Business Times, July 2015

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ED M O N D, O K LAH O MA

JuLY 2015

VOL. 7 | NO. 7

INSIDE

2015

PUBLISHER Karan Ediger 405-341-2121 kediger@edmondsun.com SALES TEAM Terri Bohanan Maegan Newport

CONTRIBUTING Jim Denton WRITERS AND Cyndy Hoenig PHOTOGRAPHERS Nick Massey Patty Miller Van Mitchell Terri Schlichenmeyer Karen Moore Patti Locklear

Celerating Independent Businesses

6

It’s a unique part of the American Dream.

Owning your own business can bring a sense of satisfaction like no other. It can also be a roller coaster ride, with bumps and bruises along the way. From the smallest boutique to the familyowned business that’s now buying up similar businesses, Americans are making their mark as independent business owners.

Oklahomans Expect Better Personal Finances, More Optimistic On Business Conditions

18

Latest Arvest-backed survey shows Oklahoma consumers remain confident in their own situations. More also think business conditions will improve over the next five years.

Looking for Signs of a Market Top

20

What if, instead of just riding it out through gut-wrenching declines, we could identify major bull market tops and avoid the worst of bear markets? Wishful thinking, right?

Given the age of this current bull market, we are always looking for ways to help investors at least recognize the warning signs of a major market top.

WHAT TO DO TO STOP FRAUD IN ITS TRACKS

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The Business Times is a monthly publication of The Edmond Sun devoted to business in the Edmond area. All rights reserved.

Copyright © July 2015.

22

In its 2012 report, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners noted first that the problem of fraud is universal. The report says that all businesses face some risk of employee fraud and there are many ways to detect and prevent fraud.

July 2015 | The Business Times

3

from our Publisher

Independent Business Month

T

o our Readers: Edmond is made up of some exceptionally good people as well as business owners. In this issue of Business Times we’re celebrating independent businesses. An independent business owner faces a lot of challenges and a lot of times they face it on their own. We wanted to take a minute to congratulate the following businesses you will see featured in July’s issue.

Something that most of these businesses practice is creating a winning culture for their employees to thrive. The right culture fosters engagement, loyalty and productivity. So, I’m going to share some tips by Jack Daly, author of “Hyper Sales Growth”. Some companies outpace their competition because of their culture. Daly offers these tips for growing a business culture that inspires loyalty, engagement and the high performance those qualities produce.

Start new hires on Friday and with a big welcome! Many managers think new employees should start on Monday the day when their co-workers are facing a long to-do list for the week. Starting them on Friday allows them to start when the office is a little looser.

Consider having a welcome party.

Recognize accomplishments by putting it in writing–handwriting.

An actual letter is a personal touch and the receiver knows that the manager or CEO has taken some time and effort to create a special communication for them.

Provide lunch–for free. While many cringe at the expense, employee appreciation outweighs the cost, and it keeps people engaged within the office, rather than having people leave for lunch.

You will be amazed what you learn about people by having a simple meal together.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

Flatten the privilege structure. For instance, if upper management has special parking consider doing away with it. Upper management should not feel entitled or privileged above other employees.

Enjoy this month’s Business Times and take time to visit our independently owned businesses!

KARAN EDIGER is publisher of The Business Times of Edmond and The Edmond Sun.

I

t’s a unique part of the American Dream. Owning your own business can bring a sense of satisfaction like no other. It can also be a roller coaster ride, with bumps and bruises along the way. From the smallest boutique to the family owned business that’s now buying up other like businesses, Americans are making their mark as independent business owners.

The American Independent Business Alliance celebrates Independents Week from July 1-7. The idea is to engage local, independent businesses and community members in celebrating the spirit of entrepreneurism and community.

The Business Times of Edmond decided to celebrate this month of America’s independence by highlighting those who are finding new ways to prosper and make a difference in the community.

This month, we are featuring six local, independent businesses as examples, while acknowledging there are many more success stories waiting to be told.

These six businesses range from very small, family operations to those which have grown into major employers in the area, but still maintain their family roots.

But they all share the independent, entrepreneurial spirit that gave each of them their start.

We salute all of the independent businesses in Edmond and hope you enjoy reading about how these six businesses got their start.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

Madeline’s Flower Shop and Greenhouses

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

B

arbara Bilke grew up working in a flower shop run by her mother Madeline Graham before leaving to start her career elsewhere.

When her mother wanted to retire, Bilke and her husband decided the time was right to return home to take over control of Madeline’s Flower Shop and Greenhouses located at 1030 S. Broadway in Edmond.

This year marks the 65th anniversary of the business which is now run by Bilke and her twin daughters Lenzee and Lacee making it a third-generation operation.

“After I got my degree from UCO I went to work for the Oklahoma Extension Service,” Bilke said. “There was a point that she (mother) wanted to retire and in that time period I decided to come back and take it over in 1976. That was a huge change for me. The decision to come back was because I did know about it (business).”

Bilke said the flower shop has served Edmond and surrounding areas since 1950 and offers a wide array of floral arrangements and gifts, backed by friendly and prompt service.

Bilke said both her daughters also grew up working in the flower shop and later attended the University of Central Oklahoma to receive their bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

She said the family held conversations about whether Lenzee and Lacee would join full-time upon graduation a few years ago.

“We had many visits about it,” Bilke said. “We felt like it needed

to be their decision. It was no problem with me if they didn’t (come to work). It was a happy decision for me. They liked the fact they could be their own boss and they had their own business.”

Bilke said working with family can be challenging but says they have learned to separate business from personal relationships.

“When we come to the shop we leave everything at the door,” Bilke said. “We have to work together so we have to separate everything.”

“Bilke said independent floral shops like theirs are slowly disappearing.” She said Madeline’s Flowers has stayed around so long due to their loyal customer base.

“We are very lucky because we have a loyal clientele,” Bilke said.

“We have wonderful customers. We have a love for this business.”

Bilke said she loves coming to work each day.

“I have more passion today than I did when I first started,” she said.

Bilke added that she believes her late mother would be pleased knowing the family business is carrying on with her daughter and granddaughters.

“I think she would truly be elated,” Bilke said.

Madeline’s Flowers is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

For more information call (405) 341-2530 or visit www.madelinesflowershop.com.

July 2015 | The Business Times

7

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

Broadway Tag Agency

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

T

erri Bowles had a goal to help change the perception that some in the public had about their experiences at tag agencies.

That’s why Bowles, who serves as the tag agent at Broadway Tag Agency located at 3900 S. Broadway, Suite E in Edmond, tries to make sure that each customer is treated with fast, friendly, knowledgeable and courteous service.

“There was a time when tag agencies would be in the news for different problems, and that is when we decided we were different,” Bowles said. “We wanted the perception that the public has of tag agencies to be different. Since 1987 our success has been built on meeting the needs of our very loyal customers. We have some customers that are so loyal that they will drive past two or three tag agencies just to come here.”

Bowles took over as tag agent in 1998 after her mother Pat Hurt passed away. The tag agency has been in its current location since 2005 and has eight employees.

Bowles was joined in the business by her husband Mike Bowles in 2010.

“It has been great because we have a common goal to make this the best tag agency it can be,” she said.

Broadway Tag Agency is authorized by the Oklahoma Tax Commission to provide services including registration, titles, liens, specialty tags and personalized tags for automobiles, motorcycles, boats, motors, ATVs, commercial vehicles and trailers. Other

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July 2015 | The Business Times

services include business renewals, driving record requests and PIKEPASS services.

Bowles is a member of Faith Bible Church and is also a member of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce and a board member of FaithWorks of the Inner City, a nonprofit ministry designed to meet the educational, spiritual and physical needs of inner city children and their families. This ministry partners with neighborhood schools and communities to establish after school tutoring programs, adult education programs and Bible clubs.

FaithWorks of the Inner City also provides for physical needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, utilities, and medical care.

“This is a wonderful agency,” Bowles said.

Bowles said she is always looking for ways for the tag agency to function better.

“I am always looking for ways to make the office more efficient,” she said. “Our success had been built on meeting the demands of a growing market. It is our desire to increase efficiencies so that our customers have less than 5-minute wait time. We provide excellent services, innovative solutions and on-time results. These are just a few of the reasons we are a leader in the business.”

Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday.

For more information call (405) 341-1400 or visit www.broadwaytagagency.com.

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9

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

Price-Lang Consulting

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

E

mily Lang is an experienced public relations practitioner, having worked in journalism and public relations for more than a decade for different entities. Despite her experience, she believes it is her view as a consumer that makes her most valuable to the clients she serves.

“There are so many industries where women drive the market because they are the primary decision makers for their families,” Lang said. “When it comes to health care or education or even technology, women hold a lot of purchasing power. When I create a communications plan, I’m not just looking at a strategy that will win awards for effective PR; I’m looking for a strategy that will motivate a target audience to take action. In many cases, I’m a representative of that target audience.”

Lang began her career working for the Oklahoma House of Representatives before joining the Attorney General’s Office in 2002, where she served as public information officer and legislative liaison.

As public information officer, she was responsible for the creation and distribution of all office publications. She assisted with the planning and execution of press releases, interviews and other media events. She also served as the office’s chief writer, conducting extensive research and writing countless speeches on a variety of topics for the attorney general and other staff members.

She also worked for a handful of political campaigns, gaining invaluable insight into the creation and implementation of communications, fundraising, polling and outreach plans.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

When the opportunity arrived in 2011 to partner on a new business venture with her friend and attorney general’s office coworker, Charlie Price, Lang did extensive research about how it could succeed. The result is Price-Lang Consulting, a full-service public relations firm located at 525 N. Jackson Street in Edmond.

“We relied on mentors and did a lot of reading about starting a business,” Lang said. “I knew how to do effective public relations, but running a business was new territory. I can remember our early conversations about it. It was almost too frightening to talk about it, but at some point, we just began taking steps forward. It was a risk, but it was a measured risk, and it has paid off.”

The company’s services include an array of communication offerings, ranging from press release writing to branding and design.

Lang and her team pride themselves in the close relationships they have built with the clients they serve. E-newsletters, speech writing, issues and campaign management and growth strategies are all on the menu at Price Lang.

“We are proud of our growth, and we’re especially proud of the growth that has come from referrals from people and clients who know our work,” Lang said. “We started as two people working out of our respective homes four years ago and quickly moved into our current office space to accommodate our growing business. We are now a staff of four full-time folks and one intern from UCO, who is here several days a week. We have a terrific team.”

Lang said their clients range from small to larger companies and non-profit organizations.

“We work with everything from a small non-profit to a global corporation,” Lang said. “No two clients are the same. We want them all to feel like they get a partner in us. We work really hard to be a valuable member of their team. We try to get to know their short-term and long-term plans and find solutions and answers that fit those plans.”

Lang added that she takes pride in helping tell a client’s message.

“We are storytellers,” she said. “We take things that are difficult to understand and boil them down to a story the general public will not only understand, but buy into and support. Success in public relations is motivating an action through storytelling. I love this work.”

Lang’s work has included charitable efforts for a variety of causes including the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, the Infant Crisis Services Center and the Oklahoma Safeline.

“I like to volunteer my time with organizations that deal with

women and children,” she said.

In 2012, she was named to the Journal Record’s Achievers Under 40 list and to the Business Times’ 20 Under 40 list. She is a member of Leadership Oklahoma City’s LOYAL Class IX and is a member of St. Monica’s Catholic Church and the Edmond Chamber of Commerce.

Lang is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma. She lives in Edmond with her husband, John, who is a high school teacher and coach, and their son, Wyatt.

Lang said she foresees more growth and remains committed to making the business the best it can be.

“Despite our success, I’m still waiting to feel like we have made it as a business, but that keeps us hungry and makes us work hard,” Lang said. “It really drives us. We don’t want to fail. There are good things to talk about in Edmond and Oklahoma City right now and it has been fun to be part of that.”

For more information call (405) 417-4036.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

11

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

Junk Boss

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

H

unter Magness had the idea to start a company that dealt with roll-off trash containers when a family friend suggested he look into the junk removal trade instead.

Out of that suggestion evolved Junk Boss, located at 711 W. Edmond Road in Edmond, which is a turn-key junk removal service.

The company’s mission is to make it easy for residents to get rid of unwanted items like old appliances, old furniture, old computers, old mattresses and any other random, old junk in their environment.

Magness started doing the business part-time in 2011 while he worked for his father’s construction company and before long the decision was made to handle Junk Boss full-time.

“I was doing construction for my dad and I cashed in everything that I had and I had a custom trailer made, got a phone number and website and started doing it part-time until one day my dad called me and said I needed to pick one or the other,” Magness said. “I bought a dump truck and I went into it full gear.”

Today, Junk Boss has seven full-time employees and four trucks to pick up junk items from a home or business. What started with a pickup and trailer has grown to the state’s largest junk removal company.

Junk Boss services include commercial and residential clean up; garage and attic clean-outs, appliance and furniture removal, yard debris hauling, construction cleanup, storm damage, rental and foreclosure clean-outs, donation pickup and garage sale leftovers.

Since 2011, the company has recycled more than 450,000 pounds of debris/junk.

“We take almost everything you have,” Magness said. “The junk 12

July 2015 | The Business Times

is either recycled, donated or taken to a dump. All the customer has to do is point to the items they want removed and we do all the work.”

Magness said Junk Boss works primarily in Edmond and the Oklahoma City metro but provides service all across the state.

Project costs are primarily determined by volume, based on quarter-truck load estimates. Costs are all-inclusive and cover labor, gas and disposal, which could include dumping, donation and/or recycling. Due to variables such as the weight and location of junk, prices can slightly fluctuate from job-to-job.

Hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. until the trucks are full on Saturday.

Magness said he expects Junk Boss to continue to grow.

“It has been doing very well,” he said. ‘We have been growing every year. I want to see it continue to grow and expand.”

For more information, call (405) 802-5865 or visit www.junk-boss.com.

HI, I’M JOE TAYLOR. Overton, Texas. What keeps me coming back to the Trail? It’s just absolutely sensational.

I have people tell me what they’ve spent playing one round at Pebble Beach and a night at the hotel, or going to Pinehurst for a couple rounds. We do the entire week, travel, hotel, green fees, good meals and everything for the price of one day at these places. And it’s absolutely a sensational place to come.

TO PLAN YOUR VISIT to Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, visit rtjresorts.com or call 1.800.949.4444 today. facebook.com/rtjgolf twitter.com/rtjgolf

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

Municipal Finance Services

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

R

ick A. Smith created a strong resume throughout his career helping local, county and state entities with their efforts to secure financing for capital improvement projects ranging from streets and roads to electric, water and sewer projects.

In 1990 Smith decided to venture out on his own and form Municipal Finance Services Inc. (MFSOK). Smith serves as president and majority stockholder of the Edmond-based company.

Municipal Finance Services Inc. serves exclusively as a financial advisor for communities, public school districts, colleges and universities, state agencies and other governmental entities throughout Oklahoma. The company has nine employees.

“In talking with cities and schools it seemed like they wanted someone who is more independent and somebody who would sit on their side of the table,” Smith said. “As I gained more contacts and became more familiar with the business I decided that I would start out on my own and be that independent financial advisor. It has worked out pretty well the last 25 years.”

Since its inception, MFSOK has completed more than 780 bond/loan transactions for state, county and local governmental entities, totaling more than $4.6 billion.

Statistics published in The Bond Buyer show Municipal Finance Services has consistently been one of the leading Oklahoma-based financial advisor firms among Oklahoma issuers.

“We do not underwrite municipal bonds; consequently, we constantly evaluate funding options for our clients in an objective and independent manner without regard to any pressures imposed

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July 2015 | The Business Times

from trading or selling departments within an investment banking firm,” Smith said. “We practice solely in the state of Oklahoma and are registered as an Investment Advisor with the Oklahoma Department of Securities and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board.”

Born in Oklahoma City and a 1972 U.S. Grant High School graduate, Smith received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Economics from the University of Oklahoma in 1976 and 1978, respectively.

Upon graduation he served as economist in the planning division of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) for two years, during which he was the principal author of the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan, a long-range guide for developing and financing Oklahoma’s water resources statewide.

In 1980 he was promoted to division chief of the OWRB planning and development division, where his major responsibility was administering the board’s loan and grant program. During his tenure at the OWRB, Smith structured and developed the basic loan program now offered by the OWRB, working closely with the board’s financial advisor and bond counsel.

In August 1984 he joined the investment banking firm of Leo Oppenheim & Co. Inc. in Oklahoma City as a public finance specialist with an emphasis on municipal finance clients. He successfully passed the NASD and State of Oklahoma securities examinations in September 1984 to become a general securities registered representative. In 1986 he was made an officer of the

firm, assuming the position of vice president of the public finance department.

Smith said his company works with about 140 clients across the state.

“They look to us to see what type of financial vehicles would be available to them,” he said. “We work with them to implement it and put it into place.”

Smith said the type of projects he works with run the gamut.

“We do a lot of diverse projects,” he said. “We finance water system improvements, wastewater systems, county jails, school buildings and city halls. There are many different things we do.”

Smith said his company has seen a lot of changes through the years, and this summer marks another major change with a move to a new location.

“We decided to stop renting and last fall we started building at the Fairfax Business Park on Covell,” he said. “The building is about 6,400 square feet and backs up to the golf course. We are excited about it. We look at it as an investment in the community.”

Smith said one of his more memorable projects was the creation of a waterline where the City of Guthrie sold water to Langston

University in Logan County. That waterline has now been expanded to the City of Coyle.

“It has worked great the last 10 or 12 years,” he said. “In fact, that line has been extended to provide water to the City of Coyle.”

Smith has also been working with the City of Perkins in Payne County to help address the feasibility of connecting Perkins to the City of Stillwater’s waterline from Kaw Reservoir.

Smith said there are more financing options available for capital improvement projects as banks have started having a greater interest in them.

“I think there are more opportunities now,” he said. “Banks have gotten very interested in providing funding for these types of projects.”

Smith said he foresees his company growing and continuing to diversify.

“We are looking to diversify and expand our client base,” Smith said. “We will see over the next few years how that turns out. It keeps us moving. It (business) has exceeded any expectations we ever had.”

For more information about MFSOK visit www.mfsok.com.

Congratulations!

Apply Today...

The City of Edmond is now accepting applications for full-time, part-time and seasonal positions.

Visit us on the web today at

edmondok.com/careers

359-4648 City of Edmond Jobline

The City of Edmond is an Equal Opportunity Employer July 2015 | The Business Times

15

Celebrating

INDEPENDENT business BUSINESS PROFILE

First Med Urgent Care

by VAN MITCHELL | Special to the Business Times

U

rgent care medical started in the 1980s as an alternative to the traditional doctor’s office before fading out of popularity.

In the last few years, that non-traditional type of medical service has seen a comeback in Oklahoma and across the nation.

And First Med Urgent Care is helping lead the way in the Edmond and Oklahoma City metropolitan area.

First Med is a walk-in urgent care medical clinic that provides medical treatment to individuals, families and employers.

“Urgent care has had this renaissance,” said Todd Lechtenberger, chief executive officer of First Med. “A bunch of them popped up in the 1980s and they went through a cycle and in the last five years they have just exploded. A lot that is being driven the way people live now. People want everything on demand. They want to be seen in five minutes. There are nearly 10,000 urgent care centers around the country.”

Lechtenberger said First Med was started back in the 1980s and traded hands a few times before his financial group purchased the business in 2009. Lechtenberger came on board in 2011.

First Med has clinics at 1221 N. Kelly Ave. in Edmond, 13420 N. Pennsylvania Ave., 4510 N.W. 39th Expressway, I-240 and S. Walker, 1140 SW 104th St. and 13401 N MacArthur Blvd.

“We are retail medicine and we want to be in high traffic locations,” Lechtenberger said. “People want to go where it is convenient.”

The clinics are open 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. seven days a week and no appointment is necessary. First Med treats non-emergency medical 16

July 2015 | The Business Times

problems such as the flu, sore throats, ear infections, minor burns, cuts and scrapes, and minor injuries. The clinics are staffed by both a physician and physician assistants.

“For us it is all about customer care and the quality of the patient experience,” Lechtenberger said. “We try to make our waiting area like your living room. We don’t want it to feel like a sterile environment.”

Lechtenberger said First Med is also actively supporting a variety of community events. He serves as the board chair for Positive Tomorrows and is a board member of the Catholic Foundation.

They also sponsor various 5K runs.

“We try to be good corporate citizens,” Lechtenberger said.

For more information, visit www.firstmedok.com.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

17

Oklahomans Expect Better Personal Finances, More Optimistic On Business Conditions

T

he latest Arvest-backed survey shows Oklahoma consumers remain confident in their own situations.

More Oklahoma consumers continue to believe their personal financial situations will improve or remain the same over the next year. More also think business conditions will improve over the next five years.

That’s according to the second phase of the Spring 2015 Arvest Consumer Sentiment Survey released today. This phase includes a study of consumers’ outlooks on personal finances, buying conditions over the next six months, and business conditions over the next year and the next five years.

According to the survey conducted in March, 86 percent of Oklahoma consumers expect their personal financial situation to improve or remain the same over the next 12 months. That’s up 5 percent from October’s survey and in line with regional numbers.

The other areas surveyed were Arkansas and Missouri, including Greater Kansas City. Across the region, 53 percent expect their personal financial situation to stay the same, while 33 percent expect it to improve.

When looking at expectations of business conditions, Oklahomans were more optimistic in March. While only 22 18

July 2015 | The Business Times

percent expected business conditions to be good over the next year in October, that number increased to 36 percent. Regionwide, 34 percent believe business conditions will be good over that same period.

Oklahoma consumers also showed an increase in confidence as it relates to business conditions over the next five years. While 32 percent expected continuous good times in October, that number jumped to 40 percent in March. The regional number was 42 percent.

“Oklahomans seem perpetually concerned with future economic conditions as consumer expectations — while up from its October level — remain subdued in comparison to regional and national attitudes,” said Russell Evans, Director of the Steven C. Agee Economic Research & Policy Institute at Oklahoma City University. “The anxiety is understandable as weakness in the oil and natural gas sector will test the extent to which the state’s economy has diversified.”

A majority, 60 percent, of Oklahomans believes the next six months will be a good time to buy household items such as furniture, televisions and refrigerators. That number is up from 51 percent in October, and the regional number increased from 50 percent to 59 percent.

This round of survey results also includes a Current Conditions Sub-Index and a Consumer Expectations Sub-Index, which follows the model of the national Thomson/Reuters Michigan Surveys of Consumers.

These sub-indexes are meaningful in comparison to national

indexes or to previous values of Arvest Consumer Sentiment indexes. Higher numbers indicate some combination of consumer satisfaction with their current and expected personal finances, current and expected economic performance and the purchasing environment. Larger increases indicate more confidence across the three areas.

The Current Conditions Sub-Index is tabulated from the answers to two questions on the survey: “How is your current financial situation compared with a year ago?” and “What do you think of buying conditions over the next six months?” The Current Conditions Sub-Index for Oklahoma in March is 95.5, up from October’s 85.8. The regional index is 92.2.

The Consumer Expectations Sub-Index is tabulated from the answers to three survey questions: “How do you expect your financial situation to change in the next year?” “How do you think business conditions will be in a year?” and “How do you expect business conditions will be in five years?” Oklahoma’s Consumer Expectations Sub-Index in March is 77.8, up from October’s 64.2. The regional index is 77.4.

The Arvest Consumer Sentiment Survey is conducted by the Center for Business and Economic Research, CBER, alongside the University of Oklahoma’s Public Opinion Learning Laboratory which conducted the 1,200 random phone surveys.

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Arvest Bank’s sponsorship of this survey is due to its desire to provide beneficial data for its customers and the communities it serves. The data provides a reading of how consumers are feeling about the economy in the states where the bank operates. Additionally, with future results consumers, as well as the business community, will be able to see how sentiment is trending.

While the CBER evaluates the data for the state of Arkansas, the Bureau of Economic Research at Missouri State University provides state analysis of the Missouri data. The Steven C. Agee Economic Research & Policy Institute, Meinders School of Business at Oklahoma City University, evaluates the data for Oklahoma.

The survey will be conducted twice a year, with the next survey expected to be completed in September 2015. With each study, the index score will be released first, followed by a second release on consumer outlook, including the Current Conditions Index and the Consumer Expectations Index, and a third release on savings and spending expectations.

Information about the survey and research partners, copies of this release, summary documents and print-ready logos can be found at www.arvestconsumersurvey.com.

“Thank You” for your support over the past 11 years. We look forward to being there for you in the years to come

We are back!!

Repair & Remodeling

David Olson - Owner

341-4082

Fine Art & Exquisite Custom Framing 14 S. Broadway • Edmond Ok 405-341-2143

23 S. Broadway Downtown Edmond 285-0927

July 2015 | The Business Times

19

business matters

Nick Massey Astute Investor

Looking for Signs of a Market Top D

“

on’t fear the bear!” That’s typical advice from companies who promote “long term” investing as the only route to success in the stock market. Yet, since 1899, bear market declines in the Dow have averaged 37 percent–a substantial dent in the value of a portfolio. The loss looks even worse considering that it will take an almost 60 percent rise in the next bull market just to get back even.

What if, instead of just riding it out through gut-wrenching declines, we could identify major bull market tops and avoid the worst of bear markets? Wishful thinking, right? Given the age of this current bull market, we are always looking for ways to help investors at least recognize the warning signs of a major market top.

Most important, though, is the recognition that the end of a bull market is a drawn-out process over months or even years. In fact, the process of deterioration begins long before the final highs in the major price indexes. As the old saying goes, “They don’t ring a bell at the top.”

Historically, Advance-Decline lines have been among the most useful indicators in warning of an approaching major market top. As a bull market ages, investors typically find fewer and fewer stocks at valuations justifying new buying.

Eventually, this increasingly selective buying 20

July 2015 | The Business Times

is reflected by a lag between the AdvanceDecline lines and their corresponding price indexes, with the initial divergence typically beginning about four to six months prior to the final high in the S&P 500.

Currently, the Advance-Decline lines are providing no indication of an imminent market top.

“The slow process of forming a major top can lull investors into a sense of complacency. All the while, though, the slowly deteriorating market conditions can wreak havoc on an investor’s portfolio.”

While there are still few signs of an imminent major market top, there are ample indications of an aging bull market, which is now one of the longest-lasting ever. Only two bull markets have lasted longer. The slow process of forming a major top can lull investors into a sense of complacency. All the while, though, the slowly deteriorating market conditions can wreak havoc on an investor’s portfolio.

As noted above, Advance-Decline lines are very useful in warning of an imminent market top. These indicators, though, are much less useful in reflecting the process of deteriorating strength that characterizes an aging bull market. For example, at the time of the May 21, 2015, high in the S&P 500, only 27.1 percent of the stocks in the S&P 500 were at or within 2 percent of, their 52-week highs. And, 12.5 percent of the stocks in the Index were already down 20 percent or more. In other words, these stocks were already in their own individual bear markets at the same time the media was celebrating a new bull market high.

You need to know that just because a major index like the S&P 500 or the Dow is making a new high, it could well be that only a handful of stocks in the index are actually doing well while many others could be showing great signs of weakness.

Bottom line – you need to look at the whole picture, not just the index. Thanks for reading.

NICK MASSEY is a financial advisor and president of Householder Group Financial Advisors in Edmond, OK. Nick can be reached at www.nickmassey.com. Investment advice offered through Householder Group Estate and Retirement Specialists, a registered investment advisor.

business matters

JIM Denton L edger Lines

I

What to do to Stop Fraud in its Tracks

attended an accounting conference last month. As always the most entertaining session was the one about employee fraud. The fraud session always has the sex appeal of People Magazine with the quirky characters of the shows we sometimes watch on TLC. Sex, drugs and greed are often the motivation for the actual fraud perpetrated.

The session’s resulting entertainment factor is like a sorbet compared to learning the new accounting and auditing rules that dominate the other classes.

It is a myth that employee fraud (stealing money) can be prevented by having an annual financial statement audit. And this proclamation comes from someone like me who makes his living doing audits. I’ve seen this work up close, and in all honesty catching employees committing fraud is not an audit objective. It may happen, but it’s a seldom occurrence that auditors would sniff one out in a financial audit. This is also because employee fraud is mostly in small amounts in relation to the big numbers in the financials.

What, then, is the “silver bullet” for businesses to stop fraud?

In its 2012 report, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners noted first that this fraud problem is universal. The report says that all businesses face some risk of employee fraud and there are many ways to detect and prevent fraud.

The report states that the most effective fraud prevention method for a business was providing a way for employees to report suspicious activity without retribution.

Fraud reporting “hotlines” that receive 22

July 2015 | The Business Times

anonymous tips from both internal and external sources are considered the most effective methods and garnered 50 percent of the fraud findings in the companies that used them. Hotlines can be relatively inexpensive if outsourced properly. In my view, such an endeavor would pay for itself with the improved image alone.

An internal audit ranked a distant second place with a 16-percent rate. Internal auditors are hired by top management to periodically review the company’s books and make recommendations for improved procedures. A staff of internal auditors is more expensive than a hotline. Some companies outsource this function to a CPA firm that performs this work for their clients.

Management’s review of transactions ranked third in effectiveness with a 14-percent rate. A management review would involve periodic inspections by highlevel executives. I would agree that a healthy fear of the boss looking over their shoulder would prevent some fraudsters.

Performing account reconciliations and documentation examinations ranked 4 percent and 3 percent, respectively. I believe these would be tasks the accounting department should be performing as part of their normal duties.

Frauds can also be found by accident (3 percent), through surveillance (2 percent), by law enforcement officials (2 percent), by confession (1 percent), with IT controls (1 percent) and lastly external audit (1 percent).

The report explains it this way: “External audits should not be relied upon as an

organization’s primary fraud detection method. Such audits were the most commonly implemented control in our study; however, they detected only 3 percent of the frauds reported to us, and they ranked poorly in limiting fraud losses. While external audits serve an important purpose and can have a strong preventive effect on potential fraud, their usefulness as a means of uncovering fraud is limited.”

Research continues to show that small businesses are particularly vulnerable to fraud. The primary reason is that the most effective methods come with a price tag and small companies have limited funds.

The irony is that employee fraud has a greater impact on a smaller company than a large business. Solid internal controls that emphasize segregation of duties will help keep fraudsters from implementing their schemes.

My take is that managers of small businesses should focus their anti-fraud efforts on the following: •Utilizing the most cost-effective prevention methods (see above), •Setting an ethical tone at the top, and •Utilizing the most effective and appropriate internal controls.

Fraud can be entertaining, until it happens to you. Just don’t rely solely on the financial audit to catch it.

JIM DENTON is a CPA and a managing partner with Arledge & Associates P.C. in Edmond. He may be reached via email at jim@jmacpas.com.

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WE SHARE THE DOGWOOD. NOW WE SHARE A NAME. ONB Bank is now Central Bank of Oklahoma.

For more than 10 years, we have been a member of the Central Bancompany family of banks. Adopting the Central Bank name is a natural progression as our family continues to grow and thrive. Our new name strengthens our connection with more than 140 locations throughout the region, where you will now have access to your accounts. Though we share a name, our bank maintains local decision-making authority; a business model that has stood the test of time. Rest assured that our ownership and people will remain the same, and our commitment to quality service continues to be our highest priority.

Strong roots. New name. Endless possibilities.

Member FDIC

July 2015 | The Business Times

23

business matters

Cyndy Hoenig S ocial Strategies

Acknowledge Tweets, Emails, Comments, Phone Calls For Good PR Always

T

he way your customers feel towards you is important. The more you show you care about them, the more they’ll likely want to continue working with you.

With that in mind, providing good customer service to your clients should naturally be a major priority in your day-to-day schedule. So, make this tip a must in your everyday life. A few ideas to commit to memory: Respond to Clients as Soon as Possible Speed is everything, especially when a client is requesting something that’s timesensitive. Try to reply to your clients as soon as you can. Procrastinating on a response to a client’s email, phone call or voicemail doesn’t help anyone; you’re going to have to reply eventually, so why not do it as soon as possible? Avoid that “mark as unread” button in your email.

Answer your phone Get call forwarding or an answering service. Hire staff if you need to. But make sure that someone is picking up the phone when someone calls your business. And, smile when you pick up that phone. The caller can tell.

Deal with complaints No one likes hearing complaints, and many of us have developed a reflex shrug, saying, “You can’t please all the people all the time”. Maybe not, but if you give the complaint your attention, you may be able to please this one person this one time - and position your business to reap the benefits of good customer service. Remember, one happy customer leads to others.

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July 2015 | The Business Times

Throw in something extra Whether it’s a coupon for a future discount, additional information on how to use the product, or a genuine smile, people love to get more than they thought they were getting. And don’t think that a gesture has to be large to be effective.

Realize that your people will treat your customer the way they are treated. Employees take their cue from management. Do you greet your employees enthusiastically each day; are you polite in your dealings with them; do you try to accommodate their requests; do you listen to them when they speak? Consistent rude customer service is a reflection not as much on the employee as on management.

Fix Your Mistakes If you did something that didn’t end up working, you should repair it. A quick way to lose a client forever is not admitting that you are at fault and not fixing your own mistakes.

You should always strive for a high-quality output; it shows that you have a high level of standards in your business. Not taking responsibility for your own blunders is a surefire way of gaining a bad business reputation.

Transparency is important in any business; service work is no different.

Listen to Your Clients It’s important to listen to what your clients are communicating to you. Really listen. Understand what they are saying and ask for clarifications on things that might be ambiguous. Clients might be unfamiliar with certain terminologies in your profession,

and what you think they mean might be different from what they actually mean.

Listen to what their needs are, and then offer your suggestion on the best way to go about fulfilling those needs.

Keep Your Promises If you say you’re going to do something, make sure you do it. It’s part of being a professional. If you need more time on something, you should let them know as soon as possible, not after you’ve already missed the deadline. Honoring your commitments is very important.

Be Patient I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve exhausted my patience on my clients. But I’ve never actually showed them my agitation. If you feel like the client is overstepping their boundaries, let them know in a cordial and professional manner. You just don’t want to start yelling and cursing at the people you make a living off of. Maintain professionalism at all times. And smile, it goes a long way.

CYNDY HOENIG is a PR strategist who owns Pure PR in Oklahoma City.

She is the author of “600 PR, Marketing and Social Media Tips,” which is available as a free download at http://pureprokc.com/600-diy-pr-tips.

She also is the author of “PR Rock Star.”

Email Cyndy at cyndyhoenig@ymail.com or call her at 405-245-4668 for more information.

The next generation of Edmond business community leaders are already making their presence and influence felt in every industry. They’re there, working beside you every day, finding new ways to achieve success for both themselves and their businesses.

The Business Times of Edmond wants to highlight the Top 20 under 40 in the local business community.

Help us find the 2015 class of go-getters by nominating a young businessperson for this honor.

Name:______________________________________________________________________Age:___________ Business:__________________________________________________________________________________ Education:_________________________________________________________________________________ Do they live in Edmond?______________________________________________________________________ What makes this young businessperson outstanding?____________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ How do they contribute to the community?______________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Previous honors and recognition:______________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ How to contact them:_________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Nominee name and phone number:____________________________________________________________ please fill out this form online at www.edmondsun.com/top20under40 or mail this form to The edmond Sun, Managing editor Scott Wanish, p.o. Box 2470, edmond, oK 73034, drop it by The Sun at 123 S. Broadway or FAX it to 405-340-7363. deadline for nominations is 5 p.m., August 1, 2015.

GROWING EDMOND

Photos PROVIDED | EDMOND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Ribbon Cuttings

Project 66 Community Food Pantry joins the Edmond Chamber

Building Minds Joins the Edmond Chamber Building Minds recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate joining the Edmond Chamber. Building Minds helps children ages 5-12 learn science and engineering (STEM) concepts using Lego products and other fun, hands-on learning tools. Their programs include summer camps, birthday parties, after school programs and more.

The “student-centered” learning environment at Building Minds allows kids to work in groups or pairs, interact with hands-on learning tools and engage in individual or whole group discussions. Their interactive learning techniques further develop important life skills like teamwork, communication and problem solving. Overall, the Building Minds programs are designed to foster a greater sense of self-confidence, a better work ethic, and a desire to succeed. For more information, call (405) 443-4530 or visit www.building-minds.com.

Project 66 Community Food Pantry recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate joining the Edmond Chamber.

Project 66, an affiliate of Regional Food Bank, is a non-profit, faithbased ministry providing food to families in need. Their volunteers and donations come from a variety of churches, community groups and individuals. Their mission is to satisfy their neighbors’ physical hunger, as well as their spiritual hunger, through kindness, prayer and the love of Jesus Christ.

They desire to serve those who may go undernourished, including children, elderly and working families facing difficult economic times.

Their goal is to provide each family with enough food for up to two weeks, and families can access this service on a monthly basis. In 2014, Project 66 served 10,214 individuals. In 2015, they are on track to serve over 13,000.

Project 66 is located at 1700 S. Bryant Avenue in Edmond and is open to clients 10 a.m. to noon Mondays and Thursdays and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings. For more information, call (405) 341-1353 or visit www.project66.org.

The Edmond Historical Society & Museum celebrates 30 years in edmond The Edmond Historical Society & Museum recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate 30 years of collecting, preserving and celebrating Edmond History.

On June 5, 1985, the Edmond Historical Society & Museum opened its first exhibit in one small room of the Edmond Historic Community Center through the efforts of a dedicated group of preservation-minded volunteers. Celebrating Edmond History – 30 Years and Counting highlights many never before exhibited artifacts that illustrate the development of the pioneer town and illuminate the lives of the people who built and shaped the community.

The Edmond Historical Society hosted a Heritage Celebration event on June 5 to celebrate the opening of the Celebrating Edmond History – 30 Years and Counting exhibit. They will also host a 30th Birthday Party on Saturday, June 6 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. (free and open to the public).

The Edmond Historical Society & Museum is located at 431 S. Boulevard in Edmond and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free. The 1889 Territorial School is open from 1-4 p.m. the first two Saturdays of each month.

For more information about exhibits and programs, call (405) 340-0078 or visit www.EdmondHistory.org.

26

July 2015 | The Business Times

Wilson Insurance Celebrates relocation

The Pointe Celebrates grand opening

Wilson Insurance Group recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate its relocation to 425 S. Fretz Ave. in Edmond. At Wilson Insurance Group, they live by the belief that it is their purpose to provide the highest quality insurance products in a cost effective manner to people from all walks of life, while sustaining moral and ethical values and a heart for friendship.

Although they are able to provide insurance for both individuals and businesses, their strengths are in consulting business owners through Health Care Reform issues and designing cost effective employee benefit programs.

For more information, call (405) 285-5555 or visit www.WeInsureOKC.com.

The Pointe at North Penn recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate its grand opening at 19501 N. Pennsylvania Ave. in Edmond. The Pointe at North Penn was designed with you in mind. It offers comfortable two and three bedroom apartment homes. The Pointe at North Penn is centrally located with easy access to Hefner Parkway and Broadway Extension. It is a short drive to Quail Springs Mall, Mercy Hospital, University of Central Oklahoma, Lake Hefner and downtown. For more information, call (405) 509-2010 or visit www.thepointeatnorthpenn.com.

Whataburger celebrates second location in edmond Whataburger recently held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the grand opening of its second Edmond location at 1101 W. I-35 Frontage Road.

Whataburger is known for its famous burgers made with 100 percent pure beef and fresh-cut vegetables, along with its popular French fries, onion rings, chicken strips, shakes and more.

Whataburger has focused on its fresh, made-to-order burgers and friendly customer service since 1950 when Harmon Dobson opened the first Whataburger as a small roadside burger stand in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dobson gave his restaurant a name he hoped to hear customers say every time they took a bite of his made-to-order burgers: “What a burger!�

Within the first week, people lined up around the block for his 25 cent, 100 percent beef burgers served on five-inch buns. Today, the company has more than 770 locations in 10 states with sales of more than $1 billion annually.

Whataburger also believes in investing in the communities it calls home. For that reason, Whataburger announced a $1,000 donation to the Feed the Children organization.

For more information, call (405) 348-2871 or visit www.whataburger.com.

July 2015 | The Business Times

27

Business Briefs The First State Bank welcomes Natalie Francis to their Mortgage team

AT&T contributes $150,000 to Oklahoma, Texas storm relief

The First State Bank announces the addition of Natalie Francis to their Mortgage Team. Francis will serve as a Mortgage Loan Originator, helping her customers find the best loan product that will get them into the home of their dreams. She will work out of her Edmond office, located at 407 W. 15th St. Francis has over six years of experience in Natalie Francis the mortgage industry. Prior to coming to work for The First State Bank, she served in the roles of loan processor, loan closer and loan officer assistant. She graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma and is an active member of the Edmond Women’s Club.

Damage produced by tornados and flooding caused by record-setting rainfall affected Texas and Oklahoma in May. In response, AT&T announced a $150,000 donation to the American Red Cross in support of its disaster relief and storm recovery efforts across communities in both states. “While we can never truly replace what is lost, we at AT&T Texas are working to help these communities pick themselves up and move forward. We understand how critical communication and information are during and after a natural disaster, so we are also continuing to monitor our networks to keep customers connected and minimize service disruptions,� said David Nichols, president of AT&T Texas.

Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief can help provide food, water and shelter for those who have had to leave their home. Contributions to the Red Cross will help those hard-hit communities in Oklahoma and Texas as they start to recover, rebuild and get back on their feet. “It is times like these that test our resolve, resiliency and strength as individuals and as a community. Oklahomans come through for each other in times of need. And with your help, this time will be no different,� Steve Hahn, president of AT&T Oklahoma said. “We know that staying connected during severe weather events is critically important to consumers, businesses and our emergency management officials, which is why our teams have been working tirelessly monitoring and reinforcing our network.�  Those wishing to support recovery efforts in Texas and Oklahoma can visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The First State Bank welcomes Steve Guerrero to their Commercial Lending team The First State Bank announces the addition of Steve Guerrero to their Commercial Lending team. Guerrero will serve as vice president, Commercial Loan Officer and will office at the Bank’s Midwest City location at 2600 S. Douglas Blvd.

Guerrero has over 20 years of experience in the lending field. Prior to working for The First Steve Guerrero State Bank, he served as a Commercial Loan Officer at Frontier State Bank. He received his masters degree from the University of Central Oklahoma and is a member of the Freemasons, the Shriners of North America and the Rotary Club of Moore.

OBA recognizes Edmond banker for 50 years of service Eullene Kiespert, with Citizens Bank of Edmond, was among nine Oklahoma bankers to be inducted into the Oklahoma Bankers Association 50-Year Club during the awards brunch at the OBA’s 118th Leadership Forum and Annual Convention on May 20 at the Skirvin Hilton in downtown Oklahoma City.

This year’s other honorees were Ed Alexander, senior vice president at BancFirst in Oklahoma City; Kay Caldwell with BancFirst, Lawton; Barbara Cochrane with BancFirst, Chattanooga; Lee Doughty with First National Bank in Altus; Jack Grimmett Jr. with Pauls Valley National Bank; Eullene Kiespert with Citizens Bank of Edmond; Daniel Powers with First Bank & Trust in Wagoner; Eva White with Firstar Bank in Muskogee; and James Bruce, Jr., who purchased controlling interest in American Bank Systems.

The club is comprised of individuals who’ve devoted 50 years or more of service to Oklahoma’s banking industry. The OBA is proud to recognize this special group of banking professionals who’ve dedicated themselves to this profession and contributed so much to this industry and their communities.

The OBA conducts more than 70 educational programs and seminars each year, which reach more than 5,000 bankers across the state. The Association represents approximately 230 banks across the state and serves as the primary advocate for the banking industry. It’s also heavily involved in fraud training and prevention as well as legal and compliance services and communications for its member banks.

28

July 2015 | The Business Times

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BUSINESS CALENDAR Edmond Kiwanis Club Noon July 1 (Club meets every Wednesday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive Edmond Rotary Club Noon July 1 (Club meets every Wednesday) Mercy at I-35 20147 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, facebook.com/ rotaryclubofedmond.

Edmond Exchange Club 7 a.m. July 2 (Club meets every Thursday) Room 213 in the Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive For more information about the club, visit facebook.com/ EdmondMorningExchangeClub Edmond AMBUCS Noon July 3 (Club meets every Friday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive Call June Cartwright at 405-820-9667 for more information.

Planning Commission 5:30 p.m. July 7 (First and third Tuesday) City Council Chambers 20 S. Littler Ave. Visit www.edmondok.com to find the agenda.

Edmond Kiwanis Club Noon July 8 (Club meets every Wednesday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive Edmond Rotary Club Noon July 8 (Club meets every Wednesday) Mercy at I-35 20147 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, facebook.com/ rotaryclubofedmond.

Edmond Exchange Club 7 a.m. July 9 (Club meets every Thursday) Room 213 in the Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive For more information about the club, visit facebook.com/ EdmondMorningExchangeClub.

Centennial Kiwanis Club 6 p.m. July 6 (Club meets every Monday) Ken’s Pizza 628 W. Danforth

City Council 5:30 p.m. July 13 (Second and fourth Mondays) City Council Chambers 20 S. Littler Ave. Visit www.edmondok.com to find the agenda.

Boulevard Rotary Club 6-7 p.m. July 6 (Club meets every Monday) Louie’s Bar and Grill 1201 N.W. 178th St., Suite 101 For more information, facebook.com/ BoulevardRotary.

City Council 5:30 p.m. July 13 (Second and fourth Monday) City Council Chambers 20 S. Littler Ave. Visit www.edmondok.com to find the agenda.

Edmond Summit Rotary Club 7 a.m. July 7 (Meets every Tuesday) Mercy I-35 2017 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, call 405-CUEARLY.

REID

Planning Commission 5:30 p.m. July 7 (First and third Tuesday) City Council Chambers 20 S. Littler Ave. Visit www.edmondok.com to find the agenda.

Edmond Evening Lions Club 6 p.m. July 14 (Club meets second and fourth Tuesday) Johnnie’s 33 E. 33rd St. For more information, call Bob Austin at 285-4980.

Edmond Kiwanis Club Noon July 15 (Club meets every Wednesday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive Edmond Rotary Club Noon July 15 (Club meets every Wednesday) Mercy at I-35 20147 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, facebook.com/ rotaryclubofedmond.

Edmond Exchange Club 7 a.m. July 16 (Club meets every Thursday) Room 213 in the Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive For more information about the club, visit facebook.com/ EdmondMorningExchangeClub.

Edmond Kiwanis Club Noon July 22 (Club meets every Wednesday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive

Edmond Exchange Club 7 a.m. July 23 (Club meets every Thursday) Room 213 in the Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive For more information about the club, visit facebook.com/ EdmondMorningExchangeClub.

Edmond Kiwanis Club Noon July 29 (Club meets every Wednesday) Cherokee Room in Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive Edmond Rotary Club Noon July 29 (Club meets every Wednesday) Mercy at I-35 20147 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, facebook.com/ rotaryclubofedmond.

Edmond Exchange Club 7 a.m. July 30 (Club meets every Thursday) Room 213 in the Nigh University Center 100 N. University Drive For more information about the club, visit facebook.com/ EdmondMorningExchangeClub.

TO ADD your business event to this free calendar, email the details to kediger@edmondsun.com.

Edmond Rotary Club Noon July 22 (Club meets every Wednesday) Mercy at I-35 20147 W. I-35 Frontage Road For more information, facebook.com/ rotaryclubofedmond.

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FAX: 348-3143 CSR@Reidprint.com July 2015 | The Business Times

29

LAST LOOK

EVANS & DAVIS LAW FIRM GAINS ADMISSION TO PRACTICE IN ARIZONA

T

he law firm of Evans & Davis is proud to announce that Bryan Evans has been admitted to the State Bar of Arizona. With the admission, the Firm has enhanced its presence throughout Arizona to better serve existing clients, their families and referrals throughout the state. The Firm’s continued expansion throughout the Southwest will significantly aid in their efforts to provide clients with the highest quality of estate and business planning services.

The Firm maintains its principal location in Edmond, Oklahoma, with additional offices in the Dallas and Tulsa markets.

The relationships that have been formed by the attorneys at Evans & Davis within these business communities and local metropolitan areas have been a catalyst for their continued growth and expansion. Evans & Davis focuses their practice on two key areas of the law – Estate Planning – featuring the establishment of wills, trusts & powers of attorney; Business Law – featuring business formation, succession planning and various related transactional work.

Evans & Davis was founded in 2002 and is led by attorneys Bryan Evans and Dustin Davis. Evans, a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Law, is a member of the American Bar Association, the Oklahoma Bar Association, the State Bar of Texas, and now the State Bar of Arizona. Evans also served as president of the Edmond (Okla.) Public Schools Foundation for the 2012-2013 academic year and is still an active board member.

Davis, a graduate of the Oklahoma City University School of Law, is a member of the American Bar Association, the Oklahoma Bar 30

July 2015 | The Business Times

Association, and the Oklahoma County Bar Association. Davis was a member of the Leadership Edmond (Okla.) Class XXVIII, as well as the Second Century Organization through the Oklahoma Heritage Association. Additionally, Davis sits on the Board of Directors for the Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Edmond (Okla.) Historical Society.

In 2013, the growth of Evans & Davis continued with the merger of the Heritage Law Center. The Heritage Law Center was originally founded by Jerry Balentine, who has focused his practice in the areas of estate planning, tax planning and elder care for nearly 40 years. Balentine is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association, a founding member of WealthCounsel and is a certified Elder Law attorney. In addition to his professional experience, Balentine is a contributing author to various estate planning books. Balentine brought with him to Evans & Davis an experienced group of attorneys and staff members.

Regarding the Firm’s expanded presence in Arizona, Evans said “Since its inception, our Firm has consistently focused on providing superior legal services to our clients. Our goal has always been to build a lifetime relationship with each family and business that we serve. The expansion of our Firm into Arizona only increases on our ability to accomplish these objectives.”

Evans & Davis can also be reached by phone at (866) 708-2335, and email at attorneys@evansdavis.com. Additional information about the Firm can be found at www.evansdavis.com.

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12777 N Rockwell Ave • Oklahoma City, OK 73142

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDMOND OK PERMIT NO. 84

HERE FOR YOU. At INTEGRIS, we are proud to say we’re Oklahoma’s largest healthcare system. And because we have specialists in more areas of care, we make certain that you have access to The Most Challenging Healing ™.

INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND CAMPUS INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND HOSPITAL 4801 INTEGRIS Parkway Between 2nd & 15th on I-35 Access Road East 405-657-3000

PHYSICIANS BUILDING INTEGRIS ORTHOPEDICS EDMOND J. Keith Gannaway, M.D. John Gruel, M.D., Non-Operative Suite 150 | 405-657-3990 INTEGRIS JIM THORPE OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION Suite 100 | 405-657-3800 INTEGRIS CARDIOVASCULAR PHYSICIANS Azhar Amil, M.D. Timothy Daly, M.D. Lance Garner, M.D. Santosh Prabhu, M.D. Steven Reiter, M.D. Gary Worcester, M.D. Suite 150 | 405-948-4040 INTEGRIS EDMOND PHARMACY First Floor | 405-657-3900

IntegrisOK.com/Edmond

INTEGRIS FAMILY CARE EDMOND EAST

INTEGRIS FAMILY CARE COFFEE CREEK

Justin Sparkes, D.O., Internal Medicine Chris Hayes, M.D., Family Medicine Douglas Riddle, M.D., Family Medicine Elizabeth Montgomery, PA-C, Family Medicine Suite 200 | 405-657-3950

Joel Grubbs, D.O., Family Medicine Emily Reed, M.D., Internal Medicine/Pediatrics Ashley Muckala, D.O., Internal Medicine 2916 N. Kelly Avenue 405-715-5300

INTEGRIS WOMEN’S CARE Elisa Sparkes, D.O., OB/GYN Julie Hansen, M.D., OB/GYN Daniel Tallerico, M.D., Gynecology Laura Stearman, M.D., Female Urology Suite 200 | 405-657-3950

INTEGRIS HEALTH EDMOND GENERAL SURGERY Patrick Bell, M.D., General Surgery Joshua Carey, M.D., General Surgery 1700 Renaissance Blvd.

405-844-4300

INTEGRIS ORTHOPEDICS EDMOND Michael Williams, M.D. Rice Handley, PA-C 2916 N. Kelly Avenue 405-715-5320

INTEGRIS FAMILY CARE EDMOND RENAISSANCE Grand Wong, M.D., Family Medicine Doug Haynes, M.D., Family Medicine Caroline Merritt, D.O., Internal Medicine Brooke Nida, M.D., Pediatrics Amie Prough, M.D., Pediatrics 1700 Renaissance Blvd.

405-844-4300