Business Journal Fall 2012 by NPG Newspapers

Fall 2012 A publication of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber

Incentives for Business Local companies benefi t from local and state incentives

Legislative Priorities Identifi ed Missouri Election Wrap-Up

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

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is necessary to ensure that out of state retailers do not have an advantage over our local small businesses.

Committee Identifies Legislative Priorities

As a business advocate, the St. Joseph Metro Chamber takes its responsibility to serve as a voice for our membership seriously. Through meeting with federal lawmakers and their staff in Washington D.C., to lobbying lawmakers in Jefferson City, and promoting local issues within our community, we seek to make the voice of the St. Joseph business community heard. In order to know what issues are affecting our members, we survey our membership annually on various public policy issues. In response to the survey, the Government Relations Committee carefully reviews all the results and drafts the Legislative Priorities, which are then presented for adoption by the Chamber Board of Directors. This year, we received nearly 300 responses and are proud to share some of the highlights of the survey results below. •

Use Tax: More than 64 percent of respondents understand that the City and County Use Tax, which was on the ballot this November,

•

Education: Our members understand the importance of quality education for our children. Of those surveyed, 67 percent support increased K-12 education funding.

•

Missouri Western State University: An overwhelming number (more than 80 percent) of respondents support Missouri Western’s mission of providing an open access and affordable education to all students.

•

Tax Reform: Local businesses are very concerned with tax reform. More than 64 percent of respondents believe that the “Bush Tax Cuts” should be extended, including those for individuals and businesses making over $250,000 per year.

The entire list of the Chamber’s 2013 Legislative Priorities is available on the Chamber’s website under the Government Relations tab.

New Executives Honored At Luncheon

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Eighty-two new managers were recognized on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at the 40th annual St. Joseph Metro Chamber New Executives Luncheon. Presented by the St. Joseph News-Press, the event recognizes those new to management in St. Joseph. Dr. Mark Laney was the guest speaker for the event. He gave examples of how cowboys led the West and how the cowboy style of management can be used in today’s business environment.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

BUSINESS JOURNAL INDEX Small Business Matters........................................................................4 Volunteer Center Offers Opportunities for Businesses.....................6 Missouri Election Wrap-Up.................................................................7 Students Learn About Careers.............................................................8 Pickens Talks About Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Energy Future...................................9 Economic Update...............................................................................10 Bonds Would Help Three Companies Expand.................................10

Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Efforts Help Businesses Expand.................................11 PSM Degrees Support Local Business...........................................12 More Than 200 Attend Health Care Reform Seminar...................13 Member Profile: La Mesa Mexican Restaurant..............................15 Downtown Digest..........................................................................16 Top Employer Profile: Ag Processing Inc. ...................................17 Pony Express Community Bank Sponsors Shop St. Joseph.........19

A publication of the St. Joseph Metro Chamber Administration

Steve Hamilton

Interim President & CEO, Senior Vice President, Economic Development hamilton@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4106

Shannon Jobes

Vice President, Administration jobes@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4111

Brad Lau

Director of Communications bailey@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4108

Maryann Skiles

Receptionist, Administrative Assistant

3003 Frederick Ave. 816.232.4461 or 800.748.7856

816.364.4873 (fax) www.saintjoseph.com

skiles@saintjoseph.com 816.232.4461

Economic Development

Director of Business Development blau@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4110

Kristi Bailey

Community Alliance of Saint Joseph

Membership

Mary Brown

Project Manager, Administrative Assistant brown@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4102

Natalie Redmond

Vice President, Member Relations redmond@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4107

Lee Robertson

Director of Membership Sales and Retention robertson@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4113

Keisha Holtman

Steve Johnston

Administrative Assistant, Membership holtman@saintjoseph.com 816.364.4101

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

2012 St. Joseph Metro Chamber BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman

Vern Middleton Midwest Federal

Chair-Elect

Dr. Mark Laney Heartland Health

Secretary/Treasurer

James Carolus Hillyard Companies

Directors Brian Bradley, St. Joseph News-Press Barbara Burns, B.J. Office Products Inc. Bernd Eichenmueller, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. 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 Col. Mike Pankau, 139th Airlift Wing, Missouri Air National Guard Matt Robertson, CliftonLarsonAllen

Stet Schanze, Gray Manufacturing Co., Inc. 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

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Business Coaching: Fact or Fiction? If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten. We’ve all heard that saying before. So, if you’re looking to change your results…to get new, positive results in your business, then you’ll need to try something different. Enter business coaching. Business coaching is a process that causes transformation in the entrepreneur by bridging the gap between their current state of dissatisfaction to a place of satisfaction. Business coaching is used by a business owner or manager to assist with managing their employees or business more successfully. The coaching process draws out the desired result from the client and then, using a specific methodology, allows the client to explore multiple options that will lead to the result they are seeking. This proven process

can truly transform an entrepreneur into a more skilled, confident leader. Is there proof that business coaching works? Absolutely! There are independent, peer-reviewed, methodologically-valid research studies with meaningful and statistically-significant findings. The website www.ggci.com/ blog2/2009/06/proof-that-coachingworks.htm lists several studies that support business coaching. One study was a 2009 randomized controlled trial that evaluated executives who were provided with 360-degree feedback and just four coaching sessions over a 10-week period. It proved, among other findings, that coaching enhanced goal attainment. Coaching allows the entrepreneur to go through a proven process that allows the entrepreneur to uncover obstacles and empower

ASSURANCE

TAX

SmallBusinessMatters them with the knowledge necessary to Current Gap achieve their State of desired future Business state for their business. Many CEO and other executives at Fortune 500 businesses have utilized business coaching as a method to improve their leadership abilities, including Charles Schwab & Co.’s David Pottruck, e-Bay’s Margaret Whitman, and Pfizer’s Henry McKinnel. The same methodology is available to small businesses. The director of the local Small Business & Technology Development Center, Rebecca Evans, is a certified business coach and offers this method of professional development to her clients at no cost. For additional information about how business coaching may be used for your business, please contact Ms. Evans.

= Coaching

Future State of Business

ADVISORY

CLARITY

Rebecca Evans is the Regional Director of the SBTDC. You may contact her at: 816-364-4105 or evans@saintjoseph.com

A close relationship with objective advisors will give you clear insight to help you make the right decisions for yourself and your business.

The Small Business & Technology Development Center (SBTDC) is located inside the St. Joseph Metro Chamber. You do not need to be a member of the Chamber to receive services. The SBTDC can complete a walk-through of your business to determine if there are any wastes that are causing your operation to run inefficiently and what can be done to correct those situations. All services performed by the SBTDC are pre-paid by the Small Business Administration, so there is never a charge to the business.

Go St. Joe Mobile App St. Joseph, Missouri 816-232-8441

www.cliftonlarsonallen.com

Have you downloaded the new Go St. Joe app yet? It’s free and available for Android and iPhone. Easily find Chamber members’ phone numbers, addresses, websites and more. Plus, find great deals from members and learn about community and Chamber events. Download and register for a chance to win an iPad from the St. Joseph Metro Chamber in December!

St. Joseph Business journal

Fall 2012

BE A BIT MORE THANKFUL THIS THANKSGIVING. Move your health insurance to Blue KC in December 2012 and guarantee your rates through November 2014.

Small business health insurance costs are expected to increase in 20141. However, you can bring some rate certainty to your company and employees’ health insurance costs by moving to Blue KC before December 15, 2012.

If you switch to Blue KC this December, you will also get a 4.9%* rate cap guarantee for your 2013 renewal. This Thanksgiving, give yourself something new to be thankful for and avoid the uncertainty of the expected rate increases when the Affordable Care Act’s new rating methodologies take effect in January 2014. Call your broker or Blue KC today at 816-395-2939. Or visit BlueKC.com. 1 Does not apply to any specific benefit plan, and your rate may vary. Increases estimated by internal Blue KC review of actual enrolled small employers in compliance with state rating regulations. Impacts of essential health benefits and actuarial values were not included.

*For qualiﬁed groups. The 1-year rate cap is subject to all state and federal small group rating laws.

MSG 12074 1012

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Volunteer Center Offers Opportunities for Businesses Submitted by United Way of Greater St. Joseph Local companies mirror a national trend by connecting with the United Way Volunteer Center. Employers are increasingly supporting and encouraging their employees to volunteer together as a corporate group. Everyone is a winner in this growing movement, including the community, employees and business, said Linda Burns, United Way Director of Community Engagement. Benefits to the company include: greater brand awareness; strengthened consumer trust and loyalty; enhanced public image and reputation; and improved employee retention and productivity. Employee volunteering is also a helpful tool in reaching human resource goals with recruiting, retaining, and developing employees. Benefits for employees and employers include: enhanced teamwork; increased job satisfaction,

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attitude and morale; and improved communication between employees and their supervisors, and across departments. The United Way Volunteer Center recently connected FedEx Ground employees with InterServ. The group assisted with a porch repair project that has enabled a senior to continue living in his home. Stacy Butterfield, with FedEx Ground, reached out to the United Way Volunteer Volunteers from FedEx Ground recently repaired a porch for a senior citizen through a partnership Center to learn how with InterServ and the United Way Volunteer Center. to get involved with a said, “We wanted to volunteer as a As more businesses and volunteer project as an employee corporate group and were excited that people give volunteering a try, they group. the United Way Volunteer Center was understand the benefits they receive After the project, Ms. Butterfield there to help.” and the positive impact they can

Catered or Drop-Off Corporate Lunches Private Corporate and Pharmaceutical Dinners Personalized Menus for all Occasions

On-site Seating for up to 50 people in the elegant atmosphere of our beautiful historic restaurant.

Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Birthday Parties Reunions

Brandy Meeks, from InterServ, said, “What’s really neat is that FedEx’s desire to volunteer is now turning into so much more than that one time event.” Because of the connection made between FedEx Ground and InterServ, FedEx Ground employees are more aware of some of the needs and challenges of their neighbors and how to help. Even more importantly, they are rising to the challenge and creating a great team of co-workers making a difference.

make in our community, Ms. Burns said. United Way of Greater St. Joseph is a non-profit agency that aims to improve lives through the caring power of community by focusing on education, health, and financial stability. United Way invites the community to LIVE UNITED by giving, advocating, and volunteering. United Way supports seven in-house Initiatives/ Programs as well as 19 local Partner Agencies.

Let the United Way Volunteer Center Connect You To learn about the many varied opportunities available throughout the community, visit the United Way’s web-based program by clicking on the VOLUNTEER button on the United Way website: stjosephunitedway.org. United Way staff can also work with you and your business to find the right connection and opportunity. Contact Linda Burns, United Way Director of Community Engagement, at linda.burns@ stjosephunitedway.org or call (816) 364-2381.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Missouri Election Wrap-Up How Missouri voted in the Nov. 6 election: President: Barack Obama (D-incumbent) 44 percent Mitt Romney (R) 54 percent U. S. Senate Claire McCaskill (D-incumbent) 54.7 percent Todd Akin (R) 39.2 percent Congress All seven incumbents won re-election in Missouri. The only open seat, CD 2, was won handily by Ann Wagner (R), with 60 percent of the vote. STATEWIDE RACES Governor Jay Nixon (D-Incumbent) 54.7 percent Dave Spence (R) 42.6 percent Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder (R-incumbent) 49.4 percent Susan Montee (D) 45.4 percent Attorney General Chris Koster (D-incumbent) 55.8 percent Ed Martin (R) 40.7 percent Secretary of State Jason Kander (D) 48.8 percent Shane Schoeller (R) 47.5 percent State Treasurer Clint Zweifel (D-incumbent) 50.3 percent Cole McNary (R) 45.5 percent MISSOURI GENERAL ASSEMBLY House of Representatives: Pre-Election Numbers: 106 Republicans, 56 Democrats, one vacancy

Post-Election Numbers: 110 Republicans, 53 Democrats Incumbents Defeated: District 5 – Rep. Tom Shively (D) District 40 – Rep. Paul Quinn (D) District 94 – Rep. Cloria Brown (R) District 132 – Rep. Melissa Leach (R) There were 64 new members elected to the House (42 Republicans and 22 Democrats). State Senate: Pre-Election Numbers: 26 Republicans, eight Democrats Post-Election Numbers: 24 Republicans, 10 Democrats Incumbents Defeated District 1: Senator Jim Lembke (R-St Louis) defeated by Rep. Scott Sifton (D-St. Louis); There were 11 new members elected to the Senate (seven Republicans, four Democrats). STATEWIDE BALLOT MEASURES Constitutional Amendment 3: Changes the current nonpartisan selection of Supreme Court and Court of Appeals judges by providing the governor the authority to appoint a majority of the commission that selects these court nominees. Failed to Pass – 76 percent to 24 percent Proposition A: Allows the City of St. Louis to control its police force. Passed – 63.9 percent to 36.1 percent Proposition B: Increases the tax on tobacco products and creates the Health and Education Trust Fund. Failed to Pass – 50.8 percent to 49.2 percent Proposition E: Prohibits the governor or any state agency, from establishing or operating state-based health insurance exchanges unless authorized by a vote of the people or by the legislature. Passed – 61.8 percent to 38.2 percent

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Students Learn About Careers

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More than 2,500 high school sophomores from 45 Northwest Missouri schools learned about possible careers at the sixth annual My Success Event Oct. 17 and 18 at the St. Joseph Civic Arena. St. Joseph and regional businesses depend on a skilled, educated and productive workforce. Growth opportunities for existing businesses and new potential companies looking to expand into the region place a high priority on the availability of a quality workforce. It’s also important to let students know what career options are available in our area. Charlie Cooper and Rick Thornton, of Omnium, a chemical manufacturer, said quite a few students were interested in chemical engineering. “We’ve had several good questions,” Mr. Cooper, a chemical engineer, said. “We’ve talked with some kids from rural backgrounds who are familiar with farm chemicals.” Mr. Thornton said students are definitely concerned about the future. “Some were concerned about if jobs like ours would still be here when they graduate,” said Mr. Thornton, a lab manager. Ashlee Harvey, a sophomore at Central High School, said she was interested in drawing and learned a lot about graphic design from the employees at the American Angus Association.

“There’s a lot more to it than just drawing,” she said and also added that it may be fun to turn a hobby into a career. Shannon Ellenberger was a visitor to the My Success Event this year. Ms. Ellenberger works for Eagle Communications in Hays, Kan., and was in St. Joseph visiting the local radio stations. “I think it’s a great event,” she said. “I wish that when I was in high school that they’d taught me about local jobs like this.” Ms. Ellenberger said she’s involved in the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals group and that she would go back and share the idea. The St. Joseph Metro Chamber organizes the My Success Event, with participation from multiple local and regional partners. The event is presented by one of St. Joseph’s largest employers: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. More than 90 businesses and 13 university, college and technical centers were also available to talk to students about local educational opportunities. The event, filled with interactive displays and experiences, ran from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day. More than 100 volunteers were utilized to assist with the event.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Pickens Talks About America’s Energy Future at Convocation Submitted by Kent Heier, Missouri Western State University Energy will continue to be a vital issue for America’s future, legendary energy entrepreneur T. Boone Pickens told a near-capacity crowd at Missouri Western State University’s 19th Convocation on Critical Issues in the Looney Complex arena. “We are the only country in the world without an energy plan,” Mr. Pickens said, who quoted his dad as telling him, “A fool with a plan can beat a genius without a plan.” Nearly 3,000 people attended the Convocation on Oct. 4, which annually brings a nationally known speaker to campus. It was the second largest audience in the Convocation’s history, behind only Gen. Colin Powell in 1997. Mr. Pickens blames a lack of leadership for the absence of an energy plan. He said every president since Richard Nixon has promised to make America energy independent, and all have failed to keep that promise. “You are at a point where we have to have leadership in Washington,” Mr. Pickens said. “It is heartbreaking to me that we keep doing the same thing we’ve been doing and expecting different results.” Protecting the nation’s supply of oil from the Persian Gulf has been expensive, Mr. Pickens said, financially and in terms of lives lost. “Where’s the leadership that says ‘is this really what we want to be doing?’” he asked. “They tell me we have always had a presence there. Well, how has that worked out? I’d say get the hell out of there, come home,” he added, to a round of applause from the audience. Mr. Pickens built Mesa Petroleum from humble beginnings to one of the largest independent natural gas and oil companies in the country. Then, at an age when many people retire, he reinvented himself by establishing one of the nation’s most successful energyrelated investment funds. Despite the

challenges facing the United States, he told students they can follow his path. “I know we have some problems in this country, but I think today you have as great an opportunity as I had,” Mr. Pickens said. “If you want to get rich, you can get there by working hard and getting a good education. The opportunity is there.” Ironically, during a speech devoted largely to energy, a brief thunderstorm knocked the power out at Missouri Western as Mr. Pickens was ending his talk. After a few minutes in the dark, the audience left the arena in an orderly fashion. Power was restored after about 10 minutes. For those who were unable to attend, a DVD copy has been placed in the Missouri Western library for viewing. According to the terms of the contract with Mr. Pickens, the speech will not be placed on the web, and the DVD may only be viewed in the library. It may not be checked out. Following the Convocation, Mr. Pickens participated in a question-and-answer session at the Convocation Luncheon in the Fulkerson Center, attended by nearly 500 people. The annual Convocation on Critical Issues began in 1993 as part of an overall commitment to offer enriching experiences to students, while bringing together the university and the community. It is sponsored by the Missouri Western State University Foundation and held in honor of R. Dan Boulware, a local attorney and past president of Missouri Western’s Board of Regents. Missouri Western is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves.

T. Boone Pickens, legendary energy entrepreneur, spoke to a near-capacity crowd at Missouri Western State University’s Convocation on Critical Issues in the Looney Complex on Oct. 4.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 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 System & Services Technologies, Inc. Johnson Controls The Hillshire Brands Company

Health Services Meat Products Education Utility Industry Equipment Animal Pharmaceuticals

3,451 2,838 1,877 880 838

Department Store Insurance Financial Services

780 777 704

Manufacturing Meat Products

697 685

Demographics

St.J oseph

business... by the good better life ! umbers

Unemployment

(Sept.)

Population Housing units

76,780 32,495

St. Joseph Missouri

5.0 percent 6.9 percent

Average family size

United States

7.8 percent

Bonds Would Help Three Companies Expand By Clinton Thomas, St. Joseph News-Press

Bonds could soon provide a triple-shot of growth to the St. Joseph economy. The City Council recently reviewed three ordinances for first reading to provide Chapter 100 Industrial Development Revenue Bonds for expansion projects at local businesses. The projects represent a total investment of $50.3 million to create 49 new jobs and maintain 146 current jobs. Clint Thompson, the City’s director of planning and community development, said it was as important to help current businesses as it is to recruit new ones. “The City and (St. Joseph Metro) Chamber are always working closely with existing companies in St. Joseph to make sure they are not only maintaining their presence in St. Joseph, but also being competitive nationally,” Mr. Thompson said.

“Having companies invest in themselves is a good indicator they have a commitment to staying in the city.” Chapter 100 bonds do not require the City or taxpayers to spend money. They give companies an abatement on personal property taxes at rates that vary according to each agreement. The recent expansion at Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. is an example of a project that received Chapter 100 bonds. The largest of the three plans, a $26.5 million bond for Lifeline Foods, will allow the company to acquire and install new equipment at its current facility at 2811 S. 11th St. The project will create four new jobs while maintaining 146 current ones. The company would receive a 75 percent abatement on its personal property tax for five years, followed by a 50 percent abatement for an

additional five years. The next bond, $13.8 million for Hillshire Brands Co., would purchase and install equipment at the company’s Sara Lee facility at 5807 Mitchell Ave., and would create 27 jobs. As with the Lifeline project, Hillshire Brands would receive a 75 percent abatement on its personal property tax for five years, followed by a 50 percent abatement for an additional five years. The third bond, $10 million for Cryovac Inc., would help the company acquire a blown film extrusion line, a bag box machine and upgrades to packaging and resin conveying equipment at its facility at 2313 Southwest Lower Lake Road, creating a minimum of 18 jobs. Cryovac would receive tax abatements for 10 years: 75 percent for the first three years, 70 percent for years four and five, 60 percent

for year six, and 50 percent for the remainder of the agreement. All three plans contain provisions that would reduce the tax abatement if the company does not meet job creation targets. After it reviews the three ordinances Monday, the council will vote on them at its Nov. 12 meeting.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Chamber’s Economic Development Efforts Help Businesses Expand The St. Joseph Metro Chamber Economic Development staff has worked on about 40 expansion and attraction projects in 2012, all with the purpose of adding quality jobs and capital investment to the St. Joseph business community. Many of these projects are still being worked on and the details cannot be released. However, the following projects have been announced:

St. Joseph Business Park Corporation on the remaining lot on South 59th Street, just to the north of Chase Candy. The project is expected to create approximately three new jobs, with an average annual wage of $34,320. The total investment is $1,025,000. Local EEZ real estate tax abatement will be used for this project.

St. Joseph Plastics

I&M Machine & Fabrication Corp.

Project Drexel (St. Joseph Plastics) – Expansion creates a new recycling process to create plastic pellets out of a used product. Total investment of $770,000; creation of eight new jobs over a two-year period, with an average annual wage of $28,600. The Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was used for this project.

Al J. Mueller Project Build (Al J. Mueller Construction) – Construction of a new office and steel fabrication shop in Mitchell Woods Business Park. The company purchased 2 acres from the

Project Expand (I&M Machine) – Construction of a new manufacturing facility across the street from the main facility. Total investment of $1.6 million ($500,000 real property; $1.1 million machinery and equipment) and the creation of 25 new jobs over a five-year period, with a total average annual wage of $30,000. The Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was used for this project.

Ag Processing, Inc. Project Capital (Ag Processing, Inc.) - The company will invest in the St. Joseph facility with an estimated $24 million in new capital investment, consisting of an estimated $3.5 million in building improvements and an estimated $20.5 million in machinery and equipment. Ag Processing will have a St. Joseph facility full-time employment of at least 179 during the time in which the incentives are in place. The Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was used for this project, as were Chapter 100 bonds. Buchanan County Economic Development funds for employee training were also used.

DuPont Nutrition and Health

Triumph Foods, LLC Triumph Foods – Facility expansion of 30,000 square feet to accommodate new combo and export coolers and to provide space for value added project. Total investment of $9.5 million ($6.5 million in real property; $3.0 million equipment and machinery or personal property). Approximately 30 new jobs will be created, with an average annual wage of $27,040. The company chose not to pursue incentives for this project.

Project Tigers (DuPont Danisco) – DuPont Nutrition and Health will create 27 new full-time jobs as a result of the project, for a total company employment in St. Joseph of 117. The average annual salary of the 27 new jobs will be at least $33,000, plus benefits. The company will invest in the St. Joseph facility a total of an estimated $22.5 million in new

capital investment. The project will be completed over the next three years. The Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was used for this project, as were Chapter 100 bonds. Buchanan County Economic Development funds for employee training were also used.

Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. BIVI, the U.S. subsidiary of one of the leading animal health companies in the world, plans to occupy a 260,000-square-foot building in Eastowne Business Park for its Consolidated Packaging and Physical Distribution Center. This new facility will create more than 25 new logistic jobs, while retaining 60 jobs in St. Joseph. New capital investment from BIVI into the building is $30 million. BIVI also recently opened its new administrative building on Gene Field Road. It is 100,000 square feet and can house more than 300 employees. The new building consolidates offices previously spread throughout St. Joseph. New capital investment from the company into the building is $22.8 million. The Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was used for these projects, as were Chapter 100 bonds. The warehouse project also received a $2 million Build Bond from the State of Missouri. Buchanan County and the City of St. Joseph provided incentives and in-kind services that made this project possible.

Chapter 100 Bond Program – Mechanism for real and personal property tax abatement to finance economic development projects whereby the City or County issues Industrial Revenue Bonds that are tax exempt and are purchased by the company. Under the arrangement, the governmental entity retains ownership of the real and/or personal property and leases it back to the company. Because title to the real and/or personal property is held in the name of the City during the lease term, the City has the ability to abate a portion of the taxes. Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) - Provides a minimum of 50 percent local real estate tax abatement for a period of up to 10 years for new projects, with at least $100,000 in investment and the creation of two new jobs. For larger quality projects, aggressive tax abatement schedules can be negotiated. Eligible businesses are manufacturing, mining, warehouse/distribution, and wholesale trade. In addition, the state may provide tax credits for eligible projects.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Professional Science Master’s Degrees Support Local Business Submitted Missouri Western State University St. Joseph is well known for its concentration of science and technology companies, especially in the animal sciences. The Graduate School at Missouri Western State University offers several master’s level degree programs to support employees of St. Joseph’s science industries. “Several of the graduate programs are modeled as Professional Science Master’s programs (or PSMs), which blend advanced science and technology coursework with professional skills that are highly sought after by employers,” said Dr. Ben Caldwell, Dean of the Graduate School. Missouri Western’s Graduate School has offered graduate degrees designed after the PSM model since 2007. The first class of students graduated in 2009, Dr. Caldwell said. MWSU offers a Master of Applied Science (MAS) degree, with

option areas in STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) including chemistry, information technology management, engineering technology management and human factors and usability testing. These degrees were designed around the PSM model, and this past spring the chemistry and human factors programs were approved by the Council of Graduate Schools as officially recognized PSM programs. The professional skills components of a PSM degree follow a “science-plus” curriculum that typically emphasizes course work in business fundamentals that are not usually taken by science and engineering students as a part of their undergraduate degrees. Students in Missouri Western’s PSM programs take courses in organizational theory, marketing strategies, professional and organizational communication and managerial economics, as well as

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Graduate students learn advanced laboratory techniques in the Master of Applied Science chemistry program’s quality assurance course. This course is taught in the training laboratory at Christopher “ Kit” Bond Science and Technology Incubator on the campus of Missouri Western State University. the course work in their specialty area. Master of Applied Science students complete their graduate training with a capstone course in which students develop a business plan for a project related to their particular MAS option area. The MAS chemistry program supports local science companies by offering advanced training in chemical safety and management, industrial chemistry practices, advanced chemical methods and intellectual property issues in the scientific workplace. Students in the human factors and usability testing MAS program learn how to make products and devices easier and safer to use. Students also study work environments and how they can be configured to reduce worker fatigue and improve employee satisfaction and productivity. Information technology management students learn to balance management skills with technical expertise in computer networking, software integration and information technology security. The engineering technology management program emphasizes applied research and project management, and students are likely to obtain positions in industrial manufacturing and production as assembly line supervisors, group or project leaders or plant managers.

Students are also able to participate in internships with local and regional companies such as Motorola, Hallmark, Altec, MCI/ Lifeline Foods, and the Christopher “Kit” Bond Science and Technology Incubator. Following completion of these internships, students often receive offers of employment upon graduation with their MAS degree from Missouri Western. “Each of the PSM programs typically have between 5-10 students enrolled at any one time,” Dr. Caldwell said. “So, class sizes are small and students receive significant one-on-one contact with faculty.” Graduates of Missouri Western’s Master of Applied Science programs have the academic background and professional skills to effectively bridge the worlds of science and technology and business. Graduates of its PSM programs are able to design and manage projects and facilitate communication between scientists, engineers, product designers and upper level managers and administrators. For more information about these and other graduate degrees offered at Missouri Western, please visit the Graduate School website at www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate, or contact the Graduate School Office at (816) 271-4394 or graduate@ missouriwestern.edu.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

More Than 200 People Attend Health Care Reform Seminar Health care reform is a topic of major importance to business owners, which was evident when more than 200 businesspeople attended a Lunch & Learn on the topic on Oct. 16. Ron Rowe, Vice President of Individual and Small Group Markets at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, gave a presentation that told business owners, supervisors, human resources personnel and other employees what their companies should be doing in the fourth quarter of this year to prepare for 2014. He also discussed how businesses could better prepare and budget today for the health benefits they offer their employees in the next 24 months. He discussed the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and what it means to businesses, as well as employees. For instance, no health status considerations will be taken into account for discounts. “It doesn’t matter if you motivate your employees to be

healthy or if you pass out packs of cigarettes, there will be no discount,” he said. “The rate tables are the same for everyone – no negotiations.” Mr. Rowe said a “rate shock” will go into effect because of the Modified Community Rating and that:

• One-third of companies will see a 20 to 50 percent increase in insurance rates, • One-third of companies will see a 10 to 20 percent increase in insurance rates, and • One-third of companies will see a zero to 20 percent decrease – this category typically consists of employers who have five or fewer employees.

He said these increases do not take into account extra expense that will be added because of the new Essential Health Benefits, which include items typically not covered

now. The cost of medical care also continues to rise, so insurance companies are putting in place some options to curb increases like:

• Modularized prices, • Narrow networks, • Value-based benefits, • Accountable Care Organizations and Primary Care Medical Homes, and • Defined contribution, which is a fixed cost to the employer that allows employees to choose their benefits.

Mr. Rowe also discussed the insurance exchange and pros and cons about whether companies should offer insurance. He suggested that companies speak to insurance brokers to learn more about what the best option may be for individual companies based on level of health

insurance provided (and what the new law requires must be provided), number of employees, cost, etc. The special Lunch & Learn, which is a series presented by Missouri Western State University, was hosted by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City and was held at the Holiday Inn Conference Center.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

BusinessBriefs Lied Lodge Wins Fourth Consecutive Award Lied Lodge & Conference Center, part of the Lincoln-based Arbor Day Foundation, was chosen by readers of Meetings Focus MidAmerica magazine as a “Best of MidAmerica” meeting venue for the region.

Lied Lodge & Conference Center has become a growing destination for conservation groups and visitors from diverse backgrounds, offering a nature-filled setting for group meetings, staff development and strategy. The U.S. Forest Service, the Society of Municipal Arborists and the Nature Conservancy are among the many organizations that have chosen

Lied Lodge. Readers were tasked with choosing their favorite properties, with consideration toward quality of meeting space, guest rooms, staff, service, food and beverage, amenities, activities, and overall value. Located on the 260-acre Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, Neb., Lied Lodge includes 144 guest rooms

and 14,000 square feet of adjustable meeting and banquet space. More information is available at liedlodge. org/meetings. Lied Lodge also received the “Best of MidAmerica” award in 2009, 2010, and 2011, and previously won the Enviro-Management Award from the American Hotel and Motel Association.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

La Mesa Mexican Restaurant

MemberProfile

2715 N. Belt Highway St. Joseph, MO 64506 816-232-6400 la-mesa.com

2715 N. Belt Highway La Mesa Mexican Restaurant Belt and Mitchell. is going back to the future by “We had a deal for land by building a new restaurant at the site Menards, but we wanted to keep of the chain’s original home. The it at the same place for history,” he restaurant, a St. Joseph Metro said. Chamber member since 2001, is He’s looking forward to seeing rebuilding at its first location at Belt a lot of old customers return when Highway and Mitchell Avenue. the restaurant reopens. He said “All the La Mesa dreams started 80 to 90 percent of the work is at Mitchell,” said David Torres, complete on the exterior of the Manager-Owner. The first of many building and work will begin on tacos, burritos, enchiladas and Chile the inside now that the weather is Verde-Colorados were enjoyed in becoming more unpredictable. He St. Joseph in 1993. La Mesa now has said he hopes to be open by Dec. five restaurants in the Omaha, Neb., 15. area and two in Kansas. The reThe new restaurant will be opening of the Mitchell location will in the same “hacienda” style as make two restaurants for St. Joseph. other La Mesa restaurants, with La Mesa also operates at 2715 N. high ceilings, a tile roof and big Belt Highway. entry doors, but it will have more Just because the original space to be more comfortable for location is reopening, doesn’t mean customers. Water fountains will be the newer Belt location will close, added to the décor and free Wi-Fi Mr. Torres said. He said a lot of will be added for nearby Missouri money was spent in renovating the Western State University students’ former Las Palmas location to make benefit. Mr. Torres said the Mitchell it capable of seating large parties. location has always been popular “No other place can easily fit with MWSU students and staff, so a party of 50,” Mr. Torres said. “We adding Wi-Fi is a way of showing can put 10-12 tables together and customer appreciation. He said that accommodate big parties.” location also sees workers from Despite success at the new Heartland Health and American location, Mr. Torres said it was Family Insurance. important for La Mesa to reopen at The La Mesa menu has many

3730 Mitchell Ave. options to choose from, but Mr. for a hamburger,” he said. “But this Torres said his favorite meal is a is a complete meal and one of the sizzling plate of fajitas. favorites of the customers.” “At lunchtime, it’s $7.99 and Another customer favorite: that’s about the same as you’ll pay Wednesday $1.99 margaritas.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

DowntownDigest Information provided by the St. Joseph Downtown Partnership

Traffic Box Adds Color To Downtown Intersection The next time you are in downtown St. Joseph, wander by the intersection of Eighth and Edmond streets to see the first in a series of public art initiated by the Allied Arts Council and the City of St. Joseph. The two groups worked in conjunction to make a normal metal traffic signal box a piece of colorful artwork for the community. Artists throughout the region were invited to bid on the project and Phil Shafer, a Kansas City artist, was selected by a

committee to do the first project. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Mr. Shafer grew up in Kansas City, Mo., where he attended the Kansas City Art Institute, majoring in photography and digital media. He is known in the Kansas City area for wheat posters and stickers carrying various messages with his infamous machine mask that later became his Sikenomics landmark. Sikenomics is Mr. Shafer’s clothing line, established in 2006, that features his designs inspired from his childhood, hip-hop culture and fine arts from his college background. The design for the traffic box is based on a quote from Yogi Berra, “ain’t what it used to be.” The quote speaks to the way Americans perceive how our future will be and how we deal with the realization that the future isn’t all what it was hyped up to be, but rather what we make of

it. No matter how great or small the disappointments about how the future “ain’t what it used to be,” we make do and carry on to make the future a better place one day at a time, said Mr. Shafer. The public was invited to watch the artist at work on the afternoon of Nov. 1. His finished project is now on display for everyone to see and appreciate. For more information on the selected artist or the traffic box piece, please visit www.sikestyle.com or www.stjoearts.org. The plans are for this to be the first in a series of art pieces designed to paint “outside the box” and enhance the downtown street corners.

Piatta 614 Opens St. Joseph’s premiere Italian restaurant is now open at 614 Francis

St. Piatta 614 is located in the historic Kirkpatrick Building. The restaurant features homemade pasta and other Italian dishes made daily in a unique, comfortable setting. Let Chef Chris Frangiadis and his staff treat you and your guests to an authentic Italian meal. The restaurant is open Monday from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. For reservations call (816) 273-0024.

Comfort of Home Moves Comfort of Home Health Care (formally Peace of Mind Healthcare) has moved from the MoKan Building at 224 N. Seventh St. to a larger location in the Ballinger Building at 624 Edmond St.

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St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 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:

Ag Processing Inc. Manufacturers-Soybean Products Terry McClatchey, Marketing Manager 900 S.W. Lower Lake Road, P.O. Box 427 St. Joseph, MO 64504 (816) 238-1700 www.agp.com

AGP is involved in food production from the procuring the grain to the final products. Can you explain the process? Soybean processing involves a series of steps to produce the end products of soybean oil and soybean meal. These include drying, dehulling, cleaning, flaking, and removing the oil. Soybean meal is used as the major protein component in poultry and swine rations; and the oil is further refined into salad oil as well as biodiesel. Variations in processing methods also yield a host of coproducts such as natural vitamin E and lecithin. What products do consumers come across in their daily lives that may be related to AGP? Consumers come across our products in many forms, primarily derived from the oil side of soybean processing. Various refining processes produce a wide array of products used in salad dressings, mayonnaise, margarine, cooking oils, and shortenings. AGP ingredients are found in national brands such as Kraft, Little Debbie and Dorothy Lynch. AGP was the first company

to build a commercial soy biodiesel plant in the U.S., with construction of a facility in Sgt. Bluff, Iowa, in 1996. AGP’s St. Joseph biodiesel facility was built in 2007. Soy biodiesel is blended with diesel fuel to increase lubricity. How many bushels or tons of soybeans are made into oil, biodiesel or glycerin at AGP each year? AGP is the largest cooperative soybean processing company in the world, processing over 16,000 acres of soybeans each day at our nine processing plants in the Midwest. AGP is owned by 175 local cooperatives and five regional cooperatives, representing 250,000 farmers across the U.S. AGP’s facility in St. Joseph also includes one of the nation’s largest vegetable oil refineries, as well as a biodiesel plant. Our local soybean crush capacity is 125,000 bushels each day. Locally, we also process more than a billion pounds of vegetable oil, produce 30 million gallons of biodiesel, and 3 million gallons of glycerin annually.

AGP is currently working on a $24 million expansion. Please tell us what part of your business is expanding.

finance, transportation/logistics, marketing, purchasing, and engineering.

Our current proposed expansion is to increase our degumming capacity. Our refinery processes significantly more soybean oil than what we can produce at this facility. This additional capacity will allow us to bring in more crude soybean oil from our other AGP plants, because all soybean oil must have the gums removed prior to the refining process. The gums are made into lecithin.

Why did your company locate in St. Joseph and what keeps it here?

How many people do you employ and what career fields are offered? Our St. Joseph plant has 186 employees out of approximately 1,300 company-wide. We offer careers in accounting, production, material handling, grain merchandising, information systems, maintenance,

The St. Joseph plant has a long history, originally starting as Dannen Mills in the 1950s. In 1977, the plant became part of Farmland Industries and in 1983 part of AGP during an industry reconfiguration that brought the soybean processing assets of three cooperatives together. AGP has continually invested in the facility due to excellent transportation, good soybean production, and most important, a dedicated employee team. We have an excellent working relationship with local, state, and national government and business leaders who have helped us succeed and grow throughout the years. We look forward to continued growth.

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

BusinessBriefs Eagle Communications Wins Award

Eagle Communications has been recognized as the 2013 Heart of America “ESOP Company of the Year.” The Heart of America ESOP Association presents this award annually to a company that embodies employee-ownership. “We are honored to have received this award and to join the companies that have laid the foundation for what it means to be Company of the Year,” said Eagle’s Communications President and CEO Gary Shorman. “We were recognized for our internal and external promotion of ESOPs; the various ways

we educate, share, and participate in the ESOP throughout the year and our continuous involvement to stay connected in the communities we serve.” An ESOP, or Employee Stock Ownership Plan, is designed so that each eligible employee shares in the ownership of a company. Each year, Eagle Communications allocates a percentage of its profits to the employee-owners, similar to a profitsharing plan. Eagle Communications, Inc. is a Kansas-based broadband services and media company with over 250 employee-owners. The company operates 28 radio stations in Kansas, Nebraska, and Missouri, as well as cable TV systems in 30 Kansas and Colorado communities. The company also offers e-business solutions, web hosting, telephone service, high-speed Internet, and wireless Internet in most

Taylor , Thompson & Hausman, LLC Helen M. Taylor, CPA Ronilu Thompson, CPA Judith Hausman, CPA

service areas. For more information, log on to www.eaglecom.net.

St. Joseph office chosen as Best Lawyers® for 2013:

Polsinelli Shughart Attorneys Recognized

R. Dan Boulware, Commercial Litigation, Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants Grace S. Day, Family Law

Polsinelli Shughart congratulated 134 of its attorneys from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. who were among those recently included in “The Best Lawyers in America 2013.” “We are proud to be recognized by our peers for this prestigious ranking, which is one of the oldest and most respected peer-review publications in the legal profession,” said Heather McMichael in a company press release. The following is a list of attorneys from Polsinelli Shughart’s

Giving Back Today, for Tomorrow

Mark R. Woodbury, Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law, Health Care Law With more than 600 attorneys, Polsinelli Shughart (www.polsinelli. com) is a national law firm and recognized leader in the areas of health care, financial services, real estate, life sciences, energy and business litigation. Serving corporate, institutional and individual clients, the firm builds enduring relationships by creating value through legal services – with passion, ingenuity and a sense of urgency.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF NORTHWEST MISSOURI, INC

“ C O N N E C T I N G D O N O R S TO T H E C AU S E S T H E Y C A R E A B O U T ”

Attend Our Annual Event Keynote Speaker:

Richard Longworth Author of Caught in the Middle

Tax Preparation & Planning Payroll & Accounting Services Reviews & Compilations Quickbooks Assistance Outsourced CFO Services

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Mr. Longworth will be discussing the Midwest’s golden era and the need for a bold new game plan to return its vitality. Mr. Longworth is a senior fellow at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs joining the council in 2003 as Executive Director of its Global Chicago Center. For twenty years he was a correspondent for the Chicago Tribune and United Press International and was the Tribune’s Chief European Correspondent reporting from 80 countries on 5 continents.

Saturday, January 25, 2013 • 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. (Doors Open at 8:15 a.m. Breakfast served at 8:30 a.m. $25 per person.)

Holiday Inn Ballroom, 102 S. 3rd, St. Joseph, MO 1014 W. ST. MAARTENS DR. | ST. JOSEPH, MO | 816-232-2022 | WWW.CFNWMO.ORG

St. Joseph BUSINESS JOURNAL

Fall 2012

Pony Express Community Bank Sponsors Shop St. Joseph The St. Joseph Metro Chamber is conducting the sixth annual Shop St. Joseph Holiday Program. This year the program is presented by Pony Express Community Bank. The campaign encourages customer loyalty, retains sales revenue for participating businesses and raises public awareness of retail products that are available in St. Joseph during the

BANKS Goetz Credit Union 1905 Howard St. Pony Express Community Bank 3702 Faraon St. 209 Roseport Road, Elwood, KS

BEAUTY SALONS BeautyFirst Professional Products & Salon 3833 Frederick Blvd. Loox 214 S. Belt Highway

FLORISTS Butchart Flowers & Gifts 3321 S. Belt Highway Village Flowers by Rob 3841 Frederick Blvd. (East Ridge Village)

FOOD RETAIL/RESTAURANTS 36th Street Food & Drink 102 S. Third St. (Inside the Holiday Inn) Carlos O’Kelly’s 3818 Frederick Ave. Cold Stone Creamery 5301 N. Belt Highway (Shoppes at North Village)

holidays. Merchants give tickets to customers (one free, others based on amount spent). At the end of the program, one lucky shopper wins $10,000. Shoppers can also win prizes from merchants. Each year participating businesses give out thousands of tickets. This year’s program kicks off Tuesday, Nov.

GROCERY STORES Apple Market 3734 Pear St. 2300 Mitchell Ave. 903 N. 36th St. Hy-Vee St. Joseph 201 N. Belt Highway

JEWELRY

Colony House Furniture & Bedding Frederick Boulevard & Riverside Road Home Style Furniture & Bedding 302 S. Third St. Peoples Furniture 3603 Frederick Ave.

Pawn Plus 603 A S. Belt Highway (Next to Payless Shoes)

J.C. Penney 3702 Frederick Blvd. (East Hills Shopping Center)

Record “Wear” House 1401 S. Belt Highway (Belt and Mitchell Shopping Center)

Mod Podge Boutique & Design Studio 624 Francis St.

St. Joseph Auction & Antique Mart 3600 S. Leonard Road

On-Site Golf 1213 N. Belt Highway, Ste. A (Pony Express Plaza)

St. Joseph Sewing Center 2828 N. Belt Highway

MISCELLANEOUS The Comfort Center 1804 N. Belt Highway Covenant Medical Spa 4906 Frederick Blvd. Kruse’s Auto Center 901 N. Fourth St. Merry Maids 1006 Pacific Street St. Jo Frontier Casino 777 Winners Circle The Spa at NorthPointe 5210 N. Belt Highway Ste. 200

Trex Mart 3927 Frederick Blvd. 3508 Pear St.

FURNITURE

J & B Outdoors 2722 S. Leonard Road

Kristen’s Coin & Jewelry 3855 Frederick Blvd. (East Ridge Village)

McAlister’s Deli 3815 Frederick Blvd.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 3715 Frederick Blvd.

PBE’s Toys and Dolls 2241 N. Belt Highway (Woodlawn Shopping Center)

Jesse James Antique Mall & Rusty Chandelier Interstate 29 & Highway 71

T.B.A. and Service LLC 405 s. 36th St.

Pappy’s Grill & Pub 2501 Messanie St.

Fairview Golf Pro Shop Corner of 33rd & Pacific Streets (Fairview Golf Course)

Creviston & Son Jewelry 510 N. Belt Highway

Fredrick Inn Steakhouse 1627 Frederick Ave.

Mr. Goodcents 4315 Common Wealth Court (In front of Menards)

20, and will conclude on Wednesday, Dec. 19, with the grand prize drawing. Check the Chamber’s website, www.saintjoseph.com, the St. Joseph News-Press, Q Country 92.7 or FOX KNPN 26 for the winning number. The following list is as of Nov. 8. Other merchants may have been added. For a complete list go to www.saintjoseph. com.

Weaver Overhead Door 2324 Locust Street

RETAIL 2 Trendy 3500 N. Village Drive (Green Acres Building)

Visit our New Showroom From Design to Install, we’re your local Office Products Dealer Featuring State of the Art Sharp Digital Copiers Office Furniture & Equipment including Steelcase TM

Bag Habit 3702 Frederick Blvd. (East Hills Shopping Center)

All Under One Roof

CVS 1301 S. Belt Highway East Hills Shopping Center Information & Gift Certificate Center 3702 Frederick Blvd.

St. Joe Harley-Davidson 4020 S. Highway 169

5901 NE Woodbine Rd. St. Joseph, MO

816-387-8180

816-364-7914

St. Joseph Business journal

Fall 2012

Spiraling health care costs are a pandemic. We think we have the cure. Aetna is collaborating with Heartland Health to create a unique solution that puts your doctors back in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat, so that they can deliver better patient care at a lower cost. Call your broker or Aetna Sales Agent to learn moreâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;or visit aetnaACS.com/employers

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