Chamber of Commerce moving forward with plans for office and executive director

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Maricopa Community Chamber of Commerce since 1990’s September breakfast meeting was held Thursday at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort in the Agave Room. James Cadena, the Ak-Chin Community’s economic director was the guest speaker.

Cadena gave the group some information on the tribe and its economic base. “We are mainly farmers,” he said. “Our field of dreams is this casino. We are working with the state and contributing to the economy. It has been a learning experience for our tribe.” He introduced two members of the tribal council, Terry Enos and Gabriel Lopez.

“We’re all striving for the same goals,” noted Cadena, who will be teaching for Central Arizona College. “It’s a matter of communication in meetings like this.”

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Janice Pratt of Central Arizona College and Ak-Chin Economic Director James Cadena.

Chamber President Byron Fanning announced that the group should have its first official office in 30-60 days, hopefully in one of the trailers vacated by the current city hall. In addition, the first full-time position of executive director should be filled soon.

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President Byron Fanning updates Chamber of Commerce members on future plans and events.

The Chamber will sponsor a breakfast at the end of the Founders Day Fun Run on Sunday, October 15. “It’s a great way to get out in the community and meet people while raising some funds,” explained Fanning.