Valley Industry and Commerce Association

News Panelist Anita Mangels (Yes on Prop 23), VICA Board Member Samona Caldwell (State Farm Insurance) and panelists Brendan Huffman (Huffman Public Affairs and No on Prop. 23), Kit Cole (Waste Management) and Valerie Liese (Jack Jones Trucking and California Trucking Association President) Panelists discuss Prop. 23 and AB 32 Debate about suspending climate change law gets heated The latest installment in VICA's Newsmaker Connection series featured a panel discussion about Proposition 23. The measure would suspend AB 32 (California’s controversial climate change law) until unemployment reaches 5.5 percent for four consecutive quarters. Both supporters and opponents of Proposition 23 were represented. Kit Cole (Waste Management) and Brendan Huffman (Huffman Public Affairs), who are on the no side, argued that Prop. 23 does nothing to address concerns about AB 32 and only creates uncertainly for businesses who must comply with the law. Prop. 23 supporters Valerie Liese (Jack Jones Trucking and California Trucking Association President) and Anita Mangels (Yes on Prop. 23) contended that the law needs to be suspended until the economy improves to save jobs and keep businesses in the state. *San Fernando Valley Business Journal* Editor Jason Schaff moderated the panel. The event was presented by State Farm Insurance. VICA has moved to new offices, click here to find out how you can help. Read the latest news from VICA in Watch the latest episode of The VICA Show
Events San Fernando Valley Leadership Political Action Committee Reception (sponsored by VICA) Wed., Sept. 15, 6-8 p.m. Home of Stuart and Nicole Waldman Van Nuys RSVP to monique@vica.com Upcoming VICA Events Leaders Forum with Rick Caruso Wed., Sept. 22, noon-1:30 p.m. The Beverly Garland Holiday Inn 4222 Vineland Ave., North Hollywood RSVP to monique@vica.com or register online VICA After Dark with First Deputy Mayor Austin Beutner Wed., September 29, 6-8 p.m. Location TBD RSVP to monique@vica.com or register online Newsmaker Connection with Assemblymember Bob Blumenfield Thurs., Oct. 7, noon-1:30 p.m. VICA Office 5121 Van Nuys Blvd., Sherman Oaks RSVP to monique@vica.com Business Forecast Conference Thurs., October 28, 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Warner Center Marriott 21850 Oxnard St., Woodland Hills (NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION) RSVP to monique@vica.com or click here to download a registration form. See advertising and exhibit opportunities here. 61st Annual Meeting Thurs., December 9, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Airtel Plaza Hotel 7277 Valjean Ave., Van Nuys RSVP to monique@vica.com Click here for our Valley Business Calendar, which includes VICA Policy Committee information
Advocacy VICA releases November 2010 voting guide Initiatives address everything from taxes to redistricting VICA has released its voting recommendations for the propositions on the November 2010 general election ballot. Propositions 20, 21, 22, and 26 received the organization’s backing. The initiatives would expand the responsibilities of the Citizens Redistricting Commission to redraw congressional districts (20), establish a vehicle license surcharge to help fund state parks (21), protect local taxpayer funds for public safety and transportation (22) and increase the legislative vote requirement to two-thirds to prevent taxes being passed as “fees” (26). VICA recommends a no vote on propositions 23, 25 and 27. Prop. 23 suspends AB 32 until unemployment reaches a certain level, causing uncertainty in regulation for business. Prop. 25 lowers the two-thirds legislative requirement to pass a budget to a simple majority, and Prop. 27 would eliminate the Citizens Redistricting Commission. No position was taken on Prop. 19, the measure to legalize and tax marijuana. Click here to read VICA's 12 solutions for a better California Follow business-related bills with VICA's Legislative Tracker
Local Update: VICA's monthly column in the San Fernando Valley Business Journal Parking law another obstacle for businesses It is no secret that the restaurant industry was hit particularly hard by the economic downturn. When consumers begin reducing their discretionary spending, dining out is often one of the first places they cutback. While hard times present their own set of challenges for restaurant owners, a strong economy does not guarantee success either. Even in good times, many establishments close their doors within the first two years. With the many obstacles faced by the restaurant industry, one would think the City of Los Angeles would find ways to support and encourage these businesses, rather than erecting additional barriers. Click here to read the entire column in the *San Fernando Valley Business Journal.*