As summer temperatures heat up and winter visitors head north while residents hunker down in front of their air conditioners, local businesses struggle to keep their books in the black.

It’s a challenge each one approaches differently but they all have one thing in common – appreciation for the support they get from the community.

Lisa Rammelt, manager of the family-owned Fretworks! Music Center, says she has an easy plan. She maintains the store’s regular hours six days a week so it’s open the same schedule winter and summer. But she does cut back on staff hours somewhat and she carries less inventory in the summer

Rammelt does have a corner on the music business as other local music stores had closed or were closing about the time Fretworks opened its doors in the summer of 2012 – “My brother saw it as an opportunity,” Rammelt says of the timing. “If someone needs a clarinet reed on a Thursday night or a guitar string on a Saturday afternoon, I’m it.” The store is also the place to go for an instrument whether you're a new band student or seasoned musician. And it offers music lessons year round. Current students range from 4 to 86 as they learn to play the drums, piano or perhaps the mandolin.

“We do get a good uptick from

the snowbirds,” Rammelt said. But summer is OK, too, thanks to local support.

Rammelt also is a big believer in chamber membership and the exposure it gives her business. As the mistress of ceremonies for “Good Morning Yuma!” she’s well aware of the value of being able to introduce herself and her business to a room full of people every month.

Dream Gift Shop, tucked next to the Garden Café in downtown Yuma, gets through the summer in significant part due to its online business, said owner Joely Beck. She noted that in the winter, her business is about 80 percent storefront sales and 20 percent online sales. That balance shifts to about 50-50 in the summer, a sign of the decline in storefront sales.

Her biggest challenge, she said, is trying to increase awareness of her business and the services she can provide. For example, shoppers can come in, select a gift in person, fill out a gift card and the store will ship it for them. “It’s a lot more personal than Amazon or the other online sites,” she said.

She copes with the slower summer months by closing Sundays and Mondays and reduces store hours. She also sees it as an opportunity to work from home more so she can spend time

with her children. And she uses the time to assess her business, perhaps discontinuing one line of goods and adding a fabulous new line of ladies’ jeans to her inventory. As a result, her business has evolved over the six years she’s been open in Yuma. She still has a large selection of baby items but has added a wide range of gifts and other products for everyone, such as high-end kitchen items and those fabulous jeans.

‘I’m super frugal,” Beck said, “but I absolutely love quality. I rolled that into my business model.”

Southwest Lumber has the advantage of being under the umbrella of the Jacobson Companies with its various subsidiaries, including Jacobson Engineering, Yuma Valley Contractors and Jacobson Homes. “So we have a captive audience,” said store general manager Gannon Sullivan.

But the store does well with the general public as well, especially with its location off Avenue B in the Yuma Valley. “I’ve been here 23 years and we’ve never had to close doors in the

Shop Locally This SummerMay 2018 Volume 4 – Issue 5

See SHOP LOCALLY continued on page 11

CONGRATULATIONS!New Members pg4

Ribbon Cuttings pg6

Yuma Visitor’s Bureau May Calendar pg15

BY JOYCE LOBECKMember of the Month, Yuma Office Equipment

pg3

pg10

Even my doctor (a wonderful Chamber member) did not know that my job is a full time position! It's OK, as it's probably our fault for

not letting the members, and their associate employees know what we do all day. My very white legs will prove that I am certainly not on the golf course! For those that cannot make our award win-ning events, (Yuma County

Chamber of Commerce events was named Yuma's Best Networking Op-portunities) I invite you to read the Committee updates so you all know what we are advocating for.

In the last month, I was a keynote speaker for the "Startup Weekend" at NAU-Yuma, and a panelist for the Yuma recap of the Arizona Town Hall on Funding Pre-K Education. I attended two different hearings on Arizona's water issues, one in Casa Grande (attended by about 90

people) and the one here in Yuma (attended by over 400 people). I'm on the Board of Yuma50, an orga-nization that supports those that support our freedoms, and attended that board meeting to try and figure out a way to get our young Marines, without transportation, off the base to experience and embrace Yuma. Yuma50 also had a conference to discuss Yuma's Military assets with Federal staffers and leaders which was a success. I attended the Regional Economic Summit and learned a lot more about regional-ized efforts to bring businesses here, and the smart people we have locally doing just that.

I am on a citizen's committee to review and give recommendations on the City's Impact Fees. Impact Fees are charged by the City of Yuma for builders to pay (up front) for infrastructure, Police and Fire Stations, etc. The prevailing wis-dom is that growth should pay for growth. The current fee for a new, single family home is $2,572. Ac-cording to Arizona statute, it could be as much as $4,356. The current fee for commercial / retail construc-tion is $1.92 per square foot, and

could be as high as $4.22. Nothing has been decided, but I feel that vol-ume can pay for growth, as we are experiencing a nice steady increase in both residential and commercial construction. Our position is that these fees do not have to be raised.

The Executive Committee of the Yuma County Chamber of Com-merce sits down at least once a quarter with City and County lead-ership to continue with our initiative of communicating , cooperating and collaborating, so you are all are represented. I sit in on weekly conference calls with my fellow Arizona Chamber Executives' board members for our Legislative Ac-tion Updates. I attend City Council and Board of Supervisor's meetings when the agenda calls for me to be there for you, as well as attend plan-ning and zoning meetings so that I can testify on behalf of business for less oversight and fewer regulations. I just got elected to the Arizona@Work Workforce Development Council to enhance the relationship between business and policy.

I have downloaded the City's budget, and I am busy looking for ways to collaborate with the City on expense items and planned spend-ing. I am also on a citizen's revenue committee trying to look at fees, rate structures, the tax base, and more. We truly are looking for ways to fi-nance all the things we want for our fair City. We ALL want our com-munity to be a great place to live, work, play, raise a family, and run a profitable business. . . the reality is: those things cost money!

I work for you. If there's any-thing I'm missing, or if there's something you need me to know to do my job better, please call my cell at (928)920-7390 or e-mail me at john@yumachamber.org. I am honored and privileged to represent each and every one of you.

Staying Vigilant For You

Mission Statement:“To Represent Our Membership By

Advocating A Healthy Economic Climate Through The Effective Use Of Our Unique

Regional Resources To Enhance The Quality Of Life In The Greater Yuma Area.”

Tania Pavlak, Events & Outreach Coordinator

MAY 2018 Volume 4 – Issue 5

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

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

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

Yuma, AZ 85364

Sheryl Hehe, Administrative Assistant

By John Courtis, Executive

Director, Yuma County Chamber

of Commerce

THANK YOU TO THESE MEMBERS WHO RENEWED THEIR MEMBERSHIPSAlside Window CompanyBob SpauldingCamelot ApartmentsCountry Club Mobile Home

Park & RV ResortCrites & Associates RealtorsEdward Jones InvestmentsFoothills Mattress & FurnitureHarry WM Longbottom,

Attorney At LawKissito / Palmview Rehabilitation

Mcdonald'sMr. B's Bicycles & FitnessNaked Dates, LLCQuality Rehabilitation NetworkService Master All Phase

RestorationSVN Velocity Commercial Real EstateTalecris Plasma ResourcesThe Freedom Library, IncYuma Investment Group

Wealth Management

MEMBER RENEWALS

2 YUMABIZ May 2018

When you choose to do business with Yuma Office Equipment, you get much more than top quality copiers, faxes and digital imaging products, you get FAST AND DEPENDABLE SERVICE! They are proudly locally owned and operated, with over 70 years of experience. They boast a 3-hour turnaround time on service calls. For all your connectivity needs, contact them today at (928) 343-2298.

The company was originally known as Crossland Office Equipment, founded by Lawrence Crossland in El Centro, California in 1934. Crossland commuted to Yuma in those early days selling and servicing typewriters. In 1959 Yuma Office Equipment officially opened in Yuma, Arizona, offering typewriter and adding machine service and sales along with furniture and office supplies. During that same time, the duplicating market or copier market, was conquered by

YOE. Dan Bombard, a long-time employee of Yuma Office Equipment, became the owner in 2013.

They are located at 340 S. Main Street, with full IT support of servers, workstations, and networking. Yuma Office Equipment is an authorized dealer with Toshiba, Lanier, Sharp, Samsung, and Oki. The business has received many awards, including Ricoh Master's Club "Outstanding Sales Award", Sharp's "Outstanding Sales Award", IBM "Dealer of the Month" 7 times, and IBM "Dealer of the Quarter”, among others.

Yuma Office Equipment is a proud supporter of Yuma and the many organizations we have including Visit Yuma, Fort Yuma Rotary, Optimist of Yuma, and your Yuma County Chamber of Commerce. Make sure to check out their newsletter Technology Times which is a regular insert in the YumaBIZ.

Congratulations to our May Member of the Month:

Yuma Office Equipment

May Calendar of Events

FOR info, CALL THE CHAMBER AT (928) 782-2567

10 - Good Morning, Yuma! 6:30 am Pivot Point Conference Center - Hilton Garden Inn Sponsored by YUMA INVESTMENT GROUP Program: The S. June Pallack Excellence in Education Awards Presentaion Cost: $25 Members $15

15 - Board Of Directors, Conference Room 3:00 pm

23 - Ambassadors - T B A 11:30 am

23 - Monthly Mixer - 5:30 pm Yuma Southwest Contractors Association 350 W. 16th St. #430 It's client appreciation day, so there will be no charge

23 - Military Affairs - American Legion 19 8:00 am

28 - Memorial day - OFFICE CLOSED

Transportation - DARK THIS MONTH

Yuma Office Equipment(928) 343-2298

340 S. Main Street, Yuma, AZ 85364www.yumaofficeequipment.com

MEMBER OF THE MONTH

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 3

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS

Connecting Partners

Creating Opportunitywww.yumachamber.org

CONG

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LATI

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4 YUMABIZ May 2018

Federally Insured by NCUA

1942AEA is run out of a shoebox at Yuma High School.

CELEBRATING 76 YEARS OF AEA everyday!IN THE SPRING OF 1942, seven community members founded AEA Federal Credit Union, a financial cooperative built around the philosophy of people helping people. Our founders believed that we can do great things when we work together. Financial services have changed a lot over the past 76 years, but our commitment to the communities we serve has remained the same. It is what we call AEA Everyday!

aeafcu.org | 928.783.8881

1960The Credit Union moves in to the home of the first paid employee.

1980Computers bring new services like ATMs and money orders.

1997The Credit Union is granted a community charter.

2018AEA thanks you for giving us the opportunity to serve you for 76 years!

Know Your Nonprofit: Helping HandsFrom its humble beginnings

of one woman’s dream to see her elderly neighbors receive the help they needed, to the organization that exists today, Helping Hands of Yuma has always been driven with the mission to empower our underserved elderly in the Yuma community. Seniors want to live in their own homes and be able to make choices for themselves, which is crucial to their quality

of life. At those times when they are no longer able maintain that independence, Helping Hands is able to step in and provide criti-cal services.

Through generous donations and partnerships with various Yuma agencies and organiza-tions, Helping Hands is able to provide these services free of charge. Services include trans-portation to vital appointments,

activities, social enrichment events, resource assistance and advocacy. Helping Hands accom-plishes this important mission with their dedicated and faithful volunteers.

So what is on the horizon for Helping Hands? Future plans in-clude opening a Thrift Boutique and to one day build a Senior Ac-tivity Center. Their motto is “We have hands to help and hearts to

serve” and we all hope the Yuma community will join in to help them accomplish that mission.

If you would like to know more about Helping Hands of Yuma, become a volunteer and/or give a financial or tangible donation, please contact them 928-305-9974 or visit the website: helpingyuma.org.

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 5

RIBBON CUTTINGSMany times throughout the year,

the Business Services Department receives numerous calls asking ques-tions about the services that are

provided by ARIZONA@WORK to the employers. The Business Services Department is responsible for providing out-reach to business of Yuma County

and assisting with job development activities, which include contacting businesses for the purpose of iden-tifying employment needs, provid-ing information on local businesses assistance programs, and conducting on-going labor market research that

Frequently Asked Questions | Employer Services

On Tuesday, April 17, 2018 RL Jones Insurance Services had a Ribbon Cutting Celebration for their location on 2180 S. 4th Ave suite D. Owner/broker, Shelley Jones Mellon is excited to announce they are now an Authorized Third Party Provider for the Arizona MVD. They also provide Auto, Home, Business, Mobile Home, Motorcycles, Bonds & Mexico Auto Insurance all in one spot.

On Wednesday, April 4, 2018, McDonald’s on S. 2560 4th Ave. celebrated a grand opening of their newly remodeled location on 2560 S. 4th Ave. They held a VIP social for the Chamber of Commerce and an Open House for customers! They introduced their new Kiosks, table service, had a spin-a-wheel for prizes, and even held week-long daily specials! The new local owner, Jose Leon, and Director of Operations, Emmanuel Leon, are overseeing the revamping of all Yuma Mc Donald’s they operate. This is their 3rd location in Yuma County they have remodeled, and there are more to follow.

6 YUMABIZ May 2018

Many times throughout the year, the Business Services Department receives numerous calls asking ques-tions about the services that are

provided by ARIZONA@WORK to the employers. The Business Services Department is responsible for providing out-reach to business of Yuma County

and assisting with job development activities, which include contacting businesses for the purpose of iden-tifying employment needs, provid-ing information on local businesses assistance programs, and conducting on-going labor market research that

complements efforts of both the Lo-cal Workforce Development Board (LWDB) and the local economic de-velopment organizations. The primary purpose of the Business Service Team is to coordinate strategic business development services and workforce activities in order to target limited resources to areas where they can have the greatest economic impact. Below is a list of commonly asked questions that may be helpful.

What is available to employers that would like to use Business Services?

We offer a wide variety of consult-ing and business services that are use-ful to anyone currently doing business in Yuma County, or planning to do business in Southwest Arizona.

I am interested in more information

regarding your Job Fairs. What are the requirements?

We have facilities available for offsite recruitments. Several job fairs are held throughout the year by ARI-ZONA@WORK and our partnering agencies. The only requirement to use our facilities at no charge is for your business to be registered with us and to have current job posting(s) listed. The registration process requires a valid Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).

Is there a charge for using ARIZO-NA@WORK Business Services?

Our basic services are free of charge. Other customized or brokered services can be arranged for a negoti-ated fee. Just give us a call and let us know your business recruiting needs.

Do you take job postings from out-of-state employers?

Yes, we will take job postings from out-of-state employers. Out of state employers must be approved by the ARIZONA@WORK, Employment Services. They will: inquire about the employer’s standing:1. Verify the employer’s Federal

Employer Identification Number (FEIN).

2. Notify the employer’s state work-force agency of the employer’s request for recruitment assistance in Arizona.

3. Gather information regarding pre-vailing wage for the occupation in the clearance order.

4. Inquire about applicant availability in the employer’s state for the oc-cupation in the clearance order.

What is the current federal mini-mum wage?

The current federal minimum wage

is $7.25 an hour.

What is the current minimum wage for the state of Arizona?

The current minimum wage for the state of Arizona is $10.50 an hour.

Do you have facilities for recruiting activities?

Yes, we can provide interview/meeting/class rooms and visual aids for any recruiting activities free of charge. We partner with several other workforce development agencies and can work with and assist the employer with resources that best fit their needs. Other facility needs are provided on a fee per use basis.

Are there any publications and refer-ence materials for employers avail-able?

An extensive amount of resource material is available for employers on the Arizona Job Connection site https://www.azjobconnection.gov and the ARIZONA@WORK web site www.ypic.com.

Are Labor Market Information and other business statistics available?

Yes, we can provide current labor information and other economic data to employers and businesses as needed.

Who do I contact for unemployment information?

The Arizona Department of Eco-nomic Security handles all Unemploy-ment Insurance (UI) claims through statewide Tele-Centers. You may contact them by phone at 1-877-600-2722, or online at www.AZUI.com

Please feel free to contact Patrick Goetz, Employer Engagement Officer with any additional employer ques-tions that you may have by email at pgoetz@ypic.com.

Frequently Asked Questions | Employer Services

By Patrick Goetz

Really…How Did I Not Know That?

• Stay Informed• Get More Sales Leads• Grow Your Business

Records & Documents LLCLocal Public Records Sent to Your Email Inbox Weekly

928-580-8001mcastaneda45@hotmail.com

Really…How Did I Not Know That?

• Stay Informed• Get More Sales Leads• Grow Your Business

Records & Documents LLCLocal Public Records Sent to Your Email Inbox Weekly

928-580-8001mcastaneda45@hotmail.com

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 7

COMMITTEE UPDATESBoard of DirectorsNext meeting: Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at 3 pm in the 180 W. First St. conference room. The board met April 17, 2018.

• The following members were approved: Military Brothers Mov-ing, Countyline Fire Department, Yuma Realty Professionals, Social Work of Yuma County, Hot Rods & Beer, Microtel Inn-Wellton, and Econolodge-Yuma.

• South County Partnership is devel-oping nicely. The April ambassador meeting will be at the Gadsden Museum of History, the hub of the chamber’s South County partner-ship.

Transportation CommitteeCommittee will be dark in May. They did meet on April 26 but notes were not available at time of printing. At the March 29 meeting:

• Representatives from YRBC, City, County, airport, YCIPTA were present.

• Maria Duran from Yuma South-west Contractors Association was present along with board members Clint Harrington and Chris Pilk-ington from Pilkington Construc-tion. They report the biggest issue facing them is skilled labor.

• Naim Duran will be the new Ex-ecutive Director for GYPA.

• Cecilia McCullough will be the new board chair for YMPO.

Ambassador CommitteeNext meeting: Wednesday, May 23 at 11:30, location TBD. The commit-tee met April 25 but notes were not available as of YumaBIZ print time.

• The meeting on March 28 was at the Holiday Inn Express with lunch

provided by Candlewood Suites.• The GMY, Mixer, Ribbon Cutting, and Membership committees all gave their reports. All agreed the events are going very well.

MilitaryAffairsCommitteeNext meeting: Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at 8 am at the American Legion. There was a meeting April 25 but notes were not available at time of publishing. At the March 28 meeting:

• YMAD was discussed. All agreed it went really well with the exception of the weather. Dates for 2019 are being contemplated.

• Four (4) sets of keys and cranks were made for the flag pole at the Armed Forces Park.

LegislativeAffairsCommitteeNext Meeting: Friday, June 8, 2018 at the Yuma International Airport conference room at 11:30. Invite and RSVP required. At the April 6 meeting:

• Topics continue to include HURF, PILT, EORP, and minimum wage, among others.

• Congressman Paul Gosar will be visiting Yuma on May 2.

Education CommitteeNext Meeting: As needed.

• S. June Pallack nominations are currently being judged and those awards will be given out at this month’s Good Morning, Yuma! on May 10.

Marketing CommitteeNext Meeting: As needed.

• The commercial that the commit-tee worked on is now running on Spectrum Reach cable channels. More work is needing to be done to have the spot run on local channels.

8 YUMABIZ May 2018

Care & Expertise

Yuma Regional Medical CenterOutpatient Laboratory

Parkview Medical Plaza2460 S. Parkview Loop, Entrance 2, Ste. 2928-336-7245Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.Saturday, 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Foothills11282 N. Frontage Road928-336-2100Monday – Thursday, 6:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.Saturday, 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Yuma Regional Medical CenterFamily Medicine Center2500 S. 8th Avenue, Ste. 200928-336-7095Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.*

*For established patients

Yuma Regional Medical Center Diagnostic Imaging

Parkview Medical Plaza2460 S. Parkview Loop, Entrance 2, Ste. 2928-336-7350Monday/Wednesday, 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.Tuesday/Thursday/Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 5p.m.2nd Sat. of each month, 6:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Foothills11142 S. Scottsdale Drive928-305-6211Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Now Offering Saturday Hours

when you need it

yumaregional.org

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 9

Unfortunately, most people see getting a facial as something you only do when you want to treat yourself, or as a luxury service for those who can afford it. Before meeting Cindy and Megan from LaserGals, I used to be one of those people. I was the “mom” who didn’t have time to sit for an hour while someone put random creams on my face and tried to sell me on the next new (and expensive) treatment. Cindy and her team are the exact opposite of that statement! They are genuine individuals who are sincerely passionate about skin care and getting their clients to “love the skin you’re in”!

Upon arriving to the studio, we were greeted by a DIY station, hot tea, fun music and custom products for each one of us to take home. We all loved that the products contained natural ingredients and no artificial fragrances! Cindy shared her insider knowledge and walked us through an easy skin care routine we could all do at home. Laser Gals is a one-stop shop and doesn’t just stop at facials. From painless laser hair removal, microneedling, exfoliating peels, dermaplaning and microdermabrasion, you can truly find it all at Laser Gals Skin Studio. Mention that you’re a member of the chamber and receive 10% off!

Loving the skin I’m in,

Karina2018 Ambassador Chair

10 YUMABIZ May 2018

summer or lay off people or send people home,” Sullivan said.

Snowbirds may be gone for the summer, but perhaps dad decides to have the kids help paint the house while they’re out of school. Or a husband gets to that “honey dew” project finally. In addition to a full line of construction materials and hardware, the store has a lending department so people can rent a sprayer for that paint project or tiller to put in a garden.

Summer also is a time at the store to look for new and fresh materials. “We’ve been blessed to get through the summers,” Sullivan concluded.

Things do slow down at Foothills Shoes for the summer, acknowledged owner Cathy Putman. “But we get by. We just keep going.”

What helps is that some of the employees are as seasonal as the winter visitor customers. And while those customers are gone for the summer, the store will get others who are driving through and want to take

advantage of the store’s name brand inventory. Or they may call and ask to have shoes sent to them. Meanwhile, workers will still need a new pair of work boots. And just in general, the local population continues to support the business.

“Chamber membership helps,” Putman said. “Networking helps. Members come in and support my business.”

Yes, Yuma’s economy is seasonal, said Randy Nelson, director of the Arizona Western College Small Business Development Center. To survive, small local businesses “really have to pay attention to their business and not just their sales. They can’t expect things to be like in January and survive. They need to prepare for the summer so they don’t get to August and find themselves overstocked, over extended and under capitalized.”

The support of the community is also critical for local businesses. After all they hire neighbors, pay local taxes and in tend to be active members of the community, Nelson concluded.

SHOP LOCALLY continued from page 1

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 11

By Pam Kehaly, President & CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ari-zona

Good health is a journey. For some, it’s a simple, clear route. For others, it’s a greater struggle. But eventually, we all face inevi-table forks in the road and need trusted resources and tools to help guide us. This year, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCB-SAZ) has invested in expanding our telehealth offering to further support our mission of improving Arizonans’ quality of life through achievement of optimal health. It

provides more choice in where to get care, and it removes obstacles for many who otherwise couldn’t find a way to see the doctor.

Improving Access and Effi-ciency

Telehealth services like BCB-SAZ’s BlueCare Anywhere connect individuals with doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and counselors via phone, tablet, or computer. This matters, because a big part of navigating the road to good health is addressing issues and concerns without delay. Packed calendars, travel plans, and lack of after-hours appointments at some doctors’

offices can all be barriers to timely care. But not for telehealth. The convenience makes it a popular option—anytime, anywhere. A virtual visit with a clinician can address minor illnesses and give guidance when what to do next is uncertain.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 69 million American workers miss days of work due to illness each year. By improving access and encouraging people to get care sooner rather than putting it off, telehealth can help ensure health issues are identified and treated

before they worsen. This reduces employees’ time away from work, which can have a positive impact on their families’ financial health and the related stress.

Plus, if a concern can be re-solved by a telehealth physician, it may also prevent an unnecessary trip to urgent care or the hospital (and the related costs). In fact, re-search from American Well, BCB-SAZ’s telehealth partner, shows that telehealth services could save an average of $214 in costs per visit as compared to emergency room, urgent care, or doctor’s office visits.Addressing Barriers to Care

BCBSAZ’s expansion of telehealth is an investment in Arizonans’ health

A r i z o n a W e s t e r n C o l l e g e

2020 S Ave 8 E, Yuma, AZ 85365 | 928-317-6000 | azwestern.edu

Meet OurHighly QualifiedFaculty

Dr. Joann Chang,Professor of Science(Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering, Master of Science, and Doctorate in Bioengineering)

12 YUMABIZ May 2018

From addressing provider short-ages to improving the healthcare experience and reducing costs, telehealth offers significant advan-tages. More than 350,000 Arizo-nans reside in rural areas, where provider shortages are more com-mon. Many families must travel to urban centers to see a doctor. Telehealth creates another option for these individuals so they can get care for a wide range of crucial health needs.

Telehealth also improves access for those needing behavioral health services. A study from Mental Health America ranks Arizona 50th in the United States for access to behavioral health care. Tele-health improves access by making

more trained behavioral health professionals available. At the same time, telehealth addresses some of the emotional barriers to getting help by allowing individuals to ac-cess care from the privacy of their own homes.

Across the country, medical pro-fessionals are finding new ways to use communications technology to bring doctors and patients closer together, faster. At BCBSAZ, we will continue to embrace these in-novations by making these services available to our members.

Eligible BCBSAZ employer groups can access BlueCare Any-where directly at azblue.com/bluecareanywhere

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 13

April was National Volunteer Month, and that’s something worth

celebrating. Volunteering has a huge impact on our community. Not only does it benefit those on the receiving end, but volun-teering makes such a difference to those donat-ing their time as

well. Numerous studies show that vol-unteers experience a “helpers’ high,” reaping the mental, physical, and emotional benefits of helping others.

If studies aren’t proof enough, find out for yourself. Personally, I can share the rewards are real.

As a community affairs manager for APS, I have had the opportunity to be involved in some amazing commu-

nity volunteer projects. On April 11, APS joined the Phoenix Suns to cel-ebrate the dedication of a new basket-ball court at Joe Henry Optimist Park in Yuma. At that event, you could see numerous APS employees in the company’s signature teal Community Connectors t-shirts. One of our tasks as volunteers was to hand out basket-balls, t-shirts and school bags to each kid who attended. We really made it a family affair. I think we had as much fun as the kids – maybe more!

Another amazing area of volun-teerism for APS – and for me in my role for the company, but also out of a personal passion – is military veterans. Almost 20 percent of APS employees are veterans, and we feel strongly about the value they bring to our organization. . For me, it’s also about honoring my family’s military history. The way I’m currently doing that is as a volunteer member of the planning committee that’s putting

together the Veterans Stand Down. At this event, veterans are given a one-stop-shop opportunity to get much-needed services – things we take for granted like a haircut, clean clothes and dental care. This is the second year we’ve had this event in Yuma, and we’re hoping to reach at least 300 vets. Doing that well will take a lot of volunteers (hint, hint), and reap many rewards for them and everyone we reach that day.

If volunteering is something you’ve been meaning to do, don’t wait for the next National Volunteer Month, get started now. Opportunities abound. The key is finding where your passion lies. Whether it’s helping children or animals, the elderly or the less fortu-nate, there are so many organizations looking for support. Chances are, if you reach out to a local nonprofit, school, hospital or almost any or-ganization that is doing good work to improve the community, there is

some way you can lend your time and talents to make a real difference.

And if you feel inspired to influ-ence a culture of volunteerism within your company or organization, go for it!

At APS, volunteerism is a part of the fabric of our corporate culture -- from day one. Literally. Every new employee orientation at our corporate headquarters incorporates a commu-nity service project. While many ori-entations might just include a review of the company handbook, every new APS employee gets the opportunity in their onboarding session to work with amazing organizations like the Valley of the Sun United Way, Free Arts Ari-zona, and Habitat for Humanity.

Experiencing these hands-on proj-ects at orientation shows each mem-ber of our team that volunteerism is a huge part of what we do to serve our community.  And that spirit of

volunteerism only grows from there, with APS coordinating the opportunities for employees and our fami-lies to volunteer throughout the year, every year. In fact, APS em-ployees volunteer an average of 110,000 hours each year.  That’s almost 20 hours per employee.

Now I’m not saying everyone needs to volun-teer 20 hours each year. Start with one. And see what happens from there. You might be sur-prised.

Creating a Better Community Through Volunteering

By Anna Chaulk, APS Community Affairs Manager

Investing in ArizonaWe believe it’s our responsibility to contribute to the growthand vitality of the communities we serve. That’s why wepartner with local business leaders to help attract new jobsand investments to our state. Every dollar that goes backinto our community helps create a stronger, more vibranteconomic future for all Arizonans and that’s a goal wellworth achieving.

aps.com

14 YUMABIZ May 2018

This being MAY already, Visit Yuma is looking to the future both short and long term. Short term, we are busy attracting summer visitors of all kinds – highlighting Yuma’s wet and wild water activities, cool summer events, and of course the great goods and services provided by Yuma’s year-round businesses. Long term,

we are deep in the planning process for next winter season, with the goal of passionately sharing what is great about Yuma to benefit visitors and our community.

Speaking of what is great about Yuma, there are some pretty terrific local events coming up this month:

And there’s much more! You can get more information on the above and plan for your tons of Yuma fun at VisitYuma.com. You can also head to the Visitor Information Center at 201 N. 4th Avenue for more information on things to do and see, and to browse the Yuman Interest Gifts & Souvenirs shop.

May 2018 Events:May 4-6 – Yuman

Interest Gifts and Souvenirs End of Season Sale (Visitor Information Center)

May 5 – Cinco De Mayo Block Party (Historic Downtown Yuma)

May 5 – Orchestral Classics (KOFA High School)

May 5-6 – Cinco De Mayo Co-Rec Soft Ball Tournament (PAAC)

May 12 – The Children’s Ball (Yuma Art Center)

Yuma this Summer and Beyond!

• Follow economic trends and what affects your business

• Know what’s happening in your local schools and neighborhoods

• Save money with sale ads and coupons

Your print subscription includes access to the Yuma Sun from your

desktop computer, tablet, phone and mobile app. Perfect for access from

home, the office or on vacation!

CALL: (928) 783-3333EMAIL: subscribe@yumasun.comONLINE: yumasun.com/subscribe

A Great Way To START THE DAYsome way you can lend your time and

talents to make a real difference.And if you feel inspired to influ-

ence a culture of volunteerism within your company or organization, go for it!

At APS, volunteerism is a part of the fabric of our corporate culture -- from day one. Literally. Every new employee orientation at our corporate headquarters incorporates a commu-nity service project. While many ori-entations might just include a review of the company handbook, every new APS employee gets the opportunity in their onboarding session to work with amazing organizations like the Valley of the Sun United Way, Free Arts Ari-zona, and Habitat for Humanity.

Experiencing these hands-on proj-ects at orientation shows each mem-ber of our team that volunteerism is a huge part of what we do to serve our community.  And that spirit of

volunteerism only grows from there, with APS coordinating the opportunities for employees and our fami-lies to volunteer throughout the year, every year. In fact, APS em-ployees volunteer an average of 110,000 hours each year.  That’s almost 20 hours per employee.

Now I’m not saying everyone needs to volun-teer 20 hours each year. Start with one. And see what happens from there. You might be sur-prised.

Creating a Better Community Through Volunteering

Yuma County Chamber of Commerce YUMABIZ 15

Terry FrydenlundCEO/President

It’s Your Bank!We Support Yuma County!

The team at 1st Bank Yuma is heavily involved with these local organizations through participation and support!

Amberly’s Place • American Business Women Association • American Cancer Society • Arizona Bankers AssociationBetterYuma.Org • Bible Baptist Church • Boy Scouts of America • Caballeros de Yuma • Cibola High School • City of San Luis

City of San Luis Economic Development Commission • EverFi • Fort Yuma Rotary • Gila Ridge High SchoolGreater Yuma Economic Development Corporation • Humane Society of Yuma • Independent Community Bankers of America

Kofa High School • Navy League • Pow Wow • Precious Treasures • Rio Colorado Chapter of Arizona Historical SocietyRotary International • San Luis High School • San Pasqual High School • Society for Human Resource Management

Somerton Chamber of Commerce • University of Arizona Alumni Yuma Chapter • Vista Alternative School • Young LifeYRMC Hospital District • Yuma 50 • Yuma Association of Realtors • Yuma Catholic High School • Yuma Children’s Museum

Yuma Community Food Bank • Yuma County 4-H Leaders • Yuma County Chamber of CommerceYuma County Historical Society • Yuma High School • Yuma Legends • Optimist Club • Yuma Lettuce Days

Yuma Optimist Club • Yuma Regional Council for First Things First • Yuma Rotary Yuma United Way • Visit Yuma

Frank EnriquezVP/ Commercial

Loan Officer

Theresa WineVP/Director of Mortgage

Loan Services

Travis HiceVP/Commercial Loan Officer

Maria GonzalezAVP/Branch Manager

San Luis, AZ

Ricardo PerezAVP/Branch Manager

Main Office

Brian GerenVP/Commercial

Loan Officer

Tom ThompsonVP/Senior Lending Officer

Terry FarrEVP/Chief Credit Officer

Wayne GaleEVP/Chief Operating Officer

Jeff ByrdAVP/Community Relations Officer

Kathi MarcusSVP/Regional Manager

John MarinoEVP/Chief Financial Officer

Hometown Banking – 1st in Service

2799 S. 4th Ave. (Corner 28th St. & 4th Ave) (928) 783-33341800 S. 4th Ave. (Corner 4th Ave & 18th St.) (928) 783-1170645 N. 1st Ave. San Luis, AZ (928) 344-288811600 S. Fortuna Rd. Yuma Foothills (928) 783-3335

Locally owned and operated

www.1stbankyuma.com

Laurie RamosAVP/Branch Manager

Main Office

Damian LiskaManager

Fortuna Branch

Howie JorajuriaVP/Commercial Loan Officer

16 YUMABIZ May 2018