| Is Your Business Ready to Catch the Wave? |
|
By Kathy Tilque, President/CEO
I recently attended Catch the First Wave, presented by Colliers International. It was a very interesting workshop that focused attention on where our businesses will be when the economy turns around and the indicators to watch for that will signify a change. Here's what I took away from that session:
- Evaluate the timing of recovery for your industry compared to the leading/lagging indicators of the economy.
- Invest in a risk profile for your company-there are tools online for as little as $40.
- Identify what the economy/business will look like in two years; as you reduce costs during this time, don't reduce those expenses that will prepare you to be fully ramped up.
- Take care of those critical employees who stick it out during this time or they may be the first to leave when times get better and then you may have to begin that 12-18 month retraining phase during essential growth periods.
- Repackage your product/services now - add those extra WOW factors for your clients; create new services that enhance your product lines.
- Develop new channels - promotion, clients, markets, etc.
History provides a very good look at how previous economic periods charted recovery. Keep in mind the economy is cyclical and we will recover, the question is whether it will be a slow recovery or will it drop first then take off? No one has the specific answer, but you can evaluate history and track current indicators to compare to your individual business. The key is to keep focused on the vision for the future while managing the efficiencies and details of your business right now. If you wait, you will most likely be in the revamping mode while your competitors are reaping the benefit of your customer's growth.
I'm not an economist or consultant. I share this information in hope that these general points may help others as they look at their own business. Here's to a prosperous New Year for all of you. |
| Front Runner Honors Grads, Begins New Class |
|
By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
A group of Gilbert small business owners recently graduated from the ten-week entrepreneurial Front Runner program, an intensive workshop series offered to residents and professionals by 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.
"The foundation of the course and the information provided is a good starting point to look at the overall health and management of your business for growth," said Gerald Sajor, vice president of GS Capital Lending and Front Runner graduate. "You can't help but walk away with refreshed entrepreneurial skills."
 According to Sajor, this year's class also placed an emphasis on social media marketing as well as survival tips during this economic period. Course graduates included Nathan Green of Imaginology, Eric Herbrandson of Audio Orchard, Kelly Hadland of Compass Equipment, Lisa Spaich of Spaich Benefits, Shoshana Roller of Loan Pro for Life, Dr. Dana Rosdahl of Whole Person Health, Gary Anderson of the UPS Store, Terry Booth of Oak for Less, Mike Millan of Oak for Less, Kristina Reese of A Child's Place At the Ranches, Kit Locher of East Valley Home Care and Elizabeth Harper of Harper & Henry Executive Placements, and Gerald Sajor of GS Capital Lending.
A new series of classes will begin Tuesday, February 2nd and will be held weekly from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. through April 6th. 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.
Registrants must have at least two years of experience as an existing small business or entrepreneur. Seating is limited to 20 participants. For more information or to register for the Front Runner program, visit www.gilbertft.com or contact John Zupon at (480) 503-6762.
|
| Professionals Needed to Mentor Students |
|
By Grace Hodges, VP Programs/Services
More than 98 percent of new jobs in Arizona that pay above the median wage will require some education after high school. Most employers will also require prior work experience. Helping your child prepare for success in education and future careers demands a curriculum that encourages academic rigor and strong workplace skills.
Arizona Academic Scholars is an initiative of the Arizona Business & Education Coalition (ABEC) in partnership with the Arizona State Board of Education (SBE). Arizona Academic Scholars is a community-wide incentive program to motivate more students to complete an academically enriched high school course of study.
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District to promote the Scholars Program. We'd like to invite businesses to become involved in helping the students become successful in their career path. We are looking for business professionals who would like to go in to the classrooms to help mentor the students. This program will encourage the students to seek post secondary education and set higher goals. If you are interested in volunteering to help with the Scholars Program please contact Grace Hodges at grace@gilbertchamber.com or (480) 926-6027. |
| Community Fulfills Seniors' Wishes |
|
By Sarah Watts, Executive Assistant
This year's Adopt A Senior program was overwhelmingly successful with more than 40 homebound seniors' wish lists adopted and fulfilled. Gilbert Leadership class members volunteered their time to wrap the gifts and lunch for the volunteers was donated by Chick-fil-A.  In addition, enough money was raised to purchase $10 gift cards for the one hundred residents living in Gilbert's low-income senior living facility. The gift cards were included in a goody bag that also included handmade cards from the students at Gilbert Elementary and other items donated by local businesses. The bags were given to the residents at a holiday party hosted by the Chamber and catered by Mercy Gilbert Medical Center. If you would like more information on how to support this program next year or to learn more about volunteering at the Gilbert Senior Center, contact Sarah Watts at (480) 892-0056, ext. 104, or e-mail sarah@gilbertchamber.com. |
| 2009 Volunteer Appreciation Event |
|
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce honored its many valuable volunteers with a tour of holiday lights last month. We'd like to thank the following sponsors for their help in making the evening memorable:
Trolley Sponsors:
A.L. Russell and Associates
Caliente Construction
International Minute Press of Gilbert
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Radisson Ft. McDowell Resort & Casino
Rayhons Financial Solutions
Additional Sponsors:
Buffalo Wild Wings
Charleston's Restaurant
Employee Benefit Exchange
Firehouse Subs
Jimmy's of Chicago
Salerno's Restaurant and Catering
Sam's Club
Sun Valley Community Church
|
| New Ambassador Training in January |
|
Sign up for one of the most rewarding committees at the Chamber. Members of this group are energetic and help to welcome new members, assist at special events and work together to grow the Chamber. The training for this committee is Tuesday, January 12th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce. Sign up now! Contact Marty at(480) 926-6003 or e-mail marty@gilbertchamber.com. |
| Budget Issues Top Discussion with Legislators |
|
By Kathy Tilque, President/CEO
On the eve of the latest legislative special session, Chamber members met with District 22 legislators to discuss their viewpoints on bringing the State back into the black. The annual luncheon with our legislators brought out representatives from businesses, education, and local municipality. Of particular interest was the looming budget deficit and what can be done immediately and over time.  Representative Andy Biggs outlined the current financial snapshot for November which shows spending at $686 million and revenues at $400 million; bringing the year-to-date spending at $4.6 billion and revenues of $2.7 billion, resulting in a $1.9 billion deficit for the first five months of the fiscal year. Daily overdrafts have accumulated to the point that the State is $900 million in the hole and running out of capacity to borrow any more by mid-January. "The State has experienced 16 months of sales tax decline," reported Representative Biggs. "Getting back into the black is not a one-year solution; it will take three to five years to get back on track." Both Senator Verschoor and Representative Biggs agreed that the following areas must be addressed to improve the business climate in Arizona:
· Reduction in tax burdens for businesses
· Easing the regulatory environment
· Curtailing administrative law and rulemaking authority
Senator Thayer Verschoor discussed the importance of nuclear energy for Arizona. Potential federal cap and trade agreements could shut down Arizona's coal energy production which would have significant impacts on water generation and costs. He will focus his attention in this arena which may also bring thousands of jobs to Arizona.
Both agreed that reducing spending to at least the 2004 levels would speed the recovery of the State's budget but did not believe there was the political will to do so. Prop. 105 voter-protected spending measures puts the legislature in the position to send a request to change these mandates to the voters or to make the decisions internally which opens the State up for lawsuits.
Unfortunately, Representative Laurin Hendrix was unable to attend. Special thanks to Senator Verschoor and Representative Biggs for sharing their insights with us. |
| Go Green! Tip of the Month |
|
Don't let the water run... when brushing your teeth or doing dishes; turn it on only when needed.
If we just use five gallons of water in a plugged sink we would save up to 9.5 million gallons of water. That is enough to fill 14 Olympic-size swimming pools.
Source: The Walt Disney Company & Greener Trends
|
| Gilbert Leadership Tours Gilbert, Visits Mercy Gilbert Medical Center |
 Gilbert Leadership has been learning all about the Town of Gilbert. In November, Class XVIII learned about the history of Gilbert while touring the Gilbert Historical Museum. The class visited with seniors of Gilbert as they shared their stories of growing up in Gilbert and the group walked the Heritage Distric, enjoying lunch at Joe's Real BBQ.
In December, the class learned about Social Services and Healthcare in Gilbert with a visit to Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, the Boys and Girls Club and the Gilbert Senior Center.
For more information and updates, become a fan of Gilbert Leadership's Facebook page or contact Adrianne by e-mail at adrianne@gilbertchamber.com. |
| Chamber Member Shout Out! |
|
The Gilbert Chamber of Commerce recognizes the following businesses for their contribution of door prizes or catering last month:
Advanced Chiropractic
Arizona Bank & Trust
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Chick-fil-A
Costco
DreamMaker Images
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Norwood Furniture
Premier Designs Jewelery
Rayhons Financial Solutions
Simply Ravishing Nails
Wal-Mart |
|
 |
Chick-fil-A of SanTan Village Marketplace
2533 S. Market St., Gilbert 85296
Southeast corner of Market Street and Williamsfield Rd.
(480) 814-7200
*Convenient catering including delivery and set-up services
*Fundraising that is easy and practical.
*Visit our Toddler Playland that is sanitized daily.
*Family Night every Thursday from 5pm-7:30pm
Join our text club! Text "CFA42" to 411247 for freebies and special event notification. It would be our pleasure to serve you! |
|
|
$50 Off
 |
Premier Eyecare of Arizona
3271 E. Queen Creek Rd., Ste. 107, Gilbert 85298
Southeast corner of Queen Creek Rd. and Higley Rd.
(480) 892-3937
$50 off perscription eyewear. Premier Eyecare offers comprehensive eye exams for the whole family, contact lens fittings along with treatment for many eye health and systemic diseases. We currently accept VSP, Eyemed, Always Vision, BCBS, Aetna, Tricare, Medicare, and Cigna PPO & Open Access plans.
Vist www.premiereyecareaz.com
Offer Expires: 03/31/2010 |
| |
|
|
|
| Mark Your Calendar! |
|
Staff and volunteers of the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce show their support for Shop Gilbert before their holiday luncheon at BRIO Tuscan Grille at SanTan Village on December 14th.
|
Register to attend any of the Chamber's upcoming events. Call
(480) 892-0056 or visit
|
| Small Business Workshop
|
|
Guerilla Marketing
Part IV
Attend this workshop to learn how to effectively market your business using free and low-cost marketing methods.
Thursday, Jan. 7th
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gilbert Chamber of Commerce
119 N. Gilbert Rd., Ste. 101, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission - $35
Chamber Member Price - $25 |
|
Business Connections.
..Network NOW! |
|
Get to know other Chamber members and expand your network at this fun mixer. Includes door prizes and a light breakfast.
Thursday, Jan. 14th
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Costco Wholesale
1415 N. Arizona Ave., Gilbert
Sponsored by:
One Time Visitor Price - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
|
Gilbert NOW!... Network at Noon |
|
Making Your Workplace a Destination
Presented by author Ross Reck, attend this luncheon to get excited about coming to work and working hard.
Sponsored by  Wednesday, Jan. 20th
Southeast Regional Library
775 N. Greenfield Rd., Gilbert
General Admission - $25
Chamber Member Price (with reservation) - $15
Chamber Member Price (at door) - $20 |
|
Business Wrap Up...Network NOW! |
|
Attend this networking event to wrap up the workday with other Chamber members and build your business. This fun event includes door prizes and hors 'devours.
Thursday, Jan. 28th
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Down Under Wines & Bistro 1422 W. Warner Rd., Gilbert
Sponsored by:
One Time Visitor Price - $10
Chamber Member Price - $5 |
| Small Business Workshop
|
|
How to Grow Your Business Using
Marketing Automation
Learn how to generate more leads, nurture unconverted leads, convert more prospects to customers and get more repeat business.
Presented by Infusionsoft
Thursday, February 4th
7:30 a.m.- 8:30 a.m.
Infusionsoft2065 W. Obispo Ave., Ste. 103, Gilbert
Sponsored by:
General Admission-Free
Compliments of Infusionsoft |
|
Discover Tuscany |
|
$2,999 per person includes:
10 days, Airfare, Hotels, 13 Meals, More
Click here for more information, including a complete itinerary.
Give the gift of travel this holiday season and make memories that will last a lifetime! |
|
|
| Chairman's Express |
 |
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
Gilbert Tribune
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
SRP
Thorobred Chevrolet
Town of Gilbert
Villa Siena |
|
|
| Website Referrals
November 2009 |
|
|
Listings Displayed
Bolero's at Seville Golf & Country Club
Buffalo Wild Wings
Carrabba's Italian Grill
El Pollo Loco
FireHouse Subs
Grimaldi's Coal Brick Oven Pizza
Joe's Real BBQ
La Calabria Ristorante
Papa John's International
The Great Taste of Chicago
Coupon's Viewed
ActionCOACH Business Coaching
Elements Therapeutic Massage
International Minute Press of Gilbert
Papa Johns Pizza
Phoenix Children's Academy
Sam's Club
Solana Luxury Rentals
Storage One Self Storage
Sponsors Displayed
ABC Plumbing and Rooter Co., Inc.
APS
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Edible Arrangements
Golba Group Realty & Property Management
M&I Bank
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Norwood Furniture
Painted Trails
SanTan Village
SCF Arizona
The Arizona Republic
Website Clicked On
American Tax and Financial Services, LLC.
Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites
Copper Canyon Dental
Country Inn & Suites By Carlson
Frankie D's Salon
Hamilton Publishing,LLC
Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Gilbert
Hyatt Place Phoenix / Gilbert
Infinite Healing Center
Joe's Real BBQ
ROCKET MEDIA
StoneRidge Dental
Map Viewed
American Tax and Financial Services, LLC.
Best Western Legacy Inn & Suites
bluemedia
Casino Arizona
East Valley Professional Accounting, PC
Farm House Restaurant
Gilbert Pool Services, LLC
Premier Eyecare
The Great Taste of Chicago
Watson's Flower Shop |
| Please Welcome... |
 |
Annette Sellers joined the staff at the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce in December and will serve as Vice President of Sales. She lives in Gilbert and brings with her an experienced sales background.
Annette can be reached by e-mail at annette@gilbertchamber.com or by phone at (480) 926-6020. |
| Membership Anniversaries |
|
1-5 YEARS
Arizona West Builders and Communications , Inc.
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Bolero's at Seville Golf & Country Club
Chick-Fil-A of San Tan Village
CHW Foundation
Deutsch Associates
Joe's Farm Grill
Mahler A/C & Heating, LLC
Mutual of Omaha Bank
Sky Harbor International Airport
The Business Journal
United Truck & Equipment, Inc
6-10 YEARS
M&I Bank - 160 N. McQueen Road
Pete & Mac's Pet Resort
Qwest Communications
Town of Gilbert
Western Skies Golf Club
11-15 YEARS
Chandler/Gilbert Family YMCA
Heritage Christian Academy Schools
Joe's Real BBQ
21+ YEARS
Wells Fargo Bank - 1901 S. Gilbert Road
Wells Fargo Bank - 700 N. Gilbert Road |
|
|
|
|
