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TEMPE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MONDAY MORNING UPDATE – AUGUST 17, 2009 YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS This Edition Sponsored By Sun Devil Trophy, Inc. 7456 E. Osborn Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Scott Borgeson, Corporate Sales. scott@sundeviltrophy.com O:(480) 990-8575 C:(480) 560-0211 F:(480) 990-8370 www.sundeviltrophy.com Sponsor the Monday Morning Update newsletter and see your name here! CONTENTS Weekly Calendar Monthly Events Chamber News Community News Chamber Benefits Member Spotlight Member Offers Charitable Chamber Committee Corner Member Resources WEEKLY CALENDAR Tuesday, August 18 Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. MidFirst Bank 787 E. Elliot Road Wednesday, August 19 Business Resource Advantage Committee 8:00 a.m. Tempe Chamber of Commerce 909 E. Apache Blvd. Thursday, August 20 Tempe Leadership Board of Directors 7:30 a.m. Hatton Hall 34 E. 7th St. Thursday, August 20 Hot Topics and Lunch with Mayor Hugh Hallman 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Four Points by Sheraton 1333 S. Rural Rd. MONTHLY EVENT CALENDAR August 18 - Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. MidFirst Bank 787 E. Elliot Road Learn more or register August 20 - Mayor Hugh Hallman Hot Topics and Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Four Points by Sheraton 1333 S. Rural Rd. Learn more or register August 26 - Business After Hours 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. The Big Bang 501 S. Mill Ave. Learn more or register August 27 - Business Owners Forum 7:30 a.m. El Penasco Mexican Kitchen 19 E. Broadway Learn more or register August 28 – Sun Devil Football Kickoff Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Tempe Mission Palms Hotel 60 E. 5th Street Learn more or register View or print a calendar of our August events CHAMBER NEWS AND EVENTS CHAMBER PRESIDENT ADDRESSES HEALTH CARE REFORM Tempe Chamber Members, Health care is without a doubt the biggest issue facing Congress this year. Bills that are now being debated would provide insurance to millions of people who don‟t currently have it but at a very high cost to business, especially small business. That‟s why the Tempe Chamber has joined nearly 2,000 businesses, trade associations, and chambers of commerce from across the country in signing a letter on health care written by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It says that we: Oppose a government-run insurance plan because it won‟t be a fair competitor and it will erode the employer-based health insurance system. Oppose mandates on businesses that would require them to either provide coverage or pay huge fines. Support working with Congress to check the rise in health care costs, improve the quality of health care, and broaden the range of affordable health insurance options. This letter helped slow the rush toward passage of a cost-heavy bill before Congress broke for their August recess. When they come back after Labor Day, health care will once again top the agenda in both the House and the Senate. For the country‟s interests and our own, we need to make our voices heard – and this letter provides an ideal way to do it. The U.S. Chamber is keeping it open until Labor Day to allow businesses and chambers of commerce to sign on. Then when Congress comes back to complete its work, the letter will be presented to every Senator and Representative. Literally thousands of business organizations will be telling Congress to be careful about how they handle this sensitive issue, as it could be critical to our economy‟s health. Please review this letter and decide whether it expresses concerns you have about what Congress is doing. If it does, please add your name to the growing list of businesspeople who want to be heard. It only takes a minute; start by clicking here. Thanks for your consideration, and be assured that the Tempe Chamber of Commerce is working for you on this and many other issues. We could be even more effective this time with a little help from you. Sincerely, Mary Ann Miller President/CEO, Tempe Chamber of Commerce Maryann@tempechamber.org twitter.com/mamiller SUN DEVIL FOOTBALL KICKOFF LUNCHEON Join the Tempe Chamber and the ASU Alumni Association as we jump start the Sun Devil football season with Head Coach Dennis Erickson, ASU Athletics Director Lisa Love and voice of the Sun Devils, Tim Healey. The Sun Devil football players and coaching staff, Sparky and the ASU Spirit Squad make this one of the season‟s most exciting and energy-filled events. The luncheon takes place on Friday, Aug. 28 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel, 60 East Fifth Street in Tempe. Individual seats are available, or purchase a Sun Devil VIP table and have lunch with a coach or player. The 9th Annual Sun Devil Football Kickoff Luncheon is presented by US Airways and sponsored by Insight, Telesphere and American Family Insurance. This event will sell out. Advance registration is required here or by calling (480) 967-7891 MAYOR HALLMAN TO SPEAK AT HOT TOPICS LUNCHEON We are featuring Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman at our Hot Topics and Lunch event this Thursday, Aug. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.at Four Points by Sheraton, 1333 S. Rural Rd. in Tempe. Citizens and representatives of the business community are invited to attend this special luncheon for an informative and exciting afternoon as Mayor Hallman shares his perspective on the social and economic climate of Tempe. He will discuss the present business environment and share his vision for the growth and future of the city. Hot Topics and Lunch is sponsored by M&I Bank. The cost to attend is $25 for Tempe Chamber members in advance, $30 members day of and $35 for the general public. RSVP to the Tempe Chamber at (480) 967-7891 or online here. INTERESTED IN DOING BUSINESS WITH SWEDEN? Business representatives from Trollhattan, Sweden have contacted us expressing their interest in partnering with local companies in order to form mutually beneficial business associations. As a Tempe Chamber member, we want to ask you if you‟d be interested in pursuing this opportunity. View a brochure on Trollhattan here to learn more about its economy, culture and business climate. No commitment is required but those with an interest are asked to contact Tempe Chamber President/CEO Mary Ann Miller at maryann@tempechamber.org with your name, company, and what kind of company you‟d like to connect with. If there is enough interest, we will take the next steps to bring this exciting business opportunity to Tempe. STATE OF THE SCHOOLS ADDRESS ANNOUNCED We are pleased to present the State of the Schools Address on Wed., Sept. 30, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Embassy Suites Tempe at 4400 S. Rural Rd. Each year this event provides a chance for the public to meet with a panel of educators to learn the condition of the Valley‟s educational institutions and determine how the community can assist in strengthening them. The State of the Schools Address consistently provides participants with new tools, ideas and methods for working with the educational community in a mutually beneficial manner. This year‟s panel will feature the Tempe Elementary School District Superintendent Dr. Arthur Tate; Kyrene School District Superintendent Dr. David Schauer; Tempe Union High School District Superintendent Steve Adolph; Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Maricopa Community College District Dr. Maria Harper-Marinick; founder and CEO of Pinnacle Education Dr. Mike Matwick; and an ASU representative. The event will consist of a panel discussion on the top issues concerning the educational community moderated by Margaret Garcia-Dugan, Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction with the Arizona Department of Education. Tickets are $35 each for members, $45 for prospective members or $450 for a VIP table of ten. RSVP to (480) 967-7891 or online here. The event is presented by Ed Options and sponsored by Children‟s Dental Village, OfficeMax, Tempe Schools Credit Union, Arredondo & Arredondo Insurance, State Farm, Motorola and Rio Salado College. EAST VALLEY BUSINESS EXPO EARLY BIRD SPECIAL An early bird discount is available through Aug. 31 to save you $50 on your East Valley Business Expo exhibitor registration. The Expo is the largest networking mixer and business-to-business event of the year, where 1,500 attendees are expected and more than 140 exhibitors will be on site. This event provides the networking opportunities and business-to-business contacts vital to grow your business The East Valley Business Expo takes place on October 7, 2009 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Mesa Convention Center, 201 N. Center Street. Admission is free with a business card. The Expo is produced by the Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa Chambers of Commerce. Online registration is open and features the early bird discounts. Exhibitors choose their own booth locations which are first come, first served. For complete information or to register contact Sally Harrison at sharrison@mesachamber.org or visit www.eastvalleybusinessexpo.com TEMPE CHAMBER IS YOUR POLITICAL VOICE It is time consuming enough to run your business without worrying about how pending legislation might impact it. We recognize that your focus must be on adapting to daily challenges and positioning your company to succeed. The Tempe Chamber is the recognized voice at local, state and national levels and regularly takes positions on legislation affecting the business environment so that you can focus on the business of doing business. We would like to know what your most pressing concerns are as a business owner in Tempe so that we can most effectively represent you in legislative affairs. Please contact Catherine Mayorga at the Tempe Chamber at catherine@tempechamber.org and share your issues, thoughts and concerns so that we can continue our history of successful lobbying on behalf of the Tempe business community. TEMPE CHAMBER PARTNERS WITH ASU ART MUSEUM TO BENEFIT BUSINESS COMMUNITY The Tempe Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the ASU Art Museum to bring an exciting opportunity to its membership. As part of its business outreach, the Chamber is offering the business community the chance to become involved in a groundbreaking new project that partners artists and local businesses to benefit both, while simultaneously engaging the community. Members of the Tempe Chamber are being invited to participate in advance of the general public to take advantage of a unique and rewarding marketing opportunity. The ASU Art Museum has announced plans for a forward-thinking exhibition that will allow artists to create site-specific works at various businesses throughout the community. The exhibition is planned for the spring of 2010 and will allow artists and their audience to explore businesses by interacting with their physical space and purpose. The works created for the exhibition will address the purpose of each business, with interrelated installations by each artist at both the individual business and ASU Art Museum. A goal of the project is to generate additional traffic to participating businesses and to reinforce the bonds and dialogue between the artists, Tempe community and the museum. To learn more about the project and how you can participate, please contact museum curator John Spiak at (480) 965-2787 or spiak@asu.edu. TEMPE CHAMBER SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTIONS Use Our Free Connections to Prosper! Click here to visit the Chamber Blog and see how this powerful site can help you learn and grow. Share information, comments and tips with other members. New weekly posts ensure you‟re kept up to date on the most timely topics. Click here for our Twitter profile and stay informed with up-to-the-minute breaking Chamber, business and political news. One of a kind offers are known to pop up, too! Click here for our LinkedIn profile and join our group of professionals who can help you network, grow your business and make profitable social and business contacts. Click here for our Facebook page to become our friend and enjoy a dynamic, interactive experience where you can contribute as much as you like, share news about your business and post videos, photos and more. Click here for our Yelp profile and share in this hybrid of social networking and user reviews, backed by profiles created by businesses about their company and services. Click here for the Tempe Chamber Social Media Primer for a quick and basic overview on how to engage social media to your advantage and profit. Don‟t forget to visit www.tempechamber.org regularly to learn more about the many ways that we are working hard to ensure your success. THE BUSINESS ADVOCATE AUGUST ISSUE AVAILABLE The August edition of The Business Advocate is available on our website. Each issue features business and community news, legislative and political developments impacting your business, special Tempe Chamber offers, information on upcoming seminars, workshops and events and much more. Highlights of the latest edition include: Legislative Session in Review State of the Schools Announcement Annual Luncheon Photographs Ribbon Cuttings and Member Spotlights Calendar of Committee Meetings and Events Exclusive Offers for Tempe Chamber Members COMMUNITY NEWS AND EVENTS SUN DEVIL TROPHY – REWARDING SUCCESS “For 23 years, Sun Devil Trophy, Inc. has taken pride in providing top quality services to customers in need of recognition and achievement awards, executive gifts and custom event supplies. Corporate and employee recognition, as well as athletic award recognition of all sports, is our specialty. Visit us online at www.sundeviltrophy.com.” The company is saving Chamber members 20% off any corporate award, employee recognition piece or sports trophy through September. Visit www.sundeviltrophy.com or contact Scott at (480) 990-8575, (480) 560-0211 cell or scott@sundeviltrophy.com to learn more. This edition of the Monday Morning Update is sponsored by Sun Devil Trophy. To sponsor a future edition and see your name and information here, please contact Sean Donovan at (480) 736-4285 or email sean@tempechamber.org. Your sponsorship includes an editorial such as the one above, and your business prominently featured at the header of the newsletter. CHAMBER MEMBERS INVITED TO SUPPORT “BOOTS FOR TROOPS” PROGRAM The Tempe Chamber and its Military Affairs Committee are lending support to the Tempe Veterans Foundation and the “Boots For Our Troops” program. Through the program, businesses and retail outlets have the opportunity to support Arizona‟s veterans, military personnel and their families. Chamber members are invited to participate free of charge in this worthwhile cause. The program provides participating retail stores, hospitality outlets, and other businesses with combat boot-shaped cut outs. Patrons can purchase one, write their name or a message on it and display it at the business. The funds collected support reintegration services, counseling, financial aid and scholarships for Arizona veterans. The general fundraising drive will run from August 1 to October 31 for all businesses. The Tempe Veterans Foundation is a recognized 501(C)3 nonprofit and donations are tax deductible. For more information on how you can participate, contact (480) 703-4008. GOV. JAN BREWER TO PRESENT STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS In cooperation with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations presents the 6th Annual International State of the State featuring Gov. Jan Brewer on September 22 from 11:30 to 1:30 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa, 2400 East Missouri Avenue. The event highlights Arizona‟s role in the global economy and how it impacts our local markets. A diverse group of individuals and organizations comes together for this event to learn how international trade enhance Arizona‟s global footprint, underscoring the value that the community places on it. At the event the Governor will outline the state‟s international goals, discuss critical business achievements and opportunities, review key global issues, and announce new international initiatives important to Arizona. Before Sept. 16 tickets are $45 for Tempe Chamber members and members of cooperating organizations or $55 for the general public. Registrations after Sept. 16 are an additional $10. For more information or to purchase tickets or table sponsorships, please visit www.pcfraz.org or call (602) 441-4967. TEMPE COMMUNITY COUNCIL SURVEY The Tempe Community Council and the City of Tempe are conducting a survey to guide human services planning activities. Please take a moment to complete the City of Tempe 2009 Human Services Survey. The results of this survey will be used to inform municipally led human service planning and to inform the allocation of resources more effectively. This short survey is being distributed to City of Tempe funded human services agencies, local businesses and community organizations. Your input is fundamental to ensure a comprehensive and clear understanding of the needs of our community. CITY SIGN CODE CHANGES BENEFIT BUSINESS The Tempe Chamber recently joined forces with the Tempe City Council to ensure that local businesses have every tool possible to operate successfully and profitably. The Council recently passed changes to the sign code that allow businesses more flexibility with signage. Businesses now may have one significant event every six months. Each event will allow a business to display temporary signage for 21 cumulative days. Temporary, portable signs that direct people to apartment and condominium developments may increase to six square feet. Sale, lease and rent signs for commercial, industrial and multi-family developments may now be as large as 16 square feet. These changes are in effect for nine months. Visit http://tempe.gov/business/ for more information. CITY CONSTRUCTION REPORT PLAN CHECK SUBMITTALS 07/09/09 – TENANT IMPROVEMENT at 120 E. 5th St. for Tempe Police and IT Departments Declared Valuation: $4,230,400 Plan Check No.: PC09-0535 07/13/09 – TENANT IMPROVEMENT at 1305 W. 23rd St. for Wells Fargo Declared Valuation: $250,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0541 07/22/09 – TENANT IMPROVEMENT at 680 S. Mill Ave. for five Guys @ Centerpoint Declared Valuation: $550,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0585 07/23/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 126 W. Gemini Dr. for Verizon Tempe MSC Battery Room Declared Valuation: $2,000,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0586 PERMITS ISSUED 07/01/09 – NEW BUILDING at 210 S. Smith Rd. for Fisher Tools Declared Valuation: $495,100 Plan Check No.: PC09-0137 07/13/09 – TENANT IMPROVEMENT at 1050 W. Washington St., Ste 214, for Sunstate Builders Declared Valuation: $299,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0497 07/15/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 2155 E. Conference Dr. for Reproductive Medical Institute Declared Valuation: $400,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0096 07/16/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 1949 E. University Dr. for The Element @ ASU Declared Valuation: $300,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0351 07/21/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 3500 S. Rural Rd. for Tempe Public Library Declared Valuation: $1,750,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0210 07/23/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 1610 S. Priest Dr. for Ellison Machinery Declared Valuation: $442,900 Plan Check No.: PC09-0446 07/25/09 – NEW BUILDING at 1845 E. University Dr. for Wash Wizard Auto Spa Declared Valuation: $650,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0204 07/29/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 2200, 2206 & 2210 S. Priest Dr. for Colton Constructors Declared Valuation: $620,000 Plan Check No.: PC08-1077 07/30/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 3159 S. McClintock Dr. for Ross @ Bashas Valley Plaza Declared Valuation: $200,000 Plan Check No.: PC08-0310 07/30/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 1001 E. Knox Rd. for Kyrene Elementary School District Declared Valuation: $200,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0374 PERMITS FINALLED 07/09/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 1215 S. 52nd St. for Northrop Grumman Declared Valuation: $1,150,000 Plan Check No.: PC07-1515 07/28/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 3225 S. Hardy Dr. for Pinnacle Education Declared Valuation: $310,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0316 07/29/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 2720 S. Hardy Dr. for Infincom Declared Valuation: $300,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0281 07/30/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 50 E. Knox Rd. for Kyrene Elementary School District Declared Valuation: $869,700 Plan Check No.: PC08-0839 07/30/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 2005 E. Technology Cir for Wipro Infocrossing Data Center Declared Valuation: $1,400,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0068 07/30/09 – ADDITION/ALTERATION at 1310 W. Drivers Way for Supplemental Nutrition Tech Declared Valuation: $200,000 Plan Check No.: PC09-0167 QUINCEANERA SHOW ANNOUNCED AT SHERATON The Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel Tempe at 1600 S. 52nd St. is holding a free Quinceañera Show on Aug. 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A variety of vendors, photographers, DJs, service providers, decorators, bakers and more will be on site. The hotel is decorating its Grand Ballroom as a mock Quinceañera event as a display. Admission is free. SCF SAFETY TIPS Keeping Safe Around Machinery Two basic safety methods are used to keep you from slicing or dicing your fingers, hands and other body parts on industrial machines. They are guards and devices. Guards are physical barriers to the blades, saws or danger areas. They enclose dangerous machine parts and prevent worker contact. Guards must be secure and strong. Workers should not be able to bypass, remove or tamper with them. Devices interrupt the machine's operating cycle to prevent workers from reaching in or entering the danger area while the machine is cycling. They are designed to either interrupt the normal cycle of the machine if the worker‟s hands reach the point of operation; prevent the worker from reaching into the point of operation; or withdraw the worker‟s hands if they are located in or near the point of operation when the machine cycles. Employers also need to implement good housekeeping practices to promote safe working conditions around machinery. These can include: Remove slip, trip and fall hazards from the area around the machinery Use drip pans when oiling equipment Remove waste as it is generated Design the work area large enough for operations and maintenance Place machines away from high-traffic areas to reduce worker distraction Also, make sure machine operators do not wear loose-fitting clothing, jewelry, or other items that could become entangled in machinery. Long hair should be worn under a cap or contained to prevent entanglement. In addition to employee instruction and training, provide adequate supervision to reinforce safe practices and set up disciplinary action to enforce these practices and working conditions. Provided by Tod Dennis, Association Coordinator. Tempe Chamber members enjoy the benefit of participating with SCF’s workers' compensation Association Safety Program at no cost. In fact, each year many of our members receive a dividend payment for their participation. To learn more contact us at (480) 967-7891. EARN MORE THROUGH CITY BIDS AND PROPOSALS The City of Tempe regularly accepts bid and proposals on jobs, services and products. As a service to Tempe Chamber members, we list a selection of recent listings in this section. A complete list can be found at www.tempe.gov/purchasing/bids/. Bid solicitations can be obtained on this site or in person at the City of Tempe Procurement Office, 20 East Sixth Street, 2nd Floor. Among other items, the City of Tempe currently is seeking bids on cleaning and maintenance of catch basins, dry wells and storm drains, TCA water feature maintenance, tactical reconnaissance robots, wastewater sampling equipment, fire department vehicle maintenance and repair, sod and more. Maricopa Community Colleges also list bid opportunities on a regular basis. Among other items, it currently is seeking a radio audio management system, paper, plastinated cadavers and more. Visit http://www.maricopa.edu/purchasing/ for a complete list. IRS UPDATE / FREE BUSINESS FORUM Tempe Chamber small business owners are invited to attend the free “Show Me the Money” Arizona Small Business Forum as representatives from the Small Business Administration, IRS and Social Security Administration discuss topics that affect business. Time will be dedicated to allowing these organizations to specifically address your industry‟s issues or concerns. This event will focus on the financial aspects of doing business and will include information from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 from both SBA and IRS. Set up in a round-table format, the program includes members of the banking and lending industries, Arizona Angels investor program and other experts. A Financial Marketplace will be set up for participants to individually speak to financial experts. The free forum takes place Aug. 26 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel, 7475 W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler. RSVP by Aug. 19 at www.scorephoenix.org under “Special Events” or by email to Lisa.A.Novack@irs.gov or (602) 636-9476 with your name, name of your organization, e-mail address, phone number, and how many will attend. The Internal Revenue Service Update: FREE IRS Phone Forum: Combating the Increasing Threat of Online Fraud and Identity Theft http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=158856,00.html On August 19 at 7:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 1:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) the IRS hosts a free phone forum that includes, IRS identity protection efforts, process for reporting tax-related identity theft, ictim assistance, IRS efforts to combat online fraud targeted at taxpayers and how to report phishing schemes targeted at taxpayers. Register at www.attevent.com. Reservations are limited. Put an IRS “Tax Center” on your web site Self-Employed Individual's Tax Center The IRS offers this free center to benefit your clients or association members. For Many Small Businesses, Fall Filing Deadline Looms for Special Refund Claims http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=211964,00.html Time is running out for many small businesses wishing to take advantage of the expanded business loss carryback option. Eligible individuals have until Oct. 15 to choose this expanded carryback option. Eligible calendar-year corporations have until Sept. 15. IRS Seeks New Issues for the Industry Issue Resolution Program http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=211641,00.html The IRS is encouraging business taxpayers, associations and other interested parties to use the Industry Issue Resolution (IIR) Program for any tax issues that involve a controversy, dispute or an unnecessary burden on business taxpayers. Submissions received are reviewed semiannually with selections next being made from issues submitted by Aug. 31, 2009. CHAMBER BENEFITS MONDAY MORNING UPDATE SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE This newsletter is sent via email to more than 2,000 members of the Tempe Chamber community and shared through internal distribution with many more. For an investment of $100 per edition your company logo, name and contact information will be positioned at the top of the newsletter with a “Sponsored by” tagline above it. Sponsors also will receive a 100-word text ad or offer of their choice at the top of the “Community News” segment. Your company name and website address will also be listed in the broadcast email announcing the new Monday Morning Update, as well as through Twitter in an announcement that Monday. This is a great way to gain visibility and recognition for a minimal expense. Contact Sean Donovan at (480) 736-4285 or sean@tempechamber.org to learn more or secure your spot. PARTNER WITH THE TEMPE CHAMBER AND GROW YOUR BUSINESS In tough times it is vital to build a stronger and wider awareness of your business. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through “Face Time” with potential customers and clients. The Tempe Chamber has some powerful ways to help you accomplish this goal at one of our many programs and events. By sponsoring an event, your name recognition grows exponentially along with your sales and influence. Attaching your company‟s name and logo to one of our signature events shows community involvement and presence that is instantly recognizable. Our website has a yearly event calendar with a full-color “Face Time” sponsorship packet designed to meet the needs of any member. Are you trying to build more awareness of your business? What you need is “Face Time” with other potential customers. The Tempe Chamber has some powerful ways to accomplish this through our many programs and events. Click here for some great ideas! Members can promote their businesses with a donation to an event’s silent auction. All auction donors will have their business recognized at the event and also will have the opportunity to include flyers, brochures and business cards with the donation of a complete auction basket. Contact Sean Donovan at sean@tempechamber.org to learn more. Promote your company with a door prize at our mixers and networking events. During the events, we recognize by name each member who brings a door prize. It‟s a great way to generate good feelings towards your business and to drive clients to your door. Simply bring a gift when you attend and we‟ll handle the rest. Reach out to new members through our new member goodie bag. At our New Member Briefings we give each attendee a welcome gift bag which contains information and items to give them a jump start in the Chamber. You can contribute to these bags to both promote your company and to give a warm welcome to your newest colleagues. Contact Renee Lopata at renee@tempechamber.org to participate. MEMBER PERKS Online Renewal As you and your businesses have to work harder and harder every day to succeed, your time becomes more and more valuable. We‟re pleased to offer simple and quick membership renewals on-line in the Members Only section of our website at www.tempechamber.org. If you have any questions or need your username and password please contact Magdalena Warecka at (480) 736-4281 or magdalena@tempechamber.org. Logo Use Members of the Tempe Chamber are able use our official logo on letterhead, business cards, websites or other published materials to show this important affiliation. Studies prove that Chamber membership boosts customer confidence and response. For guidelines and regulations for using the Tempe Chamber logo, click here. If you‟d like to further show your audience your connection with us, please feel free to link to our website at www.tempechamber.org on your site, or through an embedded hyperlink when using our logo. Monthly Payment Plan In challenging times we want to ensure that you continue receiving the benefits of Chamber membership. We now offer an automatic monthly payment plan. It‟s easy, it‟s fast and it‟s secure! For further details, please contact Magdalena Warecka at (480) 736-4281 or magdalena@tempechamber.org. Bring a Guest, Win a Prize Bring a friend or colleague with you to a Chamber event and introduce them to the wonderful opportunities that membership offers. Any member who brings a non-member guest to one of our events will be entered for a drawing for a grand prize each month! Events included in this promotion are Business Before Hours, Business After Hours, Networking @ Noon and Hot Topics & Lunch. Please introduce us to your guest and mention this offer at the event‟s registration table to have your name entered. Testify and be Recognized How would you like to be promoted in every email that is sent from the Tempe Chamber? In the signature line in each email from the Tempe Chamber staff there‟s a testimonial from one of our members. We‟re letting everyone we talk to know how beneficial membership is, and we‟d like to ask you for your assistance in helping us. Each week we add a new testimonial of between 50 to 100 words showing how chamber membership has benefitted our members and/or their businesses. We'd love to hear yours! Your name and business name will be in the byline of the testimonial so that we can also promote you in the thousands of emails we send weekly. Simply email sean@tempechamber.org with your testimonial and we'll take it from there. WEBSITE TIPS @ WWW.TEMPECHAMBER.ORG Automatic Calendar Updates On the event information and registration page you can elect to receive email reminders about events, or download and import the information directly into your Microsoft Outlook calendar. Using keywords Additional keywords may boost your visibility in our online database. If your company offers a variety of different products or services, you can be visible in searches for all of them. Add additional keywords to your database listing through the Members Only section of our website. When you log in you can click on “Business Info” and enter the new information in the “Additional Keywords” area. This is another powerful, free opportunity that we offer our members to help you achieve success. Political Resources An important feature of our website is the Political Resources area featuring the “Tempe Votes!” section of our site, where we bring the most important political news and resources right to you. We are the recognized voice at state and national levels and regularly take positions on legislation affecting the business environment. This section of our site will provide you with the tools you need to become informed and active at a political level. Click here for more information and to see how you can get involved! MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Panchero’s Mexican Grill invites all members to its ribbon-cutting on Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 4:30 p.m. at 555 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite # 105. This is the restaurant‟s first location in Arizona. Edible Arrangements International awarded the 2009 Franchisee Of the Year Award to Bonnie Levine and Sandra Lembke, owners of two Edible Arrangement Franchises in North Scottsdale and Tempe, Arizona. Veolia Transportation and the City of Tempe have been nominated for 2009 BUS Ride Magazine‟s “Clean Energy How Green?” competition. To vote or learn more visit http://www.busride.com/howgreeninfo.asp. RV Rental Outlet reported 60% growth in RV rentals in the past six months. The company doubled its fleet size and staff and moved to a larger property in Tempe. Visit http://www.RVRentalOutlet.com for more information. th Wells Fargo Bank has recognized Kyrene School District teacher Sarah Baird as Arizona‟s Teacher of the Year for 2009. Amy Schapira, a 19-year financial services veteran, has been named to lead Wells Fargo Membership Banking in Arizona. David Lucier, president of the Tempe Veterans Foundation, was named to the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes a lifetime of inspiration and service to fellow veterans and Arizona citizens. Lucier served in Vietnam in 1968 and 1969, as a civilian in Iraq in from 2003 to 2005 and with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force in Afghanistan in 2008. A formal induction ceremony will be held on October 30. Caliente Construction president Lorraine Bergman was recognized as one of five finalists for the 2009 Arizona Woman of the Year Award by AZ Magazine. Project CURE has been selected for the 2009 Best of Tempe Award in the Non-Profit Organizations category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA). The award recognizes outstanding businesses that have enhanced the positive image of small business throughout service to their customers and community. City of Tempe Councilmember Corey Woods will receive an award of excellence on Aug. 11 from the Arizona Chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials and the Arizona Housing Authority Directors Association in recognition of his demonstrated excellence as an advocate of housing programs. Caliente Construction has been recognized as a W. P. Carey School of Business 2009 Spirit of Enterprise Awards finalist along with only 9 other businesses in the Valley. Telesphere, a nationwide business phone and Internet services provider, announced its acquisition of Unity Business Networks, a hosted VoIP company with presence in Denver, Portland and Minneapolis. Last month Telesphere closed more than $15 million in additional funding to be used in accelerating the company‟s expansion. The transaction requires regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the third or fourth quarter of this year. APS recently issued a $271,558 rebate check for energy efficiency to the Maricopa County Community College District. Newly installed energy efficient equipment at three college campuses will result in an estimated $2.7 million savings in electrical use over the lifetimes of the machinery. Any non residential APS customer can take advantage of the program by visiting www.aps.com and clicking on Business Rebates. Do you want to see your company name here? Simply contact Sean Donovan with newsworthy information to have it added to our Member Spotlight. Email sean@tempechamber.org. MEMBER OFFERS This section of the Monday Morning Update is designed to allow Tempe Chamber members to share their discounts or special offers with each other and with the extended community who may be forwarded this newsletter. Offers will run for one month before being automatically removed. To submit or renew your offer, please email sean@tempechamber.org Sun Devil Trophy, Inc. at 7456 E. Osborn Rd. in Scottsdale is saving Chamber members 20% off any corporate award, employee recognition piece or sports trophy through September. Visit www.sundeviltrophy.com or contact Scott at (480) 990-8575, (480) 560-0211 cell or scott@sundeviltrophy.com to learn more. Beard's Signs is offering a special deal to all members who are exhibiting at the East Valley Business Expo. With your paid registration you will receive 25% off your trade show graphics, including everything from table top displays to business cards. Call Kathryn Evans at (480) 2026578 or email artwork@beardsigns.com by Sept. 30 to take advantage of this offer. The newly-renovated Sleep Inn Phoenix Airport Hotel is offering rooms to members for $42.99 plus tax, including free wifi, hot breakfast, 24-hour airport shuttle service and 20% off nearby restaurants. The offer is good every day through Sept. 19 by calling (800) 631-3054 or (480) 9677100 and giving the rate code TEMPEC. Absolute Vitaliy Spa at the Fiesta Resort Conference Center is offering $49 facials or massages for Chamber members who join the "Spa Advantage" program and is waiving the membership fee for those who sign up before Sept. 15. The Vanity on Mill Hair Gallery at 944 S. Mill Avenue is offering $100 off any laser hair removal treatment in addition to the above offer. Express Employment Professionals has an office suite available to Chamber members including furnishings, a private entrance and access to shared common areas with conference room, kitchen, restrooms, phone line and receptionist phone answering. For a tour call Erin Jagodzinski at (480) 220-6767. Christopher's Salon & Spa at 931 E. Elliot Rd is offering three specials through the end of August for new clients: a free haircut with any regular priced color or highlight service, “buy one get one free” on waxing and skin care services and 50% off on select massages. Clients may purchase gift certificates to lock in these offers. Visit www.christopherssalonnspa.com or call (480) 820-5636 to make an appointment. The Arizona Grand Resort is offering a “Grand Playcation” package through September 7. Starting at $149, it includes $50 in resort credit and four free passes to the Children‟s Museum of Phoenix, which also receives a portion of the proceeds from the special. Call (602) 659-6333 or visit www.GrandPlaycation.com and use promo code: PROPLA. Monti’s La Casa Vieja is offering a lunch and dinner special through August. Lunch: NY Strip with side for $14.95, Dinner: 8 oz. NY strip with 3 Jumbo Fried Shrimp and two sides for $18.95 Daily specials after 3:00 p.m.: Mon. 7 oz. Filet Mignon $11.99 and $5 off any bottle of red wine, Tues. 2 Pork Chops $11.99 and $5.00 off any bottle of white wine, Wed. 8 oz. top sirloin $11.99 and $1 off any glass of non-house wine. A special package including dinner for two and passes to the movies are available for $47.95. Contact (480) 967-7594. The Law Office of Joan Jakel, PC is offering a 15% discount on all online services at www.azbusinessresource.com, its new business website designed to help entrepreneurs plan for, launch and grow their business in Arizona. The site also provides valuable information on starting a business, accounting, employment law, marketing, intellectual property, commercial real estate, coaching and more. Among other features, users can form a limited liability company, obtain a tradename, obtain statutory agent services or dissolve their LLC through the site. Enter the promo code “Chamber” at checkout to receive the discount. The Buttes, a Marriott resort is offering a special weekend rate of $69.95, which includes a 20% discount on treatments at the Narande Spa. Call (888) 867-7492 and ask for promotional code D51 or book online at www.ButtesMarriottResort.com and use D51 in the promotional code box. The offer is valid Friday to Sunday through Sept. 6. The Buttes also is offering “Splash Into Summer” meeting packages through Sept. 9 that include breakfast, lunch, snack breaks, drinks and more. The packages start at $48 per person with a 15 person minimum. Call (888) 867-7492 to learn more or RSVP. Sign-a-Rama of Tempe is helping businesses take advantage of the city‟s recently updated sign code changes (see the article in this edition of the Monday Morning Update for details) by offering 3' x 8' full-color banners for $99 (regularly $180), 2' x 3' two-sided full-color wood A-frames for $99 (regularly $180), the 3' x 4' size for $150, and 15% off Coroplast signs. Call (480) 292-0404 to learn more or place your order. The Center for Services Leadership at ASU is holding a "Services Blueprinting: Building Services from the Customers' Point of View" full-day workshop on Sept. 18 to teach techniques to build, analyze, enhance, improve and sustain customer-focused service offerings. Learn more or register at http://wpcarey.asu.edu/blueprinting. IKEA is offering free classes throughout Auust including: closet organizing every Tuesday from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m, kitchen remodeling on Aug. 25 at 7:00 p.m. and Aug. 29 at 10:30 a.m., and children‟s yoga ages 3-7 on Aug. 29th from 2:00 -4:00 p.m. The Tempe Schools Credit Union is offering a Back to School Loan Promotion through September with loans of up to $1,000 at 9.10%oac for the 2009-2010 school year. In addition, Tempe Chamber members who participate will receive a special summer body care package. Contact your local branch for complete details. ASU Gammage has discounted tickets available for The Phantom of the Opera and Mary Poppins. Visit www.eventusher.com and enter “tourism” as the password for special pricing. La Bocca Pizzeria & Wine Bar is offering free appetizers and half off all wines and draft beer to members who book a happy hour party of 15-50 people. The offer is good through Aug. 31. Visit www.LaBoccaPizzeria.com for more information or contact Julian Wright at julian@laboccapizzeria.com to RSVP. Four Points by Sheraton Tempe is offering a complete meeting package starting at $48 per person including meeting space, continental breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. It must include 10 or more people and be booked by August 31. Visit www.fourpointstempe.com to learn more or contact (480) 968-3451 or connie.smith@fourpointstempe.com to book your space. TDC Interiors is offering 25% off any purchase including floor and window coverings, cabinets, countertops and paint at its five Valley locations. Visit www.tdcinteriors.com to learn more The Phoenix Coyotes are offering Pick „Em Plan ticket packages that allow you to pick the games you want to attend while saving up to 38%. Click here or contact Greg Fombelle at (623) 772-3234 or Greg.Fombelle@PhoenixCoyotes.Com for more information. Famous Dave’s BBQ is offering a 12-piece order of wings to all members. Stop by its Mesa Riverview location and mention your membership and the wings are free with a $15 purchase. Special Moments Catering & Events at 1845 E. Baseline is offering free use of a meeting space with complimentary coffee service for up to 12 people on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Breakfast or lunch are available for purchase as well. Please call Michelle or Brad at (480) 730-1114 for more information. Heritage Graphics is offering the chance to win a $100 gift card for every quote on a new print th th project submitted through September 11 . Winners will be chosen on the 14 of each month. Send quote requests to Pat Marco at pat@heritagegraphics.com or call (480) 837-4849. Quality Suites near Old Town Scottsdale and Tempe is offering rooms for $37.99 plus tax th through September 10 . The offer includes a continental breakfast and free internet and is valid for up to 4 people per room. Call (480) 947-3711 to RSVP. Alpha Card offers a 30% discount on all credit card processing equipment to all members and a free analysis of your current credit card processing. Contact Jon Stevens at (480) 966-5552 or jstevens@alphacardaz.com for more information. Contractors Inc. d/b/a Infinite Electricity is offering 25% off basic install labor for any residential solar energy system or 15% off basic install labor for any commercial solar energy systems through the end of September. Contact (480) 251.8457 or www.infinite-electricity.com for more information. Aloft Tempe is offering a special $69 room rate for Chamber members through Aug. 31, available any day of the week. Its W xyz bar also features a corporate happy hour for members with half price appetizers and drinks from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. Aloft is located at 951 East Playa Del Norte in Tempe and can be reached at (480) 621-3300. The Hilton Phoenix Chandler is offering free meeting space throughout the summer. The new hotel features 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, 197 guest rooms, lobby bar, and full service restaurant. It is located adjacent to Chandler Fashion Center on Frye Road, at the junctions of the Loop 202 and 101. Contact (480) 899-7400 for more information. State Farm agent Judy Aguilar-Woertz is offering Tempe Chamber members the free use of an eight-person conference room at Warner and Priest on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. To reserve the room please call (480) 598-0544. Bob Reichard, designated broker of Dreim is offering free admission to their "Crash Course Surviving Today's Housing Crisis" class. Attendees will learn processes, options, bankruptcy, rules for investors, pending legislation and issues for landlords. Classes are held three times per month at Entrust Arizona and also feature attorney Laura Bramnick of the Mackey Law Group as a presenter. Call (480) 306-8404 for more details or to RSVP. Heidi’s Events and Catering is offering 50% off wedding packages at Le Petite Maison for ceremonies held in July and August. The package for up to 70 people is $3,500 on Saturdays or $3,000 weekdays and includes the venue, officiant, ceremony set up with arch or columns, aisle runner, chairs, hors d‟ oeuvres, plated dinner or buffet, wedding cake, service staff and more. For complete details or to book your date contact (480) 491-5254 or visit www.heidisevents.com. CHARITABLE CHAMBER This section contains ways that you can assist with charitable causes in the community. If you are a Tempe Chamber charitable organization in need of help or if your company is hosting a food drive or other similar charitable event, please contact Sean Donovan at sean@tempechamber.org to be included here. Give blood in September and you could win one of 62 pairs of tickets aboard the Grand Canyon Railway from United Blood Services. Also, through the Blood Buddies referral program, you can earn a movie ticket by bringing a new donor. To make an appointment to donate blood, call 1877-448-GIVE or visit www.UnitedBloodServicesAZ.org. Upcoming Tempe blood drives include: Sept. 03, McClintock High School, 7:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 1830 E. Del Rio, Bloodmobile Sept. 03, McClintock High School, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, 1830 E. Del Rio, Bloodmobile Sept. 05, Arizona Mills, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Bloodmobile at Entry 7 by Harkins Sept. 06, Tempe Elks Lodge, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2320 S. Hardy Drive, Dining Hall Sept. 11, Healing Field Blood Drive, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 620 N. Mill Ave, Bloodmobile Sept. 12, Healing Field Blood Drive, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 620 N. Mill Ave, Bloodmobile Sept. 13, Healing Field Blood Drive, 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 620 N. Mill Ave, Bloodmobile Sept. 15, Apache Station Apartments, 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM, 2323 E. Apache, Bloodmobile Sept. 21, ASU Memorial Union, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 1290 S. Normal Ave, sidewalk N. of MU Sept. 24, ASU Memorial Union, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 1290 S. Normal Ave, sidewalk N. of MU Sept. 25, ASU Memorial Union, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 1290 S. Normal Ave, sidewalk N. of MU IKEA has teamed up with UNICEF to provide free lights for developing countries. For every Sunnan solar-powered lamp sold in IKEA stores worldwide, one lamp will be donated. The first shipments are destined for Pakistan, helping children in camps for people who had to flee their homes. The lamp is designed to resist the wear and tear of difficult living situations, including a battery capable of withstanding high temperatures. This unit will enable children to play, read, write and study at night, even if their homes have no electricity. IKEA is hosting a hosting a school supply drive through August 31 to benefit Communities In Schools for Tempe and Kyrene Schools and collecting backpacks, pens, crayons, markers, and glue at its Tempe location. It also is hosting a blood drive on Aug. 15th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in its parking lot. The Donor Network of Arizona also will be present to talk about how you can become an organ donor. The Sheraton Phoenix Airport Hotel/Tempe at 1600 S. 52nd St. is offering a free night‟s stay as part of the “Give a Day, Get a Night” program. Volunteers who can donate a minimum of eight hours time of community service between July 1 and Dec. 20 will be given the free stay. Volunteers must provide a letter on a non-profit organization‟s letterhead verifying that they completed at least eight hours of community service at a 501c3 organization. Visit www.giveadaygetanight.com for details or contact the Sheraton at (480) 967-6600. COMMITTEES The Tempe Chamber has a variety of committees which are open to all members. Many of the Chamber’s successful programs are a direct result of the efforts of its volunteer committees. In turn, the Tempe business community benefits from these various projects. Whether it’s your expertise, products, services, or dollars, consider being a partner on a committee. Please visit our website and look under “Committees” in the “About the Chamber” menu for full details on all of our committees and how you can participate. Every week we will feature a different committee in this Committee Corner. Click here to learn about all of our committees. Please click here to request more information about joining a particular committee. MEMBER RESOURCES Chamber Services Tempe Chamber Logo Use Members of the Tempe Chamber are able use our official logo on letterhead, business cards, websites or other published materials to show this important affiliation. Studies prove that Chamber membership boosts customer confidence and response. For guidelines and regulations for using the Tempe Chamber logo, click here. Tempe Chamber Website Our website offers the opportunity to make the most of our resources when and where it‟s convenient for you. Please visit www.tempechamber.org to discover the many ways that you can benefit for the site‟s new features. Chamber members also have their businesses listed in the site‟s online directory, generating business and referrals on a daily basis. Lobby Brochures As a benefit to all Tempe Chamber members, promotional brochures and printed material for your business may be displayed in our lobby free of charge. Members may bring these items to our office to have them distributed. SCORE Representative for Chamber Members The Tempe Chamber offers the complimentary services of an East Valley SCORE representative. SCORE is the Service Corps Of Retired Executives and is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. Please call (480) 967-7891 to make your appointment. The Business Advocate Advertising Our monthly newsletter is one of our most effective and valuable resources to reach the business community and public. Full color ads can be secured for as little as $200. For information on how you can advertise or to secure a spot in an upcoming issue contact Sean Donovan at sean@tempechamber.org or (480) 736-4285. Programs and Discounts ASU Gammage Discounts ASU Gammage is offering Tempe Chamber members discounted tickets to all of its Broadway shows. Enter the password “tourism” at www.eventusher.com to purchase tickets to the 09-10 season shows in advance of the public. Contact Jennifer Gadek with any questions at (480) 9658969. OfficeMax Discount Card OfficeMax has made their Retail Connect Card available to all members in a printable PDF format. It provides a discount on office supplies and printing services at any of their nearly 900 retail locations. If you would like a copy of the PDF complete with discount card, please email sean@tempechamber.org. METRO Light Rail METRO, the Valley's new light rail transit system, is offering a free Metro Max card for discounts and special offers from participating businesses along the Metro route. For more information about the card or light rail news, contact Metro at (602) 254-7245. Fair and Legal Employment Act Webinars The Tempe Chamber in co-operation with the Arizona Chamber and Dept. of Homeland Security offers free monthly webinars on the Fair and Legal Employment Act (House Bill 2779) and how to use the Basic Pilot Program to verify employment eligibility and comply with the law. Email info@azchamber.com to R.S.V.P. and receive log-in instructions. The webinars are held each Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Free Employment Seminars Each Wednesday morning from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the Tempe Public Library at Rural and Southern offers instruction on job placement including finding current job openings, using Microsoft Word to build a résumé, attaching a résumé to an email, and navigating online job applications. For more information, contact Tracy Hokaj at (480) 350-5507 or tracy_hokaj@tempe.gov. Business Boosters Sky Harbor Business Opportunities Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has unveiled a website feature to provide information about its development plan and the construction and capital improvement projects related to it. The site allows companies to find design and construction business opportunities, contact information, and details on doing business with the City of Phoenix and its prime contractors. Visit www.phxskyharbor.com and click on Jobs and Business for detailed information about dates, times and locations of educational workshops, trainings and seminars related to design and construction business opportunities at the airport. List Your Business Free on RailLife.com As an added free bonus to Tempe Chamber members located along the Light Rail route, Rail Life will visit your business, take a photo, add you to its website and mention you on its blog. To submit your business, look for the "Add Your Business to Rail Life" link at www.RailLife.com. Once your business has been submitted, contact Nick at Rail Life at (602) 527-6425. Free Business Counseling The Arizona Small Business Development Centers provide free, one-on-one counseling designed to find practical solutions to business problems. An SBDC business advisor can maneuver you around the obstacles to your success. Through direct counseling, it provides a incredible range of management and technical assistance services. Visit www.azsbdc.net or call Deputy State Director Teri Williams at (480)731-8729 for more information or to arrange your free counseling session. Free Press The Arizona Republic wants to hear from local business owners who are interested in writing articles about their company for publication in the paper's News By You section in both the print and online editions. Email tempe@arizonarepublic.com to learn more. Azcentral.com also accepts listings of special offers from businesses for its “Deals” page. Contact Dianne Ross at dianneross15@cox.net to learn more or submit your offer. Free TV Coverage If your business has a great story to tell, ABC 15 wants to hear it. This resource represents a great opportunity to make a pitch and perhaps secure an incredibly valuable promotion for your business. Contact Assignment Editor Danell Gallardo at dgallardo@abc15.com or (602) 6856349. ASU ApplicantSearch Arizona State University offers ASUAA ApplicantSearch, a service designed to help match employers with ASU alumni. Employers may request and receive a free login at http://asumalumni.applicantsearch.com/employers/signup Maricopa County Business Services Maricopa Workforce Connections is a county program that helps businesses secure qualified staff, teaches methods of training current employees to use new industry technology and provides layoff aversion resources and transition strategies. To learn more, contact the Business Services team at (602) 506 WORK or visit www.maricopaworkforceconnection.com/business/businessservices.asp City Information Bids and RFP Opportunities The City of Tempe Procurement Office invites all vendors to obtain purchase orders and contracts with the city. Log on to www.tempe.gov/purchasing to access available solicitations or bidder registration forms. You may also call (480) 350-8234 for information not available on the website. Maricopa Community Colleges also list bid opportunities on a regular basis. Visit http://www.maricopa.edu/purchasing/ for a current list. City Recycling Program The City of Tempe's recycling program is one of the best in the state, recycling more than 15,000 tons of material each year. Do your part for the environment and your community by recycling whenever possible. For a complete list of acceptable items visit http://www.tempe.gov/recycling. City Social Services for Small Businesses City of Tempe Social Services can provide low cost counseling to Tempe residents. If you are a small business in need of these services for your employees, please contact Tempe Counseling Services for eligibility at (480) 350-5400. City of Tempe Community Development Update The Community Development Department's Weekly Update provides the latest information on development, job attraction, housing, business and neighborhood enhancement. Check out this week's newsletter at www.tempe.gov/comdev/WeeklyUpdate.html City of Tempe Graffiti Removal Graffiti on public property can be reported to the city's hotline at (480) 350-8384 or online at www.tempe.gov/graffiti. The city's Street Maintenance division will usually have the offending graffiti painted over within 24 hours. Property owners are required by city code to paint over graffiti on their grounds within ten days.