News

Greater Irvine Chamber’s Business Outlook 2020 Set for January 9

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

The Greater Irvine Chamber will host its 11th annual Business Outlook Breakfast on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2020, 7:30 – 9:15 a.m., at Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Rd. The Chamber’s annual economic-forecast event is one of the largest of its kind in the region. Drawing hundreds of professionals, executives, and community leaders from throughout Orange County each year, the event provides attendees insights into economic trends delivered by economy experts, and networking opportunities. Watch for more details as they develop. Register now to secure your seat at the 2020 Business Outlook Breakfast. Individual ticket prices are: members - $75; nonmembers - $105. Table sponsorships...

Irvine Ranch Water District’s Mark Tettemer to Present on Water Recycling Program at Greater Irvine Chamber’s May Government Affairs Meeting

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

As a reliable water supply is important to the business community, Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) Manager of Recycled Water Mark Tettemer will provide an opportunity for business and community leaders to learn more about innovative water conservation practices, during the Greater Irvine Chamber Government Affairs Committee meeting on Thursday, May 2, 8 - 9:30 a.m. Tettemer will discuss IRWD’s recycled water legacy and system, an increasingly important part of the organization’s water portfolio which helps meet the water needs of its service area. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the state of California Water Code, the...

The California Economy Isn’t Just a US Powerhouse

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

California has one-eighth of the U.S. population of 327.7 million. It’s a third the size of Japan, half of Germany and not quite two-thirds of the U.K. But its economic strength looms larger than any of them. Just about every measure of growth shows that the Golden State is peerless among developed economies for increasing population, expanding gross domestic product, improved joblessness, rising personal income, investment in innovation, and wealth created by its stocks and bonds. Few of the 34 nations in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development come close to California’s 3 percent average annual growth rate for the most recent...

California No. 1 for Investment in Young Companies

Monday, April 22, 2019

Since 2010, California companies raised $330 billion in venture capital — 51 percent of the nationwide investing. California is the golden state for venture capital, snaring more seed money for young ventures than the rest of the nation. California not only was No. 1 for investments dollars, it also grew its share of VC cash. Companies in the state also saw significantly more venture deals than elsewhere in the U.S. And it’s not just Northern California. Split the state in half — say, somewhere around Coalinga — and the rankings for venture capital cash raised goes like this: No. 1 Bay Area;...

Best Retail Sales Since 2017 Brighten US Growth Outlook

Friday, April 19, 2019

Retail sales in the U.S. jumped by the most since September 2017 and first-time filings for unemployment benefits dropped to a fresh 49-year low, as a strong labor market gives American consumers the wherewithal to keep the economy chugging along. The value of overall sales in March rose 1.6 percent, boosted by gains in motor vehicles and gasoline stations, after an unrevised 0.2 percent decrease the prior month, according to Commerce Department figures. That exceeded all forecasts in Bloomberg’s survey calling for a 1 percent gain. Buying Again A Labor Department report released showed initial jobless claims fell last week to 192,000, the lowest...

Destination Irvine Takes Gold in Hermes Creative Awards

Friday, April 19, 2019

Destination Irvine received a Gold Award from Hermes Creative Awards for the organization’s meeting-focused video “Meet in Irvine, CA.” The meetings-focused video was produced to showcase the destination’s assets to meeting planners. The organization’s 2018-2019 Irvine Visitors Guide received an Honorable Mention. Hermes Creative Awards is an international awards competition for creative professionals involved in concept, writing and design of traditional and emerging media; and recognizes outstanding work in the industry while promoting the philanthropic nature of marketing and communication professionals. Over 6,000 entries from throughout the U.S., Canada and dozens of other countries were received in this year’s competition. The awards are...

US, China Aim for Early-May Announcement on Trade Deal

Friday, April 19, 2019

Senior U.S. and Chinese officials are scheduling more face-to-face trade talks in an effort to reach a deal by early-May that President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping could sign later that month, two people familiar with the plans said. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin plan to travel to Beijing the week of April 29, according to the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. The next week Chinese Vice Premier Liu He will come to Washington for negotiations. During his visit, officials want to announce the sides have struck...

City of Hope Orange County is the Presenting Sponsor for Celebrate Irvine 2019

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

City of Hope Orange County is the Presenting Sponsor for the Greater Irvine Chamber’s 2019 Celebrate Irvine event to be held Friday, June 28, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Rd. “As we build our world-class health campus in Irvine, City of Hope Orange County is thrilled to participate in Celebrate Irvine. This is truly a wonderful place to live, work, and be healthy, which is why we’re working hard to speed the latest discoveries to those who need them most, right here in the center of beautiful Orange County,” said Annette M. Walker, president, City of...

A Commitment to Irvine’s Future Workforce: Today’s Students

Monday, April 15, 2019

By Bryan Starr, President and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber As Published in the Orange County Register | Irvine World News: April 11, 2019 As most residents already know, Irvine is home to award-winning K-12 schools and nationally-ranked colleges and universities such as University of California, Irvine. What may not be as widely recognized is that the Greater Irvine Chamber is committed to sustaining a highly-skilled workforce that meets the needs of Irvine’s employers by providing a range of opportunities for students to learn, discover, and grow. The Chamber offers career-readiness programs in collaboration with community partners and facilitated by Chamber member volunteers. Three...

China Says Trade Talks With US ‘Moving Forward’

Friday, April 12, 2019

China said that trade talks with the U.S. are “moving forward” after nine rounds of consultations aimed at ending a standoff that has shaken the world economic outlook. The latest discussions had achieved “new substantial progress,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a daily news briefing. “We also feel that the consultation is moving forward. We hope that the two sides can continue to work together to properly address each other’s concerns on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit,” Lu said. Lu’s comments were echoed by those from Commerce Ministry spokesman Gao Feng, who said “new progress” had been...

Solar Bill of Rights Advances in California Legislature

Friday, April 12, 2019

Clean-energy advocates advanced legislation that aims to make it easier for Californians to use solar power despite concerns about the possible impact on customers who remain fully reliant on the electric grid. The bill, authored jointly by state Sens. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, and Jim Nielsen, R-Gerber (Tehama County), is designed to enshrine in state law a right for homes, schools and businesses to take advantage of solar power without utilities putting up too many roadblocks. Dubbed the “Solar Bill of Rights,” SB288 is also intended to help customers quickly connect renewable energy projects on their sites to the grid and avoid...

US DOL Proposes Regular Rate, Joint-Employer Regulations

Friday, April 12, 2019

Two new DOL-proposed rules will affect employers. In the last week, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Wage and Hour Division has proposed two new rules affecting different employer regulation areas, which have not been meaningfully revised for more than 50 years. The DOL proposed a new rule on how employers calculate an employee’s regular rate of pay for purposes of paying overtime. They also proposed a new rule to revise and clarify the responsibilities of employers and joint-employers to employees in joint-employer arrangements. Regular Rate Requirements Regular rate requirements define what forms of payment employers include and exclude in the “time and one-half”...

US Jobless Claims Fall to 49-Year Low as Market Tightens

Friday, April 12, 2019

Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits unexpectedly dropped, falling to the lowest level since October 1969 and suggesting little sign of cooling in a tight labor market. Jobless claims decreased to 196,000 in the week ended April 6, Labor Department figures showed. The level fell below all estimates in Bloomberg’s survey of economists, which had called for an increase. The four-week average, a less-volatile measure, declined to 207,000, the lowest since December 1969. Key Insights The fourth-straight drop in claims indicates the labor market remains historically firm as employers still find it hard to attract and hire workers amid low unemployment. The report comes a...

Call for Nominations: Greater Irvine Chamber Annual Business Awards

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Nominations are being accepted now through June 7 for the Greater Irvine Chamber’s annual business awards in five categories: Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Business Philanthropist of the Year, Young Professional of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year. Award recipients will be formally recognized at the Chamber’s Celebrate Irvine event on Friday, June 28, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at Hotel Irvine, 17900 Jamboree Rd. Each year, the Greater Irvine Chamber recognizes businesses and individuals in Irvine that have demonstrated the principles of community service, volunteerism, and the best traditions of good corporate citizenship. For the first time,...

In Appreciation of Greater Irvine Chamber Volunteers

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Greater Irvine Chamber thanks its volunteers for their commitment to the economic development of the region and their dedication to making Irvine a great place to do business. The Chamber’s Board of Directors and member volunteers are critical to helping the organization accomplish its mission to advance the economic vitality of greater Irvine. Volunteers generously contribute their time on behalf of the Chamber through their involvement on the Board and through the following committees and task forces: Ambassadors Committee Business and Workforce Development Committee Business Outreach Rally Task Force Career Edge Task Force Cybersecurity Task Force Domestic Business Attraction Task...

OC World Trade Week Exporter of the Year Nominees Announced

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Each year, the Greater Irvine Chamber, in partnership with the District Export Council, takes the opportunity to showcase an Orange County-based business that has expanded its markets through successful export strategies by recognizing an Exporter of the Year. The 2019 Exporter of the Year nominees are Diamon-Fusion International, Earth Friendly Products, Highlife International LLC, Linden Educational Services, Microwave Dynamics, and Worldwide Environmental Products, Inc. The Exporter of the Year award will be formally presented at the Orange County World Trade Week Breakfast and Forum (OCWTW) on Thursday, May 16, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. Diamon-Fusion...

Edwards Adds $20B Market Value in Two Years

Tuesday, April 09, 2019

What does a one-year, 35 percent jump in shares look like? For Edwards Lifesciences Corp., $10.2 billion. That’s its market cap growth over 12 months. They did it the year before, too. The Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle member now trades at about $39.7 billion, up from $19.9 billion in 24 months. It’s the only Orange County-based public company with a valuation topping $20 billion, let alone pushing $40 billion, although newcomer Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is nipping at that first number Edwards in two years has added more to its market capitalization than the value of any other firm on the Business Journal’s annual...

Whit Peterson Promoted to Greater Irvine Chamber Director of Government Affairs and Economic Development

Tuesday, April 09, 2019

Whit Peterson has been promoted to Director of Government Affairs and Economic Development at the Greater Irvine Chamber for the Chamber’s Economic Development division. In his new role, Peterson, who joined the Chamber staff in 2016 as Director of Government Affairs, will facilitate decision-making incentives and transition benefits made available through the Chamber’s Irvine Ready program for qualified lifescience companies in their expansion to Irvine/Orange County. “As we continue our mission to advance the economic vitality of greater Irvine, the need for a professional with experience in advocacy, regulation, and an understanding of governmental policy at all levels is more important than...

Irvine Councilmember Farrah Khan Speaks at Greater Irvine Chamber

Friday, April 05, 2019

Irvine City Councilmember Farrah Khan provided to business and community leaders at the Greater Irvine Chamber Government Affairs Committee meeting an overview of current city projects, highlighting innovative initiatives such as community choice energy and food waste resolutions, stating, “We want to make sure we are the beacon for Orange County, not a follower.” In her April 4 presentation, Khan also discussed affordable housing, traffic improvements, Orange County Great Park progress, and the open Irvine City Council seat, following the appointment of Christina Shea as Irvine Mayor. Shea replaces Donald P. Wagner who was elected to the Orange County Board of...

OC World Trade Week 2019 Presents Export Experts in the Program’s Panel Discussion

Friday, April 05, 2019

Leading Orange County exporters Jessica Kleinert of Taco Bell, Harvinder Mudahar of Technologent, and Michael Delaney of Worldwide Environmental Products, Inc., will share their experiences in international trade during the Export Success Panel at the Greater Irvine Chamber’s fifth annual Orange County World Trade Week (OCWTW) Breakfast and Forum on Thursday, May 16, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. The Export Success Panel is a perennial favorite, offering attendees insights into the challenges and opportunities for business expansion through exporting. Jessica Kleinert manages international marketing for Taco Bell out of the company's global headquarters in Irvine. She...

US Adds 196,000 Jobs in March, a Return to Solid Growth

Friday, April 05, 2019

After a lackluster performance in February, the job market bounced back in March. February’s number of new jobs was also revised upward, to 33,000 from 20,000. The buoyant jobs market that has helped sustain American households for the better part of a decade did not go anywhere. After an unexpectedly weak February — just 20,000 new jobs were initially reported — concerns arose that the remarkable wave of hiring might be ebbing. But employment surged again last month, beating the expectations of most economists with 196,000 new jobs, the Labor Department said. Even lowly February looked better: The department revised its report upward...

Christina Shea Sworn in as Mayor of Irvine

Thursday, April 04, 2019

A special swearing-in ceremony was held for Irvine Mayor Christina Shea in Irvine City Council chambers on April 9. “I am honored to be chosen to serve as Mayor of this great city,” Mayor Shea said. “I want us to be fiscally smart and forward-thinking. I am confident and inspired to lead this wonderful community and look forward to working with my colleagues on the Council to ensure Irvine remains safe and vibrant.” As he administered the oath of office, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer praised Mayor Shea’s long-standing commitment to the city and her compassionate and deep concern for others. Shea has served...

Greater Irvine Chamber Provides Opportunity for Professionals to Visit Irvine Businesses During Outreach Program

Wednesday, April 03, 2019

The Greater Irvine Chamber’s spring 2019 Business Outreach Rally will take place on Wednesday, April 24. The purpose of the award-winning outreach program is to help identify the most pressing needs and challenges facing Irvine businesses. The primary research is facilitated by Chamber member volunteers who also distribute to businesses the Chamber’s Business Resource Guide, which features information about support resources offered through the Chamber and its partner organizations. Participation in the Business Outreach Rally provides volunteers with the opportunity to take an active leadership role and expand their presence in the business community. Volunteer opportunities are available for either or both shifts: 8 a.m....

Hoag, UCI Medical Center Rank High on Newsweek’s List of World’s Top 1,000 Hospitals

Wednesday, April 03, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle members Hoag Memorial Hospital and UCI Medical Center have been named among the top 1,000 in the world, across 11 countries, in a list compiled for the first time by Newsweek, in collaboration with Statista Inc., a global marketing research and consumer data company. Newsweek and Statista evaluated hospitals using data charting hospital recommendations from peers, patient experience surveys measuring hospital satisfaction, and 25 commonly used measures including patient wait time, care team communication, quality of treatment and employee pay. The report divided the rankings by nation. The following Southern California hospitals were ranked among the best in the...

Jackson Tidus Law Renews as Greater Irvine Chamber Silver-level Leaders Circle Sponsor

Wednesday, April 03, 2019

Jackson Tidus, A Law Corporation, has renewed its Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle silver-level sponsorship. “As a valued leader in the community, Jackson Tidus attorneys are committed to the communities in which they serve. Whether legal, industry, or community based, Jackson Tidus and its attorneys support a variety of nonprofit organizations through membership, board service, and financial contributions,” said Andrew Bernstein, chair of the firm’s Real Estate Services Group. “It makes perfect sense for our firm to be a part of the Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle as a component of our mission to be a leader and partner in the...

Edison International Awards $1.2 Million in Scholarships to High School Students

Tuesday, April 02, 2019

Thirty high school seniors from the class of 2019 have been named Edison Scholars and will be awarded $1.2 million in scholarships to dream big and power the future through science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) studies by Edison International, the parent company of Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle member Southern California Edison. Sixty-three percent of the 2019 seniors will be first-generation college students. Each Edison Scholar will receive $40,000 — paid over four years — to further their academic pursuit of STEM fields at a four-year accredited U.S. college or university. The 2019 Edison Scholars are: Student Name High School County Christian Alexandra Hawthorne Math & Science Academy Los...

Irvine Residents with Disabilities Advisory Board Seeks New Member

Monday, April 01, 2019

The City of Irvine is accepting applications for one vacant position on the Irvine Residents with Disabilities Advisory Board. The board is a public advisory body of the City of Irvine that reports to the Community Services Commission. Members provide input on the needs of Irvine residents with disabilities. The board is made up of volunteer members who live or work in Irvine. Board members must participate in monthly meetings, which are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Irvine Civic Center. Applications are available at the Irvine Civic Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza. Applicants should...

New California Required Harassment Prevention Training FAQs White Paper

Monday, April 01, 2019

Effective Jan. 1, 2019, California made a substantial change to mandatory sexual harassment prevention training. Now employers with five or more employees must provide this training to all supervisors and employees by Jan. 1, 2020. In addition to supervisors receiving two hours of sexual harassment prevention training, nonsupervisory employees must receive one hour of sexual harassment prevention training. Training must take place within six months of hire or promotion and every two years thereafter. After CalChamber held 2019 Employment Law Updates seminars up and down the state in January, attendees showed there are still many unanswered questions about complying with the new...

City of Irvine Unveils Proposed 2019-2021 Budget

Friday, March 29, 2019

The City of Irvine has released its proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2021. The proposed budget reflects the priorities of the City Council and addresses feedback from residents and businesses, ensuring Irvine remains a safe, clean, well-maintained city that continues to support schools. “The City of Irvine’s leadership believes that public safety is our top priority. I am pleased that this budget proposal honors that belief by increasing the size of our police force to stay up with our growth,” said Mayor Christina Shea. “However, costly state mandates and policies threaten our continued delivery of excellent services. This present two-year budget...

One-Year Countdown to Census

Friday, March 29, 2019

In just one year, the U.S. government will fulfill its once-a-decade duty to count every American. April 1, 2020 is Census Day. Armed with a $15 billion budget, the Census Bureau will aim to gather a few key facts about all residents: location, age, race/ethnicity, home ownership, and household members. For the first time, the agency will try to collect most responses online, with the remainder by mail or, as needed, in person. The Census Bureau is legally prohibited from sharing any personal data collected through the census with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement. Why is the census important? First, the...

Call for Nominations: Orange County Exporter of the Year

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Each year, the Orange County World Trade Week Breakfast and Forum (OCWTW) takes the opportunity to showcase a business that has expanded its markets through successful export strategies. The Greater Irvine Chamber, in partnership with the District Export Council and SCORE OC, is seeking nominations for the 2019 Exporter of the Year Award. Eligible entrants may be small, medium, or large companies in Orange County, which have made the decision to expand their markets and grow their sales by exporting. The Chamber is looking to share interesting and compelling stories and novel strategies leading to success in exporting. “The Exporter of the...

Irvine Councilmember Farrah Khan to Address Business, Community Leaders at Greater Irvine Chamber

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

Irvine City Councilmember Farrah Khan will address business and community leaders at the Greater Irvine Chamber Government Affairs Committee meeting on Thursday, April 4, 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. She will discuss her priorities and vision for the city. Elected to the Irvine City Council in November 2018, Councilmember Khan has worked extensively with numerous community organizations in Irvine and Orange County. She has served on the Steering Committee for the Irvine Global Village Festival, is a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteer with the Irvine Police Department, and is an active member of the Irvine Rotary Club. She also serves on the faith...

Irvine Students Demonstrate Ethics During Presentations at the Greater Irvine Chamber

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

Eight teams of 28 students from Irvine High School presented their final Ethics Forum projects to Greater Irvine Chamber members, guests, and parents during the Chamber’s March Business and Workforce Development Committee meeting. Students presented their discovery and summations on these topics: Privacy in Social Media JUUL: The Health Problem of the Decade Gene Editing Social Credit Scores Universal Basic Income Biomedical Engineering & Ethics Autonomous Vehicles “Students represent infinite possibilities for the future of our society. Irvine prepares these exceptionally bright minds through its world-class education system, which is strengthened by support from community partners. The Greater Irvine Chamber has developed the Ethics Forum program that supports teachers’...

Students to Explore, Discover, Play at OC STEAM Fest

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

As part of its business and workforce development initiatives, the Greater Irvine Chamber is returning as a sponsor for the Irvine Public Schools Foundation (IPSF) OC STEAM Fest, to be held on Saturday, April 27, 2 – 7 p.m. at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine. The event serves as a day for students and their families to explore fun, hands-on activities related to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics), and to spark student interest in STEAM-related fields and careers while uniting the community in support of education. Presale tickets online are $10 for children 4 -17, and $15 at the door....

Comment Period Open On Proposed Federal Overtime Rule

Monday, March 25, 2019

As reported earlier, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a new, proposed federal overtime rule that would increase the white-collar salary threshold for exempt executive, administrative and professional employees from $23,660 to $35,308 per year. More than a million more American workers will become eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). California’s current minimum annual salary threshold would still be higher than the proposed federal threshold. However, employers with employees in other states will want to pay attention to this proposal and may wish to submit comments to the DOL. Comment Now The 60-day comment period has begun. Written comments...

Factors to Consider When Calculating ‘Regular Rate’ of Pay

Friday, March 22, 2019

Calculating employee hourly rates can be confusing because the basic hourly rate is often referred to as the regular rate. For purpose of paying overtime, the actual regular rate includes additional payments as well. The payment of overtime is based on remuneration an employee receives such as hourly earnings, nonexempt salary, piecework earnings, nondiscretionary bonuses, and commissions, etc. These amounts make up what is called an employee’s regular rate of pay. Once the regular rate is determined, it is used as the basis to calculate overtime for nonexempt employees. It does not apply to exempt employees who are not owed overtime. No, employers...

EU Leaders Will Ask Ministers to Clear Negotiating Mandates for US Trade Talks

Wednesday, March 20, 2019

European Union leaders will ask their trade ministers to quickly approve negotiating mandates for the European Commission to start formal trade talks with the United States, draft conclusions showed. “The necessary steps should be taken for the rapid implementation of the U.S.-EU Joint Statement of 25 July 2018,” the draft conclusions, seen by Reuters, said. The EU has been in talks on trade with Washington since July 2018, when U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to hold off new punitive tariffs while the two sides worked on ways to improve economic relations. Source: Reuters

Destination Irvine Generates Nearly $12 Million in Hotel Revenue

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Destination Irvine has generated nearly $12 million in hotel revenue year-to-date for the 2018-2019 fiscal year, with four months still to go. The total revenue generated is a combination of direct group sales and marketing campaigns conducted by the Greater Irvine Chamber’s destination marketing organization. Direct group sales efforts have brought in more than $5 million in revenue, and filled more than 22,800 room nights for meetings groups, sports events, leisure visitors, and business travelers. Destination Irvine this year launched several marketing campaigns, a CBS social influencer and digital campaign, Orange County joint marketing Expedia campaigns, and for the first time, an...

Irvine Mayor Don Wagner Wins Orange County Supervisor Seat in Special Election

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Irvine Mayor Don Wagner won a special election on March 12, filling a vacant seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “I’m declaring victory and thanking the voters of the 3rd Supervisorial District for their trust,” Wagner said. “I ran for it and I wanted it because they do good, important work on the Board of Supervisors, and I’m very much looking forward to doing some of that work to solve the county’s problems.” Wagner will represent the inland Orange County 3rd District seat for 21 months. He likely will take office either March 26 or April 9. He also will be...

Multitude of Irish-US/California Trade, Investment Ties in Spotlight

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

The strong trade and investment links between Ireland and the United States, as well as California, were celebrated last week at a California Chamber of Commerce breakfast held in conjunction with CalChamber Board events. The CalChamber Council for International Trade meeting, sponsored by Frontier Communications, was one of several gatherings in the week leading up to St. Patrick’s Day featuring the release of the US-Ireland Business 2019 report by the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Ireland. Speaking at the March 15 breakfast were the Honorable Simon Harris, Irish minister for health and former minister of state; Carin Bryans, vice president of AmCham...

UK Fieldfisher Law Experts Detail Implications of Brexit for Irvine/US Medical Device Manufacturers and Distributors

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Deal. No deal. EU extension or second referendum. The one word everyone agrees upon when describing Brexit and its implications for the U.K. and every company that does business in the country is: uncertainty. Although the March 29 deadline is looming, negotiations with the EU for a delay and Parliament debate continues. Fieldfisher, the European law firm specializing in lifesciences and technology law visited the Greater Irvine Chamber on March 19. Alison Dennis, Partner with the London Office, met with the Chamber and its foreign direct investment delegation in 2017, just months after the Brexit vote. Knowing that Irvine has a...

HSBC Returns to OC World Trade Week as the 2019 Presenting Sponsor

Monday, March 18, 2019

HSBC is the presenting sponsor for the fifth-annual Greater Irvine Chamber Orange County World Trade Week (OCWTW) Breakfast and Forum, to be held on Thursday, May 16, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. A continued sponsor of the program, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations, serving more than 39 million customers through four global businesses. The bank’s network covers 66 countries and territories in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Latin America. HSBC has been connecting Americans to global opportunities since 1865. The OCWTW 2019 program...

Leads Groups Training Ensures Best Outcomes for Business Development

Monday, March 18, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber Leads Groups provide members with the opportunity to expand their network of trusted professionals through structured, non-competitive meetings to exchange referrals and leads, which have a proven track record for increasing business development for participants. Leads Groups members closed nearly $20 million in sales during the 2017-2018 fiscal year, and have reached nearly $8 million in closed business so far for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. In addition to increasing business development for participants, Leads Groups contribute to the economic development of greater Irvine. “Our Leads Group members support the growth of Irvine’s local economy in a unique way,” said Bryan Starr,...

California Still a Top Exporting State

Thursday, March 14, 2019

The U.S. Department of Commerce now has 2018 trade statistics available through the International Trade Administration’s (ITA) “Trade Stats Express.” In 2018, California exported $178.4 billion to 230 foreign economies, up from $172 billion in 2017. California’s top export markets are Mexico, Canada, China, Japan, and South Korea. California is one of the 10 largest economies in the world with a gross state product of more than $2.5 trillion. International trade and investment are major parts of the state’s economic engine that broadly benefit businesses, communities, consumers and state government. California’s economy is diverse, and the state’s prosperity is tied to exports...

Chinese Delegation Visits Greater Irvine Chamber

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

A trade delegation of more than 20 business leaders and government officials from the Chinese province of Shaanxi in March visited the Greater Irvine Chamber to learn about services available through the Chamber, and how the organization operates as a business association. The Chamber’s economic development team presented on Irvine’s strengths as a master-planned community; the city is an economic powerhouse, with its strong life-science and technology sectors, and robust innovation eco-system. As part of their visit, the delegates met with Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber. Driving forward economic development in the region, the Greater Irvine Chamber regularly hosts international delegations...

California Employers: Beware More Stringent Criminal Background Check Requirements

Monday, March 11, 2019

A Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal’s ruling has made already strict background check requirements even more stringent. The court held that the disclosure required under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) can consist only of the FRCA disclosure; it can’t contain any additional information, including the disclosure required under California’s Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (ICRAA) (Gilberg v. California Check Cashing Stores, LLC,913 F.3d 1169 (9th. Cir. 2019)). The FCRA requires that prior to obtaining an applicant’s consumer report, an employer must provide the applicant with a disclosure of its intention to do so and obtain the applicant’s consent. The disclosure...

US Adds Just 20K Jobs; Unemployment Dips to 3.8 Percent

Monday, March 11, 2019

Hiring tumbled in February, with U.S. employers adding just 20,000 jobs, the smallest monthly gain in nearly a year and a half. The slowdown in hiring, though, might have been depressed by harsh winter weather and the partial shutdown of the government. Last month’s weak gain came after employers had added a blockbuster 311,000 jobs in January, the most in nearly a year. And over the past three months, job growth has averaged a solid 186,000, enough to lower the unemployment rate over time. Despite the tepid pace of hiring in February, the government’s monthly jobs report included several positive signs that...

Advocacy Releases “Small Business GDP, 1998–2014”

Thursday, March 07, 2019

Small businesses are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy: they create two-thirds of net new jobs and drive U.S. innovation and competitiveness. A new report shows that they account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity. This is a significant contribution, however this overall share has declined gradually. U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) is the market value of the goods and services produced by labor and property located in the United States. Across the 16 years from 1998 to 2014, the small business share of GDP has fallen from 48.0 percent to 43.5 percent. Over the same period, the amount of...

Survey: US Businesses Added a Solid 183,000 Jobs Last Month

Thursday, March 07, 2019

are continuing to hire even as economic growth is likely slowing. Payroll processor ADP said that last month’s job gains were down from the 300,000 added in January, a figure that was revised up sharply from 213,000. It was also below last year’s average monthly gain of about 235,000. Hiring occurred across all major industries tracked by ADP, including professional and business services, which includes high-paying fields such as accounting and engineering, which gained 49,000 jobs. Education and health care added 37,000. Construction gained 25,000 jobs and manufacturing 17,000. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Analytics, a forecasting firm that compiles the ADP...

Trade Policies and Tax Reform Are Working For Small Businesses

Thursday, March 07, 2019

During the State of the Union, President Trump highlighted the bold changes to trade policies and tax reform that he is making in order to fight for American workers and businesses that will expand prosperity. This reform is working. Based out of Chino, Thin Metal Sales had been experiencing a decline in sales due to the high availability of imported, low-cost steel. Jonathan Mulvihill knows his company inside and out since he began working summers at Thin Metal Sales at the age of 12. The company was founded by his uncle in 1976 and acquired by his father in 1983; in 2017...

Successful Greater Irvine Chamber-Led Delegation to UK Showing FDI Progress

Wednesday, March 06, 2019

The Greater Irvine Chamber in February led a delegation focused on foreign direct investment and composed of Irvine city officials, executives, and lifescience and technology experts to London, where they formally interviewed company executives from those industry sectors who are considering expansion to the U.S. “Two previous missions and a lot of groundwork and follow-up has enhanced the reputation of Irvine in the U.K. so that company executives were eager to meet with us and discuss expansion opportunities,” said Linda DiMario, executive vice president, Greater Irvine Chamber. “Our foreign direct investment work is gaining measureable traction and progress among U.K. lifescience companies...

Irvine is Home to Most California Distinguished Schools in Orange County

Tuesday, March 05, 2019

Irvine Unified is home to the most California Distinguished Schools per district in all of Orange County. Irvine High, Rancho San Joaquin Middle, Sierra Vista Middle, and Woodbridge High each received the distinction. “Distinguished School award winners represent examples of not just excellent teaching, learning, and collaboration, but also highly successful school climate efforts ranging from real-time conflict resolution to positive behavior intervention,” a statement from State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said. The California Distinguished Schools program recognizes outstanding education programs and practices. Schools are awarded for achieving exceptional student performance for two consecutive school years or closing the achievement...

US Chamber’s Small Business Awards Submissions Open

Tuesday, March 05, 2019

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with MetLife, is accepting nominations and submissions for the Dream Big Awards, which recognize the very best in American small business. The awards program honors the achievements of small businesses and highlights their contributions to America’s economic growth. The Dream Big Award winners will be formally recognized at the annual Small Business Summit, Oct. 16 – 17, in Washington D.C. at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Awards nominations and submissions will be accepted in the following categories: Dream Big Small Business of the Year Emerging Business Achievement Award Green/Sustainable Business Achievement Award Minority-Owned Business Achievement Award Veteran-Owned Business Achievement Award Woman-Owned...

OCTA Seeks Volunteers to Serve on Public Committees

Monday, March 04, 2019

Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) is looking for new committee members for two public committees. The committees are the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) and the Taxpayer Oversight Committee (TOC). These committees help advise OCTA on a wide range of policies, procedures, and actions. OCTA strongly encourages residents and community leaders to get involved and help improve the quality of life for all Orange County residents. The Citizens Advisory Committee actively participates in helping examine traffic solutions, providing input to OCTA’s transportation studies and communicating with their constituencies. Committee members also participate in roundtable discussions and hear special presentations on various transportation...

CalChamber Joins in Launching Coalition Supporting U.S.-Mexico-Canada Pact

Friday, March 01, 2019

The California Chamber of Commerce has joined more than 200 companies and associations in launching the USMCA Coalition, which will advocate congressional approval of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The coalition includes a diverse group of businesses, farmers and ranchers, manufacturers, service providers, and technology companies in support of the USMCA. To join the coalition, click here. Over the coming weeks and months, the USMCA Coalition will make the case for expeditious passage of the agreement to members of Congress, and will work to educate employers and members of Congress about the benefits of the new deal. The effort will harness the advocacy strength of a broad...

California's Lieutenant Governor to Focus on Foreign Trade

Friday, March 01, 2019

California's lieutenant governor has a new role promoting the state as an international trading partner. Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis will head a committee tasked with reopening trade offices in foreign countries and promoting the state's trade interests, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom announced. The new committee is the latest example of California seeking more influence on the global stage during the Trump presidency. California already has a trade office in China, opened under former Gov. Jerry Brown, and Newsom wants to reopen a trade office in Mexico. Kounalakis, a Democrat and former ambassador to Hungary under former President Barack Obama, said she's excited to...

Irvine’s Balanced Checkbook

Friday, March 01, 2019

By Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber, as seen in the March issue of Irvine Standard. You probably know Irvine has been ranked No. 1 in public safety for 13 consecutive years. But you might not know why. One reason is another No. 1 ranking Irvine just received: Tops in California in fiscal strength — beating every other large city from San Francisco to San Jose to San Diego. How did the city become so fiscally strong? Think of the well-maintained shopping centers you visit, and the strength of your home value. Retail and property taxes fund two-thirds of the city’s budget. Now think...

March 12 Special Election for 3rd District Supervisor

Friday, March 01, 2019

A Special Election will be held on March 12 for the purpose of electing a County of Orange 3rd District Supervisor to fill a vacancy left by the November 2018 General Municipal Election. The Registrar of Voters will host a mobile “pop-up” election booth for early voting on Monday, March 11, 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. at the Irvine Civic Center. The “pop-up” Early Voting Service Center is open to all Orange County residents who reside in District 3. Services include: In-person Early Voting Secure Ballot Drop-Off, including Vote-By-Mail Ballots Replacement Ballots Full-Service Voter Assistance Same Day Conditional Voter Registration On Tuesday, March 12, Election Day, the Irvine Civic...

California is No. 1 in Medical Device Industry

Thursday, February 28, 2019

Despite complaints about the high costs of doing business, California is unrivaled when it comes to the size of its medical device industry — not to mention the range of innovations. From medtech employment to patent numbers to the amount of venture capital investment, California is well ahead of other states. It accounted for nearly a fourth of the U.S. medical device industry’s revenue in 2017, according to IBISWorld. Top 10 Medical Device States California Minnesota Massachusetts Florida Indiana Pennsylvania New York Texas Illinois New Jersey The Golden State’s medical device industry is actually made up of a number of major hubs running down the length of the state: Orange County Orange County exported more than...

Study: EU Single Largest Foreign Investor in US

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

The European Union, currently a 28-nation bloc, is the single largest foreign investor in the United States, with $2.37 trillion in foreign direct investment, according to a recent study by the EU Delegation to the U.S. The U.S. and the EU enjoy a balanced trade relationship to the benefit of both: $528 billion in U.S. exports of goods and services to the EU in 2017 and a commensurate $629 billion in EU exports of goods and services to the U.S., the study found. This trade and investment relationship generates nearly 7 million jobs for U.S. workers. An online interactive data tool lets users explore...

Canada-California Trade

Friday, February 22, 2019

Consul generals for Canada and Mexico are joining California Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Allan Zaremberg for a panel on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The new trade arrangement came from a year of negotiations after Trump disregarded the former North American Free Trade Agreement as the “worst deal ever made.” Amid the settling in to a new agreement, Canada wants to send a clear message: We love you California. As San Francisco’s Consul General of Canada Rana Sarkar told The Sacramento Bee, “Canadians often fly under the radar, but we are significant partners with the state of California.” According to Global Affairs Canada, California...

China to Propose $30 Billion More U.S. Agriculture Purchases

Friday, February 22, 2019

China is proposing that it could buy an additional $30 billion a year of U.S. agricultural products including soybeans, corn and wheat as part of a possible trade deal being negotiated by the two countries, according to people with knowledge of the plan. The offer to buy the extra farm produce would be part of the memoranda of understanding under discussion by U.S. and Chinese negotiators in Washington, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans are confidential. The purchases would be on top of pre-trade war levels and continue for the period covered by the memoranda, they said. U.S. Agriculture...

NAFTA 2.0 Creates Freer, Fairer Economic Growth

Friday, February 22, 2019

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) underscores a renewed understating among the USMCA parties on the importance of our mutual trading relationships, everyone agreed yesterday at an international luncheon at the California Chamber of Commerce to celebrate Canada Day in Sacramento. With the support of the Consulates General of Canada of San Francisco and Los Angeles and the Consulate General of Mexico in Sacramento, experts convened at the CalChamber for a thorough update and discussion on the agreement with more than 100 attendees. The Honorable Zaib Shaikh, the new Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles set the tone for the discussion saying...

Applied Innovation Doubling Cove Footprint at UCI Park

Thursday, February 21, 2019

The Cove, the University of California-Irvine’s tech facility and office space that is home to the school’s Applied Innovation business and entrepreneur incubator program, is gearing up to expand its presence in Orange County’s startup scene. UCI Applied Innovation this month told the Business Journal that it had put the finishing touches on a new lease that will nearly double the Cove’s square footage at UCI Research Park, a 36-building business park next to the university that’s run by Newport Beach-based Irvine Co. Applied Innovation currently occupies about 46,000 square feet of space at UCI Research Park; its new home will run...

Assembly Committee Holds Hearing on Privacy Act

Thursday, February 21, 2019

California Chamber of Commerce Policy Advocate Sarah Boot addressed the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee at an informational hearing to discuss the rights, protections and obligations established by the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). California Consumer Privacy Act The CCPA is a sweeping privacy law that applies to businesses of all sizes across almost every industry. It was rushed through the legislative process in the summer of 2018 without the benefit of input from numerous crucial stakeholders. As a result, the law is deeply flawed. Many of the CCPA’s provisions are simply unworkable in practice or will result in numerous unintended consequences....

Federal Tax Changes Could Be Why California’s Budget Is More Than $2 Billion Below Projections

Thursday, February 21, 2019

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s hopes for a record-setting tax revenue windfall this year could depend on whether California’s wealthiest residents are simply waiting until the last moment to pay up — a reaction to the 2017 federal tax changes championed by President Trump. State financial experts reported fiscal year-to-date revenues are more than $2.3 billion below the expectations set by Newsom’s first spending plan. But they believe the money is simply delayed, not missing. “We don’t think it reflects any underlying weakness in the economy,” said H.D. Palmer, a spokesman for the California Department of Finance. Instead, what state economists are now projecting is...

Destination Irvine’s Leading Role in Hotel Partners’ Success

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Wendy Haase, senior director of Destination Irvine, and colleagues AnaLaura Beccera, director of corporate sales, and Dave Lucey, director of sports sales, recently presented details to Irvine hotel directors and sales managers on Destination Irvine’s central role in promoting the city as a preferred overnight destination in Southern California for meeting groups, sports organizations, and business and leisure travelers. The presentation provided insight on how the hoteliers can leverage their partnership with the organization’s sales team and utilize Destination Irvine resources when booking business at their properties, including meeting planner incentives and marketing materials like the annual Irvine Visitors Guide. “This was...

IPSF Awards Over $200,000 in Innovative Grants to Irvine Teachers

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Each year, Irvine Public Schools Foundation (IPSF) offers teachers and staff in the Irvine Unified School District (IUSD) the opportunity to apply for funds through the Innovative Grants Program to implement new and creative approaches to teaching and counseling. The purpose of this grant program is to support innovation in schools by awarding funds to launch new curriculum and improve the educational experiences of students. The program in total will award 25 projects and over $200,000 in grant monies this year to support innovative teaching methods in schools. IPSF, a Greater Irvine Chamber education partner, this year awarded eight mega grants, up to...

iShuttle Gets Commuters the ‘Last Mile’ to Work

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

A cooperative agreement between the City of Irvine and Orange County Transportation Authority has resulted in an expansion of the weekday commuter iShuttle routes from two convenient train stations. “My commitment to reducing traffic is helped each workday with the longtime success of the iShuttle from our two stations,” said Irvine Mayor Donald P. Wagner. “Hundreds of Irvine workers arrive daily from other cities and hop aboard for the ‘last mile’ ride to their destination. Some Irvine residents, of course, also are taking the iShuttle to the stations, to work elsewhere. These two new routes will make the daily trips to...

Irvine: The City of Health

Monday, February 18, 2019

By Bryan Starr, President and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce As published in the Feb. 18 issue of the Orange County Business Journal. Irvine is an impressive community in many ways as the result of the visionary Irvine Master Plan established more than a half-century ago. A major factor in the city’s exceptional quality of life today is convenient access to some of the finest healthcare institutions in the world. Patients accessing healthcare in Irvine, from routine maintenance to advanced disease treatment, receive top care delivered by some of the world’s most expert practitioners using the latest science and technology. Greater Irvine...

UC Irvine Most Popular UC Campus Among California High School Students Applying to College

Thursday, February 14, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle member University California, Irvine has become the top choice in the UC system for California high school students. The university announced recently that the 70,540 soon-to-be graduates who applied to the campus for the upcoming fall semester were the most among the nine campuses in the University of California system. “We have very robust outreach efforts,” campus spokesman Tom Vasich said. That includes helping high school students realize they have the potential to attend college and helping them navigate the application process. The university has partnerships with high schools and community colleges in Santa Ana, Anaheim, Compton, and...

Electronic Filing Doesn’t Relieve Employers of Hard Copy Requirements

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

The recent requirement to submit Form 300A data electronically doesn’t relieve employers of the responsibility to post the hard copy Form 300A each year. Each establishment (place of business) must post the Form 300A from February 1 to April 30 in a conspicuous place or places where notices to employees normally are posted. This requirement, in addition to all others listed in Section 14300.32 of the California Code of Regulations, remains in effect. Unfortunately, this fact was not included as a note in the electronic filing regulation to ensure that the electronic filing requirement was not perceived to be the new norm, bypassing the requirement for the hard copy. Providing Form 300A Copy Employees...

City of Irvine, Business Community Band Together for Educational Excellence

Monday, February 11, 2019

Irvine Public Schools Foundation (IPSF) has released its 2019 list of Top 100 Companies Supporting Education Excellence. Heading the list is the City of Irvine. Also included is the Greater Irvine Chamber and several of its Leaders Circle sponsors, Allergan; Cox Automotive; Cox Communications; FivePoint; Google; Google Fiber; Hoag Hospital; Hoag Orthopedic Institute; Kaiser Permanente; Kia Motors America; University of California, Irvine; UPS, Waste Management; and Wells Fargo. All 100 supporting organizations were formally recognized during a VIP reception at the Resort at Pelican Hill in February. Greater Irvine Chamber Vice President of Operations, Jessica Welch, and Irvine Mayor Donald Wagner. Steve Churm, , FivePoint,...

Greater Irvine Chamber Receives Industry's Top Honors

Monday, February 11, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber President and CEO Bryan Starr has been named the 2019 Executive of the Year by the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.). Starr was selected from CEOs throughout the Western United States and was formally recognized during the 2019 W.A.C.E. Conference in Anaheim in front of more than 500 attendees. Starr was honored for leading the Greater Irvine Chamber to achievements in membership attainment goals, economic development, staff empowerment, thought leadership, and positioning the organization as a leader in advancing economic vitality in greater Irvine. Greater Irvine Chamber Vice President of Operations Jessica Welch, IOM, received the 2019...

SB 1300 Expands FEHA Litigation

Monday, February 11, 2019

Last fall, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. signed SB 1300 (Jackson; D-Santa Barbara), a comprehensive bill that makes several changes in the law for litigating sexual harassment claims. SB 1300 prohibits employers from requiring employees to sign a release of claims under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) in exchange for a raise or as a condition of employment. The bill also amends FEHA to specify that an employer may be responsible for the acts of nonemployees for all forms of harassment, rather than the responsibility being limited to sexual harassment, as it was before SB 1300 took effect. Further, the bill prohibits...

Workers Waiting ‘On Call’ Must Be Paid, Court Rules

Monday, February 11, 2019

Employees who are required to stay “on call” before the start of a possible work shift — phoning their employer two hours before the shift to learn whether they’re needed — are entitled to be paid for that two-hour period regardless of whether they’re called in to work, a state appeals court ruled. In a 2-1 decision with potentially broad impact, the Second District Court of Appeal in Los Angeles said on-call employees are protected by a 1943 California Industrial Welfare Commission wage order, still in effect, that entitles employees to “reporting time pay” as soon as they are required to report...

Community Partnerships Strengthen Future OC Workforce

Friday, February 08, 2019

Nearly 300 students from Orange County high schools and community colleges visited Irvine-based technology and life science companies for the second annual Irvine Career Discovery Day on Feb. 5, hosted by the Greater Irvine Chamber along with nonprofit partners Irvine Public Schools Foundation, Orange County United Way, and Vital Link. “Irvine Career Discovery Day is part of the Chamber’s workforce development initiative. The event provides an opportunity for students to see first-hand the exciting 21st-century career paths available to them here in Irvine,” said Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber. “Preparing our future workforce is key to fulfilling the Chamber’s mission to advance the economic vitality of greater Irvine.” The career exploration...

A Robust Job Gain in January Shows US Economy’s Durability

Monday, February 04, 2019

U.S. employers shrugged off last month’s partial shutdown of the government and engaged in a burst of hiring in January, adding 304,000 jobs, the most in nearly a year. The healthy gain the government reported illustrated the job market’s resilience nearly a decade into the economic expansion. The U.S. has now added jobs for 100 straight months, the longest such period on record. The unemployment rate did rise in January to 4 percent from 3.9 percent, the Labor Department said, but mostly for a technical reason: The number of people counted as temporarily unemployed jumped 175,000, with most of that increase consisting...

California to Thrash Out Gig Worker Status in Upcoming Bills

Monday, February 04, 2019

Gig worker or employee? California will wrestle with that question this year with efforts under way in Sacramento to either codify or limit a groundbreaking state Supreme Court decision issued in April. The ruling, in a suit brought by delivery drivers at Dynamex, made it harder for businesses to classify workers as independent contractors. It implemented a formula, called the ABC test, that says workers are employees if companies control what they do, if their tasks are central to a company’s core business, and if they don’t run independent businesses doing that work. The ruling could upend scores of industries that rely on...

City of Hope Brings its World-Class Cancer Care Network to Orange County

Monday, February 04, 2019

In one of the most ambitious initiatives in its 106-year history, City of Hope is expanding its world-class cancer care network to Orange County, beginning with the purchase of a 12,500-square-foot facility in Newport Beach. The new 1601 Avocado Ave. facility is the official start to City of Hope extending its personalized, compassionate, and technologically-advanced care to the county. The Newport Beach site is projected to open in late 2019 and will house lifesaving medical services, such as breast and other medical oncology, and convenient access to subspecialists. This expansion will be the first spoke of the main health campus planned to...

Class Action Settlement Doesn’t Prevent 2nd Lawsuit

Monday, February 04, 2019

An employee who was a member of a wage-and-hour class action settlement with her employer, is able to pursue a subsequent lawsuit against her employer for a claim that was not alleged in the first case, said the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in a recent opinion. The employer settled in federal court a wage-and-hour class action lawsuit that claimed the employer failed to pay wages and overtime, provide meal and rest breaks, provide accurate wage statements and reimburse business expenses. Second Lawsuit After the first case was settled, one of the class members filed a Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) case in...

EEO-1 Filing Delayed and Extended

Monday, February 04, 2019

The EEO-1 submission deadline has been extended to May 31, 2019. The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has delayed the “opening day” of the 2018 EEO-1 Survey to early March 2019 and moved the due date to May 31, 2019. The recent government shutdown caused this postponement. The EEO-1 is an annual survey that requires all private employers with 100 or more employees and federal contractors or first-tier subcontractors with 50 or more employees and a federal contract, subcontract or purchase order amounting to $50,000 or more to file the EEO-1 report. Details and instructions for the 2018 EEO-1 filers, including the exact date...

Form 300A: Don’t Forget to Post Through April

Monday, February 04, 2019

Businesses need remember to post the Form 300A summary of job-related injuries and illnesses from 2018 at their place of business from February 1 through April 30. Employers are required to post only the summary (Form 300A) — not the log (Form 300). The summary must list the total number of job-related injuries and illnesses that occurred in the previous year and were logged on the Form 300. Companies with no recordable injuries or illnesses in the previous year still must post the summary with zeros on the “total” line. A company executive must certify all establishment summaries. The summary must be displayed in a common area...

Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle Members Recognized in Forbes’ America’s Best Employers for Diversity

Monday, February 04, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle members Kaiser Permanente, Google, and University of California, Irvine, have been recognized as some of America’s Best Employers for Diversity in 2019 by Forbes. Forbes partnered with market research company Statista to create its second annual ranking of America’s best employers for diversity. The list was compiled by surveying 50,000 Americans working for businesses with at least 1,000 employees. All the surveys were anonymous, allowing participants to openly share their opinions. Respondents were first asked to rate their organizations on criteria such as age, gender, ethnicity, disability, and sexual orientation equality, as well as that of general diversity. These responses were...

OC World Trade Week 2019 Presents Export Experts in the Program’s Panel Discussion

Monday, February 04, 2019

Leading Orange County exporters Billy Grenham of Taco Bell, Harvinder Mudahar of Technologent, and Michael Delaney of Worldwide Environmental Products, Inc., will share their experiences in international trade during the Export Success Panel at the Greater Irvine Chamber’s fifth annual Orange County World Trade Week (OCWTW) Breakfast and Forum on Thursday, May 16, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. The Export Success Panel is a perennial favorite, offering attendees insights into the challenges and opportunities for business expansion through exporting. Billy Grenham leads international marketing for Taco Bell out of the Global Headquarters in Irvine. He is...

Career Edge Workshop Helps College Students Hone Employer Sought Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills

Sunday, February 03, 2019

Two dozen students from Orange County colleges and universities attended the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Feb. 2 Career Edge workshop, Practical Critical Thinking and Problem Solving, instructed by Dr. Brian Dozer, director of Webster University, Irvine Metro Campus. Dr. Dozer, who serves as co-chair of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Business and Workforce Development Committee, introduced the group to ethics, ethical issues, and how personal ethical considerations can change the way one makes important decisions. “Critical thinking and problem solving are essential skills in the 21st century. Dr. Brian Dozer is just the right person to coach attendees in these vital areas of expertise,”...

City of Hope Joins Greater Irvine Chamber as Platinum-Level Leaders Circle Sponsor

Friday, February 01, 2019

City of Hope has joined the Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle as a Platinum Sponsor. “City of Hope Orange County is proud to join the Greater Irvine Chamber. We look forward to a collaborative year ahead,” said Annette Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. “Our organizations are committed to passionately advocating for the interests of the Orange County community. The Chamber is focused on improving the community’s economic health, and City of Hope Orange County strives to improve cancer health—it’s a partnership that goes hand in hand.” City of Hope is an independent research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and...

Taco Bell HQ Renews Lease In Irvine, Staying True to SoCal Roots

Friday, February 01, 2019

Taco Bell, America’s #1 Mexican restaurant, will remain headquartered in Southern California until 2030. The global brand has agreed to an 11-year lease extension for its Restaurant Support Center at the 1 Glen Bell Way location in Irvine. Taco Bell has spent all of its nearly 57 years of business in Southern California and moved into its current building in 2010. The lease agreement with property owners LBA Realty was facilitated by Cushman & Wakefield’s Irvine office. “As a brand with Southern California in our DNA, we’re excited to remain in Irvine and continue to grow where we have deep roots,”...

Greater Irvine Chamber Executive Leadership Present State of the Chamber to Irvine City Council

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

The Greater Irvine Chamber executive team made a presentation on the State of the Chamber to the Irvine City Council and members of the public during the Jan. 22 Irvine City Council meeting. The presentation provided insight into recent accomplishments and current initiatives as they relate to the Chamber’s mission to advance the economic vitality of greater Irvine. “[Chamber executives] are here to talk about the [Greater Irvine] Chamber and Irvine’s economic vitality,” Irvine Mayor Don Wagner said. “And, there is no better partner than the Chamber of Commerce.” Bryan Starr, president and CEO of the Chamber, and Linda DiMario, executive vice...

Irvine Tops List in Financial Health

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Irvine is the financially healthiest big city in America, according to a new study by a nonprofit dedicated to financial transparency in the public sector. “Irvine is a community that was master-planned for success from its inception more than 50 years ago. Its founders planned the city to ensure sustainable fiscal strength long into the future,” said Bryan Starr, president and CEO,Greater Irvine Chamber. “It comes as no surprise that Irvine has been recognized for its financial health.” California’s other big cities fall firmly in the middle, with Southern California burgs healthier than many of their Northern California counterparts, says Chicago-based watchdog group Truth in Accounting. The...

Global Managing Director of Experian Decision Analytics, Steve Wagner, to Deliver OC World Trade Week Keynote Address

Monday, January 28, 2019

Steve Wagner, global managing director of Experian Decision Analytics, will deliver the keynote address at the Greater Irvine Chamber’s fifth annual Orange County World Trade Week (OCWTW) Breakfast and Forum on Thursday, May 16, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. Wagner was appointed global managing director of Experian Decision Analytics in 2018 and serves as the global business leader for Experian’s analytics, fraud, identity, and decision software businesses. He also serves on the Global Operating Committee of Experian, PLC and as chairman of the Experian social innovation fund, focused on improving the lives of...

2019 Will ‘Be a Good Year,’ Economist Says

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

“It’s going to be a good year. Things are wonderful. You’re going to have a great 2019,” said expert economist and Greater Irvine Chamber Business Outlook keynote Chris Thornberg of Beacon Economics. In his economic forecast presented to more than 600 business and community leaders, Thornberg, who predicted the housing market crash in 2007, expressed overall optimism regarding economic growth in the year ahead. He attributed his positive outlook to rising wages, low unemployment, and increased consumer spending. Also confident moving into the new year was opening speaker Chris Schwarz of the UCI Paul Merage School of Business, who broke down recent...

Meet the Individuals Leading the Greater Irvine Chamber Board of Directors For Four Decades

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Over the past four decades, the Greater Irvine Chamber Board of Directors has been chaired by 38 of Orange County’s most accomplished business leaders. They have held fiduciary responsibilities for the Chamber and have been committed to supporting the Chamber’s mission of advancing the economic vitality of greater Irvine. As the Chamber celebrates its 40th Anniversary in 2019, the Board is now led by Kate Klimow, chief administrative officer and director of External Relations at UCI Applied Innovation. “The diverse group of business leaders that have served over the past 40 years and continue to serve today on the Greater Irvine...

Free 2018 Tax-Preparation Services Available in Irvine

Tuesday, January 08, 2019

The City of Irvine, in partnership with Orange County United Way, is offering free tax preparation services to taxpayers who earned less than $60,000 in 2018. Qualifying taxpayers who live, work, or attend school in Irvine can receive help filing their taxes from IRS-trained and certified volunteers, who will also assist eligible taxpayers in applying for tax credits, including the state and federal Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC). Free tax-preparation services are available at Cypress Community Park, 255 Visions in Irvine, from February 5 to April 11. An appointment is required; no walk-ins will be accepted. Call Orange County United Way...

Life Science & Technology Delegation Returning to the U.K.

Monday, January 07, 2019

Greater Irvine Chamber/Orange County, California January 7, 2019 The Greater Irvine Chamber is leading a delegation of City officials, business leadership and life science and technology experts returning to the U.K.. We plan to meet with more life science and technology companies that may be exploring expansion into the U.S. and Irvine/Orange County in Southern California specifically. The goal of the mission is to build awareness for Irvine/Orange County and its life science/technology industry strength and identify, connect with and encourage U.K.-based life science companies to look at Irvine/Orange County when they consider expansion into the U.S. This Foreign Direct Investment mission...

Greater Irvine Chamber Marks its 40th Year Supporting the Visionary Irvine Master Plan

Wednesday, January 02, 2019

A Message from Greater Irvine Chamber President and CEO Bryan Starr Originally published in the Jan. 3, 2019 issue of the Orange County Register|Irvine World News. As the Greater Irvine Chamber celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year, the organization’s professional staff and Board of Directors continues its work to support the Irvine Master Plan and to advance the economic vitality of greater Irvine. Through its numerous programs and events, the Greater Irvine Chamber convenes thousands of business leaders every year to build long-lasting professional relationships. The Greater Irvine Chamber has partnered with Irvine’s highly-ranked schools and 15 colleges and universities on programs that help ensure a...

Greater Irvine Chamber Primary Research Reveals Business Needs

Tuesday, December 04, 2018

Conducting primary research on behalf of the Greater Irvine Chamber, 35 Chamber member volunteers visited more than 210 Irvine businesses during the October Business Outreach Rally. The volunteers conducted a survey to identify challenges that Irvine businesses face, and provided copies of the Business Outreach Resource Guide, which features information about support resources offered through the Chamber and its partner organizations. Out of the businesses surveyed, a majority felt that they either well exceeded or met their business performance goals. More than half of the businesses surveyed export and/or import products or services. The top two challenges that the surveyed businesses...

City of Irvine Has Released Interactive Web-based Development Map

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

The City of Irvine has released a new electronic, interactive, web-based map to track development proposals in an effort to enhance transparency and aid citizens in understanding projects that may affect the community. The map features an overview of major developments approved in the last five years, including those under construction and recently completed. The map will be regularly updated as new proposals are submitted for review and as major projects start construction. City of Irvine staff has placed this valuable information on the City’s website. For more information, call 949-724-6450, or visit cityofirvine.org/transparency.

Save-The-Date: Orange County World Trade Week 2019 Slated for May 16

Monday, November 19, 2018

The Greater Irvine Chamber will host the fifth annual Orange County World Trade Week (OCWTW) Breakfast and Forum on Thursday, May 16, 2019, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Irvine Marriott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. The OCWTW 2019 program will feature a keynote address by a representative from Experian Decision Analytics, an Export Success Panel discussion, and an International Resource EXPO. Returning are Founding and Presenting Sponsor UPS, and Champion Sponsor HSBC. OCWTW brings together Orange County’s International-American chambers and business associations, public sector and private trade organizations, and members of business community to grow awareness of the impact of international trade and export...

Irvine’s Tech Strength Attracts Bay Area Companies

Friday, September 14, 2018

As envisioned by the Irvine Master Plan, the city was built around a major university – what is now the University of California, Irvine (UCI) – to ensure area employers would always have a readily available workforce skilled in the latest technology. Irvine-based companies recognize this as a distinctive asset. And, executives at Bay Area tech firms are noticing. One such firm diving into Irvine’s high-tech talent pool is Vincit, a digital design and app development agency. Vincit California has successfully expanded from Finland to Irvine’s Spectrum Business Center – by way of Silicon Valley. After starting its U.S. venture in the...

Brian Andersen Named 2018 Greater Irvine Chamber Member of the Year

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Brian Andersen, founder and CEO of Telecomprehensive Solutions, a telecommunications and technology consulting company, has been named the 2018 Greater Irvine Chamber Member of the Year. Since joining the Chamber in 2013, Andersen has been actively involved in the Chamber, joining a number of committees, and attending various events. He currently serves as co-chair of the Chamber’s Business and Workforce Development Committee, working to educate, inform, retain, grow, and expand existing businesses in Irvine. He is also involved in the Chamber’s Economic Vitality Council where he collaborates with other members, finding ways to energize the start-up eco-system, improve business retention, and cultivate a collaborative...

Bryan Starr Recognized with US Small Business Administration’s Community Excellence Chamber Award

Friday, April 05, 2019

The U.S. Small Business Administration, Orange County/Inland Empire District office has recognized Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber, as the 2019 Small Business Week Community Excellence Chamber Award recipient for his leadership and achievements in the greater Irvine business community. As part of National Small Business Week, the Small Business Administration takes the opportunity to highlight the contributions made by small business owners and champions to create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness. “Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy. This rings true in Irvine,” said Starr. “It’s an honor to be recognized by...

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