St Joseph Business Journal Winter 2012 by NPG Newspapers

Winter 2012 A publication of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber

Air Guard Lifts St. Joseph Economic, Community Needs Filled by 139th Airlift Wing

Buchanan County Chosen for National Healthy Worksite Program

St. Joseph Business journal

Winter 2012

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

INDEX Economic Update.................................................................................4 Voters Approve Extension of Sales Tax...............................................5 Top Employer Profile: Gray Manufacturing Co., Inc..........................6 Northwest Missourians Stand Together in Jefferson City....................7 St. Joseph Strives to Become a ‘Community of Excellence’...............8 Uptown Update....................................................................................9 Air Guard Lifts St. Joseph....................................................................10

Buchanan County Selected for National Program.......................12 Downtown Digest.........................................................................13 Danford Named One of America’s Top Financial Advisors........14 Entrepreneurs Gather at St. Joseph Business Summit.................15 Parking -- Always a Hot Topic in Downtowns............................16 Member Profile: YWCA.................................................................17 Volunteering Helps Business and Community.............................18 Small Business Matters..................................................................19

2012 St. Joseph Metro Chamber BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman

Matthew Dority KCP&L

President/CEO

Ted Allison, CEcD St. Joseph Metro Chamber

Chair-Elect

Vern Middleton Midwest Federal

Secretary/Treasurer

Dr. Mark Laney Heartland Health

Ted Allison, CEcD

President & CEO allison@saintjoseph.com 816.232.4461

Shannon Jobes

Vice President, Administration jobes@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4111

Directors Brian Bradley, St. Joseph News-Press Barbara Burns, B.J. Office Products Inc. James Carolus, Hillyard Companies Dr. Gary Clapp, Institute for Industrial & Applied Life Sciences Bill Falkner, City of St. Joseph Tim Knapp, Tim Knapp Construction Co. Corky Marquart, Commerce Bank, N.A. Todd Meierhoffer, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory Byron Myers, Sr., City of St. Joseph Dan Nicoson, Missouri Western State University Foundation Dan Nowalk, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. Col. Mike Pankau, 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard

Kristi Rasmussen

Director of Communications rasmussen@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4108

Economic Development

Steve Hamilton

Senior Vice President, Economic Development hamilton@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4106 816.244-9533 (cell)

Maryann Skiles

Receptionist, Administrative Assistant

skiles@saintjoseph.com

Matt Robertson, CliftonLarsonAllen Dr. Melody Smith, School District of St. Joseph Larry Stobbs, South St. Joseph Progressive Association Kylee Strough, United Way of Greater St. Joseph R.T. Turner, Buchanan County Bob Wollenman, Deluxe Truck Stop LLC Mark Woodbury, General Counsel Polsinelli Shughart P.C. Brad McAnally, Immediate Past Chair, Hy-Vee Food Stores Mike Decker, Diplomats Club Representative, Apple Market Rebecca Evans, Young Executives Network Representative, Small Business & Technology Development Center

3003 Frederick Ave. 816.232.4461 or 800.748.7856

816.232.4461

Membership

Brad Lau

Director of Business Attraction and Development blau@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4110 816.244.6221 (cell)

Mary Brown

Project Manager, Administrative Assistant brown@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4102

816.364.4873 (fax) www.saintjoseph.com

Natalie Redmond

Vice President, Member Relations redmond@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4107

Community Alliance

Keisha Holtman

Administrative Assistant, Membership holtman@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4101

Steve Johnston

Director of Community Alliance of Saint Joseph johnston@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4109

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

EconomicUpdate

Top 10 Employers Heartland Health Triumph Foods, LLC School District of St. Joseph Altec Industries Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. Wal-Mart American Family Insurance City of St. Joseph Sara Lee Foods Western Reception, Diagnostic & Correctional Center

Health Services Meat Products Education Utility Industry Equipment Animal Pharmaceuticals

3,451 2,725 1,877 906 802

Department Store Insurance Government Meat Products Prison

780 777 665 650 576

Demographics

St.J oseph

business... by the good better life ! umbers

Unemployment

(Dec. 2011)

Population Housing units

76,780 32,495

St. Joseph Missouri

6.7 percent 8.0 percent

Average family size

United States

8.5 percent

Private Dining and Catering

Corporate Drop-Off Lunches Pharmaceutical Lunches Personalized Menu Items

On-site Seating for up to 60 people in the elegant atmosphere of our beautiful historic restaurant.

Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Birthday Parties Reunions

BusinessBrief MERIL Interpreting Services Changes Name MERIL has been providing interpreting services since 1993. Recently, MERIL Interpreter Referral Services changed its name to Bridge Interpreting. Bridge Interpreting continues to provide expertise in all modes of sign language communication, such as American Sign Language (ASL), Pidgin Signed English (PSE), Signed Exact English (SEE), oral, tactile and low vision interpreting. “Interpreting services are vital to effective communication within the communities we serve and to individuals with hearing loss,” states Sarah Kurtz, Interpreter Referral Coordinator. Why call Bridge Interpreting? •

it has qualified and licensed

interpreters • staff strives to meet all consumer needs and accommodations • it conscientiously matches interpreter skills to the needs of the deaf participant • staff accepts requests for specific interpreters if someone has a preference • it continues to use local interpreters as it expands statewide • it is easily accessible 24/7, including holidays • it offers competitive rates • staff only requires a 24-hour cancellation For more information call (816) 244-0834 or e-mail interpreters@ meril.org or fill out an online request form at www.meril.org/interpreters.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Voters Approve Extension of Sales Tax in February Election Tax Generates Funds for Capital Improvements and Economic Development Voters approved the renewal of Buchanan County’s Capital Improvement and Economic Development Sales Tax in an election on Feb. 7. The issue had been defeated in August 2011. About 13 percent of registered voters cast their ballot in the election. The issue passed with 4,422 yes votes and 2,485 no votes. “I was very excited, and relieved as much as anything,” said R.T. Turner, Presiding Commissioner of Buchanan County. “We won’t have to worry about another election for another eight years and we’ll have a good funding stream.” Except in August, voters had approved the quarter-cent sales tax since 1987. The funds the tax generates pay for capital building expenditures, infrastructure and equipment for the county. But most importantly, from the Chamber’s prospective, is that it funds economic development efforts. Since 2007, more than $4 million of the tax has been used for 13 economic development projects that have turned into $405 million of capital investment and $60 million in new annual payroll. Some of those funds were used for attraction or expansion projects like: the Chiefs Training Camp, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., the Institute for Industrial and Applied Life Sciences, Eastowne Business Park, Mitchell Woods Business Park, Lifeline Foods, Triumph Foods, Sunshine Electronic Display, I&M Machine and Fabrication Corp., Nestle-Purina Pet Care, Ag Processing and more. The only difference between the tax on the February ballot and August ballot was the addition of the sunset clause. All of the previous

ballot issues contained a sunset clause. “We ran it without the sunset clause in August, and all of the feedback we received said voters wanted the sunset clause,” Mr. Turner said. It had been removed because it costs $50,000 or so to run an election each time it expires. Commissioners had thought that if the public wasn’t satisfied with how the funds were being spent, they would vote them out of office, said Ted Allison, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber. The tax didn’t expire until the end of 2012, so there wasn’t a gap in funding. The next election that will feature this sales tax will be in 2020. Missouri River levee work will take priority for part of the funds generated from the tax. Funds have been appropriated from the U.S. Corps of Engineers for levee design. County funds will go toward construction for the upgrading of levees to protect properties along the Missouri River. The Stockyards Industrial Park, St. Jo Frontier Casino and the 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air National Guard all were affected by 2011 flood waters. Mr. Turner wanted to thank everyone who helped get the word out about the importance of this tax. Many volunteers wrote letters of support to the newspaper and spoke to groups in favor of the tax. “I’m very appreciative of everyone in the community for approving this, and by such a large majority,” Mr. Turner said.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

TopEmployerProfile Each quarter in the Business Journal, we will profile one or more of St. Joseph’s top employers. A top employer may be based on number of employees, or because the business operates in a St. Joseph-focused industry. Often, residents may recognize a company name, but may not know exactly what the company does. In this question and answer piece, learn a little bit more about:

Gray Manufacturing Co., Inc. Manufacturers Stet Schanze, President 3501 S. Leonard Road St. Joseph, MO 64502 (816) 233-6121 www.grayusa.com Was Gray founded in St. Joseph? How did Mr. Gray’s entrepreneurship grow his business? Gray Manufacturing was founded and incorporated in St. Joseph, Mo., in 1952 by J. H. Gray and his son, Joseph L. Gray. The company has always been in St. Joseph, with its roots going back to 1920 when J.H. Gray started the company as a simple tire shop. He was granted his first patent in 1921. Gray Manufacturing has always been operated with an entrepreneurial mindset. One of its current strategic focus areas is to develop new vehicle lifting technology, which it seeks to protect with patents. Gray is in its third generation of family ownership with Peter Gray serving as Chairman and CEO, recently succeeding his father Joseph L. Gray, who remains active in the business to this day. Gray Manufacturing is a world-wide company known for providing the highest quality shop service equipment for the automotive, truck and service vehicle industries. How many workers do you employ? Gray Manufacturing currently employs 140 employees and emphasizes a family-owned, operated, and oriented work environment. What are some of your main job duties/titles? Gray Manufacturing is completely vertically integrated -- designing, engineering, manufacturing, selling, and servicing its product line. As such, we have a number of jobs that make up our workforce to include mechanical engineers, CNC operators, machinists, welders, fabricators, final assemblers, maintenance technicians, sales representatives, management information specialists, and general management positions. What kind of an education or training is necessary to be employed by Gray? Education and training varies widely with the type of position mentioned above; however, the majority of our hires require skilled technical training in Computer Numerical Controls (CNC), welding, and sales. What keeps your business in St. Joseph?

Mainly the dedication of our ownership, management, and employees to the greater St. Joseph community is what keeps our business here. The overall work ethic of the community and our employees is another major plus. Continued commitment to existing businesses by our community leaders is something that we feel is very important, as most jobs are created by existing businesses and helps to fuel the health of our overall local economy. Quality streets, infrastructure, education, health care, public safety, and quality of life amenities are very important to employers and something that our community works hard at. In layman’s terms, what do you produce and how is your product distributed? Gray Manufacturing produces hydraulic and pneumatic (air) jacks and lift equipment, primarily for the heavy truck industry. Chances are that any overthe-road semi truck that you see has at some point in its lifetime been lifted by a Gray Manufacturing product for servicing. We primarily sell and distribute our product directly to our customer. This helps us maintain an excellent relationship with and knowledge of our customers’ product needs. Are there any other interesting facts or figures you’d like the Business Journal readership to know? The majority of Gray Manufacturing’s business is outside of St. Joseph, although you will see our equipment in a number of automotive and truck service shops here locally. Gray does business in all 50 states and in over 30 countries world-wide on a regular basis. Gray made use of telemarketing directly to its customer base over 30 years ago and utilizes primarily a fourday a week, 10-hour a day production schedule. This allows our employees to have the flexibility to spend more time with their families or work a second job…many working on the family farm in the St. Joseph area.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Northwest Missourians Stand Together in Jefferson City

Senators Rob Schaaf and Brad Lager talk with Brad Lau, Director of Business Attraction and Development of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber, at Great Northwest Day at the Capitol. In a spirit of ongoing cooperation and partnership, Great Northwest Day at the Capitol 2012 drew nearly 300 area constituents together to showcase the region in Jefferson City on Jan. 31-Feb. 1. Eighteen counties, multiple communities and regional representatives from business, education, healthcare and government provided a unified partnership at the event. Sixty-one business and community leaders from Buchanan County attended. The two-day event began with a luncheon panel discussion of unfunded mandates in Missouri. On Tuesday afternoon, a roundtable discussion was held with department leaders from various offices. Participants heard from Terry Maglich from the Department of Economic Development, Dr. Jon Hagler, Director of the Department of Agriculture, Lori Simms with the Division of Tourism and Dr. Neil Nuttall and Judith Sabbert of emPowerU. The Great Northwest Day at the Capitol evening event is a regional expo featuring community booths and a festive legislator reception designed to educate attendees about Northwest Missouri. Attending the event were 298 participants from

Northwest Missouri and nearly 250 guests, including two Supreme Court Justices, six senators, 84 House of Representatives members, State Department representatives, and staff and guests from various State offices. “This was our 10th annual event and I’m pleased to say legislators from all parts of Missouri have reported that Great Northwest Day ranks high on their list of events to attend each year,” states Kathy Morgan, event chairperson. “It is critical that our issues be heard by people who can affect change, and that is exactly what happens during the two days we are in Jefferson City. This is about empowering our communities with an identity in Jefferson City and showing the strength from our region. It also is our way of showing support for our legislators as they continue to work for the good of our Great Northwest.” Planning for the event begins in August with about 35 volunteers from across the region. Community and corporate sponsors provide financial support for this annual project. Great Northwest Day at the Capitol, held each February, is a partnership of communities facilitated by Leadership Northwest Missouri.

Group Plans Lobbying Trip to Washington, D.C. Twenty-nine leaders of the St. Joseph business and civic community will travel to Washington, D.C. to visit with members of Northwest Missouri’s federal legislative delegation. The Community Alliance of Saint Joseph coordinates the yearly venture to the nation’s capital so St. Joseph’s leaders can speak with a united voice to the region’s top policymakers about issues important to St. Joseph and Buchanan County. On March 20 and 21, business and community leaders will meet individually with Sen. Roy Blunt, Sen. Claire McCaskill and Rep. Sam Graves in Washington and their respective staff members. The legislative team within the Community Alliance assembles the partners to determine where efforts for federal appropriations can be maximized. Typically, 20

or 25 requests are brought to the table, with the goal to narrow those to the top 10. Leaders put their own individual differences aside and decide upon what is going to make the greatest impact, and The Ferguson Group helps keep the priorities in front of the legislators throughout the year. Since budget earmarks are a thing of the past, the Northwest Missouri delegation will focus efforts on competitive grants in the areas of transportation and education, said Steve Johnston, Director of the Community Alliance of Saint Joseph. A list of top priorities hadn’t been finalized by the deadline for this issue.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

St. Joseph Strives to Become a ‘Community of Excellence’ St. Joseph is striving to become a “Community of Excellence.” What this means is that community leaders are following the same criteria set out for organizations that compete for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. For St. Joseph to become a Community of Excellence, organizations must agree to work toward becoming “Organizations of Excellence.” “We need to learn from each other as we establish a Community of Excellence,” said Steve Johnston, Director of the Community Alliance of Saint Joseph. “This is a great fit for our community and this has value for your company.” As employees work to better their organizations by following the Baldrige criteria, the company, as well as the community, will benefit. “This is not about receiving an award, it’s about being award worthy,” said Raina Knox, Director for the Excellence in Missouri Foundation. “If

you want a trophy, go buy it. That’s much easier. If you want to improve, let’s go on a journey.” Ms. Knox spoke at the first meeting of St. Joseph’s Community of Excellence movement in late 2011. At that meeting, guest speakers familiar with the process shared their experiences. Barbara Rich, Operational Excellence Manager at Honeywell Federal Manufacturing & Technologies, said this is the most comprehensive program she’s seen. “It involved getting our customers involved in our strategic plan,” Ms. Rich said. Dr. Mark Miles, Deputy Superintendent of the Park Hill School District, said Park Hill made slow and steady progress in most areas, which is how it should be. “Someone needs to be the one to read the policy book,” he said. The Excellence in Missouri Foundation (EIMF) is responsible for

the statewide effort to improve Missouri communities. The Community Alliance of Saint Joseph is leading the local effort. EIMF administers the Missouri Quality Award, which is based on Baldrige principles. The criteria for performance excellence Dr. Mark Miles speaks at a Community of Excellence provide a meeting in 2011. common, holistic management, workforce focus, framework for operations focus and results. organizations to use to improve Customer focus is the topic of a overall performance – regardless of Feb. 17 meeting of those pursuing the size or sector. Categories and core Community of Excellence initiative. values of the criteria are: leadership, strategic planning, customer focus, measurement, analysis and knowledge

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

UptownUpdate Information gathered from Uptown St. Joseph’s quarterly newsletter

Contractors Start on Demonstration Block

New Homes To Make Campus Appearance

Residents along 10th, 11th and Church streets are getting a new view from the front door, thanks to work underway on Uptown’s demonstration block. The demonstration block project was funded by a federal appropriation, sponsored by former U.S. Senator Kit Bond, to the Missouri Department of Transportation for award to and implementation by Uptown. The grant covers new or repaired curbs, gutters, storm inlets and sidewalks and addition of street trees. Planting will start in the spring.

“The Quarters,” the first phase of development of the former Heartland campus in the Uptown area, will get underway with a target of at least one unit being begun, if not completed, in time for the Uptown Homes Tour and Homebuilders’ Tour in early May. A total of 20 units in this phase are proposed. This phase is located between Faraon and Robidoux streets and Seventh and Ninth streets. Owner-occupied single family and rowhouses will be built, ranging from 1,200 to 1,500 square feet. The homes will connect to a pedestrian greenspace and walkway leading to the eastern and western edges of “The Quarters,” north to historic neighborhoods and south to the downtown. The original plan’s proposed neighborhood center has been modified to allow potential commercial and institutional uses in the community use area. A number of ideas have been presented by the community. Potential buyers of residential housing units should contact Tim Minson, of Minson Homes, LLC, or sales agent Larry Buck, Prudential/ Summers, Realtors.

Five Approved for Abatements Five property owners invested a total of $715,500 in home upgrades to receive Uptown tax abatements for 2011. The property owners invested an average of $143,100 each, with some receipts still coming in. The total investment qualifying for tax abatement since Uptown’s inception is $9,861,973, as of December 31, 2011.

The Precise Plan for redevelopment of the vacant site occupied by the former Heartland Health campus has been filed with the City of St. Joseph, where it is undergoing review by the Planning Commission and City Council.

BusinessBrief CliftonLarsonAllen Names New Partner in St. Joseph Office CliftonLarsonAllen, ranked as one of the nation’s top 10 certified public accounting and consulting firms, recently announced Tim Reynolds has been named partner in the firm’s St. Joseph office. Mr. Reynolds joins six other new partners recently admitted to the firm. “People are our most valued asset at CliftonLarsonAllen, and that’s especially true as we build our firm for the future and celebrate the admission of our newest partners,” said Mark Wyzgowski, partner-incharge of the firm’s St. Joseph office. “Our new partners embody all that CliftonLarsonAllen stands for by providing exceptional client service and serving as trusted business advisors to help our clients grow and prosper. We congratulate Tim

and all of our new partners for this achievement.” Mr. Reynolds joined the St. Joseph office in 2011 and has more than 18 years of private industry and public accounting experience. He specializes in tax services for corporations, partnerships and high net-worth individuals, with an emphasis on businesses in the manufacturing and wholesale distribution industries. Mr. Reynolds also has extensive experience with federal and state income tax compliance, income tax accounting/ provision services and uncertain tax positions. Mr. Reynolds received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Toledo and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Missouri Society of CPAs.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Air Guard Lifts St. Joseph At a time when the military is downsizing, communities around the country fear the closing of local bases. St. Joseph is no stranger to that worry. The 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri National Guard provided a $142 million impact on the local economy, which was roughly $11 million more than the previous fiscal year. The Wing has 374 employees, placing it in the top 20 of St. Joseph employers. And, the Guard makes a “significant impact” on tourism, said Mary Supple, Director of Sales at the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Air Force recently announced plans to downsize the Air National Guard. Thankfully, the 139th dodged a bullet. Instead of having to downsize, it will receive new airplanes. “In 2012, this is what winning looks like,” said Col. Mike Pankau, commanding officer of the 139th Airlift Wing. Despite this recent win, the threat of cuts and closure is still ever present. “We’ll be facing this for years,” he said. When you look at the cost comparison between Guard, Reserves and active duty military, keeping Guard bases open is a smart choice. “This cost-effective force provides 35 percent of the U.S. Air Force’s capability for 6 percent of the budget,” he said in the Guard’s Elements of Excellence. “With 75 percent of Air Guard facilities being dual use with civilian airfields, capabilities are shared and efficiencies are realized. This community basing, allowing use of existing civilian infrastructure, means the Guard has access to $12 billion in airfield facilities for only $4 million in taxpayer money.” The Guard is cost efficient while also responding to emergencies that other branches of military do not. The Guard has a mission with the state to

respond to natural disasters and aid law enforcement. Active duty and Air Force Reserves do not serve those statewide and local purposes, Mr. Pankau said. “We have agreements with surrounding communities for our firefighters to respond to fires and accidents as first responders,” he said. “We routinely respond to situations in Elwood and Wathena.” Guard members also provide security and fire protection for all of Rosecrans Memorial Airport. A larger fire house is being built for the bigger trucks the Air Guard is buying for the airfield, which serves private planes as well as military planes. The Guard was instrumental in preparing for the flood of 2011. Its The 139th Security Forces Squadron returned home the week before Christmas members worked to fill and move as part of the Iraq drawdown. Photos provided by the 139th Airlift Wing of the sandbags to protect areas along the Missouri Air National Guard. Missouri River. The predicted high river stages drove the 139th Airlift Wing to move almost $1 billion in resources to off-base facilities. The new fire house is being built out of the flood plane. When it is time to make military cuts, anything that sets a local base apart helps keep that base off the chopping block. At the 139th, the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center (AATTC) is that unique feature. It brings in airmen from across the country and around the world. The AATTC trains about 750 people each year from all branches of the U.S. military and from the 16 allied nations. “The center is one of a kind,” Mr. Pankau said. “It teaches advanced Members of the 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard, sandbag a tactics and survivability for cargo and tanker planes. It’s very important sand boil under U.S. highway 36 in Elwood, Kan., on June 30, 2011. Sand boils are a common occurrence when river water gets high. training, so important that the German Air Force makes it mandatory “Some stay 10 to 12 nights at a time in many ways,” said Ted Allison, for its pilots to be graduates from this and can come in groups of 30.” President and CEO of the St. Joseph academy.” And, it’s not just AATTC students Metro Chamber. “First, most of Airmen who visit the AATTC that bring Guard tourism money into their 374 employees live in our and the Annual Tactics Symposium St. Joseph. Normal drill weekends community and are excellent citizens definitely impact tourism dollars. have an impact on hotel stays and and neighbors. Second, the Guard “They stay in our hotels, shop restaurant visits, as well. also brings more than 750 military in our stores, go to our casino and “The Air National Guard is personnel to St. Joseph each year to visit our attractions,” Ms. Supple said. a tremendous asset for St. Joseph receive training, which benefits our

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

hotels, restaurants, and retailers as well as generates tremendous sales tax revenue.” Third, he said, the Guard is a driver of international cultural exchange, as many of these visitors are our Allies from foreign countries. And fourth, he said, the Guard makes every effort to use local vendors and contractors in its operations and capital projects. “We recognize and appreciate not only their $142 million economic impact in our local economy, but more importantly, their dedicated service and sacrifice for our country,” Mr. Allison said. Perhaps the most important part of having the 139th Airlift Wing operating in St. Joseph is the effect it has in our community. “Our 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air National Guard rises to the challenge to meet the critical needs of our nation,” said Steve Johnston, Director of the Community Alliance of Saint Joseph. “It is an

honor to have these men, women and their families working and living in St Joseph. We value them as our neighbors and friends, and salute them for being actively engaged in all aspects of our community.” Guard members volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, with Big Brothers Big Sisters, as mentors at Hall Elementary School and at Mount Mora Cemetery, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. “We pay taxes, we worship in the community and we live in St. Joseph neighborhoods,” Mr. Pankau said. “It’s not like we live on a base, shop at a commissary and pay back to the Air Force. We shop in the community.” But besides the financial benefit, there is also an emotional benefit. “The bonds we build are strong,” Mr. Pankau said. “Our people are here for 20 years. The civilian support we receive when our folks have to deploy is outstanding.”

Eagle Communications Appoints Exline

“As our company continues to grow, adding Rick and Gary as advisory board members gives us additional broadcast insight and knowledge as we tackle the opportunities ahead,” said Eagle Communications President Gary Shorman. “They are both highly respected and their experience and forward thinking will add a unique perspective to help drive Eagle’s strategy.” Mr. Nulton, winner of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters top award

Eagle Communications, Kansas’ premier employee-owned media and broadband company, has appointed Rick Nulton, General Manager of Eagle Radio of Great Bend and Gary Exline, General Manager of Eagle Radio of St. Joseph, Mo., as advisory members to the company’s board of directors. The advisory members will assist the board with radio opportunities and oversight.

The 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air National Guard played a huge role in the success of the 2010 Sound of Speed Air Show. Planning is underway for the 2012 event that will be held May 5 and 6 at Rosecrans Memorial Airport. Tens of thousands of people from across the Midwest enjoyed the last show and are expected to come out for the 2012 edition. The Air Show is put together by the 139th Airlift Wing, St. Joseph Metro Chamber, City of St. Joseph, Buchanan County and important private sponsors. See www.soundofspeedairshow.com for more information.

for sales excellence, is a graduate of Fort Hays State University. He began his broadcast career in Garden City and joined Eagle Communications at KHOK radio in 1986. Mr. Exline, a graduate of Kansas State University, is chair elect of the Missouri Broadcasters Association board of directors and chairman of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber Community Roundtable for Health and Productivity. He began his radio career in McPherson in 1969 and joined Eagle Communications in 2003

BusinessBrief after 15 years as market manager for a radio station cluster in Owensboro, Kentucky. The appointments became effective January 1. Eagle Communications, Inc., is a Kansas-based media and broadband services company with more than 250 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri, as well as cable TV systems in Kansas and Colorado.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Buchanan County Selected for National Healthy Worksite Program

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Viridian Health Management have selected Buchanan County as one of seven communities across the country to participate in the National Healthy Worksite Program (NHWP). CDC and Viridian are working to identify employers in Buchanan County who would benefit from a comprehensive worksite health promotion program. Businesses can apply for one of the

two opportunities below. 1. Fifteen employers from Buchanan County will be selected as Program Participants in this two-year program to receive intensive, on-site support to build a worksite health promotion program tailored to their organization and the needs of their employees, including: on-site health assessments and evaluations, onsite program management support, individual health coaching, training, technical assistance and mentor assistance from other participating employers and experts. The NHWP will support Buchanan County employers in implementing programmatic, policy and environmental supports to promote physical activity, good nutrition and tobacco-use cessation among their employees. Interested Buchanan County employers are encouraged to obtain more information and apply to participate in the program by visiting the National Healthy Worksite

Program website at www.cdc. gov/NationalHealthyWorksite. The deadline to apply and complete the online certification form is Feb. 24. 2. A robust training program will provide multiple opportunities to a much larger group of employers in Buchanan County who are not eligible or selected to participate in the program. As a selected community, Viridian will provide training, technical assistance, and resources from health promotion experts during the next two years, as well as networking and mentoring opportunities to this group of interested employers who can sign up to participate in this worksite health promotion training and receive ongoing NHWP program communications by visiting www.cdc. gov/NationalHealthyWorksite. Please contact the National Healthy Worksite Program director for St. Joseph community, Dean Mausolf at dmausolf@viridianhealth.com or (816) 646-2525, if you have any questions or would like additional information. Buchanan County was selected based on the following criteria: • Prevalence of chronic disease;

health outcomes and health behaviors below state averages. • Available community resources to support a sustainable program, such as proximity to a community hospital and existing community health initiatives or programs. • Preference given to communities with high health disparities and allow for the inclusion of urban/rural localities, industry sector diversity and demographic diversity. • A minimum of 1,000 employers with 100 employers in at least nine industry sectors. • Health rankings including adult prevalence of obesity, tobacco use, chronic disease, and physical inactivity. The seven areas around the nation that were chosen to participate in the program are: – Region 1: Somerset County, ME – Region 2: Shelby County, TN – Region 3: Marion County, IN – Region 4: Harris County, TX – Region 5: Buchanan County, MO – Region 6: Kern County, CA – Region 7: Pierce County, WA

The Centers for Disease Control is currently seeking employers for the National Healthy Worksite Program. Employers participating in the NHWP will benefit through:

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• Health improvements for you and your employees • Extensive training to build capacity and skill • Intensive onsite support to implement a high-quality workplace health promotion program • Onsite health assessment and program evaluation • Onsite program management support • Opportunities to engage and learn from peers and program experts Interested in participating in the NHWP? Go to a meeting on Feb. 21, 7:30 a.m. Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory 5005 Frederick Blvd. A light, healthy breakfast will be provided.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

DowntownDigest Information provided by the St. Joseph Downtown Partnership

St. Joseph Downtown Partnership to Relocate The St. Joseph Downtown Partnership has negotiated an agreement with the City of St. Joseph to relocate its offices to 713 Edmond St. The city has hired general contractor, E.L. Crawford Construction, Inc., to remodel the space in the Missouri Theatre Complex. The St. Joseph Downtown Partnership office has been located at 101 Jules St. since its move from the Missouri Valley Trust building at 402 Felix St. a year ago. Plans are to move into the new location sometime this spring.

Mardi Gras Celebrates 10 Years in Downtown The St. Joseph Downtown Association is sponsoring the 10th annual Mardi Gras Parade. The parade will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, at 8 p.m. The parade will begin at Third and Felix streets and proceed east on Felix Street to Eighth Street. It should be a brisk event. Mardi Gras is a perfect way to lift your spirits on a cold winter night!

Apple Blossom Plans St. Joseph’s annual rite of spring, the Apple Blossom Parade, will be held on May 5 beginning at 9:30 a.m. The 2012 theme, “Destination: St. Joseph,” reflects both historical and current events. For one, St. Joseph was a key jumping-off point for pioneers traveling west along both the Oregon and California trails. For another, it was the eastern terminus of the famed Pony Express. This year, St. Joseph is the destination for the Sound of Speed Air Show, International Edition, on May 5 and 6.

The Apple Blossom Committee is gearing up for another great Apple Blossom season, beginning March 31 with the Apple Blossom pageants and wrapping up Apple Blossom weekend with the Apple Blossom Barbecue contest May 4 and 5. For more information and entry details go to appleblossomparade.com

Better Block St. Joe The downtown St. Joseph community is coming together to create the Better Block St. Joe event. The project is similar to other events that have taken place throughout the country. Better Block projects are grassroots-driven events that aim to revitalize a distressed business district by temporarily displaying the neighborhood’s potential through physical improvements to the built environment. A team of volunteers and community leaders are currently assembling to clean up an area of underutilized buildings at the 700 block of Francis Street, all in order to bring the neighborhood back to life during a weekend event. Minor façade improvements will be made to the buildings, the interiors will be cleaned up, and temporary “pop-up” businesses will be installed inside. The street and public space will be temporarily altered to make the neighborhood a more livable environment. Street performers and local artists are also a key element to the project. By introducing art, music, and culture into the neighborhood, the area will blossom back to life. The event will be held in conjunction with the Apple Blossom Festival, on May 4 and 5. To become a part of the project visit www.mokan.org. Comments and questions? Contact Matt Buchanan, with MoKan Regional Council, at (816) 233-3144, or e-mail Matt and Travis Unziker at krugwowllc@gmail.com.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Danford Named One of America’s Top Financial Advisors Dan Danford, CFP®, Principal/ CEO of Family Investment Center, has been named one of America’s Top Financial Advisors for 2012 by Conquest Press. An elite group of financial advisors received this recognition. Each advisor will be included in the new book, 2012 America’s Top Financial Advisors –The Titans of Wealth Management. Criteria for inclusion was rigorous and thorough, and included rankings on industry-recognized lists, number of clients served/client retention, educational background and professional designations, assets under management, professional longevity, regulatory review, and impact his or her services have made on clients. “Dan deserves this recognition,” said Jason White, Ph.D., Principal/ Director of Investments for Family Investment Center, and Mr. Danford’s colleague. “Dan has made a

tremendous impact on his clients since he began his investment career back in 1984. So many clients have been with him since the very beginning, and we’re very proud of him.” Mr. Danford founded Family Investment Center in 1998 to help successful families, individuals, corporations, and foundations manage finances and grow portfolios. The firm uses proven academic techniques to deliberately balance investment risks and rewards. This process has benefitted clients even during the last decade’s tumultuous market situations. Mr. Danford started Family Investment Center after success in the trust industry. He envisioned a new type of advisory firm after realizing that clients could prosper when advisors consider a wide universe of investments, and if the process was free from sales commissions and biased research. Industry consultant

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Marie Swift once cited Mr. Danford’s “genius business plan” as key to the firm’s early success. Clients often mention custodial safety, friendliness, service, and convenience. Mr. Danford and his wife, Chris, live in St. Joseph. He is a graduate of Missouri Western State University and holds an MBA from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville. He is a third-year graduate student at Kansas State University where he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Personal Finance. He holds the CFP® designation, belongs to the Financial Planning Association (FPA), and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA). He writes frequently for both consumer and industry publications. Family Investment Center is a Registered Investment Advisory firm serving several hundred key clients throughout the region. The firm manages or advises almost $100 million for families, individuals,

corporations, and foundations. It is an independent, commission-free investment firm that provides financial and portfolio services.

Dan Danford celebrates being named one of America’s top financial advisors at a press conference at Missouri Western State University on Feb. 6.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Entrepreneurs Gather at St. Joseph Business Summit Event presented by the Family Investment Center and the Institute for Industrial and Applied Life Sciences

Your employees are your most important asset. “Treat employees like people. What do they know?” asked Patrick Carpenter, the keynote speaker at the St. Joseph Business Summit, held Dec. 16 at the Missouri Western State University Fulkerson Center. “Don’t treat them like machines and just have them punch a timeclock.” Mr. Carpenter is the Vice President of The Great Game of Business, Inc. He helped turn Springfield, Mo.’s SRC Holdings Corporation into what INC. Magazine has proclaimed “One of America’s most competitive small companies.” SRC manufactures gasoline and diesel engines for the automotive and off-highway markets. SRC has sales of more than $300 million a year and employs more than 1,000 people. Mr. Carpenter is responsible for introducing new clients to the power of open-book management. This technique gives employees all relevant financial information about the company so they can make better decisions as workers. This information includes, but is not limited to, revenue, profit, cost of goods, cash flow and expenses. “Engagement inspires loyalty and commitment,” Mr. Carpenter said. “Have your heart in the game, as well as your head.” Mr. Carpenter’s address was just one of many presentations that brought about 100 entrepreneurs to

the sixth annual St. Joseph Business Summit. Topics covered in breakout sessions included insurance, finance, business planning and social media marketing. The event was hosted by the St. Joseph Metro Chamber and the Steven L. Craig School of Business at Missouri Western State University, and presented by the Family Investment Center and the Institute for Industrial and Applied Life Sciences. Winston Bennett, with Level 9, gave a presentation on business planning and enterprise auditing. He brought with him stories from his career in fashion merchandising and working for Ralph Lauren. “Ralph is not a great designer,” Mr. Bennett said. “He’s great at selling a lifestyle.” Mr. Bennett learned many lessons during his time in the fashion industry. “My mistakes were national,” he said. “I learned to buy what the customers like, not what I like.” He left small business owners with some vital take-aways: • Make a good first impression – a shoddy waiting room can cost your business if a customer has the time to wait and take a closer look • Treat customers like something to be treasured instead of endured • Businesses are always either growing or dying – make sure yours is growing • There wouldn’t be new businesses opening every day if current businesses were efficient Jeff Peak, also with Level 9, gave insightful tips on the evergrowing medium of social media. “If you think social media is about being friends with your customers or winning more followers, you’re missing the point,”

Mr. Peak said. He discussed how social media allows a business’s message to get in front of the right customer at the right time and how to get a customer’s attention when they don’t want to be interrupted. Those who use social media, like Facebook, often voluntarily “checkin,” “like” and comment about businesses online. That allows businesses the opportunity to get their brand involved in conversations. If this is done in the right way, customers will welcome Patrick Carpenter of SRC Holdings Corporathe interruption, thank tion and “The Great Game of Business, Inc.” you and possibly share their enthusiasm with their was the keynote speaker at the St. Joseph Business Summit. friends. WE SELL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

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Parking -- Always a Hot Topic in Downtowns Submitted by Rhabecca Boerhkircher of the St. Joseph Downtown Partnership Downtown parking is always a hot topic -- no matter what community you are in. The fact is, downtowns were not designed for the automobile. Cars and trucks were a new invention that came around long after most downtown buildings were constructed. So the fact that we always discuss parking issues downtown and look for the “perfect” solution is not unique to our community. As a matter of fact, if we ever discover the “perfect” solution to alleviate the challenges of parking downtown, we could probably sell it to other communities! Recently, there has been a lot of discussion about bringing back parking meters downtown, as part of the proposed plan to implement a new parking management system downtown. For two years, a volunteer committee of 23 individuals graciously donated their time to review the current parking plans and studied all aspects of the issue: aesthetics and security; marketing, addressing customer needs and special permits; special event parking and private parking concerns; funding, enforcement and time limits in lots. Additionally, two public meetings were held at the Holiday Inn in the hopes of gathering public opinion, but few residents attended. The last thing that this committee wanted to do was recommend to the City Council the reintroduction of parking

meters. However, after two years of consideration, the committee determined that this was the only viable solution to the funding issues of downtown parking. These are a few of the facts that the committee considered when making this recommendation:

Trinity Changes Name to Align with Future Vision Driving by its building on Ambassador Drive, you may have to look twice to notice the slight change in Trinity’s signage, as it trades out “Transport” for “Logistics” in its name. The new year brings with it

1. The current parking system runs at a deficit of approximately $110,000 per year since the parking meters were removed (requiring it to be heavily subsidized by the city every year). 2. The parking garages need to be repaired, maintained and monitored so the public will feel comfortable and safe while using them. The city has no money to repair them, so repairs continued to be delayed. Continued delay of garage maintenance will result in major damage to the garage structures.

Parking downtown is offered on the street and in garages. Parking meters may make a return downtown.

4. There is really no “free” parking. Structures need to be

maintained and access needs to be available. There is simply no funding source to make this work. In contrast, with private developers, such as East Hills, the cost of maintaining parking is provided through common maintenance assessments, which are added to the lease rate. While parking may appear to be “free” to the customer, it is actually being passed on in the price of the goods and services being sold to the customer. Downtown is the heart of the community. It reflects our unique heritage and identity. We should embrace it and do everything in our power to make it viable. A viable downtown is an economic growth

engine for the entire community. We always hear about wanting good businesses and jobs to come to our community and the revitalization of the central business district is an essential key to making this happen. All of the above notwithstanding, the committee and the City Council would be open to consider other options to fund the necessary repairs, maintenance and monitoring of parking downtown, should any be presented. Only good can come from establishing a consistent funding source for the maintenance of our downtown parking system.

not only the promise of great things to come in 2012, but also signals a new chapter in the history books of a leading logistics provider, Trinity Transport. Effective January 2012, the local Kansas City branch of the nationwide company became Trinity Logistics. “Trinity has experienced 32 percent growth in the last five years

alone,” shared Jeff Banning, President and CEO of Trinity Logistics. “Anticipating more future growth, we spent the last year working closely with our team members, clients, and suppliers on a vision for our future. A big part of our strategy involves leveraging our strengths as a logistics solutions provider. Changing our name to reflect a true representation

of our business is just one piece of our company’s future.” The name change from Trinity Transport to Trinity Logistics will also help communicate a broader variety of transportation solutions.

3. There actually is not a shortage of available parking spaces downtown. One challenge is that employees of downtown businesses utilize the spaces near their establishments. Parking meters will hopefully encourage the employees to park in the garages and leave their storefront parking spaces available for temporary parking by their customers.

BusinessBrief

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

MemberProfile YWCA 304 N. Eighth St. St. Joseph MO 64501 (816) 232-4481 www.ywcasj.org

The YWCA has been a part of the St. Joseph community since 1888 and has been located in the original, and now historic, building at 304 N. Eighth St. since 1915. The YWCA mission is to empower women and eliminate racism. Social services include programs in the areas of domestic violence, rape crisis, transitional housing, breast cancer education and prevention, mentoring for pregnant and parenting teens, parenting education, life skills for middle school girls, and child care. Two YWCA programs recently celebrated milestone anniversaries. The YWCA Discovery Child Care Center recently celebrated 25 years of service. Caring for children ages 6 weeks to 2 years old, this program focuses on providing quality care to the very young children of our community and is also a partner with Early Head Start. The Shelter for Abused and Homeless Women and Children recently celebrated 30 years of service. This program has grown to offer a comprehensive array of victim services including case management, support/educational groups, professional therapy, specialized children’s programs and other services necessary to assist women and their children with rebuilding their lives. Just during the past decade, utilization

of the YWCA’s emergency shelter has increased by a staggering 140 percent, highlighting the need for this essential service. To help meet the needs of the community, the YWCA has recently expanded services into the area of transitional housing by acquiring Bliss Manor. During the past three decades of providing emergency shelter, the YWCA realized that it would take more than 60 to 90 days for women escaping abuse and homelessness to truly rebuild their lives. However, longer stays were not feasible in a facility designed for emergency shelter. The acquisition of Bliss Manor gives the YWCA a place for these women and children to stay for up to two years and continue to receive counseling and case management while they transition from emergency shelter to complete self-support. For more information on YWCA programs, including upcoming fundraisers and special events, visit www.ywcasj.org. The YWCA can also be found on Facebook as YWCA St. Joseph and on Twitter as YWCAStJoe. The YWCA offers a weekly e-mail newsletter entitled “YW Wednesdays.” You can sign up to receive this newsletter on its Facebook page, by e-mailing Erica Fattig at efattig@ywcasj.org, or by calling (816) 232-4481.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

Volunteering Helps Business and Community Simultaneously Submitted by Linda Burns, United Way of Greater St. Joseph There is a growing movement that will benefit your business, employees and our community – employee volunteerism. According to VolunteerMatch, in 1992, only 31 percent of surveyed companies reported using its employee volunteer programs to support core business functions. By 1999, that number had jumped to 81 percent. Among executives at large companies, 84 percent see direct bottom-line benefits of corporate volunteer programs (Center for Corporate Citizenship at Boston College and Business Civic Leadership Center, 2005). The benefits of employee volunteering to the company include: greater brand awareness; strengthened consumer trust and loyalty; enhanced public image and reputation; and improved employee retention and productivity. In 2010, a Points of Light Institute and Hands On Network Corporate Service Council study reported that an employee volunteer program is effective in developing employees, improving public perception of the company, and enhancing business operations. Administrators of the study believe an employee volunteer program is a sensible, efficient method of achieving general human resource objectives for recruiting, retaining, and developing employees. Employees certainly seem to agree that employee volunteering is an important benefit that shouldn’t be overlooked. In the 2007 Volunteer IMPACT survey by Deloitte & Touche USA, 63 percent of respondents said they would prefer to work for companies that give them opportunities to contribute their talents to nonprofit organizations. Benefits to the employee include: increased job satisfaction, attitude and morale; development of leadership and skills; and improved communication between employees and their supervisors, and across departments. The potential benefits to the

community are tremendous: nonUnited Way staff can also supports seven in-house initiatives/ profit organizations are able to direct work with you and your business programs, as well as 19 local more funding to providing services; to develop a volunteer program for partner agencies. To learn more, the community needs are brought into your company. Contact Linda Burns, visit United Way online at www. focus; and the social impact grows United Way Director of Community stjosephunitedway.org. exponentially. Engagement at linda.burns@ Locally, Col. Mike Pankau, of stjosephunitedway.org or by calling the 139th Airlift Wing, understands (816) 364-2381 for more information. the benefits of giving back to a United Way invites the community that provides so much support for the work they do. Staff has participated in several volunteer activities, including clean up at Mount Mora Cemetery, blood drives, home building for Habitat for Humanity, assisting at Special Olympics events, mentoring elementary students through the St. Joseph School District and providing Christmas gifts for the children at the Noyes Home. The wide variety of opportunities offered helps each person find the volunteer activity and program that really speaks to them. For many companies, volunteering has become a lowcost, high-reward, team-building activity. For American Family Insurance, it is that and more. In 2010 and 2011, American Family Insurance has supported the United Way STUFF THE BUS! School Supplies Drive by providing at least 40 employees to help collect donated school supplies. Lynn Palma, a participant, said it was great to work together outside Workers from Altec help “Stuff the Bus” for the United Way of Greater St. of the office for the benefit of the Joseph by collecting school supplies for needy children. community and to directly witness the incredible generosity of our Don’t forget toUNITED thank those who already volunteer from your community members. community to LIVE by As more businesses and people giving, advocating, and company…tips forvolunteering. celebrating your employee volunteers: give volunteering a try, they realize United Way of Greater St. Joseph the benefits they receive and the 1. Change your sign board to say “Thank you, Company X employees positive impact they can make in our for volunteering!” community. Let the United Way Volunteer 2. Highlight employees who volunteer and represent your company Center help connect you. To learn well in the company newsletter, at a staff meeting or in an allabout the many varied opportunities employee e-mail. available throughout the community, visit its web-based program by 3. Write a thank you note to each employee. clicking on the blue VOLUNTEER tab on the United Way website: www. 4. Host a lunch for the employees who volunteer. stjosephunitedway.org.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

The Small Business Bailout We’ve all heard of the bailouts for the businesses that are “too big to fail.” But, what about the other 90 percent of businesses? Well, there is hope and help for small businesses that need assistance with financing, marketing, management and more. Even better, most services are offered free of charge through multiple providers, including the Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC), a program administered through the SBA. Other resources available to small businesses that most business owners are not aware of include PTAC and the U.S. Export Assistance Centers. PTAC, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center, helps small business owners receive local, state, and/or federal government contracts for products or services. Everything from furniture retailers to information technology providers are needed. The U.S. Export Assistance Centers show small business owners how to export goods or services overseas. Making the leap into the global marketplace may be easier than you think. As a small business owner, whether you’re searching for a larger

market share, lower overhead or financing, free resources exist at your disposal. Below are some of the most commonly overlooked resources that business owners can use to improve their current business position. • Financing: Were your revenues down in 2011? Can’t find credit elsewhere? There may be a low interest loan for you. No kidding! Working capital loans up to $5,000 don’t even require collateral through the SBA’s EIDL program. Loans can be for up to $2 million with a 4 percent to 6 percent interest rate. • Energy: Have you considered the incentives & rebates that are available for upgrading to more energy efficient utilities? KCP&L offers a rebate program specifically for small business owners who upgrade to more energy efficient lighting, air conditioning, etc. • Online: Are you being found online? Free, or nearly free, platforms for marketing, such as Facebook, blogs and Constant Contact, can be optimized to increase sales and brand loyalty. Knowing that the world has gone “mobile” now makes being found online one of the priorities for any successful business.

SmallBusinessMatters • Management: Are you as lean as you can be? The SBTDC office can offer suggestions as to how to be more lean for those in any service industry. Are your processes as efficient as they could be? Is your office workflow utilizing all the skills and efficiencies at its disposal to increase production time and decrease overhead? Probably not! • Marketing: Do you have a

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Winter 2012

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