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Chuck Davidson at Casa Azul.
Chuck Davidson found Superior, kind of, on accident. He had been looking for a place to create a weekend home and art studio, a place that he could get out of the hectic pace of Phoenix and enjoy his art. His quest took him to other communities in Arizona, Tucson, Jerome and Prescott but he couldn’t quite find what he wanted. He decided to take a drive up to Superior. He had been through before with friends but hadn’t really looked at anything. As he drove into town, his truck ran out of gas. Lynn Heglie saw him and asked him if he needed help. It was through that helpful gesture that Chuck found his place in Superior on Pinal Ave.
“When I first came here, Superior was in rough shape,” he said.
He held out hope for the community and realized that Superior was close enough to Phoenix, he could move here permanently. He sold his house in Phoenix and began renovating his new home on Pinal Ave. After several years of living in Superior and working on his art, he renovated the house next to his home and he opened Casa Azul Bed and Breakfast.
“When people call, they are surprised to realize they actually are renting a whole house,” Chuck said.
Casa Azul is a small home connected to his private residence that has a bedroom, living room and kitchen. If the guests want, Chuck will make fresh muffins or provide other breakfast foods; but generally they will go out or eat with friends.
During his time of operating Casa Azul, he has met visitors from all over the world. From hikers and bikers passing through to longer term rentals for winter visitors the B&B stays full through the tourist season. Word of mouth and marketing support from his membership at the Superior Chamber of Commerce has helped the inn to stay full, he said.
“I don’t try to keep it full in the Summer,” he said. “We use that time to relax.”
Chuck and his life partner David Betancourt continue to grow their art business and they sell many of their pieces at the Wild Cow Art Gallery. Casita Azul is a means to grow their income. They also offer art classes at the Gallery.
Chuck’s advice to his fellow entrepreneurs future business owners: “Follow your bliss. Find work that brings you joy, not just the money.”
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona. Those planning on attending the Chamber luncheons do need to RSVP prior to the meeting, please call Deb McKee to RSVP at 520-827-1773.
Article compiled by Mila Besich-Lira for Superior Sun – Copper Area News Publishers.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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