Scottsdale@Work - Feb/Mar 2010

2010: A new era in social media begins

Scottsdale Work

CO M M E R C E . CO N N E C T I O N S . CO M M U N I T Y

FEB – MAR | 2010

Pillars Community of the

Six key areas of a

Plus Member Spotlight APS Profile of Success Kurt Brueckner

provide the foundation

strong local economy

Rick Kidder, President and CEO, Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce standing on the runway at Scottsdale Airport.

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official publication of the scottsdale area chamber of commerce

RICK MCCARTNEY, Publisher Inmedia company Michelle Jacoby, Editorial Director Inmedia company DEBRA KUFFNER, Managing Editor SCOTTSDALE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

New Year Brings New Commitment

Mike Binder, Assistant Editor SCOTTSDALE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STEPHEN GAMBLE, art director Inmedia company louise ferrari, operations manager Media publishers group

2009 may well be remembered more for its challenges than its triumphs, and all of us know that the flip of a page on the calendar does not bring about changes in circumstances. But the flip of the calendar does offer us a time to reflect and an opportunity to find within ourselves a new sense of commitment and a new sense of hope.

dee dee hixson, Cami Shore account executives | Inmedia company SERGIO Dabdoub, Photography

Rick Kidder, President & CEO rkidder@scottsdalechamber.com Debra Kuffner Chief Operating Officer dkuffner@scottsdalechamber.com Cindi Eberhardt Vice President ceberhardt@scottsdalechamber.com 4725 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Ph 480.355.2700 fax 480.355.2710 www.scottsdalechamber.com

Board of Directors Executive Committee Board Chair Karen Wittmer-Jekel

PUBLIC POLICY ADVISORY COUNCIL Bill Heckman

VICE CHAIR Kurt Zitzer, Partner Meagher & Geer, PLLP Immediate Past Chair Tom Sadvary, President/COO Scottsdale Healthcare TREASURER Mark Eberle, Managing Director Henry & Horne, PLLP

Scottsdale Partnership Melinda Gulick, VP Community Life DMB Associates AT LARGE MEMBERS Kurt Brueckner, Partner Titus, Brueckner, Levine & Johnson PC Steve Helm Senior Manager / Property Manager Scottsdale Fashion Square

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL Eric Larson, Vice President Business Development A.R. Mays Construction

Rick Kidder, President/CEO Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce

EMERGING ISSUES angela creedon, Community Development Manager Arizona Public Service MEMBERSHIP ADVISORY COUNCIL Dale Fingersh, President The Right Direction

We have learned lessons along the way. We have learned that in any economy, good customer service helps you survive and thrive. We have learned that loyalty translates into finding a way with new rules to meet our payrolls and address uncertainty. We have learned that when the earth shifts, we can shift with it.

The Chamber is proud of our many accomplishments throughout 2009, including selling out our Airpark Tradeshow and Sterling Awards celebration, creating a new networking program in the Airpark called Meet your Neighbors, and actively supporting the advancement of the Scottsdale Airport Strategic Plan and Solis project. We also convened the top CEOs in the Valley for roundtable forums on healthcare, transportation and education, in addition to hosting a very successful forum on healthcare featuring Congressman Harry Mitchell and the CEOs from Scottsdale Healthcare, Mayo Clinic and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.

You may have also noticed a slight change to the design of our Scottsdale@Work publication. We have updated our cover masthead and added a tagline that represents the Chamber’s commitment to promoting commerce, fostering connections and building a great community! In the coming weeks, you will also begin receiving the Chamber Connect, our new weekly enewsletter that will keep you connected to the Chamber, connected to the Community and connected to each other!

We have the opportunity to make 2010 the beginning of good news for our businesses and for our city.

While falls from an economic cliff may be precipitous, the climb back up will be slow and steady. The Chamber remains committed to our member businesses, committed to our community and committed to our organizational values of excellence, stewardship, integrity, vision, inclusiveness and courage.

From necessity comes innovation and from innovation springs economic revitalization. Your Chamber is here to help you innovate even as we re-invent ourselves and make 2010 the year of turning the corner of prosperity. We have stood behind you for 62 years and we will continue to advance our mission of helping bushiness like yours grow and flourish.

For a complete list of members of the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, please visit: www.scottsdalechamber.com

Rick Kidder, President/CEO Published by

6360 E. thomas rd. Suite #210 scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone (480) 588-9505 Fax (480) 584-3751 info@inmediacompany.com • InMediaCompany.com © Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved.

www.scottsdalechamber.com

You can help us prevent waste by passing this publication on to a friend or business colleague and recycling it when you’re through. Please email dkuffner@scottsdalechamber.com to change the contact name or remove yourself from the mailing list. Thank you.

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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Pillars of the community

Scottsdale Work

CO M M E R C E . CO N N E C T I O N S . CO M M U N I T Y

FEB - MAR | 2010 | issue 17

contents Features

Scottsdale at Work Magazine is published bi-monthly by InMedia Company. The publication is distributed to membership and made available to prospective members throughout the Greater Scottsdale area. We appreciate your editorial submissions and news for review by our editorial department by emailing editor@scottsdalechamber.com. To subscribe to Scottsdale at Work, please send check or money order for $16.00 to InMedia Company, 6360 E. Thomas Rd., Scottdale, AZ 85251 or call (480) 588-9505 ©Copyright 2010, InMedia Company. All rights reserved. InMedia Company and the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce reserve the right to refuse certain advertising and are not liable for advertiser’s claims and/or errors. The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Publisher or the Chamber.

Member Communiqué MC - 1 Member Spotlight APS

7 Pillars of the Community

Discover the six factors that drive and sustain a strong local economy

MC - 2 New Members MC - 3 Returning Members MC - 4 Events Calendar

Sergio Dabdoub

15 Social Media Strategy 2010 Four experts share tips on using social media to your business advantage

Departments 5 Member News

News, updates and announcements

17 In Focus 24th Annual Sterling Awards 22 Profile of Success K urt Brueckner, Titus, Brueckner, Levine & Johnson PC

MC-1

Angela Creedon, APS

Connect: Scottsdale@Work is for you, and about you. What stories do you want to read?

What business tips or resources would help you?.

E-mail your story ideas to Debra Kuffner at dkuffner@scottsdalechamber.com.

Save the Date

On the Agenda

Scottsdale Airpark Tradeshow

Chamber committees are hard at work making things happen. Here’s a look at what they are working on.

Thurs., March 25 3 to 7 p.m.

Monterra at WestWorld

The Airpark committee is busy planning Airpark area events, including our First Friday Airpark Breakfasts, quarterly Meet Your Neighbors networking lunches, Run Around the Runway and Airpark Tradeshow signature events. This active committee also plays a major role in the discussion about branding and identity of the Scottsdale Airpark Area.

Get ready for take off because the Scottsdale Airpark Tradeshow is right around the corner! Our 2009 sold-out show was a great success, attracting nearly 1,000 attendees. Held again at Monterra at WestWorld, this event offers Airpark businesses the opportunity for one-on-one interaction with results-oriented business professionals. See who’s doing business in the Airpark and find that perfect customer. Free and open to the public.

The Ambassador committee is growing with the addition of a new community outreach subcommittee designed to raise awareness of our local non-profit community and create opportunities for Chamber members to give back in the form of time, goods and financial support.

Sponsorship info: Tina Miller, tmiller@scottsdalechamber.com

Masterminds, unite! The Champions Breakfast committee is developing a new format to help members increase the value of their networking. Described as a hybrid of the popular roundtable exchange and 30-second commercial, we can’t wait to see what they create!

Exhibitor booth info: Monica Hicks, mhicks@scottsdalechamber.com

The Safety and Wellness committee is recruiting new members to help plan upcoming educational seminars. Be part of the excitement.

To join a Chamber committee, contact Debra Kuffner at 480-949-2169 or dkuffner@scottsdalechamber.com

QUOTABLE: ”Things may be cheaper over the hill, but there is a cost to the community in buying over there, instead of here.” - Margaret House 4

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

membernews Destination China Business Symposium In late Spring, the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts will host a gathering of distinguished economists, investment and business leaders from China and the United States, including opening keynote speaker Robert Mundell, 1999 Economics Nobel Laureate. Discussions will focus on China in the 21st century economy, and on trends, methods and opportunities for doing business in China.

For more information, visit scottsdalesymposium.com

Homeowners Financial Group Rises to #1 “Best Place to Work” Homeowners Financial Group (HFG) has been recognized as a best place to work achieving the number one spot in the small business category awarded by Best Companies AZ and the Phoenix Business Journal. Among their Best Place to Work award, they are also ranked by the Business Journal as the 6th Largest Mortgage Company in Arizona, the “Best Mortgage Company” by Ranking Arizona, and have been featured as a “Who’s Who in Business” by Arizona Woman Magazine. The company was also awarded with the prestigious “ACE Award for Fastest Growing Company” by Arizona Business Magazine and was recently appointed as a finalist for the Scottsdale Chamber Sterling Awards.

In addition to the company awards, HFG’s President, Bill Rogers was recognized as one of Phoenix’s “Top Forty Under 40” and “Top 1000 People to Know in Real Estate” by the AZ Commercial Real Estate Magazine. WOW – what great accomplishments! Congratulations Homeowners Financial Group! www.homeownersfg.com

Chamber Hires New Marketing and Communications Specialist The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the recent addition of Beth Burnett to our marketing and communications team. Beth will work closely with Chamber staff and volunteer committees in developing and marketing Beth Burnett the Chamber’s educational programming, business services and networking events.

She will also play a key role executing the Chamber’s communications efforts including print, online publications and social media.

Beth comes to the Chamber with more than 15 years of marketing and communications experience in the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Prior to joining the Chamber, Beth was a marketing communications specialist at Insight Enterprises in Tempe, where she developed and executed communications plans to increase knowledge and awareness of corporate programs and initiatives. Before Insight, she was the

www.scottsdalechamber.com

marketing and programming coordinator for Scottsdale Leadership, where she was responsible for coordinating and marketing the nonprofit’s classes and events.

Beth received her bachelor’s degree in English from Mt. Mercy College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She remains active with Scottsdale Leadership as a member of their public relations committee and is also a member of The Orme School’s alumni board.

Infinite Electricity Earns Woman Business Enterprise Status Electrical and solar firm Contractors Inc., dba Infinite Electricity, has been approved by the National Women Business Owners Corporation as a Certified Woman Owned Business. This decision was based on the standards and procedures of the NWBOC and is recognized not only locally, but federally as well.

“We are extremely proud to receive this certification,” says Marilizabeth Birk, president and CEO of Infinite Electricity. “Women need more qualified representation in the construction industry—and this is the first step.”

Visit infinite-electricity.com for more information.

Knowledge is Power Want to sharpen your skills and gain a competitive advantage?

elp!

Business Smartz can h

Factors Southwest adds Two Employees Factors Southwest LLC is expanding and growing its team with the recent promotion of Candice Rice to vice president of credit and the addition of Emily Amparan as vice president of business development. Rice will specialize in credit review and risk monitoring for clients, while Amparan will focus her expertise overseeing the company’s marketing efforts and increasing funding to business owners and companies in need.

Factors Southwest specializes in providing factor financing to small- and mid-size companies experiencing a shortage of cash flow due to slow paying clients, investments in growth or economic challenges.

For more information, visit factors-southwest.com or call 480-947-9340.

Independent Newspapers Growing At a time when many other newspapers are failing, a small Valley publisher is gearing up to resume publication of three community newspapers.

Independent Newspapers, which already publishes local newspapers in 11 communities around the Valley, is now publishing newspapers in Chandler, Gilbert and Arrowhead Ranch.

The company has also launched a new distribution strategy in Scottsdale, Mesa and Peoria, which allows their weekly newspaper to cover more of the city and reach more homes. In Scottsdale for instance, the newspapers distributes 15,000 copies each week, but the distribution area changes. The Scottsdale Independent reaches homes in north Scottsdale the first week, the Scottsdale Airpark area the second, the “Ranch” area the third and downtown/south Scottsdale the fourth week.

“Over a four-week period, our newspaper will reach 60,000 different homes in Scottsdale. That’s pretty powerful and should be attractive to citizens and advertisers,” says publisher Brent McKeand.

For more information, visit newszap.com

Successful business people share a common thread – a commitment to learning. Our educational programs are designed to give you a hands-on experience with real-life examples. You have questions. We have answers.

Mindset and Communication Begins February 26th

In this interactive workshop series, we will uncover common communication strengths, pitfalls and preferred styles of verbal and nonverbal communication.

Learn how to think differently and communicate for results.

Presented by Kandi Lee, One-Eleven Companies

In partnership with

A program of

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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SCF Arizona is GPCC’s workers’ compensation insurance partner.

Get your quote – instantly!

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Receive a Quick Quote in just three easy steps when you visit SCF Arizona online at www.scfaz.com. SCF is the state’s largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance.

We use the scfaz.com website, mostly for insurance certifications. …it’s a nifty system, very user-friendly and easy.

”

– Julia Leonard Human Resource Manager, P.B. Bell Asset Management

This fast, convenient online tool is one of many SCF has created to serve our policyholders.

When you visit www.scfaz.com, check out SCF’s new Safety Net training videos – they’re perfect for employers needing fast safety training resources. These short videos on a variety of topics are available in English and Spanish.

From downloadable forms, to applications and free safety training materials, doing business with SCF is more convenient than ever. Look for more services and products to be added to www.scfaz.com in 2010.

chamberfeature

Pillars of the

Community

A strong and vibrant economy is built from the ground up, through the collaborative efforts of the business community, civic leaders, elected officials and community residents.

— R ick Kidder, President/CEO Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce

www.scottsdalechamber.com

Discover the six factors that drive and sustain a strong local economy S t o r y | G r e m l y n B r a d l e y -Wa d d e l l

M

uch like building a home, building a strong local economy relies on a solid foundation—a foundation that, no matter the economic climate, provides the support and structure for an area to become an ideal place to live, work and play.

In Scottsdale, that foundation can be found in six carefully planned and identified areas, each of which promote economic development, as well as establish Scottsdale as a model for vitality and growth: commerce, workforce, quality of life, visionary leadership, community and civic pride, and economic growth and development.

These six pillars really are the foundation for our organization,” says Rick Kidder, the Chamber’s CEO and president. From the very beginning, the Chamber recognized that a strong and vibrant economy is built from the ground up, through the collaborative efforts of the business community, civic leaders, elected officials and community residents. Each of these pillars represent something unique and special about Scottsdale.”

As the page turns on a new decade, the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce is looking forward. Working together with its members, staff and board of directors, the Chamber is working to ensure the Scottsdale of tomorrow builds upon the strong foundation is has created today.

The first in a six-part, year-long series on what it takes to build a strong local economy in Scottsdale, we’ll look at each pillar, discuss how it impacts the economy and explain the Chamber’s role in developing and promoting each one.

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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chamberfeature

com·merce: The exchange or buying and selling of commodities on a large

scale involving transportation from place to place.

Even though much has changed since Scottsdale incorporated in 1951—area businesses, for example, are now more likely to sell designer denim than feed for livestock—one aspect hasn’t: commerce.

“Commerce is the central core or our organization,” says Kidder, who points to the three “Rs” that rev much of Scottsdale’s economic engine: resorts, retail and restaurants. “And we’re diversifying. Because while tourism is still an important part, it’s not the single thing upon which we hang our hat.”

According to Kidder, the Scottsdale Airpark is the perfect example of how the Chamber is expanding its scope. In its previous incarnation, the sprawling enterprise in the northern region of the city was a former military airfield encircled by a few industrial businesses. Over time, however, major players moved in and made the airpark their address, as well.

Today, the Airpark has grown—almost out of sheer will and in spite of what could be viewed as several location-related disadvantages—into a major business hub for both Scottsdale and the Valley. Kidder says developing and growing the Airpark brand, as well as the power center’s infrastructure, is one of the priorities on the Chamber’s to-do list.

Kidder also attributes the entrepreneurial spirit of independently- and family-owned businesses that have strived to make Scottsdale a successful place to do business. These small-business enterprises have helped make Scottsdale become one of top the sales tax-generating communities in the state, as well as a leader in Class A office space.

work·force: The number of workers

potentially assignable for any purpose.

Another driving force and foundation of a strong local economy is its workforce.

Without a motivated and educated workforce, the ability for the economy to grow and prosper can be limited.

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In keeping with its goal to elevate Scottsdale’s workforce, the Chamber is committed to strengthening its workforce development programs.

Spearheading that campaign is Ted Tyler, volunteer chairman of the workforce development committee. As the former chief operating officer of the semiconductor business unit for Lucent Technologies, he had 20,000 employees reporting to him and annual sales of $6 billion.

An expert in workforce development, Tyler noticed about 10 years ago was that it was getting difficult to recruit good workers. No one seemed disciplined or even able to complete tasks for their positions. And, perhaps even more so in today’s economy, employers were becoming extremely selective in hiring.

To help mitigate this trend, the Chamber has been actively involved in a number of workforce development programs, including PASS (Partners Advancing Student Success), which was launched in 2002 by Motorola and APS. The program pairs Scottsdale businesses with teachers from the Scottsdale Unified School District.

“The purpose is to bring educators and businesses together, and make sure they’re speaking the same language,” Tyler says. “The most beneficial part is the learning exchange in which teachers find out what skills their students are going to need whenever they go to work and for businesses to learn what the major issues of the day are for education.”

Kidder also notes the Chamber’s GET Young Professionals (Growing Emerging Talent) Phoenix program, which also was begun with a substantial investment from APS. “We felt we needed a young professionals’ organization to help them grow their careers and develop connections that will benefit both them and the city,” Kidder says. GET Phoenix offers everything from professional development opportunities to social programs, designed to enrich their lives and the communities they will serve in and lead.

chamberfeature

qual·i·ty of life:

Residents’ overall well being; includes such intangible components as the quality of the environment, national security, personal safety, and political and economic freedoms.

vi·sion·ary lead·er·ship: Involves (1) establishing

When it comes to the quality of life in Scottsdale, you can say its reputation is world-renowned.

“I was fortunate enough to be visiting London,” recalls Kidder, “and I spoke with a man there who asked me where I was from. I told him Arizona, and he said, ‘Oh, are you a cowboy?’ I said no, mentioning that I lived in Scottsdale. ‘Oh,’ the man said, ‘are you a millionaire?’ ” That’s how powerful Scottsdale’s reputation is as a world-class, resort-dotted, palm-tree-in-the-desert oasis. And while most residents are not millionaires, living in a city of such natural beauty and amenities both organic and man-made no doubt leaves most everyone at least feeling rich.

Just look around. No matter the age, Scottsdalearea neighborhoods are among the best in metropolitan Phoenix. The city’s open desert spaces are another reminder of forward-thinking citizens, who have preserved a third of the land in order to protect this most precious of resources, even though doing so has meant taxing themselves twice thus far.

“We’ll continue to be a successful place, economically, if we continue to be a successful place to work and live,” Kidder says.

a clear vision, (2) sharing (communicating) that vision with others so that they will follow willingly, (3) providing the information, knowledge, and methods to realize that vision, and (4) coordinating and balancing the conflicting interests of all members or stakeholders.

No economically thriving city would be where it is today without the innovative leadership of its business and community leaders. From small business owners and entrepreneurs, to corporate executives and public policy makers, the economic success of a city relies on the vision and innovation provided by these leaders, who aren’t afraid of thinking outside of the box all in support of bettering their community.

Certainly, the Chamber has an inherent responsibility as a business organization to be a role model for businesses and business activities. And its organizational values of integrity, excellence, stewardship, vision, inclusiveness and courage are taken just as seriously. But Kidder says the Chamber’s responsibilities go further than even that.

“We also need to be a model for leadership as well,” he says. “We feel giving back to our community through leadership is essential.”

To that end, the Chamber has committees focused on economic development issues and public policy, and is a resource for people who want to volunteer. You will also find many members of the chamber’s staff and board of directors serving on local local non-profit boards.

The value of community stewardship is front and center at the Chamber. www.scottsdalechamber.com

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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chamberfeature

civ·ic pride: Pride in your city or your community.

On the outset, there’s a lot to be proud of if you live or work in Scottsdale. The postcard-perfect scenery and year-round pleasant weather alone make the city the envy of communities all over the country.

But look a little deeper and you’ll discover other aspects—such as community stewardship and volunteerism—that not only make Scottsdale a place to be proud of, but also a city that is bolstered economically by businesses and organizations that are dedicated to improving the quality of life for all its residents.

Just ask Jeff Jameson, chair of the community outreach committee of the Chamber Ambassador program, who got more than he bargained for nearly four years ago when he laid eyes on Scottsdale.

“I was really knocked out,” he says, recalling that he’d envisioned the city as a bedroom community, a feeder for Phoenix, and was instead wowed by tree-lined streets and lush resorts. “It is very much a city unto its own, rich in culture and character.”

As Chamber Ambassador, Jameson’s goal is to help people “reach out and aid our neighbors in need.” In late 2009, he and other Chamber associates led by example and donated money and food to Vista del Camino and St. Mary’s Food Bank. Community pride, after all, occurs when everyone in the community feels that pride.

“Neighbors have to step up and help neighbors,” says Jameson, who is also focused on assisting those in the service industry, such as workers who take care of the lush resorts Scottsdale is known for.

eco·nom·ic growth: A positive

change in the level of production of goods and services over a certain period of time.

As the definition states, economic growth is a positive change, one that greatly impacts the financial health of a community or city. And, according to Kidder, it is also something that needs to be constant.

“We need to lead from the assumption that the city that does not grow, economically stagnates,” Kidder says.

While Arizona has been hard hit by the recent economic downturn,

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Scottsdale’s economy has been somewhat insulated, says Kidder, adding that the city is fortunate, for example, to not have a large amount of “spec” homes and to have a diverse economy.

Kidder believes the path to future economic growth and development—at least for now—should focus not necessarily on “growth and rooftops,” but making the city even more diverse. In fact, that kind of reinvention is what Scottsdale has been doing for decades.

In spite of the city’s AAA bond rating and thriving economic scene, there are bound to be challenges. And that’s OK, Kidder says. Scottsdale is ready for the future.

“No community can afford to rest on its laurels,” he adds. “It has to move forward.”

CO M M E R C E . CO N N E C T I O N S . CO M M U N I T Y

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

MEMBER COMMUNIQUE´

memberSpotlight

www.scottsdalechamber.com

connect: APS Community Development 602-250-2251 aps.com

What other community-focused programs does APS offer?

We have many programs that directly support our communities, including: Limited-Income Outreach – As economic conditions have shifted downward, APS has significantly increased its outreach to the limitedincome community, hosting more than 20 summits statewide in an effort to increase the effectiveness of rates and programs that benefit our most vulnerable customers.

B3 Program – The B3 program (Building Bridges to Business) helps communities retain successful hometown companies and encourages those companies to expand and create more jobs. This program builds on the knowledge that more than 80 percent of new jobs are created by businesses already established in a community.

Focused Future – The Focused Future program assists communities in creating a strategic economic development plan. Since its inception in 1993, APS has provided technical economic development assistance to more than 40 Arizona communities and regions.

Why is working with the community so important for APS? At APS, we foster a culture of doing the right thing that extends from the officers to the frontline employees. APS executives work alongside employees on volunteer projects, and serve on organizations and boards addressing key community issues. They don’t just “show up” at meetings or volunteer functions. They actively engage employees, get their hands dirty and make change happen because strong communities are good for business, and we know our success is directly tied to the health and vitality of the communities we serve.

JOIN NOW! Call us at 480-355-2700 or visit us on the Web at www.scottsdalechamber.com.

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

N ew & R eturnin g M ember s

nearly 23 years, Creedon joined APS in 1987, when she began working in the company’s customer service department in northern Arizona.

“My family and I lived in Flagstaff for 13 years before my husband, who’s also an APS employee, received a promotion and moved us to the warmer climate,” she says.

In 1995, she transitioned to the community development department, where she now works with the Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert communities, handling local government relations, community relations and economic development.

Scottsdale @ Work spoke with APS community development manager Angela Creedon about its community programs.

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Angela Creedon knows firsthand about the importance of being invested in one’s community. As a community development manager for APS, it’s her job to build and foster relationships between the utilities company and Valley communities in order to create healthy and strong living environments for all its residents. A dedicated employee for

Organizational Assets

E v ent s C alendar

Angela Creedon, Community Development Manager, APS

“It’s my job to build solid relationships in our community by being dedicated and available to assist all community members,” she says. “And by empowering these community members to express their ideas and beliefs in how we can all work together to create a better tomorrow, starting today.”

With such a long and lasting reach into the community, APS is focused on contributing to and raising volunteer support for five targeted categories: health and human services, community development, arts and culture, education and the environment—particularly the environment.

“Our employees regularly volunteer in efforts to improve our environment,” Creedon says. “APS is committed to creating a more sustainable future, and our employees follow this example in their personal lives by doing such things as volunteering to clean up a local park or planting trees around their neighborhoods.”

APS also shows their support for environmental initiatives through financial support. Last year, the company gave the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy a $100,000 grant to launch a children’s camp for environmental awareness.

And because thinking about and caring for the environment starts early, the company is dedicated to educating the future leaders of Arizona through such programs as APS Power Players, APS/Phoenix Suns Education Mini-Grants, the StRUT (Students Recycling Used Technology) program and APS Teachers’ Workshops.

Beyond energy, APS is also dedicated to working with Valley nonprofits that serve and benefit such groups as food banks, women’s shelters and homeless families. One such nonprofit is the Valley of the Sun United Way, which works to change and improve the quality of life for struggling individuals, families and children throughout Maricopa County.

According to Creedon, APS routinely has the largest number of leadership givers in the organization’s annual fundraising campaign.

“APS is only as strong as the communities we serve, and we’re dedicated to supporting them both fiscally and with our volunteer program,” she says. “After all, our employees live, work and raise families in these communities.”

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Sergio Dabdoub

APS

By Michelle Jacoby

member s p otli g h t

Scottsdale Work

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NEWMEMBErs

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Please welcome the following new Chamber members who joined us in October and November 2009.

Advantage

Event Production – General

Spa/Wellness

Chiropractors

Insurance Consultants

Classic

Plan Ahead Events of Scottsdale Carl Ong 7150 E. Camelback Road #444 Scottsdale, AZ 85251-1257 480-888-9050 paescottsdale.com A full-service meeting and event management company providing creative solutions for corporate meetings, special events, tradeshows, expositions and incentive travel for businesses, associations and foundations.

Gainey Village Health Club & Spa Stephanie Roney 7477 E. Doubletree Ranch Road Scottsdale, AZ 85258-2048 480-609-6980 villageclubs.com A luxurious, multipurpose facility where sports, fitness, medical activities, family entertainment and spa services are harmoniously united. An attraction for every member of the family.

Back to Motion Chiropractic Dr. Jennifer Polk, D.C. 7332 E. Camelback Road #A Scottsdale, AZ 85251-3443 480-941-1555 drjenpolk.com We provide personalized treatments incorporating multiple chiropractic techniques with physiotherapy, rehabilitation, nutrition and massage. Victoria Mogilner;s Rejuvenation Center offers acupuncture, facial rejuvenation and reike.

Business Consultants

Financial Planning/Services

Holmes Murphy Jeff Kirke 14850 N. Scottsdale Road #280 Scottsdale, AZ 85254-2882 480-951-1776 holmesmurphy.com

Basic Accountants – CPA

Empowerment Unlimited Coaching LLC Marcy Maslov 10645 N. Tatum Blvd #200 PMB 109 Phoenix, AZ 85028-3053 602-989-3458 EUC and e-Factor!® provides safe space to practice solving business and ethical dilemmas without losing clients or employees. We encourage fun and creative problem-solving.

Able Financial Group Lee Eisinberg 6991 E. Camelback Road #D200 Scottsdale, AZ 85251-2411 480-258-6104 ablefinancialgroup.com Boutique independent financial planning firm in Old Town Scottsdale that focuses on full service and exceeding the needs of our business and individual clients.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Massage Therapy

Advertising

Orbit Cleaning Robert Alvarado 2914 N. Northfolk Mesa, AZ 85215 480-516-0281 orbitcleaning.net

Senergy Fitness & Massage Patricia Schloe 3329 E. Waltann Lane Phoenix, AZ 85032-0814 602-751-8759 Vibration fitness machines decrease cellulite and increase energy. Ten minutes equals a one-hour workout. Improve body shaping with a tuning fork massage and lose inches with an all-natural body wrap.

Firefly Graphics Chris Schiefelbein 2613 W. Birchwood Cir. #6 Mesa, AZ 85202-1060 480-968-1322 www.fireflygraphics.net Specializing in outdoor advertising through the use of large-format printing, vehicle wraps, trade show displays, flags and inflatables. Servicing both business and consumer.

Medical Clinics

Advertising

Vital Solutions Jeff Dana 14354 N. Frank Lloyd Wright #7 Scottsdale, AZ 85260-8844 480-477-6334 vitalsolutionsmd.com Dedicated to providing wellness opportunities with life changing results. Health, wellness and vitality are achieved through hCG weight loss and bio-identical hormone replacement.

KEO Marketing Sheila Kloefkorn 4809 E. Thistle Landing Dr. #100 Phoenix, AZ 85044-6498 480-413-2090, Ext. 100 keomarketing.com Is your Web site your best salesperson? If not, it can be. Call for a free Web site evaluation. We specialize in innovative Internet marketing and Web site design.

Coaching 2 Excel Now LLC Doug Hecker 5434 E. Lincoln Dr. #15 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253-4118 480-951-4988 2excelnow.com I work with small business professionals, artists and entrepreneurs to help them excel in increasing sales and profits through improved marketing, management and strategic planning.

Contractors – Remodeling Premier Contractors Inc. Michelle Fritz 8104 E. La Junta Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255-2828 480-794-1234 premier-contractors.net Trained in fire, smoke and water restoration, we have provided quality reconstruction and restoration services for more than 30 years.

Entertainment Citron Sound Services DJs Jon Citron 9450 E. Nance St. Mesa, AZ 85207-2546 480-966-2929 citronsound.com A music booking agency supplying DJs for all banquets and parties such as weddings, anniversaries and corporate events.

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

Mortgage Services Metlife Home Loans Nicole Corning 17550 N. Perimeter Dr. #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255-7829 602-421-7344 nicolecorning.com I help a wide range of clients with their home purchases and refinances. With a decade of experience, I work to find a mortgage that fits their financial goals.

Sales Training Sales Partners No. Scottsdale Janice Christensen 2301 E. Northview Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85020-5632 805-217-9425

MDS Financial Mike Siggins 3114 E. Capitan Dreyfus Phoenix, AZ 85032-6579 602-740-6529 mdsfin.com An accounting firm with a unique approach. We provide plain English translations of financial data to help you understand your business.

Art Galleries Think Art Rob Kaminer 15125 N. Hayden Road #101 Scottsdale, AZ 85260-2548 480-998-9790 thinkfineart.com Attorneys-At-Law Kelhoffer, Manolio & Firestone PLC Veronica Manolio 9300 E. Raintree Dr. #120 Scottsdale, AZ 85260-7312 480-222-9100 kmflawfirm.com A business-centered litigation firm specializing in corporate matters and complex commercial litigation for a variety of industries.

Communications Contact One Elizabeth Kosloff 818 W. Miracle Mile Tucson, AZ 85705-3708 602-792-7000 www.wetakecalls.com Provides 24/7 bilingual customer service support, order entry, dealer locate, telephone answering service and live chat services.

Computer Services & Consultants Ronjimac Tech Services Frank Vona P.O. Box 4173 Scottsdale, AZ 85261-4173 602-770-4041 We provide professional computer services for small to mid-size business. PC support, troubleshooting, networks, upgrades, programming, remote access, malware removal, training and Web design.

Environmental Services TP Money Saver Susan Chagrin 9460 N. 92nd St. #212 Scottsdale, AZ 85258-5106 480-661-6279 tpmoneysaver.com Stop throwing away partial rolls of toilet paper! TP Money Saver’s portable machine consolidates partially depleted rolls into full rolls in minutes. Save money and trees!

Financing & Loans Speedy Cash Michael Charles 7202 E. McDowell Road Scottsdale, AZ 85257-3404 480-945-9200 speedycash.com Short-term consumer loans, payday loans, check cashing and auto title loans.

Insurance – Business/Home/Auto Frog Dog Quotes Nick Bendick 3370 N. Hayden Road #123 PMB 122 Scottsdale, AZ 85251-6632 1-888-376-4364 frogdogquotes.com Independent insurance agency. Our goal is to pair you with a top-rated insurance company while providing you with significant savings. Visit us online or give us a call.

JOIN TODAY! Call us at: 480.355.2700 or visit us on the web at: www.scottsdalechamber.com Promotional Products

Web Hosting

E.D. Marshall Inc. Ed Marshall 10261 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85253-1424 480-922-1968 edmarshalljewelers.com High-end retail jewelers, custom jewelry design, licensed buyer of fine jewelry, gold, silver, coins and estates. Scottsdale owned and operated.

Commotion Promotions Mandy Hustad 2999 N. 44th St. #340 Phoenix, AZ 85018-7259 602-799-6934 commotionpromotions.com

Carpathia Hosting Inc. Dan Sughrue 43480 Yukon Dr. #200 Ashburn, VA 20147-7330 703-740-1730 carpathiahosting.com A leading provider of managed hosting services, providing secure, reliable and compliant IT infrastructure and management for some of the world’s most demanding enterprises and federal agencies.

Optometrists

Stevens Plumbing Inc. Maureen Stevens P.O. Box 3494 Scottsdale, AZ 85257-3494 480-946-8148 stevensplumbingac.com/plumbing_plumber_air_ conditioner_scottsdale.html

CO M M E R C E . CO N N E C T I O N S . CO M M U N I T Y

FEB – MAR | 2010

Pillars Community of the

Six key areas of a

provide the foundation

strong local economy

Plus Member Spotlight APS Profile of Success Kurt Brueckner

Real Estate – Commercial Arizona Development & Consulting LLC Tom Couch 6825 E. Osborn #C Scottsdale, AZ 85251-6214 602-363-1093 Commercial real estate services and tenant improvement construction

Scottsdale@Work

has quickly become the business “authority” for member & non-member businesses throughout the Valley.

Get Your Share!

480.584.3750

Retail – Gifts & Specialty Shops Visage, LLC Haritha Atmakuri 17319 N. 98th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255-2530 480-399-5176

info@inmediacompany.com

Scottsdale Work

CO M M E R C E . CO N N E C T I O N S . CO M M U N I T Y

Thank you to our Members who renewed in October and November 2009

1-4 Years Advantage Office Suites American Pension Benefits Inc. Apartments For Rent Magazine Arizona Tourism Center Assured Security Document Destruction AV Dimensions Bandera Buchalter Nemer Central Paving and Sealcoating ChirpSpot Comerica Bank Comic Zone LLC Corson’s Swimming Pool Supply Cort Furniture Rental Desert Sun Moving Services Discover the World Marketing FireSky Resort & Spa First Western Trust Bank Fox Systems Inc. Gentry Wealth Management Grand Canyon University Hampton Inn & Suites – Tempe Henkel Consumer Goods Inc.

Homeowners Financial Group USA LLC Kaprelian & Assoc. w/Ameriprise Kona Grill Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts McCarthy Building Companies Inc. McCormick & Schmick’s Media Advertising in Motion Mountain Peak Distributing Njoy Nolan Maddox Marketing Inc. Olympian Worldwide Moving & Storage Party Mart Warehouse PGA Tour Superstore Pinnacle Peak Lending Inc. Psychological Counseling Services Ltd. Related Urban/City Center of City North Sharp Business Systems Sharp Business Systems Skysong Holdings LLC Sparkplug Inc. Star Power Home Entertainment Telesphere Networks The Desert Mountain Group@FFEC United Blood Services of Arizona Valor IT Inc. Van Den Bosch Doors LLC Wildflower Bread Company WSI

[scottsdale]

your guide to everything Scottsdale, Biltmore Cave Creek, Care Free Fountain Hills & Paradise Valley your guide to everythin g scottsdale

Arts

Entertainment Scottsdale Arts Festiv

al Native Trails

Shen Wei Dance

artS

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts February 13

GALLERIES

| SHOPPIN G

Scottsdale Biltmore c a r e f r e e- c av e c reek Pa r a D i S e va l l e Y

| S PA S | G OLF | EvE NtS | dINI NG | NIGH tLIFE

Available at: • Scottsdale Area Chamber • Scottsdale Visitor Centers • Scottsdale Downtown • Scottsdale Gallery Association — and more —

youarehereaz.com 2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

N ew & R eturnin g M ember s

www.scottsdalechamber.com

5+ Years AmazingMail.Com Inc. American Cancer Society Breslau Insurance & Benefits Inc. Brighton Gardens of Scottsdale Capital Group Companies Inc. Carolyn Allen Cigar King CK’s Insurance-Services Diamondback Drugs East West Asset Management Co. LLC Eddie V’s Edgewater Grille Farmers Insurance Recruitment Center FASTFRAME GE Capital Franchise Finance Goodwill of Central Arizona Greenberg Traurig Joan Fudala Historic Consulting Jobing.com Kelly Services Kierland Commons Micro Productivity LLC

Noblitt & Gilmore LLC Primus Pharmaceuticals Inc. Red Crown Realty/Don Aldrich Scottsdale Insurance Company The Magazine Lady Inc. Tommy Bahamas Restaurant & Bar Wingate by Wyndham Scottsdale

WINTER 2010

10+ Years AAA Arizona Scottsdale Office Adams, Kvittem-Barr & Assoc. CPAs, LLP Allergy & Immunology Associates Ltd. Allstate Insurance-Julie Jakubek, MBA Arizona Catering/Epicurean Events Arizona State Credit Union Bondurant School/High Perf. Driving Coventry Health Group Creative Condo Double AA Builders Ltd. Earl Curley & Lagarde Fidelity Investments First Fidelity Bank Hall of Flame Museum of Fire Fighting Heard Museum North Scottsdale Jewish News of Greater Phoenix Kutak Rock LLP LevRose Real Estate & Investments McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park New Horizons Communications Inc. P. F. Chang’s China Bistro Residence Inn by Marriott Scottsdale/PV Sacks Tierney P.A. Scottsdale Artists League

Scottsdale Child Care & Learning Center Scottsdale League for the Arts Scottsdale Luxury Suites SW College of Naturopathic Medicine University of Phoenix Verde Canyon Railroad Wal-Mart Supercenter Westcor Aviation Inc. Wide World of Maps and More – Phoenix

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25+ Years Arthur Panzarella Appraisals Herberger Companies McCormick Ranch Property Owners Santerre & Vande Krol Ltd. Wells Fargo Advisors

I N T R O D U C I N G

E v ent s C alendar

Plumbing

944 Media Ryan Johnson 4253 N. Scottsdale Road, 2nd Floor Scottsdale, AZ 85251-3201 480-423-1944 944.com

Scottsdale Work

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Advanced Vision & Achievement Center Robert J. Esposito, OD 10505 N. 69th St. #1000 Scottsdale, AZ 85253-4556 480-483-0711 advanced-vision.org Committed to providing the highest quality eyecare through our superior patient service, innovative technology and highly development products.

Publications

2010: A new era in social media begins

member s p otli g h t

Jewelry & Accessories – Retail

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member s p otli g h t

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E v ent s C alendar

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N ew & R eturnin g M ember s

EVENTSCALENDAR

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REGISTER: www.events.scottsdalechamber.com INFO: 480.355.2700 business after hours

Signature Events Not your typical event! From the dynamic energy of the Scottsdale Business tradeshows to the excitement of the Sterling Awards, attendees are sure to have a great time at these signature Chamber events.

Scottsdale Airpark Tradeshow Thurs., March 25 3 to 7 p.m.

Held at Monterra at WestWorld, this event offers Airpark businesses the opportunity for one-on-one interaction with resultsoriented business professionals. For sponsorship info, e-mail Tina Miller at tmiller@scottsdalechamber.com. For exhibitor booth info, e-mail Monica Hicks at mhicks@scottsdalechamber.com.

Networking - champions breakfast Word of mouth marketing begins here! Held on the first and third Thursday of the month. Free for members, guests $20. Purchase a 4-minute commercial or tabletop display for extra exposure. Sponsored by LunaDisc Entertainment. Advanced registration requested.

Thurs., Feb. 4

Business Card Bingo

A hybrid of Roundtable Exchange and 30-Second Claim to Fame. Sponsored by BlueMedia and LunaDisc Entertainment.

Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, Food Court 7:15 to 9 a.m.

Gather business cards and contacts for great prizes and great networking!

Sponsored by BlueMedia and LunaDisc Entertainment.

Pueblo Norte 7090 East Mescal Street, 7:15 to 9 a.m.

At our Business After hours monthly mixers, you can network with 150+ business professionals in a relaxed social setting at unique and exciting venues throughout Scottsdale. Members free; guests, $20. Sponsored

by LunaDisc Entertainment and Scottsdale.com. advanced registration required.

Thurs, March 4

Thurs., Feb. 18

Mastermind Exchange

The best social networking in Scottsdale!

Mastermind Exchange A hybrid of Roundtable Exchange and 30-Second Claim to Fame. Sponsored by BlueMedia and LunaDisc Entertainment.

Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, Food Court 7:15 to 9 a.m.

Inspire Luncheons - Connecting Women for Success

Wed., Feb. 24 “Arabian Horse Show” Mixer WestWorld of Scottsdale 5 to 7 p.m.

Get connected! Take advantage of this opportunity to expand your network and meet leading Arizona women who share their experiences that have shaped their success.

Wed., Feb. 17

Wed, March 17

Presented by First Fidelity Bank, sponsored by Scottsdale Fashion Square and Phoenix Woman.

Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort and Suites 6160 N. Scottsdale Rd. 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Presented by First Fidelity Bank Sponsored by: Classic Residence at Silverstone Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center 7700 E. McCormick Pkwy.

11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

Kandi Lee, CEO and Founder, One-Eleven Companies

Speaker TBD

airpark The Power of Community. In partnership with airpark business owners and volunteers serving on the Airpark Committee, the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of programs and resources to ensure the positive economic development of the Scottsdale Airpark.

Fri., Feb. 5

Marketing Trends and Strategies for 2010 Presented by First Fidelity Bank, sponsored by Scottsdale Airpark News and Clark Hill.

XONA Resort Suites 7677 E. Princess Blvd.

7:30 to 9 a.m.

Fri, March 5

Fri., Feb. 19

Airpark Meet Your Neighbors

The State of Healthcare

Get to know your neighbors at for informal lunch and networking. $5 donation for lunch.

Tommy Bahama 15205 N. Kierland Blvd.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Presented by First Fidelity Bank Sponsored by Scottsdale Airpark News and Classic Residence at Silverstone.

Location to be determined.

Check website for details.

education knowledge is power! Successful business people share a common thread — a commitment to learning. Our educational programs are designed to give you a hands-on experience with real-life examples for tools, training and success. Free for members (unless noted); advance registration required. Business Smartz Workshops presented by SRP. Feb. 3 and March 3

Feb. 10

Member Orientation

Business Smartz Workshop:

Learn everything you need to know about growing your business with the Chamber.

Catered by Dunkin Donuts.

4725 N. Scottsdale Road #210 7:30 to 9 a.m.

Advanced Networking Strategies If you are serious about building your word of mouth business, this training is for you. Presented by Chip Lampert, Network 2 Networth.

7:30 to 10 a.m., FREE for Chamber members; $45 non-members.

Presented by SRP.

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

GET Young Professionals Thurs., Feb. 18 Networking Mixer Fox Sports Grill $10 at the door getphoenix.org

Thurs, March 18 Professional Development Workshop Location to be determined $15 at the door getphoenix.org

FOR INFO ON THESE EVENTS VISIT: events.scottsdalechamber.com or call: 480.355.2700

chamberfeature

Social Media Strategy 2010 Hoping your business has a happy new year? Four experts share their tips on how social media can make that wish come true.

Story | Gremlyn Bradley-Waddell

N

ow, more than ever, business professionals need to be on sites like Facebook or LinkedIn because social media is here to stay. Just ask Dave Cooke, a Scottsdale sales development consultant who stumbled upon social media several years ago and was so impressed with the results his own business saw, that he took on another job giving seminars on the latest business tool.

At his seminars—including the two he presented in 2009 for the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce—Cooke discusses how to make social media work for business and, more importantly, how your competition likely is already using it to their advantage.

Using social networking sites isn’t different than attending a mixer or business party, he says. Just be your usual approachable and engaging self. Remember: it’s social media.

“The individual who walks around passing out business cards has difficulty in making connections,” says Cooke, using the business mixer analogy, “but the person who walks around and talks with people [doesn’t].”

Those connections can drum up considerable interest, which may very well lead to considerable numbers of customers. Chip Lambert knows this first hand. The Tempe business development trainer and e-book author specializes in LinkedIn, which is also the subject of his seminars. This year, he’s had the good fortune to book up to 250 speaking engagements in 250 days, and he credits social media for much of that success.

“In this economy, we’re back to how it’s always been,” Lambert says.

“Business doesn’t just fall in your lap, You have to go out and get it.”

“Facebook is a freeway to get the buzz and brand going about your company,’ ” she says.

Facebook is ‘a freeway’ In fact, Timm is a huge Facebook advocate and has taught courses about the site. Having launched her company just last June, she is understandably pleased that the fan page has more than 6,000 followers. She’s even met at least two dozen fans and hired an employee through the site.

Facebook is “a freeway to get the buzz and branding going about your company,” she says. But, like Cooke, she notes the site is used by people to augment their personal lives and should not be abused. It is not a forum for sales.

“How would you feel if a telemarketer called during dinner?”

Nevertheless, Timm encourages business owners to create a fan page and populate it, initially, with friends. Then, she suggests making one or two posts per day, taking care that the comments are relevant and interesting. She spends around 20 minutes daily on Facebook and considers it time well spent.

A place to connect According to Cooke, it may take awhile to see said profits, which means most businesses need to give social media six to nine months to work its magic.

Again, he says, think of social media sites like business parties. They’re not the place to close deals; they’re places to connect with people and to share ideas and information.

To cover all your bases, Cooke advises doing three things: establish a presence on at least one social networking site, such as LinkedIn or Facebook; establish a presence on Twitter, which is described on its Web site as “a real-time short messaging service that works over multiple networks and devices;” and create what Cooke calls a “landing site,” a blog or some other kind of expertise site where the public can view a video, hear a podcast or read—or do all those things—about your company.

Naturally, building relationships—developing and growing your social media sites—takes time. Cooke recommends spending an hour a day, roughly 20 minutes on each of the three tools, to make updates or write comments.

A business owner who is doing social media correctly, Cooke says, is Susie Timm, co-owner of Foodies Like Us, a Scottsdale company that hosts culinary adventures for the home cook. Cooke says the Foodies Like Us fan page on Facebook is ideal. www.scottsdalechamber.com

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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chamberfeature Social Media Tips • Establish a presence on at least one social networking site, such as LinkedIn or Facebook.

• Establish a presence on Twitter, described as “a realtime short messaging service that works over multiple networks and devices.

• Create a “landing site,” a blog or some other kind of expertise site where the public can view a video, hear a podcast or read about your company.

• Spend an hour a day, roughly 20 minutes on each of the three tools, to make updates or write comments.

Susie Timm enjoying a night out with Foodies Like Us

“I’m someone who spends an inordinate amount of time on social media because it has paid off tenfold,” she says.

Lambert has also spent a lot of time on Facebook—he’s been a member since its inception in 2003. But it wasn’t until he received invitations from some of his better clients—including lawyers, certified public accountants and financial planners—that he thought there might be something to the site. He liked what he saw after studying it carefully.

an outcome in mind. After that, “the magic happens,” Lambert says. You start leveraging the relationships you have with friends and other business professionals, either by making connections or requesting recommendations. He acknowledges it is hard to ask for help and says the feeling that one is “imposing” upon others is a very common reaction.

“But relationships are what this country is built on,” he says, “and more and more, people are going online for what they need. If you’re not online, increasingly, you don’t exist. I think it’s scary if you’re not there.”

Get out there

Blogging specialist Dave Barnhart has many different approaches on social media work, but his favorite LinkedIn is ‘a bridge’ pairing is a blog and Twitter. A blog “[LinkedIn] is a bridge gives you a chance to between the way we’ve tell people about your always done business business and how you and the way business can help them. And the is trending in the online sheer number of people environment,” Lambert one can reach out to via says. The problem is that Twitter alone makes it LinkedIn is not intuitive impossible to ignore as and can be complex a business tool. to navigate. But once “When I “tweet,” you understand it, “it’s there are close to revelatory.”

3,000 people following Lambert’s top hint Dave Cooke talks about Social me and some of Media Strategy is “to do all the things those will re-Tweet LinkedIn asks you to do.” That means out to their followers,” Barnhart says, posting your photo, putting serious explaining the logistics. “I’m just about thought into your profile and having guaranteed that 10,000 people will 16

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

see the message originally from me.”

Of course, being successful on Twitter—and on a blog—comes down to being social. Barnhart says if you just lurk on a site and don’t engage with others, nothing will happen.

“You have to get out there and mix it up,” he says. “Be helpful and be there long enough to develop some credibility and trust.”

So, what are you waiting for? Find a site that works for you, be social and watch 2010 become your best year yet. And if you’re still unsure and need some help, call or e-mail someone who’s already out there doing it.

For more information visit: • businessbloggingpros.com • purecooke.com • foodieslikeus.com • network2networth.com

Blogging specialist Dave Barnhart suggests pairing a blog with your Twitter account.

• Create a fan page on Facebook and populate it, initially, with friends. Make one or two posts per day, taking care that the comments are relevant and interesting.

• Post your photo and put serious thought into your profile and having an outcome in mind.

INFOCUS: 24th annual sterling awards On Nov. 12, more than 300 attendees celebrated the people and companies that make our community a great place to live, work and play at the 24th Annual Sterling Awards, presented by Johnson Bank and held at the Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center. With a rigorous application, judging and selection process, the Sterling Awards recognize excellence, innovation and community stewardship for businesses in four categories: Micro, Small, Large and Non-Profit.

Congratulations to our 2009 Sterling Award Winners: Express Digital Solutions, Kohler Academy, Harkins Theatres and Devereux Arizona View all 12 honoree videos at scottsdalechamber.com/sterling.

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Special Thanks Presenting Sponsor Johnson Bank Award Sponsors Cox Henkel APS AZ American Water Video Sponsor SRP VIP Party Sponsor Mondrian

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Corporate Table Sponsors Compass Bank Devereux Arizona Express Digital Solutions FirstBank of Arizona Harkins Theatres Henry & Horne, LLP Homeowners Financial Group JP Morgan Chase Kohler Academy Mayo Clinic Meagher & Geer, PLLP Mutual of Omaha Bank Nautilus Insurance Group Payroll Experts Scottsdale Community College Scottsdale Fashion Square Scottsdale Healthcare Scottsdale Insurance Company St. Mary’s Food Bank Thunderbird Artists Inc. Wells Fargo Event Partners The Arizona Republic Encore Creative Oliver Smith Jeweler Sun Devil Trophy Surge Designs Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center Judges Bill Banchs Jane Blacker Judy Crider Mark Eberle Dale Fingersh Gary Held Steve Helm Photos Sergio Dabdoub

Becky Hornack Anita Lang Rick McCartney Connie Parker Jessica Puckett Susan Ratliff Paul Sim

1. Congratulations to our 2009 honorees! 2. Micro Business honorees: Jason Knight, Human Capital Strategies; John Longobardo and John Principale, Express Digital Solutions; Judy Combs, Thunderbird Artists’ Fine Art Expo. 3. Chamber Board Chair Karen Wittmer-Jekel and her husband Lou. 4. Shannon Wallace sings a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. 5. Attendees enjoy a delicious lunch at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center. 6. Non-Profit honorees: Terry Shannon, St. Mary’s Food Bank; Lane Martin Barker, Devereux Arizona; and Wendy Lyons, Scottsdale Healthcare. 7. Connie Parker from Johnson Bank welcomes the sold-out crowd.

8. Angela Creedon, Abby Fink and Elizabeth Hyatt. 9. Small Business honorees: Jason Roth, Payroll Experts; Jill Kohler, Kohler Academy; Bill Rogers, Homeowners Financial Group. 10. Linda Millhaven and John Little. 11. Big Business honorees: Steve Helm, Scottsdale Fashion Square; Dan Harkins, Harkins Theatres; Dan Stewart, Mutual of Omaha Bank. 12. Dale Fingersh and Alexia Matak. 13. Rick Kidder, Paul Townsley and Mike Ryan get ready to announce the Micro Business winner.

www.scottsdalechamber.com

2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

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BUSINESS 101: issues & answers Business issues are answered by Scottsdale Chamber members and area professionals in each edition of Scottsdale@Work. To submit your issue to our participants, please contact them directly. If you are interested in becoming an Issues & Answers advisor, please contact us at info@mpgcompany.com or call 480-588-9505.

Business Financing

Communications

Legal Advice William J. Gelm, Shareholder (480) 383-1800

Al Smith, CEO (480) 348-3400

Robyn Barrett Managing Member (480) 947-9340 (office) robyn@factors-southwest.com www.factors-southwest.com

asmith@f2fl.com www.f2fl.com

wgelm@buchalter.com www.buchalter.com

ISSUE: It is getting difficult to meet payroll and other bills since customers are taking longer to pay. What can I do to cover all the expenses?

ISSUE: How can an organization realize immediate savings by using video conferencing?

ISSUE: Are all nonprofit corporations exempt from paying taxes?

Answer: Businesses are strapped for money and trying to close the gap. Fortunately, the cash gap can be shortened by factoring, which provides quick access to cash by advancing against a company’s accounts receivables. Factoring differs from a bank loan because factors make funding decisions based on the credit-worthiness of your customers, while a bank makes credit decisions based on a company’s financial history, cash flow and collateral. Most importantly, a factor makes funding decisions in days or hours, while banks generally take weeks or even months.

Answer: Companies and organizations are always looking for ways to save precious cash without losing productivity. Traditionally, this means requiring more work out of fewer employees. Fortunately, today’s businesses are saving thousands of dollars within the first month of implementing video conferencing. If you don’t believe me, look at this real corporate example: I know of a company that pays $239 per month for their HD video conferencing system with unlimited domestic and international minutes. Imagine only paying $239 a month for costly audio bridge or international calls. Now that’s immediate savings!

Answer: When engaging in business transactions with nonprofit corporations and other nonprofit organizations, do not assume that the nonprofit corporation is exempt from federal and state taxation. An organization must apply to the IRS for exemption from federal taxes and undergo a long and exhaustive review. Once the IRS provides notice of exemption, the entity must provide evidence of this determination to the Arizona Department of Revenue to secure an exemption number to become exempt from state taxes including sales taxes.

Marketing

Relationship Building

Technology Solutions

Rick McCartney, Principal (480) 588-9505

Tina Miller Sponsor and Member Relations (480) 949-6283

Bruce Newman, President 1-(800) 710-CMIT (2648)

www.inmediacompany.com

tmiller@scottsdalechamber.com www.scottsdalechamber.com

sales.scottsdale@cmitsolutions.com www.cmitsolutions.com

ISSUE: If I want to track the results of my advertising, what is the best method?

ISSUE: How can sponsorships help my business?

ISSUE: How can I minimize the chances of a disaster doing permanent damage to my business?

Answer: Most advertising is said to be “intangible.” Businesses simply place the ad and expect a response. We advise that it is necessary to be proactive in the following ways to get everything you can out of your ad dollars spent.

1) Talk to your customers about the ad to gage response; 2) Display your advertisements for all to see - it’ll generate discussion and feedback, “Oh, I saw that.”; 3) Ask for a copy to place on your website - show that your message is something you are proud of. Several studies show that magazines are the strongest driver of purchase intent and boost other media’s effectiveness best.

Answer: Today, the most effective marketing ties closely to business development, and is highly targeted and personal. The beauty of sponsorships is that they usually incorporate a number of benefits that work together to create brand awareness and facilitate relationships with your ideal potential clients. A typical event sponsorship includes: 1) advertising and media exposure; 2) speaking opportunities, which position your company as a business and community leader; 3) product and/or service sampling; 4) opportunities to personally connect with attendees; and 5) participant contact information so you can develop newly established connections.

Answer: Take a full inventory of your data and find out age and file types. Write down all your software product keys, license numbers, passwords, configuration notes, and encryption codes and keep them in a locked safe - preferably both on premises and off. Write down a detailed plan for restoring data in the event of a loss. Run and test backups regularly. If this sounds like a lot of work — well, it is! But putting in the time now can prevent you from some major hassles later.

QUOTABLE: “The very essence of leadership is that you have to have vision. You can’t blow an uncertain trumpet.” - Theodore M. Hesburgh 18

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

Some things never go out of date…

Some things never go out of date…

Some things never go out of date…

Some things never go out of date...

…Like making loans to creditworthy consumers and businesses. …Like effective regulation and supervision …Like strong capital and underwriting standards While non-bank companies were straying into dangerous waters, traditional banks like ours stuck to the basics. Suddenly, our strategy is looking pretty smart.

America’s businesses depend on a strong banking system. The nation’s FDICinsured banks are the foundation on which to rebuild the economy.

Traditional banking: Standing the test of time.

…Like…Like making loans to to creditworthy and businesses. making loans creditworthy consumers consumers and businesses. …Like…Like making loans to creditworthy consumers and businesses. …Like effectiveregulation regulation and effective andsupervision supervision …Like effective regulation and supervision …Like strong capital and and underwriting standards …Like strong capital underwriting standards

…Like strong capital and underwriting standards While non-bank companies were straying into dangerous waters, traditional banks America’s businesses depend on a strong banking system.

The nation’s While non-bank companies wereSuddenly, straying into traditional banks like ours stuck to the basics. ourdangerous strategy is waters, looking pretty smart. like ours stuck to the the basics.

Suddenly, our strategy is looking pretty the smart.economy.

FDIC-insured banks are foundation on which to rebuild America’s businesses depend on a strong banking system. The nation’s FDICAmerica’s businesses depend on a strong banking Theeconomy. nation’s FDICinsured banks are the foundation on which to system. rebuild the insured banks are the foundation on which to rebuild the economy.

Traditional banking: the test of time.

Traditional banking:Standing Standing the test of time.

Traditional banking: Standing the test of time.

Come find out why so many businesses bank with Desert Hills Bank. www.deserthillsbank.com Phoenix 3001 E. Camelback Rd (602) 324-6700

Prescott 3027 Dollar Mark Way (928) 771-8801

Sedona 2785 W. Hwy 89A (928) 282-7440

Village of Oak Creek 7000 Highway 179 #A116 (928) 284-4150

Sun City 9745 W. Bell Road (623) 977-9200

Scottsdale 6970 E. Chauncey Ln #175 (480) 212-0070

profiles: BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS In today’s economy, it’s helpful to know that there are resources available to assist you in challenging times like these.

Building Your Business advisors offer years of experience, expert advice and unparalleled services that will help you grow your business or get it back on track.

A Full Service Law Firm Focusing On Insurance Law Thomas H. Crouch Partner, Meagher & Geer During the past 80 years, we have earned a national reputation as an insurance coverage firm while occupying a prominent role as a leading insurance defense firm in the geographic regions where our two offices are located: Minneapolis, Minnesota and Scottsdale, Arizona. Clients select us because we provide the skill and value they seek.

Meagher & Geer offers a wide range of legal services. A significant practice emphasis is representing insurers regarding coverage and bad faith disputes. We are also a litigation law firm, not only for coverage assignments but also for our non-insurance company clients, including nationally and regionally based business corporations, public entities, non-profit organizations, and individuals who seek our assistance in connection with civil and commercial litigation.

Areas of litigation concentration include all types of professional liability defense, health–care professionals defense, products liability defense, employment practices defense and advising, construction defense, catastrophic loss claims investigation and recovery litigation throughout the country, and complex mass tort defense, corporate law, and real estate transfers.

Thomas H. Crouch, Partner 480-607-9719 tcrouch@meagher.com www.meagher.com

Institutional Investment Management with Individual Focus Brent Mekosh President- Mekosh Financial Services, LLC.

Brent Mekosh, President 480-284-8712 brent.mekosh@mekoshfinancial.com www.mekoshfinancial.com

Our mission at Mekosh Financial Services and Raymond James is to preserve, enhance and simplify wealth management for families, foundations, businesses, and individuals with significant assets.

Led by Brent Mekosh, our team provides clients with the security of an established institution and the personal attention of a boutique wealth management firm.

We build lasting and personal relationships with our clients as we develop a systematic plan for your financial future. We seek to achieve a deep understanding of our client’s unique financial objectives through regular and frequent communication and thereby commit ourselves to realizing our client’s financial goals through providing an institutional strength, open-architecture, global investment platform. Within this platform, we will use a disciplined, process-driven approach to initiate and maintain a proper balance between wealth preservation and capital appreciation. To execute our plan, we will build a talented and experienced team of partners to achieve our client’s overall vision and long-term goals.

As your goals, dreams, and aspirations change over time, we will adapt your financial plan to recognize and benefit from the dynamic flow of capital around the world. We will diligently seek opportunities across the globe to provide the best opportunity for our clients to prosper - in any market environment.

Our goal is to simplify your financial life. We focus our broad, distinctive experience with the goal of managing your wealth as successfully as you have been in building it. Our clients are our main focus. Everything we do is driven by this idea.

If you are interested in sharing your professional know-how and assisting companies that need your expertise, become a Build Your Business advisor by contacting us at info@mpgcompany.com or call 480-588-9505.

20

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

GCPA

Grand Canyon Planning Associates, LLC

Don’t run out of money before you run out of time.

Workshops

Estate Planning | Retirement Planning | Personal Finance

Providing a full range of legal services to design professionals.

Retirement Solutions

IRA | Roth IRA | 401K Rollovers | Annuities

Thomas H. Crouch, Partner 8800 N. Gainey Center Drive, Suite4400, 261 | Minneapolis, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258 33 South Sixth Street, Suite MN 55402

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612.338.0661 480.607.9719

Estate Planning

Living Trusts | Living Wills | Wills | Powers-of-Attorney

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Call 480.991.1055, or visit www.grandcanyonplanning.com

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2010 | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | FEB / MAR

21

profileofSUCCESS

Kurt Brueckner Titus, Brueckner, Levine & Johnson PC It’s rare to find someone who’s achieved their childhood ambition. Most children dream of becoming a successful professional athlete, an A-list Hollywood celebrity or a pioneer in space or science. But in Kurt Brueckner’s case, he’s living the dream he’s had since he was a boy in his early teens.

I’ve always wanted to be an attorney,” he says. “I knew it ever since I was in junior high.”

As a founding partner of Titus, Brueckner, Levine & Johnson PC, Brueckner specializes in transactional and litigation matters involving securities, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, finance, intellectual property and corporate law. The firm began in 1989, when Brueckner and his law partner Jon Titus branched off from the national firm they worked for and took the big leap: they started their own.

“We were in our early 30s then,” says Brueckner, who graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Arizona State University, and earned his law degree from the University of Arizona. “We were so young and a lot of our clients wanted to see gray hairs on our heads. That was one of our big challenges; getting clients and having them take us on the merit of our legal knowledge and expertise, not our age.”

Twenty years later, the firm is still going strong. And despite the economic downturn which Brueckner sees as one of the biggest challenges the firm has been faced with, it continues to provide knowledgeable and dedicated legal services for its clients.

“This last year has been one of our most challenging times, simply because of the stress our clients, many of whom were in the face of losing their businesses, have been going through,” he says. “Plus, there’s a fewer number of new deals going on. There’s more restructuring, and more disputes and litigation.”

From public corporations to start-up businesses, Brueckner says most of their clients across the board have been faced with economic challenges. But a consummate optimist, he says he sees a gradual improvement coming.Brueckner’s commitment shows not only in his work for his clients, but also in his dedication to the community. A significant and influential contributor to the Scottsdale community, he has been involved with a number of civic organizations, including the Scottsdale/ Paradise Valley YMCA; acted as chairman of the Scottsdale City Transportation Commission and the Scottsdale Redevelopment Board; and served on a number of boards, including the Scottsdale Chamber Foundation, Scottsdale Leadership and the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce.

For these and countless other efforts, Brueckner is being inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame.

“We benefit greatly from living and working in Scottsdale,” Brueckner says. “It’s our obligation to give back to the community.”

Childhood ambition: To become a lawyer.

Guilty pleasure: I’m a huge Leon Russell fan. In fact, in college, my nickname was Leon.

Best trait: I’m a people person. I do well dealing with people.

Worst trait: Interestingly, my kids would say that I don’t listen well enough.

First job: My first corporate job was with Greyhound Leasing and Financial, which became Finova. My first real job was cutting grass in a cemetery in Illinois. I was 16 and I got paid $2 an hour.

Sergio Dabdoub

connect: Titus, Brueckner, Levine & Johnson PC 480-483-9600 tbb-law.com

QUOTABLE: “Success is a journey, not a destination.” - Ben Sweetland 22

FEB / MAR | SCOTTSDALE@WORK | 2010

Service Opening Worlds of Opportunity through the Science of

There’s 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.

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

Significance We are in the business of developing and sharing what works in the real business world, not just pure theory.

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

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

Arizona State University

n

W. P. Carey School of Business P.O. Box 874106 n Tempe, AZ 85287-4106 Phone: 480-965-6201 n Fax: 480-965-2180 wpcarey.asu.edu/csl Twitter.com/WPCCSL