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| BusinessReview Online Edition
A monthly publication of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce |
September 2009 |
NEW
Our member's coupons mean big savings for you!
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| Gilbert Town Council Rescinds Tax Increase |
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By Kathy Langdon, President/CEO
The Gilbert Town Council rescinded its decision to raise the sales tax and residential rental tax as well as the introduction of the use tax at its August 11th Council meeting. In doing so, the referendum petitions will not be processed for a special election which would have allowed the community to vote on these tax changes.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce supports the Council's decision to move forward with the Citizen's Budget Committee to evaluate further efficiencies and priorities for the community. Thank you to all of our members who have weighed in on this issue and who have applied to participate in the budget committee.
How They Voted:
Chamber's Position - YES
YES - Abbott, Crozier, Daniels, Lewis, Presmyk, Sentz, Urie
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| Chamber Adds Value to Corporate Membership |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has recently redesigned the Corporate membership level-a $745 annual investment-to include the benefits once received by Chairman's Circle participants.
The new Corporate membership level features include...
· a monthly, electronic membership list,
· placement of business cards in the lobby,
· a membership certificate for display,
· a nametag for use at Chamber events, and
· 12 free mixer passes upon renewal each year.
These benefits are valued at more than $365.
Corporate memberships will continue to include... · a logo on the Chamber's website, · a second category listing on the website, · a second category listing in the directory, · special recognition in the directory, · invitations to attend the Good Government Breakfast series, and · use of the Chamber's conference room at no cost. Contact Grace Hodges at (480) 926-6027 or grace@gilbertchamber.com for more information or to immediately upgrade your membership. |
| Chamber Features International Speaker at Workshop |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
International speaker and best-selling author Ron Willingham will present Inner Game of Success, a two-day workshop to foster a dynamic breakthrough in personal growth and achievement on September 24th and 25th in Gilbert.  According to Willingham, 85 percent of personal growth and success is impacted by attitude, self-beliefs, and emotional factors. Inner Game of Success will help to identify inner-belief boundaries and release these invaders for personal fulfillment. "[Willingham's] programs allow people to discover how to perform at higher success levels in a very dynamic way," says JW Rayhons, owner of Rayhons Financial. "People are ultimately the determining factor in a company's profits. This workshop is a great investment in yourself, your employees or your family." Willingham has developed training programs for Fortune 500 companies and, after the workshop in Gilbert, will travel to Australia and New Zealand to present the same program. Presented by LifeScript Learning and the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, Inner Game of Success will be held Thursday, September 24th from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday, September 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Hyatt Place in Gilbert. Registration is limited to 80 attendees and is open to both members and non-members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. Registration received prior to September 10th will receive a $100 discount off enrollment. For more information regarding the workshop, contact Jim Ball of Rayhons Financial Solutions at (602) 614-6341 or visit www.forwardgrowth.com. |
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| Gilbert Chamber Organizes Tour of Italy |
| By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is working to organize the group travel excursion Discover Tuscany, a 10-day packaged tour of Italy in March 2010, including site tours of Rome, Assisi, Florence, Siena, and more.  An informational meeting will be held on Thursday, September 17th from Noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, in Gilbert. Travel is open to the community and no commitment to travel is required to attend the informational meeting. "My family traveled with the Chamber last year on their organized trip to China and we were thrilled with the experience," said Alonzo Russell, of A.L. Russell and Associates. "I am looking forward to joining the group again in March." The package, coordinated by Collette Vacations, is available at a rate of $2,999 per person and includes round-trip airfare from Phoenix, hotel accommodations, 13 meals, site tours and more. Travel deposits received by September 18th will receive a discount of $100 per person. "This is a great opportunity for our Chamber to provide a wonderful experience for our members and community," said Kathy Langdon, President/CEO of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. "I took a similar trip at my own expense a few years ago and the cost far exceeded the rate we are able to offer with this tour." For more information regarding the Chamber's 2010 Discover Tuscany group travel excursion including a complete itinerary, call (480) 892-0056, ext. 104, or visit www.gilbertaz.com. |
| Front Runner Class to Begin on Sept. 16th |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
Classes begin in September for the ten-week entrepreneurial education Front Runner program, a series offered to Gilbert residents and small business owners through a partnership between the Town of Gilbert and the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce.  The Front Runner program places a strategic focus on growing business through optimizing business tools, market research and analysis, using financial tools, one-on-one coaching, and guest speakers providing expertise on a variety of topics. This year's class will also place an emphasis on social media marketing as well as survival tips during this economic period. The Town of Gilbert was able to secure a grant to offset the cost - normally $1,500 per student - and is offering the program for $150 per student to cover the cost of materials only. Classes will begin Wednesday, September 16th and will be held weekly from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. through November 18th. Registrants must have at least two years of experience as an existing small business or entrepreneur. For more information or to register for the Front Runner program, visit www.gilbertft.com or contact John Zupon at (480) 503-6762. |
| Four-Part, Monthly Marketing Series Begins in October |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce will host a four-part, monthly workshop series beginning in October to introduce small businesses to free and low-cost guerilla marketing methods and will include a workbook and plan for implementation.
Presented by Alonzo Russell, a business coach and owner of A.L. Russell & Associates, this workshop series will help businesses develop a seven-step guerilla marketing plan.
"Regardless of the state of the economy, marketing your business effectively is imperative and directly related to your business's success," said Russell. "This series will take you in-depth to identify your target audience and design a plan that works for your business."
The first of four workshops will be held on Wednesday, October 21st from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. Subsequent workshops will be held November 5th, December 3rd, and January 7th.
General admission is $125 for the series or $40 per workshop. Chamber member pricing is $100 for the series or $35 per workshop. Seating is limited to 25 attendees. For additional information or registration, contact Grace Hodges at (480) 926-6027 or visit www.gilbertaz.com. |
| Members Mentor Scholar Students |
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By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
Members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce have demonstrated support for the Arizona Academic Scholars program, a community-wide incentive strategy to encourage students to take challenging courses throughout high school in preparation for post-secondary education.
"The Scholars program is an opportunity to encourage our youth to prepare themselves for success in the increasingly competitive job market," said Jim Ball of Rayhons Financial Solutions and volunteer mentor. "As a parent and businessman, I am privileged to work with tomorrow's workforce through this program."
Beginning in January, local businesses will reach out to students in both Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District through presentations and mentoring programs to raise awareness of the Scholars program. To volunteer your time or for additional information regarding the collaboration with local school districts and the Gilbert Chamber, please contact Grace Hodges at (480) 926-6027 or grace@gilbertchamber.com. For more information regarding the Arizona Academic Scholars program, visit www.azacademicscholars.org or email info@azacadmicscholars.org. |
Gilbert Leadership Welcomes Class XVIII:
Mark Bennett
Julie Boyster
Andrew Chanse
Tim Colquhoun
Sheri Dahlstrom
Debra deFisser
Colleen Fisher
Patricia Garcia-Likens
Steven Gotfried
Michelle Gramley
Debbie Hallman
Elizabeth Harper
Richard (Rich) Haupt
Steve Hewitt
Nicholas Holmberg
Grace Ibe
Katharine Keller
Laura Kile
Susan Manion
Cindi Mattheisen
Michael McCleve
Catherine Mitchell
Matt Nebgen
Gayle Schmidt
Dave Sharpe |
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| Excellence Awards Tickets On Sale Now |
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 Reserve your spot at the 14th annual Gilbert Community Excellence Awards on Friday, October 23rd from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Trilogy at Power Ranch. This event honors community leaders and features the Taste of Gilbert, highlighting the food of many local restaurants. General admission is $50 or a corporate table for ten can be purchased for $400. Contact Marty at (480) 926-6003 or visit www.gilbertaz.com for more information. |
| Chamber Member Shout Out! |
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The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce recognizes the following businesses for their contribution of door prizes or catering last month:
Authenticity Photography
Crosswoods Indoor Golf Center
Dolly Steamboat
Dragon Wok
Hyatt Place
LaVie Nails & Spa
Mary Kay
Premier Barter
Premier Designs
San Tan Village
Simply Ravishing Nails
Tempe Schools Federal Credit Union
Wildflower Bread Company
XTrim Med Spa | |
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| Mark Your Calendar! |
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Sherrie Courtney of Authenticity Photography and Harvey Gibson of Tempe Schools Credit Union attended the Business Connections...Network NOW! event in August. |
Register to attend any of the Chamber's upcoming events by calling
(480) 892-0056 or online at
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| SRP Small Business Workshop
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SUPERconnected
Presented by ROCKET MEDIA, learn the secrets of connecting and utilizing multiple online marketing and relation outlets.
Thursday, September 3rd
7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $15
Chamber Member Price - $10
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| Business Connections...Network NOW! |
Grab your business cards and attend this networking event to meet other Chamber members. This fun opportunity includes door prizes and a light breakfast.
Thursday, September 9th
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
SAM'S Club at SanTan
2621 S. Market St., Gilbert
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One-time guest admission - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
| Gilbert NOW!...Network at Noon |
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Get To Know Your Arizona Supreme Court
Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch will share her inspiring journey to this position as well as the leastest news from the court.
Wednesday, Sept. 16th
11:15 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Southeast Regional Library
775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $25
Chamber Member Price - $15 |
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Discover Tuscany Informational Event |
Learn more about the March 2010 group travel excursion, organized by Collette Vacations. This event is informational and requires no commitment to travel.
Thursday, Sept. 17th
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
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| SRP Small Business Workshop
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Smart Tax Strategies for Business Owners
Presented by M.A.X. Services, discover the tax advantages of self-employmentt and how to save thousands in deductions.
Wednesday, September 23rd
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $15
Chamber Member Price - $10 |
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Business Wrap Up...Network NOW! |
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Wrap up the work day and meet other Chamber members. This event includes door prizes and light hors 'devours.
Thursday, September 24th
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Jimmy's of Chicago
3107 S. Gilbert Rd., #107, Gilbert
One-time Guest Admission - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
| Chairman's Express |
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The following members are recognized for their continued support and contributions to the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce:
APS
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Gilbert Tribune
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP |
| Premier Members |
| A.L. Russell & Associates
APS
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP
Thorobred Chevrolet
Villa Siena |
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| Membership Anniversaries |
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1-5 YEARS
A2Z Trophy
ABP Insurance Brokers
Arizona Bank & Trust
Arizona Soccer Club
Bryant Pest Control
Charleston's Restaurant
Dillard's
FirstBank of Arizona
Gilbert Hospital
Good Night Pediatrics East Valley
Grimaldi's Coal Brick Oven Pizza
Jani-King of Phoenix
La Calabria Ristorante
Li'l Einstein's Preschool
OmniMount Systems, Inc.
Salerno's Restaurant and Catering
Seville Family Dentistry
Snider Apparel and Sports
6-10 YEARS
11- 15 YEARS
Barnes Fine Jewelers
Serrano's Mexican Restaurants
16 - 20 YEARS
Target Commerical Interiors
21+ YEARS
Hampton Inn - Mesa
Norwood Furniture |
| Website Referrals |
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Listings Displayed in Directory
Bolero's at Seville Golf & Country Club
Buzzberry / Tastee Freez Drive thru coffee n' smoothies
Chick-Fil-A of San Tan Village
Country Cottage Cafe & Gift Shop
Denny's
Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt
Jimmy's of Chicago
Joe's Farm Grill
Old World Pizza
Paradise Bakery & Cafe - San Tan Village
Sushiya
Coupons Viewed
Brilliant Deductions
Elements Therapeutic Massage
International Minute Press of Gilbert
Kyrene Medical Center PC
Papa Johns Pizza
Stephanie Lopez - Mary Kay
Storage One Self Storage
Super Suppers Gilbert
Sponsors Viewed
A.L. Russell & Associates, Business & Medical Coach
APS
M.A.X. Services, LLC.
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Hyatt Place Phoenix / Gilbert
SRP
The Gilbert SkyBox Sports Grill
Udder Delights
Website Clicked On
ActionCOACH Business Coaching
Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites
Blissful Ambience
Copper Canyon Dental
Cozy Weddings of Gilbert
Falcon Air Conditioning
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Gilbert
High Efficiency Air Conditioning
Open Rain Elite Software
RE/MAX Alliance Group - J. Webley
ROCKET MEDIA
StoneRidge Dental
Warren's Jazz Bistro
Map of Location Viewed
Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists of Arizona
Amado Territory Ranch Inn (Bed & Breakfast)
Arizona Business Bank
Big League Dreams Gilbert
M&I Bank - Higley Village
MidFirst Bank
Northern Trust Bank
Personal Safety CPR
Sunrise Urology, PC
Wells Fargo Bank |
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| You Say It Best! |
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"The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce provides a friendly atmosphere at all of its events. The Chamber's staff and members have such a warm, welcoming attitude it'll make you want to come back."
Geoff Cummings
Arizona Bank and Trust |
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$39 off
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Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
The Punctual Plumber
(480) 812-1855
Present this coupon for $39 off any plumbing repair; $75 off any new water heater; $200 off any new solar water heater or tankless water heater;$75 off any new water treatment.
Valley-wide service - residential and commercial!
ROC 250620. Not to be combined with any other offers.
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Save $59
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Rosepapa Creative
Chris Rosepapa
(480) 735-9841
Need a new website? Rospapa Creative provides agency-quality web design and marketing services delivered with a personalized and results-oriented touch. Discover how we can help your business grow.
Present this coupon and save $59 or more on 6 months of free web hosting.
Offer Expires: 10/30/2009 |
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Save up to 5%
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Brought to you by members of the Chamber's Insurance Benefit Committee...
SightCare, Inc., an affiliated company of Nationwide Vision, provides members of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce a discount of three (3) percent on fully insured group Broad Network plans and five (5) percent on fully insured group Select Network plans. Vist www.gilbertaz.com/index.php?/healthcare/for more information. |
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This could be your Ad!
Contact Sarah for information and rate sheet.
(480) 892-0056, ext. 104
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Mission: The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce serves as the business advocate to strengthen the business climate in Gilbert.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, membership-based organization with more than 625 members ranging from home-based businesses to large corporations. To learn more about or join the Chamber, please contact (480) 892-0056 or visit www.gilbertaz.com. | |
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