The Business Perspective 2002-2006

About the Book

“Week after week, The Business Perspective covers a wide range of thought-provoking topics, challenging the status quo on issue after issue and, when appropriate, takes hardnosed stances on politics and policies. Rusty Hammer’s column has given the L.A. Area Chamber a loud voice, a tool that has expanded way beyond its initial reach. At Majestic Realty Co., we watch for this weekly email and then hit the forward button.”
-Fran Inman, Senior Vice President, Majestic Realty Co.

“Rusty Hammer puts his fi nger on the most important issues affecting both the business community and greater Los Angeles in general. His writing is clear and the perspective is unmatched. This amounts to a handbook on public policy and a substantial contribution to civic understanding.”
-George Kieffer, Partner, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP

“Rusty Hammer’s weekly column sparked debate and dialogue among business, government and non-profi t leaders. His insight on critical issues facing the business community in the L.A. region is timeless.”
-David Nichols, Senior Vice President- California, AT&T

“A time capsule of outstanding writing on policy from one of the foremost business leaders in Los Angeles. This collection of Rusty Hammer’s writings is an invaluable resource to anyone who is interested in business and policy issues.”
-Matt Toledo, President & Publisher, Los Angeles Business Journal

By being the voice of business, helping its members grow and promoting collaboration, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce seeks full prosperity for the Los Angeles region. Since 1888, the chamber has been a trustee for the current and future welfare of the region, championing a prosperous economy and quality of life.

About the Author

Russell J. “Rusty” Hammer was President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce from 2001-2006. During his five-year tenure, Hammer returned the Chamber to prominence as Los Angeles County’s top business organization and leading advocate on regional policy issues. Founded in 1888, the Chamber promotes a prosperous economy and quality of life in the Los Angeles region. Hammer’s column, The Business Perspective, was sent out to nearly 8,000 business leaders every week and is winner of awards from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. Before joining the L.A. Chamber, Hammer was CEO of the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as a governing board member of many local, regional and national charitable and philanthropic organizations over the last 30 years. At the age of 18, Hammer was elected to the City Council in Campbell, California in 1972, becoming the youngest elected official in United States history. In 1975, he was elected Mayor of Campbell; the youngest mayor of an incorporated city in U.S. history. Hammer served two terms as mayor before retiring from politics in 1982.