Impact Magazine - March 2010

Stop Micromanaging! Big Advice on How

Opening Your Books A Good Strategy?

Spread the News How to Get Coverage

MAR. 2010

Action FiguresExtreme Hobbies of Valley Business People

Member News Calendar of Events Arizona in Focus

p.

M A G A Z I N E

G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r C e

M A G A Z I N EM A G A Z I N E

G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r G r e a t e r P h o e n i x C h a m b e r ooo f C o m m e r C e

Sustainability and Your Bottom Line

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www.phoenixchamber.com | I M PAC T 3

While we continue to hear and see encouraging signs about the recovery of our national, state and local economies, your Chamber is busy providing positive outcomes for more than 3,100 Valley businesses. Just in recent months, we have

n Seen a 22 percent increase over the prior year in Member Services programs. On average, more than 1,000 business people attend monthly Business for Breakfasts, After 5 Mixers, roundtables and the Back to Business series.

n Completed our 2010 Public Affairs Agenda, outlining our advocacy efforts for the coming year. The document (available on our Web site) also includes a Small Business Leadership Council section for the first time, giving small businesses their very own agenda.

n Begun tweeting! You can follow us at www.twitter.com/phxchamber.

n Launched another money-saving program, the Valley of the Sun Rx Card, which offers savings on prescription medication to all.

n Developed a partnership with the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce to make our government bid procurement program, BidSource, open to their members.

2010 has just begun and we see many opportunities and challenges ahead. If youre already a member of the Chamber, thank you for your support of our business community. If youre not yet a member, visit us at www.phoenixchamber.com/join and become part of the oldest and largest business organization in Arizona.

Todd SandersPresident & CEO Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

BOArd OF direCtOrSeXeCUtiVe COMMittee

CHAirConnie PerezCEOAdvanced Reimbursement Management

iMMediAte PASt CHAirAndrew K. (Andy) McCainVP & CFOHensley Beverage Company

CHAir-eLeCtSteve WheelerExec. VP, Customer Service & RegulationAPS

LeGAL COUNSeLAnne Kleindienst AttorneyFennemore Craig, P.C.

SeCretArY - treASUrerPam ConboyArizona Regional PresidentWells Fargo Bank

ViCe CHAir PCCdPatricia Lee Refo AttorneySnell & Wilmer

ViCe CHAir - SMALL BUSiNeSSTom CooperCEO Desert Fleet-Serv, Inc.

ViCe CHAir - PUBLiC AFFAirSSusan AnableDirector of Public AffairsCox Communications

ViCe CHAir - COMMUNitY eVeNtS Kathryn MurphyPresident & CEOCorning Gilbert, Inc.

ViCe CHAir - HBLCGil ValadezPrudential

ViCe CHAir - MeMBerSHiPRick Johnson Principal/OwnerExecutive Forums

ViCe CHAir - AUdit ANd GOVerNANCeScott CelleyVP, External AffairsTriWest Healthcare Alliance

ViCe CHAir - HUMAN reSOUrCeSDavid Bruno Vice Chairman/Managing PartnerDHR International

ViCe CHAir - eCONOMiC deVeLOPMeNtRichard ParkerVice PresidentSundt Construction Corp.

eXeCUtiVe COMMittee MeMBerS At LArGe

Derrick M. Hall President & CEOArizona Diamondbacks

Peter Hayes Manager of Public AffairsSRP

Dan VermeerWaste Management

Susan WilliamsPresidentHR Choice

Nancy StoneV Chair & Pres.ILX Resorts Inc.

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

Quarterly Member report

March BulletinConducting a count of the people every

10 years is part of our Constitution its the law for every household to return a completed census form. An accurate population count helps distribute more than $400 billion annually in federal, state, city and tribal funds, determines the number of Congressional seats for each state and defines state legislative districts. Closer to home, the census count helps guide the boundaries of Phoenix City Council districts.

For Phoenix residents, each person counted means $400 a year in federal and state funds for these types of services. Reverse that thought: each person living in Phoenix who is not counted in the 2010 Census means a direct loss of $400 a year to the City budget. When multiplied by your neighbors responses, that adds up to a potential loss of millions of dollars.

The 2010 Census has the shortest questionnaire in its 220-year history. When you receive your census form in the mail this month, it will have just 10 questions and should take just a few minutes to complete. A postage-paid envelope is provided, which makes it even easier for each of us to drop our completed form in the outgoing mail.

Simple, safe and vital. Stand up and be counted!

Get Connected

Census 2010www.census.gov

Breakfasts, After 5 Mixers, roundtables and the Back

Completed our 2010 Public Affairs Agenda, outlining our advocacy efforts for the coming year. The document (available on our Web site) also includes a Small Business Leadership

Departments

4 I M PAC T | M A R . 2010

rick McCartney | PublisherInMedia Company

[email protected]

Jody ryan | Editor-In-ChiefGreater Phoenix Chamber

[email protected]

Kenn tomasch | EditorGreater Phoenix Chamber

[email protected]

Lori K. Baker, Stephanie Conner, Christina estes, Christia Gibbons, Connie Kadansky, david Lucas,

Peg Mulloy, Kay Sperduti, tom trushContributing Writers

dan Vermillion, Angela Cook, Kenn tomasch, Justine Mellody

Photography

Stephen Gamble | Art Director

Louise Ferrari | Operations Manager

derrick Boehs, dee dee Hixson, Cami Shore

Account Executives

todd Sanders | President & CEO [email protected]

ron Mcelhaney | V. [email protected]

Michelle Bolton | V. P.Public Affairs/Economic Development

[email protected]

Jody ryan | Director, Marketing & [email protected]

Katie Campana | Director, Community Relations [email protected]

Norma Macias | Director, Member Services [email protected]

daniel Ayala | Director, BidSource [email protected]

debbie drotar | Director, Business Development [email protected]

201 N. Central Avenue, 27th FloorPhoenix, Az 85004

P 602.495.2195 F 602.495.8913www.phoenixchamber.com

Published By

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Impact Magazine is published by InMedia Company, 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 [email protected]. To subscribe to GPCC Impact Magazine, please send check or money order for $24.00 to InMedia, 6360 E. Thomas Road, Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 or call (480) 588-9505.

Copyright 2010, InMedia Company, LLC. All rights reserved. InMedia and the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce reserve the right to refuse certain advertising and are not liable for advertisers 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.

Get UP | Get OUt | CONNeCt

www.phoenixchamber.com

16 Events Calendar In Like a Lion

18 Member Happenings The Fun Begins in 2010

20 Ribbon Cuttings Everybody Smile!

20 How To: Stop Micromanaging

21 New Members

24 Safety First

06 Member News News, Notables & Updates

13 Ask Our Members Right Answers Right Now

23 Executive Q & A Connie Perez of Advanced Reimbursement Management

23 MarCom Corner Getting News Coverage

24 Money Matters Should You Share Financial Info With Employees?

24 Sales IQ Sales Call Resistance

26 Arizona in Focus Get a Job!

27 Business Bios First Fidelity Liberty Mutual West Valley Resort

28 Greater: PHX News & Notes From Around the Valley

30 First Person I didn't think it would still be around 101 years later.

(Way) Out of the OfficeWhat do your peers do when theyre not at work? Check out these extreme hobbies of Valley business people. p. 11

By Stephanie Conner

Event SpotlightPhoenix Mayor Phil Gordon delivers his annual State of the City address March 9. p. 15

By Kenn Tomasch

MARCH | 2010

Contents

Member Resources www.phoenixchamber.com

Eco-Nomics: Sustainability and Your Bottom LineSustainability is the future but what does it mean for your business? Find out why eco-friendly practices can also be a business boon. p. 8

By David Lucas

6360 E. Thomas Rd., Suite 210Scottsdale, AZ 85251 p 480.588.9505 f [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Lori K. Baker, Stephanie Conner, Christina Christia Gibbons, Connie Kadansky,

Peg Mulloy, Kay Sperduti,

Stop Micromanaging

MARCH

Contents

Art Director

Operations Manager

ee Hixson, Cami Shore

Clean and GreenChamber members are cleaning up with sustainable business practices. Read our cover story and find out how you might do the same.

8

Features

liable for advertisers 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.

SAVE THISDATE

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ServiceOpening Worlds of Opportunitythrough the Science of

Theres a science to competing through service, which is why we are worlds apart from other universities and consulting organizations.

As a thought leader and groundbreaking research center, The Center for Service Leadership (CSL) brings together insights from the academic world and business strategy from the real world to solve the unique set of challenges companies face today.

Theres a science to competing through service, which is why we are worlds apart from other universities and consulting organizations.

As a thought leader and groundbreaking research center, The Center for Service Leadership (CSL) brings together insights from the academic world and business strategy from the real world to solve the unique set of challenges companies face today.

To learn more about how you can compete strategically through the science of service, visit wpcarey.asu.edu/csl today.

W. P. Carey School of Business Arizona State University n P.O. Box 874106 n Tempe, AZ 85287-4106

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ScienceWe are in the business of the science of services we base our understanding on research, not just platitudes.

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SymbiosisWe are in the business of building a network that can discover ways to compete through service, not just business as usual.

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www.phoenixchamber.com6 I M PAC T | M A R . 2010

Member News

Contact Us | Send your member news and photos 45 days prior to publication to: [email protected]

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

Hr Home runFrank Cummins, MBA, has joined John C. Lincoln Health Network in Phoenix as the new vice president of human resources. Cummins has 30 years of experience working in human resources and health

care in Arizona and Wisconsin.

+www.jcl.com

Marketing MavenJoseph Ortiz has been named Marketing and Communications Manager for Jewish Family & Childrens Service. Ortiz most recently was Senior Vice President at the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and has more than 25 years of marketing and communications experience specializing in education, government and non-profits.

+www.jfcsarizona.com

Sensational SixGoodwill of Central Arizona has named six members to its board of directors: Donald Beaver of PetSmart, Dr. Victoria Jones of Apollo Group, Steve Kedzior of Insight, Al Maag of Avnet, Chris Koziol of Mission Advisory Services and Dr. Jim McGovern of National Municipal Advisors, LLC.

+www.goodwillaz.org

Welcome expansionTake Charge America has received a $165,000 grant from the state of Arizona to increase assistance for homeowners in Pima, Pinal, Mohave and Yavapai counties who are experiencing financial hardships and struggling to meet their mortgage payments. The Phoenix-based, non-profit credit counseling and housing counseling agency has been providing those services to Maricopa County since last year.

+www.takechargeamerica.org

Called to ServeCatholic Charities Community Services has appointed Bob Brown as permanent CEO. Brown had been serving as interim CEO after joining the organization as chief administrative officer two years

ago. Bob has what it takes to help us to expand our impact in Arizona and further our mission to protect and nurture children, strengthen families and support people in crisis, said Catholic Charities board president Steve Lasswell.

+www.catholiccharitiesaz.org

Moving On UpEdward F. Garcia, AIA, LEED AP, has been elevated to a vice president of SmithGroup. In his 16 years at SmithGroup, Garcia has been directly involved in numerous projects on university and community college campuses, such as the Arizona State University College of Nursing and Health Innovation Phase 2, the University of Arizona Norton School of Family and Consumer Sciences, and multiple projects for the Maricopa County Community College District.

+www.smithgroup.com

Continuing to BuildGensler Phoenix has appointed Jay Silverberg, AIA as senior associate. Silverberg is the design director for the Gensler Phoenix office and has been consistently recognized for design excellence and project leadership throughout his 20-year career. He brings leadership and collaboration on projects throughout the Southwest, including academic, civic, cultural, office, athletic, healthcare and research facilities.

+www.gensler.com

rising Sun devilsThe Phoenix office of Grant Thornton LLP has added four new associates, all from Arizona State University. Tyler Webb and June Weyerman have joined the Audit department, Jenna Ptacek

the Business Advisory Services department and Conrad Wadowski the Economic Advisory Services department of the audit, tax and advisory organization.

+www.grantthornton.com

two More for Fennemore CraigDawn Meidinger and Jimmy Dahu have joined Fennemore Craig. Meidinger is a shareholder in the Phoenix office, deepening the firms capabilities in the areas of environmental and natural resources, mining and real estate law. Dahu joins the firm as an associate in its Bankruptcy, Creditors Rights and Restructuring Practice.

+www.fennemorecraig.comSolar StarPerfectPower, Inc. has promoted Martin Holdgraf to the head of a new division of Quality Control & Training for residential and commercial solar photovoltaic systems. Holdgraf has been with PerfectPower, Inc. for four years.

+www.perfectpowernetwork.com

Frank Cummins

Bob Brown

Jenna Ptacek

Currently, only a few medical centers in the US perform surgery on both pediatric and adult pectus patients, including a new joint effort here in the Valley.

Scrubbing in togetherMayo Clinic, Phoenix Children's Hospital and Pediatric Surgeons of Phoenix have teamed up to provide comprehensive surgical treatment to both children and adults with deformities of the chest wall. The most common, pectus excavatum (often called funnel chest, in which the chest appears abnormally sunken) can cause breathing and heart problems, especially as patients age. A common misconception is that pectus is only a cosmetic issue, so it frequently goes untreated, resulting (in severe cases) in heart and lung function issues. The collaboration between Mayo and PCH will allow both children and adult patients with PE to have the combined expertise of the surgeons at both medical centers.

+ www.phoenixchildrens.com, + www.mayo.edu


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Going Green Means Greater Greenbacks

8 I M PAC T | M A R . 2010 www.phoenixchamber.com

By David Lucas

Sustainable Profits

From Arizonas largest enterprises to the smallest entrepreneurs, more and more businesses have discovered sustainability is more than a fad. Its increasingly an integral part of bottom-line performance.

Sustainability is really about long term business strategies that allow you to make money in a way that is cleaner, faster, smarter, says Ed Fox, chief sustainability officer for APS. Its not just about selling products; sustainability is about good business. You can be more efficient, you can make money and you can do good at the same time.

Smaller businesses can learn lessons from large companies such as APS. They recognize the value of environmentally friendly policies and practices.

As a small business, thinking in terms of recycling, being more efficient with your products and employees, all those things fit well with sustainability and running a good

business, says Dr. George Basile, executive director of the ASU Decision Theater, Global Institute of Sustainability. We also see more big businesses asking smaller businesses or their suppliers to be thinking about these things.

Basile will host a session at the Greater Phoenix Chambers March 5 Phoenix Forum, Eco-Nomics: Sustainability and Your Bottom Line. The forum brings together experts from ASU, local government agencies and business to focus on sustainable practices and how they contribute to profitability.

Basile advocates employing sustainable business practices to address the big challenges facing the state, including energy, water and community issues, and turning

them into business opportunities. Thats a big area for innovation and business growth in the future, he says.

MINIMIZING A LARGE FootpRINtBecause power generation represents a

large carbon footprint, APS began looking at ways to reduce its environmental impact several years ago. In 2009, Arizonas largest utility released the APS Resource Plan Report as a business strategy to tackle the states growth in both population and energy use through 2025. Using renewable sources such as solar and wind, combined with energy efficiency and other strategies, APS hopes to meet a 50 percent increase in customer demand for electricity without expanding its carbon footprint.

S P E C I A L R E P O R T : E C O - N O M I C S

If we didnt have a plan that met future needs without carbon input, then we would have created a huge economic and environmental risk for our company and for our community, Fox contends. With climate change, we need to be part of the solution. Climate restrictions are coming and we cant just do business as usual.

Smaller companies dont face gargantuan challenges such as this, but they can learn from their big brothers. They shouldnt try to solve every problem at once, however. Dont go big bang; dont try to overwhelm people, advises Chris Garcia of AZ Docushred in Phoenix, who sits on the Advisory Board of the Chambers Green Roundtable. Take an assessment of your own operation and figure out how you can start small and work big.

AZ Docushred has formed an alliance with two LEED-certified small businesses to identify areas where they can assist clients that want to incorporate sustainable practices into their operations. But the key to profitability is patience. In any business its all about relationships, Garcia says. We plant the seed and now were watching it grow. It took 14 months for me to work the relationships and now were starting to see some of the rewards.

BIG INvEstMENt FoR FutuRE pAyoFFSome businesses take a leap of faith into sustainability with substantial outlays of funds.

Artisan Colour of Scottsdale spent $200,000 for a new wide-format flatbed printer that produces no volatile organic compounds and no hazardous air pollutants. It prints directly onto a variety of recyclable materials such as aluminum, copper, tiles, fabrics, canvasses and foam cores.

In the past you had to print onto paper and take adhesive and mount the paper onto a rigid board, explains Peter Fradin, account manager of Artisan Colour. By printing directly to the board, were not using any paper, we dont have to use any toxic adhesives, and the customer pays a lesser price because fewer products are being used and fewer man-hours are involved in producing it.

The equipment investment is paying dividends. There are clients who, in the past, we only captured a small percentage of their business. Now were able to capture a significant amount because of our ability to print to so many substrates, Fradin says.

Other companies have made sustainability an integral part of their business since


Chamber members can take small steps that lead to big environmental savings by undertaking sustainable business practices. Here are a few examples:

Global Green Integrators, a division of AZ Docushred of Phoenix, prevented 14,127 pounds of trash, recyclable materials and food scraps from going into the landfill following events staged by the National Basketball Association and US Green Building Council.

Phoenix Childrens Hospital is building a new 11-story facility that will be powered by an environmentally friendly central energy plant promising to conserve 5.6 million gallons of water annually and reduce discharges to the sewer system by 600,000 gallons per year.

APS has provided over 8.8 million reduced-price compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) bulbs to consumers since 2005, cutting C02 emissions by four billion pounds.

Waste Management of Arizona collected enough recycling materials last year to save 837,000 mature trees, 420 million gallons of water and 6.1 million gallons of oil.

Sherri May & Company of Phoenix converted from paper to electronic invoicing in 2005, reducing the firms carbon footprint by more than a half-million pounds.

A new printer means less paper and less expense for customers of Artisan Colour.

As APS Chief Sustainability Officer, Ed Fox looks for better, cleaner, efficient ways to do business.

ASUs Dr. George Basile sees sustainable practices as a growing trend.

Global Green Integrators

Phoenix Childrens Hospital

APS

Waste Management of Arizona

Sherri May & Company

Members Go Green, Save BigChamber members can take

Go Green,

million gallons of water and 6.1

Phoenix converted from paper to electronic invoicing in 2005,

www.phoenixchamber.com1 0 I M PAC T | M A R . 2010

even before it was called green. CBN Building Maintenance of Phoenix, which has provided janitorial services for a variety of Valley businesses since 1974, uses environmentally friendly materials, chemicals and techniques to improve the air quality in their customers workplaces.

Our focus for over 15 years has been cleaning for health rather than appearance, says owner Bob Croft. If youve got a healthy facility, its hard for it not to look clean because healthy would involve getting all the fine particles of dirt out of it.

CBN, which is a member of the U. S. Green Building Council, employs microfiber cloths instead of feather dusters to remove dirt. CBN uses HEPA vacuums to capture 99.97 percent of the particles that cause allergic reactions. Green Seal Certified chemicals and paper products are also specified. Most of it we had in place was green before anybody paid any attention to the color, Croft says.

Even though CBN doesnt charge extra for eco-friendly products, these supplies allow certain economies to offset any added expense. The crews we had field-testing told us they were cutting dusting frequency because they were leaving less dust behind, Croft says. Labor is a much bigger part of our costs than chemicals and equipment. If we can save a small percentage of labor, we can put a lot more money into things like filters.

The market that CBN serves has contracted over the past two years as a result of the recession; nevertheless, the company is profiting. Were up several points from our absolute high point one-and-a-half years back, Croft attests. We didnt cut back on marketing. Weve aggressively stayed close to our customers.

Experts say businesses need to address sustainability sooner rather than later. Larger companies are demanding that their suppliers address sustainability, and so are customers. As sustainability takes more of a foothold in the business landscape, more opportunities are sure to arise.

Were seeing a whole new area of businesses that have said these sustainability challenges are market opportunities and going after them, Basile says. This isnt a fad. Were going to see more and more businesses working toward sustainable solutions and were going to see more opportunity in that space.

For many Arizona companies, going green definitely can lead to more greenbacks for the bottom line.

Get Connected

APSwww.aps.com

Artisan Colourwww.artisancolour.com

ASU Global institute of Sustainabilitysustainability.asu.edu

AZ docushredwww.azdocushred.com

CBN Building Maintenancewww.cbnclean.com

Karen Harbert of the US Chamber of Commerce will deliver the keynote address at the March 5 Phoenix Forum event, Eco-Nomics: Sustainability and Your Bottom Line.

Banking That Means BusinessWith over 31 years in the Valley, we continue to actively lend* to businesses in our community.

I enjoy the excitement business owners bring to the table. By helping them meet their goals, I am not only strengthening the foundation of my clients, but helping the Valley prosper. Kevin Drapervice president, Commercial Banking Call me direct at 602.636.5165

MeridianBank.com

Meridian Bank. We Mean Business.

*Subject to credit approval.

CBN Building Maintenance stresses cleaning for health over cleaning for appearance.

Sustainable Profits

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Special Feature


Extreme Hobbies of Valley Business People By Stephanie Conner

(Way) Out Of the Office

they spend their days in a high-stress zone. And when theyre looking to chill, these Valley business execs do anything but take it easy.

At the end of an intense week, many of us crave downtime with a cocktail in hand or a favorite program on TV. But for four Valley professionals, downtime isnt about chilling out. Its about racing motorcycles and cars, taking chances down snowy mountains, body building and pushing their hobbies to the extreme.

depth of ConcentrationRichard Lippert was an avid motorsports

fan in college. Today, at 64, he sees a deep connection between his hobby of racing and his job as managing partner at talent management firm Leathers Milligan & Associates.

Youre in a racing car [alongside] 23 other people going into turn one. You dont have a lot of time to think things through, says Lippert, who came back to the sport 11 years ago. Decisions get easier and quicker.

The real allure, though, lies in the challenge.Its probably the only sporting event that

requires that much concentration for that length of time, he says. No matter what else is going on in your life, you forget it.

In addition to driving, Lippert practices cardio training, core strengthening or yoga two hours a day, five to six days a week, to stay in top physical shape.

intense Focus and ClarityBrian Fabiano, CEO of Scottsdale advertising

agency FabCom, spends his days strategizing.Youre constantly thinking about third,

fourth and fifth alternatives, the 45-year-old says. Even when youre

asleep, your mind isnt clear.Thats when Fabiano hits

the slopes, but dont look

Get Connected

Armstrong troyky Public relations & Advertisingwww.armstrongtroyky.com

FabComwww.fabcomlive.com

Goettl Air Conditioningwww.goettl.com

Leathers Milligan & Associateswww.leathersmilligan.com

Allen Crick of Goettl Air Conditioning gets lots of fresh air while wakeboarding with his son, Cooper.

for him on the trails. For 10 years hes worked on taking his skill to the next level: extreme skiing, which involves taking the lift to the top of the mountain and hiking to the back side.

The grades are steep, and the terrain is un-groomed and natural, Fabiano says. And the danger is real, especially in some of the most treacherous terrain, the no-fall zones.

You absolutely cant make a mistake. The focus thats required is intense, Fabiano says. There is no time that you really achieve the kind of clarity that you do with extreme sports.

That clarity helps him provide better solutions to his clients. Sometimes I save some of my biggest problems to chew on when I go on one of those trips, he says.

the Need for SpeedAllen Crick got hooked on motorcycles as

a kid, watching guys flying 30 to 40 feet in the air. As a young adult, he traveled around the country to participate in motocross competitions. Ultimately, the now-general manager of Goettl Air Conditioning chose college, business and family over the racing lifestyle, but it remains a passion.

Im committed to the sport, says Crick, 39. Theres a certain work ethic that has to come with these top-level riders.

He loves the adrenaline rush of being up in the air, and knows the attendant dangers. In May, while riding near the White Tanks with a group of work friends, he tumbled more than 20 feet with his bike on top of him and broke his collarbone.

The accident hasnt deterred him, but these days, he spends more time wakeboarding with his family. And if that wasnt enough adrenaline-raising action, he says whitewater rafting is next.

Seeking a New ChallengeIn her twenties, Amy Armstrong

competed in bodybuilding competitions. Then life

happened: she started a family and a business and was twice diagnosed with breast cancer. This October, the two-time breast cancer conqueror, as she calls herself, is doing something extreme for her 50th birthday.

On Aug. 28, Armstrong, a partner at Armstrong Troyky Public Relations & Advertising, will compete in the OCB Arizona Natural Bodybuilding Competition. Working with a training partner, Armstrong has traded her primetime television for three hours a night, six days a week, at the gym.

Its really fun because Im in a stressful, high-energy line of work. Im always in my head, she says. For three hours a night, I get to be in my body. Theres something really beautiful about that.

Its a challenge with a deadline, and its her birthday present to herself. If you have to turn 50, she says, you can do it kicking and screaming.

Kicking, screaming, skiing, drivingdefinitely not in a days work for these Chamber members.

Leathers Milligan managing partner Richard Lippert is a big wheel in Formula 200 open-wheel racing.


180 AUTOMOTIVEBogi Lateiner

AARROW ADVERTISINGRobert Graham

ACME LOCKSMITHRobert Vallelunga

ANDALE CONSTRUCTION Luis De La Cruz

ARIZONA AIR BOUTIQUEAngela & Mario Lepore

DAVID AND SAM PRDavid Eichler & Sam Alpert

INMEDIARick McCartney

NUMBERS ETCPamela Smith

RE/MAX NEW HEIGHTS REALTYVictor D. Vidales

SMART CONSTRUCTIONGina & Blair Smart

CONGRATULATIONS 2010 IMPACT AWARDS FINALISTS!SM

RSVP TODAY! www.phoenixchamber.com/impact

THE PHOENICIAN11am - 1:30pm

Seats are $65 for members and $75 for non-members. Tables are also available.

be inspired.THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2010

TEN outstanding businesses have made an impact through community involvement, company culture, innovation and response to adversity. FIVE businesses have risen to the top in these categories. ONE extraordinary business will be the 2010 IMPACT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR.

In. In touch. In your face.

RelevantMedia

Innovations

Media Publishers Group is now

InMediaCompany.com | 480.588.9505


Ask Our MembersImpact Magazine offers advice from our Member Experts to improve your business.

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.

Member Experts

A: Because you need to protect and encourage your most valuable

asset, your employees, and an EAP is not expensive. Sadly, employees bring their problems to work. An EAP counsels employees and family members on how to deal with: stress, marital issues, child issues, substance abuse, legal, financial and so much more. Typically, 75% of the problems brought to the EAP are resolved in its sessions. An EAP is an investment to increase productivity, safety and whatever else is important to your business. Forgive me, but you would do the same for a broken piece of critical equipment or a poorly functioning software program. I would like to show you why EAP Preferred is the choice of many employers.

Employee Assistance

Q: Why should I take on the added expense of an Employee Assistance Program [EAP]?

asset, your employees, and an EAP is not expensive. Sadly,

Paul Fleming, President [email protected]

www.eappreferred.com602.264.4600, ext. 141

A: If you plan to occupy the leased space for a year or more and you

pay the electric bill, it can make good sense to invest in energy efficiency improvements. Many lighting projects pay back in a matter of months, especially when you off-set your project costs with utility rebates. Simple steps can create big savings. For example, upgrade overhead fluorescent lighting to T8 lamps with electronic ballasts to cut lighting energy use by up to 40%. Replace incandescent exit signs with LED models to save 70-90%. Change an incandescent bulb to a CFL and save an average of $12 per year. Talk to the property manager and check your lease terms first. The building owner may be willing to share costs.

Q: I want to cut my energy costs but I lease my office space. Does it make sense to invest in a space I dont own?

pay the electric bill, it can make good sense to invest in

Bill Biesemeyer Senior Program Engineer, PE, CEM

www.aps.com/businessrebates 602.385.0900

Energy Efficiency

The APS Solutions for Business Program is funded by APS customers and is approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Healthcare

A: One option you may consider is using a commercial Factor or Asset Based Lender who relies on the credit worthiness of your customers as their source of repayment. A Factor may make concessions for your personal or business credit history because they view other components in their funding decisions and focus more on your ability to deliver quality goods or services to fill the orders. Factors and Asset Based Lenders provide a viable option to traditional financing and can be much more flexible in the way they structure their lending opportunities.

Lou Wallace, Managing Partner [email protected]

602.912.0200

Business Financing

Q: How can I overcome a poor credit history and low credit score when I need working capital for my business?

A: Yes, with on-site healthcare clinics HCS staffs main focus is to assist your employees to better manage their healthcare and health care expenses. Our health, wellness and prevention programs are designed to educate your employees through health risk assessments, screenings, and one-on-one counseling. We then allow accountability for their successes by providing individualized follow-up with our on-site nurse practitioners. Our goal is to develop a workforce willing and able to take a greater responsibility for their own health. Ultimately we are creating a healthier and more productive work force while decreasing your healthcare costs.

Q: Are preventive and wellness programs included in an on-site healthcare clinic?

HCS staffs main focus is to assist your employees to better

Frances J. ducar, FNP-C, MSN, Owner [email protected]

www.hcsonsite.com602.424.2101

HealthcareSolutionsCenters, LLC


Ask Our MembersImpact Magazine offers advice from our Member Experts to improve your business.

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.

Member Experts

A: All Greater Phoenix Chamber members are listed in our online business directory at www.phoenixchamber.com. Its a great resource and one of the most-visited sections of our Web site. With our new Advantage Marketing Package, you can also have your directory listing upgraded with your logo, a discount offer and a link to your Web site, as well as banner advertising and e-newsletter advertising, for one low price. Call me to make the most of this special offer.

Your Chamber

Q: How can I get more online exposure for my business?

debbie drotar, Dir., Business Developmentwww.phoenixchamber.com

602.495.6483

A: All Greater Phoenix Chamber members are listed in our

Marketing

A: Even in a down economy, the tactics remain the same. Many people feel like they need to simply offer discounts and give away

business. Here are some hints: Create a message that speaks to your potential customers. When a customer is reading your message, you want to keep in mind how they are reading it; where they are reading; what will strike them to remember it; and did you get your information across. Also, smart placement is key to making your marketing work. Determine your most niche marketplace that will hit your potential customers. Niche because you can be more relevant in your message and your costs will likely be less. Finally, frequency. Be consistent with where you place your message(s). Your clientele will see the credibility of this and you will be there when they need you.

Rick McCartney, Principalwww.inmediacompany.com

480.588.9505

Q: What are some of the ways that businesses are getting a response to their marketing efforts?

A: Public policy in Arizona strongly favors arbitration as it is a speedier, inexpensive and final method of resolving differences between parties. However, parties are bound to arbitrate only those issues that they have clearly and expressly agreed to arbitrate. With a few exceptions, arbitration decisions are final and binding. Thus, if you sign a contract containing an arbitration provision, you are more likely than not, going to have to arbitrate that dispute.

Q: If you sign a contract in which you agree to arbitrate ensuing disputes, do you give up your right to a trial?

A: Public policy in Arizona strongly favors arbitration as

LeslieAnn Haacke, Special [email protected]

www.buchalter.com 480.383.1800

Legal Advice

A: Health promotion programs are simply good business with benefits for the providers, the participants, and the public. Studies show that worksite wellness programs reduce absenteeism, decrease health risks, and contribute to lower costs for healthcare. There is also a moral imperative for business to take the lead in promoting health in the workplace. Half of the premature deaths in America are the result of lifestyle-related issues that are commonly addressed by wellness programs. For employers, offering health promotion programs is an important step to improving employee morale, retaining good workers, attracting quality employees, and improving productivity.

Insurance

Q: Why should our company incorporate wellness-related programs in the workplace?

A: Health promotion programs are simply good business with

Jeffrey Kirke, Vice President [email protected]

480.951.4889


Mayor Phil Gordons annual State of the City address is a must-see event for Valley business people and an opportunity for networking.

Save The Date! Chamber Events and Programs

ResourcesEvent Spotlight

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

MARCH 9Mayors State of the City Address & LuncheonPhoenix Convention Center

MARCH 5Phoenix Forum: Eco-Nomics ConferencePointe Hilton Squaw Peak

events Calendar Member Happenings ribbon Cuttings How to New Members

Mayors State of the City Address and Luncheon Tuesday, March 9

MAY 623rd Annual IMPACT Awards LuncheonThe Phoenician

Mayors State of the City Address and Luncheon

Tuesday, March 9 11 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

Phoenix Convention Center | North Building 100 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix 85004

> Chamber members:

$70 for individuals

$800 for table of ten

> Non-members:

$85 for individuals

$950 for table of ten

RSVP TODAY!RSVP TODAY!

Phoenix Convention Center | North Building

SAVE THISDATE

In six years with Phil Gordon as mayor, Phoenix has seen tremendous growth and weathered the challenges of the early part of the 21st century. Mayor Gordon will highlight the Citys accomplishments of the past year while outlining the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead at his annual State of the City address on Tuesday, March 9.

Now midway through his second term, Gordon will discuss the challenges of the current economic climate, jobs, the continued revitalization of downtown and more in his speech at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Attendees will also have the chance to network with elected officials and City Council members during the event.

Any members of the public wishing to hear Mayor Gordon's speech will be admitted at the start of his presentation at no cost. Also, limited free parking in the Convention Center's North Garage at 475 E. Monroe Street is available. Enter the garage from Monroe Street just west of 5th Street.

Free parking in North Garage

Register online at www.phoenixchamber.com/stateofthecity

MAY 623rd Annual IMPACT Awards LuncheonThe Phoenician

Event Spotlight

vents Calendar Member Happenings

www.phoenixchamber.comwww.phoenixchamber.com

BUSINESS FOR BREAKFASTBusiness 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!

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Professional Womens Roundtable 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Green Roundtable 7:30 - 9 a.m.Mayors State of the City Address & Luncheon11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Deer Valley Biz For Breakfast 7:15 - 8:30 a.m.Economc Devel. Committee 11 a.m. - NoonAfter 5 Mixer 5 - 7 p.m.

Valley Young Professionals 5:30 - 7 p.m.

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

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

Member Open House 8 - 9 a.m.

Environment Committee3:30 - 5 p.m.

Hispanic Leadership CouncilsBridging the Gap Luncheon11: 30 a.m. 1 p.m.

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

Chamber at Anthem Business for Breakfast 7 8 a.m.Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona 5 - 7 p.m.Water & Agriculture Cmte. 1 - 2 p.m.

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

Education Committee 2 - 3 p.m.

PHX Biz for Breakfast 7:15 - 8:30 a.m.Transportation Committee 3 - 4 p.m.

Chamber at Deer Valley Mixer 5 - 7 p.m.

Phoenix Forum: Sustainability & Your Bottom Line9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

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

Budget and Tax Committee 2 - 3 p.m.

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

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March 2010 Calendar of Events

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PHOENIX7:15- 8:30 a.m.KFNX - AM 11002001 N. 3rd St., #102 Phoenix, [email protected] or 602.495.6461

SOUTH MOUNTAIN/LAVEEN7:15 - 8:30 a.m.Bougainvillea Golf Club5740 W. Baseline Rd., Laveen 85339 [email protected] or 602.495.6469

ANTHEM7 - 8 a.m. Hampton Inn42415 N. 41st Dr., Anthem 85086 [email protected] or 602.495.6483

DEER VALLEY7:15 8:30 a.m. Speaker: Councilwoman Thelda Williams Cox Communications1550 W. Deer Valley Rd., Deer Valley [email protected] or 602.495.6461

IDEA EXCHANGESThese 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.

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Professional Womens RoundtableSpeaker: Margie Traylor, CEO, Sitewire Topic: Social Butterfly: Growing Your Company Through Social Media11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2194

Green Roundtable Topic: Energy Efficient Home Building Speaker: Steve Leathers, President/CEO, Terraso, Inc.7:30 a.m. 9 a.m. Terraso, Inc. 819 W. Caldwell St. Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2194

Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona 5 - 7 p.m. monOrchid, LLC 214 E. Roosevelt St. Phoenix 85004 [email protected] or 602.495.2194

PHOENIX7:15 - 8:30 a.m. AARP201 E. Washington Ste. 1795 Phoenix, [email protected] or 602.495.6461

THUR

25Back to Business Series Speaker: Cindy Anderson, Great Biz Plans Topic: Fast Track Biz Pans: Do the 3 - Step! 11:30 a.m. 1 p.m.Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2194

Valley Young Professionals Speaker: Ilana Lowery, Editor in Chief, Phoenix Business JournalTopic: Making the Most of the Media5:30 7 p.m.Sidebar1514 N. 7th Ave. Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2194

Hispanic Business Leadership Council's Bridging the Gap Luncheon Speakers: Melissa Boyles, ADOT and Tony Hatcher, City of Phoenix Topic: How to Bid for Business11:30 a.m. 1 p.m.Hyatt Regency Phoenix122 N 2nd St. Phoenix 85004 $20 includes [email protected] or 602.495.6461

GET ORIENTEDOkay, youve 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.

WED

17Member Open House8 - 9 a.m.Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.6461

COMMITTEESChamber Members have the opportunity to take on leadership roles with important committees that contribute time and energy to enhance the Chambers 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.

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March 2010 Calendar of Events


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.

SPECIAL EVENTS

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Phoenix Forum - Eco-Nomics: Sustainability & Your Bottom Line9 a.m 1:30 p.m. $125/person - $1,200 table of 10$65 luncheon onlyPointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort 7677 N. 16th St. Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2182

Mayors State of the City Address & Luncheon11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.Phoenix Convention Center 100 N. 3rd St. Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.2182

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AFTER 5 MIXERSAfter 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.

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Mix it Up In conjunction with the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau5 - 7 p.m.Desert Botanical Garden1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.6461

Chamber at Deer Valley Mixer5 - 7 p.m.Comfort Inn - Phoenix North2641 W. Union Hills Dr. Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.6461

Opening BidsLarge companies and government entities

across the country are looking to outsource various projects and contracts for services to certified businesses. These contracts can be worth a few hundred dollars or more than $40,000. Would you turn down a potential contract that large?

Bid for Business: Increase Your Profits in 2010, a special product and services procurement event, takes place on Wednesday, April 7 at Comedor Guadalajara in Phoenix. AT&T, APS, Enterprise Car Sales and Staples are just a few of the companies that will participate, giving more than 100 businesses a chance to connect and explore procurement opportunities.

While each organization has its own requirements, there are recommended certifications needed to bid for business,

including Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE), Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and Veteran Business. Visit our website to learn more about the requirements for our featured organizations.

Chamber Highlight

LEADS GROUPSLeads Groups 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 [email protected] or (602) 495-6483.

NORTH VALLEYBlack Bear Diner2410 W. Bell Rd. Phoenix 85023Fridays, 7 a.m.

NORTHWEST VALLEYDeer Valley Airport Restaurant702 W. Deer Valley Rd. Phoenix 85027Thursdays, 7:30 a.m.

NORTHEAST VALLEY Marie Callenders 4573 E. Cactus Rd. Phoenix 85032 Tuesdays, 7:15 a.m.

SOUTHEAST VALLEYMimis Cafe (@ Fiesta Mall)1250 S. Alma School Rd. Mesa 85210Fridays, 7:15 a.m.

SOUTH CENTRAL PHOENIXRaven Golf Club3636 W. Baseline Rd. Laveen 85339Wednesdays, 7:15 a.m.

CENTRAL VALLEYScotts Generations5555 N. 7th St. Phoenix 85014Wednesdays (except 1st Wed.) 7:15 a.m.

BILTMORE AREA Half Moon Sports Grill2121 E. Highland Ave. Phoenix 85016Thursdays, 11:15 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.

Get Connected

Bid for Business: increase Your Profits in 2010 Presented by Hispanic Business Leadership CouncilWednesday, April 77:30 10 a.m.Comedor Guadalajara1830 S. Central Ave., Phoenix 85004$20 pre-register price/$25 at the doorRegister at www.phoenixchamber.com

Ambassador Committee 7:30 - 8:30 a.m. (meets every 1st Thurs.)Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 [email protected] or 602.495.6461

Water and Agriculture Committee1 - 2 p.m.Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004 [email protected] or 602.495.6497

Health Care Committee4 - 5 p.m.Chamber Boardroom [email protected] or 602.495.6497

Public Affairs Committee Noon - 1 p.m.Chamber Boardroom 201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.6497

Budget and Tax Committee2 - 3 p.m.Chamber Boardroom201 N. Central Ave., 27th Floor, Phoenix 85004

Economic Development Committee11 a.m - NoonChase Conference Center, Canyon RoomLower Concourse, Chase Tower201 N. Central Ave., Phoenix [email protected] or 602.495.6464

Environment Committee3:30 5 p.m.Chamber Boardroom [email protected] or 602.495.6497

Education Committee2 - 3 p.m.Chamber [email protected] or 602.495.6497

Transportation Committee3 4 p.m.Chamber Boardroom [email protected] or 602.495.6497


Member Happenings

01

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04

02Chamber members have the opportunity to attend numerous interesting and exciting events. From luncheons and mixers to expos and professional development sessions, theyre all part of the Chamber experience. Heres a look at what your fellow members have been up to recently.

v e r m i l l i o n p h o t o . c o m6 0 2 . 2 5 3 . 6 0 0 5

C a p t u r eY o u r B e s t

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I t sP a i n l e s s l yS i m p l e A t

V e r m i l l i o nP h o t o

Professional Womens Roundtable

01 | Life Balancing Coach Bonnie Moehle spoke to the Professional Womens Roundtable on Reducing Fear & Stress and Living a More Peaceful Life on January 5.

Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona

02 | Business people gathered at TGI Fridays Front Row at Chase Field for food, fun and networking at the first Downtown Phoenix: Urban Heart of Arizona event of 2010 on January 7. The regular series of events spotlighting the culture and activities downtown continues March 11 at monOrchid, LLC.

Hispanic Business Leadership Councils Bridging the Gap Luncheon

03 | The Hispanic Business Leadership Council brings small business owners together to support the growth and development of Hispanic businesses. These members enjoyed the January 27 program on Establishing Alliances to Build a Sustainable Business. The HBLC is also presenting a special procurement event, Bid for Business: Increase Your Profits in 2010 in April (see page 17 for more information).

Mentor Match

04 | Cathy Eckstein, chair of the ATHENA PowerLink Governing Board was just one of the presenters at January 28's Mentor Match. The second annual event brought business owners together with five of the Valleys leading business mentoring programs.


Member Happenings

Your Chamber is Your Goldmine

05 | New members found out how to make the most of their Chamber membership. Victoria Trafton of the Referral Institute of Central Arizona lends tips and expertise at the regular meetings, like this one on January 20.

Green Roundtable

06 | Things are looking up for the Green Roundtable, as Lisa Barnard of Brain Lab (with scarf, right) and other eco-friendly business people found out at the groups January 12 meeting at the ASU Art Museum. Sustainability and your business is the subject of this months Phoenix Forum event (see page 8 for more details).

Legislative Kickoff & Governors Reception

07 | Governor Jan Brewer mingled with business people before addressing the crowd at the annual Legislative Kickoff event January 21 at the Phoenix Art Museum.

08 | Despite one of the stormiest nights in recent memory, a good crowd of business people turned out for the chance to get up close and personal with elected officials at the event that celebrates the start of the new legislative session.

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YOUR FULL-SERVICE HR DEPARTMENT

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HR Choice is a full-service Human Resources answer to your small or mid-sized company needs. Quality and broad experience make up our team of professionals.

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ChoiceHR HR Audits Employee Training Recruitment /

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How To:

Stop micromanaging

Ribbon Cuttings

2 0 I M PAC T | M A R . 2010

Contact us if you are celebrating a grand opening, anniversary or relocation at 602.495.2194.

By Christia Gibbons


Micromanagers are people with trust issues.Jerry Houston, president and CEO of Surprise-based Houston Partners International a performance improvement organization says hes a recovering control freak. Hes learned that by trusting people, you get better, more productive employees.

I wasnt always a non micromanaging manager, Houston says. I learned it.

Lack of trust comes from the history between people. Has the employee missed deadlines, embarrassed the manager, made a lot of mistakes? Has the boss allowed mistakes, given adequate directions, provided the right training?

To stop micromanaging, Houston says managers need to:

n Let go.n Ask for feedback.n Provide resources.n Advocate for employees.

To stop the boss from micromanaging, he suggests, employees should:

n Be honest and open.n Ask for clarification.n Provide honest feedback.n Trust their manager.

Clarify expectations, establish mutual goals and get out of peoples way. Let them work.

What we preach is: mutual benefit, respect and trust, Houston says.

It was a case of puppy love for the new CHASe BANK at the Shops at Norterra, 2430 W. Happy Valley Rd. in Phoenix.

+ www.chase.com

If you invested time going to the ribbon cutting for financial planning firm McKeNNeY & MONrOe, LLC, no doubt youll return to their office at 2525 E. Arizona Biltmore Circle, Ste. 124 in Phoenix.

+ www.mckenneymonroe.com

All the big wheels turned out for the ribbon cutting at the new C&r tire location at 2010 W Parkside Lane #120 in Phoenix.

+ www.candrtire.com

Just like their clients, everyone who attended the ribbon cutting for PreFerred PAiN & reHAB CeNter at 2813 E. Camelback Road, Suite 430 in Phoenix, left smiling.

+ www.preferredpaincenter.com

Get Connected

Houston Partners internationalwww.houstonpartnersinternational.com

The Chamber has a new Business Development Executive! Jeffrey Durbin joined the Chamber in February after three years as Senior Account Executive with the Tucson Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and a year as Vice President of Chamber Enhancement Group. The Cleveland, Ohio native has a vast experience in sales and management and will help add to the growing list of GPCC members. Look for Jeffrey at the next Chamber event or email him at [email protected] to say hi!

Welcome to the Chamber!

Jeffrey Durbin

Accountants - CPA

Joy C. Cervantes CPA, P.C.8712 E. Via de Commercio, Ste. 10Scottsdale, AZ 85258(480) 897-4400www.joycervantescpa.com

Advertising and Marketing

HDE Agency22 E. Victory St.Phoenix, AZ 85040(602) 276-2499www.hdeagency.com

Alternative Energy / Solar

Arizona Power-Save4111 E. Valley Auto Dr.Mesa, AZ 85206(480) 347-5162www.azpower-save.com

Apartments and Vacation Rentals - Corporate Housing

9920 Camelback9920 W. Camelback Rd.Phoenix, AZ 85037(623) 877-3730www.9920az.com

Architectural Services

Harvey Unti4430 N. 28th Pl.Phoenix, AZ 85016(602) 329-4329

Art Dealers/Artists

Wall Art Studios2119 E. Indian School Rd.Phoenix, AZ 85016(602) 955-2110www.wall-artstudios.com

Banks

Wallick & Wolk, Inc.5859 W. Talavi Blvd.Glendale, AZ 85306(602) 298-1430www.wvmb.com

Child Day Care Services

Brighter Angels Learning Center3320 W. Southern Ave., Ste.102Phoenix, AZ 85041(602) 276-3223

Consulting Services - Communications/Management/Marketing

Tech Biz Bridge, LLC22636 N. Hance Blvd.Phoenix, AZ 85027(623) 580-1341www.techbizbridge.com

Consulting Services - Computer

Hagen Business Systems, Inc.3461 W. Jasper Dr.Chandler, AZ 85226(480) 705-4241www.hagenbusiness.com

Contractors - Construction

ANDALE Construction, Inc.23638 W. La Vista Dr.Buckeye, AZ 85326(623) 322-4731www.andaleci.com

Contractors - General

Reliant Capitol, LLC725 N. 73rd Ave., Ste. 124Phoenix, AZ 85043(623) 388-8889www.reliantcapitolllc.com

Developers

UEVEN, LLC23449 N. 35th Dr.Glendale, AZ 85310(623) 780-3836www.ueven.com

Direct Title Insurance Carriers

North American Title3200 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 150Phoenix, AZ 85018(602) 280-7500www.nat.com

Employment Placement Agencies

Allied Forces Temporary Services4636 E. McDowell Rd., Ste 101Phoenix, AZ 85008(480) 820-1234www.alliedforces.com

Environmental Consulting Services

Envirosure Solutions1979 E. Broadway Rd.Tempe, AZ 85282(480) 784-4621www.envirosure.com

Floral Design Services and Instructions

Teach Me Floral Design10318 N. 65th Dr.Glendale, AZ 85302(623) 326-6359

Food and Beverage Wholesalers

Anytime Gourmet Coffee Co.16032 W. Yavapai St.Goodyear, AZ 85338(623) 734-2306

Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Stores - Gift Cards

Family of Faith, LLC950 E. Pecos Rd., #11 Ste. 12Chandler, AZ 85225(480) 619-4076www.fofgiftshop.com

Government Offices and Programs

Arizona-Mexico Commission1700 W. Washington St., Ste. 180Phoenix, AZ 85007(602) 542-1345www.azmc.org

Home Health Care Services

Home Helpers6363 S. Kyrene Rd.Tempe, AZ 85283(602) 281-3357www.homehelpers.cc/valleyofthesun58468

Housekeeping Services

Pop-Ins House & Carpet CleaningPO Box 84046Phoenix, AZ 85071(602) 274-3658www.popinsaz.com

Insurance Agencies and Brokerages

Martha Bueti Insurance Agency2445 E. Baseline Rd., Ste. 140Phoenix, AZ 85042(602) 243-9209www.marthabueti.com

State Farm - Eric Frederick1820 N. 75th Ave., Ste. 106Phoenix, AZ 85035(623) 846-0240www.insurephx.com

Thomas Title & Escrow16435 N. Scottsdale Rd., Ste. 405Scottsdale, AZ 85254(480) 222-1116www.thomastitle.com

Investment Services

NADART1100 E. Parkview Ct.Gilbert, AZ 85295(703) 608-0945www.nadart.org

Manufacturing

Vista Control Systems2001 W. Melinda Ln.Phoenix, AZ 85027(602) 943-5700www.vistasystems.net

Non - Profit Organizations

Dress for Success Phoenix1122 E. Buckeye Rd., Ste. A1Phoenix, AZ 85034(602) 489-7397www.dressforsuccess.org

Non - Profit Organizations - Business/Professional

Arizona Self-Insurers Association4025 E. Chandler Blvd., Ste. 70-F2Phoenix, AZ 85048(480) 706-5762www.azselfinsurers.org


Welcome New Members

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

AZ Cancer Research Organization1642 N. 24th St.Phoenix, AZ 85008(602) 231-0505www.azcancerresearch.org

Mountain States Employers Council3305 E. Greenway Rd., Ste. 10Phoenix, AZ 85032(602) 955-7558www.msec.org

American Cancer Society4550 E. Bell Rd., Ste. 126Phoenix, AZ 85032(602) 224-0524www.relayforlife.org/centralphoenixaz

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation

Netcor Transports, LLCPO Box 14449Phoenix, AZ 85063(480) 668-9497www.netcortransports.com

Payroll ServicesNETtime Solutions8840 E. Chaparral Rd.Scottsdale, AZ 85250(480) 296-0400www.nettimesolutions.com

Professional Services

Loffa Interactive Group8426 E. Shea Blvd.Scottsdale, AZ 85260(480) 664-6754www.loffacorp.com

Red Oak Technologies2425 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 950Phoenix, AZ 85016(602) 253-0677www.redoaktech.com

Property and Asset Management

Courtney Watt PropertiesPO Box 41895Mesa, AZ 85274(480) 756-3991www.cash4cashflows.com/cwatt

Public Relations Agencies - Public Affairs/Government Relations

Shuler Government Affairs, LLC11515 E. Pine Valley Rd.Scottsdale, AZ 85255(602) 509-8699www.shulerllc.com

Real Estate Agents and Brokers - Commercial

R.O.I. Properties7310 N. 16th St., Ste. 180Phoenix, AZ 85020(602) 319-1326www.roipropertiesaz.com

Restaurants - Catering

Memphis Best BBQ6260 S. 35th Ave.Phoenix, AZ 85041(623) 327-9700www.bestofmemphis.com

Mr. Goodcents Subs & Pasta488 N. Acacia Dr.Gilbert, AZ 85233(602) 437-0005www.mrgoodcents.com

Satellite Television Networks

Sports Direct7401 E. Arlington Rd.Scottsdale, AZ 85250(602) 391-7561

Short Term Consumer Credit

Check Into Cash4212 W. Cactus Rd., Ste. 1115Phoenix, AZ 85029(916) 708-9781www.checkintocash.com

Sports Training

Athletes Performance2629 E. Rose Garden Ln.Phoenix, AZ 85050(480) 449-9000www.athletesperformance.com

Welcome New Members

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


Dedicated To The Communities

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MarCom CornerYour Answers to Marketing& Communication

topic: Getting News Coverage for Your Company

Have you ever wondered why the news media covers some stories and not others? To answer that, Peg Mulloy, manager, media relations for Republic Services, starts by defining news.

News is local, timely, significant, trendy, may have a human interest angle and can change from day to day. A great news story can become useless if something else of major significance happens at the same time. On September 11, 2001, nothing else was news.

News is a business. The goal of television and radio programming is ratings. Newspapers and magazines want to increase sales. Reporters look for controversy, sensationalism and negativity. It is up to us to provide them with positive news ideas.

If you think you have an interesting story, ask yourself, So what? If you can describe why the audience would care about or be helped by your story, you may have a newsworthy story to tell. Examples of what could constitute news include:

n An employee performs a heroic act (rescues a person, animal, etc.)

n A division/office/company reduces the number of accidents

n Employees support a local charity, sponsor an event, etc.

n An employee wins an award

Stay alert about whats going on at your company; if you think youve got a story to tell, put together a compelling synopsis and call or email the news desk. If they are not interested in your idea, dont be disappointed. Keep trying, but remember to be newsworthy.

Executive Q&A

Get Connected

republic Serviceswww.republicservices.com

did you plan on being a CeO growing up?

All I ever wanted to be was a pediatric nurse and to take care of kids. My eighth-grade class took a field trip to a hospital and a nursing school and I thought the nurses dorm was really cool and would be a lot of fun, so thats why I wanted to become a nurse. When I was younger, I never thought I would be doing anything like what Im doing. Eventually I realized that if you really want to make a difference, you have to have a diversified scope of responsibility. Thats how I wound up in nursing administration and, eventually, consulting for Advanced Reimbursement. Next thing I know, Im the COO and then the CEO. It wasnt planned at all.

Whats the best part of your job?

I love working with people. A lot of managers dont really like managing people. That is the part of my job that I enjoy the most. I want people to wake up and say, I get to go to work today! and look forward to going to work. Creating that culture is great.

Whats the best piece of advice someone has given you?

Listening is the key component to management. And Ive always been a really good listener.

What was your first job?

I think I started babysitting when I was about 11. My grandfather owned a dry cleaner, and my

father and my uncle bought it when he retired. I was probably about 12, and I used to go down and work at the shop.

How do you juggle work and family?

Balance has always been one of those key components and its part of the culture here. Ive learned that once you determine whats really important to your kids, you never miss those things no matter what. I always did my best to get to their soccer games and their events. We support that here, its just a part of what I think is good business.

A woman CeO is no longer an oddity, though were a long way from gender equity. How different are things now than they were years ago?

Because I grew up in health care and nursing, and thats a female-dominated industry, I have always had a lot of female mentors, so I dont think I had to experience as much of that as other people have. One of the things I struggle with is whether were at a point where its more difficult for a woman to start a business than it is for a man. And Im not sure anymore. I know women CEOs still make less than men, but I think weve come a long way and I think we have to continue to make sure those opportunities are available for everyone.

Get Connected

Advanced reimbursement Managementwww.advancedreimbursement.com

Our series of bimonthly Q&A sessions that will help you get to know prominent Valley business people continues with Connie Perez, CEO of Advanced Reimbursement Management in Phoenix.

Connie Perez of Advanced Reimbursement Management is the Greater Phoenix Chambers 2009-2010 Board Chair.


Money Matters

Why Open Book Management PaysShould You Share Financial Info With Employees?

Its easy to share good news about record profits or sales growth with employees. But during times of struggle, many entrepreneurs opt to keep the inner workings of their companys finances hidden from employeesand they lose out on a golden opportunity.

You may have heard the new buzzword transparency to describe open book management. The good news is transparency can do everything from boost sales growth to make your company more efficient, studies show. Employees need a scorecard to know where theyre on target or falling short, says Liz Montemayor, CPA and chief financial officer for Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGEN).

How can open book management work for you?

n When employees see data for their departments, they can see how specific actions impact the bottom line, making them more likely to offer valuable ideas on how to improve operations. At the manager and leadership level, people can make more informed judgments, says Todd LaPorte, senior vice president and chief financial officer for Scottsdale Healthcare.

n When a company adopts an employees suggestion, it boosts the employees sense of worth and emotional ownership in the company. Montemayor adds, It builds trust and loyalty.

n If you keep employees in the dark about your companys financial performance, you force them to make assumptions (usually false ones) and believe water cooler rumors.

Sales IQ

topic: Sales Call Reluctance

Most sales people are good at retention and up-selling current customers, but many arent comfortable consistently prospecting for new customers. Why not? Connie Kadansky of Exceptional Sales explains why.

There are only three ways to grow business: Sell to new customers, retain existing customers or sell more products/services to existing customers.

Prospecting is not an intellectual exercise; it is an emotional exercise to initiate contact with prospective buyers. Focus on the value of your products or services when prospecting. Take the spotlight off yourself.

There are only two ways to view initiating contact: as an opportunity to provide valuable products and services to a prospect or as an emotional threat.

If you suffer from the fear of prospecting, just know that it is NOT prospecting that is causing you anxiety. It is YOUR thought about prospecting that is creating the fear triggering your self-doubt. When you are ready to prospect and, yet, you STOP, what is causing you to stop? Your freedom is your willingness to discover the true thoughts that keep you from prospecting. Write them down. Examples might be, They already have a provider that they really like, or I don't want to bother them, or They get a thousand calls a day from salespeople. Notice what you are projecting onto the call. Then shift your perspective to I have a valuable product or service to provide that can help them.

Hiding, denying and suppressing Sales Call Reluctance is extremely costly to your wallet and your self-confidence. The good news is that Sales Call Reluctance is nothing to be embarrassed about; living with it needlessly is.

Get Connected

exceptional Saleswww.exceptionalsales.com

Get Connected

translational Genomics research institute (tGeN) www.tgen.org

Scottsdale Healthcare www.shc.org

ready to Open Up? Four best practices of open book management

n Top-level management needs to decide what financial information will be shared.

n Mid-level managers should be educated first to determine the message and make it consistent.

n The education and professional level of the audience must be considered when crafting the message.

n Management needs to decide in advance how to deliver the message and how frequently to repeat it. Timeliness is important, Montemayor says.

Safety First

Why should you get involved in the Chambers Association Safety Program? Workers compensation insurance coverage is a must by state law. When you obtain your coverage through SCF Arizona and also enroll in GPCCs safety program, your organization qualifies for a 10 percent discount on premiums, with the potential for a bonus safety dividend at the end of the year, if our groups aggregate loss claims are kept low. But those are not the only reasons to be involved.

A safe workplace can have a big impact on a companys bottom line, said GPCC Vice President Ron McElhaney, who points out that workplace injuries cost society more than $128 billion in annual losses. By being involved in the safety program, you not only help keep your own workplace safe, but you can have an impact on other members and the business community.

You can also learn details about safety initiatives GPCC and our other member businesses have implemented, McElhaney added. And if you actively serve on the GPCC Safety Committee, youll be able to network with your peers, contribute to the success of the program and have direct access to SCF Arizona to resolve problems.

GPCCs Safety Committee meets quarterly to review loss claims of Chamber member companies, discuss new programs and plan semi-annual safety training seminars.

Get Connected

ron Mcelhaney(602) [email protected]

SCF Arizona www.scfaz.com


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Are you a minority or woman-owned business?Would you like to make your company more successful?

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Arizona in Focus

Chamber supports House Bill on Job Creation, Business Attraction and More

Spotlighting the Chambers Legislative Advocacy and Economic Development Efforts

Get a Job!

Get Connected

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs(602) 495-6497 or www.phoenixchamber.com/publicaffairs

Enterprise zones are geographic areas (usually high-poverty, high-unemployment areas) whose businesses can receive tax credits as an incentive for creating jobs. With the state having lost some 200,000 jobs in the last 18 months, this bill is critical to accelerate our economic recovery.

As people lose jobs, theres an increased strain on public services, noted GPCC Vice President of Public Affairs & Economic Development Michelle Bolton. Already there are about 1.2 million people using the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS, the state's "medicaid" program), including more than 276,000 children. That number will only grow unless we can put people back to work.

HB 2595 is designed to create high-wage jobs and diversify the states economy. Many of the jobs recently lost in Arizona are construction-

the Chambers Board of directors has taken a position in favor of HB 2595, the enterprise Zone Jobs incentives program. Proposed by the Greater Phoenix economic Council (GPeC) and sponsored by rep. Michele reagan and Sen. Barbara Leff, the measure would change Arizonas enterprise zones going forward.

related, so expanding the industry base will pay future dividends if one sector struggles.

This bill would help all businesses, regardless of size, Bolton continued. Its not just aimed at helping a small group of businesses. Creating jobs benefits our entire economy.

You can read more about HB 2595, as well as the latest important information on the ongoing legislative session, in the new Legislative Documents section of our Web site at www.phoenixchamber.com/publicaffairs.

Showcase Your Business

The Chamber has begun a series of business tours with Phoenix City Council members designed to highlight the economic strengths and contributions of local businesses. The

series of Councilmember Connect tours began February 10 with Councilwoman Peggy Neely visiting Community Tire and Automotive Service Specialists, Central Arizona Project and HRD Architecture and Engineering. If you would like to give your City Councilmember some first-hand experience with your day-to-day operations and get to know your elected official better, contact the Chambers Public Affairs department.

State Representative Sam Crump was just one of the elected officials who met and mingled with business people at Januarys Legislative Kickoff & Governors Reception at the Phoenix Art Museum.


Many Valley business owners - including First Fidelity Bank President Kevin Sellers - consider 2009 to have been one of their most difficult years ever.

Its been as challenging as any Ive experienced, Sellers says. And Ive been banking for thirty years.

First Fidelity has never stopped lending, but finding enough qualified clients has become tough. The recession and recovery have many credit-worthy clients exercising caution and putting off expansion plans.

The challenge is finding companies that wish to borrow and can demonstrate the capacity to repay the credit, explains Sellers.

As a privately held, community bank, First Fidelity provides clients with the products and services found at a large bank with the client-focused advantage of a family-owned organization. Rather than simply cut a check, First Fidelity focuses on the entire relationship. The manager oversees all the clients needs from credit to cash management and investment services to personal banking.

We have a group of very experienced commercial relationship managers, says Sellers. We make sure they truly understand the clients business, the challenges they face and their objectives and needs so we can really partner with them.

First Fidelity has also taken steps to improve efficiency and dedicate more human resources to credit underwriting. This allows commercial relationship managers to spend more time with existing and prospective clients. Sellers expects his four Valley locations will add $30 million in commercial loans this year.

I think the more sophisticated business owner with more complex needs, yet still in a small to medium size range, is better suited with a community bank because we have experienced officers who can spend the time to get to know them, he says.

Banking on Better timesFirst Fidelity Looks to Expand Relationships

By Christina Estes

Get Connected

First Fidelity Bankwww.first-fidelity.com

Business Bios

Mutual respect Insurance Company Builds Relationships By Kay Sperduti

Quick! Which Fortune 500 company with a strong Valley presence has not only avoided layoffs in recent years but also continues to hire? If the name Liberty Mutual didnt jump to mind, it wouldnt be a surprise to Phoenix Customer Response Center Manager Michael Corhn.

Many may not realize our presence here in Arizona, particularly in the Valley said Corhn. The diversified global insurer employs nearly 1,000 Valley residents in area field sales offices as well as customer service, sales and claim centers in Ahwatukee, Glendale and Phoenix.

Currently ranked 86th on the Fortune 500, Liberty Mutual offers car, home, life and personal liability insurance along with a complete range of commercial products. Their culture, according to Corhn, is based on responsibility to the client in times of need as well as community. In fact, volunteerism and outreach are embraced by the companys 45,000 employees worldwide.

As the countrys fifth-largest Property and Casualty insurer, Liberty Mutual takes hiri