BY JOYCE LOBECK

With Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey’s com-mitment to enhance relations with the state’s neighbor across the international border, he also has increased Yuma’s presence at the table of the organization tasked with that mission.

The governor recently appointed two Yuma-area residents to the board of the nonprofit Arizona-Mexico Commission: Julie Engel, president and chief executive officer of Greater Yuma Economic Devel-opment Corporation, and Jonathan Lines, general manager of Lines & Lundgren Roof-ing and community leader who served as a missionary in Argentina and has family that settled in Mexico more than a century ago. Engel and Lines join Russ Jones, president of R.L. Jones Customs Broker and a former leg-islator, who has served on the AMC board for 35 years.

Yuma Mayor Douglas Nicholls ex-plained how Yuma’s greater presence on the board came about.

“I encouraged the governor’s office to add more Yuma representation,” Nicholls said. After all, he noted, Yuma touches sev-eral miles of the state’s border with Mexico and has a long history of ties with that coun-try and its people.

“Relations don’t stop at the border.”Nicholls described the three as “strong

voices. Russ is involved in trade, Julie knows economic development and Jonathan brings other social issues. They’re a good balance.”

The mayor sees the commission as play-

ing an important role in reaching across the border, providing the weight of the state government and a united voice from Ari-zona “in concert with my efforts to foster a closer relationship” not only with the Mexi-can state of Sonora but the entire nation as well.

“It changes the discussion of individual parts,” he said. “Now we’re focusing as a single unit instead of being competitive. It gives more confidence to people when they see we’re working well together. And what we’re trying to do needs to be backed up by the state government. We need to have the state try to capture the heavy trade though Arizona and not leak it to Texas and Cali-fornia. We need to make Arizona more at-tractive and the commission helps facilitate those discussions with Mexico.”

One priority, he said, is an effort to open up San Luis II, the commercial port of entry, to allow pedestrians and private vehicles.

Another topic of discussion is a potential rail line between the two countries.

“Movement of people is key,” Nicholls said, whether for business, cultural exchang-es, educational opportunities or tourism. “If the ports operated well, we could develop access to all the great things Arizona has to offer.”

The Arizona-Mexico Commission was set in motion in 1959 by then Gov. Paul Fan-nin, who was quoted saying: “God made us neighbors, let us be good neighbors.”

Gov. Ducey himself serves as chairman of the board, whose members include rep-resentatives of several prominent Arizona businesses and organizations from both the public and private sectors. Board president is David Farca, president of ToH Design Stu-dio.

According to the commission’s website,

Julie Engel and Jonathan Lines join Russ Jones on the AZ-Mexico Commission

November 2015 Volume 1 – Issue 10

See Commission continued on page 13

Julie Engel Jonathan Lines Russ Jones

DaBoyz RestaurantsMember of the Month

pg3

Ambassador of the Quarter, Tawnee Miller

pg10

Caballeros Eventspg10

2 YUMABIZ November 2015

All too often we, the fine citizens of Yuma County, allow people outside of Yuma County to tell others what Yuma is all about. We have seen the stories, the rankings, the charts, the articles that tell a bleak story about life in Yuma. When I read these stories, I will think, “That’s great; the people that read and believe those articles are the ones that don’t belong here.” How-ever, the Chamber Executive in me says, “What can we do as citizens of Yuma and as members of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce about that?” I say we push back with articles of our own!

Beginning in November, we will start seeing a weekly article in the Business Sec-tion of the Yuma Sun called, “Growing Yuma.” Over a dozen of us will write an ar-

ticle featuring the things that make Yuma a fabulous place to live, work, play, raise a family, and build a business. These stories will feature details on business expansion, job creation, growth plans and sometimes, the people that make it happen. We will control the message by getting out in front of the great things that are happening right here in Yuma, and we want to tell the world about it. Do we have problems? Of course, but we will let others spin those tales. A little ‘Pollyanna?’ . . . Probably, but after a few months of reading the weekly column, “Growing Yuma,” we might even win over Yuma’s toughest critics: us!

I started to look into the unemploy-ment phenomenon that exists in Yuma County. Historically, that number hovers around 25%. We see that number every month when the new study comes out, and people start to lose their minds. I submit that the unemployment rate is not news, is not statistically accurate and speaks more to our agricultural heritage than our busi-ness climate. I’m sure you have all heard of ‘sound-bites’. I am here to tell you about ‘data-bites’. ‘Data-bites’ are just as damag-ing and just as shallow as sound bites, but, in time can be retrieved. Sound bites can-not be retrieved. Here is an example: The City of Yuma currently has a 9% unem-ployment rate. While that number is fac-tual, people prefer to remember the sound bite. That ‘data-bite’ can change, go up or down, thus it can be retrieved. Yuma has high unemployment: cannot be retrieved. If you really want o know how our un-employment is calculated, please go to http://www.bls.gov/cps/cps_htgm#where.

You will discover the sample size in Yuma County is tiny, and if you believe San Luis has a 66% unemployment rate, then you will believe that Santa Claus is paying for their police and fire departments. The pur-pose of controlling the message is telling the facts and telling our story, our way.

I love what our state universities are do-ing right here in Yuma, offering dozens and dozens of bachelor degrees right here in Yuma, in classroom settings. Even though the tide of post secondary education is go-ing online (according to GuideToOnlin-eSchools.Com, there are over 600 schools offering over 32,000 bachelor degrees or higher). I prefer, as an example to talk about the terrific men and women right here in Yuma that are making a difference in young people’s lives. The sound bites in-side the weekly “Growing Yuma’ column in the Yuma Sun will feature thoughts just like that.

As always, I invite your comments, so e-mail me at john@yumachamber.org. Have a great November.

John Courtis, Executive Director

Let’s Control The Message!

Mission Statement:“ To Represent Our Membership

By Advocating A Healthy Economic Climate Through The

Effective Use Of Our Unique Regional Resources To Enhance

The Quality Of Life In The Greater Yuma Area.”

Kelly Averitt, Office Manager

If you have questions about yourmembership, or any of our events,please call me at 928-782-2567

NOVEMBER 2015 Volume 1 – Issue 10

Published and direct mailed monthly by the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce.

For information or to ask about submitting articles, call the chamber office at 928-782-2567 or send us an e-mail at info@yumachamber.org

928-782-2567180 W. 1st St., Ste A

Yuma, AZ 85364

Please listen in every Wednesday from 8 - 9 am on KBLU 560AM for "Chamber Chatter." We will talk every week about all the good stuff going on in Yuma County and introduce new Chamber members. Sponsored by El Dorado Broadcasters, we will also give you updates on what's going on in Yuma.

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 3

Da Boyz Italian Cuisine 284 S Main St #101 Yuma, AZ 85364(928) 783-8383Da Boyz Pizza & Pasta 11274 S Fortuna Rd Yuma, AZ 85365 (928) 317-1717 Christine Dawson www.daboyzyuma.com

Da Boyz Pizza has come to be synony-mous with great Pizza and Pastas. Since 2002 it has been their mission to provide high quality food at a great value in a com-fortable, family atmosphere. They always use the finest ingredients in their fantas-tic Pizza, Pastas, Salads, Sandwiches, Cal-zones, and everything else on their menu!

Here is what people are saying about Da Boyz:

Rhonda Dyer — 5 Stars I ALWAYS have at least one meal when I’m in town from Indiana!!! Service and food second to none!!! Hey Da Boyz come to Indiana!!!!

Hector Macario — 5 Stars Very good food. Would recommend Da Boyz any-time. Had them cater our wedding. Deli-cious and satisfying!

Viviane Rodriguez — 5 Stars Every-thing was excellent! Everything tasted freshly made, and it was hands down the best Chicken Alfredo I’ve ever had ! Defi-nitely coming back

Angela Hart — 5 Stars We love having get togethers at Da Boyz! Their service is impeccable and the food is delicious!

So for a 5 star meal visit Da Boyz Ital-ian Cuisine Downtown or Da Boyz Pizza & Pasta in the Foothills.

Congratulations to our November Member of the Month – Da Boyz Italian Cuisine, Da Boyz Pizza & Pasta

Chamber Member Showcase

4 YUMABIZ November 2015

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Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 5

Ribbon Cuttings

September 29th is commonly “National Coffee Day” and what is a better way to celebrate way to celebrate it than to have a ribbon cutting for the new Yuma Dunkin’ Donuts. This Dunkin’ Donuts located at 1651 S 4th Ave, Ste A-1 had actually opened a few

weeks earlier however with a celebration of a different sort. The Yuma Police Department lined up several police vehicles creating quite the spectacle in the drive thru lane. Needless to

say Yumans of all types, especially the police, are happy to have a Dunkin’ Donuts in town. For more information on Dunkin’ Donuts and this particular location you can visit www.DunkinDonuts.com or give them a call at (928) 783-5548.

Hobby Lobby celebrated its much anticipated grand opening on October 12th. Hobby Lobby offers a variety of merchandise in the craft and home décor market. The 55,000 square foot

Yuma store is the 15th location in Arizona and one of 650 stores across the nation. Hobby Lobby will be a great contributor to Yuma’s economy both in sales and the 50+ local residents it employees. For more

information on Hobby Lobby stop in the store at 1074 S Castledome Ave in Las Palmillas Shopping Center, visit the website www.hobbylobby.com, or give them a call at (928) 329-6130.

The 57th Annual Walt Kammann Sausage Fry is coming to the Yuma Civic Center on Friday, December 4

This annual event, produced by the Yuma Rotary Club starts at 4:30 PM and admission is only $10.00 for you meal which includes dessert and a drink. A cash bar is also available and it's one of the best attended events of the year in Yuma.

Over 3,000 people come to the Yuma Civic Center to enjoy a local food favorite created by a recipe perfected by the Kammann family 3 generations ago. If you get lucky, you may be able to buy some sausages to take home after the event!

Get your ticket from any Rotarian, or go to www.yumarotary.org.

6 YUMABIZ November 2015

A good hiring strategy really boils down to two key questions: What, exactly, do I need? and Where am I going to find it? Ask-ing these two questions will help you as an employer move forward with your hiring.

What, exactly, do I need?

Patrick Goetz

Know Your Hiring Needs Ribbon Cuttings

Western Arizona Council of Governments (WACOG) celebrated their move to 1235 S. Redondo Center Drive (formerly the Social Security Administration building) on September 30th. Several offices for the Yuma division of WACOG were

scattered throughout Yuma and now they are all under one roof. They added a 4,000 square-foot addition to the back of the existing building so this could happen. This building is the administrative headquarters for our aging programs, human services

programs, and our Head Start program, and they provide direct services there for clients that need their services. For more information on WACOG either visit www.wacog.com or call them at (928) 782-1886

Representative Paul Gosar was in Yuma October 12th-15th to hold a town hall meeting , visit with constituents and elected officials , and celebrate

the creation of The Congressional Delegation Room located inside Yuma City Hall. The room is designed to be used as an office where all Congressional Delegates and staff can meet with constituents when they are in town. Representative Gosar held a ribbon cutting to bring more attention to this office’s existence. After the ceremony he stayed for a couple hours to take photos with his guests and to listen to their concerns. For more information on Representative Gosar please visit his website, www.Gosar.house.gov.

The Davïn-Karin Salon celebrated its grand opening on Thursday, October 22nd with the Chamber, family, and friends. Davïn-Karin is co-owned by Randy Rusk and stylist Marcy Reyes and it is named for his children. The salon sets itself apart from the rest through advanced technology and a unique interior design. The stylists’ hairdryers,

for example, “float” about their heads and can be pulled down when needed. Davïn-Karin is also the only retailer of the Bumble

and Bumble hair care line, of which they have an extensive inventory. The address for Davïn-Karin Salon is 1651 S. 4th Ave. Suite A3 (next to Dunkin’ Donuts) in Yuma. The hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information please visit www.DavinKarin.com or call them up at 928-276-9016.

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 7

A good hiring strategy really boils down to two key questions: What, exactly, do I need? and Where am I going to find it? Ask-ing these two questions will help you as an employer move forward with your hiring.

What, exactly, do I need?

Have I created a job description that in-cludes the purpose of the job at my com-pany, essential job functions, and other key information?

Do I know what additional qualities are essential for success in the position? What are my must-haves, and what can I do with-out?

Do I need a person who is already trained, or am I willing to train the right person?

Given the work, timeframe, and budget, do I need a permanent employee (full-time or part-time), temporary worker, or con-tractor? What about an intern?

Where am I going to find this employee?Does an existing employee have the

skills I need? Can I promote or transfer that person instead of hiring someone new?

Have I checked my network (current and past employees, customers and ven-dors, chamber of commerce, professional associations, LinkedIn group, church or other community groups) to see if they

know anyone that might be a good fit?What are the best Internet sites for post-

ing jobs? How do I find my state job bank?Are any colleges in my area training

people with the skills I’m looking for?Which temp agencies have people with

the skills I need?Would a job fair help bring in good ap-

plicants?Need help with your hiring strategy?

Contact your Business Service Represen-tatives at the One Stop Career Center at 928-329-0990 for assistance or go to http://www.careeronestop.org/businesscenter/for additional information concerning your hiring needs.

Information obtained from http://www.careeronestop.org/businesscenter/

Patrick Goetz

Know Your Hiring Needs

Yuma Sun is full of news, events and ads that you can use everyday. We won’t even take credit when your boss asks how you know so much.

READing thE YUMA SUn hELPS YoU iMPRESS YoUR BoSS

Local News. Anytime.

Anywhere.

Ribbon Cuttings

8 YUMABIZ November 2015

uS Airways is now American AirlinesOne of the world’s largest airline

mergers completed its last major mile-stone this past Saturday October 17, 2015 when all US Airways flights be-came American Airlines (AA) flights. The airlines began coordinating the two airline platforms into a single system this past July to ensure a smooth transi-tion. The road to merger has been a long one when you look at the AMR US Air-ways Merger timeline:

Nov. 29, 2011: American Airlines parent AMR Corp. files for Chap-ter 11 bankruptcy protection.

Feb. 14, 2013: AMR and US Airways announce plans for merger to create nation’s largest airline.

Aug. 13, 2013: Department of Justice files lawsuit against the merger plan.

Sept. 12, 2013: Judge approves Amer-ican Airlines bankruptcy plan.

Nov. 13, 2013: Merger partners carve out antitrust settlement with an-

titrust regulators, agreeing to give up airport slots in New York and Washington, D.C.

Nov. 27, 2013: Bankruptcy judge ap-proves antitrust settlement.

Dec. 9, 2013: American Airlines and US Airways plan to merge, offer stock.

April 2014: Federal judge denies American motion to cut retiree insurance benefits.

Oct. 2014: American Airlines Group announces the completed merger of legacy American Airlines and legacy US Airways’ cargo divi-sions. The new cargo entity is the first operations division to be-come fully integrated.

March 26-28: American Airlines Group expects to transfer US Airways’ frequent flyer miles from the Dividend Miles pro-gram into American’s loyalty program AAdvantage, creating a

single frequent flyer program.April 8: American Airlines Group re-

ceives its single-carrier certificate from the FAA.

July 18: The company roll outs a major schedule change that will change US Airways flights de-parting Oct. 17 or later to Ameri-can Airlines flights.

Oct. 17: All US Airways flights will become American Airlines flights.

Airport Director Gladys Wiggins shared, “The merger between US Air-ways and American Airlines has not im-pacted Yuma’s air service. Yuma Interna-tional Airport has continued to provide the same number of flights and service for travelers since the merger was final-ized. As an “express line”, passengers can expect to hear the call for board-ing as those flying with American Eagle which has now replaced US Airways Express. Weeks prior to the October 17th roll out date, passengers travelling to or from Yuma International Airport actually booked their flight through AA however when they checked in for flights it may have been under the pre-vious platform of US Airways. Frequent flyers noticed months prior when their mileage number converted to a new American Advantage number. I always recommend if you have questions about your miles or the services, please con-tact American Airlines directly.”

Wiggins continued, “The Ameri-can Airlines team has been amazing to work with during this transition. They began planning and coordinating AA’s re-branding with new signage and the replacement of equipment within Yuma International Airport this past August and September. Recently, the Airport and AA executed a five (5) year lease agreement solidifying the continuance of providing air service to and from Yuma. There is hope that AA may con-sider additional flights to other connect-ing hubs if the opportunity arises. We understand the nature of the business and remain optimistic about the pos-

sibilities for future discussion with AA network and route planning teams.”

“We’d like to clear up any confusion that a recent press release may have caused regarding the merger. Today, unfortunately I have to report that the Airport is not getting new service and does not have a new carrier entering the market however we have a great airline servicing out community which is American Airlines formerly US Air-ways.” Wiggins clarified. “The Airport staff is doing its best to recruit new ser-vices as well as focus on the retention of the existing airline services. The more people fly from Yuma, the more interest our airport will receive from the airline industry. It truly is a ‘use it or lose it’ slogan that I have noticed as the airline industry as a whole constantly evaluates the markets they are currently serving as well as markets it may be underserving. Their resources are scarce especially on the regional routes due to the number of aircraft and pilots available. The com-munity has to know the importance and impact it has when flying locally. The Airport is listening to everyone whether is about the frustrating experience or the great convenient local service, it is important to continue to support the Airport and choose to fly from Yuma. The feedback from our community is used and documented to help support our efforts when we meet with the car-riers.”

Yuma International Airport is ex-pected to see a decline in the total num-ber of enplanements for CY2015 due to the loss of the United Express oper-ated by Skywest in December 2014. There have been numerous requests and demands for this connection from Yuma to LAX. The Airport is doing its best to market for this route as well as other routes to assist our local travelers whether for business or leisure travels.

Book Your Winter Events, Stress Free, Right Here at Yuma Golf & Country Club

Contact us today (928)726-4210ygcc@ygcc.orgwww.ygcc.org

The Club provides a classic and elegant feel with beautiful views of the course.• Quality service • Experienced chefs • Affordable prices •

Experience the club regularly with our affordable, flexible membership options

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 9

The 2016 Visitor guides produced by the Yuma Visitors Bureau are in the house - come & get ‘em!

Bulk pickups at Yuma Visitors Bu-reau 180 W. 1st St. (Old City Hall) Stop by 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (except 10 a.m.-noon on Tues-day when we have our weekly staff meeting). Call ahead and we’ll meet you at the NW corner of the building (door with handicapped ramp) to load up one or more boxes!

Just need a one, two or a handful? New Guides now available at the Visi-tor Information Center,

201 N. 4th Ave., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days a week.

10 YUMABIZ November 2015

BY RANDY NELSON

What are the things you are most pas-sionate about?

Designer clothes and purses?

4X4 Vehicles big enough to feel safe in?

One of the most enthusiastic and en-gaged Ambassadors of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce is Tawnee Miller. For the past 12 years, she has been the photographer for Serendipity Photogra-phy, so the Chamber gets to ‘borrow’ her talents behind the lens. Tawnee loves to make people smile, in front of her camera, with a joke, a prank, or just because she smiled at them first.

Tawnee is an avid cyclist and even smiles with glee as she covers the rough terrain of the Yuma roads. “I love being in-volved in this wonderful community,” she says. “The Chamber of Commerce is great, but I am also part of Johnny’s Dream Team (Fight for Johnny), Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep and many more.” Tawnee is now ex-panding into a marketing leadership role with PHD Fire & Flood and she is always ready to help a friend in need.

She is a mom to 4 kids, and the wife of our March member of the month. We are proud to have her as an Ambassador, as her energy and positive attitude are con-tagious.

Tom Pancrazi is in the middle of his second 3 year term on the Board of Di-rectors of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce. As the President / Owner of A. T. Pancrazi Real Estate Services, he oversees hundreds of thousands of square feet of retail and commercial real estate in Yuma County. “Don’t write about me,” Tom says, “Write about the strength of my organization, my terrific team.”

A. T. Pancrazi has an all-star team of real estate professionals for both commer-cial and residential clients. They are: Julie Pancrazi, Felisa Taylor, Karen Velasquez, Patrick K. Hodges, Jr., Jonathan Matheus, Mark Banach, Jerry LoCoco, Geralyn Weil, and Tammy Stewart. While we agree that Tom has a first class staff we also give them kudos to allow for Tom to participate in the growth and well being of Yuma County.

Tom obtained his Bachelor of Science

in Real Estate from the University of Ari-zona, and like all the great leaders of our region, tried his craft elsewhere before returning home in 1992. We are glad he did so.

Profile: Ambassador of the Quarter - Tawnee Miller

Profile: Board Member of the Month - Tom Pancrazi

25th Annual Colorado River Crossing Balloon Festival Friday, Saturday and Sunday, nov. 20 - 22

Sponsored by Chretin’s Restaurant. The Colorado River Crossing Balloon Festival is one of Yuma’s Premier Events. Mass ascensions are at sunrise from The West Wetlands Park on Saturday and Sunday, Nov, 21 and 22 and at Gila Vista Junior High on Friday, Nov. 20. Admission to the morning launch is a canned food donation for the Salvation Army. The highlight of the festival is the Balloon Glow at Desert Sun Stadium on Saturday evening, Nov. 21. The admission to the glow is $1.00 per person and a canned food donation for Salvation Army. Tethered rides available for $15 per person.

the 2015 El toro Bowl game Saturday, December 5

Two of the best NJCAA football teams in the nation collide for pride in the El Toro Bowl. A great opportunity to watch future NFL prospects compete for a Junior College Bowl victory. The afternoon game takes place at Veterans Memorial stadium on the campus of Gila Ridge High School. The bowl is co-sponsored by the Caballeros de Yuma, Matador Athletic Association and Arizona Western College.

Ken & Betty Borland holiday Light Pageant & tower Lighting Saturday, november 28

It’s a tradition! Each year on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, we usher in the holiday season with a pageant at Desert Sun Stadium that culminates with the lighting of the Yuma Friendship Tower. Music and dancing accompany choirs for the free event starting atdusk. Admission is canned food for the Yuma Community Food Bank.

For more information, please go to: www.caballeros.org

MARK YoUR CALEnDARS

For these 3 Family Focused

Community Events

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 11

BY RANDY NELSON

What are the things you are most pas-sionate about?

Designer clothes and purses?

4X4 Vehicles big enough to feel safe in?

Republican or Democrat?

Silver or gold to go with your diamonds?

Google Android or Apple?

Now I doubt anyone was born needing to have an i-Phone instead of an Android as a personal right. My point is that your need to have some-thing was marketed or sold to you. Also probably just as many people were sold on the fact that the trendy shoes and clothes define you and can make you more successful. Each message has been carefully thought out and broad-cast to you over a long time just like why you need a $60,000 4x4 truck just in case you ever need to drive up the side of a mountain.

So if you are selling your product or service how do you market yourself to the public to create a must have emo-tional reaction that will take money out of someone’s pocket and give it to you?

The first thing you should consider is why you provide that product or ser-vice in the first place. Most people tend to do what they are good at or enjoy, so you first need to sell yourself on what you are doing. I’ve been in careers where I couldn’t stand the thought of going to work another day no matter what the reward or paycheck. You can probably guess I changed shortly after to something I found more enjoyable and successful. I have also had jobs where I liked Mondays more than Fri-days because I could go back to work. If you have a job like this making any change will require something signifi-cant to happen.

When you enjoy your work or busi-ness it literally shows. I work with a number of business owners every week and I can tell when someone truly loves what they are doing and will have a better chance of success. Try to write down all the things that make you feel good about what you are doing. This

can help when challenges arise and may keep you on track. Once you re-member why you are doing what you are doing people will be easier to en-gage and are more likely to do business with you.

So the key in building your per-sonal success today is really all about engagement. Enjoying what you do is not enough, you are going to have to sell people that you are the best at what you can do for them. Using Social Me-dia, networking, and a good message on why you do what you do are the key strategies today for building your busi-ness.

You have been sold!

12 YUMABIZ November 2015 Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 13

its mission is to “improve the economic prosperity and quality of life for all Arizo-nans through strong public-private collabo-rations in advocacy, trade, networking and information. … Through our work, and support of the governor’s policy priorities, Arizona and the U.S. economy benefit from enhanced binational trade and an open re-lationship with Sonora’s public and private sectors.”

To support its focus on economic op-portunities, health, cultural exchanges, public safety and border security, the Ari-zona-Mexico Commission is comprised of 13 committees: agribusiness and wildlife; economic development; emergency man-agement; energy; environment and water; financial, business and legal services; health services; real estate; security; tourism, art and culture; and transportation, infrastruc-ture and ports; as well as the ad hoc sports committee. Commission members meet with counterparts in Sonora through ple-nary forums and other activities.

During his tenure on the AMC, Jones has seen relations with Mexico ebb and flow, reaching a low point with enactment in 2010 of SB 1070 aimed to prevent illegal immigration. He’s hopeful the commission can rebuild its membership and regain rela-tionships with Mexico through Gov. Ducey’s support and several new board members who bring new blood and ideas. He’s also excited about the board’s approval of a stra-tegic plan for the next five years and plans to convene all state and regional agencies that deal with international components, “so ev-eryone is working together and not stepping on each other.”

Jones said that early on he realized the importance to his business of his involve-ment with the commission. “I’ve made a lot of good friends and contacts … it has really broadened my network. Absolutely – it helps to sit down at the table and form relation-ships.“

Engel is pleased with Gov. Ducey’s sup-port, adding that the commission is “imper-ative to (Yuma County) binational efforts. It’s important to have a voice … especially when our own mayors are trying so hard to improve relations with Mexico. Combining our regions triples our access to opportuni-ties. The message we’re trying to share with the commission is that it doesn’t stop at the

Commission continued from page 1Committee updatesBoARD oF DIRECToRSNext meetingTuesday, November 17th at 3PMOld City Hall Conference RoomMembers Welcome

The October Board meeting was chaired by Chairman Ed Shippen. Rep-resentatives from the City of Yuma, the Caballeros de Yuma, and the Yuma Private Industry Council presented re-ports of their respective organizations. As the Board moved on to the com-

mittee reports they decided that Board Members should have a heavier hand and be more engaged in these groups. As a result Board Members were as-signed to participate and even chair the Chamber’s subcommittees. Among the changes made Howard Blitz will sit on the Legislative Affairs Committee as well as participate in legislative related conference calls. Also Chandra Olague will be the Chairman of the Ambassa-dor Committee working in conjunction

with the Navigator Committee and the Membership Committee Maggie Cum-mings oversees. These changes will cre-ate a synergy between the committees and the Board that hasn’t existed in some time. Maggie Cummings went n to share that the Membership Commit-tee is 100% ready to roll out the new ap-plication process for membership. They have created an in depth application, a code of ethics (which appeared in last month’s YumaBIZ) all members must abide by, and professional reference checks. All potential members must go through this process and be approved by the Board of Directors before mem-bership is granted. Executive Director John Courtis then when on to share his activities since the last meeting which included attending the Arizona Chamber Executives (ACE) Annual Conference in Wickenburg and par-ticipating in webinars put together by the Western Association of Chamber Executives(WACE). John stated that he has gained valuable insights and picked up some great ideas that he hopes to implement in the near future. Not only has he been going through training, but he has been offering training to the membership. He has been doing classes on customer service, team building, and sales communication. If you are inter-ested in partaking in any of these class-es please contact us at info@yumach-amber.org or (928)782-2567. John also attended some very important meeting that will play a key key role in Yuma’s future; one was the Southwest Arizona Future’s Forum on Water and the other was the Arizona Town Hall recap on Transportation. John also plans on at-tending the statewide Arizona Town Hall on Water in Mesa mid November. As all Yumans know water is our most precious resource and we need to be at the table defending our rights. Finally the Board had to review the applica-tions of the members that expressed an interest in serving on the Board for the 2016-2018 term. Two seats were avail-able and we have 4 candidates vying for them.

Please see the ballot on page 9 and vote for the 2 members you feel will represent you the best. All ballots must be submitted to the Chamber Office by 5:00 PM, Monday November 9th.

MILITARY AFFAIRSNext Meeting, TBD, please check the events calen-dar on www.yumachamber.org to see when and where the next meet-ing will be

The Military Affairs Committee held a special meeting on October 7th to discuss two big events in October. The 95th Anniversary Convoy that was traveling through Yuma October 15th and the Ageless Aviation Dreams event on October 30th. The Army Convoy will be coming to Yuma as part of the Military Vehicle Preservation Associa-tion’s (MVPA) 95th Anniversary Con-voy with as many as 65 Historic Mili-tary Vehicles (HMVs). This historic Convoy began in 1920 when the U.S. Army executed a motor convoy of vari-ous military vehicles across the country on the newly-formed Bankhead High-way. The Convoy is scheduled to enter Yuma on the 15th between 1:00 and 1:30 p.m. off I-8 and Araby Rd head-ing west on 32nd street, through the Big Curve to 1st street, then west to the West Wetlands park. While here, the volunteers and Veterans will be treated to a traditional tri-tip dinner prepared by the Boy Scouts later in the evening at the American Legion Post 19. The Age-less Aviation Committee then present-ed an update on their activities. There are 9 flyers set up and event is coming together. There will be 2 color guards at the beginning of the ceremony. Speech’s to be made by the Mayor, Col Murray from YPG and a MCAS spokesperson. There is one more meeting on Wednes-day the 21st before the big event on the 30th of October. T he event itself will be open to the public. Local radio stations and the Yuma Sun will be providing ad-vertising for this event.

Cathy Nuetzi, Agent2896 S. Avenue B, Suite B

344-9442www.cathynuetzi.com

12 YUMABIZ November 2015 Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 13

its mission is to “improve the economic prosperity and quality of life for all Arizo-nans through strong public-private collabo-rations in advocacy, trade, networking and information. … Through our work, and support of the governor’s policy priorities, Arizona and the U.S. economy benefit from enhanced binational trade and an open re-lationship with Sonora’s public and private sectors.”

To support its focus on economic op-portunities, health, cultural exchanges, public safety and border security, the Ari-zona-Mexico Commission is comprised of 13 committees: agribusiness and wildlife; economic development; emergency man-agement; energy; environment and water; financial, business and legal services; health services; real estate; security; tourism, art and culture; and transportation, infrastruc-ture and ports; as well as the ad hoc sports committee. Commission members meet with counterparts in Sonora through ple-nary forums and other activities.

During his tenure on the AMC, Jones has seen relations with Mexico ebb and flow, reaching a low point with enactment in 2010 of SB 1070 aimed to prevent illegal immigration. He’s hopeful the commission can rebuild its membership and regain rela-tionships with Mexico through Gov. Ducey’s support and several new board members who bring new blood and ideas. He’s also excited about the board’s approval of a stra-tegic plan for the next five years and plans to convene all state and regional agencies that deal with international components, “so ev-eryone is working together and not stepping on each other.”

Jones said that early on he realized the importance to his business of his involve-ment with the commission. “I’ve made a lot of good friends and contacts … it has really broadened my network. Absolutely – it helps to sit down at the table and form relation-ships.“

Engel is pleased with Gov. Ducey’s sup-port, adding that the commission is “imper-ative to (Yuma County) binational efforts. It’s important to have a voice … especially when our own mayors are trying so hard to improve relations with Mexico. Combining our regions triples our access to opportuni-ties. The message we’re trying to share with the commission is that it doesn’t stop at the

border. When you live on the border its part of your region and culture. We need to de-velop relationships before we do business, and that can’t happen if you don’t embrace the culture. The human aspect is first.”

Lines said he got a call from Gov. Ducey asking for some names of people to serve on the board. “Two weeks later I got a call ask-ing me to serve,” he recalled with a chuckle.

Lines wasn’t looking for yet another thing to do but as a businessman and member of a community on the border, he recognizes the value of fostering closer relationships with Arizona’s neighbor.

He also noted that Mexico is Arizona’s largest trading partner. And with Mexico’s growing middle class, “anything we can do to enhance our relationship gives us the abil-

ity to grow our own economy as well.”Combining efforts to improve traffic at

the border both ways is critical to both sides, he said.

He emphasized that he is not an advocate of exporting jobs but helping people in Mex-ico to help themselves. “It’s all about raising everybody up and doing everything we can to elevate everyone’s way of life.”

Commission continued from page 1Committee updatesPlease see the ballot on page 9 and

vote for the 2 members you feel will represent you the best. All ballots must be submitted to the Chamber Office by 5:00 PM, Monday November 9th.

MILITARY AFFAIRSNext Meeting, TBD, please check the events calen-dar on www.yumachamber.org to see when and where the next meet-ing will be

The Military Affairs Committee held a special meeting on October 7th to discuss two big events in October. The 95th Anniversary Convoy that was traveling through Yuma October 15th and the Ageless Aviation Dreams event on October 30th. The Army Convoy will be coming to Yuma as part of the Military Vehicle Preservation Associa-tion’s (MVPA) 95th Anniversary Con-voy with as many as 65 Historic Mili-tary Vehicles (HMVs). This historic Convoy began in 1920 when the U.S. Army executed a motor convoy of vari-ous military vehicles across the country on the newly-formed Bankhead High-way. The Convoy is scheduled to enter Yuma on the 15th between 1:00 and 1:30 p.m. off I-8 and Araby Rd head-ing west on 32nd street, through the Big Curve to 1st street, then west to the West Wetlands park. While here, the volunteers and Veterans will be treated to a traditional tri-tip dinner prepared by the Boy Scouts later in the evening at the American Legion Post 19. The Age-less Aviation Committee then present-ed an update on their activities. There are 9 flyers set up and event is coming together. There will be 2 color guards at the beginning of the ceremony. Speech’s to be made by the Mayor, Col Murray from YPG and a MCAS spokesperson. There is one more meeting on Wednes-day the 21st before the big event on the 30th of October. T he event itself will be open to the public. Local radio stations and the Yuma Sun will be providing ad-vertising for this event.

14 YUMABIZ November 2015

Plan Your November with the Yuma Visitors Bureau

BY ANNA CHAULK

Last month, a convoy of historic military ve-hicles, some dating back to World War II passed through Yuma on its 3,300 mile-journey from Washington, D.C., to San Diego. It was an honor to represent APS at an event recognizing the presence

of the convoy as it passed through.Seeing these amazing, historic vehicles travel

down the streets of Yuma was awe-inspiring. It was a great reminder of how much we owe to the previ-ous generations of veterans for securing the peace in our modern world.

I personally have never served in the military, but my heart pounds with patriotism every time I reflect on their service. I believe the best way to honor them is to try to travel down their very paths, while learning about their struggles and their sacrifices. It was this passion that drove me to Asia to walk on the same paths as my grandfathers and uncle who fought in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

I know many who are also passionate about supporting the men and women who have fought to preserve our precious gift of freedom. In fact, this is a part of the culture here at APS.

Twenty percent of APS employees are military veterans or drilling reservists. I am proud to work alongside some of these individuals. They have served valiantly throughout their military career, and now they are bringing their unique skills, ex-periences and values to the utility industry—and

the entire state of Arizona is benefitting from their presence in our workforce.

APS has received national recognition for be-ing a top military employer. However, in the words of our CEO Don Brandt, “while we are deeply honored to be recognized for our commitment to active and retired military, and reservists, the real honor is ours—being able to attract and retain these high quality men and women as employees.”

This is one of the reasons I love seeing “APS” in my title. It is also a reason I love to call Yuma home. Yuma’s military-friendly reputation dates back to the late 1800s when supplies were flowing out of the Yuma Quartermaster Depot to 14 differ-ent military posts throughout the western United States.

This same culture is present among businesses throughout the county. I know many Yuma busi-nesses that, like APS, greatly value their veteran employees and strive to attract more.

We have proven that our Yuma community has a wonderful track record of coming together to honor our military members, and my tenure at APS has been marked with opportunities to par-ticipate. I encourage you to join us in our efforts.

I am looking forward to this year’s Yuma Veterans Day Parade. Literally following in the footsteps of our military men and women down the parade route reminds me that we daily walk down a road secured by them.

Also join us on Dec. 5 as we salute veterans and service members at the City of Yuma Military Appreciation Day. Complete with a pancake break-fast, live performances, food vendors and booths, the event will be a great way to bring the whole family together to celebrate our service men and women. I am excited that APS will be sponsoring the Kids Zone at the event, making it even more accessible to military families.

I am proud to work for a company and live in a community that places such value on honoring those who have served: this mentality perfectly aligns with my lifelong goal to support these brave men and women, as I walk in my own path that has been preserved by their dedication and sacrifice.

Yuma and APS: honoring those who have served

aps.com

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 15

BY DUSTIN MOORE MYLIUS

The days are getting shorter, tem-peratures are backing off and activity is flourishing throughout Yuma. This is quite an exciting time and, as the holidays approach, the Yuma Visitors Bureau reminds you to shop locally to help support Yuma’s merchants and their businesses. Here’s what Yuma Visitors Bureau has going on in No-vember.

Yuma Visitors Bureau tours are a big hit! From Savor Yuma to Behind the Big Guns, we have a variety of ac-tivities for you, your family and friends to enjoy! Tickets for these events sell out quickly, so you will need to act fast:

Date Night — on sale nowBehind the Big Guns and YPG: At

Ease — on sale November 2Savor Yuma — on sale November 9Field to Feast — on sale November

16For more information on these

tours and to purchase tickets online, click over to visityuma.com/yvb_tours.html or visit the Yuma Visitors Information Center at 201 N. 4th Av-enue from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week.

We’ve been telling you about it for several months and now the 2015 Dor-othy Young Memorial Electric Light Parade is right around the corner! Reg-istration for float entry will be closing on November 28. This year’s theme is a good one: “A Rock n’ Roll Christmas.” Contact Bob Nidiffer at 928-783-0071 or Bob@VisitYuma.com for an appli-cation.

Yuma businesses and organizations have so much going on in November that we cannot possibly list them all here. Check out the impressive listing at VisitYuma.com/events.html for the latest, not only in November but on into 2016. Want the latest happenings sent directly to your email? Sign up for our free events e-newsletter at VisitYu-

ma.com. Have an event to share? Send complete details to LeslieF@VisitYu-ma.com to have your event featured online and in the e-newsletter.

Plan Your November with the Yuma Visitors Bureau

So Much More in November:Nov. 5 – Thursdays at the Theatre (Historic Yuma Theatre)Nov. 5 – Historic Downtown Trolley Tour (Sanguinetti House Museum)Nov. 7 – 21st Annual Children’s Festival of the Arts (Main Street in Yuma)Nov. 11 – Veterans Day Parade (4th Avenue in Yuma)Nov. 14 – Roller Derby Tournament (Yuma County Fairgrounds)Nov. 14 – Walk and Wag 5K (Gateway Park)Nov. 15 – Annual Fall BBQ (St. Francis School)Nov. 19 – Ghost Trolley Tour (Sanguinetti House Museum)Nov. 20 – North End Art Walk (Historic North End)Nov. 20-22 – 25th Annual Colorado River Crossing Balloon FestivalNov. 21 – Peanut Patch Anniversary Celebration (The Peanut Patch)Nov. 21 – Community Bazaar (Yuma Civic Center)Nov. 28 – Ken & Betty Borland Holiday Light Pageant & Tower Lighting

Acupuncture of YumaThe Yuma Regional Cancer Center has requested and received a grant that will

allow Acupuncture of Yuma to do low-cost acupuncture on cancer patients as part of their Supportive Health Care program. Elyse Tera, owner of Acupuncture of Yuma is the 2013 Yuma County Chamber of Commerce Small Business Person of the Year.

Elyse will be setting up a weekly community clinic at the YRMC Cancer Center on 24th Street within the next couple of weeks. Elyse offers many holistic solutions and creates an atmosphere for preventative health maintenance programs for people of all ages and health histories. Acupuncture of Yuma is located at 1150 W. 24th Street, Suite F. and their phone number is 928-328-1957, with a web address of www.acupunctureyuma.com

Julieanna’s Patio CafeJuel’s Table at Julieanna’s Patio Cafe is now available for private dining. This ex-

clusive dining experience will afford you an intimate venue for your special event or celebration. This private dining room has exciting ambiance and seats up to 8 guests, plus you have a private entrance for your intimate party. The room has an amazing display of art and Linda Horn has painted a mural to depict a fantasy setting.

Your fabulous six course meal can be by Chef Anthony Renner’s choice, or you can be as imaginative as you please! You will have your own dedicated dining host who will coordinate your memorable dining experience. Contact Julieanna’s Ban-quets and Catering Manager at (928) 920-4303 or Email jpcparties@gmail.com.

Member News

16 YUMABIZ November 2015

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