January 2017 Business Outlook

business outlook JANUARY 2017

2016

January 2017

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE pg. 3

Creating a Vision in the New Year

FEATURE

pg. 12

A New Look for Our Next Century

OUR MEMBERS ANNOUNCE

pg. 10-11

Awards, announcements and opportunities inside!

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JANUARY 2017

business outlook BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016-2017 Executive Committee

Directors

Karen Plott

Gina Atteberry Michael Beatty Brandon Davis Donovan Edwards Jacqueline Hackett Rodney Haynes Holly Hukill John Karry Randy Moore Kelli Perigo

Chairman of the Board

Clive Veri

Chairman Elect of the Board

David Glenn

Past Chairman of the Board

James Richards Treasurer

Louise Secker

Vice Chairman Membership/ Community Development Services

Kim Woodard

Co-Vice Chairman Membership/ Community Development Services

Lori Scott Dreiling

Vice Chairman Economic/Workforce Development Services

Brad Beecher

Co-Vice Chairman Economic/ Workforce Development Services

5 LEVEL SPONSORS

Ex-Officio Directors Sam Anselm John Bartosh Dr. Nicole Brown Mike Gray Dr. Alan Marble Dr. Jennifer Methvin Matt Proctor Dr. Norm Ridder Marilyn Ruestman Michael Seibert

CHAMBER STAFF Executive

Rob O’Brian, CEcD President Tonya Sprenkle Vice President Lisa Kelly Executive Assistant

Member Services

Ginger LaMar, IOM Director of Member Services & Development Stephanie McGrew Member Events Producer Jim Kesler Membership Sales Strategist

Finance

Samantha Doubledee Finance Director Melany Frederick Finance Coordinator Intern

FIND US AT: 2

Communications

Kirstie Smith Communications Director Wendy Brunner-Lewis Communications Coordinator Martha Getz YPN/Communications Coordinator

Economic & Workforce Development

Mark Turnbull Director of Regional Strategies Kevin Welch Director of Business Attraction Brian Kelly Director of Entrepreneurship & Technology Strategies Cary Beasley Workforce Development Manager

Administrative Support Lea Schroer Administrative Assistant

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 320 E. 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 (P) 417.624.4150 (F) 417.624.4303

S T A R

PARTNERSHIP

PLATINUM LEVEL

City of Joplin Downstream Casino Resort The Empire District Electric Company KOAM-TV/FOX 14 - KFJX Stronghold Data LLC

CHAIRMAN LEVEL Commerce Bank EaglePicher Technologies, LLC Freeman Health System General Mills Joplin Floor Designs Joplin Globe Publishing Company Joplin Regional Business Journal Joplin Supply Company KODE-TV/KSNF-TV Lamar Outdoor Advertising Lancaster Signs Mercy Hospital Joplin Missouri Southern State University Results Radio, AMI Radio Group SNC Squared Southwest Missouri Bank US Bank, N.A.

PRESIDENT LEVEL Arvest Bank BKD, LLP Community Bank & Trust (CBT) Roper Honda Show Me The Ozarks Magazine

DIRECTOR LEVEL Choice Marketing Connell Insurance, Inc. Joplin ProPrint Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. Motive Matters Storm Stanley Weed Whackers, Inc.

www.joplincc.com /joplinchamber /joplinchamber

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Creating a Vision in the New Year

JANUARY 2017

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As we enter this new year of 2017, there are a number of exciting developments on the horizon. The new Kansas City University – Joplin medical school will open; the Chamber’s new Advanced Training and Technology Center in cooperation with the City, Crowder College and the Workforce Investment Board will open as well. Heartland Pet Food will have a new expansion underway, and Owens Corning will be fully in production. After some downsizing in 2016, EaglePicher will be on a hiring trend as will the new HS Baking Company, and there are a number ROB O’BRIAN, PRESIDENT of other expansion and new company opportunities as well.

Your Chamber turns 100 years old this year, and that certainly is exciting for us as it is for any organization that’s been around a century. Watch for all manner of activities, events and “new looks” as your Chamber moves into its next century.

In addition, the Chamber staff and Board have been discussing the “new economy” we all live and work in. We’re looking at how we modify existing programs and services and create new ones that continue to benefit our members and the broader community not only in 2017, but for years to come.

One of the most exciting things I think we will see for that “broader community” is the new Vision 2022, a broad-based, citizen-input effort to create recommendations to raise the bar for Joplin over the next five years. Over the years, there have been a number of “vision” plans for Joplin. Having a broad-based set of objectives has helped City government, schools, Missouri Southern State University and the Chamber focus our efforts and move the community forward. With the 2011 tornado, a number of community-input sessions brought forward several key objectives (such as the medical school) the community wanted to see done or underway by the fifth anniversary.

It wasn’t long after that anniversary that there began to be a number of conversations about “What now?” Your Chamber was involved in some of those as were the City, schools, University, arts groups, social service agencies and so many more. That prompted retired US Bank President Clifford Wert, who heads Connect2Culture, to call a meeting with Mayor Michael Seibert, City Manager Sam Anselm, me and others to talk about how to weave the numerous conversations together, and after several months and more people were added to the discussion, the Vision 2022 initiative was born.

Vision 2022 really is looking for broad community input. It has six core committees, which are co-chaired by people interested in the topic. The group wants to bring forward a series of recommendations for consideration by the City, and other entities like the Chamber, by mid-2017. The overall effort is chaired by Clifford Wert, and his comments from the news announcement in December sum it up best: “The goal of Vision Joplin 2022 is to bring before the Joplin City Council and ultimately its citizens, SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS – and I emphasize recommendations – that will improve and grow Joplin not only as a city, but also as the hub of this region. A limited number of specific recommendations are to be presented to the Joplin City Council in the spring of 2017 that can indeed be actionable, measureable, will be bold, and will result in growth. We are inviting any and all interested persons who live, work and/or play in Joplin and are passionate about its future to join in this visioning effort. Effective today, a web site has been launched that allows individuals to directly participate in this process – either by volunteering to serve on one or more of the key topic committees or by providing written comments to this visioning process.”

Anyone and everyone can volunteer to be on one of the six committees and/or provide input. Those groups and the cochairs are: s Education - Dr. Norm Ridder, Dr. Brad Hodson and Kelli Perigo s Governance - Bennie Crossland and Clifford Wert s Healthy Living/Wellness - Scott Vorhees and Peggy Fuller s Job Growth - Ryan Melton, Brent Baker and Taylor Brown s Positive Marketing - Andrew Jordan and Kelli Norris s Quality of Life - Shelly Kraft, Chalise Cooper and Susan Adams Both volunteering and offering input can be done on the group’s website at: www.joplinmo.org/visionjoplin.

This is an opportunity for you, as a Chamber member interested in Joplin, to provide input and/or be on a committee. It’s an opportunity to encourage your employees, friends and family to provide their input as well. All of the groups are passionate about having broad input and diverse volunteers.

Join in the effort to make Joplin an even better place in the next five years!

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business outlook JANUARY 2017

Your Chamber, Then and Now Hey, hey, it’s our birthday! Your Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 100th birthday in 2017!

Turning 100 is kind of a big deal, so we want to party all year long. To kick it off, we have created a whole new look for the Chamber brand. It’s a fresh, modern approach to what we have been doing for the past 100 years, building business and the community. To learn more about the design process and the inspiration behind our new look, see page 12.

The next big thing on the agenda for 2017 is The Party of Our Century at this year’s Business EXPO. It’s a whole new century for the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, and it’s a whole new show for Business EXPO. Join us at Downstream Casino Resort on January 24-25. Read more about EXPO on pages 8-9.

Since it is our birthday, we thought some of you might like to know where your Chamber came from 100 years ago. Following is an excerpt from “Joplin Memories, The Early Years,” written by Brad Belk. Enjoy!

“The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1917, during a time of war and economic hardships when the Joplin Commercial Club (organized in 1885) surrendered its charter and formed the first Joplin Chamber of Commerce.

“The Chamber was established for the purposes of conducting the work previously done by the Commercial Club. In an editorial in the Joplin News Herald dated September 14, 1917, positive statements were made concerning the need for a new chamber of commerce. The editorial says, “The Chamber of Commerce is going to prove to be one of the most valuable assets of the city, but its value lies in its democracy and loyalty with which it is supported. It is representative of the city to the extent in which all interests are represented and should be understood that it is not the instrument of the business men alone, nor of the professional men but of the whole people.”

Thousands of community-minded citizens have contributed to the Chamber during its 100-year history, and as the News Herald hoped, the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce was and is, “an instrument not of the businessmen alone nor of the professional men, but of the whole people.”

You can read the rest of this article and learn more about the early history of Joplin from the book “Joplin Memories,” found in the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Resource Library.

Empire District Electric Company & Missouri Southern State University Present the 2016-2017 Golden Apple Awards Nominations for the 2016-2017 Golden Apple Awards are being accepted now through February 3. This is the 32nd year for this popular program, which recognizes instructional excellence in our Joplin schools.

Awards are given in four categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. Teachers who are nominated are eligible to win if they are a certified classroom teacher who instructs students on a daily basis and are teaching during the 2016-2017 school year. All nominees will be honored at a reception February 23 at MSSU. Winners will be announced at the JACC’s 100th Annual Chamber Banquet, May 4.

Nomination forms can be picked up at any Joplin school, public or private, or at the JACC, 320 East 4th Street.

The nomination form is also available at www.joplincc.com. Please contact Cary Beasley, cary@joplincc.com or 417.624.4150, with any questions.

There are many deserving educators in Joplin; please consider nominating a teacher for this special award!

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Presented by

Message to the Network from Chairman Brent Baker Best Year Ever Happy New Year! I encourage you to make this the best year ever. Start this New Year with the expectation that you deliver more results than last year. It is clear most people want to make a difference in their life, their work and their community, and this can be the year you do more than ever to make that difference. Also, know that resolutions can start at the New Year, new week, new day or new half hour for that matter. Never hesitate to start again and to get back on track with what you started.

We are excited about the opportunities this year brings and what all of you bring to YPN! Looking forward to a great 2017!

2016-2017 Executive Committee Brent Baker, Chairman Ryan Melton, Co-Chairman Dr. Nicole Brown, Past Chairman Shawn Daniel Jennifer Little Stephanie Onstot Dustin Parker Greg Sutton Megan Tyler Whitney Warren Christina Williams

JANUARY 2017

business outlook

New YPN Members Jeffrey Moore Baker Davis Roderique, CPAs, PC Raymond Moore Townplace Suites

2017 Small Business of the Year Nominations Now Being Accepted This is your opportunity to nominate a small business or a not-for-profit organization for the 2017 Small Business of the Year Awards presented by BKD, LLP and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. The awards recognize the contributions of small business to the local economy and to the overall progress of the Joplin area: w w w w w

Contributions to the community Business or management philosophy Response to challenges Innovative products or services Employee involvement/recognition

Awards will be presented at the 100th Annual Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet May 4 to three deserving businesses serving our community: one business employing 1-10 employees, one business employing 11-50 employees and one not-for-profit business.

Visit www.joplincc.com to post your nomination.

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Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity

Guaranty Bank Loan Center

Scott Clayton, Executive Director 2106 Virginia New Home Dedication

Jeff Williams, President 2639 East 32nd Street, Suite R New Membership, New Business

Joplin Fire Department

Spring River Christian Village

James Furgerson, Chief 303 East 3rd Street Grant Recipient from Missouri American Water Co.

Scott King, Executive Director 201 South Northpark Lane Grand Opening of Lodge Community Center

Cell Phone Medics

Hometown Pediatrics of Joplin, LLC

Christ in Youth

Rapha House International, Inc.

Jared Whitehead, Owner 512 South Main Street, Suite 1A New Ownership

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Presented by

Andy Hanson, President 2101 North Main Street New Warehouse

Dr. Shari Smith, Owner 200 Castle Drive Ground Breaking

Stephanie Freed, Director 712 South Main Street Grand Opening of Freedom Boutique and Gallery

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

JANUARY 2017

Ribbon Cuttings

The following persons have been approved by the JACC Board of Directors to stand for election for a new three-year term on the Board, which will run April 2017 to March 2020.

Jerrod Hogan, Anderson Engineering, Inc. Todd Chenault, Steve’s Frame & Body Shop Betsy Kissel, YPN, Onin Staffing

The following persons have been approved by the JACC Board of Directors to stand for election for a second three-year term on the Board, which will run April 2017 to March 2020.

Gina Atteberry, Crossland Construction Company Michael Beatty, Joplin Globe Publishing Company Donovan Edwards, CFI

Calendar of Events for January 2017 January 4 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

January 11 8 am Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Business & Industry Session TBD 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

JANUARY 2017

New Board of Directors Announced

business outlook

January 12 3 pm Leadership Joplin 2017 "Welcome to LJ Mixer" The Independent Living Center January 13 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Children's Miracle Network January 16 12 pm Leadership Joplin Steering Committee Meeting Chamber Office January 17 9 am Leads Group One Steam Way Restoration January 18 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office 11:30 am Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Chamber Office

Ambassador Partnership "Southwest Missouri Bank has sponsored the Ambassador program at the Chamber for many years now, and it’s a sponsorship that is dear to our hearts. The Ambassadors are the “welcoming arm” of the Chamber. They are often the first Chamber members that a new business person gets to know, at a ribbon-cutting or an event, and they never fail to be warm and friendly to the newcomers.

In their red jackets and their Ambassador badges, they stand out from the crowd and are always willing to show their support and goodwill to Joplin businesses. As a true community bank, SMB wants to show our support and goodwill as well, so it’s a GREAT partnership for us!"

--Peggy Fuller, Southwest Missouri Bank

January 23 11:30 am Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Office January 24 12-7:30 pm Business EXPO 2017 Business-to-Business Day Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion 4:30-7:30 pm Business EXPO 2017 Birthday Bash After Hours Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion January 25 10 am-4 pm Business EXPO 2017 Public Day Downstream Casino Resort Pavilion 7

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JANUARY 2017

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business outlook JANUARY 2017

Our Members Announce presented by

The Children’s Center 20th Annual Gala Mardi Gras is February 4 from 6-9 pm at Downstream Casino Resort. This is an annual fundraising event to support the Center’s direct services for child victims of abuse and to increase community awareness. Enjoy cocktails, live and silent auction, an elegant dining experience, dancing and entertainment. Tickets are $95 per person or $175 per couple. Sponsorships are available. For more information, call 417.623.2292.

Freeman Health System joined forces with Girard Medical Center to expand access to healthcare in Southeast Kansas. This affiliation will provide patients with convenient access to a comprehensive range of services and allow for the development of on-site specialty care. For more information, go to www. freemanhealth.com.

Freeman Health System announces the addition of Dr. Chance Matthiesen, who specializes in radiation oncology at Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute. After earning his medical degree from University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in Oklahoma City, Dr. Matthiesen completed his residency in radiation oncology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City.

For more information, go to www.freemanhealth. com.

The Joplin Board of Education voted unanimously at the Board of Education meeting in November to hire Dr. Melinda Moss as the next superintendent of Joplin Schools. Dr. Moss will begin her new post at the end of the school year. She currently holds the position of Superintendent of Schools for Harrison School District, Harrison, Arkansas. For more information, go to www. joplinschools.org.

Paul Bloomberg was promoted to the position of director of the City of Joplin Parks and Recreation.

Bloomberg has served as assistant director for the department since 2015. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

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Personal Finance Company recently celebrated its third year in Joplin at 32nd and Connecticut in the Sunnyvale Shopping Center. They serve the borrowing needs of over a half million customers in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee

and Wisconsin. They loan money anytime extra cash is needed for things like car repairs, furniture and appliances, home improvements, medical services, gifts or back to school. PFC offers fixed term installment loans with monthly payments to fit your budget. For more information, call 417.781.2314 or go to www. personalfinancecompany.com.

For the second year in a row, Mercy Hospital Joplin Chief Financial Officer Shelly Hunter is one of 130 women honored by Becker’s Hospital Review as an executive at a U.S. hospital or health system who has established herself as a successful leader within the continuously evolving health care industry. In addition, the publication named her to its list of “150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know” earlier this year. For more information, go to www. mercy.net.

Beginning Jan. 1, individuals enrolled in most UnitedHealthcare® plans will have the additional choice of more than 675 Mercy doctors and facilities across the region to choose from for in-network health care services. The change is effective for Medicare Advantage plans as well as UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored plans that access the Choice POS network plans. For more information, go to www.mercy.net.

Project Runway All Star designer Kate Pankoke will headline the annual Lafayette House event “Ooh La Lafayette” Thursday, March 9, at 6 pm. The event also features a designer purse/handbag auction and fashion show. Reserve your table now at lafayettehouse.org. For more information, call 417.782.1772.

Higdon Florist wishes everyone a blessed and prosperous New Year! A great New Year’s resolution is to take time each month to send someone you love a beautiful Higdon bouquet. When you want quality and design, call Higdon!

You can also include Candy House Chocolates with your flowers. Hot Spot is open for homemade soups and sandwiches! Call 417.624.7171 when you need assistance and check out their website at www.higdonflorist.com.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors of Southwest Missouri (NAIFA-SW) presented a $4,000 check to Cerebral Palsy of Tri-County Webb City Development Center in December. Association members then hosted a Christmas party with a visit from Santa for the children at the center. For more information, call 417.825.9624.

At KM Guru Marketing, we feel overjoyed and blessed at all our clients’ successes! We would like to say thank you and offer a new website to a few selected businesses. It is our passion to assist in the growth of your business, and we hope this helps! Restrictions apply, so please message Kate for more details at kate@kmguru.com. View our website portfolio here: http://kmguru.com/website-designdevelopment-help/.

Julie Wengert has accepted the position of Dean of Student Success and Support at Missouri Southern State University. Wengert, who has worked at Missouri Southern for 15 years, previously served as Director of Academic Outreach. For more information, go to www. mssu.edu.

Pro Musica presents the New York Woodwind Quintet (NYWQ) Thursday, January 26, at First Presbyterian Church, 509 South Pearl. The concert, which starts at 7 pm, is open to the public at no charge with donations appreciated. For more information, go to www. promusicajoplin.org or call 417.625.1822.

The Missouri Arts Council has awarded 362 annual grants in 63 communities for fiscal year 2017 totaling more than $4.7 million to support arts events, performances, education, and services throughout the state. A local organization receiving funding is Pro Musica. The complete list of annual grants is on the Missouri Arts Council’s main website, missouriartscouncil.org.

Skaggs Chiropractic, LLC’s Dr. Steven Skaggs, chiropractic physician, was elected to the Executive Board of Directors for the International Hyperbaric Medical Association/ International Hyperbaric Medical Foundation (IHMA/ IHMF) for 2017. Dr. Skaggs began treating off-label indications with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) after his son Kayle had an anoxic brain injury in 2010. Today, Skaggs Chiropractic furnishes HBOT to our returning troops, effectively treating traumatic brain injuries (TBI) & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at no cost to our veterans. For more information, call 417.624.4242.

Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson is celebrating Area Appreciation Days January 20-31. Residents in Stone, Taney, Christian, Newton and Jasper counties receive the special admission price of $10 for adults and kids with ID and proof of residency (the ship is closed January 9-11 for deep cleaning). Every year they change displays. Play the Titanic piano, touch the iceberg, feel the cold water, try to climb the sloping decks and pay tribute to the 2,208 Titanic passengers and crew. Open daily at 10 am. For more information, call 800.381.7670.

JANUARY 2017

Do you purchase gift cards? If so, Joplin Area Catholic Schools would like to invite you to purchase your gift cards through their SCRIP program. Each card you purchase at face value gives them a percentage for their schools.

It’s easy to purchase gift cards through SCRIP, and they have over 100 businesses from which to choose for your business or personal giving. Text or call Lauren Brown, SCRIP coordinator, at 417.499.6648 for more information or to order gift cards.

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The Scottish Rite Masonic Center will be hosting a Bridal Fair Saturday, March 4, from 1-4 pm. Vendor space is available for $100 if reserved before February 1, $150 if reserved on February 1 or after. For more information about the event, or to become a vendor, please contact Donnie Greenlee at 417.553.0153 or dgreenlee@farmersagent.com.

Make your move to College View Manor Independent Living. Call 417.206.7575 today for your personal tour at 3828 College View Drive. Pet friendly and wheelchair accessible. For more information, go to www.CollegeViewManor.com.

Please consider partnering with Rapha House by sponsoring a safe house at www.raphahouse.org/ safehouse or by making a one-time gift. You can send checks by mail or make donations at www. raphahouse.org/donate. Or you can make gifts of securities or other assets that have increased in value, which may be exempt from capital gains taxes. You can also donate a wide range of assets through your will and estate planning. Contact Rapha House at www. raphahouse.org/contact-us to get started.

The Alliance of Southwest Missouri is excited to announce the new executive director, Jen Black. She was the founder and executive director of House of Hope Joplin for eight years. Jen will start January 3. For more information, call 417.782.9899.

The Chamber is interested in your business. If you won an award, opened another office or are planning an event, let us know. We want to share your accomplishments and events with your fellow members! For our next issue, submit your announcement to wendy@joplincc.com by January 10. Please include “Our Members Announce” in the email subject line. Find all our members in our online Membership Directory.

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business outlook JANUARY 2017

Celebrating 100 years in business is a big deal.

That's why we wanted a fresh, new look for the beginning of our next century.

For inspiration, we studied other chambers' logos, gathered random logos we liked, and brainstormed looks and fonts that appealed to us. We wanted a traditional yet modern look for your Chamber.

Our new logo combines traditional elements with a modern font and colors. Our inspiration was Legos, or building blocks. Your Chamber builds business, relationships and community, and there are endless combinations of how we can work together. Building blocks inspire innovation, as does your Chamber.

We're excited to share our new look with you, and we look forward to sharing the next 100 years with you!

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business outlook Debbie Anderson

Arvest Bank

David Baird

Modine Mfg Company

Julie Beatty

Mercy Hospital

Ben Kerr

Arvest Bank

Kristi Benefiel

The Independent Living Center

Claire Berger

Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School

shannon doss

southwest missouri bank

Eden Elliot

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts

Jeany Franz

TJ Franz and Associates

ryan ferguson

freeman health system

Alex Gandy

Missouri Southern State University

dr. steve gilbreth

joplin schools

Catrina Gilstrap

Mercy Clinics

Adam Greek

Empire District Electric

Betsy Kissel

Onin Staffing

Allison Mardis

US Bank

Emily Marion

Boys and Girls Club of Southwest MO

megan miller

mid-missouri bank

Joe Moore

Joplin Police Department

Jess Myers

BKD, LLP

Nicole Peeples

Mercy Hospital

Darci Peterson

Hope Restored

Brie Richards

Stronghold Data

Sergio rizo

ozark christian college

Dr. kerry sachetta

joplin schools

charlene smith

southwest missouri bank

Tracey Spurgeon

Mercy Hospital

Kelsey Warren

Community Bank and Trust

Vannessa Williams

Abbey Title Company

JANUARY 2017

Welcome to the 2017 Class of Leadership Joplin

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Welcome New Members Office Depot Office-Supplies, Equipment & Furniture 3132 South Range Line Road Joplin, MO 64804 417.206.2600 www.officedepot.com John Martin, General Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Jake's Fireworks Fireworks 5325 North Main Street Joplin, MO 64801 620.231.2264 www.jakesfireworks.com Devon Krusich, Website/Marketing Specialist Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Renewed Mental Health, LLC Mental Health/Counseling 1530 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.626.0212 www.renewedmentalhealth.com Jamie Curry, Office Manager/Marketing Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Clark's Catering LLC Caterers 207 Powell Drive Webb City, MO 64870 417.622.9906 www.clarkscatering.net Mickel Clark, Jr., Chef/Owner Sponsors: J.D. Buckridge, Payroll Vault of the Four States; Karen Lais, Associates of Dental Arts; Frank Thompson, Automated Technology; Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

A Clean Sweep, LLC Cleaning Services - Residential & Commercial 516 Wooster Carthage, MO 64836 417.388.4904 Tracey Rohr, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Candy House Gourmet, LLC Candy - Gourmet 510 South Kentucky Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.623.7171 Cara and Wayne Adolphsen, Owners Sponsor: Rob O'Brian, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

LocalRaces.com, LLC Information Technology/Internet Services 407 South Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 209 Joplin, MO 64801 888.417.7223 www.localraces.com Toby Teeter, President Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce; Brian Kelly, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Access Home Health Agency Home Health Care Providers 1329 East 32nd Street, Suites 8-9 Joplin, MO 64804 417.623.9991 access-home-health.com Daxton Holcomb, Branch Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

V's Barbershop Barber Shop 2917 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.621.0901 www.vbarbershop.com/locations/joplin Lucia Crawford, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber’s Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome our newest Chamber members. Please keep these and all members in mind when looking for goods and services. Visit the Chamber’s online member directory at cca.joplincc.com/businesssearch.aspx.

Invite your clients or vendors to join your 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Contact Membership Sales Strategist Jim Kesler at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

Fill out the member application to join the Chamber at http:// cca.joplincc.com/newmemapp.aspx?dbid2=mojop.

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING AAA Auto Club of Missouri....................................................... 1993

The Payroll Company.................................................................. 2006

Charlotte's Angels Home Care................................................ 2015

Phoenix Fired Art.......................................................................... 2011

Creative Car Audio, Inc............................................................... 2004

Pioneer Warehouse & Logistics, Inc....................................... 2009

Creative Glass................................................................................. 1997

RealPro.............................................................................................. 2013

Crowder College........................................................................... 1995

Sherwin-Williams.......................................................................... 1993

Holden Buildings.......................................................................... 2013

Sign Designs................................................................................... 1992

Joplin Construction Design & Management..................... 1991

Skaggs Chiropractic, LLC........................................................... 2005

KJPX-TV, Retro-TV......................................................................... 1999

Storm Stanley................................................................................. 2014

Liberty Tax Service....................................................................... 2015

Wilder's/Wilders Event Ceter.................................................... 1987

New Horizons Realty................................................................... 2013

Yorktown Properties.................................................................... 1992

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STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY: A REPORT FROM YOUR CHAMBER

MSA is comprised of Jasper and Newton counties. Information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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7 Steps to Increasing Profitability in 2017

By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University "Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning."--Benjamin Franklin If you want your organization to succeed and be profitable, try implementing some viable cost-saving methods. Being able to plan for changes in your industry and environment may help your company grow by expanding its operations.

Following are some steps that should help increase your firm’s profit margin.

1. Plan your way to profitability. Don’t just buy things and try to sell them, hoping you will make a profit. Plan carefully the type of inventory you will purchase and the type of unique services you will offer. Taking the time to plan will help increase your chances of being cost-effective. For example, you could plan to negotiate better deals with existing or new suppliers, or you could plan to train your employees and provide them with better equipment so they could be more productive.

2. Research new opportunities and possibilities for growth in your industry. What are the latest trends in your industry? What type of new products and services are your customers going to desire during the next several years? Many industry trade associations publish industry trend reports that estimate the future growth of their industries.

3. Review your operating expenses and business costs on a regular basis. Examine areas of waste and potential improvements. Could you implement an energy-saving policy by installing new lighting, changing your heating/air system or investing in more energy-efficient equipment? Even after paying for the upgrades, the energy cost savings should increase your profitability, as well as make you a more environmentally conscious firm.

4. Study your target market segments (i.e., your best customers) to determine how you can improve your profitability. Your target market accounts for 20 percent of your customers and 80 percent of your sales revenue. These people are familiar with your firm and already purchase your products and services. Consider how your firm can best meet their wants and needs, and get them to purchase complementary products or services. You may be able to sell them other items that are useful accessories or upgraded premium services.

Develop a good customer database that tracks customer purchases.

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5. Examine each category of products and services to determine their level of profitability. Review your pricing strategy on a regular basis. Compete on your high level of quality, uniqueness or expertise, and not on low prices. You may need to increase your prices, or quit selling unprofitable products and services. For example, restaurants should review each menu item annually to identify profitable items, and either raise the price or eliminate unprofitable items.

6. Analyze your customer accounts to see which ones pay on time and which ones don’t pay; this will help you manage your accounts receivable. The longer it takes for customers to pay, the higher the probability that they will never pay. Compare your company to other firms in your industry to determine the average time it should take for your customers to pay. It doesn’t do your firm any good to sell products and services if you can’t get paid, so fire customers who don’t pay, and seek ones who will pay you in a timely manner. Implement methods that will encourage customers to pay early; like offering trade discounts, making it easier to pay (i.e., accepting online payments) or requiring down payments for service work.

7. Analyze your firm’s financial statements and compare them to key performance indicators and industry standards. This will enable you to see how your organization compares to other firms in your industry.

For example, how do your expenses, revenue and level of profitability compare to other companies in your industry? You can use statistics from organizations like RMA or BizMiner for industry standard comparisons.

Following is a training event that may be useful.

Increasing Profitability Through Data Analysis BizMiner is an analytical database that provides industry financial reports for over 30,000 banking professionals; hundreds of accounting, valuation, CRE and consulting firms; and universities. The database provides industry financial ratios, balance sheet data, and detailed profit and loss statements, and industry market statistics. Participants will learn key elements of comparing their current financial data or their proposed start-up business financial projections with industry standard financial data of firms in similar industries.

Individual reports are available for each state.

Pre-registration is required. Participants will receive a customized BizMiner industry financial report for their firm.

Date: January 13 (Friday), 8:30-9:30 am Location: Room 107 Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: No cost

JANUARY 2017

business outlook

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business outlook JANUARY 2017

Small Business & Technology Development Center Missouri Southern State University The Robert W. Plaster School of Business 3950 Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801-1512 Phone: 417.625.3128 Fax: 417.625.9782

WHERE WILL YOUR BUSINESS BE IN 2020?

This extremely hands-on interactive training event will

QUICKBOOKS DESKTOP: UTILIZATION, TIPS AND TRICKS

help you identify where your business is today and

The training will be a demonstration of QuickBooks

develop your vision for where you want your business

and how to best utilize the program and its features.

to be in three years. Special attention is placed on

The training will include a manual for the step-by-step

management, marketing, finance, technology and

instructions for adding list items and how to process

operations. A participant workbook is provided.

transactions. Many tips and tricks will be shared on

January 11 (Wednesday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Room 107, MSSU Cost: $59 per person STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS Participants will have an opportunity to assess their

business idea, learn about the importance of planning, discuss legal and regulatory requirements, learn about

utilizing the program.

January 18 (Wednesday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $79 per person HOW TO WRITE A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS PLAN

Participants will learn key elements of a business plan

marketing strategies and identify sources of financing.

including writing style tips, required contents and how

Each participant will receive a start-up manual.

to use it as a management tool. Participants will leave

January 12 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $29 per business

this session with a greater understanding of what their business plan should look like and how to get started writing one.

INCREASING PROFITABILITY THROUGH DATA ANALYSIS

January 19 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $39

financial reports for over 30,000 banking professionals;

UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

BizMiner is an analytical database that provides industry hundreds of accounting, valuation, CRE and consulting

The first in a series of three, this training is designed for

firms; and universities. The database provides industry

business owners, managers and those who want to learn

financial ratios, balance sheet data and detailed profit

how to turn financial statements into useful management

and loss statements, and industry market statistics.

tools. Participants will review the accounts listed on the Profit & Loss statement and Balance Sheet and will learn

Pre-registration is required. Participants will receive a

how to calculate several useful ratios from these financial

customized BizMiner industry financial report for their

statements. Participants will then learn how to make

firm.

business decisions from this information.

January 13 (Friday), 8:30-9:30 am January 31 (Tuesday), 3:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Room 107, MSSU Cost: No cost

January 26 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $49 person

Find the full schedule of workshops at www.mssutraining.com.

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JANUARY 2017

business outlook

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business outlook JANUARY 2017

Insurance you can design to meet your ever-changing needs.

• Business or Commercial • Call for a Farmers Friendly Review® • Evening Appointments

LINDA TEETER, LUTCF www.farmersagent.com/lteeter 1321 ILLINOIS AVE • JOPLIN, MO 64801

Call 417-781-4820 today for Auto, Home, Life and Business.

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Elite Commercial Audio/Video Sales & Service Toll Free: 800-621-5256 Local: 417-869-0770 aaius.com proaudiosuperstore.com 2120 S. Roosevelt Suite 3 Joplin, MO 64804

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: DOL Requires All U.S. Employers to Update Federal Posters

Replace your posters now to stay compliant!

Contact Payroll Vault today to get your new poster.

Phone: 417.623.0941 Email: j.d.buckridge@ payrollvault.com

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JANUARY 2017

business outlook

Coffee & Contacts...

Leads Groups On the Way to Everywhere What Leads Can Do For You:  Give & receive more timely referrals in a unique atmosphere  Meetings are run by & for the members  The purpose is networking for referrals  Membership is limited to only one person per business category, providing no competition  Leads Groups are open to business owners, professionals, sales people and managers “IN THE KNOW”

All Meetings are from 9-10:00 a.m. ·

Leads Group One meets the first and third Tuesday of the month

·

Leads Group Two meets the second and fourth Wednesday of the month

·

Leads Group Three meets the first and third Wednesday of the month

Meeting locations can be found online: www.joplincc.com 21

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