Ironman Refurbished Business Computers (IRBC) is taking advantage of a niche driven by the constant rollout of the latest computer systems.
“We don’t directly compete on the newest technology,” said Ken Chan, who founded the company with his sister, Linda Chan. “We offer only 1- to 3 1/2-year-old computers with customized solutions, and look for what our clients’ computing needs are, and we are able to offer solutions to meet that need.”
IRBC is in the business of providing consumers and companies refurbished desktop and laptop computers with tailored offerings and upgrades.
“Customization of our machines is definitely our best selling point, as well as our focus on personalized customer service,” Ken said. “We also offer lifetime technical support on the units we sell and free standard shipping.”
Started in 2010, the company has, to this point, honed in on Phoenix Metro clients, but now is taking an aggressive posture to take their sales national. “Our strategy is going to be a focus heavily on b2b (business to business),” he said.
With the unveiling of their new mobile e-commerce website, the company will bring its unique products and service quality nationwide. Reconditioned units from quality names Dell, Lenovo and HP are the company’s staple because of their durability and reliability.
“Our goal is to bring high-quality refurbished units, with the best service possible, to customers throughout the
U.S.,” he said. “For businesses especially, our solutions are more cost effective than new models, but just as powerful. We consider ourselves to be like the car brand Toyota: Great value and reliable.”
The Chans, who immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong in 1997, have always been tech-savvy. In addition to IRBC they are computer instructors and also own and operate the FutureKiddie program, which teaches 3- to 7-year-old children, fundamental computer skills at 19 schools around the Valley.
With sales running on average 50 units per month, the Chans project that the national sales initiative of the new e-commerce site will double that number in 2016, and over a five-year period reach $500,000 in annual sales. While competition is tough in the space, the Chans do not see the online giants like Amazon as foils.
“They are going to be part of our multi-market channels,” he said. “We are adding other online market places such as Jet.com and eBay.com as part of our national strategy to expand our online presence.”
As for customer service, the Chans position IRBC as far superior to a Walmart or Best Buy. “People can speak to us directly, even text us, to get their questions answered,” she said. “We’re happy to speak to less tech-savvy customers in terms they can understand, but we also design custom systems for large operations.”
Customers such as Scottsdale Chiropractic, which has five Valley
locations, are exceedingly pleased with IRBC. “I have been using them for over two years for our computer purchases and everything has worked flawlessly,” said Dr. Robert Leman, owner of the practice. “I highly recommend them.”
In the coming years the company hopes to begin selling other refurbished devices as well. “We do want to add tablets into our product line, but not smartphones,” he said. “We are a computer company and not a phone company.”
Consumers and business can look to IRBC for its laptop and desktop needs knowing that service and quality are their top priority. “At Ironman Computers, we strive to provide custom solutions to meet our client’s computing needs with integrity,” he said. “Honesty is our policy and customization is our strategy.”
For more information, visit www. ironmancomputers.com.
Owners Ken Chan and his sister, Linda Chan, are aided by lead technician Andy Ip. Submitted photo
Realtor volunteers to help nonprofit ‘save’ local families
Char Cammans became a Realtor for one reason: to allow her schedule to breathe.
A residential Realtor with United Brokers Group, Cammans uses her free time wisely by volunteering, something that complements her giving spirit.
For the last six years, she has volunteered at Save the Family, a Mesabased nonprofit that helps rebuild the foundation of families by providing transitional housing, rapid rehousing, shelter plus care and affordable housing. It provides a variety of support
services and tools to families in need, including financial literacy education, career development support, budgeting workshops, parenting classes and self-esteem coaching. Save the Family also offers arts, tutoring, after-school programs, and community involvement opportunities for children.
In February, Cammans attended a fundraiser for Save the Family at the Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia in Scottsdale.
“I spoke to many individuals and companies who shared my passion
for the good and the rebuilding that Save the Family does for homeless and families in need,” she said.
One of the keynote speakers at the February event was a single mom who discussed the impact Save the Family had on her life. Years ago, she was homeless with two children until they found Save the Family. The group let her stay at one of its homes, helped her children through the tragedy of homelessness, and put her on a program to get her back on her feet. Today, she has a stable job and was able to
purchase her first home. Cammans is continually inspired by this story and the many she hears while being involved with Save the Family.
So inspired, that she has been donating a portion of her real estate commission to Save the Family. Cammans feels good about her donations that are paired with her hours of volunteer work.
To donate food, clothing or money, contact Cammans at charcamm1@gmail. com or call Save the Family directly at (480) 898-0228.
Jackie Taylor, CEO of Save the Family, left, Char Cammans, Realtor at United Brokers Group, and Tina Lopez, chief development officer of Save the Family, pose in front of the organization’s building on 125 E. University Dr., Mesa. Submitted photo
Save The Family’s 2016 Hearts of Gold fundraiser was held Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. The event brought in more than 400 people who set a record on donations to Save the Family. Submitted photo
Phoenix Marketing Associates enters partnership with Phoenix Suns
BY KEN ABRAMCZYK
Jason Jantzen, a Chandler resident and president of Scottsdale-based Phoenix Marketing Associates, will be looking to leverage his company’s brand recognition in a new marketing partnership with the Phoenix Suns.
Thanks to the two-year agreement, PMA will receive in-arena signage at Talking Stick Resort Arena, print advertising
in the Free Throw gameday program, online digital exposure and sponsorship of the Phoenix Suns’ annual golf tournament benefiting Phoenix Suns Charities.
“It will help us increase our ties with the local community and strengthening our ties in the community,” Jantzen said. “That’s what we are looking for.”
Aligning with the Suns
Local FASTSIGNS recognized among top centers in the country
Local sign and visual graphics provider FASTSIGNS of Chandler was named one of the top centers out of more than 600 locations worldwide at the 2016 FASTSIGNS International Convention.
The locally owned and operated business received the Pinnacle Club Award, which is given to the centers ranked 26 to 125 in the United States and Canada for sales volume between Oct. 1, 2014, and Sept. 30, 2015.
“It’s an honor to be recognized as a top performing center and this award acclaims all of our team’s hard work and positive contributions in our community,” said Tom Calvert, owner of FASTSIGNS of Chandler. “We thank our customers for their support and trust
Many things
ACSA provides
and look forward to continuing to help local businesses and organizations tell their story using comprehensive signs, visual graphics and creative marketing solutions.”
Located at 3205 N. Arizona Ave., FASTSIGNS of Chandler has been doing business in the area for more than 16 years. Calvert acquired the center in 2007.
The center provides a wide range of visual communications solutions, including wall, window and floor graphics, architectural signs, trade show displays, wayfinding solutions, vehicle wraps and digital signage.
Info: www.fastsigns.com/357 or (480) 782-8800.
to detect minor problems before they become major disasters, giving your home a “cared for” appearance and keeping appliances and plumbing in good working order.
“elevates the company as a whole and broadens our range in the Southwest,” Jantzen said.
PMA will conduct digital marketing strategies and self promotion with the new partnership. “It’s also a mechanism to further promote our own clients,” Jantzen said.
PMA recently engaged in event marketing and public relations for Dignity Health East Valley Foundation’s Dancing for Stroke, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale’s Live & Local and Blue Door Ball
events as well as JDRF’s Promise Ball and One Walk 2016.
Phoenix Marketing Associates works with small- to medium-sized businesses across North America to provide targeted and results-driven marketing and public relations solutions. The company employs a consultative approach with a needs analysis, translating into a marketing and PR strategy to save clients time and money and provide maximum exposure.
For information, visit www. phoenixmarketingassociates.com.
La Bocca, Modern Margarita break ground downtown
The Mill Avenue Management Group has broken ground on two new restaurants— La Bocca Urban Kitchen + Wine Bar and Modern Margarita—both located at 1 E. Boston St. on the southeast corner of Boston Street and Arizona Avenue in Chandler. The two restaurants will share the kitchen space of the former Coach & Willie’s location. The opening target date is in late spring.
This will be the third La Bocca location in Arizona, joining locations on Mill Avenue in Tempe and on High Street in northeast Phoenix, which is also the location of the only other Modern Margarita in Arizona. Each of the restaurants will retain their signature decor and menus.
Cocktail menus for the new restaurants are being developed by the Mill Avenue Management Group beverage director, a mixologist with more than 20 years of experience in front
Jason Jantzen. Submitted photo
of and behind the bar.
Ground has been broken for a new La Bocca Urban Kitchen + Wine Bar in Chandler, which will share kitchen space with Modern Margarita at 1 E. Boston St. Submitted photo
Lawyer emphasizes the importance of giving back locally
BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON
Attorney Ed Salanga is a busy man.
A Chandler resident for more than a decade, the husband and father of two balances a successful law career, family obligations and an impressive track record of giving back to the local community in a variety of capacities.
Salanga is a partner at Phoenix law firm Quarles & Brady and the co-chairman of the Arizona Bar Association’s expert witness committee. When not on the case, he’s the president of the Chandler Industrial Development Authority (CIDA), where he spearheads the Chandler Collateral Assistance Program (CCAP).
In addition, he’s an active volunteer and on the board with the American Lung Association’s Arizona Chapter.
“It’s important to me to give back to the community where I live [and] where my kids go to school,” Salanga explained. “Not just the statewide community or the general Phoenix area but the localized community.”
According to the City of Chandler, the CIDA “provides tax-exempt financing through industrial revenue bonds for the financing or refinancing of the cost of acquisition, construction, improvement, rehabilitation or equipping of a project.” The
CCAP provides additional funding for local businesses seeking loans.
“I’ve been volunteering with the CIDA since 2006, essentially within a year of moving to Chandler,” Salanga said. “Its one mechanism for providing bonds and financing to businesses locally.”
“I was interested because it provides insight into local economic development; essentially an inside look into the economic development activities in the city where I live,” he continued. “I’ve met some wonderful economic development staff by volunteering there.”
and I were fortunate to have access to high quality treatment and prevention plans to help treat it.”
Years later, his daughter is now a young teenager and has her asthma under control. Since the incident though, Salanga has served on the American Lung Association’s local board.
“Of course, the American Lung Association’s mission here in Arizona goes beyond raising awareness of asthma,” he said. “They’re very much focused on improving the quality of the air we breathe— and how people can better their breathing and lung health—here in Arizona.”
been inspired to give back to the community.
“The firm’s Quarles Cares program—and just the company culture in general— encourages its employees to be involved in the community,” he explained.
Some of his favorite things about his professional are being in the courtroom and helping clients to reach resolutions.
“We’re a business law firm and I work on the dispute-resolution side,” he said. “My job is constantly changing and is complex and I’ve had a wonderful career here.”
As his career has developed, Salanga said that finding the balance between work, family and community has gotten better.
“As my law career has progressed I’ve learned where that balance is and what my limits are,” he explained. “My family, including my wife, is very supportive.”
In addition to his work with the City, Salanga spends time on a cause that’s close to his heart—raising awareness and funds to eradicate asthma and other lung diseases through the American Lung Association’s Arizona Chapter.
“I had childhood asthma growing up and was lucky enough to grow out of it,” he said. “But when my oldest daughter was 2, she had a major asthma attack that landed her in the hospital for several days. My family
With Quarles & Brady, Salanga described himself as a “commercial litigator who helps companies settle a wide variety of business disputes.” While he specializes in a variety of areas, some of his main focuses include the real estate, construction and financial industries.
He said that he’s been with the firm nearly all of his legal career (he’s a 2000 graduate of the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU) and, throughout that time, has always
For busy professionals who are looking to get involved in their local community but might be anxious, Salanga has some words of wisdom: “Be honest with yourself and how much time you can commit; it’s not helpful to start something than have to drop it because of time constraints.”
“Then, decide what you want to get involved with and do it,” he said. “There’s so much you can really learn if you really take the leap and do it.”
One lucky Chandler business will receive $5,000 makeover
Signarama Chandler at 3400 N. Arizona Ave., is inviting local store owners to enter a drawing for one winner to receive a sign and graphic makeover valued at $5,000.
The first 10 qualified business owners who call (480) 821-1100 will be entered into the competition and the winner will be
determined by the business receiving the most votes from the community between Tuesday, March 1, and Tuesday, March 22. The rules require the winner to be a brickand-mortar business located within the city limits of Chandler.
“This competition is a great way for a
local business to increase their presence, visibility and really give themselves a facelift,” said Jim Eichenberg, owner of Signarama Chandler.
Signarama Chandler will work closely with the winner to determine the best way to give the business a fresh, new look. Any
business owner who believes that they could benefit from new signage, graphics, interior decor and more is invited to call.
Info: www.signarama.com/az-chandler.
Single level, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with upgraded cabinets, gas range, granite counters, 2300 sqft, plumbed for soft water and more! Call for details on builder’s incentive package. Offered at $285,219.
& 60 freeways, lots of shopping & restaurants close by, call today! Offered at $179,000. COMPLETED
Ed Salanga. Submitted photo
ICAN Chandler was named one of the “Best Places to Work” by the Phoenix Business Journal for the third year in a row, ranking ninth on the list for micro companies with 10-49 employees. ICAN was up from 25th place last year.
“We are so thrilled to be recognized for a third time, and to move up to the top 10 of our list,” said Becky Jackson, president and CEO of ICAN. “Our employees are our most valuable resource and we work hard all year long to make ICAN a fun
environment where everyone feels valued and recognized for their hard work.”
The Phoenix Business Journal worked with a national research firm to survey, audit and rank companies after they self-nominated. Employees of those companies were then asked to complete an online survey that measured team effectiveness, trust in senior leaders, feeling valued, manager effectiveness, compensation, benefits and more. A total of 115 local companies were recognized.
State Forty Eight announces new location in North Chandler
State Forty Eight LLC, a maker of Arizona-themed and -inspired apparel, has moved into space located at 3215 N. Arizona Ave. in Chandler. The company expects to have a display room fully operational no later than March 1. “Small business growth is important to our city and we’re thrilled to have State Forty Eight anchored in Chandler,” said Mayor Jay Tibshraeny. “Their creative designs showcasing Arizona are being bought and worn throughout the state, country and worldwide. North Chandler is a thriving destination for entrepreneurial and technology oriented businesses and we wish continued success for this fast-growing, young company.”
State Forty Eight believes the new space will allow them to operate more efficiently, permitting them to employ
staff, keep up with demand and continue to grow their business.
“Remaining in Chandler was very important to us,” said Michael Spangenberg, State Forty Eight cofounder. “We grew up in Chandler and have a lot of pride in our hometown. Having a business location to call home is motivating and will help us achieve our goals.
“The assistance from the City of Chandler was tremendous. They took the time to meet with us and made it crystal clear they wanted us to remain in Chandler. We hope to continue developing a strong relationship with their team because of the support they have given us so far.”
Info: www.statefortyeight.com.
ICAN is a free, family-centered youth service that provides a full complement of programs to equip youth to achieve personal and academic success by tackling substance abuse, gang involvement and juvenile delinquency. ICAN is accredited by the National Council on Accreditation and was recently named “Outstanding after School Program” by the Arizona Center for After School Excellence. Info: call (480) 8214207 or visit www.icanaz.org.
RDO Equipment Co. breaks ground
Construction has started on an RDO Equipment Co. store on Interstate 10, south of the Loop 202, in Chandler. It is expected to open in early 2017.
Like the current RDO store in central Phoenix, the new store will sell and support John Deere construction equipment.
“The new store in Chandler furthers our commitment to our customers and allows us to expand our overall services
and product support capabilities in an expanding market,” said Dennis Howard, vice president of Southwest Construction. “We look forward to growing our close-knit team into an additional location and continuing to serve the Phoenix community for many years to come.”
RDO has more than 75 locations across the United States. Info: www. rdoequipment.com.
ICAN Chandler was named one of the “Best Places to Work” by the Phoenix Business Journal for the third year in a row, ranking ninth on the list for micro companies with 10 to 49 employees. Submitted photo
RDO Equipment Co. team members, along with Gordon Bluth of Blucor Contracting Inc., have broken ground for a new store in Chandler. Blucor is performing the dirt work. Submitted photo
Chamber events feature lunches, meetings for members
Throughout the year, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce offers a variety of luncheons and meetings for its members and the community.
Events are held at the Chandler Chamber of Commerce office, 25 S. Arizona Pl., Suite 201, unless otherwise noted.
To register, call (480) 963-4571, visit www.chandlerchamber.com or email info@chandlerchamber.com. No refunds are available within 72 hours of the event.
Ribbon Cutting: Golden Hawaiian BBQ
4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23
Join the Chandler Chamber at the ribbon cutting for Golden Hawaiian BBQ. Ribbon sponsor is Laser Creations.
Golden Hawaiian BBQ, 1760 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 3, Chandler
Chamber 101
7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 25
Find out how the Chandler Chamber can help grow your business, meet the Chamber staff and make valuable connections.
Public Policy Series
8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 26
David de la Torre, the City of Chandler’s
principal planner, will discuss the Chandler General Plan.
YES Presents Wing Madness at The Reef
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 3
Chandler Chamber Young Executive Series will be at The Reef for a wing fest.
The Reef, 393 W. Warner Rd., Chandler
Mayor’s Ostrich Festival Fun Run
7:35 a.m., start of Chandler Unified School District Running Club
8:20 a.m., start of adult and family run Saturday, March 5
This family-friendly race is flat, fast and tons of fun. Prizes for first, second and third place. Register at http://bit. ly/1RSavCx or visit www.ostrichfestival. com. Registration fee is $25 prior to March 4; $30 race day registration.
Dr. A.J. Chandler Park Pavilion, 3 S. Arizona Pl., Chandler
Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival Parade
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, March 5
The Ostrich Festival Parade features floats, bands, dancers, dignitaries, antique cars and more.
The parade starts at Ray Road and advances south on Arizona Avenue and to Chicago Street.
Sprouts to open store locally, hiring approximately 100
Sprouts Farmers Market is hiring approximately 100 full- and part-time employees for a new 30,000-square-foot store opening at 7 a.m. Wednesday, April 27, at 4065 S. Gilbert Rd. in Chandler. This will be the third store in Chandler and the 30th Sprouts store to open in the Phoenix area.
Employment opportunities include managers and assistant managers in the grocery, produce, deli, meat, bakery and vitamin departments; clerks in all departments, cashiers, courtesy clerks, a backup receiver, an administrative coordinator and a scan coordinator. Sprouts is looking for applicants who
“share a passion for healthy eating and the fresh, natural and organic products throughout the store.”
Sprouts employs more than 20,000 team members and operates more than 200 stores in 13 states from coast to coast.
Info: www.sprouts.com/careers.
OnTrac shipments are trackable for eBay customers
Chandler-based OnTrac, and eBay have teamed up to provide OnTrac tracking information to all eBay customers. The addition of OnTrac to eBay’s list of carriers was in response to sellers requesting to use OnTrac to ship their products.
OnTrac’s tracking number is now integrated within eBay’s tracking system, which will help sellers meet their on-time shipping goal and eBay top-rated seller requirements by having tracking uploaded every time they ship. Sellers can enter the information the same way as they would for USPS, UPS Inc. or FedEx services. For
buyers, they receive an automated email with the tracking number and a delivery update through My eBay.
“We’re excited about adding OnTrac as a reliable shipping solution to the eBay marketplace,” said Carl Gish, eBay’s global delivery experience and local vice president. “The integration of their service will greatly benefit eBay customers and help further eBay’s efforts to create frictionless commerce experiences.”
