Chamber visits D.C. in support of WSMR
Transcription
Chamber visits D.C. in support of WSMR
GREATER LAS CR UCES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • MAY 2 0 1 5 • WWW.LASCR UCES.ORG Medical Membership Update Luncheon Thursday, June 18 Las Cruces Convention Center TABLE OF CONTENTS President and Chair Columns...............2 Business of the Month ........................3 Small Business of the Month ................4 Nonprofit of the Month ......................5 Ribbon Cuttings .................................6 Military .............................................7 Conquistadore Corner........................7 LCYP of the Month ...........................8 Junior Leadership .............................10 Armijo House ..................................12 Government Scorecard .....................13 New and Renewing Members ............14 Member Briefs ..................................15 Calendar ..........................................16 JOIN THE CHAMBER The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce provides more than 50 events and programs each year to promote the growth of area businesses and the economic success of the region. For the past 60 years, the Chamber has served as the largest and most active business advocacy organization in the Mesilla Valley. In 2010, the Chamber received a four-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for best practices amongst chambers of commerce. If you are interested in becoming a member of our growing organization, contact Vice President of Development Troy Tudor at 524-1968 or [email protected]. GREATER LAS CR UCES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 505 S. MAIN ST., SUITE 134 LAS CRUCES, NM 88001 575-524-1968 WWW.LASCRUCES.ORG Ben Woods of New Mexico State University, Richard Haas of Steve Newby Architects & Associates Inc. and Bill Connor El Paso Electric Co. took part in the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce annual trip to Washington, D.C., during which they met with U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce, center. Chamber visits D.C. in support of WSMR Annual trip opens lines of communication in the Capitol The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce’s annual visit to our nation’s Capitol was a success. Here’s a brief recap of our visits: The team discussed small business policy, homeland security and immigration with subject matter experts at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This group does a fly-in program that allows member visitors to select relevant topics on which to be briefed. As far as the Department of Defense goes, the majority of the meetings took place at the Pentagon. The history chronicled on the walls of the building is tremendous. Just walking between meetings in the halls allows you to learn more about the military. There were eight separate meetings, including lunch with former White Sands Missile Range commander Brig. Gen. John Ferrari. It is great to be able to stay in touch with someone at the Army staff level who personally knows the capabilities of WSMR. By the way, Ferrari received his second star later in the week while we were in town and has now risen to the rank of major general. In all, we were able to speak with senior people representing all three service branches – Army, Navy and Air Force – as well as from the Office of Economic Adjustment and the DoD itself. We discussed topics ranging from how the budget, or lack thereof, impacts projects, both current and future; the impending move of the 2nd Engineer Battalion; the SunZia transmission line; the Navy’s new rail gun project and its pivot to the Pacific; the Joint Land Use Study; and the ROTC program. The bottom line is that with reduced funding for the DoD, everyone is scrambling for dollars. By and large, the group was commended for making the trip to Washington, D.C., to speak on behalf of WSMR and we were told again this year that the effort does not go unnoticed. On the federal side, we met with both of our U.S. senators, Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich; and all three of our U.S. Congress representatives, Steve Pearce, Ben Ray Lujan and Michelle Lujan Grisham; as well as with Congressman Beto O’Rourke, who covers El Paso and Fort Bliss. The predominant sentiment was the desire to avoid a second round of sequestration, which truly crippled WSMR in 2013. That can only be accomplished by a true bipartisan effort between the “fiscal hawks” and the “budget hawks” later this summer. That same message was communicated to us by the U.S. Chamber. The importance of this trip can be underscored by the fact that a newly released economic study on the impact of WSMR shows there is a $3.17 million a day impact on employment and a $4.7 million a day impact on spending on our local economy. It’s quite obvious that we need to do everything we can to help preserve its mission and continue to actively support the military. Board Members Chair Russell Allen Allen Theaters Past Chair Mike Beckett COAS Books Treasurer/Secretary Brandy Darden Century Bank At-Large Member Rico Gonzales El Paso Electric Co. At-Large Member Phillip Rivera Memorial Medial Center Chamber Ben Woods Sustainability Aggie Development Corp. New Mexico State University Governmental Jake Redfearn, Chair Relations NAI 1st Valley Industry Savonne Griffin, Chair Development FirstLight Federal Credit Union Community Dr. Renay Scott, Chair Development Doña Ana Community College Marketing & Public Rick Nezzer Relations Sisbarro Buick/GMC Truck Board Members Sabrina Martin Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern New Mexico Rick Jackson American Document Services Denten Park MountainView Regional Medical Center Richard Coltharp Las Cruces Bulletin Council of Mary Iadicicco Conquistadores AllState Insurance Legal Counsel John Darden Darden Law Firm Advisers Benjamin Rawson Doña Ana County Commission Davin Lopez Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance Miguel Silva Las Cruces City Council Erin Dorrance White Sands Missile Range FROM THE PRESIDENT FROM THE CHAIR Finding clarity Bad decision-making T I he Chamber’s purpose has never been clearer. Recent decisions – locally and nationally – underscore the need for a group willing to take a stand on behalf of the business community and willing to take the heat. Las Cruces is a wonderful city, filled with lots of generous citizens. People who have invested in businesses, raised their children and seen the city change – several times over – in the BILL ALLEN last 10 years. I have had several conversations with business leaders recently. Their frustration levels are high and I sense they are ready to give up – not seeing an end to constant stream of decisions that are making it harder to do business here. Now is not the time to surrender. I liken it to businesses that decide during tough times they can do without marketing – when that is the very time to make sure their customers remember them. Now is the time to “double down” and work for change. We have already taken heat when we publicized our threeyear strategic plan that includes sourcing, training and endorsing business-friendly candidates, and that’s fine. Throughout the past few years, we have tried to work with leadership – mostly to no avail. You can refer to a new page that will be included monthly in this publication to determine for yourself how are local leaders value jobs in our community by the way they vote. We will take heat for conducting our upcoming Candidates Training event, and that’s just fine, too. By the way, contrary to what will be said, written and tweeted, that particular event was designed for anyone who is interested in getting involved in politics – candidates and supporters, Republicans, Democrats, tea party’ers and progressives alike. Everyone has been invited. At the same time, we will continue to work with our local leaders on state issues that impact southern New Mexico. Why? Because that’s our role. We will be present at the interim committees making our voices heard in order to get the support that we need, and deserve, from Santa Fe so we can continue to prosper. Stan Rounds Las Cruces Public Schools t was a pleasure to represent the interest of our community and the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce in our nation’s capital last month. This was my second year joining the Chamber team and meeting with our federal delegation in Washington, D.C., on many key issues that impact our community well-being and future. Additionally, we continued our work to preserve and expand the RUSSELL ALLEN capabilities and mission of White Sands Missile Range, which is vital to our local economy. It was sad to see our elected officials once again make a decision that negatively impacts business growth in our community. Not passing the zoning change request by a property owner on the rumor that a Walmart Neighborhood Market may want to build there, sends a clear message to anyone considering making an investment in our community and robs the owner of the property from having a revenue generating opportunity. It was also sad to see citizens, and even a chamber, stand in opposition to the growth and prosperity of our community because of their bias against a single organization. I wonder, if a Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods wanted to come to town, would we have folks saying we don’t need another grocery store? We should not be following mob rule or personal preferences when these decisions are made, but the rules, guidelines and policies that are in place each and every time. We all have our preferences, but these things are in place to make outcomes fair for everyone. When we slow the growth of business with bad and biased decisions, everyone is negatively impacted. Russell Allen, Chair of the Board Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Bill Allen, President/CEO Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Chamber Staff Bill Allen President/CEO Monte C. Rout Event Manager Troy Tudor Vice President of Development Cyndi Armijo Billing & Database Assistant Rosa Bañuelos Communication Coordinator Lensi Shakra Membership Coordinator bottom line the DESIGN Rafael Torres EDITOR Beth Sitzler DISTRIBUTION Teresa Tolonen ADVERTISING Richard Coltharp, manager Claire Frohs Anna Lueras Pam Rossi Elaine Sasnow Brandi Misquez Administrative Assistant Bulletin T H E L A S C R U C E S 2005 Las Cruces “Business of the Year” 2 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE PUBLISHER Richard Coltharp The Bottom Line, the official publication of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, is a copyrighted publication that is designed, produced and distributed monthly by the Las Cruces Bulletin, 840 N. Telshor Blvd., Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011. Content of The Bottom Line is submitted and authorized by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce located at 505 S. Main St., Suite 134. Articles and columns in The Bottom Line may not reflect the opinions of the Las Cruces Bulletin. Inquiries regarding editorial content or advertising may be directed to the publisher at 575-524-8061. GREATER LAS CRUCES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 505 S. Main St., Suite 134 • Las Cruces, NM 88001 • 575-524-1968 • www.lascruces.org BUSINESS OF THE MONTH ‑ MAY 2015 Comcast 2750 MALL DRIVE, BUILDING 300, UNIT 340, LAS CRUCES, NM 88011 • 1-800-COMCAST • WWW.COMCAST.COM From humble beginnings to national recognition Comcast strives to meet customer needs with advanced technology Ralph J. Roberts founded Comcast Corp. with the purchase of a 1,200-subscriber cable television system in Tupelo, Miss., in 1963. From Comcast’s humble roots, Roberts went on to create a company that is the nation’s largest video, high-speed Internet and phone provider to residential customers under the XFINITY brand. Today, more than 435 Comcast employees call New Mexico home. Each year, Comcast continues to enhance its products and services to better serve more than 162,000 customers across the state. Comcast’s mission states, “Comcast strives to create the best content and constantly pursues innovation to delight our customers.” Comcast Cable also provides these services to businesses. Comcast has invested in technology to build an advanced network that delivers among the fastest broadband speeds, and brings customers personalized video, communications and home management offerings. Comcast was founded as a small company that focused on meeting the customer’s needs with the newest technology available. “As technology has continued to develop we’ve continued to look for ways to connect people to what’s important in their lives,” New Mexico Director John Christopher said. Offered through the XFINITY brand is integrated Internet, TV, phone, home security and automation. Like its customers, Comcast loves technology and all the great things it can do. “That’s why we invest in opportunities to advance technology to create new, enjoyable experiences,” Christopher said. Comcast continues to shape the future of media and technology. In 2012, Comcast launched X1, a cloud-enabled video platform that transformed the TV into an interactive, integrated entertainment experience. Featuring a new, sleek and customizable user interface that will be consistent across devices, customers can manage all of their content from any screen, anywhere, anytime. New voice controls and social integration enable customers to navigate the platform quickly and easily. The advice Comcast gives businesses that are just starting is to stay innovative. Starting with the launch of On Demand in 2003, Comcast remains at the forefront of delivering more content to more devices anytime, anywhere. It continues to develop new technologies that give customers more access to more content across their devices. Most recently, Comcast launched a live streaming feature for the XFINITY TV Go app enabling customers to watch live news, sports and kids programming directly on their mobile devices, anytime, anywhere. “We want to make sure people know we’re dedicated to being a local company even though we’ve grown over the past 50 years from a small company in Tupelo, Miss., to the nationwide provider we are today. We know that providing the fastest Internet available helps grow business in Las Cruces. We want to be part of growing the community it’s where we live and work,” Christopher said. Comcast employees have been working hard to improve the customer experience over the last several years. “Our customers deserve the best experience every time they interact with us. Being known for a great customer experience is our goal and our No. 1 priority, and that’s what we are going to do,” Christopher said. Almost 1,000 volunteers participated in Comcast Cares Day, which helped to improve Jornada Elementary School “Fighting cancer where my friends are was the only choice.” — Jerry H. “Location. Location. Location, meant everything to me. Researching treatment led me to MMC Cancer Center. The machines everywhere were the same. But here they’re interested in you as a person. They are making my treatment more pleasant.” You are the company you keep. That’s why MMC Cancer Center has partnered with the UNM Cancer Center, one of only 68 centers in the nation to have earned the prestigious National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation. UNM physicians work at MMC Cancer Center, and live in Las Cruces. Now you can choose the highest standard of cancer care, right here at home. 575-521-6727 2450 S. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces u mmclc.org THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 3 SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH - MAY 2015 The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch 425 S. TELSHOR BLVD., SUITE C-101 • 575-521-5137 • FA.ML.COM/BRIDGERSGROUP Success starts with preparedness of business Company helps families plan for, reach their financial goals Paul Bridgers is in his 19th year as a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch. Prior to this career, he was a teacher and a swimming coach at the public high school and university levels. Matthew Mossburg is in his third year as a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch and has been in the financial services industry since 2008. Tina Avelar has been a client associate with Merrill Lynch for 28 years. She is also the resident director’s assistant. The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch mission statement says, “To guide families through the maze of financial noise to successful completion of their financial goals. To make the lives of our clients easier and more fulfilling by freeing up their time to focus on family and their life passions, while we focus on a financial plan that get them to their personal goals.” When asked what inspired Bridgers to go into business, he thought of helping people prepare for the next chapter of their financial lives while living the current chapter, inspired him. “People are less prepared for retirement than they ever have been and our team is dedicated to making a difference,” Bridgers said. What is unique about the business is that it deals with the intersection of emotions and reality when it comes to money and goals. With a strong planning approach, it models to potential outcomes of different decisions before they are made. This gives clients the ability to see the potential consequences of decisions and non-decisions before they go down the path. The purpose of this is to provide every client with a customized financial plan, a customized tactical investment strategy, and coaching along their financial journey to minimize the effect of financial noise on their goal focus. In five years, the goal is to be comprehensively serving double the number of families it currently serve as it navigates the increasingly confusing realm of financial life. The staff wants to be the financial ally to those families. 4 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE Matthew Mossburg, financial advisor; David Bridgers, seasonal client associate; Paul Bridgers, financial advisor and resident director; and Tina Avelar, client associate and resident director’s assistant of The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch. To stay ahead of competitors, The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch increased the capacity of its team, allowing the company to grow while maintaining exemplary service. “Our team interacts like a family and we are very aware of what’s going on in each others’ lives,” Mossburg said. “As we support each other, we bring that awareness to the table for our clients. We are also very aware of news and events that impact our clients financially, and we act proactively to take advantage of the opportunities that those events provide. We also have a fiduciarybased practice – we have our client’s best interests at the forefront in everything we do.” Like every business, The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch has had to overcome obstacles, such as the financial crisis of 2007-09. Many advisors left the profession during this time. People’s emotions led to bad decisions and business growth was very difficult. “We have grown 40 percent as a business since the end of 2008, but it was a long and difficult road,” Bridgers said. When it comes to giving new businesses advice, Mossburg said, “Business owners do not live by the 40-hour work week. Work long and hard, but plan your efforts toward a goal. Get away on a personal retreat once a quarter to evaluate your progress and your passion for life and business. Invest in people – the people you work with and the people you serve. Your attitude toward people will eventually define your success. Give well-thought-out direction, and admit your mistakes. But don’t let those mistakes define you. Very important – find a mentor to guide you and help you self-evaluate.” The Bridgers Group Merrill Lynch staff thinks it’s important for people to know there is no substitute for discipline and facts when preparing for a financial future. To them it is important that people use a dedi- cated team to prepare them for college costs, retirement and beyond. “Stewardship, philanthropy and legacy come through careful guidance, discipline and planning. The government does not have the means to take care of you after your career is over – you must rely on yourself. The firm you work with financially, and the team you work with, makes a difference,” Bridgers said. Bridgers said the company hopes to become the vital financial ally for more families, and to continue to build capacity through new hires so it can increase the number of families it guides toward the successful completion of their financial goals. “We want to continue making a difference in people’s lives, and enable them to assist the college careers of their children, travel, and retire to pursue their passions in the next chapter of their lives,” Bridgers said. NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH - MAY 2015 Casa de Peregrinos Emergency Food Program 999 W. AMADOR AVE., SUITE F LAS CRUCES, NM 88005 • 575-523-5542 • WWW.CASADEPEREGRINOS.ORG Mission: Casa de Peregrinos, an emergency food program, provides free supplemental groceries to individuals and families at risk of hunger in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County. Our mission is to serve as a safety link for those unable to purchase nutritious food due to an emergency or unforeseen personal crisis. As part of that mission, we also commit ourselves to promote public awareness of hunger in Doña Ana County and to secure broad-based support for hunger prevention and relief in the county. Purpose: Casa de Peregrinos is Doña Ana County’s largest and longest running food pantry. Fore more than 35 years, Casa de Peregrinos has developed programs to proactively put food on the tables of many in need. Our flagship program, The Food Security Program in Las Cruces, and the Rural Expansion Food Initiative in the colonias of Doña Ana County, are our largest programs. The Children’s Summer Food Program is our most beloved by families with school-aged children. Our Homeless Program is beginning to make an impact. These programs benefit nearly 2,500 families and/or individuals every month with thousands of pounds of food going out our doors. Key goals: Our goals are to streamline our programs and become as efficient as possible given the resources available to us as a nonprofit. We are also striving to reach more people and continue to advocate for this important mission and for the poor. We also would like to encourage more partnerships with local businesses, churches and well as other nonprofit agencies to continue to serve this community and take care of the less fortunate. History: For 35 years, Casa de Peregrinos Emergency Food Program has been serving the poor and hungry in our community. This all stems from the dream of four compassionate people in 1979: to provide shelter, a food-and-clothing bank, and cooperative activities for the homeless and immigrants. The four dreamers were Manuela Moreno, Rosario Rodriguez, Alphonso de los Santos and Lucy Martinez. Their first office was at the home of Manuela Moreno. In 1982, Sister Marsha Carrigan, a family counselor for the Diocese of El Paso, was assigned the extra duty of overseeing Casa de Peregrinos operation. She saw a greater need for food and proposed an expansion of the food service program. That same year, Casa de Peregrinos hired its first paid employee, Isabel Romero, to manage the office and volunteers. In 1984, Sister Marsha was replaced by Sister Rose Kidd: 1983 and 1984 saw Casa de Peregrinos moved to Spruce Street, finalize the documents needed for non-profit status and renew its commitment to the food program. Some say Sister Rose would go door to door asking the community for donations for the program. In 2005, Casa de Peregrinos moved to its state of the art facility and flagship pantry in the Community of Hope campus at 999. W. Amador Ave., Suite F. The legacy of this organization now rests with us who are involved in this important and historic program of Las Cruces and Doña Ana County. Keeping the poor fed is only the beginning; keeping hope alive is a bigger task. The founders of this organization set an example for this community because they believed in humanity. Millions of pounds of food have been distributed to thousands of families in the last 35 years. In just the last three years, New Mexico State University communication graduate student Nick Eckhart, communications studies undergraduate student Kellie Gamboa, communication graduate student and Miss New Mexico Alexis Duprey and communication graduate student Josele Diaz work a produce food drive that netted more than 5,000 pounds of fresh produce for Casa de Peregrinos Emergency Food Program. more than 4 million pounds have been distributed in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County. The need continues to be pervasive and we are grateful every day to the vision of our founders. In the immortal words of Mother Teresa, “If you can’t feed a hundred, then just feed one.” We will continue to move forward for 35 more years. With your help we will make sure this dream is fulfilled. Key people to know: Lorenzo Alba Jr. – Executive Director Antoinette Fuentes – Board of Directors Chair Upcoming events and activities: • Bank’34 Food Drive – 30-Day Challenge – Currently happening at BANK’34 location • Stamp Out Hunger – U.S. Postal Workers Food Drive – May 9 • CenturyLink Match Food Drive – June 1-12 Future plans: To build sustainability for our organization so we can continue to build on the programs in place and possibly add programs to assist us in taking care of more people. Meet Your Las Cruces Professional Feature your business in our spring issue Fall 20 14 Contact our marketing consultants at 524-8061 THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 5 RIBBON CUTTINGS SAVERS – April 22, 2340 N. Main St. – Store Manager Diana Goss holds the proclamation while Martin Salas, Candlelighter recipient, cuts the ribbon. DOÑA ANA COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY – April 15, Yappy Hour at St. Clair Winery & Bistro – Board Member Sherri Rials and Christi Getz, board member, hold the proclamations while Executive Director Kathy Lawitz cuts the ribbon. TESORO INTEGRATIVE HEALTH CENTER – April 17, 1605 S. Main St. – Executive Director Patti McClure holds the proclamation while board members Nancy Garcia Tafoya and Isaac Trevino cut the ribbon. CASA DE PEREGRINOS – March 31, 999 W. Amador Ave. – Executive Director Lorenzo Alba holds the proclamation while Chair of the Board Bernadine Dallago cuts the ribbon. 80 hours at work. 160 hours of stress. 3,426 emails. You deserve a view. THE PIT STOP 292 CAFÉ – April 20, 361 Motel Blvd. – Co-owner David Hoff holds the proclamation while co-owner Gary Tankesly cuts the ribbon. VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA CHAPTER 431 – March 28, Veterans Memorial Park, 2651 Roadrunner Parkway – Thomas Sotomayor, designer/architect for the monument, and family cut the ribbon and hold the proclamation. New seasonal and corporate memberships available, starting at $230 per month.* 6861 Via Campestre, Las Cruces, NM 575.523.8641 • www.picachohillscc.com *Certain restrictions apply. Please call for details. 6 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE White Sands School open to all students Residents in surrounding area can register K-8 graders By Erin Dorrance White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs A field trip to a missile launch, a robotbuilding class and a gym class on the golf course, are all typical educational activities at White Sands School on White Sands Missile Range. The school, which is part of Las Cruces Public Schools, offers kindergarten through eighth-grade students tre- mendous opportunities and individualized attention. Any student can enroll in the school. White Sands School is a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)-focused school with class sizes often smaller than average. The attendance of 300 students is rapidly dropping to about 225 students by August because of the departure of the 2nd Engineering Battalion, a military organi- Students in the Gateway to Technology and Aerospace class at White Sands Middle School read the instructions before a simulated NASA launch at the Navy LC-36 blockhouse on White Sands Missile Range during a field trip last year. U.S. Army photo by Laura Almaraz zation of 800 soldiers that is leaving White Sands Missile Range due to a Department of the Army reorganization. “We are not shutting our doors,” Principal Thomas Bulger said. “This school has been around since 1948, and Las Cruces Public Schools is committed to keeping White Sands School open, but we are trying to increase enrollment so that we can keep all of the amazing, dedicated teachers who work here, as well as maintain the numerous youth activities that exist on White Sands Missile Range.” Students who live in Las Cruces, as well as surrounding areas such as El Paso and Alamogordo, are welcome to enroll at White Sands School. Parents and care custodians who do not currently work or live on the military installation can be granted an annual visitor pass. “People think that White Sands Missile Range is extremely far away from Las Cruces,” said Shawn Ticho, Child, Youth & School Services coordinator. “I live in Las Cruces and it takes me 32 minutes to get from my house to the office, which really is about the same amount of time it takes you to get anywhere in Las Cruces. You just can’t beat the opportunities that White Sands School and CYS Services has to offer.” Parents who are active duty, reserve, National Guard, DoD civilian and DoD contractor are eligible for CYS Services. If parents have any questions regarding eligibility and programs/services they can call CYS Services at 678-2441. Beyond education, students are able to participate in sports, dance, music and other extracurricular activities. White Sands School and White Sands Missile Range have a lot to offer students. “Fifty percent of our eighth graders are early high schoolers, which means they have completed high school credits already,” Bulger said. “We are setting students up for success … that is our main goal.” White Sands School is preparing for the 2015-16 school year. For more information about registering students, call 674-1241. CONQUISTADORE CORNER Everyone knows your name Some of you probably remember the television sitcom “Cheers.” The television show ran for many years set in a bar that was located in a basement and the same people would come to Cheers and everyone knew their name. It is a good feeling when you attend an event, wearing your blue jacket with your name and the name of your company, with lots of pins and people stop and speak to you or refer to you by your name. When my husband and I moved to Las Cruces, no one knew who we were, and now, because of being involved with the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce and Conquistadores, I go to the store, an event or anywhere, and people stop me and say, “Hi Mary, how are you?” It is a good feeling. Being a Conquistadore has not only helped me professionally, but I also have many good friends because of the group. We see each other at ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings, Business After Hours and events such as Dress a Child, Thanks Team WSMR and others. We give each other a hug, a handshake and even a wave. We help businesses succeed and thrive with all the resources that the Chamber offers. As a small business owner, I would encourage each business, large or small, to join the Chamber, have the owner or employee join the Chamber and get involved as a Conquistadore. The only criteria is they have to attend at least 50 percent of the events and are friendly. Just like in “Cheers,” once you enter the room, people will make you feel welcome. The Conquistadores are the MARY IADICICCO friendliest people I know. I wish to welcome our new Conquistadores, Stephanie Armitage from Bank of the Rio Grande, Advocare Independent Distributor Jenny Britton and Tiffany Archuleta from Advanced Care Hospital of Southern New Mexico. If it weren’t for the Conquistadores, I would never have met them. Call the Chamber and tell them you want to get involved as a Conquistadore. Mary Iadicicco Chair of Conquistadores 2015 Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 7 LCYP FIRST FRIDAY EVENT Las Cruces Young Professional of the Month D2 Designs D2 Designs is your local print shop and celebrates being open for four years in August. Owners Josh Jameson and Alycia Carrillo can be found from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at D2 Designs. Jameson, as general manger of D2 Designs, has his hands in all aspects of the business from book keeping and designing all the way to production. Carrillo is D2’s sales manager and main contact, following orders from quote to completion, making sure deadlines and expectations are met. They both work together daily to produce designs and products that allow their customers to maintain brand identity. Jameson has 15 years experience with graphic design, creating custom websites, building signs and printing T-shirts. He gained experience working at GSI Graphic Services and Digital Solutions while being a full-time student at New Mexico State University for graphic design and computer science. Carrillo gained eight years of marketing experience with Bravo Mic Communications. She found her passion working with new and established businesses advertising campaigns and planning special events. The pair partnered in love before business in 2009. On Nov. 9, 2010, Jameson’s birthday, the couple learned they were expecting and knew it was time to make something happen. On July 11, 2011, they welcomed their son, Jordan. Bravo Mic Communications’ need for Las Cruces Young Professionals members gathered for the First Friday event April 3 hosted by Amaro Winery. Members of the LCYP Committee award Braden Tidwell from the Las Cruces Sun-News as the Young Professional of the Month. The Wait For It Band was the music host for the night. Crystal Shaw and Johnny Ryan mingle at April’s LCYP First Friday hosted by Amaro Winery. a graphic designer and tenant to the east side of the building couldn’t have come at a better time. Jameson was asked to move into the office space that is now D2 Designs in August 2011 and began focusing on graphics, web and print, targeting clients who were in the market for radio and looking to grow their business. It was clear they wanted to open the market up to a wider audience, and in February 2012, there was a need for a second person to join Jameson with D2’s rapid growth. Carrillo was working as promotion director for Bravo Mic and asked to be transferred to the new position of sales manager down the hall. Jameson and Carrillo were given the opportunity by Bravo Mic Communications officers to grow in a new venture together. The first customers who walked into D2 Designs will remember a large open floor office. In May 2013, construction plans were made, and walls, counter tops, flooring and displays were put in place to set the standard of professionalism D2 offers and set itself apart from other “print shops.” D2’s main customer base is local businesses, the university, government, clubs, teams and organizations. Today, D2 Designs serves Las Cruces, and reaches out via the World Wide Web as “your local print shop,” offering services of graphic design, websites, custom apparel, promotional products, print products and signs. D2 has big plans for the future. For more information, call 541-0202, visit www.yourlocalprintshop.net, find it on Facebook or stop by the shop, 101 Perkins 2015 Life is Good in Las Cruces Community Guide coming soon! RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE NOW! CALL 575.524.8061 TODAY! 8 4 0 N . T E L S H O R B LV D . S U I T E E • 5 7 5 . 5 2 4 . 8 0 6 1 • W W W. L A S C R U C E S B U L L E T I N . C O M 8 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE Business Barometer May 2015 Trending in the wrong direction Government needs to set stage for economic growth By Troy Tudor There was a time here in Las Cruces when a lot of good things were happening. The community was prospering. Private sector investments in our community were steady. We were building affordable homes and with that came a lot of good paying construction jobs. There was a sense of pride as we participated in the growth of our community. People outside of the community began to take notice, too, as we were recognized nationally for our success. Time and again, we were high on the lists of the likes of Fortune and Money Magazine for being one of the best small towns to do business and grow a career. We also received several national accolades for being one of the best and most affordable places to retire. Those recognitions led to more growth and investments and new higher-wage jobs, including those at a new hospital. With this growth and success, there were some growing pains – something that should be expected. Naturally, we would want to work in such a way as to correct the issues common to any thriving community while at the same time nurturing the prosperity many had worked so hard for and had invested so heavily in to achieve. Safeguarding the benefits of that growth for our community, which included the prosperity, jobs and improved quality of life, should have been at the forefront of our elected official’s minds. Unfortunately, a new type of leadership emerged in our community who instead of righting the course of success when it was a bit off, determined they would redefine what success was for our community and steer us in a whole new direction. For years, now we have seen increased ordinances, inspections, permits, fees, restrictive codes, larger taxes and bureaucracy. They execute their initiatives with little focus groups of like-minded believers instead of what is best for the community as a whole. Fast forward to today – where has this direction taken us in regards to the prosperity of the community and the future possibilities for our children and grandchildren? If your idea of prosperity is the highest taxes ever, questionable dialogues on the use of those taxes, walkability and bike paths and the city and county government telling you what you can and cannot do with your property, both today and for generations to come, then we are doing great. How do those outside our community view us today? Not so well, I am afraid, and with good reason. Las Cruces was at No. 2 in the nation as a best-performing small city, Forbes/ Milken Institute – Best Small Metro Area for Business & Careers in 2004. Today we are at 55, last year we were 82. Where will we be next year when the new gross receipts tax and increased minimum wage are factored in? We received many notices nationally for being a great retirement town, but with these latest turns locally causing a higher cost of living we are bound to see a change in that perspective. Kiplinger, a Washington, D.C.-based publisher of business forecasts and personal finance, advice has put New Mexico on the list as one of the worst states to retire in the U.S. Our local actions are contributing to that designation. How do we view our community today in the area of prosperity and the future? If you are just retired here, then it is a pretty good perspective. If you are raising a family, building a career or business, then things are not so great. The mindset for many of our best and brightest young people is to leave right out of the gate. Those who are trying to put down roots and grow here are becoming discouraged due to the lack of promise and opportunities. We are certainly not attracting young professionals who will help build the future of our community. Many who had success here, in the past, are discouraged to the point of pulling up stakes and going to where the opportunity to succeed is more of a reality We need to consider our direction and right the course before we undo everything that made our community a great place to live not so long ago. We still have a wealth of hardworking, dedicated folks who, if given the chance, will succeed and bring with them prosperity for this community. Recently, I heard a city councillor say the city has a new, three-year strategic plan that focuses on economic growth and development at a public address. I hope they understand it is the people of this community who build the economic base, not the government. The government should merely set the stage for such growth and allow the private sector to go from there. Everyone knows that bad news travels fast. We need leadership that will not signal to those who would invest in our community they are not welcome. If you are a pro-business person who would like to see this community prosper, we want to help you regardless of your party affiliation by offering a candidates training opportunity Saturday, May 9. Please join us in our efforts to make that a reality. You can find more information on our website, www.lascruces.org. L5*647(::PUN 0UZ\YHUJLHUK-PUHUJPHS:LY]PJLZ A gauge of Las Cruces’ economic indicators published by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce. Gross Receipts Tax August 2014 2013 % Change Total YTD 73,460,637 74,693,967 -1.7% Source: City of Las Cruces Building Permits Total YTD March 2015 March 2014 % Change # of Permits 381 545 -43.0% Valuation $22,801,759 $26,522,092 -16.3% Source: City of Las Cruces Labor Market Statistics February 2015 2014 % Change Civilian Labor Force 93,956 92,187 1.9% Total Employment 87,163 85,616 1.8% Total Unemployment 6,793 6,571 3.3% Unemployment Rate 7.2% 7.1% 1.4% Source: New Mexico Work Force Connection Market Statistics – Home Sales All Residential February Average Sales Price Average Days on Market Total Listed Total Sold 2015 $158,972 125 261 136 2014 $174,099 113 244 134 Source: Las Cruces Association of Realtors 10,844 People interacted with the Chamber’s website 45 People inquired about relocation 4HSS+Y:[L+ 3HZ*Y\JLZ54 ^^^UJVTWHZZNYV\WJVT @V\YZV\YJLMVY/LHS[O0UZ\YHUJL 05+,7,5+,5;)962,9: 4LKPJHS+LU[HS=PZPVU .YV\W=VS\U[HY` 4LKPJHYL:\WWSLTLU[Z THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 9 /HDGHUVKLSOHDUQVDERXWÁH[LELOLW\ Economic Development Day takes group around southern New Mexico Economic development is about making plans – and then adjusting those plans – no matter how well-laid – when the landscape shifts. That was the prevailing message members of the 2015 Leadership Las Cruces cohort heard Friday, April 17, during a daylong series of talks and tours focused on economic development and small business in the region. Downtown Las Cruces Partnership’s Arianna Parsons shared plans to create a public gathering space between the city’s historic Mesquite and Alameda districts. She envisions an “outdoor room” with an amphitheater, shade trees and a mix of retail and residential space. The plan involves increasing public access by converting Water Street to a two-way street. Parsons said groundbreaking could happen as soon as July. Joann Garay of the Small Business Development Center at Doña Ana Community College highlighted the free and confidential services her bilingual staff offer to help businesses in Doña Ana and Sierra counties start up or expand: using market data to identify your customers, competitors, ideal locations and marketing strategies. The cohort then traveled to neighboring Sierra County to check the progress at Dam Site and Spaceport America. Dam Site’s new owner, Neil Brown, said the biggest threat to his business isn’t low water levels – after all, most every slip at the nearby marina has a boat in it – but media accounts he believes exaggerate the low levels. Dam Site plans to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Elephant Butte Dam’s construction next year; the date and festivities are yet to be decided. Longer-term plans are to continue restoring the property’s historic lodging. At the Spaceport America, things are quiet inside the combination welcome center/firehouse. Tour guide Gary Ramshaw said the spaceport’s tenant, Virgin Galactic, suffered a major setback last year when one of its spacecraft crashed in California. The company, however, is still signing up the likes of John Travolta and Lady Gaga for the $250,000 experience of suborbital launch. Ramshaw said once those flights begin, such customers will impact the local economy in the days they – and their entourages – spend in the area before and after launch. Leadership Las Cruces thanks the day’s speakers, as well as top sponsors El Paso Electric and St. Clair Winery. The cohort’s upcoming tours focus on the region’s agricultural, educational, governmental, health care and military The Leadership Las Cruces Class visited the Elephant Butte Dam Site Restaurant during April’s trip. Class tours Spaceport America. sectors. The program also incorporates monthly trainings by DACC’s Customized Training Program, such as the marketing presentation Marina Atma delivered. For more information, visit www. lascruces.org/leadership_las_cruces.php. 1HZ0H[LFR/HJLVODWLYH8SGDWH%UHDNIDVW Legislators recap the 60-day session Early in the morning of Friday, April 17, New Mexico Senate President Pro Tempore Mary Kay Papen and Sen. John Arthur Smith addressed the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce’s first-ever New Mexico Legislative Update Breakfast. About 100 business and community leaders turned out to hear a brief recap of the 60-day legislative session. This new event was designed to bring full circle the initiatives put forth as part of Las Cruces Day in Santa Fe in January. Smith, chair of the Legislative Finance Committee, spoke of the responsibility of legislature to balance the budget, which was accomplished. However, the $264 million capital outlay did not see the light of day. Papen commented on the tough session, the need to complete the southern road to Spaceport America and the possibility of a special session being called. The Chamber will be a part of the interim committees to be held this summer and fall in order to keep the items that were not moved through this year’s legislative session fresh on the minds of our elected officials. High-quality, Reliable, Award-Winning Products Local Service and Support for all Office Environments s Copiers sPrinters sFax Machines sNetworking IT sPrint Management Services sDocument Management Solutions 10 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE 2840 N. Telshor 575-524-4384 ptsofficesystems.com Students learn how to repel at April’s military trip. Repelling instructors, civilians and White Sands Missile Range personnel welcomed the Junior Leadership class during Military Day April 15. Jr. Leadership visits WSMR Rappeling, just one of the Military Day activities Wednesday, April 15, about 25 members of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Junior Leadership class flung themselves off a 40-foot tower. No, they weren’t concerned about it being tax deadline day and, yes, they were attached to ropes. Learning to rappel was the morning activity of the group’s visit to White Sands Missile Range to learn more about the military’s role and impact on the Las Cruces community. Rappeling instructors/gurus Ed Taitano and Ed Stahl showed class members how to tie ropes around them to create a “seat,” how to prepare and how to descend the wall safely. A few of the more daring student opted to take their second rappel face first. Following lunch at WSMR’s Frontier Club, Executive Director Paul Mann addressed the group. Mann discussed the importance of leadership and passion and answered questions, including what was the coolest thing he’s ever seen at the range? His response was to describe a recent day when a massive B2 bomber flew over the range and dropped some ordnance. Next, the group heard a presentation and saw a video from the WSMR public affairs staff explaining the wide variety of testing, evaluation and activities happening at the Range. They learned the range encompasses more than 3,200 square miles of New Mexico land space, and a near-infinite amount of airspace, as the air above the range is prohibited by the FAA from commercial air travel. This enables the many air missile tests that happen throughout the range. They learned there is an actual Navy facility on the range, the USS Desert Ship, which has capabilities that simulate naval conditions. They learned about the oryx – the African desert animals that occupy much of the range. Upon their return to Las Cruces, one group of students presented a multi-media performance from the book “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens,” which the class has been studying all year. THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 11 Grant to help Armijo House rehabilitation MVP awarded for dedication to project to preserve 150-year-old dwelling Mesilla Valley Preservation Inc. (MVP) has been awarded the 2015 Historic Preservation Grant from the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division (NMHPD), funded by the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund, for the rehabilitation of Nestor Armijo House. The grant is for $43,000. Working together with the Las Cruces Heritage Foundation, which owns the property, MVP has been involved with the rehabilitation and preservation of the house since the beginning of the project. The generous grant from NMHPD will help achieve two important goals of the rehabilitation: restoring the character-defining exterior woodwork and updating the nomination of the house to the National Register of Historic Places with the latest research. The woodwork on the Nestor Armijo House contributes a significant part of its character. The grand porches and other woodwork are largely original to the 150-year-old house. Much of the woodwork has weathered and deteriorated and needs significant work to be brought back to its former glory. The matching grant will help pay for this work, including: • Making all of the windows and weather tight and operable, and repairing and replacing original trim • Repairing and rehabilitating the south porch • Repairing and rehabilitating the grand two-story north porch The grant will also pay to repair and rehabilitate an original Armijo House window that MVP salvaged and will donate back to the project. The restored window will be placed exactly at its original location in the south façade, replacing a bank teller window that was added when a bank owned the building. It is extremely rare to be able to bring back this kind of integrity to a historic building once it is gone. The Nestor Armijo house was nominated to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. Research conducted by MVP in conjunction with the Architectural Resources Group has shed new light on the early origins of the house. The NMHPD grant will help pay for an update to the nomination to the National Register. This update will include the latest research on the likely builder of the house in 1866, Mesilla Valley pioneer John D. Barncastle. The update will also research ties with the likely carpenter, Benjamin Franklin Harrover. Both Barncastle and Harrover were Union veterans who came to the Mesilla Valley with the famed California Column during the Civil War. The woodwork is a tribute to Harrover’s skills. “We are very grateful to the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division and the National Park Service for seeing the value in the Mesilla Valley Preservation Inc. has received a $43,000 grant that will be used to fund the Armijo House rehabilitation project. Mesilla Valley Preservation Inc. board members Sonya Cooper, Gregg Henry and Eric Liefeld work with former Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce President Richard Haas to erect structural shoring to the Nestor Armijo House in 2012. Xxxxxxx Nestor Armijo house project as it becomes the new home of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce,” aaid Eric Liefeld, president of MVP. “We are honored to be helping to bring back some of the original glory to this important piece of Las Cruces history, while clarifying its unique story for the record books.” MVP is dedicated to preserving the architectural legacy of the Mesilla Valley in southern New Mexico, and “Preserving the future of our past.” HAVING TROUBLE PAYING YOUR PROPERTY TAXES THIS YEAR? WELL, ONE SOURCE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION CAN HELP! One Source FCU Property Tax Loans are back by popular demand! Rates as low as 5.25% APR* Maximum loan amount- $2,500.00 Loan Term- 18 months Visit us TODAY at 1375 E, Boutz! What are you waiting for? Stop in and see us TODAY! For Life’s Choices, One Source Federal Credit Union! Call TODAY 523-5524 or visit us on the web at www.onesourcefcu.coop *APR is annual percentage rate. Certain restrictions apply. Offer good on approved credit only. Rates and terms subject to change at any time without notice. See credit union for details. 12 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 13 RENEWING AND NEW MEMBERS Renewing Allstate Insurance Company - Mary Iadicicco Insurance Agency LLC Mary Iadicicco Alzheimer’s Association Maia Sideris-Dorame American Document Services Rick Jackson Angel Care of New Mexico Inc. Angela Ledesma Applebee’s Grill & Bar Hickory Loop Hal Scoggins Applebee’s Grill & Bar Lohman Steve Flores Ashley Furniture HomeStore Wanda Bowman Bank of the West Brenda Allred Billy the Kid Charlie & Diane Rogers Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Cruces Ashley Echavarria Builders Source Inc. Dan Salas Caliber Collision Lindsey Cadden Comcast Cable John Christopher KVIA - TV 7 Michael Sepulveda Corner Bakery Cafe Anna Marquez Mesilla Valley Dental Care Marianne Day, DDS, PA Cowboys For Cancer Research Inc. Denny and Geraldine Calhoun Crown Building Maintenance Inc. Shawn McGuire EnrichTheKids Inc. Angelique Montes Family Eye Care Rodger V. Lewis Farley’s Food, Fun & Pub Amber Lundquist Fox Auto Group Steve Fox Gary Sandler Inc. Realtors Gary Sandler Hester Agency of Las Cruces Kayla Jones Holguin Insurance Agency Inc. Ray Holguin Hoop-T-Dudes Custom Embroidery Mark McKinney Hub International of Texas Marco Bencomo Roberto’s Mexican Food Robert Estrada Mesilla Valley Habitat for Humanity Maria Vasquez Mesilla Valley Hospice Jean Briley Motel 6 - La Posada Ln Pearl Olsen North Main Family Health Center, PC Julie DeBry Planet Development Design/Build Gary Rogers Principal Financial Melodee Smith Property Consultants LLC Terriane Everhart Village Inn Pancake House - El Paseo Gabe Martinez Sierra Irrigation Inc. John O’Byrne Vista College Lorena Castillo Siesta RV Park Rick Hoover Your Host...New Mexico Joanne Bess Small Business Development Center Jo Ann Garay Stull Real Estate LLC Karen Stull Studio Blue Graphics Haley Griffin 937-0966 Toucan Market Richard Cole Roadrunner Food Bank Amanda Cuba TownePlace Suites By Marriott - Las Cruces Ana Berrun Javita Coffee Gloria Tarazon 636-0182 Staples Randall Peterson 526-4871 Rawson Building Supply Ben Rawson 524-3568 Café A Go Go Katherine Velasco 522-0383 El Caldito Soup Kitchen Donna Wood 525-3831 C & V Enterprise - Critt Coburn Sr. Vicki Coburn 644-4648 Party Tenders Justin Hodges 530-415-7959 The Pit Stop 292 Cafe David Hoff 527-1993 Sonoma Palms Apartments Judy Pope 382-5611 Lohman Atrium Suites Phil Straley 524-6800 Allaboards Marketing LLC Bobby Torres 265-0575 NM Shrimp Co. Tracey Carrillo 639-5110 Budagher Generator Inc. Katie Budagher 635-6748 Ruby Tuesday Johnnie Giovengo 521-4100 The new Audibel A2 Tinnitus device is designed to deliver the relief you need from the ringing in your ears. A Tinnitus 2 HEAR ON EARTH Come in for your FREE Hearing Screening Today As you get comfortable wearing your hearing aids, you may find that some situations sound better than others. Just schedule an appointment with your Hear on Earth specialist and they will adjust your settings to make ALL situations sound as good as possible. Free cleanings are also included with your hearing aid purchase. Regular cleanings keep your hearing aid working correctly as well as prolong the life of the aid. FINANCING AVAILABLE • MEDICARE • MEDICAID • ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED Southern New Mexico State Fair & Rodeo Erica Trevino 524-8602 Knights Mobile Repair Jose Ortega 505-980-7797 The Ridge at Organ Vista Sherry Tegmeyer Rio Grande Contract Furnishing David Horsley David Hill Financial Melissa Torres 647-5858 Steinborn & Associates Real Estate - Jennifer Goude Jennifer Goude At Hear on Earth our clients are our friends. Personal service continues far past the sale of the hearing aids. When your custom built hearing aids arrive, your specialist will sit down with you and teach you how to use the instruments. 14 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE New Steinborn & Associates Real Estate - Grady Oxford Grady Oxford Sunspot Solar Energy Systems LLC Janet Honek Red Wing Shoes of Las Cruces Will McIntosh experience relief Servpro of Las Cruces Carol Reynolds Smith Engineering Co. Bill McFarland NRC Business Services Natalie Chadborn RINGING IN YOUR EARS? Varay Systems Patrick Holland Ray Bamberg, BC-HIS Call us now for your FREE Hearing Evaluation 920 N. Telshor • Las Cruces, NM 88011 Mon.- Fri. 9am-5pm (575) 526-EARS (3277) • 800-950-8816 www.hearonearthnm.com 2013© Top rating for City’s fire suppression services Las Cruces has obtained a Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office Inc. (ISO), making it the first in New Mexico and one of only 97 communities nationwide, to achieve the top ranking. The rating is based on a scale of 1 to 10 with 1 being the highest. The rating should result in lower insurance premiums for residential and commercial policyholders. ISO provides reliable, up-to-date information about a community’s fire-protection services to help establish appropriate fire insurance premiums for residential and commercial properties. ISO provides that information through the Public Protection Classification (PPC) program. This most recent PPC classification improves on Las Cruces’ previous PPC of 2/9 obtained in March 2013. “Obtaining a Class 1 ISO rating is of extreme significance for Las Cruces. It demonstrates the City’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety of our residents and the protection of residential and commercial properties. I commend the Fire Department for their hard work and dedication to make our community one of the safest in the nation while helping reduce insurance costs,” said Mayor Ken Miyagishima. According to the ISO website: By classifying communities’ ability to suppress fires, ISO helps the communities evaluate their public, fire protection services. The program provides an objective, countrywide standard that helps fire departments in planning and budgeting for facilities, equipment and training. And by securing lower fire insurance premiums for communities with better public protection, the PPC program provides incentives and rewards for communities that choose to improve their firefighting services. The new rating takes effect on July 1. The Las Cruces Fire Department (LCFD) will notify local insurance companies by mail, advising them of this change. A copy of the letter will soon be available on the LCDF website, www. clcfd.com. LCFD encourages residents and business owners to contact their insurance agents to determine how the improved ISO classification may affect insurance premiums. City launches Business Assistance Program The City of Las Cruces Economic Development Office has launched a Business Assistance Program designed to assist current and emerging businesses in expanding their product or service offerings. The program also will assist businesses outside the region to relocate or establish local branches. “We can help identify markets and competitors, and provide data that will help businesses make informed decisions to develop core strategies,” said Gary Camarano, economic development coordinator for the city. A key tool offered by the department is Business Analyst Online (BAO) by Esri, a California-based Geographic Information System company. BAO provides demographic and business data and generates reports and maps that provide a profile of the Las Cruces area and its markets to assess the suitability of Las Cruces for relocation or expansion. For more information or business assistance needs, contact Cruz Ramos, economic development specialist, at 642-0454 or [email protected]. Global company acquires ‘N Compass of Las Cruces The global insurance brokerage Hub International Limited, has acquired the assets of Las Cruces-based N. Compass Group Inc. (‘N Compass). The firm will become part of Hub International New Mexico, which is based in Albuquerque. ‘N Compass provides employee benefits insurance and consulting services to the Las Cruces and El Paso areas, and will further broaden Hub’s employee benefits footprint in each state, the company announcement stated. ‘N Compass has provided benefits solution to companies and municipalities since it was founded in 2000. ‘N Compass, led by Gilda Dorbandt, will relocate to Hub’s existing Las Cruces offices. Dorbandt will join as senior vice president of employee benefits. Hub International is committed to growth through organic efforts and acquisitions. It continues its aggressive pace of identifying and acquiring entrepreneurial brokers who are dedicated and focused on providing local market specialization, while at the same time looking to leverage the resources and tools of a global brokerage. Headquartered in Chicago, Hub International Limited is a global insurance brokerage that provides property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services through offices located in North America. For more information, visit www.hubinternational.com. City starts directory for film producers The City of Las Cruces Film Office is asking film industry professionals to submit résumés for inclusion in a comprehensive Film Crew Directory that will be made available to the film production industry. The directory will establish a repository of local, skilled professionals in a variety of work roles associated with film that production companies can draw from. “Establishing a searchable online directory of local film professionals through the film office webpage is a long overdue service,” said Gary Camarano, economic development coordinator for the city. “Once established, it will help attract film activity and assist production companies to identify and contact local talent. In turn, local talent will also benefit.” Those interested in submitting should include a cover letter with a résumé that provides information on skills and professional affiliations. Also, note at least one paid, professional credit for each crew category cited. Film industry standards require that a prospective crew member have professional credits in order to be considered for film production work. The directory is for crew only and not for résumés from actors or extras at this time. Those interested in registering as a film crew member are encouraged to also register with the New Mexico Film Office at https://nm.reel-scout.com/ crew_login.aspx. Résumés will be made available through a link to be posted on the city’s film webpage. For more information, call 642-0454. Dentistry for the entire family Dr. Mathew Petersen, Dr. Orrin Mackey & Dr. Taylor Ross Convenient hours from 7am–7pm Call today! 575.405.5097 L aCruces sCru c e s D e n t a l S o l u t i o n s1 .1/26/15 c o m12:18 PM Las Bulletin__3.3x2.275_2.13.15_v2_Layout Lifelong Learning and Literacy @ BRANIGAN LIBRARY HOURS Mon – Thu 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. ENRICHING MINDS Jackie Mitchell Edwards, CIMA®, CRPC® Independent Branch Leader COMMUNITY SUCCESSFUL PATHWAYS TO PARTNERSHIPS POSSIBILITIES VALUES We can save you up to 25% Page 1 For protection you need, INSTANTLY to your phone TEXT 575allstate TO 63975 Call me for the protection you need and the service you want! Jodi-Rae Moore 1065 S. Main Suite C • Las Cruces, NM Closed Sundays in Summer (June - August) (575) 524-0570 [email protected] ALL STARTS WITH A VISIT TO THE LIBRARY! 200 E. Picacho Ave. • 575-528-4000 Ask me about DRIVEWISE! on your car insurance. Fri – Sat 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. IT Moore Insurance Services 575-528-4005 Reference • library.las-cruces.org ©2015 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. (0215-0882) THE BOTTOM LINE • May 2015 • 15 client: Charles Schwab SPECIFICATIONS: CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHEDULE MAY 2015 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 7:30 a.m. Military Affairs Committee 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. LCYP First Friday, Dublin Street Pub 1 4 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Government Affairs Classic Golf, Red Committee Hawk Golf Course 4 p.m. Conquistadore Executive Committee 3 4 Noon Member Advisory Committee 10 5 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Junior Leadership Graduation, Double Eagle 6 11 a.m. Events Committee 9 a.m. Las Cruces Young Professionals Committee 11 12 1 p.m. 8:30 to 9 a.m. Economic Forum, LCYP Caffeinated NMSU Milton Hall Conversations 13 7:30 a.m. Education Committee 4 p.m. Health Care Task Force 17 18 Memorial Day – Office is closed 24 25 19 20 4 p.m. Board of Directors 26 7 14 11:30 a.m. Special Topic Luncheon – “Navigating the Health Care Exchange for Reimbursement, Las Cruces Convention Center 21 2 10 a.m. Candidate Training, Holiday Inn Express North 8 All day Leadership Las Cruces Health Day 15 16 22 23 29 30 5:30 p.m. Business After Hours, Picacho Hills Country Club 27 28 www.lascruces.org 31 COMMITTEE MEETINGS 16 • May 2015 • THE BOTTOM LINE 9 For more information on these businesses, please visit the chamber website and click on the directory. CHAMBER EVENTS