Rumors of the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce’s death, much like the premature ones of Mark Twain’s, were apparently greatly EXAGGERATED. (And I was just preparing an extensive, encyclopedic and entertaining eulogy, with lots of material from the JL Report & FBI documents.) NOT SO FAST! The new leadership reached your humble editor on the phone, and sent me this press release. I’ll be adding a lot of details a little later, but a city the size of Anaheim sure needs an honest Chamber, and here’s what the new leaders have to say:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28, 2025
New Generation of Leadership Takes the Helm as Anaheim Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 130th Anniversary with New Era of Innovation, Energy, Transparency, and Community Engagement.
Chamber’s New Board of Directors Unanimously Rejects Closure.
[Wow, one hell of a title! – ed.]
ANAHEIM, CA — Today marks the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce’s 130th anniversary, and the organization also reaffirms a critical message to the business community: The Chamber is not closing. The Chamber is here to stand for business and will innovate to find more ways to serve the business community and grow Anaheim’s dynamic economy.
For the first time, millennials are now leading the chamber. Dara Maleki has been appointed to lead the organization as Interim President & CEO of the Anaheim Chamber. Maleki, a respected Anaheim small business owner and energetic community advocate, will guide the Chamber through a transparent transformation process focused on accountability, small business support, and long-term sustainability.
Michael Johnson has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors. Johnson, a well-regarded Anaheim business leader, has brought innovative leadership and growth as the Board Chair for a number of organizations in Anaheim and Orange County.
“We thank Jerry Jordan for coming out of retirement to volunteer to serve this past year as President and CEO,” said Johnson. “With Jerry’s tenure complete, the Board now takes a new approach and a new direction for the Chamber, so that’s why the Board was unanimous in voting to keep the Chamber open and to bring in a new generation of leadership.”
To ensure a more nimble Chamber, the Board voted to explore reorganization options that would allow the Chamber to right-size its operations, address outstanding obligations, and refocus its programs on the needs of Anaheim’s diverse business community—especially its small and independently owned businesses.
“Let me be absolutely clear: the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce is not closing. Instead, we are forging ahead to be a leading Chamber of the 21st century,” said Maleki. “We are entering a period of renewal—rebuilding trust, listening to our community, and creating a Chamber that works for all of Anaheim.”
The Board also passed a resolution to end all association with the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC) and formally requested the Chamber’s name be removed from all PAC branding and future activity. The Board initiated the restructuring of the Chamber’s 501(c)(3) foundation to ensure it is focused on creating measurable impact for Anaheim’s business community, with clear governance and community-focused initiatives.
Contrary to previous erroneous reports, the Chamber remains open and active: hosting events, providing services, and engaging members across Anaheim. In fact, the organization is expanding opportunities for members to come together, connect, and co-create the Chamber’s future.
The Anaheim Chamber invites business owners, entrepreneurs, and civic partners to be part of this moment of transformation. Whether you’ve been a longtime member or are looking to join for the first time, now is the time to get involved.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to look forward to a Chamber that will strengthen Anaheim for decades to come,” said Johnson. “We’re not turning back to the past, and we’re not closing—we’re showing up for the future. And we’re inviting everyone in Anaheim to join us as we build something better, together.”
Just some of the upcoming Anaheim Chamber events include:
- May 2 – Good Morning Anaheim at Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles
A morning of updates, networking, and local flavor with Anaheim’s business leaders.
- May 14 – Leads Lunch at Walnut Village
Build your referral network and discover new business opportunities in a supportive, informal setting.
- May 15 – CBA Mixer & Business Expo hosted by Anaheim Chamber
The Anaheim Chamber is proud to host May’s Chamber Business Alliance Mixer & Business Expo at Golden Road Brewing!
Here’s your opportunity to expand your network by meeting with attendees from 9 local chambers.
- June 6 – Anaheim Chamber Luncheon at Angel Stadium
A marquee community tradition bringing together sports, business, and civic pride.
Visit www.anaheimchamber.org to learn more, become a member, or get involved. For questions, reach out to info@anaheimchamber.org.
Who is remaining on the board?
Good Lord. Michael Johnson, the useless lchipmunk who made me build a door in Nelson’s office to keep out?
Next time you see the little rodent ask him if he ever worked for Harry Sidhu.
And ask him what on Earth he ever accomplished to be called a “respected business leader.” He slimed around local Repuglican political campaigns.
David, I worked with you for years on the 5th floor. I’ve also read your posts for many years both here and FFF. In all those years I’ve always shown a level of respect and agreement with much of what you’ve shared. My desire is for Anaheim to heal and for its red, blue, purple, chipmunk or Repuglican leaders to work together where we can. Your advice is welcome… insults and all. Shoot me a note at (562) 537-9063