LOS ANGELES WORLD AIRPORTS SEEKS COMMUNITY INPUT FOR DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL BUSINESS AND JOBS CENTER

(Los Angeles, California – April 12, 2001) The Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) Small Business and Job Opportunities Division is seeking input from the local community on the development of its Small Business and Jobs Center. The center is designed to provide access to small business and job opportunities at LAWA’s four airports: Los Angeles International (LAX), Ontario International, Palmdale Regional, and Van Nuys.

The event will take place on Wednesday, April 18, at 7:30 a.m. at the Proud Bird Restaurant located at 11022 Aviation Boulevard adjacent to LAX. Attendance is free and pre-registration is required.

"We think it is important to hear recommendations from the community about their expectations for the center," said Lydia Kennard, LAWA executive director. "We want to develop a center that is beneficial to and provides the necessary information to small businesses and job seekers that may help them secure contracting or job opportunities."

The half-day program will consist of two workshops that include presentations and panel discussions. The first workshop entitled "Designing a LAWA Small Business Program" seeks to increase the level of information available to local small businesses regarding contracting and procurement opportunities. The second workshop entitled "Designing a LAWA Job Opportunities Program," seeks to develop linkages between job seekers and the nearly 300 employers at LAWA’s four airports.

For further information, contact the LAWA Small Business and Job Opportunities Division at (310) 417-6490.