tuition Just Around the Corner

If you are one of the many Torrance-area residents interestedin advancing your education and your career, but feel like youdon’t have the time to balance work, family, and school, thenNational University is designed just for you—with flexiblescheduling, year-round registration, and affordable tuition.

Among private, nonprofit universities, National enrolls thelargest number of graduate students in California and has thesixth-largest graduate program in the nation.

The National University Online Information Center, locatedon Level Two near Macy’s South at the Del Amo FashionCenter, is an innovative way to serve National Universityprospective and current students. The Center is a localresource for the community to learn more about online andon-campus degree opportunities. Torrance-area residents canalso hear about corporate partnership and tuition programs,including a customized curriculum.

National has 15 convenient locations in the Greater LosAngeles area, with a total network of 28 campuses throughoutCalifornia and one in Nevada. Become part of the University’s130,000 alumni network and enjoy evening classes and anaccelerated format. Earn an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, orMaster’s degree while continuing to meet personal or profes-sional obligations. National’s unique one-course-per-monthformat allows students to finish their degree more quicklythan at a traditional university.

For more than 40 years, National University has made lifelong learning opportunities accessible, challenging, andrelevant to a diverse population of nontraditional students.National is the second-largest private, nonprofit institution of higher education in California and the 12th-largest in thenation, and is accredited by the Western Association of Schooland Colleges (WASC).

National University makes attending classes convenientwhile maintaining high quality degree offerings. Curriculumcombines concept, theory, and application so that what stu-dents learn in the classroom is relevant to the workplace.

The University offers something for everyone, includingmore than 120 Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degrees,more than 40 professional and personal enrichment certifi-cates, and 19 teaching credential programs. And sinceNational offers more than 70 programs online, your educationcan go wherever you do.

Students can pursue their interests in a wide variety offields of study offered through the University’s four schoolsand one college: the School of Business and Management,School of Education, School of Engineering, Technology andMedia, School of Health and Human Services, College ofLetters and Sciences.

National University’s students benefit from rich technologyresources, including one of the largest e-libraries in the country and onsite computer labs equipped with over 2,700PCs.

The flexibility of taking classes onsite, online, or a combination of the two, allows students to continue workingfull-time, and the Financial Aid Office is in place to assist with federal student aid and scholarships.

For more information, call (800) NAT-UNIV or visit National University online at www.nu.edu.

For more than 40 years, National University has madelifelong learning opportunitiesaccessible, challenging, and relevant to a diverse populationof nontraditional students.

- A nonprofit, WASC-accredited university- Online and on-campus associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs- Talk with an advisor and create the right education plan to meet your goals- Experience the flexibility of taking an online class- Learn about financial aid options

NATIONAL UNIVERSITY®

An Affiliate of The National University System

NOW OPEN AT DEL AMO FASHION CENTER

Del Amo Fashion Center, 21712 Hawthorne, Blvd., #271310.662.2170 • www.nu.edu

Learn more at the National UniversityOnline Information Center in Torrance

Located on level two, near Macy’s South15 convenient locations in the Greater Los Angeles area

Much research has beendedicated to the benefitsof music in our lives. Ourlast issue in Januaryfocused on Health andWellness, and emphasizedthe health benefits ofmusic on our overall healthand as well as in reducing stress. Inaddition, studies show that early musicaltraining helps develop those brain areasinvolved in language and reasoning;specifically language processes.

A link between music and the abilityto perceive the world while formingmental pictures of things, allows us to sort and categorize, createmental lists, and in practical terms,complete math problems and packa bag with everything you need forthe day or a short trip. This meansearly musical education can dowonders in “training” a child toorganize thoughts and reap thebenefits of a better education.

A creative mind can be a better problem solver; by imagining a variety of solutions, routes and outcomes, it is easier to discern the

correct path, and as a result,studies show more success-ful standardized tests suchas the SAT and ACT.

Other benefits of musiceducation are:

• If in a band or orchestra: learning to work in a group; learning topiece together parts to make a whole.

• If learning an instrument: fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

• Crossing cultural bridges: music brings people together bridging

borders, interests, language, and even socio-economic differences.

• Promotes self-expression and the ability to present in front of an audience; a great self-esteem builder.

• Discipline, and the knowledge that our efforts deliver rewards.

KDI Music believes in the benefits of music at any age. Whether you’relooking at creating the best path foryour child’s development early on, oryou choose to play an instrument laterin life, the benefits are there.

Rheuben Allen Saxophones

Kenny G Saxophones

Black Diamond Saxophones

USA Educator Instruments

Vintage Posters & T-Shirts

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www.kdimusic.comThe Premier Internet Store For Great Deals

for more information please email us at: info@kdimusic.com

The Benefits of Music in Education

10 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

ExxonMobil is committed to supportingeducation in the communities where itoperates, particularly math and science.With its daily reliance on technologyand scientific inquiry, ExxonMobil recog-nizes the important role that science,technology, engineering and math(STEM) education plays in the country’sability to maintain its global competi-tiveness.

One of ExxonMobil’s educationalinvestments is the Sally Ride ScienceAcademy. The program equips educa-tors with the knowledge and resourcesto ignite students’ interest in science tomake the study of it more meaningfuland expose them to different sciencecareers. The Academy, named for thefirst American woman to travel in space,has trained more than 650 educatorssince 2009. Through its “train the train-er” approach, it’s projected that by theend of this school year, more than600,000 elementary and middle schoolstudents nationwide will have benefitedfrom Academy trainers and trainees,including 31 Torrance Unified SchoolDistrict (TUSD) educators.

“The Sally Ride Science Academy hasgiven our educators an opportunity togain and share with fellow teachers use-ful tools to further engage their stu-dents with math and science, and instillin them an appreciation for how thesesubjects affect their everyday lives” saidDr. Ramona Chang, TUSD director of cur-riculum. “We can’t thank ExxonMobilenough for this investment in our com-munity’s youth.”

Based on the belief that business success and social responsibility gohand-in-hand, the Torrance Refinery hasa long history of supporting Torrancethrough various educational programs.The company’s strategic focus and local community feedback guide the

refinery’s contributions program. Forexample, the refinery’s $75,000 supportthrough the 2011 Pegasus Awards supported 40 teachers for STEM-relatedprograms.

Just as the refinery applauds the dedication of educators, it also encour-ages innovative ways to draw studentsto math and science. This year, therefinery will support the Second AnnualLos Angeles Regionwide Math OlympiadTournament at Madrona Middle School.It offers students an opportunity toengage in interactive learning aboutmath concepts through competition.The refinery also will support theTorrance Robotics team, which furtherfuels students’ interest in STEM.Through partnership with BernardHarris, the first African-American to walkin space, and Science Camps and DreamTours, the refinery works to instill a passion in students for careers in STEM.

Funding local library programs alsohelps to reach the broader communityto inform more people about the impor-tance of STEM education. The refinerypartners with the North Torrance publiclibrary to sustain a robust homeworkcenter with STEM-related materials, providing the community’s youth with awell-equipped STEM section to aid intheir ongoing learning.

Whether nationally or locally, Exxon-Mobil supports educators as they strive to inspire our nation’s youth toward a life-long passion for STEM, and the array ofprofessional opportunities they present.ExxonMobil believes a strong focus oneducation empowers communities world-wide and provides the foundation forhuman progress…an investment that benefits all. For more information aboutExxonMobil’s commitment to education,visit www.exxonmobil.com/Corporate/community_math.aspx.

ExxonMobil a “Plus” for Math and Science Education

E D U C A T I O N

The Sally Ride Science Academy has given our educators an opportunity to gain and share with fellow teachers useful tools to further engage their students with math and science.

http://www.torrancerefinery.com

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E D U C A T I O N

I am often asked,“What is SoCal ROCand what do you do over there?” Myresponse, “We help students fulfill theirdreams and realize their passions.” Ofcourse, I then proceed to tell them thatall high school students may enroll atthe Center free of charge to take a seriesof classes in their chosen career arearanging from engineering to health sciences to graphic design. My explana-

tion is usually met with people telling me they wished thesetypes of opportunities had been available to them when theywere in high school.

The Southern California Regional Occupational Center,known as SoCal ROC, has been in Torrance for close to forty-five years. A part of the California public school system, SoCalROC is funded by the State of California with its sole purposebeing to provide Career Technical Education to high schoolstudents and a limited number of adults. The unique struc-ture of having a stand-alone Center gives students throughout

the Greater South Bay opportunities to take career specificcourses taught by industry expects utilizing equipment andmaterials one would encounter in the workplace.

SoCal ROC provides students with a variety of courses,each part of a sequential pathway, from six different CareerSectors: Agriculture and Natural Resources; Arts/Media andEntertainment; Engineering and Design; Finance and Business;Health Science; and Public and Consumer Services. Many ofthe courses offered at SoCal ROC fulfill the University ofCalifornia “a-g” entrance requirements, or entitle students toa Certificate of Competency which may qualify them to takean applicable state and/or national exam for an industry-based certification or license. Additionally, many SoCal ROCprograms afford students the opportunity to extern at a localbusiness or company and put into practice what they havelearned, possibly leading to future employment.

On any given day hundreds of high school students fromTorrance, Palos Verdes, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, El Segundo, Inglewood, Los Angeles, Long Beach, and even as far as Orange County converge on the SoCal ROC site to

pursue courses in their chosen field.Most students come to SoCal ROC aftertheir regular school day and many alsoattend classes in the evening. All studentsmeet with a Career Guidance Specialistwho works with them in developing theirpersonal multi-year Career Plan.

Over the course of a year, SoCal ROCprovides CTE services to over 6,000 highschool students at the Center as well ason individual high school campuses.Additionally, close to 3,000 adults alsoparticipate in programs at the Center.Adults pay a nominal fee for each coursetaken. Many adults come to the Centerfor the expressed reason of job retrain-ing or to acquire new skills for jobadvancement.

There is nothing more exciting or energizing then to observe studentstotally engrossed in their learning andunderstanding the relevance of whatthey are learning.

Stop by sometime. We will be happyto give you a tour. For more informationand the catalog of course listings visitour website at www.socalroc.com.

Southern California Regional Occupational Center – “Education with a Purpose”

CHRISTINE HOFFMANEd.D., Superintendent

CHRISTINE A. HOFFMAN, ED.D., SUPERINTENDENT

2300 Crenshaw Boulevard Torrance, CA 90501 310.224.4200

Career Technical Education Provider for Over 45 Years!ENROLL NOW FOR SHORT - TERM CLASSES

Adobe CS3: After Effects, Dreamweaver, Flash, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop Intro to Construction Careers: Welding, HVAC, Electrical Banking and Financial Services Business Entrepreneur Business LawClinical Medical Assisting Module: Injections Dental Assisting Module: Dental Assisting in Comprehensive Dental CareClinical Medical Assisting Module: EKG Dental Assisting for AdultsClinical Medical Assisting Module: Medical Front Office

4/2/12 - 6/7/12

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HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ENROLL FOR FREE; ADULTS PAY A NOMINAL FEE

Serving the Greater South Bay and JPA School Districts

For more information: go to www.socalroc.com

Southern California Regional Occupational Center

HIGH SERVICE!

LOWRATES

First California Bank is actively and successfully lending to small and mid-sized businesses. Whether you need a business loan or line of credit, an owner-occupied commercial real estate loan, a

commercial real estate investor loan, or a SBA Loan, we are here for you. Not only are we offering low rates, but our ability to provide you

with the highest in customer service is unmatched. Call us today.

JOHN HARRISSenior Vice President

310-784-3014

GARY BAKERExecutive Vice President

310-784-3019

TONY PHILLIPSVice President

310-784-3004

ROBERT GARCIAVice President310-784-3015

FIRST CALIFORNIA BANK

www.fcbank.com

2200 Sepulveda Boulevard / Torrance, CA 91501

Equal Housing Lender Member FDIC

Want to Improve Your Bottom Line? Invest in Staff Development Training

Staff Development training deliversexcellence in product and performanceand changes a good company into agreat one. Research confirms that StaffDevelopment training increas-es an employee’s performance,productivity, and enhances theirability to achieve their fullpotential. In the workplace,when an organization’s leader-ship fails to focus on the pro-fessional development of itspersonnel, only 11% of employ-ees are engaged in their job. In contrast, 73% of personnelare more productive when an organiza-tion’s leadership focuses on the profes-sional growth and development of itspersonnel. This has a significant impacton the company’s bottom line.

Staff Development training is highlyrecommended if employees are experi-

encing the following challenges in the workplace:

• Low staff morale or a loss of initiative“to go the extra mile”

• A need to enhance management or leadership development

• Ineffective communication or conflict among personnel

• A need to optimize performance and productivity

• Emotional distress due toaggressive behavior in the

workplace

• High staff turnover due to abrasive personalities in the workplace

Studies show that employees are sixtimes less likely to be engaged in theirjob when there is a lack of professionaldevelopment opportunities in the work-

MAKING MEMORIESONE SUMMER AT A TIMETorrance-South Bay YMCASend your child to Y camp for a life-changing experience!

Day CampsSummer Sleep-away Camps Specialty CampsLicensed Child Care Preschool

All of our camps are filled with chances for your child to learn,grow and thrive! Campers (ages 2 ½ to 17) participate in songs, skits, field trips, sports, games, friendships, arts and crafts, making lots of memories, and having lots of fun!

Torrance-South Bay YMCA 2900 W. Sepulveda Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505310.325.5885 www.ymcala.org/tsb

E D U C A T I O N

KATHLEEN TAYLORCEO, Business

Inquiry Solutions

Summer is a critical out-of-school timewhen children and teens may benefitfrom enriched learning, new experiencesand making memories that last a life-time. Torrance-South Bay YMCA summercamps help youth tap into their fullpotential by providing opportunities todiscover and grow.

Bridgett, a YMCA camper, said “Campis so awesome!” She went on to explain,“When I went to the Y Explorers camp, Iliked going on the field trips. We sawsea otters and jelly fish [at the aquari-um]!”

According to Y camping experts thereare at least five reasons why kids shouldattend camp:

ADVENTURE: Summer camp is all abouta wide variety of “cool” adventures andnew experiences, and especially explor-ing the outdoors.

HEALTHY FUN: Day and resident campsoffer stimulating activities that engagethe body and mind of children and teens.

PERSONAL GROWTH: While being awayfrom the routine back home, youth havea chance to gain more skills and developconfidence by taking on additionalresponsibilities and challenges.

NEW FRIENDSHIPS: Amidst the enjoy-ment of games, songs, swimming andtalent shows, campers make “forever”friends.

MEMORIES: Summer camp is an unforgettable experience that gives each camper memories that will last alifetime. Youth return to school withplenty of stories to share!

The Torrance-South Bay YMCA provides exciting and educational campprogramming for children and teensincluding summer day camps, overnightcamps, and specialty camps. To ensurethat every child and teen has the chanceto go to camp, scholarships (includingthose for military families) and financialassistance are available. To learn more,please visit www.ymcala.org/tsb or call310.325.5885.

Camping at the Y Keeps Youth Learning

All Summer Long

14 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

E D U C A T I O N

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 15

place. To address the need to enhancethe professional growth and develop-ment of personnel, Business InquirySolutions provides effective StaffDevelopment training to enhanceemployee performance, productivity,and communication within a company.Located in Torrance, Business InquirySolutions thrives under the leadershipof Kathleen Taylor, CEO of the company.She uses interactive training methods toenhance team-building, managementskills, and leadership development forpersonnel. As a result, this enhances the organization’s infrastructure and has a positive impact on the company’sbottom line.

Business Inquiry Solutions’ StaffDevelopment training has several features and benefits such as:

Training Features• Interactive exercises to engage

training participants• Use methods endorsed by the

National Science Foundation to enhance communication

• Use Behavior Science Theory conceptsto enhance interaction

Training Benefits• Enhance management and leadership

skills• Provide strategies to resolve conflict

among personnel• Develop skills to improve personnel

interaction and communication• Maximize team-building among

personnel• Improve the professional growth and

development of personnel

Business Inquiry Solutions provideStaff Development Training in the following areas:• Strength-based professional

development• Strength-based leadership

development• Appreciative inquiry for team-building• Emotional Intelligence Training• Dealing with aggressive behavior

in the workplace• Overcoming passive aggressive

behavior in the workplace• Dealing with difficult personalities

in the workplace

Want to Improve Your Bottom Line? (continued from page 14)

To invest in the professional growth and development of your company’s personnel, contact Kathleen Taylor, CEO/President ofBusiness Inquiry Solutions, 310-907-6940,email KT@businessinquirysolutions.com, or www.businessinquirysolutions.com.

As a college teacher, I am constantly

challenged by my students about the value

of a college education versus the opportunity to

pursue entrepreneurial dreams.They cite examples like famous billionaire entrepreneurs Bill Gates(Microsoft), Larry Page (Google),Michael Dell (Dell), David Geffen (GeffenRecords), Steve Jobs (Apple), RichardBranson (Virgin), Ralph Lauren (RalphLauren), Jerry Yang (Yahoo) and MarkZuckerberg (Facebook). Most on this listreceived a modicum of post-secondaryeducation, before bailing and pursuingtheir entrepreneurial dreams.

Like Zuckerberg, Gates also went toHarvard. Page and Yang both attendedStanford. Jobs only completed onesemester at Reed College in Portland,Oregon. Dell left the University of Texasat 19. Geffen dropped out of three universities before launching his recordlabel. Lauren went to little-knownBaruch College in New York State, but left after two years. Branson, a mild dyslexic, never made it out of high school.

They have been successful mainlybecause they have ample talents combined with both the luck and skill ofexceptional timing. Research indicatesthat a far greater percentage of self-made billionaires have a master’s

degree, than no formal college educa-tion. In life and in business there are no shortcuts. I have never heard of acollege graduate expressing regretsabout obtaining a college degree. I haveheard many non-college graduates,express their regrets of not starting, orcompleting college. It is possible to be a successful entrepreneur without graduating from college. But thechances of becoming a Zuckerberg,Gates, or Jobs, by not attending college,must be similar to having your house hitbe a meteorite while you watch TV.

Unless you have some entrepreneurialsuccessful track record or can get theattention of venture capital to fund yourinnovation, just try and get someone toput their money on the table unless youhave an education. Education may notbe necessary, but statistics have shownthat there are many more examples ofsuccess with education than without it.As an educator teaching Business andEntrepreneurship in a private college, I bring industry into the classroom sostudents get hands-on experience solving business problems. I can tell youthat most of my students (not all, butmost) do not have the skill sets or visionto innovate an industry. However, by thetime they leave college they have anidea of what it takes and some skill setsto build on. Oh…and a degree to get ajob in the meantime.

To learn more about training and incubation programsoffered by the SouthBay EntrepreneurialCenter, contactTheEntrepreneurial-Center.org or PresidentMike Grimshaw at Mike@TheSBEC.org.

Educating Young Entrepreneurs - Why!

16 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

E D U C A T I O N

“Most of what you hear about entrepreneurship is all wrong. It’s not magic; it’s not mysterious; and it has nothing to do with genes.

It’s a discipline and, like any discipline, it can be learned.”—PETER F. DRUCKER

The most successful business ownersare those open to learning new ideas;they put high value on listening to professional advisors, but especiallyappreciate learning best practicesdirectly from their peers.

In the South Bay, the opportunity forsuch an exchange is available thanks totwo local sponsors: Merrietta Fong,Fong & Associates CPAs’ Principal andKim Defenderfer, SVP and RegionalManager of California United Bank’sSouth Bay Office. The CEO Forum theysponsor is an educational seriesdesigned to maximize the educationalvalue to participants.

The two-and-a-half-hour lunchtimeforums include a mixture of valuablecontent from an expert speaker, fol-lowed by interaction with other CEO’s in smaller groups sessions. In thebreakouts, four to six CEO’s brainstormbest practices (or pitfalls to avoid), andconsistently surface highly valuable,real world tested ideas learned onlyfrom their own personal experience.

On February 23rd, forty local businessowners gathered in a conference roomat the Miyako Hotel in Torrance to learnand share best practices for one of theirfavorite topics: Growth. This was thefifth installment in this highly successfulseries. Participants came away with newideas learned from speakers GeorgeHicks (M&A Group) and Leslie Groene(Groene Consultants) and from oneanother.

Among the topics discussed, lessons included:

1. Communication - The importance ofcommunicating a clear company-widegoal for all involved, establishing benchmarks, measuring, communicating,and sharing in the celebration of thecompany’s progress.

2. Leadership - How a leader’s job is tocreate stars, not to be one; how leaders“keep the flame” by consistently model-ing and championing the company’sbeliefs and values.

3. Strategic Acquisitions - (best prac-tices and pitfalls to avoid): Considermore than one target; avoid formingemotional attachments with companies;dig deep into the numbers with healthyskepticism.

Topics at previous Forum sessionshave included Strategic Planning, Sales Management, Management Best Practices and New Social Media.Participants have included owners of a local steel service center, aerospacemanufacturers, box and packaging manufacturers, specialty lighting manufacturers, equipment rental companies, commercial printers, environmental testing companies, andmany more.

The Forums are open to CEOs of oper-ating companies with at least $3MM inannual revenues who want to learn andshare ideas for the benefit of all thoseparticipating.

For more information and dates, contact Merrietta Fong at 310.539.9400or Kim Defenderfer at 310.807.8606.

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 17

MERRIET TA FONG, Principal of Fong &

Associates (left) and KIM DEFENDERFER,SVP and Regional Manager of California

United Bank’s South Bay Office

CEO Forums in the South Bay

E D U C A T I O N

A N E D U C AT ION A L S E R I E S

The two-and-a-half-hour lunchtime forumsinclude a mixture of valuable content from anexpert speaker, followed by interaction withother CEO’s in smaller groups sessions.

18 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

E D U C A T I O N

For years, Raytheon has dedicated resources to creating agreater awareness and appreciation of math among youngpeople. The company understands that in order to inspirestudents, we need to engage them when they are young, support them during critical middle school years and contin-ue to build on that support throughout their academic lives.

Raytheon’s many-tiered MathMovesU® program utilizes ahost of engaging learning programs, including MathMovesU’sinteractive website (MathMovesU.com), scholarships, sponsorships and events to help students from middle schoolthrough college remain interested in math and science and,by extension, ensure the continued strength of the Americanwork force.

Raytheon annually awards more than $2 million inMathMovesU scholarships and grants to recognize students,their teachers and schools for mathematical achievement andadvancement. Scholarships of $1,000 are awarded to winningmiddle school students who have the option to attend mathand science summer camps and programs across the country,or save the money for college. Raytheon will also donate a$1,000 matching grant to each winning student’s middleschool to help further encourage math, science, technologyand engineering education and careers. Math teachers andvolunteers who work with students are eligible to receive a$2,500 Math Hero award for their part in improving matheducation. A matching grant of $2,500 is also awarded totheir local school or an approved math-related nonprofitorganization of their choice.

Raytheon – A Community Partner with Programs,Resources, and A Desire to Make A Difference!

In conjunction with Raytheon’s commitment to science,technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education,the company, through the Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce, adopted Madrona Middle School in December2011. Raytheon donated $5,000 and 100 computers to promote STEM education and the company’s MathMovesUprogram with the students. “Not all cities in our region haveprograms like this, so it is special for Raytheon to participatein the Adopt-A-School program in Torrance,” said RaytheonSpace and Airborne Systems Vice President of Communicationsand Public Affairs Trudy Sullivan. “It is also special for us tospark a passion for math and science with these studentsand provide them with tools like computers to bring it alltogether.”

Raytheon’s Adopt-A-School effort at Madrona has provided an opportunity for the company’s employees toteach students that math and science are exciting throughMathMovesU Days with hands-on demonstrations and lessons. Employees from Raytheon have volunteered theirtime to speak with students at the middle school’s annualcareer day, and Raytheon hosted a Pi Day activity with thehelp of the Los Angeles Kings® and Pizza Hut® at the school in March.

The company plans to continue its partnership withMadrona through additional financial support and promotionof STEM education at the school, and works with many localschools through its MathMovesU program.

Raytheon hosts Pi Day activities at Madrona Middle School with the help of the Los Angeles Kings and Pizza Hut, March 14, 2012.

MULTIPLAYER GAMES,MEET MULTIVARIABLE ANALYSIS.

Raytheon’s MathMovesU® program shows how math plays a role in all sorts of activities — from video games to music to skateboarding. Through unique resources — including a

virtual thrill ride, interactive games, websites, mentor programs, national competitions, scholarships and more — young

adults are seeing math and science in an inspiring new light.

© 2012 Raytheon Company. All rights reserved. ”MathMovesU” is a registered trademark of Raytheon Company.

MathMovesU®

Follow Raytheon on:

www.MathMovesU.com

20 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

E D U C A T I O N

10 Tips for Using Social Mediato Grow Your Business

Wouldn’t it be great if you could build brand awareness, getmore customers and make more sales—all without spendingany money? Well, you can—by using social media tools.You’ve probably heard lots of buzz about LinkedIn, Facebookand Twitter–the three social media tools that are most popularfor business. Try these tips to get started using them:

1 Begin by playing around. Get a feel for what each site hasto offer. LinkedIn is business-focused, so it’s a good tool

for B-to-B companies. Facebook, more “fun” oriented, worksbest for products that have the capacity to develop fanaticalfans. And Twitter can help any type ofbusiness build a reputation, attract customers and make connections.

2 Raise your profile on LinkedIn.LinkedIn Answers lets users ask

questions that anyone on the site cananswer. Respond to questions relevantto your industry, and gain a reputationas an expert. (Make sure your answersare useful, and not a hard sell of yourown services or you’ll gain a badreputation.)

3 Join a LinkedIn Group, or startyour own. Participating in a Group related to your

industry is a great way to become known as an expert, make new connections and get to know people who can help grow your business.

4 Create a Facebook Fan Page. A business’s Facebook page is different than an individual’s. Create a Fan

Page where Facebook members can become “Fans” of your company. Keep it fresh by posting regular updates about your business, including photos, videos and links.

5 Think Twitter quality, not quantity. Twitter users postmessages (“Tweets”) up to 140 characters. When you

“follow” someone, you receive their Tweets. Forwarding other people’s Tweets is called “reTweeting.” Get started with Twitter by importing your e-mail contacts and followingthem. From those people, you’ll find new people to follow and weed out those you’re not interested in. Aim for a narrowniche rather than volume. It’s better to have 200 followerswho passionately care about your business than 200,000 who don’t.

6Use tools to manage Twitter. The sheer volume of Tweetscan be overwhelming. At http://twitter.com/downloads,

you’ll find lots of free applications you can use to organizethem. (I use TweetDeck.)

7 Benefit from blogs. Blogs are also social media tools—and perhaps the most influential. You can start a blog on

your Web site (WordPress software is a simple way to start). Ifthat’s too time-consuming, get mentioned on someone else’sblog instead. Read top blogs in your industry, and commenton their posts when relevant. Bloggers are hungry for topics,

so update them on newsworthy eventsat your company.

8 Put in time. Social media toolsare free, but they do require an

investment of time. Plan to devote oneto two hours a day to social media. Ifyou don’t have time, appoint someoneon your staff to do it—a twenty some-thing would love this job.

9 Find your favorite. As time goesby, you’ll get a feel for which

social media tool is most effective. Butdon’t rely on your gut; regularly meas-

ure how many Facebook fans you have, how many blog men-tions you’ve gotten, how many customers your Tweets bringinto your store, and how many clients you’ve landed fromLinkedIn. Focus on the tools with the biggest payoff.

10Publicize it. Your Web site, business cards and othermarketing materials should tell people how to follow

you on Twitter, fan you on Facebook or find your blog. Includethese links in your e-mail signature as well.

Article courtesy of the El Camino College Small BusinessDevelopment Center (SBDC). The SBDC offers no cost busi-ness advising/consulting for business owners.

Visit www.southbaysbdc.org for more information. Writtenby Rieva Lesonsky, CEO of GrowBiz Media (www.growbiz-media.com), a content and consulting company that helpsentrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Follow her on Twitter@Rieva.

E D U C A T I O N

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 21

A Letter to Our CommunityFROM UEI PRESIDENT JOSEPH A. BARTOLOME

UEI College has been serving students for over 25 years provid-ing training and support in short-term diploma programs forsome of the fastest growing career fields. With 16 campusesnation-wide, we prepare students for employment by providingindustry-validated education and training within a positive, supportive, and caring environment.

UEI believes in who you are. We believe that each of our students has talent and the potential for learning how to bestuse it, professionally and personally. We appreciate the distinctstrengths of every individual, while embracing the advantages ofdiversity within our community. Helping students learn and growtoward the career that’s right for them is our goal. Every studentis mentored and assisted in determining a career path that is the right match for their skills, interests, and career goals. Ourstudents are able to gain a competitive advantage throughunderstanding theory that is reinforced with practical applicationdaily.

UEI understands what you need to learn. Our programs arereviewed and examined each year by industry professionals andsubject matter experts. Their feedback helps ensure our studentsare prepared to meet employer demands upon graduating.In addition, our Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, Pharmacy

Technician, Medical Billing and Insurance Coding, BusinessOffice Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer SystemsTechnician, and Automotive Technician programs are taught by the industry’s leading professionals. We provide efficient,practical, individualized instruction that empowers each of ourstudents to put their abilities to work in their lives.

UEI College in Gardena has been serving the South LosAngeles and South Bay communities since January 2011. The culture created at UEI College is unparalleled and stems fromour talented faculty, staff, and the growing thirst our studentshave for growth and change. Our focus on developing our students to be proficient, professional, resilient, and self-suffi-cient helps assure that our students graduate with a new senseof empowerment and confidence. At UEI, student success is oursuccess.

UEI College - Gardena is proud to be a member of theTorrance Chamber of Commerce and we look forward to makinga positive contribution to the community.

For more information about our campuses or programs, go to www.uei.edu or call 888.202.2485.

South Bay Yellow Cab and MagruderMiddle School are looking forward to

a new partnership through the TorranceArea Chamber of Commerce Adopt-A-School program.

Magruder recently underwent a majorcampus renovation. Throughout the campus, classrooms were overhauled,old portable classrooms were removed,and new modular classes were placed. Inaddition, a new covered student walkwayand covered lunch patio were added forthe students. With the hustle and bustleof construction nearing an end, the staffand students are looking forward to apartnership with Yellow Cab. As partners,we hope to build positive connectionsbetween the students and the communi-ty, a growing network of resources, andan opportunity fora local business toinvest in our youth. South Bay Yellow Caband Magruder are confident that throughregular interaction, students will interactwith positive role models, developenhanced motivation toward college andcareer goals, and develop a symbioticrelationship.

22 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

The Science of Awakening Curiosity and Inspiring Wonder

For 12-year-old Charlie, one of our newest scientists, it’s snailslime. Yes, you read that right. The slime produced by snails.Charlie just couldn’t stop thinking about it. Three weeks intoclass and dressed in his white lab coat, Charlie was so fasci-nated by what he was learning that he approached histeacher and asked if he could do some of his own research.The answer was a resounding yes. And, we got our first affir-mation that the foundations of our program were working.

See, in an inquiry-based approach to learning, the environ-ment supports students to come up with their own questions.The teacher’s job is to provide ways in which they can answerthose questions. It’s not a classroom where questions areasked and questions are answered. It’s a classroom wherestudents are so engaged in the question that their minds lit-erally open to allow them to propose their own theories. Thisinspires students to use the Scientific Method to design waysin which they can test their theories.

BY GARY STOKOE, EXPERIUM SCIENCE ACADEMY

What are you curious about? What captures your sense of wonder and discovery?

E D U C A T I O N

One way our teachers facilitate this experience is by start-ing class with an experiment—something short, with a quickresult. Then, the teacher engages the students in a series ofquestions to understand what is going on, but never with theintention of providing the answer to the students. When kidsare engaged and asking questions, we’ve opened the mind toreally learning.

In this kind of learning environment, the classroombecomes just the beginning of the discovery process. It’s the place where we peak their curiosity. The real discoveryhappens when the student goes home and continues think-ing about the problem. The student may even return the following week with some possible theories or answers to the questions.

At this point, it’s much bigger than teaching students aseries of required information. It’s empowering students to

take responsibility for their own learningthrough questioning: a process that cango on for hours, weeks, even years afterclass is over.

I have no idea what Charlie will bewhen he grows up. Probably not a snailslime specialist. But, I can say this with certainty: he will know how tothink, he’ll have the confidence to askquestions, and he’ll have a sense of curiosity and wonder that will keep himactively engaged in whatever he choosesto pursue.

Gary Stokoe is the Chairman ofExperium Science Academy and theowner of Rolling Hills Country DaySchool.

Inspired to awaken your child’s sense of discovery and wonder? Visitwww.experiumscienceacademy.com or call (310) 543-3100.

More than 5 million Americans havebeen diagnosed with congestive heartfailure (CHF), a conditioncaused by a weakeningheart, but one that oftencan be managed withmedication, diet,exercise and follow-up with your doctor.

Providence LittleCompany of MaryMedical CenterTorrance offers anon-going course that meets monthlyto teach those with CHFto manage their signs and symptoms. Each month a physician,pharmacologist, dietitian and the hospital’s CHF nurse navigator, MurielSchonbachler, speak with participantsabout the importance of following recommendations.

“There is a huge population of people with CHF – it is growing insteadof shrinking largely because of poordietary habits including increased consumption of processed foods and less consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, and lack of regularexercise,” Schonbachler said.

CHF does not mean the heart hasfailed. The condition most often occurswhen the heart is weakened and can-not pump enough blood. The most

common causes include previous heartattack, uncontrolled blood pressure

and contributing factorssuch as diabetes,

obesity and highcholesterol.

Symptomsinclude lung congestion, water reten-

tion, fatigue, difficulty breath-

ing, coughing andinexplicable sudden

weight gain – threepounds a day or five

pounds in a week.

Typical treatment involves a series ofmedications that work together toimprove the heart’s capacity to pumpblood. But education is critical to man-age CHF. Patients who do not use theirmedications according to instructionsor who ignore recommended dietaryrestrictions too often must be hospital-ized, said Gene Kim, M.D., a board-cer-tified cardiologist who often partici-pates in the program.

The hospital’s monthly program focuses on early recognition of symptoms, tips from a hospital dieti-tian on how to season food to bringout flavor while avoiding salt, and apharmacologist provides expertise inmedications and reminds patients tofollow instructions; and always lettingdoctors know if symptoms develop.

“Education is important not just for

the patients, but for their significant

others, their family and caretakers,”

Dr. Kim said. “If the family dynamic

doesn’t change – if they don’t pay

attention to what they eat and if they

don’t exercise, that can be difficult for

the patients. That’s when you see

symptoms develop and patients have

to be readmitted to the hospital.”

For information about this course,call (888) HEALING (432-5464) orvisit www.providenceclasses.org.

E D U C A T I O N

Controlling Congestive Heart Failure,Through Education

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 23

Education is important not just for the patients, but for their significant others,

their family and caretakers

Adopt-A-School Partnership Activities

T A C C A D O P T - A - S C H O O L

B E N E F ITT I NG TO RRA NCE U N I F I E D SCHOOL DI STR ICT

Investing in a Better TomorrowThis year marks the 30th Anniversary of the Adopt-A-School program, a partnership between TUSD schools, the private sector, and TACC. It is a cooperative program to stimulate business, industry and government involvement in support of our District. The program focuses on relationships; not the soliciting of financial contributions. For more information or participation, contact Donna Duperron, (310) 540-5858.

24 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

Anza-Pelican: These beautifully decoratedpumpkins were auctioned raising money foran art program for children on skid row.

Arlington-Miyako Hybrid Hotel: MiyakoHybrid Hotel and Panasonic provided studentswith the program “Energy creation and EnergyStorage to Change our Future,” focusing onclean energy sources, solar, and rechargeable.

Bert Lynn-Continental Development Corp:LeRoy Jackson, Principal, celebrates a contri-bution from CDC President Richard Lundquistand Community Affairs Director SherryKramer (also, TACC Foundation Chair).

Calle Mayor-Torrance Memorial: Adventuresin Art is a PTSA-sponsored program, providingart experiences for students. The students’artwork hangs prominently in the 3rd floorlobby, outside of the Mother-Baby unit.

Edison-HealthCare Partners: The picture theEdison kids are holding currently hangs onthe pediatric side of HealthCare Partners.This solid partnership has already shared inFamily Fun Night, flu clinic, canned food driveand Food Truck Night.

Jefferson-Outback Steakhouse: Born in2009, this partnership evolved in 2011 into aPartnership of the Year recipient.

Lincoln-Providence Little Company of Mary:Lincoln celebrated the Grand Reopening oftheir newly renovated school library thanks toa generous donation by partner, ProvidenceLittle Company of Mary Medical Center.

Sherry- Strategic Technology: Box lunchesbeing delivered to Sherry High School onbehalf of Strategic Technology.

Towers- Kaiser Permanente: More than 550students brought cheer to patients by creating get well holiday cards.

The mission and goal of school districts nationwide is to educate and foster academic excellence in the hope to shapethe next generation of leaders. Over the past four years, theeducation community has lost thousands of teachers and support staff, and has been forced to eliminate essential programs that provide students with leadership opportunities.Yet, through the economic turmoil, TUSD has managed to fulfillthis mission year after year, but with fewer and fewer dollars.

Part of preparing students for careers in engineer-ing, the health field, business, entrepreneurship, ormanufacturing, is creating opportunities for themto see first hand what those careers look like,and hearing from current leaders in those indus-tries. Recently, engineers from General Motorsvisited Victor Elementary School’s GATE program.The engineers fully engaged students while pre-senting an activity to them in which they learnedabout fuel cells. The experiment demonstrated the ele-ments that go into developing an electric vehicle. Studentswalked away from this exercise having a better conceptualidea of electrical vehicles beyond the basic understanding.These future drivers will hopefully pave the path for theincreased use of these types of cars, eventually allowing usto move away from a dependency on gas powered vehicles.

For over 17 years, middle school students in the Districthave participated in a Middle School Leadership Conference.This year’s revamped program, dubbed, iLead, will give students the chance to develop and hone leadership skillsover five days. Activities will include setting academic goals,going to visit their future high school, and visiting Cal StateDominguez Hills. iLead is a perfect example of the resource-

FROM TORRANCE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Superintendent’s Spring Message…F RO M TH E OF F ICE OF DR. G EO RG E M A N NON

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 25

Adopt-A-School Partnerships

fulness and insight of our administratorsin looking for ways to create growthopportunities for our students.

For the past four years, the District’shigh school students have participated inthe Junior Leadership Program, spon-sored by Sunrider International and the

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce.Through the program, students are introduced to

different facets of their community, learning aboutits rich history, current government structure, and visiting companies and organizations likeRobinson Helicopter, the Miyako Hybrid Hotel,and the Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

Students are required to do a community projectthat benefits their city. These have included every-

thing from a 5K marathon, to a talent show to raisemoney for Counseling for Kids, to tutoring elementary school students. The Junior Leadership Program providesstudents a platform for beyond classroom learning whichbroadens their scope of understanding in a variety of industries.

All of these opportunities are possible because of a keycomponent – partnerships. Our partnership with the TorranceArea Chamber of Commerce provides our students withaccess to the world beyond the classroom which is essentialin a global society.

For more information on Torrance Unified, please visitwww.TUSD.org.

DR. GEORGE MANNONTorrance Unified School

District Superintendent

John Adams Elementary . . . First California Bank

Anza Elementary . . . . . . . . . Pelican Products

Arlington Elementary . . . . . . Miyako Hybrid Hotel

Carr Elementary . . . . . . . . . . Mulligan Family Fun Center

Edison Elementary . . . . . . . . Healthcare Partners

Fern Elementary . . . . . . . . . . Healthcare Partners

Hickory Elementary . . . . . . . Farmers and Merchants Bank

Lincoln Elementary . . . . . . . Providence Little Company of Mary

Riviera Elementary . . . . . . . . Torrance Marriott

Seaside Elementary . . . . . . . DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Torrance Elementary . . . . . . Frank Scotto Towing

Towers Elementary . . . . . . . Kaiser Permanente

Victor Elementary . . . . . . . . Daily Breeze and Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt

Walteria Elementary . . . . . . Capital Source Bank

Wood Elementary . . . . . . . . Alcoa Fastening Systems

Yukon Elementary . . . . . . . . . . Lucky Strike

Calle Mayor Middle School . . . Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Casimir Middle School . . . . . . Northrop Grumman

Hull Middle School . . . . . . . . . Moog

Jefferson Middle School . . . . . Outback Steakhouse

Lynn Middle School . . . . . . . . . Continental Development Corporation

Madrona Middle School . . . . . Raytheon

Magruder Middle School . . . . Honeywell Corporation

Richardson Middle School . . . Honeywell Transportation Systems

North High School . . . . . . . . . . Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.

Shery High School . . . . . . . . . . Strategic Technology Sources, Inc.

South High School . . . . . . . . . . Virco Manufacturing

Torrance High School . . . . . . . . Sunrider International

West High School . . . . . . . . . . . American Honda Motor Co., Inc

Look around your home oroffice…do you see any clutter of “stuff”

that has been sitting there for a while? Doyou ever feel like “if I put it away now, I might

not be able to find it later…I might forget where Iput it…I might lose my stuff…?” These behaviors are

very common among victims of hoarding disorder.

Hoarding, an obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), compels victims to exhibit a tendency to acquire large

assortment of items. These victims are often unable orunwilling to discard many of these collected items, such asnewspapers, food, animals, trash/waste, and clothing.According to the Los Angeles County Department of MentalHealth, hoarding is recognized as a mental and public healthproblem. Experts on this topic suggest, the cause of hoardingbehaviors are often deeply rooted as responses or defensemechanisms against stressful life events, lack of love or fearof forgetting or losing items. While this disorder can affectindividuals of all ages, it is especially prevalent among theelderly.

Does anyone you know seem to display these behaviors? Can you recallcolleagues, peers, families or friendswho feel that it’s extremely difficult to find things in their home or office?Do their behaviors affect their health,personal hygiene and their relation-ships with others? Hoarding does notonly affect mental and physical well-ness of the individual, but also theirfriends, families, neighbors and thecommunity. Severe cases can causesafety and health hazards, and exces-sive collection of items may be deemedfire hazards. When animal hoarding isinvolved, disease and illness are serious possibilities.

This is why the City of Torrance ishere to help. The # 1 priority of theTorrance Fire Department is to assistresidents in developing a balanced

F R O M T H E C I T Y O F T O R R A N C E

26 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

If you are interested in learning more about hoarding, don’t hesitate to contact:

lifestyle, and to create a safe and healthy environment forbusinesses and the community.

Our core responsibility is to reduce harm and restore organization. To access assistance for yourself or others inaddressing hoarding disorder, keep these things in mind:

� There is a difference between needs and wants.

� Remember: you are only getting rid of clutter. Discardingitems you don’t need does not erase or alter the past or yourmemories in any shape or form.

� Reach out to let the City of Torrance help you!

Hoarding is not an overnight occurrence, thus, hastening or drastic intervention is not the optimal solution. Thoroughassessments of individual cases are essential, individualswho are hoarders or display hoarding behaviors are stronglyencouraged to seek help.

Clutterers Anonymous (310) 281-6064, composed of free, weekly, 12-step support group program, for individuals who wantto eliminate their clutter and establish order in their lives.

City of Torrance Fire Department (310) 618-2973, which partners with other departments and agencies to help individualsand their families, deal with issues and problems related to hoarding.

Hoarding

In the spirit of the Torrance Centennial, it is with great honor to recognize WalterCrenshaw, a 102 year old resident ofTorrance and documented originalTuskegee Airman. Last month, this centenarian was honored with “SpecialRecognition” at the Torrance Chamber ofCommerce 15th Annual Black Historyand Cultural Diversity event for his

historical contributions.

Walter Crenshaw was born in Greenville, Alabama in1909. He matriculated through Birmingham Schools, grad-uating from Industrial High School in 1927. He attendedTuskegee University and Alabama State College. During hisseasonal residency in Harlem and Atlantic City in the 1930s,he became an avid music collector and appreciator whenJazz was just emerging as a true American art form. He is awalking musicologist with a razor sharp memory.

He was inducted into the United States Army Air Corps in1942 attaining the rank of Sergeant. A documented originalTuskegee Airman, Walter was the administrative assistantto the Provost Marshall during the initial Cadet training forthe 99th Pursuit Squadron and 332nd Fighter’s Squadron.In 2008, he attended the Grand Opening celebration for theNational Historic Site of the National Museum of TuskegeeAirmen at the age of 99, in which his information was dulysubmitted for display.

Walter was an Honoree at The Harriett Tubman LivingLegend Awards in 2008 at Hollywood Park Casino &Convention Center. Most recently he was featured andinterviewed at the California African American Museum inLos Angeles. His profile is a part of the currently runningexhibit “Tuskegee Airmen, Men in Flight”.

He has completed over ten photo albums documentingthe genealogy and history of the Crenshaw Family. He is theproud father of five children, six grandchildren, and fourgreat grandchildren. Walter shares this advice “Alwaysremember to take a vacation.”

He is a true inspiration and an example of how to live agood life!

For more information on theCentennial and upcoming events,visit www.torrancecentennial.org.

FROM THE TORRANCE CENTENNIAL COMMIT TEE

Walter CrenshawHonoree, Living Legend, Tuskegee Airman

WALTER CRENSHAW

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 27

t 310.539.2235

R I B B O N C U T T I N G S

Let the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Celebrate with You!For details and to schedule a ribbon cutting, grand opening or ground breaking ceremony, please contact

Kelly Hernandez at 310-792-3808 at the Chamber no later than one month prior to the event and provide two preferred dates.

28 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

Bassett Home Furnishings22850 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90505Tel (310)378-4001 Fax (310)378-4750www.bassettfurniture.com

Chick-fil-A of South Bay18200 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance CA 90504

Tel (310)371-7320 Fax (310)371-7380 www.chick-fil-a.com

�

Experium Science Academy21605 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 200 C, Torrance CA 90503

Tel (310)543-3100 Fax(310)377-9651 www.experiumscienceacademy.com

�

Kelly Services21250 Hawthorne Blvd. #750 Torrance CA 90503

Tel (310)543-3589 Fax (310)316-6145 www.KellyServices.com

��

Eddie’s Barber Shop - Craig Kovar2455 Sepulveda Blvd. Torrance CA 90501Tel (310)533-9474www.eddiesbs.com

�

Incredible Eye Care2551 Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance CA 90505Tel (310)326-2881 Fax (310)326- 5242www.IncredibleEyeCare.com

�

Warehouse Discount Center20901 Hawthorne Blvd. Torrance, CA 90503Tel (310) 802-6380www.wdcappliances.com

�

C H A M B E R H I G H L I G H T S

The Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce Foundation Mentor Program,in partnership with Toyota FinancialServices has launched a sixth-yearMentor Program at North High School.

The Mentor Program matches 35Chamber members with 35 students atNorth Torrance High School. The mentorsand students meet throughout the yearto have discussions, hear speakers and work in small groups. The mentorrelationship is built on mutual respectand continues throughout the student’sacademic career in an effort to helpthese young individuals identify anddevelop action plans to achieve theirfuture goals.

“The North High School MentorProgram sponsored by the Torrance AreaChamber of Commerce is a very uniquecommunity service project. I have beena Mentor member for the first two ses-sions spanning the past 5-6 years. Myobjective has been to assist with guid-ing and motivating a high school stu-dent by developing a road map for hiseducation and post high school career.In return, I receive valuable insights intothe interest and concerns of today’s 15,16, and 17 year olds. I have 17 grandchil-dren and several fall into this same agegroup. Consequently, I often wonderwho is helping whom the most? This

program has been very rewarding for meby interfacing with bright high schoolstudents who are seeking perspectivesfrom someone other then their parentsor teachers. This Mentor program doesthat,” commented Bob Kelchner, long-time Torrance Area Chamber member.

Through this program a wonderfulopportunity is presented to each student throughout the year. Their partnerships allow the students to getinvolved with and be exposed to a variety of successful business leadersfrom their own community, with thechance to analyze the skills needed tosucceed in each particular profession;along with the ability to see how eachlesson they learn on a daily basis willhelp them decide and later master theirfuture careers. This program benefitsmore than the students; it benefits thementors as well. It gives way for tremen-dous satisfaction knowing that theyhave been given the opportunity toinpart into a young life with the hopes of guiding them to a more promisingfuture.

“The mentor program has given me anopportunity to give back to our com-munity through our youth. It has meanta lot to me to be a part of my mentee’simportant high school years, throughsharing my experiences and giving

guidance,” explained HeidiCunningham, BranchManager, Kelly Services.

“The North High SchoolMentorship program meansI have a unique opportunityto give back to my commu-nity by providing guidanceand support to a studentwho may benefit from mylife experiences. I am deeplygrateful for the chance to bea mentor. I enjoy volunteer-ing at North High School asa mentor because I believein giving back to a community

which has supported me throughout my life and provided me with rich andextensive opportunities. By enrichingjust one person’s life, I believe I canhelp change the community and theworld for the better. Thank you TorranceArea Chamber of Commerce, ToyotaFinancial Services, and North HighSchool for the privilege to be a mentor,”stated Dana Vinke, Principal Librarian ofOperations, Torrance Public Library.

The Torrance Area Chamber ofCommerce Foundation Mentor Program

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 29

Students were provided with the opportunity

to show their mentors what their school

campus is like today.

C H A M B E R E V E N T S

30 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

The TACC and Greater LosAngeles African AmericanChamber of Commercejoined together for the15th Annual Black Historyand Cultural Diversity celebration at TorranceMarriott on Friday,February 17th. This eventraises awareness ofAfrican American achieve-

ments, honors leaders of the past andpresent whose contributions inspire,and encourages the leaders of tomor-row. Torrance Chamber Chairman of the Board, Tara O’Brien and Clifton L.Johnson, Committee ChairmanEmeritus provided opening and welcoming remarks followed by theinvocation by Pastor James McKnight.Honorary guest Walter Crenshaw ledthe pledge of allegiance and CSUDominguez Hills students RebeccaMuli and Gisselle Ruiz sang the national anthem. Guests were enter-tained by the CSUDH Jazz EnsembleBand under the leadership Dr. StephenMoore. Attendees were invited beforethe luncheon program to enjoy aCultural Walkway exhibition of special-ty vendors, featuring Buffalo Soldierswho have shared their history andmemorabilia each and every year.

Master of ceremonies Jim Hill – CBSSports Anchor & Director and 2009Black History Professional Spirit Awardrecipient facilitated in recognizing thisyear’s honorees. The seven prominenthonorees represented diverse back-grounds including national, regional,and local heroes. Humanitarian Awardrecipients were Chester Pitts, TorrancePolice Officer and Martin Serna,Torrance Assistant Fire Chief honoredfor their long-standing commitment toexcellence in this local community.Professional Spirit Awards were pre-sented to Keyshawn Johnson-USC, NFL

Champion and Lisa Leslie- GoldMedalist & WNBA for their leadershipand contributions in professionalsports. Christopher Reynolds- ToyotaMotor Sales received DistinguishedCorporate Leadership Award for histrailblazing leadership in the automo-tive business industry. SpecialRecognition awards were given toRichard T. Jones-Actor for his success-ful career, and to Walter Crenshaw- 102year old Tuskegee Airman (the firstblack pilots to serve in the military)honored for his historical contributionsand living legacy.

City of Torrance Mayor Frank Scotto,Council members Susan Rhilinger andBill Sutherland, City Treasurer DanaCortez, Chief of Torrance Police JohnNeu, and Chief of Torrance Fire WilliamRocowschi were among the many attendees supporting this year’s celebration as it served as an officialCity of Torrance Centennial event. Alsoin support of the honorees were representatives Michael Aguilera ofCongresswoman Janice Hahn’s office,Robert Pullen-Myles of Senator TedLieu’s office, Michelle Chambers ofAssembly member Betsy Butler’soffice, and Steve Napolitano ofSupervisor Don Knabe’s office.

This time honored tradition of beingthe premier Black History Celebrationthroughout Southern California wasmade possible by Premier SponsorToyota Motor Sales, Inc., and sponsor-ship from American Honda Motor Co.,Inc., Kinecta Federal Credit Union,Providence Little Company of MaryMedical Center, Torrance MarriottSouth Bay, Daily Breeze, Mattel, UnionBank, Staples Copy & Print Center,Exxon Mobil Corporation, Moog, Inc.and Alcoa Fastening Systems. A specialthanks to the 2012 Committee, TorranceChamber Ambassadors, the Young

Black Educated Club from NorthTorrance High School, staff and volunteers whose collaborated efforts yielded another triumphantevent.

BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION1. Honoree Lisa Leslie is welcomed by

Steve Barrett of New York Life.

2. Honoree Christopher Reynolds is

congratulated by Torrance Mayor Frank

Scotto (far right) and staff members from

legislator’s offices.

3. Students from the Young, Black and

Education Club at North High School

volunteered at the event.

JIM HILLCBS Sports Anchor

& Director

The 15th Annual Black History and Cultural Diversity Celebration

C H A M B E R E V E N T S

Chamber Ushers in the “Year of the Dragon”

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 31

On January 19th the Torrance AreaChamber of Commerceushered in the “Year

of the Dragon” atSunrider International.

This lunar New Year celebration high-lighted the importance of culturalbusiness in the city of Torrance andwas considered one of the officialTorrance Centennial events. This andother diversity events of the Chamber,were originally created by a CulturalInvolvement Task Force Committee 15years ago, Alma Tajima, Richard Tsao,Darlene Faunce and Cindy Chu wererecognized for their active participa-tion. The 2012 committee includedPaul McCabe, Heather Iwakuni,Richard Tsao, Alex See, Dr. Nhat Tran,and Shirley Ho, who also performedthe Chinese New Year song.

Other entertainment featured Amy Cheng performing the pipainstrument, Vietnamese Tet FestivalDancers, and Traditional Lion Danceby Star Lion Dance Troup. Ms.Chinatown Queen Shirley Zhanggraced us with her presence and students from Torrance High SchoolChinese Club practiced salutations asthey assisted with the event. Guestsenjoyed Chen Art Gallery Tours andluncheon catered by China Tea HouseSeafood Restaurant as well asSunrider’s very own herbal teas.

DRAGON CIRCLE HONOREES & SPONSORS:

1. Honorees Mr. Lin and Dr. Mar are accom-

panied by Steve Napolitano, representing

Sup. Don Knabe, TACC Chair Tara O’Brien,

and Torrance Councilman Tom Brewer

2. Event sponsors included Daily Breeze,

Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance,

Seville Classics, Sunrider International,

Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Toyota

Motor Sales USA, Inc., and Tran Medical

4. Richard T. Jones is presented with a

Special Recognition Award.

5. Martin Serna, Torrance Fire Department,

was presented with the Humanitarian

Award.

6. Chester Pitts, Torrance Police

Department, was presented with the

Humanitarian Award.

7. Keyshawn Johnson was presented with

the Professional Spirit Award.

TORRANCE Magazine’s July Issue will focus on—

Business ShakersShow your leadership!

Visit www.Torrance-Magazine.com

TORRANCE Magazine’s July Issue will focus on—

Business ShakersShow your leadership!

Visit www.Torrance-Magazine.com

N E W S B R I E F S

U P C O M I N G E V E N T S

32 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

LUNCH WITH OUR LEADERSupervisor Don Knabe Wednesday, May 2, 2012 Doubletree Hotel by Hilton Torrance South Bay 11:30 Registration12:00 Lunch Program $35 per person/$350 per lunch For Reservations: 310-543-3113

MEDAL OF VALOR Recognition Awards for South Bay Police Officers and FirefightersThursday, May 10, 2012 Torrance Marriott South Bay -3635 Fashion Way, Torrance 11:00 No Host Cocktails 12:00 Lunch Program $35 per person/$350 per tablewww.redondochamber.org/chamber Mail checks to: South Bay Medal of Valor Committee c/o Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce200 N. Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach, CA 90277

STATE of the CITY Mayoral Address to the Community Thursday, May 24, 2012 Torrance Marriott South Bay3635 Fashion Way, Torrance 11:30am Registration 12:00pm Luncheon & Program To Reserve: 310-543-3113 or www.torrancechamber.com/events

STATE of EDUCATIONA special address by TUSD Superintendent Dr. George MannonFriday, June 1, 2012 DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance South Bay21333 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance $35 per person / $350 per table 11:30am Registration – 12:00pm Lunch Program For Sponsorship information call Donna Duperron 310-540-6688

Upcoming TACC and Community Events

For more details: Call 310-540-5858 or visit www.torrancechamber.com

Jacqueline “Jacky” Glass has received the 2011 MotherJoseph Award from the Sisters of Providence, markingonly the second time that this distinguished honor hasbeen bestowed upon a special individual in California. As a volunteer, board of trustees member and communityambassador for Providence TrinityCare Hospice, Jacky islovingly called “Hospice Angel” in recognition of the work she has done to ease the way of patients and families in the most challenging times of their lives for the last quarter century.

JACKY GLASS HONORED1. Jacky Glass (center) surrounded by the Sisters of Providence

and the Sisters of Little Company of Mary

2. Jacky Glass surrounded by the people of Providence

(from left) Michael Hunn, Sister Terrence Landini, Terri Warren,

Jacky Glass, Scott Sharpe, Sister Colleen Settles, Liz Dunne,

Barbara Roberts

Providence TrinityCare

HOSPICE ANGEL

N E W S B R I E F S

Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation’s successful 10thWomen’s Wellness Conference – The Power of Pink presented byHonda inspired a generous gift from Ralphs as part of their “GivingHope a Hand” campaign. Funds raised by the annual cause-market-ing campaign assist dozens of local organizations fighting breastcancer in communities across the country. All funds are spent in thecommunities where Ralphs customers and associates live and work.Local Ralphs leadership presented the gift at the Providence LittleCompany of Mary Women’s Imaging Center in Torrance.

Continuing their commitment to the communities they serve,Ralphs is a platinum sponsor for Providence LCM Foundation’supcoming Sellabration Gala presented by Honda on Saturday,November 3, 2012. Experience the warmth of the waterfront at TheRitz-Carlton, Marina Del Rey. Enjoy hosted cocktails, silent and liveauctions, dinner and entertainment. Sellabration Gala supportsProvidence LCM charitable care and community outreach programs.

For information and sponsorship opportunities, contact LeslieChung in the Foundation at 310-303-5346 or leslie.chung2@provi-dence.org, or visit www.plcmfoundation.org.

Providence Little Company of Mary Benefits from Ralphs Generosity

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 33

From left: Providence LCM Director of Specialty Services Mary

Ann Green; Director of Breast Imaging Michael Stein, M.D.; Ralphs

Community Relations Coordinator Tania Maya; Torrance Ralphs

Director (store #262) Maricela Alvarado, and Providence LCM

Foundation Trustees Linda Wenglikowski and Shelley Joyce.

Landi Renzo USA is pleased to announceit has received the California AirResources Board (CARB) ExecutiveOrder for the 2012 Ford 5.4 liter CNG ESeries passenger and cargo vans. TheExecutive Order is for the dedicated CNGsystem for the Ford Econoline 5.4Lengine product family. The system wasdeveloped in compliance with Ford’s Q-185 requirements. This allows the fullFord Powertrain Warranty to be effectiveon the upfit vehicles. The vans areFMVSS303 Compliant (crash tested) forboth the standard 21 and 27 GasolineGallon Equivalent system and are dis-tributed through local Ford dealerships.

Landi Renzo USA President AndreaLandi: “We are pleased to be the firstcompany to receive the 2012 CNG CARBcertification for the Ford Econoline. Weintend to continue to open the marketfor CNG vehicles here in the US utilizingour global CNG component manufactur-ing and engineering resources. Thisallows us to drive down the high cost of conversions due to our economies of scale and quality manu-facturing processes. Fordhas been a very goodpartner to work with onthis engine platform, andwe will have other FordCNG platforms available inthe near future from LandiRenzo USA.”

The other Ford productsthat will be available earlyin the second quarter2012 from Landi RenzoUSA will be the F250 and F350 6.2 liter

vehicles and the F450, F550, and F6506.8 liter platforms.

Landi Renzo USA was established in Torrance, CA, in 2010 and currentlyowns approximately 40% of the globalmarket share in CNG and LPG conversionsystems. For additional information,call 310.257.9481 or contact them atinfo@landiusa.com.

Landi Renzo USA Receives 2012 CARB CNG Certification for the Ford E Series Vans

ANDREA LANDI- Landi Renzo, USA President

N E W S B R I E F S

34 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

Torrance Memorial Medical Center Celebrates the Midway Point of Completing

A New Patient Tower to Serve the Community Covered with personalized signaturesfrom staff, physicians and donors, thefinal steel beam was set in place on thenew $450 million, 398,350-square-footnew patient tower with a “Topping

Out” ceremony onThursday, Feb. 23,this year. The 270-feet lift and set of the final beam wasadorned with anAmerican flag andEvergreen tree to represent life,

growth, good luck, patriotism, and team work.

The ceremony celebrated the midwaypoint of completion for the state-of-theart and environmentally friendly patientbuilding featuring the latest medicaltechnologies. The seven-level patienttower will house 256 private rooms, 18 surgical and interventional treatmentrooms, and family–friendly lounges and overnight spaces. The new towerwhich is scheduled for completion inNovember 2014 and opening in spring2015.

TOPPING OUT CEREMONY1. Craig Leach, president and CEO, Torrance Memorial

Medical Center, Priscilla Hunt, patron, Ralph and Susan

Moore and Brenda Nowatka

2. Donors, Foundation board of directors, medical staff

and construction representatives were invited to sign the

ceremonial steel beam

(LtoR) Jim Beardsley South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club Event Chair, Ruben Barajas,

Executive Director Scott Newman Center,Lawrence Young, South Bay Sunrise Rotary

Club President, Terri Nishimura, Executive Director Pediatric Therapy Network,

Dave Carpenter, Pediatric Therapy Network Community Advisory Board Member

The January South Bay Sunrise Rotarymeeting at Marie Callendar’s in Torranceincluded the presentation of two $2000donations. Pediatric Therapy Network(PTN) in Torrance and Scott NewmanCenter enjoy the proceeds of theSeptember 2011 Rat Beach Bike Tour.

PTN is a non-profit children’s therapycenter founded by therapists and par-ents committed to providing qualityservices for children with special needs.They provide a family-centered atmos-phere, built on a foundation of dignity,respect and integrity.

The Scott Newman Center is dedicat-ed to preventing drug abuse througheducation. It supports the Rowdy RidgeGang Camp, which provides a life-affirming program for families recover-ing from drug addiction or are survivorsof spousal abuse.

Pediatric Therapy Network Receives Proceedsfrom 2011 Rat Beach Bike Tour

Torrance Memorial Medical Center hasjoined the ranks of the top six percent of hospitals in the nation by earning thecoveted Magnet® recognition from theAmerican Nurses Credentialing Center.The Magnet Recognition Program®

recognizes top health care organizationsin the nation for providing nursing excellence.

“We are very proud of our nursingteam and all members of the healthcareteam for the level of care they provide toour community,” stated Peggy Berwald,Senior Vice President, Patient Care/CNO,Torrance Memorial Medical Center. “TheTorrance Memorial team is committedto excellence in every aspect of patientcare. We are truly a Magnet organiza-tion, providing the highest caliber ofcare with extraordinary compassion toour patients and families everyday.”

Torrance Memorial is the first hospitalin the southwest region of Los AngelesCounty to achieve the MagnetRecognition Program® designation andone of 391 hospitals world-wide to be

honored by the ANCC with this recogni-tion. The designation is bestowed toselect hospitals following an intensivereview of documentation, data, and clinical practices, followed by lengthyon-site visits.

Research has shown that patientsbenefit from visiting hospitals that haveachieved Magnet Recognition Program®

status. These hospitals report improvedclinical outcomes, fewer patient falls,fewer medication errors, lower mortalityrates, and higher patient and family satisfaction. Magnet hospitals also tendto have lower nursing turnover and animproved nurse work environment.

“This recognition says a lot about theoutstanding care provided by nursingand ancillary staff of the hospital and isa remarkable achievement,” stated Craig Leach, President/CEO, TorranceMemorial Medical Center. “We continu-ally work to improve patient carethrough specialized training and qualityimprovements. I’m proud of all of ournurses and employees at Torrance

Memorial for working as a team toachieve this standard of excellence.”

The Magnet Recognition Program®

administered by the American NursesCredentialing Center (ANCC), the largestand most prominent nurses credential-ing organization in the world, recognizeshealthcare organizations that providethe very best in nursing care and professionalism in nursing practice. The Magnet Recognition Program®

serves as the gold standard for nursingexcellence and provides consumers withthe ultimate benchmark for measuringquality of care.

For more information about theMagnet Recognition Program® and current statistics, visit www.nurse-credentialing.org/magnet.

N E W S B R I E F S

TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012 35

Torrance Memorial Medical Center Achieves Magnet® Recognition

Hospital Becomes First in Southwest Region of Los Angeles County to Receive Coveted Nursing Designation

Hybrid Glass Light Shaping Diffusers are particular-ly valuable in applications that require higher

temperature tolerance or higher scratch resistancethan polymer based diffusers. Engin Arik, PhD,President & CEO of Luminit commented “These newHybrid Glass diffusers complement our existing line of high and ultra-high temperature/power Glass-on-Glass Light Shaping Diffusers for customers that do not require those very high specifications of temperature, laser power and high UV transmission.As we broaden our customer base, we encounterrequirements for additional or improved products. We are continually working on improving and expand-ing our product lines.”

Luminit AnnouncesNEW HYBRID GLASS Light Shaping Diffusers®

For additional information, go to: www.LuminitCo.com.

DATE: May 17, 2012

TIME: 5:30pm - 8:00pm

LOCATION:Toyota Automobile Museum19600 Van Ness Ave.Torrance, CA 90501

ADMISSION: Pay at Door - $5.00 (Members and Guests)Great business card exchangeopportunities! Access eco-conscious businesses!

Regional ChamberAfter Hours Mixer

Featuring

“Green” Products/Services

Sponsored by:

C H A M B E R B E N E F I T S

GAP (Government Affairs Policy group) GAP is comprised of Chamber members who act as legislativeand regulatory analysts for local business by reviewing bills on local,county, state and federal levels and lobby for support or opposition to proposed legislation.

Green Torrance The City of Torrance and the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce partner to promote and introduce environmental initiatives andeco-friendly companies in the South Bay.

Human Resources ProfessionalsHuman Resources Professionals network and are presented with information on current compliance laws and trends.

Networking at NoonNetworking at Noon is offered monthly at local Chamber member restaurants. This event allows members to promote their business, introduce themselves and their company with a 30 second self introduction and possibly be chosen as a spotlight speaker for a future Networking at Noon.

Political Action Committee (PAC)Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee seeks,endorses and supports candidates to run for public office at the city, county, state and federal levels, whose views represent the business of this region.

P.R.O.F.S. (Professional Roundtable of Financial Services)PROFS is a monthly meeting that gives opportunities to networkwith others in the financial field, as well as expand your education within the industry.

Tech Pros Tech Pros brings together technology related companies and professionals (Hardware, Software and Services) as well as those wanting to be educated in making their business tech savvy. Members grow and benefit through networking, support, education and haveopportunities for group presentations.

What are the benefits of being a member of theTorrance Area Chamber of Commerce?

• Credibility as a Chamber member

• Free Business listings in theMembership Directory/BusinessResource Guide

• Free Business listed in web directoryat www.TorranceChamber.com

• Access group meetings, events andbusiness leaders

• Free editorial submissions inTorrance Magazine ( quarterly)

• Daily office referrals of TACC mem-bers via phone, fax, e-mail or walk invisitors

• Advertising opportunities in theTorrance Magazine, TACC website andMember Directory

• Advertising access to E-mail blasts

• Sponsorship and hosting opportuni-ties at Chamber events

• Opportunity to participate in annualPremier Investors program

• Enhancement of visibility with a rib-bon cutting to commemorate a GrandOpening or Anniversary

• Free SCORE counseling; once a weekand by appointment only

• Free and unlimited Certificate ofOrigins

‘MEMBERS ONLY’ BENEFITS

TORRANCE ARE A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE3400 Torrance Blvd. Sui te 100, Torrance, C A 9050 3

T (310) 540-5858 F (310) 540-7662www.TorranceChamber.com • Info@TorranceChamber.com

36 TO RRA NCE M AG A Z I N E I APR I L 2012

www.torrancememorial.org/

specially when combined with our scenic coastline and dynamic harbor; the light, air and sea combine to provide the perfect ambiance for a remarkable gathering. With three yachts touring the LA and Long Beach harbors, Spirit Cruises is sure to provide the venue and convenience you are looking for. A generous range of packages to choose from, plus our “all-inclusive” pricing ensures your planning is easy and fun!

e invite you to think “out-of-the-box” when planning your next event. Then call Spirit Cruises. Since 1984 we have provided the perfect excursion for many occasions.

sth

ee

3 YACHTS AVAILABLE:

SAILING SHIP SPIRIT90 FOOT 30 - 80 GUESTS

MOTOR YACHT SPIRIT90 FOOT 80 - 150 GUESTS

PACIFIC SPIRIT65 FOOT 20 - 75 GUESTS

(BELOW)

1199 Nagoya Way Berth 77 LA Harbor310-548-8080 � spiritmarine.com

Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce3400 Torrance Blvd., Suite 100Torrance, CA 90503

PRST-STDU.S. Postage

PAIDTorrance, CA

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