by 
Deb Kay at Smokey’s Mercantile
Superior has always been just a few steps away from Hollywood, many major movies have been filmed in Superior along with many commercials. Most of residents are aware of the set designs of Billy Holmquist and his displays on Main St. however now Smokey’s Mercantile is home to Fishgate Productions along with art galleries and several retail boutiques.
How did you find Superior: Deb Kay and her sister Rita had grown up in Apache Junction, eventually they moved to California to pursue their careers but three years ago Deb returned to Arizona and the two took a drive to Superior. Deb had been looking for a home for her studio and decided that Superior was going to be home to Fishgate Productions. She purchased the Smokey’s hardware store from the Chamber of Commerce and now her studio has a permanent home along with several art galleries, a few retail boutiques and the Ray Federal Credit Union is set to open this month.
Artist Carla Keaton has her gallery in the mercantile along with the Global Encounters boutique which features unique jewelry and watch repair. The mercantile still has several spots open for retail boutiques or small galleries for local artist. Many other artists are featured in the public spaces of the mercantile.
Fishgate Productions is a joint endeavor by Deb Kay and her sister Rita Betty, together produce short films, documentaries, commercials and are now beginning their production of a feature film called Copper Town which is about a mining family. The sisters plan to shoot Copper Town in Superior. They have begun the funding process and will be looking for community support on the film endeavor.
Advice to fellow business owners & budding entrepreneurs: Deb recommends following your passion and having a dream “There will always be obstacles, you just have to do it” she explained.
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.
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.
by by