Missouri BIZ by Missouri Magazine

Issue 1

Founder of El ev ate Entertai nment 2019 M an of th e Year A w ard

Broc Barton

In this

ISSUE

Missouri Biz | Issue 1 2019 | Celebr ating Why We Love Missour i

16 M an o f t h e Year B r o c B ar t o n

W o m an o f t h e Year Er i ca B ar cl ay

DEPARTM ENTS Publisher ?s Note 6 Staff 8

Sh o p L o cal

Shop Local 54

On the Cover: Elevate Entertainment Broc Barton

#M issou r iM agazin e

Publisher'sNOTE

s n o i t a l u t a r g n Co Thank you for reading Missouri BIZ. Our team had a lot of fun putting together our first Missouri Business issue and we hope you enjoy it. Our 40 under forty gives us another reason to celebrate why we LOVE Missouri? so many young and talented professionals throughout Missouri. Missouri Magazine is recognizing and honoring young professionals and community leaders in Missouri. 40 under forty winners and runner ups were voted by our readers. ?This is our first year for our Missouri Magazine?s 40 under forty. We look forward to continued growth in our 40 under forty group. It?s an honor to recognize so many talented young professionals in the state of Missouri. We have two awards that our team at Missouri Magazine selected, 2019 40 under forty Man of the Year and Woman of the Year. The 40 under forty Man of the Year is Broc Barton ? Elevate Entertainment, and the Woman of the Year is Erica Barclay ? Sassy Junk Boutique. We are excited to announce our winners for 2019 40 under forty. Look for more information about these young professionals throughout the pages of our first Missouri BIZ magazine. We have amazing local businesses featured throughout our current issue. We hope you will stop in and say hi to these businesses and other businesses throughout Missouri. Let them know you heard about them at Missouri Magazine. We love celebrating Missouri and local businesses.

Congratulations to all our winners of 40 under forty. Enjoy all that Missouri has to offer!

Cherish Life,

Cheri Cheri Cranford 573-284-5406 hello@missourimagazines.com Proverbs 3:5-6

M I SSO U RI BIZ Pu blish er / Ow n er Cheri Cranford

Con t r ibu t in g Wr it er s Tiffany Ash Bennet Bodenstein

Layou t / Design CDM Media Group

Con t act M issou r i M agazin e 205 N Oak Street Stover, MO 65078 573-284-5406 hello@missourimagazines.com Missouri Magazine is published bi-monthly by CDM Media Group. T he opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the publisher or of Missouri Magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. ÂŠ2018 CDM Media Group. Missouri Magazine welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Cheri Cranford at hello@missourimagazines.com

Proverbs 3:5-6

Founder of ELEVATE ENTERTAINMENT 2019 MAN OF THE YEAR

Br oc Bar t on Broc is one of a kind in the entertainment industry. He is more than DJ, at any event he is always willing to help in any way to make your event a success. His enthusiasm and knowledge brings you the best in Missouri. Broc sat down with Missouri Magazine to share his journey and the heart behind Elevate Entertainment. It is a pleasure to introduce Missouri's Best DJ's and Missouri Magazine's Man of the Year Broc Barton.

M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us a little about yourself and your journey. Br oc Bar t on : I?ve been DJing now for 16 years! I usually get asked next how old I am: I?m 32. That?s right. I started when I was 16. :) I grew up in a small town in Southern Missouri, and I remember even then dreaming of making an impact on the world around me in some way. I would have never guessed it would come to be through my work creating powerful experiences at special events. After some notable success in a previous organization, I started receiving requests to perform at weddings and events all over the Midwest and even nation-wide, which is somewhat unheard of in the mobile DJ world. In time, it became really clear to me that I was creating something powerful. So, I parted ways with that company, excited to start what would become Elevate Entertainment. I could have never dreamed that in a short 2.5 years, Elevate would be recognized as Missouri?s #1 DJservice. It?s been an incredible journey, and I feel blessed to be on it. M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us your role at Elevate Entertainment. Br oc Bar t on : My title is Owner and Lead DJ, but really, my role is keeping my team inspired about serving our fantastic clients, keeping our services the highest quality and cutting edge, and ensuring that our clients have absolutely incredible experiences with our company.

M issou r i M agazin e: Share a little about Elevate Entertainment with our readers. Br oc Bar t on : Elevate is an entertainment company for special events and private functions. We specialize in providing custom DJ, Emcee, and Event hosting services for weddings, corporate events, and fundraisers. We also have DJ + Band services, Custom lighting capabilities, and unique photo booth services through our sister brand, Selfie

Mirror Springfield.

That?s the business description, but here?s the thing: Elevate Entertainment is more than a DJcompany. It's a movement. It's a lifestyle. Every day we wake up thrilled to make people's day, one incredible experience at a time. We believe life is made up of these special moments and we're deeply passionate about bringing joy and laughter into people's lives through these moments. Because of this, we are relentlessly committed to the innovation and

find that everywhere. It?s really somewhat

perfection of our craft. We simply won't

unique to the Midwest! M issou r i M agazin e:What are your family?s favorite activities? Br oc Bar t on : If it involves adventure, we?re in! We enjoy a good hike or a day at the lake. We?re also big travel buffs, so we love getting out to discover everything that?s out there! M issou r i M agazin e: Where can someone find you are not at work? Br oc Bar t on : Ha! My team would laugh at this. If I?m not DJing an event, I?m usually in my office working away. I probably work a bit too much, but hey, I love what I do. It

stop in our pursuit of excellence. Our

doesn?t feel like work! If I?m not doing those

clients and our fans deserve it.

things, I?m probably heading out of town

M issou r i M agazin e: What do you love

for some travel! :)

most about living in Missouri?

M issou r i M agazin e: What do you consider

Br oc Bar t on : Man, people here are just

your greatest professional achievement?

so wonderful. They?re so kindhearted

Br oc Bar t on : It could be easy to put some

and generally concerned about the

accolade here, but honestly, there is

community around them. So many

nothing more rewarding than having built

people here genuinely care for their

an organization that makes an incredibly

neighbor and would give the shirt off

positive impact in the lives of the people

their back to help someone. You can?t

with whom we work. I fall asleep at night

with a smile on my face knowing we?re doing just that. M issou r i M agazin e: Do you have a favorite local charity? Br oc Bar t on : Yep! Community Partnership of the Ozarks! I mean, there are so many, but I get to work closely with them on many of their projects, and it?s really amazing how hard they work to improve their local communities. M issou r i M agazin e: What are some of your local favorite places? Br oc Bar t on : The lake is a favorite for a quick getaway. :) All of Springfield?s ridiculously awesome coffee shops (where you can often find me working). Seriously, we compete with Seattle on coffee-awesomeness. I?m also partial to some of Springfield?s famed local restaurants. A few favorites include: Jimm?s Steakhouse, Wheelhouse Mexican/Thai Street Fare, and Salvatore?s Fresh Ristorante. M issou r i M agazin e: How did the name of your business originate? Br oc Bar t on : I spent what seemed like forever dreaming up the name for this company. I wanted it to embody the meaning of the company somehow. Eventually, I realized that

what we do is take things to the next

M issou r i M agazin e: How long have

level, both at our events and in our

you lived in Missouri?

quality of service. We take simple events

Br oc Bar t on : All of my life, really!

and elevate them to incredible experiences. And just like that, I knew what we had to be called--Elevate Entertainment.

M issou r i M agazin e: What inspired you or led you to your current career?

M issou r i M agazin e: What has kept you here? Br oc Bar t on : I think it?s been various reasons at various points in my life. At some point it was for College (Go Mizzou!), then it was for my Masters

Br oc Bar t on : I actually somewhat fell

program (AGTS), then it was for this

into this! I know it?s crazy. When I

incredible woman I somehow

turned 16 in the small town where I

convinced to be my wife. Now it?s

grew up, you really only had two jobs

because of this incredible company that

to choose from: sacking groceries at

has grown beyond anything I could

the local grocery or flipping burgers at

have imagined: Elevate Entertainment.

the local McD?s. There isn?t anything

M issou r i M agazin e: What is something

wrong with either of those

on your bucket list?

opportunities, but I just found myself

Br oc Bar t on : Ha ha. Everything! One of

wanting something more meaningful

my life mottos is to live my life with

and unique. I discovered a country

?heart wide open.? I?m also especially a

music radio station outside of my

sucker for really unique experiences. I

hometown was looking for a late night

got to have an Italian Nonna (grandma)

DJ. I applied and got the job!

teach me how to make homemade

I eventually worked up to the Saturday Afternoon show there and it

pasta the old-world Italian way in her small little flat in Polambara Sabina, Italy. She didn?t speak a lick of English.

was a great learning experience. But

We spent all afternoon mixing, rolling,

there was always something that left

and drying pasta, laughing and working

me slightly unsatisfied. Looking back, I

through our language barrier.

realize it was because Radio DJing can

Afterwards, we enjoyed the fruits of our

sometimes be very lonely. You are

labor (or should I say, the ?pasta? of our

mostly by yourself in room with your

labor). Still one of my all-time favorite

mic and your music. I?m very

memories.

extroverted and I love being with

M issou r i M agazin e: What is

people! Somewhere around age 18 or 19,

something interesting that most

I learned about Events DJing and fell in

people don?t know about you?

love! Best of both worlds! The rest, as they say, is history. :)

Br oc Bar t on : I?m a sucker for useless

BROC BARTON | M AN OF THE YEAR knowledge. I really enjoy documentaries and reading about history and other random information. I?m weird, I know. M issou r i M agazin e: Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years? Br oc Bar t on : Easy. Still pursuing ways that I can leave an incredible, positive impact in people?s lives. I still have a few plans up my sleeve. :) M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us about your day getting ready for an event with Elevate Entertainment. Br oc Bar t on : I always try to get a good night of rest, then I?m protective of my mornings before an event. I want to be able to be focused and relaxed so I can keep my attention fully on the event experience. I?ll often double check my show details and make sure I have everything prepared, grab a good breakfast, then load up to go to the event.

One of my favorite parts: on my drive to the event, I make it a point to listen to music that inspires me. It helps me get in the right place to inspire others. :) Then, between load up, drive time, set up, performance, tear down, and load out, it?s completely common for me to work 12 hours on an event day. M issou r i M agazin e: What are your steps for success? Br oc Bar t on : Three things: Value people over profits. Value connection over costs. And the most challenging of the three--Value yourself appropriately.

valuable beyond comprehension. I also get really inspired when I ?discover ? new things. I use that word loosely to describe anytime I essentially learn or experience something new. Whether it?s

M issou r i M agazin e: Where does your

discovering some ancient city, a new

inspiration come from?

culture, a new way of thinking, or just a

Br oc Bar t on : I stay constantly

new person, all of these things keep me

inspired by the message of the Bible.

inspired. I am constantly aware of the fact

It?s been life-changing for me to

that there is more to discover.

understand that I am deeply loved and

As pertains to Elevate, the same is true. I never thought in a million years Elevate would become Missouri?s #1 DJcompany in just over 2 years. I?m excited to continue discovering what Elevate can become and how it can continue to be a powerful experience for the tens of thousands of people we encounter every year. M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite part about your job? Br oc Bar t on : Getting to make a positive impact. M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite quote? Br oc Bar t on : I have many, but right now

my favorite is, ?It?s kind of fun to do

M issou r i M agazin e: If you could go

the impossible.? - Walt Disney

back in time and give yourself one piece

M issou r i M agazin e: You were voted

of advice what would it be?

by Missouri Magazine readers as

Br oc Bar t on : ?Go for it! It?s harder to fail

Missouri's Best DJ. Congratulations

than you think.? I think I spent a good

again! What does it mean to you

portion of my early- to mid-20?s afraid of

winning Missouri's Best and being the

starting my own business. Now I only

BEST in Missouri?

wish I had started sooner. It took me a

Br oc Bar t on : Oh man. What an

long time to figure out that failure at a

honor! It?s truly overwhelming the

task or goal does not mean that I?m a

amount of support I?ve experienced,

failure as a person. It?s only a data point

the fans who voted over and over,

for doing it better. I wish I had known

and those who believed in me more

this long ago so I would have taken this

than I believed in myself. I feel so

leap of faith sooner.

lucky to be surrounded by such amazing clients, partners, and

M issou r i M agazin e: Anything else you

community. Thank you to everyone

would like to share with our readers?

who has shown their support along this journey!

Br oc Bar t on : Thank you again for voting Elevate Entertainment as Missouri?s #1 DJCompany! Feel free to follow us on

And a special thank you to my

your favorite socials (@ElevateDJs). Find

incredible team who works tirelessly

out more about Elevate Entertainment at

to make sure our clients are given the

www.elevateentertainment.com

best experience possible. They brought home this trophy.

M issou r i M agazin e: What is ahead for Elevate Entertainment? Br oc Bar t on : We launch two new brands and four new services this year. Keep on the lookout. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@ElevateDJs) to be the first to know.

28 | M i ssou ri Bi z

Owner of Sassy Junk Boutique

EricaBarclay 2019 Woman of the Year Bringing the best prices in fashion and empowering women along the way. Erica is absolutely beautiful inside and out. When you meet Erica you will automatically feel like you have known her your whole life. Erica sat down with Missouri Magazine to share her journey and the heart behind Sassy Junk Boutique. It is a pleasure to introduce Missouri's Best Boutique and Missouri Magazine's Woman of the Year Erica Barclay.

M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us a little about yourself and your journey. Er ica Bar clay: I am a 30-year-old momma to one little girl (Avery Jane) this is my 8th year as a small business owner. I started out as a tanning salon owner and quickly made the transition over to just boutique in 2016. I have an amazing boyfriend named Neil, who you see from Time to Time on our VIP group. I am originally from Macks Creek Missouri, daughter of Jeff and Terry Barlcay, sister of Cody Barclay. I moved to Dallas County in 2010 and have zero plans of ever leaving, Buffalo May not be my ?hometown? but it is home to me.

M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us your role at Sassy Junk Boutique. Er ica Bar clay: I am the Owner and Operator; you?ll find me there 6 - 7 days a week on average. M issou r i M agazin e: Share a little about Sassy Junk Boutique with our readers.

Er ica Bar clay: Sassy Junk is a boutique + graphic store. We sell online and in our Buffalo location. We post new inventory nearly every day. Our large following allows us to keep our prices much cheaper than our competitors.

ERICA BARCLAY | WOM AN OF THE YEAR Er ica Bar clay: Opening two successful businesses before the age of 30 while welcoming a baby girl at the age of 29. M issou r i M agazin e: you have a favorite local charity? Er ica Bar clay: Our Local Heart 2 Heart in Dallas Co M issou r i M agazin e: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR LOCAL FAVORITE PLACES? Er ica Bar clay: Hip Pocket Pizza, Bennett Springs, Silver Dollar City and HaHa Tonka. M issou r i M agazin e: How did the name of your business originate? M issou r i M agazin e: What do you love most about living in Missouri? Er ica Bar clay: The ?small town? feel. Living in Rural Missouri I love the country and beautiful sites. M issou r i M agazin e: What are your family?s favorite activities? Er ica Bar clay: We love bike riding, concerts, and being on the water. Honestly anything outdoors, even if it?s sitting on a patio with a cold adult beverage watching the kids play.

M issou r i M agazin e: Where can someone find your when you are not at work? Er ica Bar clay: Concerts, Traveling, or The Lake with Neil. M issou r i M agazin e: What do you consider your greatest professional achievement?

Er ica Bar clay: My cats name is Sassy I love junk of all kinds. It just kind of happened. I love our name and brand.

M issou r i M agazin e: What inspired you or led you to your current carer? Er ica Bar clay: I wanted to control the market. Boutiques shouldn?t charge a fortune and I am in control of that now. M issou r i M agazin e: How long have you lived in Missouri? Er ica Bar clay: Thirty-one years.

M issou r i M agazin e: What has kept you here? Er ica Bar clay: Everything, my business, my farm, and my family.

M issou r i M agazin e: What is something on your bucket list?

Er ica Bar clay: Travel to all US states. Retire before I am sixty. M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite thing about Missouri?

Er ica Bar clay: How friendly everyone is and how no matter where you are someone knows someone you know! It?s like a big small town M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite restaurant in Missouri and what do you love there?

knew Sandy when she worked at the bank and have followed her ever since. My parents are big supporters of hers. I can?t leave it at Sandy though, I must include Bonnie Brownfield Bandel. I could talk to Bonnie for hours and usually do. She?s so full of knowledge and wisdom.... plus, Bonnie is a hoot. She says it exactly how it is. M issou r i M agazin e: What is something interesting that most people don?t know about you? Er ica Bar clay: I have 50 + first cousins between the Barclays + the Hunts

Er ica Bar clay: Nakatos - The Jenni Roll

M issou r i M agazin e: Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?

M issou r i M agazin e: Who is the most interesting person you?ve met in Missouri?

Er ica Bar clay: Opening a few more local businesses in or around Dallas county, married, with a few more little ones running around.

Er ica Bar clay: Gosh, that?s a tough one. I have met so many wonderful people. Our State senator Sandy Crawford. I

M issou r i M agazin e: How did you get started in the boutique business?

Er ica Bar clay: I owned a tanning salon first and I wanted to offset slow season with retail. I just dove in? no pointers, no plan, just my Dad backing me and my idea. M issou r i M agazin e: Tell us about your day. Getting ready for event with Sassy Junk Boutique.

M issou r i M agazin e: What drives you most in life and your career? Er ica Bar clay: My daughter Avery. She is watching every move I make. I have zero room for error.

M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite quote?

Er ica Bar clay: Our events are stressful but fun. We always pour our heart and soul into what we do. We like to do special events for our customers monthly! Check out our next event on our Facebook page. We try to have fun drinks for our shoppers and always have killer sales!

Er ica Bar clay: Success is no accident.

M issou r i M agazin e: What are your steps for success?

Er ica Bar clay: It?s so humbling to know so many people took time to vote for us. It just feels great that so many people took notice in all we offer and do. There are so many wonderful boutiques in the state, so I was very honored!

Er ica Bar clay: Work Hard, Follow Through and Don?t Quit!

M issou r i M agazin e: Where does your inspiration come from? Er ica Bar clay: My dad. He?s always been a hard worker and provided a life for us that I aspire to provide for my daughter. I grew up never wanting for anything yet always wanting more if that makes sense. My dad is a true ?farmer ? and businessman all in one. M issou r i M agazin e: What is your favorite part about your job? Er ica Bar clay: Being in control of the prices! I love that I carry the same products as most for half of the price! I also enjoy the customer service I get to provide. My customers are my friends! All 55k of them!

M issou r i M agazin e: You were voted by Missouri Magazine readers as Missouri's Best boutique. Congratulations again! What does it mean to you winning Missouri's Best and being the BEST in Missouri?

Er ica Bar clay: Don?t sweat what you can?t change. Move forward and be humble. M issou r i M agazin e: Anything else you would like to share with our readers? Er ica Bar clay: I just wanted to say thank you, it was mind blowing to be picked as 2019 Missouri?s Best boutique of the year and it was even more humbling to be picked and Missouri?s 40 under 40. Thank you to everyone who?s supported my dreams. If you would like to become a VIP Shopper or for more information about Sassy Junk Boutique find us on Facebook.

@SassyJunkBoutique

M issou r i M agazin e: What choices have you made to invest in yourself and your own success?

Er ica Bar clay: Failure is not an option. I wake up every day eager to be better than I was the day before. M issou r i M agazin e: What is ahead for Sassy Junk Boutique?

Er ica Bar clay: We are pushing to start offering wholesale to other boutiques before 2020. M issou r i M agazin e: If you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice what would it be?

LoveLetters

Love Letters designs and sells t-shirts for the city and sport you Love! We love how their line makes you feel beautiful and confident even in a t-shirt. When we came across Love Letters we knew we had to share ?Love Letters? t-shirts with our readers. There are so many t-shirts to choose from. You will fall in love with this line. Love Letters started in 2013 with two friends LeAnn and Amy. They both had a mutual passion and a whole lotta coffee and haven?t looked back since. Their major love for their city and the people who live there. They wanted to share that love and feeling with women everywhere. Love Letters pride their selves with special designs and an amazing fit all while striving to have a little something for everyone at a really sharp price!

Dress them up? Dress them down? Doesn?t matter, you?re going to look amazing either way! Love Letters is a labor of love and they?re loving every minute of it! Sh oplovelet t er s.com

Sports-PatrickMahomes Patrick Mahomes is the Quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes played college football and college baseball at Texas Tech University. Following his sophomore year, he quit baseball to focus solely on football. Mahomes' junior year, he led all NCAA Division 1 players in multiple categories including passing yards (5,052 yards) and passing touchdowns (53 touchdowns). He then entered the 2017 NFL Draft where he was the tenth overall selection by the Kansas City Chiefs.

· Third-year quarterback enters his third season with the Chiefs in 2019. · Threw 26 touchdown passes and 2,810 yards through Week 8 of the 2018 season, the most passing touchdowns and passing yards in a player 's first nine career games in the Super Bowl era. · Threw 29 touchdown passes in his first 10 career NFL games, more TD throws than any QB in NFL history in their first 10 games. · Recorded longest touchdown pass of career (75 yards) in Week 6 vs. New England (10/13/18). · Made his NFL debut and first start during the Chiefs 2017 regular season finale against the Broncos (12/31) and completed 22 of 35 passes (62.9%) for 284 yards. His 284 passing yards are the second-most by a rookie passer in a single-game in franchise history. He added seven carries for 10 yards. · Originally entered the NFL as the 10th overall pick in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft by Kansas City. · The Chiefs traded traded the No. 27 overall pick, a third-round pick and their 2018 first-round selection to the Buffalo Bills in order to move up to the No. 10 spot where they selected Mahomes · Became the fastest player to 4,000 passing yards by accomplishing the feat in just 13 career games. · Broke the Chiefs single-season passing touchdown record, passing Len Dawson with 31 touchdown passes through Week 10 of the 2018 season. · Recorded six touchdown passes against the Steelers (9/16/18), tying Chiefs QB Len Dawson for most touchdown passes in one game in team

history. · First quarterback in Chiefs history to throw for 300+ yards in eight consecutive games. · Awarded National Football League's Most Valuable Player for 2018 season. · Named 2018 FedEx Air Player of the year. · Three-Time Fedex Air Player of the Week in 2018 season (Weeks 2, 7 and 8). · Earned back-to-back AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors after his debut against the Chargers (9/9) where he completed 15 of 27 passes (55.5%) for 256 yards and four touchdowns and in Week 2 against the Steelers (9/16), completing 26 of 28 passes for 326 yards and six touchdowns.

Missobusi uri ness

Missour i Magazine missour imagazines.com ADVERTISING Cher i Cr anfor d 573.284.5406 hello@missour imagazines.com

BusinessOwner-WilliamHoltz Holtz started at Lake TV in the fall of 2013 as a part-time employee doing commentary for Lake TV?s first season of high school football. Since that time, his role has grown into sports director in 2014, general manager in 2016, and eventually purchasing the company in June of 2018. Holtz has an Associates degree in Journalism from State Fair Community College in Sedalia and graduated from Morgan County R-2 in Versailles where he serves as the Alumni Association President. Holtz has been part of many exciting projects since joining the Lake TV team in 2013 including serving as the Director of Extras Casting for Season 1 of Jason Bateman?s Netflix series, ?Ozark.? In 2018, Holtz was named the best local personality, best local TV anchor, and best local sports TV anchor according to Missouri Magazine. Holtz LOVES the Lake of the Ozarks, Sports, and his three fur-babies (Rizzo Bacon Holtz, Santo Burger Holtz, & Stevie Iris Holtz) and resides in Sunrise Beach with his girlfriend Unique and their 3 dogs.

Find out more about Lake TV at www.mylaketv.com

Real Estate-AshleeMartin Ashlee Martin calls herself a "Sedalia lifer ", planning on living in Sedalia until retirement and then she will end up somewhere that has water in her backyard. With over 10 years in the insurance business, this gave her experience in real estate and customer service. Ashlee's true passions are watching her blended family (5 kids!), Dylan, Ali, Zoe, Birkli and Rylee, grow up, along with spending time with her husband, Jason Martin. They have quite the divided house and it gets pretty tense in the spring MLB season. Ashlee is an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and Jason stays true to the KC Royals. Both of them love watching anything baseball, taking rides on their Harley and running around nonstop at the kid?s events.

Ashlee is active in Sedalia After Hours Optimist Club, Parkview Elementary PTA, on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of West Central Missouri and anything involving the community youth. Ashlee has been a Realtor® since 2014 and in 2017, she became a co-owner of RE/MAX of Sedalia. Also, in 2017, she graduated from the MO Realtor® Leadership Academy which is a huge accomplishment for Missouri Realtors®! Just this year, Ashlee obtained her broker ?s license and is ready to see how big of a success 2019 will be.

One of Ashlee's passions in life is helping making people's dreams come true.......Buying or Selling Homes!

Restaurants-AziaMinor SousChef andCEOChristinaMorris CEO Christina Morris and Sous Chef Azia Minor are the bright, young professionals behind The Pear Tree Kitchen and Bar located in Macon, Missouri. at 1407 N. Missouri Street (Highway 63). The Pear Tree name and legacy has been a staple in the community for over thirty years, known for serving delicious, beautifully prepared cuisine from quality ingredients and outstanding service. It?s not just the history of The Pear Tree that makes it so remarkable. Thanks in large part to Azia and Christina, the future looks very bright as well. Together they bring fresh creativity and ideas along with modern management skills and impeccable structure, building lavishly upon the solid foundation firmly laid by Proprietors Al and Michael Abadessa and Executive Chef, Brenda Nanneman. They are incredibly determined individuals that are continuously committed to searching for and acquiring new information to build upon their knowledge and integrate it into their business structure, both in the culinary and business management aspects of the company. One of their greatest pleasures is teaching and cultivating the talents of their employees and maintaining a family like bond and atmosphere. A feeling of togetherness and accomplishment from teamwork where everyone involved is proud to say they are a member of The Pear Tree Family. It?s easy to see the pride in which these two individuals take in their strive for excellency and the desire to bring the best possible food and service to it?s much loved, loyal clientele, visitors and the community at large. Their willingness and desire to do what it takes to maintain and build upon the great principles that have cemented their establishment as a staple of fine dining experience, describing the root of their success as a paraphrase from the great, Sir Isaac Newton, ?If we are able to see further into the future than others, it is simply because we are standing on the shoulders of giants.? Christina and Azia would like to thank Missouri Magazine, its readers and everyone that voted for them for this honor. They are grateful for all of you and your continued support.

Job cr eat ion : It just makes sense that supporting local small businesses brings more jobs in your community. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses employ 59 million people, or almost half of the private workforce. And smaller local businesses have the largest share of small business employment. Com m u n it y in vest m en t : Shopping at local small businesses results in community investment. Almost half of tax dollars spent at local independent businesses are returned to the community, benefiting public services, schools and libraries, according to Civic Economics, an independent research firm. Studies show only around 14 percent of tax dollars from chain stores are returned to the local economy. Com m u n it y su ppor t : From coffee shops and bistros to bars and bookstores, locally owned small businesses are both a conduit and supporter of the communities they serve. They often help out in ways large, chain companies do not. They are community hubs that often offer their goods and services in support of a community, and employees are often enthusiastic volunteers. Ch ain ef f ect : Small local businesses are often located adjacent to others, fostering a chain of mutual support. If your community has developed an arts district, you?re likely to find locally owned cafes, gift shops, restaurants and bars interspersed between the galleries. That ripple effect benefits consumers, owners and the local economy.

SM ALL BUSINESS APPRECIATION| BUSINESS

To p Rea so n s to sh o p l o c a l If you need a reason to shop local, chances are you haven?t shopped local lately. The reasons and benefits are myriad, to both the business owners and consumers. Here are just a few of the top reasons shopping local can benefit you and your community.

Un iqu e of f er in gs: Last but not least, small, locally owned businesses exist to offer goods and services that can?t be found in chain stores. Whether it?s artisan bread, handmade gifts or craft beer or cocktails, you?re likely to experience a wealth of talent, experience, passion and pride on exhibit when you shop these businesses. You?re also likely to meet others who appreciate the same qualities you admire, creating a base of support while fostering ? and, in some cases, building ? a community.

Event Planner-SarahandNateBittner Sarah and Nate met when they were 13 years old. After life took them their separate ways, they were reunited at 19 and the rest is history. Now, they will be celebrating their 3-year wedding anniversary September 3, 2019. Sarah started as an event planner with dreams of owning a venue. When the opportunity came up a little sooner than planned, Sarah and Nate were quick to jump at it. The Atrium Event Center in Branson, Mo is closing out its 2nd year and is currently constructing a brand-new building opening August 2019. The Atrium is a wedding and event center that specializes in personalized customer service. Nate and Sarah developed the business model of trying to never say no, but offer alternative solutions and suggestions to make the client?s day less stressful. They also have a well-stocked room full of various items so if someone asks if they have something, they?re proud to be able to say, ?yes.? Being with their couples during a stressful time in their lives has taught Nate and Sarah several ways to make the event planning process easier. From online booking and client portals, to fully stocked decor room and affordable packages, the client is sure to leave happy and less stressed about their big day. The couple is always available for emails, calls and texts whenever a planning worry comes up. When it comes to running their business, the team tackles things together and separately. Sarah handles marketing, appointment scheduling, and design. Nate manages the books, design aspects, and finding ways to make Sarah?s vision a reality. As with any relationship, communication is the key factor in making their business run. Since they both have separate jobs outside of venue life, they rely heavily on Alexa reminders and their ?to do list? board. Outside of their business, Sarah and Nate have a house full of furry kids. 3 dogs: Octave, Milo, and Mia, and one 15lb ?boss? cat: Murray. They enjoy spending their free time with their animals both at home and at their new venue location. It is because of their dogs that their new location features a ?puppy suite? so that the bride and groom can have their furry friends with them on their big day. The couple dreams of new and exciting adventures in their business every day. New additions, new ideas and new ventures are always a conversation in the Bittner house, and they wouldn?t have it any other way. For more information on The Atrium Wedding and Event Center visit their website at www.eventsattheatrium.com

Civil/ PublicService-MeganPage Born and raised in small town Missouri, Megan, the youngest of three, learned from her father that hard work and dedication were important. A 2005 graduate of Marshall High School, Megan began her career in banking at 19 as a part-time teller, taking opportunities as they came and proving along the way that she wanted to learn and grow in her career. After 13 years in the banking/finance world, Megan has worked her way up to becoming a Licensed Mortgage Loan Officer for a mortgage company, helping people fulfill their dreams of becoming homeowners. Megan married her husband, Jeff, in 2007; they have two children, Jonah (8) and Jude (5). In January of this year, Megan and her husband purchased Heckart Funeral Home, a century-old funeral home in Sedalia that has a long legacy of service and giving back to the community. As the new owners of the funeral home, Jeff and Megan are committed to continuing the legacy of giving back to the community which has entrusted them with the care of their loved ones. In 2016, after hearing a speaker talk about Christians becoming leaders in government, Megan was led to run for Sedalia City Council. In April 2017, beating the incumbent with 63% of the votes, Megan jumped in with both feet and began her journey in politics. Not long after elected, Megan became even more passionate about public safety. Her biggest achievement on the council to date is being a part of the five-person 911 committee that successfully passed the 911 initiative in Pettis County to develop a central dispatch. Megan is very involved in different organizations and clubs in Sedalia including: current board secretary for the board of directors for the Boys and Girls Clubs of West Central Missouri, current president of Pettis County Pachyderm, current treasurer for Sedalia Young Professionals, member of Sedalia Business Women, member of Sedalia Area Chamber of Commerce, worship leader at First United Methodist Church, and board member of University of Missouri Extension Council-Pettis County. Megan?s love and passion for people is her driving force in everything she does. Leaving the world, a better place, one person at a time, one heart at a time. Listening to understand, not listening to respond, being better than you were yesterday and taking ownership when you?ve done wrong. It?s the little things in life that make the biggest difference.

Education-L enaMenning My name is Lena Menning, but you may find that I am so much more than my name. I pride myself in being a supportive wife for 14 years and mother of two, alongside following my passion of educating young minds. My interest in education started as a child. I had amazing teachers growing up, but the best would have been my mother. She managed an in-home daycare and cared for many children throughout my raising. Prior to beginning college, I worked in a public daycare setting, and it sparked the interest even more.

I became a mother in 2005, and knew that I wanted to be able to be involved in my children?s education somehow. Shortly after my first child, I started classes and obtained my Bachelors in Early Childhood Education in 2011 from Central Methodist University. I started my journey at Morgan County R-1 school as a first-grade teacher for four years, and another four years as a kindergarten teacher. I am excited to be making the move to second grade in the 2019-2020 school year. In 2015 I obtained my Masters of Education with emphasis in Online Learning from Concordia University, and hope to use this in the future as education is heading towards more online platforms.

I have extended my passion out to the younger children and families in the community as an educator with the Parents as Teachers program. With this program I can be a part of making sure the parent?s questions are met, and help in making sure the children are on target with their growth and development needs. I have a strong love of reading and also hold certification as a Library Media Specialist as I hope to instill a passion for reading.

When I am not teaching, I enjoy watching my children in their sports and other activities. I am fun loving and enjoy traveling with my family, and attending live concerts, especially the New Kids on the Block. My classroom theme is even ?Mrs. Menning?s New Kids on the Block,? and I plan to keep this tradition as long as I can. I do not collect a lot of things, but I am known for my wacky socks. I have socks from many different states, themes, and venues, and frequently wear them to coordinate with lesson plans or daily themes in the classroom. I enjoy making people smile, and see the smiles frequently when wearing my wacky socks. I enjoy bringing my love of these things into my lesson plans, and feel it makes the learning environment more exciting.

My students have become my extended family, and I enjoy being witness to their successes through the education we provide at Morgan County R-1. I have had an incredible journey, and look forward to educating for several years to come in #BulldogNation.

Quest ions for Entrep reneur s There?s never been a better time to join the small business revolution. The economy is booming after recovering from the biggest recession in decades and the government?s tax cut represents clear opportunities for business owners. In addition, the thirst for locally owned small businesses has never been more evident. Part of the so-called American dream has always been being your own boss. And because a career today doesn?t mean a lifelong relationship with a single company, the opportunities and resources to turn your talents, skills and passions into a viable business are more easily achieved. But there are still some critical elements to examine before you exit your job and follow your dream. Some are tried and-true facts; others have sprung up in the wake of internet. Here?s a list of things to consider adapted from a recent issue of Forbes magazine: Ar e you r eady? While making the leap from working for someone to working for yourself has obvious appeal, it doesn?t mean it?s easy. Startups ? both the online or the brickand-mortar variety ? require even more effort and stamina than your current position. While the payoff might be huge ? in both financial and personal results ? so are the obstacles. Ensure you understand that long-term effort before you make the leap. Does you r bu sin ess h ave an au dien ce? There?s nothing quite as painful in the business world than finding out your passion is not shared by a wide enough audience. Or are you duplicating an existing idea in a saturated market? Due diligence ? studying the market and finding a clear niche for which there is a market ? is key. Can you bu ild an d m ot ivat e a t eam ? While you may have supreme confidence in your own skill set and a marketable business niche, you can?t act alone. Hiring, training and motivating a team that shares your dream and energy requires special skills in itself. Do you h ave r ealist ic expect at ion s? Starting your own business requires long-term strategy. Do you have the resources and capital to survive the long stretch before you become profitable? Developing a realistic business plan and understanding the risks involved is a necessary reality check. If you can put a check mark beside all of these questions, there are plenty of resources available to help you turn your dream into a reality. Obviously, you?ll want to do detective work. Visit local small businesses and cultivate relationships with them. You?ll likely find many owners who are willing to share both their highs and lows to help you along. Resear ch is valu able an d it pays of f . And don?t forget to access the many tools and resources available for the U.S. Small Business Administration. They offer a wealth of information ? and routes to accessible loans ? to budding entrepreneurs, in addition to SCORE, an organization of retired business executives who offer free advice and guidance.

Entrepreneurial- BethanyKay With the rise of online shopping, many brick & mortars have been forced to close their doors. Spending the last 18 years in retail, I wanted to offer something unique and the first of its kind in the Mid-Missouri area. I remember coming home from work and discussing crazy business ideas with my husband who would just grin, proceeded by his encouraging words ?go for it honey?! After months of brainstorming, inspired by my daughter ?s name I started Hello Belle on my Mother ?s birthday in 2014. Word spread so quickly, that within the first year I traveled to over 75 residences! Not too bad considering I was currently working full time and pursing my dream on the side! The concept was simple, I set up a boutique in their home & they got to party with their friends. However, the wear and tear on my vehicle was taking its toll, and thus the 22ft fashion truck was born in 2017! After months of searching for a used Fedex truck, we found the perfect one! Before we drove away from the dealership they muttered ?it?s a rattle trap, good luck?. Those words really stuck. Well, challenge accepted! With the help of my talented husband, family and friends ? the once used & abused truck was renovated into a rolling beauty!

It is now 2019, I was able to quit my job and give the boutique my undivided attention. We recently broke ground in New Bloomfield where we will build a 4,800 square foot warehouse and I?m excited for the future of Hello Belle. The fashion truck can be found popping up in Missouri at local festivals, businesses & even on Food Truck Friday. It can also be booked for a fun girl?s night! Online live shopping is also offered in the Facebook VIP group.

I am thankful for the beautiful women inside and out that I get to meet on this journey. I love being able to play a role in their lives: whether it be pairing an outfit for family pictures that will forever be cherished, finding that perfect dress for their first date, or simply empowering women one outfit at a time. Hello Belle, gets to be a part of those small or big milestones. How cool is that? I truly am blessed beyond measure!

~Bethany Kay, Owner and Founder of Hello Belle Boutique

BusinessDevelopment and Sales Military- JosephMcDevitt Joseph E. McDevitt (Owner/President and CEO) of Black & White Roofing. Joseph has lived in the Lake of the Ozark Area his entire life (31 years) and plans on being a lifelong resident. He has been married now for 6 years to his beautiful wife Zhengjia C. McDevitt (Owner/Vice President and CFO) who came here from Shenyang, China as an International College student and is now a naturalize citizen of the United States. They have two children together a 5-year-old son Eli K. McDevitt and a 3-year-old daughter Iris M. McDevitt. Joseph graduated from Eldon High School in 2005 and received a B.S. Degree from Northwest Missouri State University in 2011. He is a 10-year Missouri Army National Guard Veteran and former Apache Attack Helicopter Pilot/Gunner.

Joseph dream has always been to own his own business and to offer fellow Veterans a good career path. Being an entrepreneur is in his blood and his pursuit of success is always growing.

?I believe my skill sets are proving to transition perfectly into the business world especially the roofing industry. Currently these skills our Vets possess have put us a stride ahead of every one of our competitors and due to our strong work ethic and ability to win, and never give up attitude, we will be tough to beat.? said, oseph McDevitt.