Glendale Chamber of Commerce - Chamber in the News

Glendale Chamber CEO Jumps in for Crucial New Era of Development

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:04:50 GMT

Chamber News | January 2026

Glendale Chamber of Commerce CEO Zach Yentzer saw how pivotal the rest of this decade would be in setting up the next half century.

He wanted in.

After planting roots in Tucson for more than a decade and serving as vice president of business advocacy with the Chamber of Southern Arizona, Yentzer sought the challenge in Glendale. The chamber hired Yentzer in October 2025, and he started in the role in November.

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Glendale Prepares for Change in 2026

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:01:27 GMT

Chamber News | January 2026

Glendale is preparing for a year of change in 2026 with a renovated City Hall slated to open, a city manager taking office this month, a recent hire as the Glendale Chamber of Commerce CEO and three city council seats up for grabs in the August elections, with at least one new council member guaranteed.

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Glendale Chamber Hires New CEO from Southern Arizona

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 19:00:04 GMT

Chamber News | October 2025

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce hired Zach Yentzer as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. He will begin in this role in November.

Yentzer will start in the new role in November and joins the Glendale Chamber from The Chamber of Southern Arizona (formerly the Tucson Metro Chamber), where he served as vice president of business advocacy, representing more than 1,400 businesses employing more than 150,000 individuals across Tucson and Pima County.

In this role, he led the chamber’s public policy and government affairs, oversaw strategic communications, the military affairs committee, and workforce development initiatives.

During the merger of the Tucson Metro Chamber and Sun Corridor Inc., he played a role in aligning policy priorities and integrating strategic initiatives in the newly formed Chamber of Southern Arizona that brought economic development and business advocacy together under one organization.

“This is an exciting and pivotal moment for Glendale — a rapidly growing leader in the Valley for sports and entertainment, technology and innovation, aerospace and defense, workforce development, and more,” Yentzer stated in a press release. “What happens in the next two to five years will shape the next 25, and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce will play a vital role in creating that future. I’m grateful to build on the strong foundation laid by our outstanding board and staff, and my family and I are thrilled to be part of Glendale’s present and future story.”

Yentzer’s experience in advocating for business, public policy, and workforce development, paired with a commitment to collaboration and results, will strengthen the chamber’s role as a driving force for economic prosperity and regional leadership.

“Zach Yentzer's work ethic, experience, and passion for community-building are what we need to continue building our legacy and help Glendale continue to thrive. The board looks forward to supporting his leadership as we advance economic opportunity and innovation throughout Glendale and the entire West Valley,” stated Dr. Jennifer Cruz, Glendale Chamber board chair.

View the article here .

Glendale Chamber Announced Interim President & CEO, Lisa Baker.

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:45:37 GMT

Chamber News | July 2025

As part of a carefully coordinated leadership transition plan, the Glendale Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is pleased to announce that the 2024 Chair of the Board, Lisa Baker of Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, will step away from her Board duties and serve as Interim President & CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Lisa is a seasoned leader, long-time member, and a committed advocate for the Chamber’s mission.

This interim appointment ensures organizational stability and continued forward momentum while Waverly Partners, a nationally recognized executive search firm, actively recruits for the Chamber’s next dynamic President & CEO.

In her interim capacity, Lisa Baker will work closely with the Chamber’s dedicated team to continue advancing its mission—to CONNECT, IMPACT & PROSPER and serve as the voice of business in Glendale by championing business success and driving economic growth through advocacy, strategic connections, and regional influence.

“I am honored to serve the Glendale Chamber in this transitional role,” said Lisa Baker. “Our Chamber is a vital connector and advocate for the business community, and I’m committed to working alongside our talented team and devoted Board to ensure a seamless transition and continued excellence in service to our members.”

Dr. Jen Cruz, 2025 Chair of the Board, added:

“As always, the Glendale Chamber remains dedicated to advocating for the prosperity and growth of all local businesses—from small businesses to major employers. Your continued support is what makes our work possible, and we thank you for standing with us.”

Those interested in learning more about the President & CEO position or who wish to recommend a candidate may email Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Heidi Milosovic at Glendale@Waverly-Partners.com. All inquiries will remain confidential.

For more information about the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, visit www.glendaleazchamber.org or call 623-937-4754. To connect with Interim President & CEO Lisa Baker, email interimceo@glendaleazchamber.org .

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Chamber President & CEO Search

kkratzenberg@glendaleazchamber.org (Karli Kratzenberg) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:38:57 GMT

Chamber News | July 202 5

By Karli Kratzenberg | Glendale Chamber of Commerce

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce in Glendale, Arizona is seeking a dynamic leader to become its next President & Chief Executive Officer. The Chamber’s mission is to serve as the voice of business in Glendale – championing business success and driving economic growth through advocacy, strategic connections and regional influence.

The ideal candidate will bring 10+ years of progressively responsible experience, with a minimum of 3 years in senior leadership and may come from a variety of backgrounds such as, but not limited to: the top executive of a progressive and comparably sized chamber of commerce, economic development organization, or related significant business association; experience as a “second in command” or other senior-level executive at a larger like-enterprise as noted above; an executive with a strong record of community involvement from a complex private or public-sector entity. Board interaction, experience leading large numbers of volunteers, experience leading within a growing community, and demonstrated experience overcoming challenges are all strongly desired. A Bachelor’s degree is required; an advanced degree, graduate of U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management or Certified Chamber Executive designation is desirable.

If you are aware of an executive who meets these requirements and would be interested in evaluating this dynamic opportunity, please email Glendale@Waverly-Partners.com or contact either consultant at WAVERLY PARTNERS, the executive search firm retained by the Chamber Board on this search and the “preferred provider” of executive search services of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Heidi Geiger Milosovic, Managing Partner, WAVERLY PARTNERS, Cleveland, Ohio O: 440.355.6629; M: 216.387.0832; HMilosovic@Waverly-Partners.com

Eric N. Peterson, Partner, WAVERLY PARTNERS, Cleveland, Ohio O: 440.892.5961; M: 440.463.0988; EPeterson@Waverly-Partners.com

Connecting, Convening and Catalyzing To Crack Child Care Concerns

Sun, 11 May 2025 00:42:54 GMT

Chamber News | May 2025

Child care is a common theme of discussion among businesses of all levels—local, state and nationwide. For Glendale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Joshua Gunn, child care challenges for his members’ employees turn into “real time lost, real revenue lost, real productivity lost for big and small businesses. It’s a comprehensive challenge and requires a comprehensive solution.”

The chamber and its 1,400+ members serve Glendale and its surrounding areas. From small restaurants to large multinational corporations, businesses have come together to collaborate on solutions. The Glendale Chamber of Commerce took it one step further establishing a workforce development committee. One major concern they’re addressing is how the lack of child care is impacting their businesses and their employees.

“Everybody’s a part of the business community, whether you own a business, you work at a business, you shop at a business,” Gunn said. “What happens in our economy impacts everyone. And so I think that requires us to listen to the voices of not just our 1,400-plus members, but the people they serve and the community issues that are relevant to them.”

Read full article here .

VAI Resort Urges 'Yes for Glendale'

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:19:47 GMT

Chamber News | April 2025

By Alicia Venter, Glendale Star Staff Writer

Glendale voters will decide in a few months whether the development of the highly anticipated VAI Resort will take a crucial step forward. A coalition of local business owners, elected officials and community leaders have formed the “Yes for Glendale” campaign in support of the project, urging citizens to vote in support of Proposition 401 and 402, which will appear on the vote-by-mail-only election ballot in May.

“We’re straightforward people. We don’t have an agenda. We’re building something great,” said Grant Fisher, president and CEO of VAI Resort. He is chairing the Yes for Glendale campaign.

The two propositions on the ballot regard zoning. Proposition 401 regards changing the land use designation of a 10-acre area from “THIS” to Corporate Commerce Center. Proposition 402 is related to the revised zoning plan for VAI Resort, beginning the VAI corporate office use into the overall project. Both changes were unanimously approved by the Glendale City Council earlier this year, and a yes vote affirms those decisions by the council.

Read full article here .

How Glendale Turned Risky Investments Into a Sports and Entertainment Hub

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 18:52:06 GMT

Chamber News - November 2024

By: Jessica Boehm | Axios Phoenix

Glendale had a chip on its shoulder for decades. It was older than the fancier new burbs taking shape in the East Valley, smaller than neighboring Phoenix and lacking the excitement of tourist destination Scottsdale.

Why it matters: That chip fueled impatience in city leaders, who took a series of big swings to create what they hoped would be the Valley's sports and entertainment hub, elevating the city above its station.

The evolution they sought took longer to materialize than many hoped, but their labor is bearing fruit.

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Joshua Gunn; Pseudo Pro-Worker Prop 499 Would Dismantle Glendale Economy

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:47:50 GMT

Chamber News | October 2024

By Joshua Gunn CEO, Glendale Chamber of Commerce

This election presents Glendale voters with a measure that threatens our city’s economy. Proposition 499, while masquerading as pro-worker, would make Glendale unable to compete in the hotel and event industry with neighboring cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale.

As CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, I urge you to vote no on this potentially devastating proposal.

Funded by out-of-state labor union Unite Here and its political arm, Worker Power, this measure is their attempt to bring California proposals to our back yard. After failing with a similar proposal in Anaheim, they have decided to set their sights on Glendale.

Proposition 499 is deeply unfair. It will force Glendale hotels and event spaces to pay a $20 an hour minimum wage – jumping to $40 an hour for many shifts – while only exempting hotels that are willing to sign a union contract.

Similar ordinances have had disastrous effects in California, resulting in reduced hours and layoffs for employees, higher prices for travelers, and new costs for taxpayers. Glendale cannot afford to follow this failed model.

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Glendale Chamber Leads Workforce Forum This Month

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:44:20 GMT

Chamber News | September 2024

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce plays host a breakfast forum, “Education and Workforce Readiness Now and For the Future,” from 7-10 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria.

This forum, planned by the chamber’s education committee, will feature five superintendents from local elementary and high schools and some of their closest business partners.

Click here to read full article.

Chamber Appoints New President, CEO

Tue, 28 May 2024 16:43:00 GMT

Chamber News | May 2024

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce appointed Joshua Gunn as its next president and chief executive officer, effective at the beginning of June.

With a career spanning two decades in business and chamber leadership, Gunn brings an entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community impact to his new role.

“I am absolutely thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to spearhead the Glendale Chamber into this next transformative chapter,” Gunn said.

Click here to read more.

Glendale Chamber Launches Search for CEO

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 17:13:59 GMT

Chamber News | February 2024

By Karli Kratzenberg | Glendale Chamber of Commerce

The board of directors of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce recently began the search for the chamber’s next president and chief executive officer, retaining Waverly Partners as its executive search firm.

Waverly Partners has a national practice of serving chambers and economic development organizations. Lynda Vescio, chair of the chamber, and Lisa Baker, chair-elect, will serve as co-chairs of a 13-member search committee that will work with Waverly Partners to identify qualified local, regional, and national candidates.

Read full article here.

Glendale Chamber Appoints 2024 Board of Directors

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:43:58 GMT

Chamber News | January 2024

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce has appointed new leadership for 2024.

The new board of directors represents a cross-section of business and professional leadership in the community, a press release explains.

The following individuals have been newly elected: Dr. Tiffany Hernandez, Glendale Community College president; Victoria Franks, assistant vice president of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Midwestern University; and Dr. Alexander Patrick, director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Residential Faculty, Social Sciences at Glendale Community College.

Read full article here .

Jim Peyton Named Interim Chamber Leader

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:14:22 GMT

Chamber News | December 2023

Jim Peyton will serve as the Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s interim president and chief executive officer, beginning Jan. 1.

He will assume the responsibilities of president and chief executive officer Robert Heidt, who will be taking on the same roles with the Sacramento Metro Chamber.

Peyton has been with the chamber since 2013 and has been the chief operating officer since February 2017.

Read full article here.

Tolmachoff, Chamber Honor Public Safety

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 17:25:54 GMT

Chamber News - December 2023

Glendale City Councilmember Lauren Tolmachoff recently partnered with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to host the first Public Safety Appreciation Event.

Tolmachoff said the event exceeded her expectations.

Read full article here.

Glendale Chamber Picks Interim CEO, Starts Search

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 17:11:28 GMT

Chamber News | December 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce recently announced the departure of President and CEO, Robert Heidt, who will be taking on a new role as the President and CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber.

“Robert's steadfast commitment to the Glendale Chamber runs deep throughout every aspect of this organization. His presence will be missed, and I wish him the absolute best in his new role. Our focus now is on the search for a new CEO and a seamless transition that will take us to new heights while staying true to the Chamber we have become” stated Lisa Baker, chair-elect for 2024 and Realtor, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, in a press release.

Lynda Vescio, Chair of the Board, and Lisa Baker, Incoming Chair of the Board, have, assembled a search committee to work with Waverly Partners, a nationally recognized executive search firm, to assist in recruitment of the chamber's next leader.

Effective Jan. 1, the chamber has announced that Jim Peyton will take over as Interim President & CEO. Peyton has been with the chamber since 2013 and has served as Chief Operating Officer since February 2017.

Read full article here.

Glendale Chamber, Councilmember to Honor First Responders

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:39:38 GMT

Chamber News | December 2023

A public safety appreciation event, dedicated to express gratitude for those who serve and protect Glendale, is coming to the West Valley.

The Glendale Chamber and Glendale Councilmember Lauren Tolmachoff, along with presenting sponsor Amazon, will host public safety personnel from the Glendale fire and police departments. The event will go from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6 at Babbo's Italian Eatery, 20211 N. 67th Ave.

The first responders will be treated to lunch in recognition of their contributions to the community.

"We believe it's essential to show our appreciation for the individuals who put their lives on the line daily to keep us safe," Robert Heidt, Glendale Chamber president and CEO, shared in a press release.

Call the Glendale Chamber at 623-937-4754 for more information about the event.

“Glendale’s first responders selflessly protect and serve our community every day of the year,” Tolmachoff stated.

Click here to read article.

Glendale’s Vai Resort Marks Construction Milestone, Plans Late 2024 Opening

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:15:36 GMT

Chamber News | December 2023

The first phase of what will be the largest resort in Arizona is planned to open by the end of 2024, with the remaining portions to open by the middle of 2025.

VAI Resort, located near Loop 101 and Cardinals Way, has been under construction in Glendale since 2021 .

Phase one, which will include the first hotel tower, called the Amphitheater Tower, the amphitheater and the Mattel Adventure Park , is about 70% complete, Grant Fisher, CEO of VAI Global Development, said. The amphitheater marked a construction milestone in November with the placement of the 47-foot tall “V” shaped structures that will hold the roof over the $40 million amphitheater stage.

Read full article here.

Glendale To Expand Electric Vehicle Charging Options Through Partnership With EOS Linx

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 18:23:07 GMT

Chamber News | October 2023

Glendale residents and travelers in Phoenix will soon have increased access to electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, thanks to a collaboration between the Glendale Chamber of Commerce and EOS Linx, a private charging network operator. The partnership will introduce Level 2 EV chargers in residential areas, fleet locations, public parks, and retail or corporate sites, catering to the diverse charging needs of EV drivers.

The introduction of EOS L2 chargers aims to address a common concern among potential EV users known as “range anxiety.” This term refers to the fear of running out of battery power before locating a suitable charging station. By expanding the charging infrastructure, Glendale Chamber and EOS Linx aim to reduce range anxiety and encourage wider EV adoption.

Glendale Chamber President and CEO, Robert Heidt, expressed pride in leading the initiative to develop EV charging infrastructure throughout Glendale. He highlighted the importance of the partnership with EOS Linx in providing the public with increased charging opportunities.

Read full article here.

Glendale Chamber of Commerce, Eos Linx Expand Public EV Charging

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 18:18:51 GMT

Chamber News | October 2023

PHOENIX — Glendale residents and travelers will soon have more electric-vehicle charging options thanks to an agreement between the Glendale Chamber of Commerce and EOS Linx, a private charging network operator.

The Level 2 EV chargers will be located in residential, fleet, public parks, and retail or corporate locations. The EOS L2 chargers will provide drivers with various options to meet individual charging needs.

Read full article here.

Glendale Chamber Partners Up To Provide Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 18:00:24 GMT

Chamber News | October 2023

EOS Linx, owner of a solar-supported electric vehicle (EV) charging network, is partnering with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to provide public EV charging in the city.

The effort will focus on the installation and operation of Level 2 (L2) EV chargers in residential, fleet, public parks, and retail and corporate locations. The EOS L2 chargers will provide drivers with various options to meet individual charging needs.

“Our partnership with Glendale Chamber is mutually beneficial and aligns with our vision to deliver the customized EV experience drivers are looking for,” EOS BD Executive Walter Moore shared in a press release. “In addition, EOS L2 chargers will help reduce EV driver range anxiety.”

“Glendale Chamber is proud to lead efforts to build out EV charging infrastructure across the Glendale area,” Glendale Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt stated. “We look forward to partnering with EOS Linx on this installation of L2 EV chargers to provide the public with additional charging opportunities.”

Read article here.

Chamber Partnership To Add Electric Vehicle Chargers in Glendale and Surrounding Areas

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 17:55:35 GMT

Chamber News | October 2023

EOS Linx , an owner, and operator of a growing national, solar-supported electric vehicle (EV) charging network, is partnering with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to provide public EV charging in Glendale, Arizona through the installation and operation of Level 2 (L2) EV chargers in residential, fleet, public parks, and retail + Corporate locations. The EOS L2 chargers will provide drivers with various options to meet individual charging needs.

Click here to read full article.

Glendale Chamber Hosts Education Forum

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 17:07:10 GMT

Chamber News | October 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its inaugural Education and Workforce Readiness Now and For the Future forum.

This event — held at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa — gave the community an inside look at the combined effort between the chamber and the educational system to inspire better partnerships, improved education, and beneficial tactics for empowering future generations.

Click here to read full article.

City to Research Adding Juneteenth, Indigenous Peoples Day

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:41:21 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

By Joe McHugh, Glendale Star Staff Writer

After a recent call to action by the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, Glendale City Council voted to approve city staff to compile a report to find the exact effect of recognizing Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples Day in the city.

“If the city is going to say — and we have said — that we are an inclusive city, then this is the absolute right thing to do,” Glendale Councilmember Jamie Aldama said. “To have an inclusive city that demonstrates through giving our staff a day off to recognize Indigenous people and Juneteenth. Other cities have done it; other states have done it. It is the absolute right thing to do.”

Click here to read full article.

Glendale Chamber To Host Military Appreciation Ceremony

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:37:26 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s Military & Veterans Affairs Committee will recognize service men and women, and their family members, in an upcoming event.

The 3rd Annual Military Appreciation Ceremony begins at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Desert Diamond Casino–West Valley, 9431 W. Northern Ave., Glendale.

Cost is $25 per individual, and a light breakfast will be provided.

Click here to register.

Read article here.

Glendale Chamber Networking Event to Focus On Diversity

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 17:33:50 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

The Glendale Chamber at its monthly networking breakfast in October will host a presentation from the Chamber’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.

The program entitled “Inclusive Language: Sometimes it IS What You Say” starts at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8 at The Ocotillo Room, 5819 W. Glendale Avenue.

Read article here.

Glendale Chamber Calls on Council for Inclusive Action

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:11:46 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is asking Glendale to officially recognize Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the city.

With the ask, the chamber is looking for swift action on implementing “important” days into the city’s calendar.

“Business always moves a little bit quicker than government, so there has been chatter, and we think the city should acknowledge this and we wish the city would do it,” Glendale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Robert Heidt said. “Why doesn’t our city do this? So, we went on a yearlong journey in talking with partners and understanding what does it really mean to them and why is it important and help. Not that we didn’t see why it was important, but we wanted to hear firsthand.”

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is the force driving behind this call to action. Their research into the situation has helped the chamber come to the decision that the time for action is now.

Read full article here.

Eyecare4Kids Arizona Grant Will Benefit Kids in Need at Glendale Clinic

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 17:52:41 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

Increased number of vision services for underserved children also supported.

EyeCare4Kids Arizona has been selected as a recipient of the Vitalyst Health Foundation Medical Assistance Grant.

Read article here.

Business, Education Leaders Team Up for Upcoming Glendale Forum

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:26:14 GMT

Chamber News | September 2023

Panels will discuss strategies, ideas to collaborate.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce will host an Education and Workforce Readiness Now and For the Future forum.

Read article here.

Glendale Resident Emphasizes Community Involvement in Her Work

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:58:52 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Lisa Baker received her Arizona real estate license in 1999 and has enjoyed her line of work ever from the get-go.

“I love the dynamic nature of my work,” Baker said. “People buy and sell homes because something in their life has changed: an expanding or shrinking household, a new job or retirement, or a transformative personal milestone. I love being there for them, helping them navigate that change to find the new housing situation that fits their needs, whether buying, selling or both.

Though her love for her work has not changed, how she goes about it has evolved. Baker moved out of the state to Maryland and then Nevada in the early 2000s, and while she continued her real estate work in the Valley, she returned to Arizona in 2011.

She credits her cross-country moves and years spent working for absentee homeowners in a high-end resort community for her ability to excel with out-of-state buyers and sellers.

Read full article here.

Glendale Business Gathering To Look at Dangers of Fentanyl

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:27:21 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Glendale business gathering to look at dangers of fentanyl.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce at its upcoming monthly networking breakfast will examine the ongoing dangers fentanyl poses to communities.

Click here to read article

Valley Executive Named Vice Chair of United Way Worldwide’s Women United Global Leadership Council

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:50:06 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

PHOENIX (August 17, 2023)—Longtime Valley of the Sun United Way board member and Women United Steering Committee member Jenny Holsman Tetreault has been named vice chair of United Way Worldwide’s Women United Global Leadership Council, a philanthropic group of more than 55,000 women in over 200 communities around the globe dedicated to creating lasting change that lifts up communities.

“We’re so incredibly appreciative of Jenny’s ongoing service to United Way and our local community,” says Carla Vargas Jasa, president and CEO of Valley of the Sun United Way. “Her commitment to improving communities and the lives of others is unsurpassed and we are grateful for her continued service with Valley of the Sun United Way and look forward to the impact she will have at a global scale.”

The Women United Global Leadership Council serves as an advisory body providing strategic recommendations to United Way Worldwide as well as a key mobilizer engaging women leaders to advance gender equity and advocate for access to quality, affordable, educational childcare. The group also supports the growth of Women United globally.

Read full article here.

Chandler Chamber Luncheon Will Focus on Workforce Housing, Downtown Projects

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:46:07 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Special to Independent Newsmedia

The Chandler Chamber will host an economic update luncheon about the status of workforce housing, commercial re-development, and new downtown projects.

The presentation is entitled The Ever-Changing Landscape of the Real Estate Market.

“Chandler continues to grow and be a leader in economic development around the Valley,” Terri Kimble, Chandler Chamber of Commerce president & CEO, shared in a press release. “This luncheon is a testament to our commitment to drive Chandler’s economic landscape forward.”

The luncheon will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24 at SoHo63, 63 E. Boston St., Chandler.

The public is encouraged to attend. RSVPs are required here .

Liz Recchia, West & Southeast Realtors of the Valley (WeServ ) representing about 25,000 agents, will provide an update on the workforce housing market.

Sam Kapur, Arizona Elite Commercial , will present about the status of commercial re-development especially with regards to vacant office buildings post-pandemic.

Lauren Koll, city of Chandler , will speak about a new project coming to Downtown Chandler.

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce represents more than 1,700 businesses with over 175,000 employees.

The Chandler Chamber is the third largest Chamber in the State of Arizona. For more information Visit ChandlerChamber.com, call 480-963-4571 or email info@chandlerchamber.com .

Click here to read article.

Golf Outing To Support Local Education Coming to Buckeye

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 16:41:11 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Special to Independent Newsmedia

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce will sponsor its 24th Annual Excellence in Education Golf Outing.

The four-person scramble will include three flights when everything tees off with a shotgun start at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 at Verrado Golf Club, 4242 N. Golf Drive, in Buckeye. Check-in starts at 6:30 a.m.

Registration fees include $150 for a single golfer, $125 to sponsor a student, $250 for a member tee hole sponsor, $500 for a future member hole sponsor, $600 for a foursome, and $800 for a foursome and tee hole sponsor.

Fees include contributions to education partners, green fees, a golf cart, a goodie bag, and lunch.

Click here to register.

Call Harry Shapiro or David Rush at 623-937-4754 to be placed on a player waiting list.

Read article here .

Glendale Chamber of Commerce Is Hosting an Education & Workforce Panel

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 21:41:18 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Independent Newsmedia

On Wednesday Feb. 27, the Glendale Chambers of Commerce will be hosting an education and workforce readiness presentation.

The event will be located on 9595 W. Coyotes Boulevard in Glendale. This will be inside of the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa.

Check in will be at 7:30 a.m., with the event ending at 9:30 a.m. Tickets are $35 per person.

The event will feature two speaking panels. One of which is for K-12 education, moderated by Dr. Jennifer Cruz.

The second panel will on higher education and will be moderated by Kelli List, owner of Charley's Sports Grill and Saguaro Grill.

Each panel will have five guest speakers.

Click here to view article.

Glendale Chamber CEO Earns National Honor

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:34:40 GMT

Chamber News | August 2023

Glendale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Robert Heidt received the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives 2023 Board Chair’s Award during the association’s annual meeting on Aug. 1 in Salt Lake City.

The award is given annually to an individual that has made a significant contribution to the betterment of the chamber profession.

As chair of ACCE’s Fringe Benefits, Inc., the insurance and retirement benefits arm, Heidt led the organization and team through an external audit of its processes, procedures and structure to ensure the best solutions and services to members.

Click here to read article.

Council Offices, Impacted Businesses Among Downtown Glendale Renovation Concerns

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 19:12:52 GMT

Chamber News | July 2023

City Hall being vacated this month.

The $100 million downtown campus renovation project is soon to begin, with City Hall in the midst of vacating all employees to temporary off-site workplaces.

Click here to read article.

Glendale Chamber Accepting Military Appreciation Nominations

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 20:03:34 GMT

Chamber News | July 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s Military and Veterans Affairs Committee (MVAC) is now accepting nominations for its Military Appreciation Ceremony.

The Military Appreciation Ceremony will be held at Desert Diamond Casino on Wednesday, Nov. 1, and it will recognize military members serving in all branches for their work around the community.

Click here to read article.

Military Transition Support Program with Glendale Chamber of Commerce - AZTV 7

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 18:25:44 GMT

Chamber News | June 2023

The Glendale Chamber’s Military & Veterans Affairs Committee created the Military Transition Support Program to connect Glendale Chamber members with transitioning Service Members, Veterans, and/or Military Spouses to; familiarize them with civilian career options, provide informal mentorship, friendship, and encouragement, educate them about the differences of civilian vs. military culture.

Watch video here.

Learn more at glendaleazchamber.org .

Aldama To Run for Glendale Mayor

Wed, 31 May 2023 19:58:48 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

Jamie Aldama, councilmember representing the Ocotillo District, will run for mayor in 2024.

A fourth-generation Glendale resident, Aldama joins Paul Boyer and incumbent Jerry Weiers in the mayoral race.

“I was extremely excited to run for office in 2014. I was just beyond excitement,” Aldama said. “Today that’s magnified by 100%. In my heart and in my soul, I want to be the next mayor to begin a united community. And the only way I can do that is by running for office as the mayor. I’m unbelievably excited.”

Click here to read article.

VAI Resort Unveils Amphitheater Plans

Tue, 30 May 2023 17:03:58 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

VAI Resort, the West Valley’s to-be $1 billion destination resort slated to open its doors in 2024, unveiled its crown jewel — VAI Amphitheater.

The $40 million stage combines cutting-edge design and state-of-the-art technology to deliver a large-scale venue experience in a distinctively intimate atmosphere where most of the fans are less than 100 feet away from the stage. For Grant Fisher, president of VAI Global Development, it is the “heartbeat of the entire resort.”

Read full article here.

Glendale to host Point of Pride summit in June

Wed, 24 May 2023 17:04:56 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

Presentations, workshops to feature policies, issues facing LGBTQ+ community

Business leaders from across the state will convene in Glendale in June to attend the Point of Pride summit hosted by ONE Community.

Click here to read full article.

Glendale Councilman Aldama Announces 2024 Mayor Run

Wed, 17 May 2023 19:37:39 GMT

Chamber News - May 2023

Glendale native joins Weiers, Boyer in 3-candidate race

Jamie Aldama, who has served on the Glendale City Council representing the Ocotillo District for nine years, announced Tuesday he will run to unseat Jerry Weiers as mayor in 2024.

Click here to read article .

Glendale Councilmember Jamie Aldama running for mayor against Jerry Weiers, Paul Boyer

Wed, 17 May 2023 19:07:15 GMT

Chamber News - May 2023

Glendale Councilmember Jamie Aldama is the third politician to announce plans to run for mayor of Glendale in 2024.

He is running against incumbent Jerry Weiers , who has been as mayor for 10 years now, and Paul Boyer , who served the Republican party in the Arizona Legislature as house representative and senator from 2013 to 2023.

When announcing his run on Tuesday at Murphy Park in downtown Glendale, Aldama said his main priorities will be unifying the city as well as creating consensus on the City Council.

"When elected, my top priority will be to improve the image of the office of mayor, strengthening our economy by continuing to encourage businesses to move into Glendale and improve our relationships with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce," he said.

Read article here .

Glendale Chamber of Commerce Announces Glendale, Arizona is the #10 Ranked Pet-Friendly City in the Country According to Forbes

Fri, 12 May 2023 16:47:21 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

Did you know, Glendale, Arizona is the #10 ranked pet-friendly city in the country according to Forbes?

"Pet ownership in the U.S. has increased significantly over the past few decades. As of 2023, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) own a pet, up from 56% in 1988.

As pet ownership increases nationwide, so does the interest in living in a pet-friendly city. Recent data show that 68%[2] of pet owners would pass on the perfect home if it didn’t meet their pets’ needs."

Read article here.

Forbes source can be found here .

Glendale Chamber source can be found here .

Meet Ed Logan: Retiree to Chair the Military & Veterans Affair Committee

Wed, 10 May 2023 17:44:49 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is honored and proud to announce the 2023 Military & Veterans Affairs Committee chair.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Edward C. “Ed” Logan was born a few months before Pearl Harbor.

“It was in my DNA and already my karma to be a U.S. military veteran, and I am still serving the veteran community way after my active duty,” Logan says.

It started for him at ASU, where ROTC was once mandatory for freshmen and sophomores. Selected to go further, he was commissioned second lieutenant on June 1, 1962, and began a 20-year career in the Air Force. He escaped the draft but still went to war.

In fact, he served at the locations of three American wars: Okinawa (World War II), Korea (Korean War) and Thailand (Vietnam War) under six American presidents — John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan.

He had special ties to Johnson while stationed at the former Bergstrom AFB, in Austin, Texas 1970-74 as commander of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment.

As an OSI special agent for 19 of his service years, he participated in security details for the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum dedication and for Johnson’s funeral.

“My wonderful and stalwart wife of 59 years, Judy, of Glendale, was with me all the way through my active-duty service and is qualified to be a ‘veteran’ in her own right,” Logan says.

They have three daughters, all born in the service (Okinawa, Niagara Falls and Austin). The eldest, Darice, went on to save many, many young lives as a neonatal intensive care unit nurse, somehow making up for lives lost in the Battle of Okinawa, the last U.S. battle of World War II.

Deeply proud to be an American veteran, at age 82, he said he will continue to support his fellow veterans through volunteer service as long as possible.

“As a 30-year resident of Glendale and a retired U.S. Air Force officer, it has been a real pleasure to be a Military & Veterans Affairs Committee member for many years,” Logan says.

“The committee has supported many veterans and active-duty units. In particular, we hold an annual award event honoring Valley active-duty military members who have gone beyond their jobs by doing community service, which is near and dear to the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. As of 2023, I am now serving as Military & Veterans Affairs Committee chairman and expect to continue our commitment to our Arizona veteran community.”

The Military & Veterans Affairs Committee is dedicated to assisting the Glendale Chamber of Commerce with committee programs and events. It also helps to create a strong relationship between the local business community and military units in the community. For more information, call the Glendale Chamber of Commerce at 623-937-4754.

Click here to read article.

Helping Hand: Glendale Chamber Reveals Military Transition Support Program

Tue, 09 May 2023 16:36:41 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce, through the work of its Military & Veterans Affairs Committee, has always been committed to helping create a strong relationship between the local business community and military.

To further these efforts, the Glendale Chamber is unveiling the Military Transition Support Program. The purpose of this program is to connect transitioning servicemembers, veterans and/or military spouses to Glendale Chamber member businesses to:

• Familiarize them with civilian career options.

• Provide informal mentorship, guidance, encouragement and friendship.

• Educate them about differences of civilian vs. military culture.

Servicemembers, veterans and military spouses are invited to attend the chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event where they will be introduced by Military & Veterans Affairs Committee members and share their top three career interests. This opportunity is open to people currently leaving active service and those who’ve previously separated who seek new employment.

Chamber members from industries that align with their interests will be identified. A conversation will be initiated, followed by informal mentoring and a short-term job shadow opportunity. Participants are encouraged to meet over coffee or a meal to get to know one another, specifically exploring the participant’s career aspirations and interests, which we hope will lead to their employment and investment in the Glendale area.

“It is truly an honor to facilitate such an important program,” says Robert Heidt, president and chief executive officer of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce and a U.S. Air Force veteran.

“We are excited to see the impact we can bring to those who served our country so bravely, their families and our employers as we all work to address workforce needs in our community.”

Military & Veterans Affairs Committee member and program leader, U.S. Air Force veteran Kathy Gallowitz, president/chief executive officer of Vanguard Veteran LLC, agrees.

Laura Roman, Realtor with Homes for Heroes and program leader, says her organization is committed to providing the highest level of support for veterans and military spouses.

“The military transitioning program aligns perfectly with our mission,” Roman says.

“We believe that every veteran deserves the opportunity to build a successful and fulfilling civilian life, and we are dedicated to helping them achieve that goal.”

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals.

Its mission is to provide leadership that facilitates the creation of a prosperous regional economy and effective advocacy for its members and the business community.

Investing in the Glendale community through chamber membership supports a program of work that includes economic development; education and talent development; public policy; transportation and infrastructure; technology; as well as business attraction, retention and expansion.

The Glendale Chamber builds its program of work around the three core principles, an investment in membership brings: business connection, community impact and economic prosperity.

For more information, visit glendaleazchamber.org .

LIBERTY Campaign Coalition Letter to Congress

Tue, 02 May 2023 16:52:57 GMT

Chamber News | May 2023

To the Members of the United States Congress:

Our nation’s border security and legal immigration systems are broken. Our legal immigration system has been outdated for decades, which has directly contributed to the significant security challenges on our southern border. Millions of people cross into the country illegally, while those seeking to lawfully enter the country struggle because our current laws are unresponsive to the dynamic needs of the American economy.

These failures of our current immigration system impose significant costs on American communities and our economy. Companies are experiencing significant workforce shortages despite their sizable investments in expanding U.S. talent pipelines. As a result, companies of all sizes and across a host of industries are wrestling with the myriad problems caused by their inability to adequately tap into global talent to meet their workforce needs. These issues can only be addressed by congressional action.

Click here to read full letter.

Glendale Chamber of Commerce Announces New Program to Aid Veterans

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 17:40:59 GMT

Chamber News | April 2023

Military Transition Support Program helps vets acclimate back into civilian life

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce, through the work of its Military & Veterans Affairs Committee (MVAC), is introducing its new Military Transition Support Program.

According to a news release, the purpose of this program is to connect transitioning service members, veterans, and/or military spouses to Glendale Chamber Member Businesses, to familiarize them with civilian career options; provide informal mentorship, guidance, encouragement, and friendship; and educate them about differences of civilian vs. military culture.

Service members, veterans, and military Spouses are invited to attend the chamber’s monthly Business After Hours event where they will be introduced by MVAC committee members and share their top three career interests. This opportunity is open to people currently leaving active service and those who have previously separated who seek new employment.

Chamber members from industries that align with their interests will be identified. A conversation will be initiated, followed by informal mentoring and a short-term job shadow opportunity. Participants are encouraged to meet over coffee or a meal to get to know one another, specifically exploring the participant’s career aspirations and interests which we hope will lead to their employment and investment in the Glendale region.

“We are excited to see the impact we can bring to those who served our country so bravely, their families and our employers as we all work to address workforce needs in our community,” Glendale Chamber President and CEO and U.S. Air Force veteran Robert Heidt shared in a statement.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals.

“We are excited to partner with Glendale Chamber members to cultivate civilian veteran champions who come alongside transitioning service members, veterans and their spouses to support their career exploration and assimilation into civilian life,” stated MVAC Committee Member and U.S. Air Force veteran Kathy Gallowitz, who is also Vanguard Veteran, LLC president and CEO.

Click here to read article.

Two members newly elected to Glendale Chamber board of directors

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 21:24:03 GMT

Chamber News | January 2023

2023 Board Announced

Special to Independent Newsmedia

The board of directors is the policy body of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Its members represent a cross-section of the community’s business and professional leadership.

Genuine, unselfish interest in the Chamber and its objective is the first requirement for board members. The board performs the organization’s legislative function, and makes the Chamber’s policy decisions.

Newly elected to the board are Scott Spurgeon, from West-MEC, and Kelli List Wells, from Charley’s Sports Grill & Saguaro Grill.

Lisa Baker, HUNT Real Estate ERA, has been named chair-elect for 2024. Lynda Vescio, chair of the board, Law Offices of Vescio & Seifert, P.C. will take over as the 2023 board chair at the February board meeting.

Click here to read more.

How Kyrsten Sinema protected LGBTQ marriages – and offered a lesson for us all

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 20:16:28 GMT

Chamber News | December 2022

President Biden signs bill protecting gay , interracial marriages | USA TODAY

Opinion: Sen. Sinema could have thrown up her hands at the opposition. Instead, she worked with a broad range of groups to find compromise.The U.S. Supreme Court decision in June overturning Roe v. Wade was an attack on women and birthing people in our nation, and it also created a direct threat to existing and future LGBTQ+ rights.

The U.S. Supreme Court decision in June overturning Roe v. Wade was an attack on women and birthing people in our nation, and it also created a direct threat to existing and future LGBTQ+ rights.

The Dobbs decision created dangerous precedent to allow the court to strike down key decisions on LGBTQ+ equality in the future, including equal marriage.

In the days and weeks following the SCOTUS decision, millions of families like ours across the country had many sleepless nights anxious about the uncertainty of the future.

Would we lose rights to our own children? Would it once again become difficult to see our loved ones in a hospital or make critical health care decisions? It seemed like cruel and unusual punishment that the clock could be turned back on our rights so easily.

Click here to read more.

Business networking event coming to Camelback Ranch-Glendale

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 21:01:37 GMT

Chamber News November 1, 2022

An upcoming night of business networking is coming to Camelback Ranch-Glendale.

The spring training home of the Dodgers and White Sox will host the Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s “Business After Hours” event. It goes from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17 at the stadium located at 10710 W. Camelback Road.

Call 623-937-4754 or click here to register.

Read full story here

Logistics Plus Joins the Glendale Chamber of Commerce

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 20:42:37 GMT

Chamber News | September 8, 2022

The Logistics Plus Phoenix office is proud to announce that they have joined the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. As a member of the Chamber, Logistics Plus gains access to a plethora of networking, professional development, and business advocacy events in the Glendale/Phoenix area. The Glendale Chamber of Commerce serves the business community as the voice of commerce and has a vision for Glendale to have a prosperous business community.

Read full story here

Glendale Chamber Seeks Donations for Annual Auction Donation

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 19:08:56 GMT

Chamber News | September 8, 2022

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its Annual Auction in November.

Donation deadline is Oct. 7

The auction is critical for raising the money necessary to continue the mission of the chamber. The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals.

The event will be virtual and will run from Friday, Nov. 4 through Sunday, Nov. 13. Anyone interested in making a direct financial contribution or an item donation should email Jackie Peyton at info@glendaleazchamber.org.

Read full story here

2 blood drive opportunities coming to Glendale

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:50:28 GMT

Chamber News | September 8, 2022

2 blood drive opportunities coming to Glendale

First is at ACU, second at Credit Union West

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is working with Vitalant and asking for donors to help meet the care needs for local hospitals with two upcoming blood drives in town.

The first opportunity takes place between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24 during the Stand Up for Veterans event at Arizona Christian University, 1 W. Firestorm Way. The blood drive will be inside Snell Classrooms 1 and 2.

Read full story here

Photo credit: [STEVE STOCKMAR/INDEPENDENT NEWSMEDIA]

Scottsdale Woman Eyes Water Board Seat

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 17:49:59 GMT

Chamber News | September 7, 2022

Scottsdale business woman Shelby Duplessis wants to serve on the Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board.

In case you haven’t heard of it before, the Central Arizona Water Conservation District Board, or CAWCD, is a popularly elected, 15-member panel that establishes policy and sets rates and taxes for the Central Arizona Project.

Read full story here

Glendale Chamber to Host Mixer This Week - Event Thursday in Litchfield Park

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 17:37:26 GMT

Chamber News | July 20, 2022

Event Thursday in Litchfield Park

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Business After Hours mixer this week in Litchfield Park.

Business After Hours allows guests to make professional connections, gain leads and potential new customers, find suppliers and service providers, access agencies and entities to help grow your business, and more.

The event starts at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 21 at The Wigwam, 300 E. Wigwam Blvd., Litchfield Park. Click here to register.

Read Full Story Here

'We are afraid that the trees are going to die': Neighbors want to save historic park but Glendale says there's nothing to save it from

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 23:18:33 GMT

Chamber News | July 18, 2022

'We are afraid that the trees are going to die': Neighbors want to save historic park but Glendale says there's nothing to save it from

Glendale civic leaders want to save Murphy Park, but the City says there's nothing to save it from.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — A growing number of residents, business owners and civic leaders have formed a group dedicated to saving Murphy Park in downtown Glendale.

But the City of Glendale says there's nothing to save it from.

The Save Murphy Park task force has been posting on social media about a possible plan to turn Murphy Park into a xeriscaped plaza. that would mean removing the tall trees from the park that's as old as Glendale itself.

“We are afraid that the trees are going to die and that's our biggest concern right now," group organizer Yvonne Knaack said.

Murphy Park is where you go to see Glendale Glitters – it’s where the City hosts festivals and concerts.

It’s a green space right in front of city hall, with huge trees and grass all around a public library.

And the Save Murphy Park coalition is convinced the city may pave paradise.

Organizers say they found a budget item for park irrigation that was reallocated. When they asked about it, Knaack says the group was told by a city official that the money was reallocated because the park was being xeriscaped.

Then, the coalition started looking at a presentation for remodeling Glendale City Hall. The City has decided it wants to remodel city hall, the amphitheater out front, the parking garage and Murphy Park.

But they thought the renderings on the presentation didn’t look like the park they know.

It’s not just a few people either.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is involved with the group – downtown business owners and civic leaders are all in too.

But the City of Glendale said this is all a miscommunication and no decisions have been made on any renovation.

City officials have only hired a design firm and they said those renderings in the presentation were just generic pictures the firm came up with to show what could happen.

As for the xeriscape comment, city officials said they don’t know where that came from, but there’s no park plan at all.

—William Pitts, 12 News

Glendale Chamber joins Equality and Fairness for All Americans Coalition

Tue, 31 May 2022 16:55:51 GMT

Chamber News | May 31, 2022

Mission is to advance federal protections for LGBTQ Americans in employment, housing, public accommodationsGlendale Chamber joined the Equality and Fairness for All Americans Coalition (EQFFAA) on Thursday as a member to advance federal protections for LGBTQ Americans in employment, housing, credit, education, jury service, and public accommodations.

The nationwide coalition is composed of bipartisan and diverse stakeholders from the LGBTQ, faith and business communities including Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association, Arizona Technology Council, Local First Arizona, the Arizona Coyotes, and the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The EQFFAA aims to end the partisan gridlock that has stalled equality efforts in Congress, using core tenets and language of the Equality and Fairness for All Acts. The Coalition’s goal is to gain bipartisan support for federal legislation that can unite all Americans around the nation’s core values of freedom, fairness, and opportunity to make lasting and impactful change, a Chamber news release states.

Support for LGBTQ non-discrimination protections has continued to grow in recent years across religious and political affiliations. More than 94% of Fortune 500 companies have non-discrimination policies that include gender identity and/or sexual orientation.

Additionally, a 2020 poll from the nonpartisan Public Religion Research Institute found that 76% of Americans favor laws that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations.

“We believe there is a path forward for equality and fairness for all Americans through dialogue, collaboration, and compromise, which is why we were proud to join the Coalition,” Glendale Chamber President and CEO, Robert W. Heidt, Jr. shared in a statement. “We have a once in a generation opportunity to pass landmark legislation within the next year to bring federal protections and opportunity to millions of Americans.”

Last year’s historic Supreme Court decision in Bostock v. Clayton County Georgia brought federal protections to LGBTQ Americans in employment for businesses over 15 employees.

However, LGBTQ Americans do not have federal protections in housing or public accommodations, meaning it is not illegal to deny someone service or housing based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Currently only 21 states, Washington D.C., and 330 cities and counties have non-discrimination laws that includes protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable to harassment and discrimination.

The Coalition supports legislation modeled after multiple states and municipalities that protects LGBTQ people in employment, housing, and public accommodations, but also allows religious organizations to continue receiving government funds for education and social services.

In addition, the Coalition supports lowering the employment threshold for protections from 15 to 0, which would bring federal protections to millions more Americans. The Coalition is also seeking a ban on the harmful practice of conversion therapy, which would save countless LGBTQ lives.

“The model we’re supporting has been successful across the country - and we believe reflects the only chance before the 2022 election, and perhaps in a generation - to advance protections for LGTBQ people and millions of other Americans in critical aspects of daily life,” Lynda Vescio, 2023 Chair Elect Glendale Chamber, Law Offices of Vescio & Seifert, P.C., stated.

Visit EqualityandFairness.com to learn more about the Equality and Fairness for All Coalition.

— Glendale Independent

Registration for West Valley Biz 2 Biz Expo in Glendale open now

Fri, 27 May 2022 00:41:37 GMT

Chamber News | May 26, 2022

Annual event takes place this August Annual event takes place this August What: Biz 2 Biz Expo Where: Glendale Civic Center, 5750 W. Glenn Drive , Glendale Registration Deadline: Friday, July 29 More Information: Call Robert Heidt at 623-937-4754 5750 W. Glenn Drive Glendale, AZ Glendale Civic Center 5750 W. Glenn Drive Glendale, AZ Hosted by five of the West Valley...

Read Full Story Here

2022 4th Annual Military Induction Ceremony

Tue, 17 May 2022 18:26:42 GMT

Chamber News | May 6, 2022

Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers

Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce Military & Veterans Affairs Committee partnered to host the 4th Annual Military Induction Ceremony to honor nearly 200 inductees enlisting into the U.S. Armed Forces at the CalvaryPHX - Northwest Campus on May 9. 2022.

Our military community which included active-duty personnel, Guard and Reserve personnel, Veterans and the respective families gathered to support these new recruits. The mayor along with Maria Brunner, 2018 Chair of the Board, Glendale Chamber of Commerce, and U.S. Military officials honored each inductee with a ceremonial stole, their first challenge coin, and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Mayor’s office.

The honorable event also included the ceremonial administering of military oath, a musical video tribute from Command Chief Randy Kwiatkowski and hymns sung by Sounds of the Southwest Singers. The keynote speakers were Robin Rand, a retired United States Air Force four-star general and former commander of Luke Air Force Base and Brigadier General Lonnie J. Branum, Jr., Arizona Army National Guard. Rick DeBruhl, former 12News TV reporter and anchor and currently one of the TV voices of the Barrett Jackson collector car auctions, was the master of ceremonies.

Thanks to all for dedicating their efforts to providing recognition, support and assistance to our local military community and a special thanks to event sponsors: CalvaryPHX, D&L Press, Ideal Insurance, Sanderson Ford, Sands Chevrolet, Sounds of the Southwest Singers, Valley Schools, Veregy, and Waltz Construction.

If you were unable to view the livestream you can watch the ceremony here .

For event photos click here .

Innovation Challenge nets $5K for 3 Glendale Community College students

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 21:50:03 GMT

Business News | March 4, 2022

Sophia Acosta, left, was the Innovation Challenge’s first-place winner. Also pictured is Ning Duong, SVP, Chief Operating Officer at Credit Union West, the event’s financial sponsor.

Three Glendale Community College students won $5,000 in prize money at the GCC Innovation Challenge in February.

This is the third consecutive year that GCC has held this competition, which is open to campus student-entrepreneurs to pitch their business or product ideas. Credit Union West, a long-standing partner and supporter of this event, has sponsored the cash prizes for the Innovation Challenge three years in a row.

These three students won for their business ideas at the final competition at the Innovation Challenge.

Sophia Acosta, the first-place winner, won $2,500 for her pitch for a financial app idea, “Finance Friend.” The app is geared toward high school and college students as an educational resource and money management tool to learn good money habits and strategies and limit higher education debt.
The second-place winner, Carson Roubison, won $1,500 for his nonprofit idea called “Kindness Through Your Lens” that will give elementary school children a creative outlet as storytelling through photography.
The third-place winner, Megan Bonno, has already started her business, Designs from Threads, which is an embroidery shop specializing in uniforms and custom designs for businesses and customers. Hers is a minority-owned business whose mission is to offer people with autism a great place to work as well as be an advocate for equal pay for people with disabilities.

The three winners will have the chance to represent GCC at The Big Pitch, a competition across all 10 Maricopa County colleges. The students will pitch their ideas on Wednesday, April 13 to win cash prizes totaling $25,000.

The judging panel for the final competition included Ning Duong, SVP, Chief Operating Officer at Credit Union West; Kelli List Wells, owner of Charley’s Sports Grill and education committee member for the Glendale Chamber of Commerce; Yolanda Facio, Small Business Development Center advisor and small business adjunct faculty at GCC; and Brent Kleinman, GCC business communication faculty.

Faculty members who made the event possible include Dr. Gabriela Cojanu, founder of the GCC Innovation Challenge student pitching competition and Small Business Management and Entrepreneurial Studies GCC faculty; and faculty members Heather Merrill, Brent Kleinman, Rachelle Hall, Kendra Swenson, Janet Brooks and Yoland Facio.

Learn about entrepreneurship education and funding opportunities at gccaz.edu/innovation-hub . To support student entrepreneurs through grants and events such as the Innovation Challenge, donate to the GCC Achieve fund by clicking here and selecting “GCC Achieve Fund GC #4513-1” in the designation drop-down.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Independent.

Developers break ground on Westgate apartment project

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 18:57:40 GMT

Business News | March 2, 2022

Members of the Glendale city council, city officials and the chamber of commerce shovel scoops of dirt during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Cardinal 95 luxury apartment complex. Cardinal 95 is planned to have 198 units on 10 acres of the larger Urban 95 planned area development. Cardinal 95 is the first phase of that development.

(Photo by Lori German/city of Glendale)

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce and Vision Capital Partners celebrated the groundbreaking on Feb. 17 on the Cardinal 95 luxury apartment complex slated for 10 acres at 95th and Georgia avenues near the Westgate Entertainment District.

Several Glendale city officials and staff joined VCP and the chamber to mark the occasion.

VCP founder and managing partner Ed Bailey said he expects the 198-unit multifamily development to be completed next year. VCP will market the new apartments as luxury, but “with the price points of a medium apartment,” he said.

The new development is part of a larger 45-acre planned area development called Urban 95, which, Bailey said, was approved for up to 1,400 apartments, as well as retail and office space. The new apartment complex is the first phase of development planned for Urban 95.

With the Super Bowl coming to State Farm Stadium next year and construction workers down the street working on Crystal Lagoons Island Resort, the district is booming and the mood at the groundbreaking ceremony was upbeat.

In remarks at the ceremony, Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers reflected on the changes that have taken place in this part of Glendale, telling a story about growing up in Maryvale beginning in 1966.

“A lot of these farmers when they would do their hay,” Weiers said, referring to the fields behind him. “My dad had a deal worked out with them that we would go out and we would pick up all of the broken bales of hay, and I’m pretty convinced that right in this area I picked up a lot of bales of broken hay.”

Weiers said the $50 million project is another sign of how far Glendale has come.

“This to me adds one more layer of proof that … Glendale is a place people should come, that they should want to be, and we welcome,” he said. “In fact, we’re energized by every time that you guys make that decision to come to Glendale to build something new to invest your life dollars.”

VCP is no stranger to the area. The private equity firm has had a stake in the area for 22 years and invested close to $500 million, Bailey said, helping develop many amenities, usually as a lender, including Cabela’s, Zanjero Apartments and Cracker Barrel, among others. Bailey said VCP once owned all the land “from Cardinal Way down to Walmart.”

Bailey’s company has weathered boom times and bust in the Westgate District, and he said the area has witnessed a surge of interest from developers.

“It’s been a terrible return on investment until now, and now it’s just booming,” he said. “Pretty crazy stuff going on in Glendale. … There’s almost kind of a buying frenzy for land in the Westgate area. I get, I bet on average, one call a day — 75% apartment guys, but retail and hotel guys looking at it, too.”

At the ceremony, Bailey thanked the city for its support for Cardinal 95 and prior projects. Weiers, in his remarks, promised VCP that the city would work hard to usher construction through all the permitting processes.

“I’m going to make a commitment to you: Your contractor is going to be the one you’re waiting on, not the city of Glendale,” he said to a burst of cheers. “I have a group of people committed to make sure our projects are done — that you’re not waiting for us.”

After the ritual turning of dirt with golden shovels by city officials and project partners, Weiers jumped in a John Deere backhoe to break ground on a larger scale with a half dozen or so scoops.

This story was originally publishes in the Glendale Star.

Upcoming Glendale Chamber webinar to give marketing tips

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 21:16:41 GMT

Chamber News | February 25, 2022

The Glendale Chamber Marketing Committee will host an upcoming webinar under the topic “Content Marketing For Small Business.”

Taking place from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 over Zoom, the talk will feature a virtual presentation from Christopher Amos of No Boundaries Marketing Group.

Learn how experts create new content and how it can benefit your business. Items up for discussion include content for websites, blogging, social media, and more.

Available only to the first 100 people who register.

A link will be emailed to those registered the day before.

Support Equality and Fairness for All Arizonans and All Americans

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:09:02 GMT

Chamber News | February 18, 2022

We are proud to announce that on Mon. Feb. 7th, Representative Amish Shah and House Speaker Rusty Bowers filed HB2802, a historic bi-partisan bill known as the Equality and Fairness for All Arizonans Act. This bill extends Arizona's current non-discrimination law to LGBTQ Arizonans in employment, housing and public accommodations, while protecting religious rights for institutions of faith. This bill also bans conversion therapy for licensed healthcare professionals.

As Robert Heidt, President and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of commerce put it, “It’s about equal protections, not special protections. 94% of Fortune 500 companies have non-discrimination policies that include gender identity & sexual orientation, and it’s time for us to have a non-discrimination policy to match.”

Our support is strong in Arizona, and our bi-partisan national coalition continues to grow. But the clock is ticking. We must act now to ensure that another election cycle does not pass without full citizenship for everyone.

The Equality and Fairness for All Americans framework will be the largest advancement in civil rights in a generation.

We need your help today to pass legislation that will fundamentally change lives for generations to come.

Join our coalition today by signing the Equality and Fairness for All Americans pledge.

If you have joined us already, thank you! Please share this email with your network to help us move Equality and Fairness For All Americans forward.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly should you have any questions or prefer a more in-depth discussion on this critically important issue.

Thank you in advance. We are better together!

~Angela and the ONE Community Team

Join our member-based coalition of businesses and organizations who support and promote diversity, inclusion and equality at www.ONECommunity.co . Support our non-discrimination educational work towards an Arizona that celebrates, respects and protects us all at www.OCFAZ.org . Take the UNITY Pledge, the largest equality pledge in the nation at www.OpenAZ.com .

Alliance advocates for business

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 21:17:48 GMT

Chamber News | February 21, 2022

Five West Valley chambers, collectively known as the West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance, have been advocating for properity in the West Valley for more than 20 years.

Through the alliance, the Buckeye Valley, Glendale, Southwest Valley, Surprise Regional and Wickenburg chambers of commerce provide opportunities for their business leaders to influence civic, social and business initiatives that support community growth.

“The collaboration between the five leading West Valley chambers of commerce allows us to have a broader impact on important issues affecting our business community,” said Robert Heidt, the Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s president and chief executive officer.

It produces programs that promote best practices by convening leadership from around the West Valley to advocate for pro-business solutions.

In 2018, the alliance hired Alexis Glasscock of Fennemore to represent business interests at the state level as the group’s lobbyist.

Each year, the alliance produces the Legislative Report Card, which represents the alliance’s positions as communicated to West Valley legislators throughout the year’s legislative session.

In 2021, the alliance supported legislation pertaining to Western water and transportation infrastructure, reducing prescription drug costs, increasing educational credential attainment and funding, advancing workforce development, and supporting equality and fairness for all Arizonans.

It hosts the West Valley Biz 2 Biz Expo each year; this year it is 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, at the Glendale Civic Center. West Valley businesses can showcase their products and services to thousands of decision makers at the event.

This story was originally published on Westvalleyview.com

West Valley Chambers Of Commerce Alliance (WVCCA), Advocating For A Prosperous Business Community.

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:50:03 GMT

Chamber News | February 14, 2022

Glendale, AZ, February – The West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance (WVCCA), comprised of the five leading Chambers in the West Valley including the Buckeye Valley, Glendale, Southwest Valley, Surprise Regional, and Wickenburg Chambers of Commerce has been advocating for prosperity in the West Valley for over 20 years. Working in collaboration, the Alliance provides opportunities for its business leaders to influence civic, social, and business initiatives that support community growth.

The WVCCA produces joint programs that promote best practices by convening leadership from around the West Valley to advocate for pro-business solutions. In 2018, the Alliance hired Alexis Glasscock of Fennemore to represent the interests of business at the state level as the group’s lobbyist. This relationship has been integral in moving the needle towards a thriving economic climate. Each year the WVCCA produces a Legislative Report Card which represents the positions of the Alliance as communicated to West Valley Legislators throughout the year’s legislative session. In 2021, the Alliance supported legislation pertaining to western water and transportation infrastructure, reducing prescription drug costs, increasing educational credential attainment, and funding, advancing workforce development, and supporting equality and fairness for all Arizonans.

The WVCCA also hosts the West Valley Biz 2 Biz Expo each year. This year’s event will be held August 17th at the Glendale Civic Center from 4:00 PM -7:00 PM and offers an unparalleled opportunity for all businesses throughout the West Valley and beyond to showcase their products and services to hundreds of decision makers

Click Here To View The West Valley Chambers Of Commerce Alliance (WVCCA), Advocating For A Prosperous Business Community.

This story was originally published in americantowns.com

Deadline approaches for local Arizona businesses to apply to be Super Bowl supplier

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 20:13:32 GMT

Business News | February 15, 2022

GLENDALE, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) -- The 2023 Super Bowl in Arizona is still a year away, but the deadline for businesses to apply to cash in on the action is fast approaching. Businesses have until Feb. 28, 2022, to apply to be vendors, suppliers, and sub-contractors.

Glendale’s Chamber of Commerce CEO and President Robert Heidt said he's making sure Glendale’s local businesses know about it, and the NFL’s Super Bowl Host Committee’s conscious push to select 51% minority, women, veteran, & LGBTQ+ owned businesses. It’s one of several eligibility requirements. Businesses must also have been in operation and have ad an office since February 2019.

“We are working to get the word out to the business community about all the ways businesses can participate," he said. "To pull off an event of this magnitude, you need many different business in industry segments and our job is to make sure a that the application is out there. They need to apply by Feb. 28 , and to make sure they know it's not just any one type of industry whether it be food or beverage. It's everything to pull off an event."

Bitzee Mama’s was selected to be a vendor at the 2015’s Super Fan Fest by the Cardinal’s stadium. Co-owner Lulu Rodriguez. Super Fan Fest 2015 was right by the stadium. It was a three-day, 10-concert paid ticketed event which included Snoop Dogg, Imagine Dragons, & Becky G

“I was at first worried because I had not done any big events at all, and we ended up going for the biggest. It was an honor to get picked and show what we’re about,” said Lulu Rodriguez, co-owner of Bitzee Mama’s. “We sold over 1,000 burritos in three days, and to hear some fans say they never had a burrito and tamale or green chili was mind-blowing. We made money, the best part. But having fun and experiencing it all. Even with the rain, the energy was wild.”

"There are so many amazing partners that will come together to pull the Super Bowl off for our state," Heidt said. "It's a great time to showcase all that Arizona has to offer. All we have to do is shine and we do that every single day. We just have to do it on a global scale."

This story was published on azfamily.com

Deadline approaches for local Arizona businesses to apply to be Super Bowl supplier

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 20:05:55 GMT

Business News | February 15, 2022

Deadline approaches for local Arizona businesses to apply to be Super Bowl supplier

This story was published on MSN News.

Heidt: Vote ‘no’ on SB 1161 to protect health insurance in Arizona

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 23:35:36 GMT

Chamber News | February 8, 2022

Dear Editor: As businesses continue to recover from the interruptions caused by the pandemic, the last thing hardworking Arizona companies and employees need is higher health care costs.

That is why, on behalf of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, we are opposed to Arizona Senate Bill 1161 (SB 1161) and respectfully ask West Valley residents to urge your Representatives and Senators to vote no on SB1161.

If signed into law, SB 1161 would impose heavy-handed government interference in how our businesses build health coverage plans, ultimately raising both the cost of providing health care benefits for employers AND increasing employees' out-of-pocket costs.

This bill would even prohibit employers from communicating openly with employees about options for filling their prescriptions at a lower cost.

In addition, our chamber opposes unnecessary state regulation, cost-shifting, coverage requirements, and government mandates while encouraging a fair, competitive, free market environment. This bill is a mandate that will affect large and small employers throughout Arizona, our employees, and millions of hardworking Arizona families.

While our Chamber works to support businesses through the challenges of the pandemic, we respectfully ask that you protect us and them from prescription drug cost increases and harmful regulations by voting NO on SB 1161.

Respectfully,

Robert W. Heidt, Jr. President & CEO

Glendale Chamber

This letter was originally published on YourValley.net

Latter-day Saint leaders support Arizona’s new gay rights bill. Here’s what they’ve said on the issue in the past

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 23:29:07 GMT

Business News | February 07, 2022

Latter-day Saint leaders expressed support Monday for a new bill in Arizona that would provide religious freedom and LGBT anti-discrimination protections.

Why it matters: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people face discrimination in housing and employment.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints helped propose and support the 2015 Utah Compromise that extended legal protections in housing and employment to LGBT people while simultaneously codifying protections for religious liberty.

The church now has announced support for both the new Arizona bill and the federal Fairness for All Act before Congress.

Leaders from major LGBT advocacy groups were joined by Arizona political, business and religious leaders, including the speaker of the Republican-controlled House and the mayor of Mesa. The news conference can be viewed on Facebook.

The Church of Jesus Christ did not speak at the news conference but released a statement afterward on an official church website: “The church is pleased to be part of a coalition of faith, business, LGBTQ people and community leaders who have worked together in a spirit of trust and mutual respect to address issues that matter to all members of our community. It is our position that this bipartisan bill preserves the religious rights of individuals and communities of faith while protecting the rights of members of the LGBTQ community, consistent with the principles of fairness for all.”

Learn more about the Arizona bill here.

The bigger picture: Congress and statehouses around the nation are grappling with balancing LGBTQ protection and religious liberty.

In 2019, when the bill known as the Fairness for All Act was introduced in Congress, Latter-day Saint leadership said, “the nation is more united when diverse individuals and groups can work cooperatively to advance sound policy.”

In November, President Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency said the nation’s believers should respect legal efforts to protect people from discrimination as much as they desire to protect religious liberty.

“We must not allow fears about losing our own freedoms make us insensitive to others’ claims for theirs,” he said at the University of Virginia. “Let us unite with those who advocate nondiscrimination to seek a culture and laws that respect the rights of all to the equal protection of the law and the right to the free exercise of religion.”

Who was there: Monday’s press conference included a leaders from a wide range of Arizona leadership.

Rep. Rusty Bowers, the Republican speaker of Arizona’s House of Representatives, and two state representatives, Rep. Amish Shah and Rep. Daniel Hernandez, who are Democrats, attended. Mesa Mayor John Giles also attended. The Arizona bill is sponsored by Shah and co-sponsored by Bowers.

Three LGBT advocacy groups joined the announcement, including Michael Soto, executive director of Equality Arizona; Angela Hughey, president of ONE Community; and Nate Rhoton, executive director of one.n.ten, which supports LGBTQ youth.

Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, and John Graham, CEO and chairman of Sunbelt Holdings, represented the business community.

Bishop Jennifer Reddall, of the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, was joined by several local faith leaders, including Latter-day Saints.

This story was originally published in Desert News.

Equality and Fairness for All Americans Coalition Launches to Advance Federal Protections for LGBTQ Americans

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 22:31:37 GMT

Business News | December 1, 2021

(Phoenix, Ariz. December 1st, 2021) – Today, the Equality and Fairness for All Americans Coalition launched to advance federal civil rights protections for LGBTQ Americans in employment, housing, credit, education, jury service and public accommodations.

The Coalition, led by ONE Community and Equality Arizona, aims to end the partisan gridlock that has stalled equality efforts in Congress. The Coalition’s goal is to gain bipartisan support for federal legislation that can unite all Americans around our nation’s core values of freedom, fairness, and opportunity to make lasting and impactful change. The nationwide coalition is composed of bipartisan and diverse stakeholders from the LGBTQ, faith and business communities including Local First Arizona, Glendale Chamber of Commerce, Arizona Coyotes, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Rising, The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation, Upward Projects, the Bishops of the Desert Southwest Conference of the United Methodist Church & the Episcopal Diocese of Arizona, and the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Phoenix.

Support for LGBTQ non-discrimination protections has continued to grow in recent years across religious and political affiliations. Over 94% of Fortune 500 companies have non-discrimination policies that include gender identity and/or sexual orientation. Additionally, a 2020 poll from the nonpartisan Public Religion Research Institute found that seventy-six percent of Americans favor laws that would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing and public accommodations.

“We believe there is a path forward for equality and fairness for all Americans. We have a once in a generation opportunity to pass landmark legislation within the next year to bring federal protections and opportunity to millions of Americans,” said Angela Hughey, President of ONE Community and Coalition co-founder.

Last year’s historic Supreme Court decision in Bostock v. Clayton County Georgia brought federal civil rights protections to LGBTQ Americans in employment for businesses over fifteen employees. However, LGBTQ Americans do not have federal civil rights protections in housing or public accommodations, meaning it is not illegal to deny someone service or housing based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Currently fewer than half the states in the country and less than 2% of cities and counties have non-discrimination laws that include civil rights protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable to harassment and discrimination.

The genesis of the Equality and Fairness for All Coalition comes from the historic efforts in Arizona to successfully pass an LGBTQ-inclusive non-discrimination ordinance in Mesa, Arizona in employment, housing and public accommodations. The Mesa ordinance had broad support from diverse and bipartisan stakeholders such as Republican Mayor John Giles, Senator Kyrsten Sinema, the business community, and the faith community, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“With the success of our efforts in Mesa, Arizona we feel we have a template that can be successful on a national level, bringing immediate relief to millions of Americans who live in fear of discrimination and have no legal recourse. We believe non-discrimination laws should and can protect both religious and LGBTQ rights. Many people of faith are also LGBTQ and many LGBTQ people are people of faith,” said Michael Soto, Executive Director of Equality Arizona and Coalition co-founder.

“We are all God’s children, and we need to treat others, as we want to be treated ourselves. Religion is meant to include not exclude, and we all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, without exception. We believe there is a path forward that can provide fair protections for all Americans regardless of who you are, who you love or what you believe,” said Rev. Marian Edmonds-Allen, Executive Director of Parity.

“Equality and fairness are not red or blue issues – they’re American values. All hard-working people, including those who are LGBTQ, want to do their jobs and provide for their families. LGBTQ people want the same thing as everyone else -- the freedom to work hard, access basic services, and take care of themselves and their loved ones without fear of discrimination. It’s time to advance federal protections that guarantee these rights,” said Tyler Deaton, Senior Advisor of American Unity Fund.

The Equality and Fairness for All Coalition supports:

Protecting all Americans in employment, education, housing, credit, jury service and public accommodations, including members of the LGBTQ community.
Banning conversion therapy, protecting millions of LGBTQ Americans, from harm. This universally damaging practice has been condemned by every major medical association and many religious leaders.
Reducing the minimum number of employees needed for protections from fifteen (15) to zero (0), which would drastically expand the number of Americans protected against employment discrimination based on race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, color, creed, national origin, and religion.
Allowing religious institutions to continue to receive federal dollars for social services and education.

Learn more about the Equality and Fairness for All Coalition and join the effort at: EqualityandFairness.com

Chandler Chamber session aims at lack of bias ban

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 23:51:00 GMT

Photo courtesy: Chandler Chamber of Commerce

Ten Arizona cities have adopted a LGBTQ non-discrimination ordinance and Chandler is the largest city in the state that has not done so.

The Chandler Chamber of Commerce held a roundtable last week to push for one.

“It’s important because it’s good business, and it’s the right thing to do,” said Jane Poston, who chairs the Chamber board. “And I think our community – and our business community – is behind this. Many of our businesses already have these kinds of policies.”

Chandler City Council earlier this month commissioned a study to look at the issue. Activists at the Chamber’s session Oct. 26 expressed hope the city is following a familiar path that other municipalities followed before they ended up passing a non-discrimination ordinance.

To get one, they will need four Council votes. It appears they only have two, with OD Harris and Matt Orlando expressing support. The rest of Council preferred passing a non-binding resolution.

“They need to understand that discrimination in any form is bad and we want to be a fully welcoming city,” said Rick Heumann, a former vice mayor who is taking over as the Chamber’s board chairman in 2022. “We have other cities that have passed this and we haven’t. I’ve heard comments like ‘everybody loves everybody in Chandler, well, what is the issue?’”

He said the job ahead for proponents is to educate the mayor and council members. Stating one council member was concerned about religion, Heumann pointed out there is a religious exemption in the ordinance that other cities have passed.

He heard another say they had concerns about criminal action and he responded there is only the possibility of civil fines, not criminal charges. Another, he said, talked about quotas. Heumann said the ordinance would have no hiring or other quotas.

Angela Hughey, co-founder and president of ONE Community, has been lobbying cities around the state to pass an ordinance. She said so far no one has been fined because of the non-discrimination ordinances.

“I’m going to give credit to the business community,” said Neil Giuliano, the former Tempe mayor and current president and CEO of Greater Phoenix Leadership. “Because for decades, nothing was happening, and then the business community started adopting policies for their employees that said, we’re going to treat all our employees the same.”

Tim Bourcet, the vice president of government and community affairs with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, said businesses took a lead on this issue because they want the best talent.

“I know if I’m a business owner, and I have employees with me, I want them to feel safe, I want them to feel secure,” he said. “I want them to know that where they work they can be happy, and plentiful, and part of the team.

“Because of that, they want to be located, exist and operate in communities where that is not a factor.”

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce played a key role in getting a non-discrimination ordinance passed in that West Valley city. Robert Heidt, the president and CEO of the group, said it took some convincing.

“From one of the folks in our student leadership, they said, ‘Glendale Chamber, Robert you’re out of your lane,’” he said. “And I respectfully said, ‘We put our blinker on and we merged over.’”

He called the non-discrimination ordinance a business issue and something chambers of commerce should be working on.

Hughey said LGBTQ members and their allies represent about a trillion dollars in economic buying power.

“We vote with our wallet,” she said. “We want to live in places that are inclusive, we want to visit places that are inclusive.”

She said she has not been to Chandler in a very long time.

“I’m having a heck of a time taking my wife hiking in Mesa, Arizona now,” she said. “I’m having a really good time going out to eat in Scottsdale, Arizona now. And I spend a lot of time in Glendale, Arizona now.

“When you multiply that by our friends and family, this is a missed opportunity to really have an authentic connection with LGBTQ and allied Arizonans and people who travel throughout this big, bold, beautiful state.”

Tucson was the first Arizona city to pass a LGBTQ non-discrimination ordinance in 1999. It was followed by Phoenix, Tempe, Flagstaff, Sedona, Winslow, Mesa, Scottsdale, Glendale and Tolleson.

Most of the ordinances are for all businesses no matter how small. However, Mesa exempted businesses with fewer than five employees. Glendale and Tolleson followed the Mesa version.

“It’s never easy anywhere,” Giuliano said. “You are dealing with a lot of what our culture has taught people to believe for a very long time, at least people in my generation. You have to break that down.”

“I know if I’m a business owner, and I have employees with me, I want them to feel safe, I want them to feel secure.” – Tim Bourcet

This story was originally published in the SanTan Sun News.

West is best?: Development scarce at ASU West

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 20:40:46 GMT

Chamber News | October 2, 2021

Arizona State University’s sprawling West campus, located in Phoenix on the border with Glendale. ASU West currently does not have any development projects in the works. COURTESY OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

Arizona State University is expanding its reach across the Valley with development projects in progress at what seems like every campus.

From ASU Downtown’s new Fusion on First housing to Tempe’s Novus Innovation Corridor to a beefed-up presence headed for Mesa, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., the university seems to be at the peak of its growth.

But one campus where dirt appears to be undisturbed is ASU West, which resides at the edge of Phoenix and boasts a Glendale mailing address. Founded 35 years ago, the West Valley campus has no development projects in the works, an ASU spokesperson confirmed.

According to John P. Creer, ASU’s vice president of real estate, that might not be the case for long.

“ASU is updating its master plan to create an innovation zone to enhance West campus and engage the community,” he said.

Creer added ASU does not own much more land beyond the current campus, forcing ASU West to be more creative when it comes to enhancing the student experience. The ASU charter, which the university follows, states “development and investment is viewed through this lens of serving the community,” he said.

“As the West campus master plan is updated, it will improve amenities for West campus students, faculty and staff, provide opportunities to invite surrounding communities to the campus for work, play or living, and include open space for recreation and outdoor activities,” said Creer.

Todd Sandrin, vice provost of ASU West, said campus development is ongoing, even if nothing has been publicized about it.

“Over the past year, ASU has invested $7.3 million in 12,000 square feet, including new teaching and research laboratory space, a new art gallery and a new Future Sun Devils Welcome Center for students and families to learn more about joining the West campus community,” he said.

In recent years, the campus has seen growth through new projects and renovations alike. In 2013, ASU West received a new dining hall and fitness complex, valued at more than $52 million. In 2018, a new 24,000-square-foot classroom building was built at a cost of nearly $10 million.

Those enhancements are more than just physical, said Sandrin.

“Today, ASU West serves thousands of students in nearly 120 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs from seven ASU schools and colleges,” he said. “Each year, academic program offerings expand to meet increased workforce and marketplace demands in subjects such as applied computing, natural sciences, teacher education, criminal justice, nursing, global business and accountancy — the dedicated faculty who teach those subjects are top-caliber experts in their fields.”

Sandrin also pointed to ASU West’s close ties with the local community as one of its strengths outside of growth, including partnerships with West Valley community colleges for successful student transfers. The campus even welcomed families from the neighborhood to watch Disney’s “Cruella” for a Movies on the Lawn series this past Friday.

“West campus’s presence among suburban neighborhoods facilitates our ongoing connections to the community,” said Sandrin.

Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, said ASU’s community investment has been invaluable, particularly in attracting a skilled workforce to the West Valley.

“ASU has been a very strategic and vital partner to the chamber and many organizations in the West Valley,” he said. “We have them obviously involved in our chamber board and our policy committee, our education committee. They’re involved in probably almost every one of the business organizations, perhaps, in the West Valley. They’ve got some footprint or touch in there. So they’re very key to us in terms of their engagement. And then, naturally, they’re one of our conduits, as we work to welcome in many of these new businesses and companies to Glendale.”

While Heidt said he would welcome any and all development at ASU West as the West Valley — and the city of Glendale — continues to grow its population, he’s fine with enhancements they’ve done to improve the campus.

“I don’t view that as a negative because since I’ve been here, they’ve continually added and/or enhanced the campus, and I think that’s one of the things that makes it unique, so we’ve been fortunate,” he said. “The West campus has a very authentic, kind of natural feel, and I think that’s of value to us, because sometimes it’s overwhelming. I think they’ve used creative uses of that space, and/or where students need to go to get the best experience, if you will.”

Heidt added land previously occupied by the Thunderbird School of Global Management, which has since moved to a soon-to-be-opened building at ASU Downtown, has since been sold to Arizona Christian University, making undeveloped land scarce. Now, it’s about what he calls “responsible growth.”

“I think it’s just that responsible growth,” he said. “All development is good, but it has to come in waves and at the right time.”

Story originally published on Yourvalley.net

Chamber teams with Sky Harbor for discounts

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 00:16:45 GMT

Chamber News | August 22, 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to provide parking benefits to businesses that are members of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce.

Members will get a 15% discount on “online rates” at five parking locations at the airport. These locations are the West Economy Garage, parking at terminals 3 and 4, the East Economy Lot and garages A and B. Valet services are expected to be available soon.

There is also a special that is valid through Sept. 1, in which these businesses and their employees will instead get 25% off, in addition to “2,000 loyalty points for new sign-ups.”

The parking lots are “ADA-accessible, safe, well-lit and patrolled regularly.”

For more information, visit glendaleazchamber.org and click on “cost-saving benefits and services.”

Amber Wilson, senior director of policy, education, workforce and strategic initiatives for the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, said this partnership is aimed at providing continued value to the chamber’s members.

“I think the goal from the chamber’s perspective is just to add more value to chamber membership and to again acknowledge the importance of the economic impact of the business community, which is what we do to support our members,” she said. “So, it’s just another cost-savings benefit that you get if you’re a chamber member.”

Wilson said these new parking benefits at Sky Harbor are part of a larger array of benefits the chamber is providing to its members.

“I think it’s important that if you’re not a member of our chamber that you take a look at those benefits and really understand how valuable chamber membership is,” Wilson said.

She is also appreciative of the effort put forth by Sky Harbor.

“I think it sends a message that the airport values the economic impact of the business community and wants to recognize that through offering these discounts,” Wilson said.

Heather Shelbrack, public information manager for Sky Harbor, said this program is part of a larger Sky Harbor Corporate Discount Program, which is aimed at giving back to the community.

“We want to provide programs for everyone in our community so they may also be able to book touchless parking and access special offers and perks,” she said.

“We are currently piloting the program with several different organizations and companies in the Phoenix travel community.”

She said that because so many of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s members are small businesses, the partnership “was a natural fit.” Shelbrack said that Sky Harbor also wants to help give back to these communities because they help the airport’s business, too.

“In an effort to support the local community and organizations that help drive Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, we wanted to give back by providing programs for all types of organizations, especially small businesses, that are starting to increase travel,” she said.

Shelbrack said the partnership with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce is an extension of a program that was put into place last year. They hope to expand it.

“We want to engage the broader community and have a relationship with our valued customers of all types as they travel through Phoenix,” she said.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Star.

American Roofing & Waterproofing lays roots in Glendale

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 17:02:17 GMT

Chamber News | August 17, 2021

Mayor Jerry Weiers and Councilmember Jamie Aldama took part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside American Roofing & Waterproofing owner Kirk Mannor. The company’s management team as well as staff from Glendale Chamber of Commerce joined the event.

American Roofing & Waterproofing, a large-scale Arizona-based roofing contracting company, purchased an industrial parcel in Glendale.

The new office has been completely renovated and opened for business after hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Jerry Weiers, Councilmember Jamie Aldama and Glendale Chamber of Commerce officials last month.

The leadership team plans to hire more employees based in the Glendale headquarters, serving as the company’s hub for statewide operations.

“We are excited about our growth and the opportunities that owning industrial parcels like this present to our business,” said Kirk Mannor, CEO of American Roofing & Waterproofing.

“Glendale is now our home, and we hope to be a part of the positive economic trends that are happening here.”

The parcel, located at 5210 W. Missouri Avenue, near Grand Avenue, features 9,500 square feet of office space and warehouse space on the 28,000-square-foot lot.

The office space offers customers an opportunity to come in and speak with a representative and view a variety of samples.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Star.

Nominate a Glendale military member, family member for service

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 17:57:05 GMT

Chamber News | August 10, 2021

[METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION]

The Glendale Chamber Military & Veterans Affairs Committee will recognize the U.S. Active Duty and Reservists or their spouses who go above and beyond the call of duty to serve their country and their community.

Those eligible are U.S Air Force, U.S. Space Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Navy, U.S National Guard and Reservists from each branch.

Nominations will be awarded weekly for the month of November in honor of Veterans Day.

Residents can nominate someone who is on active duty or a spouse of the military that deserves to be recognized. Describe how a nominee has gone above and beyond the call of duty for the community.

Nomination deadline is Friday, Sept. 3.

Click here to nominate.

This story was originally published in the Daily Independent.

Glendale Chamber Partners with Sky Harbor for Members

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 17:39:43 GMT

Chamber News | August 5, 2021

[MATT YORK/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce announced a newly formed partnership with Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport to provide small businesses with special discounts, perks and an enhanced customer experience when they travel for both business and personal travel.

“As our community works towards re-opening and travel is at an all-time high, we are thrilled to collaborate with Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport to offer Chamber members these value-added cost savings opportunities,” Amber Wilson, the Glendale Chamber’s Senior Director of Policy, Education, Workforce and Strategic Initiatives, stated in a news release. “This partnership acknowledges that the Airport values the economic impact of the local business community, and we appreciate the opportunity to further this important relationship.”

Glendale Chamber of Commerce member companies and their employees will receive a regular airport parking discount of 10% off website rates, and through Sept. 1 will receive 2,000 frequent parker points (1-free day) loaded into new online accounts for a future stay. Good for both employee business and leisure/personal travel.

Visit glendaleazchamber.org/costsavingsprograms.

This Story was originally published in the Daily Independent.

Glendale businesses ‘in a tough spot’ with COVID cases, mask requirements

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 17:39:32 GMT

Business News | August 4, 2021

The numbers clearly show a rise in COVID cases, hospitalizations and even deaths. As a result, talk is turning to a potential return to mask mandates indoors.

Like other communities across the country, Glendale is experiencing an uptick in COVID cases. Maricopa County as a whole has a level of community transmission the CDC rates as “high” as of Tuesday. Currently, 59.7% of U.S. counties have “high transmission” and 18.8% have “substantial transmission,” according to CDC data.

And Arizona ranks 36th in fully vaccinated adults in the U.S. and Territories at 55.7%, according to Aug. 3 New York Times data. Vermont (77.9%) currently ranks first, and Alabama (43.3%) comes in last.

As recently as July 27, Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey made clear the state won’t be issuing a mask mandate indoors.

“Arizona does not allow mask mandates, vaccine mandates, vaccine passports or discrimination in schools based on who is or isn’t vaccinated,” Ducey said in a statement. “We’ve passed all of this into law, and it will not change.”

Meanwhile, Glendale Chamber of Commerce CEO Robert Heidt started “taking the pulse” of small local businesses last week as it relates to the businesses themselves deciding whether or not they will require masks inside their premises with COVID numbers surging again.

“As I talk with the small [business] folks within our community, they’re kind of torn where some of them want to have [a re-instituted mask mandate] and just adamantly put it up and post it and won’t worry about the ripple effect or aftermath of it,” Heidt said Tuesday. “Several of them said to me, what makes it easier is when the city or state says you have to wear the masks. Because now it’s a debate with their customers.”

The city of Glendale, which originally mandated mask wearing inside city buildings in June of 2020 and then lifted the requirement in April 2021, as of Aug. 3 is not issuing another mask mandate.

“As a city we are continuing to monitor the number of positive cases. We will adjust policies and city guidelines accordingly,” public information officer Jay Crandall shared in a Tuesday email to the Glendale Independent. “At this time, there are no changes being made.”

Hospitals, too, are reporting an increase in COVID patients.

“Since July 1st, COVID hospitalizations have increased by 95%, and ventilator usage has increased by 300%,” Dr. Marjorie Bessel, chief clinical officer at Banner Health, said in a Tuesday press conference. Headquartered in Arizona, Banner Health is one of the largest nonprofit health care systems in the country, and owns and operates 30 acute-care hospitals in six states. “Hospitalizations, ICU admissions, and ventilator usage are in the 20- to 60-year age group, which is different from prior surges when most patients were over 60 years of age.”

She added that the Delta variant is fueling the virus’ spread in the U.S., particularly among the unvaccinated.

“Roughly 97% of COVID hospitalizations and 99% of deaths are individuals who are unvaccinated,” Bessel said.

Big businesses are considering instituting mask requirements in stores again. Target returned to requiring masks for employees in high-risk counties across the U.S. starting Tuesday.

Heidt said the businesses with whom he’s spoken indicate that a city or state mask mandate would ease pressure on the business itself to require masks.

“It really puts the business community in a tough spot. We know that we are in a very divided marketplace when it comes to people who will wear their mask or won’t wear their mask. Or who think that because they got vaccinated that they might not get sick or they might not be a carrier and get someone else sick,” he said.

“So it’s interesting as you get the different business owners to open up and talk about it, because when it’s mandated it takes the conversation off the table about that particular business from their customers who say I will or won’t support you. At the same time, when those business owners have been bold enough to put up ‘mask required,’ they hear compliments from people who are appreciative of it. But they certainly get the negative impact from people who think it’s ridiculous.”

Heidt added that the Glendale Chamber, in Historic Downtown Glendale, requires employees and visitors to wear masks indoors whether they’ve been vaccinated or not. The Chamber is in the 85301 ZIP code, which has been leading city ZIP codes in total cases throughout the pandemic, followed by 85308.

“I realize [a Chamber mask mandate] may upset a few people. But I don’t want the Chamber to get impacted by this Delta variant to where we can’t provide services,” he added. “Throughout this pandemic we have provided critical services to keep businesses moving forward and to try and provide them help.”

The Glendale Chamber, with 1,400 members, is among the largest of the 60 statewide Chambers'.

“It really comes down to do you follow the data and the science. Are we going to continue to argue semantics over what they heard on this news or what they heard in this tweet or whatever, or really look at what this pandemic has done?” Heidt said. “If we want a healthy business community, we need a healthy workforce. That’s the bottom line.”

This story was originally published in yourvalley.net

Arizona businesses change mask requirements as delta variant spreads

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 17:22:19 GMT

Business News | August 2, 2021

A CDC study found the delta variant spreads as easily as chickenpox. That has made it the dominant strain in the United States and in Arizona, which is forcing businesses and hospitals to once again re-evaluate and update policies.

Less than a week ago, the CDC recommended that everyone in areas with surging COVID-19 cases should wear masks. This is regardless of vaccination status. So, the question is, are businesses enforcing this recommendation?

Walmart and Sam's Club, Target and Home Depot are just some of the recent businesses updating their mask policies due to the surge. Will others hop on the train? Robert Heidt, the president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, thinks so.

"We started surveying businesses last week and I would say that I was pleasantly surprised to see the number who are automatically going to implement some sort of mask policy for their employees or their customers," Heidt told Arizona's Family.

Walmart and Sam's Club say that their employees need to mask up in areas of high infection, which is currently all of Arizona. Target is requiring their employees to starting Tuesday here in the state. And Home Depot started requiring both customers and employees to wear a mask starting Monday.

Customers in the Valley expressed their opinions to Arizona's Family. "I don't think it's necessary. I don't really think the delta variant is as bad as they're saying," said Phoenix resident David Crook. "It would be annoying because 50% of the Arizona population is vaccinated. They are a private business. They do have a right to mandate masks or not," Phoenix resident Christine Wolfe added.

"I will always wear masks anyway. So, sometimes it doesn't really affect me anyway because I'm wearing one anyway," said Ed Princer, who lives in Las Vegas but frequently travels to Phoenix.

But, let's say an Arizona business chooses not to implement these measures? Heidt says that it's their right. "We follow the data. We follow the science. ASU has had some remarkable data throughout the pandemic. So, I think if they're going to do it, they're going to do it. If they're not, they're not," he said.

Banner Health announced Monday they are cutting back on visitors. The rules change based on the county. But, in Maricopa, Gila and Pinal, it's just one visitor per day. Nobody younger than 12 is allowed at all. Mothers in labor may also have one person with them. And, there will be exceptions for things like end-of-life but you need to check with each hospital.

Arizona's Family also spoke with Safeway and Albertsons. They said they'll be releasing an update to their policy Tuesday. For more information on the current surge of COVID-19 cases across the state, visit the state's health department website.

This story was originally published in azfamily.com .

Glendale Chamber Forms Education Committee

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 17:17:51 GMT

Chamber News | August 1, 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce recently formed an education committee to help create dialog around developing a required skill set as employers continue to struggle in their quest for qualified employees.

“Being both an educator and business owner, I feel there is a need to establish a stronger working relationship between both sectors,” committee Chair Angelo Rossetti said.

“Schools and universities are tasked with the mission to develop a pool of educated and responsible citizens who will be productive members of our community. For businesses to grow and be profitable, we need a steady pool of potential employees who are career ready. Forming this alliance allows all members to see how we can further the goals and mission of the committee to support each other. I am excited to see how we can best serve Glendale and the West Valley as it continues to grow.”

Uniting schools, business and the community around educational excellence, real-world learning and mentorship will inspire innovation, drive growth and attract investment.

“A workforce developed and trained to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing, increasingly technical environment will almost guarantee high-quality employment opportunities, talent retention, and warrants Arizona as a top destination in regard to business attraction and retention.”

The committee will focus on traditional institutions of higher education and vocational training partners to develop programs tasked with meeting the need of business. Advocacy at the local, state and federal levels to ensure appropriate funding and resource allocation for education is crucial.

Additional objectives include fostering relationships whereby instruments such as mentorship, principal for a day, mock interviews, adopt a class/school, and intern/externships are avenues for the exchange of timely information. The committee will celebrate learning, expand teacher and student horizons, support real work learning, and drive programs designed to keep talent in Arizona.

The committee is made up of local leaders in the education sector and members of the business community who have a proven track record of supporting education in the West Valley.

“SRP has a strong dedication to education and apprenticeship as well as dynamic partnerships that cultivate students’ experiences inside and outside the classroom,” said Kate Kochenderfer, senior director of supply chain, transportation and flight services at SRP.

“For many years, SRP has offered internship programs across our departments, and we partner with our state’s high schools, trade schools and universities to continue developing these programs. Our ongoing objective is to provide our community’s youth ample opportunities for career exploration with a key focus on careers in STEM and sustainability. We look forward to working with this committee to identify avenues that demonstrate the newly developing, exciting career paths available in these areas to a broad range of students from all backgrounds.”

This story was originally published in the Glendale Star .

Why Glendale Chamber Won’t Be First To 'Poo-Poo' More Education Funding

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 19:59:57 GMT

91.5 KJZZ | July 2021

By Christina Estes

After forming a new education committee, the Glendale Chamber of Commerce could become vocal about funding.

Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt told KJZZ that educators in his city want the chamber’s nearly 1,400 members to advocate for appropriate funding and resource allocation at the local, state and federal levels.

“Overall, Chambers of Commerce are kind of ‘We don’t want more tax, we don’t want more this,’ and we get that, I think our folks get that around the table, we understand that mindset,” he said. “But we’ve got some big issues on the table that we have to look at.”

Heidt said his members’ were split in 2018, when tens of thousands of Arizona teachers walked out of their classes for six days and rallied at the state Capitol for higher teacher pay and more K-12 funding, and in 2020, when Arizona voters approved Proposition 208, knowns as the Invest in Ed Act, which imposed a 3.5% surcharge on individuals earning more than $250,000 a year.

“We’re not going to be the first chamber out there to immediately poo-poo and put down increased funding or increased taxation, we’re going to want to look at it,” he said. “We’ve got business leaders and community partners that really want to be around the table and want to understand it.”

Glendale Chamber announces Education Committee formation

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 17:18:16 GMT

Independent News Media | July 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is forming an Education Committee specifically tasked with connecting the needs of business with the passion of the education community.

Uniting schools, business and the community around educational excellence, real world learning and mentorship will inspire innovation, drive growth, and attract investment, the Chamber noted in a news release.

The committee will focus on traditional institutions of higher education and vocational training partners to develop programs tasked with meeting the need of business. Furthermore, advocacy at the local, state and federal level to ensure appropriate funding and resource allocation for education remains a critical concern.

Additional objectives include fostering relationships whereby instruments such as mentorship, principal for a day, mock interviews, adopt a class/school and intern/externships are avenues for the exchange of timely information. The committee will celebrate learning, expand teacher and student horizons, support real work learning and drive programs designed to keep talent in Arizona.

The committee is made up of local leaders in the education sector and members of the business community who have a proven track record of supporting education in the West Valley.

“Furthering strong, established partnerships with the education and business community will fortify the continued growth of a robust economy in the West Valley and throughout Arizona,” Glendale Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt stated. “A workforce developed and trained to tackle the challenges of an ever changing, increasingly technical environment will almost guarantee high quality employment opportunities, talent retention and warrants Arizona as a top destination in regard to business attraction and retention.”

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals.

Vendor registration open now for Biz 2 Biz Expo in Glendale

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 17:07:45 GMT

Business News | June 1, 2021

Businesses can register for booths now at the upcoming West Valley Biz 2 Biz Expo in Glendale.

This year’s event takes place 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26 at the Glendale Civic Center, 5750 W. Glenn Drive.

Hosted by all six West Valley Chambers of Commerce, the Biz 2 Biz Expo offers an opportunity for businesses to showcase products and services. The event is free to attend and open to the public.

Attendees will enjoy a cash bar, prizes and develop relationships with surrounding businesses and leaders throughout Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Tolleson, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Sun City, Sun City West, Wickenburg and Youngtown.

Event organizers are monitoring COVID-19 numbers, and will update with any restrictions or regulations as the event gets closer. To allow for social distancing and keep everyone safe, organizers have reduced the number of booths to 93 instead of the usual 120.

Deadline to register an exhibit space is Friday, Aug. 13. Space is available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

This story was originally published in the Peoria Independent.

Glendale Chamber head to take part in nationwide leadership program

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 15:36:51 GMT

Chamber News | June 4, 2021

The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) selected Robert W. Heidt Jr., Glendale Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, to participate in a leadership development opportunity with nine other chamber of commerce professionals from communities throughout the United States.

The Chamber Leadership Diversity Program is an immersive executive development program that provides chamber of commerce professionals with education and networks to advance their careers, contribute to the future of the industry and create meaningful change in their communities.

“Robert Heidt brings the power of diversity and inclusion to the Glendale Chamber, its members, and the Glendale Business Community,” Kate Kochenderfer, board chair of the Glendale Chamber and Director of Supply Chain, Transportation and Flight Services for Salt River Project, stated in a news release. “His participation in the ACCE Leadership Diversity Program will not only strengthen his focus on Diversity and Inclusion, but help to create an environment of respect, involvement, and connection within our Glendale community and the Arizona Chambers of Commerce Community.”

Over the course of the three-year program, participants will engage in a range of professional development opportunities designed to equip them with knowledge of best practices in chamber leadership, a strong peer network and national connections to advance their work.

Leaders selected to participate in the Chamber Leadership Diversity Program represent a variety of chamber roles and communities across the country.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Independent.

Glendale becomes 9th Arizona city to adopt non-discrimination ordinance

Thu, 27 May 2021 21:01:53 GMT

Glendale News | May 26, 2021

Pixabay photo

PHOENIX — The city of Glendale has voted to approve a non-discrimination ordinance, becoming the ninth city in Arizona to provide protections to LGBTQ families and other groups, officials announced.

The Glendale City Council unanimously approved the ordinance on Tuesday protecting residents from discrimination in housing, employment and places of public accommodations based on various factors, including race, ethnicity, disability, religion, sexual orientation and gender identity.

“Adopting a non-discrimination ordinance that is inclusive of all people, including LGBTQ people, is not only the right thing to do, but positions Glendale to succeed,” Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, said in a press release.

“As a city, Glendale must leverage the same competitive advantages that inclusivity provides to our neighboring cities to attract the top talent, business, and events we need to thrive.”

There is no state law barring discrimination against LGBTQ people in employment, housing or public accommodations.

ACCE ANNOUNCES DIVERSITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 24 May 2021 21:22:54 GMT

Chamber News | May 23, 2021

ACCE is proud to announce that ten chamber of commerce professionals from around the country have been selected to participate in the Chamber Leadership Diversity Program. This unique opportunity is an immersive leadership development program that provides chamber professionals with education and networks to advance their careers, contribute to the future of the industry and create meaningful change in their communities.

“Increasing diversity and inclusion throughout the chamber industry remains a top priority for ACCE,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, ACCE’s president and CEO. “We are excited to bring together this impressive group of chamber leaders who bring a variety of skills and depth of knowledge to the program. In addition to providing robust professional development and a strong peer cohort experience, we will leverage their participation as a sounding board on issues critical to the future of the chamber industry.”

Gina Cheverine, Managing Vice President, Inclusion & Strategic Partnership, Greater Cleveland Partnership (Ohio)
Michelle Cuevas Stubblefield, Senior Vice President of Strategy, Greater Topeka Partnership/Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce (Kan.)
Nikki Devitt, President, Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce (Mich.)
Robert Heidt, President & CEO, Glendale Chamber of Commerce (Ariz.)
Pammie Jimmar, IOM, Vice President, Small Business and Events, Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce (Ala.)
Tameika G. Miller, Vice President of Marketing & Program Development, Greater New Haven Chamber (Conn.)
Natalie Rubalcava-Garcia, Chief Operating Officer, Orange County Business Council (Calif.)
Simone Thornton, Director of Operations, Berkeley Chamber of Commerce (S.C.)
Dante Villarreal, Vice President for Business & Talent Development, Grand Rapids Chamber (Mich.)
Samira Zimmerly, President, Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce (Ohio)

This story was originally published by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Glendale chamber introduces new task force

Tue, 11 May 2021 16:03:50 GMT

Business News | May 7, 2021

GS File Photo

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce created a new task force to further enforce equality, which includes a LGBTQ inclusive nondiscrimination ordinance in the city of Glendale.

The ordinance would prohibit discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations. The task force will be responsible for promoting and speaking with business leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders to educate and build support for the ordinance.

“What’s exciting is I’ve got more than two thirds of my chamber board directors who are engaged in this task force that represent a kind of broad group of industry segments,” said Robert Heidt, president of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce.

“Their purpose is going to be understanding LGBTQ inclusive nondiscrimination ordinances, what it is about equal protections and working to engage a broad selection of our stakeholders across the community, and how we can craft an ordinance that protects all people in Glendale equally.”

In Arizona, eight other cities have passed nondiscrimination ordinances. The state, however, has no statewide law barring discrimination against LGBTQ people in employment, housing and public accommodations.

As Glendale is the largest city in the West Valley, Heidt said this task force is in no way special treatment toward the LGBTQ community, but rather a way to ensure protection and equal treatment for everyone in the workplace.

“We as a community are recognizing there’s different needs within different segments of our community. But one of the needs around the LGBTQ community has not been met, which is protection in the workplace, accommodation and things of that nature,” Heidt said.

“The goal would be for us as a group to work through what this will look like, moving towards working with the city to adopt a non-discrimination ordinance that includes all people, including LGBTQ. And what that ultimately will do is continue to position Glendale to succeed.”

As of now, the task force has 13 people who will officially begin meeting in May. Additionally, there are several partners who will take part in the task force.

Heidt said once the group starts its meetings, if it finds it necessary, additional members will be added to the task force.

“We’re convening a group of leaders and stakeholders to have the conversation and so if there are folks that we need to engage at the table or others that need to be a part of the conversation, I have great confidence the group will identify who those are and look to add those different voices,” he said.

While Heidt said the task force will be beneficial for the continued push for equality in Glendale and throughout the state, he added the city will also benefit financially and from a business perspective.

“We certainly see economic development and growth,” Heidt said, specifically referring to large companies coming to Glendale looking to break ground with a list of criteria. “Within that, inclusivity is a huge part of the conversation. And so when an organization is working with site selectors to locate companies, if we don’t have that as part of our DNA, as part of our culture and our community, even if we have the best site, the best everything, and one of their top priorities is inclusivity, we lose.”

Heidt admitted the city of Glendale is not completely there yet in terms of complete and equal treatment within the workplace.

“This is where we recognize as a city we’re not quite there, and there’s a little bit of work to do. And so, as a Chamber, we take that role very seriously, and we’re working to cultivate that conversation of what it might look like for Glendale and how it can benefit us as we continue to move forward,” he said.

Kate Kochenderfer, chair of the Glendale Chamber Board of Directors, agreed.

“Adopting a nondiscrimination ordinance that is inclusive of all people, including LGBTQ people, positions Glendale to succeed. As a city, Glendale must leverage the same competitive advantages that inclusivity provides to our neighboring cities to attract the top talent, business and events we need to thrive,” Kochenderfer said in a press release.

With any new task force or initiative, there are going to be those who question its benefits or success. Heidt admits there are community members that have called to express their distaste for the task force, stating that it will make the city “look bad.”

“I understand why they may feel that way, but doing nothing makes the city look bad because we recognize that this is a conversation that needs to be had. Diversity and inclusion is vital. It’s an attribute to embrace everyone of all walks of life and all backgrounds, wherever people come from, that’s what makes us unique and that’s what attracts people to our community, that’s what enriches us,” Heidt said.

Despite those that question the task force, Heidt said it’s necessary and will hopefully allow people to recognize the issue altogether.

“It’s the right thing to do and, unfortunately, with everything that’s going on in our world today around diversity and inclusion, surprisingly there’s people who do not understand or recognize the discrimination that could occur or has occurred,” he said.

Looking forward, Heidt said he hopes the task force will one day not be needed.

“A task force is not meant to live on forever in time. It’s meant to assemble, work through conversation to challenge an issue,” Heidt said. “So, my hope in a year would be that we have done our work and due diligence to present the case of why Glendale needs a nondiscrimination ordinance. If not the chamber, then who else will do this work?”

For more information on the task force, visit glendaleazchamber.org.

– Staff writer Lauren Serrato can be reached at lserrato@timespublications.com

This story was originally published on the Glendale Star.

Sinema to join Glendale Chamber webinar

Thu, 06 May 2021 18:19:12 GMT

Business News | May 5, 2021

JOSE LUIS MAGANA[JOSE LUIS MAGANA/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce will host a virtual webinar featuring Sen. Kyrsten Sinema this month.

“Biz Build Up” allows residents to join the Glendale, Buckeye, Southwest Valley, and Wickenburg Chambers of Commerce. The event goes 10-10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 12.

Questions can be submitted for consideration with your registration before close of business Friday, May 7.

A link for the Zoom event will be emailed to those registered. Only available to the first 100 people who register.

Click here to register.

Originally published on the Daily Independent.

Glendale Chamber to Champion Equality in the City of Glendale, Pushes for Ordinance

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 05 May 2021 16:38:59 GMT

Business News | April 26, 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce has created a task force to champion the adoption of equality to include a LGBTQ inclusive non-discrimination ordinance in the City of Glendale that would prohibit discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The task force will be responsible for convening business leaders, community leaders and other stakeholders to educate and build support for a city-wide ordinance.

Eight other Arizona cities have passed non-discrimination ordinances in Arizona with the most recent being Mesa and Scottsdale. Arizona has no statewide law barring discrimination against LGBTQ people in employment, housing, or public accommodations.

“Equal treatment for all people is the right thing to do, but it’s also good for the business of Glendale,” said Robert Heidt, President of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. “If we want large conventions and national events to see us as the ideal destination, if we want families to visit and fall in love, and if we want to persuade businesses to bring their jobs to Glendale, we need to be open for business to everyone.”

The group will begin meeting early May with more nearly two-thirds of the Chamber Board of Directors engaged in the task force for representing a diversified group of industries. The group has also identified several other key partners who will take part.

“Adopting a non-discrimination ordinance that is inclusive of all people, including LGBTQ people, positions Glendale to succeed. As a city, Glendale must leverage the same competitive advantages that inclusivity provides to our neighboring cities to attract the top talent, business, and events we need to thrive,” said Kate Kochenderfer, Chairwoman of the Glendale Chamber Board of Directors.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,300 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Our mission is to provide leadership that facilitates the creation of a prosperous regional economy and effective advocacy for our members and the business community.

This story was originally published on inbusinessphx.com

District, chamber team to support workforce

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 20:05:14 GMT

Business News | April 15, 2021

GS File Photo

The Maricopa County Community College District and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce are teaming to create an Education Concierge Partnership, which will provide chamber member organizations access to convenient, consolidated services to help their employees pursue a college education with the Maricopa Community Colleges.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is comprised of nearly 1,300 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals. As part of this partnership, these members will have the opportunity to connect their employees with a dedicated advising team to help remove the barriers many working professionals face when starting or returning to college.

This advising team, which is part of the Enrollment Management division within Student Affairs at Maricopa Community Colleges, will be available to assist with admissions, tuition benefit and financial aid navigation, advising and success coaching for students attending any of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges.

“We are proud to partner with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to support upskilling and degree attainment for chamber member employees.”

The goal is to make it easier for chamber member employees to earn an associate degree, certificate and/or university transfer while working with a team who can help them understand their employer’s tuition assistance program, apply for admissions and register for classes.

“Glendale Community College is proud to support the Education Concierge Partnership as a way to ensure an educated workforce in our community,” said Glendale Chamber of Commerce Chair-Elect and Glendale Community College President Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz.

“The strength of who we are is dependent on strong partnerships that benefit the community.”

As Glendale continues to see growth, companies are looking for innovative solutions to recruit, upskill and retain top talent, and this partnership will help support organizations in all of those areas.

“This partnership directly addresses challenges faced by working adults on their quest for higher education and a competitive advantage. As a chamber and community, we rise by investing in those around us.”

This story was originally published on the Glendale Star.

MCCCD and Glendale Chamber of Commerce Announce Education Concierge Partnership To Support Glendale Workforce

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 17:57:30 GMT

Business News | April 9, 2021

The Maricopa County Community College District and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce announced an Education Concierge Partnership. This program will provide Chamber member organizations access to convenient, consolidated services to help their employees pursue a college education with the Maricopa Community Colleges.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is comprised of nearly 1,300 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. As part of this partnership, these members will have the opportunity to connect their employees with a dedicated advising team to help remove the barriers many working professionals face when starting or returning to college.

This advising team will be available to assist with admissions, tuition benefit and financial aid navigation, advising, and success coaching for students attending any Maricopa Community College.

“This partnership is an exciting new opportunity for our local workforce and a powerful example of how business and education can collaborate to support employees as they begin or continue their college pathway in pursuit of their education and career goals,” said MCCCD Interim Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales. “We are proud to partner with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to support upskilling and degree attainment for Chamber member employees.”

Education Concierge Partnership’s Goals

The goal of this partnership is to make it simpler for Chamber member employees to earn an associate’s degree, certificate, and/or university transfer. They will get the opportunity to work with a dedicated team that can help them better understand their employer’s tuition assistance program, apply for admissions, and register for classes. The program aims to remove as many barriers as possible for working professionals.

Glendale is a great place to live, work, learn, and play with a long-standing commitment to connecting business, government and community. As Glendale continues to see tremendous growth, companies are looking for innovative solutions to recruit, upskill and retain top talent. This partnership will help support organizations in all of those areas.

“As scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations continue to accelerate, we must work together to tackle the existing and intensifying skills gap,” said Glendale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Robert Heidt. “This partnership directly addresses challenges faced by working adults on their quest for higher education and a competitive advantage. As a Chamber and community, we rise by investing in those around us.”

To learn more about this partnership and how the Maricopa Community Colleges and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce are working together to support Glendale’s workforce needs, please visit https://info.maricopacorporate.com/glendale.

This article was originally published in AZEDNEWS.

The Maricopa Community Colleges And Glendale Chamber Of Commerce Announce Education Concierge Partnership To Support Glendale Workforce

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 16:02:51 GMT

Business News | April 8, 2021

The Maricopa Community Colleges and Glendale Chamber of Commerce Announce Education Concierge Partnership to Support Glendale Workforce

TEMPE, Ariz., April 5, 2021: The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce announced today an Education Concierge Partnership, which will provide Chamber member organizations access to convenient, consolidated services to help their employees pursue a college education with the Maricopa Community Colleges.

This advising team, which is part of the Enrollment Management division within Student Affairs at Maricopa Community Colleges, will be available to assist with admissions, tuition benefit and financial aid navigation, advising, and success coaching for students attending any of the 10 Maricopa Community Colleges.

"This partnership is an exciting new opportunity for our local workforce and a powerful example of how business and education can collaborate to support employees as they begin or continue their college pathway in pursuit of their education and career goals,” said MCCCD Interim Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales. "We are proud to partner with the Glendale Chamber of Commerce to support upskilling and degree attainment for Chamber member employees.”

The goal is to make it simpler for Chamber member employees to earn an associate’s degree, certificate, and/or university transfer while working with a dedicated team that can help them better understand their employer’s tuition assistance program, apply for admissions, and register for classes. The program aims to remove as many barriers as possible for working professionals.

"Glendale Community College is proud to support the Education Concierge Partnership as a way to ensure an educated workforce in our community,” said Glendale Chamber of Commerce

Chair-Elect and Glendale Community College President Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz. "The strength of who we are is dependent on strong partnerships that benefit the community.”

Glendale is a great place to live, work, learn, and play with a long-standing commitment to connecting business, government and community. As Glendale continues to see tremendous growth, companies are looking for innovative solutions to recruit, upskill and retain top talent and this partnership will help support organizations in all of those areas.

"As scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations continue to accelerate, we must work together to tackle the existing and intensifying skills gap,” said Glendale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Robert Heidt. "This partnership directly addresses challenges faced by working adults on their quest for higher education and a competitive advantage. As a Chamber and community, we rise by investing in those around us.”

This partnership was facilitated by Maricopa Corporate College, a division of the Workforce and Economic Development Office at Maricopa Community Colleges. Employers interested in similar partnerships can visit https://info.maricopacorporate.com/concierge.

About the Maricopa Community Colleges: The Maricopa County Community College District includes ten regionally-accredited colleges – Chandler-Gilbert, Estrella Mountain, GateWay, Glendale, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Rio Salado, Scottsdale, and South Mountain – and the Maricopa Corporate College, serving approximately 100,000 students with two-year degrees, certificates, and university transfer programs.

About Maricopa Corporate College: Maricopa Corporate College (MCOR) is a part of the Workforce and Economic Development Office at the Maricopa Community Colleges. MCOR provides high-impact training, development and talent acquisition solutions for Arizona employers.

About Glendale Chamber of Commerce: The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, membership-driven organization comprised of nearly 1,300 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals. Their mission is to provide leadership that facilitates the creation of a prosperous regional economy and effective advocacy for their members and the business community. The Glendale Chamber builds its program of work around the three core principles, an investment in membership brings: business connection, community impact and economic prosperity.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Daily Planet.

New Apartment Development Breaks Ground Near Westgate

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 19:28:28 GMT

Business News | April 5, 2021

The March 31 groundbreaking for Glen91 features, from left, Brian Friedman, City of Glendale economic development director; Michael Stringfellow, EOS Builders president; Robert Heidt, Chamber President/CEO; Joyce Clark, District Council Member; Rick Huffman, HCW President/CEO; and Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers.

Glen91, a new 296-unit, gated luxury apartment community on a 10-acre parcel along Glendale Avenue between 91st and 89th avenues in Glendale recently broke ground.

Westgate Entertainment District is adjacent to the property.

Glen91’s outside amenities include two gated entries, garages and covered parking, a 2,185-square-foot fitness center, 14,000-square foot swimming pool and deck, lounge area with fire pit for social gatherings, grilling stations, a hammock garden, dog park, shade plaza, bocce court, pickleball court and bag toss court.

The 6,816-square-foot clubhouse features management offices, a mail room, cyber lounge, game room, club room, bar and conference center.

“We are excited to welcome Glen91 to Glendale,” Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers stated in a news release. “This multifamily housing development in the heart of Westgate Entertainment District will help build much wanted density and is a perfect addition to the area with quality amenities for our residents.”

Glen91 is scheduled to open this fall.

“We are very excited to bring Glen91 to Glendale,” HCW President and CEO Rick Huffman stated. “This will be our second development in the Westgate area, opening the Aloft Glendale at Westgate hotel in July 2019.”

The project team includes architects H Design Group, civil engineers Bowman Consulting, landscape architect David Flynn, structural engineer Mettemeyer Engineering, MEP engineer CJD Engineering, interior design by Design Environments Inc., general contractor EOS Builders and property management by PB Bell.

Originally published in the Daily Independent.

Pendergast’s Jennifer Cruz to Serve on Glendale Chamber board

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 19:23:43 GMT

Business News | March 27, 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce has selected Dr. Jennifer Cruz, acting superintendent of the Pendergast District, for its board of directors.

The Glendale Chamber is one of the largest business organizations in the West Valley. Its primary focus is to promote a strong local economy.

As a board member, Cruz will help set policies, establish goals, provide adequate funding, and other duties to keep the local communities within Glendale thriving.

“We have been fortunate to have a wonderful partnership with the Glendale chamber,” Cruz said. “They truly understand the relationship between our schools, communities and educating our future workforce. The team has been supportive of our programs; participated in all aspects of the district; and been a strong advocate for the Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life conference. I look forward to serving and continuing this meaningful and productive relationship.”

Glendale Chamber President and CEO Robert Heidt called Cruz a “tremendous asset.”

“The students of today are our future workforce, and having Dr. Cruz at the table with business and community leaders will ensure the voice of education is heard,” Heidt said. “There are many synergies between the business community and education, and together we will continue to build on the importance of education.”

In addition to the Glendale Chamber, Cruz also is a member of the city of Phoenix Youth and Education Commission and an alumnus of Leadership West, as well as serving with other community-based organizations.

This story was originally published in the Glendale Star.

Bill to shield responsible businesses and others from “predatory” Covid-19 lawsuits moves forward

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 21:10:37 GMT

Business News | March 18, 2021

A bill to protect Arizona businesses, schools, healthcare providers, government agencies, and others from frivolous Covid-19 lawsuits took another step forward Wednesday when the state House Judiciary Committee approved the measure.

The legislation, Senate Bill 1377, is needed to ensure that responsible businesses and employees, particularly those on the frontlines of the pandemic, are not targets of meritless lawsuits, said the sponsor of the bill, Sen. Vince Leach, R-Saddlebrooke, who testified at the hearing.

As federal lawmakers have failed to pass protective legislation, about half the states have taken the matter into their own hands and passed Covid liability protection bills, Leach said.

“In other words, they are seeing the effect of ‘sue and settle’ — going after entities from schools to businesses to the medical community,” he said.

Safe harbor from unwarranted litigation

Judiciary committees from both houses have approved the legislation. The bill offers protection from reckless litigation for businesses and others who act in “good faith” to implement reasonable policies to protect their customers, clients and patients.

SB 1377 also offers protection for injuries that result from indirect causes, such as a patient who was unable to get admitted to a hospital when healthcare facilities were barred from performing non-elective surgeries during the public health emergency.

Under the legislation, plaintiffs would have to prove “clear and convincing evidence that a person or provider failed to act or acted with wilful misconduct or gross negligence” in order to win a civil suit.

Representatives from industry, education, healthcare testify

A number of representatives from the business, education and the healthcare community spoke on behalf of the bill at the hearing.

While the bill offers “targeted and reasonable” liability protection for responsible entities, it does not protect “bad actors,” said Courtney Coolidge, vice president for government affairs at the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“SB 1377 is not blanket immunity. It protects responsible actors working diligently under extraordinary circumstances while preserving reasonable recourse for truly bad actors,” Coolidge said.

The bill also does not provide a new shield for employers, she said, and specifically exempts any claims that are already subject to the workmans’ compensation statute.

National law firms spending millions on ads to lure clients

As businesses and employees continue to work on the frontlines to operate and respond to the crisis, many are in fear of malicious lawsuits, said Coolidge and others who testified at the hearing.

Litigation tracking organizations show that their fears are not unfounded. Millions of dollars are being spent by plaintiffs-firms on television ads, a “clear indication of what’s to come,” Coolidge said.

According to a report issued last month by the American Tort Reform Association, plaintiff-side law firms funneled an estimated $34.4 million into television ads last year to attract COVID-19 clients.

The report shows that 176,053 television ads offering legal services or soliciting legal claims mentioning COVID-19 aired in the U.S. from March through December 2020. The biggest spender is a large national firm that spent $10.5 million airing 70,000 ads advertising pandemic-related matters.

Small businesses most vulnerable

Mike Huckins, vice president of public affairs for the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, also spoke on behalf of the bill at the hearing, stating that small businesses are among the most vulnerable to meritless claims.

“This bill is important to all businesses, but especially crucial to small businesses, many of whom our chamber represents,” Huckins said. “Those small businesses don’t have the legal resources necessary to protect themselves from frivolous lawsuits.

“This bill will give them a lifeline in order to help businesses recoup after pandemic as long as they adhere to common sense health guidelines.”

Since the federal government has failed to pass a national law for liability protection, now is the time for Arizona to step up, he said.

“It’s time that Arizona lived up to its business-friendly reputation and join 25 other states that have already enacted the legislation.”

The legislation is not without its detractors. Barry Aarons, a lobbyist for the Arizona Trial Attorneys Association, voiced opposition to the bill, saying it places the standard for proof so high that legitimate medical malpractice claims will be almost impossible to litigate.

Thousands of employers support liability protection

Meanwhile, stakeholder groups have spent months working with legislators to craft SB1377. Language in the bill is similar to other liability laws passed in Arizona and other states. Governor Doug Ducey, in his State of the State address, also identified the need to protect job creators and health care workers against predatory COVID exposure lawsuits.

To read the bill’s full text, go to: Covid-19 liability protection .

Organizations supporting the bill

A coalition of nearly 100 businesses, trade associations, schools, nonprofits, health providers and other organizations in Arizona support SB 1377 including:

21st Century Healthcare

Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits

American Academy of Pediatrics, Arizona Chapter

American Heart Association

American Property Casualty Insurance Association

Americans for Prosperity

Amigos Trade Association

Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce

Arizona Academy of Family Physicians

Arizona Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs

Arizona Assisted Living Homes Association

Arizona Association of Community Managers

Arizona Association of Health Plans

Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities

Arizona Automobile Dealers Association

Arizona Automotive Wholesalers Association

Arizona Bankers Association

Arizona Board of Regents

Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Arizona Chapter National Safety Council

Arizona Charter Schools Association

Arizona Council of Human Services Providers

Arizona Dental Association

Arizona Farm Bureau Federation

Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Association

Arizona Health Care Association

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association

Arizona LeadingAge

Arizona Licensed Beverage Association

Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association

Arizona Manufacturers Council

Arizona Medical Association

Arizona Mining Association

Arizona Multihousing Association

Arizona Nurses Association

Arizona Optometric Association

Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association

Arizona Petroleum Marketers Association

Arizona Pharmacy Association

Arizona Realtors

Arizona Restaurant Association

Arizona Retailers Association

Arizona Rock Products Association

Arizona School Risk Retention Trust, Inc.

Arizona Small Business Association

Arizona Soccer Association

Arizona State Association of Physicians Assistants

Arizona State University

Arizona Technology Council

Arizona Trucking Association

Associated General Contractors of America Arizona Chapter

Buckeye Chamber of Commerce

Building Owners and Managers Association of Greater Phoenix (BOMA)

Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce

Chandler Chamber of Commerce

Chubb Insurance

City of Surprise

City of Yuma

Coconino County

County Supervisors Association of Arizona

East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance

Education Finance Reform Group

Experience Scottsdale

Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce

Fresenius Medical Care North America

Gilbert Chamber of Commerce

Glendale Chamber of Commerce

Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce

Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

Greater Phoenix Economic Council

Greater Phoenix Leadership

Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

Health System Alliance of Arizona

Home Builders Association of Central Arizona

HonorHealth

InvisionAZ

Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce

League of Arizona Cities and Towns

Marana Chamber of Commerce

Mesa Chamber of Commerce

Mutual Insurance Company of Arizona

National Association of Industrial Office Properties, Arizona Chapter

National Federation of Independent Business

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company

Northern Arizona University

Page-Lake Powell Chamber of Commerce

Peoria Chamber of Commerce

Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America

Phoenix Formulations

Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce

Republic National Distributing Company of Arizona

Republican Liberty Caucus of Arizona

Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce

Southern Arizona Home Builders Association

Southern Arizona Leadership Council

Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

Southwest Veterans Chamber of Commerce

State Farm Insurance Companies

Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce

Tempe Chamber of Commerce

Total Spectrum

Town of Queen Creek

Tucson Metro Chamber

United Dairymen of Arizona

United Services Automobile Association

University of Arizona

Valley Partnership

West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance

Western Plant Health Association

Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce

Wine and Spirits Wholesalers Association of Arizona

Yavapai County Contractors Association

This story was originally published on Chamber Business News.

Bill Kelleher Retires from Military Committee

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:31:58 GMT

Business News | March 5, 2021

William Kelleher, a former mortician and embalmer at Glendale’s Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, retired from the Military & Veterans Affairs Committee. Photo by Pablo Robles.

Bill Kelleher grew up admiring the military duties of his World War I veteran father, and his brothers who served in the Vietnam War.

He didn’t join the military, but he did the next best thing. He supported the families of those stationed at Luke Air Force Base through the Glendale Chamber of Commerce Military & Veterans Affairs Committee. He was on the board for 40 years before retiring in February.

“I was not privileged enough to be a member of any part of the armed services, but my father was a Marine during World War I,” Kelleher said.

“The mustard gas basically took him at an early age. I was 15 when he passed away. I have two brothers who were also Marines. One was in Korea, and my youngest brother was in Vietnam. I fell between the cracks. Back then, you signed up for the draft. I was too young for Korea and too old for Vietnam.”

Kelleher connected with veterans and military personnel because of his family’s involvement. His favorite shirt is one that bears a U.S. flag that reads, “Stand for the flag.” At the bottom is a cross that says, “Kneel at the cross.”

The Military & Veterans Affairs Committee is dedicated to assisting the Glendale Chamber of Commerce with programs and events. It also helps create a strong relationship between the local business community and military units in the Valley.

“We are very in touch with what the needs are out there,” Kelleher said. “It’s been a blessing to me. I sit back now and just listen. I’ve been there, done that.”

The committee’s priority projects are Glendale’s military induction ceremony, military appreciation breakfast, Veterans Day ceremony, Luke Shoot Out Golf Tournament and flag repurposing and retirement program.

It supports Stand Up for Veterans, Mayor Jerry Weiers’ Big Dog Run, the Healing Garden and Traveling Vietnam Wall.

“Bill Kelleher is one of the finest gentlemen I have ever met,” Weiers said. “He has always lived to serve the community with absolutely no expectations in return. I am truly blessed to call him a friend, and I know that anyone who has had the honor of getting to know him would agree with me.”

Stand Up for Veterans is a collaborative, community-based effort that honors and supports veterans by providing access to employment, education and community resources to address the holistic needs of veterans and their families.

Attorneys and court representatives are on hand to immediately address and help with legal issues. Employers are in attendance, some of whom can hire veterans on the spot.

One of the committee’s signature causes is Operation Warm Heart, which supports Luke Air Force Base families.

“We thought it would be nice to have some sort of involvement with children or dependents whose parent is deployed someplace else, but the family still lived here,” Kelleher said.

The Military & Veterans Affairs Committee hosted cookouts with hamburgers and hot dogs at Murphy Park for Luke Air Force Base families. The annual Luke Shoot Out Golf Tournament is promoted and marketed through the committee.

During his tenure with the Military & Veterans Affairs Committee, Kelleher was licensed mortician and embalmer at Glendale’s Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, from which he retired. He grew up in Illinois, but he moved to Glendale in June 1973 to help his daughter, who had breathing issues.

His love for Glendale translated to volunteer work and strong relationships with the mayors.

“I’ve been very fortunate over the years,” he said. “I’ve been associated with six of the mayors since I came here. We’ve been on a first-name basis. Glendale is like an old hometown.

“I’ve always tried to stay involved. When I joined, I was the new kid on the block. There were these other three gentlemen and me. I thought, ‘Let’s try to get some type of partnership out at the base where we can maybe help on a monthly basis.’”

The Military & Veterans Affairs Committee’s early days — and up until the 9/11 terrorist attacked — it alternated meeting in the Glendale Chamber of Commerce conference room and Luke Air Force Base. Base commanders, and occasionally wing commanders, were affiliated with the committee.

Kelleher said, from an economic standpoint, it makes sense for the chamber to be involved with Luke Air Force Base, as it’s one of Glendale’s major employers.

“They’re partners with us, and we’re partners with them,” Kelleher said. “Glendale has been fantastic when it comes to the needs of former and present military.

Now was the right time for Kelleher to retire because, he said, he will soon turn 80 years old.

“It’s time to get out of here and let some new kids sit here,” he says. “I’ll try to stay involved, and if there’s a need out there, I’ll help.”

This story was originally published at The Glendale Star

Business Briefcase

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 17:27:18 GMT

Business News | February 11, 2021

GS File Photo

Welcome back to Business Briefcase! We’re here to give you the latest business news — new stores, new restaurants, hirings, firings (not really) and whatnot.

Let’s get on with it.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce announced its 2021 board of directors, which represents a cross-section of the business and professional leadership in the community, and the executive committee.

“It is truly an honor to have such a dynamic board of directors from a diversified segment of our business community helping to lead the way and drive prosperity for Glendale and the West Valley,” said Glendale Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Heidt.

“The volunteer leadership serving our chamber is one of the most sound in our nearly 100-year history. The continuity and institutional knowledge each person brings to the organization is invaluable, as the chamber continues to lead the way as the largest business organization in the West Valley.”

Kate Kochenderfer of SRP will officially take over as the board chairwoman at the February board meeting.

Lisa R. Baker of Realty One Group Inc. is a new member of the board of directors.

Baker joins:

• Maria Brunner, Landmark Capital Mortgage LLC.

• Jeff Overton, Camelback Ranch Glendale.

• Jean Higginbotham, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.

• Bobbi Magdaleno, Arizona State University.

• Mayor Jerry Weiers, city of Glendale

• Kevin Phelps, city of Glendale.

• Mary Pritchard, Pritchard Insurance Group Inc.

• Richard Sherry, Dignity Health Arizona.

• Lynda Vescio, Law Offices of Vescio & Seifert PC.

• Judy Walter, Dignity Memorial.

• Jeri Cunningham, Humana.

• Matthew Mitchell, Corning Optical Communications.

• Yvonne Knaack, downtown property owner.

• Jessica Perry, APS.

The chamber’s 2021 executive committee is:

• Kate Kochenderfer, chairwoman of the board, SRP.

• Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz, chairwoman elect, Glendale Community College.

• Scott Spillman, treasurer, BNC National Bank.

• Ron Castro, vice treasurer, BNC National Bank.

• Dr. Lily DeBlieux, past chairwoman, Pendergast Elementary School District.

This story was originally published at The Glendale Star.

Opinion: Chamber board adds small business owner, fresh voice

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 17:19:34 GMT

Business News | February 15, 2021

Lisa Baker, Realty One Group

The body content of Connect. Impact. Prosper. The core principles of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Honored, I embark on my term as the newest appointee to the Chamber Board of Directors, these principles my North Star.

Growing up the daughter of a successful small business owner, I understood how critical small businesses are not just to the families who operate them and the community that supports them but also to other small businesses. As a local REALTOR and small business owner myself, I know first-hand that my business’s success depends upon the success of other businesses. I understand the sacrifices and risks taken every day by small business owners and the courage it requires to take those risks every day. And I know that support comes not just from sales but from creating a network of alliances. That the more you know about your community, the better you can serve its needs.

And it’s that knowledge that eventually drew me to join the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. To seek connections with like-minded individuals and to support the local business community. To serve first on their Public Policy Committee, and now also on their Board of Directors. I am excited to join the diverse, talented and esteemed collection of professionals and bring a fresh voice and my entrepreneurial spirit into the mix. To advocate for Chamber policy that encourages, nurtures and supports local businesses and the community that supports those businesses.

You may be surprised, as I was, to find that Chamber Membership is not limited to only Glendale businesses. Our membership spans the Valley and reaches all industry segments – even non-profit organizations – to truly connect the business community through networking, mixers, seminars, informational presentations, and personal outreach. Even with the current restrictions, the Chamber continues to provide information, value and partnership to its members in a way not many Chambers have or can.

But Glendale is not just my business community. It is also where I live and play. It is where I volunteer as the chair of the Community Development Advisory Committee, the vice president of the Citizens Police Academy Alumni of Glendale, and the chair of the Conservation Committee for the GFWC Glendale Woman’s Club. It is where I served last year as vice chair of the Citizens Bond Election Committee, an advisory committee whose roles included reviews, assessments and recommendations to the City Council for the bond issues presented to the residents of Glendale.

As I navigate my new adventure, I will be collaborating with my fellow board members to create and enact Chamber policy on a wide variety of issues while facing a wide variety of challenges. All with my eye towards our guiding principles and my heart in the City of Glendale.post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

This story was originally published at Daily Independent

Glendale Primes for Super Bowl

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 23:30:46 GMT

Business News | February 6, 2021

Photo Courtesy City of Glendale

While the rest of the country focuses on Super Bowl LV, where veteran Tom Brady’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers will duel rising superstar Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in Tampa, local leaders are looking far downfield — to when the big game returns to Glendale.

Super Bowl LVII is scheduled for Feb. 5, 2023, at State Farm Stadium. This will be the third time the city has hosted the biggest party in sports, with previous Glendale Super Bowls in 2008 and 2015.

In 2023, “I think any repeat visitors will be blown away,” said veteran Councilwoman Joyce Clark.

“It’s going to look totally different,” City Manager Kevin Phelps said.

“Whoever has been to the Super Bowl before and comes back will completely see a transformation of the Westgate area,” Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce.

On Feb. 1, 2015, Brady was the MVP of Super Bowl XLIX, leading the New England Patriots to victory — helped by a last-minute interception — at University of Phoenix Stadium, now known as State Farm Stadium.

In another Glendale thriller seven years earlier, Brady watched in disbelief as Eli Manning tossed a prayer that David Tyree caught off his helmet, setting up a winning score.

Glendale City Council approved a Crystal Lagoons project Phelps said will be a “game changer,” bringing a water attraction surrounded by restaurants, shops, offices and hotels.

“There will be no other project like this in the United States,” Clark promised.

In addition to an 11-acre lagoon, the development plans a large retail space, three hotels with 630 total rooms, office space, and multiple bars and restaurants, according to Phelps.

Though construction has not started, Crystal Lagoons is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022 — in time for the Super Bowl.

“Crystal Lagoons will have transformed that skyline in a way that people will be immersed in it — ‘What is this?’ If they’ve been there before, it was farm fields,” Heidt said.

But that’s not all that visitors who haven’t been to Glendale since the 2015 Super Bowl will see, Clark stressed, ticking off the developments and improvements in the Sports and Entertainment District.

“There are more hotel rooms that will make their stay very convenient. Dignity Hospital is just a short distance away should someone need medical attention. There will be more restaurant offerings with the completion of the En Fuego project on the Cabela’s side of Glendale Avenue,” Clark said.

Westgate Entertainment District is also expanding.

“But what will impress everyone will be the Crystal Lagoon at Glendale. I have every expectation that it will be built and finished prior to the Super Bowl. It’ll be a tight timeline, but it will get done,” Clark promised.

“Just the lagoon alone is going to drop jaws,” Phelps said.

Heidt noted there will be more opportunities for Super Bowlers to stay near the stadium. “We’ve got an abundance on new hotels,” he said. “When people are looking to book rooms, they’re going to find more inventory — which was a need back in 2015.”

Phelps said the Sports and Entertainment District will be extremely pedestrian friendly by Super Bowl LVII.

“Our pitch is going to be you can fly into Sky Harbor, take an Uber or Lyft to Glendale, then 90% of what you do you won’t even have to have your own car to get to,” Phelps said.

“As we build out the Entertainment District, every year we’re going to be offering more and more stuff.”

And, Phelps added, people coming for the Super Bowl won’t need to stay in Phoenix or Scottsdale.

“We expect those people to be staying in Glendale because of the convenience and offerings.”

Clark said the area east of U.S. 101 between Desert Diamond Casino West Valley off Northern Avenue to the StoneHaven home development south of Cardinals Way is already booming and will only grow more.

“This area offers all the bells and whistles, from dining to entertainment to retail,” Clark said. “Glendale’s reputation for being an outstanding host to the Super Bowl supersedes this latest effort, and it will only be enhanced with the growth in Glendale’s ability to offer enhanced public amenities.”

Phelps stressed the contrast for previous “Big Game” visitors will be striking.

“Somebody who came out here for the first Super Bowl saw a stadium out in the middle of nowhere. Now, they’re going to see roads, office buildings, retail, restaurants,” Phelps said.

“If they were here in 2015 vs. now, they’re going to be taken back by the level and intensity of development.”

This story was originally published at Glendale Star.

Glendale Chamber announces 2021 board of directors

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 22:40:17 GMT

Independent News | January 29, 2021

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce has a new board of directors for 2021.

The board is the policy body of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, and members represent a cross-section of the business and professional leadership in the community.

The board performs the legislative function for the organization by making policy decisions for the Chamber.

The newly elected to the Board of Directors are:

Lisa R. Baker, Realty One Group, Inc.

The 2021 Executive Committee consists of:

Kate Kochenderfer, Chair of the Board, SRP
Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz, Chair Elect, Glendale Community College
Scott Spillman, Treasurer, BNC National Bank
Ron Castro, Vice-Treasurer, BNC National Bank
Dr. Lily DeBlieux, Past Chair, Pendergast Elementary School District
Robert Heidt, President & CEO, Glendale Chamber of Commerce

Previously elected individuals who will continue to serve on the Board of Directors in 2021 are:

Maria Brunner, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp.
Jeff Overton, Camelback Ranch Glendale
Jean Higginbotham, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Bobbi Magdaleno, Arizona State University
Mayor Jerry Weiers, City of Glendale
Kevin Phelps, City of Glendale
Mary Pritchard, Pritchard Insurance Group, Inc
Richard Sherry, Dignity Health Arizona
Lynda Vescio, Law Offices of Vescio & Seifert, P.C.
Judy Walter, Dignity Memorial
Jeri Cunningham, Humana
Matthew Mitchell, Corning Optical Communications
Yvonne Knaack, Downtown Property Owner
Jessica Perry, APS

“It is truly an honor to have such a dynamic board of directors from a diversified segment of our business community helping to lead the way and drive prosperity for Glendale and the West Valley,” Glendale Chamber President & CEO Robert Heidt stated in a news release.

Ms. Kochenderfer will officially take over as chair of the board at the February board meeting.

Bill provides protection against frivolous COVID-19 lawsuits

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 22:02:51 GMT

Business News | January 29, 2021

Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels

A bill that provides protection for businesses and others against frivolous COVID-19 lawsuits was introduced by Arizona Senator Vince Leach (R-SaddleBrooke) on Monday.

“What we’re trying to do is give targeted protection with some reasonable liability protection for businesses, educational providers, the healthcare industry, government agencies, religious institutions…,” Leach said. “We’re trying to give everyone the assurance that if they’re following sensible precautions against this terrible threat, this virus that we have, that they won’t see an onslaught of nuisance lawsuits.”

Senator Vince Leach

The bill, SB1377, provides protection from reckless litigation and COVID-19 lawsuits for businesses and others who act in “good faith” to protect their customers, clients and patients from Covid-19.

Protection provided for in the bill would be temporary until Dec. 31, 2022. Under the legislation, a plaintiff would have to prove “clear and convincing evidence that a person or provider failed to act or acted with wilful misconduct or gross negligence” in order to win a civil suit, the proposed legislation states.

“The pandemic has really made businesses nervous as to what they have to do,” Leach said. “If they are taking reasonable precautions, they should have some targeted and limited protections.”

Responsible operators deserve protection from COVID-19 lawsuits

Businesses and other organizations have proven that they take the virus seriously, Leach said. They have shifted their business models, put up plexiglass shields, purchased personal protection equipment for employees, and followed guidelines for sanitizing and social distancing from the Centers for Disease Control.

Unfortunately, some have shut their businesses down indefinitely, Leach said.

“Some are shutting down just out of fear of runaway lawsuits, which we are trying to protect against,” he said.

Thousands of businesses relying on state to act

Leach and other state lawmakers started discussing a liability bill last session when the U.S. Congress failed to adopt protective legislation through the CARES Act. But Arizona lawmakers were unable to introduce their own bill last year when the legislative session was cut short due to the pandemic.

Since then, Leach and other legislators have heard from hundreds of constituents calling for a state-sponsored protection bill. Stakeholders like the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry worked with public groups and provided input to help put together a bill that was simple and straightforward, Leach said.

More than 70 chambers of commerce and business organizations representing every industry and corner of the state issued a letter of support to lawmakers Monday for introducing the legislation.

“While many of our member businesses have continued to operate throughout this pandemic and respond directly to the COVID-19 crisis, this period has also brought extraordinary legal uncertainty,” the letter states.

Passage of the SB 1377 would provide some reassurance that organizations will not be hit with “meritless civil litigation that is otherwise certain to derail our economic recovery,” it states and urges lawmakers to pass the bill..

Almost half of states now have covid liability protection laws

Currently, about 21 states and Washington, D.C. have passed some form of Covid liability protection and protection against frivolous COVID-19 lawsuits.

Now, in Arizona, the bill must make its way through a host of committees in both houses and be approved on the House and Senate floors.

“I really want to thank the stakeholders that played a huge portion in this project and product,” Leach said. “Maybe we’ll get out of here with a 30-0 in the Senate and 60-0 in the House.”

To read the bill’s full text, go to: Covid-19 liability protection.

Organizations supporting the bill

More than 70 chambers of commerce, business advocacy groups, trade organizations and others signed the letter of support:

Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits

American Property Casualty Insurance Association

Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce

Arizona Association of Community Managers

Arizona Association of Health Plans

Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities

Arizona Automotive Wholesalers Association

Arizona Bankers Association

Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Arizona Charter Schools Association

Arizona Dental Association

Arizona Farm Bureau Federation

Arizona Health Care Association

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association

Arizona Leading Age

Arizona Licensed Beverage Association

Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association

Arizona Manufacturers Council

Arizona Medical Association

Arizona Mining Association

Arizona Multihousing Association

Arizona Optometric Association

Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association

Arizona Realtors

Arizona Restaurant Association

Arizona Retailers Association

Arizona Rock Products Association

Arizona Small Business Association

Arizona State Association of Physicians Assistants

Arizona Technology Council

Arizona Trucking Association

Associated General Contractors of America Arizona Chapter

Buckeye Chamber of Commerce

Carefree Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce

Chandler Chamber of Commerce

East Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance

Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce

Gilbert Chamber of Commerce

Glendale Chamber of Commerce

Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce

Greater Oro Valley Chamber of Commerce

Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

Greater Phoenix Economic Council

Greater Phoenix Leadership

Green Valley Sahuarita Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

Health System Alliance of Arizona

Home Builders Association of Central Arizona

InvisionAZ

Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce

Marana Chamber of Commerce

Mesa Chamber of Commerce

National Association of Industrial Office Properties Arizona Chapter

National Federation of Independent Business

Page Lake Powell Chamber of Commerce

Peoria Chamber of Commerce

Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce

Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce

Southern Arizona Home Builders Association

Southern Arizona Leadership Council

Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce

Southwest Veteran’s Chamber of Commerce

Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce

Tempe Chamber of Commerce

Tucson Metro Chamber

United Dairymen of Arizona

Valley Partnership

West Valley Chambers of Commerce Alliance

Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce

Yavapai County Contractors Association

This story was originally published at Chamber Business News.

Chamber Member Appointed to Gov. Ducey's Veterans' Service Advisory Comission

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 18:11:36 GMT

January 11, 2021

Career USAF Veteran new to AZ and Glendale Chamber member was appointed to Gov. Ducey's Veterans' Service Advisory Comission

Glendale Chamber of Commerce Member

KATHY LOWREY GALLOWITZ (LTCOL, USAF, RETIRED) APPOINTED TO THE

GOVERNOR’S VETERANS’ Service ADVISORY COMMISSION

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that one of its members, Kathy Lowrey Gallowitz (LtCol, USAF, Retired) has been appointed to Governor Ducey’s Veterans’ Service Advisory Commission. The mission of the Commission is “to promote public awareness and enhance the well-being of past and present Arizona service members and their families." The Commission provides policy advice to the Governor and the Director of the Arizona Department of Veteran Services regarding veterans’ issues.

On receiving news of her appointment Kathy remarked, “It is an honor to be chosen to serve Arizona's Servicemembers, Veterans and their families in this capacity. I look forward to helping improve quality of life for those who sacrifice so much to protect and defend our freedom and cultivating civilian Veteran Champions.”

Before moving to Arizona, Kathy was the director of Community Outreach for the Ohio National Guard where, in response to 911, she created a never-been-done-before statewide outreach program to educate and engage civilians in support of troops and their families.

Through her business Vanguard Veteran, she equips civilians to become Veteran Champions, people who create mutually-beneficial activities and services for Servicemembers, Veterans and their families that improve quality of life, workforce, and community. She helps employers source, hire and retain Veteran talent and volunteer faith community leaders establish military ministries within their place of worship. In her book Beyond ‘Thank you for your Service;’ The Veteran Champion handbook for civilians, she shares inspirational stories of civilians who step up - using practical and innovative strategies - and lead the Veteran Champion movement.

To learn more about Vanguard Veteran please visit https://vanguardveteran.com/ .

Pendergast School District

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 19:54:18 GMT

AZTV.com | November 30, 2020

Pendergast School District is a great school district with amazing teachers and academies to help students succeed! Plus, we are talking about their incredible Speak up, Stand up, Save a Life movement! For more information visit here .

PUSD Launches Committee to Study Facility Use

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 21:58:20 GMT

Glendale Star | Dec. 10, 2020

Peoria Unified School District has about 2,000 less students this year, compared to last year.

Image courtesy PUSD

Peoria Unified School District launched a Facility Utilization Committee.

The committee is charged with evaluating “enrollment, financial and operations data to identify district school(s) that may have an opportunity for repurposing or facility modification.”

The committee members:

• Trina Berg, teacher, Ironwood High School.

• Kacie Franklin, parent.

• Jennifer Harper, teacher, Marshall Ranch Elementary School.

• Robert Heidt, CEO of Glendale Chamber of Commerce.

• Scott Hollabough, principal, Centennial High School.

• Dawn Kennedy, teacher, Foothills Fine Arts Academy.

• Kelli Kincaid, city of Peoria Neighborhood and Human Services.

• Trent Morris, parent.

• John Nitchke, principal, Santa Fe Elementary School.

• Matt Palmer, parent.

• Christian Williams, community member.

The committee’s first meeting will be Dec. 15, with additional meetings January through May.

At the Dec. 10 PUSD board meeting, a presentation will be made showing the district has about 2,000 less students this year, compared to last year.

Peoria Unified forms Facility Utilization Committee

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 21:54:58 GMT

Daily Independent | Dec. 2, 2020

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Peoria Unified School District administrative office buidling, 6330 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale.

Group to look at overcrowding, possible closures

With most high schools at or above capacity and about 15 schools being underutilized, the Peoria Unified School District has formed a new committee that will take a serious look at how their facilities will be used in the future.

The Facility Utilization Committee will evaluate enrollment, financial and operations data to identify district schools that may have an opportunity for repurposing or facility modification.

The committee will be tasked with creating an assessment and master plan to define facility needs at each campus and support facilities, as well as consider the possibility of future school closures.

The 11-member committee is made up of:

Trina Berg, teacher at Ironwood High School;
Kacie Franklin, parent of Alta Loma and Peoria Traditional High School students;
Jennifer Harper, teacher at Marshall Ranch Elementary School;
Robert Heidt, CEO of Glendale Chamber of Commerce;
Scott Hollabough, principal at Centennial High School; Dawn Kennedy, teacher at Foothills Fine Arts Academy;
Kelli Kincaid, city of Peoria Deputy Director of Neighborhood & Human Services;
Trent Morris, parent of Copperwood Elementary students;
John Nitchke, principal at Santa Fe Elementary School;
Matt Palmer, parent of Sunrise Mountain High School student;
Christian Williams, community member and city planner.

The committee’s first meeting will be Dec. 15. Additional meetings will take place January 2021 through May 2021. The PUSD Governing Board is expected to receive an update from the committee in February 2021.

Recommendations to the governing board could come in May, September and December of 2021.

Studies commissioned last year looked at overcrowding throughout the district and found the total number of open seats is 7,094 or 16%.

Elementary schools have 22% of their seats open and high schools have 2% of their seats open.

Schools within the district’s north and western portions are nearing or over capacity while schools in the district’s south and east are under capacity or low in use.

In general, older elementary and high schools have lower use levels; all high schools are at capacity, except for Raymond S. Kellis, Peoria and Cactus high schools.

Schools with lower use include Ira Murphy Elementary School at 49.4%; Desert Palms Elementary School at 52.7% and Peoria Elementary School at 52.6%.

The committee will consider ways to address these capacities.

Philip Haldiman can be reached at 623-876-3697, phaldiman@newszap.com, or on Twitter @philiphaldiman.

Glendale Glitters and Small Business Saturday boost post-Thanksgiving

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 17:30:01 GMT

Glendale Star | Dec. 3, 2020

While crowds of non-pandemic years are not to be found, older couples and young families enjoyed the scene of Glendale Glitters in Murphy Park and the surrounding Downtown Glendale.

Glendale Star photos by Tom Scanlon

New ParagraphThere is only one word for Black Friday, 2020: Ouch.

According to a CNBC story, “Traffic at stores on Black Friday fell by 52.1% compared with last year, as Americans by and large eschewed heading to malls and queuing up in lines for shopping online.”

In Glendale, some of that pandemic-generated sting was soothed, thanks to Glendale Glitters and Small Business Saturday.

The evening after Thanksgiving, older couples and young families enjoyed a stroll around Murphy Park as thousands of lights wrapped around trees, plants, buildings and just about everything else imaginable clicked on with the setting sun.

Glendale Glitters “appeared to have a good deal of foot traffic over the holiday weekend, now the question is how did that translate to sales?” said Robert Heidt, president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce.

“I did see a few merchants share via social media things went well for them and/or have been going well given the circumstances around COVID,” he added.

Heidt saw a post that downtown restaurant La Piazza al Forno “crushed it” and the Astrology Store had a strong weekend.

Though there was no big kickoff event this year, the festive Glendale Glitters lights will be on every night at 5 p.m.

The display of nearly 2 million lights over 16 blocks will twinkle nightly until 10 p.m.

Downtown merchants and restaurants are participating in the holiday spirit, even if the crowds of most years are not to be found.

Smaller Veterans Celebration

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 23:05:07 GMT

Nov 4, 2020 GlendaleStar.com

Unlike previous years, such as last year’s full day of ceremonies and events, Glendale will have a smaller Veterans Day celebration, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Jerry Weiers and the Glendale Chamber of Commerce’s Military and Veterans Affairs Committee will honor active military and veterans with a brief flag-raising ceremony at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11.

The event will take place in the Veterans Memorial Garden at Glendale Main Library.

Social distancing and mask wearing will be required.

Additionally, for those avoiding crowds, the ceremony will be live on the city’s and chamber’s Facebook pages.

School Funding is Up to Voters

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 17:53:09 GMT

October 27,2020 GlendaleStar.com

School districts in Glendale and Peoria are asking residents for more than a quarter billion dollars in funding.

Photo courtesy Peoria Unified School District

Education is not cheap.

This is particularly true in Glendale and Peoria, where voters are being asked to approve more than a quarter billion dollars in school funding.

The Peoria Unified School District, which has schools in Glendale and Peoria, and Glendale Union High School District have received strong support for their ballot requests.

The voters of Glendale Union High School District will decide on a $130 million bond. The district has nine high schools in Glendale and northwest Phoenix.

According to the bond information pamphlet, the $130 million is to be used at GUHSD for constructing and renovating school buildings, purchasing transportation vehicles, improving school grounds and purchasing furniture, equipment and technology.

The GUHSD pamphlet includes letters of support from elected officials, parents and organizations.

“As the parent of two Thunderbird students, one that graduated in 2019 and one that graduated in 2020, I am incredibly grateful for the education they received during their high school experience,” wrote Jill Hicks. “We moved to our current neighborhood to ensure our kids would be a part of the Glendale Union High School District. Quality schools increase property values and attract businesses that enhance and strengthen a community. ...

“My children have benefited from Glendale Union and I will always support our local high schools.”

Paul Ulan urged voters to consider this an investment in the future: “Glendale Union is an excelling school district, providing a challenging and rewarding curriculum. And just like my business, the district must continue to protect its investment, maintain its facilities, updating its schools and bringing in new technologies for students and staff to learn and prepare for the new world economy.”

Other parents, multiple elected officials and a firefighter urged Glendale voters to approve the GUHSD request.

No letters of opposition were submitted.

Similarly, Peoria Unified School District received strong support for its requests.

The Peoria Unified School District is asking for a continuation of a 13% maintenance and operations (M&O) budget override in addition to a $125 million bond.

“We need to continue to support our local schools by voting Yes on the Peoria Unified School District Override and Bond this November. Both issues support our community’s important education needs without raising taxes. These resources are critical to excellence and the education of tomorrow’s leaders and business owners,” wrote Scot Andrews, president and CEO of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce.

Robert W. Heidt Jr., president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, seconded that.

“The Glendale Chamber of Commerce represents nearly 1,400 area businesses and recognizes the value of continued investments in our education system. Additionally, we understand the obligation we have to better educate our business leaders of the future. Our business community’s sustainability depends on our continued support of a quality education system. Funding education is vital and plays a significant role in our ability to attract economic opportunities and quality jobs,” Heidt wrote in his letter of support for the PUSD requests.

Lisa Copley, a real estate professional, stressed the return on investment.

“While reality TV glamorizes home remodels, the truth remains that vibrant local schools have some of the greatest impact on a home’s value,” Copley wrote. “According to the National Association of REALTORS, ‘25% of home buyers listed school quality and 20% listed proximity to schools as deciding factors in their home purchase.’ Strong schools reduce crime and help protect our quality of life.”

Against multiple letters from parents and elected officials in Glendale and Peoria, there were two letters opposing the Peoria Unified override request.

“This is the fourth time Peoria Unified School District has come to us asking for more money,” wrote Corrine Haynes, who identified herself as a retired teacher and urged voters to reject the requests.

“Yet their achievement scores still remain poor with 70% of our 11th graders unable to pass the state reading test. Poor performance does NOT result from lack of funding. It is not true that our schools are underfunded—quite the contrary. ... Until our concerns are answered, and we see actual proof of a rigorous curriculum that fosters skilled, informative, critical thinkers that can navigate successfully in this complicated world, stop asking for more money and start creating a better path forward. That would give me a reason to support an override!”

The other letter urging voters to reject the override came from Rick Gutridge, a PUSD advisory committee member.

Gutridge wrote he was upset a 12% override—rather than 13%—was not put on the ballot.

The smaller request, he said, “was intended to show that PUSD was willing to make a small sacrifice alongside district families who’ve taken cuts in their income due, or lost their jobs entirely, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Advisory Committee and Governing Board majority refused to consider this simple gesture, this reasonable option. They’ve made it clear that their wants and needs are more important than those of district families and small businesses, who are in no position to fund anything beyond their own essentials.”

Gutridge and Haynes also wrote letters opposing the PUSD $125 million bond request.

PUSD voting history

According to information provided by PUSD, “If approved, the M&O override continuation would continue to provide $28 million of additional funding each year to fund health care professionals, physical education, arts education, music, chorus and assistant principals on district campuses.”

Voters approved the current 13% override in 2015.

But an increase to 15% narrowly failed last fall.

PUSD voters first approved a 10% override in 1996 and renewed overrides in 2001, 2006 and 2012. In 2015, voters approved a 13% override. The authorization lasts for seven years and phases out over the last two years if not renewed or replaced with another voter-approved initiative.

If approved, the override will result in an estimated average annual tax rate of $1.4486 per $100 of limited assessed valuation for residential property owners. The tax rate associated with the district’s existing bond sales and the new $125,255,000 bond authorization would be $1.4781 per $100 of limited assessed valuation for a residential homeowner in the district.

According to PUSD, the $125 million bond would pay for:

• Renovation and essential and critical improvements at existing schools and support centers.

• Implementation of safety features at all school sites.

• Replacement of student and staff computer devices, servers and technology infrastructure.

• Replacement of student transportation vehicles, including special education and activity buses.

• Acquiring land for future construction of a new high school.

School boards

In school board races, five candidates will be on the ballot for the Deer Valley Unified School District board and four for the Glendale Elementary School District board. Both districts have three seats open and had one candidate withdraw.

A robust field of nine candidates will fight for three Peoria Unified School District governing board seats. Seven of them participated in a Sept. 21 forum sponsored by the Peoria United Parent Council.

Glendale Union High School District will not have an election, as only three candidates filed for the three seats that are open. LauraArita, Patti Jo Hussey and Pam Reicks will be appointed to the GUHSD board.

Trevino at Glen Lakes set to tee off

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 17:43:20 GMT

GlendaleStar.com ,Oct 22, 2020

Glendale City Council approved two measures clearing the way for a developer to turn Glen Lakes Golf Course into Trevino at Glen Lakes, a 173-home gated community. The golf course has been closed for more than a year.

Glendale Star photo by Tom Scanlon

Despite multiple protests by many of the same neighbors who have cried out against the project for more than a year, Glendale City Council effectively closed the books on the Glen Lakes Golf Course.

“It’s a crying shame,” said Councilman Bart Turner, the lone opposing vote. “We can afford to restore this, either as a golf course or a park. ... There’s a lot of dissent in the community.”

Council voted 6-1 to approve an amendment and rezoning of the city-owned golf course. That clears the way for closing on the $6.5 million sale of Glen Lakes Golf Course.

Homes by Towne, the buyer, plans a 173-home gated housing community, with a 10-acre surrounding park.

"I do not take any pleasure in casting this vote," said Councilwoman Lauren Tolmachoff, who voted for both motions. "We’ve spent over two years debating this issue, and it just doesn’t make financial sense to me for a city of 250,000 people to have two nine-hole municipal golf courses. Literally there’s a nine-hole municipal golf course five and a half miles from here. I don’t see any other option for us but to move forward with this.

"I think it’s the right thing to do for the city. I know the residents are not going to be happy," Tolmachoff added.

So the 173-home Trevino at Glen Lakes is set to tee off in Glendale.

Suzanne Weber, director of marketing of Homes by Towne, was asked by The Glendale Star about the opposition by neighbors.

“We respect the love neighbors have for this community and invite everyone to come and visit our existing communities to see what we are about,” said Weber.

Homes by Towne has communities in Surprise, Litchfield Park, Cave Creek and North Phoenix.

Asked why Homes by Towne was so interested in Glen Lakes, Weber said, “We were excited about the opportunity to build and provide a new home option in an established neighborhood with strong community ties and great freeway access.”

Glen Lakes is on 40 acres near Northern and 55th avenues in northeast Glendale.

According to Weber, construction on the Trevino at Glen Lakes community will begin with six months “with home closing slated for two years from now.”

She said the 173 homes will range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet.

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce wholeheartedly supports the project.

“We encourage your full support on Trevino at Glen Lakes—your approval of this project will demonstrate the councils ability recognize the importance of an infill project as a way to strengthen Glendale’s economy,” wrote Robert Heidt Jr., president and CEO of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, in a letter to the mayor and council members before the meeting.

“In addition, your support recognizes the potential of this new development as a catalyst for new and affordable homes, shows you have fully evaluated the prior use as a golf course and the cost implications associated, etc. It also shows the community the council’s ability to recognize a better use for a city asset that has not been able to reach the potential it perhaps once had whereas it has been costing the city money.”

Heidt said the new community will have significant impacts “and has the potential to raise property values in the area. What is also of great interest, the nearly 173 new homes and families who will relocate into our community within one mile of downtown, an area of the community we continue to work collectively on as we strive to drive economic vitality to downtown businesses—another win for Glendale’s businesses,” Heidt said.

But several who posted comments to The Glendale Star’s social media expressed frustration.

“Our Glendale City Council doesn’t care what its residents want. Thank you, Bart Turner, for being the one vote of reason,” said Jim Wolfe.

Tom Cole complained about council “completely disregarding the unanimous vote of the planning commission. The majority of this council thinks they know better than the neighbors or the volunteers appointed for this purpose. This is not how city government is supposed to work.”

“This is so sad!” wrote Becky Shad. “Thank you Bart for trying.”

Jane Bachmann, one of the leaders of Save Glen Lakes, which has been fighting to keep the golf course, joined in the praise of Turner and condemnation of the other votes.

But Bachmann added a cryptic note; “It is not over yet for Glen Lakes, stay tuned ...”

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce with Robert Heidt

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 20:45:00 GMT

podcast.withpurposellc.com

here

Glendaleazchamber.org

https://www.facebook.com/GlendaleAZchamber/

https://www.withpurposellc.com

facebook.com/withpurposellc/

https://www.instagram.com/withpurposeconsulting/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisaird/

clicking here!

Supervisors OK cross-dock Military Compatibility Permit

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 20:04:00 GMT

erial shot shows the location of the FedEx cross-dock terminal site. It will be built on the back half of the property, near Luke Air Force Base's flight line. YourValley.net - By Kelly O’SullivanOpponents awaiting Board of Adjustment interpretation of county ordinanceThe Maricopa County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Wednesday, July 21 to approve KW Projects’ request for a Military Compatibility Permit for 157 acres at 152nd Avenue and Camelback Road in uninco [...]

Glendale community members team up for $40K in vets scholarships

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Tue, 07 Jul 2020 16:22:00 GMT

Glendale Chamber of Commerce president Robert Heidt, Glendale Community College president Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz and Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers presented a $40,000 donation to Glendale Community College’s Veteran Services Center for Veteran scholarships. YourValley.netGlendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers, along with Glendale Chamber of Commerce president Robert Heidt, Glendale Community College president Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz and other Glendale Community College staff were present at the June 25 [...]

Mayor Jerry P. Weiers and Glendale Chamber of Commerce Donate $40,000 for Veterans Scholarships to Glendale Community College’s Veteran Services Center

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 18:04:00 GMT

YourValley.netThe Veteran Services Center at Glendale Community College is receiving $40,000 from a fundraiser held earlier this year.Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers, Glendale Chamber of Commerce President Robert Heidt, Glendale Community College President Dr. Teresa Leyba Ruiz and other GCC staff were present at Thursday’s donation presentation to GCC for veteran scholarships.The biannual Mayor’s Big Dog Runs’ registration fees funded the donation. The event was held Feb. 29 w [...]

Highly Anticipated En Fuego Development Officially Breaks Ground

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 19:55:00 GMT

OrionProp.comWalt Brown, founder and CEO of Diversified Partners, a Scottsdale-based real estate brokerage and development company, announced the groundbreaking of its large, prime parcel known as En Fuego, at 91st and Glendale avenues.The groundbreaking ceremony at 9100 N. Zanjero Blvd. in Glendale was attended by a large crowd, which included Glendale City Major Jerry Weiers and Glendale Chamber of Commerce President Robert Heidt, among others. With En Fuego hard hats [...]

Glendale chamber president: Arizona governor, mayors need to restrict business operations to prevent spread of coronavirus

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 17:01:00 GMT

AZCentral.com

spoke passionately about his frustration about Ducey's failure to act in a video the chamber posted on YouTube

local businesses are struggling

not taking the same precautions as other states

U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema has called on Ducey to close

So far, Phoenix is the only large city in the Valley

West Valley chambers cancel events

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Tue, 17 Mar 2020 17:14:00 GMT

YourValley.netSouthwest Valley Chamber of Commerce announced Monday, March 16 its Marketing Lunch N Learn with Chris Amos scheduled for Thursday, March 19 has been canceled.The Glendale Chamber of Commerce confirmed via email Monday the West Valley Chambers Alliance Insider’s Breakfast on West Valley growth scheduled for Wednesday, March 25 has been canceled and will be rescheduled. [...]

‘Big Dog’ motorcyclists join for fun, good cause

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 20:47:00 GMT

Mayor Jerry Weiers high-fiving riders as they finished their trip. Glendale Star photo by Octavio Serrano GlendaleStar.comMayor Jerry Weiers rode with hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts through remarkable landmarks of the Valley. It was an event unlike any other, he said. “There’s nowhere in this country that you can actually go around a racetrack, down to the sixth-largest Air Force base in the world, turn around and go into a stadium and then get food and help veterans [...]

At ‘State of the City’ mayor says Glendale is still paving

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 15:13:00 GMT

Steve Gabbay, left, of YAM Worldwide and his wife Jolene accepted the Citizen of the Year award on behalf of Bob and Renee Parsons from Mayor Jerry Weiers. GlendaleStar.comProduct placement department: Tables had bottles of Coca-Cola and cans of Red Bull and White Claw. Swire Coca-Cola bottling facility is in Glendale near Westgate; the makers of Red Bull and White Claw are building facilities in the fast-expanding west Glendale “New Frontier.”No coincidence, here, as those three bev [...]

10th Annual Dog Days of Glendale returns this weekend

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Tue, 03 Mar 2020 22:44:00 GMT

www.facebook.com/DogDaysofGlendale

Instagram.com/dogdaysofglendale

www.VisitDowntownGlendale.com

Downtown Glendale is open for business!

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 19:30:00 GMT

GlendaleStar.comAs a long-time downtown Glendale business and property owner, civic leader, former city of Glendale vice mayor, and proud Glendale champion, I have lived through the transformations our entire community has gone through. And I will be the first to say change is never easy but it is essential to our sustainability as a city. The world around us is constantly on the move, and in order to move with it, we have to be open to the change inevitable and able to adapt both as resid [...]

GCC students win $5K at Innovation Summit 2020

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 15:52:00 GMT

GCC Innovation Summit 2020 winners, judges and organizers include, front row, Kristin Kauder, Alyssa Ray, Evan Norris, Mary Elizabeth Gilbertson, Rachelle Hall, Jason Higgins, Rashaad Higgins and Gabriela Cojanu; and back row, Ron Babich, Pamela Chan, Roxanne Segura, Robert Heidt and Jeff Swenson. YourValley.netAs part of National Entrepreneurship Week, Glendale Community College conducted an Innovation Summit on campus at 6000 W. Olive Ave.The event, led by Dr. Gabriela Cojanu, faculty member [...]

Mayor Jerry P. Weiers Hosts the 4th Big Dog Motorcycle Run to Benefit GCC Veterans Scholarships

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 26 Feb 2020 15:48:00 GMT

www.MayorsBigDogRun.com

GCC to host Innovation Summit on Glendale campus

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 14 Feb 2020 16:48:00 GMT

YourValley.net

gccaz.edu/innovation-summit

The Glendale Chamber of Commerce Announces 2020 Board of Directors

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 23:36:00 GMT

The Board of Directors is the policy body of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. Its members represent a cross-section of the business and professional leadership in the community. It has always been considered an honor to serve on the Board. Genuine and unselfish interest in the Chamber and its objective is the first requirement for the Board members. The Board performs the legislative function for the organization. That is, it makes policy decisions for the Chamber. The Glendale Cha [...]

Make Success Happen - Business Seminars Sponsored by the Glendale Chamber of Commerce and Glendale Community College

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 23:06:00 GMT

Glendale, AZ, January 29, 2020 — Owning and managing a business can be overwhelming and stressful, especially if you don’t have all of the proper tools. By tools, we don’t mean wrenches, hammers or drills; we are referring to the proper business tools that are necessary for running a profitable and efficient business. The Glendale Chamber of Commerce and Glendale Community College have teamed up to provide business owners and managers with the tools and [...]

Press conference announcing bi-partisan bill to update non-discrimination law to include sexual orientation and gender identity Thursday, January 30th, 2020

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 29 Jan 2020 21:12:00 GMT

WHEN: Thursday, January 30th, 202010:00 AM WHERE: Arizona State CapitolHouse Lawn1700 West Washington StreetPhoenix, Arizona 85007WHAT:A group of bipartisan legislators and community leaders will announce the introduction of SB1321, a bipartisan bill to extend Arizona’s current non-discrimination protections to gay and transgender Arizonans in employment, housing [...]

Inaugural Full Moon Lantern Fest coming to Glendale

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 18:52:00 GMT

YourValley.net

wham-art.org

glendaleaz.com/arts

VisitDowntownGlendale.com

Glendale to host blood drive during ‘critical shortage’

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 22:16:00 GMT

YourValley.net

keaton@vitalant.org

Glendale Chamber members honored

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 22:20:00 GMT

YourValley.netThe Glendale Chamber of Commerce put the spotlight on individuals who have given their effort and time to the chamber and community as well as making a significant difference towards success.During the Nov. 27 Member Appreciation Event, individuals recognized included: Jennifer Brugger, of la Madeleine French Bakery & Cafe, Brendan Gearty, of Gordon Graphics Inc., Maria Brunner, of the Board, Angelo Rossetti, of FCP Coaching and Marketing, Yvonne Knaack, of Kiwanis Club of Gle [...]

Glendale Chamber welcomes new members

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 06 Dec 2019 22:00:00 GMT

Home for Heroes helps firefighters, EMS workers, law enforcement, military members (active, reserve and veterans), healthcare professionals and teachers buy and sell homes. The group recently joined the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. [Submitted photo] YourValley.netThe Glendale Chamber of Commerce welcomes the following new members: Pargon Business Equipment, LLC, Steve Wood Voice & Video, West Valley Star, and Homes for Heroes.Pargon Business Equipment, LLC provides technology products and s [...]

Glendale pays tribute to those who have served

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 21 Nov 2019 20:21:00 GMT

GlendaleStar.com

aherman@glendaleazchamber.org

Glendale Veterans Day

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 19:54:00 GMT

GlendaleStar.comGlendale pays tribute to those who serveResidents packed the auditorium of Glendale’s Main Library early Monday morning to celebrate the city’s 17th annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony. Presented by the Glendale Chamber of Commerce Military & Veterans Affairs Committee, Mayor Jerry Weiers and the city of Glendale, the event drew standing room only and featured speakers from three service branches, flag raisings and retirements, and a missing-man flyover.R [...]

Seventh Annual Stand Up For Veterans Sept. 21, 2019

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 23:24:00 GMT

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet /Michael Murphy gets his beard trimmed by Philana. Rolf’s Solon sponsored the free hair- cuts. GlendaleDailyPlanet.comBy Bette Sharpe – Glendale Daily PlanetMichael Murphy gets his beard trimmed by Philana. Rolf’s Solon sponsored the free hair- cuts. The smile on this veteran’s face tells the story of just how important a good-looking haircut is. Saturday was hair day at the, at Glendale Community College.G [...]

Glendale garden grows healing for veterans

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 18:04:00 GMT

Bernie Kandall, a veteran of the U.S. Army and Air Force, works on the new healing rose garden. (Glendale Star photo by Pablo Robles) YourValley.netBy Tom Scanlon, Glendale Star Associate EditorIn wraparound sunglasses, a twisted goatee and black leather vest, the burly Bernie Kendall looks like a big, tough dude.Until Robert “Tiny” Hogan rolls up.Next to the hulking Hogan, tackle-sized, shave-headed, flowing Viking beard, Kendall almost looks like a high school kid.On [...]

The Art of networking

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 03 Apr 2019 05:00:00 GMT

By: Breanna Pope, Director of Marketing & Communications, Glendale Chamber of CommerceNetworking: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups or institutions; specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business— Merriam-Webster.If you’re looking to grow your business or stay relevant in your community, building relationships is KEY. Regularly attending networking events will allow you to create meaningful relationships [...]

Join us for a chamber event

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 27 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

By: Breanna Pope, Director of Marketing & Communications, Glendale Chamber of CommerceThe Glendale Chamber of Commerce holds over 100 dynamic events each year! These events are designed to connect and showcase businesses in the community. When local companies have connected, they are more likely to do business with one another, resulting in a stronger more prosperous economy. As a Chamber of Commerce, it is our mission to be a dependable resource for business referrals, and our events help u [...]

5 Ways to Kick Off Your Career While You are Still Hustling in the Classroom

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 22:30:00 GMT

By: Erica Francis, Readyjob.orgReady to get your career rolling? Still stuck in high school or college? Relax. You can definitely make your career dreams come true without sacrificing focus on your education. All you need to get going are some motivation, a little time, and these tips for future career success. Start Your Very Own Small Business Think this sounds crazy? Well, you should think again! Side gigs and e-commerce sites make it easier than ever to begin a busines [...]

imagine the impact

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

By: Breanna Pope, Director of Marketing & Communications, Glendale Chamber of CommerceImagine if each of our 1,200 members spent $20 at a local business on the 20th of each month...That would equal $24,000 in just one day, increasing local sales by $288,000 each year. Here's why it's so important to #ShopLocal:Studies have shown that money spent with Arizona's local businesses stay in the local economy and community longer than money spent with non-local businesses. This extra money in [...]

Chairwomen lead the way

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 05:00:00 GMT

OneAZ Credit Union

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

Arizona State University

Midwestern University

Credit Union West

Pritchard Insurance

experience downtown glendale

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 06:00:00 GMT

By: Katy Engels, Director of Downtown Development, Glendale Chamber of CommerceDiscover Downtown Businesses Bringing Healthy Options to Our CommunitySmall businesses offering health-conscious options are transforming our downtown’s landscape. Downtown Glendale is home to a fabulous farmers market, home to the only vegan grocery store in the Southwest, home to the only organic apothecary in the West Valley and, now, home to a vegan restaurant and an organic vegan meal-delivery service. We i [...]

over 500 million people are using them...are you?

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 01 Mar 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Leveraging Facebook Groups for Your BusinessBy: Ryan Caracciolo, President, Striventa, Co-Chair Glendale Chamber Marketing CommitteeOnline engagement is at a record high and now, more than ever, engaging your ideal customer in the right way is of the utmost importance. With ads and marketing campaigns bombarding your customers everywhere, every interaction that a potential customer has with your business is critical. To create an environment where you can provide value to your customers c [...]

downtown glendale offers something for everyone

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT

By: Katy Engels, Director of Downtown Development, Glendale Chamber of CommerceWhether it’s watching a play, eating at one of our many restaurants, or just shopping at one of our many shops, Downtown Glendale is the heart and soul of our city. Our downtown is graced with over 80 unique shops, boutiques, restaurants and services that are independently owned and operated and are located within walking distance of each other, with plenty of free parking available. Often the person who [...]

6 common misconceptions about chambers

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT

By: Breanna Pope, Director of Marketing & Communications, Glendale Chamber of CommerceAre you or your business a member of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce? If not, have you asked yourself why? Are common misconceptions preventing you or your business from benefiting? Chamber membership demonstrates to both those you conduct business with and the community, your belief in a strong and prosperous business environment for all. Investment in the Glendale Chamber can increase positive per [...]

glendale chamber of commerce helps you find businesses you can trust

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 06 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT

By: Alysia Sherman, Glendale Chamber Marketing & Communications Intern, Grand Canyon UniversityThe Glendale Chamber serves the business community as the voice of commerce, provides programs and services to improve economic health for its members and supplies leadership for improving the quality of life. For area residents and newcomers, the Glendale Chamber is a reliable source for community information and a dependable resource for business referrals. Connecting with other Chamber-memb [...]

experience downtown glendale

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 06:00:00 GMT

By: Katy Engels, Director of Downtown Development, Glendale Chamber of CommerceWhen you make plans to visit a restaurant you think of how delicious the food will be and if the atmosphere will be exciting enough to lure you back. That is what you will find when you come to downtown Glendale to dine, shop and just have fun. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @experiencedowntownglendale and be sure to tag us #experiencedowntownglendale on your photos to be featured in our monthly e-newslett [...]

6 Tips to Save Money When Moving Locally in Glendale-Phoenix Area

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 06:00:00 GMT

Compared to other big cities on the West Coast, Phoenix has a decent cost of living: It's currently at 113.4 percent. However, since that number is higher than the national average, this saguaro-laden paradise is still an expensive place to live. The good news is that you can move into a new home in Phoenix without breaking the bank. These six money-saving tips are practical, effective and easy to follow: 1. Get your reliable friends to help The people in your inner circle have [...]

The essential holiday to-do list for small business owners

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 13 Dec 2018 17:57:00 GMT

makes people want to be

last-minute rush

marketing blasts

often-missed outreach

holiday cards

Fantastic Gifts & Where to Buy Them: Gifts for Women

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 06 Dec 2018 20:16:00 GMT

1. a gift for the fashionista

2. A GIFT FOR THE Adventurous woman

3. A GIFT FOR THE CrAFTY WOMAN

4. A GIFT FOR THE hOME iMPROVEMENT fANATIC

5. A GIFT FOR THE hEALTH SAVVY WOMAN

Javita:

Young Living Essential Oils Amber Hilliker Merihelen Nuñez,

6. A GIFT FOR THE BUSY BEE

Fantastic Gifts & Where to Buy Them: 5 Gift Ideas for Men

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 18:19:00 GMT

By Alysia Sherman, Glendale Chamber Marketing & Communications Intern, Grand Canyon University – StudentIf you’re anything like me you want to get the perfect gift for your loved one, but you’re never sure what to get them. As a woman, I find men particularly hard to shop for ,but I have learned that it’s all about gauging his interest. I have carefully curated a list of ideas to help you shop this holiday season. Whether you are buying gifts for your hu [...]

Why you should participate in Small Business Saturday!

richard@membermomentum.com (Richard Scully) — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 18:00:00 GMT

By Alysia Sherman, Glendale Chamber Marketing & Communications Intern, Grand Canyon University - Student Become a Neighborhood Champion!Glendale is a great city filled with many small businesses. Whether you are exploring Downtown Glendale or just driving around the Glendale area there are many small businesses that would love to serve you.Saturday, November 24th is Small Business Saturday! Enjoy Glendale Glitters while supporting local businesses Is Christmas your favorite ho [...]

Glendale Chamber of Commerce - Chamber in the News

Glendale Chamber CEO Jumps in for Crucial New Era of Development

Chamber News | January 2026

Glendale Prepares for Change in 2026

Chamber News | January 2026

Glendale Chamber Hires New CEO from Southern Arizona

Chamber News | October 2025

Glendale Chamber Announced Interim President & CEO, Lisa Baker.

Chamber News | July 2025

Chamber President & CEO Search

Connecting, Convening and Catalyzing To Crack Child Care Concerns

Chamber News | May 2025

VAI Resort Urges 'Yes for Glendale'

Chamber News | April 2025

How Glendale Turned Risky Investments Into a Sports and Entertainment Hub

Chamber News - November 2024

Joshua Gunn; Pseudo Pro-Worker Prop 499 Would Dismantle Glendale Economy

Chamber News | October 2024 ﻿

Glendale Chamber Leads Workforce Forum This Month

Chamber News | September 2024

Chamber Appoints New President, CEO

Chamber News | May 2024

Glendale Chamber Launches Search for CEO

Chamber News | February 2024

Glendale Chamber Appoints 2024 Board of Directors

Chamber News | January 2024

Jim Peyton Named Interim Chamber Leader

Chamber News | December 2023

Tolmachoff, Chamber Honor Public Safety

Chamber News - December 2023

Glendale Chamber Picks Interim CEO, Starts Search

Chamber News | December 2023

Glendale Chamber, Councilmember to Honor First Responders

Chamber News | December 2023

Glendale’s Vai Resort Marks Construction Milestone, Plans Late 2024 Opening

Chamber News | December 2023

Glendale To Expand Electric Vehicle Charging Options Through Partnership With EOS Linx

Chamber News | October 2023

Glendale Chamber of Commerce, Eos Linx Expand Public EV Charging

Chamber News | October 2023

Glendale Chamber Partners Up To Provide Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

Chamber News | October 2023

Chamber Partnership To Add Electric Vehicle Chargers in Glendale and Surrounding Areas

Chamber News | October 2023

Glendale Chamber Hosts Education Forum

Chamber News | October 2023

City to Research Adding Juneteenth, Indigenous Peoples Day

Chamber News | September 2023

Glendale Chamber To Host Military Appreciation Ceremony

Chamber News | September 2023

Glendale Chamber Networking Event to Focus On Diversity

Chamber News | September 2023

Glendale Chamber Calls on Council for Inclusive Action

Chamber News | September 2023

Eyecare4Kids Arizona Grant Will Benefit Kids in Need at Glendale Clinic

Chamber News | September 2023

Business, Education Leaders Team Up for Upcoming Glendale Forum

Chamber News | September 2023

Glendale Resident Emphasizes Community Involvement in Her Work

Chamber News | August 2023

Glendale Business Gathering To Look at Dangers of Fentanyl

Chamber News | August 2023

Valley Executive Named Vice Chair of United Way Worldwide’s Women United Global Leadership Council

Chamber News | August 2023

Chandler Chamber Luncheon Will Focus on Workforce Housing, Downtown Projects

Chamber News | August 2023

Golf Outing To Support Local Education Coming to Buckeye

Chamber News | August 2023

Glendale Chamber of Commerce Is Hosting an Education & Workforce Panel

Chamber News | August 2023

Glendale Chamber CEO Earns National Honor

Chamber News | August 2023

Council Offices, Impacted Businesses Among Downtown Glendale Renovation Concerns

Chamber News | July 2023

Glendale Chamber Accepting Military Appreciation Nominations

Chamber News | July 2023 ﻿

Military Transition Support Program with Glendale Chamber of Commerce - AZTV 7

Chamber News | June 2023

Aldama To Run for Glendale Mayor

Chamber News | May 2023

Chamber News | October 2024

Chamber News | July 2023

Chamber News | December 2022