Posts Tagged ‘business’
Posted by South Mountain Villager on January 27, 2012
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
The New Year is here; the holiday celebrations are complete; the outdoor lights and decorations have been put away. It is now time to begin this new journey which we call 2012. For all of Arizona it is our Centennial Year which begins officially on February 14, 2012 when we celebrate 100 years of statehood. We will all be learning more about our Arizona history then we ever learned in our K – 12 classrooms. That is a very good thing as we look to our future, and in particular, the immediate future for the communities of South Mountain and Laveen. We can learn much from our history that can help us to better define our community needs for the future in Education; in Business Development; in Public Transit and with Social Service Needs.
The South Mountain Communities’ greatest strength is based in our diverse cultures and unique geographic boundaries within the City of Phoenix. Our greatest challenge is to bring our diverse community together with a united community voice that clearly articulates what we all want to meet our community’s needs in the areas mentioned above. We have a multitude of business leaders; social service organizations; educators; religious leadership; non profit groups and elected officials, who all contribute to our collective community voice. We need that voice to be heard at City Hall; in the state legislator and most importantly in the board rooms where decisions are made on commercial investments that will bring the much sought after jobs and desired amenities to our South Mountain Communities.
On the campus of South Mountain Community College, a new environment for civic engagement and an agenda for public discussion of diverse community issues have begun under the direction of The South Mountain Community College Presidents’ Community Advisory Council. It is a promising beginning for 2012 to start the process of identifying a coalition of South Mountain Community leadership that will advocate for the economic development; community infrastructure improvements and social services that we need to reach our maximum potential. You will be reading and hearing about many opportunities in 2012, to participate in community gatherings at South Mountain Community College.
Celebrating our great South Mountain and Laveen Communities is what the Annual “Spirit of South Mountain Community Awards Dinner”, presented by The South Mountain – Laveen Chamber of Commerce, is all about! The 2012 Awards will be presented on May 17th at the new South Mountain Community Library – Community Event Center on the South Mountain Community College Campus. Nominations in 5 Award Categories: EDUCATION; NON PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS; LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL SERVICES and LOCAL BUSINESS are being accepted through March 30th. Nomination forms are available on request at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net or by phone at 602 402 6086.
UPCOMING EVENTS
1/26 -“After 5 Mixer” @ Raven Grill 36 5:30PM
1/11 “Business for Breakfast Mixer @ La Cucina Italiana 9032 S. Central; 7:15-8:30AM
1/04; 1/18; 1/25 Leads Exchange Group 7:15am Raven Grill 36 – 3636 E. Baseline Rd
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, positive news, South Mountain Villager | Tagged: business, Chamber, Community | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on December 15, 2011
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
It’s the last month of 2011 and for some of us, 2012 can’t get here fast enough! This has been another difficult year for many South Mountain – Laveen businesses and residents, as we complete a 3rd year of a slow recovery from the 2008 worldwide recession. Is there hope, that we will see a stronger economy in 2012? In my view, absolutely there is hope, for the immediate and long term future economic growth in our South Mountain – Laveen communities. Yes, we need to see the evidence of real job growth; growth in new home construction and a real increase in homeowners’ property values throughout the South Mountain area. Looking back through 2011, I see things that have happened which, I believe, is evidence of even better things to come in 2012.
Major construction projects that were completed this year include: The South Mountain Community Library on the South Mountain Community College campus at 24th Street; the new Percy L Julian Elementary School at 21st St & Carver; Victory Place III Apartments for formerly homeless military veterans at 9TH St & Jones; the new Laveen Elementary School at 43rd Ave in Laveen. Major construction projects nearing completion or beginning next year include: The Salvation Army Kroc Family Community Center at 14th St & Broadway opening May 2012; the Roosevelt Schools Culinary – Community Center at 10th St & Baseline Road groundbreaking in January; Arizona Cactus Pine Council Girl Scouts Camp Sombrero multi million dollar renovations planned for 2012 at 16th St & Dobbins; an extensive remodeling makeover of the Ocotillo Library at 3rd Ave & Southern to be completed next year.
As for long term planning, a current City of Phoenix field study to determine the expansion of the Light Rail Transit System along South Central Ave to Baseline Road, began in April of this year and will now be supplemented by a Federally Funded Department of Transportation $1,000,000 award to the City of Phoenix to study all forms of public transit improvements to better connect Downtown Phoenix to South Mountain Village along South Central to Baseline Road and east-west connections along Broadway and Southern. The study will begin in 2012 and conclude in 2013. And of course the conversation continues about where to put the South Mountain Freeway Loop connecting the south leg of the 202 with the I 10 Freeway at or near 59th Avenue. The currently planned route including the state owned land has been on the books since the mid 1980’s. It will be built, with informed guesses looking at a 2018 construction start.
The South Mountain – Laveen membership continues to grow as we added 25 new members this year. We are a chapter of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce which has added over 300 members through 11 months of this year. Overall, there have been over 50 small business start ups this year and that doesn’t include new non profits and Charter School additions that began operating in our communities this year. There are many other examples of why we should all feel encouraged about what the future holds for our area. There is a natural scenic beauty and rich history in South Mountain that is unmatched anywhere else in the metro area. But first and foremost it is our diverse community that is our strength and our hope for our future.
UPCOMING EVENTS
12/1-“After 5 Mixer” @ Gallagher’s Sports Grill & Restaurant, 3220 E. Baseline Rd; 5:30 – 7PM
12/14 “Business for Breakfast Mixer @ La Cucina Italiana 9032 S. Central ;7:15-8:30AM
12/7, 12/21 Leads Exchange Group
7:15am Raven Grill 36
3636 E. Baseline Road
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, positive news, South Mountain Villager | Tagged: business, Chamber, Community | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on September 29, 2011
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
We all are now officially on the last lap of completing a very difficult obstacle course, better known as 2011. In businesses, service organizations, governmental services offices and schools, this 3 month period is referred to as the 4th quarter. Even if your business or organization is directed by a fiscal year calendar, we all sense the ending of this year and the distant beginning of 2012, that is just on the horizon. It is why Halloween merchandise began to appear in your local Walgreens or CVS store just after Labor Day and Thanksgiving décor will begin to gain strength this month.
At the South Mountain – Laveen Chamber of Commerce, we are preparing for our 7th Annual 2012 Spirit of South Mountain Community Awards Celebration. That is your cue to think of a local business; a local individual volunteer; a local non profit service organization; a local school or educator or a local governmental service that has made a positive difference in our local communities of the South Mountain and Laveen Villages. Please contact me with the candidates that you want to have considered for our 2012 Community Spirit Awards.
New business enterprises continue to open in our community and I encourage you to check them out and welcome them to our South Mountain – Laveen community. Capin’s Car Wash is now located on the west side of South Central Ave, north of Alta Vista and south of the canal. Alex Corona has opened SoMo Catering & Special Events based out of Corona Ranch in Laveen. Alex invites everyone to a Wine & Tequila Tasting Event at Corona Ranch on Friday October 21st from 6PM to 10PM. Tickets are $25.00 PP. Zee Spot Restaurant is open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner at 1301 E. Broadway Rd, just to name a few of the new retail services that continue to grow in our community.
Halloween events that the entire family can enjoy, include the Enchanted Trail at The Rio Salado Audubon Center on October 27 – 30 from 5:30PM to 10PM at 3131 S. Central Ave. The Haunted Hayride at South Mountain Park operates October 21, 22 and 23rd from 6PM to 9PM at 10919 South Central Ave in South Mountain Park. You need a planning calendar to keep up with all our community events scheduled from now until years end. You don’t ever have to leave the Mountain to enjoy the numerous holiday activities
If you would like to be reminded about future community gatherings, send me an email to steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
Events Scheduled
October 5, 19, 26 SMLCC Leads Club
7:15a.m. Raven Golf Club Grill
3636 E. Baseline Road
October 12 “Business for Breakfast”
7:15a.m. LaCucina Italiana
9032 So. Central Avenue
October 26 “After 5 Mixer”
TBA 5:30p.m.-7:00p.m.
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, positive news, South Mountain Villager | Tagged: business, Chamber, Community | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on August 10, 2011
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
During last months’ MLB All Star Game activities, I had the opportunity to hear a luncheon presentation from baseball commissioner, Mr. Bud Selig. Mr. Selig spoke about the tremendous growth in attendance that professional baseball has experienced over the past 41 years. In 1970, MLB Game total attendance was a little over 25 million. Last year over 60 million attended MLB games and another 40 million attended minor league baseball games.
Listening to Mr. Selig, I thought about my own personal experience over the past 41 years since arriving here in August 1970. Arizona had 2.5 million residents; the Phoenix Metro area was 1.3 million people and the city of Phoenix was at about 800,000 people. The 2010 Census count is 6.4 million residing in our State; and the Phoenix Metro area has almost 4.2 million residents. The City of Phoenix has 1.4 million residents and ranks as the 6th largest city in the U.S.
The reason for sharing this history and growth with you is to point out that there were people; State, county, city officials; local, regional, national businesses; educators, non-profit organizations and community leaders who, in 1970, were anticipating what our state; our city, would look like in 2011. We all think about our future needs and we all plan to a greater or lesser degree, for our families, ourselves and our community’s future.
We have that opportunity as residents of South Mountain to participate in how we want our community to be defined today, next year; 5 years, or 40 years in the future. Just this past month, South Mountain residents have had the opportunity to voice their thoughts and ideas at several community gatherings including: The Del Rio Brownfields Project meetings at the Rio Salado Audubon Center; “The Berkshire Report” Community Commentary meeting at South Mountain Community College and The Mayoral Candidates Forum at South Mountain Community College.
This month, Tuesday, August 30th, you will have the opportunity to exercise your right and privilege to vote your choice for the next major of Phoenix and for those of you residing in District 7, choosing your Phoenix Council representative for the next 2 years. Your vote and your regular participation in community gatherings will help decide what the future looks like for your city and your community.
If you would like to be reminded about future community gatherings, send me an email to steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
Events Scheduled
August 3, 17, 24, 31 SMLCC Leads Club
7:15a.m. Raven Golf Club Grill
3636 E. Baseline Road
August 10 “Business for Breakfast”
7:15a.m. LaCucina Italiana
9032 So. Central Avenue
August 28 “After 5 Mixer”
TBA 5:30p.m.-7:00p.m.
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, positive news, South Mountain Villager | Tagged: business, Chamber, Community | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on July 2, 2011
COMMUNITY WORTH
By Steve Glueck
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
What is the net worth of the South Mountain Community? How can the net worth of a community be calculated, and more to the point, who determines that value?
I was prompted to consider those questions after recently reading and hearing about some rational opinion polls that ranked U.S. cities based on their “quality of life.” You have heard that phrase from many sources, particularly in political campaigns. I think that it is safe to say that we all want a “better quality of life” for ourselves, for our children, for our community. We all want to see our net worth increase with our income and savings; investments; value of our homes; new additions and improvements to our community.
I believe that, just as each one of us can determine our individual net worth, that together, we determine the net worth or “quality of life” in our community. It starts with becoming familiar with our “community assets” and how they benefit the community. At the Chamber of Commerce we begin describing our communities’ unique value, with the natural beauty of the South Mountains and the reclaimed Rio Salado wildlife habitat. The value of our communities’ “net worth” is increased by the diverse cultures that populate our community unlike any other community in the Phoenix area. Our community physical assets are many; with impressive new “assets” including the new South Mountain Community College Community Library opening next month and the new Salvation Army KROC Youth Center scheduled to open next April. You can draw up your own lists from our community businesses, schools, non-profit organizations, municipal services, churches and volunteer organizations that help to make the South Mountain area such a great place to live.
The real value, net worth, or “quality of life” is determined by not only the length of your list of assets, but by how you interact with them. The photo included with this article is a great 
example. Over 30 community businesses, schools, non-profit groups; a total of 90+ people came together to enjoy an afternoon of golf at the beautiful South Mountain Legacy Golf Resort. The events net proceeds will provide for a number of South Mountain girls to attend summer camp at the Girl Scouts Camp Sombrero in South Mountain this summer. Also, a graduated senior from South Mountain High School will receive scholarship funds to attend South Mountain Community College, made possible by The South Mountain Precinct/Shane Figueroa Scholarship Fund which the golf tournament supported. And, that’s the true value of our community net worth…Priceless!
Chamber Events
July 6, 20, 27 – South Mountain/Laveen
Leads Group at The Raven Golf
Club, 3636 E. Baseline Rd,
Phoenix, 85042
July 13 – Business for Breakfast Morning
Mixer at LaCucina Italiana
9032 South Central Avenue
Phoenix, 85041
Posted in South Mountain Villager | Tagged: business, Chamber, Community | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on May 24, 2011
Bob’s Lock & Cycle
By Marissa Gutierrez (mgutier8@asu.edu)
As a child, Bill Chaplin wanted to be a veterinarian. Today he’s the owner of Bob’s Lock & Cycle located on 5621 S. Central Ave. Bob’s Lock & Cycle offers the South Mountain community locksmith services 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, the repair of items such as lawn mowers and weed eaters, the repair and sale of bicycles and U-Haul services.
Chaplin said he was hired as a locksmith in the same shop prior to his ownership. Chaplin left for a while and when he returned one
day to get his kid’s bicycle tires fixed, Charles Adams, the owner then, asked him if he was interested in purchasing the business. Chaplin did and kept the name Bob’s Lock & Cycle since it was doing so well as a business. Bob’s Lock & Cycle is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or weekdays and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
“It’s been well-established since 1951 in the community,” Chaplin said about the business. Adults that came as kids still frequent the business, he said. Chaplin said they don’t offer specials but they are sure to offer honest, reliable and dependable work.
In five years, Chaplin sees the business doing just the same, except with a new face. He said they have a facelift in store for the business that should be breaking ground in 30 to 60 days, he said. Chaplin said that the city is funding the improvement with federal money that has been assigned to cities to help improve businesses.
Although Chaplin has entertained the idea of expanding his business, he does not want to do it too much where it can interfere with the loyal business relationship he’s built with his customers.
Chaplin’s favorite memory in the business is working with his kids as they grew up. Now, not one of them works there, he said. Now one of them is a staff sergeant of the U.S. Marines Corps. Chaplin said the part of the business he enjoys most is the locksmith part. He offers automotive, residential and commercial locksmith services.
Chaplin’s advice to his customers is to “get spare keys made for your houses and businesses.”Chaplin said this type of business has been good to him. “It’s been great to get a chance to work in a community with people I grew up with and cherish,” he said. “I couldn’t ask for a better community to work and grow in.”
Posted in Community, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: Bob’s Lock & Cycle, business, Community, dependable, honest, reliable | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on April 5, 2011
Chuy’s Jewelry
5430 South Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85040 602-276-3745
By Marissa Gutierrez
Jesus Sosa, commonly referred to as Chuy, has been in the jewelry business for as long as he can remember. He has managed his own business, Chuy’s Jewelry, since 1989 in two different locations in
the South Phoenix area.
Sosa always saw himself as a business owner, but his childhood dream was to become an aviator and to one day set foot in space. To this day, Sosa owns a large collection of airplane figures and photographs, some of which are set in the back area of his shop.
A lively character, Sosa, said he was 50-something years old and was born in Mexico; in the state of Chihuahua. He runs Chuy’s Jewelry alongside his family from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. He closes an hour earlier on Saturdays and is closed on Sundays.
Sosa said that his oldest grandson helps him out in the jewelry shop from time to time and jokes around that unfortunately, “he doesn’t want to go to space” like he did.
Chuy’s Jewelry offers the South Mountain Village community more than just one service. They have a money transfer service to anywhere in the world, ear piercing and notary services.
Sosa, in an interview mainly done in Spanish, said that his wife is in charge of the notarizing and that he does the ear piercings. Sosa charges 10 dollars a pair and that includes the earring itself. Sosa promises to offer “the best service in the world professionally done at a great price”. “Come and take advantage,” Sosa said. Chuy’s Jewelry has a variety of items to offer as well as jewelry repair and eyewear repair services. They also buy gold and silver.
Sosa provides his customers with the option of a layaway plan. They must give a 20 percent deposit and then are granted three months to pay off the item. There is not a fixed payment amount.
Sosa’s favorite part about being in the jewelry business is the relationships he builds with the community and meeting new people.
On the down side, Sosa said that his business has been affected by the recession and online shopping. Sosa said the best thing he can continue doing is keeping customers happy. “Support the business owners of your community,” Sosa said.
Sosa is also actively involved in the community aside from his business. He is a member of the Target Area “B” Citizen and Advisory Committee. The committee meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at approximately 6:30 p.m. to learn about the happenings in the South Mountain Village. “We talk about the development of the community,” Sosa said. “And we complain.”
Sosa said not enough people attend these meetings that allow the people in the community to voice their opinions. Sosa said that the area has “bad communication” and he said that they need a radio station that can better inform the people. The committee receives and shares monthly updates from the City of Phoenix Police Department, Parks and Recreation, the Neighborhood Preservation Officer and from local schools and businesses. The meetings are held in the Travis L. Williams Family Service Center at 4732 S. Central Ave.
Sosa’s slogan is “Si usted tiene un amigo, usted tiene una joya” which translates to “If you have a friend, you have a jewel”.
Posted in Community, positive news, SoMo Village, sponsors | Tagged: business, Chuy’s Jewelry, Community, jewelery | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on November 5, 2010
Blaine Searle
According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the “Great Recession” ended in June 2009. 
While this may be true for a nationwide economy, many individuals and families in the South Mountain and Laveen communities are still feeling the hurt. Unfortunately, it may take some time for us to return to a healthy economy.
However, there is anecdotal evidence (i.e., what I see when I drive around in my car) that things are looking up for our communities. I’ve noticed an increase in street traffic and business traffic along the Baseline corridor. For instance, in October, Laveen welcomed L.A. Fitness to the southwest corner of Baseline and 51st Avenue. The parking lot and the racquetball courts have been packed ever since, which points to the fact that people have some disposable income and are willing to spend it. Both are good signs for our economy.
I have also gathered such anecdotal evidence from my work where I have seen a recent increase in the number of people desiring to either start a new business or to grow their existing businesses. Historically, when money is tight, people are inclined to sit out on new business opportunities and to focus on weathering the storm. The fact that entrepreneurs and business owners are ready and willing to entertain new ventures is very promising.
Finally, I have gathered this anecdotal evidence from talking with people in the community. I am constantly amazed at the number of new businesses that I see represented from week to week at South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce events. Members of our communities are cautiously optimistic about our economic future.
All evidence, both analytical and anecdotal, points to growth. Here’s hoping that our busy holiday season gives us robust business growth. Considering my mother’s buttermilk pie she will make at Thanksgiving, I am expecting some personal growth as well before the New Year.
Please mark your calendars for the 6th Annual “Spirit of South Mountain Community Awards Dinner,” which will be held on February 24th. Application entry forms are available online at www.phoenixchamber.com or request a form by email: steveg.smlchamber@cox.net. In addition, to learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
November Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, November 10, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Five Mixer
To be announced
South Mountain Leads Club
The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events | Tagged: business, Chamber, Events, networking | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on July 20, 2010
SOUTH MOUNTAIN-LAVEEN CHAMBER
A word from the Board Chair
It’s August, it’s hot, and even in this heat, I’m thankful everyday that I get to see the beauty of South Mountain and the amazing variety of
wildlife that has returned all along The Rio Salado Habitat
Recently, in this column, we’ve focused on the big projects that are planned and underway, throughout South Mountain and Laveen. Now, I’d like to mention some of the smaller developments that are bringing more retail goods and needed services to our communities.
- Laveen Medical Pavilion will be opening in September, at 35th Avenue and Southern with a new Health Clinic to serve the family health needs of local residents.
- Laveen Primary Care, a private practice providing family and specialized medical services, is now open at 76th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Rd. Dr. Richard J Waldrop, Board Certified Family Physician., has a special focus on serving Families residing in Laveen, where he previously officed..
- LA Fitness in Laveen will open early November with a larger facility than their location in Ahwatukee. This is a tremendous addition to the Laveen area, located just west of 51st Avenue and Baseline Road. You can learn more by visiting their preview center next to Leslies Pool Supplies in Laveen.
- Also in Laveen, at 51st Avenue and Baseline Road, be sure to visit and taste the homemade ice cream at Scooptacular, next to Starbucks. It’s fantastic!
- Meanwhile, on South Central Avenue, north of Southern, you’ll find a new Nestle Water retail water store that carries several varieties of water at prices you won’t find anywhere else.
- The newest restaurant in South Mountain, La Cucina Italiana opened last month at Dobbins Road & Central Avenue. They serve traditional Italian Fare which must make us one of the last valley area communities to finally have our own local traditional, family, Italian restaurant.
- Also, opening very soon will be a new restaurant in The Secret Garden at 2501 E. Baseline Road, called “The House at The Secret Garden.” Award winning chef Dustin Christolfo is the new proprietor. The new enterprise is affiliated with highly successful Santa Barbara Catering Co.
Yes, the unique and beautiful South Mountain area continues to move forward. There are many other things to feel positive about in the Laveen and South Mountain Villages. As residents of South Mountain, you need to get out, look around, and get involved with activities and new opportunities which continue to improve our quality of life here in South Mountain. Remember to think local first when going out for a meal or to shop!
To contact the SMLCC: reach Executive Director Steve Glueck @ 602 402 6086 or steveg.smlchamber@cox.net
August Events
Aug 4th, 18th, 25th Leads Club 7:15AM @ the Raven Grill 3636 E. Baseline Rd
Aug 11th – Biz 4 Breakfast Mixer 7:15AM – Bougainvillea G.C. 5740 W. Baseline Rd.
August “After 5 Mixer (TBD)
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: business, Community, Events, South Mountain Laveen Chamber | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on May 2, 2010
It seems you cannot look at any street corner, or watch a television program, without seeing an advertisement for Census 2010. That’s probably because, since the first census was conducted in 1790, there are very few nationwide initiatives that have a broader reaching significance. Arizona is among three states in the U.S. that has experienced the highest population growth since the 2000 census was conducted. By some estimates, Arizona stands to gain at least one new seat in the U.S. House of Representatives as well as additional votes in the Electoral College. Also at stake is over $400 billion dollars in federal funding – the larger the population tally, the larger the share of federal funds.
Most of us have already received the first waive of census forms mailed to our homes and, hopefully, we have completed and returned the forms. According to the Census 2010 website, the response rate in our South Mountain and Laveen communities is between 61% – 66 %, slightly below the national average. By the time you read this article, a second waive of census forms will have been mailed to those who failed to respond to the first form and the U.S. government will be following up with in person visits. If you have not received your form, or if you misplaced your form, please contact the Census 2010 office at 1-866-872-6868 in order to find out how you can be counted.
We are also pleased to announce that the Shootout at South Mountain, the South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce’s annual golf tournament, will be held on Tuesday, May 4 at Vistal Golf Club. Foursomes are filling up quickly. To book your tee time or to learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
May Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, May 12, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Thursday, May 20, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Gallagher’s Sports Grill
3220 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
South Mountain Leads Club
The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: business, Chamber | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 23, 2010
A Word From The President
Momentous events continue to shape our South Mountain and Laveen communities. Like you, I watch with growing concern the efforts by our government leaders to make drastic cuts in order to balance shaky budgets. Particularly of interest are the ongoing discussions that the City of Phoenix intends to cut approximately 180 sworn public safety jobs (i.e., police and firefighters) as part of a broader $140 million in budget reductions to be implemented through fiscal year 2011.
The effect of our current economy continues to ripple down to each of us at an individual level. Eventually we will feel the effects of a decreased police presence in our neighborhoods. All of us have noticed, or will soon notice, condensed business hours at our libraries, Department of Motor Vehicle offices closing, and swimming programs being canceled.
I highlight these issues not to criticize our elected officials – difficult times require our leaders to make difficult, and often unpopular, decisions. I mention these challenges to stress that although we face challenges, the South Mountain and Laveen communities have overcome difficulties in the past and I believe that we can ride out this current economic storm as well.
We see our South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce membership increasing from month to month. I emphasize this fact, not to pat ourselves on the back, but to point out that our business leaders are taking an interest in the future of our communities and that our local economies continue to grow. Some of these new members are existing businesses that have been in our communities for some time but many are new businesses that have decided to locate in our midst.
There is other good news coming out of our communities. Thanks to a large multimillion dollar contribution from The Kroc Foundation and thanks to the tireless efforts of many of you, on March 29, 2010, the Salvation Army is set to break ground on the new Phoenix South Mountain Youth Center. Built to replace the existing building located at 13th Street and Broadway Road, the 140,000 square foot center is expected to serve at least 1,600 South Mountain kids daily. When opened in 2011, the center will be the third KROC – Salvation Army Youth Center opened nationwide with more such centers to follow.
In addition, we recently witnessed the grand opening of the Boston Nail Salon in the previously vacant Laveen Village Marketplace located on the northwest corner of 35th Avenue and Baseline Road. We can hope that this is a harbinger of other stores to soon open in the area.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
March Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, March 10, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Click on the events calendar link at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html for more details.
Brown Bag Lunch and Learn
Tom Trush of Writeway Solutions
Tuesday, March 2, from 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Register online at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html or www.writewaysolutions.com
South Mountain Leads Club
The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, SoMo Village | Tagged: Bougainvillea, business, Events, membership, network, South Mountain Laveen Chamber, The Raven Grill, Writeway Solutions | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 9, 2010
South Mountain / Laveen Chamber
A Word From The President
The South Mountain Villager encourages us to “Take Pride in the South Side.” Indeed, there is much in the South Mountain and Laveen communities of which to be proud. The South Mountain – Laveen Chamber Spirit of South Mountain Awards Dinner, which will be held on February 25th, provides one opportunity for us to showcase our rich communities and the individuals who live and work among us.
Last year, the South Mountain – Laveen Chamber recognized several individuals and businesses that made a difference including Dr. Josephine Pete, Ingried Lowman, Michael Nowakowski, Hacienda Health Care and MRM Construction Services, Inc. Each award recipient demonstrated great pride and dedication to improving the lives of others.
In addition, each year the South Mountain – Laveen Chamber honors an officer of the year from Phoenix Police Department’s South Mountain Precinct. At last year’s award ceremony, I was touched by the presentation of the officer of the year award. Commander David L. Faulkner recognized two officers who went above and beyond the call of duty – one of whom, Officer Shane Figueroa, was tragically killed in the line of duty. It was a moving experience to mingle with Officer Figueroa’s family.
Please come join us again this year as we pay tribute to those who make a difference in the South Mountain and Laveen communities. For more information on the Spirit of South Mountain Awards Dinner, log onto the South Mountain – Laveen Chamber’s website at http://www.phoenixchamber.com/smlc/. I look forward to seeing you on the evening of February 25.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
February Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, February 10, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Click on the events calendar link at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html for more details.
South Mountain Leads Club
The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Blaine Searle – President
Posted in Chamber, City of Phoenix, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: business, South Mountain, South Mountain Laveen Chamber | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on December 13, 2009
A word from the president
The holidays are upon us and we look forward with a mixture of excitement and apprehension – excitement for time to spend with family and friends – apprehension for the myriad tasks to be completed before stepping away on vacation. In the spirit of the season, I refuse to be pessimistic. Although there is plenty of negativity in the economy, there are some bright points. The Wall Street Journal reports that the economic recovery is well underway. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is currently hovering around the 10,000 mark, a number which we have not seen since March of this year. While these two tidbits may not translate directly into increased business and economic security in South Mountain and Laveen, they can have a positive effect on your attitude,
In fact, attitude is so important – it is one of the major indices, which economists use to measure the strength of the economy. According to the RBC CASH (Consumer Attitudes and Spending by Household) Index, American consumer attitudes have reached a twelve-month high in October of this year. As quoted by Michael Gross of the Ipsos News Center:
“Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke’s assertion three weeks ago that the recession is over, together with a lack of negative financial news since then, have had a galvanizing effect on consumer sentiment,” said RBC Capital Markets U.S. economist Tom Porcelli. “Although the trends are moving in the right direction, consumer confidence remains fragile, and unexpected bad news about the economy or markets could once again send sentiment spiraling downward.”
So what do these observations mean to us? They suggest that our collective attitude about the state of our economy actually affects the health of the economy. Our opinions about the strength or weakness of our community affect the attitudes and impressions of neighbors. Thus given a choice, I chose to remain optimistic and to continue to highlight all of the things that are going right – and we have plenty of successes to highlight.
Some of these successes pertain to the many people in our communities who go about quietly making a difference. These are individuals and businesses dedicated to South Mountain and Laveen – people who care about our schools, people who help the less fortunate in our midst, and people who draw attention to Laveen and South Mountain simply by their commitment to excellence. Perhaps you have been the recipient of one of their acts of service or have shopped at their business and witnessed first-hand their business practices.
Now is your opportunity to recognize these individuals or businesses that make a difference. Until December 15, 2009, you may nominate worthy candidates to be recognized at the South Mountain – Laveen Chamber Spirit of South Mountain Awards Dinner, which will be held on February 25, 2010. We are now accepting applications to recognize businesses and individuals in the following categories: (i) local business, (ii) non-profit agency, (iii) individual volunteer, (iv) local government agency, and (v) education/school administrator. Awards applications are available online at http://www.phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
December Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, December 9, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Click on the events calendar link at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html for more details.
South Mountain Leads Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
Allen’s Bistro
1301 E. Broadway Rd., Phoenix
Posted in Chamber, City of Phoenix, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: business, mixers, positive news | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on August 29, 2009
Finally, there’s some good news on the economic front; this, in a day and age where “good news” is measured by unemployment rates increasing at a less-than-expected rate. Published in August, a survey of the Wall Street Journal’s top economists found that 57% believe the recession is already over and another 23% believe the economy will make a turn into positive territory in the next month or two.
To be sure, this economic news is small comfort to those businesses that are struggling. I have visited with many of you and have learned firsthand of the many challenges you face in keeping your businesses afloat. Some of you are forced to make difficult decisions as you suffer from increased costs and decreased revenue. However, if you are looking over your books and trying to decide where to trim the budget, remember the quote attributed to Thomas Jefferson: “The man who stops advertising to save money is like the man who stops the clock to save time.”
As you plan your business strategy going forward, I would encourage you to join the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce. Members have the opportunity to participate in business and networking activities designed to help you connect with prospects and partners, learn valuable business strategies and grow your business. These include:
- Business for Breakfast gatherings – Held the second Wednesday of each month, from 7:15 until 8:30 a.m. at the Bougainvillea Golf Club, this events brings members together to enjoy great food while mingling with potential business prospects.
- Leads Club – Held each Wednesday, at 7:15 a.m. at The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club, this provides an opportunity for members to share business leads. Contact Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net for details.
- Business After Hours Mixers – To be held the third Tuesday of each month, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at different business and nonprofit locations in the community, these mixers have been reintroduced to allow member to mix and mingle with potential business prospects. Click on the events calendar link at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html for more details.
- Brown Bag Lunch and Learn – To be held at the South Mountain Community College, these 60 minute sessions have been newly designed for members to learn about practical issues facing small and medium-sized businesses. Details to follow.
In addition, members may attend all of the events and activities sponsored by the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, with which the SMLCC is affiliated.
We invite all current SMLCC members to take advantage of your membership by joining us for these marketing events. For those considering a membership in the SMLCC, we invite you to attend these events as a guest to see firsthand that joining the SMLCC has its privileges.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
September Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, September 9, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Click on the events calendar link at http://phoenixchamber.com/SMLC/index.html for more details.
South Mountain Leads Club – The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Posted in Chamber | Tagged: business, positive news, South Mountain Laveen Chamber | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on August 7, 2009
A word from the president
I am excited for the opportunity to serve as the new chair for the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce.
Blaine Searle President
Having been residents of the South Mountain/Laveen community for the last three years, my family and I have become acquainted with the unique history and culture of the South Mountain area. We have also witnessed the rapid growth and development that has recently taken place. And like you, with the recent downturn in the economy, we have seen the vacancies and foreclosures popping up in our neighborhoods and vacant store fronts in our shopping centers.
I discovered a quote which has served as an inspiration to me in my professional endeavors. Attributed to Albert Einstein, his words provide perspective in a troubled time: “Three rules of work: out of clutter find simplicity; from discord find harmony; in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
We must find ways to de-clutter our lives and our businesses, to obtain simplicity and focus on our personal and professional pursuits. We will engender greater loyalty and appreciation in our families and among our employees and coworkers if we strive to do away with contention and foster harmony. Finally, we must all be on the lookout for opportunities in these challenging times. I once heard from a trusted friend that more millionaires are made during recessions than during boom times.
If the experts are to be believed, we have hit the bottom of the recession and the economic recovery has begun. I firmly believe that if we can follow the advice attributed to Einstein, we can weather this economic storm and find ourselves well situated when economic prosperity returns.
In the past, the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber of Commerce has served as a voice for our businesses and our community. We appreciate your trust and look forward to continuing to represent your business interests in the future.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
August Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, August 12, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
TBD
South Mountain Leads Club – The Raven Grill at the Raven Golf Club
Meets each Wednesday at 7:15 a.m.
3636 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: business, Community, Laveen, South Mountain Village | Leave a Comment »
