Small Business Saturday by The Examiner

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

NOVEMBER 25, 2017 A publication of The Examiner

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Big hearts behind

SMALL BUSINESSES By Melissa Erickson

More Content Now

hile the holiday shopping tradition is geared toward retail chains, Small Business Saturday gives small businesses the opportunity to be part of this market share, said Jeanette Dvorak, owner of two small businesses in Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s Historic Third Ward, Access Boutique - One Stop Accessory Shop and Mainstream Boutique, as well as other locations. Small Business Saturday is ripe with opportunities for independent businesses to draw customers in and increase sales. “Offering them some type of discount or gift with purchase that they can gift to someone is ideal,” Dvorak said. “This year I plan on not

only offering specials specifically for that day to anyone who shops, but also a Small Business weeklong special to all our customers that are part of

our email list and Birthday Club. This will give them an opportunity to shop after all the chaos passes as well.” The event also helps create a connection between the customer and retailer and is a positive way to market the businesses. “Making it known that

I am independentlyowned and -operated and have family helping me with the business creates a human side to it rather than it always being about sales,” Dvorak said. “Small Business Saturday is all about supporting local communities and business, so I feel it is important for people to know that the businesses they’re choosing to support are actually small and locallyowned.” To raise awareness so consumers “think of me when they’re choosing to shop small,” Dvorak recently started focusing more on community outreach such as hosting events at her stores that give back to different organizations, including local social services group The Cathedral Center and Wisconsin Humane Society.

CONTACT US Phone: (816) 254-8600 ADVERTISING displayads@examiner.net Small Business Saturday is created annually by GateHouse Media LLC, and is distributed with various newspapers across the country and by King Features. Reproduction in whole or in part without prior written permission is strictly prohibited. Opinions expressed in the publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of the management of the publication.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2017

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

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Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Independence Chamber of Commerce

The McClain Restaurant Group Cindy McClain

n BACKGROUND

The Restaurant Group (CRM) Has been responsible for the revitalization of the Independence Square since 1998. They

n LOCATION

THE MCCLAIN RESTAURANT GROUP (CRM) 106 W MAPLE AVE, INDEPENDENCE, MO 64050

are the proud owners 9 restaurants, 5 retail stores, a yoga studio and a bowling alley. Thanks to the passionate efforts of Cindy McClain, The Square is one of the best Places to be when you are in Independence. This holiday season when you â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shop Smallâ&#x20AC;? you will probably also be shopping McClain.

n CONTACT

CMCCLAIN@EARTHLINK.NET

n BACKGROUND The Independence Chamber of Commerce has been serving local businesses since 1920. Our goal is to help increase the profitability of local businesses, support workforce development, and improve the prosperity of Independence. We are a membership organization that consists of small and large businesses who are committed to making a difference in the Independence community. We always welcome new members and are eager to assist them in expanding their leadership and vision. We take interest in our community very seriously and are proud of the partnerships that have been built with our members in providing job

opportunities, arts, culture, and other initiatives that help Independence continue to thrive. n LOCATION

210 W TRUMAN RD INDEPENDENCE, MO 64050 n HOURS

MON - FRI 8:30 AM - 5 PM n CONTACT

(816) 252-4745

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

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Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

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n BACKGROUND

Since 1948, We have sold dry aged beef that is not offered at local grocers. We have been butcher cutting specialty cuts everyday for local restaurants and businesses. The Old KC Brand Dry Aged Certified Beef is not a new or different idea. It goes back to a time when the quality and palatability of beef was most important. All L&C orders are hand cut by a member of our experienced staff. Weather it’s 5 or 5,000 steaks, we cut and package to your specification. We prefer to carry on the tradition of the industry producing the highest quality product the customer demands. We take great pride in offering the Old KC Brand Dry Aged Beef.

n LOCATION

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Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Right size, right place Find the best fit for your small business

“The more replicative a business is the easier it is to succeed in a small city,” More Content Now said Polly Black, executive director of the Center for Innovation, Creativity and igger isn’t always better Entrepreneurship at Wake Forest Uniwhen it comes to startversity. “The more innovative a business ing a business. Depending is, the less likely a small town will have on an entrepreneur’s type the critical mass of resources and people of business and personal preferences, working in that space to nurture and sometimes a city with a smaller population can offer a greater chance of success. support an entrepreneurial ecosystem.” Examining things like labor and overGet connected head costs, average growth and invesIn smaller cities, nettor access, WalletHub looked at the business-friendliness of over 1,200 small works tend to overlap. “In places where everyone knows cities to determine the best overall for everyone, it’s easier to get connected launching an enterprise. The top five quickly. For small businesses with are Holland, Michigan; Carbondale, Illinois; Springville, Utah; East Chicago, proven business models, a small city may offer benefits such as proximity to Indiana; and Jefferson City, Missouri. supply sources, tax incentives and, in Every small city offers unique advancities with chronic underdevelopment, tages and disadvantages to prospecaccess to inexpensive labor,” Black said. tive ventures. Lower overhead costs, “Connect with the community. stronger relationships with customers, Most people will be thrilled that you and the potential to become a big fish are coming to town to start your busiin a little pond are among the benefits. ness. I’d start with the Chamber of Certain types of businesses will Commerce if you have specific needs do better in smaller cities. By Melissa Erickson

“Innovative entrepreneurs must do their homework. Find a city or hub that is building or has built a reputation in the field in which you want to launch. Research what venture capitalists and entrepreneurial support systems there are in the city. Is there a community of support?” Polly Black, Wake Forest University

— people, location, bandwidth, etc. There may be more possibilities out there that can help you ramp up faster than you realize,” Englis said. Another idea is to reach out to local colleges or community colleges depending on the type of employees you need. “College students are always looking for internship experiences, and it’s a great way to try out a potential employee at low cost,” Englis said. Find support “Innovative entrepreneurs must do their homework. Find a city or hub that is building or has built a reputation in the field in which you want to launch. Research what venture capitalists and entrepreneurial support systems there are in the city. Is there a community of support?” Black said. Near the action There’s a lot to be said for being in the middle of the action in a big city — for example, being in the tech industry in Silicon Valley, said Paula Englis, professor and chair of the Management and Marketing Department at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. “But I think there is also value in being in a small town — particularly one that is geographically close to a large city. Atlanta to Rome is about 1.5 hours’” drive.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

What the best small businesses do

PIXELS.COM

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

A “I have been engaged with hundreds of entrepreneurs throughout my career, and the common thread to successful entrepreneurs is passion.” Marc Compeau, Clarkson University

mericans embrace an entrepreneurial spirit. About 10 percent of the labor force — or more than 15 million people — work for themselves, according to the Bureau for Labor Statistics. Successful small-business owners create jobs and economic opportunity while avoiding mistakes and seizing innovation and the future. Right state of mind “Entrepreneurship is a wonderful mindset and skillset to develop, no matter what you do, but understand that it is not easy,” said Bill Aulet, managing director of the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship and senior lecturer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sloan School of Management. “It is a craft, not a science or an art, that needs to be mastered through acquiring the right mindset, studying it, applying the knowledge in practice to build capability through apprenticeships, and finally, through learning how to be a productive part of a community. “Once you have done this, which is not easy and takes time and effort, you will control your own destiny to be a job creator, not a job seeker. You will be able to build great things — organizations, offerings — that change your

environment and hopefully the world, but you have to have the ability to fight through some downturns. In entrepreneurship, like life but even more so, the elevator does not always go up. It will often go down with great speed, and you have to be ready for and embrace the ride as well as the end result,” Aulet said. Be passionate “I have been engaged with hundreds of entrepreneurs throughout my career, and the common thread to successful entrepreneurs is passion,” said Marc Compeau, instructor of consumer and organizational studies in the School of Business, Clarkson University, Potsdam, New York. “If you are passionate about what you’re building, your venture around you will be fine. “No matter how well-crafted the plan or how well-funded the idea, roadblocks and challenges will arise almost daily, particularly in the early days. Passion will get you through each one. Passion will make you fight. Passion will make you find a solution when others can’t see one, and passion will inspire those you are leading to give you their very best.” Avoid assuming One of the biggest mistakes an entrepreneur can make is assuming there is a market. “Just because you love (insert new gadget, pop-up store or phone app idea here),

doesn’t mean enough people will love it to make your idea a profitable venture,” Compeau said. “Prove the demand exists; better yet, let the market tell you what the problem is and solve it for them — just do it in an area that you’re passionate about.” Find what’s ripe for disruption In addition to the technology sector, opportunity to disrupt the market is everywhere. “If you had said ‘taxis’ will be a multibilliondollar opportunity 10 years ago, people would have laughed, but it is today,” Aulet said. “That being said, one that I find interesting is food distribution. Did you know that 40 percent of the food we grow goes to waste in a country where two-thirds of the people are overweight or obese? Yet food scarcity is a problem elsewhere in the world. Food needs to be healthier and more effectively delivered to the right places. This represents a compelling social and economic opportunity, but it is not unique.” “I would be chasing something that can’t be sold on the internet,” said Compeau, who thinks health care is ready for innovation. “I wonder about the potential return of hometown, small-niche market shops on Main Street that provide a sense of community. I speculate, hope, that millennials are looking for that, and they are beginning to settle into hometowns that will profit on their busy lives.”

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

SHOP SMALL SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Small Business Saturday sits between Black Friday and Cyber Monday and is dedicated to driving sales to small businesses on one of the busiest holiday shopping weekends of the year. Support the Shop Small movement and invest in the small businesses that help fuel our economy and invigorate our community. Program Presented By:

WWW.BUYBLUESPRINGS.COM

Redman’s Furniture

Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce

Martin Redman, Owner

Lara Vermillion, President

n BACKGROUND

Redman’s Furniture is one of Oak Grove, MO’s most-trusted local companies. We specialize in living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture and offer delivery in and around Jackson County. We’ve been in business since 1988, and our store has always offered attractive, high-quality pieces at near-wholesale prices, for every room in your home. Looking for the best bedding options in the industry? Redman’s Furniture also offers a wide range of mattress styles for every type of comfort! Whatever you need, Redman’s is a family-owned busi-

ness that is based on a long history quality furniture and top-notch customer service. For more information, or to schedule a purchase and delivery of anything we offer, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 816625-1240. n LOCATION

408 SE 4TH ST, OAK GROVE, MO 64075 n CONTACT

(816) 625-1240 WWW.REDMANSFURNITURE.COM

n BACKGROUND

Your Chamber is dedicated to promoting, developing, and facilitating a strong economic environment in which the business community can grow and prosper. That is our mission and why many, including myself, volunteer and stay involved. As the business environment evolves, so must your Chamber. Technology is changing the way we do business. Our website is now responsive and has been updated with current information. We also created a color coded membership guide to easily locate Chamber programs and resources to help businesses promote, connect, and learn.

The Blue Springs Chamber is an energetic, dynamic, and progressive organization that welcomes new ideas. Together we will continue to make Blue Springs the place to be! n LOCATION

1000 W MAIN ST, BLUE SPRINGS, MO 64015 n CONTACT

(816) 229-8558 WWW.BLUESPRINGSCHAMBER.COM

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Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE Pros and cons to small businesses selling on Amazon

books to your most dangerous competitor,” said Jeff Milchen, co-founder, American Independent Business Alliance. Amazon “is the biggest player in the room,” said Stacy Mitchell, co-director, or small businesses, the question of whether to sell on Amazon can be Institute for Local Self-Reliance, which recently released a study that found spedifficult. If a business doesn’t get in on the action, will it be left behind, cifically how the company threatens independent businesses. forgotten in the marketplace that Amazon is increasingly dominating? “Amazon captures almost one out of every two dollars spent online, and that’s Certainly, there are pros and cons to both sides of this complex issue. up from one out of four just a few years ago,” Mitchell said. “Once you sell on Amazon, they take everything of value,” for example, your Success stories product knowledge and customer base, Mitchell said. Through data collection As one of the largest e-commerce websites in the world, Amazon can Amazon can watch what’s selling, create a generic and price it lower. boost a company’s sales through the roof and provide a lucrative retail “They glean what you know and use it against you,” Mitchell said. platform. Consider the case of Simply Gum, a New York City-based small Another negative is that Amazon blocks sellers from building relabusiness selling natural chewing gum. On this year’s Amazon Prime Day tionships with their customers, Mitchell said. Customer communicaits Lightning Deal sold out in just six hours and the company increased tion is only allowed through Amazon, which the company monitors, its sales more than 1,371 percent. “Amazon captures almost and Amazon forbids sellers to link back to their own websites. Simply Gum began selling on Amazon in 2015, “and we’ve had only One example is Michigan-based Stardust Memorials, which sells one out of every two positive experiences,” said Adeena Cohen, director of marketing and dollars spent online, and cremation urns. A customer asked about custom engraving, and the business development. “It was shocking how successful” Prime Day in that’s up from one out of company replied that requests could be made through the company July was for the company, she said. four just a few years ago.” website. Amazon’s automated system immediately flagged the conOne of the biggest perks is “the vast volume of customers” Amazon versation as a violation, which can lead to an abrupt cancellation of Jeff Mitchell, American opens up. “It’s a great way for a young, digitally-savvy brand to stand a seller’s account, Mitchell said. Independent Business out,” Cohen said. “Amazon seller message boards are filled with stories of companies Alliance In addition to great exposure, other bonuses of selling on Amazon suddenly being cut off and frantic to figure out how to be reinstated,” include innovative and flexible marketing, access to the demographic Mitchell said. and sales data Amazon collects, ease of signing in and navigating the For independent retailers of e-commerce, Mitchell suggests creatsite, and customer feedback. ing websites that are easy to use. “Amazon is the reason my small business is growing,” said Kristin Rae, chief execu“Let your customers know you’re available online. Make shipping easy or pickup tive officer, Inspire International, a boutique consumer products firm. In late 2013, in store available,” Mitchell said. “Share with customers the benefits of shopping Rae’s company was struggling to break into bigger markets with its luggage when she locally.” shifted strategy and joined Amazon. She kept 100 percent of creative control of her company and handles research, design and marketing but handed over fulfillment Amazon vs. other businesses to Amazon, which is undeniably its area of expertise. Findings from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance report: Amazon is “a great way to introduce new brands. My brand can be right next to a • Amazon’s growing market share has so far caused more than 135 million square company that sells 10 times as much or has been in business 10 times longer. It puts feet of retail space to become vacant, the equivalent of about 700 big-box stores my company on a platform that customers want to buy from,” Rae said. plus 22,000 Main Street businesses. • Amazon has received at least $613 million in public subsidies for its fulfillment Downsides facilities since 2005. If they’re not already, small-business owners are definitely considering whether • Amazon pays its warehouse workers 15 percent less than other warehouse they should sell on Amazon. A recent study found that 73 percent of small businesses workers in those markets. are considering selling on Amazon, according to retail platform BigCommerce. • Amazon relies increasingly on subcontracted, on-demand workers, especially Organizations that represent independent retailers, though, urge caution. for its shipping and package delivery, where it competes directly with nearly 1 “Because of Amazon’s dominance in on Amazon, but doing so is like opening your million unionized, middle-income workers at UPS and the U.S. Postal Service. By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Does buying By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

Why buy local “Unique, independent, local businesses play a vital role in maintaining a community’s distinct character,” said Leslie L. McKnight, senior development specialist in the Office of Economic Development, Peoria, Illinois. “Local businesses usually are coupled in low-traffic business corridors and provide unique offerings and experiences that become a destination place that attracts visitors and tourists. A large number of local business outlets serving their own niche creates far greater diversity and choices overall.” Economic vitality Shoppers reported spending $15.4 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday 2016. “This support helps America’s small businesses do what they do best: grow their business, create jobs and ensure

$45 of secondary local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain.

FREEPIK.COM

hopping small can make a big difference. On Nov. 25, shop Small Business Saturday to benefit your community, help the local economy and environment, get personalized service and topnotch products, and have fun exploring the stores and restaurants in your neighborhood. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, creating two out of every three net new jobs in the U.S.,” said Jessica Mayle, spokeswoman for the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois District Office.

local matter?

that our communities remain as vibrant tomorrow as they are today,” Mayle said. “Each dollar spent at a local business returns an average of three times more money to the local economy than spending at national chains. This is called the multiplier effect,” McKnight said. “Independent businesses have to do shopping of their own – whether it be hiring a marketing team, a lawyer or a

construction company – and we find, overwhelmingly, that they usually ‘buy local’ themselves,” Mayle said. “Thus, consumer spending at a small business creates a multiplier effect and recirculates in the local community, fueling jobs and supporting growth across sectors.” A study by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that each $100 spent at local independents generated

A healthier living environment “Buying local reduces transportation costs from outside the region, which results in less-congested roads and the ability to design a more walkable and bikeable community,” McKnight said. “Local businesses typically consume less land and locate closer to residents, which can lessen overall traffic, pollution and infrastructure costs.” “Small-business owners are passionate experts about the products they make and sell, and they understand that a durable, long-lasting product is ultimately a better value than mass-produced or cheap alternatives,” Mayle said. “Buying and using products with longer lifespans is, in general, a trend with positive implications for the environment.” Shop and chat “Small businesses are the original social networking sites. They offer shoppers the chance to catch up with neighbors and express their style and preferences,” Mayle said. By shopping small, residents demonstrate commitment to their communities and create goodwill. To learn more about local Small Business Saturday events, in-person training and financing support, visit the Small Business Administration at SBA.gov.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

• Stoves, Fireplaces, Inserts & Gas Logs • Alternative Fuel Indoor Furnaces • Wood, Pellet, Corn & Gas Appliances ~ SALES ~ INSTALLATION ~ GAS APPLIANCES Showroom Hours: Mon - Fri 9 AM - 5 PM Sat 9 AM - 3 PM

Shining Light Music Where Music is Shared by All

n BACKGROUND

Family owned and operated for over 6 years. We offer a wide selection of retail items such as printed music, instruments, music equipment, and accessories, as well as band instruments,

816-230-4841 Visit us online at:

www.SensationalHeartlandHome.com

Located inside One Good Taste Country Store

orchestra instruments, guitars, pianos, folk instruments and more! With great studio space, private music lessons are offered. In-house repair services are proudly provided for band and string instruments.

Featuring: Over 160 varieties of CHEESE! Burger’s Country Bacon, Ham, Sausage & Summer Sausage Amish Style Snacks & Candies Grilling Rubs & Spices Amish Style Jarred Goods Over 80 Bulk Spices & Mixes Americana Home Decor McCalls Jarred Candles Leanin Tree Greeting Cards

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LEE’S SUMMIT 129 SE 3RD ST. LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 64063 n HOURS

MONDAY-THURSDAY: 10:00AM-8:00PM FRIDAY: 10:00AM-5:00PM SATURDAY: 10:00AM-4:00PM SUNDAY: CLOSED n CONTACT

(816) 347-0099 INFO@SHININGLIGHTMUSIC.COM

One Good Taste Country Store Annette Dillon, Owner n BACKGROUND One Good

Party trays 24 Hr Notice suggested

gift Boxes sold Here ~ We sHiP!

December Store Hours: Mon - Sun 9 AM - 5 PM Close 3 PM on 12/24/17 Closed on 12/25/17

n LOCATION

816-633-8720 www.OneGoodTaste.com

Taste Country Store, located east of Kansas City, specializes in quality foods that customers normally seek out in Osceola or one of the Amish communities. One Good Taste samples over 160 varieties of cheese, including several dangerously hot: Ghost Pepper Cheddar, Ghost Pepper Jack, Carolina Reaper Cheddar, and Scorpion Cheddar. The most popular cheese sold is Longhorn Colby, due to its overall quality and likeability by every age group. Recently, One Good Taste Country Store began cold smoking most of their cheeses in-house, giving more control to small batch quality and ability to smoke custom orders. The first 11 years in business have attracted local, regional as well as national customers, being conveniently located

off the north frontage road of Interstate 70, just 15 minutes from Blue Springs. As their sign says, it’s “Even Better than a Cheese Factory!” with so many products, including the fabulous cheese.

n LOCATION

7089 NW OUTER ROAD ODESSA, MISSOURI n CONTACT

816-633-8720 WWW.ONEGOODTASTE.COM WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ONEGOODTASTE

FREEPIK.COM

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

HOW TO AVOID A DAMAGING

CYBERATTACK By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

hen it comes to cyberattacks, small-business owners have plenty to lose. Cyber-security threats are costly and can threaten a business’s survival: 60 percent of small businesses close down within six months of a cyberattack, according to the National Cyber Security Alliance. “Businesses of all sizes face potential risks when operating online and therefore need to consider their cyber security,” said Pat Toth, supervisory computer scientist in the Computer Security Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology. “Small businesses may even be seen as easy targets to get into bigger businesses through the supply chain or payment portals.” To keep data safe in case of a fire or other natural disaster, it’s recommended to back up data through a cloud-service provider or a removable hard

drive and keep the backup away from your office. Here are a few computer security basics to help your company, even if you’re the only employee. If you have employees, train them to follow these tips. If you collect any customer information, also check out the Federal Trade Commission’s advice about protecting personal information, said Juliana Gruenwald Henderson, FTC spokeswoman. • Keep your software up-todate, no matter what operating system, browser or other software you use. Set it to update automatically so you don’t leave holes hackers can exploit. • Back up your files. No system is completely secure. Create offline backups of important files. • Use strong passwords. The longer the better — at least 12 characters. Complexity also helps strengthen a password: Mix numbers, symbols and capital letters into the middle of the password. Don’t use patterns to lengthen a password. Never use the same password for more than one account, or for

“Businesses of all sizes face potential risks when operating online and therefore need to consider their cyber security,” Pat Toth, National Institute of Standards and Technology

personal and business accounts. • If you write passwords down, lock them up. Consider using a password manager, an easy-to-access application that allows you to store all your valuable password information in one place. • Don’t share passwords on the phone, in texts or by email. • Turn on two-factor authentication, available on Apple and Microsoft products, Twitter, Facebook, Google and Amazon. This means after you enter your username and password, you’re asked for a second form of ID, such as a PIN or code sent via text message. • Protect account information. Every time someone asks for business information – whether in an email, text, phone call or web form – think about whether you can really trust the request. Only give sensitive information over encrypted websites: Look for a green padlock icon in the URL bar of every page you’re on, not just where you log in. • Set up your router securely. If your small business has a wireless

network, your access point is probably a cable or DSL modem connected to a wireless router, which sends a signal through the air. Your router directs traffic between your local network and the internet. Any device within range can pull the signal from the air and access the internet. If you don’t secure your router, strangers could easily gain access to sensitive personal or financial information on your devices. • Limit access to your network. Allow only specific devices to access your wireless network. If you want to provide free Wi-Fi for your customers, set up a second, public network – separate from the network for your business devices. • Be careful with Wi-Fi hotspots. If you’re on the go, hotspots in coffee shops, libraries, airports, hotels and other public places are convenient – but often they’re not secure. Send information only to websites that are fully encrypted and avoid using mobile apps that require sharing personal or financial information over public Wi-Fi.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

In a disaster, would you be

BIGSTOCK.COM

website and social media presence, but that needs to be set up and running before a natural disaster strikes, Teel said. “Have access to your website. The first thing people will do is check your homepage,” Teel said. If the company’s website is run by a third party who is also affected by the disaster, or you don’t know how to log in to make changes, you won’t be able to communicate with people.

COVERED?

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

“The likelihood that a customer will abandon you when you’re hit by a disaster is high if they can get what they need elsewhere.” Scott Teel, Agility Recovery

nce you’ve achieved your dream of owning your own business, don’t let Mother Nature take it away. Just like big businesses, small ones need to protect themselves from power outages, fires, floods, blizzards, hurricanes and other natural disasters. “Small businesses are affected by the same widespread disasters that affect bigger businesses — the Hurricane Sandy, the Katrina — but also by smaller events like the water main break down the street,” said Gail Moraton, business resiliency manager for the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. “About 40 percent of businesses that have to close their doors due to a disaster never reopen, and the majority of those are small businesses because they often don’t have a recovery plan in place.”

Some small-business owners see themselves as too small to need a plan. Others believe that a full-time employee is required to manage a recovery plan. “It’s a misconception that it requires a lot of time and cost to develop a strategic plan,” said Scott Teel, senior director of communications for Denverbased Agility Recovery, which partners with the Small Business Administration to offer free business continuity webinars. Only a few key elements are needed to set up a basic recovery plan to ensure business continuity, Teel and Moraton said: Assess your risk To determine threats that can disrupt your business, identify the natural hazards that may affect it, Moraton said. “What could be the worst thing to happen, and how do you plan to respond? If power is not available for 10 days, what do you plan to do?” she said.

Businesses can research potential disasters by searching online for their city or county emergency management hazard analysis, Moraton said. Stay in communication Your employees are your business’s most valuable asset. In an emergency, would you be able to reach them? Be sure to have current home and mobile numbers, addresses, email addresses and emergency contact information, and make sure this information is available outside your business location. Customers, suppliers and vendors also need to know that you are still in business, how soon you will reopen and how the disruption will affect their operations. “The likelihood that a customer will abandon you when you’re hit by a disaster is high if they can get what they need elsewhere,” Teel said. One of the easiest ways to keep in touch is to have a good

Understand your power requirements “There’s a misconception that you can just run out to Home Depot and buy a generator and get your power back on,” Teel said. Speak to an electrician about what your power needs are and how to secure them in an emergency. “You don’t have to understand it. You just need the information,” Teel said. Get covered Make sure you have enough liability insurance. Talk to your provider about business interruption policies and added expense coverage. “Is it enough if your shop closes down for 10 days? Will it cover payroll, outstanding debts?” Teel said. Protect your data Regardless of whether you store your data offsite or in the cloud, you’ll need both power and connectivity to access it, Teel said. Make sure you regularly back up data and know how to access it in an emergency. For more help, visit the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety website, disastersafety.org, and check out the Open for Business-EZ toolkit that provides even the smallest businesses with resources to create a customized plan.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Custom Holiday Lighting Where Music is Shared by All

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Shining Light Music is a family owned music store located in historic Downtown Lee’s Summit. Mon-Thur: 10AM-8PM Fri: 10AM-5PM Sat: 10AM-4PM 129 SE 3rd St., Lee’s Summit, Missouri 64063 816.347.0099

www.shininglightmusic.com

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220-3714

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816-220-3714 | www.cuttingedgelawn.net

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

The Cutting Edge Scott Shippy, Owner n BACKGROUND We can custom fit your house or business with Christmas lights that are made to fit and last. We offer customized lighting that fit the contours of your house, maximizing its beauty and making it stand out on your street. The Cutting Edge Snow Removal Service- To ensure access in and out of your home after a snowfall, we offer driveway snow removal. In commercial parking lots, we provide snow removal as well as ice control.

“The Cutting Edge is a one stop shop and one call does it all!” n LOCATION

1138 N.W. ARROWHEAD TRAIL BLUE SPRINGS, MO 64015 n CONTACT

816-220-3714 -OR816-985-0999 WWW.CUTTINGEDGELAWN.NET

Independence Square Assocation Jeff Rogers & Cindi Rogers

SATUR NOVEM DAY, BER 25 TH

SHOP. DINE. UNWIND. See you at the square!

www.theindependencesquare.com

Executive Directors n BACKGROUND Anchored in

the center by the Truman Courthouse, the historic Independence Square is a revitalized district filled with shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities.

History lovers have often visited Independence, MO to see where Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, lived the majority of his life. The Square is an immediate focal point, with tours on horse drawn carriages, the courthouse and Clinton’s Soda Fountain, where President Truman had his first job as a youth.

n LOCATION

202 W. MAPLE AVENUE INDEPENDENCE, MO 64050

n CONTACT

816-461-0065 THEINDEPENDENCESQUARE.COM

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Columbia College n BACKGROUND Columbia College-Kansas City was established in 1988 in Blue Springs and moved to its current location in July 1993 – a space which offers wireless access, high-tech classrooms and computer labs, a student lounge and convenient, free parking. In addition, security is available at all times. The Kansas City campus provides a unique educational opportunity to working adults through its degree offerings and eightweek course format. As part of a network of campuses across the country and a robust online program, the college offers convenient courses to civilians as well as military adult learners. Students in Kansas City take a mix of in-seat and online classes. Columbia College has articulation agreements with Metropolitan Community College and Johnson County Community College, making it easy to make a smooth transition from an associate into a bachelor’s or master’s degree at Columbia College.

n LOCATION

COLUMBIA COLLEGE - KC BLUE RIDGE TOWER 4240 BLUE RIDGE BLVD., STE 400 KANSAS CITY, MO 64133-1702 n HOURS

M-TH: 9:00 A.M.-6 P.M. (DURING SESSION) M-TH: 9:00 A.M.-5:30 P.M. (DURING BREAK) FRI: 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. n CONTACT

PHONE: (816) 795-1515 ALT. PHONE: (866) 668-8226 FAX: (816) 795-7936 KANSASCITY@CCIS.EDU

Affordable tuition and flexible classes right here in Eastern Jackson County. Enroll now for the Spring semester!

The Annual Women of Distinction Awards event was created to spotlight and recognize the important role women play locally in the economy and in society. The honorees represent 20 of the most distinctive women in business, government, education and not-for profit fields. Winners will be recognized at an awards luncheon on March 2018 and featured in a special Women of Distinction publication published by The Examiner.

Nominations will open Saturday, December 2, 2017 To reserve your tickets to the luncheon, email danna.balliett@examiner.net Sponsored by:

from the heart www.speakschapel.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION, call 816-350-6339

Learn more at KC.CCIS.edu or call (877) 999-9876.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

How millennials

SPEND THEIR MONEY

made from scratch

mexican cuisine $

5 OFF

Any purchase of $25 or more

10 OFF Any purchase of $50 or more

No taxes included. With coupon only. Not valid with daily specials. Offer cannot be combined. Expires 12/30/17. MO

FREE Cheese Dip

illennials include

people born between 1980 and 2000. Millennials have become an influential demographic, changing the way business is conducted. While influencing technology, social norms and mores, millennials also are affecting the economy. Forbes says that many millennials have a shaky relationship with money, due in some

part to the fact that they lived through one of the worst recessions the United States has experienced in decades. Couple that with

Las Playas

With purchase of two entrees. With coupon only. Not valid with daily specials. Offer cannot be combined. Expires 12/30/17.

MO n BACKGROUND

Laid-back Mexican restaurant with fajitas, enchiladas & jumbo margaritas, plus a covered patio! OPEN Monday - Thursday 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Friday - Saturday 11:00 AM -10:30 PM Sunday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM n LOCATION

1016 NW WOODS CHAPEL RD, BLUE SPRINGS, MO 64015

1016 NW Woods Chapel Road Blue Springs, MO 816-224-4227

n CONTACT

(816) 224-4227 CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK!

staggering student loan debt and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to see why millennials may be facing an uphill battle when it comes to their finances. Millennials are falling particularly short in regard to saving money. According to a 2017 GOBankingRates survey, 57 percent of Americans have around $1,000 in savings. Sixty-seven percent of young millennials, between ages 18 and 24 have less than $1,000, says the survey. Canadians are

saving even less, even though in the early 1980s Canadians of most ages used to save twice as much as Americans, or 20 percent of their disposable income, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Many millennials spend more than they earn and live above their means according to a report by American Express Business Insight. This, along with school debt, has compromised millennials’ ability to purchase a home or even get married. Just how are millennials spending their money? Here’s a look at the common patterns. • Experiences: Funding experiences is a high priority for Gen Y. This includes concerts, sporting events, live performances,

and other social events more so than possessions or career status, offers Forbes. • Retail goods and dining: TD Bank found that millennials make more retail purchases and dine out more than other generations, but generally spend less money overall. • Healthcare: Millennials spend about $1,000 more on healthcare expenses than the generations that preceded them, states financial resource Mother Jones. Housing and education costs also have risen, contributing to a smaller pool of savings. • Same-day delivery: A Shop.org survey indicated that millennials are twice as likely as other generations to pay extra for same-day delivery

of online purchases. • Tattoos: Surveys conducted for Pew Research found that 40 percent of millennials have at least one tattoo. • Organic foods: A Gallup poll from the summer of 2016 found 53 percent of Americans ages 18 to 29 actively try to include organic foods in their diets. • Small businesses: A new RBC® Small Business poll found 70 percent of Canadian millennials are willing to pay more for goods and services if they’re sold by a small or local business. Millennials have grown up during a period of rapid change. Their large numbers are shaping the economy in myriad ways. Metro Creative Connection # MM17C528

Midland Marble & Granite There is a reason why Fortune 500 companies and homeowners across Eastern Jackson County trust Midland Marble and Granite for granite, quartz and marble countertops. It’s not just that we are family owned and operated, or that we live in the area, or that our countertops are made in Independence. We know you have choices. So every day we work to earn your trust by providing the best quality, service, and value anywhere. When it comes to granite, quartz, marble or tile, nobody will treat you better than Midland Marble and Granite. The same care and craftsmanship we put into the Jackson County Courthouse on Independence Square is what you can expect in your home. If you are thinking about a new countertop, remember that Midland Marble and Granite is a family you can trust. And if you want a new countertop for the holidays, your timing is perfect. We have a great selection of granite and quartz starting at just $29 a square foot installed. We’ll even give you the backsplash tile FREE. See store for details, but call, stop by, or visit us online. We’ll treat you like family, and we think you’ll like what you see.

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

Unwrap a...

Spectacular Holiday! Give your home the timeless elegance of genuine granite or quartz countertops in an array of beautiful colors. Our designers can help make your dream kitchen real. Choose from the world’s most beautiful countertops, backsplash, ceramic tile and flooring to assure that your project is perfectly coordinated. With an unmatched reputation for quality, service and value, we hope you will give our family the opportunity to give your family a more beautiful home.

STARTING AS LOW AS

SQ. FT.

n LOCATION

2001 W GEOSPACE DR, INDEPENDENCE, MO 64056 2077 NE RICE RD LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 64064 n HOURS

Plus FREE backsplash tile!* *With minimum counter-top purchase plus installation. Some restrictions apply. While supplies last. See store for details.

MON - FRI 8 AM - 4 PM CLOSED SATURDAY & SUNDAY

n CONTACT

816-257-2000 WWW.MIDLANDMARBLE.COM

2001 W Geospace Drive | Independence, MO 64056 2077 NE Rice Rd | Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

(816) 257-2000 | midlandmarble.com

Small Business Saturday - Saturday, November 25, 2017

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY® | NOV 25

ALL MATTRESSES ON SALE!

NS I W T ROM F

QUEEN DOUBLE-SIDED FROM

MATTRESSES

175

LE-SIDED MATTRESSES KING DOUBSE TS FROM $

395

6 pc.

) BOX FOUNDATION (MATTRESS AND

AS LOW AS

195!

Leath

NAL O I T C E S FROM $

1765

GRAY SOFA

SHOP SMALL SUPPORT LOCAL

FROM

498

RECLINERS

TABLE

FROM

365

HOTEL

REDMAN’S FURNITURE

BANK

408 SE 4th St., Oak Grove, MO 64075 (Chase Plaza across from Walmart)

816-625-1240 | www.redmansfurniture.com