1 The Competitive Edge News April 24 Barstow: Beverly Hills: Culver City: High Desert: Hollywood Area Inland Cities East: Inland Cities West: Inland Valley: Lancaster/Palmdale Long Beach: Moreno Valley: Palm Springs: Pomona Valley: Riverside Cities San Gabriel Valley: International S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i a B l a c k C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e
2 THE COMPETETIVE EDGE PUBLISHER Richard Wallace EDITOR, Dee Goins, Emonie Jones Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce President Richard Wallace Ambassadors to the Chamber Sherrie Curry Sandra Williams Willie Ellison VP of Corporate Affairs Nikisha Bond Information Officer La Trici Thomas Director of Media Emonie Jones Barstow Charlotte Allen Apple Valley, Adelanto, Victorville, Hesperia Beverly Hills Rachelle Blake Los Angeles, Culver City West Hollywood Culver City Linda Lewis Westchester, La Dera Heights, Baldwin Vista, Playa del Rey, Inglewood High Desert Terrance Stone Apple Valley, Victorville, Adelanto, Hesperia, Big Bear Hollywood Cities Eva Patterson North Hollywood, Glendale, Burbank Inland Cities East Lue Dowdy Rialto, Highland, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Beaumont, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead Inland Cities West Devoree Ealy Fontana, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga Inland Valley Tolanda Hughes Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Perris, Menifee, Canyon Lake International Jeff McCarty World Wide Lancaster / Palmdale Fawn White Long Beach William Paige Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Carson, Torrance, Downey, Lynwood, Norwalk Moreno Valley Val Stewart/ Janie Williams Mead Valley, Good Hope Palm Springs Julia Moody Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laquinta, Indio Pomona Valley Maurice Autrey Montclair, Upland, Pomona, Diamond Bar, West Covina, Chino Hill, Claremont, San Dimas, La Verne Riverside Cities Ashley Daniels Corona, Norco, Jurupa Valley San Gabriel Valley Kimberly Perry Pasadena, Monrovia, Duarte, El Monte, Arcadia, Glendora, Covina, Azusa Studied industry culture to gain entry into different markets As a growing company, we always encourage reps to investigate new markets. One of our sharper reps had found one that our production line was perfect for. But continual efforts to enter the market were fruitless – we were making no progress. We really felt that customers would benefit from our products if we could just get someone to listen. After doing some brainstorming, we decided to go to a trade show in the industry to see what we could pick up. A new way to do business. When we watched how others who sold to the industry operated, we saw our problem. Our selling style – well- suited for our regular customers – was too aggressive for the prospects in this industry. They were much more laid back. Our reps were use to going through one or two people to close a deal. In this industry, you don’t meet the decision maker before several visits. Now we go to industry conferences and trade shows before attempting to enter any new markets.
3 Black on Black Crime in Business: The Importance of Collaboration and Grace in the Black Community The Black community has always faced systemic disadvantages when it comes to entrepreneurship and business ownership. Despite the obstacles, Black-owned businesses have been able to make a significant impact on the economy. However, within the Black community, there is still a sense of competition and scarcity mindset that often works against our collective success. To truly make strides in the business world, Black-owned businesses need to stick together and remove the competition within our own community. Collaboration should be the key to our success. It is important to recognize that success for one Black-owned business is success for all Black-owned businesses. We should elevate and support each other rather than tear each other down. Furthermore, it is crucial to have grace when working together towards a common goal of everyone winning together. We often forget that we are all human and may make mistakes along the way. Instead of dwelling on mistakes, we should use them as learning opportunities to improve and move forward together. It is also important to not have a scarcity mindset when it comes to business profits, especially when working in similar industries. When there are only a limited number of customers or opportunities, it is easy to fall into a mindset that there is not enough success to go around. However, the truth is that a rising tide lifts all boats. If we work together and support each other, we can create more opportunities and grow our businesses together. Ultimately, it's time for Black-owned businesses to take a hard look at ourselves and examine how we can better collaborate and support each other. We need to start addressing the "black-on-black crime" in the business world and create solutions that benefit us all. By working together, showing grace, and removing the competition within our own community, we can achieve success and make a lasting impact that sets us on the path to generational wealth and economic empowerment. Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce
4 Mission The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce (SCBCC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) business organization dedicated to improving the economic environment for the minority business community, and fostering business development and prosperity. The SCBCC focuses its efforts on four major areas: Economic Development Community Development Public Policy and Membership Services The SCBCC invests financial and other resources to implement relevant programs for members and which affect the orderly growth and development of the community. It is the catalytic agency that brings together all of the forces, public and private, through which common goals can be resolved. The fundamental mission of the SCBCC is to create and promote a climate where minority businesses can operate in a productive and profitable manner. The SCBCC has served member businesses since 1993, and they are enabling them to prosper through mutual cooperation and support. Financial Strength and Stability As in any business a sound financial base is essential for a Chamber of Commerce to perform its mission. A portion of the SCBCC’s finances are received on a voluntary basis from chamber membership, through an annual dues investment. The amount a member pays to the chamber may be based on a fee formula, business classification, special negotiation or averaging. Increasingly over the last 10 years, dues make up a smaller percentage of chamber budgets, with the average being about 50 percent. The remaining portion of the budget is dependent upon income received through the sales of publications, charges for services, special projects and foundations. A well developed product and services program is the current trend for successful chambers of today. Structure The SCBCC is governed by Officers and a Board of Directors. The President of the Board appoints Committee Chairs to meet the needs of the Chamber. The staff is headed by the Executive Director. Programs The SCBCC’s primary programs are created to provide the maximum benefit to business owners and professionals in Southern California. These programs include: Contacts to Contracts – The SCBCC actively engages in facilitating government and corporate contracts for minority businesses. Business Development and Training – Minority business owners, operators and their staff are provided a range of workshops, one-on-one training, peer mentoring, resources and referrals. Networking and Professional Development – The SCBCC provides local and regional networking for all who wish to participate. Monthly mixers, local business conferences, seminars and workshops are provided for the purpose of unifying and connecting minority businesses with the re- About the Black Chamber sources, contacts and training needed to grow their businesses.
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10 Proposed court order would ban Kevin Lipsitz and SuperGoodDeals from selling protective equipment, requires Lipsitz to turn over more than $145,000 As a result of a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit, Kevin Lipsitz, who defrauded consumers by falsely promising “next day” shipping of facemasks and respirators to consumers at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, will be banned from selling personal protective equipment (PPE) and be required to turn over more than $145,000 to the FTC. FTC Action Leads to Ban for Company and Its Owner Who Failed to Ship PPE ‘Next Day’ at Height of Pandemic
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14 ACCESS TO CAPITAL Pomona Valley Mixer the 1st Monday Montclair, Chino, Upland, Diamond Bar, West Covina, Chino Hill, Claremont, San Dimas, La Verne Barstow Mixer the 1st Tuesday Lynwood, Hinkley, Yermo Lancaster / Palmdale 1st Thursday Lancaster, Palmdale, Quartz Hill, Littlerock, Hi Vista, Leona Valley Palm Springs Mixer the 2nd Tuesday Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laquinta, Indio Culver City Mixer 2nd Wednesday Westchester, Ladera Heights, Baldwin Vista, Playa del Rey, Inglewood Moreno Valley Mixer the 2nd Thursday Mead Valley, Good Hope High Desert Valley Mixer the 3rd Monday Pasadena, Monrovia, Duarte, El Monte, Arcadia, Glendora, Covina, Azusa, Inland Cities West Mixer the 3rd Tuesday Fontana, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga Long Beach Mixer the 3rd Wednesday Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Carson, Torrance, Downey, Lynwood, Norwalk Beverly Hills 3rd Thursday Beverly Hills, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Westwood Hollywood Mixer the 3rd Thursday North Hollywood, Glendale, Burbank Inland Cities East Mixer the Last Monday Highland, San Bernardino, Redlands’ Loma Linda, Beaumont, Big Bear, Arrowhead Inland Valley Mixer Last Tuesday Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Perris, Menifee and Canyon Lake San Gabriel Valley Mixer the Last Wednesday Pasadena, Monrovia, Duarte, El Monte, Arcadia, Glendora, Covina, Azusa Riverside Cities Mixer the Last Thursday Corona, Norco, Jurupa Valley, Mead Valley, Good Hope International Chapter Meets as needed Webinar Chambers & Business Affiliates A/A Chamber Commerce of San Joaquin, Antelope Valley AACC, L.A. Black Business Association, Carson Black Chamber of Commerce, Central San Diego Black Chamber, Contra Costa Black Chamber Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce, IAAAACAME, Inc., Kern County Black Chamber, Fresno Metro Black Chamber, Greater Los Angeles A/A COC, Greater Watts-Willow Brook Chamber of Commerce, Monterey County A/A COC, Moreno Valley Black Chamber, North Bay Black Chamber Oakland AA Chamber of Commerce, Regional Black Chamber SFV, San Francisco A/A Chamber Silicon Valley Black Chamber, Solano County Black Chamber, U.S. Black Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Latin Business Association, Black Women's Network, The Hollywood Jewish Chamber of Commerce, The Asian Business Association, The Los Angles Urban League
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17 California Urban and Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act Type active Purpose To help create sustainable urban forests across the state, $30.8 million in funding will be available to support urban and community forestry projects in historically disinvested urban communities throughout California. Agency/Department Name Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Application Close Date 5/30/24 17:00 Estimated Available Funds $30,800,000 For more information Visit grants.ca.gov Museum Grant Program Type active Purpose The Museum Grant Program is intended to solicit proposals for projects that assist the California Cultural and Historical Endowment in supporting and enhancing museums that are deeply rooted in, and reflective of, previously underserved communities. Agency/Department Name CA Natural Resources Agency Application Close Date 5/22/24 23:59 Estimated Available Funds $27,700,000
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19 When you join Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, you get access to free end-to-end resources designed for your business’ specific needs. Plus, an opportunity to apply for an exclusive pool of $10,000 small business grants. Whether you need help managing expenses, boosting marketing efforts, or attracting top talent, Verizon Small Business Digital Ready can provide the support you need to scale your business. Plus, Verizon Small Business Digital Ready also offers free: • Personalized online learning • 1:1 coaching with industry experts • Networking with like-minded entrepreneurs • Discounts on products and services Activist Group Pays California Students $1,400 to Become Social Justice Activists The school district also used nearly $2 million in taxpayer funds from 2019 to 2023 to pay for equity and diversity training for students and teachers.
20 SV Black Chamber Access To Opportunities - Contacts For Contracts The Dezie Woods Jones Fellowship Apply Now - Deadline ends Feb 28th -Access To Opportunities: Contacts for Contracts -Women in Enterprise - DON'T MISS IT!! -Mapping MAYA - African American Freedom Trail Quickly Browse, Read, then Share!
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22 Top things to know about the IRS Direct File pilot as April filing deadline approaches The IRS Direct File pilot is open to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to file their 2023 federal tax returns online for free — directly with the IRS. Direct File is accurate, secure and easy to use. Try the innovative new option by April 15 IRS Direct File is available 24/7 — in English and Spanish — for eligible taxpayers in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming until April 15. People in Massachusetts can use Direct File until April 17 to file, due to the Patriots’ Day and Emancipation Day holidays. Direct File is a new option for taxpayers who live in a pilot state and report certain types of income, claim certain credits and take certain deductions. Taxpayers can go to directfile.irs.gov to see if Direct File is the right option for their tax situation. Taxpayers can log in to Direct File to start their return and complete it before the April filing deadline. Sign-in to Direct File securely and file online directly with IRS Taxpayers will need to verify their identity and securely sign in to file their return with the Direct File pilot. If taxpayers don’t have an existing account with the IRS, they will be directed to create an account to verify their identity. Once their identity is verified and they’ve signed in securely to Direct File, they will be providing the tax information directly to the IRS, not a third party. Live chat with IRS Direct File staff IRS Direct File customer service representatives will be available daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. including April 13 and 14, to help taxpayers file before the tax deadline. Live representatives offer technical support and answer basic tax law questions in English and Spanish. Representatives cannot access taxpayer account data. After April 17, live chat customer support for Direct File will only be available through April 20 to assist filers who submitted their tax return with Direct File before the filing deadline and need assistance with a resubmission or a technical issue. Direct File offers Direct Deposit and payment options Direct File, like other electronic filing options, allows taxpayers to typically get their refund in less than 21 days when they choose direct deposit. Taxpayers can check their refund status at IRS.gov/refunds 24 hours after the IRS accepts their return. Taxpayers who owe tax can make a payment online. Tax payments are due on April 15 for most taxpayers. Learn about IRS payment options at IRS.gov/payments. What to do when IRS Direct File is not the right fit Everyone should choose the filing option that is best for them. If Direct File is not the right fit, simply choose another option to file, such as other free filing options, a tax professional or paid commercial tax software. Taxpayers who try Direct File but aren’t eligible for the pilot, are directed to other available electronic options to file including IRS Free File. No matter their income, all taxpayers canfile an extension with a trusted IRS Free File partner to electronically request a six-month extension of time to file. Filing an extension does not mean additional time to pay taxes owed. To avoid penalties and interest, taxpayers should pay the balance in full or pay as much as they can before the April filing deadline. Direct File pilot does not offer the service to amend a 2023 tax return. Taxpayers can use the Interactive Tax Assistant tool on IRS.gov to determine if they need to file an amended return to correct an error or to make other changes after filing. See, About Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, for instructions on how to amend a tax return.
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27 • Over 75,000 buy-one-get-one and up to 50% off deals • Savings in 10,000+ U.S. and Canadian cities • Dining, attractions, movies, travel, shopping and more • The convenience of saving on your phone and online • New local and national coupons added daily EVERYDAY SAVINGS FOR EVERYDAY THINGS! CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP ONLY Entertainment® is the premier source for: Gift Giving, Coupon Books, Printable Coupons, Online Coupons, Discounts, and Savings.
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30 The Official Newsletter of the Black Chamber of Commerce ADVERTISING RATE CARD Circulation: From the Desert to the Sea, Barstow Lynwood, Hinkley, Yermo - Culver City Westchester, Ladera Heights, Baldwin Vista, Playa del Rey, Inglewood - High Desert Apple Valley, Victorville, Adelanto, Hesperia, Big Bear - Hollywood Cities North Hollywood, Glendale, Burbank - Inland Cities East Rialto, Highland, San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Beaumont, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead - Inland Cities West Fontana, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga - Inland Valley Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, Perris, Menifee, Canyon Lake – International World Wide - Long Beach Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Carson, Torrance, Downey, Lynwood, Norwalk - Moreno Valley Mead Valley, Good Hope - Palm Springs Cathedral City, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laquinta, Indio - Pomona Valley Montclair, Upland, Pomona, Diamond Bar, West Covina, Chino Hill, Claremont, San Dimas, La Verne - Riverside Cities Corona, Norco, Jurupa Valley - San Gabriel Valley Pasadena, Monrovia, Duarte, El Monte, Arcadia, Glendora, Covina, Azusa Readership: 10,000+ Content: Information for small to medium size businesses, professionals and entrepreneurs Local cultural events, as well as State and Federal political and economic news of importance are shared with our readership. Distribution: Drop distribution to prominent firms businesses, bookstands and mailed to members and others on our mailing list. Email distribution weekly as well as online options for your Full Page 10X7 $675 Half Page 5X7 $370 1/4 Page 3X4 $225 Business Card $175 888-466-7408 P. o. Box 1722 , Duarte Ca 91009 BlackChamberOfCommerce.Org Cultural Political Local The Edge is printed on recycled paper in full color. Your ad should be print ready. If you need help with your ad or design, the Chamber’s graphic designer can expertly assist you.
31 Business Name Owner’s Name Address City State/Zip E- Mail Address 2nd E-mail State/Zip Phone Date of Membership Sole Proprietorship Partnership Corporation Non-Profit MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Please complete this form, print and return with your membership fee to the Black Chamber of Commerce Type of Business or Profession (please check one): Automotive Retail/Wholesale/Distributor Healthcare Civic/Social Organization Public Utilities Publisher/ Printer Entertainment/Art Transportation Financial Radio/TV/Media Marketing/Advertising Insurance Real Estate Construction Manufacturer Processor Restaurant/Food Service Legal Fashion/Clothing Education Networking Technology Annual Membership Dues Non-profit $150 Small Business $200 Partnerships $350 Silver Corporate $1,000 Corporate Business $2,500 Major/Gold Partner $5,000 Chapter you plan to network with most often: Barstow Culver City High Desert Hollywood Cities Inland Cities East Inland Cities West Inland Valley Long Beach Moreno Valley Palm Springs Pomona Valley Riverside Cities San Gabriel Valley Amount Enclosed: $___________ Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1722 Duarte Ca 91009 Blackchamberofcommerce.org 888-466-7408
32 Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1722 Duarte Ca, 91009 BLACKCHAMBEROFCOMMERCE.ORG From the Desert to the Sea Beverly Hills Barstow Culver City High Desert Hollywood Cities Inland Cities East Inland Cities West Inland Valley Lancaster/Palmdale Long Beach Moreno Valley Palm Springs Pomona Valley Riverside Cities San Gabriel Valley 888-466-7408 International