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What makes Greater Phoenix so great: John Safin

Published: 06/13/2019
Updated: 01/25/2020

What is your first and last name?

John Safin 

How old are you?

55 

What current city do you reside in? 

Glendale 

How long have you lived in Greater Phoenix?   

28 years  

Where are you originally from and why’d you decide to move to Arizona?   

I am originally from Upstate New York. After another year of rising state taxes, horrible winter and few job prospects, I decided it was time for a change. I saved as much money working four part-time jobs for three months, packed the car and went on a cross country trip with no destination other than to find my destiny. My original plan was to stop in Phoenix and follow the I-10 across the southern states. Two days later I decided to stay and it’s been a great adventure for 28 years!  

What college/university did you graduate from and what’s your degree? 

BA Communications / State University of New York and AA Broadcasting / Onondaga Community College   

Where do you currently work and what is your title? 

President and CEO of Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce  

What is your job industry? 

Business support and advocacy services  

What do you like to do in Greater Phoenix on the weekends? 

Meet up with friends, ride my Suzuki and write another novel.  

What’s your go-to staycation spot and why? 

I like too many places to have one favorite.  

What’s your favorite restaurant and why? 

Too many favorites. I’m a foodie having been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years. 

How do you stay “cool” in the Arizona summers? 

I’m cool year-round! We live in a desert, so I enjoy summer as much as the cold months.  

What do you like about our winters and why? 

Getting to meet all the visitors in our area. Everyone has a story and some people we meet will be a once in a lifetime experience.  

What do you love most about living in Greater Phoenix? 

My friends, all the professional opportunities, fun things to do and a great quality of life.  

Please include anything else you’d like to share about what makes Greater Phoenix so great. 

There’s something good happening here every day.  

 

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