tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26741090965542123992024-03-05T14:37:33.979-08:00Phoenix Woman SpotlightPhoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-30315682888890535502011-01-27T16:27:00.000-08:002011-01-27T16:28:59.350-08:00Raena Janes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67qvF1yGWhBi7CvFufcAYi-Qu8JYWE5Znl-2sEFnj9ZD4XsKyVu25P-KNfyyYWlNng9jyV7W6CWFHLECCwSZz_De-62gnUsFun3Fb4alyQ5xtBtyc-7Slk3Ca2JUuWZhm5seY2aDIkBY/s1600/Raena.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj67qvF1yGWhBi7CvFufcAYi-Qu8JYWE5Znl-2sEFnj9ZD4XsKyVu25P-KNfyyYWlNng9jyV7W6CWFHLECCwSZz_De-62gnUsFun3Fb4alyQ5xtBtyc-7Slk3Ca2JUuWZhm5seY2aDIkBY/s400/Raena.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5567027201531346386" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Local School Superintendent Stresses Citizenship </span><br />by Jeremy A. Belitsos<br /><br />As the mom of young twins and the superintendent of three Arizona charter schools with seven campuses in four cities, Raena Janes understands firsthand the demands of a hectic work schedule and busy family life. Perhaps this is why she’s been so successful in her educational endeavors. She understands the necessity for all parents – and students – to find balance and support.<br />An active advocate for Arizona education for many years, Janes’ passion for education was nurtured early on by her parents, who for years operated their own private school in Tucson. These days, Janes champions education as the founder of three of Arizona’s largest and fastest-growing charter school systems: Liberty Traditional Charter School in Phoenix, Heritage Elementary School in Glendale and Williams, and La Paloma Academy in Tucson.<br />Janes’ goal is to provide quality core academics with a strong character-based education for Arizona’s kids. In addition to learning about math, science, reading, writing, social studies and the arts, the students at Janes’ schools learn about the importance of character traits such as trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.<br />In addition to focusing on academics and character building, each of Janes’ charter schools incorporates community service into the curriculum. An active member in several non-profit community organizations such as Junior League of Tucson, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, Habitat for Humanity, Red Cross and the Advisory Council for the Arizona Charter Schools Association, Janes is a strong believer in bringing community service projects to Arizona’s youth.<br />Students at her schools learn about and contribute to the community through projects like cleaning up the local environment, contributing to seasonal charity drives and celebrating local military heroes. The projects are all part of Janes’ mission to create not only well-educated students but also well-rounded citizens and members of the community.<br />“We teach our students that they have a responsibility to the community and that it’s important to give back,” Janes says. She balances community responsibility with personal and academic responsibility at all of her charter schools.<br />Additionally, Janes works hard to ensure that parents and faculty communicate and work cooperatively with students to support them and provide for a more fulfilling educational experience. “Kids really want boundaries,” Janes says. “They like to know what’s expected of them and know that people love them enough to make sure they follow through.”<br />Janes always follows through, doing what she can to improve Arizona’s choices in education. Her passion for providing a solid educational foundation for every child has been recognized by the state of Arizona, earning her the state’s Excellence in Education Award. In addition, Janes has been the recipient of Tucson’s 40 Under 40 Award and the 2008 Tucson 40 Under 40 Mentor of the Year Award.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Jeremy A. Belitsos is a publicist for Tucson-based McFadden/Gavender Advertising.</span>Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-16628370575717059082010-08-31T13:00:00.000-07:002010-08-31T16:27:35.359-07:00March of Dimes-2010 Nurse of the Year Awards<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk0WyV7YgzqG4ygV4XaZ-gU761gaI3zjdimk5NX6TjDsM17A47MfzdiwTsODhbsMHx13RpoxuujDQZkl6n5Waksjrx4itMCDGAGAeUWUgnkJKGpLwrQhOn2Eimak4KR1d2LstfixGtq8/s1600/Pauline+Komnenich.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKk0WyV7YgzqG4ygV4XaZ-gU761gaI3zjdimk5NX6TjDsM17A47MfzdiwTsODhbsMHx13RpoxuujDQZkl6n5Waksjrx4itMCDGAGAeUWUgnkJKGpLwrQhOn2Eimak4KR1d2LstfixGtq8/s320/Pauline+Komnenich.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511719557337984626" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqhKHs5N6hnpCT0ibDr27dFeoCeiOBiYQNGVwbbp7iMtYHQL8KwsgJUr5uEftgJLJFoLoE629idgV524YXClWKFuDG0qWB9M0g69OKcQqwILPNJE5Ta892-9vCjypZyTdZxlMZ8Y2uSA/s1600/MODlogoNTY_RGB_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 106px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqhKHs5N6hnpCT0ibDr27dFeoCeiOBiYQNGVwbbp7iMtYHQL8KwsgJUr5uEftgJLJFoLoE629idgV524YXClWKFuDG0qWB9M0g69OKcQqwILPNJE5Ta892-9vCjypZyTdZxlMZ8Y2uSA/s320/MODlogoNTY_RGB_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511719549581246690" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjFh2qaXpRG1ij4-hF4BPDLRyi8WdVyAUYyWQxJwXty6Zhxth80fnQ7UyGbIRcDDhO0xApUmkKWfYuBBzYIbEG1kLNF31Vk7trxc5KstAbgLZeOuAB5qri5XrUkKuou6-cKh9wxI6O1Y/s1600/marchofDimesimage.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 353px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFjFh2qaXpRG1ij4-hF4BPDLRyi8WdVyAUYyWQxJwXty6Zhxth80fnQ7UyGbIRcDDhO0xApUmkKWfYuBBzYIbEG1kLNF31Vk7trxc5KstAbgLZeOuAB5qri5XrUkKuou6-cKh9wxI6O1Y/s400/marchofDimesimage.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511672100543888370" /></a><br />The March of Dimes Arizona Chapter announces its 2010 Nurse of the Year Awards winners. Presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona and University of Phoenix, the prestigious Nurse of the Year Awards Gala honored 14 nurses and named a “Legend in Nursing,” Saturday night, Aug. 28, 2010, an honor given for the first time since 2007. <br /> <br />The annual March of Dimes event pulled in close to $170,000, which will support future funding for nursing scholarships in Arizona as well as benefit the March of Dimes Arizona Chapter in its pursuit to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"></span>Winners in their respective categories are as follows:<br /> <br />Chamberlain College of Nursing Academic Education<br />Susan Stillwell, DNP, RN, CNE <br />ASU College of Nursing and Health Innovation<br /> <br />Advocacy for Patients<br />Kathy Manske, RN, MSN, CCRN, CHPN <br />Scottsdale Healthcare<br /> <br />Clinical Education<br />Suzan Miller-Hoover, DNP, RN, CCNS, CCRN <br />Cardon Children’s Medical Center<br /> <br />Community Service<br />Susan Stelton, MSN, RN, ACNS-BC, CWOCN <br />Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center<br /> <br />Innovation/Creativity<br />Helen Dempsey-Tennent, RN, MN, ARNP, FCN <br />Gila Mountain United Methodist Church<br /> <br />Arizona Nurses Association Leadership<br />Raymond Kronenbitter, RN, MSN, PCCN <br />Yuma Regional Medical Center<br /> <br />Mentoring<br />Sandra Kurtin, RN, MS, AOCN, ANP-C <br />Arizona Cancer Center<br /> <br />TriWest Healthcare Alliance Military<br />Meliza Harris, RN, BSN, MA <br />United States Air Force<br /> <br />Patient Care<br />Eric Humphrey, RN, CCRN <br />Mayo Clinic Hospital<br /> <br />Prenatal/Pediatric<br />Becky Bell, RN, BSN, CCBE, CLC, CLE, NIDCAP Reliable <br />Maricopa Integrated Health System<br /> <br />Research/Advancing the Profession<br />Barbara Wilson, PhD, RNC-OB <br />ASU College of Nursing and Health Innovation<br /> <br />Rising Star<br />Ashley Kinder, RN, BSN <br />Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center<br /> <br />Brookline College Student Nurse<br />Kimberly Harshberger, RN <br />St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center<br /> <br />Distinguished Nurse of the Year<br />Deborah Boyle, RN, MSN, AOCN, FAAN <br />Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center<br /> <br />Nurse Legend<br />Pauline Komnenich <br />ASU College of Nursing and Health Innovation<br /> <br />Pauline Komnenich received the coveted “Legend in Nursing” honor, which is chosen based on outstanding contributions, a minimum of 20 years of service, dedication to nursing and community service. The Nurse Legend honor hasn’t been given since 2007, when it was awarded to Peggy MacMacken from Tucson Medical Center.<br /> <br />For the third year, University of Phoenix, in partnership with the March of Dimes Arizona Chapter, offered two full-tuition scholarships to nurses pursuing advanced degrees. Helen Burson was awarded the scholarship to pursue an LPN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (LPN to BSN). The second scholarship recipient was Karen Butterbaugh, who will pursue a Masters of Science in Nursing/Health Care Education (MSN/ED). <br /> <br /><span style="font-style:italic;"></span>Sponsors for the event included Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, University of Phoenix, TriWest Healthcare Alliance, Channel 5, Jobing.com, Lovin’ Life After 50 and Watermark Video Production.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-57819597473200112182010-08-25T12:40:00.000-07:002010-08-25T12:44:31.384-07:00New Business Manager Joins After the Fact - Final Affairs, LLCAfter the Fact - Final Affairs, LLC is pleased to announce that Cathy M. Davis has joined their company as Business Development Manager.<br /> <br />She comes with real-life experience through being a caregiver for both her father-in-law and mother-in-law prior to their death. At that time, she was heavily involved in the settling of their estate.<br /> <br />Cathy moved to Phoenix from Chicago in 1985. She spent 20 years in the auto industry as a finance director and general manager. In 2001, she changed careers and entered into the mortgage business where she remained for eight years.<br /> <br />Most recently, Cathy has been involved with Advanced Funeral Planning which fills a passion of helping people have peace of mind that their things are taken care of.<br /> <br />She loves spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, reading, cooking and, when she can find the time, traveling<br /><br />After the Fact's goal is to give peace of mind during a difficult time by providing efficient, effective and confidential services so you can concentrate on what's important.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-68066973190152927602010-08-23T15:22:00.001-07:002010-08-23T15:37:03.153-07:00Woman of the Year<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZv1e_jjXXlLgMuGvhDLjecoIS-VGjHp-wWzJAL-5chkAFoP7HncudU595yxZyJt8FINlcvXhgeJkRF_AMGyJif-VA437dR8FB20MqV0ODRqoeSBaKnrNtH2BMVNYC9UvOjHFmhyzUETQ/s1600/CandaceHunterWiest.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 90px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZv1e_jjXXlLgMuGvhDLjecoIS-VGjHp-wWzJAL-5chkAFoP7HncudU595yxZyJt8FINlcvXhgeJkRF_AMGyJif-VA437dR8FB20MqV0ODRqoeSBaKnrNtH2BMVNYC9UvOjHFmhyzUETQ/s200/CandaceHunterWiest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508736917554737842" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">WEST VALLEY WOMEN ANNOUNCES WOMAN OF THE YEAR</span><br /><br />Candace Hunter Wiest, President and CEO of West Valley National Bank and West Valley Bancorp, Inc. has been named Woman of the Year by the West Valley Women organization. She will be honored for her commitment and dedication to the West Valley community on Oct. 5 at Skye restaurant with an elegant luncheon and award presentation.<br /><br />Wiest is the founding President of West Valley National Bank. Her community activities include GPEC, West Valley Advisory Board of Phoenix Children’s Hospital, the Catholic Community Foundation and incoming Chair of Westmarc. <br /><br />"Besides her commitment to growing West Valley National Bank, Candace has shared her considerable energy and talents in promoting West Valley business and social organizations," says Robert Guyette, chairman of the board of West Valley National Bank. "We are proud of the positive impact Candace has made in the West Valley and throughout the greater Phoenix area." <br /><br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">ABOUT WEST VALLEY WOMEN</span><br />Founded in 2005 by Linda M. Herold, West Valley Women offers guests and members monthly opportunities to network in a unique and special way. Women, who live, work or conduct business in the West Valley and share a pride in the uniqueness of the community will benefit from membership. Business and professional women, community leaders, women in government, women in education and those who have retired - all are welcome as members. <br /><br />West Valley Women has been named one of the top 25 networking organizations by the <span style="font-style:italic;">Phoenix Business Journal Book of Lists</span>.<br /><br />For more information about meetings, membership and sponsorship options, visit www.WestValleywomen.org<br /><br />Photo: Candace Hunter WiestPhoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-53448579957958830152010-08-18T10:00:00.000-07:002010-08-18T10:48:14.109-07:00Phoenix Woman magazineCheck out this short video clip of the fun we've had the past two years at Phoenix Woman magazine.<br />Maybe you'll see yourself or someone you know!!!<br />Make sure to dial up the sound...the music is rockin'. <br /><br /><a href="http://animoto.com/play/4z669LhPJuMUJuS1jW98UA"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Phoenix Woman magazine Video</span></a>Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-89494082705052445722010-07-22T13:09:00.000-07:002010-08-05T13:04:24.227-07:00PATTI GENTRY OF ARIZONA COMMERCIAL ADVISORS TO LEAD BARROW NEUROLOGICAL FOUNDATION (BNF) BOARDJuly 1 Appointment Marks Election of First Woman Chairman Since Board’s Founding in 1961<br /><br />The Board of Trustees of Barrow Neurological Foundation (BNF) has elected Patti Gentry, principal and designated broker of Arizona Commercial Advisors, to chair the Barrow Neurological Foundation Board for two years beginning July 1, 2010. Her appointment marks the first time a woman has been elected chairman since the Board’s founding in 1961.<br /><br />Gentry, who joined the board in 2001, will serve as chairman for fiscal years 2010-2012. According to Gentry, it is the passion for the hospital that keeps her and her fellow board members engaged.<br /><br />“I have two sisters who had benign brain tumors,” said Gentry. “Thanks to Dr. Robert Spetzler at Barrow Neurological Institute, they are both alive and doing well today. So each of us has a reason to be involved, and I look forward to working with the board to heighten awareness of each of their passions in the coming years.”<br /><br /> New officers of the BNF Board of Trustees also include:<br /><br />· Vice Chairman: Lisa Handley, senior vice president and Arizona managing director of MidFirst Private Bank.<br /><br />· Treasurer: Greg Anderson, CEO of Legacy Senior Housing and Development Company.<br /><br />· Secretary: Herman Orcutt, retired managing partner of Orcutt/Winslow Architects in Phoenix.<br /><br />· CEO/Assistant Secretary: Mary Jane Crist, vice president of philanthropy for St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and CHW Arizona market leader of philanthropy.<br /><br /> The following new members have been elected to initial one-year terms on the BNF Board of Trustees:<br /><br />· Barbara Barone, president and CEO of Biltmore Advisors.<br /><br />· Shelley Ann Duane, president of Revelations Interiors.<br /><br />· Catharine Bienvenu Fitch, vice president, investments for Raymond James & Associates, Inc.<br /><br />· Barbara Greiner Glass, president of Barbara Greiner Glass and Associates.<br /><br />· Karl James, partner and managing director of Capital Commercial Investments, Inc.<br /><br />· Patrick J. McGroder III, a trial lawyer who specializes in catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation. <br /><br /> Other members of the BNF Board of Trustees are Jane D. Alfano, Jack Clifford, Wayne S. Doran, Gee Gee Entz, Booker T. Evans, Lee Hanley, Linda Hunt, Mike Ingram, Guy Inzalaco, Stephen Lenn, Stanley W. Levine, Mac Magruder, Dr. Roy A. Patchell, Tom Reahard, Anne Robbs, Dennis Sage, Dr. Robert F. Spetzler, and E. Jeffrey Walsh.<br /><br /> Barrow Neurological Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for research, medical education, and patient care at Barrow Neurological Institute of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. The foundation is governed by a board of trustees made up of community leaders who serve on a voluntary basis.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-82735414292890236312010-07-14T12:38:00.000-07:002010-07-14T12:41:12.508-07:00Rose Law Firm Adds New Business Partner to its TeamArizona’s largest female-owned law firm, Rose Law Group, is adding an experienced business lawyer to its team with the addition of Ann-Marie Anderson. This addition will further support Rose Law Group’s leading Renewable Energy Practice.<br /> <br />Anderson will focus on Corporate Transactions, Commercial Litigation and Real Estate Development, Dispositions and Acquisitions in the Scottsdale-based firm that provides legal counsel in more than 20 practice areas and is widely considered one of the state’s top real estate and renewable energy firms.<br /> <br />“Ann-Marie is a wonderful addition to our team ,” said Jordan Rose, Rose Law Group founder and president. “Her experience, innovation and attention to client service match our long-heralded corporate culture.” <br /> <br />Anderson Ann-Marie’s 14-years of practice experience have included practicing with Gallagher & Kennedy, P.A. and the international firm of Squire, Sanders & Dempsey, LLP. She also served as Vice-President and General Counsel of a Silicon Valley, California technology company which pioneered the software and technology necessary to link PDA users to access the Internet and the Web. A significant portion of Ms. Anderson’s law enforcement, litigation and regulatory experience were gained from her service as an Assistant Attorney General (Arizona).<br /> <br />She also has substantial experience in administrative and regulatory law. In the areas of corporate and real estate transactions, Ann-Marie has worked on, closed and/or served as lead counsel in the merger/acquisition of publicly traded and privately held companies and commercial real estate developments. She has also prepared ’33 and ’34 Act securities filings, including, 8-Ks, 10ks, S-1’s and others.<br /> <br />Anderson earned her law degree from the University of Michigan Law School, where she served as a founding editor of the Journal of Gender and Law. She graduated Albion College, Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude.<br /> <br />She has provided legal counsel to many of Arizona’s large and small publicly traded and privately held companies, in industries, such as: Professional sports and stadium development, mining, resorts, technology and silicon chip companies, automobile manufacturing and financing, banks and financial institutions, the Arizona Medical Board, physicians, healthcare entities, real estate developers, architects, construction companies, venture capitalists and others.<br /> <br />In her spare time, Ann-Marie, a former 4-year varsity collegiate tennis player, continues to play tennis, competing in and/or qualifying for United States Tennis Association regional and national championships. She also volunteers her time to a number of boards and causes, including, the Arizona State Bar Administrative Law Section Board, National University of Michigan Alumni Association Board of Directors, University of Michigan Club of Phoenix Board, and as a mentor to Arizona State University College of Law students and various campaigns.<br /><br /><b>ABOUT ROSE LAW GROUP</b><br /> <br />Rose Law Group pc is a full service real estate and business law firm specializing in renewable energy, land use, zoning, government relations and lobbying, employment law, trusts and estates, administrative law, transactional real estate, water law, Native American relations, infrastructure finance, special districts taxation, business formation/corporation issues and business litigation. Rose Law Group pc currently has the busiest land use and zoning practice in the State of Arizona, representing only the very best clients. The Firm values “outrageous client service” and prides itself on hyper-responsiveness and an extraordinary record of success in achieving clients’ goals.<br /> <br />Follow the firm on Twitter, @roselawgroup, or check out its Facebook pages, facebook.com/RenewableEnergyAZ or facebook.com/roselawgroup and join the hundreds of fans who tune in for the latest information on the emerging industries. Or visit www.roselawgroup.com.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-72637675455376111772010-07-14T12:35:00.000-07:002010-07-14T12:37:32.978-07:00President Obama to Honor Phoenix MercuryOn Monday, July 19, President Obama will welcome the WNBA Champion Phoenix Mercury to the White House to honor the team’s 2009 championship season. In conjunction with this event, members of the team will participate in a service project with local area youth during their visit to Washington, D.C. This continues a tradition begun by President Obama of sports champions serving in the community as part of their visit. The White House event will be open press. More details will be released in the next several days.<br /><br />The Mercury secured its second championship (2009, 2007) in three seasons after defeating the Indiana Fever in a five-game series during the 2009 WNBA Finals in October. Diana Taurasi was named the regular season and finals MVP and led the team to a 30-15 record for the season. <br /><br />To find out more check out phoenixmercury.comPhoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-2670470918949786022010-07-14T12:28:00.000-07:002010-07-22T11:03:02.096-07:00One Big Night for Dena Cameron<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1HaMMuB9QewX-FI-5_AQ08_G5lw3Yf6sgj8aJVq9YLbonVR-fxJZLur1Jz4UWSnPbAM2zP_0uGYB0vkePw3dap7aADakbTmUSMj8Jmw_-1p2ZNZJLOZg56mGL2NtBm8-oKVX3990nIE/s1600/New+Image.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju1HaMMuB9QewX-FI-5_AQ08_G5lw3Yf6sgj8aJVq9YLbonVR-fxJZLur1Jz4UWSnPbAM2zP_0uGYB0vkePw3dap7aADakbTmUSMj8Jmw_-1p2ZNZJLOZg56mGL2NtBm8-oKVX3990nIE/s200/New+Image.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496792429679646242" /></a><br />Tonight is the big night for Dena Cameron, former CEO of Bill Johnson’s Big Apple restaurants. The daughter of Bill Johnson himself recently received the 2010 Hall of Fame award and will be formally presented at the 2010 S.T.A.R. Gala at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson. During her decades of service to the restaurant industry in Arizona, she helped to expand her family’s business to include now five locations across the Valley. The gala will take place in conjunction with “Tuning into Tourism”, The Arizona Governor’s Conference on Tourism held on July 12- 14. The award will be given to her July 13th and the event goes from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.<br /><br />For more information: Terence Murnin at 602.530.9900 or 480.789.7485Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-88053691296166060582010-03-29T10:15:00.000-07:002010-03-29T10:18:48.519-07:00Angel MedFlight Worldwide Air Ambulance Appoints New CEO and COOAngel MedFlight Worldwide Air Ambulance has appointed a new executive team. Kelly LoCascio will lead the medical transportation company as the chief executive officer (CEO) effective immediately. LoCascio served as chief legal counsel for the organization since 2008 and was instrumental in the company’s record growth in 2009. Angel MedFlight senior vice president and legal counsel, Michael Ward was promoted to chief operating officer (COO). Ward joined the air carrier in 2009, focusing on contracts and negotiations.<br /><br />LoCascio and Ward both specialize in Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) law which governs employer-provided insurance policies. Their expertise allows them to assist Angel MedFlight patients in obtaining benefit coverage for medically necessary flights. <br /><br />Kelly K. LoCascio<br /><br />LoCascio holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nebraska and a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from The John Marshall Law School. Since 2002, she has practiced law in the areas of ERISA, labor and employment, commercial litigation, and tenant’s rights. A Cambridge Who’s Who Notable Member, LoCascio was named one of the top 50 pro bono attorneys in Arizona in 2008. She is a member of the American Bar Association and the Association of Corporate Counsel. LoCascio has been featured in the Arizona Business Journal, Arizona Woman and Phoenix Magazine for her professional accomplishments. An avid volunteer, she donates time to the Volunteer Lawyers Program and HomeBase Youth Services. LoCascio was crowned Ms. Arizona Woman in 2007.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-4621226771813475562009-11-30T09:01:00.000-08:002009-11-30T09:02:15.236-08:00Sanford-Brown College Names Cheryl Pietkiewicz Director of EducationSanford-Brown College (SBC), which provides education in allied health care programs designed to prepare its graduates for related employment opportunities, is pleased to announce Cheryl Pietkiewicz as its director of education. In her role, Pietkiewicz will be responsible for overseeing the school’s academic department including the faculty, registrar, records and library functions. <br /><br />Pietkiewicz has more than 20 years’ experience in the healthcare field and education administration, most recently as the director of education and the director of clinical education at Anthem and Kaplan Colleges, respectively, in Phoenix. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Respiratory Therapy from Salisbury State University and a Master of Arts degree in Communication Studies from Arizona State University. Pietkiewicz is also a registered respiratory therapist. She resides in North Phoenix.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-32824164684907911022009-11-30T08:58:00.000-08:002009-11-30T09:00:55.792-08:00Eight Distinguished Women to Be Recognized at Dec. 5 Girl Scouts Awards LuncheonEight distinguished women have been selected to receive the Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council’s 2009 World Awards and will be recognized at the annual World Awards luncheon on Dec. 5. As Girl Scout alumni, these women exemplify the Girl Scout Promise and Law in their personal lives and make meaningful contributions to the betterment of their community. <br /><br />Recipients have been selected in seven annual categories: humanities, community service, arts, learning, courage, future and leadership. This year’s honorees are:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World Leadership Award</span><br />Lisa Keegan, The Keegan Company <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of Community Service</span><br />Kay McKay, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flagstaff<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of Courage</span><br />Leslie Mihata Bloom, Partnership for Drug Free America-Arizona Alliance and<br />Lt. Jacquelyn MacConnell, City of Phoenix<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of the Future</span><br />Lisa Love, Arizona State University<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of Humanity</span><br />Marian Frank, The Arizona Republic <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of Learning</span><br />Melinda Romero, Chandler Unified School District<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">World of the Arts</span><br />Deborah Gilpin, Children’s Museum of Phoenix<br /><br />The council has also selected eight Young Women of Distinction who are current Girl Scouts, ages 15 to 18, in the same categories. Those honorees include: Melanie Erin Picciano of Fountain Hills, World Leadership Award; Taylor Dawn Petersen of Scottsdale and Hillary Jean Eder of Mesa, World of Community Service; Sara Ellenberger of Ahwatukee, World of the Arts; Kaitlyn Amanda Stone of Flagstaff, World of Courage; Gabriela Marie Guerra of Arcadia, World of Humanity; Catherine Bina of Ahwatukee, World of the Future; and Alyssa Rollando of Ahwatukee, World of Learning.<br /><br />World Award recipients will be recognized for their achievements at a luncheon co-chaired by Christine Wilkinson and Ellen Kirschbaum, and presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield on Sat., Dec. 5, at the Arizona Biltmore Spa & Resort. Event activities begin with a silent auction at 10:30 a.m. followed by a luncheon presentation at noon. This is the council’s largest alumni event of the year; sponsorship opportunities are still available. <br /><br />The World Awards is open to the public and luncheon tickets are $75. All proceeds from the event will support new and existing Girl Scout programs. For more information, contact Leslie Friedman at (602) 452-7003 or visit www.girlscoutsaz.org.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-44367257353753629802009-11-30T08:56:00.000-08:002009-11-30T08:58:41.982-08:00Teacher of the Week Inspires New Generation of EducatorsThe newest Fulton Homes’ “Teacher of the Week” was nominated for not only being an exceptional English literature teacher, but also preparing her students for life beyond middle school. Christie Roe, an eighth grade teacher from Phoenix-based Christ Lutheran School, will be featured on the KNIX Ben and Matt Show Friday, Nov. 11, between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m.<br /><br />Roe was nominated by one of her former students, 18-year-old Kortnee Manning. Even though it has been years since Manning had Roe as a teacher, she still stands out to her as a source of inspiration. Due to Roe’s influence, Manning aims to pursue a teaching career herself. <br /><br />“[Roe] prepared us more for college and life in general than our high school teachers did,” Manning said. “She showed me that teachers could be your superheroes in life.”<br /><br />Manning is now on the path to become a “super” instructor like Roe. She is currently in college studying secondary education. <br /><br />“Mrs. Christie Roe has changed my life,” Manning said. “I started eighth grade wanting to get out of school and just be done. She made me want to make time slow down as much as I could learn as much as I could.” <br /><br />Roe also commits herself to all aspects of Christ Lutheran School. According to Principal Cheryl Ehlers, in addition to her already heavy teacher workload, Roe works with students on the school newspaper, chaperone’s dances, leads school field trips and more.<br /><br />“She goes out of her way to make sure her students exceed in the classroom and their lives,” Ehlers said. “She commits to way beyond the 8 to 3 school day.”<br /><br />Every week, students are asked to nominate teachers like Roe for the chance to win a prize package that includes $300 in cash plus prizes from Fulton Homes and the Dairy Council of Arizona. The winning teacher will also be spotlighted on the KNIX Morning Show with Ben and Matt, where they will receive special recognition on their Friday show. At the end of the year, the 34 winning teachers will be honored at a special luncheon, where one outstanding teacher will be selected as “Teacher of the Year.”<br /><br />“The best educators do more than just teach, they inspire,” said Douglas Fulton, CEO of Fulton Homes. “Mrs. Roe has been an inspiration to her students to be the best they can be in their lives.”Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-53430779158895832852009-11-30T08:51:00.000-08:002009-11-30T08:54:31.332-08:00Grant Thornton Promotes Wanda Denton to Senior Tax Manager<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvbuF_62ccG3r6F7UpwdXWiTatr-5ti_HRVniKeqS0I8k1MfoKxAlZ2_XGCECgVsoNMM_d2oAwg4HpJzAq6dTWBEkE6DMBZAZqiYUxh2rqL-OzFDg1xGFPC2Cv-5kb5jFk4ykI9Id97s/s1600/Wanda+Denton_200dpi_color.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvbuF_62ccG3r6F7UpwdXWiTatr-5ti_HRVniKeqS0I8k1MfoKxAlZ2_XGCECgVsoNMM_d2oAwg4HpJzAq6dTWBEkE6DMBZAZqiYUxh2rqL-OzFDg1xGFPC2Cv-5kb5jFk4ykI9Id97s/s200/Wanda+Denton_200dpi_color.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409941065442838050" /></a><br />The Phoenix office of Grant Thornton LLP, the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International, is pleased to announce it has promoted Wanda Denton to senior tax manager. In her new role, Denton’s responsibilities will include tax consulting and compliance for large public, private and middle-market companies while overseeing a staff of nine tax associates. She will continue to apply her expertise in accounting for income taxes, accounting periods and methods and corporate taxation. <br /><br />Denton has nearly 10 years experience in public accounting. She previously served Grant Thornton as a tax manager in the Phoenix office, where she provided tax planning and advice for clients in the cement and concrete, mining, manufacturing and distribution, software and service industries.<br /><br />Denton holds a Bachelor of Accountancy degree from Arizona State University and is a regional firm specialist in the area of IRC Section 382. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants (ASCPA) and American Society of Women Accountants. She also serves as elected official Republican Precinct Committeeman in and for her precinct in Maricopa County and is a member of the Auxiliary Board of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-33549668000207184602009-11-30T08:31:00.000-08:002009-11-30T08:41:24.085-08:00Patterson Joins Lewis and Roca as of Council for Tribal Affairs and Gaming<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAXgxdbSlxrl0DsTJrW9smAU09bKfXUyIdamixczecKOObPdSz81eB_khANON8hlbVX6ybjY9KBvccHGwaSh4RhK4Oiqid-_aCaAt0uVQlxhQW-A8d6KBc74Qc9aYEFaSnsshaCS8z1w/s1600/Patterson_K_HR.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAXgxdbSlxrl0DsTJrW9smAU09bKfXUyIdamixczecKOObPdSz81eB_khANON8hlbVX6ybjY9KBvccHGwaSh4RhK4Oiqid-_aCaAt0uVQlxhQW-A8d6KBc74Qc9aYEFaSnsshaCS8z1w/s200/Patterson_K_HR.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5409937709286102194" /></a><br />Lewis and Roca is pleased to announce that Kerry Patterson has joined the firm’s Phoenix office. <br /><br />Patterson is of counsel in the firm's Tribal Affairs and Gaming practice group. She has extensive experience in Native American law and real estate law. In addition, Patterson has worked on several multimillion-dollar projects involving Native American lands that included development agreements, negotiation of leases as well as other types of agreements. She also is well versed in real estate development including retail leasing, purchase and sale, negotiation and preparation of easement agreements, development agreements, license agreements and other related documents.<br /><br />Patterson received her J.D. from Arizona State University College of Law and her B.A. from the State University of New York, Fredonia.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-25804401249873457072009-11-24T08:04:00.000-08:002009-11-24T08:14:40.066-08:00Stevie Awards for Women in Business Unveil Winners of Sixth Annual CompetitionShining a spotlight on more than 60 outstanding women executives, business owners and organizations, the winners of the 2009 Stevie Awards for Women in Business were unveiled on Friday, Nov. 13 in categories including Best Entrepreneur, Best Executive, Most Innovative Company and Best Overall Company.<br /><br />With over 300 businesswomen in attendance, the winners of the 6th annual awards competition were announced at an awards dinner at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. More than 1,100 nominations were submitted for consideration in 54 categories.<br /><br />Notable Stevie Award winners from this year’s competition include:<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Executive:</span> Anna Chagnon, President and CEO of Bitstream Inc.<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Latin American Executive:</span> Griselda Hernandez, General Manager of UPS Mexico<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Asian Executive:</span> Shunee Yee, President and CEO of CSOFT International Ltd., China<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Entrepreneur:</span> Lindsay Phillips, Founder of SwitchFlops by Lindsay Phillips<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Young Entrepreneur:</span> Melissa Fields Tugwell, Founder of PetRays Veterinary Telemedicine Consultants <br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Canadian Entrepreneur:</span> Shabnam Rezaei, Managing Partner, Big Bad Boo Studios<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Best Overall Company of the Year:</span> Camp Bow Wow<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Lifetime Achievement Award:</span> Jennifer Openshaw, Founder & President, WeSeed & Women's Financial Network <br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Mentor of the Year:</span> Nancy Long, Chief HR Officer and Senior VP-Human Resources of Hitachi Data Systems<br /><br />-<span style="font-weight:bold;">Fastest Growing Company of the Year:</span> The Bioengineering Group, Inc.<br /><br />The 2009 honorees reflect a diverse group of large and small organizations from around the world. Additional Stevie Award winners include: Reading Room (London), iRobot Corporation, Canada Post and more. Eulogy! Public Relations (London) was the only organization to win two Stevie Awards this year, for Best Overall Company of the Year (Services Businesses--up to 100 Employees) and Best Executive in EMEA (President Lara Levanthal). For a complete list of honorees and more information, visit: www.stevieawards.com/women.<br /><br />The Stevie Awards for Women in Business is an international competition recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding women executives, business owners and the organizations they run. The awards are produced by the creators of the prestigious American Business Awards. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business are governed by a Board of Distinguished Judges and Advisors that features many leading women entrepreneurs and luminaries in business.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-83385009656990637162009-11-23T08:30:00.000-08:002009-11-23T08:34:13.283-08:00Local Bank President Wins International AwardCandace Hunter Wiest, President and CEO of West Valley National Bank, has won the coveted Stevie Award for Women in Business. Wiest claimed the prize for Best Executive for Service Businesses with up to 100 employees. This prestigious international award recognizes accomplishments of outstanding women executives, business owners and the organizations they run.<br /><br />The Stevie Awards for Women in Business are governed by a Board of Distinguished Judges and Advisors that features many leading women entrepreneurs and luminaries in business. More than 1,100 entries from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted for consideration. Awards were presented at the gala event at New York’s Marriott Marquis Hotel on Nov. 13. We applaud Candace Hunter Wiest for her outstanding leadership with West Valley National Bank and congratulate her on this achievement.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-55210081050009917412009-11-03T09:31:00.000-08:002009-11-03T09:35:13.917-08:00Lina Quintero of Elements of Design Honored by the Arizona Republic and AZCentral.com 35 Entrepreneurs, 35 and UnderElements of Design, a full-service, luxury residential and commercial interior design studio in Scottsdale with one of the largest showrooms in the state, is pleased to announce that The Arizona Republic and AZCentral.com recently recognized Elements of Design’s owner and lead interior designer, Lina Quintero, as one of Arizona’s top 35 Entrepreneurs, 35 and Under. Quintero was awarded the honor after being selected by a panel of judges who determined the winners from a group of over 175 applicants. The group of applicants was initially divided into the top 35 male and top 35 female competitors. Then the combined list of the top 70 males and females was pared to the definitive list of Arizona’s 35 Entrepreneurs, 35 and Under.<br /><br />According to The Arizona Republic and AZCentral.com, applicants were selected by a five-person panel: Dave Bittner, Beanstalk CFO Group; Anil Jain, managing partner of Endeaver Innovation Partners and a man recognized in the 2008 "35 entrepreneurs" competition: Robin Orchard, president, Orchard Medical Consulting; Andrew Johnson, business and innovations reporter, The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com; and Kathy Tulumello, business editor, The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com.<br /><br />Lina Quintero remarks, “This is an award I will never forget. To be recognized at 27 as one of Arizona’s up-and-coming business leaders is a remarkable accomplishment. Yet, with this accomplishment comes tremendous expectations for the future. This recognition will spur my motivation to take the next giant leap in my career.”Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-19868020912443404342009-11-03T08:57:00.000-08:002009-11-03T09:04:27.150-08:00Marcia Mintz Named John C. Lincoln Health Foundation CEO<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6gDs2wUXQMc34Rc2dHHJZrPBZy606hSodJW7OQM5VnmQGmCXW8AnkfGwB6a-EDkUIqyioPm19Xo2XUcyi2MReiZyOvv7mr5XHpylQ1v953r9SbqDy04QnFwmvOSfBSM9-hUlr_8QvmM/s1600-h/MarciaMintz.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 143px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK6gDs2wUXQMc34Rc2dHHJZrPBZy606hSodJW7OQM5VnmQGmCXW8AnkfGwB6a-EDkUIqyioPm19Xo2XUcyi2MReiZyOvv7mr5XHpylQ1v953r9SbqDy04QnFwmvOSfBSM9-hUlr_8QvmM/s200/MarciaMintz.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399924336481154994" /></a><br />Valley fundraising leader Marcia L. Mintz has been named chief executive officer of John C. Lincoln Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the John C. Lincoln Health Network. <br /><br />Mintz joins the John C. Lincoln Health Network after four years as chief development officer of Valley of the Sun United Way in Phoenix. Her background includes more than 18 years of international and regional nonprofit and corporate work in development and philanthropy. <br /><br />“We welcome Marcia’s experience and skills in the areas of development and philanthropy,” said Tom Batson, chairman of the Foundation’s board and Managing Director--Investments, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. “She joins a strong team with a long history of supporting health care and community service in Phoenix.”<br /><br />“I am excited to join the John C. Lincoln Network. The Foundation is uniquely positioned to support both medical excellence and community service programs. Philanthropy and community partnerships will continue to play an important role in our success,” said Mintz. <br /><br />The John C. Lincoln Health Network has 85 years of history in the north Phoenix community, providing medical care through its North Mountain and Deer Valley hospitals, 20 physician practices and specialty centers and its Desert Mission Food Bank, Children’s Dental Clinic, Community Health Center, Marley House Behavioral Health Clinic, Lincoln Learning Center, Neighborhood Development and Adult Day Health Care. The Foundation helps support these efforts through volunteer and donor activities and two special events a year. Last year, the Night of Gold Ball and Lincoln Guild Invitational Gold Tournament together raised almost $500,000, and the Network served more than 100,000 people. <br /><br />“As the philanthropic arm of our organization, the Foundation’s mission is to support health care and community services provided through the John C. Lincoln Health Network,” said Rhonda Forsyth, president and CEO of John C. Lincoln Health Network. “We’re proud of what our organization has accomplished over the past 85 years, and we look forward to continuing to grow our services in the challenging years ahead. Marcia will help us build an even stronger organization that stays true to our mission, so we can continue to help the people of Phoenix achieve the highest level of well-being possible.”Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-14824250396459638102009-10-19T10:22:00.000-07:002009-10-19T10:51:26.243-07:00Besler of Lewis and Roca Receives 2009 INTA Volunteer Service AwardLewis and Roca is pleased to announce that Mary Beth Besler has received the International Trademark Association’s 2009 award for the Advancement of Committee or Subcommittee Objectives. This award will be presented, with all of INTA’s 2009 awards, on Nov. 11 at INTA’s 2009 Leadership Meeting in Miami Beach, Florida. <br /><br />Besler is the Trademark Administrator to the firm’s Intellectual Property practice group. She is also chair of the Young Practitioners Subcommittee of the Membership Services Committee for INTA. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">About the International Trademark Association</span><br />The International Trademark Association (INTA) is a not-for-profit membership association of more than 5,900 trademark owners and professionals, from more than 190 countries, dedicated to the support and advancement of trademarks and related intellectual property. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">About Lewis and Roca LLP</span><br />Lewis and Roca has been one of the Southwest’s leading law firms for over 50 years. With offices in Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Reno and Silicon Valley, the firm’s practice includes numerous industry and legal practice areas including business transactions and litigation. For additional information, please visit www.LRLaw.com.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-73729225597340559612009-10-19T09:21:00.000-07:002009-10-19T09:25:19.566-07:002009 Woman of Excellence AwardPhoenix Woman magazine is proud to sponsor the 2009 Woman of Excellence Award, where a special Valley woman will be honored Nov. 13 at the Woman of Excellence Luncheon. <br /><br />The winner of this award will be one who has demonstrated a commitment to improving the lives of women or girls in our community. This "Woman of Excellence" will also demonstrate the type of personal and professional growth that makes her an exemplary "Phoenix Woman." <br /><br />These are the nominees for the 2009 Woman of Excellence Award:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Donna Bartos</span><br />Donna Bartos is the founder of the Purple Ribbon Council to Cut Out Domestic Abuse. She is the creator of Girls Night Out to Cut Out Domestic Abuse, Purple Ribbon Brunch, It’s Okay to Talk About It Community Circles, Rock the Purple, Pedal for Purple and the Pretty in Purple Party.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Elaine Birks-Mitchell</span><br />Elaine Birks-Mitchell is CEO of Bosom Buddy Bra Recycling, a green group devoted to recycling new and used bras to various organizations across Arizona and other states.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Margaret Dunn</span><br />Margaret Dunn serves Scottsdale as a Board Member of the Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Chamber of Commerce, and is president of a 45-employee, 21-trolley, $2.5 million-a-year trolley business.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kristen Sandquist</span><br />Kristen Sandquist founded her first non-profit in 1996 called Circle of Friends. In 2003, she founded Visions of Hope. She is president of both organizations, and continues to support several local charities.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Lindsay Rattay</span><br />Lindsay Rattay founded Blankets for Babies, an organization that sends quality chenille Boh Boh Blankets to babies and children in need.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Pam Gaber</span><br />Pam Gaber is the founder and CEO of Gabriel’s Angels, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of abused, neglected and at-risk children through the application of pet therapy.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Peggy Bilsten</span><br />Peggy Bilsten served on the Phoenix City Council for 14 years and was the chair for Governor Napolitano’s Commission to Prevent Domestic Violence against Women, and continues to advocate on behalf of human rights issues facing women.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sherry Lund</span><br />Sherry Lund is the founder and president of several nonprofit organizations including the Victoria Lund Foundaton, named for her stepdaughter who passed away in 2002 from liver failure. She also contributes to several communities programs with the hope of easing the burdens many women face.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Tara Hitchcock</span><br />Tara Hitchcock is the anchor/host of the highly rated "Good Morning Arizona" news program that airs each weekday morning on 3TV. She volunteers for several charities, including Best Buddies, Childhelp and the Foundation for Blind Children.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Mary Peterson</span><br />Mary Peterson co-founded Maggie’s Place, a community that provides hospitality for pregnant women who wish to change their lives for the better and achieve a variety of goals. <br /><br />The winner will be announced Nov. 13 at the “Woman of Excellence” luncheon at the Silverleaf Country Club in Scottsdale. Visit the <a href="http://www.blacktie-arizona.com/calendar/index.cfm?FuseCalendar_ID=4549&CurntDate=11/13/2009®ion=0&FUSEACTION=ShowEvent">Black Tie Arizona Website</a> for more information and to RSVP for this event.<br /><br />For more information on the nominees, check out our upcoming Nov./Dec. issue of Phoenix Woman.Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-62129480832893357802009-09-28T09:28:00.000-07:002009-09-28T09:31:16.292-07:00Chamber Hires New Account ExecutiveThe Scottsdale Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of Sarah Hansen as Relationship Manager in support of Business Development. Sarah will focus on new member acquisition while also working with existing members and committees in fulfillment of their needs. <br /><br />Sarah was born and raised in Arvada, CO. She moved to Arizona in 1998 to help start and establish a family business specializing in custom bathroom and kitchen remolding. Sarah also worked at Wells Fargo Bank for over six years. She began as a teller and was quickly promoted to a Customer Service Sales Rep, then a personal banker, and finally attained assistant branch manager. Sarah led a successful sales team and received many awards and accolades from Wells Fargo. <br /><br />Sarah loves charity and volunteer work, traveling, extreme sports (dirt biking, scuba diving, white water rafting, trap shooting, etc.) movies, plays and spending time with friends and family. Sarah is very devoted to her Jack Russell Terrier named Tootsie Monster. Her main passion in life is helping people, and in her new role with the Scottsdale Chamber, she wants to help local business grow, develop, and prosper.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktJ8Lv5wbtaIF_-OszaEttHZXnpS24Cnby7WpqD8jezVE1FYcog_mZ2QjkIBXcCuW9rokfbqGv2kl7Asrvk1Kpj8fGyTVuTxFkWdUJidPtXe08pC40D3B924pE_61s9i5e7DAtvXmuro/s1600-h/noname.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 140px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktJ8Lv5wbtaIF_-OszaEttHZXnpS24Cnby7WpqD8jezVE1FYcog_mZ2QjkIBXcCuW9rokfbqGv2kl7Asrvk1Kpj8fGyTVuTxFkWdUJidPtXe08pC40D3B924pE_61s9i5e7DAtvXmuro/s200/noname.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386556663704817778" /></a>Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-25521762619194978852009-09-21T09:39:00.000-07:002009-09-21T09:44:18.181-07:00Philanthropy, Flying are Passions for 2010 Honor Ball ChairCommunity involvement and philanthropy have always been important to Paradise Valley resident Sandy Trznadel. She and husband Frank are longtime supporters of the Scottsdale Healthcare Foundation, which is presenting its 34th annual Honor Ball on Feb. 6, 2010.<br /><br />Sandy is chairing the committee of community leaders organizing the gala black-tie event, which has a new beneficiary this year: The Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare. <br /><br />Her support for the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center derives from personal experience. Frank's father and Sandy’s mother both lost their battles with cancer. <br /><br />Watching their parents struggle intensified the Trznadel's commitment to fight cancer, and both are avid supporters of the Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center. <br /><br />Prior to the center’s construction in 2001, Sandy served on the Community Cancer Advisory Council that provided input on its design, services and amenities. Their philanthropy established the Sandy and Frank Trznadel Education Center, which hosts numerous education and support programs in the cancer center.<br /><br />"When you find a charity that you truly believe in, and you can see where your money is going, you’re able to see the impact it has on the lives of the people in your community," says Sandy.<br /><br />Born and raised in a small Mississippi town, Sandy Trznadel attended Mississippi State University before moving to Memphis, Tennessee, where she began a modeling career with the prestigious John Robert Powers Agency. A few years later she moved to Chicago and continued to model for the Powers agency. <br /><br />She met her husband while working in accounting at Comdisco, where Frank was the company's chief financial officer. When the couple married in 1978, Sandy left her job and realized her true passion - flying. <br /><br />After years of flying and studying, Sandy obtained her private pilot's license, and her commercial and jet ratings. "It's taken many years - but anything worth doing is worth doing well," she says. <br /><br />Several years ago, Sandy established a private corporation, T.S. Aviation, and flies and charters her plane out of Sky Harbor International Airport. She has also been involved with a program where she is on call to fly sick individuals or vital organs to hospitals and medical centers. <br /><br />"Over time, you begin to focus on the things that are really important to you. For me, it's wonderful to be able to share my passion and give back at the same time," says Sandy. "And being able to take a hands-on approach is a tremendously rewarding experience." <br /><br />One of the Valley’s most elegant and exciting black-tie events, The Honor Ball has raised more than $8 million to benefit Scottsdale Healthcare and will be held Saturday evening, Feb. 6, 2010 in The Phoenician Resort Grand Ballroom.<br /><br />The Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center at Scottsdale Healthcare offers cancer diagnosis, treatment, research, prevention and support services in its facilities at the Scottsdale Healthcare Shea Medical Center, attracting patients from across Arizona and the U.S. To learn more about the cancer center, visit www.shc.org/cancer.<br /><br />For more information on 2010 Honor Ball, call 480-882-4510.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioU6L3vcj4_LyNK405m9E1kHDLHL3d6MPhFPwubsK8sTD6RAzPTVdve5tj1M1AbmgzIU6KXlceuT-Yo4mmqirpM5gzEfhD5HD8e9qCcdrR5IqCToDTO7Qn3MT92shZXAhOcqtss7yCtTc/s1600-h/Sandy+Trznadel+-+pls+credit+Michel+F.+Sarda.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 186px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioU6L3vcj4_LyNK405m9E1kHDLHL3d6MPhFPwubsK8sTD6RAzPTVdve5tj1M1AbmgzIU6KXlceuT-Yo4mmqirpM5gzEfhD5HD8e9qCcdrR5IqCToDTO7Qn3MT92shZXAhOcqtss7yCtTc/s200/Sandy+Trznadel+-+pls+credit+Michel+F.+Sarda.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383961966349048498" /></a><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br>Photo by Michel F. SardaPhoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-62225370539631101462009-09-21T09:11:00.000-07:002009-09-21T09:13:49.885-07:00Grant Thornton Appoints Gail Baer to Director of Business Advisory ServicesThe Phoenix office of Grant Thornton LLP, the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International, is pleased to announce it has appointed Gail Baer to Director of Business Advisory Services. In her new role, Baer’s responsibilities will include serving as Business Advisory Services practice leader for Grant Thornton’s Desert Cluster, which includes the Phoenix and Albuquerque markets.<br /><br />Previously, Baer served Grant Thornton as a senior manager in the Phoenix office. She has more than 20 years of experience in information technology auditing and information systems consulting, as well as expertise in Sarbanes-Oxley Section 404 compliance, SAS 70 reviews and internal audit.<br /><br />Baer earned a Bachelor of Science in Operations, Research & Industrial engineering from Cornell University and has worked in a wide variety of industries including information technology, government, consumer products and health care. She is an active member of the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) and the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and is a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2674109096554212399.post-33103805154064938982009-09-21T08:32:00.000-07:002009-10-12T09:12:43.259-07:00AZWP Founder Committed to Helping WomenPaula Cullison has devoted most of her adult life to elevating the status of women. She attributes her success to a “Can Do” attitude. A former New Yorker, Cullison has been a Phoenix Woman since 1974. She is also a 20-year breast cancer survivor and recipient of both the Macy’s For Her Sake Heart and Soul Award and the Susan G. Komen Foundation Ribbon of Hope Award for her long standing advocacy efforts.<br /><br />With a degree in Industrial Psychology and extensive studies in languages, Cullison’s professional background entails over 25 years of experience in management, marketing, public and community relations, strategic planning, fundraising, program development and implementation, advocacy, and volunteer coordination. Her passion for international travel has led her to writing articles for publication. Cullison’s goal is to encourage women to experience the joy of foreign travel as they broaden their horizons.<br /><br />As a longtime advocate of women’s rights and a supporter of issues affecting women and girls, Cullison was presented with the Susan B. Anthony Award in April 1999. This was an especially great honor for Cullison because Susan B. Anthony is one of the women she most admires.<br /><br />Moreover, Cullison served on the Phoenix Women’s Commission for three years and was then appointed to the Phoenix Futures Forum. A finalist for the Athena Award and for the Valley Leadership Award, Cullison served on the board of directors for the Phoenix chapter of the American Association of University Women for several years.<br /><br />Since 1985, Cullison has been advocating for the ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination CEDAW by the US Congress. She has spoken on this issue numerous times to civic organizations and to on-campus student groups. Cullison recently met with AZ Congressional members to discuss CEDAW and will be a speaker at Phoenix College to address this issue, exemplifying the motto, “Think globally and act locally.”<br /><br />Having presented at the UN Conference for Women in Nairobi, Kenya and the World Women’s Conference in Moscow as a member of the United Nations Association, Cullison recently organized and co-chaired the 60th anniversary dinner for the Celebration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights here in Phoenix.<br /><br />Three years ago, American Greetings was not offering an e-card to recognize Women’s Equity Day, which celebrates women’s suffrage. Women were given the right to vote in 1920 by the 19th Amendment, so the holiday on Aug. 26 commemorates an important event. It took Cullison a year of phoning and e-mailing the headquarters, but her persistence paid off and an e-card card was created, which is free for users. She hopes that many will send out these cards.<br /><br />Cullison’s most recent focus has been the Arizona Women’s Partnership, Inc., a non-profit organization which she created in 2002 to provide grants to grass roots charities that assist underserved women and children at risk here in Arizona. To that end, she also created the fundraising vehicle Wine, Women & Jazz.<br /><br />AZWP is an all volunteer philanthropic 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization that relies on the generosity of the local community. To date, AZWP has awarded over $130,000 in grants to more than 40 non-profits; their profiles are on the website www.azwp.org. To volunteer time, contact the non-profits directly. The annual fundraiser will be held on April 17, 2010. An AZWP Advisory Committee reviews the grant applications; the form is also available on the website www.azwp.org.<br /><br />You may contact Cullison at paulacullison@aol.com, or on her <a href="http://www.facebook.com/search/?q=Paula+Cullison&o=2048&init=ffs#/profile.php?id=100000137695102&ref=search&sid=1398458299.493261871..1">Facebook</a> page.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-aIQGasZILu9TqGSO3QCP4xbqKij6HmjRwGcCzYEFGdQ41fTmfD71se_Lj7PFPl7smHgO-GzjVeOe4VWxc5Ev-H9JbQS2b-2WTswrRSMbsBNHN3TPw1h55Q_TZ-LpRxCOpj0iBlXPYc/s1600-h/Paula+Cullison+by+Tracy+Rasinski.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-aIQGasZILu9TqGSO3QCP4xbqKij6HmjRwGcCzYEFGdQ41fTmfD71se_Lj7PFPl7smHgO-GzjVeOe4VWxc5Ev-H9JbQS2b-2WTswrRSMbsBNHN3TPw1h55Q_TZ-LpRxCOpj0iBlXPYc/s200/Paula+Cullison+by+Tracy+Rasinski.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5391747027201766706" /></a>Phoenix Womanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10864091450503176687noreply@blogger.com0