FEBRUARY 2026 Vol. 1 | Issue 1 |
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Chamber’s Centennial Coffee Table Book – A Celebration of the People & Businesses Who Built West Hollywood by Nalani Santiago
It’s here! The West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce’s long-anticipated, pandemic-delayed centennial coffee table book is finally within reach. From WeHo with Love: A History of West Hollywood (Sagest, 2025), written by Gregory Joseph Firlotte, is a first-of-its-kind tribute to the people, businesses, and moments that shaped our city.
This beautifully designed 248-page volume belongs on the shelf (and coffee table) of anyone who loves West Hollywood — its history, culture, creativity, and enduring spirit. Retail price: $75 + tax. Proceeds from sales support the Chamber’s ongoing work serving and advocating for West Hollywood businesses and community. How to purchase:
Books can be ordered online through the WHCC store by credit card (a 3.99% processing fee applies). To purchase via Zelle, cash, or check — or to inquire about wholesale pricing for resale — please email accounting@wehochamber.com.
Purchasers may pick up books at the Chamber office during normal business hours (M-F 9:30a-5:30p). We recommend emailing admin@wehochamber.com or calling 323-650-2688 to confirm someone will be in the office. Not local? Shipping is available at the purchaser’s expense; please email admin@wehochamber.com to arrange.
In Lou Adler’s foreword to From WeHo with Love (p. 12), he captures what many of us feel: West Hollywood “cannot [simply] be summed up in a word, let alone a single photo.” He describes WeHo as a vibe — something intangible, best understood through all the senses engaged—the lived experience is what makes this place magnetic.
It’s easy to see why this story needed 248 pages. For more than a century, the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the community have evolved side-by-side, their histories intertwined since the township era. Firlotte describes the project this way: “It’s two books in one — the Chamber’s history and how West Hollywood unfolded to become a viable city. It’s a celebration of both.” And it truly is. From WeHo with Love honors the people, spaces, and icons that shaped West Hollywood, weaving together fascinating detail, celebrities, rare archival finds, and never-before-published photographs with charm and humor.
Over the century, many will find the Chamber’s central role in building the “biggest little village” in unincorporated Los Angeles County surprising. In a time when unincorporated areas were often overlooked, the Chamber frequently served as a de facto city hall, stepping up for the interests of the people and businesses in WeHo — pushing for streetlights, sanitation, road paving and widening, and even created the town’s house-numbering system. (Fun fact: Chamber board members personally installed those new house numbers door-to-door.) At both county and state levels, the Chamber advocated fiercely for funding civic improvements, local identity, and ultimately its incorporation into cityhood.
Firlotte also traces how West Hollywood’s unincorporated status shaped its cultural edge — especially along the Sunset Strip, where nightclubs, music venues, restaurants, and other gathering places often operated in legal gray areas beginning in the 1920s. “There were freedoms surrounding communities didn’t have,” he notes, pointing to the lighter touch of law enforcement at the time.
This isn’t Firlotte’s first time telling West Hollywood’s story. His love for the city was seeded in the 1980s, when he moved to Los Angeles and joined Designers West magazine as Art and New Products Editor, then headquartered in the original Phyllis Morris showroom on Beverly Boulevard. From that vantage point, he watched West Hollywood’s identity take shape — and became one of its most devoted storytellers.
Even he was surprised by what he uncovered. “Nobody really knew the depth of what was out there,” Firlotte recalls. “As I uncovered things, I would bring them to [then Chamber President & CEO] Genevieve Morrill. I’d show her and she’d say, ‘Oh my gosh, keep going.’ So, I kept compiling. We called out people who did things, we called out companies, we called out events, and more. It was a fun challenge, and the book is full of things you never knew.” There are so many fun “who knew” tidbits to savor in this book just waiting to be discovered.
Hollywood may be known as the place where dreams come true, but as Adler writes at the close of his foreword, West Hollywood is proudly the place for the “living-the-dreamers” (p. 12). Fittingly, his sentiment echoes the book’s dedication: “…to all those who have a dream and put a stake in the ground” (p. 11). Now, get out there and stake a claim on yours! Order your copy today via the WHCC store and be among the first to own this centennial tribute to West Hollywood and keep a look out for book launch and book signing events happening in early 2026. Editor’s note: Author quotes were obtained through an interview conducted by Jacqueline Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Communication PHOTO CAPTIONS & CREDITS
Top: Cover Photo The annual Halloween Carnaval held along Santa Monica Boulevard has been an annual event in West Hollywood since1987. In 2024, the event drew around 100,000 revelers for a night of fun, live music, and lots of confetti. Photo by Jonathan Moore, courtesy of the City of West Hollywood Middle: 2025–Author Gregory Joseph Firlotte is a West Hollywood historian and author of From WeHo with Love. He is shown standing in front of the Viper Room mural on Sunset Boulevard. Photo by Steve Firlotte
Bottom: 1984–Joan Rivers AIDS Benefit at Studio One She came out of the closet—figuratively speaking and in spite of death threats due to the stigma of AIDS at the time—for a fundraiser held at Studio One in the heart of West Hollywood. The event raised $45,000, marking the first of many times the comedienne would participate in raising awareness and monies for HIV/AIDS causes across the country. Image courtesy of ONE Archives at the USC Libraries.
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| No stage, no script—just real conversations. Join Len fireside with Chamber members to talk business, leadership, and what’s next for WeHo. |
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Click on More Info below to learn more about WHCC's GAC. |
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At its January meeting, the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) convened to review key legislative, city, and development updates shaping the year ahead. Members received a state legislative briefing from Senator Ben Allen’s office, including highlights from the Governor’s proposed budget and early movement on environmental and emergency management legislation. City of West Hollywood staff shared planning and economic development updates, including changes to housing approval processes, zoning and parking reforms, a new concurrent Plan Check pilot, leadership appointments, and upcoming City Council priorities affecting wages and the restaurant sector. The Committee also heard a project update on Faring’s Bond Hotel & Residences, reaffirming support for the mixed-use, all-electric development and its contribution to housing supply.
The meeting concluded with a review of the Chamber’s 2025 Legislative Scorecard, reflecting a 71% success rate on state advocacy positions, and a preview of the 2026 political landscape.
Want a seat at the table where policy meets business? Get involved with the Chamber’s Governmental Affairs Committee and help shape local and state issues impacting West Hollywood’s business community. Email admin@wehochamber.com to learn more and to join GAC or any of WHCC’s committees |
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Images used with permission from Brooke Forbes Productions |
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Brooke Forbes is the kind of creative force who reminds us that entertainment can be both fearless and deeply purposeful. A producer, performer, and philanthropist, Brooke brings a sharp sense of humor, bold artistic vision, and a genuine commitment to community into everything she does.
Through Brooke Forbes Productions, she creates projects that live at the intersection of comedy, fashion, and social impact. One standout example is The Stained Red Carpet Charity, Comedy, Gallery & Fashion Show—a high-energy, unapologetically irreverent event often described as Hollywood’s hottest comedy show and runway experience (with a delightfully filthy sense of humor). More than spectacle, the event serves as a fundraiser benefiting Relief Alliance, an organization that provides housing, medical support, and youth programs for underserved communities.
The next Stained Red Carpet event, taking place on February 7, raises the bar even higher. The evening will feature a silent auction of a $1.2 million Van Dyke painting, runway showcases from international designers, and filming by Amazon Prime for an upcoming episode of Gown and Out in Beverly Hills, alongside Patrik Simpson and Pol’ Atteu. It’s a moment that captures Brooke perfectly - ambitious, glamorous, and grounded in giving back.
At her core, Brooke believes creativity is most powerful when it serves something bigger than itself. She carries this value into the ethos of Brooke Forbes Productions, Where Entertainment Meets Purpose. That belief, combined with her entrepreneurial drive and community-first mindset, makes her a standout member of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and a compelling example of how business, art, and philanthropy can move forward together.
We’re proud to spotlight Brooke Forbes and grateful for the energy, generosity, and bold creativity she brings to our community.
Click the button below to secure your tickets to The Stained Red Carpet on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 5:00–10:00 PM, at The Beverly Center, BLVKBOOK Gallery (8th Floor). |
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Leadership Council Luncheons are exclusive to Chamber Members at the Leadership Council level and above. To learn more about membership levels and benefits, visit the Membership Benefits page on our website. To upgrade your membership, please email Jamie Wilson, Membership Manager at jwilson@wehochamber.com.
For questions about the Leadership Council Luncheon or to RSVP, click the link below or email info@wehochamber.com. Thank you!
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Members Orientation is for all Members, not just new to WHCC. This monthly online webinar introduces those who need to learn or get a refresher on how to maximize their membership benefits and Marketing Landing Page. Have any questions before signing up? Email Membership Manager, Jamie Wilson at JWilson@wehochamber.com.
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West Hollywood Restaurant Grant Program Launches Thursday, February 5 |
City of West Hollywood Announcement: February 02, 2026, 4:30 PM
The City of West Hollywood’s restaurant scene is widely recognized for being exciting, diverse, and trendsetting. However, like in so many cities across the nation, West Hollywood’s local restaurants are operating under pressure, making it harder to sustain business. In response, the City of West Hollywood is launching a Restaurant Grant Program designed to support eligible and qualified West Hollywood restaurants with grants.
The Restaurant Grant Program application will open on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 8 a.m. to assist eligible West Hollywood Restaurants with up to $12,500. Grant awards will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis, in the order applications are received, subject to verification of eligibility and demonstrated financial need.
The online application will be available at www.weho.org/business and will close at 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Restaurant Grant Program applicants are required to complete the online program application, submit a written statement describing the restaurant’s current financial position, and upload supporting documentation. Restaurants approved for grant funding must also execute the City of West Hollywood’s Grant Agreement prior to the disbursement of grant funds.
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AMMBI 2026 - UNSTOPPABLE MOMENTUM: POWERED BY MEMBERS. DRIVING GROWTH & CONNECTIONS. |
THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2026 | 8:30 - 11 AM | ANDAZ WEST HOLLYWOOD
At this year’s Annual Member Meeting & Board Installation (AMMBI), presented by Athens Services, we will reflect on the Chamber’s 2025 accomplishments, introduce our 2026 Program of Work, present the Ray Reynolds Award to Genevieve Morrill for their outstanding contribution to the West Hollywood business community, recognize outgoing Board Members, and install our 2026 Board of Directors, celebrating the momentum our members continue to build together.
Your tribute ad is a meaningful way to congratulate Ray Reynolds Award Honoree, Genevieve Morrill, while showcasing your organization’s leadership and commitment to the West Hollywood business community. The AMMBI Tribute Program is shared with community, business, and civic leaders in attendance, and a digital version is uploaded to the WHCC website after the event.
Your partnership helps propel the Chamber’s mission and the collective momentum of our member community. Position your organization at the forefront of the West Hollywood business community. Event Sponsorships and Tribute Ad sales are now open for AMMBI 2026, offering brand visibility, recognition, and meaningful engagement. General admission tickets ($125) available starting February 2, 2026. For more information click the button below or contact Nalani at NSantiago@wehochamber.com. |
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OPEN YOUR DOORS, GROW YOUR NETWORK Become a 2026 Mix & Mingle Host Today!
Hosting a Chamber Mix & Mingle is one of the most impactful ways to maximize your membership and elevate your business within the local community. As a host, your business gains direct visibility with fellow Chamber members, community leaders, and decision-makers, positioning your brand as credible, engaged, and invested in West Hollywood’s business ecosystem. Mix & Mingles are also a powerful driver of relationship-based growth. Hosting creates space for meaningful, face-to-face connections that lead to referrals, partnerships, and long-term business opportunities that extend well beyond the event itself.
Perhaps most importantly, hosting signals leadership. It shows that your business isn’t just participating in the Chamber, it’s helping shape and strengthen the local business community. That visibility and goodwill translate into stronger relationships, greater trust, and a deeper return on your Chamber membership.
We’re now accepting inquiries from members interested in hosting a Mix & Mingle. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase your space, your brand, and your commitment to the community. |
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Email Jamie Wilson, Membership Manager, through the link below with any questions or to claim your hosting spot today! |
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GET BRAND EXPOSURE DOING SOMETHING GREAT THE COMMUNITY! Help Ascencia Continue to Lift Folks Out of Homelessness
Ascencia, the operator for West Hollywood's Holloway Interim Housing Program, is hosting their annual gala on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Oakmont Country Club in Glendale.
The organization is looking for company sponsors and donors to support their event! Sponsorship packages, underwriting opportunities, and tickets are available for purchase now.
They are also accepting donations for their auction and raffle, such as experiences, certificates, or high-end merchandise. Your business could get brand exposure AND support their efforts to lift people out of homelessness!
Contact them at Donate@AscenciaCA.org or click the button ⇓ below. |
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By Vicky Brown | Presented by Idomeneo Inc. Blog More Human, More Resources - HR for Entrepreneurs
26.....7 Pay Periods Next Year
If you’re running a small business and you pay your employees every two weeks, 2026 might hold a surprise: 27 pay periods instead of the usual 26. And while it sounds like a simple scheduling quirk, this small shift could seriously impact your labor costs, cash flow, and employee trust – unless you get ahead of it now. Whether you’re impacted depends entirely on how your payroll calendar is set up – specifically, when your first pay period begins and what day of the week you run payroll. If your first paycheck lands on January 1st or 2nd, and you stick to a Friday pay schedule, you may find yourself issuing 27 paychecks that year. And that means your labor costs go up. Whether you planned for it or not. [Because] It’s not just one more payment. It’s a full payroll cycle – which means wages, taxes, benefit deductions, and any employer match contributions all repeat one extra time. Check out Idomeneo Inc.'s Blog page to find out if this affects your business or not here
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| Beacon Employment Report | California January 9, 2026. Presented by Beacon Economics Latest Numbers Show Job Gains: Housing Shortage Still Constraining Labor Supply; Unemployment Ticks Down. - Monthly Job Gain | 32,500
- Unemployment Rate | 5.5%
- Sep-Nov Labor Supply Growth | 43,200
Since February 2020, the state’s labor force has grown by just 277,500 workers, a 1.4% increase. This trails the nation’s 4.3% growth over the same period. The recent ICE raids do not appear to be having a significant impact on California’s labor force, however the states chronic housing shortage continues to be the greatest constraint to labor supply growth. Read the full Beacon Employment Report here |
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West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Member Workforce Snapshot Survey Help us turn member insight into action. This quick 2–minute survey helps us understand real-time workforce challenges and needs across West Hollywood, so we can advocate smarter and serve you better. Make your voice count—this input drives real results. Thank you!
Survey closes February 16. |
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A Chamber by Any Other Name...
In 1921, city founder Moses Sherman established the Sherman Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the role chambers play in fostering collaboration, growth, and innovation.
Just four years later, after residents voted to rename Sherman, the Chamber followed suit, becoming the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
By 1930, with an eye on regional influence, the Chamber rebranded as the Metropolitan West Chamber of Commerce. But on June 4, 1947, members voted unanimously to return to their roots, restoring the name West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.
One hundred five years, three names, one mission. |
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Used with permission from SUR Restaurant |
Limited tickets available. 606-614 N Robertson Blvd | WeHo
February 8 | 12 - 3 PM | $23.18 Click on the link below to purchase yours now! |
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SUR is hosting its first Mahjong & Mimosa Brunch on Sunday, February 8th, from noon to 3 pm.
Beginners & experts welcome!
Join SUR for a fun in-person gathering where you can enjoy classic mahjong games while sipping on mimosas (or non-alcoholic ones). Whether you’re a pro or just want to learn, it’s all about good vibes, great company, and tasty drinks.
Book a session with a Mahjong Teacher or just come to play! Bring your friends or come solo—the more, the merrier! Don’t miss out on this chill, playful meetup. |
| Valentine's Day at The Henry This Valentine's Day, treat yourself and your special someone to an unforgettable dining experience with our exclusive prix fixe, three-course menu for $85 per person. Carefully crafted to make your evening truly memorable, it's the perfect way to celebrate love.
Optional house or sommelier wine pairings will be available. Please note, our full dinner menu and online ordering will not be available. For any questions, please call 424-204-1595. 120 N Robertson Blvd | WeHo
Reservations Required, use the ⇒ button to the right to make yours |
| Image courtesy of The Henry's website |
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NEW LISTED PROPERTY!
417 Emerald Drive Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
Lake Arrowhead offers a true four-season mountain lifestyle just 90 minutes from Los Angeles, giving you cooler summers, snowy winters, and a real sense of escape. Its private lake, forested setting, and limited access create a peaceful, uncrowded environment that feels exclusive and restorative. It’s the rare place in Southern California where you can unplug in nature without giving up comfort, charm, or convenience. Schedule a viewing today! Listing Agent, Representing Buyers & Sellers ⇒ Steve Valentine, REALTOR DRE #02158227 ⇒ +1-310-489-0017
⇒ steve.valentine@kw.com
⇒ KWBBLA.com ⇒ $1,200,000 |
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Image used with permission from Steve Valentine |
| Photo by Michael Wolf Soriano |
| Sweat Yoga is offering a limited-time New Student Intro at its West Hollywood studio.
First-time students can enjoy two weeks of unlimited classes for $39, regularly $59, with access to infrared-heated yoga in dark, mirror-free rooms designed to help students move inward and reset their routines. Classes feature dynamic music, intentional sequencing, and a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere suitable for all levels. This introductory offer is the perfect way for new students to explore Sweat Yoga’s signature experience and discover a consistent movement practice that supports both body and mind.
Click on the button to the left to redeem the offer, students can use the promo code WEHO39 at checkout. |
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Image used with permission from Cancer Support Community Los Angeles | | Sponsor Cancer Support Community in the LA Marathon!
Your sponsorship helps to provide FREE mental health and wellness services to anyone affected by cancer.
Sponsorship available at various levels, including an opportunity to host our pre-party in your space as an in-kind sponsor! LA Marathon is March 8, 2026
Contact Cristin O'Leary Jones at Development@CancerSupportLA.org with any questions.
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| Acclaimed international dance ensemble Compagnie Hervé Koubi delivers a breathtaking baroque dreamscape with their show Sol Invictus.
Blending classical dance, capoeira, hip-hop, and martial arts, the show’s power comes not only from acrobatics, twirls, and flips that defy gravity, but also from a driving score with music by Mikael Karlsson, Steve Reich, and Maxime Bodson. Muscular and sublime, the dancers move through light and shadow, echoing the chiaroscuro of Caravaggio and the raw physicality of street dance. |
| Photo by Mélanie Lhôte @lmelaniephotography |
Feb 19 – 21 at The Wallis in Beverly Hills. Tickets at TheWallis.org; use the button ⇓ below. |
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To submit promotions, events, or other news for inclusion in an upcoming edition of WeHo Works, or on WHCC's social media platforms (IG, Facebook, &
LinkedIn), please use the WHCC Marketing Submission Form. Be sure to review all submission deadlines and requirements. |
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| West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce
8272 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA 90046 Ph: 323-650-2688 |
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