pulse beat - Paramount Chamber of Commerce

P A R A M O U N T
PULSE BEAT
October 2012
Serving the Community Since 1990
www.paramountchamber.com
PEP Program Sends 24
Students to College
The recipients of the 9th Annual Paramount Achievement Student Scholarships given out by PEP were recognized. Joining the Council and Dr. Verdugo were
members of the PEP Board of Directors: Boardmember Jon Tanklage of Marukan Vinegar USA, Boardmember Dr. Max Martinez, DDS and Vice Chair Erin Stibal
of Supervisor Don Knabeʼs Office.
T
he Paramount Education
Partnership, or PEP, is
an alliance between the
City of Paramount, the
Paramount Unified School District and the Paramount Chamber
of Commerce. The program is
dedicated to providing programs
and services that increase the
academic achievement and edu-
cational expectations of the City’s
residents, including: the College
Bound bus and two after school
learning centers, Virginia Street
and Paramount Petroleum; where
students receive homework help
and have access to computers.
PEP offers annual scholarships
of $1,000 for students attending
a community college and $3,000
for students attending an accredited four-year institution within
the United States, including vocational/trade/technical schools.
More than $200,000 has been
donated by local businesses and
distributed to Paramount students
who want to further their education by attending a college or
trade school.
According to Chamber President Leonard Crespo, “Partnering with the City of Paramount
and the school district to help
raise education awareness was a
no brainer for the Chamber. If we
want a well-educated, competitive workforce we need to invest
our time, energy, and money in
making sure it happens.”
2013 PARAMOUNT POSTER
Put your business on the “2013 Paramount Poster.” This colorful
collectible poster is a favorite with businesses and residents alike. You
can have a hand drawn replica of your business or company vehicle. You
can choose to advertise on a billboard, lamp post banner or select a logo
spotlight. Best of all you can have your own “Super Hero or Character”
designed specifically for your business.
For more information about putting your business on the poster call the
Paramount Chamber of Commerce and ask for Maria MacLean
562.634.3980.
Paramount Chamber of Commerce
PULSE BEAT
15357 Paramount Boulevard,
Paramount, CA 90723
What’s inside
Ask The Expert..........................10
Business Card Directory.............12-13
Business Corner.........................11
Cityscape..................................15
Help wanted............................. 9
Mayors Corner.......................... 3
Members Only...........................14
New Members...........................10
On Patrol...................................... 4
PEP.................................................7
Service Clubs.................................13
2
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
3
Mayor’s Corner
Mayor, Peggy Lemons
Don’t Miss the City’s Halloween
Carnival!
Paramount’s annual Halloween Carnival will once again provide a free, fun,
safe and spooky good time at Paramount
Park on Wednesday, October 31, from
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For almost 40
years, this free fright-night of fun has
offered parents and youngsters a supervised environment full of activities and
goodies. We usually get more than 5,000
residents – mostly kids – turning out for
the ghoulish gathering.
There will be costume contests by age
category, music, jumpers, an assortment
of games, food booths and more. Plus,
the City will give away lots and lots of
candy.
Paramount Park is located at 14400
Paramount Blvd. For more information,
call (562) 220-2121.
State Recycling Mandate
Extended to Businesses and
Larger Multi-Family
Last month I mentioned how great our
residents are doing recycling their used
motor oil in the City. This month I want
to salute everybody for their excellent
work in total curbside recycling.
During 2011, we recycled more than
4,900 tons of garbage and greenwaste
(1,689 tons of the former, 3,221 tons of
the latter). This is a great help to the City,
in that the state demands that we divert a
large percentage of our trash away from
landfills.
In fact, officials with CalRecycle recently visited Paramount and expressed
their pleasure that our numbers are well
above the state’s requirements.
In addition to the mandated residen-
tial recycling program, as of this past July
1, there have been new state-wide requirements for recycling at all businesses
that generate four or more cubic yards of
waste weekly as well as all multi-family
housing with five or more units.
Multi-family dwellings include apartments, town homes and condominiums.
Businesses include, but are not limited
to, office buildings, retail, restaurants,
non-profits, strip malls, government offices and schools.
Recycling helps conserve resources,
helps create a healthy environment for
our community and extends the life of
California’s landfills.
For businesses, recycling may provide opportunities to save money.
For multi-family properties, recycling
can help promote your community as
environmentally friendly and may help
fill vacancies.
To find out the best way to recycle at
your location, please call CalMet Services, the City’s contracted waste hauler,
at (562) 259-1239.
Successful Education Month
I want to send a special note of thanks
to everyone in the City and the School
District who made our annual Education Month celebration such a positive
experience.
There was a great turnout from local and regional educational and public
safety resources for the Safe and Smart
Fair in Paramount Park. And the community came out in big numbers, too,
as always.
We also recognized our top students
who had the highest grade point averages
in the 9th, 10th and 11th grades last year.
Those fine scholars were:
9th Grade
Salvador Sanchez
Jennifer Mendoza
Karina Perez
Eva Mora
Jessica Quiroz
Jose Olmos
Patricia Ortiz
Judith Santano
Laura Quirate
Jocelyne Mendez
Kathia Munoz
Jesselyn Moreno
Dhamar Lopez
Casey Jimenez
Karen Gonzalez
Chamber Happenings
Recycling for Scholarships
Chamber President
Leonard Crespo
presents a check
for $212 to Mayor
Peggy Lemons for the
Paramount Education
Partnership Program
(PEP). The money was
raised through the
Chamberʼs laser and
ink cartridge recycling
program, all proceeds
benefit Paramount
student scholarships.
It was a great day, a great month, and
we all look forward to doing it again next
September.
10th Grade
Samantha Bejarano
Kenneth Teeples
Mareeya Tongkul
Leonardo Silva
Annajoy Floresca
Andrea Orozco
Maria Valles
Yesenia Gonzalez
Patricia Sais
Darlene Spicer
Get Your Tickets For The Seniors
Thanksgiving Dinner
Here’s an early reminder to mark
Thursday, November 15 on your calendar for the annual Seniors Thanksgiving Dinner. It takes place from 10 a.m.
to 1 p.m. in the Paramount Park gym.
In order to attend you will need to
purchase a ticket. Tickets will be available at the Paramount Park Community
Center for Paramount residents starting
October 22 at a cost of $2 each and for
non-residents beginning November 5 at
a cost of $5 each.
For more information, please call
(562) 220-2090.
11th Grade
Jasmine Esparza
Lucio Lopez
Anthony Meza
Faviola Zuniga
Isabela Cardenas
Victor Lopez
Yessenia Reveles
Crystal Gonzalez
Chavisa Klunglukchup
Crystal Estrada
JOSE DONLUCAS
grand opening discounts
25% off on all Air Shipments
15% off on all ground shipments
15% off on all shipping materials
free gift wrapping if you shipping through us..
valid Sep-01-2012 - Dec-31-2012 • valid only in the bellflower location...
15919 Bellflower Blvd.
Bellflower Ca, 90706
562-925-1400 • 562-925-1432 fax
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FREE CONSULTATION
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VICKY PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, INC.
15975 Paramount Blvd. Suite A, Paramount
562-634-1178
4
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
On Patrol
Free Workshop For Rental Property
Owners/Managers on October 20
Going Trick-or-Treating?
• Swords, knives and similar costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.
• Avoid trick-or-treating alone. Walk in groups or with a trusted adult.
• Fasten reflective tape to costumes and bags to help drivers see you.
• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering before eating them. Limit
the amount of treats you eat.
• Hold a flashlight while trick-or-treating to help you see and others see you. Always
walk and don’t run from house to house.
• Always test make-up in a small area first. Remove it before bedtime to prevent
possible skin and eye irritation.
• Look both ways before crossing the street. Use established crosswalks wherever
possible.
• Lower your risk for serious eye injury by not wearing decorative contact lenses.
• Only walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing
traffic to stay safe.
• Wear well-fitting masks, costumes and shoes to avoid blocked vision, trips and
falls.
• Eat only factory-wrapped treats. Avoid eating homemade treats made by strangers.
• Enter homes only if you’re with a trusted adult.
• Never walk near lit candles or luminaries. Be sure to wear flame-resistant costumes.
Hosting Trick-or-Treaters or Party Guests?
• Provide healthier treats for trick-or-treaters such as low-calorie treats and drinks.
• For party guests, offer a variety of fruits, vegetables and cheeses.
• Use party games and trick-or-treat time as an opportunity for kids to get their daily
dose of 60 minutes of physical activity.
• Be sure walking areas and stairs are well-lit and free of obstacles that could result
in falls.
• Keep candle-lit jack-o-lanterns and luminaries away from doorsteps, walkways,
landings and curtains. Place them on sturdy tables, keep them out of the reach of
pets and small children, and never leave them unattended.
• Remind drivers to watch out for trick-or-treaters and to drive safely.
• Follow these tips to help make the festivities fun and safe for everyone!
Invest in Paramount’s Future
Join the Paramount
Chamber of Commerce
562.634.3980
6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
6 a.m. - 4 p.m.
8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
All Types Of Non-Hazardous Waste Materials
CLEAN-FLAT-QUICK
Paramount
Resource Recycling
7230 Petterson Lane
Paramount
562-602-6505
Century Freeway I-105
P.R.R.
7230 Petterson Ln
Rosecrans Ave
Somerset Blvd.
Artesia Freeway (91)
N
➢
Below are tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help make
Halloween fun and safe for trick-or-treaters and party guests.
OPEN
Mon-Fri
Saturday
Sunday
PRR
Garfield Ave
Halloween Safety Tips
DISPOSAL SITE
IN PARAMOUNT
L.B. Frwy-710
The next Good Neighbor Program – a free seminar for Paramount rental property
owners/managers – will be held Saturday, October 20. The workshop will take
place at the Clearwater Building in the Civic Center from 10:00 a.m. till 2:30 p.m.
Lunch will be provided.
Attendees need to make a reservation by calling (562) 220-2002. Those taking part will receive the program’s certification and seal of approval that can help
attract quality tenants.
The classes are offered in conjunction with the Apartment Association of
Southern Cities, the Sheriff’s Department and attorneys specializing in landlord/
tenant law. Topics cover such areas as tenant screening, evicting problem tenants,
developing effective rental agreements and recognizing criminal activity, all in an
effort to keep a property crime free.
The program aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, create higher
tenant satisfaction rates and remove unlawful tenants. The effort also increases
a property’s long-term profitability for the owner, lowers maintenance costs and
establishes close contact between the owner/manager, the City and the Sheriff’s
Department.
Property owners who successfully complete the program may receive a one-year
free membership in the Apartment Association of Southern Cities and a one-year
waiver of their City business license fees.
Again, to RSVP, please call (562) 220-2002.
CALL FOR HOLIDAY HOURS
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P A R A M O U N T
PULSE BEAT
Call Maria 562-634-3980
“3” TIME AWARD WINNING PUBLICATION
T H E P U L S E O F PA R A M O U N T
A MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF
THE PARAMOUNT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Distributed and read by more than 20,000 residents
and business owners in Paramount
15357 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount, CA 90723
562-634-3980 • Fax: 562-634-0891 • www.paramountchamber.org
Copyright 1990 - 2012 by Paramount Pulse Beat. All rights reserved. Reproduction
in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Paramount Pulse Beat is
not responsible nor liable for any claims or offerings, nor responsible for product
availability that may be advertised.
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
PARAMOUNT
AWARDS NIGHT
The Paramount City Council celebrated September as Education
Month in the City at its September 4th meeting to emphasize the
importance of higher education and encourage residents to continue
their studies beyond high school.
Teachers of the Year
5
BUSINESS WORKSHOP
Email Marketing
Friday, October 12, 2012 * 10:00 am – 12 pm
With applied best practices and the integration of social media, email marketing offers a
higher return on investment for most small business marketing campaigns. In this session,
increase your open rates, improve your subject lines, reduce unsubscribes, and draw more
targeted website traffic.
Fee: $25
Understanding Your Business Website
Thursday, November 15, 2012 * 10:00 am-12:00 pm
If you always wanted to build a website but thought it was too hard, then this is the class for
you. We will teach you how to build a basic website no matter your level of proficiency. We will
show you the tools that it will take to make a functional website that will attract customers.
Fee: $20
For Reservations:
Every school in the Paramount Unified School District names a Teacher of the
Year. These outstanding instructors were honored at the meeting. Joining the
City Council was Dr. David Verdugo, superintendent of PUSD.
Pennies for PEP
562-938-5051 SBDC
Workshops will be held at:
Paramount Chamber of Commerce
15357 Paramount Blvd, Paramount, CA 90723
*Free Business Counseling Also Available
*$25.00 refundable deposit required
The classrooms that donated the most money this year in the Pennies for PEP
fundraiser were also recognized. (Each classroom in PUSD had a container for
kids and staff members to drop coins into. A very generous $8,132.04 was raised
overall for PEP scholarships.) From left, Hollydale Principal Kevin Longworth
(top middle school classroom, $290.34), Roosevelt Principal Susan Marilley,
Ms. Garcia (1st grade, Roosevelt, $219.62), Superintendent Dr. David Verdugo,
Mayor Peggy Lemons, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Vice Mayor Gene
Daniels, Councilmember Tom Hansen and Councilmember Daryl Hofmeyer.
City Track Meet
The winners of the Cityʼs Annual Track Meet for students from all kindergarten
through 8th-grade schools were celebrated. From left: Roosevelt Principal Susan
Marilley and teacher Craig Lane (most attendance winner, K-5), Superintendent
Dr. David Verdugo, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Mayor Peggy Lemons,
Alondra Middle School Principal Lynn Butler (most attendance and highest points,
middle schools), Vice Mayor Gene Daniels, Councilmember Tom Hansen and
Councilmember Daryl Hofmeyer.
6
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
8,000 ATTEND PARAMOUNT CHAMBER
2012 F I E S T A
Sponsor: Chapel of Change Christian Fellowship
When it came time to eat Fiesta visitors had plenty of options including; ribs and sandwiches from Gusʼs Deli & BBQ, pizza from Dominoʼs, and a variety of
Mexican food from: Pikaʼs Tortas Ahogadas, Kali Churros, Gabbyʼs Hot Dogs & Tacos, Mariscos Mi Lindo Sinaloa, and Los Colorines.
Chapel of Change Christian Fellowship; sponsor for the 2012 Fiesta held a
raffle and handed out literature for their new church found at 6701 Alondra
Blvd. in Paramount. Busy workers take a quick photo break, from left: Carlos
Espinoza, Pastor Brian Warth with daughter Sarah, Laura Warth, Wanda
Potter with Nathaniel Warth, and Darlene Fort.
Modern Developmentʼs security detail made sure everyone was safe and
kept the crowds moving, from left: Armando Razo, Oscar Gonzales, Emanuel
Renteria, Rosalinda Alverez, Ahyson Padilla, and Fernando Herrera.
Costco rep Genny Clark and Julie gave away gift bags and a special discount
for new Costco membership
Bianchi Theatre employees Jessica Rios and Francisca Rodriguez spent
three days giving away free movie tickets.
ZLS Beauty Salon owner Lucy Soto handed out brochures listing a variety
of services offered at ZLS.
Paramount Iceland representatives Christina Sheehan and Tiffany Nahn
distributed flyers with skating times and lesson information.
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
7
pep
Getting to Know the SAT
Created by educators to democratize access to higher education, the SAT® is a highly
reliable and valid standardized measure of college readiness used in the admission process
at nearly all four-year colleges and universities in the United States, including test-optional
institutions.
The content on the SAT reflects the reading, mathematics and writing curricula taught
in high school classrooms. Uniquely, the SAT also measures how well students can apply
their knowledge, a factor that is critical to college and career success.
The SAT is a fair and valid predictor of college success for students of all backgrounds,
and SAT performance data illustrate that success on the SAT is linked to the type and rigor
of course work completed during high school.
Studies regularly demonstrate that the best predictor of college success is the combination of SAT scores and high school grades. Nearly three million students take the SAT
each academic year via nearly 7,000 test centers in more than 170 countries.
SAT Access and Equity
More than ever, the population of students taking the SAT reflects the diverse makeup
of America’s classrooms. Among SAT takers in the class of 2012, 45 percent were minority
students, making this the most diverse class of SAT takers ever.
“Taking a college entrance exam is a critical step on the road to higher education, but
many traditionally underserved students face financial, familial and geographic barriers
that can prevent them from testing,” said James Montoya, vice president of relationship
development for the College Board. “Low-income students are less likely to have parents
who went to college, less likely to participate in rigorous courses and less likely to have
completed a core curriculum. Providing these students with the support and resources they
need is crucial to meeting our nation’s long-term college completion goals.”
Fee Waivers
Since 1970, the College Board has provided SAT fee waivers to low-income students
for whom exam fees would present an undue burden in the college-going process. With
the assistance of high school counselors throughout the country, the College Board’s SAT
Fee-Waiver Service is making it possible for more low-income students than ever before
to get on the road to college.
More students in the class of 2012 utilized SAT fee waivers than any class in the history of the program. Since 2008, participation in the College Board’s SAT Fee-Waiver
Program has increased 61 percent.
During the 2011-12 academic year, the College Board expended more than $44 million
in fee waivers and related expenses.
SAT Participation and Performance
More than 1.66 million students in the class of 2012 took the SAT, making it the largest
class of SAT takers in history.
The number of students taking the SAT in each graduating class has increased 6 percent
since 2008, while critical reading scores have declined four points, writing scores have
declined five points, and mathematics scores have remained stable during that time.
For further information, visit www.collegeboard.org/SATPress.
HOURS
Mon. - Fri. 6:30am - 5:00pm
Sat. 7:00am - 4:00pm
Delivery Available 5 Days
15101 Paramount Blvd.
Paramount, CA 90723
562-633-1143
8
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
Community News
11th ANNUAL COMMUNITY
HEALTH FAIR NEW COMMANDMENT
MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
On Saturday, October 27th from
10:00 am to 4:00 pm, New Commandment Missionary Baptist Church, under
the leadership of Pastor Grady Jones,
will host its 11th annual Community
Health Fair.
Free flu shots will be available at
the event along with various other
health screenings, including: test for
Diabetes, Cholesterol, and Blood Pres-
sure, as well as nutrition and health
information. Activities for Children
include: Face Painting, Puppet Show,
Tips for Healthy Eating, and a Karate
Demonstration.
Admission and parking are free,
the health fair can be found at 15548
Paramount Blvd., Paramount (Corner
of Madison and Paramount Blvd.) For
more information call 562.531.1511.
Have You Paid Your Property Taxes?
The Treasurer and Tax Collector
have mailed notices to taxpayers
with taxes remaining unpaid for
year 2011-12 and prior. Unpaid
prior year property taxes are subject
to additional penalties at the rate of
1/5% per month and if not paid, the
delinquency could ultimately result
in the sale of the property at a public auction. Any taxpayers wishing
to discuss the receipt of the tax bill
and notice or needing additional assistance may call the Prop tax line at
888.807.2111.
Mexican Restaurant
Since 1970 when the first Casa Gamiño was
opened, founder Cipriano Gamiño strived to give his
customers good Mexican food and excellent service
at a good price at all Casa Gamino locations.
No gimmicks, just delicious food.
Music Duet – Friday & Saturday Nights
5:30 pm – 9:30 pm
8330 E. Alondra Blvd., Paramount
562-630-9100
562-634-6225
Open: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Fri. - Sat. 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
9
Members in the News
Tiburones Rojos USA Attend
Soccer Clinic by Chivas USA
HELP WANTED
INSURANCE SALES – Growing company seeking dynamic selfstarters, hardworking, energetic, bilingual (Spanish/English), and sales
oriented individuals with a strong interest in educating the community about Insurance and Financial Products. A positive attitude and
commitment to providing exceptional customer service are required.
Insurance experience is a bonus but not a necessity. More importantly,
we are looking for ambitious quick learners who are excited about determining their own salary and want to be an integral part of a growing
company. Email resume to [email protected] or fax resume to
562-817-5621.
Now hiring, AUTO MECHANIC, BODY AND PAINT TECH.,
AND OUTSIDE SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER. Email
[email protected] or visit Herald’s Garage 8124 E. Alondra
Blvd., Paramount.
Tiburones Rojos USA Paramount recently participated in a soccer clinic put
on by Chivas USA where they helped other players and demonstrated their
soccer skills; impressing the Chivas USA coaches attending the event. The
Tiburones Rojos are proud to be a Paramount team and grateful for the
support they receive from their coaches and family.
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personas y familias de bajos recursos.
“Porque a nosotros nos importa usted”
Y... PARA MAS INFORMACION
Para saber si califica Ilame por teléfono ahora mismo.
ESTAMOS FRENTE A LA IGLESIA
NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL ROSARIO
(562) 630-1991
ABIERTO TODOS LOS DIAS DE LUNES
A SABADO 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
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14906 Paramount Blvd.
Paramount
10
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
Ask The Expert
Asian Citrus Psyllid
and Your Citrus Tree
Since 2008 the California Department of
Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has attempted
to control an invasive insect that attacks citrus
trees – the Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP). Many
citrus trees in the City of Paramount were
treated to prevent the spread of the ACP and
the deadly citrus disease it carries – Huanglongbing (HLB). Unfortunately the ACP
has continued to spread throughout southern
California and CDFA can no longer protect
communities from this citrus tree pest.
What You Can Do to Protect Your
Citrus Tree?
if the HLB disease spreads. There is no cure
for your citrus tree once it gets HLB. It will
die! However, your tree can only become
infected with the disease if an infected psyllid
feeds on it. You can help prevent the spread
of both the psyllid and the disease through
careful and routine inspection of your citrus.
Learn how to look for the psyllid and what the
symptoms of HLB are. Identification of both
the Asian Citrus Psyllid and Huanglongbing
can be found by visiting www.californiacitrusthreat.org. This web site will teach you
what to look for.
Brian Taylor
Citrus Research Board
Field Operations Director
[email protected]
Citrus trees are part of California’s
heritage. It’s hard to imagine California
without orange trees, but that could happen
Write a Will
By Maria F. Galli
State Farm Insurance
562-817-5620
You’ve worked hard to accumulate
valuable assets over the years. How do
you plan to distribute this property after
your death?
It’s important to have a will, regardless of the value of your possessions.
This written document instructs how
you want assets that pass via your will
(money, property and other assets) to be
distributed after your death. If you die
without a will, your probate assets will
be divided according to state law.
Here are some tips for preparing a will:
• Have an attorney draft your will.
If you draft your own will, make sure
it complies with state law or it could be
invalid.
• Name an executor, whose role is to
handle all administrative aspects of the
will, including collecting assets, paying
all debts and taxes and distributing your
estate, according to your wishes.
• List personal property such as
artwork, collectibles, jewelry and other
personal property that you want to go to
specific individuals. Be clear about how
you want your assets distributed.
• Do not include funeral preferences
in your will because it may not be read
until several weeks after your death.
• Review your will every few years
and have your attorney make changes as
appropriate.
With a little advance preparation,
your local insurance or financial service
professional will help ensure that your
final wishes are handled the way you
planned them to be.
Lugar De Entrenamientos
16200 Downey Ave. Paramount
*Alondra Middle School*
Juegos de Futsala Toda la Semana
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
11
Business Corner
10 Tips for Pricing Your Product or Service
BY RIEVA LESONSKY
Has it been years since your small business increased prices? In today’s economy,
many small business owners worry that
raising prices will drive cost-conscious
customers away. That’s not necessarily true: The 2012 Public Affairs Pulse
survey reports 68 percent of Americans
would rather do business with a small,
local company—even if it charges higher
prices—than with a big corporation. Here
are 10 tips for raising your prices without
alienating customers.
1. Start small. Customers are less likely
to notice or object to small, gradual price
increases (say, 5 percent). You can also add
small fees for “extras” that are currently part
of your regular price. For instance, if gas
prices are increasing your delivery costs,
consider adding a delivery surcharge.
2. Test price increases. Test the waters
by raising prices on a few of your products,
or on smaller, less crucial clients, before
moving on to core clients or products.
3. Stay one step ahead. If your business
relies on materials whose prices fluctuate
frequently, such as gas for deliveries or food
for a restaurant, monitor price outlooks for
those items so you can adjust prices (or cut
costs) accordingly.
4. Create multiple tiers. If you’re reluctant to raise prices on your core product or
service, consider adding a higher-tier product or service line that offers greater quality
or more services at a higher price.
5. Bundle products or services. Grouping products or services into packages can
persuade customers to buy more in order
to save on per-unit costs. For example, a
spa could bundle treatments; an insurance
company could bundle different types of
coverage.
6. Give customers notice. Business-to-business companies making
substantial price increases should alert
customers in advance. Contact customers 60 days ahead of time to explain the
increase and the reasons for it. If desired,
you could offer customers the option to
lock in contracts at the lower rate before
prices rise.
7. Consider seasonality. If your product
or service is in high demand and/or in short
supply at a particular time of year, that’s
typically a good time to raise prices, since
customers are less likely to question the
increase.
8. Use discounts and deals sparingly.
Excessive use of coupons, daily deals and
sales can hurt your margins and attract
customers who buy based solely on price.
Instead, use discounts strategically to attract
new customers and reward current ones.
Train your salespeople in the art of upselling
so even customers lured by discounts end
up spending more.
9. Educate your customers. Customers are
more willing to absorb price increases if they
understand what makes your products or services special. Whether it’s the locally grown,
organic ingredients you use in your restaurant
or the unconditional guarantee you provide for
the websites you design, make sure customers
know what sets your business apart.
10. Monitor results. Pricing isn’t a
one-time action but an ongoing art. Use
financial software such as QuickBooks to
monitor your business’s cash flow, sales
and profit margins. Monitor how price
increases affect each of these elements,
and adjust pricing as needed.
Rieva Lesonsky is CEO of GrowBiz
Media, a content and consulting company
that helps entrepreneurs start and grow their
businesses. Before launching her business,
she was Editorial Director of Entrepreneur
Magazine. Rieva Lesonsky also works with
the Los Angeles Regional Small Business
Development Center Network. The SBDC is
a group of successful small business owners
helping fellow entrepreneurs start, sustain,
and grow their business through low-cost
workshops and free one-on-one consulting
in business planning, finance, marketing,
and various other specialty areas (Spanish
speaking consultants available). To make
an appointment call: (562) 938-5100, or
email: [email protected].
Members in the News
El Camino College Compton Center Welcomes Six New Faculty Members
El Camino College Compton Center
began the new academic year with six
new full-time faculty members. The fall
semester is underway and these new faculty members have joined the El Camino
College Compton Center in the mission
to provide high-quality educational programs. The recently appointed faculty
members all bring extensive knowledge
and professional experience to their new
roles as instructors at El Camino College
Compton Center, helping to contribute to
student success.
Maria Estrada
First Year Experience coordinator/
General Counselor. Maria Estrada earned
her master’s degree in education, with a
specialization in multicultural counseling, from California State University, San
Diego. She graduated with a bachelor’s
degree in American literature and culture
from University of California, Los Angeles, and earned an associate degree from
Orange Coast College. Estrada honed her
academic, transfer, vocational and personal
guidance skills as director of the parent
residential experience and coordinator of
the GEAR-UP program at the University
of California, Irvine. She went on to work
as a program director at the California Association for Bilingual Education. Estrada
has held counseling positions, as well as a
faculty position in the freshman experience
program at Santa Ana College. She also
served as a general counselor at Coastline
Community College. Estrada’s most recent
positions include counseling at Santa Ana
College and in El Camino College’s FYE
Program.
education from Azusa Pacific University
and a bachelor’s degree in history from
the University of California, Berkeley.
His management and leadership experience includes positions as an enrollment
services evaluator and tutorial services
specialist at Mt. San Jacinto College. He
has also served as a program coordinator
for the First Year Experience Program
and as a coordinator for the California
Mathematics Project at the University of
California, Los Angeles. Jimenez has also
taught “Introduction to Tutoring” courses
as an associate faculty member at Mt. San
Jacinto College.
Hoa Pham
Childhood Education. Hoa Pham has
served in various capacities in the field of
education for over 25 years. She worked
as a preschool teacher and as an education specialist for the Long Beach Unified
School District before moving into higher
education. Pham has been an adjunct faculty member at several community colleges in Southern California, as well as at
California State University, Long Beach.
Most recently, she taught courses in early
childhood education theory at El Camino
College, Cerritos Community College and
Mt. San Antonio College. She earned an
Ed.D. from the University of California,
Irvine and California State University,
Long Beach; a master’s degree in early
childhood education from the University
of Texas at Austin; and a bachelor’s degree
in secondary education from the University
of Texas at El Paso.
Kendahl Radcliffe
Reading/English instructor. Amber
Gillis received both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English from California
State University, Fullerton (CSUF). She
is currently pursuing certificates in postsecondary reading and reading instruction
from CSUF. Previously, she taught English
at ECC Compton Center part time and
served as a team advisor for the annual
Voices of Compton Literary Journal since
2009. In addition, she was a teaching associate at CSUF and an English instructor
at Fullerton College.
History. Kendahl Radcliffe graduated
with a Ph.D. in African History from the
University of California, Los Angeles
(UCLA) and a bachelor’s degree in speech
communications from Emerson College.
She served as an assistant professor of
Africana studies at the University of
Arizona, and a lecturer in women’s studies
and African American history at California State University, Long Beach, ECC
Compton Center and UCLA. Her most
recent positions include assistant professor
of Afro-Ethnic studies at California State
University, Fullerton and part-time lecturer
at El Camino College.
Learning Resource Center. Albert
Jimenez earned a master’s degree in
Reading/English. Nikki Williams received master’s degrees in English and
Amber Gillis
Albert Jimenez
Nikki Williams
sociology, as well as a bachelor’s degree in
sociology from California State University,
Dominguez Hills. Currently, Williams is
working toward a reading certificate from
University of California, Irvine and a college counseling certificate from Univer-
sity of California, Los Angeles. Williams
started working at ECC Compton Center
in 2006 in the Language/Writing Lab and,
more recently, began to teach courses in
sociology, academic strategies and English
as an adjunct instructor.
12
October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
Business Card Directory
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as little as $31.00 per month.
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16299 S. Paramount Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
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MARIA MAC LEAN
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THE PULSE
OF PARAMOUNT
COMMERCE
AND INDUSTRY
ROSE C. TOWE
Tel: 562.633.2300
Fax: 562.633.2345
15357 Paramount Boulevard
Paramount, California 90723
562-634-3980 - Office
562-634-0891 - Fax
www.wardprop.com
[email protected]
FREE
Business Counseling
Paramount Chamber of Commerce
Call for Appt:
562-634-3980 x10
FENICO
PRECISION CASTINGS
562/634-5000 • 800/634-5000
FAX 562/634-4900
7805 Madison Street
Paramount, CA 90723-4220
Sales • Service• Parts • Accessories
562-531-1225
(888) MID-MOTO
714-828-4080
Fax 562-531-0730
DIANA SLUMSKIE
www.mid-citieshonda.com
Have You Thought About Having
Your Hard Copy/Pre-Computers era
Files Such as Documents,
Photos, Flyers or Printed Newspaper
and Magazine Issues DIGITALIZED?
We have several pricing options to fit your budget.
Special safe, secure pick up and delivery
for your valuable archives is available.
(562) 440-7180
We also Publish, Design and Print Newspapers,
Magazines, Books, Brochures & Business Cards
Publication & Delivery
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October 2012 Paramount Pulse Beat
13
Let Us Promote Your Business
-Become A Member TodayParamount Chamber of Commerce
• FREE- Advertisement in Paramount’s Best Read Newspaper
• FREE- Listing on the Paramount Chamber Website
• FREE- Two Listings in the Paramount Business Directory
• FREE- Member Discount Program
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To place an ad in
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Call Maria 562-634-3980
Visit
www.paramountchamber.com
to view the Pulse Beat Online
Make A Difference
Serving the community since 1946, the
Paramount Lions have been actively
participating in and providing donations
to support local programs such as PEP
(Paramount Education Partnership), Relay
for Life, City of Hope, youth sports, food
banks, and eye care for families in need.
Come join our dedicated
members as we build friendships
and partnerships with a common
goal of giving back to the
community.
Join us for lunch: Thursdays --12:30-1:30
Casa Gamino Restaurant
8330 Alondra Blvd.
Google us: Paramount Lions Club
Call us: 562.716.5859
✩
Join A Service Club
PARAMOUNT
ELKS
LODGE 1804
Serving the community for over fifty years
Major Sponsor of Dictionaries for 3rd graders PUSD
Monthly/Yearly Scholorships for PHS seniors
Donate to Vets in L.B. Vets Hospital
Meetings every Monday night 730pm
HALL FOR RENT
Weddings * Quinceaneras * Birthdays
Max 250 people
8108 E. Alondra Blvd • 562 633-1804
www.paramountelks.org
Paramount Rotary Club has
served the Community
since 1954
The Rotary Club is an organization of local business and professional people who supply
humanitarian assistance to primarily local residents. Among its many services, the Club’s
members personally provide:
• college/technical school scholarships to graduating Paramount students,
• clothing to qualified Paramount children,
• holiday season food and gift support to qualified Paramount families and,
• books and educational materials to Guatemalan students, reconstructive cleft
palate and clubfoot surgery to Mexican children.
The Club raises funds for community services through its annual Paramount
Rotary Golf Tournament.
The Club meets at noon every Tuesday at Progress Plaza Park (15500
Downey Ave.) for fellowship, lunch and an informational program.
Do the Club’s activities sound like fun to you? If so, please be our guest
for lunch. For more information call President John Berg at 562-630-1200 ext.
219 or Secretary Duane Mahan at 562-634-0234. Please visit our website at
ClubRunner.ca/Paramount . We hope to see you soon!