Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

55th annual AZHCC gala to honor business and community leaders

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 04:00:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 12, 2013

55th annual Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce gala to honor business and community leaders

Media Contacts: James E. Garcia, 602-460-1374 or jgcvm1@gmail.com

PHOENIX – The Center for the Future of Arizona’s founder and CEO is among the five award recipients to be honored at the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 55th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards later this month.

“Dr. Lattie Coor is one of our state’s most iconic and beloved figures, and we’re honored to present him the 2013 Legacy Award,” said AZHCC President & CEO Gonzalo A. de la Melena, Jr. “The awards ceremony is the highlight of the evening, and this year’s slate of winners prove that people who succeed in business are also among the most generous individuals in our community.”

Awards also will be presented in four other categories:

MaryAnn Guerra, Woman of the Year;
Alfredo J. Molina, Man of the Year;
Israel Torres, Entrepreneur of the Year;
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Corporation of the Year Award.

The Black & White Ball is Arizona’s longest running formal gala. It honors the achievements of business and community leaders statewide. The gala also is the Hispanic Chamber’s largest annual fund-raiser. More than 1,200 of Arizona's most notable business and community leaders are scheduled to attend.

Emceed this year by international celebrity Marco Antonio Regil, the gala takes place April 27, 2013, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel, 340 N. Third St. An “after-party” is scheduled at the same location from 9 p.m. to Midnight. Cox Communications continues its support as presenting sponsor for the event, which features an elegant dinner, the business awards, and live music and dancing at an after-dinner cocktail party.

Past Legacy Award winners include Governor Raul H. Castro, Senator John McCain, Jerry Colangelo, former Govenor Janet Napolitano and the late Eddie Basha, Jr., who will be honored with a special memorial tribute at this year’s dinner.

“In addition to the honor of presenting our business awards, the gala’s Brazilian Carnival theme this year promises to make it a great night out on the town,” said De la Melena. “I invite everyone to come and celebrate the good work of our award winners, and afterward relax and dance the night away.”

For information about ticket sales or sponsorship opportunities, contact Christina Arellano at 602-294-6085 or ChristinaA@azhcc.com or visit www.azhcc.com.

Award Winner Biographies:

Dr. Lattie F. Coor / Legacy Award
Dr. Lattie F. Coor is President-Emeritus, Professor and Ernest W. McFarland Chair in Leadership and Public Policy in the School of Public Affairs at Arizona State University, and is Chairman and CEO of the Center for the Future of Arizona.

For the previous 26 years, Dr. Lattie Coor served as a University President. He was President of Arizona State University from 1990 to 2002, and President of the University of Vermont from 1976 to 1989.

Earlier in his career, Dr. Coor served as an assistant to the Governor of Michigan and held faculty appointments in Political Science at Washington University. His administrative responsibilities there included those of Assistant Dean of the Graduate School, Director of International Studies, and University Vice Chancellor.

He has held positions with a variety of higher education associations, board and commissions, having served as a founding member and Chairman of Division I of the NCAA President’s Commission. He held the position of Chairman of the National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges in 1992-93, and served on the Board of Directors of the American Council on Education from 1990 to 1993 and again from 1999 to 2002. He also served on the Kellogg Commission on the Future of State and Land Grant Universities from 1996 to 2002. He served as a Trustee of the American College of Greece, Athens, from 1988 to 1998, and has served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Deer Creek Foundation, St Louis, since 1983. He has honorary degrees from Marlboro College, American College of Greece, the University of Vermont and Northern Arizona University.

In Arizona, Dr. Lattie Coor serves on the Board of Directors of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona, and has served on the Board of Directors of Bank One Arizona, Samaritan Health Services, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, and is a member of the Greater Phoenix Leadership Council. He was a member of the Arizona State Board of Education from 1995 to 1999. He served as Chairman of the Education Section of the Valley of the Sun United Way Campaign from 1990 to 1993, and of the Public Sector of the United Way Campaign from 1999 to 2002.

Dr. Lattie Coor received the Anti-Defamation League’s Jerry J. Wisotsky Torch of Liberty Award in 1994, the Whitney M. Young, Jr. Individual Award from the Greater Phoenix Urban League in 2000, The American Academy of Achievement Golden Plate Award in 2000, The American Jewish Committee Institute of Human Relations Award in 2001 and the Center City Starr award from Phoenix Community Alliance in 2001. He was named Valley Leadership’s Man of the Year in 2006.

An Arizona native, Dr. Coor was born in Phoenix and graduated with high honors from Northern Arizona University in 1958. He pursued graduate studies in Political Science at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, earning a master’s degree in 1960 and a Ph.D. in 1964.

Alfredo J. Molina / Man of the Year
International jeweler Alfredo J. Molina is Chairman of The Molina Group, based in Phoenix, Arizona. The Molina Group is the parent company of Molina Fine Jewelers in Phoenix and New York and Black, Starr & Frost, America's first jeweler since 1810, in Newport Beach and New York. Alfredo Molina is one of the nation's most prestigious jewelers. His ability to secure the world's rarest gems - such as the historic Archduke Joseph Diamond, the world's twelfth largest historic perfect white diamond - has earned him guest appearances on numerous television programs, including CBS' Early Show and NBC’s Today Show.

Mr. Molina's education and experience in the jewelry industry is extensive. He is a graduate gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America and a Fellow Member of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain with distinction. He is a certified gemologist and appraiser from the American Gem Society. He is considered one of the world’s experts in the determination of country of origin of gemstones. He is past President of the American Society of Appraisers, Arizona Jewelers Association, and the GIA Alumni Association. He served as Vice-Chairman of the Jewelers of America Council and Co-Chairman of the Master Gemologist Appraiser program. Mr. Molina is also a qualified appraiser for the Internal Revenue Service and an alumni of the FBI Citizens Academy. He appears as keynote speaker at seminars and workshops on appraising gems, and discussing the latest gemological trends and developments. He assists law enforcement agencies in recovering stolen gems and serves as an expert witness for U.S. Customs Service as gems authority. In 2002, he was appointed to serve as Honorary Counsul of Spain for Arizona.

Alfredo, his wife Lisa and their four children devote time and many resources to the Arizona and California communities. The Molinas feel that The Molina Group is fulfilling their duty to their community, friends and supporters.

Lisa and Alfredo have chaired numerous charity events including the Arizona Cancer Ball, The Samaritan Foundation, The Symphony Ball, The Arizona Heart Ball, Crohn’s and Colitis, Women of Distinction Gala and Childhelp. They have supported Candlelite, JDRF Dream Gala, Susan G. Komen, the Pacific Symphony, Dodge College of Film and Media Arts and were honorary Chairs of 2009 Orange Country High School for the Arts Gala and the 2011 Banner Health Foundation Candlelight Capers. Lisa and Alfredo have dedicated their lives to the service of others and their children are following in their footsteps. Through their generous sponsorship and support of local and national charities, they seek to improve the lives of those less fortunate. Gratitude, selflessness, love and a firm belief in the legacies of sharing comprises the Molina way of life.
Alfredo was honored in Washington, DC as one of seven caring Americans and was inducted into the Frederick Douglass Museum & Hall of Fame for Caring Americans on Capitol Hill. He was named 2008 Outstanding Business Leader by Northwood University at the Breakers in Palm Beach and he was recently inducted into the National Jewelers, Retailer Hall of Fame in the single store independent category.

MaryAnn Guerra / Woman of the Year
MaryAnn Guerra, MBA is Chairman of the Board, CEO, and co-founder of BioAccel. Ms. Guerra is known for creating novel programs to accelerate the transfer of technology from the lab into new business opportunities. Ms. Guerra spent much of her career operating successful and progressive health, science and technology businesses. She is an expert at business development initiatives that create organizations poised to deliver commercial outcomes. Since the launch of BioAccel in April 2009, 10 companies have been successfully launched with products close to commercial availability. Additionally, BioAccel recently partnered with the City of Peoria to create the first medical device accelerator, embedding the BioAccel model into its operations to ensure positive economic impact.

Prior to founding BioAccel, Ms. Guerra served as President of TGen Accelerators, LLC and Chief Operating Officer at (TGen). While at TGen she facilitated the start-up of six companies and was involved in the sale of three of those yielding significant profits for the organization. As TGen’s former COO she grew the organization from $30M to $60M in less than three years. Ms. Guerra also served as Executive Vice President, Matthews Media Group, where she was responsible for developing and implementing commercial strategic business plans that expanded and enhanced services and extended relationships with the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. She has had an impressive career at the National Institutes of Health having held various senior level positions, including: Executive Officer, NHLBI and Deputy Director of Management & Executive Officer at the NCI.

Ms. Guerra has received numerous awards for her work, including the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2013 Woman of the Year and Arizona Business Magazine’s 2013 “Fifteen” Women to Watch. Last year BioAccel received the State Science and Technology Institutes’ most Innovative New Initiative Award, a first time national recognition for BioAccel and for the State of Arizona. She has received the Phoenix Business Journal’s “Top 25 Women in Business” award, as well as their “Power People” award, the Girl Scouts “Women of the Future World” award. Ms. Guerra has served on numerous Boards throughout her career. Currently she is a Board member of Planned Parenthood of Arizona and the Mollen Foundation as well as a Commissioner of the Arizona Skill Standard Commission as well as many other board seats. Ms. Guerra holds an undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and an MBA from George Washington University in Science, Innovation and Commercialization.

Israel G. Torres, Esq. / Entrepreneur of the Year
Israel G. Torres is Managing Partner of Torres Consulting and Law Group, LLC. The firm provides a variety of services, including regulatory compliance, law, and government relations, to clients in the construction trades throughout the United States. His firm has been recognized by the Phoenix Business Journal as one of the Best Places to Work in the Valley in 2011. Torres Consulting and Law Group was also named 2009 Service Firm of Year during the Minority Enterprise Development Week Awards, a program that is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Prior to establishing his firm, Mr. Torres was elected as the Democratic nominee for Arizona Secretary of State in 2006. He was the first Latino candidate in Arizona history to garner more than 600,000 votes statewide.

From 2003 to 2006, Mr. Torres served as Director of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and as a member of Governor Napolitano’s Cabinet. As the director, Mr. Torres served as the chief regulator of Arizona’s construction industry, regulating the activities of more than 52,000 active commercial and residential construction licenses amidst a time of unparalleled construction activity in Arizona. In that role, he also served as an advisor to the Governor and State Legislature on construction- and development-related issues. Mr. Torres was a national leader in the advancement of regulatory initiatives.

Mr. Torres is a member of the Arizona Bar and is licensed to practice law in Arizona. His educational background includes a Juris Doctorate from the University of New Mexico School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Arizona State University. He also holds a Construction Management Certificate from the Del E. Webb School of Construction in the Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering at ASU.

Mr. Torres and his wife, Monica, live in Tempe and are raising two children, Cristian and Alysa. He enjoys outdoor sports, including mountain biking, hiking, boating, camping, and skiing.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona / Corporation of the Year
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is the largest Arizona-based health insurance company. The not-for-profit company was founded in 1939 and provides health insurance products, services or networks to 1.3 million individuals. With offices in Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson and the East Valley, the company employs more than 1,300 Arizonans. Follow BCBSAZ at www.facebook.com/bcbsaz or on Twitter at @bcbsaz to get information on health and wellness, a knowledgeable perspective on health insurance reform, and become a part of what we’re doing in your community.

About the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1948. It has an established reputation as a leader in setting the pace for business growth in today's increasingly diversified market. In 1991, programs were established through the non-profit AZHCC Foundation to support statewide economic and business development efforts and an educational scholarship fund. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's strong efforts to keep member businesses competitive and progressive stems from the many programs it provides, including seminars, marketing consultations, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Over the past decade, the number of Arizona Hispanic-owned businesses has increased to about 65,000 statewide. The phenomenal growth in the Latino population in recent decades is creating a more diverse marketplace. The AZHCC and its members are a vital link to future business relationships with a culturally diverse consumer, workforce and expanding global economy.

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Release of 2013 Women-Owned Business Enterprise Report

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE / March 5, 2013
Contact: Monica Villalobos
Tel. 626-641-0204
Email: Monicav@azhcc.com

Women-Owned businesses in Arizona focus of new report

• Detailed post-recession survey of women-owned business enterprises to be released on International Women’s Day, March 8th, in Phoenix.
• Study finds women entrepreneurs in Arizona optimistic about the future

PHOENIX,AZ – A major study of women-owned businesses in Arizona, including a detailed pre- and post- recession analysis, will be released Friday, March 8th, at the second annual “Power of the Purse” luncheon hosted by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC) and the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) – West in downtown Phoenix.

The 2013 Women-Owned Business Enterprise Report is the second in a series of four studies commissioned by the AZHCC and Phoenix MBDA Business Center examining small business entrepreneurship in the following categories: minorities, women, Hispanics and families. The 2012 Minority Business Enterprise Report was released in November. The reports on Hispanic- and family-owned companies are scheduled to be released in the summer and fall respectively.

“Our goal with our study of women-owned businesses and the others we’ve commissioned is to gather research that provides decision-makers with the data and analysis they need to make informed choices about Arizona’s economic destiny,” said AZHCC President and CEO Gonzalo A. de la Melena, Jr. “When women-owned and minority-owned businesses do well, our entire economy does well.”

The luncheon’s keynote speaker is Amber Cox, President and COO of the Phoenix Mercury basketball team. Cox was selected by the Phoenix Business Journal for its Forty-Under-40 Class of 2012. Iris Hermosillo of ABC 15 will emcee the luncheon at the Hyatt Regency, 122 N 2nd St, in downtown Phoenix. The luncheon was organized by the Latina Business Enterprises, an affiliate outreach group of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber.

The data for the four reports in the Arizona Business Research Series was gathered by WestGroup Research. The reports are designed to serve as a resource for businesses, organizations, educators, government agencies and individuals who want to help Arizona women- and minority-owned small businesses succeed.

De la Melena said, “The research, funded by Arizona Public Service, offers insights into the challenges, strategies, characteristics and resources of increasingly important business segments of the Arizona economy.”

“Given the state of Arizona’s rapidly improving economic recovery, it’s critically important that we understand how women-owned businesses survived the recession and how they feel about our state’s future prospects,” said Pamela Williamson, president & CEO of the Women’s Business Enterprises Council-West, a co-host of the March 8th event.

In 2012, the U.S. was home to “more than 8.3 million women-owned businesses…generating nearly $1.3 trillion in revenue and employing nearly 7.7 million people,” according to a recent study commissioned by American Express. During the past 15 years, the number of women-owned businesses has grown more than 54 percent and revenues are up more than 58 percent. Latina entrepreneurs, meanwhile, are the fastest-growing single segment of small business enterprises overall in the United States.

The WBE study being released this week documents a wide range of characteristics of women-owned businesses, but readers also get to hear directly from principle owners about how they managed to survive the most severe economic slump since the 1930s.
Among the study’s most notable findings: a strong majority of the women who own small businesses in the state believe their “financial situation” will improve in the coming year.

Other findings include:
• Women-owned businesses’ greatest needs included help with marketing their business (mentioned by 30%) and finding capital (14%)
• Most WBEs are self-funded and rely on personal loans or profits from the business to finance expansion
• Two-fifths of the companies were sole proprietorships
• Median revenue in 2011 for a women-owned company in Arizona was $155,910
• Median age of a women-owned company in Arizona was 16 years old
• Customer bases include both retail (54%) and businesses (56%)
• Half of the companies conducted business nationally (46%) and one-fifth conducted business internationally (21%)

The “Power of the Purse” event begins with a mini-expo, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., and the luncheon is from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Admission is $30 for non-members, $20 for members, and $10 for students. Everyone who registers and attends the conference will receive a free copy of the WBE Report.

To register, visit www.azhcc.com. For more information, contact Christina Arellano at [602] 294.6085 or ChristinaA@azhcc.com

For an advance embargoed copy of the report for news media purposes, contact Monica Villalobos at [626] 641.0204 or MonicaV@azhcc.com

About AZHCC
Founded in 1948, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the premier advocate for more than 60,000 Hispanic-owned small businesses and more than 2 million Hispanic consumers statewide. Led by President and CEO Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr., the non-profit organization provides products and services in the area of market intelligence and capacity building, advocacy and education for the benefit and success of its members, corporate partners, and to actively promote the economic growth and vitality of Arizona. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber’s annual signature events include the Black & White Ball and Business Awards; the publication of DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market and annual luncheon; the Arizona Minority Business Enterprise Summit; and El Torneo Golf Tournament—along with more than 60 other workshops, seminars, public forums and business networking activities. The Chamber also operates the Arizona’s only federally funded Minority Business Development Agency Center, which provides access to contracts and capital for those mid-sized companies among the state’s 100,000+ minority business enterprises in search of growth and investment opportunities. A vital link to the growing power and influence of Hispanic business owners and consumers, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber is dedicated to promoting the health and prosperity of the state and national economy as part of an increasingly diverse global marketplace.

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Women-Owned businesses in Arizona focus of new report

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 05:00:00 GMT

PRESS RELEASE
February 28, 2013
For Immediate Release

Contact:
Monica Villalobos
626.394.0204
The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Women-Owned businesses in Arizona focus of new report

Detailed post-recession survey of women-owned
business enterprises featured at the second annual
"Power of the Purse" luncheon in Phoenix on
International Women's Day, March 8th

PHOENIX, AZ- 02/28/13 - A major study of Women-Owned businesses in Arizona including pre- and post- recession analysis will be released Friday, March 8, at a downtown luncheon hosted by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC) and the Women's Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) - West.

The 2013 Women-Owned Business Enterprise Report is the second in a series of studies commissioned by the AZHCC and Phoenix MBDA Business Center examining small business entrepreneurship in four categories: Hispanic, minorities, families and women. The 2012 Minority Business Enterprise Report was released last fall. Upcoming research will include Hispanic- and family-owned companies scheduled to be released in the summer and fall respectively.

"When Women-Owned and minority-owned businesses do well, our entire economy does well," said AZHCC President and CEO Gonzalo A. de la Melena, Jr. "Our goal with this study and the others we've authored is to gather research that provides decision-makers with the data and analysis they need to make informed choices about Arizona's economic destiny."

The luncheon's keynote speaker is Amber Cox, President and COO of the Phoenix Mercury basketball team. Amber was selected by the Phoenix Business Journal for its Forty-Under-40 Class of 2012. Iris Hermosillo of ABC 15 will emcee the luncheon at the Hyatt Downtown. The luncheon was organized by the Latina Business Enterprises, an outreach group of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber.

The data for the Arizona Business Research Series was gathered by WestGroup Research. The report is designed to serve as a resource for businesses, organizations, educators, government agencies and individuals who want to help Arizona women- and minority-owned small businesses succeed.

De la Melena said, "the reports, funded by Arizona Public Service (APS), offer insights into the challenges, strategies, characteristics and resources of several increasingly important segments of Arizona businesses."

"Given the state of Arizona's rapidly improving economic recovery, it's critically important that we understand how women-owned businesses survived the recession and how they feel about our state's future prospects," said Pamela Williamson, President & CEO of the Women's Business Enterprises Council-West, a co-host of the March 8th luncheon.

In 2012, the U.S. was home to "more than 8.3 million Women-Owned businesses...generating nearly $1.3 trillion in revenue and employing nearly 7.7 million people", according to a recent study commissioned by American Express. During the past 15 years, the number of Women-Owned businesses has grown more than 54 percent and revenues are up more than 58 percent. Latina entrepreneurs, meanwhile, are the fastest-growing single segment of small business enterprises overall in the United States.

The WBE Report documents a wide range of characteristics of Women-Owned businesses, but readers also get to hear directly from companies about how they survived the most severe economic slump since the 1930s.

Among the study's most notable findings: a strong majority of the women who own small businesses in the state believe their "financial situation" will improve in the coming year.

Other findings include:
• Women-Owned businesses' greatest needs were help with marketing their business (mentioned by 30%) and finding capital (14%).
• Most WBEs are self-funded and rely on personal loans or profits from the business to finance expansion.
• Two-fifths of the companies were sole proprietorships.
• Median revenue in 2011 was $155,910
• Median age of the company was 16 years old.
• Customer bases include both retail (54%) andbusinesses (56%)
• Half of the companies conducted business nationally (46%)
• One-fifth conducted business internationally (21%)

The "Power of the Purse" event also includes a mini-expo, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., and the 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. luncheon. Admission is $30 for non-members, $20 for members, and $10 for students. Everyone who registers and attends the conference will receive a free copy of the WBE Report.
To register, visit www.azhcc.com. For more information, contact Christina Arellano at [602] 294.6085 or ChristinaA@azhcc.com

For an advance media copy of the report for press purposes, contact Monica Villalobos at [626] 641.0204 or MonicaV@azhcc.com

About AZHCC
Founded in 1948, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is the premier advocate for more than 60,000 Hispanic-owned small businesses and more than 2 million Hispanic consumers statewide. Led by CEO and President Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr., the non-profit organization provides products and services in the area of market intelligence and capacity building, advocacy and education for the benefit and success of its members, corporate partners, and to actively promote the economic growth and vitality of Arizona. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber's annual signature events include the Black & White Ball and Business Awards; the publication of DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market and annual luncheon; the Arizona Minority Business Enterprise Summit; and El Torneo Golf Tournament-along with more than 60 other workshops, seminars, public forums and business networking activities. The Chamber also operates the Arizona's only federally funded Minority Business Development Agency Center, which provides access to contracts and capital for those mid-sized companies among the state's 100,000+ Minority Business Enterprises in search of growth and investment opportunities. A vital link to the growing power and influence of Hispanic business owners and consumers, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber is dedicated to promoting the health and prosperity of the state and national economy as part of an increasingly diverse global marketplace.

###

ARIZONA HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STATEMENT ON IMMIGRATION REFORM PROPOSALS BY U.S. SENATORS AND PRESIDENT OBAMA

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2013

CONTACT: Monica Villalobos, 626-641-0204 or monicav@azhcc.com

ARIZONA HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STATEMENT ON IMMIGRATION REFORM PROPOSALS BY U.S. SENATORS AND PRESIDENT OBAMA

PHOENIX (Jan. 29, 2013) – We are optimistic about the latest proposals for comprehensive immigration reform announced today by President Obama and Monday by a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators–including Arizona Senators John McCain and Jeff Flake. It’s an encouraging start to the challenging but necessary process of injecting fact-based reasoning into how we manage and implement our national policy toward immigration. We applaud the President and the Senators for prioritizing this issue and pledging to work together on a plan that not only ensures our nation’s security but also supports the economic growth and future workforce of our country while treating immigrants humanely. We are encouraged that Republicans and Democrats behind this draft recognize the irreversible economic and demographic shifts in our country and appear committed to achieving a “successful permanent reform” that is long overdue.

Gonzalo A. de la Melena, Jr., President of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

About the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1948. It has an established reputation as a leader in setting the pace for business growth in today's increasingly diversified market. In 1991, programs were established through the non-profit AZHCC Foundation to support statewide economic and business development efforts and an educational scholarship fund. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's strong efforts to keep member businesses competitive and progressive stems from the many programs it provides, including seminars, marketing consultations, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Over the past decade, the number of Arizona Hispanic-owned businesses has increased to about 65,000 statewide. The phenomenal growth in the Latino population in recent decades is creating a more diverse marketplace. The AZHCC and its members are a vital link to future business relationships with a culturally diverse consumer, workforce and expanding global economy.

####

University of Phoenix Honored by Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence for Supporting Local Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT: Danica Ross
University of Phoenix
310-612-9292
danica.ross@apollogrp.edu

<University of Phoenix Honored by Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence for Supporting Local Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses
University of Phoenix inducted into Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence

PHOENIX, Dec. 3, 2012 — University of Phoenix® has been recognized by the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence for its exceptional efforts to support Arizona minority-owned and woman-owned suppliers. The University has been inducted as an inaugural member of the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC).

“As an Arizona-based business, we view supporting minority- and women-owned businesses as an essential part of our business structure,” said Dominique K. Brown, University of Phoenix corporate diversity officer. “We are thrilled to be recognized by the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence and we look forward to continuing to work with a diverse group of suppliers and businesses across the state of Arizona.”

The creation of the AZHCC’s Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence was inspired by the state’s increasingly diverse consumer base and the fast-growing diversity at every level of its business community. The Circle of Excellence initiative recognizes major corporations and governmental entities that directly spend at least $1 million in purchasing goods or services from minority-owned and women-owned businesses in Arizona.

University of Phoenix was honored alongside 14 other notable Arizona businesses and organizations with an induction ceremony at the recent 2012 Minority Business Enterprise Summit, which was organized by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Phoenix MBDA Business Center, a U.S. Department of Commerce-financed organization aimed at securing large public and private contracts and financing transactions for eligible minority-owned businesses.

“The induction of University of Phoenix and other inaugural members of the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence is a historic step that reflects how our state’s economy is growing due to the influence of minority- and women-owned businesses," said Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr., President and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which organizes and runs the Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence. “This is our way of recognizing companies that are leading the way in supplier diversity.”

This latest acknowledgement of University of Phoenix’s commitment to diverse communities in Arizona comes at the heels of a recent report by the magazine Diverse: Issues in Higher Education that University of Phoenix graduates more minority students than any other university in the United States.

To learn more about University of Phoenix visit Phoenix.edu .

About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning can help students pursue personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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PHOENIX MBDA BUSINESS CENTER HOSTS TUCSON CONFERENCE TO MATCH MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES WITH PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 28, 2012

PHOENIX MBDA BUSINESS CENTER HOSTS TUCSON CONFERENCE TO MATCH MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES WITH PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS

Contact: Peter Schwartz peter@phoenixmbdacenter.com or 623-297-6843

Phoenix, AZ (Nov.28, 2012) - The Phoenix Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center is committed to the financial stimulation of minority-owned businesses. The center will host the Small Business Development Conference on December 6, 2012 in Tucson, AZ. The conference is intended for service providers, SBEs, MBEs, NABEs, WBEs and stakeholders. The Conference will have multiple workshops with valuable information on financing, bonding, certification and information on how to do business with local, state, tribal, and federal agencies. In addition to the workshops, there will be opportunities for direct access to procurement contacts, and opportunities to network with and learn from:

Arizona Commerce Authority							Arizona Department of Transportation
Town of Marana							Pascua Yaqui Tribe
AZ PTAC							Phoenix MBDA Business Center
City of Tucson							Gila River Tribe
Davis Monthan Air Force Base							Small Business Administration
Fort Huachuca							Tohono O'odham Tribe
Luke Airforce Base							U.S. Export Assistance Center

The event will take place Thursday, December 6th, 2012, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at Casino Del Sol, 5655 West Valencia Road, Tucson, AZ 85757.

The keynote speaker, Mary Dolezal of the Native American Builders, will address key issues facing minority-owned businesses. The agenda is as follows:

PROGRAM
Thursday, December 6, 2012

7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Registration

8:30 – 9:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks
                          Keynote: Mary Dolezal, Native American Builders

9:00 – 9:55 a.m. Resources for Small/Minority Businesses
        1. Danny Ayala, Arizona Procurement Technical Assistance Center
        2. Scott Gregory, Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Dev. Council
        3. Small Business Administration
        4. Linda Harris, Minority Business Development Agency
        5. Kevin O’Shea, Arizona Commerce Authority;
        6. Kent Lane, Arizona Department of Transportation
        7. Liana Perez, City of Tucson

10:00 – 10:50 a.m. Access to Capital/Financing & Bonding
        1. Ralph Gonzales, CAFI;
        2. Patty Zenizo, Preferred Bonding;
        3. Mike Mau, RLI Surety;
        4. Robert Valdez, Accion;
        5. Teresa Miranda, Prestamos;
        6. Robert Perez, US Bank
        7. Jerome Davis, Tohono O’odham

11:00 – 11:50 a.m. Procurement/Contracting Opportunities
        1. John Jensen, Pascua Yaqui;
        2. Tom Shepherd, Tohono O’odham;
        3. Jon Chewning, Gila River Casino Resorts;
        4. Terri Spencer, Pima County
        5. Michael Glasson, Town of Marana

11:50 – 1:00 p.m. LUNCH (on your own)

1:00 –1:50 p.m. Access to Government Contracting
        1. Mary Peetz, Luke Air Force Base
        2. Chuck Collins, Fort Huachuca Army Base
        3. Nicole Dalrymple, Davis Monthan Air Force Base

2:00 –2:50 p.m. Doing Business with Local Corporations
        1. Rosemary Middleton, Hensel Phelps
        2. James Mulloy, Siemens

3:00 – 3:50 p.m. Chambers at Your Service
        1. Loren Tapahe, AAICC
        2. Lea Marquez Peterson, THCC
        3. Ed Stolmaker, Marana Chamber of Commerce
        4. Tucson Chamber of Commerce

4:00 – 4:50 p.m. Closing remarks, Awards and Networking

Sponsorship Opportunities
Title: $5,000                  Patron: $500
Advocate: $2,500           Supporter: $300
Benefactor: $1,000         Friend: $100

Download the flyer here

For more information, to become a sponsor or to register contact Peter Schwartz at peter@phoenixmbdacenter.com or 602-297-6843.

About the Phoenix MBDA Center
The Phoenix MBDA Business Center is federally funded by the Minority Business Development Agency, U.S. Department of Commerce and is locally operated by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

The Center is focused on securing large public and private contracts, financing transactions, stimulating job creation and retention, and facilitating entry to global markets for eligible minority-owned businesses.

The Center serves all MBEs with a focus on clients with annual revenues of over $1,000,000 or are participants in a high-growth industry (e.g. green technology, clean energy, health care, infrastructure and broadband technology, among others). www.phoenixmbdacenter.com

###

Arizona Hispanic and Tempe Chambers of Commerce Hosting Congressional District 9 Candidates Forum on Business and Economy August 1, 2012

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: James E. Garcia, 623-252-2772, jamesg@azhcc.com. Headshots of Tempe and Arizona Hispanic Chambers of Commerce representatives available upon request.

PHOENIX (July 25, 2012) The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Tempe Chamber of Commerce will co-host a forum August 1, 2012 on business and the economy featuring the candidates for the newly created Congressional District 9.

The forum will take place at the Rio Salado Conference Center, 2323 E. 14th Street, Tempe, Arizona from 7 to 9 p.m. The event will be moderated by veteran journalist and communications consultant James E. Garcia. A journalist for more than 25 years, he currently serves as director of strategic communication and policy for the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

"Every election is important, but the race for Congressional District 9 is extremely competitive and the impact on the Valley, especially our members in Central and East Valley, will be significant, so hearing the candidates' views on business and the economy is critical," said Gonzalo de la Melena, president and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Mary Ann Miller, president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, said, "As the voice of Tempe's business community, we're committed in these tough economic times to providing a platform and network for our members and the entire community to hear what each of these candidates has to say about the future of our economy."

Invitations have been extended to all 11 announced candidates. Eight of the candidates, including each of the leading contenders, have confirmed they will attend. Each candidate has been asked to present an opening statement about their vision for business and the economy and how that will impact the U.S. economy, Arizona and the nation's fast-growing Hispanic market. Audience questions will be posed as well. The evening will end with a brief voter meet-and-greet with the candidates.

List of announced candidates in Arizona Congressional District 9:
(Source: Politics1.com)

Andrei Cherny (D) - Ex-State Democratic Chair, Ex-Clinton White House Aide, Attorney, Navy Veteran
David Schapira (D) - State Senate Minority Leader, Ex-State Rep. & Ex-Teacher
Kyrsten Sinema (D) - Ex-State Sen., Ex-State Rep. & Social Worker
Lisa Borowsky (R) - Scottsdale City Councilwoman & Attorney
Leah Campos Schandlbauer (R) - Ex-CIA Officer
Travis Grantham (R) - Businessman & Air National Guard Officer
Vernon Parker (R) - Paradise Valley Mayor, GHW Bush White House Aide, Attorney & '10 Candidate
Wendy Rogers (R) - Retired USAF Officer, Social Worker & '10 State Sen. Nominee
Martin Sepulveda (R) - Ex-Chandler City Councilman, Businessman & Navy Veteran
Jeff Thompson (R) - Real Estate Investor
Powell Gammill (Libertarian) - Genetics Researcher & Frequent Candidate

Background Information on District 9:

(Originally published by the Arizona Republic, July 14, 2012)

"Perhaps the greatest wild card in the state, District 9, covers parts of Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Mesa and Ahwatukee.

Republicans have about 12,500 more active voters than Democrats. Yet independents make up more votes than either party, the only district in the state with that makeup, adding an extra level of uncertainty. It's the only swing district whose voters went for Obama in 2008 and against Republican Gov. Jan Brewer two years later.

The seat is open after freshman Rep. Ben Quayle chose to switch to a solidly Republican district. The well-funded son of former Vice President Dan Quayle could have given Democrats a pitched battle. Instead, he now is taking on fellow GOP freshman Rep. David Schweikert in the northeast Valley's 6th Congressional District.

Democrats have fielded three strong candidates: state Sen. David Schapira, former Arizona Democratic Party Chairman Andrei Cherny and former state Sen. Kyrsten Sinema. But their attacks on each other are expected to grow even nastier as the election approaches, potentially depleting the Democrats' campaigns of money and momentum. On the Republican side, there's a free-for-all with seven candidates fighting to take a commanding lead."

This information was excerpted from a story about congressional races in Arizona. To read the full story in the Arizona Republic/ AZCentral.com:

http://www.azcentral.com/12news/news/articles/2012/07/14/20120714arizona-election-possible-democrat-majority.html#ixzz21eyepUyq

About the hosts for this forum:

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The AZHCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of the local business community, especially small business owners. Furthermore, the AZHCC provides a voice for Hispanic businesses in the Valley through advocacy efforts at the local, state and national level.

Tempe Chamber of Commerce
The Tempe Chamber represents more than 70,000 people employed by over 900 businesses. The Chamber works to create a strong local economy, represent business interests to government, promote the community, provide networking opportunities and advocate for business.

www.azhcc.com

and

www.tempechamber.org

Supreme Court Decision Fails to Resolve Need for Federal Immigration Reform

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Supreme Court Decision Fails to Resolve Need for Federal Immigration Reform

Contact: James E. Garcia, jamesg@azhcc.com or 623-252-2772

Statement by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce regarding the U.S. Supreme Court decision on Arizona Senate Bill 1070

While the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce respects the Justices' decision on SB 1070, the ruling fails to resolve the critical and pressing matter of how to best regulate and maintain an appropriate degree of immigration into the United States, including issues involving our nation's unquestionable need for a ready pool of labor at every level of the U.S. economy.

Throughout our history, immigrants have been valuable contributors to the nation's economic development and prosperity. The failure to correct the shortcomings of current U.S. immigration policy threatens to limit economic growth in Arizona and across the country. A state-by-state patchwork of immigration laws across the United States is wholly impractical for employers and local law enforcement to implement because of the unreasonable financial and bureaucratic burden it places on businesses, law enforcement and local governments.

We call on Congress and the President to assume what we continue to believe is the federal government's exclusive responsibility to enact a national immigration policy that promotes U.S. economic growth and respects the rights and contributions of immigrants and their families. We also urge Arizona's public officials not to enact additional state-based immigration legislation.

As plaintiffs in the Friendly House, et. al v Whiting federal lawsuit against SB 1070, we believe the implementation of the law, especially its "show us your papers" provision, will lead to further social tensions, including the potential mistreatment of immigrants, that further exacerbates a negative image of Arizona that does not foster a business friendly environment and hinders the ability for people to put in an honest day's work. It is important to note that the Supreme Court's decision on SB 1070 does not directly impact several aspects of the Friendly House et al. v. Whiting et al. lawsuit, which addresses a variety of constitutional challenges to the Arizona legislation.

NEW! Business Scholarships Available

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 21, 2012

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and University of Phoenix launch two, new business scholarships

Media Contact: James E. Garcia, jamesg@azhcc.com or 623-252-2772. Headshot of AZHCC President/CEO available upon request.

PHOENIX - Latino businesses and consumers are helping to transform Arizona’s economy. In recognition of the vibrant role of Hispanic entrepreneurs and business leaders in shaping the state’s future, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the University of Phoenix/Apollo Group, Inc. have partnered to create two new, full-tuition annual scholarships.

“We’ve joined forces with the University of Phoenix, one of the largest universities in North America, to help identify and train Arizona’s next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs because the future depends on our ability to produce an educated and committed workforce,” said Gonzalo de la Melena, president and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “This scholarship program is an investment in the economic foundation of Arizona’s future.”

Applications are now being accepted for the AZHCC Emerging Business Leader Scholarship and the AZHCC Small Business Enterprise Scholarship. Applicants are eligible to earn either an undergraduate or master’s degree. The scholarships cover full-tuition and fees, including course material (i.e. electronic textbook) that are needed for the scholarship recipient to complete a degree program at University of Phoenix. The deadline to apply is July 17, 2012. Admission to the University of Phoenix is year round.

To be eligible for the Emerging Business Leadership Scholarship, applicants must be employed by a “Los Amigos Corporate Member” of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber and be identified as having senior level management potential. To be eligible to apply for the AZHCC Small Business Enterprise Scholarship, applicants must be a small business “principle” owner and a member of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Scholarship applicants cannot be employees – or family members of employees – of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Apollo Group, Inc., University of Phoenix, Western International University, Institute for Professional Development or any other subsidiary of Apollo Group, Inc.

To apply for these scholarships, visit http://www.azhcc.com/about/AZHCC_Scholarships.aspx. For more information, contact Susette Coumides at susettec@azhcc.com or 602-294-6082.

About AZHCC Scholarships:
The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce proudly operates four integrated scholarship programs through innovative partnerships that account for total combined awards of about $135,000 annually. Our goal is to invest in the future of the community by preparing aspiring business majors, professionals and small business owners for the challenges of the new Arizona economy. The Chamber’s scholarship program is designed to offer students opportunities at a variety of educational institutions from community college to graduate level programs. We are dedicated to building educational partnerships and opportunities within the business sector and Hispanic community.

About the University of Phoenix:
University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning can help students pursue personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

New report finds Arizona’s Hispanic community tops $40 billion in buying power, 65,000 Latino-owned businesses

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: James E. Garcia, 623-252-2772, jamesg@azhcc.com. Embargoed copy of full DATOS report available upon request

New report finds Arizona’s Hispanic community tops $40 billion in buying power, 65,000 Latino-owned businesses

• Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to release 2012 DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market at inaugural two-day business symposium, “Transforming Arizona’s Economy”. The May 4-5 conference includes business workshops, a town hall interview with U.S. Senate candidate Richard Carmona, and the AZHCC’s prestigious business awards gala

PHOENIX (April 25, 2012) Booming growth in Arizona’s Latino population is fueling record increases in Latino buying power, small businesses, registered voters, and the community’s overall influence on the state’s economy.

"The fiscal health and expansion of our state and national economy depends more every day on the economic vitality of the Latino community," said Gonzalo de la Melena. "As our 2012 DATOS report shows, we’re witnessing the unprecedented expansion of Latino purchasing power and its impact on business growth.”

DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market is a far-reaching report that details everything from the buying habits of Latino families to the community’s impact on the state’s public schools and university systems, including the findings that Latinos now account for the largest number of high school graduates in the state and a record number of Hispanics are registering to vote.

Annual Hispanic buying power in Arizona has reached an estimated $40 billion and could top $50 billion by 2015, according to the report. Nationwide, the figure is $1.2 trillion. Meanwhile, Latino-owned businesses in Arizona account for at least $9.75 billion in gross receipts and about 11 percent of all businesses statewide.

The 2012 DATOS report is set to be released Friday, May 4 at the 16th Annual DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. 3rd St., North Ballroom.

Salt River Project is the presenting sponsor for DATOS, which provides timely and relevant information for Arizona businesses.
“DATOS provides SRP with valuable information about a major portion of our customer base,” said Mark Bonsall, SRP General Manager and Chief Executive Officer. “The Hispanic community is vibrant and growing, and it’s important that we continue to understand more about these customers.”
The DATOS luncheon is part of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber’s inaugural two-day business symposium, “Transforming Arizona’s Economy” at the Phoenix Convention Center. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend the symposium, making it the largest gathering of Latino community and business leaders in the state.

The symposium is presented by the University of Phoenix, and features:

- Free business workshops;
- The release of the Chamber's 16th annual, DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market;
- A community town hall, “Counting Latino Votes”, including an interview with U.S. Senate candidate Richard Carmona; (The town hall is free and open to the public.)
- An invitation-only screening of the HBO film, "The Latino List”;
- The 54th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards.

“This is an event that the entire Arizona community should attend,” said de la Melena. “Whether we’re talking about the U.S. Senate race or the incredible demographic-economic shift occurring in the state, the first-of-its kind symposium is addressing issues that will impact all Arizonans for decades to come.”

Among the symposium’s highlights is the Chamber’s May 5 business awards ceremony. This year’s theme for the gala is “Arizona Latinos: A Centennial Legacy”.

The winners of the AZHCC 2012 Business Award are: Woman of Year, Bettina Nava, FirstStrategic; Man of the Year, Ernest Calderón, Calderón Law Offices; Entrepreneur of the Year, Luis de la Cruz, Andale Construction; Corporation of the Year, APS (Arizona Public Service); Community Advocate of the Year, Phil Gordon, former Phoenix mayor; and Legacy Award, Eddie Basha. (Full bios of award recipients available upon request.)
"Our state's economy is on track for a strong recovery, and Arizona’s corporate and political leaders have begun to recognize that sustaining our economy requires a better understanding of the effects of Latino-owned businesses and our population's growing purchasing power,” said Tony Astorga, chairman of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

For information about purchasing individual tickets or tables for the DATOS luncheon or Black & White Ball and Business Awards, please contact Norma Macias, (602) 294-6081, or normam@azhcc.com.

About the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC)

The AZHCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of the local business community, especially small business owners. Furthermore, the AZHCC provides a voice for Hispanic businesses in the Valley through advocacy efforts at the local, state and national level.

AZHCC to Honor Business Award Winners at 54th Annual Gala

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AZ Hispanic Chamber to honor business award winners at 54th annual gala

May 4-5 symposium features free business workshops, release of DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market (2012), and a community town hall featuring U.S. Senate candidate Richard Carmona

54th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards caps groundbreaking, two-day business symposium

CONTACT: James E. Garcia, 623-252-2772, jamesg@azhcc.com. Headshots of business award recipients available upon request

PHOENIX (April 19, 2012) The Arizona Hispanic Chamber’s 2012 business award recipients will be honored May 5 at this year’s 54th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards.

This year’s theme for the awards ceremony is “Arizona Latinos: A Centennial Legacy”. The gala caps off a first-of-its-kind, statewide Latino business symposium – "Transforming Arizona's Economy” – at the Phoenix Convention Center, May 4-5.

"This year’s recipients of the Chamber’s business awards reflect the growing and historic impact of the state’s Latino business community, and the influence our community is having on every facet of society,” said Gonzalo de la Melena, president and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. “As our 2012 DATOS report shows, the future of the economy in this state and across the country depends more every day on the economic contributions of the Latino community.”

Here’s a list of the AZHCC 2012 Business Award recipients: Woman of Year, Bettina Nava, FirstStrategic; Man of the Year, Ernest Calderón, Calderón Law Offices; Entrepreneur of the Year, Luis de la Cruz, Andale Construction; Corporation of the Year, APS (Arizona Public Service); Community Advocate of the Year, Phil Gordon, former Phoenix mayor; and Legacy Award, Eddie Basha. (Full bios of award recipients below.)

Highlights of the “Transforming Arizona’s Economy” May 4-5, 2012 business symposium:

- Free business workshops (May 4)
- The release of the 16th annual, DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market (May 4)
- Community town hall, featuring U.S. Senate candidate Richard Carmona (May 4)
- The 54th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards (May 5)

More than 3,000 people are expected to participate in the two-day symposium, the largest gathering of Latino community and business leaders in the state. The University of Phoenix is the 2012 presenting sponsor for the business symposium. Other major sponsors include Cox Communications, SRP, Univision and Republic Media.

"It is a pleasure to be the presenting sponsor of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's inaugural business symposium. The Hispanic chamber provides a wide range of support for Latino business leaders as they continue to lead extraordinary business growth in the state," said Dominique K. Brown, corporate diversity officer of Apollo Group, Inc., the corporate parent of University of Phoenix."

"Our state's economy is on track for recovery," said AZHCC Board Chairman Tony Astorga, "and the community's corporate and political leadership should know that building a strong economy will require a better understanding of the impact of Latino business community and our population's fast-growing buying power."

Among the highlights to be released in this year’s DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market report:

- Latino consumers purchase an estimated $40 billion in goods and services in Arizona every year. By 2015, the figure could rise to $50 billion.
- There are more than 60,000 Latino-owned businesses in the state, 20,000 of which are Latina owned.
- Nationwide, Latinos account for $1.2 trillion in total annual purchasing power and experts say that figure could increase to $1.5 trillion by 2015.

The Southwest is in the midst of an unprecedented cultural, demographic and economic shift. Cities such as Phoenix, San Antonio, Albuquerque and Los Angeles, local combined minority communities account for a majority of the population in those cities. In one decade, Phoenix will be majority Latino. In one generation, Arizona will be majority Latino. Most of this extraordinary change is driven by the fast-expanding Latino business and consumer market. U.S. Census figures show Arizona's Latino population grew 46 percent since 2000.

For information about purchasing individual tickets or tables for the DATOS luncheon or Black & White Ball and Business Awards, please contact Norma Macias, (602) 294-6081, or normam@azhcc.com.

About the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC)

The AZHCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of the local business community, especially small business owners. Furthermore, the AZHCC provides a voice for Hispanic businesses in the Valley through advocacy efforts at the local, state and national level.

AZHCC 2012 Business Award Recipients’ Biographies:

WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Bettina Nava is a Partner in the firm FirstStrategic, Communications & Public Affairs, joining in 2003 and becoming a partner in 2008. Nava leads the firm's community, non-profit and business outreach efforts.
Most recently before becoming a partner at FirstStategic, Nava worked as one of eleven Regional Campaign Managers for the McCain 2008 Presidential Team across the country. As the Campaign Manager for the Southwest Region, Nava was in charge of all hiring, managing and implementation of campaign strategies and communications for the region for four states including Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah. Prior to this responsibility, Nava was Director of Fundraising for McCain 2008 in Arizona. She also served as a Presidential Elector for the State of Arizona in 2008.
Nava also served as the State Director for Arizona Senator John McCain’s three offices for over two and a half years. Additionally, Nava was also employed by McCain during his 2000 Presidential bid to direct and enhance his coalition building efforts and strategic outreach activities. Nava also worked for Governor Fife Symington as his Director of Community Relations and later as the Governor’s Director of all of Arizona’s Boards and Commissions.
A graduate of the University of Arizona, Nava has an extensive background in political and community strategic planning with an emphasis on coalition building statewide. She currently serves on the board of the United Way, Child’s Play and on the public policy committee for First Things First. More importantly, Bettina is a wife and mother of three truly beautiful and precocious children ages 12, 10 and 5.

MAN OF THE YEAR

Ernest Calderón is the son of the late Albert & Nellie Calderón of Morenci. He is a sixth generation native of what was once New Mexico Territory. Ernest was the first Hispanic to serve as president of the State Bar of Arizona and is completing an eight plus year term on the Arizona Board of Regents where he served 165,000 students as its president. He has been advocate for the disadvantaged in changing education policy for over twenty years. He serves on the Council of Board Chairs of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (“AGB”). He has served as adjunct faculty at Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University and Phoenix College (part of the Maricopa County Community College District). He served on former Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano’s School Readiness and P-20 councils. Ernest is an active board member of the Northern Arizona University Foundation and is a member of the WESTEd educational laboratory board of directors.

Having practiced law for 29 years, Ernest is the principal in his own law firm. He is a member of the prestigious American Law Institute and is an “AV Preeminent” rated lawyer as noted in the Martindale-Hubbell directory. Prior to going into private practice, Mr. Calderón served as corporate counsel to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Arizona and Arizona Public Service Company after serving as law clerk to Senior U.S. District Judge Walter E. Craig. He was named Latino Lawyer of the Year by the Hispanic National Bar Association and also served as a delegate in the American Bar Association House of Delegates.

Ernest is a past Chairman of the Catholic Community Foundation and is a past member of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix Finance Council. He is a Knight Commander with Star in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem. Ernest has served as president of Valley Leadership and as a board member of numerous nonprofit organizations including the American Red Cross (Arizona Chapter), American Diabetes Association (Arizona Affiliate), Valley of the Sun United Way and as a member of the Arizona Commission on Appellate Court Appointments. Ernest serves on the corporate boards of SCFArizona, EPCOR Arizona Water Company, the Tax Free Trusts of Arizona, Colorado & Utah and on the Cancer Treatment Centers of America Western hospital. Ernest has just completed a ten year term as General Counsel to the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
A graduate of Northern Arizona University, he also attended the University of Arizona College of Law and has done executive graduate work at Northwestern University. Ernest is the father of four children. Two are graduating from high school in May of 2012, one is a student in the Maricopa County Community College District and the fourth is serving with the United States Air Force in Afghanistan. His children are his greatest achievement and subject of his pride.

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Luis De La Cruz is a native of Southern California and began his construction career as an 18-year-old laborer in Los Angeles. He soon took on new challenges in order to become a better provider for his family. In November 2006, he launched Andale Construction, Inc. (ACI) with two Partners, Jesus Aguilar and a shareholder, Agustin De La Torre.
His visionary leadership and business acumen allowed him to grow his company’s opportunities and revenues by obtaining Small Business Administration SBA 8(a) certification in 2010; which, in turn, led to ACI’s two, current federal projects totaling $80 Million at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina –part of a Joint Venture/Mentor Protégé relationship with Sundt Corporation.
Andale Construction Inc.’s stellar business reputation over the past five years has earned the company a wide range of certifications, which allows ACI to compete for construction projects nationwide. ACI holds the following small business certifications, including U.S. SBA 8(a), National Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc., Grand Canyon Minority Supplier Development Council Inc. (Ethnic-Minority Business Enterprise-MBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE).
ACI has received several prestigious awards: Minority Business Development Agency 2008 Minority Contractor of the Year; Arizona Department of Transportation 2009 DBE Contractor of the Year; Associated Minority Contractors of America 2010 Minority Subcontractor; 2011 United Latino Business Coalition 2011 Small Business of the Year; and Minority Economic Development Week & AZ Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2011 Minority Firm of the Year.

For decades, Luis’ easygoing but contagiously energetic personality has inspired an attitude of team-work among his colleagues and his own active support for other small businesses. ACI and its partner’s believe in building “old fashioned relationships” by embracing the following pillars of success: Safety, Quality Workmanship, and Professional Standards.
Luis has been married to Cynthia De La Cruz for more than 35 years. They have two daughters and four beautiful and spoiled grand-children.

COMMUNITY ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR

Making Phoenix better has been the central focus of Phil Gordon’s life for more than two decades. Born in Chicago to Sid and Judy Gordon, he is the oldest of three children and the only one to venture into public service.
He attended the University of Arizona and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history education. Gordon attended Arizona State University School of Law and graduated cum laude.
A schoolteacher, lawyer, small businessman and a leader in the movement to revitalize and preserve central Phoenix, Gordon served on the Madison Elementary School Board and as chief of staff to Mayor Skip Rimsza before seeking public office in 1997.
As a two-term member of the Phoenix City Council, Gordon spearheaded Shannon's Law, making it a felony to randomly discharge a firearm within city limits. He also co-founded and chaired the Slumlord Task Force, which produced legislation to aid in the fight against neglectful and criminal landlords.
Gordon was elected Mayor of Phoenix in 2003, garnering 72 percent of the vote. He won 77 percent of the vote during his re-election in 2007.
Under his leadership, the City increased public safety spending and added hundreds of new police officers and firefighters. In 2010, the city’s crime rate reached a 20-year low.
Gordon’s leadership led to unprecedented public-private partnerships and the evolution of downtown Phoenix into a hub of education activity. Downtown is now home to Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, and features a biomedical campus housing the Translational Genomics Research Institute and other cutting-edge research.
Among his other major accomplishments as mayor: unveiling and implementing a 17-point Green Phoenix plan; launching the City’s light rail system in December 2008; and the revitalization of downtown Phoenix, which attracted more than $4 billion in investment.
In 2008, Gordon was named the Best Mayor in North America by the London-based World Mayors Project. He served as chairman of the U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Task Force on Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Under his leadership, Phoenix was dubbed “A 21st Century City” and named an “All-American City” for the fifth time in its history. Gordon is the father of four children.

LEGACY AWARD
Eddie Basha is a man with deep roots in Arizona. Born and raised in the community of Chandler, Basha has dedicated most of his life to making Arizona a better place to live. His advocacy for children and education is legendary.
Eddie is the great-grandson of settlers who came to America in 1884. His grandparents were Arizona pioneers who opened a general store in the mining community of Ray, Arizona, in 1910, two years before statehood. Today, Bashas’ is the only family-owned supermarket chain in Arizona. Currently there are 128 stores.
Eddie continues to be an outstanding citizen who has donated his leadership, time and financial support to community projects of all types across the state. Eddie is a leading proponent of quality education. His appointment to the Arizona Board of Regents by Governor Rose Mofford in 1990 concluded in January of 1998. Eddie also served a thirteen-year term on the Chandler School Board. Additionally he was appointed by Governor Bruce Babbitt to the State Board of Education where he served for two consecutive, four-year terms.
Eddie has devoted countless hours toward the plight of the homeless and hungry, health care issues, as a proponent of the arts, numerous political referendums and many other community and civic projects as well.
Eddie and his wife, Nadine Mathis Basha, have passed this strong sense of community and commitment on to their family of six sons.
Honors and Awards (Partial List):
2012 Az Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award
2010 Victoria Foundation: Edith Sayre Auslander Award for Outstanding Support of Hispanic
Issues in Higher Education
2010 City of Chandler Parks & Recreation; Tumbleweed Park/Celebration Plaza – Community Service Award (05/29/10)
2010 Chandler Historical Society; Pioneer of the Year Award (4/24/10)
2010 Women’s Board/Steele Children’s Research Center Panda Luncheon Honorees (4/10)
2009 Boy Scouts of America Community Champion Award (10/09)
2009 Az Center for Afterschool Excellence Community Champions for Children Award (10/09)
Nadine/EB were both honored with the award.
2009 Social Venture Partners AZ – Social Entrepreneurs of the Year Award – Nadine/Eddie both were honored for their innovative and philanthropic efforts (04/24/09)
2009 Copper Sword Award / AZ Veterans Hall of Fame (2/09)
2008 75th Anniversary Catholic Community Services Foundation of Tucson; Nadine/EB both were honored with a “Diamonds of our Community Award” (11/14/2008)
2007 Arizona Culturekeeper Award (9/07)
2007 Valle del Sol – Hall of Fame Award Recipient (9/07)
2005 New Directions Inst. (Infant Brain Development), Science of Early Learning Award (5/05)
2005 ASU Martin Luther King Servant Leadership Award (1/27/05)
2004 East Valley Partnership, Dwight Patterson Lifetime Achievement Award (11/16/04)
2004 Arizona Education Foundation, Presidential Award for Excellence in Education (11/10/04)
2004 Rotary International District Conference – Four-Way Test Award (June 25, 2004)
2001 Retailer of the Year Award; Arizona Food Marketing Association (November 2, 2001)
2001 Governor’s Arts Award; Corporate Category; (March 7, 2001)
2001 AZ Historymaker, AZ Historical Society/AZ Historical League (Feb. 24, 2001)

CORPORATION OF THE YEAR
Since 1886 Arizona Public Service (APS) has met Arizona’s growing energy needs. Today, more than 6,000 employees work together to provide safe, affordable and reliable electricity to 1.1 million customers. The company is Arizona’s largest and longest serving energy provider, with customers in 11 of Arizona’s 15 counties.
APS has always understood the direct relationship between success and the strength and vitality of Arizona. From employee giving and volunteering to supplier diversity programs, APS works to improve the lives of everyone who calls Arizona home.
Last year, APS invested more than $7.8 million in organizations and programs while APS employees volunteered more than 157,000 hours. Working with strategic partners such as the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Chicanos Por La Causa, Friendly House, Valle del Sol, Aguila Youth Leadership Development and others, APS’s philanthropic work is making a difference in improving the socio-economic conditions of Hispanics in Arizona.
The Hispanic community also benefits from APS’s focus on creating a positive experience for all customers. For those who wish to conduct business in Spanish, APS offers a Spanish-language bill and Spanish-speaking call center and office associates.
APS understands the importance of supplier diversity, not only as a good business strategy but also as a way to help grow state and local economies. It’s Supplier Diversity and Development Program is a standard other companies look to emulate. Through this program, each year, the company spends nearly $70 million with women and minority-owned businesses.

AZHCC Hosts Business Symposium: May 4-5, 2012 [DATOS, Black & White Ball & Business Awards AND More!]

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Feb. 20, 2012

Arizona Hispanic Chamber hosts groundbreaking business symposium, May 4-5

“Transforming Arizona’s Economy” business symposium to feature DATOS luncheon, community town hall and the state’s longest-running formal gala

CONTACT: James E. Garcia, 602-294-6086 or media@azhcc.com. Headshots of key speakers available upon request

PHOENIX (Feb. 20, 2012) –- Spotlighting the skyrocketing growth of the state’s Latino consumer base, the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will host “Transforming Arizona’s Economy”, a groundbreaking business symposium, at the Phoenix Convention Center, May 4-5.

The event’s schedule of workshops, seminars and presentations will focus on the historic and growing impact of Latino-owned businesses and consumers statewide and across the nation.

“The future of our economy in Arizona or nationwide depends more every day on the economic vitality of the Latino community,” said Gonzalo de la Melena. “This first-of-its-kind symposium intends to zero in on education the world on the assets our community brings to the table and why all Arizonans should care.”

The two-day event will feature the release of the Chamber’s 16^th annual, DATOS: Focus on the Hispanic Market; workshops and seminars; a community town hall, a film screening, and the 54^th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards. More than 2,500 people attendees are expected to participate in the event, the largest gathering of Latino community and business leaders in the state.

“Our state’s economy is on a recovery track,” said AZHCC Board Chairman Tony Astorga, “and the community’s corporate and political leadership should know that achieving a strong recovery will require a better understanding of the impact of Latino business community and our population’s growing buying power.”

Designated as an Official Arizona Centennial event, the symposium will highlight the historical legacy of Arizona’s Latino community.

Latino consumers purchase an estimated $40 billion in good and services in Arizona every year. Nationwide, Latinos account for $1 Trillion in total annual purchasing power and experts say that figure could increase 50 percent in the next five years.

The Southwest is in the midst of an unprecedented cultural, demographic and economic shift. In cities such as Phoenix, San Antonio, Albuquerque and Los Angeles, local combined minority communities account for a majority of the population in those cities. In one decade, Phoenix will be majority Latino. In one generation, Arizona will be majority Latino state. Most of this extraordinary change is driven by the fast-expanding Latino business and consumer market. U.S. Census figures show Arizona’s Latino population grew 46 percent since 2000; Texas, 42 percent; New Mexico, 25 percent; and California, 28 percent.

Transforming Arizona’s Economy / Schedule of Events

DAY 1 / MAY 4

WORKSHOPS

(workshops designed to support small business growth and sustainability, 300-400 attendees)

7:30 to 8:30 a.m. (nationally renowned book author)

8:45 to 9:45 a.m. (2 concurrent workshops)

10:00 to 11:00 a.m. (2 concurrent workshops)

16^th Annual DATOS: Focus On the Hispanic Market Luncheon

(a broad and detailed overview of Arizona’s fast-growing Latino market, 800-1,000 attendees)

11:00-11:30 a.m. Registration

11:30-1:30 p.m. DATOS presentation

COMMUNITY TOWN HALL

2:00 – 3:30 p.m. – Town Hall presentation

DAY 2 / MAY 5

The 54^th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards

Arizona Latinos: Our 100-Year Legacy

6:30 to 7: 30 p.m. - Registration

7:30 to 9:30 p.m. – Business Awards Ceremony, Scholarship Fundraiser, a Centennial Salute

DATOS Report

The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce kicks off the symposium with the release of its 16^th DATOS report at a noon luncheon on May 4. The exhaustive study offers a detailed overview of the latest trends shaping the state and national Hispanic consumer market. This year, the report’s research was compiled by a diverse editorial team of experts on consumer and economic trends. (A related study entitled DATOS USA that provides a national overview of the growing Hispanic consumer and business market also is under development.)

Business Workshops, Town Hall

The first day of the symposium also features a series of workshops, seminars and panel discussions on pressing issues impacting small and large businesses and the Latino consumers today. Proposed panels will focus no news business startups, business negotiation techniques, franchising opportunities and advice on how to survive the recovering economy.

The Chamber also is organizing a community town hall May 4 at 2 p.m. The town hall is scheduled for 2 p.m. on May 4 and is free and open to the public.

Business awards gala

The two-day symposium will be crowned by the 54^th Annual Black & White Ball and Business Awards in the Phoenix Convention Center. More than 1,500 people are expected to attend the formal event – the longest running gala in the state.

A black-tie affair, the annual Black & White Ball is the largest event of its kind in the state with live entertainment, fine dining and the always highly anticipated presentation of the AZHCC’s Man, Woman, Entrepreneur and Corporation of the Year Awards, as well as our coveted Legacy Award. Past recipients of the Legacy Award include: Gov. Janet Napolitano, business leader Jerry Colangelo, U.S. Sen. John McCain, and Arizona’s only ever Hispanic Gov. Raul H. Castro.

About the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (AZHCC) - The AZHCC is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the efforts of the local business community, especially small business owners. Furthermore, the AZHCC provides a voice for Hispanic businesses in the Valley through advocacy efforts at the local, state and national level.

For information about purchasing individual tickets or table(s) for the DATOS luncheon or Black & White Ball and Business Awards please contact Norma Macias at 602.294.6081 or normam@azhcc.com

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New report finds Arizona’s Hispanic community tops $40 billion in buying power, 65,000 Latino-owned businesses

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AZHCC Hosts Business Symposium: May 4-5, 2012 [DATOS, Black & White Ball & Business Awards AND More!]

Detailed post-recession survey of women-owned
business enterprises featured at the second annual
"Power of the Purse" luncheon in Phoenix on
International Women's Day, March 8th