Volume 2013, Issue 9
The Chamber Vista A monthly publication of the Sierra Vista Area Chamber
September 2013
Advocacy continues to be a focus for the Chamber Volume 2013, Issue #9
Update from Executive Director Amanda Baillie
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Member Spotlight-
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New Chamber Smart Phone App
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Spetember Schedule of Events
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August Events at a Glance
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Promotional Opportunities
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Member Page
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Board of Directors / Chamber Staff
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“We Mean Business”
By Amanda Baillie Executive Director Advocacy plays a large part in what the Chamber does on a day to day basis on behalf of its members. The last week in August, in particular, was a busy one in terms of continuing to nurture our relationships with those who represent our interests in government. It started with the launch of Congressman Ron Barber’s new Women’s Leadership Council, comprised of about 20 female leaders from throughout his district, who will act as his advisors on women’s issues and economic development. I am honored to be among that group, representing our Chamber and local business women. Currently, Cong. Barber is a cosponsor of the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would strengthen the Equal Pay Act of 1963 by
taking further steps to improve equal pay remedies at the federal government level. He is also a cosponsor of the Women’s Procurement Equalization Act, which would set aside certain contracts to be awarded to women owned businesses. This council will meet on a quarterly basis and our Chamber will strive to play its part in conveying the concerns of women business owners to the Congressman. Later that week we met with the Congressman again during his visit to Fort Huachuca with the Under Secretary of the Army Joseph Westphal. Both men were here to learn more about the Fort and its missions, as well as to hear the Huachuca 50 board of directors—the Chamber is an ex officio member of the board. One of our most important goals is to support the future viability of this vital economic engine and we take every opportunity...Continued on page 4
Mini Expo open now to home based businesses & non-profits The Chamber will be staging its annual Mini Expo on Saturday, November 2. This increasingly popular event is open to home based businesses and non-profits (charities and churches) only. Held at the Mall at Sierra Vista, the Mini Expo offers a low cost avenue for our community’s smallest businesses and non-profits to market themselves at a high traffic venue. It also provides a won-
derful opportunity to start some holiday shopping. Vendor space is limited – we have already started taking registrations – so we encourage interested businesses and organizations to sign up now by calling the Chamber at 458-6940 or visiting www.sierravistachamber.org The cost is $99 for members and $149 for non-members, which includes a table, tablecloth and two chairs.
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The Chamber Vista
Chamber Update by Executive Director Amanda Baillie
“The Chamber does not believe the potential loss of vital defense missions, jobs and needed growth...is justification for critical habitat designation…”
You may have read in the newspaper about the proposal by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to designate parts of southern Arizona as critical habitat for the jaguar. Area residents and organizations were asked to submit comments on this issue, which the Chamber did. Our board voted emphatically to oppose this designation because of its potential to negatively impact the economy and future jobs. Here is the letter we submitted: “The Sierra Vista Area Chamber of Commerce wishes to express its strong opposition to the proposed designation of critical habitat for the jaguar in southern Arizona under the Endangered Species Act. The Chamber is the largest business organization in
Cochise County, representing 624 members and approximately 12,000 employees. We believe designating critical habitat for the jaguar has the potential to seriously impact the ability of Fort Huachuca to effectively carry out its missions, which serve this country’s local, national and international defense needs. As a federal entity, Fort Huachuca would be further encumbered by requirements imposed under the Endangered Species Act. The Fort contributes an estimated $2.4 billion annually to the local and state economy. Cochise County’s economy has already been heavily impacted by the recession, defense cuts and sequestration and the proposed designation will do nothing to aid much needed recovery. Further, the nearby Rosemont Copper Mine project may be negatively impacted by such a designation. The mine will bring thousands of direct and indirect jobs to the local econ-
omy, in addition to an estimated $19 billion over the next two decades. While the Chamber understands the need for conservation efforts, we are concerned that such a designation would be introduced for an animal that has been rarely sighted in southern Arizona. According to studies cited by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “there are no known breeding pairs of jaguars within the borders of the U.S. at this time, and no female jaguars have been detected in the U.S since 1963.” The Chamber does not believe the potential loss of vital defense missions, jobs and needed growth in this region is justification for critical habitat designation that studies have shown “may” benefit the species. The Sierra Vista Area Chamber respectfully requests that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service not proceed with this critical habitat designation.”
Member Spotlight— The Place at Savanna Springs offers luxury living Anyone looking for a touch of luxury should head over to The Place at Savanna Springs. Since 2004 this apartment complex has been welcoming both permanent and temporary residents to Sierra Vista. Apartment Manager Tinyo Santos said the units offer luxury living thanks to some up market finishing touches. “This is modern luxury living,” she said. “We have 9 feet ceilings in the apartments, upgraded appliances and lighting fixtures, plus much more.” One the main advantages of living at Savanna Springs is its central loca-
Residents run the gamut, from military personnel and government contractors to teachers and seniors. The complex also offers a number of corporate units, which are fully furnished and ready to take business occupants. In addition, Savanna Springs is fully gated, offers covered parking, a 24 hour fitness center, pool and clubhouse. tion at 289 South Highway 92. Units range from one bedroom to Within a short walking distance are three bedrooms and two baths. grocery stores, restaurants and other To find our more call Tinyo Santos at conveniences. 458 2200. “We are also just a few miles from Fort Huachuca,” added Tinyo.
Volume 2013, Issue 9
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New Chamber smart phone app will highlight member businesses receive the maximum exposure, both via the Chamber’s website and the new app. All members should have a login and password that allows them access to the members only area of the Chamber website. From here, they can update their web page. Need help? Just call the Chamber and a staff member will help you through the process. We will even come to your business to set your web page up for you, or If potential customers cannot access you can come by the Chamber. your business from their phones or The Chamber officially launched Mytablets, then you could be impacting ChamberApp at the Home & Busiyour bottom line – and not in a posi- ness Expo where we distributed infortive way. mation to attendees. The Sierra Vista Area Chamber offers its members an easy way to stay ahead of the game with its new smart phone App. MyChamberApp allows users to quickly find local businesses at the touch of a button. Available on Apple, Android and Blackberry phones, MyChamberApp offers a variety of features, including: A directory of all Chamber members Links to member websites and social media Calendar of Chamber and member events Driving directions One touch calling Hot deals Our new FREE app is linked to our We have also produced information website and membership database cards to help the public download so that it always contains the latest the app so they can start accessing information. our directory with the touch of a butIt also links to our members’ Cham- ton. ber web pages, provided free as part On one side of these cards is our of your membership. It is important new Buy Local, Shop Local, Save Lothat our members take full advancal logo (pictured above) and we are tage of this benefit to ensure they asking our members to place these
in their window to encourage their customers to support Cochise County businesses. We will begin delivering display cards to our members soon, but you can drop by the Chamber now to pick some up. An added bonus is that this App can be used across the country. When you are visiting another town or city, check to see if the local Chamber of Commerce is listed and tap into their business directory to find the resources you need. Downloading MyChamberApp is easy. Step 1: Download the free app for your device by visiting your app store or www.mychamberapp.com/ download-2 Step 2: Choose Sierra Vista Area Chamber as your chamber Step 3: Explore and let other businesses know how you found them! As with all new technology, there is always room for improvement. If you find a mistake in your business listing or the directions are incorrect, let us know about it so we can put it right. And remember, your free Chamber web page will greatly improve your listing so make sure you have as much information on it as possible. Your Chamber membership comes with many benefits to help promote your business. Need a refresher? Join us for lunch at Chamber 101 on the last Friday of the month at 11:30 a.m. Call 458-6940 to RSVP.
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The ChamberNewsletter Vista Title
Advocacy continues to be focus of the Chamber Continued from page 1
...we can to talk to the right people about this. During this important meeting the Chamber emphasized the vital impact the Fort has on our local economy and the effect any downsizing would have on businesses and jobs outside of the Main Gate. Additionally we told both the Congressman and Undersecretary of the Army that Sierra Vista is ready to support more missions through a highly skilled workforce, affordable housing, excellent education facilities and a newly planned hospital. We were encouraged by the positive reaction we received from Barber and Westphal. That same week also saw a visit from Senator Jeff Flake, who was here to listen to issues and concerns from community leaders. The Chamber was among an invited group of community organizations and individuals who heard the senator give updates on the proposed immigration bill, which the Chamber supports, as well as other subjects.
Sen. Flake voiced his frustrations regarding the current budget woes, in particular the inability of the government to effectively function without a budget. Finally, the Business Advocacy Committee, which replaced the former Legislative Affairs Committee, held its first meeting to discuss its future scope. The goal of this new committee is to act as a voice for business and work with organizations like the City of Sierra Vista to ensure the needs of our members are being met. This group will meet on an as needed basis and plans to approach each issue in the best way deemed appropriate, whether that be a forum, survey, education, luncheons or lobbying. However, we need our members to let us know when they have an issue so that we can help them. So please contact us if you need some help with anything from the City’s permit process to finding qualified candidates for an open position.
SHRED-A-THON Saturday, November 2 The Mall at Sierra Vista 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your documents to be professionally and securely destroyed by Shred It. Cost is $5 per copier box. Sponsored by
Schedule of Events Sept. 9—Ribbon Cutting at Hobby Lobby, 9:00 am. 657 N. Hwy 90. Sept. 11—Ambassadors Committee Meeting, 5:30 pm. Peacock Restaurant. Sept. 12—Ribbon cutting at Edward Jones, - Gina Lane, Noon. 49 N. Coronado Dr. Sept 18—Military Affairs Committee Meeting, 8:00 am at the Chamber. Sept. 20—Leadership Sierra Vista 2013-14 Orientation, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm at the Chamber. Sept. 20—Board of Directors Meeting, 7:00am at Sierra Suites. Sept. 20—Ribbon Cutting at Valor Hospice Care, 4:00 pm. 1048 E. Fry Blvd., Ste. E, Sierra Vista. Sept. 27—Cross Border Trade Expo, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at The Mall Sept. 27—Chamber 101, 11:30 am at the Chamber. Lunch is provided. Advertise to 634 local businesses for about 20 cents each!
Reach over 634 businesses in Sierra Vista and surrounding communities
Take advantage of this member-only benefit!
We insert and mail for you!
Super low advertising rates! Members pay only $99. Executive Club Members pay just $49.
SPECIFICATIONS: Inserts must be on 8.5x11, flat, non-glossy, standard weight (20lb.– black & white, 24/28lb.— color) paper. June NEWSLETTER DEADLINE: Wednesday, September 23, 2013 NOTE: Insert space is limited and is provided on a first come, first serve basis. For information, call the Chamber at 458-6940 or email: mdillard@sierravistachamber.org
Volume 2013, Issue 9
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Left and center: Wound Cares LLC celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting, as did The Teen Hut Center: Port Royale Apartments hosted the August Business at Twilight
For upcoming events please visit us at www.sierravistachamber.org/events
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The Chamber Vista
Festive opportunities to promote your business
Start planning now to have your business become a part of the 14th Annual Festival of Trees. This is a fun way to promote your business to the thousands of people who visit this event at the Mall at Sierra Vista. This year’s festival will run from November 24 until December 5. We are encouraging businesses to decorate and enter a tree, become a sponsor or donate a raffle prize. Part of the proceeds will help build a new and much needed library at the Boys & Girls Club of Sierra Vista. Businesses can also seek a marketing dollars tax deduction if they participate (check with your tax professional). This event is staged by the Chamber, Sierra Vista Herald and the Mall. Presenting sponsor is RegionalCare. More details coming soon!
Registrations are now open for the 55th Annual Christmas Light Parade, taking place on Saturday, December 7. The theme this year is A Cowboy Christmas. From ranching, rodeos, saddles and spurs to chaps, campfires, boots and bandanas, celebrate cowboy culture this Christmas. Put your own festive twist on the Wild West! As always, Chamber members will receive discounted entry fees. Just go to www.sierravistachamber.org to download a form or drop by the Chamber. The parade will start at 5:30 p.m. at the corner of Seventh Street and Fry Blvd. and will make its way east along Fry.
SIERRA VISTA JOB FAIR
It would not be Christmas without a visit from the big man himself, so the Chamber has once again arranged for Santa to spend some time in Sierra Vista. Before the parade starts at 5:30 p.m., Santa and Mrs Claus will be flying in via helicopter to the Sierra Vista ACE Hardware parking lot at 9 a.m. on December 7. The couple will be on hand for at least two hours to meet and greet children and families. It’s a great opportunity to take a photo and start the festive season. Entertainment will be provided by the Desert Swing Band. And don’t miss Santa and Mrs Claus in the Christmas Light Parade that evening. They will be in the Chamber float at the end of the parade.
BUSINESS AT TWILIGHT Hosted by:
September 12, 2013 • 10:00 am to 2:00 pm VFW Post 9972 549 Veterans Dr., Sierra Vista
Companies Hiring Now! Thursday, September 12, 2013 5:00 pm 2585 E. Wilcox Drive Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
Food!
Fun!
Raffle!
Prizes!
Volume 2013, Issue 9
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A Special Welcome to Our New Members! It Works Global The Teen Hut Arizona Family Law Center Hobby Lobby Hoppin' Grapes Edward Jones Investments, Gina Lane USA Pawn and Jewelry Pot of Gold Online, LLC Budget Tire Shop Vapor Geeks
(727) 692-9825 (520) 459-8371 (520) 459-4000 (520) 417-2424 (520) 338-9463 (520) 459-1488 (520) 458-5269 (520) 678-5076 (520) 270-8679 (520) 227-4001
Distinctive Soirees High Desert Tea Parties Lavender Lane Boutique ABCO Solar Bishop & Brown, LLC Faithful Forever Alejandras
(706) 478-7361 (520) 452-7933 (517) 610-6116 (520) 777-0511 (520) 572-4270 (520) 458-1561 (520) 980-2688
Thanks to these members for renewing their commitment to the business community Bowen Associates
Family Vision Care
Sierra Cycles
Buena Vista Plumbing, LLC
Finders Keepers Antiques & Collectibles
Sierra Healthmart Pharmacy
Cannon's Creative Surfaces, Inc.
Garden Plaza Apartments
Small Business Development Center
Center for Academic success
Goin' To Grandma's
Southwest Assoc. of Buffalo Soldiers, Inc
Cherry Creek Radio
Habitat for Humanity Sierra Vista Area
TDY123
Cochise County Sheriff
Home Depot
Thunder Mountain Community Church
Cochise County Supervisor
HP-AZ.net
Thunder Mountain Pools, Inc.
Cochise Motorsports
IEEE Fort Huachuca Chapter
Tumbleweed Auction, LLC
Cochise Oncology
Mountain Steppes Apartments
Williams Melo PLC
Columbian Association—Knights of Columbus
Nova Home Loans
Your Business Services Experts
Copper Sky Images LLC
RegionalCare
Dollar Rent A Car
Rosemont Copper Company
Edward Jones Investments, Landon Spilsbury
Saguaro Podiatry Associates, PLLC
Executive Club Members Allstate Insurance Company Pat Meldrum American Family Insurance American Southwest Credit Union American Systems Arizona Water Company Atomic Fight Club Beacon Group BrightStar HomeCare CACI, Inc. Castle & Cooke Arizona, Inc. Castle & Cooke Mortgage, LLC CerendipiTees CGI Cherry Creek Radio City of Sierra Vista Coca-Cola Refreshments USA, Inc. Cox Data Systems & Technology, Inc. Dental Village Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Garden Terrace Assisted Living Home General Dynamics Information Tech.
Hobby Lobby Horizon Moving Systems JR's Food and Spirits KKYZ Radio Landmark Cafe Las Palomas Apartments Lawley Automotive Center Lawley's Team Ford Life Care Center Long Realty Co. Longhorn Restaurant Mall at Sierra Vista - Management Office ManTech Mr. Fix It of Sierra Vista, LLC Naco Dental National Bank of Arizona Netmedix IT Solutions New Frontier Animal Medical Center Northrop Grumman Corporation Patio Pools & Spas Pioneer Title Agency Pueblo del Sol Country Club Rommel Equipment Services
Rosemont Copper Company Sierra Vista Ace Hardware Sierra Vista Herald / Bisbee Daily Review Sierra Vista Regional Health Southeastern Arizona Contractors Assoc. Southwest Gas Corporation Southwestern Eye Center Specialists in Dermatology Stachel & Associates, P.C. Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Coop. Sun Canyon Inn Systems Integration Tailored Living The Boeing Company TownePlace Suites by Marriott University of Phoenix Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors, David Burnett Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Wayland Baptist University Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc. Windemere Hotel & Conference Center
The Chamber Vista is a publication of the Sierra Vista Area Chamber
21 E. Wilcox Drive, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635 (520) 458-6940, Fax: (520) 452-0878 www.sierravistachamber.org
Mission Statement
The Sierra Vista Area Chamber promotes business and provides leadership for the improvement of the community.
2012-13 Board of Directors Executive Officers
Chamber Staff
Chairman - Michael Benson - TDY Housing Past Chairwoman - Dee Dee Hoeft, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Chair Elect - Rick Shelley - Horizon Moving Systems Treasurer - Anita Farrow, National Bank of Arizona Secretary - Jack Blair, SSVEC
Executive Director Amanda Baillie, abaillie@sierravistachamber.org
Board Members
Communications Director Margaret Dillard, mdillard@sierravistachamber.org
Frank Gonzalez, - Lawley Automotive Elsie MacMillan - Sierra Toyota Ken Cecil - Mall at Sierra Vista Phil Vega - Sierra Vista Herald / Bisbee Daily Review Nancy Nash - Stuff ‘N Baskets Nathan Williams - Nathan Williams, Law Office Glen Cobb - Sierra Suites Kevin Peterson - CGI Mary Tieman - Southeast Arizona Workforce Connection
Membership & Marketing Director John Hargraves III, jhargraves@sierravistachamber.org
Office Manager Toni Rogers, officem@sierravistachamber.org Events Coordinator Diane Erwin, derwin@sierravistachamber.org
Sierra Vista Area Chamber
PRESORTED
21 E. Wilcox Dr. Sierra Vista, AZ. 85635
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