Phoenix (3TV/CBS 5) — Parties, events and the Super Bowl pump millions of dollars into our Arizona economy. Because of this, businesses are scrambling to maximize their success. Single mom Imelda Hartley says she’s ready to take advantage of the Super Bowl’s exposure.
Hartley owns a catering company called Happy Tamales. Now, she rents space in a commercial kitchen, but dreams of one day owning her own, with childcare to keep families close. “When we work 10-12 hours. We don’t get to see them, hug them and kiss them, and that’s what I’m trying to do. I’ve got to make a lot of money to do that,” Hartley said.
So she has to sell more tamales to earn more money. She plans to do so during the Super Bowl. She is one of 200 Arizona businesses selected by the NFL and the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee for the Super Bowl 57 Business Connect program. The businesses are all owned by minorities, women, veterans or the LGBTQ+ community. The NFL may use its services.
“I’m honored because as a minority it’s hard to be recognized in the community, for people to know that I’m trying to make a difference. You know, sometimes we don’t get the opportunity,” Hartley said.
In the year In 1996, the Super Bowl brought in just over $300 million to the Valley’s economy. This number increased to $500 million in 2008, and $720 million in 2015.
“It’s a huge economic advantage week for us to have the Open and the Super Bowl back on the same day. Chris Camacho, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), said it’s a big deal economically.
Small businesses get it, and they’re getting ready. Hartley says she will be ready with her Tamali loyalists. “We’ll be selling to the public outside of downtown Phoenix for about a week,” Hartley said. “I’m so excited to get my name out there,” she said.
The Business Relations program has selected businesses such as audio-visual, catering, florists, printing and security. Those Arizona-owned businesses are highlighted in the NFL’s guide to hiring in the city for the Super Bowl.
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