Catalyst 2nd Quarter 2016

the business magazine

LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP Chamber President retiring after more than 15 years of service • page 16

2nd qtr 2016

WHO PAYS?

Etiquette tips for business lunches

PRESSING FORWARD

Local winery plans expansion

BUSINESS IS BOOMING

Catch up with family-owned and operated Wald & Co.

Crafted with love…uniquely for you

ESPECIALLY JEWELRY

1233 NE Douglas St Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 www.especiallyjewelry.com 816-246-2184

Spring Cleaning It’s that time of year again when we all do a little spring cleaning (such a fun task, right?), but what about spring cleaning for your business?

With 2016 well underway, it’s important to take some time and make sure your business is headed in the right direction.

Rid yourself of the clutter and distractions that may be pulling you in the wrong direction, and take measurable steps to better your business.

Use the Lee’s Summit Chamber as a resource to help in times of need and to achieve your goals. If a spring storm causes water damage and you don’t know who to call, call the Chamber. The Chamber can refer you to a list of members who can help. For me personally, it always feels great to use another member because I know I am doing business with another community-minded person who wants to see Lee’s Summit thrive.

If you are not currently a member of the Chamber, I invite you to learn more about our organization online at LSchamber.com or in person at the Chamber office, 220 SE Main St. The Chamber is a great way to develop relationships within the community and be a part of the bigger picture. Feel free to call me personally and we can attend an event together.

Now, it’s time for me to call the Chamber and see who can clean these windows for me.

Yours Truly,

VICKY CUNDIFF, WEED MAN 2016 Chamber Chair of the Board

_______________________________________________________

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

2ND QTR 2016

PUBLISHER Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER PRESIDENT Nancy Bruns, CCE ADVERTISING MANAGER Darla Hall CREATIVE DIRECTOR Gina Seibel _______________________________ EDITORIAL STAFF Darla Hall Stephanie Kusek Gina Seibel _______________________________ CONTRIBUTING WRITERS John Beaudoin, Kathy Edwards, Rick McDowell Jim McKenna, Jen Steller, Keith Stidham and Molly Wichman _______________________________ ADVERTISING For advertising information, contact Darla Hall dhall@lschamber.com 816.524.2424 _______________________________ PRESS RELEASES Send to gseibel@lschamber.com _______________________________

CHAMBER STAFF Nancy Bruns, CCE, President Matt Baird, Director of Business & Governmental Relations Stephanie Kusek, Director of Communications Stacy Needels, Director of Special Events Cathy Young, IOM, Director of Member Services Darla Hall, Advertising Manager Gina Seibel, Creative Director Anne Aubuchon, Administrative Assistant Nedra Hoover, Bookkeeper Marilyn Pemberton, Part-time Assistant 4 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

220 SE MAIN STREET LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 64063 816.524.2424 • LSCHAMBER.COM

Smart...

The Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council takes pride in being known as one of the most responsive, resourceful, innovative and collaborative business environments in the Kansas City metro area. Our entire business community shares an enthusiastic and forward-thinking spirit.

It is our pleasure to serve all those with a sincere interest in investing, relocating and expanding their business in Lee’s Summit. We invite you to visit us online to see what we can do for you and your business.

Yours Truly, LEESSUMMIT.ORG | 816.525.6617

PASTA POWER pg. 24 A Look Inside A. Zerega’s Sons

24 8 16

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD pg. 8 Now Serving Lee’s Summit

COVER STORY - BRUNS RETIREMENT • pg. 16 Reflecting on the Past and Looking to the Future

CULTURAL ARTS Placemaking in Downtown LOCAL DESTINATION Stonehaus Farms Winery PRO TIPS Who Pays the Bill?

STAYING RELEVANT Remember to Research HEALTHY LIFE Get Moving at Work GET TO KNOW A CEO Wald & Co. Fireworks DOING GOOD Rachel House Pregnancy Resource Centers CHAMBER UPDATE Business of the Year Top Three DOWNTOWN SCOOP Meet the Main Street Staff ENTREPRENEURS CORNER Innovate 8 Program ECONOMIC UPDATE Full Speed Ahead LEADERSHIP LESSONS Heartland Tanning TECH TALK Protecting Your Website 6 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Town

New to

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD 598 NE M-291 HIGHWAY • LEE’S SUMMIT, MO

What sounds better? A BootDaddy, which is a vanilla frozen custard, Oreos, hot fudge and caramel concrete, named after a PBR bucking bull. Or a James Brownie Funky Jackhammer, which is vanilla frozen custard blended with creamy peanut butter, brownies and hot fudge? Whether you choose one of these delightful confections or prefer a more traditional cone, malt or sundae, you can be certain that the frozen custard you get at Andy’s Frozen Custard will have been made fresh in the last hour.

Frozen custard has been around since the early 20th century, and made its way to the Midwest in the 1930s as commercial freezers became more widespread. Made up of cream, sugar, eggs and vanilla extract, the custard is churned very slowly, resulting in an incredibly rich and thick frozen dessert.

8 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

After moving from Kansas City where John Kuntz worked in the car business for 19 years, he and his wife, Carol, moved to the lake and opened their first Andy’s Frozen Custard in Osage Beach in 1986. Named after their son, Andy, now the president and CEO, they soon opened a second location in Springfield in 1987.

Andy met his wife, Dana, when they both worked long hours at the first Springfield store, learning the business from the ground up. Andy’s now has locations in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas and Illinois, with future sites planned for Tennessee and Florida. They plan on opening 20-22 new stores in 2016. Andy’s 30th anniversary is this year and their 30th location soon will open in Ballwin, Mo. Andy and his dad, John, sat in the same parking lot in early 2001-2002 where the current store resides and decided it was

the perfect place to open an Andy’s in Lee’s Summit. They called the real estate company only to find out that the space had just been rented to another frozen custard company. Ironically, it’s the same building they took over last year to open the Andy’s store in Lee’s Summit. “This is a big deal for us,” said Andy Kuntz.

“It’s something we’ve wanted to do for 15 years. Location is the driver. You have to find the right spots and this is a great area.”

Highly anticipated by local Andy’s followers, the Lee’s Summit store at 598 NE M-291 Highway opened in December 2015.

“Right off the bat, this store was a success because we had so much name recognition in Lee’s Summit. Everyone has a tie to Springfield or Columbia or went to school there, so they were ready and waiting for us to open,” said Gary Marker, general manager of the Lee’s Summit store. Marker has been with Andy’s for 16 years and his son, Nathan, also is a manager at the Lee’s Summit store.

As of March 2016, the Lee’s Summit location is #1 in Kansas City and is the second busiest store throughout the company. “The Lee’s Summit store sold more gift cards since it’s been open than all the stores in Chicago combined,” said Kuntz. “That tells us the people here are excited about Andy’s and are eager to share

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their experience with others.”

What are the components for success at Andy’s? Product quality, customer service and community involvement. “When you come to Andy’s, you’re getting the best product possible. Freshness is a big part of what we are. Baked goods are made fresh daily and the custard is made fresh hourly,” said Marker. “We also try to provide exceptional customer service. Speed is very important and it’s impressive to the customer. No one minds a line if they know they’re going to get a treat in less than a minute once they order.”

“We are very passionate about the stores, the people, and the product. We know what we do best and that’s what we’re going to continue to do. We have a long-term mentality about the way we do business and believe it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” said Kuntz.

Being involved in the Lee’s Summit community is important to Andy’s which is why they joined the Chamber and why they assist with charitable fundraisers for various organizations. “We know that Andy’s is a big part of people’s lives and we want this Andy’s to be YOUR Andy’s,” said Kuntz.

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2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 9

Arts

Cultural

RESTART TO BRING PUBLIC ART AND PLACEMAKING TO DOWNTOWN LEE’S SUMMIT

By Jen Steller PLACEMAKING: THE FUTURE OF DOWNTOWN Although the term placemaking is fairly new, the concept dates back to the 1960s when city planners started designing downtowns for people and walkability, not just cars.

According to Project for Public Spaces (PPS), placemaking “inspires people to collectively reimagine and reinvent public spaces as the heart of every community. Strengthening the connection between people and the places they share, placemaking refers to a collaborative process by which we can shape our public realm in order to maximize shared value.”

How is placemaking created in Downtown Lee’s Summit? According to PPS, the following questions should be addressed: • Do people bring their friends and relatives to see a certain place?

• Are people taking pictures?

• Do they point to one of its features with pride?

• Are people of different ages using the space?

• Are there enough places to sit?

The answers to these questions are pivotal to the success of placemaking downtown, creating that public space everyone knows about and where everyone wants to take a selfie; bringing families and individuals together, from different generations, all because of an inviting place.

PLACEMAKING IN DOWNTOWN LS The National Main Street Center, Inc. and Project for Public Spaces are launching a training program designed to encourage placemaking strategies and public space improvements in downtown districts across the country. The program is being piloted in five states, one of which is Missouri.

Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street and the Cultural Arts Committee plan to be a driving force in the success of the placemaking movement in Missouri. The Cultural Arts Committee of Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street has developed a plan to bring public art to the downtown area through a project called RestART (pronounced “Rest” – “Art”).

If you would like to be involved or have questions about the RestART project, Fourth Fridays Art Walk or the Cultural Arts Committee of Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street, please email Jen Steller, DLSMS communications coordinator, at jen@downtownLS.org.

10 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

RESTART: PUBLIC ART PROJECT RestART will commission artists to create sit-able art pieces to be housed downtown. The conditions: pieces should be made mostly from recycled materials, must withstand the elements outdoors and must be considered a public art piece. RestART hopes public art will become the norm in Downtown Lee’s Summit, and they plan to grow the project with the help of the Community Improvement District.

The committee’s belief is that RestART, along with other cultural and artistic projects, will encourage downtown businesses and residents to join in the placemaking movement. Placemaking has many facets, including projects focusing on downtown walkability, traffic flow, green movements and many other topics. Visit pps.org to learn more about the placemaking movement and how Downtown Lee’s Summit can become even more inviting.

ADVANCE YOUR CAREER. Whether it’s a bachelor’s or master’s degree, or a certificate program to help you get ahead, the University of Central Missouri – Lee’s Summit offers affordable, in-demand programs with the flexibility to fit your busy life.

UCM – Lee’s Summit offers several programs ideal for business owners: • Management (undergraduate completion program) • MBA in Ethical Strategic Leadership (graduate program) • Dale Carnegie Training • Organizational Leadership • High-Impact Sales • Strategic Communications for Leaders

Check out your options at ucmo.edu/ucmls.

Destination

Local

The Mad Scientist of Lee’s Summit Wine Country

by John Beaudoin

STONEHAUS

BY THE NUMBERS 4,500

Gallons of wine produced a year

10

Current varieties of wine, from dry whites to sweet reds and dessert wines

25,000

Bottles of wine sold last year

8,000

Brett Euritt isn’t a chemist, a physicist, biologist, or any such thing of the science-sort.

He is, in fact, a wine-maker. Or a “vintner” if you’re just that fancy. But, really, Euritt doesn’t claim to be an extravagant architect of wine. And no one would use the word “fancy” to describe him. Not in his presence, at least.

But what Euritt, his family and staff have created just on the outskirts of Lee’s Summit is, indeed, elaborate. From wine-making to weddings, the Stonehaus team has built quite an empire out at 24607 NE Colbern Road. It all started in 1996 with Brett’s parents, Ken and Carol, who were producing just a handful of wines, from blueberry to apple to the still-popular apple-cranberry fruit wine.

12 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Pounds of grapes, per hour, the machine-picker can harvest

3

Additional acreage of grapes to be added to the winery fields by the end of 2016

11

Tanks used in the Stonehaus “tank room” to ferment, cold stabilize and filter the wine before bottling

10-13

Pounds of grapes it takes to produce one gallon of wine

930

Dollars spent on French-oak barrel, which gets three uses

130/297

Wineries and types of wine made in the state of Missouri

Brett came in to run the operation in 2006, knowing the rigors of day-to-day wine production were a lot to handle, especially as sales and demand grew, and the facility and operation itself underwent a multitude of changes.

Expansion into 2007 brought a reception hall for weddings, baby showers and special events, with 5,500 square feet of processing area added at that time.

“Are we ready to grow again? Yes,” said Euritt with his patented confidence.

Over on the wall, Euritt shows off how the computer displays a reading of all 11 tanks, taken every 15 seconds, sending an alert straight to his cell phone so he knows if even one reading is just a bit off. Euritt can sit on a beach in St. Croix and control the acids and microbial state of his wines.

“Yeah, I’m not a scientist. You learn this stuff along the way and understand how it all works and it’s second nature,” he says. Understanding the process is a must. Like all wineries,

Wine wasn’t foreign to Brett, of course. He grew up in the business, helped crush the grapes in the press and learned the ins-and-outs of scientifically mastering the perfect bottle.

In what looks like a laboratory, Euritt looks over a flatscreen computer monitor hanging on a wall, surrounded by beakers and scales. He uses words like “microbial” and “fermentation” as deftly as he can discuss a football game.

Because he knows it all goes into making a great wine.

“We’re making better reds now with live German yeast, better enzymes, nutrients and controlled aging process,” Euritt explains.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 13

CONGRATS

In 2012, Stonehaus won the Governor’s Cup, given to the best wine in the state.

Euritt battles the beast of bacteria every day – wine’s worst enemy.

wine out the door, which in turn has brought a new demand – more grapes.

in his labor of love, especially knowing that so many throughout Missouri do.

Every bottle of wine – 25,000 in 2015 – is created, fermented, distilled and bottled out of Stonehaus Farms Winery.

Euritt plans for another three acres of fruit on the property by the end of 2016. And to meet that demand, the hand-picking of grapes, harvested at 1,000-pounds-an-hour before, has been replaced with more efficient machinepicking, which can produce eight times that amount an hour.

In 2012, his Vignoles won the Governor’s Cup, the most coveted prize in Missouri wine-making, given to the best wine in the state.

The current Stonehaus menu shows its depth of wine creation: red and white port dessert wines (Abbecore), dry white (Vivant), dry reds (Cynthiana and Chambourcin), semi-sweet whites (Vidal Blanc, Traminette and the bestselling Vignoles), a sweet red and the apple-cranberry.

Euritt is proud of Stonehaus’ entire family of wines, making particular note of the red port, which is fermented with wine brandy and is part of a multi-vintage process started in 2007.

Thus, each wine, each year – even in 30 years – will have some blend from 2007, 2008, 2009, and so on.

It’s a mad, mad science world at Stonehaus. The filter process has graduated from 10-14 hours to a new method allowing for over 1,000 gallons an hour. That’s going to allow for more 14 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Talking wine with Euritt is like taking a college course. The former owner of a roofing company has immersed himself in the process and planning of wine-making, serving on the Missouri Vintners Board. It’s a passion he and his staff of 12 live every day.

And, of course, the ultimate perk is getting to take that freshly-bottled red home whenever you please, right?

“I actually don’t drink much wine,” Euritt declared. “Hey, I know what they all should taste like. I just don’t drink it.”

Bombshell admissions aside, it may not matter that he doesn’t partake often

“There’s not a winery west of Hermann that’s won the Governor’s Cup,” Euritt proclaims. “Except for us.” He’s exponentially proud of his wines...a pride that is apparent at each turn inside Stonehaus.

As Euritt stands behind his front counter, a customer walks in an unlocked door, hoping for a bottle of her favorite wine, not knowing the winery is closed. But Euritt finds her pick among the mass of bottles behind him and rings her up anyway.

“I was so hoping I could get a bottle today,” she tells Euritt.

“We’ll sell you a bottle any time,” Euritt shoots back with a sly grin.

Tips

Pro

You’ve enjoyed your lunch, had great conversation and then the bill arrives.

That awkward moment of who is going to pay. Don’t worry, Catalyst can help!

We’ve scoured our sources and found the following best practices...

Invitee Eats the Bill.

The first rule that trumps most instances is very straightforward.

Whoever initiates the lunch should pay for the lunch. Simple as that.

Seller to Settle Up.

In most cases, if the relationship is vendor-customer, then the vendor should pay, even if the customer invited you to lunch.

Group Lunches.

When out with a group of co-workers, the best practice is to take the total bill and divide it evenly. Do not pull out a calculator and nickel and dime each other.

If you ordered a bowl of soup, just smile and pay your share of the bill.

Seniority Rules.

If you are at lunch with your boss, the good news is they should pay. That may not always be the case, but etiquette shows that they should. If your boss does pay, make sure to graciously thank them instead of arguing over paying for your half.

Favors First.

If you invited someone to lunch in return for a favor and/or advice from this individual, then you should pay. Even if he/she is your boss. Period.

Here are a few other interesting etiquette tidbits to keep in mind...

•

If you are initiating the lunch, let your guest decide on where to go. Toss out a few suggestions but let them make the final decision.

•

If you are being treated to lunch, let the host order first. That way you can make sure not to over order.

•

Always pass the salt and the pepper together. Place both on the table and not directly into another person's hand. Even if you also want to use the salt or pepper, don't use it first if you were asked to pass it. Simply wait for it to be passed around or ask that it be passed back around to you.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 15

Story

Feature

16 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

The Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce prepares to say goodbye and celebrates the many accomplishments of longtime successful leader, President Nancy Bruns.

Nancy Bruns, president of the Lee’s Summit Chamber, is retiring after more than 15 years serving the organization, and nearly 30 years in the industry. Bruns herself points to her upbringing on a dairy farm near Concordia, Mo., as the foundation for her strong work ethic. It’s there that she learned many important lessons molding her into the person she is today.

“As soon as we were old enough, we would have chores,” recalls Bruns, the third child of four. “My brother and I lived outdoors and had a carefree life, but we also worked hard. I guess that’s where I learned you could work hard and accomplish things, while still having a good time.”

“I would help milk the cows and haul in hay, although my dad didn’t necessarily think I should be doing all of that,” Bruns said. “I remember a day when the rain was coming and there was hay down, so I talked my mom into driving the tractor so I could help with the hay. My dad didn’t think that was right at all; he thought mom should be in the house. So we butted heads a bit over things like that, but I was about as stubborn as he was.

He taught me to work hard and instilled an amazing work ethic in me. We lost him in 1983 and there’s seldom a day I don’t think of him. I was definitely a daddy’s girl and whenever someone asks who my hero is, it will always be my dad.”

After leaving the farm, Bruns’ first job was with the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad from 1972-1978. She started as a file clerk and moved up the ranks to become the first woman in management in the sales and marketing department as the assistant to the vice president. “It was definitely a man’s world and that taught me a lot about working collaboratively and providing alternative solutions to the ‘norm’,” Bruns said.

After returning to the Kansas City area, she spent a few years working for Lee Jeans as a contract coordinator. In this position, she frequently traveled to deal with sewing contractors, mainly in the southeast. Tired of the commute, Bruns kept her eyes open for a local opportunity.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 17

Little did Bruns know that when she answered an ad in the local newspaper for an officer manager position at the Independence Chamber that she would find her career path. “At that point in time, I thought all the Chamber did was answer letters from kids when they were writing papers and hand out maps. My, how much I have learned since then,” Bruns said. She credits her boss at the time for teaching her and giving her training about the industry. She eventually served as vice president of the organization before leaving in 1996 to become president of the Raytown Chamber.

Bruns started as the president of the Lee’s Summit Chamber in 2000. At that time, the organization employed three full-time staff, operated with a $300,000 budget and had a membership of 500 members.

Since beginning her tenure, the Lee’s Summit Chamber has grown immensely.

The organization gained financial stability and operates debt-free with a $1.2 million budget, employing seven full-time and two part-time employees. Membership has doubled to 1,000 members and the Chamber continues to attract businesses to the area.

During her nearly 30 years in the industry, much has changed. “There have been lots of changes over the years. Businesses have had to tighten their belts and they don’t have as many employees to get out and volunteer as in the 80s and 90s,” Bruns said. “Even with the popularity of social media, people still want to meet other people and have personal interactions. They want to know who they are doing business with and develop

deeper relationships. I can’t imagine a time when chambers will not play a huge role in communities. It is so much more than just networking; it’s the legislative issues and organizing of people to get goals accomplished.”

Bruns has been a successful leader throughout the years and has the accolades to back it up. In 2005, she was awarded the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) designation. The organization also received the highest designation, 5-Star Accreditation, from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 2014 under her leadership. Last year, the depot underwent renovations made possible by successful fundraising events, and additional staff was brought on to produce all special publications in-house.

I love walking down the street and running into people I know. I love all the events and activities where you feel like it’s almost a family gathering. Lee’s Summit is a warm and embracing community and that’s why it’s home to me.

Bruns’ chamber leadership expands far beyond Lee’s Summit, having served on the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri (CCEM) board of directors from 1991-2004, including as president in 2002-2003. In 2007, she earned the CCEM “Top Level” award. She also served on the board of the Leadership Missouri Alumni Association, serving as President in 2004.

With credentials like these, it would be possible to work for just about any chamber, but for Bruns, Lee’s Summit is home.

“I’ve always said I was going to end up at a chamber on the beach where I could just retire and stay,” said Bruns. “I even

18 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

interviewed a few years back with one, but at the end of the interview, I had to ask why? Why would I want to leave a community that has embraced me and supported me for so many years?

Why would I leave a chamber with such awesome board members, volunteers and staff, and go to the unknown just as I was coming to the end of my career? I may not have lived in Lee’s Summit all my life, but it is home to me.”

“Although we knew this day would sometime come, I had secretly hoped we could just keep her forever,” said Chair of the Board Vicky Cundiff. “As cheesy as it sounds, Nancy is one in a million. She is the type of leader who is inspiring and

- NANCY BRUNS

leads with integrity. She leads by example and is the type of person you want to be around and volunteer for. On behalf of all the board, our members and the Chamber staff, I extend a huge thank you for her years of service to our organization. We will miss her dearly, but know that this is not the last time we will see her. God’s blessings to Nancy as she embarks on yet another phase of her life!”

After retiring, Bruns plans to continue traveling, one of her favorite hobbies, because “there are still so many places to explore.” To date, Bruns has been to eight countries and visited lots of beaches. “I will always come back to Lee’s Summit. My son and his wife and my grandkids live here,

so of course it’s definitely somewhere I couldn’t leave,” Bruns said. “I love walking down the street and running into people I know. I love all the events and activities where you feel like it’s almost a family gathering. Lee’s Summit is a warm and embracing community and that’s why it’s home to me.”

When asked about any advice for the next leader of the Chamber, Bruns replied. “If they are new to the area, get out and meet all the community leaders, partners, members, etc.

If they are already entrenched in the community, always keep in mind that what we do is for the good of the Chamber, its members and the community at large. Don’t worry about who gets credit...do it because it’s the right thing.”

2010 Emerald Isle Parade in Downtown Lee’s Summit

“I have been blessed here in Lee’s Summit. I have had wonderful chairs of the board, board members, Chamber members and, very importantly, have hired really good staff.

Together as a community we have done great things and I’m glad to have been a part of it all.”

Nancy Bruns will always be remembered as someone who has made a difference in the Chamber and the community.

What’s most important to her? To be remembered as a great mom and grandma.

Bruns last day with the organization is June 30.

Nancy with current Lee’s Summit Chamber Staff

NANCY’S FAVORITE TRIP “My favorite vacation was going to Australia and New Zealand with my son on our ‘last trip’ before he got married. I know we will still do trips but the dynamics change. He and I have had an incredibly close relationship over the years and we had a great time.”

Pictured: Nancy and her son Kevin at the 2016 Women of Distinction Luncheon.

Relevant

Staying

by Jim McKenna I BELIEVE YOU SHOULDN’T EVEN BEGIN TO ADVERTISE UNTIL YOU’VE DONE YOUR RESEARCH HOMEWORK. Research helps keep you ahead of the competition by analyzing and interpreting the forces shaping consumer behavior so you can present your business in the best possible light. Another side effect of research is that it helps you fine-tune your marketing messaging to ensure it stays relevant.

THREE TYPES OF RESEARCH: QUALITATIVE: Focus groups and in-depth interviews. By talking to approximately ten participants, you have an opportunity to probe and engage respondents through group discussion to explore and understand what makes them tick.

QUANTITATIVE: Telephone, online and kiosk surveys. Surveys allow you to collect usable statistics as they relate to attitudes, opinions and behavior.

SECONDARY: Desk research. While qualitative and quantitative are primary research tools, secondary research allows you to probe into existing research sources that may have originally appeared in magazines, newspapers, industry-specific or government reports.

Research provides a much needed objective voice, providing a different perspective that businesses can’t find internally because they might make assumptions based on what they think should matter or what they’d like to matter when it comes to business prospects. On the other hand, research provides insights based on the consumer’s actual needs, wants and aspirations.

JIM McKENNA Community Marketing Director Lee’s Summit

Fun Fact

Jim’s clients have won numerous awards, including the American Marketing Association’s “Best of the Best” award in multiple categories throughout the years.

20 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Picture

Retirement…

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Counseling toward prosperity with planned purpose.

Chuck S. Cooper III, CFP®  Senior Vice President – Investments Jon G. Garlow  Financial Advisor 3171 NE Carnegie Dr, Suite B  Lee’s Summit, MO 64064  816-554-5470 www.wfadvisors/cooperwealthmanagement.com Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC  Member FINRA/SIPC CAR-0815-05744

Networking

Photos

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON • Michell Hansen and Kelley Manning show off their Royals spirit at the February Chamber Luncheon featuring Royals Announcer Ryan Lefebvre.

MARCH MADNESS Chamber Young Professionals Heather Balbi and Andrew Dominick network and make their predictions at the March Madness Bracket event at Buffalo Wild Wings.

RIBBON CUTTING • Andy’s Frozen Custard was enjoyed by all at their ribbon cutting celebration on March 11 at their new Lee’s Summit location, 598 NE M-291 Hwy. 22 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS Susan Coffman and Jan Sumner swapped stories and business tips at the March Chamber Before Hours at Summit Rehabilitation and Wellness.

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON • Chamber members Mike Maksin, Debbie Eck and Trevor Williams took a minute to pose for a photo at the Chamber’s Membership Luncheon at The Aspen Room at The Stanley.

MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON • Royals Announcer Ryan Lefebvre and Mayor Rhoads take a second to smile for the camera at a Membership Luncheon.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 23

Insider

Manufacturing

In 1848, Antoine Zerega, a flour miller from Lyons, France, came to the United States and settled in Brooklyn. It was there, a few feet from where the Brooklyn Bridge was to be built, that Zerega founded A. Zerega’s Sons, Inc. The power for the original factory came from a single horse turning the mill stone and other equipment.

Fast forward more than 165 years and A. Zerega’s Sons, Inc. is operated by its sixth generation of pasta makers, and is the nation’s fifth largest pasta producer with locations in Lee’s Summit, Mo. and Fair Lawn, N.J. The Lee’s Summit plant, located at 200 NW Victoria Drive, opened over 20 years ago. The plant manager is Greg Hitchcock, who has been with the organization nearly four years and has seen firsthand the power of pasta.

Pictured: Rich Heath, packaging manager; Greg Hitchcock, plant manager; Kelly Easley, supply chain manager and Richard Best, production manager

The Lee’s Summit location produces 140 million pounds of pasta annually. What does it take to produce such a massive output of product? It starts with a 190,000-square-foot building with its own rail line delivering cars full of flour. From there, the flour travels up three stories and begins the journey to becoming a noodle. From start to finish, the process can take anywhere between 2.5-7.5 hours, depending on the type of pasta. To meet product demands, the plant operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, employing 110 people.

The Lee’s Summit location features two short goods lines and three long goods lines. Short goods include pastas such as shells, penne, ziti and rigatoni. Long lines include spaghetti, lasagna, fettuccine and linguine. Hitchcock explains, “In Lee’s Summit, we do a lot of the standard shapes and we do them faster. The Fair Lawn plant has more lines and they do the smaller, more intricate shapes.”

200 NW VICTORIA DRIVE LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 24 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Hitchcock explained Zerega’s clients using four different distribution categories: • Food Service: Providing noodles to food suppliers who then sell to restaurants.

• Industrial: Supplying products used for frozen meals and pasta meal kits.

• Retail: Selling pasta to Dollar Tree, its only direct retail outlet.

• Contract: Zerega works with the USDA and also provides co-pack services for competitors.

According to Hitchcock, Zerega’s success comes from customer service, quality and operations.

“There are different standards of quality in the pasta business,” Hitchcock said. “Our claim to fame is that we can meet clients’ needs at any time. We are willing to turn our plant around to get pasta in a truck by the end of the day.”

“We don’t let anything go out of this plant that is substandard,” he continued. “Some plants are about the quantity, but we will shut the line down if things are not coming out right, because that’s our name, it’s our reputation. We don’t want pasta that turns to mush. We want you to get the highest-quality pasta out there.”

Hitchcock explained that most plants have the same machines, but it’s Zerega’s current president that has mastered this equipment. “Our president, Jay Vermylen, is a genius. He has made tweaks and modifications to our equipment letting us produce different outcomes. He is known as a world-renowned pasta maker.”

Hitchcock is an engineer by trade with an extensive wealth of knowledge in the food and packaging industry. Previous employers have included Leprino Foods, the world’s largest producer of mozzarella cheese, and Gerber.

Hitchcock enjoys working for Zerega because it’s family-owned.

“Working for a family-owned business, we do a lot of things for employees that big companies can’t do, and I like that,” he said. “We understand that people have families and things come up. Obviously we want people to be here because we have a factory to run, but we want to create an environment where people can enjoy flexibility, enjoy their lives and have a good job at the same time.”

Zerega has a great pay structure and benefits, automatically offering overtime on Saturdays and double time on Sundays, no matter how many hours are worked during the week.

Zerega hopes to expand the Lee’s Summit operation soon with the addition of another short goods line.

Terry Clear, Hector Dominguez and Greg Hitchcock

July 2016 Catalyst The ‘Momentum” issue is your opportunity to feature your business to 4,000 business owners and Chamber members in Catalyst, Lee’s Summit’s premier business magazine.

BUSINESS PROFILES Half Page: 200 words, photo or logo Full Page: 400 Words, two photos Save 10% on any profile and ad combo! Materials due June 1.

CONTACT Contact Darla Hall at Dhall@lschamber.com 816-524-2424

RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY 2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 25

Life

Healthy

TIME TO GET M O V I NG

by Molly Wichman Exercise is something we all want to do, know we should do, and sometimes fail to do. Sometimes we have it all wrong. Imagine if you had the time to exercise, a friendly face to join you, and more energy during your day.

Who would turn this down? Well, this can happen.

Starting a new exercise program or expanding your current exercise program can be difficult if not done properly.

Most people fail at exercising because of scheduling or losing motivation. Everyone is busy with life, family, work and “me” time. So, scheduling your workout around daily life may seem hopeless. If this is where you find yourself, I have some tips to get your exercise program jump-started and it starts with opening our minds to change and seeing the benefits of adding an exercise program into our day.

ST ART S MAL L

I N V I T E Y O U R C O - W O R K E RS

Where do we spend most of our day? At work. Let’s utilize our work time for a little movement and exercise. Be creative and try to incorporate these exercise tips into your day.

After starting a basic program to move around, your co-workers may wonder what you are doing. This is a perfect time to ask them to join you. Creating a group of co-workers raises awareness of exercise in the workplace, and gives you some friendly faces to join and support your goals. If your manager is open to the idea of exercise in the workplace, he or she may even support a workplace exercise program.

•

Park farther away from the door to work, adding extra walking to and from work.

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Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

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Swap out your boring desk chair for an exercise ball.

•

Instead of sending a message to ask a question, go visit co-workers in person.

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Take a few minutes each hour to walk around and stretch your legs.

•

On a long phone call, stand up.

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•

Start a challenge. Creating monthly mini challenges helps you and your co-workers stay motivated. For example: use pedometers to track steps and the most steps wins. Host a healthy weight loss challenge. Challenge co-workers to a trendy plank or squat challenge. There are many challenges to choose from. You may want to add in an incentive with a prize of some sort.

•

Invite a local health and wellness expert to give a “health presentation.”

Dietitians, chiropractors, doctors or personal trainers usually have presentations they can bring to the workplace.

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Take a lap at lunch. Instead of eating out for lunch, stay in. Start a walking group to walk the halls, stairs or on the sidewalk.

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Add some equipment. If there is support for exercise in the workplace, then take advantage of it. Adding resistance bands, exercise mats or light hand weights can promote light lunchtime workouts. Adding a basketball goal out back can encourage pickup games in a friendly team environment.

•

Host healthy pot luck lunches. Invite your co-workers to bring a healthy dish. You can eat together and exchange some healthy recipes.

•

Post easy workplace exercises. Counter pushups (hands on counter, feet on floor), bodyweight squats, swivel chair ab twists, toe raises, water bottle arm curls, or basic stretching. You would be surprised what you can do while waiting for copies to print.

SHARE T H E B ENE F IT S There are many benefits to exercise and workouts. Yes, weight loss is the primary benefit. But, there are other benefits that help you in the workplace.

•

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, which will make you more alert and increase your daily energy. Imagine overcoming afternoon tiredness by feeling more awake.

•

Movement and exercise can stimulate positive feelings.

Exercise causes a release of endorphins. This stimulates the brain to have positive feelings and improved mental health. You will be able to take on the stress of work with a positive attitude.

•

Regular exercise can prevent certain diseases and increase immunity. Save your sick days by staying healthy.

Now that you have the tools to start, grow and share a successful workplace exercise program, the only thing left to do is to get moving. If you are able, go walk a lap in your office or walk up the stairs. When you return, I bet you feel a little bit better and less stressed. Don’t say you will start next week. Do it now.

MOLLY WICHMAN Co-owner Life Transformations Personal Training

Fun Fact

Molly likes to "healthy up" recipes.

Don't tell her family that the dinner favorite, baked ziti, has Greek yogurt, lean turkey and low-fat cheese.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 27

Get to Know a

CEO

The season of hot summer days, cool summer nights and fireworks illuminating the sky will soon be upon us. Catalyst recently checked in with Wald & Co. to see what’s popping in the business.

Wald operates two divisions of fireworks. Wald & Co. Consumer Division imports and wholesales 1.4G Class C consumer fireworks. The All American Display Fireworks Division imports and produces aerial and indoor/outdoor proximate displays in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

Started in 1924 by T. George Wald, the company is now in its third generation of family leadership and continues to grow in the Midwest. Wald originally occupied a building at 208

Broadway in Kansas City, often referred to as the “fireworks place under the Broadway Bridge.” T. George Wald ran the company with three sons: Harold, Norbert and Gerald Wald.

Wald moved to its current location on M-291 Highway near Lake Winnebago in 1992. The combined warehouse and retail space is 30,000 square feet and stocked year-round.

The company is now managed by Charles Wald, grandson of T. George Wald. He started working in the warehouse when he was in high school, and 43 years later, the business still sparks his interest and imagination. “I have always enjoyed the business,” he said. “I like being a part of the shows and seeing the reactions of the audience, especially kids.”

FAVORITE QUOTE? “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” – Will Rogers WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR DOWNTIME? I have a small airplane and enjoy flying.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT LEE’S SUMMIT? It is a great place to raise a family. We were living in the Brookside area of Kansas City when we started our family. We moved to Lee’s Summit for the school district and quality of life for our children.

SPEAKING OF FAMILY, WILL THE WALD FAMILY TRADITION CONTINUE? Yes, my son Nathan is working in the business, and he has a one-year-old son Anthony.

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WHAT’S YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN CIVIC, COMMUNITY OR CHARITY ORGANIZATIONS? Our company encourages our employees to be involved in their community. After relocating to Lee’s Summit, we recognized the value in joining the Chamber and have been a member for nearly 21 years (since July 1995). My wife, Sonja, served as the Chamber chair of the board and had me out putting up Oktoberfest signs for years!

Pictured: Nathan and Charlie Wald. Nathan is the fourth generation to work for the family business.

“Throughout the years, things have changed dramatically,” said Charlie. “The federal, state and local regulatory issues are much greater. But on the fun side, technology has also changed which has allowed us to expand and enhance our business. More shows are being choreographed to music with greater accuracy.” Current software allows for shows to be planned and viewed on a computer, appearing as they would in real-life.

The company stays on track using these three objectives: provide excellent customer service; offer quality products; and remain current on new technologies, products and safety measures.

“We strive for quality products,” said Charlie. “You don’t buy for price anymore, you buy for quality. I don’t want to sell inferior products because it’s our family members and friends running the shows and we take that very seriously.”

The company has played a big part in Kansas City’s history, from shooting shows at the old Municipal Stadium for the Royals to producing rooftop shows for the Plaza Lighting Ceremony, as well as being a part of the first Spirit Festival.

Wald & Co. also provides standby pyro for concerts and shows that come to town because most companies can’t afford the time to get their people licensed in every state.

“We do a lot of concerts at Sprint Center and out in Bonner Springs. We have Professional Bull Riding coming up, Black Sabbath and AC/DC. We’ve done Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift,” Charlie said.

The Lee’s Summit CARES Character Business Sector strives to build businesses of character that make life better for employees, customers and the community. Learn more by visiting LScharacter.org/business.

Each year on the Fourth of July, Wald & Co. participates in approximately 150 shows, including Lee’s Summit’s own Legacy Blast.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 29

Good

Doing

P ROV I D I N G A S S I STA N C E A N D E D U C AT I O N “I will never forget the hopeless and overwhelming feelings I had as a freshman in college when I found out I was pregnant. This was certainly not the life path I had planned. My mom, a widow with three teenagers, had done an amazing job raising us. I knew she was going to be bitterly disappointed. That thought broke my heart and drove me to secrecy. I did not know where to turn for help so I did what many young people do and turned to my peers for advice.

With fear and uncertainty, I chose to terminate my pregnancy. I truly believed at that time, that this decision would erase my problem and give me a clean slate. I couldn’t have been more mistaken.

Now, in my “grandmotherly” years, I believe that decision was the defining moment in my life. My name is Kathy Edwards and it is a privilege for me to serve as the president of the Rachel House Pregnancy Resource Centers in Kansas City.”

and baby a brief introduction. Our education program allows those we assist to have a one-on-one mentor throughout her pregnancy. Each week, social needs are discussed and additional resources are made available. Group classes are added for practical training to enhance a choice for parenting or adoption. Women who have completed our program express deep gratitude for all they have learned, relationships they have made and the way they have been prepared for what lies ahead.

The Allen Guttmacher Institute reports that in Missouri alone there are approximately 54,000 unintended pregnancies in just one year.

Since the Kansas City metro area is one of the largest in the state, we know that many of these women are in our own backyard. At Rachel House, it is our goal to make our services available to these women and provide the supportive network they need to make the very best decisions regarding their pregnancy, their future and the future of their child.

“When I first saw my baby on the ultrasound screen, I couldn’t believe what was happening in my life, but I also suddenly realized that I would sacrifice anything for ‘my’ baby. The program was a life-changing experience. I became confident in my ability to be a good mom; I met friends to share my experience with and my mentor helped me find ways to finish my degree. Because of Rachel House, my son and I will have a brighter future. I don’t know what I would have done without this place.”

Last year, Amanda completed the Rachel House education program and her baby was born just before the New Year. In a recent visit to our Lee’s Summit Center, Amanda recounted how scared she was when she first entered our doors.

Free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds and continuing education opportunities provide the foundation for the work that we do. Website appointments or walk-in appointments are available for testing. On-site ultrasounds are made available as a window to the womb allowing Mom

KATHY EDWARDS President Rachel House Pregnancy Resource Centers

Fun Fact

Kathy and her husband Moe have visited 16 states and covered nearly 15,000 miles of open road on their Harley Davidson touring bike.

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*The Allen Guttmacher Institute compiles statistics for Planned Parenthood and is a national resource. Their website states that their overarching goal is to ensure the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health for all people worldwide.

rachel house upcoming events Stories like Amanda’s are not unique at Rachel House. Last year nearly 1,800 women came through our doors. All of our services are free to those we serve. Our funding comes from events like our annual gala, walk and 5K and golf tournament. Partnerships with businesses, churches and individuals in the community make this ministry possible.

Our three centers are staffed by 20 paid staff and over 120 volunteers who serve in various positions.

Rachel House is a faith-based, non-denominational organization that has served Eastern Jackson County for 24 years.

For more information about Rachel House, please visit rachelhousefriends.com or call the administration office at 816-921-5050. If you know someone who is in need of our services, they can make an appointment at rachelhouse.com.

SAT U R DAY, A P R I L 23

The Midland Theatre Explore a plethora of local flavors as you sample several Kansas City restaurants for dinner, enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment.

SAT U R DAY, M AY 21

Waterfall Park Choose from a chip-timed 5K, a family-friendly 3-mile walk, or a 1-mile walk.

For complete event details, visit rachelhousefriends.org/events.

Short-term sales training is good for one thing.

Short-term results.

Sandler Training™ utilizes continual reinforcement through ongoing training and individual coaching sessions. The combination helps you learn more quickly and ensures your success. With a training center in Lee’s Summit to provide support, you won’t fail…we won’t let you.

Jeff Driskill Driskill Business Development Group, Inc. An Authorized Sandler Training™ Licensee 816-591-4438 / jeff.driskill@sandler.com driskill.sandler.com

Sandler Sales Institute and S Sandler Sales Institute (with design) are registered service marks of Sandler Systems, Inc. S Sandler Sales Institute Finding Power in Reinforcement (with design) and Finding Power in Reinforcement are service marks of Sandler System, Inc. ©2007 Sandler Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 31

Update

Chamber

CHAMBER CELEBRATES SPRING AND BUSINESS OF THE YEAR NOMINEES We’re excited to host a new event this year, the Inaugural Chamber Challenge on April 28, at Paradise Park. It’s not too late to get your team together for a fun-filled day of competitions, team activities and, of course, a BBQ reception! Spend the afternoon getting some fresh air and exercise while getting to know fellow members. Contact us at the Chamber to register.

Each year, the Chamber recognizes outstanding businesses with the Truly the Best Business of the Year awards. I would like to say congratulations to the businesses named the top three in each of the four categories for this year’s awards.

The final winner for each category will be announced at the Membership Luncheon on May 20. Congratulations to:

Spring has officially arrived and things at the Chamber are heating up. April is packed with opportunities to get out and take advantage of the Chamber’s offerings and the buzzing business community.

The Chamber sponsored its annual trek to Jefferson City, where members met with legislators, toured the state capitol and learned more about the Missouri legislature. It’s been a busy year for the Chamber’s legislative programs, with various elections and the recent Department of Labor Overtime Ruling Breakfast.

In terms of getting out and making connections, the upcoming Eastern Jackson County Business Expo brings hundreds of people together from various Chambers presenting the perfect opportunity to meet and greet and gain exposure for your business. If you haven’t been before, I recommend checking it out on April 21 at the Silverstein Eye Centers Arena.

NANCY BRUNS, CCE President Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce

Fun Fact

Nancy once worked with the FBI to help catch a festival vendor that was selling bootlegged tapes at an event.

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BEST IN CLASS NOT FOR PROFIT: • Coldwater • Rachel House Pregnancy Resource Centers, Inc. • Truman Heartland Community Foundation BEST IN CLASS – 5 OR LESS EMPLOYEES: • Access Records Management • Dana Arth, CPA, LLC • Embrace the Grape Beverage Catering BEST IN CLASS – 6 TO 20 EMPLOYEES: • Bodies Health & Fitness • Community Buying Group • Missouri Central Credit Union BEST IN CLASS – 20+ EMPLOYEES: • City of Lee’s Summit • Hawthorn Bank • Turn the Page Online Marketing As many may know, my time with the Chamber is winding down as my retirement date nears. At the end of June, I will be retiring after 15 years at the Lee’s Summit Chamber and plan to spend time traveling and also with my family. It has been an amazing 15 years and each of our members has pitched in to make my experience a great one.

I plan to stay active in the community and, who knows, you may even see me popping into your business! I wish all of our members the best of luck moving forward and am proud to have been part of the Lee’s Summit Chamber, the champion of the Lee’s Summit business community.

Scoop

Downtown

New HOME New Faces SAME HEART

Pictured left to right: Julie Cook, Ashley Nowell, Donnie Rodgers, Jr. and Jen Steller.

MAIN STREET TRANSITIONS INTO NEW HOME AND LEADERSHIP A group of dedicated community members came together over 27 years ago to set a strong foundation for the organization that would become Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street. Their hearts and passion were in preserving a very vital part of the Lee’s Summit community, the downtown area.

KHL Design Studio, Fossil Forge, Budget Blinds, Cameron’s Home Furnishings, Razzberry Wimzy, Owen Lumber, E&Q Heating and Cooling and Harmon Floor Covering.

Downtown Lee’s Summit has a remarkably rich past, a vibrant present and a bright future. As any successful organization grows, change is inevitable, taking from those who have been vital to the organization throughout the years and building upon their successes.

In October 2015, the DLSMS board of directors promoted Donnie Rodgers, Jr. to the position of executive director. Rodgers previously served as assistant director and has spent his professional career working with Missouri downtowns, including Cape Girardeau and Springfield. He holds a bachelor of architecture degree from Drury University and a master of science in community development degree from Kansas State University.

New HOME Helping set the tone for the next wave of development downtown, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street transformed a metal storage building in the alley off Third Street into a bright, modern and welcoming office for the organization. It is DLSMS’s hope this new home will inspire new uses to the often forgotten rear of buildings in the downtown core. The new office certainly was a downtown team effort led by steadfast DLSMS volunteer Brad Culbertson. Materials and services used in the new offices include:

New faces

Ashley Nowell came to the organization in December 2015 to serve as assistant director. A 2011 graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University, she recently had been the development director for Pro Deo Youth Center.

DLSMS welcomed Julie Cook in February 2016 to fill the events and promotions director position. Cook previously served as

the director of student involvement at Westminster College.

Jen Steller, communications coordinator, joined the staff in May 2015. A lifelong resident of the Kansas City area, Steller formerly was the brand manager for two national online toy brands and a research analyst at a local advertising agency.

Even with the changing faces, the passion remains the same. DLSMS is a communitydriven organization focused on helping leverage unique community resources to strengthen downtown’s historic core while creating a strong sense of place and a better quality of life for all. Learn more about the mission and work at downtownls.org 2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 33

Entrepreneurs

Corner

Lee’s Summit R-7, Chamber, University of Central Missouri and Tingle Flooring partner in day-long workshop for students

Young entrepreneurs from Lee’s Summit High School, Lee’s Summit North High School and Lee’s Summit West High School participated in an eight-hour workshop on Feb. 18 that focused on learning about and experiencing innovation.

Known as Innovate 8, the program allows students to spend an entire day learning how to reimagine the world around them, discovering how to develop creative and innovative product/service ideas and learning how to communicate those ideas to potential customers and investors. The project was a joint partnership with the University of Central Missouri, Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Tingle Flooring and the Lee’s Summit R-7 Business Department.

Workshop presenters were Brandon Banks and Kami Nelson, entrepreneurs and recent graduates of UCM. “Business and job opportunities have changed so much over the past 10-13 years that students need to be able to think outside the box for their future opportunities,” said Darrell Brammer of UCM. Students collaborated in groups to brainstorm and rethink current products and ideas and how to add value to them in their daily lives. Some of their innovative products included a combo washer-dryer-folder, an hourglass-shaped soda can, and a telescoping squeegee for year-round use on car windows. Teams participated in a number of exciting hands34 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

on activities and finished their day presenting to a panel of Lee’s Summit Chamber members, including Chip Moxley of Tingle Flooring, Rick Viar of Summit Bank of Kansas City, Rosalie Newkirk of HSMC Orizon, and Jon Cundiff of Weed Man. “It was awesome to see the confidence, energy and passion displayed today by the students of the Innovative 8 program,” Cundiff said. “It is great to see entrepreneurship alive and well in Lee’s Summit.”

Jack Gavin, a student at Lee’s Summit North High School, said, “I learned how to properly market a company from the start-up perspective and how to write a business proposal” Joe Hays, a teammate also from LSN, added, “I learned a lot about how to develop a product and innovate it and identify problems at their source.”

Brammer hopes the event opened the students’ eyes to the many possibilities available as they move on to college, enter the workforce or even start their own businesses.

“The students did a great job in the day’s learning process, presenting their ideas and answering some tough questions from the mentors,” he said. “All of the students had a passion for their team’s ideas and passion is a key element for any entrepreneur to succeed.” ”It was exciting to observe the high energy in a room filled with high school students,” said Newkirk. “I was amazed at

Innovate 8 judges Rosalie Newkirk, Chip Moxley, Jon Cundiff and Rick Viar

Spring into Action! membership drive join the chamber between april 15–may 15 and enjoy SPECIAL perks: the creative thought process that went into the ideas and was very impressed with the students’ ability to articulate the problem and solution as they made their presentations.”

$25 enrollment fee waived

Viar concluded, “I was impressed by the poise, confidence and creativity of each team. These kids would definitely give Shark Tank a run for their money.”

Free set of current member mailing labels–$100 value

Free monthly membership luncheon–$20 value

Immediate inclusion in online directory, as well as the Chamber’s mobile app New members will be entered into a drawing for a marketing package for an upcoming Kansas City Royals game–$300+ value View the online application and rates at LSchamber.com or contact Cathy Young at 816.524.2424 with any questions.

Some information provided by Sherri Norton and Janie Rohlfing.

220 SE Main St. | 816.524.2424 | LSchamber.com 2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 35

Highlight

Historic

Museum Executive Director Kathy Smith

HISTORY MUSEUM CELEBRATES ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY Dreams do come true in Lee's Summit, just ask the members of the Historical Society of Lee's Summit. Moving into a larger museum space had long been a dream of the organization. Once that was accomplished, thanks to a voter-approved bond issue in April 2013, being able to custom-design a state-of-the-art museum made the dream even better.

On those quiet days when Kathy Smith is working in the museum, she can feel the power of the stories preserved there. Utilizing the pictures and artifacts of many long-time local families, their stories have been turned into interesting and fun exhibits.

Volunteers make the exhibits come alive by engaging visitors with their personal interpretations of the exhibits, utilizing little-known information and interesting narratives.

Walking into the museum, visitors immediately see a mural painted in 1940 and exhibits such as the 1880s wedding dress worn by the daughter of the city’s founder, William B. Howard.

In addition to photographs, maps and artifacts of early Lee’s Summit, displays include a re-creation of the Vogue Theatre, a WPA kitchen, information on Lee’s Summit’s ties to the baseball world, exhibits on the Browning and Metheny families, as well as the Border War, including Lee’s Summit most infamous resident, Cole Younger.

April marks the first year of operation in the museum’s new space. To say it has been an exciting year for the organization is an understatement. They’ve hosted many important events the past year, including celebrating the historic 150th birthday of Lee's Summit; the Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area, the Friends of the Symphony; meetings of civic groups and more.

It has been said that the word museum means “in the service of society.” The Historical Society of Lee's Summit wants the citizens to know they plan to serve the community in many ways.

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They want to provide a space where children can have great learning experiences. Developing a first-rate research center also is a top priority for the organization. The donation of the bound copies of the Lee's Summit Journal and Journal archives was a boon to the museum.

Working with the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District has been a proud moment. The district developed a curriculum for the 150 celebration, providing an opportunity to meet with many of the great teachers in the district.

“We are grateful to our many members who have supported us with their donations and support all of our activities,” said Smith.

The Historical Society of Lee's Summit Museum invites you to be a part of their bright future. For more information, visit leessummithistory.net and follow them on Facebook.

NATIONAL HISTORIC PRESERVATION MONTH In past years during the month of May, the Historical Society of Lee’s Summit has partnered with the Lee’s Summit Historic Preservation Commission on various historybased activities, including a downtown walking tour and tours of the historic Lee’s Summit cemetery. This year’s event takes place on May 7, when students from Lee’s Summit North High School will read letters from the museum’s WWII exhibit.

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Any accountant can prepare a tax return or review a balance sheet with you. HSMC Orizon professionals hold the belief that it’s their job to help you understand your financial situation and how thoughtful analysis and proactive planning can improve your business.

Any technology company can respond and react.

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Whether your business has operated for years or you are just getting started, we believe you should manage your financial situation, not just comply with reporting requirements. HSMC Orizon clients are taken through a proprietary tax and accounting management system that provides proactive, ongoing, thoughtful assessments for your business.

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As entrepreneurs, business owners and CPAs, we bring a unique perspective for growing your business. Let us help you understand your numbers and manage your financial situation.

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We’re real people with real solutions

Update

Economic

Full Speed Ahead

By Rick McDowell

The ink was barely dry on Lee’s Summit’s 2015 market trends report, conducted by North Star Destination Strategies, when the kind of expansion projects identified in the report started rolling through the Development Center.

The comprehensive report indicated that Lee’s Summit is ripe for growth in manufacturing in general and the aviation components industry specifically. Shortly thereafter, High Tech Solutions LLC, homegrown manufacturer of aerospace machined components and assemblies, announced an investment of $6.4+ million in a new 22,000-square-foot building and equipment at 1440 SE Broadway Dr. High Tech Solutions is exactly the kind of company the LSEDC and City of Lee’s Summit want to retain and help grow.

High Tech Solutions will nearly double the facility and its investment within five years, and plans to hire 46 employees, due to the City of Lee’s Summit’s decision in 2015 to begin utilizing tax abatement through the Land Clearance Redevelopment Authority.

The LCRA is an incentive mechanism made possible because of the City’s approval of its first-ever economic development incentive policy. According to the LSEDC

and City Development Center, it’s a powerful new tool offering real property tax abatements for users who extend the life of properties and land that would otherwise be considered obsolete and will increasingly be used to assist in redevelopment that would be too expensive.

Under the agreement, the City will expand the existing US 50/M-291 Urban Renewal Area, allowing for projects within the expansion area to pursue LCRA tax abatement. The City approved a 75 percent abatement of the incremental increase in real property taxes resulting from improvements to the property. The estimated abatement over the 10-year period is $360,296, and is subject to High Tech Solutions meeting agreed-upon hiring and investment targets. During the abatement period, new revenues from the investment in real property and business equipment are estimated at $207,387.

Another exciting manufacturing project made possible through an LCRA incentive is the 25,000-square-foot expansion of JCI Industries’ production facility. The pump maker more than doubled the size of its Lee’s Summit shop to 82,000 square feet, with plans to add upgraded machinery,

RICK McDOWELL President & CEO Lee’s Summit Economic Dev. Council

Fun Fact

Rick attended the Presidential Inauguration of Ronald Reagan in 1981.

38 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

including new forklifts, cranes and lathes, as well as more than 30 new employees over the next six years.

The $3.1 million expansion will allow for increased capacity and capabilities, as well as faster customer response times, according to Chip Toth, JCI Industries president.

Founded in 1975, JCI Industries has grown into a thriving company employing 90 local workers, with additional employees at six service branches across the Midwest.

“JCI has been in Lee’s Summit for over 35 years, which has included five building or expansion projects during this period.

Working with the City’s Development team and project manager on our latest expansion was the best experience we have ever encountered to date,” Toth said.

Armed with a flexible economic development incentive policy for the first time in Lee’s Summit history, the City Development Center and the LSEDC are looking forward to more expansion announcements throughout 2016.

JCI INDUSTRIES’ 25,000-SQUARE-FOOT EXPANSION

Lessons

Leadership

HEARTLAND TANNING, INC. Evolving and expanding in a changing industry

Growing up in an entrepreneurial household in Illinois, Greg and Brad Henson were always busy working on a project of some sort. Brad started accompanying his father on business trips when he was in fifth grade and his passion for selling and management took off.

The brothers began at the bottom when their father sent them out on the road making appointments from a phonebook for their family business. Then, they worked for a company that manufactured exercise equipment, and rose through the ranks to eventually own Heartland Tanning, Inc., a company which had revenues in excess of $40 million at its height, manufacturing and distributing tanning beds and aftermarket items. Heartland Tanning has been in Lee’s Summit since 1992, with 67 employees locally and offices in various cities across the country, covering three time zones.

The road to get there, however, wasn’t always an easy one.

After a business failed in 1984, Brad had a moment of panic, as anyone would, with a pregnant wife, house payment and a failed business plan. “What are we going to do?” Brad asked his father, Glen. “We’re going to get up tomorrow and go to work,” Glen said. That response is what set them on the path they’re on today.

Although Heartland Tanning is the largest in the U.S. facilitywise, more than 20,000 salons existed at the peak of the industry, with around 8,500 currently still in business. The female-driven industry is being regulated by the FDA and has faced backlash from the media. The Henson family has worked hard to combat stories against UV rays and also offer Pura spray tans to keep up with the changing industry.

As part of their growing business plan, the Henson brothers found that nothing beats knowledge and dove into researching the next phase of their business. After a full year of analysis and talking with business mentors, they bought the franchise rights for Planet Fitness in the five-county metro area. Heartland Tanning had been a vendor for Planet Fitness and it just made sense to expand through franchise ownership. It was a learning process and brought challenges such as hiring and managing employees, as well as finding the right buildings and landlords, while finding the time to sleep and stay healthy.

Brad acknowledges managing two companies takes a toll, but believes it is important to keep your mind active and your body healthy. Glen Henson still maintains an office every day at the age of 90, saying, “If you sit down, you’ll rust.” The Hensons focus on creating a good business environment and treating others as they would want to be treated in terms of customer service.

Additional Planet Fitness locations are on the way across the metro, hopefully including a location in Lee’s Summit. The Hensons believe having both Heartland Tanning and Planet Fitness businesses in the Lee’s Summit community would be the perfect fit for their future.

DID YOU KNOW?

Indoor tanning originated in Germany.

2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 39

Tech

Talk

In the current business environment, whether your organization is large or small, a website is an essential element of your business.

If it was developed in the last 3-5 years, it is likely content managed, enabling you or a staff member to make updates and additions internally utilizing a content management system (CMS). WordPress is the most popular CMS system on the Internet today, which makes it a favorite target for hackers.

Here are ten actions to take to increase security on a WordPress website. It is important to mention that these measures don’t guarantee 100 percent protection against hacking attempts, mostly because a 100 percent secure website doesn’t exist. These tips will protect you against the majority of attacks and certainly improve your security.

USE A QUALITY WEBHOST, that provides access to a control panel and other features, i.e., daily, weekly and monthly backups and MyPHP Admin for database access. Quality webhosting does not have to be outrageously expensive but $3.95 per month is probably not the best plan.

CREATE A STRONG PASSWORD. Use upper and lower case letters, numbers and characters. If it is created correctly or auto-generated, it can be used for all your accounts and still be secure.

STAY UPDATED. Keep your version of WordPress and plugins updated. Make sure your host has a current backup prior to performing this procedure.

IMPLEMENT PROVEN SECURITY FEATURES. Use a combination that has proven to be consistent: • iThemes Security • Login Security Solution • WP Personal Firewall If you have basic knowledge and wish to attempt this, you can find detailed instruction and video tutorials on YouTube. There are great step-by-step resources for assisting you with the configuration of security plugins. If you are apprehensive, please reach out to a qualified professional to perform these tasks for you

40 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

RENAME YOUR WORDPRESS LOGIN DIRECTORY. This prevents malicious login attempts. Creating a custom login URL disables wp-admin and dramatically reduces hacking attempts.

ENABLE BRUTE FORCE PROTECTION. Brute force login attacks can rob your site of resources and though you might be protected, it can slow your site’s performance.

SETUP NICKNAMES FOR USER ACCOUNTS. This will hide your username/author name. Instead of jsmith, create a nickname like ABC Staff.

SETUP SECURITY EMAIL ALERTS. This way you are aware attempts are being made to compromise your website and will receive alert for failed login attempts and changed files.

AUTOMATE. Use monitors or file scanning services, such as Sucuri or Site Lock. This can add an additional $500 to your annual website budget.

KEITH STIDHAM Owner New Age Graphics

Fun Fact

Keith was a founding member of the Downtown Rotary club formed in 2007.

SurveySays

Spring is here (finally) and now is a great time to spruce up your landscaping and create a welcoming environment for your customers.

Check out the following tips from Lee’s Summit Chamber members.

Keep it Clean

Try Rock Accents

Having a clean exterior appearance is important to drawing in potential customers and keeping current ones. It does require some time and/or money.

If you want to dress up the flower beds in front of your business or home, try using rock to accent your edges. Rock along flower bed edges can soften hard lines and transition the eye to move from turf to flowers.

Without spending a lot of money, you can still get the kick that decorative rocks can add to your landscaping.

Keep it simple. Applying the less is more concept can help you simplify your exterior.

Keep up with the maintenance. Don't wait until everything is overgrown to cut it all way back. It is often cheaper to hire a professional firm to routinely maintain a landscape than to do a large cleanout once per year.

Add some color! Even if you don't have a place to plant annuals, a couple of flower pots near an entry goes a long way.

DANIEL HENKS Earth Effects Lawn & Landscape, LC

Treat Your Turf Finely manicured turf makes a great impression to prospective customers driving by, as well as people pulling into the parking lot of the business. It requires proper fertilization, the control of pesky weeds and insects, as well as attention to detail by the mowing crew, but manicured turf can say a lot about the quality of the business and the pride they have in being part of our community.

JERRY BROWN Weed Man

WILLIAM ROTH GIBSON Down To Earth Services

Make a Good Impression Missouri native Mark Twain once said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Put your best foot forward and "wow" your clients upon arrival. Recently, I visited a retail store in a strip center; it looked dark and closed when I pulled up so I almost left. They were open so I suggested a few things to the store that day: more lighting in the windows, seasonal flower pots on the sidewalk, and an "open" flag or chalkboard outside.

If customers feel welcome, they will stop in and return often. If they feel unwelcome, they may never even set foot in the door. An easy test is to have a friend or stranger visit and tell you what they see. You might be surprised to see what your business looks like through someone else’s eyes.

CAMI REISS Reiss Earthworks 2ND QUARTER - 2016 | 41

CALENDAR OF

EVENTS EASTERN JACKSON COUNTY BUSINESS EXPO 2–7 p.m. Thursday, April 21 Silverstein Eye Centers Arena ejcexpo.com CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30–8:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 26 Longview Funeral Home & Cemetery INAUGURAL CHAMBER CHALLENGE 2–8 p.m. Thursday, April 28 Paradise Park Sponsor: Unity Village RECESS FOR SUCCESS 4–5 p.m. Tuesday, May 3 John Knox Village Villager Inn Building - Manhattan Room Speaker: Bodies Health and Fitness Topic: Workplace Postural Techniques Sponsor: Awaken Whole Life Center CHAMBER 101: GET PLUGGED IN 3:30–5 p.m. Wednesday, May 4 Paradise Park

CHAMBER AFTER HOURS 4:30–6 p.m. Thursday, May 12 Lead Bank

CHAMBER AFTER HOURS 4:30–6 p.m. Thursday, June 9 Turn the Page Online Marketing

CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Tuesday, May 17 Down to Earth Services Sponsor: Down to Earth Services

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON 1:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Friday, June 17 Emaline Ballroom Program: Chris Kuehl, Armada Corporate Intelligence Sponsor: Gutter Cover of Kansas City

MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Friday, May 20 Abundant Life Auditorium Program: Truly the Best Awards Sponsor: NBKC Bank

2016 CHAMBER GOLF CLASSIC 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Thursday, June 23 WinterStone Golf Course Registration required

CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30–8:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 24 Awaken Whole Life Center RECESS FOR SUCCESS 4–5 p.m. Tuesday, June 7 John Knox Village Villager Inn Building - Manhattan Room Speaker: Erik Crew, E. Crew Executive Leadership Coaching Topic: Elevating Leadership Capacity Sponsor: General Elevator and Hydraulics

CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30–8:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 28 Walmart (Vision Center) RSVP required Registering for events is easy at LSchamber.com! Just click on the event you wish to attend and log in with your member ID. Need help or don’t know your password? Call 816.524.2424 for help.

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