Attention Los Angeles, CA Businesses: File FinCEN's BOI by 01/01/2025 Deadline to Avoid Fines
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requires businesses to report Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) to FinCEN to enhance financial transparency and combat financial crimes. As of today, November 27, 2024, Los Angeles, California, business owners have 35 calendar days (or 25 business days) left to file their BOI report with FinCEN—don’t delay, or you could face $500 per day fines! What You Need to Do:1. Determine if Your Business Must File. Most LLCs, corporations, and small businesses
Hollywood Africa Alliance Summit: A Celebration of Culture and Collaboration
Hollywood Africa Alliance Summit: A Celebration of Culture and Collaboration The Hollywood Africa Alliance is excited to announce the upcoming Hollywood Africa Alliance Summit, a groundbreaking event dedicated to promoting cultural exchange between Hollywood and African countries. This highly anticipated summit will take place on September 27th 2024 at 10am to 12noon at the Ovation ChadoTea / Solby Theater. This event will feature an impressive lineup of celebrities, government officials, and media
Dr. Marlon Boarnet Announced as Keynote Speaker at Economic Development Summit
Dr. Marlon Boarnet Announced as Keynote Speaker at Economic Development Summit Dr. Marlon Boarnet, Professor of Public Policy and Chair of the Department of Urban Planning and Spatial Analysis, University of Southern California will be offering keynote remarks on the theme of this year's Economic Development Summit. Dr. Boarnet is a renowned authority on urban economics, urban growth patterns, transportation, and regional science. He is an expert in transportation and land use, and has served on the
Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 30th Annual Hollywood Expo, May 15th
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce proudly presented the 30th Annual Hollywood Expo at the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood ™ Globe Theatre on Tuesday, May 15th. The annual Chamber function is a premiere networking event which provided attendees an ideal opportunity to learn what’s happening in Hollywood. It is geared towards travel professionals who attract group businesses to the Hollywood area, and who got to experience the Universal Studios Hollywood ™ theme park prior to the Expo. “The
Hollywood Chamber Welcomes New Members at its Business After Hours
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce welcomed six businesses as new members at its April Business After Hours generously hosted by The Fonda Theatre. Guests networked and enjoyed hors d'oeuvres courtesy of Wood & Vine while experiencing views of Hollywood’s skyline. Music was provided by Luis Otero of Resilience DJs. New Chair Donelle Dadigan and J.J. Connaughton, Director of Membership Services welcomed these new members: Jordan Von Haslow, Entertainment Aid Alliance; Geovanny Galarza, Hollywood Latino
Hollywood Chamber PAC Endorses Miguel Santiago in California State Assembly District 53 Primary Race
HOLLYWOOD, CA – April 18, 2018 – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) announced its support today of Assemblymember Miguel Santiago in his run for reelection. "The Hollywood Chamber PAC is proud to support Miguel Santiago in his race for reelection to represent Assembly District 53. Since taking office, he has wasted no time in pursuing legislation that will improve the quality of life for all Californians, such as by expanding access to education and building affordable
Hollywood Chamber PAC Endorses Richard Bloom in California State Assembly District 50 Primary Race
HOLLYWOOD, CA – April 18, 2018 – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) announced its support today of Assemblymember Richard Bloom in his run for reelection. "The Hollywood Chamber PAC proudly supports Richard Bloom in his bid for reelection to represent the 50th Assembly District. His efforts in fostering economic development and job creation in the legislature are among the many reasons why we endorsed Richard,” stated PAC Chair Mark R. Edwards. ”We are confident that he
Summit Keynote Speaker to Discuss Urban Planning, Transportation, and Stakeholder Engagement
Katherine Perez-Estolano will be the keynote speaker at the 2018 Hollywood Economic Development Summit on Thursday, June 21st at the ArcLight Hollywood. The Hollywood Chamber’s 24th annual event will run from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Early Bird admission rate is $50 through May 31st. Register online at www.hollywoodchamber.net/summit. Katherine Perez-Estolano will share her expertise in urban planning, real estate and infrastructure development, transportation, and stakeholder engagement to create vibrant
Hollywood Chamber PAC Endorses Laura Friedman in California State Assembly District 43 Primary Race
HOLLYWOOD, CA – April 17, 2018 – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) announced its support today of Assemblymember Laura Friedman in her run for reelection. "The Hollywood Chamber PAC is proud to endorse Laura Friedman once again, this time in her bid for reelection to represent the 43rd Assembly District. Since elected, Laura has excellently represented Hollywood in the Capitol, pursuing bold policies in response to some of the district’s most pressing issues,” stated PAC
Hollywood Chamber PAC Endorses Ben Allen in California State Senate District 26 Primary Race
HOLLYWOOD, CA – April 17, 2018 – The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) announced its support today of Senator Ben Allen’s bid for reelection. "The Hollywood Chamber PAC is proud to endorse Ben Allen in his race for reelection to represent Senate District 26. He has consistently demonstrated a special ability to identify and address problems through policy,” stated PAC Chair Mark R. Edwards. “The Chamber is especially appreciative of his efforts in developing legislation that
Economic Development Summit Panel to Discuss Technovation in Transportation, Impacts on Development
A second panel of business leaders will be discussing the “Vision for the Future of Urban Development in Hollywood” at the 2018 Hollywood Economic Development Summit on Thursday, June 21st at the ArcLight Hollywood. The Chamber’s 24th annual event will run from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Early Bird admission rate is $50 through May 31st. Register online at www.hollywoodchamber.net/summit. The panelists will be covering the positive impacts of technology and innovation in mobility and transportation. Some of
Hollywood Chamber Welcomes New Members at Hollywood Improv
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce welcomed ten new member businesses at its March Business After Hours generously hosted by Hollywood Improv. Members networked in the historic Hollywood Improv and tickled their funny bone thanks to the amazing comedians of “Tonight at the Improv.” With its iconic brick wall, the Improv has long been a part of Hollywood and the premiere stage for live comedy in the United States! The world-famous Hollywood Improv at 8162 Melrose Ave. opened in 1974. Their shows offer a
The Hollywood Way: Solutions through Creativity
This past year as Chairman of the Board has passed in a blink of an eye for me, yet that blink puts into perspective just how profoundly Hollywood evolves in a year – as well as what challenges and opportunities remain on the Chamber’s agenda as to how Hollywood is and will be perceived on the global stage. I sincerely appreciate and thank the Board of Directors for honoring me to represent and serve our mission to promote and enhance the business, cultural and civic well-being of Hollywood - the place I
Chamber Welcomes New Member Virtual Reality Hollywood Arcade
The Hollywood Chamber staff joined the celebration and welcomed new member Virtual Reality Hollywood with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the grand opening of their arcade location. The celebration continued with an after-party and an open invitation to VR experiences. Hollywood’s newest attraction is an immersive VR gaming center established in 2017 as the second of three VR arcades in Los Angeles by VR Studios, LLC. They offer an impressive variety of over 80 VR games as well as VR racing experiences with
Hollywood Chamber Holds Exclusive Annual Awards Media Welcome Center at the Hollywood Museum, March 1st
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with Variety, presented the 15th Annual Awards Media Welcome Center at the Hollywood Museum in the Historic Max Factor Building on March 1st exclusively for press accredited by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. For one day only from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Hollywood Chamber hosted its exclusive annual press event to promote Hollywood to local, national, and international members of the media who are in town covering the Academy Awards®. The
Hollywood Chamber Welcomes New members in February at Liaison Restaurant
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce welcomed ten new businesses at its Business After Hours mixer generously hosted by Liaison Restaurant + Lounge in March. Members made new connections in the sleek and contemporary lounge all while enjoying signature cocktails and Liaison’s posh atmosphere. Embedded in its name, Liaison’s experience brings people together to enjoy both exquisite dining and lively nightlife. Offering a spacious open-air garden with an intimate indoor contemporary lounge, Liaison’s kitchen
Hollywood Chamber Welcomes New Members in January at Soul Restaurant & Bar
The Hollywood Chamber welcomed five businesses as new members at its January Business After Hours Mixer which was generously hosted by Soul Restaurant & Bar. The monthly networking event kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by an evening of networking and sampling delights of southern hospitality. During the event, Dr. Fariba Kalantari, Chair of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation presented $21,750 in the form of 16 grants to member community organizations in
Innovative Japanese Stores Help to Revitalize Hollywood
As the year winds down, it is nice to be able to share some very positive news. Hollywood will soon be the home of two very innovative Japanese concepts, Japan House and Miniso, that are both scheduled to open within the next couple of weeks. Japan House is a unique project of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is a world outreach effort to promote Japan’s best art, cuisine, design, entertainment, fashion and technology. Three world class cities where there is a strong Japanese influence – Sao
Entertainment Conference Interview to Highlight the Benefits of the California Film Tax Credit
Plans for the Hollywood Chamber’s 2017 State of the Entertainment Industry Conference is well under way. The half-day conference will be held at Loews Hollywood Hotel slated for November 30th. The program will start with networking at 8:30 a.m. followed by a packed agenda through 1:30 p.m. Early Bird Special rate through Friday, November 17th is $129. Admission thereafter is $159.Register online Jim Whitaker is the producer of the upcoming “A Wrinkle in Time” will be talking to Amy Lemisch, Executive
Panel to Discuss State of the Stream at Entertainment Conference, Nov 30th
“The State of the Stream” will be one of the topics of the Chamber’s Entertainment Industry Conference. This year’s conference will take place at the Loews Hotel Hollywood on Thursday, November 30th. The half-day conference will start with networking at 8:30 a.m. followed by a packed program through 1:30 p.m. Early Bird Special rate through Friday, November 17th is $129. Admission thereafter is $159.Register online As the growing ‘entertainment-on-demand’ audience continues to build a complex streaming
Chamber Slates State of Entertainment Industry Conference at Loews Nov 30th
Plans for the Chamber’s 2017 State of the Entertainment Industry Conference are well under way with committee co-chairs Susanne Ault of Variety and Kristin Cavanaugh of Sony Pictures at the helm. This year’s conference will take place on Thursday, November 30th at the Loews Hotel Hollywood and will include exclusive conversations with top level industry leaders. The event will also include the presentation of the Commitment to California Award, which will go to an entertainment executive who has made a
Chamber Celebrates Hollywood Anniversaries with Celebrity Friends and Members
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce held its “Celebration of Anniversary Events” where Leron Gubler was recognized for his 25 years at the helm of the Chamber! The Celebration of Hollywood Anniversaries was held on Tuesday, September 19th at the new Kimpton Everly Hotel poolside. Emcees for the event were Walk of Famers actress Tippi Hedren, celebrating the 50th anniversary of her film “The Countess from Hong Kong” and Producer Vin Di Bona, who celebrated 10 years of having a star on the Hollywood Walk of
Talk with Techies: Security, Backup, Safety Strategies to Keep Your Company Running
As technology continues to advance most aspects of our professional environment, it is critical to consider strategies to safeguard your business assets and protect your clients from online threats. Join the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce on Friday, September 22nd to learn how to protect your business and best practices to survive a cybercriminal attack. Starting in October, Google will flag websites without SSL (Secure Sockets Layers) as NOT SECURE as part of their effort to mandate increased security on
L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti Addresses the Hollywood Community
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce hosted an exclusive Breakfast with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti on Thursday, July 20th at Loews Hollywood. This was the second address by Mayor Garcetti to the Hollywood community since taking Mayor’s office in 2013. Attendees and sponsors heard Mayor Garcetti discuss extending the California film tax incentive bill AB-1839, homelessness, public safety, the proposed Affordable Housing Linkage Fee, the proposed Hollywood Community Plan Update, tourism projections, Los Angeles’
Building Your Business Reviews Mid-Year Marketing Checklist and Strategy to Grow Your Business
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce held its "Building Your Business" educational series on Friday, June 23rd presented by Liz Harsch of Tailor-Made Advertising. The session focused on reviewing mid-year marketing checklist and discuss strategies to grow your business faster. Harsch has been helping small businesses make more of their marketing budget since 1988. She has been awarded by Constant Contact as an All Star Email Marketer, is Master Certified and an Authorized Local Expert. She presents workshops
USC Professor of Urban Planning to Keynote Economic Development Summit at ArcLight, June 22nd
One of the two keynoters at the 2017 Hollywood Economic Development Summit, taking place on Thursday, June 22nd, at the ArcLight Hollywood, is a professor in the USC Department of Urban Planning. Dr. David Sloane studies the evolution of cities through the lens of cultural landscapes, urban planning, food and health care systems. He is expected to apply his knowledge to Hollywood as a working case of revitalization.Click here to register online As a professor in the Department of Urban Planning and Spatial
Members Connected with other Businesses and Experienced Entertainment History at the Hollywood Museum
The Hollywood Museum in the Historic Max Factor Building showcased their elegant art deco Penthouse Ballroom for the Hollywood Chamber’s June Business After Hours Mixer! The Hollywood Chamber welcomed ten new member businesses at its June Business After Hours Mixer generously hosted by the Museum. Guests experienced the elegant Penthouse Ballroom and had exclusive access to the museum following the mixer. Attendees also enjoyed a special Casablanca-themed photo booth courtesy of Foto Spark. Music was
Ruiz and City Staff Answer Questions about the Upcoming Minimum Wage Hike and Paid Sick Leave
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce held an educational series about the upcoming L.A. Minimum Wage Rate which will be taking effect on July 1st. The series aimed to assist our members in building a better business for the future was held on Friday, June 2nd at the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce state-of-the-art Conference Room. Cynthia Ruiz discussed the new employment regulations. Also on hand were representatives from the Office of Wage Standards (Contract Administration) to answer technical questions on
Chamber Welcomes New Members at Lucky Strike Live
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours mixer was generously hosted by Lucky Strike Live on May 15th. Located smack on the corner of Hollywood & Highland, LUCKY STRIKE LIVE has rapidly erupted from a hidden bowling alley into Hollywood’s underground entertainment hub. Featuring live performances every week by national touring and local artists, Lucky Strike Live’s one-of-a-kind blend of edgy steampunk aesthetic, cutting edge lights & sound, gastropub cuisine, and beautifully modern lane
Panel Discusses How to Elevate Your Brand to Stay Relevant and Continue to Evolve
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Microsoft, and UGM Enterprises presented a panel conversation about key strategies for staying current, connected and relevant in our crazy-fast changing times on Friday, April 28th, at the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Panelists Debra Balamos, Ish Obregon and Myra Casciato shared helpful tools, stories, insights from their diverse backgrounds working with media, branding, leadership, technology, content development and strategic partnerships
Hollywood Chamber Welcomes New Member Businesses in March
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce held its March Business After Hours on Thursday, March 26th at Teddy’s in the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Since opening in 1927, The Hollywood Roosevelt has taken the spotlight as the birthplace of the Academy Awards and the once-home to Marilyn Monroe. Named after the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, the hotel is a legendary venue with style and service that embodies Hollywood’s Golden Age. Hidden within The Hollywood Roosevelt, Teddy’s is
Tax Credits Available for California Business through the California Competes Tax Credit
The next California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) offers more than $68 million in available tax credits. This program is open to any business planning to create new full-time jobs in the state, regardless of size or location. Since 2014, GO-Biz has awarded over $400-million to 574 companies that are projected to create over 60,000 jobs and make $13.5-billion in investments. The deadline to submit applications is Monday, March 27, 2017, at 11:59 p.m. PDT and the online application website will automatically
O'Farrell Reports on Critical Issues Facing the City at State of Hollywood
HOLLYWOOD, CA-- A room full of Hollywood's business community attended the Chamber's annual State of Hollywood to hear Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell. Having nearly completed his first term representing the 13th Council District, Councilmember O’Farrell had a lot to report at his fourth State of Hollywood address at Taglyan Cultural Complex on Thursday, January 26th. The Councilmember, who is up for re-election in the primary on Tuesday, March 7th, has been endorsed for re-election by the Hollywood Chamber
Hollywood Chamber Moves to Sunset Media Center at Sunset and Argyle
After nearly 25 years in the same location adjacent to the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is making a big move to the Sunset Media Center at 6255 Sunset Blvd, Ste 150. The telephone and fax numbers, email and website addresses remain the same. Please be patient while we transition to the new office. “Interestingly enough, the Chamber will be returning to the same building that was our previous home,” said Chamber President & CEO Leron Gubler. “The only difference is that the
Gubler Blogs: What is the Value of a Job - Close to Home?
The California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) released a study in September (California’s First Film Tax Credit Program) that for the first time, offers an assessment of the economic and fiscal impact of the filming incentives that the State of California approved for our entertainment industry. This is particularly interesting because the LAO is the nonpartisan fiscal and policy advisor to the state legislature, which means we should be able to rely on the veracity of their report.The study zeroes in
It's All About Jobs: 5901 Sunset - A Project that Hollywood Needs
Two weeks ago, the Los Angeles City Council gave final approval to the 5901 Sunset Blvd. project, proposed by Hudson Pacific Properties. This is a marvelous project for Hollywood and Los Angeles.The architecturally stunning building tiers back from the residential areas to the north so that the highest portion of the building is along Sunset Blvd. This approximately 300,000-sq.ft., 15-story office building would replace a parking lot that under the 1988 community plan was zoned for commercial uses like a
Councilmember Ryu Discuss Initiatives at Hollywood Chamber Luncheon
Los Angeles City Councilmember David Ryu, who represents the 4th Council District, delivered his first address to the members of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce at Avalon Hollywood on Thursday, September 15th. In office since July 2015, he discussed some of his accomplishments and initiatives. He also answered questions related to development, neighborhood integrity initiative, land use, veterans, parks, Hollywood Sign and more. Councilmember Ryu has represented the 4th district since July 2015. The
IT'S ALL ABOUT JOBS: Case Study Reveals Downside of Minimum Wage Hikes
Los Angeles and California embarked on an unprecedented experiment this past year, when both voted to phase in a $15-minimum wage over a period of years. In L.A., the rate will reach $15 in 2020 for businesses with 26 employees or more and in 2021 for smaller businesses. In California, the $15 rate will be achieved in 2021, making it the highest state minimum wage in the nation. Business concerns were minimized by both the City Council and the State legislature, who believed that adverse impacts would be
IT'S ALL ABOUT JOBS: Master Plan Is Of Paramount Importance
Last week, the City held a public hearing on the proposed 25-year Master Plan for Paramount Pictures. This storied studio, which dates back to 1912, is the last remaining major studio located in Hollywood proper. Warner Bros., Columbia, Fox and Disney got their start here, but all moved out many decades ago. As hearings go, this one was cordial. Even those who had issues were on their best behavior. Everyone understands how important Paramount is to our community. As Chamber President & CEO, I pointed
Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Celebrates the 28th Annual Hollywood Expo
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce proudly presented the 28th Annual Hollywood Expo at the world-famous Avalon Hollywood on Thursday, May 5, 2016. The annual Chamber function proved to be it is a premier networking event and provides exhibitors an ideal opportunity to showcase their business and make new introductions. “This year’s Expo was held during National Travel & Tourism Week, as Hollywood is an ideal destination for both corporate and leisure groups. We also featured a Health & Wellness section to
Rooftop Film Club Celebrates Second Season of Movie Events at The Montalban
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce welcomed Rooftop Film Club at The Montalbán with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, April 6th. The 2016 Opening Night started with a bang screening the new Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie to a sold out crowd. Since its debut last year, the movie event has become a staple of Hollywood’s culture scene and has sold out tickets to almost every screening. Last year in August, the UK’s outdoor cinema experience advanced its stateside road trip and brought its own
IT'S ALL ABOUT JOBS: A New House Is Coming to Hollywood
Recently I attended a gala press announcement hosted by the Japanese Consulate and Consul General Harry H. Horinouchi. I was particularly interested to learn about a cutting-edge initiative that is going to be very beneficial to Hollywood, and which is bound to become a new attraction for both locals and tourists. Known as Japan House, the program is a new public diplomacy initiative from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to showcase the best of Japanese arts, culture, innovative technology, food, and
The New Math: A Case Study for 21st Century Volunteerism
Serving as Chamber Board Chair this past year has been a powerful and enthralling education in the mathematics of volunteerism and “the sum being greater than its many parts.” It’s been an extraordinary lesson in participatory democracy. More than ever, I stand reaffirmed in the inherent power of community engagement, and in awe of the passionate commitment of those who serve as the volunteer leaders of Hollywood’s business and residential stakeholders. During this year, I’ve repeatedly witnessed