The idea was ahead of its time when Liesl Harder Kielp, founder and president of AguaSAC, L.L.C., began talking with colleagues three years ago about packaging water in a pouch. “The film structures available were not conducive to water — they would taint the flavor,” explains Kielp, who is also founder of EnVision Flexible Packaging, referring to the material used for making … [More]
‘First to File’ Patent System Replaces ‘First to Invent’
The change in United States patent laws that went into effect on March 16 of this year is intended to better align the U.S. with all other industrialized countries, in that all countries now utilize a “first to file” standard as opposed to “first to invent” when determining who has priority to an invention. Previously, if a company could show it was, in fact, the first to … [More]
Local Banks Merge, Establish Stronger Capital Position
The merger of First Scottsdale Bank and Commerce Bank of Arizona, Inc.’s parent company, CBOA Financial, Inc., will establish the new entity as the second-largest commercial bank franchise headquartered in Arizona when the transaction closes, which is expected to happen in the second half of this year. The new Commerce Bank — the name under which the merged entity will operate … [More]
Microsoft Biz Hub
Microsoft’s Business Hub is dedicated to helping small business thrive through business products, support and resources. Microsoft is supporting the Braddock’s Procurement Opportunities Guide online as an e-Guide. A key tool in helping small businesses secure government contracts, it provides information on how to compete with large corporations. … [More]
Healthcare Cost Calculator
The new healthcare reform law allows small businesses to purchase healthcare coverage at group rates from the new Health Insurance Exchanges and provides significant tax credits to help small businesses pay for this coverage. Businesses can use the link below to find out how they will be affected by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. … [More]
Knowing Asian Business
Asiagate, a leader in Asian corporate credit information, offers members a one-stop shop for Asian business intelligence with a dozen national credit information agencies across Asia to provide a searchable database of nearly 13 million business records, from China to Vietnam, for those doing global business in that region. Membership fees apply. … [More]
Visualize This: FIRE & ICEE
Colliers International, a leading commercial real estate firm in the Valley, offers a series of videos on our local market. The “Colliers Market Insight” videos are relevant commentaries on the latest market trends and insights by Bob Mulhern, managing director for Greater Phoenix. To sign up for these weekly videos and market information, visit www.colliers.com. … [More]
Sports Figures Are Prime Here
Major events bring millions of dollars to the Valley Sports is an attraction, no doubt about it. Blockbuster events attract impressive numbers; more importantly, they generate impressive numbers in a far-reaching impact that this issue’s cover story explores. The Valley is host to a great number of these marquee events for a variety of sports, both professional and … [More]
A Sporting Good Time
The Valley is a sports fan’s paradise, so why not put the “fan” sense to action during the lunch break. Here are some of the top choices to catch up midday on scores and more. Arcadia Tavern Serving food that may excite patrons more than their favorite team, this hot spot is always hopping with local business types during the lunch hour. An extensive menu that will please … [More]
A Capital Idea: Dine at The Capital Grille
For corporate executives, socialites or businesspeople serious about cutting an important deal, The Capital Grille delights as it is where complete privacy or a table front and center to impress are the order of the day for local power-brokers. Originally founded in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1990, this classic high-end steakhouse has now become a business traveler’s … [More]
