Business owners who want to promote their products and services will get their chance during the 2015 East Valley Business Expo in Gilbert.
The event, which is from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, will be held at St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert.
Sarah Watts, communications and marketing director for the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, said admission to the event, which also features workshops and seminars, is free with a business card.
“We have been holding this event for close to 20 years, and this is the first opportunity to bring it into our community,” she said, adding that she and others are expecting a larger crowd than ever.
“There is a real buzz about the location; people are excited to have it at St. Xavier University.”
Watts said the expo, which is the largest annual event of its size in the East Valley, is an ideal way for business owners to meet both other owners and consumers.
“It’s a great opportunity for vendors to feature their business’ products and services, and for people to see how they can partner with one another,” she said.
“We’ve seen a huge response from the
Gilbert business community.”
The expo is a joint production of the Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa and Tempe chambers of commerce, Watts said, and draws exhibitors, attendees and talent from the four organizations.
Last year, more than 1,500 people attended the expo and over 100 exhibitors were on site to showcase their companies.
In addition to giving business owners the chance to meet hundreds of potential
customers in one day, Watts said the East Valley Business Expo will also feature door prizes, raffles and giveaways.
Sponsors of the event include Gilbert Sun News, SanTan Sun News in Chandler, AlphaGraphics of Gilbert, Landings Credit Union, Desert Schools Federal Credit Union-McKellips Branch, IKEA, Costco, the Phoenix Business Journal and many others.
Watts said business owners will still learn a lot by attending the event, and
members of the community are welcome to attend.
For example, she said, attendees can network and mingle with other business professionals, establish new contacts, learn from the exhibitors are new products and services, and be in the same place as other industry professionals.
For more information about the 2015 East Valley Business Expo, visit www.eastvalleybusinessexpo.com.
More than 1,500 attendees enjoyed learning about local businesses during a previous East Valley Business Expo. The 2015 East Valley Business Expo is on Oct. 21 in Gilbert. Submitted photo
Local man named to Boulders
Resort management team
Gilbert resident Scott Doonan has been named director of sales and marketing at the Boulders Resort & Spa, a 220-room luxury resort. He is responsible for all sales, marketing and convention/ catering activities at the property.
“Scott is a highly respected leader with a proven track record of successful sales efforts. We couldn’t be more pleased about this appointment” said Howard Harris, general manager.
Doonan brings more than 15 years of experience in hotel/resort sales and marketing to his position at Boulders. He began his career in 1996 with the TanTar-A Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks, located in Osage Beach, Missouri. There he learned all aspects of the hospitality industry, from bell stand and front office management to sales and marketing, where he later became a senior sales manager.
In 2007, he was promoted to director of sales and marketing at the Hilton Anchorage Hotel in Alaska. In 2011, he was named general manager at the Anchorage Marriott Downtown before returning to the Hilton Anchorage as general manager, where he stayed for two years.
Doonan then moved his family to the desert southwest in 2014, where he held the position as director of sales and marketing at the Phoenix Airport Marriott prior to his move to the Boulders Resort & Spa.
A graduate of the University of Iowa, Doonan earned a Bachelor of Arts in communications degree. He and his wife, Renee, and children Brooke and Alex reside in Gilbert.
Wisdom president honored by magazine
BY MEGHAN MCCOY
Carol May, the president of Gilbertbased Wisdom Natural Brands, was one of 50 Arizona women to be named Women of the Year by AZ Business Magazine
“It’s an extraordinary honor,” May said. “It was marvelous to meet those women and to be named as one of them was very humbling and inspiring to go and do more and to make a difference in our community, our state and in our industry.
“There were over 2,000 nominations made and they whittled it down to 50. Of those 50, I was the only one that came out of the manufacturing business. Most of them were from health care, law and banking. It’s a very great honor to represent those in our industry and to get to network and meet and learn from the other women who were there. It was an extraordinary gathering of enthusiasm and encouragement. I was grateful to be there.”
Wisdom Natural Brands is the parent company of the stevia brand SweetLeaf. May joined the company 20 years ago after her husband, James, founded it 13 years prior.
May said when James tried a stevia leaf, he was so taken by it that he felt there was a business opportunity there.
“His vision took some time to really get some traction,” she said. “It happened over the years and now the leaves accepted the world over as a marvelous, no calorie, no carbohydrates sweetener that is all natural and won’t raise your blood pressure.”
SweetLeaf starts with a little stevia
Scott Doonan. Submitted photo
Wisdom Natural Brands President Carol May. Submitted photo
plant that is processed with great care. There are no chemicals used during the processing, to ensure no aftertastes. May said they are constantly developing new uses for the plant as they continue to meet their customers’ needs.
In the fourth quarter the company will introduce four new product lines.
“We are always looking for innovation and enhancement of those products that we currently have,” May said.
Wisdom Natural Brands’ products are distributed worldwide.
“It’s been a blessing to me. I have been the president the last three and half years,” May said. “This year we are doing 25 percent over last year and we are on target to increase that by at least another 5 to 10 percent by the end of the year with a new group of products that we will be bringing out in the next six months or so.”
The honoree said she enjoys having the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.
“It gives people the choice to enjoy foods and beverages, which normally they would not consider, or their health professionals would not consider their best choice,” she said. “We are fortunate that people like what we do and we are able to make a difference in their life.”
For more information, visit www. sweetleaf.com.
Cholewka Law to celebrate fifth anniversary
In celebration of its upcoming five-year anniversary, Cholewka Law invites the public to Postino Winecafe, 302 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 102, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, to enjoy light appetizers and a chance to win prizes.
The prizes include two tickets to a performance at the Hale Centre Theatre and a $500 Amazon gift card.
Since opening its doors in October 2010, Cholewka Law has been dedicated to serving the community of Gilbert and supporting activities that help make it such a great place to work and live.
Founding attorney and 11-year Gilbert resident, Becky Cholewka, reflected on the past five years.
“Most small businesses don’t reach this milestone, let alone expand,” she said. “We are honored that our clients and business partners trust in our ability to protect their families.”
Located in historic downtown Gilbert, Cholewka Law represents clients in all areas of estate planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, trust administration, asset protection and bankruptcy. For more information, call (480) 497-3770 or visit www. gilbertlawoffice.com.
MAP
MAP
BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
When you think about pioneers in the beauty industry you picture them living in places like Los Angeles or New York City.
Annie Mayo, president and CEO of Advanced Mineral Makeup and an indemand makeup artist and expert, is proud to call Gilbert home. It’s from here that’s she’s made a name for herself in the beauty world.
“I moved to Arizona (from Brooklyn, New York) at 18 in the late 1970s and have always lived in the East Valley,” Mayo said. “In 2010, while working as a TV and film makeup artist, I saw that there was a need for something better out there.”
For 30 years, Mayo has worked as an educator for many cosmetic lines and has been a salon owner and a TV and film makeup artist involved with 25 feature films, the Miss Universe Pageant, the World Series and the Super Bowl, according to the
company.
Mayo was also a successful sales representative, selling makeup and skincare products to high-end spas, salons and doctors.
“I always believed in the products I sold over the years or I would not have represented them, however, I always felt there was room for improvement in women’s makeup,” she said.
These realizations led her to create her own all-natural line of makeup. According to Mayo, Advanced Mineral Makeup, contains no parabens, fragrances, talc, fillers or preservatives.
“I want people to read the ingredients contained in their makeup. I know how important it is to use natural and organic
components, which is why I include them in all my products,” she said.
The Advanced Mineral Makeup line consists of foundation (loose powder and liquid), pressed mineral powder, eye pencils, concealers, lip gloss, lip pencils, lipsticks and more. Customers can find their shade with an easy-to-use celebrity comparison guide. The company also just added two new products to the existing collection— mascara and new color “Candice” lip gloss.
Since the makeup line’s inception, the products have been used on the set of top TV shows like “NCIS” and “Grey’s Anatomy” and are available in more than 100 spas, salons and cosmetic surgeon’s offices in the United States and Canada.
“Our liquid foundation is our biggest seller right now and I’m most proud of the color undertones available in the makeup,” Mayo said. “This fall we have a new lip-gloss color and will have lipstick soon. Customers can easily pick what works best for them through our celebrity shade finder on our website.”
In addition to her business efforts, Mayo is heavily involved in using her cosmetics line to give back to worthwhile beautybased charities. She works nationally with Oncology Esthetics, teaching spa owners and makeup artists how to treat challenged skin that has been through chemotherapy or other medical interventions.
“For health-challenged skin, Advanced
Mineral Makeup is the recommended product of practice,” she said.
She has also donated makeup products to organizations that support abused women and classes that teach them how to apply makeup to help them with a fresh start.
In the future, Mayo said that she plans to continue to develop her line, expand her nonprofit reach, and maintain a presence at industry trade shows.
“It (Advanced Mineral Makeup) is an easy-to-carry line and consumers can easily pick the right colors,” Mayo said. “In my personal life, I’m also married with one son, who I’m hoping will take over the business someday, but he’s hesitant to go into the beauty industry,” she added with a laugh.
To learn more about Advanced Mineral Makeup, visit www.advancedmineralmakeup.com.
Annie Mayo, founder of Advanced Mineral Makeup, said her company is the recommended product of practice for health-challenged skin. Submitted photo
Annie Mayo, founder of Advanced Mineral Makeup, lives in Gilbert. Submitted photo
Senior ride-sharing program, Envoy, expands in East Valley Ace Vending purchases industrial building
Ace Vending has purchased an industrial building at 335 S. Hamilton Ct., Gilbert, for $3.6 million, according to Cushman & Wakefield, a commercial real estate firm.
Andy Markham, SIOR, Mike Haenel, Will Strong and Phil Haenel of Cushman & Wakefield represented Ace Vending in the acquisition. Steve Larsen of Jones Lang LaSalle represented the seller, Arizonabased Bell Holdings BB LLC.
Ace Vending is an Arizona-based, full-line vending service operator. The company provides fullservice coffee, fresh food, snacks and beverage vending throughout the United States.
growing lines of business,” Markham said.
“This particular facility provided modern distribution features and room for future expansion, as well as desirable outside storage capacity.”
“Ace Vending required a building that would accommodate its expansion and
The 41,490-square-foot building will be fully occupied by Ace Vending. The company will take occupancy of the property in stages during the fourth quarter of 2015.
The successful merger of Cushman & Wakefield and DTZ closed Sept. 1. The firm operates under the Cushman & Wakefield brand and has a new visual identity and logo. The new Cushman & Wakefield is led by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brett White and Global President Tod Lickerman. The company is majority owned by an investor group led by TPG, PAG and OTPP.
Envoy America, an innovative ride service for seniors, is expanding its coverage area to include the East Valley.
Envoy America is an enhanced rideshare program offering an alternative to taxi and rideshare services for seniors and others who cannot drive. Instead of the standard curbside service of other transportation companies, Envoy America offers a doorto-door service where drivers are companions for their clients and remain with them until they are back home. For example, if a client is having cataract surgery, the driver would take his or her client to the eye surgery appointment, stay at the doctor’s office until the client is finished, drive them home and bring them back the next day for the follow-up visit.
The company, which began operating in May, serves clients in Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Paradise Valley and North Phoenix. The East Valley, including Tempe, Mesa, Chandler and Gilbert, marks Envoy America’s first service area expansion. Clients can call Envoy America at (602) 687-6345 to schedule service or check on availability in their area.
“We designed Envoy America to assist seniors who cannot drive or are uncomfort-
able with driving to retain their independence and conduct their daily chores such as physician visits and shopping,” said K.C. Kanaan, cofounder of Envoy America. “As word spread, we immediately heard from prospective clients in the East Valley asking when we would start serving the area.
“We are pleased to say we listened and we will begin offering service in October.”
Cofounder Andy Beran added that Envoy America is looking at opening new coverage zones in the Valley. Eventually, the company plans on expanding the company nationwide to cities with similar senior bases.
Envoy America (www.envoyamerica. com) is a subscription-based service. Each subscription includes a guaranteed number of pre-paid hours each month to meet every day travel needs such as errands, medical appointments and social outings. Clients can call Envoy America at (602) 687-6345 to schedule their appointment and many will request specific drivers. Drivers are carefully chosen, background checked, drug tested and trained to provide the highest levels of customer service. No cash is required and drivers are not allowed to accept tips.
Chamber hosts series of events through October
Throughout the year, the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community.
Events are held throughout the town.
The chamber office is at 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101. For more information about events or to register, call (480) 892-0056 or visit www.gilbertaz.com.
Group Travel Informational Meeting: Imperial Cities
Presented by Collette Vacations
6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1 Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, 119 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite 101, Gilbert
Join the Chamber for an informational meeting to learn more about this all-inclusive travel opportunity. A representative of Collette Vacations will review the travel
itinerary and answer general questions regarding the Imperial Cities expedition. No travel commitment is necessary to attend this meeting.
Chamber Chat-Morning
Presented by Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning
7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7
Darling Donuts, 1515 N. Gilbert Rd., Suite D-105, Gilbert
Meet up with other Chamber members for breakfast. This informal gathering is a fun way to share conversation with other professionals and learn more about businesses in the community. No agenda, no script—just good food, great company and friendly conversation. No charge; attendees responsible for the purchase of food, beverage, tax and gratuity.
Doing business
Kids Learn Coding LLC
Owner: Ritu Grover
How long in business: Since January Specialty: Afterschool lessons in computer programming for kids. Unique features: Kids are introduced to computer programming fundamentals. As a next step, they may choose one of two tracks to learn programming languages such as C, Java, HTML, CSS, PHP, Javascript, jQuery etc. Using what they learn, kids may design websites and even create mobile apps. Besides these technology skills, KLC instructors encourage analytical thinking, innovation and experimentation. Teamwork and collaboration are also at the heart of KLC interaction as kids learn programming in teams.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Address: 1166 E Warner Rd., Gilbert Phone: (602) 904-5479 Website: www.kidslearncoding.com
Dynamic Rehab
Owner: Annette Monaccio, OTR/L, CHT
How long in business: 15 years
Specialty: Dynamic Rehab offers a personal approach to your rehab needs. At the outpatient rehab clinic, patients will find highly qualified certified hand therapists and physical therapists. The clinic has special programs focused on women with pelvic floor conditions; vestibular rehab for patients suffering from vertigo; and a firefighters/ workman’s comp return to work program.
Address: 2940 E. Banner Gateway Dr., Suite 425, Gilbert Phone: (480) 813-7900 Website: www.dynamicrehabaz.com
Good Government Roundtable with Higley Unified School District
Presented by SRP
7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20
Location to be announced
An event of SRP’s Good Government series, this roundtable meeting will bring Governing Board members and leaders of Higley Unified School District together with the business community for discussion on the latest local, regional and national issues in education. Join the group for this meet-and-greet event, ask questions and provide feedback that will contribute to a vibrant business community. Member admission is $20; nonmember admission is $35
2015 East Valley Business Expo
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21
St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert
Register to attend the largest networking and business-to-business event of the year. The East Valley Business Expo was attended last year by more than 1,500 people and more than 100 exhibitors were on site to showcase their businesses. Gift cards, door prizes, raffles, and giveaways always draw a huge turnout and keep the energy
dynamic. The expo is a joint production of the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa and Tempe Chambers of Commerce. Free to attend with a business card.
2015 Business and Education Summit
Presented by Partners in Progress
7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 29
St. Xavier University, 92 W. Vaughn Ave., Gilbert
Join the group for a morning of strategic collaboration as the Chamber brings together the business and education communities for a conversation and interactive exercise on a strong and prepared workforce. Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development will present on workforce trends and employment projects. Panelists representing business and education will share their insights and experiences of strong business/education partnerships. Attendees will be asked to weigh in on their thoughts of recent statistics. Free to attend; Chamber members and invitation only.
Presenting...The Spoke Cafe
The Gilbert Sun News would like to welcome new area businesses or existing ones that may be new to our readers.
Submit information about your business for a “Doing Business” mini-business profile in an upcoming issue of our publication, which is distributed to 25,000 homes, racks and boxes the fifth of each month.
Please include all of the following items: Name of business, name of owner(s), how long the business has existed, unique features, hours of operation, address, telephone number, website and email address. Also include an at least 300 dpi photo of the business owner or logo.
Email this information to info@gilbertsunnews.com or visit www. gilbertsunnews.com and click on the “Doing Business” form at the top of the page to submit.
