Inside Tucson Business, Nov. 19, 2021

Industry Perspective Celebrating the Hispanic business community in Tucson

Page 2 Nov. 19, 2021

Volume 29 • Number 24

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Sonoran Spirits

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TECH TALK

Whiskey del Bac celebrates 10 years of capturing the desert's flavor Jeff Gardner

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Moon fragments and opioid-reducing painkillers Page 11 GUEST COMMENTARY

INTERNET CONNECTIVITY Helping local families proper

Page 10 ON THE MENU

KOREAN CREATIVITY Chef Paulo Im is taking OBON in new directions

Page 13 BOOK OF LISTS PEOPLE IN ACTION

REAL ESTATE

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS

New promotions, hires and awards Page 3

$4M residential sale breaks listing record Page 4

Page 15

Insurance brokers and travel agencies

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Chamber Chatter Engaging in the Political Process

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May 7, 2021

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Nonprofit Perspective Education Acceleration Would your business benefit from lower energy and water costs? | Page 2

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An Outpouring of Optimism

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Volume 29• Number 12

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TECH TALK

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Engineering Awards, Solar-Powered GoKarts and Martian

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BUSINESS SUPPORT

EQUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

| Page 6 in a virtual year Volcanoeslearning Pima JTED balances hands-on

Local First Arizona and YWCA

Page 8

LOCAL Gardnertheir Local venues are once again scheduling shows andJeff opening doors Inside Tucson Business / Page 4 STARTUPS

‘HOWL-ITOSIS’

TECH TALK

UA researchers study how to cure bad breath in dogs

Space bucks and robot surgeons

Margaret Regan Inside Tucson Business / Page 10

PEOPLE IN ACTION

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS

New promotions, hires and awards THIS YEAR’S Etherton Gallery to move locations after three decades NUMBERS Page 5 Page 3 Art Galleries

BOOK OF LISTS

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PIVOT PLAYBOOK REAL ESTATE

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THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS Texas-based Builders FirstSource acquires Arizona building materials supplier for $400M | Page 4

BOOK OF LISTS

Page 8 PEOPLE IN ACTION

Hospitals, hospice, and assisted living facilities

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REAL ESTATE

Colleges, universities and optics companies

Page 15

Page 14 DEVELOPMENT

Sunawards Corridor releases post-COVID plan Tucson ranks among hottest rental markets in nation New promotions, hires and Page 10 Page 5 Page 3

REAL ESTATE

New promotions, hires and awards Page 3

Page 10

VENUE GRANTS

Sen. Kelly tours Rialto, highlights aid program

UA researchers stops COVID reports

Page 6

Christina Duran Inside Tucson Business / Page 8

PEOPLE IN ACTION

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

Understanding health care law changes

FEDERAL FUNDING

PANDEMIC RECOVERY

“PAST THE WORST OF IT”

COBRA SUBSIDY

Page 4

Page 13

Healthcare Heroes

Nurses look back on lessons learned during the past year

Photo courtesy UA / NASA

Galactic Maps and Cancer Treatments

Chamber Chatter Improve Local Workforce Development Efforts

Page 2 June 4, 2021

Plaza Liquors and Fine Wines Still in business after 43 years

ON THE MENU

Culinary Confluence

Zio Peppe fuses classic Italian with flavors of the Southwest

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NOV 19, 2021

Inside Tucson Business is published 26 times per year (once every other week on Fridays) plus the Book of Lists in January.

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INDUSTRYPERSPECTIVE

BY CHRISTINE ABDULLAH

SPECIAL TO INSIDE TUCSON BUSINESS

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WEEKLY TOP

BY LISA LOVALLO

BANK OF AMERICA

10 ways to thank employees Celebrating the Hispanic Business Community and its Legacy in Tucson this holiday season

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elebrating the richness and diversity of the Hispanic-Latino community and recognizing our collective path forward to drive social and economic progress is not confined to National Hispanic Heritage Month— especially when it comes to the outlook of Hispanic-owned small businesses nationwide. This year in particular, we recognize the resilience of small business owners impacted by a global health crisis who continue to serve our Tucson community.

The past year was challenging: 99% of Hispanic entrepreneurs say the pandemic created added stress around running their business, according to our recently released 2021 Hispanic Business Owner Spotlight. The need for dependable employees during these stressful times is not lost on Hispanic-Latino business owners—84% say they have changed, or plan to change, their approach to employee wellness and benefits as a result of the pandemic, as many believe their ability to attract and retain quality employees directly impacts their business success.

Despite these challenges, the Hispanic-Latino business outlook is strong.

Eighty-one percent of Hispanic-Latino business owners expect their revenue to increase over the next year, compared to 59% of non-Hispanic-Latino business owners, and economic optimism and hiring plans

show sharp increases since last fall. In fact, the Latino community is expanding as a whole. According to a study by the Center for Economic Research & Forecasting at California Lutheran University, which evaluated the gross domestic product of the Latinos in the U.S., Arizona’s Hispanic-Latino GDP was $91.9 billion in 2018, larger than the entire economic output of the state of New Hampshire.

Hispanic business owners supported their community even when facing challenges. Community values are strong amongst Hispanic business owners, as our survey showed that many say they’ve felt an increase in family and community support over the past 12 months, and 60% have volunteered to help their local communities recover and thrive.

In Tucson where the Hispanic-Latino population makes up 44% of our broader community and is an integral part of our business community, there is no doubt Hispanic-Latino business owners contribute to the success of our local economy.

At Bank of America, we serve 12 million Hispanic-Latino clients, one million of whom are also business owners working to make a lasting positive impact on their communities. By providing digital Spanish-language resources, hiring bilingual client-facing teams and investing in research like our annual Hispanic

Business Owner Spotlight to better understand the unique experiences of these entrepreneurs, we are uniquely positioned to help our Hispanic clients and community continue to succeed.

We also invest in local programs and partners, such as Chicanos Por La Causa, Pima Community College and the Primavera Foundation, all addressing a myriad of underlying issues facing Hispanic-Latino individuals, families, and businesses. To help Hispanic-Latino and other underrepresented entrepreneurs have greater access to capital, Bank of America has provided $350 million in capital to minority-focused funds like Vamos Ventures and L’Attitude Ventures, which then invest growth capital into minority-led businesses.

Supporting Hispanic-Latino businesses not only helps nurture the rich diversity of our community, but more importantly, it helps strengthen our local economy as these businesses continue to grow, creating job opportunities and business owners give back to our community.

Ensuring long-term success for Hispanic entrepreneurs in Tucson continues to be a priority for Bank of America today and beyond.

Christine Abdullah is the small business consultant manager at Bank of America.

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he holiday season is the perfect time to say “thank you” to employees for all of their hard work and dedication throughout the year. I am extremely thankful for everyone I get to work with at Cox Communications.

Recently, Cox employees donated $80,000 to Southern Arizona nonprofits and I am proud to be a part of such an incredible team that cares for the community.

Take a look at these ideas to show appreciation for your employees this holiday season and consider extending a special thank you to your loyal customers as well.

1. Write a note. Handwritten, personalized notes can be the best way to show appreciation without additional expenses. Block off some time on your calendar to write a letter to each employee.

2. Cater a lunch. The best way to everyone’s heart is through their stomach. Treat staff to a catered lunch or, if your employees are working from home, order them a lunch through a food delivery service.

3. Mobile car wash day.

Hire a mobile car wash company to come to your business and wash everyone’s cars while they are working.

4. Add a holiday.

Consider closing the office on days like Christmas Eve so employees have time to holiday shop and prepare their family dinners.

5. Give up your parking spot. Reward an outstanding

employee, or the employee of the year, by giving them your parking spot to use in the New Year.

6. Update technology. If you know your employees are working on older computers, consider presenting them with brand new technology for the New Year. This goes for office furniture and supplies, as well.

7. Plan a Zoom party. If your team is remote, consider hosting a virtual holiday party this year to spend quality time with employees and thank them for their hard work.

8. Make a donation. Let employees pick a charity of their choice and make a monetary donation on their behalf. You can also plan to match their donations, encouraging them to give back this holiday season.

9. Holiday bonus. If your business is able to, set aside a budget to reward employees with a small bonus at the end of the year to help with their holiday shopping.

10. Office wide gift. If you are unable to gift each employee individually, consider purchasing something fun for the whole office, like a TV for the break room or fancy espresso machine.

Lisa Lovallo is the Southern Arizona market vice president for Cox Communications. Recently, Cox employees donated $80,000 to aid Southern Arizona nonprofits during a time of need. Learn more about our philanthropic initiatives at coxcharities.org.

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PEOPLEINACTION

Don Guerra

Barrio Bread owner Don Guerra was recently named a “bread hero” by the Tiptree World Bread Awards. Supported by the International Baking Industry Exposition, the World Bread Awards celebrate high-quality bread and the bakers who support their local communities. Guerra is known throughout Tucson for his work supporting and utilizing local grains critical to the Sonoran Desert. Guerra bakes exclusively with grains grown in southern Arizona.

Barrio Bread regularly ranks as one of Tucson’s most beloved bakeries in readers’ polls, and often collaborates with Tucson eateries like the Charro family of restaurants and multiple breweries. Guerra also teaches baking classes, and presents about the importance of local food sustainability at conferences and workshops.

The World Bread Awards originally focused on the United Kingdom, before expanding their competition to regional awards throughout the US. Guerra won the award for "Bread Hero of the Southwest." Other US winners hail from North Carolina, Wisconsin, New Jersey and California. In addition to the regional awards, there were a selection of special awards, including the Innovation Award and Sustainability Hero.

Jennifer Thompson

Dan Shearn

Megan Powe

Randy Rogers

Flowing Wells seventh-grade teacher Jennifer Thompson has been selected as one of four winners for the Tucson Values Teachers/Raytheon Leaders in Education Award.

Thompson has taught mathematics for the past 22 years at Flowing Wells Junior High School. Thompson is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Thompson is also an instructor for Teach Arizona’s math methods course at the University of Arizona and was the recipient of the 2017 Future Leader Award from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. In 2020, she was recognized as “Teacher of the Year” at Flowing Wells Junior High School.

Carondelet Health Network has announced Dan Shearn as their new chief nursing officer at Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tucson.

According to the company, Shearn has more than two decades of management experience and brings a focus on personal patient and family-centered care, as well as staff and organizational work. Shearn holds a master’s degree in nursing administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He previously served as chief nursing officer for North Okaloosa Medical Center, an acute care hospital in Crestview, Florida. He has also served as clinical director of critical care at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Megan Powe has joined Carondelet Health Network as the chief market strategy officer. Powe comes to Carondelet from The Hospitals of Providence in El Paso, where she has served in multiple leadership roles within the business development and strategy department. Most recently, she served as chief strategy officer for The Hospitals of Providence’s Sierra Campus, where she led development and growth resulting in expanded services, certifications, and performance in cardiology, orthopedics and neurosciences. Powe holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Spring Hill College and a Master of Science in Health Care Administration from Trinity University.

Tucson Association of Realtors CEO Randy Rogers has been appointed to the Arizona Real Estate Advisory Board by Gov. Doug Ducey.

Nine leaders from across the state serve on the advisory board, including locals Kimberly Clifton who co-owns Tierra Antigua realty, and former Diamond Ventures marketing president Charlie Bowles.

“Kim and Charlie are leaders and long-time members of the association. Both bring years of experience to the advisory board,” stated Rogers. “What an honor it is to not only be appointed

by Gov. Ducey to the board but to serve alongside both of them and the other members to help continue to serve the commissioner. I am so thankful.”

NOV 19, 2021

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University of Arizona alum donates $50M to College of Pharmacy Entrepreneur and University of Arizona College of Pharmacy alum R. Ken Coit has committed $50 million to further UA's research and education potential. In turn, the college is now known as the R. Ken Coit College of Pharmacy. Coit's donation establishes six endowed chairs in drug discovery, neurodegenerative diseases and toxicology, as well as an endowment to support scholarships for the college's doctor of pharmacy and doctoral programs.

"It is my goal to see the University of Arizona College of Pharmacy take its place among the top three programs in the nation," Coit said. "With this gift, the college can recruit the best and brightest students and faculty, who will go on to change the face of health care around the world."

According to UA, the money will also be used to fund strategic investments in the form of research equipment and facility upgrades, and a portion has already been used for an expanded wing of the college's museum, which will now be known as the Coit Museum of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

"Ken has been an incredible partner to the University of Arizona, and I am truly appreciative of his transformative generosity," UA president Robert Robbins said. "The College of Pharmacy has been at the forefront of drug discovery research and pharmaceutical education since its inception more than 70 years ago. Through Ken's inspirational gift, the college will have the resources to continue leading the way on these fronts."

The announcement coincided with Coit's visit to campus during homecoming.

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NOV 19, 2021

REAL ESTATE & CONSTRUCTION

EMAIL YOUR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS TO JEFF@TUCSONLOCALMEDIA.COM

$4M is highest residential MLS sale in Tucson in more than a decade Jeff Gardner

Inside Tucson Business

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20-acre estate on Tucson’s east side recently sold for $4,080,000, making it the city’s most expensive residential real estate sale on the multiple listing service of southern Arizona since 2007. The property on 1416 N. Smokey Springs is a 8,860 square-foot home with six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a four-car garage and a guest house.

Jameson Gray and McKenna St. Onge of Gray St. Onge represented the seller, while Jim Storey of Tierra Antigua Realty represented the buyer.

“We are truly honored to have had the opportunity to sell this fine estate. The Tucson luxury market has seen incredible growth over the last several years, yet this property is one of the most memorable we have ever sold,” Gray said.

Since 2007, there have been more than 20 homes that have sold for more than $3 million in the greater Tucson area, as listed on the Multiple Listing Service of Southern Arizona. According to Gray St. Onge, 14 of those sales have taken place in 2021 alone.

“From the first time I stepped foot in Smokey Springs I knew it was one of the most special properties I had ever seen in Tucson,” Storey said. “The history combined with the crafts-

manship of the estate is incredibly unique and special.

I am humbled to be a part of such a remarkable sale.”

the landlord.

SALES Harsch Investment Properties, LLC purchased 14.19 acres of industrial land at 3761 E. Ajo Way in Tucson, from Ruby Holdings, LLC for $2,148,167. Jesse Blum, Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the buyer in this transaction. Gordon Wagner with NAI Horizon, Tucson, represented the seller.

Photo by CJ Gershon Photography / Gray St. Onge

foot, multifamily investment property located at 5501-5509 E. Bellevue St. in Tucson. The 5-unit apartment facility, consisting of two single-family Burroughs JMB Limited homes and one triplex, was Partnership purchased a purchased from Michael J. newly constructed Dollar Bosnos and Judith BosSteven J. Shenitzer and General, single-tenant Hollece F. Shenitzer, Trustees nos for $748,000. Allan NNN investment locatof the Shenitzer Family Trust, Mendelsberg, Principal, ed at 9527 E. Highway and WV, LLC, purchased an and Conrad Martinez, 92 in Hereford, AZ for 18,754-square-foot industrial Multifamily Specialists with $1,750,000. Dave HamCushman & Wakefield | mack, Principal, and Retail building located at 4575 S. Specialist with Cushman & Coach Drive in Tucson. The PICOR, represented both parties in this transaction.

Wakefield | PICOR, repre- industrial warehouse propsented the seller, DCM De- erty, situated on 1.54 acres Paleteria y Neveria La velopment Company, LLC, in the Butterfield Business Center, was purchased from Michoacana, LLC purin this transaction. Rudy chased 2,247 square feet Blankenship, with Paccom Real Estate Wise, LLC, for of retail space at 3102 E. $2,000,000.

Robert C. Realty Advisors - Fresno, 22nd Street in Tucson, from Glaser, SIOR, CCIM, and Inc., represented the buyer.

Paul Hooker, Principals and MEGB, LLC for $700,000.

Jose Dabdoub, Industrial Industrial Specialists with Michael D. Harris and Specialist with Cushman Sandra D. Harris, Trustees Cushman & Wakefield | PIof the Michael D. and San- COR, represented the buyer & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the seller in this dra D. Harris Living Trust, in this transaction. John transaction. Cintya Denisse Hamner, CCIM, and Julian purchased an 11,517-squareAngulo Garcia, Commercial Willetts with RE/MAX Excalifoot industrial warehouse Specialist with Cushman & bur, represented the seller. building located at 3150 N. Wakefield | PICOR, repreFreeway Industrial Loop sented the buyer.

Rubicon 1st Ave, LLC, in Tucson. Situated on purchased Bellevue Apart0.87 acres, the industrial/ Zacharias Rodriguez ments, a 3,798-squareflex condo project was purchased from P3 & G, LLC, for $1,500,000. Ron Zimmerman, Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented both parties in this transaction.

purchased a retail restaurant property located at 5801 S. Palo Verde Rd. in Tucson.

The 4,015-square-foot, single-tenant building was purchased from the Estate of Timothy R. Lindblad for $285,000. Andy Seleznov, CCIM, Retail Specialist and Ron Zimmerman, Principal, and Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the seller in this transaction.

LEASES The Innova Group, LLC, leased 6,082 square feet of office space, located in the Williams Centre, 5255 E. Williams Circle, Suite 6000 in Tucson, from WCCP Rosemont, LLC, RPI Williams Circle, LLC, PEA Williams Circle, LLC. Dave Hammack, Principal, and Ryan McGregor with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the tenant in this transaction. Philip Skillings with NAI Horizon, Tucson, represented

Bank of the West renewed their lease with Swan Retail, LLC, for 3,787 square feet of retail space located in The Shoppes at Creekside, 3175 N. Swan Rd., Suite 125 in Tucson. Aaron LaPrise, Principal, and Retail Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction. Bruce Suppes with CBRE, Tucson, represented the tenant.

Mac Exteriors, LLC, d/b/a Arizona Window and Door Store, expanded their lease with Walker Industrial Properties, LLC, for an additional 2,750 square feet, totaling 5,500 square feet of industrial space located at 1821 W. Dairy Place, Suites 101 and 111 in Tucson. Paul Hooker, Principal and Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Keith Lammersen, with Jones Lang LaSalle Americas, Inc., Phoenix, represented the tenant.

Alignment Healthcare leased 1,603 square feet of retail space from Tucson4874, LLC, located in The Landing Shopping Center, 4874 S. Landing Way, Suite 140 in Tucson.

Aaron LaPrise, Principal, and Retail Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in the transaction.

Jeremy Dee with Kennedy

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Wilson Properties, Ltd., Beverly Hills, CA., represented the tenant.

Act Fast Delivery of Tucson, Inc. renewed their lease with AP&D Investments, LLP for 1,376 square feet of industrial space at Alvernon Business Center, 3865 E. 34th Street, Suite 106 in Tucson. Robert C. Glaser, SIOR, CCIM, Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Maria-Luanna Bozzolo, Ph.D., leased 396 square feet of office space from El Dorado Ventures, LLC, located in El Dorado Square, 1200 N. El Dorado Pl., Suite F-610 in Tucson. Thomas J. Nieman, Principal, and Molly Mary Gilbert, Office Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Southern Arizona Rad Associates, LLC leased 8,000 square feet of retail space at Green Valley Village, 121 W. Esperanza Blvd, suite 101 in Green Valley, from Holualoa Green Valley Mall, LLC. Rob Tomlinson, Retail Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, Jordan Simon and Karen Farrell with Venture West Real Estate Services, LLC, represented the tenant in this transaction.

Native Music Coalition leased 3,296 square feet of office space at 811 S. 6th Avenue in Tucson, from Suarez Family, LP. Molly Mary Gilbert, Office Specialist, and Paul Hooker, Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this

NOV 19, 2021

transaction.

Resilient Fitness, LLC, leased 3,000 square feet of retail space from H.L.F. Properties, Inc, located in The Village on Broadway, 2900 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 118 in Tucson.

Ryan McGregor and Andy Seleznov, CCIM, Retail Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction. Zachary Smith and Thomas Hunt, with Tango Commercial Real Estate, represented the tenant.

Midtown Vegan Deli and Market leased 2,847 square feet of retail space at 5071 E. 5th Street in Tucson, from HLF Properties, Inc. Andy Seleznov, CCIM, Retail Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented both parties in this transaction. Ryan McGregor, Office Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord.

TireHub, LLC, leased 28,500 square feet of industrial space from Daybreak Industrial QOB, LLC, located in the Daybreak Distribution Center, 6360 S. Tucson Blvd., Suite 200 in Tucson. Robert C. Glaser, SIOR, CCIM, and Paul Hooker, Principals, and Industrial Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Tim Healy with CBRE, Tucson, represented the tenant.

Zion City, formerly Victory Worship Center, leased 10,983 square feet of commercial/industrial space in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.

Cintya Denisse Angulo Garcia, Commercial Specialist

with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the tenant in this transaction.

StateServ Medical, LLC leased 4,980 square feet of industrial space at Old West Industrial Village, 6800 N. Camino Martin, Suite 106-112 in Tucson, from Clover Real Estate II, LLC / Foodtown Development Company II, LLC. Robert C. Glaser, SIOR, CCIM, Industrial Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Wells Fargo Bank leased 3,100 square feet of retail space, at 5590 E. River Road, Block 2 in Tucson, from 5590 E. River Plaza LLC. Aaron LaPrise, Retail Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction. Nancy McClure with CBRE, Tucson, represented the tenant.

Aura Solutions, LLC, renewed their lease with KCI-Broadway, LLC, Scott Seldin-Broadway, LLC, Belmont-Broadway, LLC, and Tucson 5151 Investments, LLC, for 3,073 square feet of office space, located at 5151 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 500 in Tucson. Richard M. Kleiner, MBA, and Thomas J. Nieman, Principals, and Office Specialists, with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

SJM Premier Medical Group, LLC, leased 2,494 square feet of office space from Spirits, LP, located at 3131 N. Country Club Rd., Suites 107 and 108 in Tucson. Ryan McGregor and Molly Mary Gilbert, Office

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Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

fice Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Gilbert, Office Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Fredrick Van Hook, MD renewed their lease with El Dorado Ventures, LLC for 1,190 square feet of office space at El Dorado Square, 1200 N. El Dorado Place, Suite B-250 in Tucson.

Molly Mary Gilbert, and Thomas J. Nieman, Office Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction.

Organa Health, PLLC, leased 2,185 square feet of office space from El Dorado Ventures, LLC, located in El Dorado Square, 1200 N. El Dorado Place, Suite I-900 in Tucson. Thomas J. Nieman, Principal, and Molly Mary Gilbert, Office Specialists with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented the landlord in this transaction. Barbara Firminger with Carr, Inc., Phoenix, represented the tenant.

Angelica Lopez & Alex Lopez JR leased 238 square feet of office space at 2292 W. Magee Road, Suite 2 in Tucson, from MJ 96, LLC. Molly Mary Gilbert, Office Specialist with Cushman & Wakefield | PICOR, represented both parties in this transaction.

Nova Brows LLC leased 135 square feet of office space at 2410 W. Ruthrauff Road, Suite F in Tucson, from Ruthrauff Partners, Hope Developmental LLC. Robert C. Glaser, Behavioral Pediatrics leased Principal, SIOR, CCIM, 430 square feet of office Advanced IT Concepts Paul Hooker, Principal, space at El Dorado Square, renewed their lease with and Andrew Keim, Indus1200 N. El Dorado Place, SAWACECI LLC for 1,156 Suite A-145 in Tucson, trial Specialists with Cushsquare feet of office space at man & Wakefield | PICOR, from El Dorado Ventures, 4481 Campus Drive, Suite B represented the landlord in LLC. Molly Mary Gilbert and Thomas J. Nieman, Of- in Sierra Vista. Molly Mary this transaction. ITB

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NOV 19, 2021

Pueblo Vida Brewing celebrates seven years of craft beer for the vibrant artwork on their cans, you may have Inside Tucson Business tasted one of their craft beers which often blend ore than a dozen citrus and hoppy flavors. craft breweries “We took a really colcall Tucson home. laborative approach for Despite this, downtown’s our anniversary this year, Pueblo Vida Brewing has because we couldn’t do that never been forced to differ- for the last year and a half,” entiate themselves in order said Pueblo Vida Brewing to survive—it just comes founder Linette Antillon. naturally.

“We just wanted to do some Last weekend, Pueblo fun stuff with our friends.”

Vida Brewing celebrated Pueblo Vida (115 E. their seventh anniversaBroadway Blvd.) focuses on ry much in the same way “thought-provoking sips,” they’ve always conducted and the specialty beers for their business: hosting their anniversary highlight community events and that dedication: a sour beer collaborating with other infused with hibiscus tea Tucson creatives. If you and watermelon notes, a don’t recognize Pueblo Vida stout mixed with coffee and Jeff Gardner

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aged in whiskey barrels, a triple IPA with multiple citrus notes and more. These specialty beers involved collaborations with Tucson’s Presta Coffee Roasters, Transit Tea, and Hamilton Distillers.

“For the ‘De La Tierra,’ we aged cold brew coffee in the barrels and then transferred that to the beer. So it’s a unique take on the traditional whisky barrel-aged stout,” Antillon said. “It’s still boozy, but it’s very decadent and turned out really nice.”

Beyond the collaborative craft beers, Pueblo Vida’s anniversary celebration included guided tastings, themed parties, yoga, a bike

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ride, and tie-dye T-shirt making, all as a thank you to the customers and staff that supported them over the past seven years.

As the anniversary approached, Antillon and her staff reflected on why Pueblo Vida has survived for seven years and through a pandemic, considering they have no outdoor space at their downtown location. Antillon narrowed their success down to three reasons.

“First, our staff is always here with a friendly attitude and positive vibes. I can’t ask for better people,” she said. “The second is all these partners that we get to collaborate with and share ideas with. There are so many around town in the beer world that support each other, and really have become great friends over the past seven years. And the third is how amazing our customers are. Over this last year and a half, they truly showed us the power of their support. The fact they still came in and ordered from a to-go window. They’re so freaking amazing.”

Antillon says over the past seven years, she’s seen marriages, new children, promotions and retirements of Pueblo Vida’s customers. This surprised her, as she initially figured customers would “come in and out” and not be as relationship-driven as they have been. This same sense of community is shared by craft brewers throughout Tucson, some of whom

Photo by Pueblo Vida Brewing

participated in the anniversary.

“We all support each other,” Antillon said. “There’s not a sense of competition where we’re trying to out-do each other. We constantly work together.

And Tucson in general has a small town in a big city feeling. It’s so unique, and I think that helps with it as well. The community is great both because of the beer-makers and the customers who support them.”

In the past, Pueblo Vida has worked with Tucson’s Dragoon Brewing Company and 1912 Brewing Company, as well as Phoenix’s Wren House Brewing Company and more.

“We’ve always just strived to do things we find interesting and fun. We’re always looking for unique ways to create new products,” Antillon said. “Even with

that imperial stout, which we’re calling De La Tierra, it’s such a unique way to approach beer. I’m sure other people have done it before, but it’s a different way to approach that style. That’s the kind of thing we tend to do that makes us unique.”

Looking ahead, Antillon says Pueblo Vida will continue to put their beer first, but they do have some changes in mind.

“We’re going to continue doing a lot of the things that have made us successful so far, which mainly is focusing on the beer,” Antillon said. “But we’d love to have a location with an outside area. That’s been kind of a hurdle, especially over the past year. It’d be great to have a place where we can enjoy Tucson’s beautiful weather. That’s something I’m looking forward to.” ITB

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

7

Whiskey del Bac celebrates a decade of Sonoran spirits Jeff Gardner

Inside Tucson Business

W

hiskey del Bac co-founder Stephen Paul admits he started his career making “a lot of bad whiskey.” But perseverance and refining techniques have resulted in one of Tucson’s most beloved and recognizable liquors.

This month, Whiskey del Bac celebrated a decade in business—what was once a five-gallon still at home is now a production that brings Sonoran flavors to 20 states.

“From the beginning, our goal was to make something that was fully from the Sonoran Desert,” Stephen said, who co-founded Whiskey del Bac with his daughter

Amanda. “And without sounding too boastful, it resulted in a good whiskey.”

The idea dates back to the Pauls’ furniture company, which worked with mesquite, the scrubby tree found throughout the southwest.

They family often barbecued with scraps of mesquite, and Stephen’s wife Elaine brought up the idea of drying malt over a mesquite fire, as opposed to a peat fire as is common with whiskey.

Stephen experimented with the idea starting in 2007, producing single malt whiskey infused with the smoky flavors of the Sonoran Desert. In 2011, Amanda suggested making the family production official, and Whiskey del Bac was born.

“Mesquite has a certain mystique to it,” Stephen said.

“It grows wildly and can survive with very little water. It just has this draw to it. So the Sonoran Desert really is part of our ethos. We love where we live… Our climate affects our whiskey’s aging. Not only the high heat, but the radical changes in temperature at night. Also, the minerality in our water affects the flavor.”

According to the company, they took their name from the ancient term meaning “from the place where the river appears in the sand.”

The name was inspired

by Tucson’s Mission San Xavier del Bac, named for its proximity to the Santa Cruz River.

Their central whiskey,

The Dorado, is a single malt made from 100% barley with notes of tobacco, toffee and chocolate. As they describe, the flavor “gives way to desert campfire embers.”

Since starting, Whiskey del Bac has expanded to a 500-gallon still, and releases three types of whiskey. The company malts their own barley, and ferments, distills and barrels the drink all under one roof. Originally a father-daughter team, Whiskey del Bac now has a CEO, a head of marketing and a head distiller. They grew to a capacity of 4,200 cases per year, and are now managing 7,000 cases per year, with plans to increase further.

“Organizationally, we’re a better-run business now,”

Stephen said. “I did a passable job for the first few years, but it simply grew beyond my managerial abilities.”

For the 10th anniversary, Whiskey del Bac made a special release aged in a Calvados brandy cask. Though they’ve released this kind of combination before, Stephen says they chose to craft another because “it was just so delicious.” Their anniversary also included collaborations with HUB restaurant, Monsoon Chocolates and Decibel Coffee Works.

While Whiskey del Bac is available in more than a dozen states, Stephen says Arizona remains responsible for 80% of their sales. The presence remains strong locally, as they collaborate with

plenty of Tucson organizations. Multiple Tucson craft breweries even use Whiskey del Bac’s barrels to age their beers in, infusing a hint of that signature smoky flavor.

Looking forward, Stephen says Whiskey del Bac will focus on further expansion to keep up with demand. And, of course, he says they can always improve their product.

“It’s been so heartwarming to see how Tucson has embraced this project,” Stephen said. “We have such gratitude. It’s such an amazing town in terms of community and creativity. It’s almost like this is a project that belongs to Tucson, and we’re just the caretakers.” ITB

8

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

Guest Commentary: Emerging Health Care Strategies for Employers pense (behind salaries) for employers. Encouraging a healthier workforce may be vital to helping reduce he pandemic has absenteeism and presenteechanged various ism, both of which may sap aspects of how many productivity and make an Arizonans earn a living, employer less competitive. ushering in an era of Complicating matters is remote working and virtual an evolving workforce with team meetings. While new priorities for health encouraging a healthier benefits and work-life workforce has long been balance, plus a changing a priority for employers, regulatory landscape with the pandemic has sparked new requirements at the a renewed focus for many state and federal levels. organizations.

While employees are now Medical care ranks as using their 2021 benefits, the second largest exemployers in Arizona are Dr. Donna O’Shea

Special to Tucson Local Media

T

are investing in programs to help address social determinants of health, seeking to help resolve life factors that may affect overall well-being. Efforts may help employees access low- or no-cost community resources, which may enaHelp Address Social Determinants. Employers ble people to save on utility have historically focused on bills, prescription drug expenses and even home helping improve access to medical care for employees, repair costs; find low-cost, but social determinants of easy-to-use transportation to medical appointments; health, such as housing, determine Medicaid access to nutritious food and lack of transportation, eligibility (depending on income); and find local influence up to 80% of a support groups for issues person’s health. With that such as depression or in mind, some employers anxiety. making health benefit decisions for 2022. Here are three strategies to consider to help meet the health care needs of employees amid COVID-19 and moving forward:

News and features for Tucson and Southern Arizona’s business and legal communities

InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Expand Access to Virtual Care and Remote-Patient Monitoring. Most large employers offer at least some type of virtual care benefit to their employees, so it may be helpful to expand coverage for these types of visits and enhance employee awareness of this technology.

Company and HR leaders should continue to evaluate the virtual care options currently available to employees through their health plan, local care providers or other virtual service providers. To help make these resources more convenient, some options give employees 24/7 access to virtual visits that may provide medical advice related to a variety of health issues, including allergies, COVID-19, rashes or seasonal

flu. For employees with specific health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, new remote-patient monitoring resources may offer access to potentially helpful technologies, including continuous glucose monitors, activity trackers and personalized coaching. By helping provide employees with technology that may offer nearly real-time data to help customize care, employers can support better health outcomes, reduce out-of-pocket employee costs and lower the total cost of care.

Integrated Medical and Specialty Benefits.

Many employees may value specialty benefits, such as vision, dental, hearing and disability plans, and employers can offer them with little or no additional cost. In fact, a recent UnitedHealthcare survey found that 84% of employees said having vision and dental benefits is “important.” With growing evidence of a link between overall health and oral, eye and hearing health, and disability and absence care, including in connection to various chronic medical conditions, offering specialty benefits may help encourage whole-person health for employees.

Plus, just like with bundled home TV, internet and phone packages, some health care companies are enabling employers to

Courtesy photo

integrate medical benefits with specialty plans. These bundled benefit programs may enable employers to save on medical plan premiums, while simplifying the administrative process, including a single invoice for payment and website login for employees. Rather than having medical, dental, vision and financial coverages administered on different platforms, a bundled approach may enable employers to save time and money – which may help improve health outcomes for employees.

Employers are in a unique position to help improve the health and well-being of employees.

By considering these emerging health benefit trends, employers may help support the well-being of employees amid COVID-19 and as the pandemic wanes. ITB Dr. Donna O’Shea is chief medical officer of population health management, UnitedHealthcare.

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

9

New downtown co-working space hosts Women, Wine & Winning networking event eateries, but the pandemic ended these networking events.

Once she learned about mber Navarrette, the L Offices, she pitched a owner of Navarnew business idea to owner rette Leather, didn’t Krystal Popov. want to pay a high price for “The coworking is really a Louis Vuitton handbag, so Monday through Friday, 8 to she taught herself how to do 5, and so you have this whole leather work. Now she makes big space that you can rent and sells custom handbags out for all kinds of different made from old tack, or things,” Martin said. horse-riding equipment.

This led to organizing Her daughter, Kaidynce the monthly vendor event Norwood, is the owner of Women, Wine & Winning K’s Little Shop of Wonders, Courtesy photo Wednesday. Women-owned a jewelry business inspired Annette Martin’s jewelry, available at Elle Boutique, features snap-on businesses are encouraged to features that allow you to change up the design. by her love for Victorian era sign up for a booth and sell fashion. She just started her their products. Martin was as well a farmers market once together for their own vendor inspired by Tiffany Nakatani business through Instagram a month on the last Saturday. market at The L coworking and TikTok. The events were the brain- space.

“I created space with child of Annette Martin, who “When I first started her to kind of be her own has a small jewelry shop in looking for a way to do venentrepreneur so she can be dor events here in Tucson, the L Offices.

Elle Boutique an independent young lady everything I found was most features Martin’s own jewelry and start her hustle early,” of the events were in other collection called Whatsnapsaid Navarrette, who recently penin, with accessories that cities like in Phoenix and it relocated to Tucson from snap on jewelry bases.

Her was really hard for me to find Willcox. snap bases come in a variety a place to go to find events,” The two women were of purses, keychains, braceMartin said. “So, I created a among the vendors at lets, and earrings that can all group on Facebook. It’s called Women, Wine & Winning be uniquely accessorized with Tucson Popups, Vendors and Wednesday, a monthly nether snap jewelry.

Events.” working event that features Martin felt inspired to get Her Facebook group independent vendors and, her own retail space after connects vendor coordinators yes, wine on the second floor creating relationships with with vendors. of downtown’s Chicago Store vendors all over town. She “My goal was to try to unite building. While the famed wanted to showcase her jeweleveryone, because there are music shop Chicago Music ry line and include inventory some people who do events Store has moved to a smaller from other local artists she that are very territorial and space in downtown (as well met while networking.

Martin competitive,” Martin said. as an outlet on the east side), sells work by 15 other artists Pre-pandemic, the group the cavernous second floor in her shop. planned public networking in the building at Congress Before she opened her own events.

Martin said 20 to and Sixth Avenue has now store, Martin set up booths 50 vendors would meet at a become home to L Offices, at farmer markets and other local restaurant to exchange a new co-working space in downtown. After hours, the L vendor events, so it was a nat- ideas. This gave vendors time to meet fellow small business Offices also host events such ural next step to bring local women-owned businesses owners while supporting as Women Wine & Winning, Alexandra Pere

Tucson Local Media

A

of Boss Women Unite, a local platform that connects women-owned businesses to retail spaces.

“I was very inspired by her and I love her focus on promoting and empowering women and women business owners,” Martin said.

Women, Wine & Winning Wednesday includes retail vendors, free drinks, food, and a raffle drawing.

At the Nov. 3 event. experienced Tucson vendor Estrella Cruz with Oily Lifestyle.

Cruz’s day job is in human resources but selling essential oils is her escape from job-related stress. Cruz said Young Living essential oils

have improved her life and the residual income is saved for retirement. Cruz found Women, Wine, & Winning Wednesday through fellow vendors and social media.

“I used to be a military wife and I was actually introduced to Young Living out in Japan and Okinawa, so it’s been four years that I became a brand partner,” Cruz said. ITB The L coworking space is located at 130 E Congress St., suite 200, in the old Chicago Music Store. Visit their website at www.theloffices.com to ask about reserving a vendor booth for their next event.

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INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

Guest Commentary: Helping Tucson families prosper through internet connectivity initiatives in Tucson and more broadly in Southern Arizona.

Cox is proud to provide more than 6,000 Southern Arizona families with Connect2Compete (C2C), our low-cost internet service. We continue to reach out into the community and hold C2C sign-up events—you may have recently seen us at Tucson Meet Yourself and the Sunnyside 5k. We also have partnered with school districts such as TUSD and Sunnyside, so members of the entire house-

Lisa Lovallo

Inside Tucson Business

W

hile technology became a lifeline for so many during lockdowns associated with the pandemic, we are deeply concerned that accessing the internet remains a challenge for some in our community.

As a longtime broadband provider in Southern Arizona, Cox Communications is committed to closing the digital divide by creating accessibility

hold have internet access at home.

In addition to offering C2C low-cost internet services to students, we have also partnered with La Frontera to help seniors also get connected so they too can have access to the internet and stay in contact with friends and family.

During these times, Cox has also been focused on providing nearly 7,000 Tucsonans with financial assistance from the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB).

Having the know-how and proven track record in the industry, we have even quickly expanded internet service to new neighborhoods such as Summit View during the past year, which will give more than 900 homes access to the fastest speeds in the state – up to one Gig. The Cox Technology Centers, donated to all Tucson area Boys and Girls Clubs and the Big Brothers Big Sisters, today provide a technologically advanced atmosphere for kids, complete with

computers and highspeed internet access. We know that partnering with organizations like these provide valuable connectivity to help level the playing field so children can complete their homework online and be safely entertained after school.

During these unprecedented times, technology has made it possible to work, learn, and socialize from home and remotely. Cox is committed to ensuring our neighbors continue to have access to the educational and

economic opportunities connectivity brings, which we know will support the long-term success of the Tucson community and residents throughout Southern Arizona. ITB Lisa Lovallo, an Arizona native, is the Southern Arizona market vice president for Cox Communications, leading a team of 250+ local Cox employees.

Cox employees are proud to have recently donated more than $80,000 to 21 local Southern Arizona non-profits. Reach her at lisa.lovallo@cox.com.

BUSINESS CALENDAR Tuesday, Nov. 23

News and features for Tucson and Southern Arizona’s business and legal communities Chamber Chatter Tucson’s momentum to spur success in 2021

Page 2 Jan. 15, 2021

InsideTucsonBusiness

Volume 29• Number 2

@AZBIZ

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Chatter ChamberSmall Businesses,

Celebrating One Copper Cactus Trophy at a Time | Page 2

July 2, 2021

Cyberinfrastructure, quantum sensing and pest eradication

Last Call?

Volume 29• Number 4

Local bars sue Pima County, saying they can’t survive COVID curfew Nicole Ludden

Chamber Chatter

Page 8 ROAD WORK

@AZBIZ

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

TECH TALK

Lessons learned from three years at the helm

A map of the stars and local science fair champions

Page 2

LOCAL DEVELOPMENT Feb. 12, 2021

InsideTucsonBusiness

Volume 29• Number 14

The Home Stretch

TECH TALK

InsideTucsonBusiness

@AZBIZ

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Pima County’s 2021 transportation projects

Page 4

Page 11

Inside Tucson Business / Page 5

NEW BUSINESS

CLOSED AND OPEN Page 10

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS Engineering firms

Building Momentum Page 11

ON THE MENU

Local promotions, awards and hires Page 3

meat boxes and, of course, COVID 2020’s Top Columns: Whiskey, Commercial real estate

Page 9

June 18, 2021

Christina Duran Inside Tucson Business / Page 4 A Smartphone COVID Test and Virtual Science Fairs

thriving despite pandemic

It’s time for a renewed push for renewable energy

Officials ‘devastated’ as feds extend nonessential border travel ban

Volume 29• Number 13

Page 12

Page 2 @AZBIZ

InsideTucsonBusiness

HOME EQUITY Another line of credit

Page 5

Page 13

ON THE MENU

Flora’s Market Crudo Bar elevates the raw food conversation

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Mayor wants Uhlich to return as replacement PEOPLE Page 4 IN ACTION

New promotions, hires and awards PUBLIC SERVICE Page 3 STRENGTHENED PARTNERSHIP Financial trio donates to Gospel Rescue Mission

Page 6

BOOK OF LISTS

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS

REAL ESTATE

Seeds of Success

Real estate appraisers, brokers , and mortgage lenders

COVID IMPACTS

UNEVEN RECOVERY

+ Speaking with the new CEO of the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Minority-owned businesses face unique challenges

1

Chamber Chatter

Engaging in the Political Process

Page 2

1

May 7, 2021

Volume 29• Number 10

@AZBIZ

InsideTucsonBusiness

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Nonprofit Perspective Education Acceleration Would your business benefit from lower energy and water costs? | Page 2

May 21, 2021

Christina Duran

Call 520-797-4384

InsideTucsonBusiness

Volume 29• Number 11

An Outpouring of Optimism

Inside Tucson Business / Page 6

Advertise Here!

You could have this prime advertising spot!

@AZBIZ

TECH TALK

Improve Local Workforce Development Efforts @AZBIZ

Page 12

Engineering Awards, Solar-Powered GoKarts and Martian

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

BUSINESS SUPPORT

EQUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

| Page 6 in a virtual year Volcanoeslearning Pima JTED balances hands-on

Local First Arizona and YWCA

Page 8

LOCAL doors Gardnertheir Inside Tucson Business / Page 4 STARTUPS opening Local venues are once again scheduling shows andJeff ‘HOWL-ITOSIS’ TECH TALK

UA researchers study how to cure bad breath in dogs

Space bucks and robot surgeons

Margaret Regan Inside Tucson Business / Page 10

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

COBRA SUBSIDY

Page 4

Understanding health care law changes

Page 10

FEDERAL FUNDING

Page 13

VENUE GRANTS

Sen. Kelly tours Rialto, highlights aid program

PANDEMIC RECOVERY

“PAST THE WORST OF IT”

Nurses look back on lessons learned during the past year

UA researchers stops COVID reports

Page 6

PEOPLE IN ACTION

BOOK OF LISTS

PIVOT PLAYBOOK REAL ESTATE

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS

Texas-based Builders FirstSource acquires Arizona building materials supplier for $400M | Page 4

Hospitals, hospice, and assisted living facilities

Pages 14 & 15

CONTAINER HOMES

Plaza Liquors and Fine Wines

Page 5

BOOK OF LISTS

REAL ESTATE

New promotions, hires and awards Page 3

Colleges, universities and optics companies

Page 15 DEVELOPMENT

releases post-COVID plan Tucson ranks among hottest rental markets in nation

PEOPLE IN ACTION

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS

REAL ESTATE

Page 14

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Corridor Sunawards New promotions, hires and Page 10 Page 3

STARTUP BUSINESSES

BOOK OF LISTS

Page 8 PEOPLE IN ACTION

Etherton Gallery to move locations after three decades New promotions, hires and awards THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS Page 5 Art Galleries Page 3

Christina Duran Inside Tucson Business / Page 8

Photo courtesy UA / NASA

Galactic Maps and Cancer Treatments

TECH TALK

Page 2 InsideTucsonBusiness

Volume 29• Number 12

Healthcare Heroes

Page 4

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Chamber Chatter

June 4, 2021

Still in business after 43 years

Page 6

ON THE MENU

Culinary Confluence

Zio Peppe fuses classic Italian with flavors of the Southwest

Page 7

UACI’s real estate reinvention

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS REAL ESTATE

New promotions, hires and awards Page 3

The region’s sales and leases Page 11

Page 8

Commerical real estate brokers and management

BOOK OF LISTS

Page 18 ON THE MENU

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS Minority-owned businesses

PEOPLE IN ACTION

REAL ESTATE

New promotions, hires and awards Page 3

Highest Residential Real Estate Sale in the Catalina Foothills in More than a Decade | Page 10

Touch Down

Arizona Sands Club reimagines UA stadium dining

Page 16

Page 15

1

Chamber Chatter Engaging in the Political Process

Page 2 May 7, 2021

Volume 29• Number 10

@AZBIZ

InsideTucsonBusiness

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Education Acceleration Chatter Workforce Chamber Local

TECH TALK May 21,

Efforts Improve Development

Page

2

@AZBIZ

1

Photo courtesy UA / NASA

Galactic Maps and Cancer Treatments

2021

Volume

29• Number

An Outpourin of Optimism g

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Page 12

InsideTucsonBusiness

Nonprofi t Perspective

11

Would from your business lower energy benefit and water | Page 2

InsideTucsonBusiness costs?

BUSINESS SUPPORT

Volume

June 4,

29• Number

12

EQUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Pima JTED balances hands-on learning in a virtual year

and bucksInside Tucson Business / Page 4 Jeff Gardner Space robot surgeons Page

RECOVERYWORST

“PAST

THE

researchers

Heroes

on lessons 8 back / Page look Business Nurses Duran Inside Tucson

learned

during

the past

year

stops COVID

COBRA SUBSIDY

Local Margaret

Pages

building

Understanding health care law changes

venuesPage 10 are once again BOOK OF LISTS Inside Tucson Business / Page

TECH TALK

Engineering Solar-PoweredAwards, Karts and GoVolcanoes Martian

scheduling

THIS YEAR’S NUMBERS shows and Colleges, universities10 and optics companies

Page 15

Etherton Gallery to move locations after three decades Page 5

10

NUMBERS OF LISTS living YEAR’S assisted THIS hospice, and

opening

their

doors

LOCAL

IN ACTION

Page 6

awards

| Page

UA researchers

6

breath study how in to cure Page dogs bad 4

Still in business after 43 years

PEOPLE

New promotions, Page hires and 3

STARTUPS

‘HOWL-ITOSIS’

DEVELOPMENT

Plaza Liquors and Fine Wines

BOOK

Arizona

Regan

REAL ESTATE

Sun Corridor

Hospitals, facilities 14 & 15

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OF IT”

DEVELOPMENT New promotions, and awards plan ECONOMIChires PLAYBOOK Page 3 PIVOT releases post-COVID

Page

acquires 4 FirstSource | Page Builders for $400M Texas-based supplier materials

REAL ESTATE

IN ACTION

New promotions, 3 Page

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

reports

UA 6 Page PEOPLE IN ACTION

Christina

www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

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13

PANDEMIC

Healthcare

@AZBIZ

Local First Arizona and YWCA

TECH TALK

2021

PEOPLE

FEDERAL

FUNDING VENUE

GRANTS Sen. Kelly program tours Rialto, highlights

Page

REAL ESTATE

Tucson Page ranks among 5 hottest

8

aid

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rental

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markets

awards

Art GalleriesYEAR’S

Culinary

Zio Peppe

Page

in nation

fuses classic

ON THE

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Italian with flavors of the Southwest

Page

InsideTucsonBusiness.com

Wednesday, Nov. 24

Page 13

Page 15 Meritage Homes Developing Multiple Communities in Vail Chicano Por La Causa charter schools bring students across the finish line Page 10

BOOK OF LISTS PEOPLE IN ACTION

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FINANCIAL LITERACY

COUNCILMAN RESIGNS

Austin Counts Inside Tucson Business / Page 8

Nonprofit Perspective

BORDER DIFFICULTIES

TECH TALK

BOOK OF LISTS

PEOPLE IN ACTION

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Tucson’s rising housing prices are putting home ownership out of reach for many.

Fourth Avenue restaurateurs see opening for opportunity

• The Rotary Club of Marana meets (weekly).

Details: 7 a.m.; Northwest Fire Dept., 5125 W. Camino de Fuego (in person first 3 Tuesdays of the month); via Zoom (first 4 Tuesdays of the month); maranarotary.org or text 520-9099162 for virtual meeting information.

7

14

NUMBERS

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! www.InsideTucsonBusiness.com

• Arizona Sands Club meets with local business spotlight, education and networking. Details: 9-10 a.m.; UA Football Stadium, 565 N. Cherry Ave., 5th Floor; 520-621-8300; clubcorp.com.

EMAIL DETAILS FOR YOUR BIZ EVENTS TO SHERYL@TUCSONLOCALMEDIA.COM

Monday, Nov. 30

Thursday, Dec. 2

• Southern Arizona SCORE offers a webinar on Work Smarter, Not Harder – How to Systematically DO the Highest Value Activities in Your Business with author David Finkel.

Details: 11 a.m.; free; southernarizona.score.org.

• Southern Arizona SCORE offers a webinar Win Customers with Your Website with co-founder of Cardsetter Jessica Baldwin.

Details: 11 a.m.; free; southernarizona.score.org.

• Oro Valley Toastmasters meets. Details: 6:15 p.m. (on Zoom); https://2854329.toastmastersclubs.org or 314-8008.

• The Tucson Metro Chamber holds 2021 State of the City. Details: 3 p.m.; Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.; $125; tucsonchamber.org. ITB Send your biz events to calendar editor Sheryl Kocher at sheryl@tucsonlocalmedia.com.

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

11

TECH TALK

Moon fragments and opioidreducing painkillers Jeff Gardner

Inside Tucson Business

W

ith a major research university right in our backyard, a strong military presence and innovative companies throughout the metro region, there’s often a plethora of interesting science, medical and technology news to be found in Southern Arizona. Here’s a breakdown of the most interesting recent developments.

Lunar Loss. A nearearth asteroid may actually be a fragment of the moon, shed many years ago according to new research from the University of Arizona. A new paper published from UA Planetary Sciences examines the material that forms Kamo`oalewa, a 150-foot wide asteroid that orbits the sun but remains relatively close to Earth.

Kamo`oalewa was first identified by a Hawaiian telescope in 2016, and gets as close as about 9 million miles from Earth during its orbit.

A team of astronomers led by UA planetary sciences graduate student Ben Sharkey found that Kamo`oalewa reflects light in a similar way to lunar rocks from NASA’s Apollo missions, suggesting it originated from the moon.

According to the paper, three other near-Earth asteroids have orbits similar enough to Kamo`oalewa that they may all be “breakup companions.”

“It is very unlikely that a garden-variety nearEarth asteroid would spontaneously move into a quasi-satellite orbit like

balloons, and a dynamic testing lab for large objects.

The ARB is located at the southeast corner of Helen Street and Highland Avenue, next to the university’s Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Building, serving as a confluence for advanced manufacturing and technology.

The ARB was built with the university’s strategic plan in mind, which includes five “pillars” of focus. Specifically, the ARB is dedicated to research proSpace Simulation. Last grams related to the “Grand Challenges” pillar, which week, the University of Arizona’s new Applied Re- deals with pressing issues search Building received a for humanity like space aclarge-scale thermal vacuum cess, artificial intelligence, chamber capable of simu- health care technology and the environment. lating the environmental conditions in space. The Opioid Reduction.

30-foot, 80,000-pound chamber is used to test bal- Researchers at the UA’s loon and satellite perfor- College of Medicine have mance. Researchers at UA made a breakthrough on work with a wide variety of a pain-relief compound. space technology, includ- The new compound, called Compound 194, provides ing miniature “cube” satellites that can measure non-opioid pain relief with non-addictive propatmospheric conditions, erties. According to UA, 3D-printed autonomous the research team observed robots for lunar mining, a synergistic effect when and the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft designed to har- 194 was combined with morphine or gabapentin. vest a sample of an asterWhile morphine is an oid’s surface. opioid, this is a sign that The new space vacu194 could also be used in um chamber is one of the a dose-reduction strategy, technological anchors of leading to patients taking the university’s new $85 in less opioids for pain million Applied Research relief.

Building, which will be The team includes open for occupants in early 2023. The 89,000-square- Rajesh Khanna, profesfoot facility will be devoted sor of pharmacology; May to advancing research, and Khanna, associate professor of pharmacology; and will contain a number of Vijay Gokhale, associate other unique scientific research professor. Their tools. These include an anechoic chamber designed findings were published in the medical journal to absorb reflections and Science Transitional electromagnetic waves for Medicine. The university antenna testing, a high has already patented the bay lab for high altitude Kamo`oalewa’s,” said UA planetary sciences professor and study co-author Renu Malhotra. “It will not remain in this particular orbit for very long, only about 300 years in the future, and we estimate that it arrived in this orbit about 500 years ago.”

The paper, “Lunar-like silicate material forms the Earth quasi-satellite,” was published in the science journal Nature Communications Earth & Environment.

An artist’s impression of a syzygy between the moon, Kamo`oalewa and the earth. Illustration courtesy UA.

compound and licensed it to a startup founded by the Khannas and Gokhale.

“The publication of these results represents a huge proof point for our research and positions Regulonix for our next big leap forward,” said Raj Khanna. “We launched the company with this moment

in mind, and we’re excited to have this validation and move ahead.”

Non-opioid pain-relief has been a major focus of medical researchers as the “opioid epidemic” ravages parts of the United States.

In 2016 alone, more than 40,000 Americans died of an opioid overdose. Many

consider the addictive painkillers to be overprescribed, and responsible for the United States’ decline in life expectancy.

Earlier this year OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma agreed to pay $4.5 billion for their liability in the addiction epidemic to settle court claims. ITB

12

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

Winfield praises OV’s improvements, despite pandemic, at State of the Town Alexandra Pere

Inside Tucson Business

O

ro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield highlighted numerous Town improvements accomplished over the last year during the 20th annual State of the Town Address at El Conquistador Tucson Hilton Resort on Thursday, Oct 28.

Winfield stood in front of more than 650 attendees to express gratitude to Town staff for responding to hardships caused by the pandemic. He said most departments managed to create innovative solutions that will stay in operation for the future.

“I always say we are successful because we have a town council, town staff and the Chamber of Commerce, who are dedicated to supporting local businesses,” Winfield said.

With money provided by the federal CARES Act, the OV Safe Steps program was established through a partnership between the Town and the Chamber of Commerce.

The program distributed one million dollars in aid to 200 local businesses.

“The program resulted in a robust database of nearly 600 local businesses that allows for faster and more direct communication with them,” Winfield said. “These

eo of Oro Valley Parks and Recreation Director Kristy Diaz-Trahan for a quick explanation. Diaz-Trahan was videotaped in front of Naranja Park to visualize how the park will change over the next few years.

She said the park will have a new splash pad, sports fields, pickleball courts, basketball courts, a skate park and BMX space.

The bond will also support creating a 40% increase in parking for Naranja Park and new connections to the Town’s walking trail systems.

Winfield said another major accomplishment for Parks and Recreation this year was the installation of a new ADA-accessible playground at Naranja Park.

“Folks, playgrounds these days are much cooler than when we were kids,” he said. “I’ll let you in on the secret, at the ribbon-cutting Council decided we should probably test out the equipment to make sure it’s safe.”

Park playgrounds aren’t the only areas where Oro Valley residents had fun this year. Oro Valley’s Town-owned golf courses saw an increase in revenue.

In May 2020, the Town drew up a new agreement with Indigo Golf Partners to manage the Town’s golf courses. Winfield said the 36-hole El Conquistador golf course had a 16%

efforts led to a new culture of respect between business and local government.”

The Parks and Recreation Department had their own ideas for innovation.

They created a new online program for people to reserve recreation space in accordance with COVID safety procedures. Winfield said the program was a success among park visitors and parks staff will continue to manage reservations with it. Winfield was particularly proud of the department and its plans for the future.

Fittingly set against the backdrop of the Catalina Mountains, Winfield also expressed excitement over the newest beautification projects in Oro Valley.

The Oro Valley Town Council approved the new Parks and Recreation Master Plan last year, which became a guiding document for the Town’s recreational goals. The plan identified multiple improvements requested by the community and the town approved a bond package to pay for them.

“Council has recently approved expanded use of the half-cent sales tax, as well as a $25 million low-interest bond financing for park improvements and maintenance,” Winfield said.

Winfield turned the audience’s attention to a vid-

Oro Valley Mayor Joe Winfield delivering his State of the Town address. Photo by Jeff Gardner

membership increase and a 46% public play increase this year. Winfield attributed this success to Indigo’s additional tee times, renewed public interest in the outdoors, and the new El Conquistador Golf mobile app. Additionally, the 9-hole Pusch Ridge golf course was scheduled to open this week, on Monday, Nov 1.

Public works got a makeover this last year through the repavement of Oracle Road from Magee to Calle Concordia.

“I’m seeing a lot more smiles down Oracle Road,” Winfield said.

A partnership with the Arizona Department of Transportation made this project possible and Winfield said ADOT will repave the remaining section of Oracle Road from Calle

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Concordia to Tangerine Road sometime next year.

Moreover, Oracle was treated particularly well this past year with the Mayor’s Keep Oro Valley Beautiful campaign. Winfield said he worked with Town staff to organize a volunteer pick-up event on Oracle from Suffolk Drive to Rancho Vistoso Blvd.

More than 200 volunteers filled 200 large bags of litter.

“I wanted to create an opportunity where groups could come together on a selected day to make a difference in the community,” Winfield said.

The Town improvements have been recognized by multiple awards this year.

The Town’s planning division was awarded the Arizona Planning Association Public Outreach 2020 award for its work producing information videos and holding public Zoom meetings on the Town’s General Plan Amendment.

The La Cholla Boulevard project between Overton Road and Tangerine Road was named the

2021 Project of the Year winner by the Arizona Chapter of the American Public Works Association.

Lastly, the Town was awarded three national awards from the Government Finance Officers Association. The Town received the Certificate of Achievement Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting; the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award; and the Award for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Annual Financial Reporting.

Winfield boasted that Oro Valley government did not miss a beat during the pandemic and population growth is driving public works, infrastructure, and parks and recreational improvements.

“Oro Valley is a special place where residents, businesses, and public servants have worked together to strengthen our town during the worst public health crisis in our lifetimes,” Winfield said. “And for that, I am most grateful.” ITB

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

NOV 19, 2021

ON THE MENU

Chef Paulo Im is taking OBON in new directions is a reflection of the food that I create,” and this sentiment anchors the restaurant’s new menu, whether t may have foreshadit’s an appetizer, a centerowed today’s wisdom of-the-plate entrée or, on the corner of Fourth brace yourselves, a salad.

Avenue and Congress The dish topping Im’s list Street when poet and is the Mala Sea Bream, a playwright Oscar Wilde rich, flaky, white fish served penned in 1895, “To exwith savory and salty scalpect the unexpected shows lion pancakes and sharply a thoroughly modern acidic dressed vegetables. intellect.”

It was inspired by his Guided by the Wildean longtime passion for fish spirit, you should heed butchery, as well as what these words on your next he calls the “nose-to-tail visit to OBON where a new manifesto” writings of Josh seasonal menu, featuring Niland, an Australian chef “perfect examples of the and author who “approachunexpected,” has been es fish butchery from an revealed. unconventional standard I tapped into the modand has changed the entire ern intellect of OBON’s blueprint of how I think Paulo Im last week to learn about fish.” more about this story that This whole fish is fabrigoes beyond his tradition- cated in a way for it to be al sushi, steam bun, and eaten, as Im says, uninterramen staples. After only rupted, without bones or a few minutes with him, the spine while remaining I can honestly say that his beautiful to look at. It’s new dishes definitely defy served with a house chili expectations. crisp made from a sympho“What I’ve been doing ny of whole spices that are in building this new menu ground onsite, including is falling down different cardamom, star anise, Szerabbit holes of food that I chuan peppercorns, fennel, really like to eat,” said Im, coriander, cumin, white brand chef and director pepper and cinnamon. of culinary innovation at In addition to my new OBON, 350 E. Congress fish butchery knowledge, Street. “This is something another unexpected develwhich our restaurant’s opment in my conversation change in leadership has with Im was his reference welcomed and encouraged to salads as symbols of this in an environment where I genuineness. previously felt boxed-in,” “For me, our new salads he said. “I’m not saying reflect what it means to be that our new dishes are bet- a Korean American,” he ter, I’d just say that they’re said. “It’s a title that I havsimply more genuine.” en’t worn well throughout The son of Korean immy life, but it’s something migrants, Im tells me that that I’ve “my sensibility to my roots

Matt Russell

Special to Inside Tucson Business

I

recently embraced.”

One example is the rotating Korean Seasonal Salad. The current expression features meaty pieces of ripe persimmon, which Im says requires a knife and a fork, as well as silken tofu whipped with burrata cheese, red romaine lettuce, pine nuts, cinnamon, and Korean marmalade.

“Some of these flavors aren’t commonly equated with Korean food, but if you were to visit Korea in the fall and have a Korean barbeque dinner, you’d One of the dishes Paulo Im brought to OBON is Mala Sea Bream, a rich, flaky, white fish served with savory and absolutely observe them,” salty scallion pancakes and sharply acidic dressed vegetables. Courtesy photo. he said.

A salad calling for both a knife and a fork? Talk about unexpected.

Other decidedly different dishes on the menu include the Mackerel Toast, with seared mackerel, tapenade, tomato, pickled red onions, tofu burrata and cracked pepper, and an updated version of the Crispy Tuna appetizer, with spicy tuna tartare served with blocks of crispy, deep fried sushi rice.

I think you’ll notice the difference that OBON is making downtown. When Chef Paulo Im is involved, you should come to expect it . ITB

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Contact Matt Russell, whose day job is CEO of Russell Public Communications, at mrussell@ russellpublic.com. Russell is also the publisher of OnTheMenuLive. com as well as the host of the Friday Weekend Watch segment on the “Buckmaster Show” on KVOI 1030 AM.

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NOV 19, 2021

BRIEFLY NORTHWEST MEDICAL CENTER EARNS ‘A’ SAFETY GRADE

Latest Datos report predicts a boom in Hispanic homebuying over next two decades Itzia Crespo Cronkite News

Northwest Medical Center and Oro Valley Hospital received an “A” grade for achievements protecting patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections, according to a news release.

“We’re excited to receive this distinction, and so proud of the entire team, as everyone played a part in our success,” said Brian Sinotte, Market Chief Operating Officer for Northwest Healthcare. “These past 18 months during the COVID-19 pandemic presented us with many challenges, but our team remained committed to safety and patient care.”

The Leapfrog Group is an independent, national, watchdog organization committed to healthcare quality and safety. Its Hospital Safety Grade assesses general hospitals across the country every six months.

It is the only hospital ratings program based exclusively on hospitals’ prevention of medical errors and other harms to patients in their care.

“An ‘A’ safety grade is an elite designation that your community should be proud of,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of the Leapfrog Group. “The past year has been extraordinarily difficult for hospitals, but both Oro Valley Hospital and Northwest Medical Center show us it is possible to keep a laser focus on patients and their safety, no matter what it takes.”

A

rizona is one of the top five states in the U.S. adding Latino homebuyers in the past 10 years, with nearly 82,000 new homeowners, according to a 2021 study by the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals.

That and other data are part of the annual report “Datos: The State of Arizona’s Hispanic Market,” a compilation of studies put out by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to highlight the importance of the Hispanic community’s contribution to the state and national economies.

This year’s report focused on Latinos and housing, predicting that 70% of new homeowners nationwide will be Latino through 2040. Nationally, Hispanic buying power was $1.9 trillion in 2020, up 87% from 2010.

Housing is the basis for overall community growth, said Gloria Muñoz, executive director of the Housing Authority of Maricopa County.

“We need to rethink housing,” said Muñoz, who discussed the report at an online news conference Friday. “Housing, I tell everyone, is the base.

From your home you

go to work, you go to a school. At home, you recover when you’re tired.”

This is the 25th year for the Datos report, a comprehensive look at general economic growth and disparities in the Grand Canyon State, where the Hispanic population is nearly 32%, putting Arizona fourth among states with the highest Latino populations.

The report outlines the impact of the state’s second-largest demographic group on education, the economy, employment and environment.

Among other statistics, the report shows that Latino students currently make up 46% of the K-12 student population in Arizona and represent the majority of the state’s future workforce.

The report comes shortly after census data revealed that Latinos are now the largest ethnic group in Phoenix, surpassing whites by less than 1 percentage point.

The report highlighted several statistics on the strength of Latino homebuyers, particularly in metro Phoenix.

The report said the future of Hispanic home ownership is the younger population, and Phoenix is among the top 20 metro areas with “the most mortgage-ready Hispanic millennials.”

Hispanics own one

Datos panelists, from left, Gloria Muñoz of the Housing Authority of Maricopa County; Patricia Duarte, president and CEO of Trellis; Amy Schwabenlender of Human Services Campuses; and Chris Rodriguez of Ability 360 speak with moderator Vanessa Ruiz. Photo by Cronkite News.

in six homes within the Phoenix designated market area, according to a 2020 study by Geoscape Intelligence System that was included in the report.

Nationally, Hispanic spending on housing has tripled since 2000 as a percentage of the GDP, to $371 billion, compared with a doubling in spending for the general population.

But roadblocks to home ownership remain. Tight mortgage credit, low housing inventory and the effects of the pandemic on employment may stymie home ownership for Latinos going forward.

The housing crisis in Arizona will force many

Latinos to remain renters, Muñoz said, pointing to the increase in homeownership by investors, who turn the properties into rentals.

“It’s important to recognize, if the future buyer is Latino, what are they going to buy?” she asked. “Who can compete with Wall Street?

Despite the projections for economic growth, the report noted downsides for Hispanic people, especially women. The odds of bank loan approvals are roughly 60% lower for Latinos than for white-owned employer businesses, the report found, and a Latina would have to work 22 months to reach the same income level as their

white male counterparts earned in the 12 months of 2019.

For Petra Falcon, executive director of Promise Arizona, who also spoke at the news conference, building up the state’s political and economic climate for the Hispanic community as vital to the future of her five children and 10 grandchildren.

The first step, she said, is education.

“If you give them the tools, then they can do the rest,” Falcon said. “Everybody should have the choice to reach their potential.” ITB For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM

15

NOV 19, 2021

Insurance Brokers-Agencies Rank 2021 2020

Business Address

Phone Company Email Website

Total AZ Premiums Written in 2020

No. of Local Offices No. of National Offices

Commercial Life/ Lines Health Offered Benefits Offered

Workers Personal Other Services Offered Comp Lines Offered Offered

Top Local Executives

Year Establ.

Locally

1

Lovitt & Touché, A Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Company 7202 East Rosewood, Suite 200 Tucson, AZ 85710

(520) 722-3000 info@lovitt-touche.com lovitt-touche.com

$420,000,000

1 N/A

Y

Y

Y

Y

Steven Touché

1911

2

RightSure Insurance Group 5151 E. Broadway, Ste. 100 Tucson, AZ 85711

(520) 901-7010 info@rightsure.com rightsure.com

$42,000,000

2 2

Y

Y

Y

Y

Jeff Arnold

2007

3

HUB International/Clements Agency, LLC 6245 E. Broadway, Ste. 310 Tucson, AZ 85711

(520) 624-3456 jack.clements@hubinternational.com clementsinsurance.com

$35,000,000

4 200

Y

Y

Y

Y

Risk Management Consulting

Jack Clements

2000

4

Ronstadt Insurance, LLC 6775 E. Camino Principal Tucson, AZ 85715

(520) 721-4848 jeffr@ronstadtinsurance.com RonstadtInsurance.com

$17,000,000

1 1

N/A

Y

N

N

Human Resources, COBRA, ERISA, Jeffrey S. Ronstadt Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage plans. Individual Life and Long Term Disability, and Individual and Family health plans.

5

Frisby Insurance, Inc. PO Box 369 Tucson, AZ 85702

(520) 622-1595 maria@frisbyinsurance.com www.frisbyinsurance.com

$4,000,000

2 N/A

N

Y

N

N

Maria Frisby

1978

6

Maria Ventimiglia-Allstate Insurance 7969 N Oracle Rd Tucson, AZ 85704

520) 795-1252 mventimiglia@allstate.com agents.allstate.com/maria-ventimiglia-tucsonaz.html?utm_source=GMB&utm_medium=Website

$1,000,000

1 N/A

Y

Y

Y

Y

N/A

15

7

Sandbrook Group, LLC 7320 N La Cholla Blvd. #154-219 Tucson, AZ 85741

(520) 888-9649 info@sandbrookgroup.com www.sandbrookgroup.com

$500,000

1 0

N

Y

N

N

Voluntary benefits, LegalShield, Payroll & Dianne Kelley HR, Compliance, COBRA, HSA & FSA, business succession & exit planning for small businesses

2005

8

Lehrman Group Health Insurance Brokers 333 N. Wilmot, Ste. 340 Tucson, AZ 85711

(520) 760-0392 info@lehrmangroup.com lehrmangroup.com

$7,000

1 2

N

Y

N

Y

Employer Group Health Insurance Plans, Tony Lehrman Family and Individual Health Insurance Chad Lehrman Plans, Medicare Supplements and Medicare Advantage Plans, Life Insurance Plans, Long Term Care Plans, Dental Plans

1988

Employee benefits

2004

Ranked by the number of Arizona premiums written in 2020 Ranked information is provided by business representatives at no charge and is ranked alphabetically in case of ties. Other businesses were contacted but either declined or did not respond by deadline. There is no charge to be included in Inside Tucson Business listings.

N/A=not provided WND=would not disclose NL=not listed last year NR=listed last year but ranking criteria not provided

Travel Agencies Rank Business 2021 Address 2020

Phone Company Email Website

No. Local No. Local F-T Travel Staff Agents

% of Business: Airline Corporate Computer Leisure System Used

Specialties

Top Local Executives

Year Establ.

Locally

1

PSI Travel & Cruises P.O. Box 30667 Tucson, AZ 85751

(520) 296-3788 psitravel@aol.com psitravelonline.com

4

1

5 95

Sabre

Luxury, seniors, groups, Cruises, Hawaii, Mexico, Canada, Australia

Matt Welch, CTC Jon Welch Nadine Desarbo Nancy Ell

1988

2

Creative Travel & Events LLC 5215 N Sabino Canyon Road Tucson, AZ 85750

(520) 222-7580 Sutra@CreativeTravelandEvents.com www.CreativeTravelandEvents.com

3

1

30 70

N/A

Discounted Air, Group Travel, Corporate Events, Fun & Luxury Cruises, Special Needs Travel, Sports Team Travel, European Adventures, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, & More

Sutra Borgeson

2012

3

Cruise Planners 10353 E Loveless Gardner Ln Tucson, AZ 85747

(520) 730-1962 james.misciagna@cruiseplanners.com www.shipsofthedeserttravel.com

2

2

0 100

Host system

Autism Certified Travel Professional, Specail Needs Certified Professional, Hawaii Destination Specialist

James Misciagna

2018

3

Travel To...

5215 N. Sabino Canyon Road Tucson, AZ 85750

(520) 322-9600 anywhere@travel-to.com travel-to.com

2

1

N/A N/A

Sabre

Custom vacation planning

Lynn Evenchik

1995

5

CruiseOne 10231 Shady Rock Ln. Tucson, AZ 85749

(520) 749-4069 tjfrederick@cruiseone.com cruiseone.com/tjfrederick

1

N/A

10 90

N/A

Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico

Tom Frederick

2004

5

Sertich Travel, Inc. 9551 N. Sage Vista Ct. Tucson, AZ 85742

(520) 884-5530 robin@sertichtravel.com sertichtravel.com

1

1

0 100

N/A

All-Inclusive Luxury Resorts - Mexico, Carribean, Central America

Robin L. Sertich

1996

Ranked by the number of local full-time travel agents (2 P-T = 1 F-T) Ranked information is provided by business representatives at no charge and is ranked alphabetically in case of ties. Other businesses were contacted but either declined or did not respond by deadline. There is no charge to be included in Inside Tucson Business listings.

N/A=not provided WND=would not disclose NL=not listed last year NR=listed last year but ranking criteria not provided

16

NOV 19, 2021

INSIDETUCSONBUSINESS.COM