By Magdalena Davis & Brian Chase
As an innovative community on the cutting edge of technology, Santa Monica’s employers and residents are gearing up for a very exciting 2012 State of the City. Launched in 2008 under then-Chamber Chairman Tom Larmore, this annual event has quickly become the single best source for a comprehensive outlook on Santa Monica’s local economy and global brand.
Private and public sector leaders from the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce and the City of Santa Monica will discuss how the latest updates and trends are changing the community and the way it does business. This is the largest event of the year for businesses and residents to explore the latest technology within a community that has earned the name “Silicon Beach.”
The program will feature Mayor Richard Bloom delivering the 2012 State of the City address, as well as a panel of local experts, moderated by Brad Cox, Santa Monica Alliance Chairman and Trammell Crow, Senior Managing Director. Covering the many innovative ways Santa Monica businesses are utilizing the latest technology and strategies, this distinguished group includes Paige Craig, CEO of Betterworks; Keith Klein, Partner with Bryan Cave LLP; David Travers, Venture Capitalist with Rustic Canyon Partners and owner of DocStoc; and Dr. Chui Tsang, President of Santa Monica College.
Last year’s 450 attendees included local and regional elected officials, city staff, and the major stakeholders of businesses in the community, including major employers and top revenue generators for the city. Panelists included Activision, Agensys, The Lobster Restaurant, Revolution Fitness, and Santa Monica Place.
“The State of the City is a central vehicle in ensuring the continual advancement of doing business in Santa Monica,” said Laurel Rosen, President of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce. “Because of the fundamental link between a thriving city and its economy, our in-depth discussions unveil timely insights for businesses and residents alike.”
In addition, City Manager Rod Gould delivered a comprehensive preview of the landscape-changing year that was 2011. Topics of discussion included new city and chamber services, capital improvement projects, and circulation plans that will enhance the quality of life for residents and employees alike.
The 2012 State of the City will be taking place on Jan. 26, from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the SGI-USA World Culture Center in Santa Monica. Tickets are available online at www.smchamber.com/sotc.
