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2026 BOD

2026 Board of Directors Announcement

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2026 BOD

Announcing the 2026 Lomita Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors

The Lomita Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its 2026 Board of Directors, a dedicated group of business and community leaders who will help guide the Chamber’s work in the year ahead. The Board will be officially recognized at our Installation & Community Awards Ceremony, where we will celebrate leadership, service, and the strength of our local business community.

Directors Elected to New Terms (2026–2029)

We are pleased to welcome the following Directors beginning new three-year terms:

  • Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
  • Mary Hornickel, M&J Wellness
  • Erika Garcia, At E’s Massage Therapy
  • Sergio Carrillo & Laura Duarte, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor
  • Ryan Ferguson, Kaiser Permanente

Directors Continuing Their Current Terms

The following Directors will continue serving through the remainder of their elected terms:

  • Tracy Maestro, California Water Service
  • Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union
  • Kim Edwards, Mechanics Bank
  • Laurie Glover, Silverado Memory Care Community
  • Kevin Gordon, Attorney at Law
  • Jane Lau, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices CA
  • Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent
  • Bruno Perron, Still Got It Fitness

Approved by the Board to fill appointed terms

  • Jon “Harry” Bayouth, Harry’s Oklahoma Style Smokehouse BBQ
  • Jennifer Olvera, Coastal Funeral Center / Green Hills Memorial Park

With Gratitude to Our Outgoing Board Members

We extend our sincere thanks to the following Board members for their leadership, time, and service to the Chamber and our business community:

  • Nayeem Khan, Lomita Mail & Print
  • Teresa Workman, Teresa Workman Realty

2026 Chamber Officers

At the Board’s organizational meeting, the following officers were confirmed to serve in leadership roles for 2026:

  • Chair: Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
  • Treasurer: Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union
  • Secretary: Mary Hornickel, M&J Wellness
  • Immediate Past Chair: Tracy Maestro, California Water Service

Non-Voting Board Members

  • Mark Waronek, City of Lomita – Council Liaison
  • Heidi Butzine, President & CEO, Lomita Chamber of Commerce

Together, this Board brings a strong balance of continuity, fresh perspective, and deep community commitment as the Chamber continues to advocate for local businesses, foster connections, and support a thriving Lomita and South Bay economy.

Join Us at Installation

We invite our members and community partners to join us at the Installation & Community Awards Ceremony as we officially welcome the 2026 Board of Directors and recognize outstanding businesses and leaders who make our community shine.

Installation & Community Awards – March 5, 2026
Get details here

We hope to celebrate with you!

 

Lomita Chamber Mixer March 2026 (IG)

Lomita March Chamber Business Mixer

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Celebrate 5 years of D’Luxe Salon Spa Barber with an evening of networking, connection, and community.

Join the Lomita Chamber of Commerce as we celebrate the 5-year anniversary of D’Luxe Salon Spa Barber.

This special March Mixer brings together local businesses, professionals, and community leaders for an evening of connection, celebration, and networking in honor of D’Luxe’s five years of serving our community.

We’re grateful to our hosts, Skin Topic Skincare and Jane Lau Homes, for helping make this milestone celebration possible.

Whether you’re looking to grow your network, strengthen relationships, or celebrate local business success, this mixer offers the perfect opportunity to connect.

Date: March 25, 2026

Time: 5:30–7:00 PM

Location: D’Luxe Salon Spa Barber | 2040 Lomita Blvd, Lomita, CA 90717

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

GET TICKETS
Harbor Market News Heading

Harbor Market Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration!

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The Lomita Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomed Harbor Market with an official ribbon cutting to celebrate their Grand Opening in Harbor City!
 
As a family-owned neighborhood convenience store, Harbor Market brings top-quality products, friendly service, and a warm, local vibe to the community. We’re honored to have them in our Chamber family and excited to support their continued success!
 
Special thanks to our Chamber Board Members, Lomita City Councilmember Barry Waite, Rep. Jose Ochoa from Senator Laura Richardson’s office, and representatives from the office of LA City
Councilmember Tim McOsker for helping us recognize this milestone with official certificates.
 
Congrats again to the Harbor Market team—here’s to many successful years ahead!
 
Follow Harbor market on Instagram
Find Harbor market located Here ( 25225 Vermont Ave, Harbor City, CA 90710)
 
 

Installation 2025 (IG) (9)

2025 Board of Directors Announcement

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Installation 2025 (IG) (9)

The Lomita Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its 2025 Board of Directors and Officers, who will be officially recognized at the Installation & Awards Ceremony on March 6, 2025.

Incoming & Re-Elected Board Members – We welcome the following individuals to the 2025 Board of Directors:
 

Kim Edwards, HomeStreet Bank (3-year term)
Kevin Gordon, Attorney at Law (3-year term)
Bruno Perron, Still Got It Fitness (3-year term)
Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union (re-elected, 3-year term)
Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent (re-elected, 3-year term)
Nayeem Khan, Lomita Mail & Print (appointed to fill a 1-year vacancy)

We are thrilled to have this mix of new and returning leaders on the Board as we continue to serve the Lomita and South Bay business community.

Outgoing Board Members – We extend our gratitude to the following board members for their dedicated service:
 

Jan Vogel, South Bay Workforce Investment Board
Jeff Koven, Koven Video Productions 

Chamber Leadership Roles for 2025 – At the January 2025 Board meeting, the following officers were elected:

Chair: Tracy Maestro, California Water Services Company
Chair-Elect: Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
Immediate Past-Chair: Jennifer Olvera, Coastal Funeral Center/Green Hills Memorial Park
Secretary: Mary Hornickel, The Wellness Company
Treasurer: Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union

2025 Lomita Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:

  • Andrew Aparicio, The BBQ Element/Element Outdoor
  • Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union
  • Kim Edwards, HomeStreet Bank
  • Laurie Glover, Silverado Memory Care Community
  • Kevin Gordon, Attorney at Law
  • Mary Hornickel, The Wellness Company
  • Nayeem Khan, Lomita Mail & Print
  • Jane Lau, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services CA
  • Steve MacAller, Torrance-South Bay YMCA
  • Tracy Maestro, California Water Service
  • Jennifer Olvera, Coastal Funeral Center
  • Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent
  • Bruno Perron, Still Got It Fitness
  • Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
  • Teresa Workman, Teresa Workman Realty
  • Mark Waronek, City of Lomita (ex officio liaison)
  • Heidi Butzine, President/CEO (non-voting Board member) 

The Chamber remains deeply appreciative of all Board members—past, present, and incoming—whose leadership drives growth and success for our business community.

We invite you to join us on March 6th to welcome the 2025 Board, celebrate our award winners, and support our community.

ada guidance

Understanding Access Laws: ADA Guidance for California Small Businesses

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ada guidance

Small businesses in California must comply with various state and federal disability access laws. Non-compliance can result in significant costs from defending and settling lawsuits.

Key Accessibility Laws

  • Federal Law: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make accessibility improvements to their premises, ensuring that entrances, aisles, bathrooms, service counters, and other features are accessible to people with disabilities. Barriers should be removed if doing so is “readily achievable.”
  • California State Building Code (Title 24): Compliance is required for new constructions and renovations. This includes making the main entrance, primary paths, and associated features accessible. If construction costs are below a certain threshold, additional accessibility modifications are limited to 20% of the construction expenses.
  • California Civil Rights Laws: Laws like the Unruh Civil Rights Act and the California Disabled Persons Act ensure individuals with disabilities can fully use and enjoy all business establishments. Violations of the ADA also breach these state laws, which can result in substantial damages in lawsuits.
  • Senate Bill 1608: This legislation, known as the Construction-Related Accessibility Standards Compliance Act, offers protection against lawsuits for businesses that employ a specially trained expert known as a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and adhere to their recommendations. Learn more about these inspections here.

Important Reminders

  • Compliance with building codes does not exempt you from disability rights laws.
  • The responsibility for compliance primarily lies with your architect and contractor.
  • Even if the building department approves, you are still accountable for any access violations.

Steps to Reduce Lawsuit Risks

  • Hire a CASp: They will assess your premises for accessibility barriers and provide an inspection report, which can help if you are sued. 
  • Review and Follow CASp Recommendations: Ensure your premises comply with access laws and remove barriers over time.
  • Utilize Tax Incentives: Tax credits and deductions are available to offset accessibility improvement costs.
  • Address Complaints Promptly: Take complaints seriously and seek professional and legal advice to prevent escalation to litigation.

How Can I Fund Access Improvements?

Tax incentives may be available to help mitigate the costs of making accessibility improvements. More information on ADA tax incentives can be found here: https://www.ada.gov/taxcred.htm. Consult your tax advisor for specific advice.

Additional Resources: 

Disclaimer:

This information is provided as general guidance and should be reviewed by an expert in the industry. The Lomita Chamber does not endorse or make any guarantees about the suggestions noted here. This information does not replace professional advice from an advisor knowledgeable about disability access requirements. It is not legal advice. For specific concerns, including lawsuits or significant legal issues, you should consult with an attorney who specializes in disability access law.

WVPP CA Employers

California Employers Required to Have Workplace Violence Prevention Plan in Place

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WVPP CA Employers

As of July 1, 2024, most California employers are required to have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP). The WVPP must comply with key requirements of the new law, which will be enforced by Cal/OSHA, who may issue citations and penalties for violations.

Per the employment law attorneys at Chase Law Group  (a Lomita Chamber member):

“The new law defines workplace violence as “any act of violence or threat of violence that occurs in a place of employment.” Workplace violence may include the “threat or use of physical force against an employee that results in, or has a high likelihood of resulting in, injury, psychological trauma, or stress, regardless of whether the employee sustains an injury.” 

Click here to read more about this new law and how it may apply to your business.

Should you have any questions regarding your company’s employment law concerns, contact an employment attorney for guidance. 

Welcome to the Board 2024

Announcing New Lomita Chamber Board Members for 2024

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Welcome to the Board 2024

The Lomita Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that five new board members will join the full board of directors in January 2024 and recognized at the Installation Gala on February 8, 2024. The board is an all-volunteer group that guides the mission, policy setting, and governance of the Chamber as they serve the Lomita and South Bay business community.

Joining the board for a first 3-year term are Andrew Aparicio of Element Outdoor Living dba The BBQ Element, Laurie Glover of Silverado Memory Care Communities, Jane Lau of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services CA, and Steve MacAller of Torrance-South Bay YMCA. Tracy Maestro of California Water Services Company is reappointed to serve a second three-year term.

“We welcome our new board members to the Chamber team.  The addition of our new board members significantly enriches our team, bringing a diverse range of perspectives crucial for navigating our business landscape in Lomita,” said Heidi Butzine, Lomita Chamber President/CEO.

Additionally, Jeff Koven of Koven Video Productions is serving as a one-year appointee and Mary Hornickel of The Wellness Company and Danielle Boujikian are serving as two-year appointees.

Board members continuing to serve their terms are:

Jennifer Olvera, of Coastal Funeral Center/Green Hills Memorial Park, will serve a second term as Chair of the Board, Tracy Maestro of California Water Service will continue to serve as Chair-Elect, Paris Chevalier of South Bay Credit Union will continue to serve as Treasurer, Sharon Shapiro-Fox of Athens Services will serve as Secretary and Heidi Butzine of Lomita Chamber will serve as Immediate Past Chair.

Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent
Jan Vogel, South Bay Workforce Investment Board
Teresa Workman, Workman + Kemp Real Estate Co.
Mark Waronek (ex officio liaison), City of Lomita

The following board members will complete their term at of the end of 2023 or have moved on from the Lomita Chamber board of directors during this year:

Erik Bowman – Localista Media
Mark Hardaway – Ecospin Laundry/Happy Nest
Victor Ibarra –  SoCalGas

The Lomita Chamber is truly grateful for these talented and dedicated individuals’ years of service toward the guidance and continued improvement of the organization.

 

2024 minimum wage

Minimum Wage Increase January 1, 2024 ($16.00 Per Hour)

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2024 minimum wage

Starting January 1, 2024, all California employers, regardless of size, must adhere to a minimum wage of $16.00 per hour. (Salary for exempt employees will rise to at least $66,560.)

Certain areas within California, like the City of Los Angeles ($16.78) and unincorporated Los Angeles County ($16.90), have higher minimum wage rates depending on where employees perform their work.  These specific rates are set to be adjusted on July 1, 2024.

Learn more about the 2024 employment laws from Chase Law Group  (a Lomita Chamber member):

Should you have any questions regarding your company’s employment law concerns, contact an employment attorney for guidance. 

Join us for our webinar to learn more about the 2024 Employment Law affecting your business.

BOI reporting requirement

Corporate Transparency Act: Companies to Report Beneficial Owner Information for Enhanced Financial Security starting January 1, 2024

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BOI reporting requirement

Starting on January 1 2024, your company may be required to report information about the people who own or control it to the US Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). FinCEN promotes national security and protects the US financial system from fraud and abuse by criminals and corrupt officials.

Many corporations, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and other entities created in or registered to do business in the United States will likely be required to report their beneficial ownership information to FinCEN. There are 23 categories of those entities that may be exempt including some types of larger companies, banks, credit unions, tax exempt entities registered with the IRS, and public utilities.

Per the employment law attorneys at Chase Law Group  (a Lomita Chamber member):

“A reporting company will need to furnish various details, including its legal name and any trade name or Doing Business As (DBA), its address, the jurisdiction in which it was formed or first registered (depending on whether it’s a U.S. or foreign company), and its Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).”

Click here to read more about this new rule and how it may apply to your business.

Be sure to visit the US Treasury FinCen website for resources.

Should you have any questions regarding your company’s employment law concerns, contact an employment attorney for guidance. 

pay transparency 2023

Pay Transparency Law

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pay transparency 2023

 As of January 1, 2023, California employers upon request must provide pay scale information to employees and applicants for the position the employee is working. Employers with 15 or more employees must include pay scale information for the position in job postings. Employers with 100 or more employees must also report number of employees by race, ethnicity and sex by pay bands and job categories. 

Employers should prepare accordingly by reviewing their HR policies related to salary data and making sure they have clear policies regarding confidentiality of this information among employees.

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Lomita Mail & Print (2)