Greater Phoenix Chamber Impact Magazine - May 2009 by InMedia

Tax Tips

Yes, Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Time to Think About It

IMPACT Awards

Five PR Myths

Special Section

Fact From Fiction

Greater Phoenix Chamber Of Commerce

may.09

Todd Henry, BLS Communications

The

Innovators Chamber Members Make Changes To Weather Tough Times

Member News Calendar of Events Capitol Update

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board of directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chairman Andy McCain Vice President & CFO Hensley & Company Immediate Past Chairman J. Stephen “Steve” Rizley Sr. Vice President & General Manager Cox Communications CHAIR-ELECT & VICE CHAIR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Connie Perez Chief Executive Officer Advanced Reimbursement Management Legal Counsel Anne Kleindienst Fennemore Craig, P.C. Secretary Treasurer Mark Peterson President & CEO UMB, Arizona Vice Chair – PCCD Patricia Lee Refo Attorney Snell & Wilmer Vice Chair Small Business Susan Williams President HR Choice VICE CHAIR Public Affairs Richard “Dick” Foreman Manager of Public Affairs Southwest Gas Corporation VICE CHAIR Community Events Kathryn Murphy President & CEO Corning Gilbert, Inc. VICE CHAIR MEMBER BENEFITS Gil Valadez Managing Director of Sales and Financial Planning Operations Prudential Vice Chair MEMBERSHIP Rick Johnson Principal/Owner Executive Forums VICE CHAIR Audit and Governance Mike Bontrager SW Business Unit President The Weitz Company VICE CHAIR Human Resources David Bruno Vice Chairman/Managing Partner DHR International Executive Committee Members at Large Derrick M. Hall President Arizona Diamondbacks Peter Hayes Manager of Public Affairs SRP Pam Conboy Arizona Regional President Wells Fargo Bank Mr. Steve Wheeler Executive Vice President, Customer Service & Regulation Arizona Public Service Company Richard S. Parker Vice President Sundt Construction Corp.

View the entire list of board members at: www.phoenixchamber.com

Think Differently Resilience. Inspiration. Creativity. Change. These are positive responses to an economy in recession or a career in crisis. Doing just what you’ve always done simply isn’t an option anymore! This month, you’ll read about some Chamber members who are innovating to grow their businesses in an unfriendly economic climate. They may spark some ideas that you can use to help your own business navigate these challenging times. You’ll also meet the 10 finalists for the 22nd annual IMPACT Awards and read about their aspirations and inspirations. I urge you to attend the awards luncheon on Wednesday, May 20 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa to support your peers who truly exemplify all that is great about our business community. You’ll leave with a new attitude toward what the future holds for your own enterprise. As many of you know, this month marks the end of my journey as president & CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce. Just over three years ago, I joined an extraordinary group of people whose goals were to support the growth and development of business, strengthen the quality of life in our community, champion the voice of business in government and keep each other informed, connected and prosperous. I think we have met those goals as a chamber and strengthened our foundation for the future. My thanks to each and every one of you, as well as our staff and board, for working together to sustain this vibrant chamber community. I am proud to have served with you! On May 15, Todd Sanders will officially step into his new role as chamber president. Todd currently serves as our Vice President of Public Affairs and Economic Development and played a significant role in the success we have enjoyed over the last three years. We’ll be introducing Todd to the membership at the Annual Member Reception and EXPO at the Westin Kierland on June 26 — mark your calendars!

Katie Pushor President & CEO Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

May Bulletin Reserve your exhibit space now for the Chamber’s Business Expo on Friday, June 26 at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Scottsdale and be a part of the biggest business event of the summer! Companies of all sizes and from a variety of industries as well as local government purchasing officials will present their products, services and business opportunities during this afternoon of networking and promotion. The day will also include educational workshops before you wind down at the annual Member Reception that evening. Exhibit space is on sale now. 10 x 10 booths are just $450 for Chamber members and $475 for non-members, while table-top displays are $300 for members and $450 for nonmembers. Reserve your space today at www.phoenixchamber.com!

Get Connected Business Expo Friday, June 26 Expo Noon – 4:30 p.m. Member reception 5 – 7 p.m. Westin Kierland Resort & Spa 6902 E. Greenway Parkway Scottsdale 85254 www.phoenixchamber.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Contents

Get up | Get out | Connect

may | 09

Thinking Caps On Business as usual isn’t an option anymore. Todd Henry of BLS Communications is just one member thinking outside the box.

Rick McCartney | Publisher Media Publishers Group, Llc rmccartney@phoenixchambermagazine.com Jody Ryan | Editor-In-Chief Greater Phoenix Chamber jryan@phoenixchamber.com Kenn Tomasch | Editor Greater Phoenix Chamber ktomasch@phoenixchamber.com Lori Baker, Christia Gibbons, Christina Estes, David Lucas, Richard Peitzmeier, Kay Sperduti, Tom Trush Contributing Writers Dan Vermillion, Angela Cook, Kenn Tomasch Photography Stephen Gamble | Graphic Design Louise Ferrari | Operations Manager Dee Dee Hixson, Cami Shore Account Executives

Katie Pushor | President & CEO kspushor@phoenixchamber.com Ron Mcelhaney | V. P. rmcelhaney@phoenixchamber.com

Features 08 | The Innovators When the going gets tough, these Chamber members get going. Find out how a challenging economy presented an opportunity for local businesses to adapt and grow. By David Lucas

11 | Special Section: 2009 IMPACT Awards Each of the 10 finalists for this month’s IMPACT Awards has inspirations and aspirations. Find out what makes them tick – and succeed. By Lori K. Baker

15 | Event Spotlight Reserve your seat at the 2009 IMPACT Awards and help celebrate the best in local business. By Kenn Tomasch

SAVE THIS DATE

Departments 06 Member News News, Notables & Updates

23 A sk Our Members Tap Into Their Expertise

24 Smart Growth Your Web Site as a Recruiting Tool

25 Money Matters

26 Capitol Voice

A Month Full of Events

18 Member Happenings Catching Up With What’s Gone Down

News & Notes From Around the Valley What Makes a Leader?

27 Pro: Files Intercontinental Montelucia Resort & Spa United HealthCare

www.phoenixchamber.com

20 Ribbon Cuttings Celebratory Snips

20 How To: Empower Employees

21 New Members

WWW.PHOENIXCHAMBER.COM

This means Additional information is available online.

On The Cover: BLS Communications President Todd Henry in one of the company’s data centers. Photo by Dan Vermillion.

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Jody Ryan | Director, Marketing & Communications jryan@phoenixchamber.com Katie Campana | Director, Community Relations kcampana@phoenixchamber.com Norma Macias | Director, Member Services nmacias@phoenixchamber.com Daniel Ayala | Director, Bidsource dayala@phoenixchamber.com Debbie Drotar | Director, Business Development ddrotar@phoenixchamber.com 201 N. Central Avenue, 27th Floor Phoenix, Az 85004 P 602.495.2195 • F 602.495.8913 www.phoenixchamber.com Published By

30 First Person

Session Slowdown

Member Resources 16 Events Calendar

28 Greater: PHX

Keep More of Your Money

Todd Sanders | V. P., Public Affairs tsanders@phoenixchamber.com

6360 E. Thomas Rd. Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 p 480.588.9505 • f 480.584.3751 info@mpgcompany.com www.mediapublishersgroup.com

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Impact Magazine is published monthly by Media Publishers Group, LLC. The publication is distributed to membership and made available to prospective members throughout the Greater Phoenix area. We appreciate your editorial submissions and news for review by our editorial department by e-mailing editor@phoenixchambermagazine.com. To subscribe to GPCC Impact Magazine, please send check or money order for $24.00 to Media Publishers Group, P.O. Box 32055, Phoenix, AZ 85064 or call (480) 588-9505. ©Copyright 2009, Media Publishers Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Media Publishers Group and the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce reserve the right to refuse certain advertising and are not liable for advertiser’s claims and/or errors. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Publisher or the Chamber.

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Member News Highlighting achievements, awards, new hires, promotions and notes of interest from our members.

Worth Recording

United Blood Services Executive Director Audrey Jennings, Roseann Walker, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Sr. Manager of Health Promotion and Wellness Alice Kolar and event sponsor, Bank of Arizona President Ryan Suchala. Photo by Dave Tevis.

Giving Is In Her Veins Roseann Walker of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona earned a Hero Award from United Blood Services for ranking among the top one percent of award-winning blood drive coordinators in 2008. Within the 1,468 organizations that sponsored blood drives last year, 244 coordinators earned Valentines for Life awards for reaching significant milestones in recruiting blood donors. Ms. Walker was one of only 17 who qualified for Hero Awards.

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U-Haul has partnered with the U.S. Army Recruiting Command for a unique program that will provide job training to qualified members of the Army who are participating in the Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) Program. Enlistees interested in gaining specific job training and qualifications will receive that training while in the U.S. Army. As part of the enlistment process, recruits sign a statement of understanding of their interest to work for U-Haul upon completion of their term of service. As they near the end of their enlistments, these members of the Army will have the opportunity to interview with U-Haul for a specific job at a specific location.

Pete DeLuca has joined R and R Images, Inc. as Digital Communications Consultant. DeLuca has been in the printing and promotional products industry for the past 17 years. + www.randrimages.com

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They’re Tops! Colliers International-Greater Phoenix has announced its 2008 top Producers and Rookie of the Year. Paul Sieczkowski, SIOR, senior vice presidentindustrial properties, was Paul Sieczkowski Colliers’ top producer in the Greater Phoenix Region. Senior Associate Steve Larsen was named the David L. Hallstrom Rookie of the Year. “We are proud to recognize these individuals who have performed at the highest levels and personify our platform of service excellence,” said Managing Director Bob Mulhern. + www.colliers.com

Kelly Axelsen has joined ExhibitOne Corporation as regional sales manager for digital recording technology. ExhibitOne, a longtime leader in design and engineering for courtroom audio/visual technology, has launched a new digital recording initiative for courtrooms worldwide. Kelly Axelsen + www.exhibitone.com

Nothing Small About This Honor Sitewire Market Place Solutions and The World Egg Bank have been honored by the Arizona Small Business Development Center Network as Success Award winners for 2009. Economic impact factors such as job creation/retention and sales increases helped determine the 14 statewide Success Award winners. + www.theworldeggbank.com, + www.sitewire.net

Equal Honor Honeywell International received the coveted Human Rights Campaign Arizona 2009 Corporate Equality Award for their commitment to fair and equal treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees, consumers and investors. + www.honeywell.com

Happy Audit Grant Thornton LLP took first place in the Public Accounting Report’s 2008 audit rankings. It marks the first time one of the four largest accounting firms has not won PAR’s annual audit ranking. The firm placed third in net gains in SEC clients and net gain revenue, second in net gain assets audited and first in net gain audit fees for 2008. + www.grantthornton.com

Plan B Point B has announced that it plans to convert its privately held firm with approximately 400 associates into an employee-owned company through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The initial transaction was completed in late December 2008 with the goal of majority employee ownership taking place over the next several years. + www.pointb.com

Some of Cramer-Krasselt’s award-winning work for the University of Phoenix.

How Creative! Cramer-Krasselt earned 44 honors - 10 gold, 20 silver and 14 bronze - at the 24th annual ADDY Awards Gala on March 14. The ADDY Awards recognize and reward creative excellence in advertising, and C-K’s work on behalf of its clients (including Chamber members University of Phoenix and Salt River Project) helped the agency dominate the competition for the ninth consecutive year. + www.c-k.com

It’s A Lock! Colliers International-Greater Phoenix has added Tyler Smith and Drew Price as vice president and senior associate, respectively. Smith and Price specialize in the metro Phoenix West Valley office market and will bolster the Colliers team efforts in sale and leasing office condominiums, landlord and tenant representation and commercial land sales. + www.colliers.com

Moving In Brian Guffey has joined Space Solutions as Vice President/General Manager.

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The Innovators Chamber Members Weather Tough Times With New Ideas In this severe recession, companies fighting for a piece of a shrinking pie are changing the way they operate on the fly to withstand the forces that can run them into the ground. Members of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce aren’t known for standing still at any time, especially in the midst of a deluge unlike any most have ever witnessed. Some members have developed new ways of looking at old concepts to make them relevant and help themselves and their customers cope with trying times. This is a look at what three companies are doing to stay afloat. A Bright Idea Consumers are preserving cash during the recession by cutting back on discretionary spending, which has affected restaurants of all pedigree. When the marketing people at upscale Morton’s Steakhouse brainstormed proposals to contend with this trend, someone came up with the idea to open Morton’s during the day for business clientele. That was the dawning of Morton’s By Day. Morton’s two Valley locations stand dark most of the day while preparing for evening diners. Morton’s By Day now offers breakfast or lunch buffets along with several rooms for off-site business meetings and social gatherings. The rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art audio/visual with HD projector, nine-foot drop-down screen and surround sound. Morton’s will even throw in Wi-Fi access. “Now, more than ever, the business community is seeking new resources when planning a meeting,” says Sales Manager John Simich. Morton’s has never offered breakfast menus before and the restaurant has greatly expanded selections to appeal to anyone’s palate. “We’re now able to execute any event at a price point that is both competitive and value-oriented,” Simich says, adding that on most occasions, the group will be the only one using the clublike setting. Morton’s By Day offers businesses an economical alternative to costly off-site meetings, as there are no room rental fees. “It saves on travel expense, especially with the Phoenix location being centrally located to the business community,” Simich says. Morton’s will decorate the rooms according to the function. Morton’s also promotes teambuilding activities such as a “Company 8

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Jeopardy” trivia game specific to the organization. To fully enjoy the Morton’s experience, patrons can also play “Top Chef Challenge,” where they try to guess the secret ingredients in Morton’s dishes. Simich hopes that once business people experience Morton’s, they will return later to enjoy a $99 Dinner For Two special or the Enhanced Power Hour offering $5 Bar Bites and $4 drinks. Guaranteed Satisfaction Internet sites such as Google and Yahoo have created new competition for the trusty Yellow Pages, as more users go online for business information. Compounding the problem for Yellow Pages advertisers are the numerous start-up companies operated by recently laid-off workers. “Unfortunately, not everybody is qualified to own their own business,” says Gregg Wright, advertising consultant with Idearc Media, publisher of Verizon Yellow Pages, Superpages.com and SuperpagesDirect. To differentiate Idearc’s advertisers from other businesses without a track record, Idearc has launched the SuperGuarantee program, a consumer guarantee initiative designed to lower the risk associated with hiring contractors, plumbers, auto repair shops, and other eligible businesses. Idearc Media will work with the consumer and the advertiser to resolve any issues that may arise from a service or reimburse the consumer up to $500. “If something goes sideways and it is not done right, then our company will make it right by either finding a company to finish the job correctly or issue a $500 reward back to the consumer,” Wright says. As consumers use the program, they will be www.phoenixchamber.com

A breakfast meeting at a steakhouse? Food for thought that is paying off for Mortonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

ABOVE: BLS Communications President Todd Henry is wired into the future of his company.

Gregg Wright (right) and Idearc Media believe they can give new assistance to a familiar directory.

www.phoenixchamber.com

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asked to submit user ratings and reviews about the service they received. This will provide more relevant information for consumers while delivering more traffic to Idearc clients. The program is a first of its kind consumer guarantee for the Yellow Pages industry. SuperGuarantee is designed to stimulate new business for advertisers by instilling confidence in their products and services. We Say ‘Yes’ For over two decades, ByteLogic Solutions of Phoenix was all about the telephone. From handsets to private branch exchange (PBX), and from voice mail systems to cell phones, ByteLogic has been a solid player in telephony. But when the recession hit, ByteLogic President Todd Henry knew it was time to take action on a plan that had been noodling in the back of his mind. As the voice and data worlds were combining into an integrated strategy, Henry realized his company might be left behind as technology raced ahead. “Every time somebody would ask, ‘Can you do this for us?’ I was finding more and more times I was saying ‘no’ and we were missing that opportunity,” Henry recalls. “As things started to slow down, we wanted to diversify.” Henry made the leap of faith and hired long-time associate Terry Runion to be the chief information officer of a new division that provides IT solutions and support along with hosted voice mail, e-mail, online storage and video conferencing. Now the company’s mantra is, “If it is technology, we say yes.” ByteLogic’s technology has supersized the capabilities of small to medium-sized businesses and downsized the pricing. “It’s given us the ability to provide enterprise-class functionality at a small business price,” Runion says. “It’s the same system that Fortune 1000 companies use.” “A year ago if you wanted that feature, you would have to buy a phone system and software that would have been very costly,” Henry adds. “We can provide those features that can help increase revenue and productivity without that upfront cost.” For companies that have reduced their IT staff, ByteLogic offers call center overflow support so that customers don’t have to wait long for service. “We can set up their phone system so if a user calls their IT department and if that person is busy, we can set it up to come to us,” Runion says. The key to the successful launch of the division was tapping into ByteLogic’s customer base, finding out what issues were confronting them and figuring out which products and services could help. “We started forming our solutions around that feedback from our customers,” Henry says. “That was huge for us,” Runion adds. “It took a lot of guesswork out of where we are headed during the next five years.” The new division has helped increase the company’s revenues, and eight new employees were hired to handle the increased workload. But the major impact was on employee morale. “It has rejuvenated all the employees who were already here,” Henry says. “We’ve shown our employees and our customer base that we have a solid plan, we have a vision, and when this thing turns around we’ll reap more benefits.” By putting the customer first, these companies are finding the strength to weather the storm with innovative ways of filling the customer’s needs while boosting vital revenues.

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impact awards

Special Section

Impact 2 0 0 9

Awa r d s

A Perfect 10 Ten inspiring business owners show you how to celebrate the best of times even in the worst of times By Lori K. Baker

Bad times can bring out the best in business people. If you don’t think so, meet some of the Phoenix metropolitan area’s most inspiring business leaders of 2009: the 10 finalists for the 22nd Annual IMPACT Awards. Their business backgrounds cover the gamut, from banking to infertility treatments, but they share a common bond: a personal philosophy that allows them to excel, even amidst the bleak economic news that bombards us daily. After all, no one is better than entrepreneurs and business leaders at finding opportunities within a problem, or even a full-blown crisis. So borrow some pages from their playbooks as our 10 finalists share their greatest inspirations, aspirations and motivators. Inspiration Unleashed Many of the finalists had their entrepreneurial spirit sparked at a young age by an influential family member. For Robin Orchard, president/owner of Orchard Medical Consulting, that key person was her father. “In 1984, after working for a trucking company for 20 years, he was diagnosed with cancer and was told he would be lucky to see 18 months,” she

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recalls. “The first thing he did was quit his job and buy a muffler repair shop, since it was always his dream to own a business. The flexibility, stature in the community and independence that muffler shop afforded him made him truly happy.” After fulfilling his lifelong dream, he also beat the odds by living seven more years—and enjoying five new grandchildren. John Eisenhower, Integrity Tree Service president, recalls a grandmother who turned her passion for baking pies into a thriving business that allowed her to support her two young daughters after her husband died. “My grandmother, Nell Petersen, started and ran the successful Patio restaurant in Van Nuys, Calif., and her Patio Pies became legendary,” he says. “Afterward, when the family settled in Arizona, Nell opened

William Hinz Western National Bank

Wayne and Linda Minde Tri-Lite Builders

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the popular Cottage Bakery in Scottsdale, where her Danish pastries again were the talk of the town. I worked in the bakery occasionally as a kid on Saturdays, folding pie boxes and selling behind the counter. When Nell opened that double industrial oven and proudly slid out her pies, cookies and apricot turnovers, I remember, along with the sweat on her brow, the tremendous pride in her eyes.” Bill Hinz, president and CEO of Western National Bank, likewise was inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of his earliest role model, his father. “I grew up as the son of a banker,” says Hinz, who realized at a very young age the power of small business loans to launch and grow entrepreneurial endeavors. “All my idols growing up were his customers—the homebuilders and the entrepreneurs. Today, that local banking relationship is all but gone in Arizona, where 98 percent of our

Anthony Narducci O’Neil Printing, Inc.

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deposits are controlled by out-of-state banks. That’s the void we feel.” And that’s the void Hinz hopes to fill through Western National Bank. Clark Peterson, CEO of Telesphere, credits both his parents and teachers for sparking his entrepreneurial drive. “I believe that desire came from the indelible influence of my parents and teachers who praised me for making a positive difference,” he says. “That constant encouragement motivated me to entrepreneurially look for ways to innovate and improve in a way that benefits other people’s lives. This underlying motivation has carried over into my professional career where I have been involved in the very early startup stages of every company I have worked with. I’ve been fortunate enough to help build them into some of the largest cellular and land line telecommunications companies in the country.”

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What’s the Big Idea? Despite their successes as business leaders, none of our 10 finalists are willing to rest on their laurels. “What’s my BHAG—Big Hairy Auspicious Goal?” asks Dale Walters, CEO of Keats Connelly & Associates, a cross-border wealth management firm. “I’d like to win the Nobel Peace Prize.” Right now, he’s pouring his humanitarian efforts into reducing the incidence of tuberculosis in the impoverished Mexican town of Hermosa as a member of a Rotary International outreach committee. Keats Connelly founding partner Robert Keats shares that humanitarian spirit, with favorite charities such as Save the Family, Habitat for Humanity, World Vision and Ronald McDonald House.

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Anthony Narducci, president of O’Neil Printing, also finds meaning through community involvement in organizations such as Life in Abundance International, Alice Cooper’s Solid Rock and The Grove Bible Church. “It keeps me connected to those in need, and I strive each day to make a difference in the lives of the marginalized among us,” he says. Margie Traylor, CEO and co-founder of Sitewire Marketspace Solutions, aspires to leave her imprint on the world as “an inspiration, role model and mentor for people of all walks of life to help them achieve their dreams.” “With my life experience and guidance, I want to help others break down barriers and find their own greatness,” she says. “I want to inspire everyone I touch to be the best they can be at whatever they pursue. It is a lofty aspiration, but it is what makes me who I am, and I will never give up on it.”

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Behind achievement lies an invisible force called motivation, the driving force that pushes entrepreneurs ahead, even in today’s turbulent times. Motivation can be rooted in life experiences. After years of infertility treatments, Diana Thomas not only found an egg donor who made it possible for her to become a mother, but she founded The World Egg Bank. Today, she says she’s “motivated by compassion, integrity and the energy and commitment to scale a new fertility industry to an international level, to assist as many women as we can to build their families through egg donation.” Motivation also Karen Watts-Edwards can spring up from Advantage Urgent Care commitment to clients, employees and the business community. “A huge motivator is exceeding client expectations and seeing our trade partners succeed in business by patterning their business goals and values after ours,” says Linda Minde, who co-owns Tri-Lite Builders with her husband, Wayne. “At Tri-Lite, we support our employees furthering their professional education. Seeing them obtain certifications and get promoted keeps us (and them!) motivated. I am also heavily involved in mentoring other women entrepreneurs. Watching them succeed is a great motivator and reward.” Or motivation can come from a special love. Karen Watts-Edwards calls herself an “accidental president.” The former physician’s assistant and her husband, Bill Edwards, shared a dream of owning their own business when they opened Advantage Urgent Care in 2002. But four years later, Bill suffered from a traumatic brain injury following complications from a surgery, leaving Karen to head the company on her own. Despite the challenges of suddenly being in the driver’s seat, she says, “My inspiration has been to carry on that dream we shared.” Get Connected Advantage Urgent Care www.advantageurgentcare.com Integrity Tree Service www.itreeservice.com Keats, Connelly & Associates, LLC www.keatsconnelly.com O’Neil Printing, Inc. www.oneilprint.com Orchard Medical Consulting www.orchardmed.com Sitewire Marketspace Solutions www.sitewire.net

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Telesphere www.telesphere.com Tri-Lite Builders www.trilitebuilders.com Western National Bank www.wnbank.com The World Egg Bank www.theworldeggbank.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

Resources G R E AT E R P H O E N I X C H A M B E R M E M B E R

Events Calendar

Member Happenings

Ribbon Cuttings

How To

New Members

Last year’s IMPACT recipients Ginger Clayton (Elontec), Howard Fleischmann, Sr. (with his wife, Pat, Community Tire & Auto Service Specialists), Lynn-Paige (PerfectPower, Inc.) and Greg and Pam Miller (Challenge Charter School). Who will be this year’s honorees? Find out May 20.

Event Spotlight

22nd Annual IMPACT Awards Luncheon May 20 Celebrate the Best in Business For more than two decades, the IMPACT Awards have honored the drive, passion and commitment of the Valley’s best businesses and the entrepreneurs who lead them to new heights. While economy faces challenges, the finalists (see pages 11-14) are living proof that our business community is still strong. Come and support the 10 finalists and see which ones take home the awards for Innovation, Response to Adversity, Community Involvement, Company Culture and the 2009 IMPACT Business of the Year. You can also support the IMPACT Awards and your peers by joining the Chamber’s Friends of Small Business. Your sponsorship will help the GPCC continue to provide programs, education and networking opportunities for small businesses. You’ll receive a table for 10 at the awards luncheon, an invitation to the VIP reception and exposure at the event, online and in print ads. Become a Friend of Small Business and share your confidence, resources and excitement for your peers!

RSVP TODAY! 22nd ANNUAL IMPACT AWARDS LUNCHEON

SAVE THIS DATE

Wednesday, May 20 11 – 11:30 a.m. Check-in 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Luncheon & Program Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa 2400 E. Missouri Ave. Phoenix 85016 Individual Tickets: $65 for Chamber members, $75 for non-members Table of 10: $750 for Chamber members, $850 for non-members

Save The Date! Chamber Events and Programs may 7

MAy 20

June 26

Create a Winning Online Brand Chamber Boardroom

22nd Annual IMPACT Awards Luncheon Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa

Business Expo + Annual Member Reception Westin Kierland Resort & Spa www.phoenixchamber.com

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May 2009 Calendar of Events BUSINESS FOR BREAKFAST

IDEA EXCHANGES

Business for Breakfast events offer the early-bird networker an excellent opportunity to start their day by making valuable business contacts in an energetic atmosphere. Bring your business cards and get your day off and running!

These events, from roundtables to luncheons to special meetings, bring together like-minded business people for conversation, collaboration and education. Expert speakers and interactive educational presentations add to the benefit of the gatherings.

WED

PHOENIX 7:15- 8:30 a.m. Anna Banana Realty 2301 W. Dunlap Ave., Ste 105, Phoenix 85021 mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461 SOUTH MOUNTAIN/LAVEEN 7:15 - 8:30 a.m. Bougainvillea Golf Club 5740 W. Baseline Rd., Laveen 85339 sglueck@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6469 ANTHEM 7 - 8 a.m. Hampton Inn 42415 N. 41st Dr., Anthem 85086 ddrotar@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6483

TUES

Deer Valley 7:15 - 8:30 a.m. Speaker: Gary Mascaro, Deer Valley Airport Mgr. Country Inn & Suites By Carlson 20221 North 29th Avenue, Phoenix 85027 Sponsored by Country Inn & Suites mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461

Sun

Monday

Professional Women’s Roundtable Topic: What Really Matters - A Conversation on Creating Your Success in Today’s Business Environment Speaker: Rena Huber, APS AAAME Program 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 lmiller@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.2194

WED

Phoenicians Luncheon Speaker: Kristin Mayes, Arizona Corporation Commission Chair 11:15 a.m. - 1 p.m. Arizona Country Club 5668 E. Orange Blossom Lane, Phoenix 85018 Membership Required Committee | First time guests permitted for $25. RSVP Required llamorder@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.2195

thur

Back to Business Series Topic: Create a Winning On-Line Brand Speaker: Lori Martinek, Owner and Principal, Presentation Plus 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 nmacias@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6484

THUR

TUE

TueSday

WedneSday

WED

Hispanic Business Leadership Council’s “Bridging the Gap” Luncheon Topic: Cultural Awareness in a Global Business Environment Speaker: Dunora Alba, Corporate Languages, LLC Gloria Peterson, Global Protocol, LLC 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. $20 includes lunch Arizona Club - Chase Tower 201 N. Central Ave., 37 Floor, Phoenix, 85004 mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461

ThurSday

Friday 2

Ambassadors Committee 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Public Affairs Committee Noon - 1:30 p.m.

13 South Mountain/ Laveen Business for Breakfast 7:15 - 8:30 a.m.

SaT

Phoenix Chamber Business for Breakfast 7:15 - 8:30 a.m.

Your Chamber is Your Goldmine 11:30a.m. - 1 p.m.

Under 40 Roundtable Topic: The Importance of Being a Global Citizen Speaker: Courtney Klein, New Global Citizens 7:30 - 9 a.m. Scott’s Generations 5555 N. 7th St. Phoenix 85014 lmiller@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.2194

TUES

Professional Women’s Roundtable 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Green Roundtable 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Green Roundtable Topic: Cost Reducing Solar Options to Impact Your Bottom Line Speaker: Lee Feliciano, CarbonFree Technology 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m. Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 lmiller@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.2194

Phoenicians Luncheon 11:15 a.m. - 1 p.m.

tues

Back to Business Series 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Chamber at Anthem Business for Breakfast 7 – 8 a.m.

Deer Valley Business for Breakfast 7:15 - 8:30 a.m.

IMPACT Awards Luncheon 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona After 5 Mixer 5 - 7 p.m.

Under 40 Roundtable 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Hispanic Leadership Council’s “Bridging the Gap” Luncheon 11: 30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Public Affairs Committee Noon - 1:30 p.m.

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May 2009 Calendar of Events COMMITTEES

GET ORIENTED

SPECIAL EVENTs

Chamber Members have the opportunity to take on leadership roles with important committees that contribute time and energy to enhance the Chamber’s programming. Committees meet regularly for the benefit of members, who come together to discuss important issues and remain connected to each other and to the Chamber.

Okay, you’ve joined the Chamber. Now what? Find out how to make the most of your membership at regular orientation events. Members who have joined the Chamber in the last six months are welcome to attend.

The Chamber offers numerous special events throughout the year. From luncheons to business expos to legislative events, these get-togethers serve to enlighten, educate or entertain while connecting the membership.

THUR

fri

8 22

Ambassador Committee 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. (meets every 1st Thurs.) Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461 Public Affairs Committee Noon - 1:30 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 grushing@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6497

AFTER 5 MIXERS After 5 Mixers provide the perfect ending to the business day and let you make new contacts or renew familiar ones in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. THUR

Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona After 5 Mixer 5 - 7 p.m. The Clarendon Hotel 401 W Clarendon Ave., Phoenix, 85013 mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461 NOTE: Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona events were previously known as Downtown Phoenix: It’s Happening!

wed

Your Chamber is Your Goldmine Facilitated by: Victoria Trafton, Owner – The Referral Institute of Central Arizona 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 mlaw@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.6461

wed

22nd Annual IMPACT Awards Luncheon 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix 85016 events@phoenixchamber.com or 602.495.2182

LEADS CLUBS Leads Clubs are free referral/lead generation groups designed to enhance member businesses. Membership is limited; only one person per industry in each group. Please view the rosters at www.phoenixchamber.com to check availability or contact Debbie Drotar at ddrotar@phoenixchamber.com or (602) 495-6483.

NORTH VALLEY The Black Bear 2410 W. Bell Rd., Phoenix Fridays, 7 a.m.

SOUTHEAST VALLEY Mimi’s Cafe (@ Fiesta Mall) 1250 S. Alma School Rd., Mesa Fridays, 7:15 a.m.

NORTHWEST VALLEY Deer Valley Airport Restaurant 702 W. Deer Valley Rd., Phoenix 85027 Thursdays, 7:30 a.m.

SOUTHWEST VALLEY Bougainvillea Golf Club 5740 W. Baseline Rd., Laveen Wednesdays, 7:15 a.m.

NORTHEAST VALLEY Paradise Bakery 21001 N. Tatum Blvd. Ste. 48-1520, Phoenix 85050 Tuesdays, 7:30 a.m.

CENTRAL VALLEY Radisson Phoenix City Center 360 N. 2nd Ave., Phoenix Wednesdays (except 1st Wednesday) 7:15 a.m. Half Moon Sports Grill (B2B Only) 2121 E. Highland Ave., Phoenix 1st/3rd Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.

LOOKING FOR MORE INFO? Unless otherwise noted, all events are FREE to GPCC members. Remember, you can always find out more information on any event, including speaker bios, directions and program descriptions, at www.phoenixchamber.com. There you can also register for any event or contact us to get answers to any other questions you may have.

Chamber Highlight

Barry Broome of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council spoke at March’s Green Roundtable on the quality jobs available in the renewable energy industry.

Eco-Friends Chamber’s Green Roundtable Is Growing Since its launch in January 2008, the Chamber’s Green Roundtable has become a valuable resource for Valley business people interested in making a positive impact on the environment. “The Green Roundtable has been a good place to gather business professionals with a desire for true sustainability,” said Lynn-Page of Perfect Power.

The group meets monthly to exchange ideas, take part in educational presentations and share new resources. They have learned that keeping financial and environmental concerns in balance works for everyone. “True sustainability practices meld economics, the environment and social equity together so that one does not trump the other,” noted John Schafer of STAPLES. Green Roundtable members have also found that participating in environmental initiatives can cut costs, drive revenues, enhance value and build deeper connections with their customers, employees and other stakeholders. “I love the Green Roundtable,” said Chelsea Brooks-Pfautz of Transact Commercial Furnishings. “Each time I go, I learn something new about our local companies and our city. It has been a great experience for me and relates to my business in so many ways.” The next Green Roundtable meeting is on Tuesday, May 12, and will feature speaker Lee Feliciano of CarbonFree Technologies discussing how solar options can impact your bottom line. Get Connected Green Roundtable Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month Lauren Miller (602) 495-2194 lmiller@phoenixchamber.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Member Happenings Chamber members have the opportunity to attend numerous interesting and exciting events. From luncheons and mixers to expos and professional development sessions, they’re all part of the Chamber experience. Here’s a look at what your fellow members have been up to recently.

Mayor’s State of the City Address 01 | One of the initiatives Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon outlined at his annual State of the City address March 11 was a plan to make Phoenix the “greenest city in America.” 02 | Nearly 900 Valley business people - including these representing KTAR Radio - packed the ballroom of the new Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel for Mayor Gordon’s address. Back to Business: Options to Finance Your Business 03 | Members received good advice on raising capital from Mike Shepston of Wells Fargo Bank, Andy Plattner of Plattner, Scheidman, Schneider and Scott Mahoney of Catalyst Solutions at the March 18 Back to Business seminar. Member Open House

04 | Outgoing President & CEO Katie Pushor gave some new members an overview of the Chamber at the March 18 Member Open House. Professional Women’s Roundtable 05 | The Professional Women’s Roundtable heard from Ania Kubicki of Angles PR, who spoke on “Communicating with the Media using PR.”

sHoWcasinG: meet new suppliers and vendors learninG: attend interactive workshops

exhibit space on sale ! now ting star at $300!

netWorKinG: connect with peers at the annual Gpcc member reception plus, chance to win great raffle prizes!

book your exhibit space today at

www.phoenixchamber.com

friday, june 26, 2009

business

expo expo: noon - 4:30pm annual member reception 5 - 7pm Westin Kierland Resort & Spa 6902 E. Greenway Pkwy in Scottsdale

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www.phoenixchamber.com

Member Happenings “Mix It Up” Mixer

06 | Hundreds of Chamber members enjoyed a lovely evening at the Arizona Center March 24 at the Semi-Annual Mix It Up Mixer with the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau and Downtown Phoenix: Arizona’s Urban Heart. 07 | Chamber Ambassadors Susie Hudson (right) and Russ Gunther and Russ’ wife, Barb, enjoyed the festivities at the Mix It Up Mixer. 07

08 | Chamber Ambassador Betty Davies chatted with Gloria Petersen of Global Protocol, Inc. at the Mix It Up Mixer. The Stimulus Plan: What Does It Mean for Arizona Business? 09 | US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood (center) was the morning keynote speaker at the March 27 event that outlined how the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act will impact the state’s economy. Here he poses with Chamber President & CEO Katie Pushor and Marty Shultz from APS.

10 | More than 400 Valley business people attended the half-day event at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa. They attended breakout sessions on how the stimulus will impact energy, health care, science & technology, transportation and government bids. 11 | US Airways Chairman and CEO Doug Parker addressed the luncheon crowd on “Leadership in Times of Economic Turbulence.” You can download all of the presentations from the half-day event at www.phoenixchamber.com.

WWW.PHOENIXCHAMBER.COM

Join thousands of students across the nation who are taking advantage of an education from the Brown Mackie College family of schools.

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Ribbon Cuttings

How To:

Empower Your Employees Companies in today’s business climate often have to do more with less, and getting the most out of your employees can be the difference between success and failure. An empowered Your employees are less likely to employee is look like this if they’re empowered. an engaged employee, and help an organization run more efficiently. Here are a few tips to empower the people who work for you: Let them participate. Involve your employees in decision-making so they feel there are two lines of communication instead of just directives from above. Ask for suggestions. They will often have good ideas about how to do their jobs. A worker given room for creativity may feel there’s less drudgery to their tasks.

The new BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY OUTLET at Outlets of Anthem had an appealing ribbon cutting. Slip over to 4250 W. Anthem Way in Anthem and see for yourself.

+ www.outletsanthem.com

They were dressed for success at the ribbon cutting for the new COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR COMPANY at Outlets of Anthem at 4250 W. Anthem.

+ www.outletsanthem.com

Reinforce. Employees need feedback – positive and negative – throughout a task’s process, not just at the end. Not hearing anything from higherups can make workers wonder why they bother. Communicate clearly. Confusion – and potentially costly mistakes - can often be avoided if expectations aren’t misunderstood. Trust them to make decisions. An employee who knows you’re not standing over their shoulder ready to second-guess every decision feels more comfortable making those decisions. Mistakes will happen – but show them that they’re a natural part of learning and growing.

ANALYZER’S R’US provides legal nurse consulting and medical professional services, including medical billing, education and consulting.

+ (480) 357-4639

Since We Opened

Delegate tasks and pass out credit. Many unhappy employees feel like they never get to do anything worthwhile and are rarely recognized when they do. Doling out important tasks and sharing success makes everyone feel more connected to your organization. Take an active role in their development. If your employees aren’t growing and learning new skills, your company isn’t going anywhere, either. Encourage professional development, training and education.

“We’ve been thrilled with the community response to our new PETE & MAC’S RECREATIONAL RESORT FOR PETS location on Happy Valley Road,” says Marketing Manager Christina Flanagan. “And we still have vacancies for most summer holidays and weekends!” + www.petemac.com What’s been happening since YOUR business opened? Let us know at editor@phoenixchambermagazine.com.

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Welcome New Members We welcome these businesses who have seen the benefit of becoming a part of our Chamber. A/C and Heating Dealers and Service Cooper Climate Control, Inc. 3215 N. Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85225 (480) 460-7417 www.cooperclimatecontrol.com Accountants - CPA Addingmachine.com 1027 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 943-2060 www.addingmachine.com Advertising - Display, Exhibits and Outdoor Tee Time Media Scottsdale 3146 Lapis Beach Dr. Las Vegas, NV 89117 (702) 612-5821 www.teetimemediascottsdale.com Advertising and Marketing Novel Concept Studio 14239 W. Clarendon Ave. Goodyear, AZ 85395 (623) 308-0282 www.novelconceptstudio.com Advertising and Marketing Consumer Direct Marketing Invention Resource International 60 E. Rio Salado Pkwy., Ste. 900 Tempe, AZ 85281 (480) 248-8424 www.inventionresource.com Advertising and Marketing - On-Line Yodle 1475 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 40 Scottsdale, AZ 85257 (877) 276--5104 www.yodle.com

Toni & Guy Hairdressing 7700 W. Arrowhead, Town Center 1010 Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 487-8200 www.toniguy.com

Contractors - Construction

Financial Services - Planners

Graef Construction, Inc. 7595 W. Carol Ave. Peoria, AZ 85345 (623) 463-1208 www.graefconstruction.con

Phillip A. Stice, CPA, CFP 42104 N. Venture Dr., Ste. B-102 Anthem, AZ 85086 (602) 288-8535

Cabinets and Countertops AZ Complete Cabinet Source, Inc. 20805 N. 19th Ave., Ste. 9 Phoenix, AZ 85027 (623) 581-3285 www.azcompletecabinetsource.com Chiropractors Spine Builder 22849 N. 19th Ave., Ste. 115 Phoenix, AZ 85027 (623) 587-7436 www.spinebuilder.com Churches, Mosques and Temples Phoenix First Assembly 13613 N. Cave Creek Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85022 (602) 867-7117 www.phoenixfirst.org Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools Brown Mackie College 13430 N. Black Canyon Hwy. Phoenix, AZ 85029 (602) 337-3044 www.brownmackiecollege.edu Computer and Software Sales and Service - Data Backup and Recovery Services Information & Communication Systems 10812 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 905-0024 Consulting Services

Fire Protection Contractors - Solar/Sales/ Installation/Dealers Contractors Inc. dba Infinite Electricity PO Box 30852 Phoenix, AZ 85046 (480) 251-8457 www.infiniteelectricity.com Contractors - Welding, Fabrication Arizona Equipment Fabrication, Corp. 3632 E. LaSalle St. Phoenix, AZ 85040 (602) 253-8084 www.azefab.com Couriers and Delivery Services Hot Shot Delivery 236 E. Pima St., Ste. 106 Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 277-4747 www.hotshotaz.com Credit Card Processing Digital Financial Group 1612 Zion Way Chandler, AZ 85249 (480) 282-3981 www.digitalfg.com

Detection Logic Inc. 7310 N. 108th Ave. Glendale, AZ 85307 (623) 565-5708 www.detectionlogic.com Health and Medical Insurance Carriers Nelson Financial Group 8753 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 110 Scottsdale, AZ 85260 (480) 505-1183 www.nelsonfg.com Health Professional’s Association Arizona Association Health Plans, Inc. 2601 E. Edgemont Phoenix, AZ 85008 (602) 254-2731 www.azahp.org Information Technology Reid’s IT 3434 W. Greenway Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85053 (602) 486-8340 www.reidsit.com Insurance Agencies and Brokerages

Credit Unions Arizona State Credit Union 1812 W. Monroe St. Phoenix, AZ 85007 (602) 452-4870 www.azstcu.org

Nationwide Insurance 288 E. Greenway Pkwy., Ste. 104 Phoenix, AZ 85022 (602) 718-1220 www.nationwide.com Interior Design Services

Audio/Video Equipment and Rentals Home Theater Hook-Up 40810 N. Union Trail Anthem, AZ 85086 (623) 551-8054 www.hometheaterhookup.com Beauty Salons Toni & Guy Hairdressing 8617 Metro Parkway West Phoenix, AZ 85051 (602) 943-4555 www.toniguy.com

8 Elements 3470 S. Camellia Pl. Chandler, AZ 85248 (480) 832-3730 www.8elements.biz The Great Game of Business 2025 E. Campbell Ave., Ste. 158 Phoenix, AZ 85016 (734) 718-5659 www.greatgame.com Consulting Services - Computer Jimenez Consulting Solutions 10450 N. 74th St., Ste. 160 Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 237-9233 www.jimenzconsulting.com

Dentist - Pediatrics West Valley Pediatric Dentistry of Anthem 3688 W. Anthem Way, Ste. D-104 Anthem, AZ 85086 (623) 551-2992 www.wvpd.com Dude - Guest Ranch Tanque Verde Ranch 14301 E. Speedway Tucson, AZ 85748 (520) 296-6275 www.tanqueverderanch

Artistic Designs, LLC 8711 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Ste. 219 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (602) 791-9028 www.artisticdesignsllc.com Internet Service Providers Tekconx, LLC 39047 N. Dusty Dr. Queen Creek, AZ 85240 (480) 522-1030 www.tekconx.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Welcome New Members We welcome these businesses who have seen the benefit of becoming a part of our Chamber.

NE W

Investment Services

Real Estate Agents and Brokers

Clark & Associates Financial Services 8151 E. Indian Bend Rd., Ste. 111 Scottsdale, AZ 85250 (480) 429-6555 www.caafs.com

D.L. Jones & Associates Real Estate 42513 N. Cross Timbers Ct. Anthem, AZ 85086 (602) 909-2845 www.therealestateweb.com

Limousine Service

SMC Commercial Real Estate 501 W. Palm Ln. Phoenix, AZ 85003 (602) 332-8506 www.smcrealty.net

Extreme Limousines, LLC 9601 N. 26th St. Phoenix, AZ 85028 (602) 482-8000 www.extremelimos.net Men’s Apparel J. Hilburn Men’s Clothier 5616 E. Yolantha St. Scottsdale, AZ 85266 (602) 402-1611 www.jhilburn.com

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Mortgage and Non-Mortgage Loan Brokers National Mortgage Modifications 4625 S. Wendler Dr., Ste. 111 Tempe, AZ 85282 (866) 753-8057 www.nationalmortgagemods.com Suburban Mortgage, Inc. 2510 W. Dunlap, 5th Fl. Phoenix, AZ 85021 (602) 606-6733 www.submort.com Non - Profit Organizations Health/Education Arizona Chapter National Safety Council 1606 W. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85015 (602) 264-2394 www.acnsc.org Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors Seventh Generation Plumbing 1307 E. Colter, Ste. 7 Phoenix, AZ 85014 (602) 710-7759 www.seventhgenerationplumbing.com Publishers LPI Multimedia, Inc. 8541 E. Anderson Dr., Ste. 103 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (480) 443-7750 www.lpimultimedia.com

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Restaurants - Catering Eye Opener Family Restaurant, LLC 524 W. Hatcher Phoenix, AZ 85021 (602) 861-1468 Taco Bell - #24291 5825 S. 35th Ave. Laveen, AZ 85041 (602) 268-9266 Tom’s Restaurant & Tavern 2 N. Central Ave., One Senaissance Square Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 257-1688 www.tomstavernphoenix.com Security Guards and Patrol Services Elite Show Services, Inc. 2878 Camino del Rio South, Ste. 260 San Diego, CA 92108 (619) 574-1589 www.eliteshowservices.com Veterinary Services Southwest Equine 6001 E. Bell Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480) 998-9460 www.southwestequinemedical.com Video Production Eureka Productions, Inc. 3419 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 253-4082 www.eurekaproductions.com Web Design and Marketing IT Outsourcing Webika Design Innovations 4150 W. Peoria Ave., Ste. 219-A Phoenix, AZ 85029 (602) 358-7803 www.webika.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

Member Experts

Ask Our Members Impact Magazine offers advice from our ‘Member Experts’ to improve your business.

Executive Search

Business Financing

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Q: How do I justify the cost of utilizing a retained search firm during these economic times? A: Financial capital and human capital go hand in hand in creating a successful company of any size, especially in these economic times. In order for a company to attain its strategic objectives it needs to always be ready to do strategic hires. Always get the right people on the bus. Retained search firms have guarantees on their placements, most for at least a year. DHR International guarantees for two years. As your partner in the search process, we sign a non-disclosure agreement so that we may review your business plans to best understand the open position description. We invite you to meet with DHR International to review your human capital needs as you would your banker to review your financial capital needs. David Bruno, Vice Chairman / Managing Director dbruno@dhrinternational.com 602.992.7810 ext. 100

Business Banking

Q: I have a business and was wondering how a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan can benefit my company? A: An SBA loan is a loan that is provided by the bank and is partially guaranteed by the SBA. With an SBA guaranteed loan, the bank can provide you with longer terms on many of its loans in order to help with your company’s cash flow; or a lower down payment on a commercial real estate purchase, to allow you to use your cash for other purposes. And the recent stimulus plan temporarily eliminates guarantee fees for borrowers on certain SBA programs. At National Bank of Arizona, we specialize in SBA lending. Contact us today to find out more!

Lori Stelling, Vice President / SBA Lending Manager Lori.stelling@nbarizona.com www.nbarizona.com 480.756.7113

Q: Where can a company go for a line of credit if the bank says NO? A: If a bank says NO to your credit request, what are your options? The good news is there are alternative finance options, such as factoring. Factoring can provide immediate cash by advancing against invoices. Factoring differs from a bank because factors make funding decisions based on the creditworthiness of your customers; a bank makes credit decisions based on a company’s financial history, cash flow and collateral. Most importantly, a factor makes funding decisions in days or hours-while banks generally take weeks or even months.

Robyn Barrett, Managing Member robyn@factors-southwest.com www.factors-southwest.com 480.947.9340

Your Chamber

Q: I don’t feel like my company is getting enough out of our online presence. How can I improve my business with the Internet? A: The next installment of the Chamber’s Back To Business 2009 Series, “Create a Winning On-Line Brand,” will give you some expert advice on building, promoting and protecting your online brand. Lori Martinek of Presentation Plus will teach you how to leverage the power of the Internet to make your company more visible to prospective customers. The event is Thursday, May 7 in the Chamber Boardroom. It’s included in your Chamber membership, but please RSVP at www.phoenixchamber.com.

Norma Macias, Business Services Director www.phoenixchamber.com 602.495.6484

See Ask Our Members each month in Impact Magazine. To participate in Ask Our Members, please contact our publisher at 480.588.9505. The Q&A advice above is not intended to be specific to any particular individual or business. This information is content provided by each business participant and is not the advice of the publisher or the GPCC. Each space is a paid advertisement intended to solicit business.

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Smart Growth

Marcom Corner Your Answers to Marketing & Communication

Topic: Top 5 PR Myths

Your Web Site as a Recruiting Tool Are You Maximizing its Potential? By Christia Gibbons

Public relations, or PR, is the practice of managing communications between an organization and the public. Since there isn’t a one-size-fits-all PR strategy, confusion exists as to how PR works and how companies can benefit. Andrea Aker of Aker Ink helps sort it out. 01 | Myth: PR and advertising are the same. Advertising consists of paid placement with a controlled message. PR campaigns are persuasive and often communicate messages through third parties, such as news media, which are not paid. 02 | Myth: All PR professionals are publicists. Publicists manage the reputations of individuals or small groups in the media. PR professionals use multiple strategies like media relations, social media, public speaking engagements or crisis communications to reach an audience. 03 | Myth: PR is just about sending press releases. A press release is one tool, but it generally represents a small portion of the strategy behind a multi-faceted media campaign. 04 | Myth: PR professionals distort truth in the news. Lying is not a part of PR. Companies that are found to distort the truth will find it difficult to regain public trust. When working with media, PR practitioners offer story angles that provide a benefit to the news audience. 05 | Myth: Social media doesn’t affect PR. There are hundreds of millions of social media users (on blogs or social networking sites) worldwide, and they have developed a very powerful voice. PR professionals engage in social media to reach these consumers directly, in addition to monitoring buzz about a brand. Get Connected Aker Ink Public Relations www.akerink.com

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Companies seeking new employees are limiting themselves if they don’t effectively use their own Web sites as recruiting tools. “We get more responses from our Jobing.com posting than from our Web site, but we tend to get more experienced and qualified applicants when it comes from our Web site,” says Aaron BlocherRubin, executive director of Arizona Autism United Inc. New Orleans-based online selection/assessment expert Charles Handler says recruiting technology has evolved from just being able to collect resumes to setting up selection and assessment tools. “Where (companies) are starting to focus is on the quality of the candidate and how one candidate differs from another,” Handler says. Beyond sending resumes, candidates can be screened on such things as transportation needs, salary requirements, their values and even their personality, he says. Blocher-Rubin has been recruiting via the Web for two years “There is a Job Opportunities tab that goes to a page that – Aaron Blocher-Rubin, executive director describes the job and how our organization of Arizona Autism United Inc. provides more for its employees than some of the other competing agencies that offer similar services.” He adds: “There is also a link to the Job Description, our posting on Jobing.com, and an online application they can fill out and submit by e-mail.”

“For us, the Web site has to be set up to draw in potential applicants from the moment they land on our home page.”

Get Connected Arizona Autism United, Inc. www.azaunited.org

Make Your Web Site Recruit For You: Allow candidates to click to jobs from your home page n Make use of selection and assessment software n Use social networking, like Twitter, only if it makes sense for your company n

www.phoenixchamber.com

Money Matters

Keep More Of Your Money Think About 2010 Taxes Now By Tom Trush For many business owners, last month’s tax deadline was just another reminder of how much Uncle Sam enjoys taking his portion of your profits. If you suspect you could be doing something to keep more of what you earn, you’re probably right. Here are some early tax tips from Camala Bailey, a Tempe-based CPA who helps clients understand their financials and use them as decision tools: n I f you’re self-employed and have earned

n n

income, you may deduct health insurance you paid on behalf of yourself and your family. ince your automobile is one of your biggest S tax deductions, evaluate the benefits of leasing vs. purchasing and always track your mileage. I f your children are at least 14 years old, you can hire them and take advantage of their lower tax rate. und as much as you can into your SEP IRA F or other retirement plan(s). o be deductible, your home office must be T your principal place of business and used exclusively for business. or missed estimated tax payments, increase F the withholding on your salary to cover the amount needed to eliminate the penalty.

April 15, 2010 may seem far away, but planning for it now can make that date far less stressful for you and your business.

Frequently Forgotten Business Deductions n Dues and subscriptions for media related to your occupation n Travel expenses related to seminars and conventions n Credit card and bank charges n Telephone and Internet expenses n Office expense and supplies n Postage n Advertising

Get Connected Camala C. Bailey, CPA, PC www.bizgal.com

A Word About Safety From SCF Arizona As temperatures in Arizona begin their annual rise, everyone must be vigilant to prevent heatrelated safety concerns. Recognizing symptoms can help prevent serious injuries. Heat stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. It is marked by a swift rise in temperature, skin that is hot and dry (no sweat), chills, hallucinations, confusion and slurred speech. Older workers or those with high blood pressure are prone to heat exhaustion, the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt (usually through sweating). Symptoms include heavy sweating heavily, weakness or fatigued, nausea, muscle cramps and fast and shallow breathing. Heat cramps can affect those who sweat profusely through strenuous activity. This depletes the body’s salt and water levels, causing painful cramps. If the worker has heart problems or if the cramps do not subside within an hour, seek medical attention immediately.

Recognizing heat-related illnesses early can keep risks low even as the mercury rises. In all cases, move the person to a cool, shaded area, give them fluids and seek assistance. When it comes to worker safety, the Chamber reminds you that even if you have just one employee, you’re required to have workers’ compensation coverage. When you obtain such coverage through SCF Arizona and also enroll in the Chamber’s safety program, your organization qualifies for a 10 percent discount on premiums. You may also be eligible for an additional yearend bonus safety dividend from SCF Arizona.

Get Connected Ron McElhaney (602) 495-6486 or rmcelhaney@phoenixchamber.com

Sales Iq Topic: Managing Your Sales Team Sales IQ is a bimonthly column with sales tips from your fellow Chamber members. Richard Peitzmeier, director of sales for SCAN Health Plan Arizona, has advice on keeping things simple. The attitude you present is like the clothes we wear: it sets the tone for our success each day. When the economy is presenting challenges, it’s easy to get into a negative cycle that can impede successful sales encounters. So how does the sales professional keep their spirits up when everyone seems to want to drag you down? n S urround

yourself with the positive. Just like we are what we eat, we project what we feed our mind. Each day start off with a positive mantra and an affirmation that today you will find success in your sales process.

n D esert

the negative. Sales professionals have no time to lament the day’s problems. They instead relive successes - even on your worst day, something good happened. Nothing is ever gained by commiserating with a negative influence. Avoid the naysayers like the plague.

n D evelop

a work time and play time schedule. Work hard during the former and play in the latter. Don’t intermix and don’t forget your family and loved ones.

n C elebrate

your successes. This mentally reinforces the success process.

take good physical care of yourself. Eat healthy foods and exercise. Physical activity is not only good for your health, it is also an excellent stress reliever.

n L astly,

Take this opportunity to stand out. It’s easier to be noticed now because the field of successful sales professionals narrows in tough times. Take this chance to get into the spotlight of success. Get Connected SCAN Health Plan Arizona www.scanhealthplan.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Capitol Voice

Session Slowdown No Progress Without A Budget The state budget has overshadowed all the proceedings at the 49th Legislature, with no bills being heard by the Senate while a budget for fiscal year 2010 is still being hammered out.

Worth Noting

Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong of the People’s Republic of China with Chamber President & CEO Katie Pushor.

COMING TO AMERICA: Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong of the People’s Republic of China visited the Chamber March 25 for a roundtable discussion with local business leaders. Zhou, who has been Ambassador to the United States since 2005, heard from the assembled business people that Arizona will begin recovering from the recession by early next year.

Through the first 78 days of what should be another marathon session (the 2008 session went 166 days, to June 27), a total of 1,099 bills were posted. As of press time, there had been very little movement on any bills, including some key legislation the Chamber’s Public Affairs Team has been monitoring. Those bills include: n A package of worker’s compensation bills (HB 2200, HB 2198, HB 2199 and HB 2422) has successfully passed out of committee. The bills are all awaiting further action from the House, their final hurdle before being sent to the Senate. n HB 2073 (Equalization Property Tax Repeal), has also passed out of committee, and is also awaiting further action from the House. n Another bill the Chamber has been actively endorsing, HB 2401 AROC (Administrative Rules Oversight Committee), passed out of the House on March 11 and is one of the few key bills ready for the Senate when that body begins to hear them. HB 2401 AROC would establish an oversight committee for purposes of reviewing any and all regulations established by any agency to ensure that it conforms with statute and legislative intent. It would act as a “checks and balances” 26

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mechanism, ensuring the agency rulemaking process has an oversight system in place. n HB 2324 (which some have called “Mandate Lite”) would allow employers to offer a “lite” or stripped-down package of more-affordable health care benefits to their employees. The Chamber supports this bill strongly as it should decrease the number of uninsured Arizonans and relieve the stress on the state’s health insurance system. The bill passed out of House Rules on March 24 and is also awaiting further House action. As in each session, the Public Affairs Team actively monitors and supports these bills and more (you can visit the Bill Tracker at www.phoenixchamber.com/educate to follow their progress). Once a budget is passed, progress can be made on important legislation. Get Connected Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs (602) 495-6497 or www.phoenixchamber.com

Myra Irizarry

WELCOME ABOARD: Myra Irizarry joined the Chamber’s Public Affairs Team April 1 as Public Affairs/ Economic Development Specialist. Myra comes to us from the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona, where she was Deputy Director and lobbyist. She has also worked as a Program Project Manager at the University of Texas and was Special Assistant to Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

www.phoenixchamber.com

Pro: Files

Paradise Isn’t a World Away Resort Brings European Elegance to the Valley By Kay Sperduti Getting away takes on a whole new meaning at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley. “When you enter,” said Valeriano Antonioli, Managing Director, “your only connection with being in the United States is the television. If you don’t turn it on, you’ll think you’re in Europe.” Situated in the foothills of Camelback Mountain on the southeast corner of Lincoln Road and Tatum Boulevard, the 34-acre resort opened in November. The property features 293 guest rooms, five pools, a number of dining choices and bars (including the signature restaurant Prado), the Joya Spa and 34 private villas. Antiques imported from Spain are visible throughout the resort. Influences from Andalusia, Tuscany and Morocco are seen in the colors, architecture and decor. Although the Montelucia is known for its ambience, luxury and big name appeal (none bigger than the country’s 44th President, who

A piece of Europe is nestled in the foothills of Camelback Mountain.

visited in January), Antonioli has his sights set on being adopted as a destination by locals. The business community will find private board, dining and conference rooms with plenty of indoor and outdoor reception space. A private wedding chapel offers a unique gathering place for 10 to 1,000. Quiet courtyards are a perfect place to enjoy coffee, wine or homemade gelato from Crave Café – especially designed for locals to eat and meet.

A Healthy Future Technological Advances are Key to Better Health Care By Christina Estes

United Healthcare’s Western Region CEO explains the future of health information technology by comparing it to an ATM transaction. “You use an ATM card in Hong Kong, and dollars are immediately withdrawn from your U.S. account,” says Benton Davis. “It happens because of the interconnectivity within the banking system. We don’t have that interconnectivity in the health care industry.” Not yet, but United Healthcare is a leader in technology. Its 1.35 million Arizona member have online access to claims, lab reports, physician notes and medications. “It allows you to update with self reported information,” he says. “And it allows you to dictate and govern who gets access.” The Obama administration wants to see medical records move

Get Connected InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa www.icmontelucia.com

from paper to computers. Davis says it will cost upfront, but save down the road. “There’s a lot of waste in health care because a lot of components don’t talk to each other,” he says. “Let’s say you’re in the ER complaining of chest pain. That ER doctor has to order an MRI. What if you just had an MRI a month ago? Wouldn’t it be nice to have that doctor go to a computer, pull down the United Healthcare’s Western MRI and see there’s nothing there?” Region CEO Benton Davis Davis says investing in secure looks to the future. technology will help doctors avoid redundancies and overprescribing and guarantee less defensive medicine. Davis is grateful that providers, patients, employers and advocacy groups are working together with the insurance industry to improve health care in Arizona.

Get Connected United Healthcare www.unitedhealthcare.com

www.phoenixchamber.com

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Greater: PHX

Anthem Business Owners Band Together By Tom Trush

The economic challenges facing Anthem’s business community are now a little easier to manage thanks to a renewed focus on local commerce. In August 2008, several business owners combined resources to create Live Local Shop Local, a campaign designed to increase awareness of Anthem’s shopping and dining venues to area residents. “LLSL recognizes that a strong business community supports and energizes the fabric of life in all of Anthem,” said Dr. Y.M. Chen, one of the group’s founders and president of Chinese Health Center in Anthem. Currently, about 70 local businesses have joined the campaign and display LLSL window and car decals. The members meet the third Monday night of every month for a business barbeque. All businesses, whether locally or corporate owned or managed, are represented in the Online at Anthem directory. Visitors can use the Web site to find local retailers and coupons. Get Connected

Two Arizona Nonprofits Partner to Establish an Arizona First Hacienda HealthCare, a provider of diversified healthcare for individuals with special needs, is establishing the state’s first group home and vocational/prevocational program for young men with autism spectrum disorders. The group home will provide care and training for six young men who will learn how to live independently or semi-independently in the community. “This program will allow them to receive their prevocational skills and vocational training in a non-judgmental environment,” said Staci Glass, director of marketing and development at Hacienda HealthCare. “It will allow them to approach future employers with a recommendation letter from HHC that specifies the training they received and the skill sets they have gleaned from their experience.” HHC is collaborating with Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center to provide applied behavior analysis training for the staff as well as ongoing training and consultation services for program participants who have difficulty with the residential, prevocational and vocation programs. If you know someone who could benefit from this program, contact Marla Herrick at mherrick@haciendahealthcare.org or 602.920.0740. Hacienda HealthCare was one of the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce’s 2009 Spirit of South Mountain Award recipients. Get Connected

Hacienda HealthCare

Live Local Shop Local

www.haciendahealthcare.org

www.onlineatanthem.com

Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center www.autismcenter.org

Community: Superstition Springs Valley Metro Breaks Ground on Superstition Springs Center Transit Center Construction on the Superstition Springs Center Transit Center signaled the start of Valley Metro’s first-ever construction project, which focuses on facilities and street improvements for a new bus service that began with the grand opening of METRO light rail on Dec. 27, 2008. The new bus service, called Valley Metro LINK, travels a 12-mile corridor with stops every half-mile in downtown Mesa and every mile outside of downtown. LINK operates in 63-foot-long, environmentallyfriendly buses, extending the METRO light rail service from the Sycamore Transit Center to Superstition Springs Mall. In addition to construction on the transit center, 26 LINK stations are being built along Power Road and Main Street in Mesa. The transit center and LINK stations are funded by Proposition 400 money, the countywide half-cent sales tax increase approved by voters in 2004. As a part of the new transit center design, a driveway cutthrough was provided for bus operations that saves bus miles and provides an operational savings in excess of $100,000 per year.

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According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, for every $1 billion of federal spending on highway construction nationwide, 47,500 jobs are generated. Using that formula, there could be as many as 351 jobs generated annually from the Valley Metro construction projects.

An artist’s rendering of a future stop for the new Valley Metro LINK bus service.

Get Connected

Valley Metro www.valleymetro.org

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First Person Profile The Valley’s business community has a story to tell. We asked them to do just that.

What Makes a Leader? “When a person becomes a leader, it’s no longer about him or her or any personal agenda. It now becomes about the employee. The first person that I tried to emulate was my dad. He never got upset about anything, and he had a way of getting people to do what was needed. There’s a mantra that I believe in: you get what you expect to get. You hear ‘I treat everybody the same.’ You cannot treat everybody the same, because we’re not all the same. You need to set expectations – almost like raising your children. You have to set the bar and make them accountable. Communicating via email has, to me, really detracted from what I think leaders and managers ought to be doing. You need to talk to people face-to-face. Vince Lombardi understood that one great person on a team could not make that team go. He was a very outgoing, in your face kind of coach – but he also understood the human spirit. If everyone’s energy is focused on the same objectives, then you’re going to be a winner. You can’t beat people up to try to motivate them. If you go at them from the human side, you get more motivated employees, happier employees and greater productivity.”

Kelly Lambert Former Master Sergeant, US Air Force (ret.) Lambert’s Leadership Consultancy www.lambertsleadershipconsultancy.com

Have An Inspirational Story To Tell? Let us know about it. Send your ideas to editor@phoenixchambermagazine.com. 30

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www.phoenixchamber.com

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