In 2003, South Pasadena businesses had lost their voice.
A Post-It note in the old Chamber of Commerce window read: CLOSED FOREVER. After volunteering my services, borrowing office space in the back of a bank, and interviewing a who's who of local leaders, I was hired on and given cards and a title: President & CEO.
An amazing team of small-business owners, legislative representatives and local leaders learned to work
together to create a brand new Chamber, and bring new life to the scene in South Pasadena. That was April 1, 2003. A decade later this small town had a robust, indie retail vibe, a collection of new galleries, studios and music schools, hot new dining concepts and trendy boutiques, plus a reputation as an "arts town." This new reputation augmented the well-known "South Pas" brand as family-friendly and affluent although anachronistic and Mayberry-esque in modern day LA. It worked. With vision, cooperation and a decade of community building, events and promotion, Sunset Magazine dubbed the city one of its "Best of the West" livable communities.
Success was found mainly by uncovering hidden gem aspects inherent in the city that were not coordinated, nor publicized: a creative class, an independent mindset and a devoted loyalty to retaining the character of the
community. It was also known as an anti-change crowd. Yet, change it did, and for the better, in an organic and unique way that led the Los Angeles Times to dub South Pasadena a hip little enclave that was "The Anti-Grove," explaining that it was the real deal compared to large themed shopping districts like The Grove in Glendale.
"Think Global. Shop Local." This mindset, combined with exciting new businesses, festivals and promotions led to lasting success, as businesses, civic and educational leaders and citizens learn to work not just in their own sandboxes, but on building community together. I left the Chamber in 2015, and the new vibe is still growing.