BUSINESS
a publication of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce
CONNECTION
I
t is with great excitement that the Board would like to present the future home of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce!
With its current lease ending in 2013 the Board of Directors charged a subcommittee with finding the best option for the Chamber, either renewing our current lease, finding a new lease option or purchasing a building. After a feasibility study was conducted on the Chamber’s financial standing the group decided it was in the best interest of the organization to look for a permanent home to purchase. On Tuesday, March 27th at a special meeting of the Board of Directors a unanimous vote was taken in favor of signing a contract to purchase the building located at 2145 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive. Although much more work and two more Board votes will take place before the scheduled closing this summer; the Board is very excited with the opportunities that this new office space will bring to our organization.
NETWORKING SURVIVAL TIPS
Y
ou’re standing in the doorway, coat checked and a glass of wine in hand, facing a room full of unfamiliar faces. You feel a bit awkward and slightly panicked about whom to approach first and what to say. Your mind whirls: Am I dressed appropriately? Did I bring enough business cards? What if I say the wrong thing? Working a room can make even the sharpest business person quake. Forbes spoke with a handful of experts for advice on how to approach any networking situation. Here are their foolproof tips. Arrive Early “Be unfashionably early,”
Continued on pg 8
APRIL 2012
Don’t miss the O’Fallon Chamber’s
General Membership LUNCHEON Tuesday, April 24, 2012 | 11:30 am to 1:00 pm @ the Christy Banquet Center 9000 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. in O’Fallon Please join us for our Monthly Membership Luncheon where Pete Brown will speak about Communication in the Workplace. Don’t forget to register in advance and save $5!
... Escape
ravel with Tders/Jan’s Lea e & Cruis Travel
Giveaway!
Sponsored by: Attend for an entry into the Escape Giveaway sponsored by Travel Leaders/ Jan’s Travel & Cruise!
O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce
Tuesday, April 10, 2012 11:30 am to 1:00 pm Laser Vein Center
3449 Pheasant Meadow Dr. Suite 100 O’Fallon, MO 63368
Stay for 5 minutes or 2 hours, whichever fits into your schedule best. Our monthly Business After Hours are a great way to build relationships with many of your fellow Chamber Members. Average attendance at these free events is for an entry pe... Attend a c s into the Escape around 50 Chamber E l e rav with Tders/Jan’s Giveaway sponsored Lea e Members! & Cruis e by Travel Leaders/ v Tra l
Giveaway! 2 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
Jan’s Travel & Cruise!
Mission Statement: The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting economic vitality in O’Fallon and the St. Charles County Region while providing members with networking opportunities, education and advocacy in public policy decisions affecting business. Vision Statement: The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce will be the catalyst for the prosperity of our community as a valued resource for businesses, organizations, and residents. Officers: Cindy Elking, Chairman of the Board Adam Hopper, 1st Vice Chairman Jeff Arneson, 2nd Vice Chairman Russ Craven, Treasurer Stacee Gilmore, Secretary Julie Feast, Past-Chairman Directors: Mark Crank, Director Nina DeAngelo, Director Heather Deatz, Director Tim DeGhelder, Director Ron Epps, Director Michael Favazza, Director Jonny Kruse, Gracie Barra Alissa Moore, Director Brian Richardson, Director David Schmidt, Director
THIS ISSUE VOL.1 IS.2 IN
1299 Bryan Road, O’Fallon, MO 63366 Phone: 636.240.1818 Email: info@ofallonchamber.org www.ofallonchamber.org
New Chamber Home.........................Cover Networking Tips Firecracker Run .................................. p 4/5 Lunch ‘n’ Learn..................................... p 6 Golf Tournament News from the Chairman ...................... p 7 Notes from the Kitchen Networking Tips Cont. .......................... p 8 Wedding & Party Ideas ......................... p 9 New Members ..................................... p 10 Calendar of Events .............................. p 11 Ribbon Cuttings .................................. p 12 Member Anniversaries ........................ p 13 Member Mentions ............................... p 14 Member Spotlight ............................... p 15 Chamber Activites.............................. p 16
CHAMBER PARTNERS
Jan’s Travel & Cruise
Staff: Erin Williams, President/CEO Sara Henderson, Communications Director Sam Byers, Membership Services Director APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 3
WANT 1,000+ BILLBOARDS FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
A
lmost every business out there at some point has asked the question, “How can we get our business’s name out in the community? How can get people to recognize our logo? How can we get people talking about our company?”, and there are advertisers galore telling you that their product or publication is the answer. To be sure, there are a lot of great marketing companies that can help you formulate a plan to accomplish this, but sometimes there are great opportunities right in front of you. This summer the O’Fallon Chamber is glad to provide you with just that type of opportunity! On July 4th the Chamber will be holding our 28th Annual Firecracker Run 5k/10k, 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk and with over 1000 participants last year, we’re expecting this year to be our best race yet! Part of the race’s success depends on Chamber members getting involved and helping to sponsor the event; however, this partnership is not a one-sided affair. Imagine your company’s logo on posters placed in businesses throughout O’Fallon. Think about your logo being displayed on our website and race registration website which individuals can direct all their Facebook friends to come check out when they register
to run or volunteer for the race. Visualize over a 1,000 high quality dry fit shirts worn throughout our community for months, even years after the race ends bearing your logo as a walking billboard. In addition to all this, there’s also the opportunity to set up a booth and display a sign or banner for runners, their friends and family, and passerby’s arriving for the City of O’Fallon’s Fourth of July parade all to see; that’s hundreds upon hundreds of individuals! These are the type of benefits you receive as a Chamber member by agreeing to sponsor this major community event. The second question people normally ask when considering publicity is “How much will this cost me?” With five different sponsorship levels to choose from, your business can receive exposure for as little as $50 or dramatically increase your presence by being a Gold level sponsor ($1,000). For more information about what’s available at each sponsorship level or how your business can get involved, download the flyer at www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker or email Sam@ofallonchamber.org.
PRESENTED BY:
tree of
life
community church 4 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
USATF Certified 5K&10K
July 4, 2012
Sponsorship Opportunities Platinum Level Sponsor - $2,000 • Company logo on the front of 1000 shirts. • Six T-shirts & Four Runner entries. • Logo as “Event Sponsor” on registration forms, press releases, posters, flyers and 4 Chamber newsletters circulation 134,000. • Naming rights for the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk. • Company logo with a link included on the event site, www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker • Company banner or signage at race. (company provides) • Company promotional items at event. (company provides) • Four signs on course . • Name recognition at event (promoted over PA system). • Recognition at Chamber luncheon. • Business representative to assist at event with Award Presentation. • Name recognition in all radio advertising. • Inclusion in thank you email to all runners with link to company web site. • Advertising email blast to all Chamber members. • Booth at the Expo on July 4th - Prime Location.
D L O S
• Company banner or signage at race. (company provides) • Company promotional items at event. (company provides) • Two signs on course . • Booth at the Expo on July 4th - Prime Location.
Silver Level Sponsor -$500 • Company logo on the back of 1000 shirts • Two T-shirts & Two Runner entries • Business name/logo on all registration forms, press releases, posters, flyers and 4 Chamber newsletters - circulation 134,000. • Company logo with a link included on the event site, www. ofallonchamber.org/firecracker • Company banner or signage at race. (company provides) • Company promotional items at event. (company provides) • One sign on course. • Booth at the Expo on July 4th.
Bronze Level Sponsor - $250 • Business/logo on the back of 1000 shirts. • One T-shirt & One Runner entry. • Booth at the Expo on July 4th.
Mile Marker Sponsor- $100
Gold Level Sponsor - $1,000 • Business/logo on the back of 1000 shirts in LARGE print. • Four T-shirts & Four Runner entries. • Business name/logo on all registration forms, press releases, posters, flyers and 4 Chamber newsletters - circulation 134,000. • Company logo with a link included on the event site, www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker
• Name of business on one of the Mile markers on the race route. • Booth at the Expo on July 4th.
Promotional Booth - $50 • Booth at the Expo on the July 4th.
Presented by: For more information or to become a sponsor contact: O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce • 636.240.1818 sam@ofallonchamber.org • www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker
APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 5
W
ould you like to be more effective as a Parent? Teacher? Manager? Executive? Like to feel even better about the kind of leader you’re becoming? Join us at the May 9th, 2012 Lunch n’ Learn as featured speaker, Judy Ryan assists us in learning what it takes for you and those you lead (adults and children) to feel and act powerful, lovable, connected and contributing. You will learn the order in which relationships should be managed and why. You will gain a clear vision of how develop people, relationships and healthy culture in corporate,
LUNCH ‘N’ LEARN BE AN EFFECTIVE LEADER! education and family settings. You will walk away with systems that ensure you meet your highest vision. Judy Ryan is a human systems specialist and speaks from experience. She specializes in systems that nurture and cultivate health and wholeness within and among organizations and individuals. She has assisted many to define and sustain alignment of mission, values and vision, and gain clarity and approval of strategies that result in improved productivity. Her greatest passion is increasing engagement and trust within
20TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
M
ark your calendar now for the 20th Annual O’Fallon Chamber Golf Tournament set for August 23, 2012. Join the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce for a day of networking and golf at the beautiful Whitmoor Golf Course. All Chamber members, industry leaders and golfers are encouraged to attend. Interested in being a sponsor and promoting your business in this event? For more information on available sponsorships or golf reservations contact Erin at erin@ofallonchamber.org or 636.240.1818. To sign up for sponsorship or to play visit www.ofallonchamber.org/golf today!
6 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
corporate, government, education and family settings. She is an awardwinning trainer, consultant, mentor, writer and coach, a frequent keynote motivational speaker and a regular columnist in several national journals on topics of emotional intelligence. The Lunch n’ Learn will be held Wednesday, May 9th from Noon1:00 p.m. at Webster UniversityWingHaven campus. This is a free seminar for members of the O’Fallon Chamber. Register by calling (636) 240-1818 or clicking here.
NOTES FROM THE KITCHEN... Welcome to the second edition of the O’Fallon Chamber Business Connection! As the Chairman of the Board it is my pleasure to share with you some of the more interesting things on which your Board of Directors has been working. I’ll start from last month when the Board held its annual all day retreat. As you might remember from last month’s article from Erin, the O’Fallon Chamber’s vision statement came out of that meeting. We were able to discuss the successes of 2011 and what things still need some work. Some of those items are already on their way to becoming a 2012 success. Just take our attendance numbers for example, last year we averaged 100 people at our membership meetings, not bad, but there’s always room for improvement. So far this year, we are averaging 130! I hope that average keeps climbing in the months ahead. After all, it’s all about building relationships, and where better to build relationships than at a Chamber function! I’d like to again thank Travel Leaders/Jan’s Travel & Cruise for their generous donation, the Escape with Jan’s Travel Give-A-Way. Speaking of building, one of the items the Board of Directors has been working on for several months now is a new permanent location for the O’Fallon Chamber. A sub-committee of the Board started meeting to determine feasibility as well as availability, and after months of reports, discussions and site visits, we are proud to announce that the Chamber has a contract on a building for a new permanent home at 2145 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive! The Board of Directors will still take at least 2 more votes before our closing date in July to ensure that the best interest of our organization is being served. Currently we have requests for proposals out for office layout and design as well as construction. It is our intent that the new office will fulfill all of our office needs as well as provide meeting space for committees and for our members to use as they need meeting space. Please feel free to give myself, Erin, or your favorite board member a call if you have any questions. Although the new office will be a huge endeavor, I look forward to sharing with you each month all of the interesting news from the Board. {Believe it or not, most of our agenda items are not very interesting :) } Until next month, Cindy Elking 2012 Chairman of the Board
Jeremy’s Seven Layer Dip 2- 16oz Cans of Refried Beans 1- 16 oz Container of Sour Cream 1 oz Taco Seasoning (We use Baron Spices Taco Seasoning) Shredded Lettuce 1 Package Shredded Mexican or Cheddar Cheese 1 Large Tomato- Diced 1 Small Can Black Olives- Sliced 5 Green Onions- Chopped Using a 9x13 glass dish, spread the refried beans and cover the bottom. Mix the sour cream and taco seasoning together and spead it across the top of the refried beans. Add the lettuce, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, black olives and green onions in layers. Serve chilled with tortilla chips and Enjoy! All ingredients can be found at Jeremy’s Market & Meats 464 Hwy P in O’Fallon, MO 636-379-8780 www.jeremysmarket.com
APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 7
But be honest and genuinely engaged, McGrath warns. It’s a big mistake to feign knowledge of people or specific events they are talking about. The other person will sniff out the insincerity immediately, she says. Another no-no is to let your eyes wander around the room when the other person is speaking. They’ll think you’re looking for someone more important to chat with. Your goal, she advises, is to make the other person feel like the only one in the room.
NETWORKING BASICS CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE
suggests Leil Lowndes, author of How To Instantly Connect With Anyone. The other early birds will be more available and easier to approach with fewer people in the room. Beginning a conversation among the first-to-arrive crowd means you’ll already know a few people once the rest of the attendees show up. Plus, you’ll automatically be in the middle of the party as others come in around you. If you arrive late, prepare yourself to face a wall of people already engaged in conversation. Offer a Simple Introduction The easiest way to break the ice at a networking event is to strike up a conversation with the first person you make eye contact with or with the first small group of people you come upon, says Courting Your Career author Shawn Graham. Walk up, smile, catch someone’s eye and say hello, he advises. And oftentimes the best opener is the simplest: “Hi. How are you?” is a universally terrific opening line. Introduce yourself, name your company or affiliation, and don’t get bogged down with too many personal or professional details. Focus instead on remembering the other person’s name, and try to find common ground between you. Ask Questions Rita Gunther McGrath, professor of management at Columbia Business School, says talking too much about yourself is “boring, vaguely insulting and will get your business card dropped in the trash.” Instead, ask about the other person. Inquire about their line of work, how they happened to be at that event, the venue or any similarities you might share.
8 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
Make the Biz Card Exchange Meaningful While getting business cards is important, exchanging them without first building trust is nonproductive, writes Anne Baber and Lynne Waymon in Make Your Contacts Count. If you leave an event with 20 or 30 cards, chances are that you won’t be able to match them to the corresponding owners’ faces and haven’t made any real, lasting connections. The duo call this haphazard exchange “cardboard connections.” They suggest finding a meaningful reason to follow up afterward, such as an article you read that might be helpful to the other person, or if you’ll both happen to be in the same city a week later and can try to meet up for lunch. If there’s a concrete connection, they’re more likely to remember you and care about hearing from you. Follow Up The whole point of attending networking events is to foster relationships, so following up is key to keeping them moving forward--especially if you’re looking for work. Recruiters at Stanton Chase, a global executive search firm, suggest sending e-mails the day after an event and then touching base a couple of times in the following few weeks. Use the follow-up to extend the conversation. Remind them of what you were talking about and provide them with new information, be it an article or examples of your work. Ask to get together again, over coffee or lunch, to continue the discussion. Article found at: http://www.forbes.com/2010/01/06/ networking-event-conversation-forbes-woman-net-worthrelationship.html
A
re you planning a wedding or party this year? Whether you’re helping a friend or family member or planning your own event these O’Fallon Chamber members will be happy to make your event a success and help you look your best. BAKERY Susie G’s Specialty Cakes 2679 Highway K O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-240-7610 BEAUTY & MASSAGE Belleza Salon 3449 Pheasant Meadows Drive, Ste 111 O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-300-3437 Bounce Salon 1120 Technology Dr., Suite 116 O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636)329-1511 Classy Nails & Spa 458 Highway P O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-281-0810 David Anthony Salon and Spa 8637 Highway N Lake St. Louis, MO 63367 (636) 561-4006 Hair Haven 7328 Village Center Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636) 980-4500 Hair Saloon For Men 2961 Hwy K O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636) 978-4445
WEDDING & PARTY PLANNING RESOURCES Living Waters Salon & Day Spa LLC 2114 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-281-4247 MassageLuxe 2526 Hwy K O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636) 272-5893 Nails on Main, LLC 612 N. Main Street O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-272-5959 Spa Winghaven 2327 Technology Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636) 625-8772 Sport Clips 979 Waterbury Falls Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636) 329-0707 The Face & The Body, TOO! 2917 Highway K, Suite C O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636)281-2600 CATERERS Amighetti’s Bakery & Cafe 636-625-6360 Angelo’s Chicago Taste 636-329-8333 Qdoba (636) 978-2486 Quintessential Catering (636) 978-6210 Rendezvous Cafe & Wine Bar (636) 281-2233
River City Catering (636) 939-3555 Saint Louis Bread Company (636) 379-0905 Stefanina’s Restaurant (636) 272-3499 Super Smokers BBQ 636-614-1183 JEWELERS Amante Jewelers 207 Salt Lick Road St. Peters, MO 63376 (636) 397-1511 Krekeler Jewelers, Inc. 2938 Hwy K O’Fallon, MO 63368 (636)978-7870 Miller’s Fine Jewelry 2510 Highway K O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-272-4097 PHOTOGRAPHER Cindy’s Photo Impressions (636) 294-8088 VENUE Christy Banquet Center 9000 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-240-7772 Cedar Lake Cellars 11008 Schreckengast Rd. Wright City, MO 63390 (636) 745-9500 Trigg Banquet Center 300 O’Fallon Plaza O’Fallon, MO 63366 (636) 240-3288
APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 9
NEW MEMBERS
A VERY SPECIAL WELCOME! Al’s Automotive Supply Inc. Automotive Services David Scrivner 427 E. Wabash O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-272-2696 www.alsautomotive.com AR Bystrom Contracting Construction, Repair, & Home Andrew Bystrom 2491 Fak Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-262-2642 www.arbystromcontracting.com Brewskeez Sports Cafe Bar/Lounge Russ Kasper 4251 Keaton Crossing Blvd O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-329-0027 www.brewstl.com Brickman Landscaping & Lawn - Commercial Paul Villhard 110 North Cool Springs Road O’Fallon, MO 63366 314-568-6953 www.brickmangroup.com DeCarlo’s Bar & Grill Bar/Lounge Cory DeCarlo 1250 Bryan Rd O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-272-5340 Firestone Complete Auto Care Automotive Services Nikki Ostermeyer 504 South Main O’Fallon, mo 63366 636-272-6980 www.firestonecompleteautocare.com Fitness Plus Equipment Services Exercise Equipment & Repair Jeremy Jacobs
108 Hamilton Industrial Ct. Wentzville, MO 63385 636-379-1952 www.fitness-plus.net Gold’s Gym Fitness Club/Gym Michelle Micheletti 2601 Highway K O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-980-1450 www.goldsgym.com Healthy Life Chiropractic & Wellness Chiropractor Dr. Jim Hankinson 1601 Bryan Rd. O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-474-2273 www.healthylifebackdoc.com Hubler Auto Plaza Automotive Sales & Repair Randy Hubler 1400 E. Terra Lane O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-281-3319 www.hublerautoplaza.com Initial Independence, Inc. Mental Health Services 9211 Phoenix Village Parkway O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-265-0635 Mattern Automotive Automotive Sales Anna Mattern 2682 Technology Drive O Fallon, MO 63368 636-561-8700 www.matternautomotive.com Northside Gymnastic Academy Dance & Gymnastics Janet Besselman 1317 Tom Ginnever Ave. O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-379-3599 www.northsidegym.com
10 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
O’Fallon Community Athletic Club Non-Profit Tim Drowns 401 East Wabash O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-978-7668 www.ocac-ofallon.com Parmida Home Home Decor/Furniture Eileen Martin 11 Meadow Circle Drive, Ste 404 Lake St. Louis, MO 63367 636-625-6432 www.parmidahome.com Shelgin Partners Recruiting Agency Employement Agency Gerri Lynn Zschetzsche 9211 Phoenix Village Parkway O’Fallon, MO 63368 636-625-2333 www.shelgin.com Summit Community Church Church Brian Agovino 927 E. Terra Lane O’Fallon, MO 63366 636-978-4545 www.summitcommunity.com Tekcollect Collections Doug Wideman P.O. Box 626 Wentville, Mo 63385 636-262-5374 www.tekcollect.com Tree of Life Community Church Chuch Sam Byers 636-525-1569 www.treeoflife.cc
CHAMBER CALENDAR APRIL 2012 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 Joint Chamber “Cardinals” Networking Event Woods Fort Country Club 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM THURSDAY, APRIL 5 Golf Committee Meeting O’Fallon Chamber Office 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM New Member Orientation O’Fallon Chamber Office 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 9 Afternoon Leads Group Webster University in Winghaven 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM TUESDAY, APRIL 10 Business After Hours Laser Vein Center 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Morning Leads Group O’Fallon Chamber Office 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Tech/Comm Meeting Lindell Bank, St. Peters 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
THURSDAY, APRIL 26 Morning Leads Group O’Fallon Chamber Office 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Ribbon Cutting Tri-County Fence & Deck 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
FRIDAY, APRIL 20 Legislative Awareness Committee Rendezvous Cafe 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Ribbon Cutting Parmida Home 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
FRIDAY, APRIL 13 Ribbon Cutting Alliance Credit Union 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM TUESDAY, APRIL 17 ABLE Educational Forum EDC of St. Charles County 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM Board of Directors Meeting O’Fallon Chamber Office 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM THURSDAY, APRIL 19 Morning Schmooze Christian High School 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
MONDAY, APRIL 23 Afternoon Leads Group Webster University in Winghaven 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM TUESDAY, APRIL 24 General Membership Luncheon Christy Banquet Center 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 Ribbon Cutting Suzanne’s Dollhouses 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
MONDAY, APRIL 30 Chamber Office Closed MAKO 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM TUESDAY, MAY 1 Chamber Office Closed MAKO 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM CST TUESDAY, MAY 8TH Business After Hours Breakthrough Pain Relief 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM THURSDAY, MAY 10 New Member Orientation O’Fallon Chamber Office 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
WHAT MEMBERS ARE SAYING Several months ago, I became an O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce member. I have been pleased with my membership for numerous reasons. One of the many benefits for my medical clinic Pain Management Rehabilitation has been networking. At the Chambers most recent Morning Schmooze, a connection was made with a fellow doctor that has lead to multiple patient referrals to my clinic. Satisfied Chamber Member, Dale J. Klein, M.D. Pain Management Rehabilitation www.PMRofallon.com APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 11
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONIES WELCOME TO O’FALLON!
The O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce and the City of O’Fallon celebrates news businesses with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony. Or, if you are an existing member and moved locations, changed ownership or remodeld let the business community know with a ribbon cutting. Contact Sara to learn more 636.240.1818.
Pizzazz Gifts 2432 Highway K | O’Fallon, MO 63368
Pain Management Rehabilitation 103 Church Street | O’Fallon, MO 63366
McDonald’s 1001 N Main Street | O’Fallon, MO 63366
O’Fallon Nutrition 8648 Mexico Road | O’Fallon, MO 63366
O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce
Rise & Shine...
to join us for the O’Fallon Chamber’s Morning Schmooze, a FREE bi-monthly, networking event open to Chamber members. You just never know who you will meet at a Schmooze so arrive ready to network with a pocket full of business cards and a 1 minute infomercial.
Thursday, April 19th 7:30-9:00 am Christian High School
...
Escape
ravel with Tders/Jan’s Lea e & Cruis Travel
Giveaway! 12 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
Attend for an entry into the Escape Giveaway sponsored by Travel Leaders/ Jan’s Travel & Cruise!
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES THANK YOU!
Congratulations and thank you to the following companies who as of March 2012 have been O’Fallon Chamber members for... 17 Years O’Fallon Fire Protection 13 Years River City Rascals Baseball 11 Years MasterCard Worldwide Minuteman Press Planet Tool & Engineering Sam’s Club 10 Years Kaspar Broadcasting / KFAV Radio Schneider Construction Services 8 Years Bristol Seafood Grill River City Catering 7 Years Family Eyewear Gallery 6 Years AAA Automobile Club Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
5 Years Brunswick Zone XL St. Peters ChristChurch Anglican Residence Inn - O’Fallon 4 Years Consumers First Insurance St. Charles County Art Council 3 Years David Evans 2 Years Community Council of St. Charles County Cornerstone United Methodist Church Family Therapy Solutions Reroof America Contractors, LLC Slumberland Furniture 1 Year O’Fallon Kiwanis Club Operation Food Search Plaza Computers Vetta Sports WB Industries
Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings:
. . . e p a c Es
vel a r T h t wi ders/Jan’s Lea ise u r C & Travel
Giveaway! Now, there is an even better reason to attend O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce events! You’ve always had the opportunity for networking, building referrals and learning from your fellow members; now you could win the vacation of a lifetime! The more you attend, the better your chance are of winning! Throughout 2012 each time you attend a General Membership Meeting, Business After Hours or Morning Schmooze, your name will be entered into a drawing. The winning vacation recipient will be drawn at the Annual Awards luncheon held on December 18th, 2012.
Thursday, April 12th @ 11:00 am Tri County Fence & Deck Friday, April 13th @ 11:30 am Alliance Credit Union Wednesday, April 25th @ 3:30 pm Suzanne’s Dollhouses Thursday, April 26th @ 11:30 am Parmida Home
Want to escape now? Call Travel Leaders/Jan’s Travel & Cruise for other great travel opportunities!
(636) 561-2626 www.travelleaders-janstravel.com
Thursday, May 10th @ 3:30 pm Discovery Dental APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 13
MEMBER MENTIONS NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS
Keep up to date with news, sales, events and more from your fellow members. Contact Sara at sara@ofallonchamber.org to submit your information for future newsletters. Check out www.ofallonchamber.org for more member news and events.
Fair Trade Market
Recession Fitness
Fair trade provides under- and unemployed artisans with an opportunity to earn vital income and improve their quality of life by establishing a sustainable market for their handcrafted products. This allows the artisans and their families to pursue better homes, education and healthy lives of dignity.
Thursday, April 12th at 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM held t Middendorf-Kredell Library located at 2750 Hwy K in O’Fallon, MO 63368.
Saturday, April 21 - 9 am to 2 pm Lunch served 11:30 to 1:30 ($6/person)
These unique products are skillfully made from artisans around the world. You will be amazed at the colors, shapes and textures of the products. Some of the items available include: Jewelry, Purses, Scarves, Pottery, Woven Baskets, Candles, Wall Hangings, Soap, Tea and Chocolate. Cornerstone UMC is located at 1151 Tom Ginnever Ave in O’Fallon MO 63366. Call 636-379-5334 for more info.
Jazzercise offers Jr. Jazzercise Birthday Parties Party Packages Include: $150 for up to 12 kids for 2 hours. We do all the set up and clean up. Dedicated Party Pro, Paper goods (plates, cups, tablecloth, utensils), Drinks – Capri Sun and/or water, Craft, Activities that correspond with chosen theme. Add on options: Helium Balloons ($15 per dozen), Goodie Bags ($3.50 per bag), Pizza ($15 – 2 pieces per kid) (choices: pepperoni, sausage, cheese) Responsible for bringing your own birthday cake. I can provide the name and number of a wonderful cake decorator. Birthday party themes: Fitness), Princess, Rock/Pop Star, Boot Camp (Camo), Hawaiian Luau *other themes available upon request. Contact Rebecca Beavers for additional info and booking at 636-544-2936.
Financial & Wellness Fitness to Maintain Balance and Health
How do you make sense of today’s economy & get yourself financially fit? Chris Ferrara of MFS Investments & John Weeks of Mass Financial Group. When it comes to the housing market you can make sure inflation doesn’t affect your pocketbook. A wide angle lens on real estate & if a home or apartment make the most sense. Lori Williams of USA Mortgage and Will Klein of Will Klein Group, Keller Williams Realty. Can you really make becoming sick and injured in the future disappear? Well…maybe not, but you can definitely decrease your chances. Dr. Brandon Jackson, Stay True Chiropractic. RSVP to Lori Williams: lwilliams@ usa-mortgage.com or John Weeks: jweeks@financialguide.com or Call: 636.474.6562 or 636.728.2482, Will Klein: 636.233.8334.
ABLE Educational Forum presents Career Exploration for our Future Workforce The St. Charles County Alliance for Business, Learning, and Education invites you join us for a presentation on: Career Exploration for our Future Workforce -Job shadowing, Career Fairs, Career Programs Presented by: The Vision St. Charles County Leadership Team.
14 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | APRIL 2012
The forum will be on April 17th, 2012 from 8-9am at Economic Development Center of St. Charles County located at 5988 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in St. Charles, MO 63304. Continental Breakfast will be provided. RSVP by April 16 –(636) 922-8342/email: tdelossantos@stchas.edu
World Championship Trophy Tour
Calling all Cardinals fans! U.S. Cellular has a treat in store for you- The 2011 World Championship Trophy Tour! Come on in to see the trophy up close, take photos and be a part of the excitement as we gear up for another GREAT season of Cardinals baseball! Visit the US Cellular store at Hutchings Farm, 2500 Highway K in O’Fallon, MO 63368 on Friday, April 6th from 3-7pm.
Girls Night Out!
Free Women’s Health Talk on Thursday, April 5th from 6-8pm at MiddendorfKredell Library located at 2750 Hwy K in O’Fallon, MO. Some topics are just meant for us girls! And more often than not, these topics are best discussed over a glass of wine and hor d’oeuvres. So join us to indulge as you listen to Drs. Emily Sammons, Pam Sullivan, and Nanci Bucy from Midwest OB/GYN Associates discuss solutions for heavy, painful periods and fibroids including minimally invasive treatment options. The will also address other pelvic health options. Event is FREE, but registration is required. If you would like to attend this event: Call 636-344-2273 or visit www. progresswesthealthcare.org.
314-249-0552 Westplex.mno@gmail.com www.mynetworkone.com
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT DEANNA SPELL How long have you been in the O’Fallon area? We moved to O’fallon six years ago, after a year of living in Indiana. Tell us more about yourself? St. Charles has been my home for most of my life. I am married and have 12 year old twins (son & daughter). What is your educational background? I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Maryville University, Organizational Communications and my Master’s degree from Lindenwood University, Organizational Training & Development. Tell us about your organization. My Network One is an on-line marketing and networking system that is affordable and works. We bridge the gap between consumer and business owner making it effortless to communicate, offer local deals, create incentives to purchase, and allow referrals to be passed between consumer and business owner. We offer our members:
• Community Wide Website • Mini-Site for every member • Post your Videos, Photos, Bio • Locations, Hours, Contact info. • Daily Deals, Promotions, or Coupons in seconds • Social Media made easy and effective • Send…Receive…Track Referrals • Branded Online Homepage to use and give away What is the mission / vision of your organization? We believe in helping the small business owner to reach their customers with the same accuracy and technology which was previously only available to larger corporations. We strive to keep the local consumer buying locally. We also work with area non-profits, free of charge, to assist in giving back to our local communities. What do you do to serve your clients best? I add value by increasing their bottom line. I don’t just put them in our network and leave them on their own. I coach and educate them on upcoming technology and the best way to reach their audience. I
also limit the businesses to one per category per geographic area; this way they don’t have to compete for customers. I allow the individual business to deliver their message: using virtual coupons, mobile applications, direct text, dashboards, social media, and the internet. What are you most looking forward to in the next 5 years for the company? I am excited to be part of the growth of this company. I have been involved with them since the concept started and have witnessed tremendous change for the better. My Network One really listens to its member businesses and incorporates their great ideas making our system the best I have ever seen. If you would like to learn more about us, please visit our website www.MyNetworkOne.com You can also attend our informational meeting: Tuesday, April 10th Brunswick Zone, St. Peters, MO 6:20 - 8:00 P.M.
APRIL 2012 | BUSINESS CONNECTION | 15
CHAMBER ACTIVITIES
New members are welcomed at the March General Membership Meeting held at the VFW Post 5077.
Danielle Eickenhorst, Communications Specialist for the Midland Division, Salvation Army gave some great advice and tips on how to prepare your business for a diaster during the Lunch ‘n’ Learn.
Beth Hillestad shared her insight about Generational Thank you to Lawn and Landscape Solutions for Differences in the Workplace during the March meeting. sponsoring the March Luncheon!
Full house at the March Membership Meeting!
Mark Crank models a t-shirt saying “I attended the O’Fallon Chamber After Hours @ Instant Imprints and all I got was this crooked t-shirt!”
Interested in Advertising in the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce
BUSINESS CONNECTION?
Call 636.240.1818 or email sara@ofallonchamber.org