Volume 3 Issue 6 November/December 2008 - Sunset Gower Studios

Volume 3 � Issue 6 

November/December 2008

HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE � Since 1921... Promoting and enhancing the business, cultural and civic well-being of the greater Hollywood community. 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT 

PREMIERE INVESTORS CLUB 

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce deeply appreciates 

the support of our largest member investors, 

the Premiere Investors Club for their help in 

furthering the Chamber’s advocacy agenda. 

PLATINUM 

SILVER 

BRONZE 

Andrews International 

Argent Ventures/Millennium Partners 

Iron Mountain Film & Sound Archives 

Kaiser Permanente 

Paramount Pictures 

Ramsey-Shilling Commercial Real Estate 

Paramount Contractors & Developers 

The Clarett Group 

The Hollywood Reporter 

Author Services Inc. 

Briggs Law Office 

Capitol Records 

The Original Farmers Market 

Gemstar-TV Guide 

Ask me about the many benefits of Premiere Investors Club. 

Call Hollywood Chamber at (323)469-8311 

or email info@hollywoodchamber.net 

2 � hollywoodchamber.net 

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or call (323)469-8311

� Creating a Strong Economy � Promoting Hollywood � Political & Legislative Action � Networking & Promoting Your Business � Assisting the Community HOLLYWOOD BUSINESS ADVOCATE 

COVER EXCLUSIVE 

New Stakeholders Bet 

on Hollywood’s Future 

Hudson Capital’s Christopher Barton (left) and 

Howard Stern proudly present Sunset Gower 

Studios, an independent location with a focus 

to maintain and improve the production stages. 

They are standing in front of the new 

Technicolor building, Hollywood’s first new 

office building in more than 30 years. 

Entertainment Industry Luncheon to Feature AMPAS, A.C. Lyles 

The highly-anticipated Academy of 

Motion Picture Arts & Sciences 

(AMPAS) Motion Picture Museum will be 

the topic of the Hollywood Chamber’s annual 

Entertainment Industry Luncheon. Bruce 

Davis, the executive director of the 

Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences 

will deliver the keynote address about 

AMPAS. He is expected to update attendees 

on the status of their planned Hollywood 

Motion Picture Museum site at 1367 North 

Vine street, and other Academy projects. 

The Chamber will also be presenting the 

Hollywood Star Award to A.C. Lyles of 

Paramount Pictures, recognizing his 80years 

of service to the industry. He becomes 

the third recipient of the award, after 

Hollywood’s Honorary Mayor Johnny Grant 

and Fred Rheinstein of The Post Group. The 

award is presented to someone in the enter- 

Two years ago, no one in Hollywood had 

heard of Hudson Capital. Today, they 

are one of the major players in town, controlling 

nearly 28-acres of prime property 

along Sunset Blvd. – more than 10 percent 

of all of the industrial land in Hollywood. 

It all began when Arden Realty Inc. was 

sold to General Electric and four senior 

executives decided to depart and form their 

own private real estate company. The four – 

Howard Stern, Victor Coleman, Christopher 

Barton and Dale Shimoda - immediately 

began looking for opportunities. 

Their first acquisition was the 15.6-acre 

Sunset-Gower Studios in Hollywood, which 

they acquired in August 2007. In January of 

this year, they made a second purchase, with 

the winning offer for Tribune Studios, which 

included the KTLA lot and three other 

parcels along Sunset Blvd. All together, they 

now control 23 stages and approximately 

700,000-sq.ft. of office and production space. 

“Our competitors were all looking at 

buying these properties, tearing down the 

studios and building large mixed-use projects,” 

said Chris Barton, executive vice 

president. “We’re not residential or retail 

people. Our intent was always to keep to our 

core strengths.” 

“We’re passionate about what we’re 

doing and we really believe in Hollywood,” 

added Howard Stern, president of the studios. 

“We want to make Hollywood a great 

place to do business in again. We’re not a 

Bruce Davis (left) headlines Entertainment 

Luncheon and movie industry legend A.C. Lyles 

(right) to be Honored with Hollywood Star Award. 

tainment industry who has made a real contribution 

to Hollywood and the industry. 

The luncheon will be held at the 

Renaissance Hollywood Hotel located at 

big institutional owner looking to turn it 

over in one-to-two years. This is an ownership 

that is personally invested.” 

The company is currently looking at the 

studios as a whole to understand their redevelopment 

options, according to Barton. 

“Our objective is to maintain and improve 

the production stages, which are the core of 

the studios, and redevelop obsolete or inefficient 

components of the studio. We believe 

that this strategy will preserve the studios as 

viable business enterprises going well into 

the future.” We are taking our time to properly 

assess the demand mix for stage, support 

and office opportunities. It is essential 

that we balance the growing demand for 

office space into our assessment, since production 

companies now prefer to consolidate 

all of their writers, pre-production, production, 

post production and administration 

staff all together under a single roof.” They 

are getting close to finishing the assessment. 

In the interim, they have been making 

numerous cosmetic improvements – particularly 

at the Sunset-Gower lot. 

“We are performing as expected,” said 

Stern. “We feel if we’re holding our own in 

the current environment, then we should 

flourish when things settle down.” 

He noted that their template for the studios 

is to make their tenants feel like they 

are almost at a major studio – that they are a 

big fish in a small pond. 

Continued on Page FIVE 

1755 Highland Ave. Registration will begin 

at 11:30 a.m. with the luncheon running 

from 12 noon until 1:30 p.m. Advance reservations 

are $75 per person or $800 for a 

table of 10. Presenting sponsors as of deadline 

include The Hollywood Reporter, Iron 

Mountain Film & Storage, and Paramount 

Pictures. Other supporting sponsors include: 

Andrews International Security, Paramount 

Contractors, Ramsey-Shilling Commercial 

Real Estate, and Sunset Gower & Sunset 

Bronson Studios. For additional information 

about the event or sponsorship opportunities, 

call the Chamber at (323)469-8311 or 

reserve online at Chamber website 

www.Hollywoodchamber.net. 

CHAMBER BUSINESS BENEFIT 

representing interests of business with government 

hollywoodchamber.net � 3

HollywoodBusiness 

ADVOCATE 

Volume 3 � Issue 6 � Nov./Dec. 2008 

Bimonthly Published by 

HOLLYWOOD 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce 

7018 Hollywood Boulevard 

Hollywood, California 90028 

MAIN (323)469-8311 • FAX (323)469-2805 

www.HollywoodChamber.net 

Subscription available for $25/year 

Considerable effort is made to ensure accuracy 

and reliability of the information published, but the 

Chamber does not guarantee accuracy nor does it 

assume any liability for the use of any information 

published. Official positions of the Hollywood 

Chamber of Commerce are taken only as a vote of 

record of the Board of Directors and clearly 

referenced as such in Hollywood Business. 

OFFICERS 

Mark Panatier Chair of the Board 

Bill Farrar, Jr. Senior Vice Chair 

Heather Cochran Vice Chair 

Maureen Schultz Vice Chair 

MD Sam Smith, CFP Vice Chair 

Marty Shelton Treasurer 

Laurie Goldman Secretary 

Jeffrey C. Briggs Imm. Past Chair 

DIRECTORS 

George Abou-Daoud Shake Bakalyan 

Christopher Barton Randall Baumberger 

Cindy Chong Jeffrey Cohen 

Matt Cooper Mark Costa 

Michael Druyen Susan Durante 

Dave Gajda Duke Gallagher 

Bruce Gorelick David Green 

Philip S. Hart Fariba Kalantari 

Milt Larsen Earl Lestz 

Carol Massie Scott David Moe 

Mitchell Nedick Sharon O’Rourke 

Fred J. Rosenthal Thaddeus H. Smith 

Frank Stephan Tej Sundher 

Robert Swift Michael Taylor 

Steven Tronson 

HONORARY DIRECTORS 

Oscar Arslanian Chris Baumgart 

Karen Diehl Beatrice Girmala 

Don Jacinto Dr. Jamillah Moore 

Kerry Morrison Fred Rheinstein 

Michael-Jon Smith Don Tillman 

Christi Van Cleve 

STAFF 

Leron Gubler 

President & CEO 

Mick Barrett 

VP of Administration 

Bette Jean French 

VP of Membership 

Kaylee Kiecker 

VP of Marketing & Business Development 

Vivian Kish 

Executive Assistant 

Ana Martinez-Holler 

VP of Media Relations 

Tim Overbeck 

Membership Account Executive 

Marléne Panoyan 

Director of Communications 

Nicole Shahenian 

VP of Public Policy 

Steven Shawver 

Director of Information Technology 

Jann Talarico 

Membership Account Executive 


� Since 1921... Promoting and enhancing the business, cultural and civic well-being of the greater Hollywood community. 

Message from the President’s Desk, Leron Gubler 

Business Survival 101: 

Take Advantage of 

Chamber Membership 

In the current economic downturn with its breathtaking swings in the stock market and real 

estate declines, it is easy to get discouraged about the future. Yes, this may be the worst 

downturn in our lives, but we should remember that every downturn eventually ends and 

that new opportunities arise. 

I’ve been in Chamber work for 30 years and 16 years at the Hollywood Chamber of 

Commerce. We’ve seen downturns before. Based on past experience, I can tell you that this is 

the time that our members need us more than ever. Here are some tips on how we can help you: 

� Get out and network! Your Chamber offers you many, many opportunities to meet 

other business people and to build your reputation, build relationships and build your 

business. There is a right fit for you – whether it is our monthly Business After Hours 

Mixers, or our General Membership Luncheons, or participating on one of the 

Chamber’s committees. We have many members who have given us testimonials of new 

business that they have generated for their businesses through the personal relationships 

they have established at the Chamber. 

� Take advantage of the Los Angeles State Enterprise Zone (SEZ) that takes in most 

of Hollywood. There are hiring tax credits, sales or use tax credits, business expense 

deductions, net operating loss carryover, electrical rate discounts, etc. The Chamber 

sponsors seminars roughly every six months on the SEZ and how you can benefit. We 

also have members who specialize in helping you take advantage of the SEZ. 

� Sign up to visit with our SCORE counselor, a retired senior level business executive 

who is here every Friday to provide free advice to small businesses. 

� Call us about advertising opportunities within the Chamber that allow you to reach 

a very select market of business executives for a very reasonable cost. Did you know 

that you can advertise in our online newsletter as well as our Hollywood Business 

Advocate. The Hollywood Business Resource Book is a top quality piece that people 

keep as a resource all year and can give you repeated exposure. 

� The Chamber website, www.Hollywoodchamber.net, receives more than two-million 

hits monthly. Each member receives a free listing in our directory on the website. If you 

want more exposure, give us a call to place a banner ad on the site. 

� Save yourself some money. Did you know that many members have more than paid for 

their chamber membership by using our Office Depot Discount Program. You can save 

between 15 and 25 percent on your annual office supply costs. You can even place 

online orders. If you travel frequently, you should also ask about our new expanded 

Parking Spot discount program benefits. Call B.J. for information about these programs. 

� Join the Member2Member Savings Program. If you can give a minimum 10 percent 

discount on your product or service, you could be listed on our website at no cost. And 

don’t forget to also check that list for other vendors and businesses that YOU can get a 

discount from! 

� Attend special seminars that the Chamber offers. On November 14th, we are offering 

a Growing Your Business Roundtable where you can exchange ideas with other businesses. 

We are also planning a program with our bankers to discuss credit issues. 

� Take advantage of our annual Hollywood Business & Tourism Expo, which takes 

place next March. For a very reasonable fee, you can personally present your services 

to several hundred local businesspeople. 

� Write a press release about something happening in your business - a new product, 

a new employee, a promotion, recognition by an association, a great sale, whatever. Send 

it to Marlene@hollywoodchamber.net for placement in the Member News section of our 

online newsletter. It’s Free and a great way to get more mileage from your membership. 

All of this, and more, is happening at the Chamber. We’re working for YOU!. When you 

think of where your dollar will benefit your business and our economy the most this year, 

remember … “The Chamber … now more than ever!”


COVER EXCLUSIVE 

New Stakeholders Bet 

on Hollywood’s Future 

Continued from Page THREE 

“We want to create a ‘sense of place’ for all of the independent 

companies,” Stern emphasized. “Our goal is to make everyone feel 

this is where they belong no matter how small the space they have 

leased.” 

Barton noted that the KTLA lot, now renamed Sunset Bronson 

Studios, was acquired with a 5-year leaseback to KTLA. “We continue 

to have discussions with them about about their future needs,” 

he stressed. “Our hope is to keep KTLA as a long-term tenant.” 

At the time they acquired Sunset-Gower Studios, work had 

already begun on the Technicolor Building. Technicolor received a 

temporary certificate of occupancy in April and is now feverishly 

working to complete tenant improvements, valued at $25-million. 

Completion is anticipated in the December timeframe after which 

they will consolidate operations from other Hollywood locales and 

move the corporate headquarters from Burbank. 

“Technicolor is the first new office building in Hollywood that 

has been built since the 1970s,” said Stern. “This helps to legitimize 

Hollywood as a top flight market for corporate space. This is a 

100,000-sq.ft. tenant leaving Burbank!” 

Stern said his firm welcomed competition and other new office 

buildings that are proposed for Hollywood because they will help to 

establish the viability of Hollywood as an office market. He noted 

that one of the major reasons for the exodus of businesses from 

Hollywood in the 1980s and 1990s was because there was no new 

office product. 

“When you compare apples to apples, why wouldn’t a business 

want to come here,” he offered. “Look at the amenities – the easy 

freeway access and mass transit and nearby residential.” 

“We’re really committed to Hollywood,” concluded Barton. 

“That is why we jumped all the way in.” 


building a strong economy 

Much Anticipated Palladium Rehab Complete 

The newly renovated Palladium re-opened its doors in October after 

a year-long rehabilitation project. The $2.5 million exterior rehab 

restored the facade of the Palladium to its 1940s appearance as well as 

other improvements, including renovation of the marquee, ticket booths 

and installation of new retail storefronts along Sunset Boulevard. 

Earlier this year, the 

Hollywood Chamber supported 

the Community 

Redevelopment Agencies’ 

funding of the rehab noting 

that as Hollywood continues 

its revitalization 

efforts, projects like this, 

that preserve Hollywood’s 

historic landmarks become 

increasingly important. 

The Palladium has held a very special place in Hollywood history 

since its star-studded opening in 1940. The historic venue has 

hosted Emmy and Grammy award ceremonies, and many dignitaries, 

including five presidents. Additionally, the Palladium has 

served as a filming location for several movies and was the home 

for weekly broadcasts of The Lawrence Welk Show. Located in the 

heart of Hollywood’s historic studio district, the Palladium sits on 

the site once occupied by the original Paramount Studios. 

VIEWPOINT 

How do you view the current economic 

turmoil affecting the entertainment 

industry in the coming year? 

As we know, Hollywood usually flourishes during 

recessions because the public wants entertainment 

to take their minds off their problems. 

The severe drop in Wall Street media stocks and 

the instability of the European funding will 

undoubtedly affect the film and television production, 

but the WGA strike and the stalemate of 

the AMPTP/SAG agreement have caused a more 

immediate and direct impact on employment in our town than anything 

else. There are many feature film and television projects that 

have been “green lit” waiting to start production, but until they 

actually begin, those jobs are severely affected. Network and cable 

episodic, reality television and commercial production seem to 

remain fairly steady and legitimate theater seems to be on an 

upswing. The migration of “Ugly Betty” to New York brought the 

news of tax incentives from other states to the general public, but 

it hasn’t been enough to energize enough of our own legislators 

into protecting our California jobs. Sue Cabral-Ebert, President, 

Make-Up Artists & HairStylists - Local 706 IATSE 

“The financial crisis will have varied impacts on 

the industry’s different sectors in the short and 

long terms. There have been reports that feature 

film production will not be impacted in the short 

term and will ramp up in the spring and summer 

of next year, since financing is already in place to 

produce films for the 2010 and 2011 slates. But, 

a prolonged credit crunch and faltering stock 

market could impact financing for films beyond this time. We have 

seen significant declines in the amount of on-location commercial 

production shot locally over the last three months, as advertising 

spending has been cut back. In the longer term this may impact television 

production, which will require advertising dollars to support 

its programming beyond the current show cycle.” Todd Lindgren, 

Vice President of Communications, FilmL.A. Inc. 

The economy will likely be in a state of flux 

well into 2009, and will have an impact on all 

industries. While production will certainly be 

affected, and may slow down, it will not come to 

a standstill. Advertisers will still want fresh 

content for all media, including television, especially 

to create appropriate messaging for their 

brands in these economic times. That being 

said, corporate America is certainly tightening its belt and will 

approach marketing plans conservatively as they weigh the 

impact of the economy to their business. Some advertisers will 

pull back; others will seize the opportunity to have a louder voice 

than their competitors do. Matt Miller, President and CEO, 

Association of Independent Commercial Production (AICP) 

The Entertainment Business in Hollywood will 

not escape unscathed in the current economic 

turmoil. Production and post production will initially 

feel the pinch in tighter budgets, but 

should weather the storm. The wild card is the 

potential effect of a possible Actors strike which 

in an economy already shaken by the Writer’s 

strike could well be calamitous. Fred 

Rheinstein, Chairman, The Production Group Studios 



PUBLIC POLICY 

Hollywood Freeway Central Park 

Feasibility Study Completed 

Community Meeting to be held in November 

The highly-anticipated feasibility study on 

the proposed Hollywood Freeway 

Central Park has been completed and will be 

made available for public comment at a 

community meeting that is being planned 

for November 18th at Helen Bernstein High 

School at 6 p.m. 

Earlier this month, Governor 

Schwarzenegger signed into law Assistant 

Majority Leader Kevin de León’s AB 31, 

which prioritizes $400 million of 

Proposition 84 park funds, the largest 

investment in local parks in the nation, to 

underserved and park-poor communities 

throughout California. This important legislation 

will allow Hollywood an opportunity 

to seek funding for the creation of new parks 

in our community including the Hollywood 

Freeway Central Park 

The concept behind the Park is to construct 

a cap over a portion of the U.S. 101 

Freeway where it goes below grade between 

Hollywood and Santa Monica boulevards as 

the freeway travels through the heart of 


Hollywood. The project committee has 

already raised more than $160,000 from 

public and private funding sources and has 

garnered support from Federal, State, and 

Local Government officials including Los 

Angeles City Council President Eric 

Garcetti who has been instrumental in moving 

the Park project forward. Other elected 

officials supporting the Park include: 

Senator Dianne Feinstein, Congressman 

Xavier Becerra, Congresswoman Diane 

Watson, California State Senator Mark 

Ridley-Thomas, California Assemblymember 

Kevin DeLeon, California Assemblymember 

Mike Feuer, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio 

Villaraigosa, and Los Angeles City 

Councilman Tom LaBonge. Community 

support for the park has been overwhelming 

with more than 450 people in attendance at 

the three public meetings held to solicit 

input used in the Feasibility Study. 

Hollywood Freeway Central Park will 

be accessible by two subway stops and 

numerous bus lines, and will be regional in 

its attraction. Additionally, more than 

100,000 people, including 23,000 children 

live within just one mile of the Park area. 

As the Hollywood community continues to 

grow with an estimated 80,000 residents per 

square-mile, rising land acquisition costs, 

and over 6,000 additional housing units slated 

for construction, the Hollywood 

Chamber of Commerce has proposed 

Hollywood Freeway Central Park as a way 

to create a much-needed street-level public 

park in one of the lowest resident-to-park 

space communities in California. 

For more information on the Hollywood 

Freeway Central Park please contact the 

Chamber’s Vice President of Public Policy, 

Nicole Shahenian at (323) 468-1373 or via 

e-mail at Nicole@hollywoodchamber.net. 

You can also visit the Park’s website at 

www.hollywoodfreewaycentralpark.org. 


representing Hollywood’s interests with government 

A rendering from the feasibility study imagines how a Hollywood Central Park could be constructed above the Hollywood Freeway.


PUBLIC POLICY 

Metro Narrows Westside Subway Options 

At a recent community meeting, Metro officials 

announced that they have narrowed 

the options for the Westside subway and will 

be focusing their studies on two alternatives: 

the first being a route straight west on 

Wilshire Blvd. to Santa Monica and the second, 

adding a leg that would connect from the 

Hollywood & Highland station passing 

through West Hollywood before heading 

south on La Cienega to connect at Wilshire 

Blvd. with the Wilshire line. Chamber 

President & CEO Leron Gubler was present at 

the hearing and praised Metro for considering 

the Hollywood/West Hollywood connector 

(known as Alternative 11). He noted that the 

Hollywood Chamber was on record in support 

of the two lines, which would create a 

much more usable subway system and which 

would get people where they want to go on 

the Westside. A final recommendation is 

expected to go to the Metro Board of 

Directors before the end of the year. Measure 

R, which would raise the sales tax by ½ cent, 

would provide a funding mechanism for the 

subway. Because the route of the Westside 

extension is so important to Hollywood, the 

Chamber will continue to follow developments 

closely and will keep our members 

informed on how you can help us to get 

Alternative 11 selected as the preferred route. 

State Controller John Chiang Briefs 

Chamber Board of Directors 

S tate 

Controller John Chiang briefed the Chamber Board of Directors 

during their October Board meeting, on the current economic crisis. 

He explained that the State traditionally operates with a strong reliance 

on revenue generated by Personal Income Tax. He noted that income 

tax accounts for between 53 and 55 percent of tax revenue for the State. 

Transactional Sales tax accounts for 27 percent of the states tax revenue 

and Corporate tax makes up the remaining 10 percent. In previous 

years the State has been able to fund its programs through Revenue 

Anticipation Notes (RAN), monies borrowed from lending institutions 

based on its projected tax revenues. The Controller 

noted that because of the on-going credit crisis, 

lending institutions are not as willing to provide the 

State with loans as has been done in the past. The 

State will need between 7 and 10 billion dollars in 

loans in order to continue its operations. The 

Controller projected that the State’s budget situation 

will likely worsen over the next three years 

and noted that the State needs to stop its practice of 

borrowing if the situation is ever to be remedied. 

Controller Chiang also discussed his efforts to notify the public 

of unclaimed property that the IRS has been holding. Individuals 

may search to see if the State Controller's Office is holding their 

Unclaimed Property by visiting the Controller’s website at 

http://www.sco.ca.gov/col/ucp/index.shtml 

Controller Chiang was elected in November 2006 to serve as 

California’s Chief Fiscal Officer. The Controller is the chair of the 

Franchise Tax Board and, during even-numbered years, the State 

Lands Commission. He serves on 76 boards and commissions 

including CalPERS and CalSTRS, the nation’s first and second 

largest public pension funds. 

Red Line to Extend Operating Hours During the Holiday Season 

In an effort to encourage more people to 

take public transportation, 

Councilmembers Eric Garcetti, Wendy 

Greuel, and Jose Huizar have worked with 

Metro to launch a pilot program that will 

extend the operating hours of the Red Line 

throughout the Holiday Season on weekends 

from November 22nd – January 3rd. 

The Metro which currently ends services at 

midnight, will remain open until 3 am on 

Friday and Saturday nights. 

The pilot program has been made possible 

by coalition of business and community 

stakeholders who have committed funding to 

operate Metro service for the extended hours. 

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce 

encourages you to use Metro when visiting 

Hollywood this holiday season! 

Assistant Majority Kevin de León Briefs 

Members at Brown Bag Luncheon 

T he 

Chamber hosted a “Brown Bag Luncheon” for its members with 

Assistant Majority Kevin de Leon (D-45) in October. The event was 

the first in a series of Brown Bag lunches that will be held to provide 

members with an opportunity to meet local elected officials and discuss 

current legislative initiatives affecting the Hollywood community. 

De Leon gave the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce a report on 

his priority legislation and the financial difficulties in Sacramento. The 

Assemblymember explained that the State’s cash flow problems may 

require delaying payments of bills or going back into session if the State 

is unable to float notes due to the current financial 

turmoil in the markets. He also, reported on the 

successful passage of AB31, which he introduced 

to direct $400-million in State bond funds to the 

communities with the greatest need for parks. Of 

particular interest to Hollywood is a clause he 

added that would allow freeway cap parks to apply 

for the funds. Additionally, he reported on two 

other bills that did not pass but which he intends to 

reintroduce next year – a bill to require hand-gun ammunition to be 

locked up behind a counter and to limit the sales of ammunition to 

felons, and a bill that would create a new financial product for people 

without pension plans and that would be administered by the State pension 

system, Calpers. DeLeon also announced that he would chair the 

powerful Assembly Appropriations Committee next year. 

For more information on the work of Assistant Majority Leader 

Kevin de Leon, please visit the Assemblymember’s website at 

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/members/a45/ 


representing interests of business with government 

hollywoodchamber.net �� 7


CHAMBER EVENTS 

Share the Joy at the Annual Holiday Mixer & Toy Drive 

The Chamber’s Holiday Mixer 

will once again be generously 

hosted by one of Hollywood’s 

most historic entertainment venues, 

The Music Box @ Fonda. As 

is tradition, the Holiday Mixer 

will be held on the “speakeasy” 

roof top of The Music Box @ 

Fonda where guests will enjoy the 

venue’s sparkling holiday ambience, 

as well as plenty of delicious 

food and libations. 

The Holiday Mixer also provides 

Chamber members the opportunity to share 

the joy of the season by bringing a new, 

unwrapped, toy (or appropriate gift) valued 

at $10 or more in lieu of an admission fee. 

“Last year, through the generosity of our 

host and our members, the Chamber collected 

over 100 new toys and gifts for children 

who might otherwise go without. It’s important 

to remember that through these donations 

we can help brighten the holiday season 

for those less fortunate than ourselves” 

stated Leron Gubler, Chamber President & 

Chamber Establishes Small Business 

Committee to Assist Members 

H 

ollywood Chamber of Commerce Chairperson, Mark Panatier, 

has announced the creation of a new Small Business 

Committee. The co-chairs of the committee are Michael Druyen, 

owner of Certified Printers, and Fariba Kalantari, DDS, owner of 

Famous Hollywood Dental Care. 

“The creation of this committee is the outgrowth of this year’s 

Board Planning Conference,” said Panatier. “The Board understands 

and is concerned about the challenges that our many small 

businesses are facing during the current economic downturn. 

Creating this new committee will give many of our members who 

own small businesses a stronger voice in Hollywood and will also 

focus more of the Chamber’s attention on assisting these members.” 

Druyen and his wife, Nureet, have owned Certified Printers for 

30 years, starting out initially at 6255 Sunset Blvd. before purchasing 

their own building on Cahuenga. They have both served on the 

Chamber Board and Michael was the founding chair of the 

Hollywood Chamber’s Business Expo 20 years ago. 

Kalantari is a graduate of Columbia University School of Dental 

& Oral Surgery. In 2006, she purchased Hollywood Dental Care 

from Suzanne and Lou Wenzlaff. She moved the practice to 6464 

Sunset Blvd. this past year and she was recently appointed to as a 

member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. 

The new small business committee is expected to investigate 

programs to help small businesses. The first event for the committee 

is a Growing Your Business Roundtable on Friday, November 

14, at 8 a.m. at the Chamber offices. All Chamber members are 

invited. The Chamber’s SCORE Counselor, Richard Krelstein, will 

lead the roundtable discussion. To RSVP, please call Vivian at the 

Chamber offices (323) 469-8311. 



providing valuable information to our members 

Visit us online at HollywoodChamber.net or call (323)469-8311 

CEO. Collected items will be distributed in 

cooperation with the Los Angeles Fire 

Department’s (Hollywood station) annual 

toy drive. 

The Music Box @ Fonda, which was 

originally named the Henry Fonda Theatre 

and was one of Hollywood’s first legitimate 

theaters, stood vacant and neglected for 

many years following the “hey days” of 

Hollywood. Fortunately, owners Thaddeus 

Hunter Smith, Marco Roy, and Burt Nelson 

have lovingly refurbished the property to 

“be a part of bringing back the magic to 

Hollywood”, stated Smith. The theater now 

Hollywood Chamber’s “Police And 

Firefighters Appreciation BBQ” 

P lease 

join us in supporting the Chamber’s effort to show appreciation 

to Hollywood’s police and firefighters who continuously risk 

their lives to protect communities throughout Los Angeles. Each year, 

we give back to these local heroes by providing a fun day of great 

BBQ food, raffle prizes and heartfelt thanks at the Los Angeles Police 

Department (LAPD) Hollywood Division station, 1358 North Wilcox. 

This year’s event will be held on Thursday, November 13, from 11 

a.m. to 7 p.m. and ask for your participation. The Hollywood Chamber 

of Commerce is currently seeking volunteers to come out and show 

thanks by helping us serve the more than 200 police and firefighters. 

We are also seeking partners who are able to offer food, small monetary 

donations, and/or gift certificates to be raffled off to the officers 

and firefighters. This is event provides excellent exposure for donors 

as it includes visits from the media, local legislators, and appreciative 

celebrities! For more information on how to get involved, please contact 

Kaylee Kiecker at kaylee@hollywoodchamber.net 

Chamber Testifies in Support of Collections 

Sheriff to Hold the City Accountable 

I n 

operates as a popular live performance 

venue for top billing 

performers and theater productions, 

as well as a variety of award 

shows and special events. For 

more information and reservations, 

please call The Music Box 

@ the Fonda at (323) 464-0808 or 

visit www.tmbhollywood.com. 

The Holiday Mixer will be 

held on Wednesday, December 

10th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Cost to 

attend the mixer is $10 for members and $20 

for non-members; however, please help 

make the holidays brighter for the children 

of our community by bringing a toy or gift. 

The Music Box @ the Fonda is located 

at 6126 Hollywood Blvd. No-host parking is 

available in the adjacent Sunshine lot west 

of the venue. RSVP to steven@hollywoodchamber.net 

or call (323) 469-8311. 


networking opportunities 

light of recent announcements by Mayor Villaraigosa that the City 

anticipates a budget deficit of $406-million next year, the Hollywood 

Chamber of Commerce has joined a coalition of other business organizations, 

including VICA and the L.A. Area Chamber, in calling for the 

City to improve its collection of bills to help close the funding gap. 

Chamber Vice President of Public Policy, Nicole Shahenian, testified 

before the L.A. Budget and Finance Committee in early October in 

support of a motion to create a “Collections Sheriff” that would hold 

City department heads accountable for its failed billings and collections 

practices. The Committee approved the new collections position 

in a motion, introduced by Council President Eric Garcetti and 

Councilmember Wendy Greuel. City Controller Laura Chick reported 

in a June 2007 report that approximately $502-million in bills have 

gone uncollected over a five-year period.


WALK OF FAME 

Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez and Sir 

Tim Rice to be Honored with Star 

More stars are soon to be added on the famous Boulevard 

Two Walk of Fame stars will 

be dedicated in the month of 

November. First up will be the 

late Pedro Gonzalez-Gonzalez. 

His star will be unveiled next to 

his friend and co-star, John 

Wayne on November 14, at 11:30 

a.m. at 1555 Vine Street. Pedro 

was an American character actor 

best known for his appearances in 

a number of John Wayne movies. 

The grandson of Pedro who is 

film actor Clifton Collins Jr. will 

accept the award on behalf of the 

Gonzalez family. 

Gonzalez-Gonzalez married 

at the age of seventeen and 

served in World War II. After the war he performed stand-up comedy 

for Spanish-speaking audiences. 

In 1953, he appeared on the Groucho Marx quiz show You Bet 

Your Life under the name Ramiro G. Gonzalez where his banter with 

Marx attracted notice. Marx asked him: "What does the 'G' stand 

for?" to which he replied "Gonzalez". "What does your wife call you; 

Gonzalez, Gonzalez or Gonzalez? He replied "She calls me 'Pedro'". 

"If we got together as an act, what would be it called?" After he 

replied "Gonzalez-Gonzalez and Marx," the host made an aside: "Do 

you believe that? Two men in the act, and I get third billing!." 

John Wayne saw his appearance on the program and cast him as 

comic relief in a number of movies including Rio Bravo, The High 

and the Mighty and Hellfighters. He also made guest appearances in 

shows such as Gunsmoke and Wanted: Dead or Alive, as well as the 

Jerry Lewis film, Hook, Line & Sinker. 

Members Celebrated All Hallow’s Eve 

T he 


supporting community needs 

Pedro 

Gonzalez- 

Gonzalez Sir Tim Rice 

Chamber held it’s annual All Hallow’s Eve fundraising event 

at the famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery on October 30. 

Chamber ghosts and goblins appeared wearing their mourning attire 

and enjoyed witches brew and pumpkin soup while the DJ played 

the Monster Mash for over 250 guests. Deadly souls roamed around 

while guests took tours of the cemetery grounds on golf carts, while 

others braved a walking 

tour of the lake. 

Physics were on 

hand to give readings, 

with face painters, 

magicians, and fire 

eaters keeping the rest 

of the crowd entertained. This annual event raises money for the 

Chamber Community Foundation, which then gives out grants to 

qualified non-profit agencies in Hollywood. Our top sponsors this 

year were Farmers Market, Millennium Partners/Argent Ventures, 

as well as The Clarett Group, and Sunset Gower/ Sunset Bronson 

Studios. We thank ALL of our sponsors, donors, and volunteers for 

their tremendous efforts this year! 

Sir Tim Rice will be honored 

with his live theatre star at 6243 

Hollywood Boulevard in front of 

the historic Pantages Theatre on 

November 20, at 11:30 a.m. He is 

a three time Oscar winner and has 

composed music for the Disney 

films: Aladdin and the Lion King. 

The Lion King stage show played 

at the Pantages in recent years. 

Sir Tim conceived and wrote 

three of the greatest musicals of 

the twentieth century-Joseph and 

the Amazing Technicolor 

Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar 

and Evita. Together with his partner 

Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber 

(whose star is also in front of the Pantages) he broke box office 

records around the world and created a new era in musical history. 

All ceremonies are open to the public. Events begin promptly at 11:30 a.m. 

Early arrival is advised. Visit www.hollywoodchamber.net 


promoting the community 




Setting the standards for 

world-wide communication 

Your 

communication 

needs understood 

with results 

877.246.8877 • www.wrightcolor.com 

ask for Sandy Benson 


PROJECT ANGEL FOOD ANNOUNCES NEW CEO 

Project Angel Food announced the appointment of Margaret Steele 

as Chief Executive Officer effective July 1, 2008. For the past five 

years, Margaret Steele has been the Director of Development & 

Communications for Project Angel Food, where she was responsible 

for successfully launching and managing the $8-million capital 

campaign for the agency’s first permanent home on Vine Street. In 

her current position, Steele has effectively 

renewed donation bases as well as developed 

many new important donors, cultivated new 

Board members, and built and reinforced new 

relationships throughout Los Angeles County on 

behalf of the agency. “Her work has crossed 

through all areas of the organization, and she has 

earned the respect of her colleagues at every 

level. Steel has become an effective leader 

among her staff and has the deep respect from our Board of 

Directors and Trustees,” said Don Fracchia, Chair, Board of 

Directors. Project Angel Food’s mission is to nourish the body and 

spirit of men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS and other 

serious illnesses. Project Angel Food is the only daily meal delivery 

program in Los Angeles for men, women and children disabled by 

HIV/AIDS, cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease 

and other serious illnesses. These free meals are delivered to clients’ 

homes throughout Los Angeles County by volunteers and staff. 

� Call (323)845-1800 � www.projectangelfood.org. 

LOT 613 EVENT VENUE REMODELS 

Lot 613, located at 613 Imperial Street, is a massive 

event and filming location that has over 5,000 

square feet of stage with Sky Light Green rooms 

and 5,000 square feet of secured parking. Recent 

major renovations complement the many existing 

amenities at Lot 613, including a conference room 

and dressing/make up rooms, plenty of restrooms, 

a 2nd floor mezzanine, 3 phase power wireless 

DSL and an on site ATM. A versatile space perfect 

for upcoming holiday parties and events, Lot 613 is also ideal for filming, 

photo shoots, wrap parties as well as all types of special events, 

Lot 613 is available for holiday parties and events. As an added convenience 

to clients, Lot 613 staff has the capability of providing full 

staff and permits for virtually any event including bartenders, servers, 

‘bussers’, security, management, DJs, and more. 

� Call (323)934-7777 � www.lot613.com. 

INTERNATIONAL DANCE ACADEMY HOLLYWOOD 

“You want to dance? You’ve 

found the place!” The one-stop 

facility for all styles of dance, 

IDA Hollywood is a new dance 

studio affiliate of Hollywood’s 

hub of entertainment and arts 

education, CAMPUS HOLLY- 

WOOD. Located at 6755 

Hollywood Boulevard, the 

facility’s five dance studios are 

available for open classes, private 

rental for productions and individuals, and offers classes for both 

adults and children. IDA is well known to Hollywood celebrities as 

well, boasting the likes of as Britney Spears, Janet Jackson and Rihanna 

as clients. IDA Hollywood is beginning their “Intensive Academy 

Program” on November 3rd. The program, a six week program that 

includes 24 different classes, delivers a certificate of completion for 

attendees upon “graduation”. Early registration is recommended. 

� Call (323) 463-8865 � www.idahollywood.com.



LA ZOO 

The LA Zoo has announced Steve Ringel as the new Associate 

Director of Corporate Fundraising and Sponsorships. Ringel, who 

recently relocated to Los Angeles from Northern California, stated, 

“My mission is to make the Zoo hip! The LA Zoo is one of the 

calmest, coolest, undiscovered and totally green places in Los 

Angeles. Our ‘wonder-full’ animals can calm the most frazzled of 

nerves.” Amoung the new and exciting events planned at the Zoo will 

be “Party at the Zoo!”, a special night of dancing, cocktails, and fun 

featuring a dance party at the New Gorilla Habitat. The evening will 

feature celebrity DJ Peter Tork from the MONKEE’s, and musical 

icon Eric Burden (and 

band) from the The 

Animals who will entertain 

guests live from the 

“Party With the Animals” 

stage. Ringel added, “The Zoo is a perfect venue for special events, 

wrap parties and an excellent place to market your business. Contact 

me for a behind the scenes look and rediscover the ZOO!” Please contact 

Steven Ringel, Associate Director of Business Partners Program 

and Corporate Sponsorships Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association. 

� Call (323)644-4705 � www.lazoo.org. 

NIKE AND THE MONTALBAN THEATRE 

An innovative co-branding between Nike and the Montalban 

Theatre kicked off recently which included a launch for Nike 

Questo shoes. The line waiting for the opening went around the 

block, rivaling the lines seen for the Apple iPhone craze. Nike and 

The Montalban are hosting many events as part of the arrangement, 

including Cinema Tuesdays - 

a weekly installment series 

previewing and premiering 

first run films. The Nike ID 

Studio is also featured with 

Friday and Saturday appointments 

available for individuals 

who work directly with 

Nike Designers to make their own, one-of-a-kind Nike shoes! Nike 

@ The Montalban is open to the public Wednesday-Thursday 

11:00AM to 9:00PM, Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 

Sunday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. In addition to the public hours, Nike is 

also hosting a series of classes in art, poetry, music and photography. 

These classes, named “Make Something”, are being offered to 

schools from disadvantaged areas of Southern California and is in 

keeping with The Ricardo Montalbán Foundation vision. 

� Call (323)463-0089 

CAFÉ LA BOHEME 

Café La Boheme will be serving a three course feast this 

Thanksgiving from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Enjoy Pacific oysters on the 

half shell, Asian pear salad, or Japanese pumpkin soup. Dine on 

Chef Christine Banta’s delectable maple-glazed free range turkey 

with “dad’s famous cornbread 

stuffing” (plus all the other traditional 

trimmings), or select 

the polenta crepes served with 

sautéed mushrooms, Japanese 

pumpkin, roasted corn faro 

pilaf , wilted Swiss chard and mushroom sauce. The perfect finish 

is your choice of apple tart with salty caramel ice cream, sorbet trio 

with autumn fruit salad, and – of course – the “must have” for all 

Thanksgiving meals – pumpkin pie with whipped cream. Fixed 

price is $48 for adults and $24 for children. Café La Bohme is 

located at 8400 Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. 

� Call (323)848-2360 

SANDELLA’S FLATBREAD CAFÉ! 

Complementing an already wildly popular selection 

of lunch & dinner wraps, Panini flatbreads and 

more, new Breakfast Panini creations have been 

introduced at Hollywood’s new Sandella’s 

Flatbread Café! Breakfast choices include the All 

American Omelet Panini, the South of the Border 

Panini, and the Western Omelet Panini. 

� Call (323)469-3035 � 7021 Hollywood Boulevard 

AIR ROYALE INTERNATIONAL INC. 

Air Royale International Inc., established in 1994, is the premier air 

charter services company headquartered in Beverly Hills, Calif., with 

additional offices in London, New York, Hong Kong and Dubai. With 

access to thousands of aircraft from twin-engine turboprops to light, 

medium and heavy jets, Air Royale’s brand serves as the ultimate 24hour 

concierge. It’s that personal, boutique service that impresses Air 

Royale’s clientele, with the likes of Paramount Pictures Corp., 

Universal Studios, DreamWorks Animation, NBC News, Metro- 

Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., Fortune 100 and 500 companies and heads of 

state. A CNN executive said, “If you added together promptness, professionalism, 

and competitive pricing—that’s 

Air Royale.” Air Royale 

plans itinerary details to keep its 

promise—customers’ needs and 

desires will be taken care of, including making arrangements for someone 

to bring their pets on board a private aircraft. Whether you want 

selections of fine wines, homemade gourmet meals, in-flight spa services, 

private ground transportation, private villa or bungalow stays, 

exclusive dinner reservations or theater tickets—that’s the Air Royale 

difference. Utilizing top certificated operators globally, Air Royale 

arranges safe, on-demand private air charter. Customers’ air safety is 

the first priority. Air Royale uses Wyvern Consulting Ltd., the first safety 

evaluations company that began performing on-site audits of air 

charter operators in 1991. Wayne J. Rizzi, president and CEO of Air 

Royale, sits on the Wyvern Customer Advisory Board, which is responsible 

for setting safety standards that far exceed Federal Aviation 

Administration’s minimum standards for air charter operators. 

� www.AirRoyale.com. 




What is a Periodontal Disease? 


by Dr. Fariba Kalantari, D.D.S. 

Periodontal (gum) diseases are serious infections that, left 

untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease is a 

chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting 

the teeth. 

The mouth contains a large number and variety of bacteria 

that form a sticky film called plaque. The bacteria that cause periodontal 

diseases create toxins in the plaque, which irritate the 

gums and bone. Plaque that is not removed can harden into a 

rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. 

This can create conditions that lead to 

chronic inflammation and infection. 

There are different forms and progress of 

periodontal disease. 

Gingivitis is a mild, often reversible from 

of periodontal disease. The toxins in plaque 

irritate the gums, making them red, tender, 

Dr. Fariba 

Kalantari, D.D.S. 

swollen and likely to bleed easily. If not treated 

on time, Gingivitis, may lead to more serious, 

destructive forms of periodontal disease, 

called Periodontitis. This occurs when toxins 

destroy the tissues that anchor teeth into bone. The gums detach 

from teeth and form pockets. Exposed tooth roots become susceptible 

to decay and sensitivity. 

In some cases, so much ligament and bone are destroyed that 

the teeth become loose in its socket. It may eventually fall out, or 

require extraction. 

Other factors that can increase the risk are as follow: 

People who smoke or chew tabacco, Clenching or grinding 

of teeth, restorations (crowns, fillings, bridges,..) that have 

become defective, malocclusions (teeth not aligned properly), 

poor diet, pregnancy or hormonal changes, Systemic diseases, 

such as Diabetes, and AIDS which can lower resistance to infection, 

many medications such as steroids, some cancer therapy, 

antiepilepsy and calcium channel blockers can affect the gums. 

Treatment methods depend upon the type of the disease and 

how far the condition has progressed. The first step is usually a 

thorough cleaning that may include scaling to remove plaque and 

tartar deposits. In some cases, the occlusion (bite) may require 

adjustment. Antibiotics or irrigation with antimicorbials may be 

recommended in controlling the growth of the bacteria. 

There are diagnostic tests available to dentists today, enabling 

to test the sockets for the specific bacteria. This way, site specific 

Antibiotics can be prescribed to enhance the recovery of the 

very advanced cases. 

The National Institute of Health (NIH) and other research 

facilities are aggressively pursuing the link to chronic inflammatory 

periodontal infections and systemic diseases such as heart 

disease, diabetes, some forms of cancer, and possible other disease 

states. 

You can prevent the Periodontal diseases by brushing and 

flossing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, eat a balanced 

diet for good general health, and schedule regular dental checkups. 


providing useful information 

Learn more about Hollywood Chamber benefits 

Visit us online at 

HollywoodChamber.net 

or call (323)469-8311 

CALIFORNIA SCHOOL OF CULINARY ARTS 

ANNOUNCES EXPANSION TO HOLLYWOOD 

California School of Culinary Arts 

(CSCA) Le Cordon Bleu Program, 

Pasadena, has announced the addition of 

its newest location at 6370 Sunset Blvd. 

The Hollywood campus of CSCA and 

the Le Cordon Bleu Program will add a new 30- week Le Cordon 

Bleu Diploma program in Culinary Arts to its educational offerings 

for students. “This new location allows CSCA to provide additional 

Le Cordon Bleu program offerings in Southern California and is a 

step toward our long-term strategy to bring our programs closer to 

student populations,” said Tony Bondi, California School of 

Culinary Arts president. Students at the Hollywood campus have the 

opportunity to benefit from signature components of a Le Cordon 

Bleu education, including classical European techniques and competency-based 

training. CSCA offers options for financing education, 

including eligibility for Federal student loan programs for 

those who qualify. “We are very excited to welcome the Hollywood 

students, faculty and staff into the CSCA family,” said Bondi. 

� www.csca.edu. 

SPA LUCE 

Hollywood has a new Mecca of relaxation. The Renaissance 

Hollywood Hotel & Spa is now home to the elegantly chic SPA 

LUCE. Located on Level 5 of the Hollywood-charmed hotel at 

Hollywood & Highland Center, the 6400-square-foot, state-of-the-art 

luxury boutique spa features personalized treatments, celebrityinspired 

pampering and top-of-the-line beauty and health products. 

SPA LUCE offers a luxurious and relaxing experience perfect for both 

the spa beginner and seasoned veteran. Hotel 

guests and Los Angeles residents will appreciate 

the standard in quality service SPA LUCE sets by 

offering unique treatments and product lines in a 

rejuvenating environment. The spa’s signature 

treatments have been carefully created to take 

guests on a journey of harmony, restoration and 

inner balance. Perfect for the female and male 

guest, SPA LUCE features seven distinct treatment 

rooms, one of which is a private sanctuary reserved for couples 

that includes a hydrotherapy tub and comfortable lounge area. 

Another spacious, naturally lit room is designated for nail treatments. 

Guests also have access to the rooftop pool overlooking Hollywood. 

� Call (323)491-1376 � www.spaluce.com. 

THE FEEL GOOD FILM FESTIVAL 

The Feel Good Film Festival celebrates films and the filmmakers and 

creative artists that create entertainment with positive themes, happy 

endings, that make audiences laugh, and that captures the beauty of our 

world. FGFF will encourage the development, production, and distribution 

of films that share those characteristics as it offers a yearly 

touchstone for the viewing and enjoyment of those films. Held at the 

Egyptian Theatre in August, the festival screened films aimed at both 

adult and family audiences that featured “positive themes, happy endings, 

make audiences laugh, and capture the beauty of the world”. 

Activities included an Opening Night Gala, an original screenplay 

competition, an original song competition, a panel discussion and a 

Closing Night Awards Gala highlighted by a Tribute to film and comedy 

legend, Jonathan Winters. Festival Director Kristen Ridgway stated, 

“We created the Feel Good Film Festival as happy counter-programming 

for the number of independent and studio films that seem to 

have the philosophy that the more dark and depressing the film, the 

better. It’s not our intent to screen films that are 100 percent G-rated or 

religious, but we do believe our audience members will leave our theatres 

feeling better than when they entered 100 percent of the time”. 

� Call (818)207-5307 � www.fgff.org.



HOAGIES & WINGS 

Hoagies & Wings, founded in 2004 by a Harvard Law graduate Akida 

Mashaka and two Cordon Bleu Culinary School Graduates, is an 

award-winning quick service restaurant chain with five locations. 

Serving original hot sandwiches and chicken wings, Hoagies & Wings 

has become a recognized leader in delivery and catering of traditional 

Buffalo-style hot wings throughout Los Angeles via their on line 

ordering site, GotWings.Com. A portent to his business acumen when 

he was a nationally ranked teenage tennis 

player, and was always teased about 

his chicken-eating habit. According to 

his peer players, just give Akida some 

chicken and he could win any tennis 

match. His like for “chicken eating” was 

rekindled when his partners came to him 

with the idea of opening a restaurant with a theme base of hot wings; 

subsequently the first Hoagies and Wings was launched. The culinary 

skills of partners/chefs, Bryan Newell and Jimmy Homsapaya, 

enabled Hoagies and Wings to become CitySearch winners in 2004. 

Delivery and catering is the primary service for the new Hollywood 

outdoor diner location located at 6751 Santa Monica Boulevard. 

� Call (323)463-2700 � www.gotwings.com. 

CLASSIC HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR MAKES ITS 

MODERN DEBUT WITH THE OPENING OF THE KRESS! 

The opening of the Kress, a 38,800 sq. ft., multi-million dollar historically-renovated 

dining and entertaining complex, marks Visco 

Entertainment Collections official grand entrance into Hollywood. 

The Kress is an upscale dining and entertainment venue, which 

complements and contributes to Hollywood’s continued revitalization. 

The Kress boasts a full-service restaurant led by worldrenowned 

Executive Chef Troy N. Thompson with a carefully-crafted 

cuisine menu with an Asian influence; 

a basement-level lounge, live entertainment 

and dance floor; a third level banquet 

and event center offering food service, 

live entertainment and dance floor; and finally a spectacular 

design-driven rooftop lounge with cabanas, a limited food service 

menu and a 360-degree view of Los Angeles including the legendary 

Hollywood sign. The Kress stepped in to take this historical 

masterpiece back to its original 1934 architectural brilliance proudly 

maintaining the original 1930’s marble stairway, brass railings, 

ornate Italian-designed ceiling and an art deco façade. To honor the 

building’s significant Hollywood history, Viscuso commissioned 

Frederick’s of Hollywood to design the uniforms for the dancers at 

the club. Also, the name The Kress is a homage to the structure’s 

original tenant and owner, S.H. Kress and Co. a nationally-recognized 

retail chain which operated until 1981. 

� Call (323)785-5000 � www.TheKress.net. 

IL FORNAIO 

Il Fornaio thrives in the tradition of Italy’s trattorias, highlighting the 

gorgeous sites, sounds and aromas of authentic Italian cuisine. 

Serving award-winning Italian food, Il Fornaio is among the best in 

Los Angeles. An array of fresh breads baked 

daily from centuries-old recipes is presented to 

every table with Il Fornaio’s private label olive 

oil and balsamic vinegar. New regional Italian 

specials are featured monthly during Festa Regionale. With an event 

coordinator on-site to handle all of your needs, our private dining 

rooms offer the perfect atmosphere to create the ideal event experience 

for your special events and business meetings. Space is limited, 

call today to book your holiday event. Winner of the Wine Spectator 

Award of Excellence 2008. Open for lunch and dinner daily. 

� 1501 Ocean Ave. Santa Monica � (310)451-7800 � www.ilfornaio.com. 

Self-Financing Has Its 

Rewards…and Risks 

by Richard Krelstein 

SCORE Counselor 

Loans are a great, affordable way to get a 

small business off the ground. But they’re 

not for everybody. Personal sources of financing can work just as 

well, and may be the entrepreneur’s “Plan B” if attempts to 

secure a commercial loan are unsuccessful. 

Although self-financing options may give you more control 

and flexibility over your start-up capital, special care is essential 

to make sure they are used wisely. A misstep puts more than your 

small business at risk. It can also endanger the long-term security 

of you and your family. 

Before you dip into your savings or tap the equity in your 

house, make sure you have a realistic plan to meet your existing 

obligations, such as mortgage, utility bills, vehicle payments, 

insurance, and daily living expenses. Be sure to consider “worstcase” 

scenarios, such as a spouse losing his or her job, major car 

repairs, or serious health issue. The likelihood of such events may 

be remote, but the consequences on your financial security will 

be very real if they do occur. 

A good preventive measure is to designate certain funds as 

“off-limits” for use in your business. Certain retirement accounts 

may also be “untouchable” due to the tax consequences and 

heavy penalties associated with early withdrawals. 

Friends and family members can be good sources for start-up 

capital. However, history is full of ruined businesses and personal 

relationships because money was not repaid as expected, or the 

investor demanded a say in how the business was run. 

Even if your benefac- 

tors place no conditions on 

the money, make sure 

everyone clearly understands 

how the funds are to 

be used; the repayment 

terms and amount of inter- 

Richard Krelstein 

... Make sure everyone 

clearly understands how 

the funds are to be used 

est, if applicable; and what role, if any, contributors will play in 

the business. Then, put everything in writing and have all parties 

agree to the terms. 

Credit cards can also be a source of quick cash for your business, 

but low limits and high interest rates usually make them 

useful only as a last resort, or as a short-term cash flow bridge. 

It’s best to use them only if absolutely necessary, and you have 

the ability to pay them down quickly. Otherwise, that debt can 

quickly spiral out of control. Also carefully scrutinize equipment 

financing offers from retailers and manufacturers. Their terms 

may be more restrictive and expensive than credit cards. 

To get an insightful, objective look at your small business financing 

options, contact SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small 

Business.” SCORE is a nonprofit organization of more than 

10,500 volunteer business counselors who provide free, confidential 

business counseling and training workshops to small business 

owners. An experienced, outside perspective can benefit any 

small business, which is it’s a good idea to contact SCORE 

“Counselors to America’s Small Business. Call SCORE at the 

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce (323) 469-8311 today for an 

appointment with Richard Krelstein. 


providing useful information to our members 




HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER WELCOMES TWENTY-NINE NEW MEMBERS 

Air Royal International 

Kelly Giffen 

9100 Wilshire Blvd. 

Beverly Hills, CA 90210 

(310) 289-9800 

Fashion Factory Boutique 

Marc McChaly 

8601 Beverly Blvd. 

West Hollywood, CA 90048 

(310) 967-0042 

Hollywood Film Office 

David Richardson 

201 N. Occidental Blvd. #8 

Los Angeles, CA 90026 

(213) 235-1777 

Westbound Studios 

Angelo Costa 

333 S. Boylston St. 


(310) 985-5509 

Le Parc Suite Hotel 

Sam Ebeid 

733 N. West Knoll Drive 


(310) 855-8888 

Hollywood Film & Acting Academy 

Josh Sands 

1786 N. Highland Ave. 

Hollywood, CA 90028 

(323) 962-8554 

Rockstar Tours Inc. 

Mike Russo 

4844 Whitsett Ave., #4 

Valley Village, CA 91607 

(818) 632-9566 

Original Architect of Capitol 

Records Tower Honored 

The iconic Capitol Records Tower, owned by 

Millennium Partners/Argent Ventures, was 

honored recently by the L.A. Conservancy, 

which placed a 

plaque on the 

building honoring 

the architect 

responsible for the 

unique design. From 

left, Linda Dishman, 

executive director 

of the Los Angeles 

Conservancy; City 

Councilwoman 

Wendy Greuel; 

Capitol Records 

architect Louis Naidorf; City Councilman Tom 

LaBonge and Tom Trynin of Millennium 

Partners/Argent Ventures, owners of the 

Capitol Records Tower. Photo by Bob Freeman. 


Coldwell Banker / Hancock Park 

John Winther 

119 N. Larchmont Blvd. 


(323) 462-0867 

Arthur Trace Productions / Magician 

Arthur Trace 

11162 Camarillo St., #104 

North Hollywood, CA 91602 

(818) 441-4583 

DJ Mathew Edwards 

Mathew S. Edwards 

7062 Hawthorn Ave., #206 


(917) 587-9945 

FairFax High School 

Joyce Kleifield 

7850 Melrose Ave. 


(323) 370-1200 

Feel, Giggle & Grin 

Susan Bukowski 

637 N. Bronson Ave. 


(323) 600-5461 

The Grill on Hollywood 

Michael Green 

6801 Hollywood Blvd. 


(323) 856-5530 

Hollywood Breakthrough Corp. 

Motootua Fualautoalasi 

8350 Wilshire Blvd., #200 

Beverly Hills, CA 90211 

(323) 556-0655 

Kainan Nino 

Winnie De La Cruz 

5173 W. Sunset Blvd. 


(323) 669-0576 

Kravetz & Company PR 

Elissa Kravetz 

110 E. Ninth St. 


(213) 488-0000 

uWink 

Robert Fowler 

6801 Hollywood Blvd., #411 


(323) 466-1800 

Acadata, Inc. 

Mike Martner 

1972 Bentley Ave. 


(310) 860-6234 

Bob Gail Special Events 

Bob Levine 

3321 La Cienega Place 


(310) 202-5200 

International Dance Academy Hollywood 

Marie Bonnevay 



(323) 463-8865 

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf 

Louis Sapalaran 



(323) 467-7785 

Universal Waste Systems 

Harry Sabounjian 

9016 Norwalk Blvd. 

Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 

(800) 631-7016 

Sunstyle, Inc. 

Ulrik Neumann 

627 N. Robertson Blvd. 


(323) 822-7930 

The CRP Group, LLC 

James Provan 

1604 Vista Del Mar St. 


(323) 467-2772 

The Harmony Project 

Myka Miller 

817 Vine Street #204 


(323) 462-4311 

Automated Parking Solutions, LLC 

Paula Reddish Zinnemann 

1250 Long Beach Ave. 


(213) 629-5539 

Hollywood Remembers 

Rick Eisenlord 

1733 N. New Hampshire 


(213) 291-7686 

Hollywood High School Alumni Association 

David Moreno 

1917 Carmen Ave. 


(323) 463-6466 

Norman Clarke Painting 

Norman Clarke 

3940 Laurel Canyon Blvd. 

Studio City, CA 91604 

(213) 321-2063



CHAMBER THANKS RENEWING MEMBERS 

Archdiocesan Youth Employment Services 

Florentine Gardens 

Handelman Consulting, Inc. 

Hospital Association of Southern CA 

House of Blues Sunset Strip 

OPI Products Inc. 

Paseo Plaza 

Tolsek Design & Print 

The Art Laboe Foundation 

Bethune Theatredanse 

Brown / Meshul, Incorporated 

Capitol Records, Inc. 

Church of Scientology – Celebrity Centre Int’l 

Copper Sky Development 

Family Theater Productions 

GTO Development LLC 

Hollywood Movie Tours / Dearly Departed 

Tours, LLC 

Hollywood Place Apartments 

Hotel Amarano Burbank 

Midas Auto Service Experts 

Mole-Richardson Company 

Raleigh Studios 

Rock Ridge Investment Group 

Sharp Seating Company 

Streetlights 

TV Guide Network / Macrovision Solutions 

Corp. 

The UPS Store (#3939) 

Chamber Helps Cut Ribbon 

for Downtown 717 Olympic 

The recent ribbon cutting ceremony at 717 

Olympic proved to be a great success. Several 

Board members attended, as well as Chamber 

members who are travel planners, concierges, and 

business leaders, all interested in learning the latest 

in luxury apartment trends and how it can impact 

their businesses. Licica Benefield, operations 

manager for 717 Olympic, arranged tours of the 

exquisite apartments and spectacular outdoor 

social space. With its landmark architecture, some 

of the amenities of 717 Olympic include 

breathtaking views of Los Angeles, pedestrian 

access to LA's premier performance venues, on site 

concierge/event planner, state of the art media 

area and more. To learn more or schedule a tour, 

visit 717 Olympic at www.717Olympic.com. 

DS Ventures LLC 

7060 Hollywood Boulevard / LeFrak 

Organization, Inc. 

AIDS Project Los Angeles 

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences 

All New Glass & Mirror Co., Inc. 

Black Entertainment Television 

Childrens Hospital Los Angeles 

Dees Creations, Inc. 

Entertainment Lighting Services, Inc. (ELS) 

Hollywood Poster Exchange 

The Lee Strasberg Institute 

Los Angeles World Airports 

Greater Los Zoo Association (GLAZA) 

Yellow Cab Company 

Bank of America Business Banking 

California School of Culinary Arts / Le Cordon 

Blue 

E.I. School of Professional Makeup 

Fuscoe Engineering, Inc. 

Kirsch, Kohn & Bridge, CPA’s 

Liberty Hotel 

Motion Picture Association of America 

Musicians’ Interguild Credit Union 

Professional Musicians, Local 47 

Social Hollywood 

Technicolor Federal Credit Union 

Hollywood Billiards Sports Bar & Grill 

Temple Israel of Hollywood 

Grand Opening Held at 

Fashion Factory Boutique 

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce members 

and staff were on hand in September for the 

ribbon cutting ceremony of Fashion Factory 

Boutique. The event was followed by a VIP 

'Shopping Reception' while shoppers enjoyed 

music, hors d’oeuvres, and sipped champagne. 

The Fashion Factory Boutique is a luxury 

designer store for men’s and women’s clothing, 

shoes, and accessories at 40 to 80 percent 

below suggested retail price. Designs from 

Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Chloe, and all other 

top designers were on display. Members of the 

Chamber were treated with an additional 20 

percent off. Fashion Factory Boutique is 

located at 8601 Beverly Blvd., at San Vicente - 

next to the Sofitel Hotel. 

Geisha House 

International Family Film Festival 

Hollywood Community Adult School 

Allen, Matkins, Leck, Gamble, Mallory & Natsis 

LLP 

Alley Kat Studios 

Apollo Real Estate Advisors, LP 

Frontiers Magazine / Frontiers Yellow Pages 

Grubbs & Ellis 

IN Publications, Inc. 

Jeffer, Mangels, Butler & Marmaro LLP 

Mayfair Market 

PDEI, Inc. 

PRA Destination Management 

Postal Center and More 

Vantage at Hollywood Hills 

Universal Studios Japan Co., LTD 

AMAZONpr 

Blessed Sacrament Church & School 

California Pizza Kitchen 

The Canyon School, Inc. 

Front Desk Los Angeles 

Greer/Dailey/Minter Public Affairs Consulting 

The Happy Ending Bar & Restaurant 

The Highlands Nightclub & Restaurant 

In-N-Out Burger, Corporate 

Mid-West Wholesale Lighting Corporation 

Wells Fargo Bank. 

Governor Schwarzenegger 

Signs DeLeon’s Parks Bill 

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger recently 

signed AB31, authored by Assistant Assembly 

Majority Leader Kevin deLeon to prioritize 

$400-million of Proposition 84 park funds for 

underserved and park-poor communities 

throughout California. Of particular interest to 

Hollywood, was that the bill included a 

provision that allows freeway cap parks to 

qualify for the funds. The Hollywood Chamber 

has been working with a coalition to create a 

44-acre park above the Hollywood Freeway. 

AB31 establishes a competitive grants 

program administered by the California Dept. 

of Parks and Recreation. California voters 

approved Proposition 84 in 2006 that included 

$400-million for new parks. 

Learn more about Hollywood Chamber benefits Visit us online at HollywoodChamber.net or call (323)469-8311 



TESTIMONIALS 

Why I’m A Chamber Member! 

“Joining the Hollywood 

Chamber of Commerce is a 

great networking tool! I gained a new client and paid 

for my membership in just one meeting!” 

Tracy Balsz, Owner, Marketing Consultant 

IndieMarketing (213) 705-7201 

Chamber Presents Holiday Gift 

to Hollywood Community 

The Hollywood community and Chamber members will be 

treated to a free screening of a classic holiday movie this 

year, thanks to sponsorship by the Hollywood Chamber of 

Commerce and Foundation. 

Scrooge, the holiday 1970s classic 

film starring Albert Finney, will be 

screened on Saturday, December 

20th, at 2 p.m. at the historic 

Egyptian Theatre. Seats will be 

available on a first-come, first-served 

basis. This is the second year that the 

Chamber has collaborated with 

American Cinematheque to present 

a “gift” to the community. Last year, 

the movie A Christmas Story, was 

screened. “The Chamber is pleased 

to be able to do something special for the community during 

the holidays,” said Chamber President Leron Gubler. “We 

invite our members to attend and enjoy the screening.” 

Chamber Welcomes New 

Members at Barnsdall Mixer 

August’s ‘Summer in the Park’ table top mixer 

organized by the East Hollywood Business 

Improvement District and the Hollywood 

Chamber’s Health Care committee, was a great 

success. Attendees were provided with 

information about health resources at both 

local and state levels, as well as information 

about future growth and current businesses in 

the East Hollywood area. Vice President Bill 

Farrar welcomed new members: Kristin 

Ridgeway, America Young, Feel Good Film 

Festival; George Mutafyan, Starlight Sleep 

Center; Victor Israel, Wilshire Pacific Investors; 

Andy Spiegal, Altour; Michele Graham, Anil 

Gupta, Liva Nation; Lisa Shtromberg, All 

Shades of Green. 


HOLLYWOOD 

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Promoting Hollywood 

Assisting the Community 

Creating A Strong Economy 

Political & Legislative Action 

Networking & Promoting Your Business 

7018 Hollywood Boulevard • Hollywood, CA 90028 

Main (323)469-8311 • www.HollywoodChamber.net 

EAT 

SHOP 

PLAY 

Chamber Foundation Grants 

Hollywood Organizations 

A record number of grants was approved last 

month by the board of the Hollywood Chamber of 

Commerce Community Foundation. They 

approved $2,500 grants going to: My Friend’s 

Place to purchase materials for parenting groups; 

Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions for a 

festival and arts program; Children of the Night for 

their pimp prosecution program; Hollywood 

Media and Arts to purchase a digital projector and 

screen for their arts program; L.A. Freewaves for 

their community arts festival; and the Boys & Girls 

Club of Hollywood to support their teen program. 

The Chamber Foundation is funded through the 

generosity of Chamber members. The Foundation 

has given out more than $450,000 of grant money 

to Hollywood charities since its inception in 1998. 

PRESORTED 

FIRST-CLASS MAIL 

U.S. POSTAGE PAID 

GLENDALE, CA 

PERMIT NO. 1233 

Visit 

www.hollywoodchamber.net 

for all your shopping needs 

and support fellow members 

STAYHOLLYWOOD 

ALIST Young Professionals 

Hold Mixer at Farmers Market 

Some 100 guests enjoyed the hospitality of the 

The Original Farmers Market at the September 

A-LIST mixer. Great networking, food and 

beverages were served, complemented by the 

ambience of one of Los Angeles’ most famous 

and historic venues. Chairperson Mark Panatier 

welcomed new members: Wayne Rizzi, Tige 

Osborne, Kelly Giffen, Daniel Isaac, Bobby 

Perez, Air Royale; Arthur Trace, Arthur Trace 

Productions; Julie Hopkins, Camera Creations; 

Akida Mashaka, Bryan Newell, Hoagies & 

Wings; Laster Aivao, Lipine Avea, Motootua 

Fualautoalasi, Hollywood Breakthrough; Guil 

Claveria, Alesha Noice, Mockfest; Sandra 

Costa, Sandra Costa; Angelo Costa, 

Westbound Studios.

Volume 3 Issue 6 November/December 2008 - Sunset Gower Studios

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