0
10 Apr 2024
Featured, News, Press, Uncategorized Permalink

Leadership Roundtable with Mayor Karen Bass

April 10, 2024

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass came to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce (HCC) on Tuesday to discuss the Hollywood business community’s public safety priorities as she begins the search for our next Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department.

Our meeting underscored the deepening partnership between HCC and Mayor Bass’ Administration.

Mayor Bass directly addressed some of Hollywood’s most pressing public safety challenges, ranging from officer recruitment and retention to retail theft, with some of our leading members and nonprofit partners. She also outlined a thoughtful vision for the future, including leveraging technology to enhance community security and broadening LAPD’s coordination with the business community.

Ultimately, the Mayor’s goal for this visit was to listen to and document our members’ lived experiences and suggestions.

Hollywood Boulevard is a global destination with more than 10 million visitors each year. Safety along our commercial corridors is critical to preserving Hollywood’s worldwide status and contributions to the regional economy. That is why HCC advocates for a well-funded, modernized LAPD to our local leaders.

We look forward to working with our next Chief of Police and are deeply grateful to Mayor Bass for considering HCC’s perspective as she makes this critical hiring decision.

Thank you to all who attended:
Mayor Karen Bass • Steven Nissen, Hollywood Chamber of Commerce (HCC) • Sarah Zurell, Chinese Laundry • Aaron Green, Afriat Consulting Group • Aaron Taxy, HCC • Bob Luterbach, Kaiser Permanente • Brian Folb, Paramount Contractors • Brittney Weissman, Hollywood 4WRD • Cecilia Gomez, Ovation Hollywood • Daniel Frost, Netflix • Ilysha Adelstein Buss, The Original Farmers Market •Jackie Filla, PhD, Hotel Association of Los Angeles • Jim Henderson, Amoeba Music • John Arakaki, St. Felix Hollywood • Kathleen Rawson, LPM, The Hollywood Partnership • Lupita Sanchez Cornejo, MPA, AT&T • Mairead L., Capitol Records • Marina Martos Dabel, Kilroy Realty Corporation • Mark Echeverria, Musso & Frank Grill • Marty Shelton, NAI Capital Commercial • Nicole Mihalka, JLL • Richard Howard, Occidental Entertainment Group Holdings • Richard Pink, Pink’s Hot Dogs • Tim Chang, Emerson College • Yuko Kaifu, JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles

 
04 Apr 2024
Uncategorized Permalink

Letter from our President and CEO, Steve Nissen

April 4, 2024

Message from our President and CEO, Steve Nissen

 

Dear HCC Members, 

As we welcome Spring 2024, the Hollywood Chamber has been busy in the community and the Nation’s Capitol.  

On March 21, the City of Los Angeles announced the first step of a massive infrastructure plan to revitalize Hollywood Boulevard, which City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez has dubbed Access to Hollywood. I participated in the press conference to thank our local government for taking the early big steps and stressed that the private sector must engage meaningfully in the process since it builds the businesses and venues that bring millions of people to Hollywood to live, work, and play. Visit our website for more information about Access to Hollywood. 

The Hollywood Chamber was in D.C. this past month addressing homelessness with our Congressman, Adam Schiff, coordinated federal response to homelessness with Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Olympic readiness with the office of Rep. Sydney Kankager, and travel/tourism with the U.S. Department of Commerce.

We had a successful month on the Walk of Fame, welcoming our newest Walk of Famers — Eugene Levy, Lenny Kravitz, Dr. Dre, and Martha Reeves – to bring the total number of Stars on the Walk to 2,777. Dr. Dre drew in over 7 million viewers across all our social media platforms following the ceremony and found himself with his fellow renowned artists, Eminem, 50 Cent, and Snoop Dogg, on Jimmy Kimmel Live that evening. Be sure to follow us across our social media channels to stay connected. Walk of Fame Social • Hollywood Chamber Social.

Lights, Camera, Nominate! It’s that time of year again. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the Hollywood Walk of Fame starting April 15, 2024. The submission deadline is Friday, May 31, 2024, at noon. An independent Walk of Fame Committee will consider nominations in June and make selections for the coming year. Learn more! 

Upcoming Installation Gala! The biggest and most elegant evening of the year for Chamber members, leaders, and friends will occur on April 17, 2024. We will honor community leaders, County Supervisor Kathryn Barger will administer the oath to our Board Members, and we will enjoy some Hollywood entertainment. Check out our events calendar and register today. Please contact our Chief, Signature Events, Kaylee Kiecker, regarding sponsorship and ticketing inquiries.

In closing, I am thrilled to introduce nine new members to our Hollywood Chamber community. The Chamber is the largest business organization in Hollywood with some 700 members that represent about 148,000 employees. Join me in welcoming these new members, and should you have any questions about membership benefits, connect with our VP of Membership, Lex Escobar.

 

 

 

 

President and CEO

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce

02 Apr 2024
Featured, News, Press, Walk of Fame Permalink

2025 WALK OF FAME APPLICATIONS OPEN APRIL 15, 2024!

April 2, 2024

 HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ACCEPTING WALK OF FAME NOMINATIONS FOR

CLASS OF 2025, STARTING APRIL 15 TO MAY 31 AT NOON PST  

 THE HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME STAR GOES TO….

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the Hollywood Walk of Fame starting April 15th, 2024. The submission deadline is Friday, May 31, 2024, at 12 noon. There are no exceptions. All nominations will be considered in June’s annual Walk of Fame Committee meeting. The Walk of Fame Committee will make selections for the year 2025.

The Chamber will accept applications beginning April 15th, 2024, via our Walk of Fame website, www.walkoffame.com. There is a $250 application fee.

“It is that time again! Celebrities can soon submit for consideration for a Walk of Fame star for the Class of 2025,” stated Ana Martinez, Producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies. “Our Walk of Fame applications will be available starting April 15.  This is an easy way to nominate your favorite entertainer or client with their permission in the categories of Motion Pictures, Television, Recording, Radio, Live Theatre/Live Performance, and Sports Entertainment! The Walk of Fame Committee will select an elite group of personalities to become our newest Walk of Famers and continue to help make Hollywood the most famous landmark in the world!” added Martinez.

Please submit a completed nomination application and a commitment to sponsor the star. Potential nominees must sign off in writing on the nomination forms and agree to attend the event to accept the honor if selected.  “Anyone can nominate their favorite celebrity, including fans,” said Martinez.

Nomination applications can be obtained at www.walkoffame.com

Nomination Procedures: http://www.walkoffame.com/pages/nominations

Frequently Asked Questions: http://www.walkoffame.com/pages/faqs

The Walk of Fame Committee will select an average of 24 names for the world-famous Walk.  

Whether nominating an individual or group, the sponsor must submit a photo, a bio, the nominee’s qualifications, and a list of contributions to the community and civic-oriented participation. A letter of agreement from the nominee or his/her management must be included with the application. Those selected for stars have a two-year time frame to set their ceremony date. The selections expire upon the second anniversary of being chosen. Posthumous nominations have a two-year waiting period before they can be nominated. 

The Walk of Fame is a global tourist attraction with millions of visitors annually. We want to ensure that the Walk of Fame and its environs remain a special and spectacular place to visit your nominee’s star if selected and the stars of over 2,700 honorees already enshrined on the Walk. To that end, the Hollywood Chamber maintains a Community Foundation whose purpose is to enhance the beauty and success of the Hollywood community. We hope honorees if selected, will consider donating memorabilia or other assistance to help the Community Foundation achieve its mission of a better Hollywood tomorrow.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame does not encourage or endorse online campaigns for fundraising for a star before selection. Such initiatives do not impact the selection process for a star on the Walk of Fame. The committee does not accept signatures, phone calls, e-mails, or written or online petitions for a nomination. Beware of all online petitions that collect your email address to no avail. Only official Walk of Fame applications are accepted. “We encourage you to read and fully understand the nomination and selection process on our website, www.walkoffame.com,” said Martinez.

New selections will be announced in June or July. Please have a look at www.walkoffame.com for updates.

 FOR PRESS QUESTIONS CONTACT: ANA MARTINEZ

ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME-www.walkoffame.com 

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an internationally recognized Hollywood icon. With approximately 24 – 30 star ceremonies annually broadcast live worldwide, the constant reinforcement provided to the public has made the Walk of Fame a top visitor attraction. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce continues to add stars to the Walk of Fame as the representative of the City of Los Angeles. The Walk of Fame is a tribute to all of those who worked diligently to develop the concept and to maintain this world-class tourist attraction. The Walk of Fame is open to the public. No paid admission or assigned seating at star ceremonies. It is understood that the cost of installing a star on the Walk of Fame upon approval is $75,000 (fee subject to change), and the sponsor of the nominee accepts the responsibility for arranging for payment to the Hollywood Historic Trust, a 501(c)3 charitable foundation. The funds are used to pay for the creation/installation of the star, the ceremony, and the maintenance of the Walk of Fame.

ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Since 1921, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce exists to promote and enhance the business, cultural, and civic well-being of Hollywood. With some 700 members representing over 148,000 employees, the Chamber is the largest business organization in Hollywood. It serves as a place for diverse members to foster and implement big ideas that help drive commerce and improve the community of Hollywood. The Hollywood Chamber is the proud steward of two global icons: the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Sign. To make a difference, connect with us at info@hollywoodchamber.net.

01 Apr 2024
Featured, News, Press Permalink

Access to Hollywood Press Conference

April 1, 2024

Access to Hollywood: The Transformation of Hollywood Boulevard Begins

On March 21st, the City of Los Angeles announced the first steps of a massive infrastructure project that City Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez has dubbed Access to Hollywood.  The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce was at the press conference to participate in the big announcement. While Hollywood Boulevard has long been celebrated for its artistic appeal, recent years have brought challenges that demand innovative solutions. From revitalizing infrastructure to addressing homelessness, the Boulevard is embarking on a journey to redefine its essence while preserving its historical significance. To address these challenges, the ambitious renovation will transform Hollywood Boulevard into a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly destination. This comprehensive project includes widening sidewalks, adding bike lanes, and addressing safety concerns along Hollywood Boulevard.   

One of the primary goals for Access to Hollywood is to revitalize the area, making it more appealing to residents, workers, and tourists. Enhancing the streetscape aims to attract more people to dine, shop, and explore the area, thereby boosting the local economy. This revitalization effort is not just about improving infrastructure; it’s about reimagining Hollywood Boulevard as a dynamic and welcoming space for everyone. “The recent announcement of Access to Hollywood is great news both for the people who work here and live here and the many visitors who come to Hollywood with high expectations of what they’ll see… 10 million visitors come every year to the Walk of Fame from around the world, and they expect Hollywood to be a street of dreams… Hollywood Boulevard should be one of the most beautiful, innovative, creative, and dynamic streets in the entire world, and we can’t get there without the public sector and its investment, talent, and resources,” stated Steve Nissen, President and CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.“However,” Nissen continued, “we also can’t get there without the active engagement of the private sector, which builds the buildings, businesses, and venues that bring people to Hollywood.  Just as pedestrians need inviting streetscape to keep coming back, businesses need common sense street conditions to stay in business.”     

By creating a more welcoming and accessible environment, Access to Hollywood has the potential to usher in a new era for Hollywood, ensuring its status as a symbol of glamour, entertainment, and livability for years to come.

 
 

Watch Access to Hollywood Press Conference

FULL | SHORT

 

  

Access to Hollywood

ABOUT

 
15 Mar 2024
Featured, Installation GALA, News Permalink

THE 2024 INSTALLATION AND RED CARPET AWARDS GALA

March 15, 2024
Join us for the 2024 Installation Gala on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at the Sheraton Universal Hotel from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. More details to follow!
Location:
Sheraton Universal Hotel 
333 Universal Hollywood Drive 
Universal City, CA 91608
View a Map
Date/Time Information:
Wednesday, April 17, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Contact Information:
Kaylee Kiecker
Send an Email
Fees/Admission:
Members: $125.00 
Non-Members & Guests: $175.00 
03 Aug 2023
Annual Events, Economic Development Permalink

THE HOLLYWOOD CHAMBER’S 2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT

August 3, 2023

Hollywood Chamber’s 2023 Economic Development Summit will focus on studio and creative office development and its role in the attraction and retention of business in the entertainment capital of the world: Hollywood. 

REGISTER NOW

For sponsorship details, don’t hesitate to contact Kaylee Kiecker.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23 Jun 2023
Entertainment Industry Conference, Featured, News, Press Permalink

HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME CLASS OF 2024

June 23, 2023

HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME CLASS OF 2024 • WATCH LIVE AT WALKOFFAME.COM

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is thrilled to honor the Class of 2024 with 31 entertainment professionals in various categories, including Motion Pictures, Television, Live Theatre/Live Performance, Radio, Recording, and Sports Entertainment. Selected by the Walk of Fame Selection Committee, comprised of past Walk of Famers, these honorees were chosen from hundreds of nominations and ratified by the Hollywood Chamber’s Board of Directors on June 21, 2023.

“The Selection Committee, consisting of fellow Walk of Famers, meticulously selects a group of honorees each year that represents various genres of the entertainment world,” said Chair and Walk of Famer Ellen K. “The Committee has done an incredible job in selecting these very talented individuals. We are eager to witness each honoree’s reaction as they realize they are becoming a part of Hollywood’s history with the unveiling of their star on the world’s most famous walkway!” Ellen K added.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and its Walk of Fame Selection Committee congratulate all the honorees. Follow the Walk of Fame on social for ceremony dates. Recipients have two years from the selection date to schedule their star ceremonies before they expire. Details about upcoming star ceremonies are typically announced ten days before the dedication on the official website walkoffame.com.

20 Jun 2023
Annual Events, Featured, News, Uncategorized Permalink

The Hollywood Chamber’s 2023 State of the State Luncheon

June 20, 2023

Join us on Friday, July 14, 2023, at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel for the Hollywood Chamber’s State of the State Luncheon. The event will bring together assemblymembers and senators to give insights on state initiatives and how they impact Hollywood and Southern California.

The Hollywood Chamber is pleased to celebrate 100 years in Hollywood by recognizing Warner Bros. Discovery, The Walt Disney Company, and the Hollywood Sign!

REGISTER TODAY

 

26 May 2023
Featured, News, Uncategorized Permalink

SUBSCRIBE NOW FOR EARLY ACCESS TO OUR LIMITED EDITION LA-PRIDE INSPIRED MERCH’

May 26, 2023

Subscribe to our email list and be the first to get early access to our limited edition Hollywood Sign Centennial and Walk of Fame merchandise!

Shop now and unleash your style with LA Pride-inspired tees! Snag ’em today at HOLLYWOOD SIGN SHOP and rock your pride in fashion!

SHOP NOW


 

SUBSCRIBE

 

Sign up for exclusive HCC news and updates, special events, and unique perks!

Name(Required)
Email(Required)

08 May 2023
Annual Events, Breakfast with the Mayor, Featured, News Permalink

The Hollywood Chamber’s 2023 Luncheon with Mayor Karen Bass

May 8, 2023

2023 Luncheon with the Honorable Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles 

Join us for the highly anticipated 2023 HCC Mayoral Luncheon featuring the honorable Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Mayor Bass has been actively addressing homelessness and public safety issues. During her State of the City Address on April 17, she unveiled her proposed city budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year, which includes funding priorities focused on enhancing public safety, advancing a “new L.A.,” and addressing the city’s homelessness crisis. Notably, her proposed budget will include a $1.3 billion investment to accelerate the city’s progress on homelessness and a $250 million investment to expand the Inside Safe program citywide, building on its past success.

Additionally, Mayor Bass proposes a budget to increase police officers in L.A. The current number of officers has fallen to 9,103 from the budgeted 9,460. The mayor’s plan aims to reach 9,500 officers, necessitating budgeting and internal efforts. Police Chief Moore backs the plan, believing it will improve public safety.

We are thrilled to host this extraordinary event, where our Chamber members will have a chance to gain valuable insights. Please take advantage of this opportunity to hear directly from Mayor Karen Bass and learn about her vision for the city’s future.

Source: CBS News, Los Angeles Times, Annenberg Media

The following list of sponsors is as of the press date:

 

REGISTER TO ATTEND

03 Apr 2023
Uncategorized Permalink
Diligent volunteers. Company of diligent volunteers working hard while cleaning up the trash left in forest
Diligent volunteers. Company of diligent volunteers working hard while cleaning up the trash left in forest

Letter from Chair of Board of the Hollywood Chamber Community Foundation

April 3, 2023

 

Dear  Members of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce,

I am deeply grateful for your remarkable contributions to the Hollywood Chamber Community Foundation. Your generosity and support have enabled us to raise over $120K, a feat that will significantly impact the lives of those we serve.

The silent and live auction proceeds from our Installation and Legacy Awards Gala will benefit the Hollywood Chamber Community Foundation and fund initiatives that empower women for our two grant finalists: the Hollywood Police Activities League (PAL) in partnership with the Girl Scouts of America and Aviva Family and Children’s Services. 

By donating to the Hollywood Chamber Community Foundation, you will also support many other essential initiatives and organizations that contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Hollywood community. Together, we can create a brighter future for all who call Hollywood home. The Foundation is committed to making a positive impact, and we thank you for your support. For more information on our initiatives, please visit hollywoodfoundation.org.

Your support will help us continue to make a difference in our community. We look forward to your continued partnership as we work towards a brighter future.

Sincerely,

Nicole Mihalka

 

Chair of the Board

Hollywood Chamber Community Foundation