Posts Tagged ‘Chamber’
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 20, 2011
CHAMBER CORNER
Steve Glueck
Executive Director/Membership Development
Steve Glueck Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
“SOUTH MOUNTAIN COUNTS”….is the theme of the Phoenix Mayoral candidates’ debate scheduled for Tuesday, June 21st at the Performing Arts Center on the South Mountain Community College campus. Sponsored by South Mountain Community College, the event will feature the announced candidates for the office of the City of Phoenix Mayor in the August 30th city election. The debate is scheduled 5:30PM to 7PM in the 350 seat SMCC Performing Arts Center and will be moderated by South Mountain resident and Arizona Highways Publisher, Win Holden. The format will feature questions received from the community from online and published media, and from the audience attending the event, just prior to the introduction of the participating candidates. Questions will focus on the issues that most concern the residents, businesses, schools, and organizations, residing in our South Mountain communities. You are invited to submit your questions that you would like the candidates to address on June 21st. Please send by email to smcc@smcmail.maricopa.edu
Now is the time for all South Mountain residents to have a strong voice in the August 30th city election for the mayor and city council that we need to represent the quality of life and future development issues that will best serve the people of South Mountain. We can no longer afford for our community to be just a backdrop for photographs of the developing Phoenix downtown skyline with the majestic outline of South Mountain in the background. Make your plans to attend the June 21st Mayoral Debate at South Mountain Community College. Let your voice be heard and make sure “South Mountain Counts” in the August 30th city election.
Chamber Activities for June
June 1; 16; 22; 29 – Raven GC Grill – Leads Group 7:15AM
June 8 – “Business for Breakfast Mixer 7:15AM
La Cucina Italiana 9032 S. Central AVE.
June 23 – “After 5 Mixer” 5:30PM – 7PM
TBD
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, positive news, SoMo Village, South Mountain Villager | Tagged: Chamber, city election, South Mountain Community College, South Mountain Counts | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on April 27, 2011
A WORD FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Steve Glueck - Executive Director South Mountain/Laveen Chamber
For all of us who get to live and/or go to work every day within the boundaries of the majestic South Mountains and the restored wildlife habitat of the Rio Salado Habitat Park, we know what a very special place this is. Our communities of the Laveen and South Mountain Villages have a natural beauty; such diverse cultures and a rich, storied history that just doesn’t exist anywhere else in the greater metropolitan Phoenix area. Most of all, there is a spirit and energy that you can almost reach out and touch, which is evident throughout the South Mountain area. Call it “South Side pride” or “South Mountain Spirit,” but it is alive and well and the primary reason that as a community, we are on the brink of seeing the South Mountain area reach the full potential that it has always had.
The message of your South Mountain-Laveen Chamber of Commerce continues to be that a great community is a result of the collaboration, and partnerships among local businesses; schools and educators; non-profit organizations; local governmental agencies and individual volunteers. If you want to learn more about how you or your organization can become better connected with your community, check out the community events listings or the South Mountain/Laveen Villages Festival Committee 2011 Events located elsewhere in this magazine you are now reading!! Or, drop me a note at Steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
Thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors and players, our 7th Annual “Golf Shootout at South Mountain” was a great success. Proceeds from the event which was held at The Legacy Golf Resort on Friday, April 22nd, help to support the Arizona Cactus Pine Girl Scouts Summer Camp Program at Camp Sombrero in South Mountain. In addition to the Girl Scouts, for the past 6 years the golf tournament has contributed over $12,000 to the South Mountain Community College General Scholarship Fund. This year, The South Mountain-Laveen Chamber has directed tournament proceeds to begin funding a South Mountain Community College Scholarship created by the South Mountain Precinct, available to graduating seniors at South Mountain High School. The South Mountain Precinct-Shane Figueroa Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to students interested in pursing a career in public safety or local law enforcement. For more information, contact Commander Chris Crockett or Lt. Darren Viner at the South Mountain Precinct.
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: Chamber, Community, Events, SMLCC | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on February 26, 2011
My wife and I have always enjoyed St. Patrick’s Day, mostly because it means eating copious amounts of 
corned beef and cabbage. Although I probably can’t identify Irish in my ancestry – notwithstanding that I have been referred to as a Euro mutt – in many ways, I consider myself Irish.
First of all, I have a firm belief in luck. I’m talking about the kind of luck that’s self-made. Samuel Goldwyn, founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), is purported to have said, “I think luck is the sense to recognize an opportunity and the ability to take advantage of it… The man who can smile at his breaks and grab his chances gets on.” If Goldwyn is to be believed, each of us has the opportunity to make his or her own “luck.” As we look around our communities, surely we can identify unmet needs or unmet consumer demands, even (or maybe especially) in this challenging economy. If we are willing to put in the time and effort, we can become lucky. As Goldwyn is quoted as saying, “The harder I work the luckier I get.”
Second, green is my favorite color. Of the many positive expressions associated with the color green, I like the term “green thumb.” As a person who inadvertently kills most plants in his custody, I have great respect for individuals with “green thumbs” who know what plants will flourish in our desert environment and seems to instinctively know what these plants need to stay healthy and vibrant. For business owners, now is a great time to take stock of our ventures and determine whether we are using the right combination of efforts to forth the growth and development we desire. The optimal business mix should result in some extra “green” in our wallets.
As this St. Patrick’s Day approaches, hopefully you are making plans to frequent the stores and restaurants in our South Mountain and Laveen communities in order to prepare for and celebrate the holiday. This year, may we each create our own Irish luck and may the South Mountain and Laveen communities continue to make others green with envy.
To learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
March Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, March 9, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Posted in Chamber, Community, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: Chamber | 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 September 19, 2010
I have three children, each under the age of 10 years old. Therefore, I am accustomed to spending inordinate amounts of time in doctors’ offices and in urgent care centers to address runny noses and ear infections. My past history has conditioned me to expect overworked front office staff, waiting room chairs held together by duct tape and an overpowering antiseptic smell.
However, my first impression on walking through the front door of the Laveen Medical Pavilion was that this was no ordinary doctor’s office. For starters, the office, located on the northeast corner of 35th and Southern Avenues, is clean and beautifully decorated. While we have a right to expect cleanliness, the modern office adornment was a pleasant surprise. Prominently displayed behind the reception area are two large pieces of contemporary artwork and the walls are painted a light blue color which, is calming and refreshing.
I met Luis Gonzales, the director of the new facility, at a South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce After Five Mixer in August. Luis was enthusiastically publicizing the fact that the pavilion had just opened on August 20, 2010 and he invited me to take a tour. I took Luis up on his offer. In line with the old adage – “Nothing cleans a house like company coming” – I figured it was safe to assume that the staff of the Laveen Medical Pavilion would put their best foot forward when they knew that I was paying a visit in preparation for writing this article. However, although I had coordinated my visit with Luis, I got the distinct impression that the front staff had not anticipated my arrival. Therefore, I was pleasantly surprised when I was greeted with a smile by a professional receptionist who indicated that, Luis would be arriving shortly and invited me take a seat in the waiting area? Another plus.
During the tour, Luis showed me the nine exam rooms and the various doctor and nurse triage and office spaces. He pointed out to me the exam room which will house all of the medical equipment necessary for a fully operational medical facility including an EKG monitor and various testing equipment. Although I came too late in the day to meet the doctors in person, Luis spoke glowingly about the three family practitioners and pediatricians currently working in the facility. As demand grows, the facility hopes to add internal medicine and an OBGYN – one-stop health care in the South Mountain and Laveen communities.
“Healthcare for everybody,” Luis says, is the facility’s motto. The Laveen Medical Pavilion will accept all major insurance providers and will work with patients to facilitate medical care even if the patients are not insured. The facility is also partnering with local pharmacies to make prescriptions more affordable.
As chair of the South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce this year, I am excited to welcome the Laveen Medical Pavilion into our community. But the best endorsement I can offer is that, as a father, I am thrilled to have a doctor’s office close to home where I would feel comfortable taking my own children.
To learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
October Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, September 13, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Five Mixer
To be announced
Lunch and Learn
October 5, 2010, from 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
South Mountain Community College
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, positive news | Tagged: Chamber, Events | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on June 21, 2010
South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce
When the results of Census 2010 are released, we will see a significant increase in the population of Phoenix generally and in the South Mountain and Laveen communities specifically. Thus, our communities are well positioned to experience much of the development to take place in the greater Phoenix area in the next 10 years. However, such development is not merely theoretical and is not reserved to future generations – we have projects in development around us right now.
In past months, I have mentioned a number of these exciting projects, which together will result in an investment in excess of $100 million. Some of these projects include:
- The Girls Scouts – Arizona Cactus – Pine Council, which is giving a makeover to Camp Sombrero located on the north base of South Mountain.
- Construction continues on the Salvation Army’s South Mountain Community Center.
- The South Mountain Community College continues their partnership with the city of Phoenix in remodeling the South Mountain Community Library.
Not only are these funds being infused directly into our communities but, following completion of the projects, the improvements will serve as valuable resources to children and adults alike.
Development continues on a smaller scale as well. A number of homebuilders have returned to building model homes and long-time residents are starting to have déjà vu of the 2005-2006 housing explosion, complete with large balloons and corner sign flippers. A number of new restaurants have opened, or will be soon. One of these restaurants, Memphis Best BBQ located in the shopping center on the southwest corner of 35th Avenue and Southern Road in Phoenix, will serve as the venue for our upcoming Business After Hours Mixer on July 27th.
Of course, there is more development being discussed that will directly affect you and me. For instance, most of us all well aware of the proposed extension of the Loop 202. However, you may be less familiar with the discussions centering on our south Central Avenue corridor. These discussion involve the revitalization of businesses in the area and the potential expansion of a line of the Valley Metro Light Rail down Central Avenue. I acknowledge that there are strong feelings on these proposals, and I encourage everyone to get involved and let your voice be heard.
There are exciting and monumental changes happening all around us. Let’s keep a good thing going.
To learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
Posted in Chamber, Events, Laveen, positive news, SoMo Village | Tagged: 2010 Census, Chamber, Events | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on May 29, 2010
A Word from the President
So many wonderful things are happening in South Mountain and Laveen. In this spirit, I would like to take a moment to recognize two recent events involving our communities.
First, on May 4, the South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce hosted our sixth annual Golf Shoot-Out at 
South Mountain. Held at the Vistal Golf Club, one of South Mountain’s golf gems, the tournament afforded our communities the opportunity to mingle, play golf and raise money for the South Mountain Community College and the Girl Scouts Summer Camp Program. In the previous five years, the tournament has raised more than $10,000 for a scholarship fund established to assist South Mountain residents attending the college and over $2,500 to help numerous girls attend the summer camp. Many thanks to all who participated and made the tournament a success.
Second, on May 5, the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce held its 2010 Impact Awards luncheon, during which the GPCC recognized enterprising business owners who have made an impact through community involvement, company culture, innovation, and response to adversity. From among 70 applicants, the GPCC recognized South Mountain’s own RE/MAX New Heights Realty as the 2010 IMPACT Business of the Year. Started in 2005 by Victor Vidales, RE/MAX New Heights Realty enjoyed its most profitable two years in 2008 and 2009 and continues to do well in a struggling real estate economy.
“It makes me very proud to be a small business owner in the South Mountain Village,” said Victor. “To get this kind of recognition is not just beneficial to me but to all of South Mountain and the Laveen Village’s. The fact that we are the first Latino-owned company to win the business of the year in the 23-year history of the IMPACT Award shows that we are reaching new heights in south Phoenix.” Congratulations to Victor and his team for their continued excellence and their dedication to our communities.
To learn more about the benefits of a Chamber membership, contact our Executive Director, Steve Glueck, at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
June Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, June 9, from 7:15 – 8:30 a.m.
Bougainvillea Golf Club
5740 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
Business After Hours Mixer
Thursday, June 24, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
The Native New Yorker
5020 W. Baseline Road, Laveen
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 Community, Education, Girl Scouts, non-profit organization, positive news | Tagged: Chamber, Girl Scouts, golf, golf tournament | 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 April 3, 2010
Another Spirit of South Mountain Awards Dinner has come and gone. I am happy to report that the 2010 event was our best attended to date. It was great to mix and mingle with you and to celebrate many of the wonderful things taking place in the South Mountain and Laveen communities.
Although all award nominees deserve recognition for their worthwhile endeavors this past year, I wanted to take a moment and recognize this year’s award recipients in the following five categories:
- Education – Phoenix Collegiate Academy – With the assistance of concerned parents and community members, Rachel Bennett spearheaded the opening of the Phoenix Collegiate Academy in July 2009. The Academy has a mission to prepare students to succeed in college and to be leaders in the South Mountain community.
- Local Government – U.S. Vets – Esther Thomas, V.A. Liaison Homeless Services – Giving of her time and resources, Esther Thomas serves as a liaison in assisting homeless veterans in the South Mountain area with job training and life skills.
- Nonprofit Agency – Tigermountain Foundation – Darren Chapman – The Foundation’s mission includes promoting community involvement, fostering neighborhood cohesiveness and providing job training through the maintenance of community gardens. Darren’s life story is inspirational and his involvement in our communities has helped numerous individuals develop a sense of purpose and turn their lives around.
- Local Business – Cigna Medical Group/South Mountain Office – The South Mountain Office structured its client care services to address health problems, including diabetes treatment and patient immunizations, that are prevalent in our communities. In support of these efforts, the South Mountain Office raised more than $110,000 in 2009 for diabetes and prenatal education.
- Individual Volunteer – Honorable Cody Williams – Currently serving as the South Mountain Court Justice of the Peace, Judge Williams has a long history of dedicated public service in the South Mountain community in many capacities including serving on the Phoenix City Council and as chair of the Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce.
Many thanks to all who organized, participated in and attended the event. I can’t wait to see what next year’s nominees will accomplish.
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.
April Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, April 14, 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, Community, Events | Tagged: Chamber, Events, South Mountain Laveen Chamber | Leave a Comment »
Posted by South Mountain Villager on July 8, 2009
Five years ago, I moved from Seattle to Phoenix to be Development Director at Arizona Lutheran Academy—a Christian high school on 27th Avenue and Southern. My family and I bought a new home nearby—on 30th Avenue, just off Baseline. At that time, the communities of South Mountain and Laveen were in the throes of unprecedented development. Cotton fields and cow pastures were fast becoming residences, stores and restaurants.
I remember meeting new Chamber chair Jeffrey Garza Walker. I wanted to meet people. I wanted people to know about my great school. Jeffrey’s answer was immediate. “Get involved with the Chamber.” I took his advice.
Fast forward five years. I have never regretted that decision. Over the past five years, I’ve meet and collaborated with hundreds of people who provide a valuable service to South Mountain and Laveen. Some are entrepreneurs and developers. Others are small business owners, educators, administrators, and church leaders. Still others are community servants. Though those relationships, my school is firmly planted on South Mountain/Laveen map. And through those relationships, our community is shaping up to be a better place—a place where people want to live, do business, and send their children to school.
A Chamber membership is much like going to school. It can be whatever you make of it. Now, more than ever, with a topsy-turvy and unpredictable economy, you need to get involved in the Chamber. That’s because, now, more than ever, there’s so much to make of it. Do you need referrals? Name recognition? Partnerships or good advice? More business? The South Mountain/Laveen’s ownership in this community, combined with our affiliation with the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, puts a world of possibilities at your doorstep. There’s everything to gain and nothing to lose. Come and get connected!
It’s been a privilege to serve this past year as the South Mountain/Laveen Chamber board chair. It is now an equal honor to pass the baton over to your next chair—Mr. Blaine Searle. Blaine lives in our community and serves as an attorney at Gust Rosenfeld. Under his leadership, our chamber will continue to serve you and identify strategies to make this community the best in Phoenix.
Interested in learning more about the benefits of a Chamber membership? Contact Executive Director Steve Glueck at steveg.smlchamber@cox.net.
July Events
Business for Breakfast
Wednesday, July 8, 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, City of Phoenix, Community, Events, Laveen | Tagged: Chamber, South Mountain Laveen Chamber | Leave a Comment »
