TEMPE CHAMBER
Advantage Chamber’s Leadership Strengthens Community By Mary Ann Miller, President/CEO, Tempe Chamber of Commerce I was giving a short tour to a colleague from California a while ago. We drove down Rio Salado Parkway and Apache Boulevard, went past Tempe Marketplace, ASU and the Biodesign Institute, stopped at Tempe Town Lake and strolled down Mill Avenue. I told him about projects under way and described those planned. At the end of an hour he turned to me and said, “Wow! You really like your community!” Not only do I like it, I’m proud of the impact the Tempe Chamber has had on the community over the years. It’s our job to create a strong local economy, represent the needs of businesses before government, promote Mary Ann Miller, President/CEO, the community and Tempe Chamber of Commerce provide networking opportunities. We’ve been at the forefront of many issues and have worked hand-in-hand with our partners at the City, the Tempe Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Tempe Community to position Tempe as a leader in one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country. Among our many accomplishments: • Tempe Leadership was started in 1984. More than 400 graduates have gone on to lead businesses, serve on nonprofit boards and city commissions and be elected to public office. • The Chamber was a forerunner in the state by dedicating a committee in the early ’90s
Continued on T.C.A. 6
Te m p e C h a m b e r. o r g
Jan. – Mar. 2O11 • tempechamber.org
Staying Ahead of the Curve: Forging policies so you can mind your business
By Mary Ann Miller, President/CEO, Tempe Chamber of Commerce
L
ocation, location, location. Just like buying a house, deciding where to have your business is a major consideration. You look for obvious factors like visibility and a good customer base, adequate transportation and a qualified work force. You personally want a good quality of life, with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools and cultural activities. And when you open your doors to your business, you want to concentrate on making it a success. You need someone to look out for your interests, and that’s where the Chamber comes in. Eighty-six percent of Tempe Chamber members are businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Few have the time and staff to track what government is doing that may affect the future of their business. They discover regulatory challenges only when presented with them. Key to our mission is representing businesses before government, creating the environment where you want to work and live. “The Tempe Chamber keeps me up to date on issues affecting my business locally, regionally and nationally,” says Steve Bauer, Development Partner in The Kinetic Companies and Chairman of the Tempe Chamber Board of Directors. “As a small business owner, I don’t have the time or staff to track or testify on legislation. The Chamber’s proven influence in business advocacy allows me to concentrate on growing my firm.” Our advocacy cycle actually begins over the summer. Our Government Relations Committee surveys businesses, brings in guest speakers and researches issues of concern to the greater business community. We seek out solutions to ease business operations and listen for movements to lay burdens on business. We look at what’s working well;
what needs to be fixed; and what needs to be communicated. From this information, the committee develops recommendations for the Chamber’s Local, State and Federal Agendas. These recommendations are then discussed by our Board of Directors, who set the policy for the Chamber. Topics ranging from education to transportation to the economy create the guidebook for our advocacy efforts. Armed with our Legislative Agenda, Tempe Chamber staff can analyze bills to see if they fall under its tenets and advocate accordingly. We partner with other organizations both to make our voice stronger and to forge workable compromises. And we spend a lot of time explaining to elected officials how well-meaning legislation can negatively impact businesses. Each year, more than 1,000 bills, resolutions and memorials are taken up by the State Legislature. The City Council looks at dozens of issues each month. Congress folds a myriad of issues into a single bill. With new elected officials and budget challenges at all government levels, the decisions made in the next year will have a huge impact on the way you do business and your quality of life in the future. The Tempe Chamber of Commerce urges government to strive to further streamline processes, implement policies that allow business to flourish and provide maximum service with minimal costs to the taxpayer. We will work to foster a climate of growth, development and high wages. And we are committed to helping communicate policies and programs to businesses, so that they can make appropriate management decisions and take advantage of every opportunity available to them. We watch out for your interests so that you can work on your business.
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d va n ta g e
1
Success Stories
One of our main goals at the Tempe Chamber is to ensure the success of our members. We’ve consistently done so by fostering an economic climate that ensures that all businesses enjoy a progressive environment in which to grow. We asked some local businesses to share their experiences with us and talk about the successes they’ve enjoyed.
Clark Peterson
R.J. Orr
CEO, Telesphere • telesphere.com
VP of Sales, bluemedia • bluemedia.com
What was the moment when you felt your company went from good to great? I believe it was when it became evident to me that our No. 1 value of “Wow the customer” was instilled in our employees. Their daily interactions with customers became evidence that this belief and desire was instilled in them. This translated into larger and larger customers being able to be handled in a way that exceeded their expectations, and it is this employee attitude and action that I attribute to making us one of the top 10 fastest-growing companies in Arizona.
What was the moment when you felt your company went from good to great? For me my “aha” moment came when I realized that bluemedia had become a brand and a company that could stand on its own independently of those that worked for the company. It is a great feeling to have helped build a company that for so long was known for and recognized by the people that worked at the company. And that at some point things changed and the company became bigger than us. It is a great feeling to tell people that I work at the company and they have no idea that I was one of the people that started it.
Tell us about a business success you’ve had and how you benefitted from it. We recently added to our customer list the largest advertising agency in the world. Although Telesphere has unprecedented features and services, the one attribute that the customer most appreciated was calling our support and immediately getting a live person each time they called. It was a clear reminder that despite all the technological advances, the real moment of truth comes down to that interface with the customer, and that is how we are most significantly measured.
Tell us about a business success you’ve had and how you benefitted from it. When bluemedia started all we really had was our work ethic and our relationships gained as a result of that hard work. As we have grown and become a leader in our industry we have not lost that fire for increased relationships in every vertical that we do business in. Our relationships have given us the opportunity to be successful, and the Chamber has been an important part of that success. Through that process we have learned that all relationships are important and that you never know where your next best referral will come from.
How have you used the Tempe Chamber to help your business? The Tempe Chamber was very strategic to our initial entry into the Arizona market. They were not only a great business partner to help us navigate the Arizona waters of key introductions and recommendations, but soon became a Telesphere customer and were a tremendous example of what new technology can do to make a business more cost-effective and productive. Your reputation and credibility is clearly influenced by those you hang around, and being associated with the Temple Chamber has been great company to keep to further our own reputation and image in Arizona.
How have you used the Tempe Chamber to help your business? In a word, connections. Since the moment we became involved with the Chamber we have been connected with a multitude of businesses around the community. Some we have collaborated with, some have turned into clients and others have turned into friends. I am a firm believer in that you are as good as your network, and the more solid people you can add to your network the better. Prospects love third party verifications, and if you can structure your network in such a way that you continue to grow your business through referrals you will never have to make another cold call again.
Here’s what other companies have to say about the Tempe Chamber. “Joining the Chamber when we first moved to Tempe was the best way to be part of the community. The staff and members welcomed us with open arms and really made us feel right at home. Also, the leadership opportunities have helped me personally and I have enjoyed getting to know and learn from the staff, other members and businesses that participate. This has been the most fulfilling membership that my business has been involved with and I would highly recommend the Chamber to any business owners.” Kristine Kassel, RHU President, Benefits by Design
2
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d v a n ta g e
“The Tempe Chamber crafts powerful, well-planned, cohesive public policy and consistently strives to ensure that the needs of the business community are being met. They work closely and cooperatively with the City of Tempe to best represent their membership and are a wonderful asset to the community of Tempe.” Amber Wakeman City of Tempe
“Joining the Tempe Chamber was the best decision we ever made. At almost every function, committee meeting or luncheon someone will come up to me to let me know that they have just booked someone at the hotel or they have someone coming in soon that will be staying with us. By staying active in the Tempe Chamber you are always current on what’s going on in the business community and the city of Tempe.” Pat Thielen, C.M.P. General Manager, Twin Palms Hotel
Benefits of Membership By Renee Lopata
The Tempe Chamber recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, quite a milestone for any organization. But what set Tempe and its chamber apart is its innovation, diverse membership and willingness to adjust and change with the times. There is no better time to become involved than now. The opportunity for business growth, professional development and leadership skills are all a part of what the Chamber provides. Networking has been a top priority for our members, and the Tempe Chamber provides three monthly events to help our members make those connections. • B usiness Before Hours Mixer: Members give a 30-second commercial about their business (free for members). • Business After Hours Mixer: Held at local restaurants, hotels and favorite nighttime locations, this mixer is more social in nature and provides networking in a relaxed environment (free for members). • Networking @ Noon: A “speed dating for networking” luncheon that averages between 40 and 50 members and broadens the reach
and contacts our members are looking for in a high-energy and fun atmosphere. • With more than 1,500 in attendance at these networking functions annually, members can build the relationships that grow their businesses. The Chamber provides professional development for our members through our committees, educational programs and Tempe Leadership. The Chamber has a variety of committees that appeal to a wide range of personal and business interests. Open to all members, this helps the Chamber receive input in developing programming relevant to our members. All committees are open to our members and are sure to appeal to any business or individual. Committees include: • Ambassadors • Business Resource Advantage • Government Relations and Transportation • Military Affairs • Tempe Links Classic • Women in Business Council • Business Excellence Awards
Since 1985, more than 400 men and women have graduated from the Tempe Leadership program. Each class consists of a diverse group of individuals from the business community, the City of Tempe, community volunteers and nonprofit organizations. Tempe Leadership is a nine-month program that teaches participants about the strengths, needs and challenges facing Tempe. Education abounds in many forms at the Tempe Chamber. Monthly Hot Topics and Lunch speakers give pertinent and timely information on current trends and issues. Free programs like The Whale Hunters seminars and committee guest speakers give members added value and education as a part of their investment. Guest articles in the monthly Business Advocate along with the Chamber’s blog give members access to information when they need it. The Chamber offers medical insurance and workers’ compensation discounts, identity theft protection, Pre-Paid Legal discounts and a representative from S.C.O.R.E (Service Core of Retired Executives) to answer your business questions. Advocacy plays an important role at the Tempe Chamber, from our Government Relations and Transportation Committee actively tracking legislation that will impact business to our staff lobbyist working on behalf of the Tempe business community. The Chamber takes care of local, state and federal politics so you can take care of business. As a member of the Tempe Chamber, your employees have access to all the Chamber has to offer. Whether it is becoming involved in a committee, attending a seminar or participating in networking activities, the Chamber is a vital tool to develop, motivate and improve your staff and business. For more information, contact the Tempe Chamber at (480) 967-7891 or www.tempechamber.org. Renee Lopata is Senior Vice President of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce.
As members of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, you and your employees have access to exclusive discounts and programs. Through a variety of partnerships and affiliations, we are able to provide our members with discounts on health insurance, legal services, identity theft protection, workers’ compensation and more, as well as provide access to educational programs and services. Visit tempechamber.org to take advantage of these great benefits.
Te m p e C h a m b e r. o r g
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d va n ta g e
3
Member Forum
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce recently asked some of its members to answer the following question:
Members of the Women in Business Council with one of last year’s speakers, Eileen Spitalny (far right), co-founder of Fairytale Brownies
Jan. 21 - Arlene Rosenberg, business and personal coach and founder of Leading Achievers Jan. 28 - Terri Morrison, RN BS, co-owner of the Morrison Vein Institute Feb. 4 - TBD Feb. 11 - Betty Uribe, Executive Vice President, Comerica Bank Inc. The series takes place at the Homewood Suites by Hilton, 4750 E. Cotton Center Blvd., in Phoenix on Jan. 21 and 28 and Feb. 4 and 11. 8 – 8:30: R egistration, breakfast and networking 8:30 – 9:30: Presentation and program Tickets are $20 for members, and $30 for the general public per session. Members of the Tempe Chamber can purchase a series pass at the discounted price of $60.
4
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d v a n ta g e
What one thing would you say is key to the success of your business and why? Take a look at the variety of answers we received! “I believe everyone needs a reason to come to work every day. I am fortunate to love what I do so it is a pleasure to come to work and work so hard for so many years. I work until the job is done and make sure I surround myself with people that have a passion for serving others. That is what this business is all about. I have learned to appreciate my own strengths and recognized my weaknesses. I hire people to complement the two. I did not buy what I could not afford or borrow money I wasn’t sure I could pay back. I understand the value of a solid foundation and the importance of staying current with industry trends. I truly understand that I am only as strong and successful as those that represent me. I feel strongly about the values I have set for myself and the company and believe they are present when I am not. Success is not only measured on the P&Ls but by the quality of the life we live. I sleep well at night!” —Heidi Vail, Heidi’s Events & Catering
“The key to our success in this economy has been our community outreach. We’ve been working with the Tempe Chamber and other organizations to promote Alphagraphics, making the Tempe business community aware of the resources and services we offer. We will continue to work with our clients to maximize their marketing dollars, ensuring the success of their business and ours.” —Eric Adams, Alphagraphics
“I would say it’s the ‘yes, can do’ attitude. I think customers like that attitude (especially in my trade) because it tells them you will help them, even if you don’t know how you will – you will. That, in the long run, builds trust.” —Mark Erhardt, Purcell Tire “I think my main key is ‘attitude.’ In these economic times, I think dealing with people in a positive, upbeat and professional manner is critical. Many people are dealing with the devastating effects of the economy and are looking for a ray of light. Hopefully I can be that ray.” —Terry Anderson, Keller Williams Arizona Realty “I strongly believe in a strong, deep and loyal network of contacts and associates. Maintaining contact with past and present business associates, clients and vendors on a regular basis is key to the success of my business. I like to maintain contact through social media, telephone, one-on-one visits and networking events through the course of the year. This has opened doors personally and professionally. I find that it develops a two-way connection which benefits both parties. I like to think of myself as a connector and problem solver; it is always a pleasure to refer one of my contacts to someone in need. And I am utterly amazed and delighted when I receive feedback that a problem or situation was handled professionally.” —Debbie Burnett, Arizona Exterminating Company
All photos taken by Meegan Tevebaugh-Adams, except for Heidi Vail
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce and its Women in Business Council are pleased to present the four-part speaker series “Passport to Success: The Journey”. During this inspirational and educational series, attendees will enjoy an intimate sitdown with powerful women as they share their secrets of leadership and success. Each Friday morning event starts with casual networking over breakfast followed by a presentation by the day’s featured speaker.
Awards Breakfast Honors Leaders, Volunteers, Community Service The Tempe Chamber of Commerce presents the 14th Annual Breakfast for Chamber Champions on Wednesday, Feb. 23. The event honors those individuals and businesses that have excelled in their efforts to make Tempe a thriving community. Awards to be presented include the Business Excellence Awards, Spirit of Tempe
Award, Volunteer of the Year Award and the Tempe Leadership Outstanding Community Leadership Award. This year’s Business Excellence Awards finalists are: Benefits by Design, Brock Supply, Honeymoon Sweets, IKEA, Morrison Vein Institute and Veolia Transportation. The
House of Tricks, 2010 Business Excellence Award recipient
recipients will be announced live at the Breakfast for Chamber Champions. The event takes place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel, 60 E. 5th St. Tickets are $50 for Chamber members and $60 for the general public. To RSVP, please call (480) 967-7891, e-mail info@tempechamber.org or register online at www.tempechamber.org.
Educational Options, 2010 Business Excellence Award recipient
“Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities Together” Banking and Credit Relationships Establishing complete banking and loan relationships for small to mid-size business clients. Financial Acumen Assist businesses to properly produce accurate financial information for their company and to understand what the financials tell them.
Expense Reduction Review and recommendations to reduce operating expenses. Accounting/Bookkeeping Services Our accounting service provides businesses with accurate and timely financial accounting and bookkeeping services tailored to the individual client’s needs.
Stoney-Wilson Business Consulting, LLC www.stoneywilson.com Julie Stoney
6501 E. Greenway Pkwy #103-583 Scottsdale, AZ 85254
(602) 370-1776 juliestoney@stoneywilson.com
Te m p e C h a m b e r. o r g
Robert S. Wilson
(602) 696-1060 robertwilson@stoneywilson.com
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d va n ta g e
5
•
•
•
•
•
•
to the special issues faced by women in the business world. The Women in Business Council is still going strong. The Tempe Chamber was the impetus behind the 1996 Tempe transit tax approval, lobbied extensively for light rail and worked closely with other stakeholders on the regional transportation plan. Realizing the impact of construction of the light rail, the Chamber partnered with the City of Tempe and Tempe Schools Credit Union to develop a lowcost line-of-credit-program for affected businesses. This program was the first of its kind in the country. Our efforts led to a new state law making it possible for corporate filing in one day. A more-than-10-year effort led to changes in Tempe’s sign code allowing for greater visibility for businesses. Working with City departments, we helped develop a rehabilitation code that would encourage investment in older commercial properties without sacrificing safety. The Tempe Chamber was one of the founding members of the East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance, creating a model for the chamber industry to work on common legislative issues.
And then there are the individual achievements – the businesses that have grown and prospered because of exposure they’ve received at our events, connections they’ve made at our committees and lessons they’ve learned at our seminars. The Tempe Chamber offers a myriad of opportunities for personal and professional growth, and I couldn’t begin to list the success stories. We at the Tempe Chamber realize that you can’t have a strong business community without healthy and effective schools, government and cultural organizations. We pledge to continue to work to ensure that Tempe remains a leader in the nation while providing the day-to-day tools to grow your business. At the Tempe Chamber, “Your Success is Our Business” is more than a slogan – it’s a promise.
6
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d v a n ta g e
Get Ready for the Women in Business Conference and Trade Show!
Carolyn Warner, one of the keynote speakers at last year’s event
The Tempe Chamber will be holding its 16th Annual Women in Business Conference and Trade Show on May 25, 2011, at The Buttes, a Marriott Resort. Each year, this powerful event brings together more than 300 business leaders in a setting that celebrates success, facilitates networking and offers incredible opportunities for personal and business growth. A trade show featuring local and national organizations, businesses and companies provides the backdrop to a wonderful luncheon and presentations by powerful keynote speakers. The half-day event culminates with the presentation of the Business Woman of the Year award. The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and includes an outstanding lunch prepared exclusively for the Tempe Chamber by the chefs at The Buttes. Advance registration is now open for exhibitors and attendees. Please call (480) 967-7891 or e-mail info@tempechamber.org to secure your booth today.
Connect with the Tempe Chamber! Join us on Facebook: h ttp://www.facebook.com/people/ tempe-chamber/1762132500 Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/tempechamber
Read our monthly e-newsletter: http://bit.ly/tccnews
Check out our blog: http://bit.ly/tccblog
Join the Tempe Chamber group on LinkedIn
Photo: Jay Mark
Continued From T.C.A. 1
Board of Directors Chairman of the Board: Steve Bauer Chair-Elect: Dave Long Mary Ann Miller, President and CEO, maryann@tempechamber.org
Treasurer: Phil Howard Vice-Chairs: Lorraine Bergman, Mark Thompson, RJ Orr
Sean Donovan, Vice President, Media and Program Development, sean@tempechamber.org Brian Krupski, Membership Development, brian@tempechamber.org Renee Lopata, CAE, Senior Vice President, renee@tempechamber.org Sachiyo Ragsdale, Communications Director, sachiyo@tempechamber.org
Immediate Past Chair: Vicki Kringen Directors: Todd Christy, Margaret Hunnicutt, Kristine Kassel, Sharon Kausal, Jeff Mirasola, Clark Peterson, Jack Pisano, Jody Robertson Ex-Officios: Chad Ackerley, Mark Duplissis, Charlie Meyer, Stephanie Nowack, Virgil Renzulli, Jackie Thompson
Heidi Santos, Bookkeeper, heidi@tempechamber.org
Committee Chairs: Julie Armstrong, Neil Chitel, Vicki Kringen, Lori Murphy, Laura Opstad, Jack Pisano, Curt Ritland, Hal Salem
Magdalena Warecka, Director of Operations, magdalena@tempechamber.org
Tempe Chamber of Commerce 909 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ 85281 • (480) 967-7891
Ken Blanchard College of Business | College of Education | College of Nursing & Health Sciences | College of Liberal Arts | College of Fine Arts & Production
Online • Campus
Get started today! Call or visit: 877-319-3244 | www.gcu.edu Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. (800-621-7440; http://www.ncahlc.org/ ).
Te m p e C h a m b e r. o r g
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d va n ta g e
7
Chamber Committees Strengthen Community Ties Through the work of its committee structure, a wide variety of programming is planned and executed on behalf of the Tempe Chamber. These include educational programs, seminars, workshops, networking events and luncheons that help to foster and maintain ties with the business community. Seven committees meet on a monthly basis to advance the interests of the Chamber and its members. Involvement ranges from government affairs, transportation, business resources, military affairs and event planning and is open to all members. In particular, the Business Resource Advantage Committee and the Women in Business Council are dedicated to the needs of business. Each works to ensure that the needs of manufacturers, retailers, vendors, entrepreneurs and all employers and employees are addressed. Business Resource Advantage Committee Dedicated to establishing programs and educational tools to deliver vital information and resources to profitably impact businesses, this committee plays an important role within the Chamber. Continually evaluating members’ business needs and establishing community alliances to provide more value and outreach, it meets the needs of business in the 21st century. Chaired by CPA Laura Opstad, the committee has hosted several daylong Business Solutions Clinics, providing free legal, marketing, social media and sales training in one-on-one private settings in an office environment. It has also organized the Tempe Chamber’s first leads group, Coffee Connection, which fosters new contacts, sales and profits for its members.
The committee plans monthly business-related seminars for the Hot Topics and Lunch series featuring expert instructors addressing and educating on current trends and hot-button issues. Women in Business Council Creating opportunities for the development of women in business by providing the tools, training, education and motivational atmosphere to foster growth and success, the Women in Business Council plans educational programs and seminars with powerful speakers. The committee produces the dynamic annual Women in Business Conference and Trade Show, where the Business Woman of the Year is honored during a day-long trade show featuring powerful keynote speakers. Chaired by Julie Armstrong, the Women in Business Council also produces educational programs including a month-long speaker series titled “Passport to Success” where successful businesswomen share their stories, secrets and facilitate a community of shared growth. In late 2010, it hosted a Health and Wellness fair, drawing dozens of health-based exhibitors for an afternoon of networking and education to create a healthy community. Members of the Tempe Chamber have the opportunity to join these and other committees to make a positive change in their personal and professional lives. Members of the public are also welcome to attend with advance notice to the Tempe Chamber. Though some meetings are closed, we make every effort to accommodate those who wish to share in the benefits that these committees regularly bring to the community.
The Year in Review As we enter into a new year, the Tempe Chamber of Commerce first and foremost offers our sincerest thanks to all of our wonderful members who continue to provide support to Tempe’s business community and the Chamber. This past year, the Tempe Chamber implemented several new programs and partnerships to provide even more benefits to our membership. Online learning Continuing in our efforts to provide educational support to our membership, we recently partnered with Management Training Systems, Inc., to provide new e-learning opportunities to our members. Sales strategies The Tempe Chamber also teamed up with The Whale Hunters, a strategic sales coaching company that helps small businesses grow fast by making bigger sales to bigger customers.
8
T e m p e C h a m b e r A d v a n ta g e
Business Solutions Clinics In conjunction with our Business Resource Advantage Committee, we also introduced the Business Solutions Clinic to provide complimentary business counseling sessions with industry experts to our membership. Employee benefits and discount programs We partnered with LifeLock to offer a discount to our membership. Through this program, our members can keep themselves and their employees safe from one of the fastest-growing crimes in America – identity theft. We also partnered with Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc., to provide our members a discounted rate on a new voluntary employee benefit program offering legal services and identity theft protection. In an effort to also ensure the physical health and safety of our membership, we continue to offer discount programs through SCF of Arizona and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.
Communications outreach The Tempe Chamber, always working on new ways to improve our Chamber communications, partnered with InMedia Company on this fine publication, In Business Magazine, a hands-on monthly publication with an in-depth editorial focus on building business, opportunity, networking and best practices that is distributed directly to members of the Valley’s top business organizations. Several other items of note include the startup of our very own leads group, Coffee Connection; an affinity program with Telesphere; and a partnership with Constant Contact to improve our weekly newsletters. We will continue to look for new ways to bring you even greater opportunities in the future, and we gladly accept all suggestions and feedback. Thank you again for your continued support. We look forward to a new year and can’t wait to find more ways to help you thrive and grow in 2011. Your success is our business! To read the full article, see the December 2010 issue of The Business Advocate at www.tempechamber.org.