News

MemorialCare Links With Alignment for Medicare

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) MemorialCare Health System, Orange County’s largest nonprofit health system and a platinum-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber, is linking up with the area’s fastest-growing healthcare insurance company, in the latest sign of expansion for its value-based approach to care. Orange-based Alignment Healthcare this month said that Fountain Valley-based MemorialCare, which generated $2.4 billion in revenue in fiscal 2019 and employs about 5,400 workers in the county, will join its provider network at the start of 2021. Alignment Healthcare is a provider of Medicare Advantage insurance plans and has more than 61,500 members in the state. “MemorialCare an...

U.S. Core Capital Good Orders Hit Six-Year High

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

(Reuters) New orders for key U.S.-made capital goods increased to a six-year high in September, wrapping up a quarter of potentially record growth in business spending and the economy, thanks to fiscal stimulus aimed at softening the blow from the COVID-19 pandemic. But the report from the Commerce Department on also showed shipments of these goods rising modestly last month, supporting expectations of slower economic activity heading into the fourth quarter. That was reinforced by a dip in consumer confidence this month. The reports came ahead of the fiercely contested presidential election on Nov. 3. A more than $3 trillion government rescue packag...

WNDE Joins CLA, Expanding Southern California Resources

Tuesday, October 27, 2020

Irvine-based White Nelson Diehl Evans LLP (WNDE) intends to join national professional services firm CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) on Nov. 1, 2020. “We were approached by five firms, and, hands down, we chose CLA,” said Paul Treinen, managing partner at WNDE. “We chose CLA for many reasons but first and foremost for its future vision and its culture. CLA is an ideal fit for our clients and professionals. We are confident that this will allow us to expand service offerings to our clients while also expanding the opportunities for all of our team.” With more than nine decades of experience, WNDE is amon...

Antis Roofing Receives Leadership Award From OC Hispanic Chamber

Monday, October 26, 2020

In its annual Hispanic Leadership Awards event earlier this month, the Orange County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce announced Antis Roofing & Waterproofing as one of the recipients. This is notable for a Caucasian-owned company to be given an award typically reserved for Hispanic-owned businesses; however, nearly 90% of Antis’ employees are of Hispanic descent. The awards put particular emphasis on companies who have philanthropy and community outreach baked into their culture. “At the end of the day, it’s part of our responsibility to give back and make a difference in the community,” says last year’s Leadership Award recipient Albert Pujols, wh...

Community Heroes Recognized during Greater Irvine Chamber’s Virtual Celebrate Resilience Show

Monday, October 26, 2020

During its Celebrate Resilience awards presentation, the Greater Irvine Chamber recognized companies, organizations, and individuals that have made a positive impact on the greater Irvine community in response to the Coronavirus crisis. Congratulations to the 2020 Celebrate Resilience award recipients: Community Hero Chaplain Jeff Hetschel, Hoag Benefactor Award Google Fiber Community Impact Award OmniPrint International Community Impact Award B. Braun Community Impact Award Irvine Mayor Christina Shea and the Irvine City Council Corporate Responsibility Award FivePoint Corporate Responsibility Award University of California, Irvine Frontline Champion The Stand Frontline Champion Ampronix Innovation Award Second Harvest Food Bank Innovation Award Monica Pal Innovation Award Golden State Foods Nonprofit Hero Families Forward Partnership Hero UCI Beall Applied Innovation Service Award Genee Hansen Hospitality Award Wayne Lanthier, Hyatt House Supporting Celebrate Resilience are Presenting Sponsor: City of Hope Orange County; Sustainabilit...

Police Chief Mike Hamel and City of Irvine Employees Honored for Years of Service

Monday, October 26, 2020

The Irvine City Council recognized six employees for 25, 30, and 35 years of dedicated service to the City. City of Irvine employees work to keep the community safe, reduce Irvine’s carbon footprint, keep traffic flowing, and support events and activities for residents and visitors. Police Chief Mike Hamel, Irvine Police Department 25 Years of Service Irvine Police Chief Mike Hamel is a 27-year law enforcement veteran who has been with the Irvine Police Department since 1995. He is the first Irvine Police Chief to rise through the ranks from police officer to Chief. Chief Hamel began his law enforcement career in 199...

Amazon Fresh Opens First OC Location in Irvine

Saturday, October 24, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Amazon.com Inc.’s hoping shoppers find high-tech convenience when shopping at their latest Amazon Fresh concept in The Market Place in Irvine, which marks the grocer’s first in Orange County. Amazon Fresh, which opened Oct. 22, continues to expand the perks for Prime members with free, same-day delivery and pick-up for members. There’s plenty of tech used throughout the store. Amazon Dash Cart, which uses sensors and computer vision, to track what customers are pulling off shelves allows shoppers to bypass the usual checkout line. Shopping within the store is also enabled with Alexa, which lets customers build their shoppin...

California Tax Revenue Billions Higher Than Expected, Thanks in Part to Federal Help

Saturday, October 24, 2020

(The Sacramento Bee) From July through September, California collected $8.7 billion more in tax revenue than anticipated, according to the state’s Department of Finance, a bright sign amid a year of devastating economic news. The numbers reflect the positive effect of federal aid, which came in the form of one-time $1,200 checks for individuals and weekly $600 Pandemic Unemployment Assistance payments for people who lost jobs because of the coronavirus outbreak. They are also partly from taxes on 2019 income, when the economy was booming. Additionally, the numbers are higher than expected in part because the pandemic has not hurt high wage earners particularl...

California Praised for Recent Handling of Pandemic

Friday, October 23, 2020

(CalMatters) As COVID-19 cases surge alarmingly around the nation, California is in its own zone. And it’s a better place than it was. Fourteen states, including Kansas and North Dakota, recently set records for the number of patients needing to be hospitalized, but California’s hospitalizations have declined. So, too, have the state’s daily confirmed new case counts, dropping from July and August peaks of more than 12,000 to a 14-day rolling average of 3,280 as of Oct. 21. California “holds a lesson for all of us,” Dr. Ashish Jha, dean of the Brown University School of Public Health, recently tweeted, praising “strong leadership” from Gov. Gavin Newsom and th...

Hoag Memorial Selected as Trial Site for Promising COVID-19 Vaccine

Friday, October 23, 2020

(Orange County Register) Recent UC Irvine graduate Chen Cao became the first of 35 people to be vaccinated in NantKwest Inc. and ImmunityBio’s phase 1 clinical trial for COVID-19, happening only at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach. “I want to do something good,” Cao, 25, recently said. Around the world, 44 vaccine candidates are in clinical evaluation, and another 154 in preclinical evaluation, according to the World Health Organization. Most target the coronavirus’ signature spike protein, which prompted its name — “corona” means “crown” in Latin. NantKwest/ImmunityBio’s vaccine does that, too, but it also goes, quite literally, deeper, targeting structures within th...

Voting in the November Election

Thursday, October 22, 2020

Voting in the November 3 Presidential General Election is underway, and more than 45,000 ballots have already been returned to date, by Irvine voters. Vote-by-mail ballots have been mailed to all registered voters in Orange County and can be returned in one of three ways. By Mail: Voters can mail in their ballots; no stamp required. At a Ballot Drop Box: Voters can securely drop off their ballots at any of the Ballot Drop Box locations throughout Orange County now through Election Day. Ballots are picked up daily. There are 10 Ballot Drop Box locations in Irvine: Harvard Community Athletic Park, 14701 Harvard Avenue Heritag...

Easterseals Southern California Renews as Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle Sponsor

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) has renewed its Leaders Circle partnership with the Greater Irvine Chamber as a bronze-level sponsor. Easterseals Southern California has been a member of the Greater Irvine Chamber since 2018. For more than 100 years, Easterseals has been an indispensable resource for people with disabilities and their families. The services provided by Easterseals Southern California—in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Imperial, Kern, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ventura counties—make profound and positive differences in people's lives every day, helping them address life’s challenges and achieve personal goals so that they can live, learn, work, and play in our communities. With nearl...

Irvine Ranks Second Fittest City in America

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Independent research by True People Search Insights found Irvine to be the second fittest cities in America. California dominates the list overall, with eight of its cities making the top ten: Boulder, CO Irvine, CA Sunnyvale, CA Fremont, CA Bellevue, WA Milpitas, CA Santa Clara, CA Newport Beach, CA San Ramon, CA Mountain View, CA With its 16,500 acres of preserved natural habitats and wildlands offering more than 60 miles hiking and biking trails, and its 270+ parks Irvine is differentiated from other Orange County cities, providing outdoor enthusiasts an alternative to surfing and beach activities. Amid social distancing measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, Irvine’s permanently preserved open space and extensive park system, including its gem the Orang...

The Workplace Podcast: When Employees Talk Politics at Work

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss how employers can navigate the election season and ways to handle political discussions in the workplace. ‘It’s Everywhere’ It’s election season and whether it’s at the company’s water cooler or in a Zoom call, political discussion is spilling over into the workplace, Frank says. And because many employees are now working remotely, discussion occurs in ways that are not always visible to the employer. “It’s everywhere,” and no matter which way someone leans politically, people feel very strongly about thei...

Visit California Offers Travel Code for Responsible/Respectful Travelers

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

(CalChamber) As some Californians choose to venture cautiously outside amid closures and restrictions due to COVID-19, travel patterns have shifted and highlight the need for visitors to show respect toward local communities. Visit California offers the Responsible Travel Code as a quick resource on how to explore the Golden State responsibly and safely. A new video on Visit California’s Travel Matters website describes the code with stunning California images. The code speaks to both preserving California and to the safety of our communities as cities and counties continue toward recovery. It is part of Visit California’s new Responsible Travel Hub, which provides clear, fact-base...

Where to Eat in Orange County in 2020: A Map of the Best Places

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

(Orange County Register) For the previous five years, this guide has served as an adventurous scavenger hunt, a bucket-list ranking of the 75 best places to eat in Orange County. But 2020 changed the way we eat, so this year’s installment is a bit different. This moment calls for a more utilitarian approach. We’re all hungry for normalcy. But as much as we might crave a normal restaurant routine, that’s not happening. Not yet. Takeout still feels like the smartest solution for many people right now. And while many others may be eager to dine out again, that doesn’t mean we’re ready to be lingerin...

Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development Releases September Employment Numbers

Monday, October 19, 2020

Following the California Employment Development Department’s (EDD) release of the state’s employment data from September, the Acting Director of the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), Chris Dombrowski issued the following joint statement with California’s Labor Secretary, Julie A. Su: "California’s unemployment rate decreased from an adjusted 11.2% in August to 11% in September. As we work to see more businesses reopen, it must be done safely — balancing reopening while being mindful of COVID-19 trendlines we see around the state, country, and world and how those trendlines impact our collective future. The State's equity metrics for a safe reopening reflec...

New California Employment Laws Effective Now and Coming January 1, 2021

Monday, October 19, 2020

September 30, 2020, was the last day of this year’s legislative session, which ended with California Governor Gavin Newsom signing a flurry of bills — and vetoing a few as well. New California employment laws cover: COVID-19: Workers’ Compensation, Paid Sick Leave, and Workplace Safety. Leaves of Absence. Worker Classification. Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Protections. Privacy. Wage and Hour. Unless otherwise stated, the new laws take effect on Jan. 1, 2021.

UCI Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center Celebrates 10 Years of Innovation

Monday, October 19, 2020

University of California Irvine, a platinum-level Leaders Circle member of the Greater Irvine Chamber, celebrates 10 years of lifesaving innovation out of the Sue & Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center. In this Q&A, center director Aileen Anderson discusses some key accomplishments and describes the importance of stem cell research – how it’s the key to fighting some of the most tragic illnesses, from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to conditions such as blindness and the infectious disease of most concern today, COVID-19. Why is stem cell research so important? Does it really play a role in fighting disease and helpin...

California Jobless Rate Dips as Jobs Added Despite Pandemic

Friday, October 16, 2020

(AP) California has regained more than a third of the 2.6 million jobs (nonfarm) the nation’s most populous state lost to the coronavirus pandemic in March and April, state officials said Friday. The leisure and hospitality sector accounted for half the overall gain of 96,000 jobs, after experiencing the largest month-to-month loss in August, as restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality businesses benefitted from the state’s easing of restrictions designed to slow the virus’ spread. Retail trade also rebounded, spurred by more jobs in clothing and clothing accessory stores. All told, seven of the 11 industry sectors improved in September, dropping the jobless rate to 11%...

Families Forward Named District 74 Nonprofit of the Year

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Every year the California Association of Nonprofits asks legislators to select an outstanding organization for recognition. Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris for Assembly District 74 has named Irvine-based and long-time Greater Irvine Chamber member Families Forward as its 2020 Nonprofit of the Year. While formal recognition is typically presented at a ceremony in the State Capitol, due to the pandemic, Families Forward was recognized during a Facebook Live Town Hall hosted by Petrie-Norris on Oct. 23. “For 36 years, Families Forward has helped families get back on their feet after facing unexpected crisis,” Petrie-Norris said. “I am so grateful to the team at Families Forwar...

Seven Executives Appointed to Greater Irvine Board of Directors

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Seven executives from organizations either headquartered or with offices in Orange County have been appointed to the Greater Irvine Chamber Board of Directors. The Chamber welcomes to its Board: Mayssa Attar, Ph.D., DABT, Vice President, Non-Clinical and Translational Sciences, Research and Development, AbbVie Attar leads an AbbVie integrated Translational Sciences unit with a team of scientists primarily focusing on neurotoxins, eye care, and aesthetics product development. Attar spent more than 21 years at Allergan (a company of AbbVie). Prior to joining the industry, Mayssa was an academic research scientist at the Loeb Research Institute in Ottawa, Canada. Since 2005, Attar has taught a...

UC Irvine Renews as Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle Platinum Partner

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

University of California, Irvine (UCI) continues to increase its community engagement, renewing as a Greater Irvine Chamber Leaders Circle platinum-level partner. Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, and innovation. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 36,000 students and offers 222 degree programs. Located in Irvine—one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities—UCI is Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $5 billion annually to the local economy. Leaders Circle members of the Greater Irvine Chamber are among the most influential companies an...

IRWD Receives Prestigious Utility of the Future Designation

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Irvine Ranch Water District has been recognized by water professionals and organizations around the nation as a Utility of the Future — a formal designation given to agencies that have demonstrated forward-thinking, innovative approaches to trends in the industry today. This is IRWD’s first UoTF award, granted in recognition of the District’s recycled water programs and infrastructure. Judging for the award is done by members of a selection committee consisting of peer utility general managers and executives. The District is a national leader in water reuse — with a history of achievements dating to 1963, when our Board of Directors implemented ...

John Russo Receives League of California Cities Lifetime Achievement Award

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Former Irvine city manager and League of California Cities Past Presidents Council Board of Directors member John Russo is the recipient of the 2020 Past Presidents’ Lifetime Achievement Award by the League. He received the honor during the Oct.7 opening General Session of the League’s 2020 Annual Conference & Expo. When Russo stepped down from the League board, including a successful term as president, former executive director Chris McKenzie wrote the following in Western City magazine: “No one can listen to John speak without believing he understands the powerful call that motivates city officials to serve their communities.” After graduating from Yale wit...

AB 1731 Provides Rare Win-Win Option for California’s Businesses and Workers During Economic Downturn

Monday, October 12, 2020

As the 2020 legislative season comes to a close, we can certainly say it has been a chaotic time for employers. One bright spot for employers was AB 1731 (Boerner Horvath; D-Encinitas), which the California Chamber of Commerce was glad to support and glad to see it signed by Governor Gavin Newsom with an urgency clause, meaning it went into effect immediately on Sept. 28. Generally speaking, AB 1731 streamlined the application process for California’s under-used Work Share Program. For those unfamiliar with the program: the work share program allows employers to save on payroll costs during economic downturns—but still avoid—by submitting a plan t...

MemorialCare Takes Top Spots in Media Readership Surveys

Friday, October 09, 2020

MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center and MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center again were voted top two Best Hospitals in the Orange County Register “Best of Orange County” where readers vote for their favorite services. MemorialCare Medical Group again placed in the Medical Group Category’s top two alongside Edinger Medical Group that is located on Orange Coast’s campus and affiliated with MemorialCare Medical Foundation. MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, MemorialCare Medical Group, and MemorialCare Urgent Care Centers received Best Hospital, Best Medical Group, and Best Urgent Care honors from both the Press-Telegram & Grunion Gazette Readers’ Choice and Beachcomber Best of Long Beach readership competitions. “We are proud of th...

COVID-19: Moving Between Tiers

Thursday, October 08, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss California’s COVID-19 Tier Framework and what employers should keep in mind as counties transition into and out of tiers. Tier Framework California’s COVID-19 Tier Framework lays out the measures that counties must meet, based on indicators that capture disease burden, testing and health equity, in order to reopen business activity. Frank explains that the framework assigns color-designated tiers to identify these metric groups: Tier 1, Purple: Highest risk tier where disease is “widespread.” Counties fall under the Purple Tier if the...

Brian Dozer Named Greater Irvine Chamber October Member of the Month

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

Brian Dozer, president, Vital Link, has been named the Greater Irvine Chamber Member of the Month for October 2020. Since joining the Chamber in 2015, Dozer has become increasingly involved with the Chamber, holding various volunteer leadership roles on committees. He currently serves as co-chair of the Chamber’s Business & Workforce Development Committee (BWD). “I am extremely honored to receive this recognition from an organization and group of dedicated professionals that I hold in such high regard. The work that everyone does on the Business & Workforce Development Committee is so critical for our students, leaders, and businesses, especially in the curren...

California’s Export Trade Resurgent in Latest Numbers

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

(CalChamber) California’s export trade staged an impressive recovery in July despite the adverse economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and unfavorable tariffs overseas, according to Beacon Economics’ analysis of U.S. trade statistics released Sept. 3 by the U.S. Census Bureau. In a month that saw overall U.S. merchandise exports decline by more than 15% from one year earlier, California businesses shipped a total of $13.487 billion in merchandise abroad in July, a nominal decline of just 0.4% from the $13.544 billion in exports the state recorded in July 2019. Shipments of manufactured products by California firms were down 5.7% to $8.386 billio...

How to Vote in California

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

(Los Angeles Times) The general election is approaching fast, with presidential, congressional, state legislative, and local races on the Nov. 3 ballot. This year, Gov. Gavin Newsom is encouraging voters to vote by mail in order to protect them from the coronavirus. Everyone will get a mail-in ballot, but if you prefer to vote in person, you still can. Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your vote is counted. Register to vote by Oct. 19 The California secretary of state’s website has a few handy tools to make sure you’re ready to vote. To register online, visit RegisterToVote.ca.gov. If you’re not sure if you’re registered &mdash...

Nominations Open for Greater Irvine Chamber’s 40-Under-40 Awards

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber will recognize 40 of Orange County’s best and brightest emerging professionals under the age of 40, during a virtual 40-Under-40 presentation on Thursday, Dec. 3, 12 – 1 p.m. Nominations are being accepted through Nov. 6 for professionals under the age of 40 who are making strides in their industries and the Orange County community. Nominees considered for 40-Under-40 recognition must: Be 39 years of age or younger on Dec. 3, 2020. Be employed by a business located or operating in Orange County. Have demonstrated leadership skills, integrity, and initiative. Nominate HERE The 40-Under-40 presentation is free to attend. Registration is required. Register HERE Anti...

Zillow Group Continues Partnership with Greater Irvine Chamber

Tuesday, October 06, 2020

Zillow Group, Inc. has renewed its partnership with the Greater Irvine Chamber as a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor. Zillow has been a member of the Greater Irvine Chamber since 2012. Zillow is the leading real estate and rental marketplace serving the full lifecycle of owning and living in a home: buying, selling, renting, financing, remodeling, and more. It starts with Zillow's living database of more than 110 million U.S. homes, including homes for sale, homes for rent, and homes not currently on the market, as well as Zestimate home values, Rent Zestimates, and other home-related information. Zillow operates the most popular suit...

New Laws: California at Forefront of Health Policy Innovation

Monday, October 05, 2020

(Capitol Weekly) Though COVID-19 forced California leaders to scale back their ambitious health care agenda, they still managed to enact significant new laws intended to lower consumer health care spending and expand access to health coverage. When Gov. Gavin Newsom concluded the chaotic legislative year — his deadline to sign or veto bills — what emerged wasn’t the sweeping platform he and state lawmakers had outlined at the beginning of the year. But the dozens of health care measures they approved included first-in-the-nation policies to require more comprehensive coverage of mental health and addiction, and thrusting the state into the generic drug-makin...

Transportation Corridor Agencies Expand Online Educational Resources for Kids

Monday, October 05, 2020

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA)—a bronze-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber—have expanded their successful online Educational Resources program for children. Launched in the spring as parents and teachers were thrust into a world of distance learning, the library of content caters to students from preschool to middle school. New content added for fall at TheTollRoads.com/Educational-Resources enhances the already rich assortment of activities available on the new webpage. Younger children will enjoy a connect-the-dots activity that forms the shape of Orange County. Preschoolers will also have fun with worksheets that guide them through cutting practice (with safety scissors – of course!)...

US Service Industries Expand More Than Forecasted

Monday, October 05, 2020

(Bloomberg) U.S. service industries expanded in September by more than forecasted as faster growth in new orders and a pickup in employment pointed toward a better pace of economic recovery. The Institute for Supply Management’s services index, which represents about 90% of the economy, climbed to 57.8 during the month from 56.9 in August, according to data released on Monday. Readings above 50 indicate expansion, and the September figure exceeded the 56.2 median estimate in a Bloomberg survey of economists. More Momentum Gauge of U.S. services stronger than forecast as orders, activity accelerate Improving orders and business activity are encouraging more service providers to ad...

Office Campus The Source H20 Debuts in Irvine

Sunday, October 04, 2020

(Orange County Register) The Source H20, a new 69,968-square-foot office building, has debuted at Waterworks Way and Sand Canyon Avenue in Irvine. The two-building campus sits on 13.5 acres with an atrium connecting the two wings. Amenities include a conference/community center, sport court, game terrace, bocce ball, concrete ping-pong table, walking path, and multipurpose areas for outdoor meetings. The campus was built by KPRS Construction Services and designed by architect Ware Malcomb in Irvine. Leasing services will be handled jointly by Kevin Turner and John Gallivan of Cushman & Wakefield with Mike Hartel and Nick Velasquez of Colliers International. (Photo courtesy of Cushman & Wakefield.)

Hoag Orthopedic Institute Receives Three Press Ganey Guardian Patient Experience Awards

Saturday, October 03, 2020

Hoag Orthopedic Institute (HOI), one of the largest providers of orthopedic care in the nation, has received three Press Ganey Patient Experience awards for 2020, including, the Guardian of Excellence® for Patient Experience for the seventh consecutive year, the Pinnacle of Excellence® for Patient Experience in HCAHPS for maintaining consistently high levels of excellence over multiple years, and the Pinnacle of Excellence® for Patient Experience in Inpatient for maintaining consistently high levels of excellence over multiple years. The Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award is a nationally recognized symbol of achievement in health care. Presented annually, the award honors clients who consistentl...

UC Irvine Partners with O.C. Businesses to Develop Safe Reopening Protocols

Friday, October 02, 2020

(Los Angeles Times-Daily Pilot) UC Irvine is providing consulting services to private businesses to develop rules and procedures to keep employees and customers safe from COVID-19 as the economy starts to open up. “As the only program in public health in Orange County, we have an obligation to assist our community,” UCI professor Karen Edwards said in a press release. “I think there’s a gap in this area for us to step up and offer these types of services. This has the potential to have a major positive impact.” Orange County was on track to move into the state’s less restrictive orange tier until th...

Cox Communications Commits $60 Million to Close the Digital Learning Gap

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Cox Communications’ President and CEO Pat Esser announced in a live press conference today that Cox will pledge $60 million over the next year to close the digital learning gap. Esser urged in the press conference the need for collaboration to solve the digital divide. “Our commitment remains strong, but we cannot do this alone. We need to keep partnering with cities, school districts, counties, and community-based organizations to get families connected,” said Esser. “Connection is more important than ever before, especially for kids.” Esser also announced that Cox will be extending the company’s offer to new customers that qualify for Connect2Compete. Ne...

Irvine is Safest City of its Size for 15th Year

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

For the 15th consecutive year, Irvine is the Safest City of its size for violent crime, according to FBI data for 2019. Information released on Sept. 28 shows Irvine has the lowest rate of violent crime per capita of any city in the nation with a population of 250,000 or more. Irvine is also the Safest City of its size for violent crime for the first half of 2020, according to preliminary FBI data released earlier this month. The FBI’s Annual Uniform Crime Report measures crime, which includes murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny-theft, auto theft, and arson. Irvine Mayor Christina Shea congratulated the Irvine Police Departmen...

Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People Includes Greater Irvine Chamber Members

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Top executives from Greater Irvine Chamber member companies have been nominated for Modern Healthcare’s annual list of 100 most influential people in healthcare for 2020. The list recognizes exceptional leaders who have had the greatest impact on the healthcare industry in the United States. Gregory Adams, Chairman and CEO, Kaiser Permanente; Dr. Barry Arbuckle, President and CEO, MemorialCare Health System; Richard Gonzalez, Chairman and CEO, AbbVie (acquired Allergan); and Annette Walker, President, City of Hope Orange County, are among an elite group of 2020 nominees that are up for consideration. The list includes California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, former Vic...

Pacific Western Bank Renews Leaders Circle Partnership with Greater Irvine Chamber

Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Pacific Western Bank has renewed its bronze-level Leaders Circle sponsorship with the Greater Irvine Chamber. A member of the Chamber since 2006, Pacific Western Bank is focused on the needs of the business community. With over $25 billion in assets, Pacific Western Bank’s local focus and national reach is achieved through the concerted efforts of a family of companies, which includes CapitalSource and Square 1 Bank. Ranked the No. 1 best bank in America for 2017 by Forbes, Pacific Western Bank has a proven track record of delivering a level of service, expertise, and speed of execution for any company, regardles...

UCI is No. 1 in Sierra Magazine’s 2020 ‘Cool Schools’ Ranking of Sustainability Leaders

Monday, September 28, 2020

Sierra magazine has named the University of California, Irvine (UCI) No. 1 overall in its annual “Cool Schools” ranking of sustainability leaders among U.S. and Canadian universities and colleges, marking the fourth time in the last seven years that UCI has topped the widely acclaimed list. UCI’s history of environmental stewardship dates back to the Nobel Prize-winning research by chemistry professor F. Sherwood Rowland into the depletion of the ozone layer almost five decades ago. This work led to the development and growth of UCI’s campus culture of eco-friendly practices, groundbreaking sustainability research, and remarkable green accomplishments that has put th...

Best of Orange County 2020: Irvine Voted Best City to Live In

Saturday, September 26, 2020

(Orange County Register) For the past 24 years, Best of Orange County voters have been asked to name the county’s best city to live in. Irvine has never failed to place in the top 3, and it has been the top vote recipient for 13 of those years and ranked second for 10 more. Many reasons are cited for Irvine’s livability. It routinely ranks among the nation’s safest cities—including being ranked "America's Safest Big City" by the FBI crime ranking of cities over 100,000 in population every year since 2005—and has recorded the lowest per capita crime rate for cities with 250,000 o...

City of Irvine to Participate in California Clean Air Day on October 7

Friday, September 25, 2020

The City of Irvine is joining the statewide effort to improve air quality by encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to participate in California Clean Air Day on Oct. 7. Established in 2018 by the Coalition for Clean Air, California Clean Air Day brings individuals, businesses, local governments, and nonprofit organizations together to take actions that will clear the air and improve the health of residents and communities. Irvine residents, businesses, and organizations are invited to take the Clean Air pledge and make a commitment to do their part through actions big and small such as: using natural all-purpose cleaners, buying produce locally...

Joseph Castro Appointed to lead CSU, the Nation’s Largest Public University

Friday, September 25, 2020

The California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees has appointed Joseph I. Castro, Ph.D., to serve as the eighth chancellor of California State University. Castro has served as the eighth president of California State University, Fresno since 2013. He is the first California native and first Mexican American to be appointed to oversee the 23-campus university. Castro will succeed Timothy P. White who is retiring after leading the university since late 2012. “The California State University provides unprecedented and transformational opportunities for students from all backgrounds to earn a high-quality college degree and to better their families, their communities, and the industrie...

Gov. Newsom Orders 2035 Phaseout of Gas-Powered Vehicles

Thursday, September 24, 2020

(Lake County News) Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sept. 23 announced that he will aggressively move the state further away from its reliance on climate change-causing fossil fuels while retaining and creating jobs and spurring economic growth. Newsom issued an executive order requiring sales of all new passenger vehicles to be zero-emission by 2035 and additional measures to eliminate harmful emissions from the transportation sector. The transportation sector is responsible for more than half of all of California’s carbon pollution, 80% of smog-forming pollution, and 95% of toxic diesel emissions—all while communities in the Los Angeles Basin and Central Valley see some of the dirtiest and mos...

Hoag Hospital Irvine Will Deliver New Maternity Services this Winter

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Hoag’s family of maternity services is growing. Thanks to the generosity of Gary Fudge, the Tsao family, and other visionary philanthropic donors, Hoag Hospital Irvine will open 12 new birthing suites this winter which reimages the evolving trends in maternity care in one of the county’s fastest-growing communities. The Fudge Family Birthing Suites will offer a unique birthing experience for pregnant women and their families. Already a leader in women’s health, with the most prestigious nursing credentials in the nation and the most trusted maternity staff in Orange County, Hoag has listened to the needs and desires of today’s new mothers in designing the birthing suites whic...

How Fuel Cells Can Make a More Reliable Power Grid

Thursday, September 24, 2020

By Yuri Freedman, published in the Los Angeles Daily News: Sept. 19, 2020 Californians deserve a lot of credit for conserving energy through yet another record heatwave during Labor Day weekend. It was a great example of how conservation can reduce demand enough to avoid rolling power outages like those we saw last month. Back-up generators that run on diesel fuel have also helped address high power demand during California’s heatwaves but at a cost of their negative impact on air quality and the environment. Instead, we need to look toward clean and sustainable technologies that reduce demand on the electric system, while reducin...

John Wayne Airport Once Again Ranked Among the Nation’s Best

Thursday, September 24, 2020

John Wayne Airport (JWA) ranked #2 among large airports in North America by J.D. Power's 2020 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, continuing its record of top rankings since it was elevated to the large airport category in 2017. The Airport was ranked #1 among large airports in 2017 and 2018. "We are pleased that our efforts to continually elevate the guest experience are reflected in the customer satisfaction survey," said Airport Director Barry Rondinella. "I am proud of our entire team for rising to the unique challenges we encountered this year. It is through their dedication and commitment that we continu...

Meet Greater Irvine Chamber Leads Groups Volunteer Leaders

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

New volunteer leadership for the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Leads Groups have recently taken on their new roles. The new volunteer leaders are serving in various capacities across the Chamber’s six Leads Groups including as Chairs, Co-Chairs, Membership Chairs, Social Media Chairs, and Steering Committee Representatives. These new volunteer leaders will serve in their roles through September 2021. “Our incredible volunteer leadership steps up to ensure the success of the Chamber’s Leads Group program, which over the years has contributed to millions of dollars in leads generation for our local economy,” said Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber. “We ar...

Top Companies Sponsor Greater Irvine Chamber Celebrate Resilience Awards

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Several top companies sponsor the Greater Irvine Chamber Celebrate Resilience awards presentation, which will be delivered digitally on Thursday, Oct. 22, 12 – 1 p.m. Joining Presenting Sponsor City of Hope Orange County are: Sustainability Sponsor: Waste Management Business Sponsors: FivePoint Hoag Octane Orange County Soccer Club UC Irvine Event Sponsors: Allergan Antis Roofing & Waterproofing B Braun Chevron COX Diamond Jamboree Edwards Lifesciences Google Greater Newport Physicians HBLA Hoag Orthopedic Institute Irvine Company Jackson Titus Kelley Bluebook OmniPrint Pacific Western Bank SoCalGas Southern California Edison Transportation Corridor Agencies Wells Fargo WNDE Zillow Group These companies support the Greater Irvine Chamber as it recognizes companies, organizations, and individuals that have made a positive impact on the greater Irvine community in response to the Coronavirus crisis. Acts of support, large or small, from any industry are eligible for Celebrate Resilience awards. Nomination...

Wells Fargo Renews Partnership with Greater Irvine Chamber as Gold-Level Leaders Circle Sponsor

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Wells Fargo has renewed its partnership with the Greater Irvine Chamber as a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor. Wells Fargo has been a member of the Greater Irvine Chamber since 2006. Wells Fargo is a diversified, community-based financial services company serving customers’ financial needs. Founded in 1852, Wells Fargo provides banking, investment, and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through 7,700 locations, more than 13,000 ATMs, internet, and mobile banking, and has offices in 33 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 262,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves on...

New Law Expands CFRA to Small Business

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss how employers should prepare for the newly signed family and medical leave law (SB 1383) that expands the California Family Rights Act (CFRA) and takes effect on Jan. 1, 2021. Burden on Employers Many employers may be accustomed to leave laws, such as CFRA and the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), that apply to employers who meet a threshold of 50 or more employees. Fifty employees has been considered a magic number because larger employers can b...

Vincit: Best Tech Work Culture Award Finalist

Sunday, September 20, 2020

Software development and design company Vincit is a finalist for the 2020 Timmy Awards in the Best Tech Work Culture category. The Timmy Awards was created by Tech in Motion, an international event series with a mission to bring local tech communities together to meet, learn, and innovate. Tech in Motion awards program honors the year’s best tech startups, managers, and employers. As a Timmy Award finalist, Vincit is eligible for a Regional Community Favorite Award, determined through a vote by the general public. One vote a day may be cast and are being accepted HERE through Sept. 30. Regional Community Favorite...

US News & World Report Ranks Chapman Among the Nation’s Top-Tier Universities

Saturday, September 19, 2020

For the second consecutive year, Chapman University is listed among the nation’s top universities in U.S. News & World Report’s newest rankings, released Sept. 14. The annual U.S. News report listed Chapman at No. 124 in its National Universities category, up from No. 125 in last year’s ranking. Chapman achieved entry into the category just last year, a distinction reflective of its rising reputation, growing research programs, and designation as an R2 status institution with high research activity. “Continuing as a top-tier university among the nation’s best institutions of higher education is validation of Chapman’s growing excellence and rising reputation. It reflects ou...

SafeDineOC Grants Raised to $5,000 to Aid Eligible Restaurants

Friday, September 18, 2020

SafeDineOC grants have been raised to $5,000 for eligible restaurants. As part of the SafeDineOC Restaurant Program, the Orange County Board of Supervisors has allocated $10 million in Federal CARES Act funding to support local restaurants that are safely reopening. Restaurants are eligible for up to $5,000 in reimbursements for CARES Act-qualified purchases, such as masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment (PPE), site reconfiguration, employee training, cleaning supplies, etc. The application period for the grant program is open through Oct. 16, 2020, or whenever funding is fully allocated, whichever occurs first. The application takes less than five minutes to complete and receip...

Destination Irvine’s Work Contributes to Millions of Dollars in Economic Impact for the City

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

As many Orange County hotels compete for business, Destination Irvine—the destination marketing division of the Greater Irvine Chamber—is distinguishing the city as a preferred location for overnight visitors. The Destination Irvine team focuses on bringing business and sports groups to Irvine, matching them with properties that offer sought-after amenities and access to Irvine and Orange County facilities and locales. “The economic impact of visitor spending in Irvine contributes millions of dollars to local and state taxes, which offsets these costs for residents, said Wendy Haase, vice president, Destination Irvine. “Destination Irvine’s marketing and sales initiatives play a strategic role in generating trave...

Greater Irvine Chamber Awards Lifetime Membership to Sophia Alexander

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber has awarded Sophia Rose Alexander, former vice president of sales at 2010 Office Furniture, a Greater Irvine Chamber Lifetime Membership. Over the past eight years as a member of the Chamber, Rose Alexander has dedicated countless hours to serving the organization in various volunteer leadership roles and helping to expand the Chamber’s award-winning Leads Group program. “The Greater Irvine Chamber is pleased to recognize Sophia Rose with a lifetime membership. She has been instrumental in growing the Chamber’s Leads Group program, helping to create a space for our membership to form quality relationships, and meet people they trus...

Hoag Orthopedic Institute is the Only Hospital in Southern California to Earn ‘5-Star Rating’ for Patient Experience from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Hoag Orthopedic Institute, which performs the most hip and knee joint replacement surgeries in California, is the only hospital in Southern California to receive a five-star rating for patient experience from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) after a nationwide assessment through its recent Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) star ratings. “We are honored that our patients recognized our staff for their exemplary work and dedication to creating a patient-centered, healing environment at Hoag Orthopedic Institute,” said Jennifer Mitzner, CEO, Hoag Orthopedic Institute. “Receiving CMS’ highest rating for patient experience is a nod to th...

Rental Assistance Program Reopens Sept. 21

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

The City of Irvine will reopen its Rental Assistance Program on Monday, Sept. 21 to provide additional financial support to residents impacted by COVID-19. Earlier this summer, the city committed $2 million in one-time federal CARES Act funding to help 2,000 households with rental payment assistance or lease termination fees. The application period ended on July 24 and resulted in approximately 1,750 approved applications. This second round of funding will provide grants to as many as 250 additional Irvine renters. “We established this program in the summer to help Irvine residents keep their homes after facing job loss and financial pressures due t...

UCI Leads Study in Collaboration with Apple, Inc. on the Use of Technology for Asthma Care

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Anthem, Inc. announced a new study which is being conducted by University of California, Irvine (UCI) that examines how the use of everyday devices, like Apple Watch and iPhone, may help individuals with asthma better self-manage their condition for improved clinical outcomes. The virtual study was designed in collaboration with Apple, Inc. CareEvolution, the study technology partner responsible for building the study app and enabling collection of the study data. Launching in the fall, the two-year, randomized controlled study will enroll participants from Anthem-affiliated health plans who have been clinically diagnosed with asthma. Nearly 25 million Americans are currently diagnosed wit...

UPS Holiday Season Hiring Will Top 100,000 Amid COVID Spawned E-commerce Boon

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

(AJOT) United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS)—a bronze-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber—said it will hire more than 100,000 seasonal workers to help handle an expected avalanche of holiday packages from online orders this year as shoppers avoid stores during the coronavirus pandemic. The holiday hires, a slight increase from last year, will be on top of the thousands of workers the courier already has added to keep up with a surge in package demand. During the second quarter alone, UPS brought in 39,000 workers at its U.S. unit, which saw package volume surge by 23% from a year earlier...

CBE Office Solutions Continues Partnership with Greater Irvine Chamber as Silver-Level Leaders Circle Sponsor

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

CBE Office Solutions has renewed its community partnership with the Greater Irvine Chamber as a silver-level Leaders Circle sponsor. CBE Office Solutions has proudly provided professional business solutions in Southern California since 1993. With offices in Irvine, and other Southern California cities, CBE Office Solutions offers a wide array of office products and services to its business customers. Its range of office equipment includes offerings from industry leaders such as HP, Sharp, Ricoh, and Canon. Business solutions include managed IT services, managed print services, document management, Pitney Bowes mailing equipment, and workflow software solutions. Leaders Circle members of the Greater Irvine Chambe...

Kaiser Permanente is First US Health Care System to Achieve Carbon-Neutral Status

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

(Patch) Kaiser Permanente, the nation's largest integrated, nonprofit health system, has become the first health care system in the United States to achieve carbon-neutral status. With its longstanding commitment to improving conditions that lead to poor health, Kaiser Permanente has prioritized sustainability to contribute to and catalyze a green future free of the extreme climate conditions currently harming so many Americans. This move to carbon neutrality eliminates the organization's 800,000-ton annual carbon footprint, the equivalent of taking 175,000 cars off the road. The U.S. health care industry overall is responsible for roughly 10 percent of the country's greenhouse gas emissions. "As wildfires rag...

Median US Household Income Rises 6.8% to $68,700 in 2019, Poverty Rate Falls for Fifth Year

Tuesday, September 15, 2020

(USA Today) Americans’ incomes rose sharply last year and fewer people were living in poverty, but a growing number went without health insurance for the second straight year. The numbers were skewed by reduced responses to U.S. Census survey takers during the COVID-19 pandemic but, even after accounting for that shortfall, still show healthy income gains and a decline in poverty. Median U.S. household income increased 6.8% to $68,700, the U.S. Census Bureau said. That followed advances of 3.1% in 2016, 1.8% in 2017 and 0.9% in 2018. On an inflation-adjusted basis, median income last year was the highest on records dating t...

Samuel Johnson Named CEO of Transportation Corridor Agencies

Monday, September 14, 2020

The Transportation Corridor Agencies’ (TCA) two Boards of Directors, comprised entirely of elected officials, affirmed that Interim CEO Samuel Johnson will retain the role of CEO effective immediately. Johnson, an award-winning industry leader with nearly 30 years of public agency experience, has led the Agencies to key successes since being named Interim CEO in April against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among his recent accomplishments, Johnson reformed TCA’s internal audit function for increased transparency, oversaw the creation of a more robust consumer privacy policy, and worked with Board leadership to reduce the Agencies’ annual budget by 51% while preserving job...

UCI Ranked Among Nation’s Top 10 Public Universities for Sixth Consecutive Year

Monday, September 14, 2020

The University of California, Irvine (UCI), a gold-level Leaders Circle of the Greater Irvine Chamber, has been ranked eighth among the nation’s public universities in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 list of “Best Colleges.” This is the sixth consecutive year in which UCI has placed in the top 10. UCI placed 35th among all American universities – public and private – and rose to second in the subcategory of social mobility, which takes into account the graduation rate of students awarded Pell Grants. Begun in 1983, the annual U.S. News list is one of the most influential in the country, with rating...

Gov. Newsom Signs Three Bills to help Small Businesses Recover from COVID-19, Economic Downturn

Thursday, September 10, 2020

(California Globe) Governor Gavin Newsom on Sept. 9 signed three bills into law aimed at assisting small businesses and construction in California. Senate Bill 1447, authored by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), was the first bill signed on Sept. 9. The bill institutes the Main Street Hiring Tax Credit, which allows businesses with less than 100 employees to get a tax credit against personal and corporate income taxes each year. The credits are good for $1,000 for each new employee hired between July and November, with a set limit of $100,000 per business. The bill was tied back into the COVID-19 and economic crisis by having businesses qualif...

City of Irvine Seeks Citizen Input for Jamboree Pedestrian Bridge Location

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

The City of Irvine seeks input from the public on the best location for a pedestrian bridge over Jamboree in the northern part of the Irvine Business Complex. An online open house on Thursday, Sept. 10, 5 – 6 p.m. will include a project overview and discussion. The Jamboree Pedestrian Bridge Feasibility Study will identify and evaluate potential locations to construct a pedestrian bridge along Jamboree Road in between I-405 Freeway and Barranca Parkway. The Irvine Business Complex has transformed into an area with diverse land uses, providing the opportunity to live, work, and shop locally. The transformation has created a need for additional connections and new facilities fo...

Marianna Marysheva Appointed Interim City Manager

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

The Irvine City Council voted to appoint Marianna Marysheva as Interim City Manager, effective Sept. 9. Marysheva has served as Assistant City Manager since July 2018. An innovative and creative leader with more than two decades of municipal government experience, Marysheva has a track record of implementing programs that promote transparency and open governments; building partnerships and encouraging collaboration; and accomplishing projects with multiple cross-pressures and competing priorities. “As Assistant City Manager, Marianna Marysheva has proven to be an excellent leader,” Mayor Christina Shea said. “She has skillfully managed our multi-faceted response to the COVID-19 pandemic and addressed the $16 million budget defici...

More Orange County Businesses Can Reopen as Region Advances to Red Tier in Coronavirus Battle

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

(Orange County Register) Orange County has shown enough progress against the coronavirus in recent weeks that it shifted Tuesday, Sept. 8, from the most critical purple tier to the less-restrictive red tier in the state’s pandemic tracking system. That means Orange County’s two most crucial coronavirus metrics, a daily average of new cases and the share of tests that come back positive, are low enough to allow a new range of business sectors and other public places to reopen – though in many cases with restrictions such as limits on capacity. With the tier shift from purple for “widespread” risk to red fo...

Rima Nashishibi Honored by Rep. Lou Correa as a 2020 Women of the Year

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

Rima Nashishibi, co-chair of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s International Development Committee and president of Global Hope 365, has been named a 2020 Women of the Year by Rep. Lou Correa of California’s 46th District. Nashashibi will be formally recognized during the 2020 Women of the Year digital ceremony, Friday, Sept. 18, alongside a number of other exemplary women that live, work, or meaningfully impact the district. An internationally recognized speaker and political and community leader/activist, Nashashibi has publicly promoted tolerance, equal opportunity, and justice for persons of all genders, ethnicity, religious backgrounds, and political persuasions for more than 20 years. Nashashibi ha...

Wells Fargo Gives $1 Million in Scholarships to Bridge Financial Gaps Faced by Students Amidst COVID-19

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

Students dedicated to making a positive difference in the world offer the greatest hope for the future, but for many their plans are threatened due to the unexpected financial gap posed by COVID-19—sometimes prohibiting them from continuing and completing college. Wells Fargo wants to help close that gap by launching the Wells Fargo Student Impact Scholarship. This new initiative will provide 200 students with $5,000 each—funds that could help them cover various costs for their instruction and potentially make the difference in being able to continue their education. Wells Fargo’s commitment will go beyond financial assistance to include an optiona...

The Toll Roads Recovered to Nearly 70% of Pre-COVID Transactions, Offers Customers More Time to Pay

Friday, September 04, 2020

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Transporation Corridor Agency (TCA) weekly transactions were approximately 1.9 million. During the low point in April, weekly transactions had dropped approximately 66%. As of Aug. 9, weekly transactions had recovered to approximately 1.3 million or 68% of pre-COVID transactions. “On The Toll Roads, traffic numbers dipped dramatically, with similar impacts to non-tolled roads and transit. From a health perspective, this was positive in keeping people safe, but it created economic challenges for our customers and our business. We have taken steps to address these challenges by offering customers more time to pay, pausing our delinquent violation processes, and tightening ou...

California's Export Trade Stages Impressive Recovery In Latest Numbers

Thursday, September 03, 2020

(Beacon Economics) California’s export trade staged an impressive recovery in July despite the adverse economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and unfavorable tariffs overseas, according to Beacon Economics’ analysis of U.S. trade statistics released this morning by the U.S. Census Bureau. In a month that saw overall U.S. merchandise exports decline by more than 15% from one year earlier, California businesses shipped a total of $13.487 billion in merchandise abroad in July, a nominal decline of just 0.4% from the $13.544 billion in exports the state recorded in July 2019. Shipments of manufactured products by California firms were down 5.7% to $8.38...

Ampronix Named Greater Irvine Chamber September 2020 Member of the Month

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

Ampronix Medical Imaging Technology, has been named the Greater Irvine Chamber Member of the Month for September 2020. In the spirit of community partnerships, the Greater Irvine Chamber has expanded its criteria for Member of the Month to include organizations as well as individuals that have engaged in the Greater Irvine Chamber and have made contributions to support others as they face challenges presented by the COVID-19 crisis. Ampronix meets that standard. A Greater Irvine Chamber member since 2010, Ampronix has engaged in the Chamber’s Orange County World Trade Week Forum, including being a finalist for the 2018 Exporter of the Yea...

California & U.K., Film and Entertainment Export Powerhouses

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

California and the U.K. are among the biggest exporters of creative content in the world. The two entertainment powerhouses also work together to advance the industry. The California Film Commission and its fellow film commissions in the U.K. work in concert to advance film/TV production best practices and economic development. The British Consulate recently held a corporate dialogue with representatives from the British Consulate, the California Film Commission, and the Pacific Council to discuss facets of the U.S.-U.K. Free Trade Agreement. The conversation focused on the entertainment industry and topics pertaining to intellectual property, digital copyright, and the U.S.-U.K. trade relationshi...

California’s Longstanding Partnership with the United Kingdom

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

California and the U.K. have strong, historic ties that have a sizable impact on both economies. The U.K. is the second-largest source of foreign investment in California––supporting more than 111,000 jobs in the state. In 2019 there was more than $11 billion in two-way trade between the economies. “I am proud to have the opportunity to work with many foreign partners in furthering our commercial and diplomatic activity, but also particularly glad to engage with our local economic development partners, including the economic development team in Irvine who has done such a fantastic job building a deliberate, long-term, and mutually-beneficial relationshi...

City of Hope Orange County is the Presenting Sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Celebrate Resilience Awards

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

City of Hope Orange County is the Presenting Sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Celebrate Resilience awards presentation, which will be delivered digitally on Thursday, Oct. 22, 12 – 1 p.m. “Thanks to many dedicated people, solid planning, and vibrant organizations like the Greater Irvine Chamber, Irvine continues to rise above challenges, including those of the present-day. We are thrilled to be the Presenting Sponsor for the Chamber’s Celebrate Resilience awards presentation, and to contribute to a healthier and even more impressive future for this great community,” Annette M. Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. As a champion of strong community partnerships...

Cox Communications Awards $50,000 in “Innovation in Education” Grants to Support Distance Learning This Fall

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

With distance learning being the new normal for school districts across the state, Cox—a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber—is committed to ensuring students and teachers start the new school year strong by having the tools they need for success. As a part of this commitment, Cox has awarded $50,000 in “Innovation in Education” grants to local school districts and the Orange County Department of Education. The grant program was established in 2014 to support teachers at eligible schools who were enhancing the traditional classroom experience by providing creative and technology-based curriculum for their students. Since its inception...

Irvine’s Master-Planned Outdoor Respites are Increasingly Appreciated Assets Amid COVID-19

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

For several years, Destination Irvine has recognized that Irvine’s master-planned outdoor space is an extraordinary asset for residents and visitors alike. Destination Irvine, the Greater Irvine Chamber’s destination marketing division, has actively promoted Irvine’s outdoor space. With its 16,500 acres of preserved natural habitats and wildlands offering 60+ miles hiking and biking trails, Irvine is differentiated from other Orange County cities, providing outdoor enthusiasts an alternative to surfing and beach activities. Amid social distancing measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, Irvine’s permanently preserved open space and extensive park system, including its gem the Orange County Great Park and sports facilities, are particularly sought-after respites. “With its bold commitmen...

Linda DiMario, Jessica Welch Nominated for OC Business Journal’s Women in Business Awards

Wednesday, September 02, 2020

Greater Irvine Chamber Executive Vice President Linda DiMario, and Vice President of Operations Jessica Welch, have been nominated for the Orange County Business Journal’s Women in Business Awards. The Women in Business Awards program honors five exceptional business and professional Orange County women. Nominees will be featured in the Women in Business Special Report, publishing August 10. Linda DiMario Following more than four years in senior leadership roles at the Greater Irvine Chamber, DiMario was named executive vice president in 2017, overseeing the Chamber’s economic development, tourism, and hotel and sports marketing divisions. She leads the Chamber’s Economic Vitality Council, and its Internationa...

CalChamber Joins Canadians in North American Rebound Campaign

Tuesday, September 01, 2020

(CalChamber) Promoting a collaborative manufacturing response to COVID-19 in North America is the goal of a program started by the Canadian American Business Council (CABC) and joined by the California Chamber of Commerce along with manufacturers, businesses and chambers from all over the United States and Canada. The program is called the North American Rebound Campaign. In joining the North American Rebound Campaign, CalChamber Vice President for International Affairs Susanne T. Stirling said, “California and Canada are longtime friends and partners in many areas, including trade, investment, academic and scientific collaboration, and tourism. The California Chamber of Commerce enthusiastically supports free trade worldwide...

California Renters to Receive COVID-19 Eviction Protections Under Bill Signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom

Tuesday, September 01, 2020

(Los Angeles Times) Gov. Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature acted to avert a housing crisis by approving legislation to extend protections against evictions by five months for California renters facing financial hardship because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Newsom signed the bill just before midnight, Aug. 31, hours after it was approved in two-thirds votes of both houses of the state Legislature on the last day of this year’s session. “COVID-19 has impacted everyone in California — but some bear much more of the burden than others, especially tenants struggling to stitch together the monthly rent, and they deserve protection from eviction,” Newso...

Great Park Balloon Masks Up to Protect Against COVD-19

Monday, August 31, 2020

(Orange County Register) The familiar orange balloon at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine is sporting a new look designed to remind people to practice coronavirus safety. Earlier this week, the giant orb was adorned with sunglasses and a face covering, and it went on display Thursday, Aug. 27, taking flight with an empty gondola due to restrictions on gatherings. The balloon’s accessories were added by FivePoint Holdings—a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber—the developer that sponsors the balloon and has donated more than 1 million masks for Irvine workers and residents. Face coverings are required for most people i...

Irvine Summer Drive-In Series to Continue In September

Monday, August 31, 2020

The City of Irvine continues the fun with more Summer Drive-In Series events in September. Enjoy movies on the big screen in drive-in format at the Orange County Great Park, as the community safely gathers while practicing social distancing. On Saturday, Sept. 12, join the city for a screening of Onward. On Saturday, Sept. 19, take in a showing of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Gates open at 6 p.m., with the movies beginning approximately 7:15 p.m. Bring a picnic from home or plan to purchase treats from gourmet food trucks to enjoy in your car with family and friend...

Unemployed Californians to Receive Extra $300 In Weekly Jobless Benefits

Monday, August 31, 2020

(Sacramento Bee) An extra $300 per week available to California’s unemployed residents will start going out the week beginning Sept. 7. The benefit, which will be in addition to regular weekly checks, will be rolled out in phases, so not everyone will see the extra money in two weeks. The new amount will be nearly double the current average state unemployment benefit. It’s only half the $600 supplemental benefit unemployed claimants received from late March until late July through a federal coronavirus relief law. The White House and Democrats can’t agree on replacing that amount in a proposed economic stimulus plan, so President Donald Trum...

What’s Open, What’s Closed in Orange County

Monday, August 31, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Aug. 28 reveal of the new COVID-19 tracking system, Blueprint for a Safer Economy, set new timing for business reopenings. The monitoring system, with changes effective Aug. 31, replaced the previous County Data Monitoring List in outlining what businesses can reopen with health and safety modifications to their operations. OC is currently in the highest risk, or purple, tier of the Blueprint. Here, a list of the status of each business sector as of Aug. 31 in Orange County as outlined by the state. Businesses that do reopen must follow safety guidelines. Full information on th...

Cox Expands Commitment to Bridging the Learning Divide, Provides Additional Support for Kids and Families Learning from Home

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Cox announced on Aug. 25 an expanded commitment to bridging the learning divide as part of its ongoing effort to support kids and families learning and teaching from home during the coronavirus pandemic. Through June 30, 2021, Cox is suspending late fees and extending payment relief offerings for customers in the company’s low-cost internet program Connect2Compete who express an inability to pay due to pandemic hardships. “I would like to thank Cox Communications for their commitment,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “Now, more than ever, it’s critical that every Californian have the ability to connect to the internet and that every child ha...

Greater Irvine Chamber Members Nominated for OCBJ 2020 Innovator of the Year Awards

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

A number of individuals from Greater Irvine Chamber member companies have been nominated for the Orange County Business Journal’s 2020 Innovator of the Year Awards. The program recognizes and celebrates individuals and their organizations who are creating game-changing products and services, and who demonstrate brilliance and leadership in innovation. Chamber member nominees include: Ahmad Malkawi, Global Telecom Engineering Bob Wolpert, Golden State Foods Scott Hamilton, NextWorks Strategy–Executive Next Practices Institute Michael Dennin, University of California, Irvine Ville Houttu, Vincit Dr. Anthony Lee, Westcliff University The award program will be presented digitally Thursday, Sept. 24. For more information and to register, visit OCBJ.com/BizEvents.

Greater Irvine Chamber Presents Celebrate Resilience

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

As a champion of strong community partnerships, the Greater Irvine Chamber will formally recognize companies, organizations, and individuals that have made a positive impact on the greater Irvine community in response to the Coronavirus crisis, during the Chamber’s Celebrate Resilience awards presentation, which will be delivered digitally on Thursday, Oct. 22, 12 – 1 p.m. Acts of support, large or small, from any industry are eligible for recognition. Nominations are open to Greater Irvine Chamber members and non-members. Self-nominations are also encouraged. Nominations are being accepted through Friday, Sept. 25, 5 p.m. Nominate here. One winner selected from each of these categories: Community Her...

OC Emergency Childcare Task Force to Deliver Essential Supplies to Everyday Heroes

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

The Orange County Emergency Childcare Task Force, formed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is collaborating to bring much needed essential supplies to childcare providers who are still open and providing care to essential workers. The task force is facilitated by Early Childhood OC and includes First 5 Orange County, Children’s Home Society of California, Orange County Department of Education, Local Child Development and Planning Council, Community Care Licensing, Orange County Social Services Agency, and Pretend City Children’s Museum. The Emergency Childcare Taskforce was formed to ensure during the COVID-19 pandemic that our most vulnerable children would still have access t...

Virtual Business Outreach Rally Provides Primary Data About Business During COVID

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

To remain in touch with Irvine businesses during the Coronavirus crisis and to learn about their needs, challenges, and aspirations, the Greater Irvine Chamber re-engineered its award-winning Business Outreach Rally as a virtual program this August. Chamber Ambassadors volunteered their time to conduct the Chamber’s outreach out to Irvine companies to inform them of resources available through the Chamber and to survey what businesses are experiencing during this economic and health crisis. The volunteers connected with more than 120 businesses over the telephone, gaining primary data about their operations now and in the future. Most of the more than 120 businesses surveye...

Irvine Orange County Emerging as Global Leader in Tech & Cybersecurity

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

By Bryan Starr, President and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber, as published in the Aug. 24 issue of the Orange County Business Journal. Orange County has long been known for its dominance in medical device across multiple healthcare industries. More recently, the county’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector has emerged as a leader in Southern California, horizontally impacting most industries, including technology and medical technology. The key components to creating a strong AI ecosystem are universities, specific industries in both tech and MedTech, organizations that can provide leadership, entrepreneurs, and capital. Orange County — bolstered in these areas by two key players, UCI Beall Applied Innovatio...

Orange County Off of State's Coronavirus Monitoring List

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

(NBC Los Angeles) Orange County was removed from California's coronavirus monitoring list, starting the clock for all public schools in the county to potentially reopen in early September. The state mandates a county must be off the watch list for 15 days before all schools can reopen. Orange County's data on hospitalizations and other key metrics have been moving in the right direction, with the rate of county residents testing positive for COVID-19 at 5.4%, below the state's desired threshold of 8%. The county could be placed back on the list should it be flagged for exceeding any one of six different metric...

241/91 Express Connector Project Enters Final Design Phase, Marking Important Project Milestone

Monday, August 24, 2020

The Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency (F/ETCA) Board of Directors has advanced the contracted engineering work to complete the 241/91 Express Connector Project’s final design phase. The phase is anticipated to last until 2022, with construction expected to commence in 2023 and completion scheduled for 2025. “This project is going to make a huge difference for commuters in the region. I’m so pleased with the work that’s been done to move this effort forward and to see the project enter the next phase toward construction, which will create 2,250 jobs,” said Christina Shea, F/ETCA Chairwoman and Mayor of Irvine. The 241/91 Express Connecto...

Irvine Residents Among Healthiest In America

Monday, August 24, 2020

(Irvine Standard) Good news. Irvine has gained a new accolade, perhaps its most important. Three recent studies – by Anthem Foundation’s “Fittest Cities in America,” Niche’s “Healthiest Places to Live in America,” and WalletHub’s “Healthiest U.S. Cities” – all ranked Irvine among America’s top 10 healthiest cities. The studies found that residents are fitter and happier due to convenient access to the things that promote a healthy lifestyle, like parks, open space, bike trails, and quality medical care. The master-planned city was designed 60 years ago with a goal to create a place “where nature and people prosper,” and this balance benefits residents today. Here’...

UCI Develops Low-Cost, Accurate COVID-19 Antibody Detection Platform

Monday, August 24, 2020

A robust, low-cost imaging platform utilizing lab-on-a-chip technology created by University of California, Irvine—a gold-level Leaders Circle member of the Greater Irvine Chamber—scientists may be available for rapid coronavirus diagnostic and antibody testing throughout the nation by the end of the year. The UCI system can go a long way toward the deployment of a vaccine for COVID-19 and toward reopening the economy, as both require widespread testing for the virus and its antibodies. So far, antibody testing in the U.S. has been too inaccurate or expensive to reach the necessary numbers. But UCI investigators Weian Zhao, Per Niklas Hedde, Enrico Gratton...

When to Record, Report COVID-19 Occurrence in Workplace

Monday, August 24, 2020

(CalChamber) What are the California Department of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) requirements for reporting occurrences of COVID-19 in the workplace? Cal/OSHA has provided guidelines in a question-and-answer format in its Frequently Asked Questions. The reporting requirements are predicated on the same requirements as any other occupational illness: Death Days away from work Restricted work or transfer to another job Medical treatment beyond first aid Loss of consciousness A significant injury or illness diagnosed by a physician or other licensed health care provider Recording Occurrence If the COVID-19 incident results in any of the above conditions, then it is to be recorded on the forms 300, 300A and 301. Federal guidelines stat...

Still a Ways to Go, But California Labor Market Continues Recovery From COVID-19 as Jobs Are Added, Unemployment Falls

Friday, August 21, 2020

(Source: Beacon Economics) California’s labor market continued to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in July, with total nonfarm employment in the state expanding by 140,400 positions, according to an analysis released jointly by Beacon Economics and the UC Riverside School of Business Center for Economic Forecasting and Development. “The addition of over 140,000 jobs in July is certainly a positive sign,” said Taner Osman, Research Manager at Beacon Economics and the UCR Center for Economic Forecasting. “But to place this figure in context, if we continue to add jobs at the same rate as in July, it will take until July 202...

A Digital Shift for Corporate Social Responsibility

Thursday, August 20, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and social purpose are key in ensuring relevancy for your company. According to Deloitte’s 2018 Global Human Capital Trends report, both consumers and employees judge businesses “on the basis of their relationships with their workers, their customers, and their communities, as well as their impact on society at large—transforming them from business enterprises into social enterprises.” That is, doing good is good for business, whether it be for equity, relief, or just building better, stronger communities. And with the ongoing pandemic crisis creating uncertainty for all, it’s now more important than ever to support ou...

Wells Fargo Works With Community Organizations to Find Innovative Solutions for Affordable Housing

Thursday, August 20, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University, nearly one-third of U.S. households spend more than 30% of their income on housing, and 18 million commit more than 50% for a safe place to live. Combating the affordable housing crisis is a long game and municipalities, developers, and community organizations are working together to find innovative and scalable solutions to address local and national housing affordability concerns. In 2019, Wells Fargo — a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber — committed $1 billion in philanthropy through 2025 to address the U.S. housing affordability crisis, including homelessness...

As US Homebuilder Confidence Matches Record High, Mortgage Delinquencies Rise

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

(Reuters) U.S. home builder confidence rose for a third straight month in August to match its highest level ever as record-low interest rates spur buyer traffic, data released showed in the latest indication the housing market is a rare bright spot in the economic crisis triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, however, a growing number of home owners are falling behind on their mortgages with tens of millions still out of work and growing signs that the labor market recovery is softening. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index rose six points to 78, matching a serie...

Greater Irvine Chamber Board Members Nominated for OCBJ 2020 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Awards

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Greater Irvine Chamber past chair of the board of directors Dan Han, founder, Agapay, and board member Ville Houttu, founder and CEO, Vincit, have been nominated for the Orange County Business Journal’s 2020 Excellence in Entrepreneurship awards. Also nominated was Chamber member Greg Krueger, founder, Uplift Transport. The awards were created to recognize individuals who exemplify the American entrepreneurial spirit – individuals who, by their creativity and determination, have established and nurtured successful business ventures. Delivered digitally, the awards program will air on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 2:00 p.m. For more information on the OCBJ 2020 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Awards and to register fo...

Greater Irvine Chamber, Coalition of California Chambers Urge Governor to Withhold Support of Proposition 15

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber joined the California Chamber of Commerce and a coalition of California’s regional and local chambers that represent nearly 40,000 small businesses to urge California Governor Gavin Newsom to withhold support of Proposition 15. The proposition, a $12.5-billion property tax increase on the November ballot, if passed, would mean higher property taxes and rents for small businesses. “Small business in California is already on the ropes because of the COVID crisis. The advancement of Proposition 15 will be salt in the wound,” said Bryan Starr, president and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber. “Governments at all levels in the state, startin...

LaunchPad Announces Eight Companies Presenting at Octane Tech Innovation Forum

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Octane, Southern California's leading accelerator announced today the top eight LaunchPad companies that will be presenting at Tech Innovation Forum on Sept. 8-11, a digital experience. LaunchPad ranks in the top five of the nation's Small Business Development Centers (SBDC). Presenting companies were chosen from more than 80 applications submitted to the accelerator. At Tech Innovation Forum, each company will present for 10 minutes followed by Q&A from investor judges. Final Eight LaunchPad Companies: Advice Analytics- Businesses spend $12B+ in 401k retirement plan compliance – yet, 70% fail their audit. Advice Analytics uniquely uses predictive analytics – for overwhelmed legacy 401k systems – to help firms stay compliant and avoi...

Octane Announces 2020 High Tech Awards Finalists

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Octane, a gold-level Leaders Circle member of the Greater Irvine Chamber, recently announced the finalists for its 2020 High Tech Awards, which celebrate and recognize individuals and companies that make Orange County a center of technology and medical technology innovation. The finalists by category are: Best Consumer Technology Innovation CalAmp Intellivision iPill Dispenser Pretika Corporation Wing AI Technology Best Enterprise or B2B Technology Innovation Cytellix Corporation Concise HOTB Software Smart Energy Water Best Small Technology Company CEO Centercode CISOSHARE Invoy Specright Best Technology Company Leadership Team INK Games Kofax MeridianLink Vincit* Deal of the Year Finalists Synoptek Tarsus Pharmaceuticals Outstanding Emerging Technology Company CuraPatient Eyedaptic Fluxergy Menlo Micro Outstanding Innovation in MedTech/LifeSciences 11 Health AIVITA Biomedical Ivantis LensGen Outstanding Small Technology Company NowRx Ocutrx Vision Technologies Restaurant365 Verb Technology VC of the Year Cove Fund II Okapi Ventures Visionary Venture Capital Octane High Tech Award...

United Kingdom-California Relations: Cultural Parallels, Mutual Interests Form Core of Strategic Trading Partnership

Tuesday, August 18, 2020

The following answers to questions posed by the California Chamber of Commerce are from Andrew Whittaker, consul general, British Consulate General San Francisco. Please describe your thoughts on the unique relationship between the United Kingdom and California? California is a significant piece of the United Kingdom’s special relationship with the United States, both as a strategic partner given the size of our bilateral trade, investment within the state, cultural parallels and mutual overarching interests, such as reducing our carbon footprint, but also as a cultural friend. Every year, more than 686,000 Brits visit California, spending an average of $905 million within the state...

Another Stretch Lab Debuts in Irvine

Monday, August 17, 2020

(Orange County Register) StretchLab, a member of the Greater Irvine Chamber, has opened a second Irvine location – a fitness boutique at Irvine Spectrum Center. The studio will introduce people of all ages and fitness levels to a variety of personalized stretching services led by trained “Flexologists.” StretchLab Irvine Spectrum is owned by Darrin Yee and Melissa Walls. This is the first of two studios the duo plans to open this year, according to a statement. The franchise is part of Irvine-based fitness franchise giant Xponential Fitness. The chain includes brands such as Club Pilates, CycleBar, Row House, and AKT, a dance-based cardio workout. Extr...

UC Irvine Lab Makes Coronavirus-Crippling Molecule, a First Step Toward a New Drug

Monday, August 17, 2020

(Orange County Register) A team of chemists at UC Irvine — a gold-level Leaders Circle sponsor of the Greater Irvine Chamber — have created a molecule that acts as a false key to latch onto an enzyme needed by the coronavirus to reproduce. The recently announced discovery could be an important first step in developing a drug to treat COVID-19. James Nowick, a professor of chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences who runs a lab that specializes in building molecules, described the coronavirus enzyme as a lock. “The natural molecules that the enzyme binds to are sort of like keys that fit the lock and ca...

Answering More of Employers' COVID-19-Related FAQs

Thursday, August 13, 2020

(CalChamber) California had begun easing into a phased reopening plan when COVID-19 cases started surging, which caused the state to pause or even roll back its reopening. Employers, who had started reopening and recalling their workforces, have started asking new questions about how to protect their workers while still doing business. The CalChamber Labor Law Helpline continues to receive lots of calls from members related to COVID-19. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions they receive and their answers. Can I require an employee who previously tested positive for COVID-19 to submit a negative COVID-19 test result before returning to work? A...

New UCI Health Center for Advanced Care to Provide Greater Access to World-Class Care

Thursday, August 13, 2020

The University of California, Irvine – a Greater Irvine Chamber gold-level Leaders Circle member – is bringing world-class healthcare services to coastal and southern Orange County with plans to build the UCI Health Center for Advanced Care, which will be home to the Center for Children’s Health, adult specialty care, urgent care, and other services needed in the region for the entire family. The 168,000-square-foot UCI Health Center for Advanced Care will be located in Irvine on Jamboree Road at the Birch Street intersection, in an undeveloped part of UCI’s North Campus area. This location will give residents greater accessibility t...

Newsom Lays Out New Economic Recovery Priorities to Help Businesses During Pandemic

Thursday, August 13, 2020

(San Francisco Business Journal) Gov. Gavin Newsom laid out new priorities for how he wants California’s economy to move forward, as businesses struggle and unemployment remains high because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The governor is still watching for the number of hospitalizations and the rate of new COVID-19 cases to lower before the state could reopen some of its business sectors, like indoor dining and bars. The state reported 11,645 new cases on Aug. 11, including 6,212 cases that were part of a backlog caused by an outage in the state’s tracking system earlier this month. Statewide, hospitalizations have dropped about 19.4...

Companies that Export Access Streamlined Documentation Processing Through Greater Irvine Chamber’s Online Services

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber provides opportunities for companies to grow through exporting, from staff and international development committee support and tailored programming presented as part of the Orange County World Trade Week Forum to export documentation services. On May 1, the Chamber launched its online export documentation processing services, replacing the walk-in process. Since then, more than 100 documents have been processed for companies including Ampronix, Biolase, CTC Global, Edwards Lifesciences, General Motors Systems, Masimo, and MedAlliance to name a few. Processed documents were for the exportation of goods to Saudi Arabia (14%), China (11%), Kuwait (10%), Vietnam (9%), and the Netherlands (7%). Other countries made up the remaining 49%. Companies utilizing the online services were split among Greater Irvine Chamber members at 46% and non-members a...

Group Established to Connect, Inspire and Empower UCI Women in Technology

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

To connect, inspire, and empower women working, researching, and teaching in technology-related fields across campus, the University of California, Irvine has established a new diversity affinity group, Women in Technology at UCI (WiT UCI). Through strategic partnerships, career development, educational events, and networking activities, Women in Technology at UCI will strengthen the community of women in technology on campus. Its objective is to engage with staff, faculty, students, and alumni to further the group’s vision and build an alliance of female innovators and leaders and those who support them. “Our slogan is to ‘advance, inspire, empower and act.’ WiT UCI is a...

Coronavirus Rebound? House Hunters Making Deals Faster than 2019

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

(Orange County Register) Local house hunters continue to sign to buy at a pace above a year ago, as a summer buying surge follows a historically slow spring. According to weekly data from Zillow, there were 3,717 new pending sales in the four-county Southern California region for the week ended Aug. 1. While that was one new escrow short of the previous week — only the second decline in the past 15 weeks — the buying pace was still 3.4% above the same time in 2019. That’s the fifth week of new deals topping year-ago buying. Despite limited options for house hunters t...

MemorialCare and PRN Partner to Operate Largest Regional Network of Comprehensive, Full-Service Physical Therapy Centers

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

MemorialCare, a prominent nonprofit Southern California integrated health system with more than 200 care locations, and Physical Rehabilitation Network, LLC, (PRN) entered into a joint venture partnership to operate 17 community-based, full-service physical therapy centers. The centers offer an array of physical, occupational, sports medicine, and other services in Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties. Ten additional centers are planned over the next two years. These freestanding centers—primarily under PRN’s flagship California Rehabilitation & Sports Therapy (Cal Rehab) brand—augment MemorialCare hospital programs and expand MemorialCare’s capacity to annually support more than 300,000 medical rehabilitation patient visits and approximately 40,000 patients o...

New UCI Health Clinic in Newport Beach to Offer Integrative Approach to Wellness

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

A doctor diagnoses a patient with high blood pressure, orders various tests and sends them home with a prescription to keep it under control. That’s the old-school model of a typical healthcare experience. UCI Health, with its emphasis on evidence-based integrative health, is new-school with world-class specialists who treat the immediate symptoms of heart disease and other conditions, as well as the mind and spirit of patients. In addition to running traditional tests, integrative health doctors and nurses also conduct sophisticated diagnostic assessments and examine patients’ health history and lifestyle in depth – including diet, exercise habits, and other factors – to devis...

US Employers Post More Jobs in June, Pull Back in Hiring

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

(AP News) U.S. employers advertised more jobs in June compared with the previous month, but overall hiring fell, painting a mixed picture of the job market. The number of jobs posted on the last day in June jumped 9.6% to 5.9 million, the Labor Department said, a solid gain but still below the pre-pandemic level of about 7 million. And employers hired 6.7 million people in June, down from 7.2 million in May, a record high. The figures suggest that restaurants, bars, retail shops, and entertainment venues — businesses that were subject to shutdown orders in April — continued to bring back worker...

The Workplace Podcast: COVID-19 Litigation Trends, Takeaways

Monday, August 10, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank talks with employment litigation expert Kristen Nesbit, partner at Fisher Phillips, Los Angeles, about the types of COVID-19-related litigation employers are seeing and what employers can do to protect their business. Types of Claims Filed We are still in the early stages of the pandemic, but employers already are seeing claims being filed against them, Nesbit says. In fact, last month the law firm saw COVID-19-related litigation claims increase 43% from the previous month. The lawsuits, she says, are a hybrid mix of issues, but the to...

UCI Researchers Launch First-of-its-Kind Coronavirus Statistics Portal

Monday, August 10, 2020

(UCI News) Scientists at the University of California, Irvine have unveiled a public website that provides up-to-date statistics on coronavirus infections in Orange County, with comparisons to neighboring and other California counties. The site displays information collected from the California Open Data Portal in an easily comprehended format, giving visitors quick access to the most relevant data on hospitalized patients with COVID-19, intensive care unit patients, new daily cases, and new daily deaths caused by the disease. It also offers color-coded Orange County maps, produced by UCI assistant professor of public health Daniel Parker, that show spatial patterns of growth in th...

Cox Enterprises and The Trust for Public Land Launch National Heroes Awards

Friday, August 07, 2020

Cox Enterprises and The Trust for Public Land are accepting nominations for the Cox Conserves Heroes program through Aug. 15. This year, the program has expanded nationwide, with nominees grouped into four regions: West, South, Midwest, and Northeast. The Cox Conserves Heroes program serves to honor environmental volunteers who create, preserve, or enhance shared outdoor spaces in their local communities. “Each year, it’s amazing to see how people across the U.S. are making a positive impact on the planet,” said Maury Wolfe, assistant vice president of corporate responsibility and public affairs for Cox Enterprises, parent company of Cox Communications. “From coordinatin...

SafeDineOC Restaurant Program is Now Accepting Applications for a $1,000 Grant

Friday, August 07, 2020

Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do (1st District) announced the launch of the SafeDineOC Restaurant Program. Below is Supervisor Andrew Do’s statement from the press conference, which was live-streamed on the County of Orange’s Facebook: facebook.com/ocgov. Restaurants can apply for the SafeDineOC Restaurant Program here: ocbc.org/safedineoc --- Today [August 6], the County of Orange is taking one more step to ensure that customers and workers at restaurants around Orange County are safe. On July 14, my proposed Safe Restaurant Program, also known as the SafeDineOC Restaurant Program, was unanimously approved by the Orange County Board of Supervisors. This program allocates $10 million of CARES Act funding to help restaurants keep their employee...

Census Will Rush to Complete Its Count by Sept. 30, One Month Earlier Than Planned

Thursday, August 06, 2020

(Los Angeles Times) The U.S. Census Bureau is ending efforts to count the country’s population on Sept. 30 — a month sooner than planned. Only 63% of the nation’s estimated 121 million households have responded to the 2020 census by mail, phone, or online. The last-minute change to the timeline raises concerns about the accuracy of the count, which is used to determine representation in Congress and state legislatures. The statistical information collected every 10 years is also the bedrock for federal and local policy decisions such as how much federal money states and cities receive, where to build water and sewer systems, wher...

Edwards on Upswing as Surgeries Rebound

Tuesday, August 04, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Hospital operations across the U.S. continue to be impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, but heart valve maker Edwards Lifesciences Corp. is optimistic that its patients will get the necessary treatments for their life-threatening health conditions as the year goes on. “We’ve had it proven to us with our own eyes that our patients are not going to be postponed or delayed,” Chief Executive Mike Mussallem told the Business Journal on July 28, noting the resourcefulness of hospitals that took swift action to reschedule postponed elective procedures. “The back half of the year will be better than what we experience...

Greater Irvine Chamber Member Marketing Opportunities

Tuesday, August 04, 2020

Marketing is at a particular premium during these economically challenged times. As one of the many benefits of membership, the Greater Irvine Chamber offers several opportunities for members to market their products and services. Members are encouraged to: Market updates of products and services updates on their company directory profile page (accessed through the member portal) Upload product and services marketing/promotions (whether a discount or not) to the hot deals page (accessed through member portal) Submit events to the community calendar Submit newsworthy articles (other than product/services promotion or events) for inclusion in our website news Advertise with the Chamber Tourism-related businesses, retail, and restaurants have th...

Masimo Launches Patient Charting, Alerts Platform

Tuesday, August 04, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Irvine-based device maker Masimo Corp. recently unveiled its UniView: 60 platform, which provides clinicians with important patient reminders and advisories in a clean, concise display outside of each patient’s room. UCI Medical Center said it deployed the product in its new acute care unit, “as part of its vision of the hospital of the future” as well as its “longstanding commitment to patient safety” at the time of the product announcement. Masimo Chief Executive Joe Kiani said he was pleased to see the product launch “at one of our excellent local institutions.” The product’s name has to do with it’...

Concordia University Irvine Launches New School of Health and Human Sciences For Fall 2020

Monday, August 03, 2020

Concordia University Irvine (CUI) has added a new School—the School of Health and Human Sciences—offering graduate and undergraduate degree programs in health-related areas of study. Academic offerings in the new School of Health and Human Sciences include a Master of Public Health, Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Coaching and Athletics Administration, a Bachelor of Arts (traditional and online) in Healthcare Management, a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a Master of Science in Nursing. Previously housed in other schools at the university, officials have consolidated the related academic programs under one School to shar...

Hoag Experiments with Pilot Health Center

Monday, August 03, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) The Hoag Health Center in Foothill Ranch isn’t your typical medical clinic. The 45,000-square-foot facility at the Foothill Ranch Towne Center is an open-floor plan that could be a combination of an Apple store, a fitness center and an island resort. The center features a gym with a workout regimen that requires a recommendation from a doctor. It has areas dedicated to physical therapy and women’s health. It also has a “tech bar” to help users connect to health improvement apps. It also has a Patch Coffee Co. bar and small specialty stores selling products from Lululemon Athletica, Camp...

Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do Proposes Grants for Safe Restaurants

Monday, August 03, 2020

Orange County restaurants that prioritize customer safety and worker protections could soon get $10 million in financial support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under a plan authored by Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do, restaurants in Orange County that have followed health safety rules and complied with state COVID-19 health guidelines will be eligible to apply for a $1,000 grant from the County. “We need to support small businesses that are protecting their employees and the public from the spread of COVID-19,” said Supervisor Andrew Do, a former restaurant owner. The $10 million program, which is funded through the federal CARES Act stimulus package, is ...

UCI Establishes School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Monday, August 03, 2020

The University of California, Irvine Board of Regents voted to establish the UCI School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, elevating the program started in 2006 to full-school status. It is only the third school of its type in the UC system. This nascent school is a critical part of the Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences. Its distinguished faculty and talented students will teach, research, and learn at the cutting edge of their disciplines and contribute to the delivery of outstanding integrative healthcare to patients across our region and, ultimately, across the nation. Under the leadership of Founding Dean Ja...

California DFEH Updates COVID-19 FAQs

Thursday, July 30, 2020

(CalChamber) On July 24, the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) has updated its COVID-19 guidance. This updated FAQ replaces the previous guidance issued on March 20. Since March, when the pandemic began impacting California, both employers and employees have adjusted and continue to readjust to the evolving rules, guidelines and practices. It’s no surprise that government agencies continue to fine-tune guidance documents as the pandemic evolves, raising unprecedented questions as more employers open their doors and infection rates increase. The newly updated DFEH guidance adds new questions and answers as well as more detailed answers to previously asked questions. Questions addresse...

California Senate Allows Remote Voting

Thursday, July 30, 2020

(California Globe) The California State Senate, pursuant to a rule that it adopted on March 16 (SR 86), is allowing remote voting in its house. Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins announced the use of remote voting under certain circumstances. She explained that the Senate was authorizing the use of remote voting to protect the health of those involved in the legislative process and to be “consistent with our Constitution.” Senator Atkins stated that the Senate had consulted with legal experts and open government groups before implementing this new procedure. The Senate is limiting the use of remote voting to their polic...

California’s Higher Education Leaders See an Opportunity In Crisis

Thursday, July 30, 2020

(EdSource) Colleges, students, and faculty members may be unsure of what lies ahead as they brace for another mostly virtual academic term amid a pandemic, but the crisis could force California’s higher education systems to improve. The state’s colleges and universities could use the current crisis to build better partnerships across the University of California, California State University, California Community Colleges, and private institutions to increase access and improve graduation rates. That was the message from Lande Ajose, a senior policy advisor for higher education to Gov. Gavin Newsom, and ECMC Foundation President Peter Taylor during a webinar hosted by California Competes...

Irvine's Great Park to Welcome New Community of Single-Family Homes

Thursday, July 30, 2020

(Orange County Register) Irvine’s Great Park residential community will get 38 new houses with starting prices planned in the mid-$1 million range. The New Home Co. will build the Atlas community — single-family homes ranging from 3,360 to 3,647 square feet with up to five bedrooms and five bathrooms — at the Rise neighborhood at the Great Park Neighborhoods. Sales are expected to begin in early 2021. The home building industry has been adapting to rapidly changing homebuyer tastes. In recent years, a preference for smaller, more-affordable housing nudged many developers to create smaller residences. But the ongoing pandemic that forced many families to spend more time at hom...

US Merchandise Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in Four Months

Thursday, July 30, 2020

(Bloomberg News) The U.S. merchandise trade gap unexpectedly narrowed in June for the first time in four months as exports jumped by the most on record, signaling the pace of global commerce is stabilizing. The overall balance shrank to $70.6 billion last month from $75.3 billion, Commerce Department data showed. The median projection in a Bloomberg survey of economists called for a $75.4 billion shortfall in June. Exports surged 13.9% from May to $102.6 billion, and imports increased 4.8% to $173.2 billion. While the total value of U.S. two-way trade picked up to $275.8 billion, it’s still well below the pre-pandemic peak a...

Center for Accelerating Clinical Trials Gave UCI Health an Investigative Edge When Pandemic Hit

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Back in mid-March, when COVID-19 became a worldwide crisis, UCI Health clinicians were poised to quickly begin working on possible treatments to tame the deadly virus. The prior summer, after three years of planning, the UCI Center for Clinical Research had opened. It heralded a new era in UCI Health’s efforts to expand access to breakthrough therapies by accelerating clinical trials – research studies seeking ways to prevent, detect and treat diseases. “This [launch] was extremely timely,” says Dr. Daniela Bota, vice dean of clinical research and medical director of the center, which now has 75 principal investigators and 120 clinical researchers on staff. “Whe...

Cox Communications Offers Two Months of Free Internet Service to New Qualifying Families in Time for Back-to-School

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

As back-to-school fast approaches, Cox has announced new customers that qualify will receive Connect2Compete, the company’s low-cost internet, for two months at no cost. New customers must sign up between July 21 and Sept. 30 for free service, which also includes free technical support. “Distance learning has become the new normal for local schools during this pandemic, and we can help bridge the digital divide and level the educational playing field through our Connect2Compete program,” said Sam Attisha, senior vice president and region manager for Cox Communications in California. “We want students to be able to start off the new schoo...

Fast Company Ranks Vincit a Best Workplace for Innovators

Wednesday, July 29, 2020

Vincit has been named one of Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators 2020 worldwide. The award identifies companies that empower employees at all levels to improve processes, create new products, or invent new ways of doing business. “To be recognized by Fast Company as a Best Workplace for Innovators among companies like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Salesforce, is a true honor,” says Ville Houttu, CEO of Vincit USA. “Passion is one of our core values, and it is the key to innovation. I want to thank the team for taking ownership of their work, and encouraging a culture that is always open to new ideas.” Out o...

Hoag Ranked Best in Orange County by US News & World Report

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

U.S. News & World Report’s 2020-2021 Best Hospitals Rankings once again named Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian the highest-ranked hospital in Orange County, the fourth-best hospital in the Los Angeles metro area and eighth-best in California. The rankings also included national rankings in seven specialty areas and recognition for Hoag’s high performance in 13 specialty procedures. In this unusual year, the annual Best Hospitals rankings and ratings serve as an important resource to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions and common elective procedures. “We have been humbled each year that w...

Irvine Gets a Look at New Plans for Wild Rivers at the Great Park

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

(Orange County Register) Wild Rivers owner Mike Riedel said he hopes to start building a bigger, better water park full of slides and rides early next year and to start welcoming visitors in May 2022. He submitted plans to the city for review this month and could see the Planning Commission take them up as soon as September. The original Wild Rivers ended its 25-year run in 2011, when the Irvine Company built apartments on the property that had been leased to the water park. The new site in the Orange County Great Park is bigger than the old park, Riedel said. It’ll cove...

UCI Ranks 16th in Top Public Universities That Pay Off the Most in 2020

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

University of California, Irvine (UCI), has been ranked the 16th best public university in the nation that pays off to attend by CNBC Make It, a program that aims to provide the information students need to balance considerations through its annual 50 Colleges that Pay Off the Most ranking. The list spotlights 50 schools that provide students the highest average salaries for their tuition dollars. UCI—known for its engineering and criminal justice programs and one of 10 campuses in the University of California school system—in 2019 enrolled approximately 30,382 undergraduate students. The average annual net cost for in-state students (income $48,001-$75,000) is $14,746. The median salar...

US Durable Goods Orders Advanced More Than Forecast in June

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

(Bloomberg News) U.S. orders for durable goods rose more than expected in June, led by a spike in demand for motor vehicles and a pickup in business activity more broadly as states reopened their economies. Bookings for durable goods -- or goods meant to last at least three years -- increased 7.3% in June, after a downwardly revised 15.1% surge in May, Commerce Department data showed Monday. The median estimate in a Bloomberg survey of economists called for a 6.9% gain in June. Core capital goods orders, a category that excludes aircraft and military hardware, climbed 3.3%, also more than forecast. The second-straigh...

Transportation Corridor Agencies Reaches Significant Construction Milestone on Bridge Project

Thursday, July 23, 2020

All six lanes – three in each direction – of Oso Parkway at the 241 Toll Road are open to drivers, marking a significant construction milestone for the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) Oso Parkway Bridge Project. Sidewalks and dedicated bike lanes on both sides are also open. Crews constructed the Oso Parkway Bridge overcrossing one half at a time, while maintaining drive-through access for commuters and residents. Intermittent daytime lane closures may be necessary over the next few weeks to install traffic detection loops, create permanent striping and relocate traffic signals at each end of the project area. “With the state’s stay-at-home orders du...

Economic Vitality Council Examines Disruptions Caused by COVID-19 Pandemic, Preparation for Future Disasters

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

During its mid-year July meeting held online, the Greater Irvine Chamber Economic Vitality Council (EVC) discussed lessons learned from the Coronavirus pandemic and steps the Chamber can take to help better prepare Irvine businesses for possible future disruptions. While assisting Irvine businesses the last few months, the Chamber and City of Irvine management team found that this pandemic revealed the extent to which Irvine businesses were or were not prepared to respond, manage or mitigate the disruptions caused by COVID-19. In breakout sessions, EVC members used these insights to identify ways to help businesses now and in the future. “The Chamber is in a unique position to leverage our networks...

UCI Health to Hire 60 Doctors Devoted to Internal, Family & Geriatric Medicine Over the Next Five Years

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

Long known for its more than 500 world-class specialists who treat the most complex conditions, UCI Health is on a mission to expand its primary care services. Dr. Matthew Boone was recruited last fall from USC’s Keck School of Medicine to oversee this mission. Boone is no stranger to Orange County, having run and been affiliated with many of the county’s medical groups and hospitals over the last 30 years. “I always felt that primary care at UCI was an underdeveloped gem,” says Boone, who is associate dean of clinical affairs and a professor at the UCI School of Medicine. “Its reputation wa...

Irvine Restaurants with Outdoor Dining Service Remain Open Amid Shutdown Restrictions

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Irvine offers ample opportunities for diners to practice social distancing while enjoying a meal and taking in Southern California's beautiful year-round, picture-perfect weather. A list of Irvine area restaurants serving meals and drinks at their outdoor spaces and patios can be found at DestinationIrvine.com/restaurants/outdoor-dining. Updates are made regularly, so bookmark the page and check back often! Irvine area restaurants open for outdoor dining as of July 20, include: 90 Pacifica 90 Pacifica, Irvine Andrei's Conscious Cuisine & Cocktails 2607 Main St., Irvine Angelina's Pizzeria Napoletana 8573 Irvine Center Dr., Irvine Bacchus Bar & Bistro 6735 Quail Hill Pkwy., Irvine Bistango 19100 Von Karman Ave., Irvine BJ's Brewhouse 1313...

U.S. Companies Get Tax Reprieve in IRS Foreign-Income Rules

Tuesday, July 21, 2020

(Wall Street Journal) The Treasury Department relaxed some tax rules on U.S.-based multinational corporations, issuing final regulations that give relief to companies operating in high-tax foreign countries. The final rules gave companies some but not all of what they wanted and will reduce the U.S. tax burden on companies operating in places such as Germany and Japan. The change may encourage them to invest more in such high-tax places, according to an analysis by the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service. Companies can now seek retroactive benefits, going back to periods before the proposed regulations came out in June 2019. And they also have somewha...

UCI Receives Record $529 Million in Research Funding for Fiscal 2019-2020

Monday, July 20, 2020

From cutting-edge research and clinical trials focused on cancer care to creating a new center devoted to protecting personal data privacy, University of California, Irvine scholars, scientists, and physicians are blazing new paths to help change the world. And their impact keeps growing. In fiscal 2019-20, which ended June 30, UCI researchers received the most funding in campus history: $529 million in grants and contracts. Awards from federal and state agencies, leading foundations, and forward-thinking companies increased by 20 percent over 2018-19 totals, reflecting strong and burgeoning support for UCI’s top-ranked faculty, first-rate facilities, diverse and talented student body, and community-based programs. “This researc...

Irvine Gateway Experts Webinar Series Continues the Work of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s Foreign Direct Investment Initiatives

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

While the Greater Irvine Chamber continues to build on the momentum of its foreign direct investment programs, the work is being reimagined as the world responds to disruptions caused by the Coronavirus crisis. To continue to offer expansion-ready U.K. life science and technology companies with the information they need to make the decision to expand to Irvine/Orange County, the Chamber offers advice provided by experts in their field through the Irvine Gateway Experts webinar series. Topics include: VISAs and Immigration Organizational Preparedness U.S. Healthcare Market Entry International Banking FDA Approval Workforce Development Credits and State Incentives Funding and Capital Networks Taxes Legal Considerations for Establishing a Business in the U.S. OCTANE LaunchPad Accelerator To access the Irvine Gateway Experts webinar series, visit irvineglobalmarkets.com/foreign-direct-investment/irvine-ready-gateway The Greater Irvine Chamber remains connecte...

Irvine Ranks in America’s Top 10 Fittest Cities

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

With 16,500 acres of dedicated open space, parks and sports fields, including 62 miles of hiking and biking trails and the 194-acre sports complex at the Orange County Great Park in the city, it’s no wonder Irvine ranks in the top ten Fittest Cities in America by the American College of Sports Medicine and the Anthem foundation. Irvine was ranked the #7 Fittest City in America in 2020, behind top ranked Arlington, VA, and Seattle, Minneapolis, Madison, WI, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. Completing the top ten from #8 to #10 are Denver, Boise, and Boston. To be among the fittest cities in the American Fitnes...

Data Leader Picks Irvine as Global HQ

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

(Irvine Standard) Dean Stoecker, CEO of Irvine-based Alteryx, knows data. He values it for what it is: vital to the success of any organization in essentially all industries. “Every industry … has a dependency on data and analytics,” he says. “For example, predicting what player to recruit or knowing what products customers are likely to buy is entirely data driven.” The Alteryx platform takes a task that would normally require hours or days and condenses it into seconds. The result, according to Alteryx, is quicker decision-making, tighter inventory, more efficient staffing, tailored marketing and streamlined operations for industries from health care to government, financial services, retai...

Five Charts Illustrating U.S. Economic Trends Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic

Tuesday, July 14, 2020

(CNBC) As states take differing approaches to re-opening and closing, some parts of the economy continue to see improvement from the start of the pandemic while others continue to struggle. Some states have instituted mask mandates and other measures, such as closing indoor bar service, amid rising coronavirus cases. These five charts illustrate trends in important industries that help track reopening progress in the U.S. Direction requests Data from Apple’s navigation tool, Maps, shows a new dip for walking and driving. Compared to last week, walking and driving have decreased in lockstep from the summer high, both still have requests higher than pre-pandemic levels. Transit directions ha...

Enforcing Mask Rules at Work

Monday, July 13, 2020

In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank and employment law expert Jennifer Shaw discuss ways employers can ensure employees comply with state guidelines on masks and social distancing, and continue fostering a healthy workplace. Ask Why While wearing a mask in the workplace is not law, it is recommended by local and state authorities, such as the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), that employees wear masks at work and maintain a distance of six feet from one another. This guidance not only protects customers from the spread of COVID-19 but also help...

Good Attendance Leads to Leads Groups’ Record Success Despite Remote Networking

Monday, July 13, 2020

The success of the Greater Irvine Chamber’s six Leads Groups is undoubtedly in large part due to record attendance. Attendance has been at its highest level despite networking being conducted online amid COVID-19 closures and social distancing practices. Following are Leads Groups members with the highest attendance record for FY 2019-2020: 22 meetings – John Forbes and Samantha Kist (1st & 3rd AM Wednesday) 22 meetings – Brian Page (1st & 3rd Wednesday) 21 meetings – Courtney Nakagawa (2nd & 4th Monday) 21 meetings – Ailene Dewar and David Harrington (1st & 3rd Tuesday) 21 meetings – Claire Na and Reza Ray Ghamsari (2nd & 4th Thursday) 13 meeting...

City of Irvine to Begin Offering Drive-Up COVID-19 Testing

Friday, July 10, 2020

The City of Irvine, in partnership with Curogram and multiple laboratories, including local Pangea Laboratory, will begin providing drive-up COVID-19 testing for individuals that live or work in Irvine beginning Monday, July 13 at the Orange County Great Park. Tests will be available to those who are symptomatic and asymptomatic. The City will have multiple lanes dedicated to testing, and can accommodate approximately 200-260 tests per day. Only PCR testing, which determines if someone currently has the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is available. “The City Council has put in place appropriate and forward-thinking safety measures every step of the way since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic,&rdquo...

Calling All Californians: #ShopSafeShopLocal

Wednesday, July 08, 2020

The Governor’s Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery today announced a new campaign, Calling All Californians: #ShopSafeShopLocal, to encourage Californians to support small businesses in their communities as they make modifications to protect public health and help our state’s diverse neighborhoods thrive. The July campaign is a call to action to help all California small businesses operate safely amid the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their digital footprints. As part of this campaign, the State of California has partnered with industry-leading companies, such as Nextdoor, Google, and UPS, and launched a website that connects California’s small business owners to critical tools and resources. These resource...

Electric-Car Bonanza Allows Irvine-Based Karma to Tap Lifeline

Wednesday, July 08, 2020

(Bloomberg) Irvine-based Karma Automotive, maker of the Revero plug-in hybrid luxury car, has raised $100 million from outside investors as the company and its parent seek to tap into an electric-car stock surge by seeking an additional $300 million. The fresh funding coincides with at least the fourth makeover for a company formerly known as Fisker Automotive Inc. since past Aston Martin design director Henrik Fisker founded it in 2007, only to leave as it headed toward bankruptcy six years later. Owner Wanxiang Group Corp., which bought the carmaker in 2014 and renamed it Karma, now aims to launch a new all-electric sedan, a supercar, and plug-in delivery vans. Hoping t...

Irvine Ranch Water District Launches WaterStar Certification Program

Wednesday, July 08, 2020

WaterStar certification offered by Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a way to communicate to the community that an organization values water conservation. Certification can also help businesses improve water use efficiency, save on water bills, and obtain financial incentives for efficiency improvements. Certified WaterStar Businesses will earn the use of the WaterStar logo for display, web posting, and advertising. IRWD may also feature certified businesses in print media, on webpages, and water conservation literature to be distributed to IRWD’s customer base. Certified businesses will also be recognized at an IRWD Board Meeting and receive an award acknowledging their achievement. The recognitio...

Record-Breaking Year for Leads Groups with $22.2 Million in Closed Business Referrals; David Feldberg Earns 2019-2020 FY Rainmaker Title with $5.7 Million

Wednesday, July 08, 2020

The 2019-2020 fiscal year was a record-breaking year for Greater Irvine Chamber Leads Groups. With more than 2,200 leads exchanged, the six leads groups generated $22,247,720 in closed business referrals during the period, surpassing any figure during the history of the program. David Feldberg has earned the Greater Irvine Chamber’s title of Rainmaker for the fiscal year July 2019 to June 2020, with $5,778,818 in closed business referrals. His performance in the 1st & 3rd Wednesday Leads Group contributed to the group’s total of $15,619,792, making it the top-earning Leads Groups for total closed business from referrals during FY 2019-2020. “The Greater Irvine Chamber continues to be a great source o...

Michael V. Drake to Become 21st President of University of California

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

The University of California Board of Regents announced on July 7 the appointment of Michael V. Drake, M.D., as the 21st president of UC’s world-renowned system of 10 campuses, five medical centers, three nationally affiliated labs, more than 280,000 students and 230,000 faculty and staff. Drake has a long and distinguished career in higher education, most recently as president of Ohio State University (OSU) from 2014 until this past week. Prior to his six years at OSU, his entire academic career has been at UC, including as chancellor of UC Irvine for nine years from 2005 to 2014 and as the systemwide vic...

The Workplace Podcast: COVID-19, Masks, 6-Foot Rule

Tuesday, July 07, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg, and CalChamber Executive Vice President and General Counsel Erika Frank discuss best practices for enforcing workplace face mask and social distancing policies to ensure the safety of employees and customers. For the last several months, employers have been busy implementing protocols to minimize the spread of COVID-19, Frank tells Zaremberg. Since June 18, when Governor Gavin Newsom issued guidance on face covering and social distancing requirements, the CalChamber has received many inquiries regarding the mask and six-foot social distancing rules, she says. On July 1, Governor Newsom issued orders tha...

UCI Appoints Ian Williamson as Dean of The Paul Merage School of Business

Monday, July 06, 2020

Ian O. Williamson, pro-vice-chancellor and dean of the Wellington School of Business and Government at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, has been named dean of the University of California, Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business. He will begin his new role on Jan. 1, 2021. “Professor Williamson brings the depth and breadth of experience across disciplines, industries and continents that are necessary to meet the challenges of an evolving educational landscape within a global economy as we prepare the next generation of business leaders,” said UCI Chancellor Howard Gillman. An internationally recognized human resource management expert, Williamson has been involved i...

California Gov. Gavin Newsom Signs $202 Billion Pandemic Budget

Wednesday, July 01, 2020

(Sacramento Bee) California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a $202 billion budget June 29 with emergency pandemic funding, expanded unemployment aid and billions of dollars in cuts forced by the coronavirus-caused recession. The budget that takes effect July 1 assumed a $54 billion deficit brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and Newsom’s March stay-at-home order, which halted much of the state’s economy. “In the face of a global pandemic that has also caused a recession across the world and here in California, our state has passed a budget that is balanced, responsible and protects public safety and health, education, and services to Californians facin...

Gov. Newsom Orders Indoor Restaurants, Wineries, Movie Theaters to Close in Most of CA

Wednesday, July 01, 2020

(ABC7) Editor's note: Irvine's Al Fresco campaign lists restaurant and retail centers in the city that offer outdoor dining. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the return of some stricter restrictions amid a concerning surge of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. Effective immediately, California is instructing certain sectors to close indoor operations for all counties that have been on the state's watch list for three consecutive days. The affected sectors are: restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, family entertainment centers, zoos, museums and cardrooms. Those businesses can still operate outdoors. That applies to 19 counties which represent more than 70% of the state's population and include several counties in Southern California. Los Angeles, Orange...

Irvine Featured in Washington Post List of Top US 10 Cities for Parks

Wednesday, July 01, 2020

The Washington Post featured Irvine’s 62 miles of hiking and biking trails and Orange County Great Park in a recent article highlighting the top 10 cities for parks in the United States. The article outlines information from the annual Trust for Public Land ParkScore index which ranks U.S. cities on their parks, based on acreage, access for residents, amenities, and investment. “Thanks to this SoCal city’s Master Plan, one-third of Irvine’s land is preserved for outdoor recreation — including 62 miles of off-street trails and the largest acreage of natural habitats and wild lands in Orange County,” the article reads. Also featured i...

OCO Global, a Valued Partner of the Greater Irvine Chamber

Wednesday, July 01, 2020

In 2017, the Greater Irvine Chamber made an audacious decision to conduct an aggressive foreign direct investment (FDI) campaign in the U.K. We knew we had successful and happy international companies in Irvine. And we knew that we had the assets and an exciting, innovative ecosystem here. What we needed was an independent professional evaluation of our proposed initiative targeting the life science sector in the United Kingdom. Enter OCO Global. For 20 + years, OCO Global has been working with cities, states, and economic development organizations to help build and execute successful strategies to attract international investment. Choosing them to wor...

Tips for Fostering Workplace Diversity

Wednesday, July 01, 2020

(CalChamber) In this episode of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber President and CEO Allan Zaremberg and Albertsons Companies Senior Vice President of External Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer Jonathan Mayes discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and provide best practices to help foster a diverse workforce, which will help the company succeed. Mayes, who also is a member of the CalChamber Board of Directors, tells Zaremberg there are many benefits of employing a diverse and inclusive workforce, and one benefit is that diversity helps businesses be more successful. Research consistently shows that companies which embrace diversity and inclusion outperform thos...

Business Expectations in Orange County Show Major Improvement

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

(Orange County Business Journal) Almost a quarter of Orange County businesses expect to be at pre-pandemic levels by the end of the year, while the hiring and profit outlook has also improved, according to a survey conducted by economists at California State University, Fullerton. The survey of expectations for the three-month period starting July 1, is one of the strongest indications so far Orange County may have turned the corner on the recession and is heading back to growth. The overall outlook index, known as the OCBX, improved appreciably to 62.9 for the third quarter from 22.7 in the current three-month period. “This is th...

Irvine’s Travel and Tourism Industry Vital to County’s Recovery

Monday, June 29, 2020

By Bryan Starr, President and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber, as published in the June 29 issue of the Orange County Business Journal. For the past four years, as president and CEO of the Greater Irvine Chamber, I have shared increasingly high figures year over year on Irvine’s traveler expenditures and how they impact the local economy—2019 numbers were no exception. Last year, we saw yet another increase of 3.9% over 2018, bringing an estimated $781 million* in travel expenditures to Irvine’s economy. Orange County’s travel expenditures were nearly $6.3 billion.* In 2019, the travel industry contributed $49.6 million in Irvine and California taxes...

OC Depart. of Education Releases Guidelines to Safely Reopen Schools in the Fall

Thursday, June 25, 2020

With support from public health experts, including our local Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA), the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) and school districts across the county have developed a comprehensive guide with recommendations and best practices for reopening more than 600 schools in a safe and responsible manner. This resource has been developed using guidance from the California Department of Public Health (Links to an external site.) and will be updated as new information is presented. It was approved by the Orange County Health Officer on June 12, 2020. While locally elected school boards will work with their superintendents, staff, and families t...

Bryan Starr Touts Irvine’s Resilience in Irvine Standard

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

(As published in the Irvine Standard) Strong communities are made up of resilient and innovative individuals and businesses – those that courageously continue to work to find solutions, especially during times of crisis. Irvine is perhaps better positioned to weather disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic than any other city. The visionary Irvine Master Plan, established 60 years ago, and responsible city management throughout our city’s history has laid the groundwork for the best possible outcome of these unprecedented circumstances. World-Class Health Care Irvine is further bolstered by world-class health care institutions and medical personnel – all that are addressing COVID-19 and coming u...

Staybridge Suites Now Open, Adding to Irvine’s Diverse Hotel Portfolio

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

The newly-built, 168-room Staybridge Suites Irvine hotel is now open, and is located in the heart of the Irvine Business Complex, just minutes away from the John Wayne Airport. Business and leisure guests alike will enjoy the Staybridge Suites as it delivers a break from the travel norm. “We are excited to be part of the Irvine hotel community. By creating a ‘feel like home atmosphere,’ we offer more than just unconfined space but a greater sense of community and life balance that provides a sense of normalcy for all our guests,” said Sean Hashemi, general manager, Staybridge Suites Irvine. The ne...

Orange County Soccer Club & Unite Health Share Ministries Team Up to Donate Game Tickets to Families

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Orange County Soccer Club (OCSC), announced a partnership with, Unite Health Share Ministries (UHSM) – a faith-based health care nonprofit, to launch its latest initiative, the OCSC Community Corner. The OCSC Community Corner, supported by UHSM, is a season-long outreach program that provides nonprofit organizations tickets to every OCSC regular-season home game to share with the children and families they serve. “We’re looking forward to bringing families together at OCSC games through this new program. As an Orange County native, I am delighted to help other local nonprofit establishments give back to our incredible community,” said Christopher Jin, president of UHSM. “A...

Answering Questions About Vote-By-Mail in California Amid COVID-19

Tuesday, June 09, 2020

California and many other states are getting ready for a surge of absentee voting amid the COVID-19 Pandemic. Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered all counties to send mail-in ballots to all active registered voters in the state. Voting by mail isn’t new in California. It’s been allowed for anyone who’s registered, and for any reason, since 1979, according to the California Voter Foundation. Learn more/register to vote by mail for the Nov. 3, 2020 General Election. Election experts answered some pressing questions about voting by mail: Does Vote-By-Mail Really Lead To ‘Massive Fraud?’ The answer is no, it hasn't. Several studies have examined the practice an...

Trouncing Expectations by 10 Million Jobs, the Labor Market’s Comeback Has Begun

Tuesday, June 09, 2020

(The White House) The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May Employment Situation report shows that the United States economy added 2.5 million jobs last month, and the unemployment rate fell from 14.7% to 13.3%. Employment increased significantly in leisure and hospitality (1.2 million), construction (464,000), education and health services (424,000), retail trade (368,000), and manufacturing (225,000). These job gains surprised forecasters, given many states were only beginning to reopen their economies during the reports’ survey reference periods (the week/pay period that includes May 12). The median of all private-sector forecasts predicted 7.5 million job losses in May and an unemployment rate of 19.2%. Rapid jo...

City of Irvine Launches Small Business Support Program

Wednesday, June 03, 2020

The City of Irvine today launched the Small Business Support Program to mitigate the financial impact of COVID-19 on local small businesses. Businesses located in Irvine with 25 or fewer employees are eligible to apply. Funding for the program comes from a $5 million grant from the County of Orange, through the federally approved CARES Act. The Irvine City Council voted to implement the program at a special meeting on May 29, just days after the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved funding for districts. Businesses that meet the program’s criteria can apply for one-time grants in the amount of $10,000. The grant applicatio...

Greater Irvine Chamber Awards John Colvin Memorial Scholarships for the Sixth Year

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

For the sixth year, the Greater Irvine Chamber awarded John Colvin Memorial Scholarships, this year totaling $11,500, to students who have been accepted to or are currently enrolled in a four-year degree program at a university or college in Irvine. Eligible students must have a 3.0 GPA or higher, a demonstrated commitment to a fitness lifestyle, and an objective of contributing to the health and economic vitality of Irvine and California in the future. The 2020 scholarship recipients were announced during the Chamber’s digitally presented Orange County World Trade Week. They are UC Irvine students Anganette Emily Cisneros, Jada Perez, and Isabela Zavalos...

Stephen Armstrong Named Greater Irvine Chamber 2020 Partner of the Year

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Stephen Armstrong, president and co-founder of MAPLE Business Council and principal of 360 Marketer, was named the Greater Irvine Chamber 2020 Partner of the Year for his support and volunteer leadership of the Chamber’s international development initiatives. For a number of years, Armstrong has helped grow the Chamber’s international presence, promote trade between Canada and Orange County, and tout Irvine for trade and investment. As a co-founder of MAPLE Business Council, Armstrong has forged a solid bridge between Canada and California. He is a champion of trade and investment, having executed several successful missions to Vancouver and Toronto to promote Irvin...

Suavecito Named Greater Irvine Chamber 2020 Exporter of the Year

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Santa Ana-based cosmetic product company Suavecito was named the Greater Irvine Chamber 2020 Exporter of the Year for its successful export strategies. This annual award, this year presented digitally during the Chamber’s Orange County World Trade Week Forum, showcases an Orange County-based business that has expanded its markets through successful export strategies. Launching the company in 2010, Suavecito’s founders began distributing their original product to friends and family. They have since scaled the company, successfully growing their markets, and now export their products to more than 55 countries around the world including Canada, Mexico, and Russia. The Suavecito brand now boasts mor...

City of Irvine Ranked No. 1 in California, Top 10 in Nation for Public Park Access

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

The City of Irvine has been ranked No. 1 in California and No. 7 in the nation for public park access by the Trust for Public Land annual ParkScore Index. The index ranks the nation’s 100 largest cities based on factors including park access, acreage, investment, and amenities. This is the third consecutive year the city’s parks have ranked in the top 10 nationally. Irvine earned perfect scores in park spending per resident and basketball hoops per 10,000 residents; the city also earned high marks in community centers and playgrounds. The ParkScore Index noted that 82% of Irvine parks are within ...

Orange County World Trade Week Captures Global Audience

Wednesday, May 20, 2020

In its sixth year, the Greater Irvine Chamber’s annual Orange County Work Trade Week Forum (OCWTW) captured a global audience with attendees tuning in to the digitized event from countries including Canada, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and various states in the U.S. A lineup of speakers and panelists from across the globe delivered information on the current state of international trade as it relates to the economic disruptions caused by the Coronavirus. Mark O’Connell, CEO, OCO Global, calling in from Belfast, Ireland, in his keynote discussed Globalization: Pandemic, Populism, and Power, bringing attention to sectors hit hardest by the pandemic including travel and hospitality, aerospace, and transportation, and energy and infrastructure. O’Connell als...

Travel and Tourism, a Vital Economic Driver to the Irvine Economy

Wednesday, May 06, 2020

In 2019, traveler expenditures for Irvine came to an estimated $781 million, an increase of 3.9% over 2018, according to the 2019 Visitor Impact report conducted specifically for Irvine by Dean Runyan Associates, on behalf of Destination Irvine. The Irvine travel industry contributed $49.6 million in local and state taxes. Without visitor spending, it is estimated, that resident households in Irvine would each pay $560 more a year in state and local taxes. “Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT) pay for local services, said President and CEO of Greater Irvine Chamber Bryan Starr. “In Irvine, the 8% TOT, which is paid by hotel guests, account...

Coronavirus Trackers

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Tracking by County State’s Daily Actions Everything You Need to Know About California’s Response to Coronavirus Daily Coronavirus Tracker Coronavirus State by State

Online Processing of Export Documentation Now Available Through Greater Irvine Chamber

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber has always been a valued resource for Irvine and Orange County exporting businesses for the processing of export documentation, among many other areas of business growth support. Now, for added convenience, especially during these times of social distancing and remote working, the Chamber offers exporters an online solution. Digital export documentation of Certificates of Origin, Free Sale, and Good Manufacturing Practices, are available through the Greater Irvine Chamber’s online processing service. Beginning April 16, companies can upload documents to the site for review and approval. Processing fees will be waived for the first Certificate of Origin uploaded (one per company...

California Among the States Least Economically Vulnerable to Coronavirus

Tuesday, April 07, 2020

California is more prepared to weather an economic storm than nearly any other state in the nation. According to a new report from Wallet Hub, California is the second least exposed state in the U.S. to the economic impacts of coronavirus. “California’s increase in the number of unemployment insurance initial claims is among the lowest in the country,” Jill Gonzalez of Wallet Hub, tells GlobeSt.com. “The state also has the fifth largest share of workers with access to paid sick leave, 91%. Another factor that contributed to California’s economy being the second least exposed to the coronavirus is the state’s rainy-da...

Required FFCRA Documentation, Recordkeeping for New Federal Paid Leave (COVID-19)

Tuesday, April 07, 2020

The new Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) has dominated employers’ attention with its provisions for emergency paid sick leave and expanded family and medical leave for reasons related to COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has been trying to answer employers’ questions leading up to April 1, but one issue that remained unclear was the documentation employers should obtain from employees taking leave under the new law. On April 1, 2020, the same day the FFCRA took effect, the DOL issued regulations that specifically addressed the issue. The new FFCRA regulations require employees to provid...

Tough Times: Real Help Right Now Episode 1 - HR

Monday, April 06, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber's new video series, Tough Times: Real Help Right Now, features industry experts in the greater Irvine business community providing a deep dive into real-time, relevant, and essential information for businesses as they respond to the current global health crisis. This episode features human resources expert Brian Montes of Scaleocity Works as he provides tips and tools to navigate daily business changes. Stay tuned for future episodes of the Crisis Management & Recovery Strategies for Small Business series. Resources provided by speaker: Company Property Policy Template Forgiveable Small Business Loan Information Sheet Sample Furlough Letter Content provided by volunteer presenters for this video series doe...

City of Irvine to Follow California State Guidelines Regarding Face Coverings

Friday, April 03, 2020

California’s public health officials released guidance on the use of cloth face coverings to protect against COVID-19 for those who must leave their homes to conduct essential activities. The guidance does not require people to wear face coverings – and is not a substitute for the state’s current guidance regarding social distancing and hand washing. On March 24, the Irvine City Council passed a resolution strongly recommending that all retail sales businesses and service businesses provide protective supplies to their employees. This past weekend more than 9,000 masks were distributed throughout the Irvine community including, Kaiser Permanente, Hoag Hospital, and Irvine’...

Octane Has Released its 2019 Impact Report

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Octane has released its 2019 Impact Report. Orange County has become nationally recognized or creating high-quality ideas, entrepreneurs, and a lifestyle to build sustainable growing businesses. Octane portfolio companies raised a record $337M in 2019, up 57% from 2018. Today, Octane stands at a positive inflection point and is a powerful catalyst to position Southern California for sustained growth of companies, to create high-paying jobs, and to deliver successful financial returns for investors. Additionally, InSoCal, an organization that includes Octane, Connect/SDVG, LAVA, and Alliance for SoCal Innovation, has held multiple events and programs that have pushed innovation further for Southern California, drawing more than 6,000 people from acros...

Existing SBA Disaster Loans to Automatically Defer Through End of 2020

Monday, March 23, 2020

U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Jovita Carranza announced changes to help borrowers still paying back SBA loans from previous disasters. By making this change, deferments through Dec. 31, 2020, will be automatic. Now, borrowers of home and business disaster loans do not have to contact SBA to request deferment. “The SBA is looking at every option and taking every action to cut red tape to make it easier for small businesses to stay in business. Automatically deferring existing SBA disaster loans through the end of the year will help borrowers during this unprecedented time,” said Administrator Carranza. “Today’s announcement adds ...

SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to California Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Monday, March 16, 2020

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to California small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s designated representative, Director Mark S. Ghilarducci of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services on March 13. The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in the following California counties: Alameda Alpine Amador Calaveras Contra Costa El Dorado Imperial Kern Lake Los Angeles Madera Marin Mariposa Mendocino Merced Mono Napa Orange Placer Riverside Sacramento San Bernardino Sa...

Irvine’s Modern Stays and International Culinary Venues Featured in Popular Pacific Northwest Magazine

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Irvine’s modern, recently renovated Hotel Irvine, and one-of-a-kind international shopping and dining center Diamond Jamboree were highlighted in the March 2020 issue of Northwest50Plus magazine. The feature detailed the palm tree-lined pool at Hotel Irvine, which can be enjoyed on the nearly 300 days of warm, sunny Southern California weather, as well as the facilities expansive ballroom and Red Bar lounge. Also included in the feature was Diamond Jamboree’s wide variety of international food options, highlighting the city’s many cultures. “Everyone knows California is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and it's evident in Orange County. One of my favorite ventures wa...

Innovation Drives Orange County’s World-Renowned Cancer Care and Healthcare

Wednesday, February 26, 2020

By Bryan Starr, President and CEO, Greater Irvine Chamber Innovation is the key to Orange County’s exceptional healthcare and is what sets our healthcare and its delivery far apart from other parts of the nation and 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. The following are some of the ways Greater Irvine Chamber-partner healthcare institutions are at the leading edge of medical research and patient care in Irvine and Orange County. Cancer Care City of Hope, named the bes...

Canada, California, and the Future of Work

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

By Rana Sarkar, Consul General of Canada, Northern California We are living in a time of economic upheaval and transformation, largely due to forces of globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Dynamics of this new industrial change–such as automation and artificial intelligence, and the rise of the “gig” economy–are dramatically altering how Californians, Canadians and citizens around the world live and work. Many technological developments originate in Silicon Valley, yet governments worldwide and at all levels must grapple with how these developments affect their citizens. As Canada’s Consul General to Northern California, I am fortunate to be able to share Canada’s approach t...

UCI is No. 1 Among MONEY Magazine’s Best Colleges in California

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

MONEY magazine has ranked the University of California, Irvine (UCI) No. 1 on its 2020 list of California’s Best Colleges. The university was also last year named the best college in the nation by MONEY. Colleges evaluated for inclusion on the list were scored on affordability, quality of education, and student outcomes. The youngest university admitted to the Association of American Universities, UCI is a research institution founded in 1965 and is one of 10 campuses in the University of California public university system. The full price of attending UCI for the 2019-2020 school year is an estimated $35,500 for California residents...

Greater Irvine Chamber Brings Home Top Awards from Executive Association

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

The Greater Irvine Chamber was honored with top awards by the Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) for its communications accomplishments and portfolio in front of more than 400 attendees during the 2020 W.A.C.E. Conference in Portland, Oregon. The Chamber received the top honor of best Overall Communications Program Award, as well as first place in the E-Newsletter category for its Weekly Connection digital newsletter, and Special Merit in the Website category. Jessica Welch, vice president of operations, Greater Irvine Chamber, was recognized as a recently W.A.C.E. Accredited Chamber Executive for her own professional development, as well as encouraging that of other chambe...

HBLA’s Dov Lazarus, City of Hope’s Nisha Morris Elected to Greater Irvine Chamber Board of Directors

Sunday, February 09, 2020

Dov Lazarus, CPA, audit partner at HBLA Certified Public Accountants, Inc., and Nisha Morris, associate vice president, Marketing and Communications at City of Hope Orange County, have been elected to serve on the 2020-2021 Greater Irvine Chamber Board of Directors. Lazarus has more than twenty years of accounting and auditing experience, with significant experience serving companies in a variety of industries including importing, manufacturing, distribution, automotive and retail. He has serviced some of the firm’s more significant clients. He previously worked at Price Waterhouse South Africa and Price Waterhouse Australia. Lazarus is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountant...

City of Hope Partners with Greater Irvine Chamber as First Ever Diamond-Level Leaders Circle Sponsor

Monday, December 30, 2019

City of Hope has renewed its community partnership with the Greater Irvine Chamber as the organization’s first ever Leaders Circle diamond-level sponsor. “City of Hope is answering a call to bring our breakthrough discoveries and specialized therapies closer to home, right here in Orange County. We are making tremendous progress, opening our medical office in Newport Beach in early 2020 and the comprehensive cancer campus in the heart of Irvine in 2021. These milestones are testimony to the power of our local partnerships, and our work with the Greater Irvine Chamber has been foundational to our success. Together, we share a visio...

Hoag Promise Campaign Still Going Strong After Hitting $627M Goal 18 Months Early

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Hoag Hospital Foundation has surpassed the $627 million Hoag Promise Campaign goal 18 months ahead of its Dec.31, 2020, target thanks to more than 22,000 donors who made 83,000-plus Hoag Promise Campaign gifts. Hoag will continue raising funds for the Hoag Promise Campaign until its end date in a bid to meet or exceed its ambitious clinical fundraising priorities within the larger Campaign. “Health care will never stop evolving and innovating, and Hoag will never relinquish its vision of providing leading-edge care in all of our service lines,” said Flynn A. Andrizzi, Ph.D., Hoag Hospital Foundation president. “Philanthropy is the key t...

California Aims to Phase Out New Gas-Powered Vehicles by 2035

Thursday, September 24, 2020

(CalChamber) Governor Gavin Newsom on Sept. 23 issued an executive order that directs the state to require that all new cars and passenger trucks sold within California be zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) by 2035. In response, the California Chamber of Commerce issued a statement pointing out that California needs to have standards that other states and nations can follow. It cannot do it alone. “Banning vehicles with internal combustion engines in just 14 years is unrealistic, since it presumes that consumer demand will not create a viable ZEV market by 2035,” according to CalChamber. “Unless California, along with other states and countries, supports a market for ZEVs tha...

HR Expert Shares Tools for Navigating Coronavirus Impact on Businesses

Monday, March 30, 2020

Tough Times: Real Help Right Now Episode 1 - HR In this series, industry experts in the greater Irvine business community deep dive into real-time, relevant, and essential information for businesses as they react to, respond to, and recover from the current global health crisis. The first episode in the series features human resources expert Brian Montes of Scaleocity Works. Resources: Company Property Policy Template Forgiveable Small Business Loan Information Sheet Sample Furlough Letter Surviving COVID-19 Crisis Presentation

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