Working Women

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM DEMOCRAT NEWS  PAGE 1B

Locals recognized during National Business Women’s Week ‌ ince 1938, S National Business Women’s Week has been celebrated the third full week in October each year. This year that week was Oct. 19-23.

In these six pages, Madison County businesses recognize women’s participation in the local workforce.

PHOTOS, TRACI M. BLACK, DEMOCRAT NEWS‌

Robin Settle always greets office visitors with a smile while performing her duties as Kayda Thompson, owner of Kelley’s Jewelry in Fredericktown takes a quick break to talk about the joys of being a grandmother.

Secretary at Fredericktown High School.

Judy Graham has a history of service to the children in the community as the Secretary to the Fredericktown R-I School Board Superintendent and the Secretary/Treasurer of the School Board.

Kassie Montgomery works at the Hungry Gardner and is helpful by explaining the quality of the foods from groceries to take-out items.

The professionalism of Erica Johnson is evident in her day-today work at Fredericktown Police Station. Erica serves as the Municipal Court Administrator and Administrative Assistant to the Chief of Police.

We Salute Our Working Women! Thank You Ladies for your hard work!

ShannonvAllen Nan Allgier Melanie Archer Linda Aumann Karen Baker Madison Bales Chelsey Barton Marie Battreal Anna Bean Flo Beck Maggie Belko Crystal Bennett Rosalie Benz Linda Berry Robbin Besher Regina Bess Victoria Blair Whitney Bloom Shiela Blythe Debbie Boillot Alice Boyer Deb Bradley Emily Braun Megan Breeding Wilmetta Brethold Amber Brewer Chelsey Bridgeman Delana Britt Mary Brotherton Missy Brown Amie Buesking Julie Buford Dana Cain Ruth Ann Carlton Ronda Carque Judi Carrico Linda Caudill Star Cawvey Cindy Chaffin

Sara Chappell Destiny Chitwood Laura Chorn Abby Clark Mary Clemmons Sue Cofer Cindy Combs Katie Couch Angela Cox Gena Crump Tina Crump Megan Curry Toni Curtis Brandy Dane Laura Daniels Charnelsey Darnell Nicki Davis Carol Davis Tracy Davis Courtney Declue Corinna DeFrancesco Sally Dettling Emily Dodd Cindy Dulaney Colleen Dunn Jessica Dunnigan Alice East Crystal Edmond Harlee Edmonds Dianna Emery Tawny England Christine England Michelle Evans Cassandra Evans Star Farmer Sandy Felty Melinda Fischer Ruth Flaherty Bev Flowers

Marie Foster Nina Francis Terri Freeman Sabrina Frey Dana Fults Michelle Gipson Brandy Grado Sara Griffith Sandy Griffon Alanna Guess Joyce Hale Connie Hall Kathy Hamblin Elayne Hansmann Maria Harrison Diann Hartwick Peggy Hayes Barb Heady Jamie Heitmann Melissa Helm Becky Helvey Jan Hicks Kristie Hill Lois Hines Karen Hoelscher Becky Holland Amy Hoover Sandy Horton Carol Hyatt Kelli Jo Ikemeier Lauren Irwin Mary Israel Jessica Jennings Sharon Johnson Kaitlynn Johnson Tiffany Johnson Juanita Johnson Lisa Jones Karen Jones

Melissa Jordan Lauren Juliette Sheila Kayich Sandy Keeney Sheila Kemp Melissa King Mary King Rose Kinnard Serena Kinney Torrie Klein Carol Klobe Lindsey Kollar Sarah Kopczenski Penny Kuhlenberg Charlotte Kyllonen Joan Lachance Brandolyn Lachance Kim Lakies Teressa Laramore Kim Lasley Brenda Lattimore Barb Lee Nichole Lee Missy Lenz Debbie Lindsey Patti Littrell Nancy Lodge Jada Long Linda Looney Rachelle Looney Gloria Loughary Becky Lowes Treasa Lunsford Sybil Lynn Tinna Mann Denise Marler Shelley McCain Amanda McCleary Beverly McClure

Martha McGraw Amy McLeod Amy McMinn Misty McWherter Maureen Medley Betsy Mell Gretchen Messmer Dolores Miller Shanna Miller Marcy Mills Kindsey Mills Jeanne Mooney Jordyn Moore Cathy Morris Regina Morris Susie Morrison Elsie Moses Ladon Myers Jenny Nelson Caitlin Neubrand Julie Nicholson Cindy Nickles Tracy Oliver Kelley Parker Candi Pennebaker Jennifer Penuel Kayla Peterson Tamara Pidcock Nikkisha Pigg Lesli Pinkley Melissa Pinkley Daryl Pino Carrie Pogue Samantha Pratt Peggy Presnell Christina Proffer Tracey Pruett Heidi Reed Ellie Rehkop

Trish Remington Theresa Rennie Jenifer Reynolds Linda Rhodes Virginia Rice Jessica Roach Amy Roach Denise Roberts Deanna Robinson Cheryl Ruebel Mae Rutter Angie Schweiss Shanna Settle Katie Shoemaker Cortney Sikes Jaclyn Sketo Barb Skiles Karen Smith Amber Smith Leah Smothers Sheila Snow Lacey Snow Donna Spain Heidi Stafford Sandy Starkey Marti Starkey Kristen Starkey Brooke Starkey Tammie Stricklan Sarah Stricklan Krista Stricklan Linda Stumbaugh Amanda Sullivan Lou Ann Tesreau Allison Thomas Courtney Thomas Susie Thomas-Helms Sharon Thomure Chelsea Thomure

Robin Thornton Loretta Tinsley Pat Tinsley Sue Tomlinson Nikki Tomlinson Ginger Torrez Kathy Tripp Sheila Tripp Lisa Twidwell Julie Unsbee Margie Valentine Eloise Vance Crystall Vance Christine Warner Donna Warner Jeana Wathen Terri Weatherington Delores Weekley Brenda Weekley Teresa Weeks Kayla Weiss Lexie Welton Sharon West Liz Wheeler Camey White Ashley Whitehead Chelsi Whitener Becka Whitnell Carol Williams Kirsten Williams Libby Wood Karen Wright Betty Wright Becky Wright Audra Yates

611 West Main - Fredericktown, MO

573-783-3341

www.madisonmedicalcenter.net

PAGE 2B  DEMOCRAT NEWS

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

WORKING WOMEN

Women have unique financial needs ASHLEY BALES, FAMILY FINANCIAL EDUCATION SPECIALIST, MU EXTENSION

• Kris • Sam • Andrea • Emma • Kristen • Terri • Courtney • Kelsey

‌Women face a unique set of circumstances when it comes to their financial well-being.

Here are some reasons why: At some point in their lifetime, 85-90 percent of women will be alone to deal with their finances.

A woman may outlive her spouse (the majority will!), she may divorce or she may never marry to start with.

Women will often take a break in their careers to care for young children or elderly parents or grandparents.

Women are still facing a gender pay gap in America (though it is getting smaller with time) and women must work about 15 months to earn what men make in about 12 months.

Women are genetically inclined to be less risk averse (we must feed the family) meaning they tend to avoid the investments

Ashley Bales

that have more risk and that leads to less monetary return over time.

So what is a woman to do?

First, start saving now.

It is recommended that you begin your savings with an emergency fund that contains enough money to cover three to six months of your regular monthly expenses.

Second, women need to know what they are worth and ask for it. One of the largest reasons for the gender pay gap is that women are presented less in initial job offers and they accept it. Negotiate a better deal and be prepared to prove why you are valuable!

Third, be aware that riskier investments generally yield higher returns. If you need help identifying your risk level or you are a beginning investor with some extra cash to invest, ask friends and family to give you recommendations for a trusted financial advisor.

Fourth, make sure that yo u h ave e n o u g h l i fe insurance on your significant other to cover funeral expenses and pay off all of your debts in the event something would happen to them. One-in-four women will be penniless within two months of their spouse’s death.

If you are looking for a way to start your journey to financial freedom or have questions about any of the suggestions listed above, contact Family Financial Education Specialist, Ashley Bales. Ashley is available by appointment through the University of Missouri Extension in Madison County. You can reach their office by calling 573-783-3303.

Why entrepreneurship is important in community, economic development PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION

• Stephanie Long • Sonya Frymire • Judy Hahn • Janet Miller • Allison Boyer • Liz Rehkop • Jeanette Baur • Anna Mae Huffman • Brenda Jarrett • Jenifer Parker • Jill Wilhite • Terri Toppins • Mariette Bone • Karlie Martin • Andi Sikes • Cortney Sikes • Laura Michael • Tori White • Becky Brewer • Susan Callaway • Elizabeth Rehkop • Pam Kennon • Cortney Gowen • Janice Starkey • Judy White • Janet Wagganer • Alexa Brewen • Taylor Sutton • Ashlee Matthews • April Shults • Paula Moser • Jamie Sherrill • Patty Hale • Denise Statler

The economy has ‌ changed, and with these changes our communities must adapt themselves to some new realities.

Traditionally, economic development, rooted in the post-World War II era, attempted to build our export base by subsidizing firms to locate manufacturing employment in our communities. This was fueled by cheap inputs— land and labor, nationalscale competition, and l o w - s k i l l e d wo r k e rs .

Recruitment of industry received the most resources based on the potential to have significant impacts on the local economy.

To a lesser degree, some communities also established programs to work with the existing business base to retain and expand what was already in place.

Finally, to a limited extent, some communities supported local small business startups, primarily

spin-offs and ventures from the existing business sector. Overall, this model is characterized as fiercely competitive locally as well as across the country.

By contrast, a contemporary strategy builds a solid foundation of entrepreneurship. Long ignored because the impacts were small, diffuse, and incremental, entrepreneurship has been characterized as economic “gardening” as opposed to “hunting.” Think of it as tending to the seedbed in one’s own back yard as opposed to going out to bag that one trophy animal.

Business growth, and sustaining the health of existing businesses, is also important in this model.

More than a simple effort to re ta i n a n d ex pa n d businesses, this strategy respects that business survival means maintaining a competitive edge regardless of size. The goal is supporting the existing business community in sustaining a viable enterprise by constantly seeking one’s

competitive advantage.

Finally, the attraction strategy in the new model is broad and contemporary. It applies to attracting new enterprises, both go o d s - p ro d u c i n g a n d knowledge-based. It also includes attracting different “business anchors” such as senior housing, educational enterprises, and visitors and retirees. These are less traditional but effective, ways of increasing the flow of resources into the economy from outside. This model recognizes that the success of one’s neighbors spillover into one’s own borders.

Cheap land and labor are no longer what is being sold. Rather it is knowledge workers and a culture of innovation and creativity.

This model also acknowledges that few places possess enough assets on their own to compete for and support new, existing, and emerging businesses. It’s about regions, networks, clusters and innovation.

Its about entrepreneurship.

WE SALUTE OUR WORKING WOMEN. THANK YOU LADIES FOR YOUR HARD WORK.

Barb Hawkins

Michelle Menley

Ronnie Gibbs Agency 705 W Main St • Fredericktown, MO 63645

(573) 783-5544 • (573) 546-7101

Insure carefully, dream fearlessly.

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 010611-6/15

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM DEMOCRAT NEWS  PAGE 3B

WORKING WOMEN

What personal skills do I need to succeed in business?

PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION

‌I ndividuals looking to start a business often question whether or not they have the skills and traits necessary to be a successful entrepreneur.

The good news is that there is no basic set of skills or traits you need in order to be successful. All of the skills that successful small business owners demonstrate are ones that you can learn. That being said, the following is a list of just some of the skills that you need to pick up on your way to starting your business.

P ro b a b ly t h e m o s t important trait or skill needed is “passion.” Passion can be defined in several ways—the “I think I can” mindset, being able to bounce back and keep on going, persistence, determination and initiative. These all represent just several ways of stating

the fact that that you will persevere in achieving your goals. You will do what it takes to overcome, go around, move, or run over anything that blocks your way. In the case of owning your own business, it means never taking no for an answer, constantly asking more questions, and rarely believing that something “just can not be done. Some people may just call you goaloriented. Passion must come from within but if you believe in what you are doing, passion often comes right along with it.

A related ability is that of a self-starter. This talent does not mean you may not stop and sit for a moment when knocked down. But you always get back up and keep moving forward. Along with being a self-starter, you need to be a hard worker. Starting your business will require untold hours of work, often at times of the day when

you would much rather be relaxing or being with family. You must believe though in the end result thus helping you continue to always move forward.

Needless to say that means finding a way to keep your energy level up.

To be a successful business owner, you must be honest and have a great deal of integrity. You must be authentic. You must be a listener.

Obviously you need to have a level of creativity or know who you can tap to get that creative spark.

This means being inquisitive, looking at the world in terms of what are the problems people are trying to solve and do you have a solution to offer. This means you can demonstrate problem solving skills.

Entrepreneurs are often said to be calculated risk takers; in reality, they just do the homework before setting out on the journey.

You want to maximize

positive that our efforts are paying off in a big way.”

The data, released by the U.S. Census Bureau and analyzed by the Kauffman Foundation, shows there were 1,293 more businesses created in Missouri in 2013 (the most recent year for which data is available) than in 2012, an increase of more than 16 percent.

Over the same time period, 39 states saw a decrease in new business creation. Of the states that did see an increase in the number of new businesses, Missouri outperformed them dramatically – experiencing a bigger growth in new business creation than all ten of those states combined.

In Fiscal Year 2015, Missouri ranked – for the first

time — as a top ten state for startup funding, according to Forbes. The Fiscal Year 2016 budget signed by Gov. Nixon includes nearly $16 million for programs at the Missouri Technology Corporation, a public-private partnership promoting entrepreneurship.

Created in 1994 to promote entrepreneurship and foster the growth of hightech companies, the Missouri Technology Corporation was significantly underfunded until Gov. Nixon took office.

Under Gov. Nixon’s leadership, MTC has provided more than $24 million to 70 startups, helping these companies leverage $200 million in private capital to commercialize their products and services, create jobs and grow.

PROVIDED BY MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

your chances of success.

To give yourself the best possible chance, you are constantly learning and looking for advice and mentors. Networks are crucial to you as you know what they can offer in achieving your goals.

In terms of learning, you need some background in general management and decision making, accounting, and personnel management. You also may need to take some leadership courses and, of course, an understanding is a must.

‌JEFFERSON CITY – According to seasonally adjusted data released Oct. 14 by the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri’s unemployment rate for September fell by three-tenths of a point to 5.3 percent, the lowest rate since August 2007.

Following an upward revision to the August employment figures to show a total increase of 6,500 new jobs, nonfarm payroll employment in

To all the women who have helped make Black RiveR elecTRic coopeRaTive successful for over 75 years!

OPENING NOVEMBER 4TH

A Salute to Our Working Women!

~ FEATURING GIFTS & SPECIAL ITEMS FOR THE HOME ~

BOARD MEMBERS: • Angela Souden • Joalyn McKenney • Nancy Hale STAFF: • Becky Hunt • Teresa Clark • Becky McFarland • Tissy Ramsey • Blair Reagan • Betha Mattingly • Patty McDaniel • Velma Osborne • Amy Koester • Alica White • Janelle Rehkop • Jenny Sikes • Carolyn Amelunke

Madison County Health Department 806 West College • Fredericktown, MO 63645

www.madisoncountyhealth.us

573.783.2747

HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

783-GIFT Now offeriNg:

Crowe’s Candles & Candle Melts in several scents for Fall & Christmas

Preventive Health is our purpose since 1949 . . .

A Salute to Our Working Women!

Lisa starkey, Carrie Shelby, Emmilee Royle and all the business women in Madison County!

www.bessinsurance.com

September decreased by 16,500 jobs with the bulk of the reduction occurring in local government. Several industries experienced significant job growth over the month, including durable goods manufacturing which gained 3,000 jobs.

Retail trade saw the largest growth with 3,200 new jobs and art, entertainment & recreation was up by 2,100 jobs in September.

Companies interested in learning more about Missouri’s resources for new and expanding businesses should visit www.ded. mo.gov.

A Big BREC “Thank You”!

New census data shows Missouri leading nation in new business creation ‌JEFFERSON CITY – Newly released census data shows Missouri leading the nation in new business creation, Gov. Jay Nixon announced Monday. While the vast majority of states saw a drop in the number of new firms created, new business creation in Missouri surged by 16 percent in 2013, more than any other state in the nation.

“Small businesses are the engines of our economy, and that’s why we’ve worked hard to help entrepreneurs turn cutting-edge ideas into high-paying jobs for Missourians,” Gov. Nixon said.

“This report — showing that Missouri is not only bucking the national trend, but leading the country in new business creation — is proof

DED releases Sept.

2015 Jobs Report

* Custom Made Wreaths * Unique Ornaments & Decorations * Wall Hangings * Stationery * Books * Furniture * Santas * Purses * More!!

Store Manager: MARTHA CRITES

Welcome Martha!!!

Owner: Denise statler 128 S. Mine La Motte - Fredericktown, MO (formerly Sheets Motor Co.)

Hours: Wed-Thurs-Fri 10-5 • Sat 10-3 • Closed Sundays

FOUR SEASONS TANNING

For All the Working Women Try It - You’ll Like It!!

10

$

Special:

Until November 7th

2 Week Membership Unlimited Tanning in Level 1-2-3 Beds

128 S. Mine La Motte - Fredericktown, MO (formerly Sheets Motor Co.)

Hours: Mon-Sat 10-6 • Closed Sundays 137A Commercial Drive - Fredericktown, MO 63645

573.783.0090 AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS • LIFE • HEALTH • FARM

783-TANS

“When The Beach is Not in Reach”

PAGE 4B  DEMOCRAT NEWS

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

WORKING WOMEN

What works for women at work ADRIENNE ROSE JOHNSON, MU EXTENSION

‌I n the latest Voice & Influence module, Joan C. Williams offers practical strategies for countering workplace bias (Source: Clayman Institute) A woman’s road to the c-suite is full of hurdles.

Her input in a meeting is ignored. She negotiates skillfully, and she’s told she’s full of herself. While these roadblocks may feel like personal criticisms, they don’t have to, according to legal scholar Joan C. Williams.

Williams categorizes these hurdles into four overarching patterns of gender bias that limit women’s participation and advancement in the labor force: “prove it again,” “the tight rope,” “the maternal wall,” and “tug-of-war.”

To overcome these biases, Williams offers real-world strategies based on interviews with over one hundred successful women.

Williams outlines these strategies in a new online Voice & Influence module, What Works for Women at Work. The module is

seventh in the series offered by the Clayman Institute for Gender Research.

Prove it again: He’s skilled, she’s lucky Women need to prove themselves over and over, where a similarly situated male colleague does not, according to Will i a m s ( So u rc e : C l ayman Institute) “Men are often judged on their potential, but women are judged on their achievements,” Williams explains, adding that women have to provide more evidence of competence to be considered as competent as their male colleagues. What’s more, “women’s mistakes tend to be noticed more and remembered longer, but women’s successes tend to be attributed to luck.”

Williams calls this pattern “prove it again.”

Women literally need to prove themselves over and over again, where a similarly situated male colleague does not, she explains.

The obvious solution to this problem would be for women to engage in serious self-promotion, by broadcasting their accomplishments and minimizing their faults. But, says

Williams, self-promotion has its pitfalls. No one likes a braggart, especially if she is a woman. Instead, coworkers expect women to be modest and community-minded.

The posse solution “ T h e p osse wo rks because it takes traditionally feminine behavior... and uses it to soften behavior that might be seen as too masculine otherwise.”

The solution? The “ p o s s e .” T h e p o s s e i s a g ro u p o f p e o p l e that agree to celebrate each other’s successes, explains Williams.

“Women are supposed to be modest,” Williams says, but “the posse allows you to do… something very appropriate—to celebrate someone else’s successes.

Meanwhile, of course, though, they are celebrating yours.” So, rather than Sally sending a companywide e-mail to announce her own achievement, a posse member, Rhonda, sends a company-wide email announcing Sally’s achievement.

Williams shows that “the posse works because i t ta ke s t ra d i t i o n a l ly feminine behavior—being selfless and communal—and uses it to soften

[self-promoting] behavior that might be seen as too masculine otherwise.”

The tightrope between like and respect Women walk a tightrope between likeability and respect, explains Williams (Source: Wikimedia Commons) The second patters of bias that Williams identifies is “the tightrope.”

Here, Williams refers to the way women walk a line between being liked but not respected—or respected but not liked. An example of how women experience the tightrope is “office housework, ” meaning the important work that keeps an office running but that does not advance one’s career. Often these tasks default to women, who are expected to do the housework to be liked. But, if do too much, they do not get their “real” job done, and they lose respect.

As a solution, Williams suggests using a strategic “No.” Women can say “Yes” to one or two pieces of office housework, then say “No” and provide alternatives for the rest.

By agreeing to some office housework, a woman demonstrates her commitment to the team. And by saying

“No” in a way that offers a solution, she is still showing her commitment to the team but putting her foot down just enough to allow time to get to the rest of her important work.

The online module also outlines the two remaining patterns of bias— “the maternal wall” and “tug-of-war”—and offers proven strategies for overcoming them.

A s t e p t o d a y, a posse tomorrow “If more women survive and thrive in their careers, you’ll have more women and a more diverse leadership, and that also is important for institutional change.”

“Organizational change is tricky and it takes time,” Williams acknowledges.

“But if more women survive and thrive in their careers, you’ll have more women and a more diverse leadership, and that also is important for institutional change.”

In this light, the strategies that Williams provides do more than simply offering women tools for dealing with stereotypes today.

By advancing women leaders, Williams offers hope for undoing these gender stereotypes in the future.

Borrowing to finance your business PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION

• Bobbi Allgier • Casey Wright • Charity White • Dena Brewington • Fran Rich • Janet Whitener • Jean Stevens • Sandi Reed • Theresa Stephens • Sahra Burns • Roxie Tucker • Becky Heldey • Leslie Finney • Vivian Hamilton

We Proudly Salute our Working Women.

Thank You Ladies for a Job Well Done!

‌At some point, most small businesses need to look for a loan. While the reasons for needing a loan vary, nearly every business will face a time when bootstrapping or personal savings just cannot cover the need. While taking on debt can be a stressful decision, you should keep in mind that well-managed borrowing is actually an important tool in the business manager’s toolbox. The trick is, of course, knowing when to borrow and for what reasons.

Why to borrow Some common reasons to consider a loan for your business include: Buying or launching a new business Expanding an existing business Adding a new enterprise Adding value to an existing product Increasing efficiency Purchasing equipment or infrastructure

When is borrowing a good idea Many of the horror stories that surround small business loans are the result of borrowing for the wrong reasons. Here are six questions to ask yourself before approaching a lender: Will borrowing this money move my business closer to my goal?

Is borrowing this money resolving a problem (versus temporarily fixing a symptom)?

Can the loan be repaid without creating a negative cash flow for the business?

Have you considered at least two alternative actions to this loan?

Will borrowing this money likely to create a new problem?

Is my family and/or management team supportive of this action?

Choosing the right lender Ideally your lender should be someone you know and trust. While the interest rates on a loan are important it

We Proudly Salute our Working Women!

FRESH MEAT MARKET • Produce • eggs • Pasture raised chicken • dry foods & goods 203 East College - Fredericktown, MO Located near Fredericktown’s Historic Court Square

Hours: Mon-fri 10am-6pm • sat 10am-4pm

573-440-5031 accepting snaP/eBt Benefits

Torrez Sanitation proudly salutes our Working Women!

Shannon - Joyce - Dawnette

TORREZ SANITATION LLC

Residential & Commercial Over 20 Years Experience

“Our Service Guaranteed Or dOuble YOur traSh back”

573-783-7809 TOLL FREE 888-863-0898

may not be the most important consideration. In some cases it may be worth a slightly higher rate in order to do business with a company that you trust and that is willing to work with you.

Some key criteria for selecting a lender include: Is the lender easy to reach by phone or email?

Does he/she return messages promptly?

Does your lender provide you with written documentation of the terms and repayment expectations?

Are they clear on the timing of when a decision will be made and how you will be notified?

Does your lender answer your questions in clear, easy-to-follow language?

Are they willing to spend time explaining how the loan works?

Are the rates and terms of the loan competitive?

Has your lender taken the time to really understand your business? Do they ask good questions?

Are they prepared?

Preparing to meet with a lender Once you have determined that you are ready to pursue a loan you should begin preparing your best case. Remember that lenders want to make good loans. They want you and your business to succeed but most important to them is that the loan will get repaid.

Presenting yourself as a knowledgeable professional will help you close the deal: Check your credit report and resolve any errors Develop a habit of good record-keeping H i r e p r o f e s s i o n a l s (accountants, attorneys,

etc.) to help you manage your business Know your values and goals as they relate to your business When problems arise address them openly and honestly — denial is not a good management strategy Common mistakes that result in denial of credit Providing an incomplete or inaccurate application Not providing information in a timely manner Not providing a clear explanation of how much money is needed and how the funds will be used Withholding personal guarantees (this is especially true for startups and smaller businesses) Having no experience in the industry where you are trying to build your business N o t k n o w i n g y o u r personal and business credit rating Not showing efforts to improve your credit rating Not having a solid business plan with reasonable projections Any of these mistakes can easily result in a denial.

Lenders understand startups and the cyclical nature of businesses but they may not know the specifics of your business. You must be willing to reveal information about your operation and be prepared to educate your lender so they can make a good decision. You also need to have a solid plan for the future. Finally, if your business has had some financial struggles, what the bankers want to see is that the business has corrected the situation and it has a positive outlook for the future.

A Salute to the Ladies That Work at Gifford Lumber Company!

• Penny Gifford • Missy Clark • Haley Stevens HWY 67 & 72 FREDERICKTOWN, MO

783-3391 GIFFORDLUMBERCO.COM

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM DEMOCRAT NEWS  PAGE 5B

WORKING WOMEN

Ways to help Top six industries for women eliminate unnecessary stress at work PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

‌S tress can be a positive factor in our lives — some stress even energizes us. When we have more demands than we can meet, however, we may feel out of control.

High levels of stress may have a negative impact on physical health, mental well-being and relationships. It’s important to know how much stress is appropriate.

Research by the Families and Work Institute reports that we are energized by our work when these factors are present: We have autonomy to control our own schedule We have opportunities to learn new information or skills We feel that the work we are doing makes a difference to others We have the chance to get ahead personally We know that our job is secure H o w t h e n c a n we use this information to reduce the stress in our jobs?

Eliminate interruptions when you need to get work completed.

Close the door if you can.

If you can’t, work out a system with co-workers so that someone can answer the phone, greet customers, etc.

Expect work to happen at work — the phone will ring, customers will come in, the copy machine will run out of toner, etc.

Personalize your work area with photos of family or pictures drawn by your children.

Sc h e d u l e a n d ta ke

breaks during the day — get away from the office by taking a walk.

Ta k e y o u r v a c a tion days.

Speak up — when you want something, ask. Be clear about your ideas, appreciate being heard and don’t take it personally if your request is denied Ask your boss if a task seems unnecessary. It is surprising how many old habits have never been updated.

Make a suggestion if you think you have a better way to get a job done.

Use a support system of co-workers to share tasks and do what you say you will do to support them.

Take care of your body.

Strive to do some kind of physical activity daily, get eight hours of sleep every night, choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, limit your sugar intake, and if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

Enjoy every day! Don’t wait for special days to celebrate the joy of living.

Celebrate small successes with those who helped achieve them, which will make everyone feel less stressed.

Use these ideas to make a list of the stressors at your work and determine what strategies you can try to reduce some of the stress at work. For more ideas about balancing work and life see MU Extension publication GH 6651 Challenges and Choices: Stress Management — The Challenge of Balance.

‌W hat are the top six industries for women entrepreneurs?

In order of projected revenue growth through the end of this year, the business research firm IBISWorld says an analysis of more than 700 industry and Bureau of Labor Statistics reports indicates they are: 1. Oil drilling and gas extraction, with a 2010-14 average projected revenue growth of 12.8 percent per year and projected employment growth in the same period of 6.2 percent. The growth in the number of female employees from 2009-2013 was 11.6 percent per year on average, with 2013 average industry wages of nearly $132,000. Oil and gas extraction have traditionally been a male domain; drilling jobs can be dangerous and require considerable physical strength. As oil drill and gas extraction opportunities have multiplied nearly nationwide, more support jobs have been added that do not require physical strength, says IBISWorld.

2. E-commerce and online auctions, projected revenue growth through 2014, 10.3 percent per year, projected employment growth from 2010-2014, 6.6 percent. This industry has experienced a growth in female employees of 15.5 percent per year from 2009-2013, with average wages of $69,500. Female shoppers in particular have embraced technology and trends that drive online spending, says the service, with mobile devices leading the way. And consumers of both genders have grown far more comfortable shopping online than just a few years ago.

Women are particularly well-positioned in this industry, says IBISWorld, because of their broader perspective on spending.

3. Tire manufacturing, projected revenue growth 6.2 percent, employment growth 0.8 percent, growth in female employees 16.8 percent and average wages of $62,200.

Thank You Ladies for your hard work!!

Cassondra smothers - Evening Assistant saundra IvIson - Administrative Assistant marCy rehkop - Director ChelsIe Fox - Student Worker

Ladies, start your engines!

The tire manufacturing industry has rebounded with the auto industry, reinforced by tariffs to limit imports from China; while a study

by Deloitte Touche and the Manufacturing Institute says automotive manufacturing is facing a shortage of skilled, educated workers.

4. Home care providers, revenue growth 3.6 percent, employment growth 1.4 percent, growth in female employees 6.8 percent and average industry wages of $25,600. Home healthcare flourished during the recession as individuals who lost private insurance or those seeking affordable healthcare turned to private providers. Growth has remained strong and will likely get stronger as baby boomers age, too. According to Health Market Science, baby boomer health demand could add as many

as one million jobs in the next 10 years. The industry’s low capital costs, ease of licensing and accreditation requirements (in some states) make the field ideal for women looking to start over or begin a business.

5. Optometrists, 3 percent revenue growth, employment growth 1.1 percent per year, female employee growth 9.4 percent and wages of $38,400.

The medical sector experienced a hiring surge just as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) unleashed a flood of new patients demanding more medical care, and optometrists are no exception. Demand for pediatric optometrists in particular has increased because the ACA makes pediatric vision services mandatory. And the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry says nearly 65 percent of all osteopathic medicine

program graduates are female. Optometry may appeal to medical professionals who want their own practices without investing years in a traditional MD program. “The relatively laid-back atmosphere” of optometry also affords a better work-life balance, says the service.

6. Hair and nail salons, revenue growth 2.6 percent, employment growth 3.8 percent, growth in number of female employees 6.8 percent and average wages of $13,200. One of the most traditional routes to self-employment among women, today’s establishments are a far cry from your mother’s hair and nail salons. Modern spas and salons offer a broad variety of hair, nail and skin care services while higher-end establishments offer pricey, cutting-edge beauty science technology products.

Thank You Ladies for Your Hard Work and Dedication... A Salute to the Working Women of Madison County!!

LeFT PHOTO: L to R: Kathy Mills, Casie Francis, Taylor Reynolds and Angela Griffon.

RIGHT PHOTO: L to R: Vicky Burkhart, Debra Jinkerson and Becky Kennedy.

NOT PIcTuRed: Jennie Miller and Tammy Helm

SCHNAPP LAW FIRM SALUTES...

• Gayla Barber • Robynne Halbrook • Erika Wood • Kayleena Clark • Anita Ward

Schnapp, Fall, Silvey, Reid & Bollinger, LLC 135 East Main - Fredericktown, MO

573-783-7212

PAGE 6B  DEMOCRAT NEWS

ONLINE AT WWW.DEMOCRATNEWSONLINE.COM

WORKING WOMEN Becoming more resilient PROVIDED BY UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

‌Life is challenging, we all know that. But many of us wonder why some people seem to have better coping skills? What are the secrets for people who are able to navigate through tough times and bounce back? Dr. Robert Brooks at Harvard Medical School indicated “some people are naturally more resilient.” But resilience can also be learned.

Here are some suggestions to build resilience: Make connections with others. Stay connected with family members, friends, people who can help you celebrate good times, listen to you and provide support through tough times. Social support and friendships are very important for building resilience and improving self-worth. Resilient people have good friendships, supportive relationships and strong social connections.

Have a positive and optimistic attitude. Resilient people are generally

optimistic and see things from the bright side when facing difficult situations or crises. One study conducted at University of San Francisco found that caregivers who did not find positive meaning in their caregiving were more likely to become depressed after their loved one passed away. Positive attitudes enable people to have hope and confidence in their abilities to make changes. Flexibility, accepting change and making adjustments help resilient people put their energy into things they can control and let go of things they cannot change.

Give back. Many people find that they become happier and more resilient by helping others. This experience helps build a sense of competence and fulfillment. Research shows that giving back to the community and helping others is a great tool for resilient people.

Be humorous and playful. Resilient people are playful and laugh at themselves or find humor in a

situation even when dealing with difficult events.

They learn to deal with stress instead of being stressed. They also learn from their experience and adapt quickly.

Be s p i r i t u a l . Re s i lient people are spiritual.

According to a Duke University study, those people who participate in religious activities were less likely to experience depression.

Even when they experience depression, their depression lifted faster than those people who were less religious. People who are active in religion are likely to cope with stress and difficult times better.

Stay healthy. Eating right and being physically active on a regular basis are also important components in coping with stress.

Resilient people take care of themselves, get enough sleep and find ways to relax to stay healthy physically and mentally. When people are in good physical and mental health, they deal with distractions and tough events better and have an easier time bouncing back.

The benefits of quality child care PROVIDED BY JULI KLINE, UNIVERSITY EXTENSION

‌According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, an estimated 13 million children younger than six spend some, or all of their day, being cared for by someone other than their parents. This figure includes babies and toddlers. Ellen Peisner-Feinberg of the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, “estimates that more than half of the 3-to-5 year-old children in the United States attend child-care centers prior to kindergarten.”

With these numbers in mind, quality child-care is an important issue in our country. For many parents, finding child-care for infant through school-age children is a fact of live. A trustworthy and dependable child-care situation makes it possible for parents to support their families financially. Parents need to take time and check to see if they are using a high quality child-care program.

Quality child-care is particularly critical for the well being of children and youth. Child-care research has shown that compared to low quality situations, high quality care can impact young children’s intellectual, language, and social skills and behavior. In a recent study published in Child Development, better classroom materials and practices in the day care setting were associated with more advanced development of children’s language and academic skills. The benefits of high quality care were even stronger and longer lasting

Thank You to...

• Cydney Cox • Katie Cox

MADISON COUNTY TITLE COMPANY 137 West Main Fredericktown

783-2491

for children at greater risk for having difficulty in school than the average. This was particularly true in case of better math skills and fewer problem behaviors.

Factors which contribute to high quality childcare are: Low child-teacher ratio increases the likelihood of one-to-one attention.

Safe and healthy environment Caregivers who are nurturing and knowledgeable about children’s development Caregivers have a consistent and stable presence in the child’s life.

Staff training and educational background are among the most critical elements in improving children’s experiences in

child-care. Providers who receive higher quality training and more specialized training are more likely to be found in high quality care environments. Job satisfaction and commitment are two factors that contribute to the stability of care.

Turnover rates in child-care providers are high. This is due to the stressful conditions of providing child-care with long hours, low pay, and few or no benefits.

Many people think that providing child-care comes naturally, but teaching and caring for children in groups takes special skills. The best child-care providers have education and training about children. Licensed caregivers in Missouri are required to have 12 hours of child-care training every year.

Stephanie Brewer Mary Ann Thompson Megan Brewer Dianna Greer Barb Mason Tiffany Stephens Courtney Peer Kate Hudson Jessica Bourbon Ashley Settle Marissa Gulley Seth Clark

Wednesday, October 28, 2015