Shonna James Communications recognizedwith Communicator, Spectrum Awards

Shonna James Communications, a full-service marketing communications company based in Phoenix, has received two awards for its work on the 2008 U.S. Bank Arizona Celebration of Lights event.

In a national competition, Shonna James Communications (SJC) was chosen from 7,000 entries for a 2009 Communicator Award of Distinction in the Special Event category. The company was recognized for its abilities to create a strong brand identity, solicit and confirm sponsors, design collateral materials, confirm significant press coverage, and impact charitable donations.

Locally, SJC was recognized with a 2009 Spectrum Award from the Phoenix Chapter of the American Marketing Association. One of three finalists in the Event Marketing category, SJC was confirmed the winner by judges who stated that its entry "displayed the qualities of a successful, highly integrated, comprehensive campaign: a variety of promotions, a suite of sponsors and substantial press."

"We are pleased to receive these awards, which acknowledge the excellence of our team and efforts on behalf of this event," said Shonna James, president of SJC. "We look forward to this year's event, at which we will introduce more energy efficient, LED lights and an outdoor ice-skating rink, from which our charities, the City of Glendale and residents of the entire state of Arizona will once again benefit!"

Established in 1998, Shonna James Communications' service profile includes media, community and employee relations, crisis management and event planning services. The company can be reached at (602) 424-7822 or at www.shonnajames.com.

Scottsdale CFO leaves employees impressed

Every once in a great while, a fantastic leader comes around and makes a positive impact on those around her. Employees of Blood Systems, Inc. in Scottsdale are lucky enough to call Susan L. Barnes their boss, and realize the benefits of working under such a qualified individual.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Barnes has been with Blood Systems, Inc.—an internationally known leader in blood banking—for the past 16 years as CFO and vice president. She is an excellent mentor as well as the financial leader of the company.

Together with its divisions, Blood Systems, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization. It is a “fee for service” organization and is a founding member of the AABB and America’s Blood Centers. Both
organizations play a major role in communicating advances in transfusion medicine nationwide. Blood Systems is also a member-owner of Blood Centers of America, an organization dedicated to improving the operating effectiveness of its members. With the help of leaders such as Barnes, Blood Systems, Inc. has been making a difference in people’s lives and delivering proven service for more than 65 years.

Although blood is freely given by volunteers, there are significant costs to recruit blood donors and then to collect, test, process and deliver blood to hospitals. Blood centers charge hospitals a processing fee to cover these costs. To meet quality standards comparable to those in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, blood centers invest heavily in procedure development, training, equipment and facilities.

Like all organizations―whether for-profit or non-profit―blood centers must be financially fit to continue to fulfill their lifesaving missions. Gifted with the great ability to budget and plan for the future of a company, Barnes has developed many tools and models that have been very effective in planning and tracking the growth of Blood Systems, Inc.

By setting clear expectations, leading by example, cultivating unique individual talents and showing appreciation for her employees’ efforts, Barnes has created a positive professional environment at Blood Systems Inc. It’s no surprise that she has gained the respect and admiration of her staff.

First Fidelity’s Harrison promoted to Senior Vice President

First Fidelity Bank President and CEO Lee Symcox is pleased to announce Marsha Harrison has been promoted to the position of senior vice president, treasury services relationship manager.

As treasury services manager, Harrison is responsible for supporting First Fidelity’s commercial and business banking teams. Her duties include client development and retention through assisting commercial customers with treasury management products and services.

Harrison has nearly 25 years of business and banking experience. She has served as First Fidelity’s treasury services representative in the Arizona market since 2007. Before joining First Fidelity, Harrison worked as an independent events and marketing consultant to Fortune 500 companies nationwide.

First Fidelity Bank, N.A., a nationally chartered bank established in 1921, is a family-owned, privately held full-service banking institution. The bank currently has 28 offices serving the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Phoenix and Scottsdale metro markets. With total assets of more than $1.1 billion, First Fidelity provides commercial and retail banking, investment and trust services, mortgage origination and merchant services. For more information, visit www.first-fidelity.com.

Martz Agency receives certification as Women’s Business Enterprise

Martz Agency, a fully integrated marketing and public relations agency, announced today that it has received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.

WBENC’s national standard of certification implemented by WBENC West is a meticulous process including an in-depth review of the business and site inspection. The certification process is designed to confirm the business is at least 51 percent owned, operated and controlled by a woman or women.

“I have always had the utmost respect for WBENC and its work as an advocate for female business owners,” said Carrie Martz, CEO, Martz Agency. “As such, I’m thrilled that the Martz Agency is now certified by WBENC.”

By including women-owned businesses among their vendors, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier/vendor diversity programs.

To learn more about the Martz Agency, visit www.martzagency.com.

ABC animal shelter open house brings fundraising closer to 2009 goal

The ABC Animals Benefit Club, a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter in North Phoenix, held it’s second annual open house and fundraiser June 14. The fundraiser was done in order to ensure the continuous care and welfare of the dogs and cats at the sanctuary and to make sure the shelter is able to keep its doors open in these challenging economic times.

Over 180 guests attended the event, which focused on animal adoption, the art of being a foster parent to an animal in need and the goal to raise $ 60,000 from the event.

“We are about 20% closer to our 2009 target," said Andra Jeffress, president of the volunteer board of ABC during a TV interview Sunday. “We understand that times are hard for a lot of individuals, but they are even harder for a lot of animals, that get thoughtlessly left behind and abandoned by their owners. This is where ABC comes in and nurtures the animals at our sanctuary.”

The shelter needs another $48,000 to ensure continuity in the operation for 2009. Expenses have already been cut over 30% compared to prior years and the operation is running nearly on all volunteer efforts.

In addition to cash donations, ABC is looking for individuals to participate in the new monthly donor program, donations for goods (blankets, food, laundry detergent and other items), and mostly for good homes that want to adopt a dog or cats in need.

For information on any of these programs or more please go to: www.animalsbenefitclub.com

Shonna James Communications recognized with Communicator, Spectrum awards

Shonna James Communications, a full service marketing communications company based in Phoenix, has received two awards for its work on the 2008 U.S. Bank Arizona Celebration of Lights event.

In a national competition, Shonna James Communications (SJC) was chosen from 7,000 entries for a 2009 Communicator Award of Distinction in the Special Event category. The company was recognized for its abilities to create a strong brand identity, solicit and confirm sponsors, design collateral materials, confirm significant press coverage, and impact charitable donations.

Locally, SJC was recognized with a 2009 Spectrum Award from the Phoenix Chapter of the American Marketing Association. One of three finalists in the Event Marketing category, SJC was confirmed the winner by judges who stated that its entry “displayed the qualities of a successful, highly integrated, comprehensive campaign: a variety of promotions, a suite of sponsors and substantial press.”

“We are pleased to receive these awards, which acknowledge the excellence of our team and efforts on behalf of this event,” said Shonna James, president of SJC. “We look forward to this year’s event, at which we will introduce more energy efficient, LED lights and an outdoor ice-skating rink, from which our charities, the City of Glendale and residents of the entire state of Arizona will once again benefit!”

Established in 1998, Shonna James Communications' service profile includes media, community and employee relations, crisis management and event planning services. The company can be reached at (602) 424-7822 or online at www.shonnajames.com.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale staff receive top honors at national conference

John Patris-Browne, Youth Development Supervisor at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Mary Ellen & Robert McKee Branch, located in Fountain Hills, was presented the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Academy of Professionals “Distinguished Professional Award” at the national conference held in Atlanta on May 13-16, 2009.
John has been working for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale since 1993. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication from Arizona State University. During his youth, John attended the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Virginia G. Piper Branch and is an example of how Club programs and mentoring he received made a positive and lasting impression.

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale is second in the nation with 14 staff earning this honor, which is given based on work history, professional development, training experiences and education. All 14 are members of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Academy of Professionals, a program created in 1998 to recognize staff nationwide that demonstrates a commitment to fulfilling the strategic goals and objectives that supports the organization’s mission. The Academy honors staff for continued professional growth and development that demonstrates the highest levels of competence and performance within their jobs.

Lisa Glow joins Children's Museum of Phoenix as Director of Development

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix announced today that Lisa Glow has joined the staff as Director of Development. Lisa’s work will focus on major individual giving and larger fundraising strategies including the Museum’s current Raise the Climber Capital Campaign and Annual Giving Campaign.

Lisa most recently served as President & CEO of Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC), a title she held for three years. She is a graduate of the University of Arizona College of Law, and has had a distinguished career in private practice and in state government including the position of Executive Director of the Arizona’s Governor’s Division for Children, Youth and Families.

Lisa joins the staff at a transitional period in the Museum’s Development Department as Kate Wells, current Director of Development and Communications, and Museum Founder, prepares to leave the organization at the end of the month.

"We cannot be happier with this new addition to our team," said Debbie Gilpin, President & CEO of the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. "Lisa brings a great deal of experience and knowledge to this position not only in the nonprofit development arena but also in the areas of early childhood education and child development. We are excited and proud to have her join our team."

Susan Ratliff Named Advocate of the Year Finalist

Washington, D.C. — NSBA today honored Susan Ratliff of Phoenix-based Exhibit Experts, Inc. as a finalist for the 2009 Lewis Shattuck Small Business Advocate of the Year Award. Ratliff was recognized among four other entrepreneurs during NSBA’s Annual Advocate of the Year Award Luncheon held Tuesday, June 9 at in Washington, D.C.

“Susan Ratliff is the embodiment of the word ‘entrepreneur,’” stated NSBA President Todd McCracken. “Her zeal for helping other small-business owners is not only impressive, it is making a difference every day to entrepreneurs across Arizona.”

Ratliff has been a small-business owner since 1988, during which time she’s taken an active role as small-business cheerleader, supporter, encourager, teacher and promoter. A true believer in the power of entrepreneurship, Ratliff created the first Women Entrepreneurs’ Small Business Boot Camp which just celebrated its fifth anniversary. Ratliff has been involved with NSBA, the Entrepreneurial Mothers Association, the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Chambers of Commerce, the National Speakers Association, NAWBO and the Arizona Small Business Association, to name a few.

Beyond her broad involvement in small-business organizations, Ratliff is a true believer in the power of entrepreneurship. When asked by the warden of a women’s prison in Perryville, Arizona to speak to the inmates, Ratliff’s talk about entrepreneurship turned it into a moving address to women whose lives she touched by giving them positive perspectives on their future.

The criteria used in determining award finalists was a commitment to small business advocacy, a proven history of volunteer activism on behalf of the small-business community, and success and growth as a small-business owner.

Since 1937, NSBA has advocated on behalf of America’s entrepreneurs. A staunchly nonpartisan organization, NSBA reaches more than 150,000 small businesses nationwide and is proud to be the nation’s first small-business advocacy organization. For more information, please visit www.nsba.biz

Molly Brogan
VP of Public Affairs
National Small Business Association
1156 15th Street, NW, Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 552-2904 office
(202) 276-2131 cell
(202) 872-8543 fax
mbrogan@nsba.biz

Purina Cat Chow Connected for the Cause Celebrates Breast Cancer Survivors and their Feline Companions

Purina Cat Chow understands the unique bond between an owner and their cat and the connection they share. Recently, Purina Cat Chow surveyed breast cancer survivors with cats nationwide. The study results emphasized the important emotional connection and relationship owners have with their cats, a relationship that inspired Purina Cat Chow to raise funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the world’s largest breast cancer advocacy organization. According to the Purina Cat Chow national study, breast cancer patients that own a cat report that their relationship with their cat has played an important role in their treatment and recovery: 73 percent said their cats knew they were sick and needed their support while undergoing treatment; 68 percent of survivors conveyed they found comfort from their cat during their treatment and 82 percent felt that their cats were there to greet them when they came home from treatment.

Dr. Karen Sueda, Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, explains that cats are perceptive to their owners needs during an illness. “Whether fighting a disease such as breast cancer or going through a rough period in life such as job loss or financial stress, cats often display intuitive behaviors of knowing when their owners need extra love and support.”

This year Purina Cat Chow will donate more than $200,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure through the Connected for the Cause campaign. Enduring breast cancer is extremely difficult, but having a feline companion throughout the journey helps women receive the comfort they need.

For more information, visit www.catchow.com.

Recent Greater Phoenix Economic Council Intern Wins Fulbright Grant

Ali Anderson Headed to South Korea to Teach English, Launch Magazine

June 2, 2009 (Phoenix, Arizona) – Former Greater Phoenix Economic Council intern Ali Anderson has been awarded one of the most prestigious U.S. government grants – the Fulbright.

Thanks to the grant, Anderson will depart her native Arizona in early July for South Korea, where she will spend a year teaching English, launching an English-language literary magazine and facilitating an international newspaper exchange program.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Program sends thousands of Americans abroad each year to study, research, teach or lecture. Anderson, 21, will serve as a teaching assistant for secondary school English classes, teaching conversational English, as well as U.S. culture.

A May 2009 ASU economics graduate, Anderson also plans to publish a local literary magazine, where her students can showcase their English skills. In addition, she wants her students to exchange school newspapers with Chaparral High School, her Alma Mater in Scottsdale.

She doesn’t know what town she’ll be placed in or what family she’ll live with, but Anderson says those mysteries don’t worry her.

“The most unnerving part, for me, is being unfamiliar with the language,” she said.

Anderson has never traveled to the country she’ll soon call home, nor has she studied the language. She plans to teach herself the basics this summer and will get six weeks of instruction upon arrival.

She says interning in the Netherlands for the U.S. Department of State last summer taught her to assimilate to foreign cultures. She also expects her two internships at GPEC, which totaled 14 months, will help in Asia.

“After being an intern for GPEC, it doesn’t really matter what situation you’re thrown into. You’ll know how to do it,” she said, commenting on the broad, fast-paced quality of GPEC’s research department internships.

Anderson credits GPEC’s Vice President of International Business Development Rodrick Miller with sparking her interest in the Fulbright Program. Miller studied international management and finance as a Fulbrighter in Monterrey, Mexico from 1999 to 2000.

“Being accepted into the Fulbright Program is extremely difficult. For some, succeeding in a foreign land can be even more testing,” Miller said. “Ali has completed the first part of the challenge, and I have no doubt her intelligence, drive and experience will allow her to excel in the second.”

GPEC President and CEO Barry Broome echoed this sentiment. “Ali’s receipt of a Fulbright Grant is an incredible accomplishment, and GPEC is extremely proud,” he said. “Ali’s work in South Korea will show the world what Arizonans have to offer.”

After her stay in Asia, Anderson aspires to attend law school. But first, she needed to get the travel bug out of her system.

She chose South Korea because she had done research on the country as part of her internship with the Department of State. Rumors that Korean is easy to learn helped sway her, as well.

With plans to join a biking club, learn to cook traditional dishes and travel to Thailand and Cambodia, Anderson said she feels prepared for her stay. There’s just one more thing on her mind.

“I’m not the biggest fan of fish,” she said hesitantly. “But I’m sure I will learn to like it!”

About the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)

A true public/private partnership, GPEC is the regional economic development organization for Greater Phoenix. Working with its 18 member communities, Maricopa County and more than 140 private investors, GPEC attracts quality businesses to this dynamic region. By creating a high-performance economy through capital investments and jobs, Greater Phoenix companies enjoy a business climate where they can compete and thrive in today's global economy. Since 1989, GPEC has worked to achieve an economically sound and sustainable region. For more information, visit www.gpec.org.

Candace Hunter Wiest Honored by Federal Reserve

First Woman Elected to 12th District Acclaimed

by Ben Bernanke

Candace Hunter Wiest, President and CEO of West Valley National Bank, has been honored for her service to the Federal Reserve Bank at the 12th District Conference with Ben Bernanke, Chairman of the Federal Reserve in attendance.  Wiest was presented with a silver platter symbolizing her impressive leadership as well as her place in history as the first woman elected to the 12th District.  The only Arizona banker ever to serve on the Federal Reserve, Wiest has been an active leader within the powerful organization.

During her tenure on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Wiest was first elected to a three-year term in 2003.  She was subsequently re-elected for another three-year term in 2006.  Wiest also served on the FRBSF Audit Committee, Performance Committee and Public Information Committee.  “The 12th District is the largest bank in the Federal Reserve,” explained Wiest.  “It serves 20 percent of the U.S. population.  With such an impressive influence on the American banking system, it was essential to take each and every action with a thoughtful approach.”

Federal Reserve policy takes into consideration the short-term and long-term impact of the economy.  “I believe the leadership of the Federal Reserve is strong and capable of guiding our nation through times of great economic change,” added Wiest.

Wiest leads the only privately held bank west of I-17.  West Valley National Bank was formed in 2006 and has assets totaling $39,000,000.  “The future of our nation is dependent upon local businesses that innovate, search for opportunity and at the same time negotiate through challenges,” says Wiest.  “The West Valley is dynamic and fundamental to the success of our state, and I see businesses here moving towards a strong and sustainable future.”

RECAP:

• Candace Hunter Wiest, President/CEO West Valley National Bank.  First woman ever elected to the Federal Reserve 12th District.  Only Arizona banker to ever serve Federal Reserve 12th District.
  
• West Valley National Bank President/CEO honored by Federal Reserve 12th District for leadership and service.
  
• Candace Hunter Wiest is the only Arizona banker ever to serve on the Federal Reserve in the history of the 12th District.
  
• West Valley National Bank is the only privately held bank west of I-17.
  

Linda Field Joins Keats, Connelly and Associates

Keats, Connelly and Associates, LLC, a wealth management firm with approximately $200 million under advisement that assists Canadians and Americans in realizing their dreams of a cross-border lifestyle, is pleased to announce Linda Field, CPA, has rejoined the Phoenix office full-time as a tax manager, where she will supervise tax personnel and assist clients with their tax planning and tax preparation. 

Field has been involved in corporate and public accounting for more than 13 years and previously worked for Keats, Connelly and Associates and its sister company, Cross Border Tax & Accounting, LLC, from 2006 to 2009 as both a full-time and freelance employee, where she prepared taxes and performed financial analysis.

Field has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Arizona and lives in Northeast Phoenix with her husband, Mark, and three children.

About Keats, Connelly and Associates

Keats, Connelly and Associates, LLC is the largest wealth management firm in the United States specializing in cross-border issues. With offices in Arizona, Florida and Michigan, the firm’s focus is to reduce the stress associated with living, investing and working on both sides of the border, while at the same time creating opportunities for very large potential tax savings. The firm’s fee-only compensation model enables the company to maintain its philosophy of promoting clients’ best interests, at all times, while avoiding any potential conflict of interest with commissions.  For more information, please visit www.keatsconnelly.com.

Five Valley Women Earn Golden Heart of Business Awards for Philanthropy

Phoenix, Ariz. --- June 2, 2009--- AZ magazine, a division of Republic Media, announced the winners of its Golden Heart of Business Awards for philanthropy today. These awards have been presented since 1996 by Arizona Woman and are now featured in AZ Magazine. The magazine features information about this prestigious award and insight into the personal lives, professional achievements and philanthropic work of the five Valley women chosen:

Dana Campbell Saylor has committed herself to developing women as she advises the YWCA board in development of strategic plans and implementation of programs and services to the community.

Joanie L. Flatt contributes public relations for a variety of causes and built the firm she founded nearly 20 years ago primarily around clients who make a difference in people's lives.

Leslie Motter sits on the boards of various philanthropic foundations as she manages about 3,300 Valley employees who work in the American Express centers.

Marisue Garganta has worked on 100+ community programs during her eight years with St. Joseph's including the United Way's Success by 6 program and the Maternity Outreach Mobile.

Rasheda Worthy provides health programs and other services for at risk families, and community outreach to youths and adults.

AZ magazine helps you celebrate the joys of Valley living with a fresh look at style, culture and people like these exceptional individuals. Laura Trujillo, editor of AZ magazine said, "We are excited to showcase these women and honor their contributions to the business world, and most importantly, the work they do with various non-profit organizations to help the people of Arizona."
Discover how these local women are making a positive impact in your community. Don't miss this inspiring issue of AZ magazine, celebrating Valley women in leadership.

Throughout June, AZ magazine and The Arizona Republic will profile dynamic women leaders, examine the state of women's leadership, and offer strategies for women to use in challenging times. The series of stories will be capped off with the July announcement of the 2009 Arizona Woman of the Year. Look for the winner in the July issue of AZ magazine.

Republic Media is a multi-media company delivering local news and information to the Phoenix marketplace. Republic Media reaches over 1.1 million Phoenix adults every day. Among its product portfolio are The Arizona Republic, azcentral.com, La Voz, AZ Magazine, and several other print and online products.

Brown Mackie College Book Drive begins with contribution of 10 million written words

Brown Mackie College – Phoenix has begun its Book Drive to benefit VNSA (Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association) at the new campus, 13430 North Black Canyon Highway. Phoenix Councilwoman Thelda Williams, VNSA Vice-President Virginia Boardman, Brown Mackie College – Phoenix President Debra Thibodeaux, students, faculty and friends made the first contributions of more than 10 million written words.

VNSA, an all-volunteer organization founded in 1949, collects books year-round for its annual VNSA Used Book Sale. In 2009, VNSA raised more than $340,000 for Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation, Literacy Volunteers of Maricopa County and Toby House.

"Books cultivate learning and support our philosophy to grow your life, evolve your mind and become your vision," Thibodeaux said. "Brown Mackie is committed to making contributions to our community. We honor the volunteers who serve VNSA and are pleased to lead this on-campus book drive."

Donations of hardback, paperback and audio books, CD's, movies, records, puzzles, maps and other book-related items may be dropped off at the Brown Mackie – Phoenix donation box located just outside the front entrance.

Classes begin at Brown Mackie College - Phoenix

Doors have opened and classes have begun at Brown Mackie College - Phoenix, the Valley's newest higher learning institution. In addition to a traditional campus setting, the 24,800 square-foot college, located at 13430 N. Black Canyon Highway, features "smart" classrooms, a surgical laboratory, an occupational therapy laboratory and a myriad of facilities for hands-on learning.

Brown Mackie College - Phoenix offers bachelor’s degree programs in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Legal Studies, and Healthcare Management; and associate’s degree programs in Accounting Technology, Business Management, Criminal Justice, Healthcare Administration, Medical Assisting, Paralegal, and Surgical Technology.

The school’s educational model is designed with the needs of students in mind – flexible academic program delivery options offered at convenient times, personalized instruction and small classes which enable students to fulfill work or family obligations as they pursue a higher education degree.

“Our aim is to be a strong Phoenix partner by providing academic programs enabling students to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen occupations,” Debra Thibodeaux, president of Brown Mackie College - Phoenix, said. “The school’s curriculum and educational programs are tailored to enable students to achieve their professional and personal aspirations while making a meaningful, successful, and long-lasting contribution to the community.”

For information on classes at Brown Mackie College – Phoenix, call (888) 824-4793 or visit the school’s website at www.brownmackie.edu/phoenix.

Candace Hunter Wiest Honored by Federal Reserve

Candace Hunter Wiest, President and CEO of West Valley National Bank, has been honored for her service to the Federal Reserve Bank at the 12th District Conference with Ben Bernanke, Chairman of the Federal Reserve in attendance. Wiest was presented with a silver platter symbolizing her impressive leadership as well as her place in history as the first woman elected to the 12th District. The only Arizona banker ever to serve on the Federal Reserve, Wiest has been an active leader within the powerful organization.

During her tenure on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Wiest was first elected to a three-year term in 2003. She was subsequently re-elected for another three-year term in 2006. Wiest also served on the FRBSF Audit Committee, Performance Committee and Public Information Committee. “The 12th District is the largest bank in the Federal Reserve,” explained Wiest. “It serves 20 percent of the U.S. population. With such an impressive influence on the American banking system, it was essential to take each and every action with a thoughtful approach.”

Federal Reserve policy takes into consideration the short-term and long-term impact of the economy. “I believe the leadership of the Federal Reserve is strong and capable of guiding our nation through times of great economic change,” added Wiest.

Wiest leads the only privately held bank west of I-17. West Valley National Bank was formed in 2006 and has assets totaling $39,000,000. “The future of our nation is dependent upon local businesses that innovate, search for opportunity and at the same time negotiate through challenges,” says Wiest. “The West Valley is dynamic and fundamental to the success of our state, and I see businesses here moving towards a strong and sustainable future.”