Author Archives: Michael Gossie

About Michael Gossie

Michael Gossie is a competitive marathon runner, Ironman triathlete and award-winning journalist who has earned more than 50 awards for writing, editing and design. He studied economics at Elmira College in Elmira, N.Y., and put his entrepreneurial spirit to work in 2007, using a 200-year-old family recipe to launch an Italian sauce company. He is most proud of being the founding president of the Steuben Arc Foundation in Upstate New York, which serves individuals with developmental disabilities, including his sister.

Bikram Yoga made me a better athlete

For most endurance athletes, the number 26 means one thing: The number of miles in a marathon. But when I decided to take on triathlons in an effort to preserve my knees and protect my body from the pounding I gave it through a lifetime of running, the opposite happened. I was sore all over because I was using muscles and straining joints that I had never worked before. My shoulders hurt from swimming. My back hurt from biking. I had nagging aches and pains all the time.

Then I found real magic behind the number 26. A Bikram yoga class is a 26-posture series designed to scientifically warm and stretch muscles, ligaments and tendons in the order in which they should be stretched. “An athlete can expect to work every muscle in the body from the neck down with an emphasis on the body core,” said Elaina Zorensky, co-owner of Bikram Yoga Tempe. “In addition, all ligaments, tendons, joints, glands and organs will be strengthened and rejuvenated.” As someone who never stretched a day in his life, I was petrified to try yoga. And as an Italian originally from New York, I knew my buddies would be merciless in their taunting.

In the words of my best friend, Don: “Do you have a special skirt that you wear to yoga?” But I went. And I picked Bikram because I thought the heated room – the studio is heated to a minimum of 105 degrees with a minimum of 40 percent humidity – would help loosen my tight muscles. And it worked. In the three years since I started practicing yoga regularly, I haven’t had a single training related injury, my body recovers faster, my core is stronger than it’s ever been, my speed improved. But most importantly, I never get sore.

Professional triathlete David Glover has said there are three primary reasons why endurance sports athletes should consider practicing yoga: Increased flexibility. Multisport athletes need a full range of motion in order to be more efficient in their movements. One of the best things Bikram does is improve the mobility of arms and shoulders, which helped my swim stroke.

Improved core and stabilizer muscle strength. Because we maintain the same positions for extended periods of time – five or six hours hunched over during the 112-mile Ironman bike leg or running upright for three or four hours during a marathon – we need a strong core and strong joints to support our bodies.

Both of the above will help reduce the likelihood of overuse injuries. Consistency in training is a key success factor in endurance sports, Glover said, and it’s difficult to be consistent when you’re sore or injured. When training for Ironman last year, I factored Bikram into my training schedule and considered it every bit as important as my long runs and 100-mile bike rides. During the 90-minutes classes, I will sweat out as much as 10 pounds, so don’t think Bikram is a warmup. It’s a workout.

“Bikram yoga is incredibly beneficial for endurance athletes,” Zorensky said. “One 90-minute session will work the entire body from the inside out and regular practice helps one improve focus, determination and endurance. It helps to teach one to remain calm in challenging, stressful situations. Furthermore, at the beginning and end of each Bikram yoga session, a breathing exercise floods the body with fresh oxygen, teaches proper deep breathing, and improves lung capacity.” But Zorensky stressed that you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from Bikram.

“Bikram yoga is for everybody,” she said. “If one is inflexible, can’t touch their toes, or maybe can’t even see them, they are an excellent candidate for yoga. Bikram yoga is a beginning yoga series that is a great, non-impact way to tone and strengthen the body as well as to increase flexibility.”

Want to try it? Here are some things to remember:

1. Wear something cool and comfortable. The room is heated, so be prepared to sweat… a lot. I made the mistake of wearing running shorts and a cotton T-shirt to my first few classes. Women should wear shorts and a sports bra or tank top with a built-in bra. Men should wear swimming trunks or workout shorts.

2. Drink plenty of water throughout the day so you are well hydrated before class. And bring a big plastic bottle of water to drink during class. Also avoid eating for a couple hours before the class starts.

3. You’ll need a yoga mat and large towel. If you don’t have them, they are available at the studio to rent or buy.

4. It is normal to feel dizzy or lightheaded during your first class. So listen to your body. Don’t be afraid to sit down or sit out a posture if you need to.

Leadership spotlight: Jim Achen, Jr.

Jim Achen, Jr.
Senior vice president
Transwestern
transwestern.net

Jim specializes primarily in the leasing and sales of office properties on behalf of private, institutional, entrepreneurial and developer clients. Active in Phoenix commercial real estate brokerage since 1992, Jim has been a consistent top producer and a recipient of numerous awards for exceptional achievement.

Best advice received: “Don’t give up and don’t listen to the critics. My dad, Jim Sr., told me this repeatedly. Early on, when I would lose an assignment or a deal would unravel, his typical response was, ‘Well, welcome to the NFL…,’ then he’d pump me up to get back out on the field.”

Biggest achievement: “Being a father to my sons, Jim III (8) and Dillon (7). They’ve both said they want to work with me in real estate … we’ll see. J III has also said he wants to win 10 Super Bowls and Big D wants to win 10 NASCAR championships. I like that they think big.”

Leadership spotlight: Don Garner

Don Garner
Executive vice president
Alliance Bank of Arizona
alliancebankofarizona.com

Garner is executive vice president and statewide real estate manager for Alliance Bank of Arizona’s commercial real estate group. Garner has more than 25 years of experience in commercial and residential lending in Arizona and has been with Alliance Bank since its inception in 2003. He is an active member of both the Phoenix and Tucson communities. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the American Heart Association and Special Olympics Arizona. Prior to relocating to Phoenix in 2005, Garner resided in Tucson for 15 years. He is the Past President of the Tucson Conquistadores and former Chairman of La Paloma Family Services in Tucson. He is also a member of the National Association of Industrial & Office Properties (NAIOP) and the Urban Land Institute.

Best advice received: “I’ve been lucky to have had some great mentors throughout my career who gave me a lot of great advice. But the one that comes to mind most is from my dad who said if your work is of great quality and quantity that deserves a promotion, you’ll never need to ask about it, it will come on its own.”

Surprising fact: “I used to race stock cars and I caddied on Tour.”

Educators say executives can increase workplace value

Despite signs of what most people view as a recovering economy, more than half of Arizona’s workforce stresses over job security.

A recent University of Phoenix survey revealed that 61 percent of working adults worry about losing their jobs in the current economic climate and 20 percent anguish over it at least once a week.

“In a challenging economic environment, workers should be doing more to position themselves as leaders in their organizations, but the survey finds that many are holding back at work, and this can have a negative effect on performance and productivity,” said Dr. Sam Sanders, college chair for University of Phoenix School of Business and a former human resources executive with more than 20 years of hiring and employee relations experience. “Those who understand the big picture and how their own skill sets help their companies achieve goals should have more confidence and can have an advantage in the workplace.”

To separate themselves from others and to create more job security, many executives are strengthening their skill sets through education.

“The trends in executive education is for shorter duration programs than those that preceded the recession, with emphases on acquiring skills that lead to promotions or career advancement and new market opportunities,” said Dr. Kevin McClean, interim dean, Ken Blanchard College of Business at Grand Canyon University. “Another key ingredient is the opportunity to network. These objectives are not really different from those that motivated people to pursue executive education in the past.”

Executive trends

Some of the shifts that educators are incorporating into graduate business programs include more emphasis on leading in turbulent times, developing organizational talent, innovation and creativity, and flexible, participative strategic planning.

“Executives are being asked to take on more responsibility and act more holistic in understanding the interdependencies of people and functions in organizations,” said Dr. Kirk Wessel, dean of Angell Snyder School of Business at Ottawa University. “This is being reflected in curricula.”

Educators are also being asked to help prepare executives and business students to deal with increasingly more complex business issues.

“For example, rather than teaching executives innovation or risk, we are talking about ‘risk-bound innovation,’” said Dennis Baltzley, Ph.D., senior vice president of executive education at Thunderbird School of Global Management. “Leaders want to know how to create an environment of innovation, while creating a ‘boundary’ of risk management. We must innovate, but more than ever, a bad decision can be fatal.”

Baltzley said Thunderbird is also seeing a dramatic interest in global global leadership.
Our customers want to know how to lead effectively across borders, cultures, different business models and philosophies,” Baltzley said. “Since 2008, growth has been slow in the U.S. and other mature markets. This led many businesses to leap into emerging markets with the promise of double digit growth whether they were ready or not, and most were not as ready as they would have liked.”

Paul Melendez, assistant dean of executive education at the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona, said he is seeing four specific trends:
* Customization: Executive education is becoming much more tailored to specific organizations, with programs, content, and learning customized to the unique needs of the organization. While many business schools still offer one- or two-week open-enrollment programs, organizations are finding it more beneficial to develop a program that is tailored to their executives.
* Consulting: The natural extension of customized programs is a consulting model where education and problem-solving are combined into a program. “We have helped organizations develop their culture, strategically plan, and develop a wide variety of business improvement plans through programs that also provide education for leaders,” Melendez said.
* Strategic partnerships: Eller Executive Education has developed strategic partnerships with Miraval and Canyon Ranch to offer programs that join cutting-edge leadership and management principles and with world-class health and wellness programs which they have dubbed “integrative leadership.”
* Privatization: A year ago the university spun Eller Executive Education out of the UA to allow greater operating flexibility. “As a result, we are now providing many more custom program for private, governmental, and non-profit organizations,” Melendez said. “We have seen a number of other state business schools also privatizing their executive education organizations.”

Increasing your stock

Michael Bevis, director of academic affairs at University of Phoenix, said more executives have started to approach their careers in the same way they approach business management by focusing on building their personal brands.

“When you think about a company brand, it isn’t just about what you are communicating, but how that brand addresses the needs of the intended audience,” Bevis said. “One of the things I work on with executives and other business students at University of Phoenix, is developing a personal business plan that starts with the personal mission statement. You wouldn’t run a business without a plan and the same should be true about your career. If you are not setting goals, measuring progress and making sure your knowledge stays current and relevant, your personal brand — like that of a company’s — can become stagnant.”

So what programs are out there for executives to utilize to strengthen their brand?

* University of Phoenix: Within the MBA programs, concentrations allow executives to grow specific skills. It is common for executives or business owners to have specific knowledge about an industry or certain aspects of business management, but skills or knowledge gaps in other areas. Concentrations can help professionals hone certain skills, such as people management, finance or marketing.

* Thunderbird School of Global Management: Thunderbird offers a range of options from its short programs — less than a week — to its more in-depth MBA offerings. “We have a Global MBA Online that allows you to learn global business from anywhere in the world and an Executive MBA that’s on-campus, but provides a schedule suited to the working professional. “ Baltzley said. “We also offer online certificate programs which are designed specifically for working professionals looking to improve their marketability and gain a leading edge over their competition.

* W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University: “Our executive-education programs, such as our leadership development workshops and our certificate programs in real estate, supply chain management, and service excellence, can give executives deeper skills and expose them to new ideas,” said Amy Hillman, dean of the W. P. Carey School of Business. “However, if they want to move into leadership roles beyond their current functional areas, then the MBA is the best option, though short non-degree courses that develop leadership skills are also helpful.”

* Eller College of Management: Eller Executive Education offers a variety of week-long programs and year-long programs for leaders of different types of organizations. “We are also launching a program in early 2014 that is specifically oriented toward CEOs of mid-sized to large companies,” Melendez said.

* DeVry University: Keller Graduate School of Management offers seven specialized master’s degree programs and 13 graduate certificate programs.

* Ken Blanchard College of Business: GCU offers very practical programs that include a master’s in leadership, a masters in accounting, and a masters in public administration.

* Angell Snyder School of Business: Case teaching methodologies teach executives to think critically about all internal and external factors that come into play in developing effective organizational strategies, irrespective of the industry.

Moving forward

The most important message that educators have for executives who may be worried about maintaining their position in the current economic climate is to stay current on trends in your industry, keep your brand current by understanding how your skills and experience fit into the big picture of an organization.

“This past year, we were asked repeatedly how to be effective in managing a diverse, multicultural, and geographically dispersed workforce, and how to stay relevant in a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous (VUCA) world,” Baltzley said. “Without question the term ‘VUCA’ has come of age and has several implications for executives who want to remain relevant today.”

To stay in the game, Baltzley has three pieces of advice for executives:
1. Get your head into what it means to think globally. If you think your company is domestic and American, and it will never go global, you are wrong, global is coming to you. In fact, global is probably already there, in the form of complex supply chain issues or direct competitors, so you better get prepared.
2. A term coined in the late 1970’s is important here – “Permanent Whitewater” – That is, if you think the whitewater is going to slow down, or that a calm patch is just around the corner, you are mistaken. You have to prepare yourself for leading in constant change in scale and speed.
3. Check your personal leadership style. Are you able to influence people very different than yourself? Do you enjoy variety, the unknown, surprises? Is your self-confidence and personal energy level pretty high? Do you like to test yourself, take some risks? If you can’t answer “yes” to most of these, you have some work to do to become a more adaptive leader.

CEO Series: Richard L. Boals

Richard L. Boals
President and CEO
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

What qualities does and effective CEO need to have?
You have to be able to create a vision that your team can follow. You have to be very flexible. You have to be sincere and honest and you have to care about your customers.

What qualities do you have that make you an effective leader for BCBSAZ?
I am able to envision the future. I’m adaptable to change and comfortable with change and I sincerely care about our customers and team members.

How difficult has it been to manage through the changes coming as a result of the Affordable Care Act?
The Affordable Care Act has been the biggest challenge we have ever had. The change has resulted in thousands of hours of our staff time and millions of dollars in expenditures, but we are passionate about doing the right thing. It’s the law and once it was passed, we said we would do our best to implement it.

What have you done to prepare for the ACA?
We’ve designed all new products to comply with the law. We’ve revamped our systems so they interface with the systems the government expects us to interface with. I’m happy to say we are a little ahead of schedule.

How will the ACA impact businesses and how they insure their employees?
The biggest question for businesses is whether they will continue to provide coverage to their employees. We’ve talked with many business owners who are struggling with this. Do they pay the fine, give their employees a stipend and let them go onto one of the healthcare insurance exchanges? With healthcare costs continuing to escalate, many are wondering if this is the time to step aside and let employees take that responsibility directly.

How is being CEO of BCBSAZ different from being CEO of another company?
We’re a not-for-profit company. We pay federal income tax but we aren’t responsible to shareholders, so we’re not as inclined to worry about short-term profitability and that allows us to focus far more attention on delighting our customers.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in your industry?
People are living longer, healthier lives because of new technology and innovation. How many people do we know now who have had knee replacements and would otherwise have been incapacitated or on disability? That’s not the expectation we have today. We want to live long, vibrant lives and healthcare is enabling us to do that. That said, costs have have gone up steadily since I started my career and one of our challenges is finding ways to moderate that and still deliver great value.

What advice would you give to someone entering the healthcare industry today?
If you believe in delighting your customers, if you believe in helping people when they need help the most, this is a great industry.

If you weren’t doing what you’re doing now, what would you like to be doing?
A career in the military would have been a great calling. I also have this vision of going to Washington and making a difference. I would like to see Washington more effective, more efficient, and maybe even improve its image a little.

CEO Series: Richard L. Boals, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

Richard L. Boals
President and CEO
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

Abrazo Health Announces New Trauma Medical Director

Abrazo Health, the second largest health care delivery system in Arizona, has announced Dr. Christopher Salvino as West Valley Hospital’s new Trauma Medical Director. Dr. Salvino is an accomplished trauma surgeon with experience in leading American College of Surgeons (ACS)-verified trauma centers.

As Trauma Medical Director (TMD), Dr. Salvino will be responsible for the development of the trauma program at West Valley Hospital. Specifically, he will develop a trauma service inclusive of a specialist on-call panel, treatment protocols, and oversee the hospital’s peer review and performance improvement process. Additionally, he will provide leadership in the development of the regional Trauma System by continuing to serve on national, regional and local committees.

“I am thrilled to be part of the Abrazo team in developing a modern, high-quality and professional Trauma service at West Valley Hospital.” said Dr. Salvino, “The opportunity to help develop the only high-acuity trauma program in western region of Metro-Phoenix to the California border and to help integrate the other Abrazo hospitals into our system’s approach to trauma is exciting. West Valley Hospital’s world-class Trauma program will be able to care for the most critically injured trauma patients and I predict we will be very proud of our outcomes as the program launches.”

Dr. Salvino currently serves as the Clinical Assistant Professor for the University of Arizona’s College of Medicine in Tucson. He is also a board member of the Arizona Trauma and Acute Care Consortium (AzTRACC). He is a member of the State Trauma Advisory Board (STAB) serving as co-chair for the workgroup charged with revising the State Trauma Plan. Additionally, Dr. Salvino developed the first formal training course for trauma laparoscopy in the United States as a surgical resident.

Food truck festival offers taste sensations

The Church of the Beatitudes is hosting its first Food Truck Roundup on Saturday, September 28 from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. at Church of the Beatitudes United Church of Christ, 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix.

Some of the trucks being featured include:

* LuLu’s Homemade Italian Ice.
* Luncha Libre Street Gourmet, specializing in Arizona inspired food, using local products.
* Torched Goodness, torched-to-order creme brulee, in more than 40 flavors.
* 2 Wild & Cheesy Guys, offering the best grilled cheese available in the Valley of the Sun.
* Q Up Barbecue, bringing bomb diggitty BBQ to the streets.
* Taste Rite, Po’boys, small entrees, side dishes and dessert creations that are made fresh daily.

In addition to the great food, there will be live entertainment for visitors to enjoy. For more information, call 602-264-1221 or visit www.beatitudeschurch.org.

Food truck festival offers taste sensations

The Church of the Beatitudes is hosting its first Food Truck Roundup on Saturday, September 28 from 4 p.m.-8 p.m. at Church of the Beatitudes United Church of Christ, 555 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix.

Some of the trucks being featured include:

In addition to the great food, there will be live entertainment for visitors to enjoy. For more information, call 602-264-1221 or visit www.beatitudeschurch.org.

Washington Federal hires local talent

Washington Federal has announced that Todd Hatch has joined the bank as assistant vice president/regional sales manager. With over 14 years in corporate banking, he brings extensive experience to his new position, including a strong background specializing in the financing of transportation and construction equipment.

In his new role, Hatch will oversee equipment finance business development in a variety of markets, including healthcare, transportation, manufacturing and heavy commercial equipment.

Hatch received his bachelor’s degree in Spanish with minor in Latin American literature from Brigham Young University.

He is a Gilbert resident.

2013 Most Admired Companies in Arizona are honored

AZ Business magazine and BestCompaniesAZ presented the winners of the 2013 Arizona’s Most Admired Companies Awards on Thursday at the Ritz Carlton in Phoenix.

“Our primary goal in developing the program was to find and recognize those organizations that excel in key areas that impact and drive business in Arizona,” said Cheryl Green, publisher of AZ Big Media. “With nearly 300 nominations, being one of 40 winners shows that these companies truly represents the best in Arizona.”

Those key areas are leadership excellence, social responsibility, customer opinion, workplace culture, innovation, the “wow” factor, micro businesses, and fastest growing. From the list of 40 Most Admired Companies, eight companies were selected as spotlight winners for excelling in one of those eight key areas.

The Spotlight Award winners for 2013 are:

Leadership excellence: Sonora Quest Laboratories
Social responsibility: Charles Schwab
Customer opinion: Ryan, LLC
Workplace culture: Arizona Diamondbacks
Innovation: DBSI, Inc.
The “wow” factor: Infusionsoft
Micro business: Clean Air Cab
Fastest growing: Clinical Research Advantage

The 40 Most Admired Companies for 2013 are:

Adolfson & Peterson Construction
Headquarters: Minneapolis, MN
Year established: 1991
Workplace breakdown: 20 percent female, 80 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 55
Learn more: a-p.com
Reasons to admire them: A&P’s leadership is very employee consensus oriented and empowers their managers and other leaders to fully manage their projects successfully … offers tuition reimbursement, leadership training and professional training for its employees … fully stocked kitchen with free healthy food for employees for all meals of the day … dogs and other pets allowed at the office and employees have the flexibility to bring children to work.

American Express
Headquarters: New York
Year established: 1850
Workplace breakdown: 56 percent female, 44 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 7,596
Learn more: americanexpress.com
Reasons to admire them: Healthy Living, the company’s wellness program has created a culture of wellness … the Wellness Centers in Phoenix feature an on-site nurse practitioner, health coach and registered nurses … offerings include marked walking paths, blood draws, mammography and prostate screenings, well woman exams, flu and allergy shots, emergency medical care, dental services, CPR training, and nutrition coaching. along with yoga, Zumba, tai chi, relaxation classes, free weights, Kinect, Wii fitness and discounted Weight Watchers.

Arizona Charter Academy
Headquarters: Surprise
Year established: 2001
Workplace breakdown: 72 percent female, 28 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 64
Learn more: azcharteracademy.com
Reasons to admire them: In 2001, Melissa Holdaway, CEO, left a corporate career to assist in starting Arizona Charter Academy and is passionate about being a voice for high poverty kids and creating positive change … a survey showed 95 percent of students said they felt safe, that they “belong” at ACA and 92 percent said their teachers encouraged them … diversity is celebrated through cultural diversity nights and events that allow all students to showcase their cultures.

Arizona Diamondbacks
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1998
Workplace breakdown: 20 percent female, 80 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 480
Learn more: arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com
Reasons to admire them: While success on the field and financial stability are utmost priorities for the D-backs from a business perspective, the team emphasizes one other thing equally as much — strong corporate culture … Yahoo! recently tabbed the D-backs as the “best workplace in sports” … the organization features D-backs University, a comprehensive educational learning experience for employees to enhance their current abilities while also having a chance to learn additional skills for future career development.

Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 1971
Workplace breakdown: 25 percent female, 75 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 50
Learn more: barrett-jackson.com
Reasons to admire them: Barrett-Jackson works closely with the City of Scottsdale and the Scottsdale CVB to help drive tourism to Arizona … has cemented itself an altruistic powerhouse, having raised more than $55.3 million for local and national charities … charities involving children, military personnel, medical research and community support took center stage at this year’s Scottsdale event, and a total of 22 vehicles were sold to benefit them.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America — Western Regional Medical Center
Headquarters: Goodyear
Year established: 2008
Workplace breakdown: 71 percent female, 29 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 603
Learn more: cancercenter.com/western/
Reasons to admire them: As a cancer survivor, CTCAs’ CEO Dr. Edgar Staren has a unique understanding of the concerns of cancer patients and can often be found discussing their treatments or simply lending a comforting ear … CTCA is developing the nation’s first organic farm located on hospital grounds … Western is leading the way for the CTCA five-hospital enterprise through the development of a new Clinical Trials Program.

Casa Grande Regional Medical Center
Headquarters: Casa Grande
Year established: 1984
Workplace breakdown: 79 percent female, 21 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 845
Learn more: casagrandehospital.com
Reasons to admire them: CGRMC is the 11th hospital in the nation to partner with Mayo Clinic in telemedicine, allowing them to bring the expert to the patient … recently named on a national level as a “100 Great Places to Work in Healthcare” by Becker’s hospital review … certified as a mature-friendly workplace by the state of Arizona since 2008, 59 percent of CGRMC’s workforce is older than 45.

CBRE
Headquarters: Los Angeles
Year established: 1952
Workplace breakdown: NA
Employees in Arizona: 452
Learn more: cbre.com
Reasons to admire them: CBRE’s workplace culture stems from its RISE values—Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence —which are the foundation upon which the company is built … diversity and inclusion are woven into every aspect of CBRE’s business, including the company’s African-American Networking Group, Hispanic Networking Group, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Networking Group and Women’s Networking Group … CBRE is the first commercial real estate services firm to achieve carbon neutrality in its own operations.

Charles Schwab
Headquarters: San Francisco
Year established: 1977
Workplace breakdown: 39 percent female, 61 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 3,200
Learn more: schwab.com
Reasons to admire them: Provides paid time off for employees to volunteer … organizes a nationwide, week-long volunteer event called Schwab Volunteer Week, in which employees pitch in on service projects at nonprofits across the U.S. During Schwab Volunteer Week 2013, Schwab employees spent more than 12,000 hours in their communities … Charles Schwab Foundation supports employee philanthropy by providing matching donations for employees’ charitable contributions, dollar for dollar, up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.

Clean Air Cab
Headquarters: Mesa
Year established: 2009
Workplace breakdown: 50 percent female, 50 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 25
Learn more: cleanaircab.com
Reasons to admire them: Started during the recession and has grown 400 percent … developed its business model around the triple P’s — People, Planet, and Profit in that order … constantly seeks innovative ways to use technology and social media to create consistency, convenience, and value for its customers … donates $1 per fare to nonprofits, giving about $100,000 back to the community and awarding four scholarships to students in ASU’s School of Sustainability and College of Technology and Innovation.

Clinical Research Advantage, Inc.
Headquarters: Tempe
Year established: 1992
Workplace breakdown: 82 percent female, 18 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 165
Learn more: crastudies.com
Reasons to admire them: Over the past six years, healthcare industry veterans Mark Hanley and David Bruggeman have grown CRA from a local network of six sites into the country’s largest integrated site network with 63 sites and more than 500 employees … CRA gives working parents paid time off to attend school functions or tend to other family needs … CRA analyzed patient data in January and received a 97 percent customer satisfaction rate.

DBSI, Inc.
Headquarters: Chandler
Year established: 1998
Workplace breakdown: 28 percent female, 72 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 82
Learn more: dbsi-inc.com
Reasons to admire them: DBSI’s compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 51 percent has held steady for the last three years … DBSI created 32 new jobs in 2012 and 26 more so far in 2013 … named one of Inc. Magazine’s “Fastest Growing Companies in America” … shares profits with its employees … company has a workplace golf simulator and a “bat pole” to get from floor to floor … “Hug Fridays” finds the founder showing his appreciation by way of a hug.

Discover Financial Services
Headquarters: Riverwoods, Ill.
Year established: 1987
Workplace breakdown: 71 percent female, 29 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 2,260
Learn more: discover.com
Reasons to admire them: The highest ranking officers in Phoenix meet monthly to establish and follow up on formal succession planning programs that consider someone’s potential to be promoted and determine their readiness … in 2012, 170 Phoenix employees volunteered at more than 50 local nonprofit organizations, totaling approximately 2,600 volunteer hours … rated No.1 for Customer Loyalty among credit cards according to the 2013 Brand Keys Engagement Index Report.

Dunn Transportation/Ollie the Trolley
Headquarters: Tempe
Year established: 1986
Workplace breakdown: 40 percent female, 60 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 60
Learn more: dunntransportation.com
Reasons to admire them: Hire the best people. Empower them to make decisions and take action. Have fun. Those elements are the cornerstones Dunn’s culture … named the 2013 Outstanding Transit Organization by the Arizona Transit Association and the Arizona Department of Transportation for the joint development and operation of the fare-free Scottsdale Trolley system … 85 percent of Dunn employees said they wouldn’t work anyplace else and 90 percent expressed satisfaction with their pay.

Echo Global Logistics
Headquarters: Chicago
Year established: 2005
Workplace breakdown: 29 percent female, 71 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 30
Learn more: echo.com
Reasons to admire them: Echo likes to think of itself as a technology company that is really good at transportation management … Echo was ranked 44th by InformationWeek among top technology innovators in the United States for its FlexTMS service offering … Echo collected an impressive total of 45,742 items during its 4th Annual Food Drive … Echo joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) SmartWay(SM) Transport Partnership, an initiative with the goal of environmentally cleaner, more fuel efficient transportation options.

Gilbane Building Company
Headquarters: Providence, R.I.
Year established: 1873
Workplace breakdown: 17 percent female, 83 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 51
Learn more: gilbaneco.com
Reasons to admire them: Gilbane is a fifth-generation family-run construction company … developed an internal program, Gilbane University, for learning that helps its personnel gain the knowledge they need to serve their clients and progress on a clearly defined career path … company executives have taken leadership roles in St Vincent DePaul, John C Lincoln Foundation, ACE Mentor Group, Valley of the Sun United Way and National Junior Disability Championships.

Goodwill of Central Arizona
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1947
Workplace breakdown: 57 percent female, 43 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 1,969
Learn more: goodwillaz.org
Reasons to admire them: Since 2007, Goodwill has grown from 38 retail locations to more than 50, and from eight career centers to 15 … its long-term debt has decreased by more than 57 percent and total year-end revenue has increased from $59.6 million in 2007 to $104 million in 2012 … in 2012, Goodwill provided job training and employment placement services to 41,922 individuals, nearly quadruple the number served just five years ago.

Homeowners Financial Group
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 2004
Workplace breakdown: 65 percent female, 35 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 148
Learn more: homeownersfg.com
Reasons to admire them: HFG’s most recent charitable endeavor has been the development of their own foundation called the Homeowners Financial Care Fund (HFCF). HFG President Pat Lamb and CEO Bill Rogers created the foundation with the goal to support Arizona families who endure financial hardship while experiencing extended illness or injury of their children. The foundation provides mortgage, rent and housing expense relief, as well as related lifestyle resources during a child’s extended health crisis.

Hyatt Regency Phoenix
Headquarters: Chicago
Year established: 1976
Workplace breakdown: xx percent female, xx percent male
Employees in Arizona: 314
Learn more: phoenix.hyatt.com
Reasons to admire them: General Manager Thomas Delaney conducts group discussions called “Talk with Tom.” During these meetings, he communicates current information regarding the hotel. In addition, he encourages employees to share their opinions and feedback as to how the hotel and departments can be improved … Executive Chef Dominic Vaccaro and his team participate in the “Chef to End Hunger” program in which excess prepared food that would normally go to waste is redistributed to local food agencies.

Infusionsoft
Headquarters: Chandler
Year established: 2001
Workplace breakdown: 38.2 percent female, 61.8 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 450
Learn more: infusionsoft.com
Reasons to admire them: Co-founders Clate Mask and Scott Martineau co-authored New York Times best-seller “Conquer the Chaos: How to Grow a Successful Small Business Without Going Crazy” to help struggling entrepreneurs … has raised nearly $175,000 for micro-credit lending organizations that enable would-be entrepreneurs in emerging countries around the world … has indoor bicycle parking, showering facilities and monthly cash drawings for those who participate as alternative mode users … employs a “dream manager” to help employees realize their dreams.

KeatsConnelly
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1990
Workplace breakdown: 69 percent female, 31 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 26
Learn more: keatsconnelly.com
Reasons to admire them: KeatsConnelly is the largest cross-border wealth management firm in North America that specializes in helping Canadians and Americans realize their dreams of a cross-border lifestyle … offers their employees flexible schedules, the ability to telecommute and new parents can even bring their baby to work after returning from maternity/paternity leave … has earned the Alfred P. Sloan Award for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility every year since 2008 … increased revenues by more than 25 percent in 2011.

Kitchell
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1950
Workplace breakdown: 28 percent female, 72 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 300
Learn more: kitchell.com
Reasons to admire them: Kitchell’s profit-sharing program, the brainchild of founder Sam Kitchell, enables any employee to become vested in the company, contributing to longevity and loyalty … its “Ideation Lab” is making a powerful impact in the area of construction technology … Kitchell’s building modeling team created a dedicated program that is now part of the curriculum at ASU’s Del E. Webb School of Construction … has a “New Ventures” committee that incubates ideas brought forth by employees.

Laser Spine Institute
Headquarters: Tampa
Year established: 2005
Workplace breakdown: 70 percent female, 30 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 77
Learn more: laserspineinstitute.com
Reasons to admire them: Health and wellness initiatives, regular team building exercises, tuition reimbursement, continuing education, referral bonuses, reward programs, flexible work schedules and ongoing professional development are a few of the many reasons why Laser Spine Institute is a preferred employer … the LSI Running Team grew out of a healthy idea for team building and has become a component of the company’s overall wellness program … among the “Nation’s Best 100 Places to Work in Healthcare.”

Martz Agency
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 1980
Employees in Arizona: 21
Learn more: martzagency.com
Reasons to admire them: Carrie Martz, founder and CEO, was the first female president of Phoenix Suns Charities, first female to be invited as member of the Transworld Advertising Association Network and was marketing committee co-chair for the Super Bowl XXX Host Committee … the back room of the agency has been converted into a nursery where employees can work with newborn babies or are able to check in on babies (watched by a nanny) throughout the day.

PCA Skin
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 1990
Workplace breakdown: 80 percent female, 20 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 86
Learn more: pcaskin.com
Reasons to admire them: PCA SKIN has a long-standing affiliation with the American Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and has donated more than $150,000 to AAFPRS Face To Face: The National Domestic Violence Project, a program that offers pro bono surgery nationwide to survivors of domestic violence … offers each employee a paid day to volunteer at a charitable organization … earned ThinkGlobal Inc.’s 2013 Exporter of the Year Award.

Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1984
Workplace breakdown: 80.73 percent female, 19.27 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 3,334
Learn more: phoenixchildrens.com
Reasons to admire them: Studies show children recover more quickly if they are comfortable, so the halls of PCH are filled with art and bright colors, they use wagons instead of wheelchairs, and there’s an opportunity to play around every corner … PCH’s wellness program, impACT Your Wellness, offers employees quarterly challenges, access to a wellness website, on-site yoga and Weight Watchers, healthy vending machines, free biometric screenings on site, an annual health and wellness fair and mobile onsite mammograms.

Plaza Companies
Headquarters: Peoria
Year established: 1982
Workplace breakdown: 47 percent female, 53 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 40
Learn more: theplazaco.com
Reasons to admire them: Plaza’s leadership team has helped position the company as an example of how corporate contributions to civic, charitable and economic development groups can create a positive impact in the community … Plaza leadership participates on the boards of the Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, Arizona Community Foundation, Banner Health Foundation, GPEC, International Leadership Council, ASU’s Presidents Club and many others … offers 100 percent employer-paid medical insurance … instituted “Plaza University”, a program of ongoing education for staff members.

Ryan, LLC
Headquarters: Dallas
Year established: 1991
Workplace breakdown: 47 percent female, 53 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 96
Learn more: ryan.com
Reasons to admire them: Employees are given complete flexibility and can choose where and when they want to work as long as they achieve results … myHealth rewards employees for improving and maintaining healthy lifestyles … in the 2012-2013 benefit plan year, 76 percent of Ryan’s U.S. employees realized medical premium reductions by completing a biometric screening, medical health assessment, and meeting outcomes in the company’s targeted health risks categories. In 2012, the average number of risk factors decreased 28.6% from 1.4 to 1.

SCF Arizona
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1988
Workplace breakdown: 67 percent female, 33 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 380
Learn more: scfaz.com
Reasons to admire them: SCF made a seamless and transparent transition on January 1 from a state agency to a fully private mutual insurance company with no loss of jobs and no impact on customers … has an in-building wellness center staffed by two nurse practitioners … $200 annual wellness reimbursement for employees who join gyms, participate in smoking cessation classes or buy fitness equipment … has an “Energy Star” designation from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Scottsdale Healthcare
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 1962
Workplace breakdown: 77 percent female, 23 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 6,459
Learn more: shc.org
Reasons to admire them: Leadership Rounds is a monthly practice involving directors and vice presidents throughout the organization where they interact with staff in their normal work settings. This practice removes roadblocks to performance and aids in enhancing the patient experience … partners with local colleges to provide degree programs on-site for both staff and visitors … on-site full-service spa is available to employees … eligible employees can get financial assistance of $5,250 per year for prepaid tuition and tuition reimbursement.

Shutterfly, Inc.
Headquarters: Redwood City, Calif.
Year established: 1999
Workplace breakdown: 40 percent female, 60 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 243
Learn more: shutterfly.com
Reasons to admire them: Shutterfly protects 19 billion photos for more than 7 million customers who tell their stories through Shutterfly’s award-winning products and services … more than 1,000 customers took the time to write to Shutterfly in the first six months of 2013 to express their gratitude … $2,500 in free merchandise, and 50 percent off everything each year for each employee … In 2012, 75 employees packed 57,640 pounds of food for distribution by St. Mary’s Food Bank.

Sonora Quest Laboratories
Headquarters: Tempe
Year established: 1997
Workplace breakdown: 75 percent female, 25 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 2,657
Learn more: sonoraquest.com
Reasons to admire them: CEO Dave Dexter is committed to donating leadership and business skills to the nonprofit world and help local Arizona-based charities make a difference. Each member of his team is expected to lead a community or charity event during the year and volunteer time for fundraising efforts … will provide laboratory testing services for more than 6.6 million patient encounters and perform nearly 50 million tests in 2013 … provided more than 80,000 meals to those in need in 2012.

Sundt Construction, Inc.
Headquarters: Tempe
Year established: 1929
Workplace breakdown: 13 percent female, 87 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 1,134
Learn more: sundt.com
Reasons to admire them: Sundt was one of the first companies to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan as a way to bring a heightened sense of commitment to its employees, so each employee shares in the profits and success of the company … medical benefits go into effect on employees’ first day of work, unlike the typical 30-90 day waiting period … It is a Sundt policy that every project has a volunteer project associated with it to benefit a local charity.

The Lavidge Company
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1982
Workplace breakdown: 57 percent female, 43 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 70
Learn more: lavidge.com
Reasons to admire them: TLC is known for great work and a fun culture as well as its expertise and innovation … TLC offers several perks, including Summer Fridays when the office closes early, a dog-friendly atmosphere and flexible work schedules … TLC forgoes holiday gifts and provides a monetary donation to a nonprofit on behalf of its clients through its annual holiday giving program … TLC partnered with Mosaic to expand multicultural marketing services among TLC’s existing clients, while attracting new clients.

UnitedHealthcare of Arizona
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 1987
Workplace breakdown: 78.7 percent female, 21.3 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 4,100
Learn more: uhc.com
Reasons to admire them: An innovative internal wellness program, Your Rewards for Health, helps encourage a healthier lifestyle among UnitedHealthcare’s workforce … telecommuting options for employees whose roles enable this type of flexibility has enabled more than 300 telecommuters in Arizona … UnitedHealthcare this year awarded $8,000 to eight Arizona organizations seeking to develop programs to help prevent childhood obesity in their communities … UnitedHealth Group employee contributions have helped grant the wishes of 1,260 children through the the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

V.I.P. Mortgage, Inc.
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 2006
Workplace breakdown: 58 percent female, 42 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 224
Learn more: vipmtginc.com
Reasons to admire them: When Jay Barbour and Keith Teegardin started V.I.P. Mortgage amidst the housing crash in 2006, they had one goal in mind – creating a company committed to restoring the reputation of the mortgage industry by fostering a culture with complete transparency and trust … a full-time masseuse is available for employee to mitigate stress … other perks include bingo Fridays, monthly cookie days, ice cream socials, no-shave November, Easter egg hunt, Halloween cubicle decorating contest, and casual day is every day.

Vanguard
Headquarters: Malvern, Pa.
Year established: 1994
Workplace breakdown: 39.5 percent female, 60.5 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 2,134
Learn more: vanguard.com
Reasons to admire them: Vanguard is the investment management industry’s only client-owned firm. This unique ownership structure, under which the management company is owned by the shareholders of Vanguard’s funds, enables it to maintain a client-centered, high-value focus by offering its funds at cost … Vanguard and its crew members pledged $6.1 million for the 2013 United Way campaign … Arizona crew members provided toys, clothing, and bicycles to nearly 340 children in need during the 2012 Sponsor-A-Child holiday campaign.

Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.
Headquarters: Tucson
Year established: 1987
Workplace breakdown: 46.7 percent female, 53.3 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 1,150
Learn more: ventana.com
Reasons to admire them: To ensure the best and the brightest are cultivated and groomed into tomorrow’s leaders, all Ventana management participate in annual succession planning meetings. To recognize and retain high-performers, Ventana utilizes a pay-for-performance philosophy. High-performers also have opportunities to attend global education programs and consider international job assignments to enhance their career development … 150 Ventana employees, families, and friends walked in the Susan G. Komen Race, raising over $27,000 – the largest corporate gift in Tucson.

WebPT
Headquarters: Phoenix
Year established: 2008
Workplace breakdown: 53 percent female, 47 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 155
Learn more: webpt.com
Reasons to admire them: By creating an affordable and intuitive cloud-based electronic medical records (EMR) for rehabilitation therapists — practitioners excluded from the government’s meaningful use incentive under the HITECH Act — WebPT brought the benefits of EMR to small therapy practices who would have otherwise fallen behind … raised $1,483 in less than two hours for Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue … held a company-wide blood donation drive … participated in the Phoenix Heart Walk and will sponsor an upcoming art program for teens through Arthouse AZ.

ZocDoc
Headquarters: Scottsdale
Year established: 2012
Workplace breakdown: 47 percent female, 53 percent male
Employees in Arizona: 15
Learn more: zocdoc.com
Reasons to admire them: Before a new employee arrives, everyone receives a “Meet X!” e-mail that includes their picture, job title and answers to icebreaker questions … daily, healthy, catered lunches allow employees to get to know their co-workers across departments … any employee who refers a new full-time employee receives up to $5,000 and 35 percent of new employees came from internal referrals … any employee who works in the office past 8 p.m. can expense their dinner and ride home.

Spa Week Provides Affordable, Reliable Relief from Stress

Five years after the worst economic collapse since the Great Depression, many Americans are still living a “post-recession” lifestyle. Between pay cuts, lack of opportunity for advancement and heavier workloads, it is no surprise that one third of American employees experience chronic work stress according to a recent survey by the American Psychological Association. Countless studies show that this never-ending, physical and mental strain can lead to a number of severe health problems including heart disease, diabetes and even cancer. The bright side, however, is that even the most stress-inflicted workers can lower their risk of disease by simply practicing healthy habits. As research shows, this most definitely includes regular spa visits.

Since its inception in 2004, Spa Week Media Group has lead the way in connecting consumers with the powerful and life-changing benefits of the spa with its Spring and Fall Events’ affordable $50 spa and wellness treatments. According to the International Spa Association, 72% of spa goers in the past year said their stress levels influenced their decision to visit a spa. With consumers becoming increasingly more health (and budget) conscious, spas have experienced a major shift from being portrayed as places of pampering to healing sanctuaries for body and mind for millions of people. Spa Week, the country’s leading and most reputable Spa Marketing Event, has successfully manifested the connection of health and spa to the masses for almost a decade by heavily discounting costly spa and wellness services on the grand scale.

Moving into its 19th installation, Spa Week’s Fall 2013 Event will take place from October 14th – 20th when hundreds of spas (day, medical and resort), yoga and Pilates studios, and fitness and wellness centers will offer up to three signature treatments for just $50 each. Featured services are valued at anywhere from $100 to $500. Holistic healing and natural therapies including Ayurveda have been used for centuries to help counter the effects of stress and better overall health and well-being. Now, with the majority of spa patrons seeking stress relief, such practices have gone mainstream and are being offered by the most prestigious wellness facilities and local day spas alike. Look no further than the Spa Week menu to find hundreds of these detoxifying, relaxing and renewing services, all at an affordable cost. With endless treatment options to choose from, Spa Week provides a way for everyone to find calm and a sense of balance all while keeping their fear of overspending at bay.

In order to receive exclusive information on participating spas and wellness locations and their $50 services, consumers should register on SpaWeek.com as early as possible. The complete directory will launch on September 16th to allow spa-goers to begin booking their most desired services in advance. Visitors to SpaWeek.com also have the opportunity to give the gift of wellness by conveniently purchasing the Spa & Wellness Gift Card by Spa Week® on SpaWeek.com. Accepted at over 7,500 spas and wellness locations across North America and never expire, Spa & Wellness Gift Cards may be used during Spa Week or any time of the year. Recipients will have the freedom to choose from thousands of locations and services, all while knowing that you have their long-term health and happiness in mind.

While the economy still struggles to repair itself, many people are taking their health and well-being into their own hands and this includes seeking medical, emotional and even spiritual relief from the spa community. Equipped to embrace consumers’ needs, spas and wellness locations are rolling out newer and more innovative services than ever before, especially those that help combat the perils of stress and stress-induced maladies. Thanks to Spa Week’s Spring and Fall Events, consumers have the comfort of knowing that they have “spas on their side” to help improve and maintain their health, well-being and happiness, now and in the future.

EVO gives traditional Italian food a modern twist

Here’s the thing about me and Italian restaurants: I don’t usually patronize them.

It’s not because I don’t like Italian food. I live on Italian food. Leftover lasagna is a staple breakfast food for me after a morning workout. But I don’t eat at Italian restaurants because nothing usually compares with the deliciousness created by my grandparents, who were right off the boat from Poviglio, Italy and made meals into occasions instead of obligations.

I am happy to report that Grandma Gossie would have loved EVO Scottsdale.

As soon as you walk into EVO, you know it’s going to be a different kind of Italian dining experience. The restaurant has a sophisticated hipster vibe — exposed brick, clean lines, hanging candles from the ceiling, the perfect distance between the tables — and is separated from the ultra-cool bar area. Want to know how cool the bar is? EVO offers a half-dozen wines on tap. And EVO’s signature cocktails — my favorite is the BB&T, made with Smirnoff blueberry vodka, blueberries, basil, lime and tonic — are some of the Valley’s most amazing mixed drinks. It doesn’t get much cooler than that.

As for the menu, EVO features Italian comfort food dishes with a twist. Appetizers feature house-made mouth-watering meatballs, bruschetta with beef tenderloin and asparagus, and charcuterie — a collection of cured meats, artisan cheeses and fresh fruit. Main courses include pappardelle Bolognese, mushroom risotto, shrimp taliatelle, and scallops with polenta and sausage. And you cannot forget the pizza. Definitely don’t forget the pizza.

During our visit there, we started with the polpettina (meatballs) and charcuterie, along with the EVO and Caprese salads. All four were excellent choices to start the meal, but one stood out.

“Do you know what it’s like when you put a big wad of cotton candy into your mouth and it melts?” asked one of the diners at our table. “That’s what it’s like when you take a bite of the EVO salad (brussel sprouts, kale, bosc pear, chévre, pancetta, balsamic and pine nuts).”

That pretty much defines all of EVO’s dishes. The main courses were just as mouth-watering. We chose the pappardelle Bolognese, mushroom risotto, pepperoni pizza and bistecca, which is a New York strip with gorgonzola, black truffle, rosemary red Potatoes and brussels sprouts with a port reduction.

Again, all four were excellent, but EVO’s pizza is packed with flavor and boasts an incredible crust, and as someone who grew up eating nothing but homemade pasta, the pappardelle was exquisite in every way — from texture to thickness to taste.
Although we barely had room in our bellies, the chocolate torte and zeppolini are must-try items from the dessert menu.

Everything about EVO — the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the vibrant flavors that distinguish each dish — reminds me of the hours-long events at my grandparents’ home that became cherished memories instead of simply meals.

For an Italian, a restaurant cannot get better than that.

EVO Scottsdale
4175 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale
(480) 265-9814
EVOscottsdale.com

Phoenix VA Rehabilitation Medicine opens doors

The Phoenix VA Health Care System of Arizona has opened its new 37,000 square foot new Rehabilitation Medicine Building. Located at Indian School Road and Seventh Street in Phoenix, the new addition co-locates Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services with Prosthetics Services.

Westlake Reed Leskosky of Phoenix, Arizona is serving as architects, engineers, and technology designers for the $8.5 million project. Nationally recognized for integrated design, Westlake Reed Leskosky provided medical programming and planning, architecture, mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering, structural engineering and interior design services. RCDS Contractors, Inc. of Glendale, Arizona, is general contractor.

The Rehabilitation Program is located on the 13,500 square foot first floor of the new addition. The rehabilitation programs include physical therapy, occupational therapy, kinesiotherapy, acts of daily living and driver training. The area also includes four electromyography rooms and administrative offices. Prosthetics Services occupies the 13,500 square foot second floor of the addition, and includes exam rooms, amputee evaluation, wheel chair repair, shoe modification, administrative offices, and prosthesis laboratory work areas. In addition to bringing physical medicine, rehabilitation, and prosthetics services under one roof, the new addition is constructed with a partial basement, and is designed to accommodate expansion in a third floor.

Sharon Helman, Medical Center Director said, “The Phoenix VA Health Care System is committed to delivering health care to Veterans with physical medicine and prosthetic needs. As we honor our commitment to our nation’s heroes, we are proud to announce the grand opening of a new rehabilitation medicine building.” She continued, “These services are key to expanding services to Veterans in Phoenix which has seen long term growth over the last ten years.”

Rebecca C. Olson, AIA, LEED^® AP, Principal and Director of the Phoenix studio of Westlake Reed Leskosky, explains the design solution of building in flexibility from the start. “Another goal of the VA is to be able to build a third floor for storage initially and as a future Surgery Suite expansion. As a part of this design effort, the VA requested that Westlake Reed Leskosky investigate, program, and plan the relocation of their current Surgery suite to the third floor. We also looked at how this addition could be expanded to the west for additional clinic space as part of the master plan for the facility.” Experienced in leading integrated project delivery and healthcare facilities, Ms. Olson is currently serving on multiple projects with multiple design teams and hospitals for the Veterans Administration Healthcare Systems in Arizona, California, New Mexico, and West Texas.

As part of the design services for the Rehabilitation Medicine building, Westlake Reed Leskosky modeled the existing chilled water distribution system using the PipeFlo software to identify capacities at different areas of the loop, and to evaluate the necessity of another chilled water loop. This design optimizes the funding available and provides more efficient and functional co-located programs.

Per federal mandate, the new Rehabilitation Medicine addition was designed to Silver LEED criteria, but will not seek certification. The new addition was documented in Building Information Modeling with all disciplines except civil engineering and landscape.

Rick Cordova, President, RCDS Contractors, Inc. says, “This particular project was challenging because of confined work area and the task of building adjacent to and connecting to a fully operational healthcare facility. Our staff worked hand in hand with WRL and the Phoenix VA to minimize impacts to patients and employees who visit and work here every day. Being a service-disabled veteran, who also receives care at this facility, I am proud to deliver this state-of-the-art facility to the Phoenix VA and to fellow veterans.”

Kroot Negotiates 3 New Leases for Goodwill

Andy Kroot with Velocity Retail Group, LLC announced that Goodwill of Central Arizona has signed three new leases in the Phoenix metro area. Kroot, Principal at Velocity Retail has represented Goodwill for 10 years and been an integral part of their store growth. “We are pleased to be able to help Goodwill expand their presence in the greater Phoenix area. We are continuing to seek additional full retail stores as well as donation centers,” said Kroot.

Goodwill of Central Arizona is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit agencies in Arizona. Their commitment is to put people to work throughout Arizona by providing job training and employment services to a wide range of clients. These new locations will enable Goodwill to service many more customers and donors and will create jobs for the community.

The new stores include:

• SEC of McDowell Rd and Pebble Creek Parkway – 30,256 square foot store will be a full retail store with career center.
• NEC of Yuma Rd and Watson Rd in Buckeye, AZ. This brand new 25,000 square foot full retail store will be developed for Goodwill by DTD Devco 12, LLC dba Desert Troon Companies
• A new 1,331 square foot donation center located in the Maricopa Fiesta center at John Wayne Parkway and SR 238 will soon be open to the area residents as a convenient way to make donations.

Construction employment stalls in August

Construction employment stagnated in August, while the industry unemployment rate fell and a majority of companies reported difficulty finding workers, according to an analysis of new government data and an industry survey by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials called for education and immigration reform measures needed to ensure an adequate supply of skilled workers.

“After a strong rebound in 2012, construction hiring and spending have been stuck in neutral through most of 2013,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Yet the unemployment rate for former construction workers hit the lowest August level in five years, suggesting that experienced workers are leaving the industry rather than returning to it. As a result, firms are already having trouble finding workers.”

Construction employment totaled 5,798,000 in August, matching the July total, which was revised up by 5,000 from the initial estimate released four weeks ago. The August total is 3.0 percent higher than in August 2012 but has been nearly flat since March 2013. Similarly, a Census Bureau report on construction spending released on September 3 showed spending had changed little between May and July, the latest month available. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for workers actively looking for jobs and last employed in construction declined from 11.3 percent in August 2012 to 9.1 percent last month—the lowest August rate since 2008.

“Over the past three years, the number of unemployed, experienced construction workers has dropped by half,” Simonson noted. “Unfortunately, the construction industry has been able to hire only about a third of those workers, while the rest have left construction for other industries, schooling, retirement or have dropped out of the labor force. The recent leveling-off of construction hiring means the industry risks losing more of its experienced workers, setting up a potentially grave shortfall when demand for construction resumes.”

Nearly three-fourths (74 percent) of the construction firms that responded to a survey that the association released on September 4 reported they are having difficulty filling some craft-worker positions. More than half (53 percent) of the respondents also said they are having difficulty filling professional positions.

Association officials said that the fact that hiring problems appear so widespread when overall construction employment is flat was particularly worrisome in light of the high demand for workers expected in the near future. They urged elected officials in Washington to support construction education and training programs and to treat construction equitably in guest worker provisions of immigration reform legislation.

“Construction employment has leveled off for now, but retirements and selected areas of demand mean there is still a need to address worker shortages before they become acute,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “We need to make sure there is an adequate supply of skilled construction labor to meet future demand.”

Cooper, Cardinal and Company sell apartment complex

Cooper, Cardinal and Company LLC, a boutique multi-family investment brokerage firm with headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, recently closed the transaction for Rossmore Apartments, an 26-unit multi-family community located in Glendale, Arizona near Westgate City Center and Historic Glendale District. The sale price of $635,000 represents a capitalization rate of 7.10% on Proforma income. It equates to $24,423 per unit or $42.50 per square foot.

Gary R. Cooper, a Managing Director and Jack A. Cardinal, a Managing Director of the firm, represented the Seller in the transaction. “Rossmore Apartments is a great example of the premise that commercial real estate is not a zero sum game. The Seller purchased the property in distress and did well by taking risks when others would not. The Buyers own in the area and have a great vision for the property and thus will be able to take the property to new heights creating a true win-win transaction’,” stated Cooper.

The 14,940-square foot apartment community, built in 1963 is situated on a 1.61-acre lot and was 85% occupied at the time of sale. Jack A. Cardinal added, “With recent capital improvements such as a new roof and ceramic tile flooring, the bones of this 1963 asset are rock solid. We were very pleased with the outcome of this transaction and in helping execute the exit strategy as the Exclusive Listing Agents for our opportunistic, Canadian based Seller. This was an important assignment for a repeat client in helping the client reach his market goals and reinvest the proceeds on the East Side.”

De Rito Partners Announces Recent Transactions

New bike shop opening in Tempe

The Pedal Bike Shop signed a lease for 3,763 square feet at 405 W. University Drive, near the Arizona State University campus. The shopping center is located at the southeast corner of University Drive and Wilson Street in Tempe. De Rito Partners’ brokers John Palmieri and Chris Corso represented the landlord in the deal.

Dental Care of Mesa to open at the Village at Superstition Springs

De Rito Partners’ brokers Gordon Heckaman and Steve Berman represented the landlord in signing a lease for 2,615 square feet at the Village at Superstition Springs. Dental Care of Mesa will be joining the center located just west of the northwest corner of Power Road and Baseline Road.

Verizon Premium Dealer set to open in Gilbert

MyBullfrog.com, a Verizon Wireless Premium Dealer, signed a lease for 2,000 square feet at the northwest corner of Gilbert Road and Warner Road in Gilbert. Gordon Heckaman and Morey Fischel of De Rito Partners represented the landlord in signing the lease.

Van’s Golf Shop coming to SanTan Village Furniture Center

Van’s Golf Shop signed a lease for 7,500 square feet at the northwest corner of SanTan Village Parkway and Market Street, in the SanTan Village Furniture Center. De Rito Partners’ broker Matt Morrell represented the landlord in completing the deal.

L’Mage Salon Suites adding location in Gilbert

One of Metro Phoenix’s top salons, L’Mage Salon Suites, signed a lease for 3,598 square feet at Gilbert Town Square. The center is located just south of the southwest corner of Gilbert Road and Warner Road. Stan Sanchez represented the tenant; and Bill Bones and Carl Jones, Jr. represented the landlord in completing the deal.

TitleMax opening a store in Sierra Vista

De Rito Partners’ broker Bill Bones represented TitleMax in signing a lease for a new 5,592-square-foot store in Sierra Vista, Arizona. The new store is located at 822 W. Frye Boulevard, near the corner of Frye Boulevard and Buffalo Soldier Trail.

Cabinets Beyond expanding at Cave Creek Plaza

Cabinets Beyond is relocating within the Cave Creek Plaza to a 2,793-square-foot space, an increase of 1,353 square feet from their previous location. Chris Corso and Lizette Fonseca of De Rito Partners represented the landlord in signing the lease at the center located at the southwest corner of Cave Creek Road and Bell Road.

Scottsdale adding a new bicycle shop

Javelina Cycles Owner Rick Marquis signed a lease to open Giant Scottsdale/Liv Giant Bicycle Shop at 68^th Street and Thomas Road in Scottsdale. Morey Fischel of De Rito Partners represented the tenant in signing the lease for a 5,000-square-foot space.

Pet groomer to open first location in Chandler

Paws Attractions, a pet sitting and grooming service, is opening their first location at Monterey Vista Village in Chandler. The tenant leased a 1,265-square-foot space at the center located at the northwest corner of Pecos Road and McQueen Road. Steve Bonnell of De Rito Partners represented the tenant in the deal.

NexTech Repair coming to Scottsdale

NexTech Repair, a repair service of smartphones and personal communications electronics, is set to open a new location in Scottsdale at Loop 101 Freeway and Via de Ventura. Gordon Heckaman of De Rito Partners represented the tenant in signing the lease for a 1,000-square-foot space.

New furniture store being added to Verde Valley Plaza in Cottonwood

Classic Home Furnishings is opening a new furniture store in the Verde Valley Plaza. The tenant signed a lease for a 3,800-square-foot space at the center located at the southwest corner of Highway 89A and Highway 260 in Cottonwood, Arizona. De Rito Partners’ broker Dale Harsh represented the landlord in completing the deal.

Styles for Less adding new location in Scottsdale

Styles for Less will be opening a new location at Scottsdale Fiesta Shopping Center located at the southeast corner of the Loop 101 Freeway and Shea Boulevard. Paul Serafin of De Rito Partners represented the tenant in signing the lease for a 4,000-square-foot space.

Public charter school to open in Downtown Phoenix

Arizona School for Integrated Academics and Technologies, part of a nationwide network of public charter schools, will be adding a new school at the southwest corner of 12^th Street and Washington Street in Downtown Phoenix. Carl Jones Jr. of De Rito Partners represented the landlord in signing the lease for a 10,194-square-foot space.

Tucker-Gasser Recognized as a Women of Influence

Real Estate Forum celebrates the 20th Annual ‘Women of Influence’ by naming Shari A. Tucker-Gasser, Partner of the Phoenix Sperry Van Ness, LLC office and Multi-Tenant Retail Investment Council Chair of Sperry Van Ness International, among ‘Women of Influence’ in the commercial real estate industry for 2013.

ALM’s Real Estate Forum announced its selections for the most influential women of 2013 in the commercial real estate industry and has categorized the prestigious list by “The Legends”, “Women of Influence” and “Next Gen: Women to Watch”. Senior level women from all over the country were recognized for their contributions to the commercial real estate industry and over 500 applications were submitted.

“Over the course of my 15 year career, I’ve enjoyed being a part of the ever changing commercial real estate industry,” said Tucker-Gasser. “No longer is commercial real estate controlled by the good ol’ boys networks, women today are in many viable roles; they’re running billion dollar REITS, owning brokerage houses and negotiating million dollar transactions. It’s been fun, challenging and rewarding,” continues Tucker-Gasser. “I enjoy sharing my knowledge and mentoring those interested in the commercial real estate profession and hope that in some small way I’ve influenced others.”

Tucker-Gasser began her career in 1999 with a local brokerage company where she was named Rookie of the Year her first year in the business. She was later recruited to the Phoenix Sperry Van Ness, LLC office as an Investment Advisor, and in 2011, purchased the Phoenix office to become one of four veteran partners. During the course of her 15 years in the business, Tucker-Gasser has completed more than $2 billion dollars in retail sales transactions.

Shari specializes in the acquisition, disposition and leasing of multi-tenant retail properties throughout the Phoenix Metro and Arizona markets.

Metro North Corporate Park Signs 2 New Leases

Metro North Corporate Park recently signed the following two new Leases at their 13450 N. Black Canyon Highway facility in Phoenix, Arizona.

The State of Arizona signed a 30,000 s.f. five-year Lease and will be utilizing the space for its Department of Economic Security – Child Protective Services Division. The space will be used primarily for administrative activities.

Peckham, Inc. (Lansing, Michigan) signed a 40,000 s.f. five-year Lease. Peckham, Inc., a nonprofit vocational rehabilitation organization, provides job training opportunities for persons with significant disabilities and other barriers to employment. Initially, Peckham plans to employ approximately 100 people and eventually they should have approximately 250 employees within the facility.

The Leases were negotiated by Cashen Realty Advisors, Inc.

74% of construction firms have trouble finding qualified workers

Nearly three-fourths of construction firms across the country report they are having trouble finding qualified craft workers to fill key spots amid concerns that labor shortages will only get worse, according to the results of an industry-wide survey released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials called for immigration and education reform measures to help avoid worker shortages.

“Many construction firms are already having a hard time finding qualified workers and expect construction labor shortages will only get worse,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America. “We need to take short- and long-term steps to make sure there are enough workers to meet future demand and avoid the costly construction delays that would come with labor shortages.”

Of the 74 percent of responding firms that are having a hard time finding qualified craft workers, the most frequently reported difficulties are in filling such onsite construction jobs as carpenters, equipment operators and laborers, Sandherr said. Fifty-three percent are having a hard time filling professional positions – especially project supervisors, estimators and engineers.

The association official added that most firms expect labor shortages will continue and get worse for the next year. Eighty-six percent of respondents said they expect it will remain difficult or get harder to find qualified craft workers while 72 percent say the market for professional positions will remain hard or get worse. Seventy-four percent of respondents report there are not enough qualified craft workers available to meet future demand while 49 percent said there weren’t enough construction professionals available, he added.

Sandherr said that many firms report they are taking steps to prepare future construction workers. He noted that 48 percent of responding firms are mentoring future craft workers, 38 percent are participating in career fairs and 33 percent are supporting high school-level construction skills academies. In addition, 47 percent of responding firms are offering internships for construction professionals.

Sandherr cautioned that more needs to be done to address labor shortages. He said Congress needs to jettison arbitrary caps on construction workers that were included in immigration reform the Senate passed earlier this year. “Lifting those restrictions will go a long way to ensuring construction jobs left vacant by domestic labor shortages go to workers who are in the country legally.”

He urged elected and appointed officials to do more to ensure public school students have an opportunity to participate in programs that teach skills like construction. He added that skills-based programs offer students a more hands-on way to learn vital 21st century skills such as math and science. Such programs also have been proven to reduce dropout rates and give students an opportunity to earn the higher pay and benefits that come with construction jobs.

Fired Pie delivers with hot new concept

Here’s the beautiful thing about Fired Pie: In less time than a typical commercial break, the staff at Fired Pie can make you a fresh pizza that suits your taste and specifications.

Fired Pie is the latest Chipotle-inspired build-your-own-meal, fast-casual dining concept to hit the Valley. The creation of veteran restaurateur Fred Morgan — the former CEO of Oregano’s — and partners Doug Doyle and Rico Cuomo, Fired Pie’s pizzas take three minutes to bake in a brick oven after customers choose their sauce, cheese, meats, vegetables and herbs.

“The fast-casual concept is really exploding,” Morgan said. “What we’ve been able to do here is create a concept that delivers high-quality gourmet pizza at a cost and convenience that appeals to the customer.”

During a recent visit to Fired Pie, that concept created a taste sensation.
We opted to try a pizza and the Steak & Blue, one of Fired Pie’s signature salads. Signature pizzas include Hawaiian barbecue with barbecue sauce, mozzarella, Canadian bacon, pineapple and cilantro; meaty Italian with tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, salami, capicola and sausage; and tomato basil with two types of mozzarella, tomato, basil and garlic. We chose to build our own pizza with tomato sauce, pepperoni and fresh mozzarella.

Pizzas and salads are $7.75, regardless of the number of toppings.

During our visit, both dishes were exceptional. I grew up in an Italian family in New York, eating amazing homemade pizzas that my Italian grandmother spent all day preparing, so I am very discriminating when it comes to Italian food. But I can honestly say that Fired Pie’s pizzas match or exceed the quality of other Valley pizza restaurants, and they even give my grandmother a run for her money. Sorry, Grandma. The quality of the ingredients far exceed the expectations one would have from a high-end Italian restaurant, let alone a fast-casual restaurant. But Fired Pie takes that fast-casual concept to a whole new level.

The great thing for me is that one of Fired Pie’s location is at Park Central Mall, which is right across the street from my Central Phoenix office. And customers are already lining up to take advantage of the three-minute cooking time that makes a Fired Pie pizza a healthy lunch option for downtown workers.

If you do decide to get off the healthy train for a moment, words cannot adequately express the mouth-watering deliciousness of the Fired Pookie, Fired Pie’s soft-baked chocolate chip cookie topped with vanilla ice cream that only costs $3.

Trust me on this one. If Fired Pie doesn’t have you at pizza, they’ll hook you by Pookie.

Fired Pie has locations at 3049 W. Agua Fria Freeway, Deer Valley Towne Center, Phoenix; 3110 N. central Ave., Phoenix; and one coming soon to Chandler.

For more information, visit firedpie.com.

Construction Spending Rises 0.6 Percent in July

The nation’s builders were busy in July as construction spending increased 0.6 percent to $900.8 billion—the largest upswing in four years—according to the Sept. 3 report by the U.S. Commerce Department.

Nonresidential construction spending also rose 0.6 percent in July, but is down 0.8 percent compared to one year ago.

Private nonresidential construction spending grew 1.3 percent, only to be offset by a 0.2 percent decline in public nonresidential construction spending. On a year-over-year basis, private nonresidential construction is up 2 percent while public nonresidential construction spending has dipped 3.7 percent.

Eleven of 16 construction sectors posted monthly gains in spending. The largest gains were in lodging, up 5.8 percent; conservation and development, up 3.6 percent; manufacturing, up 3.3 percent; and transportation, up 2.4 percent. Six subsectors experienced higher spending on a year-over-year basis, including lodging, up 29.9 percent; commercial, up 1.6 percent; power, up 6.1 percent; sewage and waste disposal, up 3.8 percent; water supply, up 9.5 percent; and manufacturing, up 0.2 percent.

In contrast, spending in five nonresidential construction sectors declined in July, including educational, down 0.7 percent; religious, down 3.1 percent; public safety, down 8.1 percent; amusement and recreation, down 2.7 percent; and highway and street, down 1.1 percent. On a year-over-year basis, construction spending has softened in 10 subsectors. The largest losses occurred in religious, down 18.1 percent; public safety, down 14.1 percent; amusement and recreation, down 12.6 percent; and communication, down 12.5 percent.

Residential construction spending increased 0.5 percent for the month and is 16.8 percent higher than the same time last year.

Orion sells Desert Harbor for $26.7 million

The ORION Multifamily Group of Orion Investment Real Estate is pleased to announce the closing of the 264-unit, “Class A” apartment project – Desert Harbor Apartment Homes – for $26,682,000 ($101,068 per unit). The buyer, an affiliate of Murray Hill Developments Ltd., is one of the most experienced multifamily real estate operating and development companies in Canada. “It was a true pleasure working with the seasoned group of individuals at Murray Hill Developments Ltd. Desert Harbor Apartment Homes is the perfect addition to their expanding U.S. multifamily portfolio.”, stated Alon Shnitzer with the Orion Multifamily Group.

Desert Harbor Apartment was built in 2001 and is located across the street from Rio Vista Community Park and just ½ mile from the Loop 101 Freeway. Nearby is the Peoria Sports Complex, home to Major League Baseball’s Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres spring training facility as well as Lake Pleasant, Arizona’s second largest lake.

Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and established in the 1960s, Murray Hill Developments Ltd. and its affiliates are actively involved in Real Estate activities in Western Canada and the United States. The firm owns and manages quality apartment communities in Alberta, British Columbia, Arizona and California. Murray Hill Developments Ltd. developed Edmonton’s Brentwood Village, the first condominium property in Canada (registered December 20, 1967).

The seller is the nations largest multifamily REIT, Equity Residential, who acquired the property in early 2013 through a $9.1 billion dollar portfolio transaction with Archstone, which incorporated 73 total properties in the markets of Phoenix, Eastern Los Angeles County, Metro Los Angeles, San Diego, San Fernando Valley, Northern California South Bay/East Bay/San Francisco Peninsula, Seattle, Urban Boston, Manhattan, Northern New Jersey, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, Urban Atlanta, and West Palm Beach.

Alon Shnitzer, Rue Bax, John Kobierowski, Doug Lazovick, and Eddie Chang of ORION Investment Real Estate in Scottsdale represented the buyer in the transaction (www.ORIONMultifamilyGroup.com). The Orion Multifamily Group was formed to provide clients with the most comprehensive and effective brokerage experience. A seasoned group of brokers was assembled with a combined track record consisting of over two billion in sales, 1,000+ transactions and collectively over 55 years of experience. The Orion Multifamily Group provides brokerage and advisory services to Arizona multifamily owners, developers, lenders and managers.

Brad Goff and David Lord of ARA represented the seller in the transaction.