Every business in Pasadena was supposed to have recently received a survey and newsletter from the City of Pasadena asking for you input on the revision to the General Plan. Please take the time to fill out the survey and send it in so your voice is heard. You and every one of your employees can take the survey online at: http://www.cityofpasadena.net/GeneralPlan/ or click here to go directly to the survey: http://www.bwresearch.com/survey/s.asp?p=1

AS A RESULT OF PURPORTED TECHNICAL COMPLICATIONS THE DEADLINE TO TAKE THE SURVEY WAS EXTENDED THROUGH JULY 13th. If you haven’t taken the survey yet, please devote 5 minutes to letting your voice be heard.

PASADENA CHAMBER RECOMMENDATION:

The City of Pasadena is in the process of revising its General Plan for land use and mobility. There are four alternatives being proposed at this time. Two of the Alternatives (Alternative A and Alternative D) would severely restrict, or even eliminate, commercial , economic and job growth in Pasadena. These alternatives could also restrict traffic flow and make it more difficult for clients, customers and others to reach your place of business, or find parking when they get there.

Alternative B retains the current growth limits in Pasadena while directing economic activity to the downtown area and our commercial corridors. It encourages development if clean, low-impact and small scale technology-related businesses in areas of East Pasadena and continues to support building housing and commercial office, retail and restaurant projects in downtown. (Under the limits imposed by the current General Plan.) Alternative B also maintains the protection of our single family neighborhoods from the impacts of development, including traffic impacts.

Alternative C reduces economic activity and clusters development around major intersections throughout Pasadena, potentially adding density to residential neighborhoods nearby the areas of more intense development while restricting parking and street capacities.

In keeping with our overall legislative strategy that supports appropriate economic activity and development to increase jobs and prosperity in Pasadena, the Chamber favors Alternative B which allows for measured and careful development in parts of Pasadena that can support it, while maintaining protections for Pasadena’s neighborhoods and mitigating impacts of development and economic growth.

It is vital that those who contribute to Pasadena’s economy are heard as City staff and consultants devise the final revision to the General Plan.

Please take the survey and encourage your employees to do so, as well.

Support Pasadena General Plan Alternative B for the Central District.

Old Pasadena Management District, the Playhouse District Association and the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce endorse Pasadena General Plan Alternative B because it provides the most balanced combination of jobs, housing, mixed use, walkability, mobility, and environmental sustainability benefits to Old Pasadena, the Downtown Pasadena, and the City.

• B  Sustainable
• B  Water-Wise, Energy-Thrifty & Greenhouse-Gas Reducing
• B  Transit-Oriented
• B  Walkable
• B  Park and Green Space-Served
• B  Jobs and Housing-Friendly
• B  Economically Vibrant
• B  Mixed Use
• B  Fiscally Responsible-Generates Needed City Revenues
• B  Balanced

The COC-SBDC is one of the top-ranked providers of support for business in Los Angeles County. The Chamber and the COC-SBDC are working together to find a way to offer programs in the Pasadena area for our local businesses. Until those arrangement can be finalized, COC-SBDC has agreed to open up registration to their events, activities, seminars and workshops to Pasadena Chamber members and the greater Pasadena Business Community. For more information visit www.sbdc4biz.org.

KAP Promotions sponsors October’s Luncheon Alliance networking event at Altadena Town and Country Club at 2290 Country Club Drive in Altadena. Join us on October 6th at 11:45 a.m. for networking, fellowship, a terrific meal and a chance to promote your business and expand your contacts.  RSVP to kelly@pasadena-chamber.org to reserve your spot or pay online through Paypal athttp://www.pasadena-chamber.org/sg_forms/lunch.php. If you register before the close of business on the Monday before lunch, the cost is $20 per person for members and $25 per person for non-members and guests.

PARTYLITE SPONSORS OCTOBER CONNECTION BREAKFAST ON OCTOBER 14th

Joins us for our October networking breakfast at the University Club on Thursday, October 14th at 7:00 a.m. Joan DeSouza and PartyLite sponsors the event at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena.

Reservations for the Breakfast Connection and Luncheon Alliance can be made by calling Kelly at the Chamber office at (626) 795-3355 or emailing Kelly@pasadena-chamber.org. Chamber members who register before the end of business on the Monday before the event pay $20, non-members who register before the deadline pay $25. Those registering after the deadline or paying at the door pay an additional $5.

OCTOBER AFTER HOURS SOCIAL AND MIXER HOSTED BY KABUKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT

Join the Chamber for our October After Hours social and mixer at Kabuki Japanese Restaurant at 88 West Colorado Boulevard in Old Pasadena. 90 minutes of FREE parking is available in the public parking garage at Green Street and Fair Oaks Avenue (enter off Green), two short blocks from Kabuki. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing beverages and a festive party for Sushi, Sake and Socializing, our October After Hours event at Kabuki Japanese Restaurant.

RIBBON CUTTINGS AND MORE

Get it Organized! at a ribbon cutting at the Chamber offices at 844 East Green Street, Suite 208 on Wednesday, September 22nd at 4:30 p.m. Celebrate the opening of Get it Organized in Pasadena with a ribbon cutting and celebration. There will be beer and music, along with snacks and ceremony.

Chamber Business Showcase September 30th features local car dealers showing new car models

The Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase on Thursday, September 30, 2010, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.at the Pasadena Center at 300 East Green Street in Pasadena will feature some member new car dealers showing their latest models. Bob Hope Airport and Pasadena Highlands are sponsors of the Business Showcase.

For the first time, local car dealers will have new car models on display at the event.

Acura of Glendale will be displaying the new 300 horsepower Acura ZDX. Called “alluring” by Car and Driver, “the shape of things to come” by Automobile Magazine and “like an Armani suit” by Motor Trend, the ZDX is leading the next generation of high performance sport utility crossover vehicles. Acura of Glendale will also show the new TSX.

Thorson Motors will display a Buick Regal and a GMC Terrain. Road and Track said, “The Regal will surprise American with its sporty design and handling.” The Terrain is an ultra-modern crossover. U.S. News called it, “unique for its bold styling and excellent 32 mpg base highway fuel economy rating, which is the highest in its class.”

To promote their distinctive menus, several member restaurants and catering companies will provide samples of their fare free for those in attendance. Noor, Bella’s Gourmet Pizza, Fruit in a Basket and Claud and Company caterers will be joined by Choza Mama in providing free food samples to those in attendance at the Business Showcase.

Participation is open to anyone and Chamber membership is not required, though membership in the Pasadena Chamber means discounted fees for Showcase participation. Businesses pay for exhibition space, but the public is invited to attend for free. The Showcase will be accompanied by a social hour and mixer.

As part of the Showcase, Chamber members will be able to meet with the individuals responsible for contracting with the some of our larger corporations, the City of Pasadena and the County of Los Angeles, among others.

For the second year, the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase is being held in conjunction with the Foothill Workforce Investment Board Career Fair. Many local employers with job openings will be at the career fair to meet potential employees, take resumes and accept applications for work.

For information on taking part in our 2010 Business Showcase and Expo please emailLeanne@pasadena-chamber.org or call the Chamber office at (626) 795-3355.

ART OF SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL

The Chamber, City of Pasadena and Foothill Workforce Investment Board again host the Art of Small Business Survival series. The first workshop will be held at the Pasadena Central Library on Tuesday, September 14th at 8:00 a.m. The free event will feature a variety of  business support service providers, such as the SBA, SCORE and others that can provide low or no cost assistance to those in business or those starting a business. Free continental breakfast is provided. To register for this FREE event visit http://cityofpasadena.net/planninganddevelopment/asbs/asbs.asp.

Here is the entire schedule of FREE seminars and workshops:

September 14th: Start Smart – Ask all the Right Questions Before you Start a BusinessTime: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: Various; Location: Wright Auditorium, Pasadena Central Library at 285 E. Walnut Street. Pasadena, CA

October 12th: Financing your Business-Is there money out there? Where do I find it? How do I qualify? Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: Wells Fargo Bank;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

November 9th: Healthcare Reform – What it Means for your Small Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: John Barrett of Health Insurance Brokers, TBD;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

December 14th: E-Marketing Unplugged
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: Jim Locke (Resultworx Technology Group);
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

February 8th: Understanding your Taxes – Essential for any Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: Jimmy Wong (Internal Revenue Service);
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

March 8th: Developing a Business Plan – The Foundation to a Successful Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: College of the Canyons SBDC;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

April 12th: Great Customer Service – Aquiring and Expanding your Customer Base
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: TBD; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

May 10th: Potential in Your Town – The Power of the Local Shopper Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: TBD; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

June 14th: Procrastination: What’s Stopping You? Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: John Sovec; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

RESULTWORX TECHNOLOGY GROUP’S TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY OCTOBER 19th

The Chamber and ResultWorx Technology Group host Technology Tuesday on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the University Club. Technology Tuesday programs are offered FREE.

Join us on Tuesday, October 19th at 9:00 a.m. at the University Club in Pasadena, Jim Locke of ResultWorx Technology Group will discuss Securing your Business, how to keep your important information safe in a digital world. Technology Tuesday is sponsored by ResultWorx Technology Group and the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and generously hosted by the University Club at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena.

Technology Tuesday events are free, but registration is required. To register call Linda at the Chamber office at (626) 795-3355 or email Linda@pasadena-chamber.org.

Those seeking employment, or interested in finding out about current employment prospects are invited to attend the FREE event. Employers who have jobs are the only companies invited to participate in Destination Employment.

The Pasadena General Plan will determine where business can grow, where commercial enterprises can be located and what level of activity will be allowed. THIS COULD IMPACT YOU!

The next round of workshops will start mapping and evaluating potential land use and mobility alternatives for future discussion.

There will only be two workshops. Please plan to attend one of the workshops at the Senior Center (85 E. Holly St.) for the General Plan update:

Saturday, Sept. 25th at 9:00 AM

or

Thursday, Sept. 30th at 6:30 PM

For more information: www.cityofpasadena.net/generalplan and click “September 2010 Workshops.”

Please forward this email to your friends and colleagues so Pasadena’s business community, economic interests and contributors to our economy can be heard in the process.

The COC-SBDC is one of the top-ranked providers of support for business in Los Angeles County. The Chamber and the COC-SBDC are working together to find a way to offer programs in the Pasadena area for our local businesses. Until those arrangement can be finalized, COC-SBDC has agreed to open up registration to their events, activities, seminars and workshops to Pasadena Chamber members and the greater Pasadena Business Community.

Here are the September workshops and seminars offers by COC-SBDC:

The Chamber, City of Pasadena and Foothill Workforce Investment Board again host the Art of Small Business Survival series. The first workshop will be held at the Pasadena Central Library on Tuesday, September 14th at 8:00 a.m. The free event will feature a variety of  business support service providers, such as the SBA, SCORE and others that can provide low or no cost assistance to those in business or those starting a business. Free continental breakfast is provided. To register for this FREE event visit http://cityofpasadena.net/planninganddevelopment/asbs/asbs.asp.

Here is the entire schedule of FREE seminars and workshops:

September 14th: Start Smart – Ask all the Right Questions Before you Start a Business Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: Various; Location: Wright Auditorium, Pasadena Central Library at 285 E. Walnut Street. Pasadena, CA

October 12th: Financing your Business-Is there money out there? Where do I find it? How do I qualify? Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: Wells Fargo Bank;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

November 9th: Healthcare Reform – What it Means for your Small Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenters: John Barrett of Health Insurance Brokers, TBD;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

December 14th: E-Marketing Unplugged
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: Jim Locke (Resultworx Technology Group);
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

February 8th: Understanding your Taxes – Essential for any Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: Jimmy Wong (Internal Revenue Service);
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

March 8th: Developing a Business Plan – The Foundation to a Successful Business
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: College of the Canyons SBDC;
Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

April 12th: Great Customer Service – Aquiring and Expanding your Customer Base
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: TBD; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

May 10th: Potential in Your Town – The Power of the Local Shopper Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: TBD; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

June 14th: Procrastination: What’s Stopping You? Time: 8:00 – 10:00 A.M. Presenter: John Sovec; Location: Rose Bowl Press Box (Gate F) – 1001 Rose Bowl Drive

RESULTWORX TECHNOLOGY GROUP’S TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 21st

The Chamber and ResultWorx Technology Group host Technology Tuesday on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the University Club. Technology Tuesday programs are offered FREE.

Join us on Tuesday, September 21st at 9:00 a.m. at the University Club in Pasadena, Jim Locke of ResultWorx Technology Group will give an Introduction to Document Management. Technology Tuesday is sponsored by ResultWorx Technology Group and the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and generously hosted by the University Club at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena.

Technology Tuesday events are free, but registration is required. To register call Linda at the Chamber office at (626) 795-3355 or email Linda@pasadena-chamber.org.

Join us for our lunchtime networking event at Altadena Town and Country Club on Wednesday, September 1st at 11:45 a.m. Join fellow Chamber members and friends to network, promote your business, generate leads and enjoy a nice lunch. This month’s lunch is sponsored by Lockheed Federal Credit Union.

BREAKFAST CONNECTION THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH AT 7:00 A.M. SPONSORED BY CLAUD & CO.

Enjoy fellowship, friendship and networking at the monthly Breakfast Connection on Thursday, September 9th at 7:00 a.m. at The University Club at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena. New member Claud and Co. catering sponsors this month’s Breakfast Connection. PARKING IS FREE.

Our lunch and breakfast networking events provide an opportunity for everyone in attendance to present their business to the group, network, meet others in business and generate leads and referrals that could lead to business in the future while enjoying an excellent lunch.

For more information or to register for lunch or breakfast call Kelly at (626) 795-3355 or email kelly@pasadena-chamber.org.

Sponsorships are available for 2010 Breakfast Connection and Luncheon Alliance events. Get your business in front of your peers, your business name and logo on the event flyer and seven minutes to talk about what you do, how you can serve and why your business stands out. For more information or to become a lunch or breakfast sponsor, call Kelly at (626) 795-3355 or email kelly@pasadena-chamber.org.

THE COUNTER HOSTS SEPTEMBER CHAMBER AFTER HOURS: FRENCH FRIES & FRIENDSHIP

Enjoy French Fries and Friendship at Pasadena’s latest burger sensation, The Counter on Shopper’s Lane. Enjoy delicious snacks, refreshing beverages and more on Thursday, September 16th at 5:00 p.m. at The Counter at 140 Shoppers Lane. Admission is free for Pasadena Chamber members. Non-members pay $10 to enter. Please put this fun event on your calendar and plan to join us.

RIBBON CUTTINGS AND MORE

Rose City Ballroom hosts an open house at their studio at 951 South Fair Oaks Avenue in Pasadena on Saturday, August 28th at 7:00 p.m. take the opportunity to dust of your dancing shoes as you enjoy the free event.

New member Monte Cedro hosts a ribbon cutting at 153 East Holly Street on Tuesday, September 14th at 5:00 p.m.

Get it Organized! at a ribbon cutting at the Chamber offices at 844 East Green Street, Suite 208 on Wednesday, September 22nd at 4:30 p.m. Celebrate the opening of Get it Organized in Pasadena with a ribbon cutting and celebration.

Pasadena’s Biggest Networking Event: Chamber Business Showcase September 30th

Join other Pasadena Chamber members at our annual Business Showcase at the Pasadena Convention Center on September 30th. Our annual showcase and expo is an inexensive way to promote your business to the Pasadena community. The showcase is a great business-to-business networking event as well as a way to gain visibility with the public. This year Pasadena Highlands, one of the area’s premiere senior living environments, is a corporate sponsor of the Business Showcase. For information on taking part in our 2010 Business Showcase and Expo please email Leanne@pasadena-chamber.org.

Art of Small Business Survival

The Chamber, City of Pasadena and Foothill Workforce Investment Board again host the Art of Small Business Survival series. The first event will be held at the Pasadena Central Library on Tuesday, September 14th at 8:00 a.m. The free event will feature a variety of  business support service providers, such as the SBA, SCORE and others that can provide low or no cost assistance to those in business or those starting a business. Free continental breakfast is provided. To register for this FREE event visit http://cityofpasadena.net/planninganddevelopment/asbs/asbs.asp.

YOU CAN REGISTER AND PAY FOR REGULAR CHAMBER EVENTS ONLINE at our website. Click on EVENT REGISTRATION to access the forms. You can also renew your membership online. New members can sign up online, as well. Please note, for new members we are currently waiving the $25 processing fee. Paying online also means no credit card service charges.

Get text message reminders of Chamber events by texting pasadenachamber to 37398. Never miss another Chamber event. Receive free text messages in advance of all Chamber events courtesy of frextr.com.

PASADENA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL BUSINESS SHOWCASE SEPTEMBER 30TH

Join other Pasadena Chamber members at our annual Business Showcase at the Pasadena Convention Center on September 30th. Our annual showcase and expo is an inexpensive way to promote your business to other businesses and the greater Pasadena community. The showcase is a great business-to-business networking event as well as a way to gain visibility with the public. Pasadena Highlands is corporate sponsor of the 2010 Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Business Showcase. For information on taking part in our 2010 Business Showcase and Expo please email Leanne@pasadena-chamber.org.

RESULTWORX TECHNOLOGY GROUP’S TECHNOLOGY TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 21st

The Chamber and ResultWorx Technology Group host Technology Tuesday on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the University Club. Technology Tuesday programs are offered FREE.

Join us on Tuesday, September 21st at 9:00 a.m. at the University Club in Pasadena, Jim Locke of ResultWorx Technology Group will give an Introduction to Document Management. Technology Tuesday is sponsored by ResultWorx Technology Group and the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce and generously hosted by the University Club at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena.

Technology Tuesday events are free, but registration is required. To register call Linda at the Chamber office at (626) 795-3355 or email Linda@pasadena-chamber.org.

ART OF SMALL BUSINESS SURVIVAL

The City of Pasadena, Foothill Workforce Investment Board and the Pasadena Chamber host another series of workshops and seminars specifically designed to support small businesses and those starting businesses. The first event is a general overview of support programs and opportunities for small businesses and new entrepreneurs. The first ASBS seminar and workshop will take place at the main branch of the Pasadena Public Library on Tuesday, September 14th at 8:00 a.m. The session will provide an overview of services and support available to businesses in the area. Presenters representing the Small Business Administration, Workforce Investment Board, City of Pasadena, SCORE and more will give a brief overview of their services and how they can help those in business, or those who are starting a business.

Continental breakfast will be provided free to attendees. The Art of Small Business Survival is free, but reservations are required. Email here to RSVP for these informative events or register at http://cityofpasadena.net/planninganddevelopment/asbs/asbs.asp.

FOOTHILL BUSINESS FORUM

The Foothill Workforce Investment Board hosts a Business Forum on Wednesday, October 20th at the Pasadena Convention Center. Registration and continental breakfast begin at 7:15 a.m. The forum begins at 8:00 a.m. with a special keynote address followed by workshops for business and entrepreneurs. The event is free.

Celebrate Our Nation’s Birthday by Putting on Your Dancing Shoes

Arthur Murray Dance Studio at 100 North Lake Avenue invites you to trip the light fantastic as you celebrate our nation’s birthday. Join the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce for our July After Hours social and mixer. Enjoy refreshments as you get over those two left feet, all compliments of Arthur Murray Dance Studio on July 15th at 5:00 p.m. Admission is free for Chamber members. Non-members pay $10 to enter.

Luncheon Alliance on Wednesday, August 4th at 11:45 a.m.

Join fellow members in promoting your business at the Chamber’s monthly lunchtime networking event on Wednesday, August 4th at Altadena Town and Country Club at 11:45 a.m. Alta Media Group produced a promotional video for our Luncheon Alliance. Watch it here and share it with others who could benefit from our networking experience.

Breakfast Connection Thursday, August 12th at 7:00 a.m.

Enjoy fellowship, friendship and networking at the monthly Breakfast Connection on Thursday, August 12th at 7:00 a.m. at The University Clubat 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena. We have a new venue, new attendees, renewed energy and PARKING IS FREE.

Our lunch and breakfast networking events provide an opportunity for everyone in attendance to present their business to the group, network, meet others in business and generate leads and referrals that could lead to business in the future while enjoying an excellent lunch.

BY POPULAR DEMAND we brought back the round tables at breakfast beginning in July. Thank you to everyone who provided valuable input on our recent format changes to our networking events.

For more information or to register for lunch or breakfast call Linda at (626) 795-3355 or email here.

Sponsorships are available for 2010 Breakfast Connection and Luncheon Alliance events. Get your business in front of your peers, your business name and logo on the event flyer and seven minutes to talk about what you do, how you can serve and why your business stands out. For more information or to become a lunch or breakfast sponsor, call Kelly at (626) 795-3355 or email kelly@pasadena-chamber.org.

We present the headline and a brief introduction to the story. The full story can be accessed by clicking on the headline.  News items are bolded. Comments and introduction by Chamber staff are not so emboldened.

If you are interested in seeing stories on a particular topic, from a source not available here or have other comments please email paul@pasadena-chamber.org.

Are our water woes over? Depends on who you ask, I suppose:

From the Pasadena Star-News Opinion Section:

Our View: Tell the truth about the drought

Hey, governor, it’s time you came clean and declared California’s drought to be over. Because it is. To do anything else would be dishonest.

S.E.C. Tightens Rules on Public Pension Funds

By EDWARD WYATT

Published: June 30, 2010

WASHINGTON — The Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday tightened restrictions against “pay-to-play” practices in the municipal securities market.The measure was another attempt to close loopholes that agency officials said have allowed political influence to corrupt aspects of the $2.6 trillion public pension business.

The five-member commission voted unanimously to bar investment managers who make political contributions to officials with influence over public pension funds from managing those funds for two years.

The commission also barred investment managers from paying a third party to solicit pension business on their behalf unless the third party is registered with the S.E.C. or other regulators and therefore subject to similar pay-to-play bans.

The Times’ Week in Review, catch all the news you missed and more:

Week in Review

June 30, 2010, 6:37 AM

Conservation and Eugenics

Wednesday | Today’s idea: America’s conservation movement drew on racist notions of eugenics developed at Ivy League universities and promoted under President Theodore Roosevelt, an article says. [Orion]

June 29, 2010, 4:27 AM

To Killjoy ‘Mockingbird’

Tuesday | Today’s idea: “It’s time to stop pretending that ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ is some kind of timeless classic that ranks with the great works of American literature,” a critic says. [The Wall Street Journal]

June 28, 2010, 6:10 AM

An American Praetorian Guard?

War | Today’s idea: The all-professional military poses a danger to American democracy, a historian says, because it allows politicians to wage prolonged wars with the public disengaged, and thus soldiers’ disdain for civilian authority to fester. This is the lesson of the General McChrystal affair. [The Washington Post]

June 25, 2010, 6:40 AM

Rethinking Appeasement

Friday | Today’s idea: Appeasement gets a bad rap in harsh 20-20 hindsight after World War II, Paul Kennedy writes. With American power overstretched, he says, it’s time to reconsider this time-honored practice. Just don’t mention the word itself. [The National Interest]

This Week’s Headlines

Wars Fought and Wars Googled

By SCOTT SHANE

There is Afghanistan, yes, but militants have become adept at exploiting the sentiment of global Muslim brotherhood on the limitless landscape of the Web.

Global Migration: A World Ever More on the Move

By JASON DePARLE

Pick almost any headline in the news, and between the lines, there is a chapter in the story of global migration.

It’s ‘America the Swift’ in Bank Reform

By GRAHAM BOWLEY

The process has been long and messy, but the United States has moved faster and further on financial regulation reform than the rest of the world.

Save a Whale, Save a Soul, Goes the Cry

By NATALIE ANGIER

Only an airtight whaling ban will rescue an animal that rivals humans for complexity, scientists say.

In Iraq, Divvying Up the Spoils of Political War

By ANTHONY SHADID

In trying to build a nation from disparate tribes, sects and ethnic groups, Iraqis struggle with quotas and grudges.

Roll-Up Computers and Their Kin

By NICK BILTON

Will e-readers eventually be implanted in our retinas? Maybe not, but you might be able to unfurl them on the subway.

Referrals and opportunities for Chamber members:

The California Public Utilities Commission is required to do 25% of its contracting and procurement with small businesses.  To be considered, your business needs to be certified as a Small Business or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise.  Visit www.getcertified.dgs.ca.gov to get your certification.

The City of Pasadena recently enacted a Shop Local policy that encourages City departments and procurement personnel to seek bids from Pasadena companies before contracting for services or supplies with companies outside Pasadena. The City hopes to increase the amount of business it does with local companies, support local businesses and provide an example to private businesses by showing that high quality goods and services are available at competitive prices from Pasadena companies.
If you are interested in being added to the City of Pasadena procurement and vendor list so you can compete for business with our local government, please visit  http://www.cityofpasadena.net/purchasing/. You can be added to the City vendor list, find out what opportunities exist right now with the City and find links to other local government and public agency opportunities.

You can be added to the list of potential suppliers for Los Angeles County by visiting http://camisvr.co.la.ca.us/webven and registering as a vendor with the county.

Your business can be a star-and generate additional revenue for you

The City of Pasadena’s Film Office encourages you to register your commercial property, so they can promote it to the dozens of movie scouts who contact their office daily looking for locations. Earn lucrative tax-free income by renting out your property to the movie industry.

Email filmoffice@cityofpasadena.net and they’ll follow up and send you an  informational guide on renting your property as well as a “how to” on getting photos of your property into the City’s on-line location scouting library.

The following are grant opportunities that may be available to local non-profits and education providers:

Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools: Carol M. White Physical Education Program

The Carol M. White Physical Education Program provides grants to local educational agencies and community-based organizations to initiate, expand, and improve physical education for students in grades K–12. Grant recipients must implement programs that help students make progress toward meeting state standards. The total grant award is $39.7 million, and approximately 93 awards will be made.

Eligibility:                      Local education agencies

Application Closing Date:                July 19, 2010

Web Site Link: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3NqbMvJLd51Gcg5qbLX2y28SLQFBFs18zvrGw0Jb2HpJplLJCgx6!475739609?oppId=55307&mode=VIEW

See the following site for a similar funding opportunity: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3NqbMvJLd51Gcg5qbLX2y28SLQFBFs18zvrGw0Jb2HpJplLJCgx6!475739609?oppId=55277&mode=VIEW

Office of Elementary and Secondary Education: High School Graduation Initiative

The High School Graduation Initiative awards grants to local educational agencies and state educational agencies to support the implementation of effective, sustainable, and coordinated dropout prevention and reentry programs in schools that serve students in grades 6 through 12 and that have event dropout rates that are above the state average event dropout rate or are middle schools that feed students into such schools. Fifty awards totaling $45 million will be made.

Eligibility:  State education agencies, local education agencies

Application Closing Date:   July 28, 2010

Web Site Link: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3NqbMvJLd51Gcg5qbLX2y28SLQFBFs18zvrGw0Jb2HpJplLJCgx6!475739609?oppId=55358&mode=VIEW

Office of Elementary and Secondary Education: Smaller Learning Communities Program

The Smaller Learning Communities Program awards discretionary grants to local educational agencies to support the restructuring of large public high schools into smaller units for the purpose of improving academic achievement. These smaller units include freshman academies, multi-grade academies organized around career interests or other themes, “houses” in which small groups of students remain together throughout high school, and autonomous schools-within-a-school. Fourteen grants totaling $32 million will be made.

Eligibility:                      Local education agencies

Application Closing Date:                August 6, 2010

Web Site Link: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3NqbMvJLd51Gcg5qbLX2y28SLQFBFs18zvrGw0Jb2HpJplLJCgx6!475739609?oppId=55421&mode=VIEW

Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers

The purpose of this program is to improve the effectiveness of services authorized under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 through advanced research, training, technical assistance, and dissemination activities in general problem areas, as specified by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. Such activities are designed to benefit rehabilitation service providers, individuals with disabilities, and the family members or other authorized representatives of individuals with disabilities. One grant of $850,000 will be made.

Eligibility: State and local governments, institutes of higher education

Application Closing Date:                August 20, 2010

Web Site Link: http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do;jsessionid=3NqbMvJLd51Gcg5qbLX2y28SLQFBFs18zvrGw0Jb2HpJplLJCgx6!475739609?oppId=55363&mode=VIEW

Volkswagen Pasadena celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a traditional beer and brats Oktoberfest celebration. Join the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce for our June After-Hours Social and Mixer at Volkswagen Volkswagen Pasadena at 130 North Sierra Madre Boulevard in Pasadena. Enjoy beer, brats and more, all compliments of Volkswagen Pasadena on June 17th at 5:00 p.m. Admission is free for Pasadena Chamber members. Non-members pay $10 to enter. Our friends at Volkswagen Pasadena are providing the beer, brats and entertainment. Please put this fun event on your calendar and plan to join us to help celebrate Volkswagen Pasadena’s golden anniversary.

Luncheon Alliance sponsored by Glazer-Kennedy Insider’s Circle
Join Pasadena Chamber members in promoting your business at the Chamber’s monthly lunchtime networking event on Wednesday, June 2nd at Altadena Town and Country Club at 11:45 a.m.

Breakfast Connection sponsored by The A Team of Maggie and Darrell Agler at Dilbeck Realty

Enjoy fellowship, friendship and networking at the monthly Breakfast Connection on Thursday, June 10th at 7:00 a.m. at The University Club at 175 North Oakland Avenue in Pasadena. We have a new venue, new attendees, renewed energy and PARKING IS FREE.

Our lunch and breakfast networking events provide an opportunity for everyone in attendance to present their business to the group, network, meet others in business and generate leads and referrals that could lead to business in the future while enjoying an excellent lunch.

For more information or to register for lunch or breakfast call Linda at (626) 795-3355 or email here.

Sponsorships are available for 2010 Breakfast Connection and Luncheon Alliance events. Get your business in front of your peers, your business name and logo on the event flyer and seven minutes to talk about what you do, how you can serve and why your business stands out. For more information or to become a lunch or breakfast sponsor, call Kelly at (626) 795-3355 or email kelly@pasadena-chamber.org.