March/April 2012
March/April 2012
Our Town Contents Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce 6 6 7 7 7 7
MHCC Gives Back to a Different Charity Each Month Crossroads Hospice Holds Ribbon Cutting Philanthropic Committee MHCC Prepares for Golf Classic MHCC Encourages Committee Involvement Third Annual Super Power Networking Meeting
North County Incorporated
8 State Legislators for North St. Louis County Meet with Civic, Community and Business Leaders 9 NCI Seeks Award Nominees for 35th Annual Breakfast 9 2012 North County Legislative Agenda
Greater North County Chamber of Commerce
VOL 3 / NO 2
Our Town is a Community News
publication. It is published every other month and direct mailed to 7,000 business executives in North and Northwest St. Louis county, plus online circulation. Online subscriptions are FREE and available at www.mycnews.com For advertising information please contact: Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366 636.379.1775 www.mycnews.com
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GNCC to Award 2012 Scholarships GNCC to host ‘Sample North County’ GNCC Welcomes Schaefer Autobody GNCC Selects 2012 Outstanding Business Person of the Year
NorthWest Chamber of Commerce 14 14 14 15 13
NWCC Remembers Bob Swank NWCC Announces New Quarterly Raffle NWCC Accepting Applications for 2012 Scholarships NWCC Website Needs Your Success Stories Blues Night 2012
Publisher Robert Huneke Editor Shelly Schneider Staff Writer DeAnna Massie Photographer Ray Rockwell Art Director/Creative Design Terrie Dehn, TJD Design Studio Copyright 2012 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of the publisher.
4 North County Inc. and Chambers Work Together on Legislative Affairs By DeAnna Massie
18 Calendar of Events
North County Inc. and Area Chambers Work Together on Legislative Affairs By DeAnna Massie Regional development organizations and chambers of commerce have lists of committees, each with a specific agenda. These smaller branches handle member recruiting, plan fundraising events, organize philanthropic missions and run regular programs like happy hour networking. In this issue of Our Town, we wanted to focus on the very important work being done by the committees that focus on the governmental policies that affect the business community. They are known by many different names. At the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, for example, this committee is called the Governmental Affairs Committee. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce group with the same purpose is called the Governmental and Community Concerns Committee. Regardless of the title, these organized groups (which will be referred to as Governmental Affairs committees), play a crucial role in their communities. However, explaining exactly how a Governmental Affairs committee works, and what the members do, is surprisingly difficult. “What we do is fairly intangible,” said JoAnn Donovan. Donovan is co-chair of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce’s Governmental Affairs Committee. Along with Dan Boyle, she leads a group focused on the legislative issues chamber members and business owners find relevant. “We keep the lines of communication open,” Donovan said. “We maintain personal relationships and a keep an open dialogue between our members and the government.” Governmental Affairs committees recognize when issues are on the table that affect local business owners, and they work hard to make sure those business owners have a voice in the discussion. Maintaining that voice is absolutely at the core of what these committees do. Decisions made at every level of government affect the day-to-day and long-term experiences of business owners in North Saint Louis County. North County Incorporated and area chambers want to be sure state and local officials hear their points of view, and work tirelessly to make that happen. They schedule meetings with officials at every level of government, and encourage those officials to attend their committee meetings. It’s at these meetings that each organization’s Governmental Affairs committee really gets to work. Donovan described the meetings as open discussions during which everyone involved may express a point of view. When asked which point of view is being stated—the organization’s, the board’s, or the committee’s, Donovan said it’s a combination of all three. “We very rarely take a stance on a particular issue; that has to be approved by the board, but we do share what we think is important to our chamber members,” she said. “It’s just an open forum where we can talk to legislators candidly about the issues we care about.” 4
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For example, when Florissant considered raising business license fees, the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce sent its Governmental Affairs committee to meet with Florissant
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leaders about the change. The committee members
concerns known. Meetings like this one are more about making legislators aware of how their decisions impact local business owners than drawing a political line in the sand. Along with organizing local forums and meeting regularly with state, school district, and municipal leaders, committee members often travel to Jefferson City to meet with state legislators. On March 7, the Northwest Chamber will send representatives to Jefferson City to discuss reasonable parameters for the movement of students from unaccredited districts to accredited districts. A new bill could allow students in unaccredited districts to choose to attend in any other district. Obviously, the influx of new students will affect local school districts, possibly negatively impacting schools that are currently performing well. “It’s not about casting a vote,” Donovan said. “We want what’s fair for these students, but we don’t want to overwhelm our schools, so we are just looking forward to discussing a reasonable, legislative solution to the problem.” However, arranging meetings with busy officials and trekking to the capitol can be a challenging undertaking, especially when several regional development associations and chambers are vying for the attention of the same governmental leaders. Several years ago, NCI proposed a more efficient plan. Officials suggested hosting a single forum that brought together the four local business organizations and a wide range of the necessary governmental officials. NCI, the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, and the Northwest Chamber of Commerce collaboratively represent more than 1,000 area businesses, civic, and community organizations. At what is now known as the annual Legislative Reception, the leaders from these Continued On Page 17
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MHCC Gives Back to a Different Charity Each Month Countless local charities need assistance to provide for the citizens of North County. Rather than narrow down the list to one organization, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Philanthropic Committee decided to spread the love around, donating to a different charity each month. January’s selected charity was Loaves and Fishes. Founded more than 30 years ago, Loaves and Fishes now provides shelter for more than 200 women and their children, and food for hundreds of families each year. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce set out to collect trash bags, bus passes, laundry detergent and dish detergent. Members
were able to collect a box full of needed items as well as $180. The funds were used to purchase bus passes. In February, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce selected the St. Louis Chapter of the ALS. The ALS Association is the only nonprofit organization fighting Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The mission of The ALS Association is to lead the fight to cure and treat ALS through global cuttingedge research, and to empower people with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and their families to live fuller lives by providing them with compassionate care and support. The requests for donation are simple: cases or six-packs of Ensure will
help the St. Louis chapter improve the quality of life for their patients. Items may be brought to the chamber office or the various events. In March, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce has selected the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The organization needs support for the fundraising event, Hunt for a Cure. This is a free, community-wide spring egg hunt. Requested items are plastic eggs, spring toys and other favors for children.
Crossroads Hospice Holds Ribbon Cutting
Marala Horan, executive director of Crossroads Hospice, is joined on her left by city of Maryland
Crossroads Hospice held a ribbon cutting at its Schuetz Rd. location on January 19. With locations in seven states, Crossroads Hospice is committed to being at the forefront of the hospice care industry. The mission of Crossroads Hospice is to provide highly unique, comprehensive, and compassionate hospice services to persons experiencing a life-limiting illness and to their caregivers. They are dedicated to continually shape the way end-of-life care is viewed and administered. The North County location is at 2380 Schuetz Road. Visit CrossroadsHospice.com to learn more about this organization.
Heights Mayor Mike Moeller. Staff and Maryland Heights Chamber board members also participated in the ceremony.
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The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Philanthropic Committee is continually striving to provide support within our community. 2011 was a challenging year for the area, both in the wake of the April tornadoes, as well as the financial crunch due to the current state of the economy. Despite these challenges, the committee was able to assist 17 different organizations and hundreds of individuals. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce donated to the Good Friday tornado relief efforts – with a special emphasis on those individuals who were hit the hardest. The financial contribution totaled more than $11,500
in 2011. The committee’s Coat Drive gathered more than 150 coats, scarves and gloves which were distributed to families in the Pattonville and Parkway School Districts. The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Annual Blood Drive collected more than 15 pints of blood - which were used locally.
“Much of this is due to the generosity and contributions by the chamber membership,” said Committee Chair Patty Gould. “There is a responsibility of supporting the community and we are fortunate that our chamber members don’t hesitate to help when there is a need.”
Beyond the local community, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce made an international donation to Japan’s earthquake catastrophe and helped financially with Joplin’s tornado relief efforts. All this is in addition to the numerous other donated items and services that were provided to those in need in 2011.
Chamber assistance will continue, as the Philanthropic Committee has selected a member charity to support for each month in 2012. To find out more about the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Philanthropic Committee, charity work and donations, or to get information on how you can help, visit mhcc.com
Maryland Heights Chamber Prepares for Golf Classic June may seem like a long way off, but golf teams have already started reserving their spots for the Maryland heights Chamber of Commerce 19th Annual Golf Classic. This year’s tournament will take place on Tuesday, June 19 at Whitmoor Country Club. Come join the Chamber for another great year. Early pricing is currently available. Visit mhcc.com to learn more and register your team. Spaces are limited, so register soon!
MHCC Encourages Committee Involvement The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce wants to remind its members that getting involved with a chamber committee can be a rewarding and fun opportunity. Serving on a committee allows members to meet fellow business people and make a difference in the community. Prospective committee members worried about scheduling should note that not all committees meet on a regular basis. Some are event-based and only meet during the planning period. Please call the office for scheduled meeting times.
Whether your interest is charitable programs or party planning, with eight different committees to choose from, there is something for everyone. Committees include: Business Leader of the Year, Community Engagement Committee, Golf Committee, Membership Committee, Monster Mash Dash, Trivia Committee, Philanthropic Commission and Programs Committee.
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Third Annual Super Power Networking Meeting Presented by the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Chamber of Commerce, the Creve Coeur – Olivette Chamber and the University City Chamber, this event offers the perfect opportunity for breakfast and networking! The event will be held at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 26 at Spazio’s, 12031 Lackland Road. Tickets are $12 each, and are available at one of the four chamber offices listed above. Please register for the event by April 20.
Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce | mhcc.com | 314.576.6603
Philanthropic Committee
Rebecca Zoll, NCI President & CEO Photo by Kent Miller Photography
State Legislators for North St. Louis County Meet with Civic, Community and Business Leaders Community, civic, and business leaders attended the Legislative Reception for North County on Thursday, February 9, 2012 at SSM DePaul Health Center. This collaborative event was hosted by the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, North County Incorporated Regional Development Association, and the Northwest Chamber of Commerce. It invited area leaders to hear from Missouri State legislators about matters affecting North County and the State of Missouri.
Program Moderator Ann Brand, Government Relations liaison from St. Louis Community College, presented the 2012 North County legislative priorities on economic development, education, healthcare, transportation, and general issues. State legislators in attendance were: Senator Jane Cunningham, Senator Tim Green, Representative Bert Atkins, Representative Margo McNeil, Representative Sharon Pace, Representative Tommie Pierson, Representative Clem Smith,
The 2012 North County Legislative Reception was held this year at SSM DePaul Health Center. Pictured is SSM Health Care’s Kim Bakker with Representative Bert Atkins and NCI President Rebecca Zoll.
City of Black Jack Council Members Arnold Hinkle, A.J. White and NCI Board Member Mayor Norm McCourt talk with State Representative Sylvester Taylor at the North County Legislative Reception.
Our Town
North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association, the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, and the Northwest Chamber of Commerce collaboratively represent more than 1,000 area businesses, civic, and community organizations. SSM DePaul Health Center generously hosted this event for area leaders.
Greater North County Chamber President Carolyn Marty, NCI Board Member Lillie Dumas with Commerce Bank, and Representative Sharon Pace.
Front row: Rep. Sharon Pace, NCI President/CEO Rebecca Zoll, Sen. Jane Cunningham. Back Row: Sen. Timothy Green, Rep. Tommie Pierson, Rep. Bert Atkins, Rep. Clem Smith, Rep. Margo McNeil, Rep. Rochelle Walton Gray. (Rep. Sylvester Taylor and Rep. Churie Spreng are not pictured but did attend.)
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Representative Churie Spreng, Representative Sylvester Taylor, and Representative Rochelle Walton Gray.
M a r c h / A p r i l 2 012
Front Row: NCI Board Member and Florissant Mayor Tom Schneider, Representative Margo McNeil, and NCI Board Member T.R. Carr. Back Row: Hazelwood Councilman Don Ryan, NCI Board Member and Hazelwood Mayor Matt Robinson, and Ferguson’s Mayor James Knowles enjoy 2012 Legislative Reception.
North County Incorporated (NCI) invites civic, business, community leaders and residents to celebrate our 35 years of service to the North County community at the Annual Breakfast. The event will be held at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, May 18, 2012 at the St. Louis Airport Marriott. Individual seats are available for purchase at the NCI office. The cost for an individual ticket is $37.50. Breakfast sponsorship and table sponsorship packages are now available. For more information log onto www.NorthStLouisCounty.com, call 314.895.6241 or email nci@northcountyinc.com. NCI encourages the public to submit nominations in writing by March 16, 2012 to the NCI office at 350B Village Square Center, Hazelwood, MO 63042 for these awards categories: 1. The Business Development Award honors an individual, organization, or business whose efforts have positively impacted the economic development and business climate of the North County area; 2. The Community Development Award honors an individual, organization, or business whose efforts positively benefited youth, residents, civic organizations, or others through selfless acts. Their contribution needs to go beyond the individual’s employment responsibilities or a business/organization’s mission and scope of work; 3. The Public Service Award honors an outstanding individual elected, appointed, or employed by a public body whose long-time service has had a positive impact on the community and/or public body they serve; 4. The Elmer Belsha Leadership Award for an individual whose long-term commitment to NCI and the North County area has had a positive impact on the community and/or public body that they serve. If you would like to submit a nominee for one of these awards, please send the nominee’s name, phone number, email address, the award category for which they are nominated, and a paragraph as to why you believe they should be selected, along with a bio. Please be sure to include your name and phone number as well. If your nominee is chosen, you will be contacted. NCI’s nomination committee will choose the award recipients. North County Incorporated is a regional development organization, which acts as a catalyst to define and advocate economic and community development for North St. Louis County. North County Incorporated was established in 1977. Sandy Weber, vice president/district manager for U.S. Bank is the current Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for North County Incorporated.
The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, North County Incorporated Regional Development Association,& Northwest Chamber of Commerce
2012 North County Legislative Agenda Economic Development Economic Development Tax Credits We support the protection of proven, performance-based tax credits that leverage private investment and stimulate employment and economic growth for our region and allow us to be competitive with other regions. We oppose efforts to reduce the effectiveness of proven tax credit programs, including subjecting them to the annual appropriations process.
Job Training We support continued funding for job training to help attract new businesses and the expansion of existing businesses of all sizes.
Small Business and Entrepreneurial Growth We support policies that stimulate an
entrepreneurial culture and enhance the growth of small businesses. We support greater access to markets for minority and women business enterprises in the public and private sectors.
assets, while guarding against policies that cannibalize St. Louis County, and imprudently use taxes to unnecessarily develop large areas that cause conflict with the sustainability of already established communities.
Redevelopment
Logistics and Distribution
We support initiatives to spur redevelopment efforts in economically distressed areas, such as tax credits for brownfield cleanup.
We support incentives and funding to enhance the region’s logistics, distribution, and transportation infrastructure capabilities, with an emphasis on international cargo and global competitiveness, including the State’s efforts in securing the International Cargo Hub at Lambert International Airport.
We support meaningful liability reform for brownfield sites to encourage their turnover to a productive use.
Sustainable Development We support legislation that creates regional solutions and partnerships to improve neighborhoods in downward transition. We support legislation that provides for a rebuilding and conservation of 9
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Education Early Childhood Education We support policies that expand access to high quality early childhood education programs, especially for at-risk children, we support a statewide quality rating
North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association | northstlouiscounty.com | 314.895.6241
North County Incorporated Seeks Award Nominees for 35th Annual Breakfast
North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association | northstlouiscounty.com | 314.895.6241
system for early childhood programs.
Primary & Secondary Funding We support the Missouri’s Vision project that calls for Missouri’s schools to be ranked in the top 10 by 2020. We understand that for this to be feasible appropriate financial support from the State is necessary. Therefore, we support appropriations for public schools sufficient to fully fund the foundation formula and all state mandated initiatives for education and provide additional support necessary to implement the “Missouri’s Vision for the Future” Initiative. We support legislation mandating fair and accurate property assessments. We oppose programs that would divert public funding into private institutions if it is detrimental to our public school systems.
Autonomy
scores in their three years.
district’s
scores
for
Higher Education Funding We support protecting core funding and stable allocations during the current budget shortfall. Higher education, through its workforce training and skills development programs, is an important partner in our region’s efforts in developing plant and life science companies, expanding manufacturing, engineering interests and for additional workers in the health care field. We support secure funding, through appropriation or bonding, for renovation of Benton-Stadler science complex on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus, continued renovation of science labs for St. Louis Community College, and a plan to provide capital funding for maintenance and repair of buildings and equipment for both.
We support the local autonomy of school districts. Local school districts are in the best position to determine the most effective use of funds and other resources.
We support the final equity adjustment payment be provided to the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ base budget to address long-standing, system-wide equity issues.
Charter Schools
Healthcare
We support current charter schools using public funding be held to the same accreditation and academic standards as public school systems and parents should have access to recent performance results to aid in their decisions on where to place their children.
Student Placement We support the Cooperating School District for Greater St. Louis’ critical characteristics that are needed in legislation to establish reasonable parameters for the movement of students from unaccredited districts to accredited districts. Without reasonable parameters local school boards would lose qualitative decision making authority and unaccredited school districts would be financially devastated. Legislation should include: districts ability to set class sizes, districts must receive adequate and equitable funding for any student transfers and the transportation of these students, all costs to be paid in advance directly by the State, incoming students must be assigned to buildings at the discretion of the district, districts must not be required to employ additional teachers or construct additional classrooms to accommodate transferring students, students wishing to transfer must have been enrolled in the unaccredited school district for at least one school year prior to the transfer, when the unaccredited school district gains accreditation, transfer students should migrate to their home districts, accredited districts should not be required to include transfer students’ statewide assessment
Funding
We support full, affordable and comprehensive access to health insurance, as well as informed choice of doctors, hospitals and insurance plans. We oppose health insurance mandates that undermine the ability of employers to provide high-quality health insurance at a reasonable cost. We support adequate and timely Medicaid reimbursement to providers. We support renewal of the Federal Reimbursement Allowance (FRA). The FRA is the third largest revenue generator in the state of Missouri exceeded only by individual income taxes and sales and use taxes. We continue to urge Congress and the State of Missouri to support the Federal Reimbursement Allowance Program to its fullest extent on behalf of the citizens of Missouri. The FRA, which is itself supported by hospitals and other health care providers, is used to fund medical care under the MOHealthNet program. In the absence of the FRA, medical services under the MOHealthNet program would be significantly reduced.
Other We support certificate of need regulations that ensure a level playing field between hospital and specialty providers. Our Town
We support adequate Missouri transportation funding and a formula that reflects the economic strength and development needs of the St. Louis region and encourages the consideration of economic development and job creation impact when funding future projects. We support the emphasis on maintenance of existing infrastructure. We support maintaining St. Louis’ representation on the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and oppose efforts to redistribute money away from the St. Louis region. We support various forms of user fees be considered as one source of new transportation funding.
Transit We support policies and funding for Metro that promote more effective and sustainable system operations, as well as system expansions in accordance with the Long Range Transit Plan.
General Issues Copper and Other Metal Theft Prevention
We support adequate funding of state health care programs and enhanced use of available federal funds to reduce the number of under and uninsured.
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We support State legislation to set guidelines for the sale of scrap metal, particularly copper, to help prevent theft of such metals. The law should be based on the ordinance adopted by the City of St. Louis, should encourage a regional database and should require that all scrap metal dealers maintain an electronic database of all persons from whom metals are purchased, all copper property peddlers be licensed and all payments to sellers be made by check. We support legislation that increases fines to deter property theft from homes or businesses and to also require restitution if criminal theft results in damage to a home or business.
Predatory Lending & Payday Loan Operations We support legislation that would impose stricter regulations, with penalties, on lenders who engage in unfair and deceptive lending practices. We support legislation establishing that the Missouri Attorney General should have increased responsibility to investigate and take legal action against predatory lenders, such as payday and title loan companies. In addition, legislation should allow cities to impose limits on the number of payday loan companies or, if desired by the community, to ban these operations entirely.
Right to Work Status We support the State maintaining the status quo as to workers right to organize.
Tax Structure Review and Taxation for Local Governments We support a tax structure review due
Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement We support of the concept of the collection of electronic sales tax for online and remote sales purchases. Legislation should level the playing field for our local businesses (both large and small), without putting undo strain on other the businesses and internet sales companies that would have the option of voluntarily collecting the sales taxes; sales taxes that are already due to the state, but that are not currently being collected. Legislation should require a portion of the taxes collected go to local municipal governments at their current rates. We support the State adopting a streamlined sales and use tax agreement that would require the Department of Revenue to establish the necessary rules to implement the compliance provisions that best serves the State of Missouri’s residents and businesses.
Emergency Cell Phone Fee We support legislation to authorize a county-by-county vote for a cellular phone fee to fund enhanced 911 mobile services. If St. Louis County authorizes, then in 10 years they would be required to seek a reauthorization from voters. We support authorization to utilize existing funds for dispatching or public safety services.
Oversight We call for all legislation to clearly define expected measurable outcomes and accountability measures with built in oversight and transparency. For an electronic version of this document go to any of the following websites: greaternorthcountychamber.com mhcc.com NorthStLouisCounty.com northwestchamber.com
North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association | northstlouiscounty.com | 314.895.6241
to structural deficits caused by an out-of-date revenue system. Missouri’s capacity to fund services is out of balance because the revenue system has not been modified for decades in what it taxes and how it taxes. We support maintaining the existing sales tax authority in the statutes. Extending the authority for sales taxes to other government entities will lead to a very high sales tax rate. The legislature should maintain the clear delineation that sales taxes should be primarily maintained as a municipal revenue source and should oppose further incursions by other taxing entities that currently use other types of taxes.
Carolyn Marty GNCC President
Greater North County Chamber to Award 2012 Scholarships The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce will award five $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors who reside in the Greater North County Chamber service area. Students who live in Bellefontaine Neighbors, Black Jack, Ferguson, Florissant, Hazelwood, Jennings, Spanish Lake and surrounding unincorporated St. Louis County are eligible. Additionally, this year the Chamber will award a $1,000 Perseverance Scholarship Award to a student who has persevered in his/her academic studies despite
facing difficult challenges. The students will receive their scholarships during the Chamber’s Membership Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on April 18. The scholarships may be used for post high school continuing education expenses, which include college tuition, room and board, books, fees or for expenses associated with a trade or technical school program.
members and an annual bowl-a-thon. The chamber has awarded $35,000 in scholarships to date. The cost to attend the Chamber Membership Luncheon is $18 per person. To make reservations, call the chamber office at 314.831.3500 or visit greaternorthcountychamber.com.
The scholarship fund was established with donations from chamber
Greater North County Chamber to host ‘Sample North County’ The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor the “Sample North County” 2012 Business Showcase from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 31 at Jamestown Mall. The public is invited to attend the event to learn more about local businesses and organizations and the products and services they offer to the community. Presenting Sponsors include: Christian Hospital, Garden Villas North & Delmar
Gardens North and Schnucks Markets. Booth Sponsors are: Handyman True Value Hardware and Crystal Creek Health and Rehabilitation Center. The event is open to both chamber members and non-members. Exhibitor prices are as follows: double booth- $175 for members, $250 for non-members; single booth- $95 for members, $150 for non-members; half booth$75 members, $100 non-members. The price
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includes skirting, signage and a listing in the program. To reserve a booth or to become a sponsor, call the chamber office at 314.831.3500 or visit the chamber’s website at greaternorthcountychamber.com
Schaefer Autobody Center held a ribbon cutting ceremony at its Hazelwood location on Thursday, February 2. General Manager Kevin Haller cut the ribbon. He was joined by Katie Halloran, marketing representative, and Kevin Chadwick, director of operations. Also participating in the ceremony were Carolyn Marty, Greater North County Chamber president, Tim Davidson from the city of Hazelwood, and several other members of the chamber. Schaefer Autobody’s Hazelwood facility is located at 9091 Dunn Rd. For more information visit schaeferautobody.com or call 314.305.8288.
The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce recently selected Bonnie Barczykowski as its 2012 Outstanding Business Person of the Year. Barczykowski, owner of five Curves locations, will be honored during the Chamber’s Annual Installation Dinner on April 13.
Greater North County Chamber selects 2012 Outstanding Business Person of the Year
“I am honored to have been chosen as Greater North County Business Person of the Year,” Barczykowski said. “My employees and customers of Curves are what make an award like this even possible. I am grateful to all!” Barczykowski opened her first Curves in 2000. She has three facilities in Florissant, one in Ferguson and one in Weldon Spring. She has been involved with the Greater North County Chamber for many years, served on its board for seven years and is a past board chairwoman. She is the founder of the Lose to Win STL Program, which has had more than 3,000 local participants, and is the author of Make the Harder Choice.
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Barczykowski has served on the boards and chaired events for several community and civic organizations including the American Cancer Society’s North County Relay for Life, the American Heart Association, Marygrove and T.E.A.M. Born and raised in Florissant, Barczykowski now lives in St. Charles with her husband, Dan, and their three children. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Lindenwood College, Masters in Business Administration from Lindenwood University and has been certified in circuit training and weight management. “Bonnie is very deserving of this award,” said Carolyn Marty, chamber president. “She is a successful business woman who gives back to her community in many ways.”
Greater North County Chamber of Commerce | greaternorthcountychamber.com | 314.831.3500
Greater North Welcomes Schaefer Autobody
Northwest Chamber of Commerce Accepting Applications for 2012 Scholarships
In memoriam: Northwest Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Bob Swank died on Sunday, February 25, 2012 at the age of 58. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Megan, her daughter, Caleen, and his children: Steve, Jim, Austin, Michael, Justin, Callie and Megan. He is also survived by his sisters, Beverly and Lesley. Bob was a 1971 graduate of McCluer High School in Florissant. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, and the International Council of Shopping Centers, and served as President of Living History Reenactors, Inc. Bob also served as a past president of Renaissance St. Louis, a Unit Commander for the Boy Scouts of America Greater St. Louis Area Council, Executive Director at the St. Clair Area Chamber of Commerce, and Economic Development Director for the cities of Ferguson and Wentzville. He was a member of many professional associations, including the Missouri Economic Development Council. A memorial service was held on March 1, 2012 at the First Christian Church of Florissant.
The Northwest Chamber of Commerce has
established
scholarships
to
be
awarded to graduating seniors from high schools registered as current members of the Chamber. The scholarships are issued to the school of the recipient’s choice,
which
may
university/college,
be
four-year
two-year
college,
business or technical school. Interested seniors must complete a scholarship
application
and
return
it, along with the additional required information, to the NWCC office by Friday, April 13, 2012. Members of the NWCC Education Committee review applications, transcripts and references
Northwest Chamber Announces New Quarterly Raffle
and determine scholarship recipients each year. Scholarship recipients will be announced on or before April 27, 2012. Scholarship certificates will be presented to students at the May 10, 2012 Northwest Chamber of Commerce
Northwest Chamber has found another way to get members and prospective members excited and involved while raising money for the organization. The chamber will host a quarterly 50/50 raffle. Drawings will be held on March 8, June 14, September 13 and December 13 at the Northwest Chamber monthly meeting.
Tickets are $10 each, and 200 will be sold each quarter. Winners do not have to be members of Northwest Chamber, nor do they have to be present to win. If all tickets sell, the winner will receive $1,000. That’s quite a return! Tickets are available now at the chamber office and at all chamber events.
monthly membership luncheon at the St. Louis Airport Marriott Hotel. To be eligible, applicants must graduate in May 2012, have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater, plan to enroll in a junior college, university or college, business or technical school, be an active member of a school-sponsored club or organization,
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be reviewed. Please deliver applications
in the career and technical curriculum
to Northwest Chamber of Commerce,
(or will complete one and a half credits
11965 St. Charles Rock Road, Suite 203,
by the end of the senior year), and provide
Bridgeton, MO 63044.
the necessary supplemental application materials. This includes two letters of reference from adults not related to the applicant, copy of the applicant’s school transcript, and an essay explaining why the
applicant
deserves
a
Northwest
Chamber of Commerce scholarship and how the scholarship will benefit his or her future studies, etc. The essay must be one-page, double spaced, and typed in 12-point font.
Applications may be downloaded at www.northwestchamber.com.
Contact
the Chamber office at 314.291.2131 or email info@northwestchamber.com with any questions. Please
Blues Night 2012 Northwest Chamber of Commerce will offer a unique opportunity for members this hockey season. For one night only, members may attend a St. Louis Blues hockey game for a discounted price.
note:
Scholarship
recipients
must attend the membership luncheon
They may also take advantage of a few networking events before the game.
on Thursday, May 10, 2012, to receive Northwest Chamber Blues Night will
certificates.
take place on March 27. The St. Louis blues will face the National Predators at
All applications and material must be
7 p.m. The Mezzanine Section 304 tickets
received no later than 4 p.m. on Friday,
are regularly $25. Tickets are available
April 13, 2012. Late applications will not
for $20 for chamber members. From 6 to 7 p.m., attendees will gather at Top Shelf inside the stadium to network. A
Northwest Chamber Website Needs Your Success Stories The Northwest Chamber of Commerce
marketing is an important part of the
is very pleased to be make available a
chamber’s mission.
new section on the chamber website. The Success Stories page will feature stories and announcements submitted by chamber members. The site is set up like a blog, where members may submit posts to appear in a continuous thread on the page.
members can share stories of how their chamber membership has enhanced business.
members
are
busy,
and
don’t often have the time to share good news or announce achievements. This page allows members to quickly post
information
about
successes,
improvements and new partnerships. Visit northwestchamber.com to view
This page is offered as a place where our
their
Chamber
Member-to-member
and submit posts.
limited number of tickets are available, so order online or contact the chamber office very soon at 314.291.2131. This event is sponsored by Hewkin Auto Body Company and US Foods. This is the perfect chance to meet other business owners and see the worldfamous Blues compete on their home turf.
info@northwestchamber.
com or visit northwestchamber.com for more information.
Northwest Chamber of Commerce | northwestchamber.com | 314.291.2131
and/or have completed at least 1.5 credits
Continued From Page 5
chambers hear from state legislators
Growth and Sustainable Development.
Senator
about matters affecting North St. Louis
Education is another priority, with
Bert
County and formally present their
early childhood, primary, secondary
McNeil,
priorities on economic development,
and higher education issues making up
Pace,
education,
a large section of the agenda. Healthcare,
Pierson, Representative Clem Smith,
transportation
and
Representative
also
issues,
healthcare,
transportation,
and general issues. With four organizations involved, one would expect the agenda to become complicated, or that there would be
priority
taxation along
are with
continued support for the right for workers to organize.
Tim
Atkins,
Green,
Representative
Representative
Representative
Margo Sharon
Representative
Tommie
Churie
Spreng,
Representative Sylvester Taylor, and Representative Rochelle Walton Gray. “We’ve
really
seen
much
better
But
Some of the specific 2012 items include
participation,” Donovan said. “Having
Carolyn Marty, president of the Greater
support for: continued funding for job
a single event has been a much more
North County Chamber of Commerce,
training; legislation that would impose
efficient use of our legislators’ time.”
said presenting a single agenda is
stricter regulations regarding deceptive
sensible.
lending practices; legislation that creates
obvious
points
of
contention.
“We are all after the same thing,” she said. “Each organization may want to tweak a few words, but there really is no major division.”
the four organizations to combine and strengthen their voices.
united voice,” Marty said.
“It makes a
greater impact and helps us to be heard in Jefferson City.” Legislative
Reception
agenda
changes, but rather states what the agenda
group
supports.
covered
a
This
swath
of
important issues in several categories. Under
of
emphasis on maintenance
existing
infrastructure;
adequate
Economic
and enhanced use of available federal funds to reduce the number of under and uninsured; and local autonomy of
The entire agenda may be downloaded at
any
of
the
Development,
for
example, the unified group expressed support for legislation that promotes Economic Development Tax Credits, Small Business and Entrepreneurial
following
websites:
g re at e r n o rt h c o u n t y c h a m b e r . c o m , mhcc.com,
does not tackle specific bills or policy
year’s
transition;
school districts.
“It’s always important to go with a
collaborative
improve neighborhoods in downward
funding of state healthcare programs
Most importantly, the collective allows
The
regional solutions and partnerships to
NorthStLouisCounty.com
and northwestchamber.com. The unify
forum
has
the
voice
chambers; a
it
done of
has
given
one-stop-shop had
to
State
legislators
the
2012
were:
in
Senator
Jane
at a legislative forum or representing the
chamber
members
in
critical
discussions, what are they doing to support the organizations? Donovan said aside from being the liaison between local business owners and government, the job of each committee is primarily to play an educational role. “Business people are busy people,” she said. “It’s up to us to keep them informed about the issues that would be of interest to them.” Keeping abreast of changes in legislation and local policy can be a full-
separate
members don’t have to spend valuable
legislators
time scouring the news for issues that
to
individually.
attendance
Legislation
Affairs
their Governmental Affairs committees,
opportunity
schedule
Governmental
time job. Thanks to the diligent work of
meet with four groups they would have
when
committees aren’t working the room
than
more
four
So
at
Reception
Cunningham,
could impact their businesses. Of course, if non-committee members come across information they feel is relevant, they are encouraged to bring it to the attention of the committee. Sustaining the line of communication— from the members to the committee
You’ll Come for the Friendship
You’ll Stay for the Music
The Villa at Riverwood offers more fun-filled activities than any other community. And those activities create a sense of camaraderie in a home-like atmosphere. The Villa at Riverwood has something for everyone. We’ll keep your mind and body active with games, live entertainment, day trips, or just enjoy your privacy. You will never be bored or lonely here! #1 Pratt Place Florissant, MO 63031 314.839.5000
to the legislators and back again—is essential. “What we do is invaluable,” Donovan said. “Ours is an educational role. We share information, keep the communication open, but it’s the personal relationships that matter.” END
Calendar of Events
March 1 MHCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 - 9 a.m., DJ’s Deli March 6 Northwest Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant March 9 Northwest Casino Night March 13 Northwest Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House March 14 MHCC Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Spazio’s March 15 MHCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 - 9 a.m., Location TBD March 20 Northwest Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant March 21 Greater North County Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Yacovelli’s March 27 Northwest Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House March 31 Greater North County Business Showcase, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jamestown Mall April 3 Northwest Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant April 5 MHCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 - 9 a.m., DJ’s Deli April 13 Greater North County Installation Dinner/Business Person of the Year, 6 - 9 p.m., Norwood Hills Country Club
April 10 April 11
Northwest Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House
April 17 April 18
Northwest Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant
April 19 April 24 April 26 April 27
MHCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 - 9 a.m., Location TBD
MHCC Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Syberg’s reater North County Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Debonaire G Banquet Center Northwest Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House MHCC/Northwest/Creve Coeur-Olivette Super Power Networking, 7:30– 9 a.m., Spazio’s MHCC Trivia Night, SSM DePaul May Center
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Adult Easter Egg Hunt March 30, 2012 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. White Birch Park $10 admission 21 & Over
Easter Eggstravaganza April 7, 2012 10:00 a.m. White Birch Park FREE 10 & Under
Hunt for the Hounds March 31, 2012 10:30 a.m. White Birch Park $12 Per Pet
For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Office at 314.731.0980 or visit www.hazelwoodmo.org.
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