Biz 417 | 10 for the Next 10 | July/August 2022 by 417 Magazine

JULY/AUGUST 2022 | $4.95 July/August 2022 RAYLENE APPLEBY’S STYLE | 10 FOR THE NEXT 10 | COXHEALTH’S NEXT CHAPTER BIZ417.COM

10 FOR THE NEXT 10

+ COMMERCIAL DESIGN AWARDS

FIVE WINNERS THAT PROVE FUNCTION CAN BE FUN

JOSH SULLIVAN, P. 50

TIRED OF UP AND DOWN SALES REPORTS?

Then maybe it's time to take control of the selling process and build a team of Sales Masters. Register today to Crash a Class. trustpoint.sandler.com | 417.890.0004

As of last year, the Plaza Towers office building is under new ownership with Springfield Property, LLC, and has been undergoing extensive remodeling. The renovations have resulted in a modern and upscale update of both the exterior and interior look and function. For those unfamiliar with the Plaza Towers, this iconic local building was built in 1969 and is located on the busiest intersection in Springfield, at the cross-section of Glenstone and Sunshine. The structure is a 10-story staple of Springfield and we are elated that it is being brought forward with a present-day look and feel. We are currently looking for new tenants and have space available from 48–11,000 square feet. including storage units as well.

Owned & Professionally Managed by:

springfieldpropertyllc@gmail.com 417-883-7424 plazatowers.com springfieldpropertyllc.com

46 58

10 FOR THE NEXT 10

Ten dreamers, doers and believers who are shaping the story of 417-land. BY SAVANNAH WASZCZUK

July/August 2022

PHOTO BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC

This award-worthy makeover of Maplecrest Elementary was led by Jennifer Fick of Sapp Design Architects.

COMMERCIAL DESIGN AWARDS

Five spaces that shatter expectations of what an office, school or cultural center can be. BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

BIZ417.COM

Breakthrough strategies

29 HEAT INDEX

Golden moments in 417-land.

29 FOUR TO FOLLOW

Enactus’s Amy Englert fills us in on her faves.

30 Q&A

Darin Bridges of The Great Game of Business on preserving sanity during crazy times.

30 FORWARD THINKING

A failed drug test can end a career. Victory Mission + Ministry is offering a path back to work.

32 ON THE RISE

Brad Thessing gives us the latest news on Glenstone and Kearney.

33 CORNER OFFICE

As CoxHealth’s new CEO, Max Buetow’s not afraid to go bold.

33 NAILED IT, FAILED IT

Ethan Forhetz shares his lessons learned.

34 MY LOOK

Raylene Appleby—we like her eclectic style.

32 BREAKTHROUGH

How Jude’s Coffee Company delivered the drive-through experience its customers wanted.

38 VANTAGE POINT

40 ROOTED HERE

Convoy of Hope is making a difference in Ukraine.

Brendon Bourg is leading his father’s company into the future.

39 ADVICE & WHISKEY

42 NEXT GEN

Joe Turner. Jeff Houghton. Iechyd Da Bourbon. We’re here for it.

This family created a paradise for parrot lovers.

Everywhere you need to be

68 CALENDAR

Where to be, who to see.

72 DOWNTIME

Jerry Harmison is taking off.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 6 ISSUES, $24. PLEASE CALL OR VISIT BIZ417.COM/SUBSCRIBE. ALLOW 4–6 WEEKS FOR PROCESSING ORDERS, PAYMENT AND CHANGES OF ADDRESS. SINGLE ISSUE: $4.95; BACK ISSUES, $6 PLUS $8 SHIPPING AND HANDLING, IF AVAILABLE. NO BACK ISSUE ORDERS OR SUBSCRIPTIONS OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES. ADDRESS CHANGES: INCLUDE BOTH NEW ADDRESS AND MAILING LABEL WITH OLD ADDRESS. BIZ 417 (ISSN 23763604) IS PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY BY WHITAKER PUBLISHING, LLC, 2111 S. EASTGATE AVE., SPRINGFIELD, MO 65809–2146. © WHITAKER PUBLISHING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. POSTAGE PAID IN SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI, AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO BIZ 417, 2111 S. EASTGATE AVE., SPRINGFIELD, MO 65809–2146. THE MAGAZINE ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR UNSOLICITED MANUSCRIPTS, ARTWORK OR CARTOONS. PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

July/August 2022

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PHOTOS BY LEAH STIEFERMANN, RYAN KOWALSKI, MADDIE BANE, COURTESY CONVOY OF HOPE

Tools to help you dominate

In case you missed it: Biz 417 Publisher Logan Aguirre interviewed JMARK CEO Thomas H. Douglas at the Secret Sauce Summit. Check out our takeaways at biz417.com/secretsauce.

July/August 2022

LADIES WHO LAUNCH ON DEMAND If you didn’t get in-person tickets to Ladies Who Launch, you can still view the content! On-demand tickets are $40 and viewing is available for 30 days, beginning July 21. For in-person ticket holders, on-demand access is included in the ticket price. For information, visit biz417.com/lwl.

Who Launch Biz Break JOIN OUR NEWSLETTERS •• Ladies AND CONNECT WITH US ON BIZ417.COM

PHOTOS BY JUNIPER AND HONEY, COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

CELEBRATE THE BEST PLACES TO WORK IN 417-LAND Join us in celebrating the most rewarding places to work in 417-land at our Best Places to Work Celebration on September 7. The celebration happens at the Glendalough Convention Center from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Read contest details and grab your tickets now at biz417.com/bptw.

• Free on-site consultation • New and used Commercial-grade fitness equipment available to fit every budget • Custom gyms for your business, school, hotel, and home Call (417)849-4333 or visit gymdepotusa.com to schedule your consultation

BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

JULY/AUGUST · Volume 7, Issue 5 · 2022 BUSINESS Logan Aguirre

PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM

Michelle Martens

FINANCE ASSISTANT MMARTENS@417MAG.COM

Megan Johnson

Bernadette Pry

VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MJOHNSON@417MAG.COM

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT BERNADETTE@417MAG. COM

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI@417MAG.COM

Molly Davis

Janelle Haik

Elisabeth Anderson

Katie Batliner

ADVERTISING DESIGNER MOLLY@417MAG.COM

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JANELLE@417MAG.COM

Landra Bunge

FINANCE DIRECTOR ACCOUNTING@417MAG. COM

Nicki Hodges

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR NICKI@417MAG.COM

ADVERTISING DESIGNER KBATLINER@417MAG.COM

Jami Wightman

Ammie Scott Motes

VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY AND SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ASCOTTMOTES@417MAG. COM

Kathy Grieve

ACCOUNT COORDINATOR KATHY@417MAG.COM

ACCOUNT SERVICES DIRECTOR ELISABETH@417MAG.COM

Rin Colwell

ADVERTISING DESIGN ASSISTANT ADVERTISING@417MAG. COM

EDITORIAL Lucie Amberg

EDITOR LUCIE@417MAG.COM

Katie Pollock Estes

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR EDITOR@417MAG.COM

Jamie Thomas

DIGITAL EDITOR JTHOMAS@417MAG.COM

Colin Shea Denniston

ENGAGEMENT & STYLE EDITOR COLIN@417MAG.COM

Jo Jolliff

ASSOCIATE EDITOR JO@417MAG.COM EDITORIAL INTERNS

417-569-5051 | BUFSTUDIO.CO

Grace Chipley

EDITORIAL DESIGNER GRACE@417MAG.COM ART INTERNS

Grace Mason, Kali McCroskey CONTRIBUTORS

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

FOUNDERS

Jennifer Massey-Brown

Gary Whitaker

EVENT MANAGER JMASSEYBROWN@417MAG.COM

Hannah Brown

July/August 2022

Leah Stiefermann

PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER LSTIEFERMANN@417MAG.COM

Architectural Imageworks, LLC; Mali Azima; Maddie Bane; Beri Irving Photography; Ren Bishop; Mary Ellen Chiles; Kate Duby; Max Havey; Jeff Houghton; Jennifer Johnmeyer; Juniper and Honey; Ryan Kowalski; Mindy McDonald; Sapp Design Architects; Susan Atteberry Smith; Brenna Stark; Jennifer Swenson; Savannah Waszczuk; Brad Zweerink

BRAND DESIGNER HBROWN@417MAG.COM

Brandon Alms

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON@417MAG.COM

Mariah Hunter, Michelle Lewis

HOW YOU DO ANYTHING IS HOW YOU DO EVERYTHING FULL SERVICE ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING AND DESIGN

Sarah Patton

ART DIRECTOR SARAH@417MAG.COM

FOUNDER GARY@417MAG.COM

Joan Whitaker

FOUNDER JOAN@417MAG.COM BIZ417.COM

JULY/AUGUST · Volume 7, Issue 5 · 2022 ADVISORY BOARD David Atkisson Springfield Office Leader

J.E. Dunn Construction Shaun Burke President

Guaranty Bank Thomas Douglas CEO

JMARK Business Solutions, Inc. Anna Evans Vice President of Business Retention and Expansion

Show Me Christian County Heather Hardinger Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer

CoxHealth Sally Hargis Vice President/Chairman

Ozarks Coca-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co. Ryan Mooney Vice President of Economic Development

Arvest Bank Daniel Ogunyemi Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Ozarks Technical Community College Ben Sapp Communications Director

Sapp Design Architects Debra Shantz Hart Owner

Housing Plus LLC DHTC Development Sustainable Housing Solutions Jack Stack President/CEO

SRC Holdings Corp.

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July/August 2022

The Future Starts Here I once heard Jack Stack say that at SRC, they “deal in the future.” That phrase spoke to me, and I adapted it to our organization. At 417, I say we “live in the future.” This is on my onboarding presentation, the one I deliver to every new employee and intern to provide an immediate signal of how we operate. With the Great Game of Business, we are always forecasting and making business decisions according to what we see ahead. In our editorial and art departments, we’re planning cover stories a year or more in advance. If we want to have a “Guide to Waterfalls” cover story in March when waterfalls are at their best, then we need to photograph them one year earlier. It often takes a full year for employees to get the rhythm of our deadline calendar. We once had a newer employee panic because she believed she’d missed her sister’s birthday. When she sent out a “happy belated birthday” card, her sister was confused. As it turns out, our employee was living so far in the future—deeply engaged with December content in September—that she convinced herself her sister’s December birthday had already passed! Living in the future is especially fun when you’re forecasting who is going to make a big impact in the next 10 years. I was so energized reading about each of our 10 For the Next 10 honorees, the visions they have for their industries and the groundwork they’re laying now to make those big dreams happen. I already think we live in the very best place but with the strategy, creativity and drive of these honorees, I’m even more excited for what’s ahead. For the moment, I’m doing my best to stay in the present so that I can cheer them on.

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

Logan Aguirre Publisher, Biz 417

LOGAN’S FAVORITE LESSON

On p. 50, 10 For the Next 10 honoree Josh Sullivan chose my dad, Gary Whitaker as his meaningful mentor. Me too, buddy, me too. BIZ417.COM

Dakota Paris

Criminal Defense Expertise in: White Collar Offenses DWI Offenses Assault Offenses Property Offenses Drug Offenses

TRUSTED BY SMALL AND LARGE BUSINESS OWNERS THROUGHOUT SOUTHWEST MISSOURI 417-882-4700 // EVANS-DIXON.COM 4905 SOUTH NATIONAL AVE., SUITE B July/August 2022

“Recreational marijuana on the weekends can get people fired on Monday... You can’t legislate righteousness. We can have as many laws as you want, and people are still going to choose to be people.” —John Pace, Director of Outreach and Workforce Development at Victory Mission + Ministry, p. 30

FOR THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BUSINESS.

FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE REGION.

“The market continues to grow quite a bit. We just have to find opportunities to find space, and right now that’s pretty difficult.” —Brad Thessing, Owner of Thessing Commercial Properties, p. 32

“The City of Lebanon has never had this sort of structure before, and they’ve been supportive and intrigued as we’ve taken on the project.” —Matt Starnes, Owner of Jude’s Coffee Company, p. 32

Jeff Childs, SIOR, CCIM

Senior Advisor, invested in 417-land RANKIN COMPANY, LLC

M. 417.860.5447 jeff.childs@svn.com P. 417.887.8826 ext. 104 Jeff Childs, SIOR, CCIM - SVN/Rankin Company

July/August 2022

“When a lady feels good in her clothes, it gives her energy, and it inspires her to be confident. I want to go into that boardroom wearing something that will make me feel really good.” —Raylene Appleby, President of PJC Insurance Agency, p. 34

BIZ417.COM

LOOKING AHEAD TO LADIES WHO LAUNCH All spring, as we announced the speakers and panelists for Ladies Who Launch, we heard so much enthusiasm. Catherine Price’s insight into leading a more intentional life, Melissa Barnes’s tips on radical candor and the wisdom of our 2022 Women Who Mean Business—417-landers are ready for it all. In-person tickets to Ladies Who Launch are sold out, but you can access the content with an on-demand ticket. For more information, visit biz417.com/lwl.—by Lucie Amberg

“What a great keynote! Love the idea of screen-life balance. It’s been something I’ve been working on the past year, and it’s been amazing! Less scrolling, more intentionality.” —Teresa Coyan (Vice President of Public Affairs, CoxHealth), on keynote speaker Catherine Price “West Plains’ own Mary Schrag with Physical Therapy Specialists will be presenting at this event." —Heather Fisher (CEO, Ozarks Small Business Incubator), on the Women Who Mean Business panel

HOW TO CONTACT BIZ 417 facebook.com/biz417 @biz417 linkedin.com/company/biz-417

PHOTO BY BRAD ZWEERINK

Snail Mail

Lucie Amberg/Letters to the Editor Biz 417 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809 Email

biz@417mag.com www.

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Biz417.com July/August 2022

CONNECTION PRESENTED BY

W H AT T O E X P E C T INSPIRING SPEAKERS

JULY 14, 2022

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

BIZ417.COM

11:30 A.M.–6 P.M.

OASIS HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

CONFERENCE AGENDA 11:30 A.M. | DOORS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION

12:10 P.M. | WORK IN PROGRESS: STORIES OF USING RADICAL CANDOR AND FINDING YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE Speaker: Melissa Barnes Presented by Husch Blackwell Drawing from lessons she’s learned and the importance of using radical candor, Melissa Barnes inspires you to ﬁnd what leadership style works for you and teaches you how to own it and instill conﬁdence as you build your team.

1:15 P.M. | WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS PANEL Panelists: Kesha Alexander, Mary Schrag, Judy Thompson, Katie Towns Moderator: Logan Aguirre Presented by Mercy Biz 417‘s Women Who Mean Business Class of 2022 serve as panelists for this year‘s event. Hear these inﬂuential women share their stories about leadership, overcoming obstacles and self-care techniques.

2:30 P.M. | HUSTLE HOUR – A SPEED NETWORKING SESSION Facilitator: Krystal Creach Presented by FORVIS Want to connect with others while working on your personal pitch? The fast-paced and high-energy guided session leaves you walking away with major conﬁdence and new connections.

3:45 P.M. | THE POWER OF FUN: HOW TO FEEL ALIVE AGAIN Speaker: Catherine Price Presented by Volt Credit Union Catherine Price is dedicated to helping people scroll less, live more and have fun. Learn how to intentionally set aside time for joy in a digital world and start enjoying real-life experiences again, as she discusses topics from her latest book, The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again.

5 P.M. | ROSÉ WITH ROSIE

End the day with a glass of rosé and build authentic relationships while discussing the day’s content with like-minded women.

MEET THE SPEAKERS LUNCH KEYNOTE SPEAKER

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

MELISSA BARNES

CATHERINE PRICE

As the Vice President of Twitter Latin America and Canada, Melissa Barnes leads Twitter’s teams across the region focused on expanding advertising revenue, driving innovation and building Twitter’s brand. She sits on the boards for She Runs It and the American Advertising Foundation. She was inducted into the AAF Hall of Achievement in 2019.

WOMEN WHO MEAN BUSINESS PANEL KESHA ALEXANDER Co-Owner–Supper Co.

MARY SCHRAG President and CEO–Physical Therapy Specialists Clinic

JUDY THOMPSON Senior Vice President of University Advancement–Drury University

A science journalist, speaker, teacher, consultant and author, Catherine Price uses her background in digital mindfulness to speak on how to incorporate meaningful moments of joy back into your life through her latest book, The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again.

Following the success of How to Break Up with Your Phone, Catherine Price’s latest book digs deep into what fun actually is and why it’s essential in your life.

KATIE TOWNS

Director of Health–City of Springﬁeld BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

This SOLD OUT event is all about you! It’s time to connect with 450 of 417-land’s women of influence for a powerful afternoon of speakers and inspiration at Biz 417’s fifth annual Ladies Who Launch presented by Volt Credit Union. In between the inspiring speaker sessions, here’s what you can expect: Volt Credit Union is an advocate for empowering women and spreading positivity in the community. They are back for their fifth year as the presenting sponsor of Ladies Who Launch! Visit the Volt Credit Union team and snap a photo at their photo opp. Then share your photo with your network, letting them know you are ready to own your power at #LadiesWhoLaunch. Ignite your networking skills and meet like-minded women with the help of FORVIS. Grab your FORVIS Connect Four card and use the prompts and challenges to make new connections throughout the afternoon. FORVIS also leads Hustle Hour, a guided speed networking session where you can connect with dozens of women. It’s back and even better than before! Mercy is here for you. For more than 200 years their vision of exceptional health care for women and children has been strong. Make time for you by visiting the Mercy booth and sign a pledge to make yourself a priority this year. Husch Blackwell knows that women make great leaders and that you already have powerful leadership qualities in you. Uncover and unleash what makes you a great leader by visiting with the women of Husch Blackwell where you can highlight your favorite qualities and what makes you powerful at their “Qualities of a Leader Wall.” End the day with Rosé with Rosie. This is a time to connect with the inspiring women around you and discuss the day’s content!

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

CELEBRATION PRESENTED BY

JOIN US

September 7th, 2022 | 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Glendalough Convention Center

RANKINGS WILL BE REVEALED AT THE CELEBRATION

Abacus CPAs, LLC Arvest Bank BKD CPAs & Advisors Duck Creek Technologies Elevate Entertainment Entrust Property Solutions JMARK Nabholz Next Level Solutions Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors

OMG Commerce LLC Paragon Architecture Pearson-Kelly Technology Ricks Automotive Sapp Design Architects Springﬁeld Area Chamber of Commerce Titanic Museum Attraction Veterans United Home Loans West Plains Bank and Trust Company World Wide Technology

*Businesses are listed alphabetically

BIZ417.COM/BESTPLACES

PHOTOS BY BRANDON ALMS, COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK

BREAKTHROUGH STRATEGIES

“We have to be willing to be bold and take chances on new ideas and new ways of thinking.” —Max Buetow, President/CEO of CoxHealth See story p. 33.

Glenstone and Kearney

Whataburger will soon call this active intersection home. Brad Thessing filled us in on the latest developments. Page 32 BIZ417.COM

Winning the Tough Quarters

Chic Confidence

Page 30

Page 34

Darin Bridges, president of the Great Game of Business, tells us he can’t think of a time when it’s been more important to have a solid business strategy.

PJC Insurance’s Raylene Appleby counts her grandmother, her husband’s military days and the City of Lights among her style inspirations. They all come together in a look that’s unmistakably her own.

July/August 2022

LET’S START A LONG AND QUALITY RELATIONSHIP, TAILORING A CLEANING PLAN TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS.

Oﬃce Cleaning • Floor Care • Sports Facilities • Medical Facilities

YOUR TRUSTED CLEANING PARTNERS 417-833-4250 | myqualityclean.com C O N S T R U C T I O N

I N D U S T R I A L

E X C A V A T I O N

E N V I R O N M E N T A L

S E R V I C E

WE BUILD PLACES FOR PEOPLE TO GATHER Northside Christian Church, Springfield

1 . 4 1 7. 4 5 0 . 6 0 0 0 | n a b h o l z . c o m

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

[HEAT INDEX]

FOUR TO FOLLOW WITH AMY ENGLERT

HEAT INDEX This month, we’re thinking about all that glitters in 417land. There’s a milestone for a Missouri business owner, a major step in solar power and glowing recognition for an Airbnb host.

As Enactus’s Vice President of Global Events and Experiences, Amy Englert may be in Azerbaijan one month, Amsterdam the next. Her favorite feeds about leadership, parenthood and 417-land keep her feeling grounded—even when she’s 30,000 feet up in the air. BY LUCIE AMBERG

BY LUCIE AMBERG

Golden Arches Galore

@AT THE TABLE WITH PATRICK LENCIONI

PHOTOS COURTESY AMY ENGLERT, PATRICK LENCIONI, TILT PARENTING, OZARK OVERLAND ADVENTURES, ROBYN SCHRYER FEHRMAN

Andi Hilburn-Vaini is now the single largest female owner/operator of McDonald’s restaurants. She recently acquired 14 additional restaurants in southeast Missouri. These purchases brought her total number of properties to 28. Hilburn-Vaini is a Drury University alumna. She purchased her first McDonald’s in West Plains, back in 2010.

Rays of Gold The Sarcoxie RII School District held a circuit-breaking ceremony for its new solar array. The project is a partnership with Solera Energy LLC and Gardner Capital. It marks the largest solar installation at a Missouri public school. Will Cox, Solera Energy CEO, says: “This is a historic partnership for renewable energy in Missouri.” The array is expected to provide significant long-term cost savings and environmental benefits.

Golden Getaway Kelsey Schoen of Republic was named to Airbnb’s 2022 30 Under 30 list, which recognizes top hosts, based on guest feedback. This is Schoen’s first appearance on the list, and she believes thoughtful service sets her Airbnb apart. With a convenient location near I-44, her unit is popular with road trippers. She welcomes pets and provide amenities such as toiletries and games to ensure travelers feel like they’re at home. BIZ417.COM

“He’s talking about the culture of teamwork and building a world-class organization and the difference between burnout and productivity,” Englert says. She enjoys Lencioni’s consumable, 20-minute podcasts. “When I’m driving, I could listen to 10 in a row,” she says.

@TILT PARENTING

FIVE ON FIRE BRYAN MAGERS TYSON JOHNS ZORA MULLIGAN MIKE RAKES CALEB HEARON

In this podcast, Debbie Reber offers insight about parenting differently wired kids, including those with giftedness, ADHD and anxiety. “It’s about supporting parents,” Englert says. “I’m always looking for ways to support my kids, and this is about supporting you so you can support your kids.” These days, as kids work through various effects of the pandemic, “the episodes bring that context into it,” Englert says.

@OZARK OVERLAND ADVENTURES Englert looks to Matt and Cara McClellan for tips on off-road fun. “They’re inspiring people to get out and explore the world,” Englert says. She loves the McClellans’ YouTube channel, where they offer reviews of camping products and 417-land trails.

@ROBYN SCHRYER FEHRMAN, PRESIDENT/CEO OF ENACTUS “She provides a view of what it’s like to be a CEO and president, and she incorporates it with principles of wellness and wholeness,” Englert says. “It’s like reading all my favorite books and seeing somebody do it. I get an inside view of what it’s like to lead a global organization. How do you maintain work-life balance and lead an organization authentically? She’s so transparent about all of it.” July/August 2022

[Q&A]

GAME TIME

BY MAX HAVEY

Darin Bridges The WorkReady Bootcamp at Victory Mission + Ministry focuses on long-term employment skills.

BIZ 417: WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THE FUTURE OF THE GREAT GAME OF BUSINESS (GGOB)? DB: I can’t think of a time where strategy has been more im-

portant for companies than our current times. For over 30 years at SRC, we’ve practiced a process for developing strategy called “high involvement planning.” It’s taking a hard look at what your marketplace is doing, as well as a broad view of the economy. And then being able to apply that information, that research from the market—from your competitors, from your customers and the trends—and formulating that into a way that you can win as a company in the future. Then once you figure out what that strategy is, you tie it to a financial plan, your next year’s critical numbers and your bonus programs. We’ve seen a tremendous response from clients on this high involvement planning process, and that’s got me as excited as anything. BIZ 417: HOW ELSE ARE YOU SEEING BUSINESS LEADERS UTILIZE GGOB IN THE CURRENT TRICKY ECONOMY? DB: There are a lot of issues out there today that have business

leaders concerned, whether it’s inflation or retention. We’re making a conscientious effort of building our community so they can share ways that they’re approaching these problems, often in a Great Game way, and be able to pass along the best practices. There’s always something that business leaders can take from one another, regardless of what industry they’re in. I think there’s a lot of education, encouragement and courage that come through developing a community like that. BIZ 417: HOW DID YOUR 10 YEARS WITH SRC INFLUENCE YOUR PERSPECTIVE OF GGOB? DB: We didn’t invent financials, the way to interpret finan-

cials or the idea of engaging your employees. Essentially all we did when SRC was created from International Harvester was create a system of putting it all in place. The magic of it all is when you get employees to understand what it’s like to be a businessperson and tap into their creativity and experience of what they do in their job every day. That’s when the organization explodes. The vision is just making as many companies aware of this type of system and trying to help them—to reach those leaders that have the courage to show some level of transparency and really see their people as critical to the success for the future of the business.

July/August 2022

[FORWARD THINKING]

REBOOTING FOR A SECOND CHANCE At many companies, failing a drug test is a guaranteed way to get fired. Victory Mission + Ministry just rolled out a new substance abuse intervention program, designed to offer a path back to work. BY LUCIE AMBERG

he WorkReady Bootcamp at Victory Mission + Ministry is designed to help people develop the job-readiness skills that can lead to long-term employment—and end a cycle of poverty and instability. Since the program rolled out in May 2021, 69 people have graduated from the two-week WorkReady Bootcamp course. John Pace, Victory’s director of outreach and workforce development, recently created a new branch of the bootcamp called “Reboot.” It’s specifically designed to help people who’ve lost their jobs because they failed random or routine drug tests. The idea, Pace says, came from one of Victory’s employment partners, the 417-land companies that have a history of interviewing and hiring WorkReady Bootcamp graduates. This company had to terminate an employee because a random drug test found marijuana in his system. Aside from the failed drug test, he was a good employee, and according to the company’s policy, he could become eligible for re-hire—if he completed a drug rehabilitation program. Pace realized that this type of program would fit neatly into the WorkReady Bootcamp curriculum, and Reboot was born. In Reboot, participants spend the morning with the larger WorkReady group, where they focus on self-awareness, goal setting and “soft skills,” such as anger management, conflict resolution and communication. After lunch, the class splits into two groups. While the WorkReady students dig into job skills and financial literacy, the Reboot students focus on substance abuse intervention and independent spiritual work, including faith-based approaches, coping skills and mindfulness. Everyone comes back together at the end of the day for a session on establishing limits and setting boundaries. Once Reboot students complete 24 hours of curriculum—three 8-hour days—they’re evaluated on their competencies and participation and may earn a certificate of completion. The program got started in May, and Pace expects that it will be well utilized, especially considering the increased availability of marijuana. “It’s just the reality,” Pace says. “Recreational marijuana on the weekends can get people fired on Monday... You can’t legislate righteousness. We can have as many laws as you want, and people are still going to choose to be people. How we manage that is going to be key. If this helps us expand the time so that people have an opportunity to change, then it’s a win.” John Pace BIZ417.COM

PHOTOS BY LEAH STIEFERMANN, MINDY MCDONALD

After a decade with SRC Holdings Corp., Darin Bridges is now president of management consultant company The Great Game of Business.

[BREAKTHROUGH]

[ON THE RISE]

When Matt and Rachel Starnes decided to open a second location of their popular Lebanon coffee shop, they knew they’d have to get creative. BY JENNIFER SWENSON

The Problem When customers asked for a drive-through at Jude’s Coffee Company in Lebanon, owners Matt and Rachel Starnes knew their main location wouldn’t work. “Our main location couldn’t support both a parking lot and a drive-through,” says Matt. “So we started looking for a second location.” The Big Idea The couple found a perfect drive-through location in an empty lot at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Highway 5, but they didn’t want to build from the ground up. “We like to be creative,” Rachel says. On Facebook Marketplace, Matt discovered a cargo container. The container had been used by another 417-land coffee shop during the pandemic, but it was no longer needed. “The City of Lebanon has never had this sort of structure before,” Matt says, “and they’ve been supportive and intrigued as we’ve taken on the project.” The Learning Curve The cargo container required substantial renovations. The Starnes poured a concrete pad and anchored the container as a permanent structure. They moved walls to create a new entrance, installed a bathroom and widened the entry to the parking lot. They also hired a artist to create an eye-catching exterior. The Takeaway The drive-through is busiest in the morning. “Efficiency is important,” Matt says. “People want to be in and out, and we don’t want cars to pile up.” The business recently introduced a mobile app for pre-orders. The app, combined with the efficiently designed kitchen, supports speedy service, and it’s another element of Jude’s success. The critical business lesson, Matt says, is to “grow slowly. Be comfortable and efficient with what you’re doing before adding more. It’s quality over quantity.”

July/August 2022

NIGHTSTAND “This book was a mindfulness test. It was a way for me to think about the reason I’m picking up my phone and analyze how I use my time—what I think is useful on my phone or what is a waste of time. It offered an indepth look at habit formation and how to break and build new habits. I gained a lot from thinking through things to fill my time that are more valuable than just picking up my phone.” —Nicki Donnelson, Missouri State University’s Assistant Director of Strategic Communication

What–a–Change Developer Brad Thessing is no stranger to finding opportunities that benefit Springfield. He discusses new north side tenant Whataburger, his passion for seeking out new businesses and his excitement about what’s next for the city. BY JENNIFER JOHNMEYER

f you’re a fan of Whataburger, the last six months have been packed with great news. Not one, two, or even three, but four separate stores from the San Antonio-based chain are making their way to the Springfield area. One is making a splash in a revitalized section of north Springfield. Brad Thessing, project developer, is leading the charge to bring a free-standing Whataburger to the property at Glenstone Avenue and Kearney Street, formerly occupied by the Springfield Inn. Thessing, alongside his partners, says that the project is targeted for completion in the fourth quarter of this year. "We’re so excited about what’s happening on the north side,” he says. “We love how appealing the area is.” Thessing says that Whataburger won’t be the only business at an intersection that's experienced plenty of recent revitalization. It's already home to BigShots Golf, Echelon Coffee and 7 Brew Coffee. Thessing also plans construction for an oil-change establishment, Take 5, and says that there will be yet another new business constructed directly next to Whataburger, though the exact occupant is still undecided. “I’m talking to a lot of potential tenants. I’m always looking for new businesses to bring to the market,” he adds. Thessing admits that his challenge continues to fall in creating more development space. “The market continues to grow quite a bit,” he says. “We just have to find opportunities to find space, and right now that’s pretty difficult.” However, Thessing counts his blessings, which include the City of Springfield's efforts to entice developers to the north side and reach out to new tenants. He says, “I’m excited about the future.” BIZ417.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY JUDE’S COFFEE, BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

DRIVE-THROUGH DREAMS

AN INNOVATOR’S

PLAYGROUND A The 4th Industrial Revolution Arrives in Southwest Missouri August 2022 • Ozarks Technical Community College

“FRONT COVER” 7.5 X 10.875 INCHES 0.125 INCH BLEED

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FIRST ADVANCED MANUFACTURING Facility in Missouri

120,000 SQUARE FEET 2+ Football Fields of Modern Instructional Space

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$431 MILLION 10-Year Economic Impact

MILLION r Economic mpact

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Robotics, Automation, Virtual and Augmented Reality, Rapid Prototyping

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REGIONAL HUB for Workforce Training

ARE YOU READY FOR THE REVOLUTION? The Fourth Industrial Revolution has arrived in Southwest Missouri by way of automation, robotics, rapid prototyping and virtual and augmented reality. This fall, Ozarks Technical Community College opens the doors to an innovator’s playground, the Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing. First of its kind in Missouri, this spectacular facility

will serve as the regional hub for all advanced manufacturing and technology-related education and training — with a projected $431 million impact on the economy by 2032. The Center will be a dream magnet for businesses choosing to become more dynamic and resilient by employing transformative technologies, and students whose creativity and tenacity are at the forefront

“BACK COVER” Aligning forward-thinking companies the pioneering spirit of our workforce is not just a necessity 8.125 Xwith10.875 INCHES — it’s a fascinating opportunity. 0.125 INCH BLEED of their future.

You have a dream. We have a plan.

DREAMBIGGER.OTC.EDU

[CORNER OFFICE]

#NAILED IT FAILED IT Ethan Forhetz, Convoy of Hope’s vice president of public engagement and national spokesperson, shares lessons from his career in broadcast journalism.

#Nailed It Failed It Ethan Forhetz, read about his

COXHEALTH’S NEXT CHAPTER Max Buetow worked his way up the ranks at CoxHealth to become president and CEO. Now, he’s bringing a clear vision for Springfield’s largest employer to the top office. Here, he shares his goals and the way forward after COVID-19. BY REN BISHOP Biz 417: CoxHealth is Springfield’s largest employer, and you’re now entrusted to lead 12,500 employees. What can your team members expect from you? MB: I am committed to leading with integrity, humility and compassion—putting the interests of our patients and organization before my own. I will work to gain and maintain trust through honest and transparent communication. I will seek the wisdom of others and encourage open debate. We have to be willing to be bold and take chances on new ideas and new ways of thinking.

PHOTO BY BRANDON ALMS, COURTESY OF ETHAN FORHETZ

Biz: How will you foster excellence within CoxHealth? MB: I am determined to relentlessly remove any barriers standing in the way of those pursuing excellence. I admire individuals who identify and eliminate perceived barriers and reject the complacency born from accepting excuses. I want our teams to push outside their comfort zone and be willing to fight for elegant solutions. Biz: During the height of the pandemic, Steve Edwards served as a beacon of medical knowledge, factual information and hope for 417-land. How do you feel about succeeding him? MB: Coming into this role is like catching the second lap after Michael Phelps just went end to end. We have a good lead right now, and I just want to swim my heart out. Biz: We’re still navigating a pandemic; health care workers must be exhausted. How are you taking care of your team and your patients? MB: Caring for our workforce starts with realizing that a lull period in COVID does not mean people have their tanks refilled automatically just because that same pressure isn’t there. People have given of themselves to the point where they have been running on a deficit. We have to be intentional in helping people reconnect and recharge. Biz: Away from the office, what hobbies bring you joy? MB: I grew up in a construction family and I love home remodeling projects; I like working outside. I’m kind of a workaholic, but I enjoy those different types of work because I’m addicted to progress. I love making progress. BIZ417.COM

PLACE TO BE LADIES WHO LAUNCH

July 14 In-person tickets are sold out. Find information about on-demand tickets at biz417.com/lwl.

STATE OF THE STATE

Aug. 2 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Great Southern Bank Arena

GOOD MORNING, SPRINGFIELD! STATE OF THE SCHOOLS Aug. 4 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE EVENTS AND MANY MORE ON PG. 68

organization’s work in Ukraine on p. 38. “The very first time I reported live on television, I was in front of a national audience. It was 1996, New Year’s Eve, and at midnight on the East Coast they were blowing up the Hacienda hotel in a big show to make way for what would become Mandalay Bay. I did really well. I felt really good that I was able to do that with no safety net at that point in my career. It was just a good learning experience. It was a good opportunity for me to understand that I control my nerves and my emotions so as not to get too nervous about things, and that’s served me well throughout my career. The tendency is to get nervous, and there are times you do get nervous, but you have to not let that take over. Just use the adrenaline from it.” #NailedIt “During my time as a reporter in St. Louis, I was covering a high-profile court hearing involving a [player from the] St. Louis Rams. I had to have the story live at 5 o’clock. I was rushing to get the story done in time. I pulled off the live shot, and I was feeling pretty good. Then I got a call from the newsroom asking why I didn’t interview the actual player. I said: ‘Well, he wasn’t there.’ The newsroom told me that every other station in town had an interview with him except me. It turns out that while I was in my live truck editing my story, he was about 10 feet away on a sidewalk doing interviews with all the other stations, and I was oblivious to it. When I got back to the station, my boss called me in, and I explained what happened. He said words I’ll never forget: ‘In trying to get the story, you missed the story.’ I knew that he was right, and I learned a lot about avoiding ‘tunnel vision’ at work. It’s easy to get wrapped up in ‘tunnel vision,’ and I’ve learned, through that experience, to be careful and to always be aware of the surroundings and what else is going on.” #FailedIt July/August 2022

[MY LOOK]

RAYLENE APPLEBY As President of PJC Insurance Agency, Raylene Appleby opts for eclectic, confident combinations with plenty of personal touches. BY LUCIE AMBERG

PHOTO BY KALI MCCROSKEY

Raylene Appleby’s earliest style icon was her grandmother, Mary, who was a businesswoman. “She was beautiful,” Appleby says. “She had reddish-blonde hair. She was 5’8”, and she loved flare coats and high heels and big brooches.” Appleby adored Mary, and she says: “She planted a seed. I would be 7 or 8 years old, and she would give me the bank deposit to walk up the street. She was teaching me to run my own business, and it never left me.” Now, as she leads PJC Insurance, Appleby feels her fashion choices play a role in her success. “When a lady feels good in her clothes, it gives her energy, and it inspires her to be confident,” she says. “I want to go into that boardroom wearing something that will make me feel really good.” Among the things that make Appleby feel good: unexpected combinations and exquisite craftsmanship. She chooses well-made separates, and she mixes colors and textures with a sure hand. You’ll often find her in tailored jackets and full skirts, which she accessorizes with bold jewelry and cool footwear, like her favorite, lug-sole boots. The boots are just one element of military style, something Appleby loves for its clean lines—and family connection. Her husband, David, is a retired colonel in the U.S. Army and a Green Beret. When he retired, Appleby asked for some of his military patches and sewed them onto her jackets. Her grandmother’s vintage brooches have also found new life on Appleby’s jackets and sweaters. These elements come together in chic, innovative looks that are unmistakably Appleby’s own. When people ask how they can emulate her eclectic style, she says: “You know what, you’ve probably got it in your closet! Go look around—and look around in your husband’s closet.”

RAYLENE APPLEBY President, PJC Insurance Agency Style: Eclectic and Intentional

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

BREAKING DOWN THE LOOK

1: Statement Makers Appleby’s impressive jewelry collection includes a dazzling mix of unique vintage finds and treasured family heirlooms.

2: All Tied Up

PHOTOS BY KALI MCCROSKEY

This one-of-a-kind pearl tie—which came from an antique store in Paris—is one of Appleby’s favorite ways to add a bit of pizzazz to an otherwise simple ensemble.

3: Patched And Pinned Appleby turned this Cinq à Sept jacket into a personalized fashion statement by adding her husband’s military patches and pins and brooches from her grandmother.

BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

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TOOLS TO HELP YOU DOMINATE

“It’s not a business for the weak at heart.”

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

—Sharon Roberts, who owns and operates Just for Parrots with her daughter, Jennifer Spencer (pictured here). See their story on p. 42.

Delivering Hope

When Russia invaded Ukraine, Convoy of Hope knew people would suffer. And it knew how to help them. Page 38 BIZ417.COM

From the 2022 Springfieldian

Ozarks Outlook, Global Goals

Page 39

Page 40

Jeff Houghton sat down with Joe Turner, this year’s recipient of the Springfieldian award, to talk about authenticity, humility and the secret to success.

QPS Missouri now has an international reach. But Brendon Bourg, vice president and general manager, says that Missouri values are its foundation.

July/August 2022

[VANTAGE POINT]

Making a Difference in Ukraine Convoy of Hope has been on the ground in Ukraine and surrounding EU nations since 2014, providing aid to civilians affected by the Russia-Ukraine War. As the scope of the crisis has widened, so has Convoy’s mission. BY KATE DUBY

ince the start of the war in Ukraine, Convoy of Hope has worked to mitigate shortages of food and basic necessities using a distribution network across the European Union. The organization feels so confident in its process that this May, it pledged to distribute more than 50 million meals to refugees from the war. Millions of meals have already been distributed in the region. “We had the infrastructure and the relationships already in place,” says Vice President of Public Engagement Ethan Forhetz. “When everybody saw the war was starting, we were in talks with our partners on the ground about

July/August 2022

what we were going to do to get food, water and supplies to people who were going to need it.” Through their use of air freight, cargo ships and unmarked trucks, they have been able to track distribution of supplies from their warehouse in Poland to their unmarked warehouse in Ukraine. From there, they have been partnering with churches inside Ukraine’s borders to get the products to people who need them. Having these long-established networks and relationships allowed Convoy of Hope to scale their relief efforts up quickly when the war began, Forhetz says. “We had some supply already there, but our Convoy of Hope disaster services team is really the best in the business at getting supply to people,” he says. “We’re coming at this and attacking it from all fronts trying to get the supplies just as quickly as we can to the Ukraine area.” Forhetz says the organization also has incredible relationships with corporations who have helped out in a variety of ways, from donating supplies directly to organizing fundraisers and matching donations from employees. “It really just goes a long way, building morale inside the company to all feel like you’re all on the same team making a real difference,” Forhetz says. Ethan Forhetz BIZ417.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY CONVOY OF HOPE, ETHAN FORHETZ

On the ground with Convoy of Hope’s distribution team.

Joe Turner hosted Jeff Houghton in his office at Great Southern Bank.

[ADVICE & WHISKEY]

OPTIMISTIC AND REALISTIC Joe Turner is the president and CEO of Great Southern Bank. This Springfield native has overseen tremendous growth while at the helm of his hometown bank. Fresh off being named the 2022 Springfieldian by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Turner sat down for drinks in his office. PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFFERMAN

BY JEFF HOUGHTON “You don’t prove yourself over a short period of time. You prove yourself over a long period.” “Try to consistently do a good job, encourage the people that work with you to consistently do a good job. Companies that consistently do a good job over a long period of time really come out ahead.” BIZ417.COM

“You want to be authentic, be yourself. I think leaders can have different personalities.”

they’ve done the best job of overcoming difficult obstacles.”

“I believe most great leaders have to have an element of humility. They have to be willing to see their mistakes, willing to move away from their mistakes and willing to give credit to the people that work for them.”

“You have to be optimistic about your prospects but realistic about your circumstances.”

“I don’t love every single thing I do during the day. I don’t think that’s necessarily realistic. I think they call it work for a reason because it is work. There are going to be elements to it or parts of it that you don’t love.” “The guy that I worked for at the law firm said, ‘If you really get a charge out of what you’re doing a third to half the time, and the rest of the time you feel like you’re challenged, you feel like you’re treated fairly—you’re way ahead of the game.’” “To me, successful people aren’t successful because they’ve had the most good things happen to them. They’re successful because

“I think you have to be open to opportunities to help your community, and you have to look for those opportunities. You’re going to grow from those as well.” “It is in your self-interest to be interested in everyone’s self-interest.”

PT I E C E THE R*******a***** ******er**Iechyd D rn y Joe Tu n Whiske rb o

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I ec ghton u o H ey Jeff Wh is k B o u rb

July/August 2022

Brendon Bourg, vice president and general manager of QPS Missouri.

[ROOTED HERE]

GLOBAL EFFECTS

Dale Bourg founded a company to test pharmaceutical products for side effects. His son Brendon is now leading that company as part of an international organization. BY MARY ELLEN CHILES

July/August 2022

Left photo: Dale Bourg in 1996, sweeping the exterior of the newly-constructed Bio-Kinetic Applications building. Right photo: The finished building in 1997.

That’s what we do here.” Bourg has worked with the company since the beginning, and he assumed leadership in 2016. He credits his father for setting the groundwork for a successful organization that could thrive for decades to come. “He started this from scratch in Springfield,” Bourg says. “He started in the basement of one of our facilities. He laid the foundation for me to be able to succeed.” The company hit its big break when, as Bio-Kinetic Applications, it merged with QPS in 2008. Bourg says it was a natural match. BIZ417.COM

PHOTO BY BRANDON ALMS

hen Dale Bourg founded Bio-Kinetic Applications in 1994, he identified 417-land as a uniquely good spot for a clinical research organization, or CRO. The city had universities and a culture of hard work that fit with the company’s mission. As Brendon Bourg, who now leads the company his father founded, says: “Springfield was untapped in terms of not having any CROs locally, and the southwest Missouri work ethic was going to help him grow.” The company, now known as QPS Missouri, works with pharmaceutical companies seeking FDA approval for products. QPS Missouri pays healthy participants to engage in clinical trials that are designed to identify potential adverse side effects in treatments. Right now, QPS is testing treatments for HIV vaccines, cough suppressants, corticosteroids and many more. “We offer services to pharmaceutical companies,” Bourg says. “Their products could be pharmaceutical drugs, needles, certain devices that can treat heart issues—stents, things like that. You know, when you look on the back of aspirin and it tells you the potential side effects of that drug?

GROW WITH US For nearly three decades, QPS Missouri has conducted clinical trials in Springfield.

“It was a perfect match because they process all of the plasma samples that we would ship. So, we draw the blood from the subjects, we process those samples, [and] those samples then were getting shipped to Delaware. And Delaware saw that and opened up the communication and said, ‘Why don’t we become a big CRO? Let’s offer more than just processing and drawing of samples and bile analysis. Let’s get all of the other bells and whistles that clients need,’” Bourg says.

“They trust us, and we trust them. That’s why we continue to keep our business here in Springfield.”

PHOTOS BY BRANDON ALMS, COURTESY QPS

—Brendon Bourg QPS now has sites in India, Austria, China, Taiwan and the Netherlands and in multiple cities in the United States. Globally, QPS employs more than 2,500 people. QPS Missouri has more than 100 employees in Springfield and a 30,000-square-foot research facility with 240 beds. Recently, the company leased a second building, this one at 11,000 square feet. Bourg says some of the research participants have been working with QPS Missouri since the company’s early days. “Some have been doing studies for 20 years,” he says. “They trust us, and we trust them. That’s why we continue to keep our business here in Springfield.” Bourg considers classic Ozarks values, like trust, a fundamental part of QPS Missouri’s culture. “If a client calls me, and asks me a question about a certain product, certain drug or certain way to run a study, my answer would be a free answer,” says Bourg. This attitude is part of cultivating the relationship, he says, and it often pays off in future business. But even as QPS Missouri remains deeply rooted in 417-land, it’s part of a global organization, and that scope requires a great deal of flexibility. “You have to be ready at a moment’s notice for a phone call at 2 a.m. because you’re talking to someone in China, and you have to have people on the ground in those countries,” he says. “You cannot grow if you’re not on board with them and their time zone. You have to be incredibly flexible.” BIZ417.COM

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About Us Careers

FOR EVERYTHING YOU DEPEND ON July/August 2022

[NEXT GEN]

WHEN YOUR BUSINESS IS JUST FOR PARROTS Spending their days with colorful parrots ranging from conures and cockatiels to macaws and African greys, three generations of a family are building a business on their shared fascination with birds. BY SUSAN ATTEBERRY SMITH

n late 2016, Jennifer Spencer was a burned-out paralegal working at a Springfield supermarket. When her mother, Sharon Roberts, phoned with a business idea, she said “yes.” “I said: ‘Jennifer, you want to open a bird store?’” Roberts recalls. “‘You have to quit your job and start a bird store.’” Spencer knew the idea wasn’t a flight of fancy. Roberts had been breeding and raising parrots—even selling her handmade bird toys at fairs— for years. Still, they laugh about what inspired them to open Just For Parrots in early 2017. “Insanity!” Roberts insists.

July/August 2022

Today, the Plaza Towers Center store houses nearly 200 hand-fed birds, along with food, toys and supplies. It’s also become even more of a family enterprise, with Spencer’s son, Evan Roberts, serving as customer service guru and Sharon’s retiree husband fetching supplies or transporting sick or injured birds to the veterinarian. “He’s our gofer,” Roberts quips. Given the squawks of cockatiels and macaws, the decibel levels at Just For Parrots can get pretty high, but the family is accustomed to it, having raised birds for decades. Spencer, 46, was about 10 when the family had Dude, a ruckus-raising Nanday conure who began mimicking what Spencer said on the phone. Roberts, now 68, was running a home daycare at the time, and the noise was a problem. “The bird learned [to mimic] every baby’s cry,” she says. “So at naptime all the kids would be sleeping, and this bird would be crying.” Still, the family loved birds. Dude went to a new home, yet Roberts adopted more birds, like Charlie, a Congo African grey parrot who now lives at the store. They also gained knowledge, learning to hand-feed and breed birds. Later, Roberts began breeding her own birds and selling them to pet stores. BIZ417.COM

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

Left to right: Evan Roberts, Jennifer Spencer, Sharon Roberts and Bill Roberts

“It is not a business for the weak at heart because I can tell you, there are days as a family, there are arguments...” —Sharon Roberts

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

Now, sharing knowledge about caring for feathered companions is one of the family’s many tasks at Just For Parrots. For example, while parrots can be playful and sweet—even snuggly—they can also be destructive, especially when they start clawing and pecking at furniture and woodwork. “Cockatiels are the most re-homed birds, and macaws are second,” Roberts says, “because they can give you a kitchen remodel in 20 minutes if you’re not watching them.” Birds also bite—it’s a matter of when, not if, Roberts adds, and she and Spencer have the scars to prove it. What’s more, while some can be trained to take walks in harnesses, birds are toddlers forever—unlike puppies, who often grow out of undesirable behavior. Consideration for their winged inventory’s welfare sets Just For Parrots apart as a retailer. The family won’t sell a macaw to someone who has never taken care of a larger bird, and birds with 60- to 80-year lifespans don’t leave with older customers. “We put these birds in cages and made them pets,” Roberts says. “These birds didn’t ask to do this, so we have to be responsible.” They don’t want them to end up like Bella, a Harlequin macaw living at the store along with a few other rescued birds. Four years ago, frustrated and lonely in her original home, she plucked out her chest feathers. “She had been very mistreated and wouldn’t allow herself to be touched for almost two years,” Spencer says, stroking Bella’s beak. Their animal-centered approach has worked so far, drawing about 300 customers a month for revenues of at least $525,000 in 2021. Contrast

Spencer and Roberts cite Bella, who was rescued from an unsuitable home, when discussing the importance of matching pets with the correct owners. BIZ417.COM

REPUTATION & RESULTS. LEE MCLEAN III, CCIM, SIOR O: 417.887.8826 x 110 LEE.MCLEAN@SVN.COM

RANKIN COMPANY, LLC

ALL SVN® OFFICES INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

SIOR is The Society of Industrial & Office Realtors. Lee is one of only four active Realtors in Southwest Missouri to hold this designation along with Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM). July/August 2022

Top photo: Roberts with Rosie.

that with 2017, when Roberts had time to make bird toys at the counter and sales totaled about $50,000—enough for expenses, but not paychecks. Thanks to Facebook and word-of-mouth advertising, the business soon had a growth spurt. And the family did it without a plan or even a loan; Roberts’ husband—“the gofer”—financed it with his 401(k) from AT&T. The second year, Evan, 26, joined them; then, two part-time employees came on board. Finally, Spencer hired an accountant because the birds kept them so busy, she couldn’t keep up with the bookkeeping. Spencer advises new businesses not to expand too quickly, yet quickly resolving conflicts is a good idea when family members work 12-hour shifts together. “It is not a business for the weak at heart because I can tell you, there are days as a family, there are arguments,” Sharon says. “If Jennifer and I are in the office and we’re having a discussion, we’re loud.” Nevertheless, they all say they get along well. Evan often lightens the mood, teasing his mother and grandmother with threats of quitting. “Yeah, I give them a hard time all the time,” he says. Quitting isn’t the plan for his grandmother, at least not anytime soon. Someday, though, Sharon hopes Jennifer and Evan will take over Just For Parrots, something they say they also hope happens. When it’s his turn, Evan says his family’s entrepreneurial spirit will inspire him. As he says: “It’s just kind of like it runs in the blood.”

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

PHOTOS BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

Bottom photo: Just for Parrots’s new location in Plaza Towers Center.

Big ideas. Intense effort. Vision and tenacity. These are the forces that will shape 417-land’s next decade, and they’re the qualities we looked for when we chose the 2022 10 for the Next 10. This year’s honorees work in a wide range of fields. They’re contributing to our region’s economy, culture, communication and workforce development. We can’t know all the ways their ideas and efforts will develop, but we believe that 10 years from now, we’ll see their impact everywhere. BY SAVANNAH WASZCZUK WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY LUCIE AMBERG PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON ALMS ART DIRECTION BY SARAH PATTON

July/August 2022

BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

GENERAL MANAGER, BETTY & BOBBY ALLISON SPORTSTOWN

stacie wells FOR GUIDING 417-LAND YOUTH SPORTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL.

Stacie Wells’s love of sports began in front of a T-ball tee. It deepened as she grew up and participated in volleyball, softball and track. When she thinks of those days, she’s as quick to talk about team sleepovers and bus rides as big games. “I remember braiding other girls’ hair on the way to games,” she says. “Those are the people you’re spending the majority of your time with. They’re your family.”

July/August 2022

As Wells went on to college, started her own family and began her career, sports continued to play a major role in her life. She coached kids’ teams, and in 2013, she became the director of Fieldhouse Sports Center, where she worked until November 2021. Not long after she chose to leave that position, another opportunity came knocking. “I got a Facebook message from the owner of a new project going up in Springfield by the airport,” Wells explains. “He was interested in talking with me about being the general manager.” By January, Wells was the general manager of Betty & Bobby Allison SportsTown, a new complex consisting of 12 outdoor fields, plus a 94,000-square-foot facility with indoor fields, multi-use courts and more. “There’s also a 27-acre retail development that will house hotels and restaurants,” Wells says. “It’s definitely going to bring a lot to the community and that area of town.”

The complex is expected to be a popular destination for regional and national sports tournaments. “An economic development report predicted it will bring an additional $30 million in tax revenue to the area,” Wells says. But she says the benefit for kids can’t be calculated in dollars. “For so many kids, that team sport is something they rely on,” she says. “It’s an outlet. I’m just trying to help kids who are looking for a place to play a sport they love.” 417-LA N D FAVORIT ES

Meaningful Mentor: “My former boss, Kristen Naugle,” Wells says. “I’m a better person and stronger woman because of knowing her. She’s that big sister I never had.” Top Event: “Friday Night Lights!” Wells says. “If I have to pick one game I never miss, it’s the Ozark/Nixa Backyard Brawl.” Instant Boost: A mind-clearing drive around town—windows down. BIZ417.COM

FOUNDE R/CEO, SAAB

Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe FOR KEEPING THE WORKFORCE OF TOMORROW CONNECTED TO 417-LAND.

In 1990, during his tenure as Associate Dean of Students at Georgia Southwestern State University, Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe made a shocking discovery. “I was looking at Black and white fraternities and sororities and their academic performance compared to other students,” he says. “In doing so, we disaggregated the data, and we learned that the Black male undergraduate GPA—cumulatively—was 1.75.” Bledsoe immediately gathered a group of nearly 70 Black male undergraduates to learn their social and academic interests. This organically led to the formation of SAAB, a culturally sensitive national organization designed to help young men succeed in education and beyond. Today SAAB is headquartered at Missouri State University, with 352 chapters in 41 states. Two-thirds of its chapters are at colleges and universities; the remaining are housed in middle and high schools. “Our success rate is off the charts,” Bledsoe says. “The national graduation rate for Black males ages 18-24 is barely 20 percent, according to Lumina Foundation. We’re graduating at 86 percent at the collegiate level. The national retention rate average is 50-55 percent, and SAAB is 80-85 percent.” Since moving to Springfield in 2020, SAAB has become part of 417-land. “We have partnerships with all area colleges and universities, and we’re in all five SPS high schools,” Bledsoe says. “We hope to start phasing in middle schools within the city, and then we’ll have 14 chapters. No other city in the country has that many.” SAAB helps root students in the fabric of the community. “One of my bold predictions is that in the next 10 years, I can see at least five of our guys seeking leadership roles, with an emphasis on City Council,” Bledsoe says. “They may even be running for commissioner positions and the school board. And then we have entrepreneurs who will be starting businesses here.” While Bledsoe has a laundry list of reasons he’s happy with Springfield’s SAAB engagement, the excitement from SPS high school students tops the list. “They’re fired up,” Bledsoe says. “In our history, I’ve never seen high school students as excited and as passionate as these kids. And I’m just as excited because I know what we’re going to do in this community. We’re just getting started.”

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Meaningful Mentor: Missouri State President Clif Smart. “Clif is the main reason we moved,” Bledsoe says. “He was the last piece of the puzzle for me. When I saw how enthusiastic he was about us coming, I knew it would be a success.” Top Event: The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting. Instant Boost: A pedicure at US Nails on Glenstone Avenue. BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

FOUNDER, FRIED DESIGN CO.; CO-FOUNDER, SUPPER CO.; CO-OWNER, SWEET BOYS; CO-MANAGING PARTNER, EBBETS FIELD

josh sullivan FOR GIVING 417-LAND ITS UNIQUE LOOK.

Step foot into many of the locally owned businesses near Pickwick and Cherry, and you’ll see something designed by one of Josh Sullivan’s companies. “We’ve done work for The Royal, Culture Counter and Team Taco,” Sullivan says. “We’ve worked with Tie & Timber, too, and of course, Cherry Picker.” Sullivan is founder of Fried Design Company and co-founder of Supper Co., both of which produce a multitude of work for 417land restaurants. “It’s a really cool thing to go to a part of town and see so many things that you’ve helped create,” Sullivan says of Rountree. “It’s like that in downtown Springfield now, too. And it’s starting to happen in other parts of town, all around Missouri and even around the country.” While Fried Design’s small-but-mighty crew of six focuses on high-end graphic design, Supper Co. is a full-service advertising agency. Its 11 team members specialize in food, alcohol, cannabis and hospitality work. “I think we’re bringing a sense of elevated design and branding to the area that perhaps wasn’t here before,” Sullivan says. “That’s not to say there aren’t really good designers and creatives here—because there are—but historically, a lot of high-end design work in Springfield has been done for bigger institutions and isn’t as seen on the local level. The little guy gets overlooked. Well, we help a lot of those little guys, and we’re seeing a lot of those little guys become big guys.” A prime example is Big Whiskey’s, a restaurant that started in Springfield and now has more than a dozen locations in four states. “Being able to watch their growth and play a small part in it—and for us to have grown alongside them—has been really rewarding,” Sullivan says. As each company’s portfolio expands, clients continue to line up. “I’d say we have about a 50/50 split of local and regional/ national clients right now,” Sullivan says. While Fried will likely remain its current size, he says Supper is poised for growth. “We really want to grow into a national agency, and I think that we have the core talent to do that right now.” Regardless of growth, one thing’s for sure: Sullivan’s ideas will bring magic to menus and pop to packages for years to come. “I’ll always do local work,” Sullivan says. “I have the opportunity to help the economy here by helping other people make more money... and I’m going to do it. It’s really important to me, personally, to give it all I’ve got. And I’m going to give Springfield all I’ve got.” 417- L A N D FAVORI TE S

Meaningful Mentor: Gary Whitaker. “Gary is always generous with time, advice and a solid joke when you need one,” Sullivan says. “He also fundamentally understands my business and what it takes to be successful in my industry.” Top Event: ArtsFest on Historic Walnut Street. Instant Boost: The picnic tables at Cherry Picker.

July/August 2022

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BURRELL FOUNDATION

gabrielle martin FOR ELEVATING AWARENESS OF MENTAL HEALTH IN 417-LAND.

Gabrielle Martin never planned to leave her job at Hickory Hills Country Club, but she knew she had to make the switch after hearing C.J. Davis, Burrell Behavioral Health’s president and CEO, say, “We need to become the Mayo Clinic of mental health.” Martin calls it a divine moment. “Not only was I born at Mayo, but I had recently experienced a traumatic situation that hit very close to home around that same time,” she says. And she knew Davis was right; the need for better mental health care was significant. So she became Burrell Foundation’s firstever executive director in November 2020.

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“The Burrell Foundation was created in the 80s, but it had been inactive in the community for some time,” Martin says. Given Burrell’s continuous growth—since 2017, it’s more than doubled its mental health providers—Martin says the need for a philanthropic conduit was apparent. Burrell Foundation strategically focuses on four main impact pillars: mental health awareness, community engagement, program enhancement and creating a culture of giving. “I would love for us to be the first thing people think of when they think of mental health support,” Martin says. “And I’m not just talking on the financial side of things. If you need mental health support, or your family or friends need access, or you want to donate or leave a legacy gift, you think, ‘Burrell Foundation.’” Martin also has a goal of growing the footprint for the Burrell Foundation, representing all Burrell regions in its current four-state territory. She draws

inspiration from the enthusiasm people have expressed for the Art of Being ME, a multimedia collaboration between Randy Bacon, Burrell Behavioral Health and the Burrell Foundation. “The conversations, the tears, the laughter—these discussions need to happen all the time, everywhere,” Martin says. “We plan to bring this exhibit to communities all over the country in an effort to shatter stigma and offer hope through these crucial conversations.”

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Meaningful Mentor: Past Artistic Director of Springfield Little Theatre, Mick Denniston, who died in 2007. “He was the first person in the community that believed in me. That will stay with me forever.” Top Event: Springfield Catholic’s Emerald Evening Instant Boost: “Hands down, an Andy’s butter pecan concrete,” Martin says. “Best therapy ever.”

July/August 2022

BUILDS ADMINISTRATOR, CITY OF REPUBLIC

Andrew Nelson FOR CHAMPIONING INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS IN A BOOMING 417-LAND COMMUNITY.

Ask Andrew Nelson a question about infrastructure, and his face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning. “We’ve been able to secure $30 to $40 million for transportation improvements by working with MODOT and the Ozarks Transportation Organization,” Nelson says, discussing the nearly $200 million in capital improvement funds he has helped secure as the City of Republic’s BUILDS Administrator. “The city is currently obligating $43 million for wastewater improvements, and we have another $50 million that has been requested through appropriations, grants and outside funding to partner with our local funds.”

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Nelson’s excitement about bringing money to the area comes naturally. “I grew up on a farm just outside of the Republic city limits,” he says. “Even though I didn’t go to school here, it’s where we went to shop. These are the roads we drove, and this is where we would go to eat.” Now, these roads and services—the connective tissues of the community—are Nelson’s job. “I go out to developers and investors, and I show them what is coming in both infrastructure and other commercial and residential developments,” he says. “People make investments based around our infrastructure.” Paired with an ideal geographic location—at the center of the country, near multiple major highways and only a few minutes from the Springfield–Branson National Airport—Republic’s infrastructure improvements make the city attractive to global companies like Amazon and regional

organizations like Andy’s Frozen Custard. Republic has attracted both businesses in the last few years, and Nelson says there are more on the way. “In the next five years, people are going to see a level of construction in Republic that they’ve probably not seen anywhere,” he says. And the population will follow. “At our last census, we were 18,000,” Nelson says. “I think we could be 30,000 to 40,000 pretty easily in the next five to 10 years.” 417-LAN D FAVORIT ES

Meaningful Mentor: David Cameron, Republic City Administrator. “He’s the guy you want in the trenches with you,” Nelson says. Top Event: Republic’s Annual Have-a-Blast Patriotic Celebration. Instant Boost: “Walking at Wilson’s Creek with my wife, Angela, and our 2-year-old son, Eli,” he says. BIZ417.COM

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING, SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Megan Buchbinder FOR SHARING THAT SPECIAL 417-LAND SOMETHING WITH THE WORLD.

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

When July 2020 rolled around and the majority of the world was just emerging from pandemic lockdown, Megan Buchbinder was starting a new job. To make things even more interesting, she was taking on the responsibility of marketing a city to visitors—all during a time of limited travel. “It was a scary time for anyone in the hospitality industry,” she says. “Hotels and restaurants are still trying to come back with enough staffing. We’re funded through the city’s hotel licensing fees that are paid by visitors, so if nobody is staying in our hotels, our money is gone.” Two years in, it’s obvious that Buchbinder was the right woman for the job. “In 2020 we had the worst year on record, obviously, from a hotel occupancy standpoint,” Buchbinder says. “But 2021 was a record-breaking year for us, and with the numbers from [2022 first quarter], we’re on pace to be record-breaking as well.” When Buchbinder started her role, the CVB team applied for state and federal grants. Those dollars went toward marketing materials that promoted topics like safe travel and social distancing. “We were able to advertise when no one else was and gain some market share,” she says. Several campaigns followed, including a “One Night on Us” promotion in which the CVB used a portion of grant funds to pay for one night of a guest’s two-night hotel stay. The CVB also partnered with the Springfield Hotel Lodging Association to host a $30,000 staff recruitment campaign for 417-land hotels and restaurants. Next up, Buchbinder says, are big, regional goals, like defining Springfield’s role in the Ozarks. For example, visitors flock to Branson for live entertainment. People go to Northwest Arkansas for biking and hiking. “The question is, what’s our hook?” Buchbinder says. “Well, we have ‘baby hooks’ that bring people in, but we don’t have an identity yet. That’s part of my vision for the next 10 years.” And that vision extends past city limits. “Visitors don’t see boundaries,” she says. “It’s not just about Springfield or Branson—it’s about branding this area as a whole.” 417-LA N D FAVORIT ES

Meaningful Mentor: Logan Aguirre, publisher of 417 Magazine. “I value her opinion, and I have a huge respect for what she does,” Buchbinder says. Top Event: The Springfield Cardinals’ opening day. (Her husband is the broadcaster.) Instant Boost: A show at Springfield Little Theatre. BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

CO-FOUNDER, 14 MILL MARKET

Rich Callahan FOR GIVING 417-LANDERS A COOL, NEW WAY TO DINE.

After more than 15 years of working in heating and air, Rich Callahan has a thorough understanding of what he does well: He loves to provide exceptional experiences. He has a long track record of building and training teams, with a special focus on making sure “service” is the key word in “customer service.” Now, he’s leveraging these skills to bring a bold, new project to life. Callahan spends his nights—and his weekends, and nearly every free second he has— working on 14 Mill Market, Nixa’s new 10-restaurant food hall. “We like to travel a lot, and we wanted to bring something here that we know culturally can happen somewhere else,” Callahan says. This is what led Callahan and his wife, Leah, to pursue the project. “We had visited Mother

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Road Market in Tulsa, and after about 30 to 40 minutes, we knew that was it.” The two reached out to the general manager of Mother Road, and they soon found themselves learning his tips and tricks. “We also visited 15 other food halls around the country,” Callahan says. They met with Nixa’s mayor, city manager and a dozen others to pitch their idea, which was to construct their own food hall on a 3.5acre lot the couple purchased in downtown Nixa. Once the idea was approved and supported by all parties, the two got to work with their grand plans. “The space will have 10 restaurants, plus a bar in the center,” Callahan says. At press time, all 10 restaurants were occupied, and there was a waiting list of 16 more. “There’s seating for 200 right now, plus artificial turf for bocce ball and a stage for live entertainment,” Callahan says.

And they’re just getting started. “Other businesses have started purchasing properties around the mill for some other concepts,” Callahan says. “We’re hoping to make it a place where people want to come, shop, stay and hang out. Our goal is to grow the area as a whole and make it a one-ofa-kind destination for Nixa.” 417-LA N D FAVORIT ES

Meaningful Mentor: “God is always my inspiration,” Callahan says. “But in 417-land, Ron Bogart was always someone who inspired me. He may not even realize how much of an influence he had on me becoming a leader at work and striving to be professional.” Top Event: Price Cutter Charity Championship. Instant Boost: 417-land’s food scene. “If there’s something new coming in, we’re going to try it!” BIZ417.COM

VICE PRESIDENT, CLEAR CREEK GOLF CAR

Justin fraker FOR HELPING 417-LANDERS HOP ON THE GOLF CAR TREND.

Justin Fraker was in middle school the first time he joined his neighbor in driving a golf car along the otherwise quiet streets of Marshfield. “We’d drive it all the way up to the golf course,” Fraker says, laughing at the memory. These happy trips around the neighborhood helped him appreciate the importance of something that seems like a straightforward vehicle. “A golf car can be the first car you drive and the last car you drive,” Fraker says. “Kids learn to drive on golf cars, and you’ll meet people who just went into the nursing home and use a golf car to drive around and see their friends.” Fraker can describe the Club Car Onward’s bells and whistles with the same pride and care most people only muster up for their puppies or grandchildren. And that’s what makes it 100% evident—this is a guy who has found his passion. “I started working for Clear Creek part-time in the parts department,” Fraker says. “Well, that led to the next step and the next step, and eventually I got into sales.” Once that happened, Fraker was able to bring his true talent to light. “I found a way to help grow our market share significantly over two to three years,” he says. “From there I turned into a sales manager, and now I’m vice president of the company and own a part of it as well.” Clear Creek offers golf car sales, service, parts and rental. It’s grown from its original location in Springfield to six locations throughout Missouri and Arkansas. Some of the locations seem like obvious choices, such as Lake of the Ozarks, but others—such as Lamar and West Plains—are more surprising. They make sense when Fraker explains the company’s growth strategy. “We look for markets that are underserved and where we can provide a better experience for our customers, whether that’s on the service side or product side,” he says. “These may be small towns, but they’re actually hubs in their regions. The number of customers these locations pull in on a weekend is impressive.” Fraker says Clear Creek makes a point of engaging with each community through outreach like a discount program for nonprofits that rent golf cars for events. And over the next decade, Clear Creek’s presence should continue to grow—with even more locations expected in the near future. “We have some things in the works,” Fraker says. “We’ve particularly seen a shift in neighborhoods across the area as people are going into more planned communities, and we see a huge potential for growth in that market. We’re growing, and we don’t plan to stop any time soon.” 417-LA N D FAVOR IT ES

Meaningful Mentor: Rob Voss, who died in May. Fraker calls him “a great friend and mentor.” Top Event: Price Cutter Charity Championship. “I’m a golf guy— I’d never miss this,” Fraker says. Instant Boost: A round of golf at Twin Oaks. BIZ417.COM

July/August 2022

PRESIDENT, MOSTLY SERIOUS; CO-FOUNDER, HABITAT COMMUNICATION & CULTURE

spencer harris FOR ADVANCING THE CONVERSATION AROUND THE VALUE OF 417-LANDERS’ WORK.

Anyone who has met Spencer Harris knows his innate ability for conversation. Regardless of the topic at hand, he always has an impactful question or thoughtful response. Harris has a way with words that simply puts people at ease—his words and thoughts flow naturally. This talent comes in handy when Harris is working with his clients at Mostly Serious—a full-service digital agency that produces custom web design, digital marketing, advertising, SEO and web content—and when he’s leading conversations at Habitat Communication & Culture, the consulting company he and co-founder Jarad Johnson began in 2020 to help companies with strategic planning, performance management, leadership development and data collection. But as he looks to the future, Harris is hopeful that he can also use his communication skills in an even bigger way; he wants to use them for the betterment of 417-land. “As companies around the world have begun to go more and more remote, people who live in 417-land have the ability to work for companies that are not in 417-land,” Harris says. “Well, one of the things that we talk about a lot as a value of this community is cost of living—it’s cheap to live here. But that perception also influences how much money people are willing to pay for the goods and services that our regional workers produce.” Harris goes on to explain how local companies often pay less to employees due to the region’s low cost of living. “To prevent 417-land from becoming a community where people live here but work elsewhere, we have to start talking about the value of our work being equal to the value of work offered in other communities,” Harris says. “We have to start raising wages to be competitive with other areas. If we don’t, we’re going to have a lot of people who are living here and making a lot of money working for companies elsewhere. We’ll lose our own workforce, all while they continue to live in this area.” Harris approaches this challenge fundamentally, as it’s not just about “giving people more money,” he says. “We need to shift the mindset so individuals understand that our work is as good as—if not better than—work produced in other communities around the country and should be priced and compensated accordingly.” 417- L A N D FAVORI TE S

Meaningful Mentor: “My wife, Brandy,” he says. “We brainstorm a lot together. After her, it’s my trainer and my therapist.” Top Event: “Moon City Con,” he says. “It’s a board game convention held annually here in Springfield.” Instant Boost: Farmers Gastropub.

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CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, BRYAN PROPERTIES

ericka peppers FOR MAKING 417-LANDERS FEEL AT HOME.

Back in third grade, when a school assignment required Ericka Peppers to state her career ambition, she answered: “I want to be a CEO.” This spring, after a decade in the rental housing industry, she made it to the C-suite when she was named Bryan Properties’ first-ever COO. She credits the difficult moments with helping her reach her goal. “Every moment of growth I’ve had has come out of a difficult moment,” she says. “Those conflict mo-

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ments shaped who I was the next time and the next time. I’ve been more equipped for the next role because of those moments—because I wasn’t afraid of the resolution, and I wasn’t afraid of the tough conversation.” As a result, she says, “When I got a seat at the table, I came to it with experience, education and a little bit of luck.” Peppers’s leadership philosophy is all about community. She says it’s critical to acknowledge and honor the ways in which team members depend on each other. So it’s fitting that she’s leading in an industry where she says residents are increasingly seeking community. She says young families and empty nesters are the most active renters right now, and they’re opting for living environments that radiate warmth and belonging. They’re responding to complexes with ample green spaces and extras like dog parks and fire pits. People have sparked to a living concept that she describes as “almost like a micro-

unit meets a cruise ship.” It offers nearly every amenity imaginable—in exchange for less personal living space. Initially, Peppers didn’t think that trade-off would appeal to 417-landers, but after two years of pandemic life, the vibe has officially shifted. She thinks it’s a long-term change. “We’re going to see designs that break the barriers of our idea of what a rental property looks like,” she says. “It will mean finding out what people are longing for in a community and then building that community around them.” 417-LA N D FAVORIT ES

Meaningful Mentor: Her dad, Rick Pasquale, who died last year. “He really never settled for anything less than perfect, and it pushes me to be the very best version of myself.” Top Event: ArtsFest on Historic Walnut Street. Instant Boost: A chair massage at Brightness Massage Spa in Battlefield Mall.

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DESIGN AWARDS BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

Meet the Judges KRISTIN KONG Since 2011, Atlanta-based Kristin Kong of K Kong Designs has infused interiors throughout the country with a signature blend of fashion forward and retro chic elements. Her work is glamourous and modern with traditional foundations that lend timeless appeal. K Kong Designs has been widely acclaimed in local and regional magazines such as Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, as well as national outlets including House Beautiful, Architectural Digest’s AD Pro, Better Homes & Gardens and Ballard Designs’ How to Decorate Podcast.

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LAURA JENKINS Laura Jenkins, Founding Principal Designer of Laura W. Jenkins, is an NCIDQ certified interior designer with a passion for art, history, literature and fashion. Throughout her career, she’s worked on a variety of residential, hospitality, corporate and retail projects resulting in multiple awardwinning designs. Jenkins has been published nationally with features in Rue Magazine and Luxe Magazine, named to the 2022 Luxe Gold List, recognized as a Rising Star in Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, and has been honored to win multiple ASID Design Excellence Awards.

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PHOTOS BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC, BRENNA STARK, BERI IRVING PHOTOGRAPHY, MALI AZIMA; RENDERING BY SAPP DESIGN ARCHITECTS

Commercial

esigning commercial spaces is like walking a tightrope— a carefully executed balancing act between innovative style and must-have function. An office that appears formal yet collaborative, a surgical facility that achieves both medical and aesthetic excellence and even legal offices that double as (wait for it) a chapel. This year’s five winning designs prove that style, comfort and individuality are just as important in the commercial design world as they are in residential. For the 2022 Commercial Design Awards, we recruited two Atlanta-based designers and members of the American Society of Interior Designers to judge our entries based on a form carefully curated for each category. From plastic surgery to the performing arts, these wide-ranging projects show us that 2022 is a year to get out, get involved and get back to work.

CATEGORY 1: LIFESTYLE

Renovations and Addition to Maplecrest Elementary

PHOTOS BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC

ducation is ever evolving. With new research comes new understandings, leading to innovation and advancement in the learning process. But what happens when the school buildings no longer support the teachers and students inside? For phase one of a multiphased construction and renovation process to Maplecrest Elementary School in Lebanon, Missouri, the team from Sapp Design Architects looked not only at what the school district needed now, but what they needed next. “I feel like there were several goals within this project. We had the new addition, and we had the renovation of the existing multipurpose room to expand their cafeteria,” says Jennifer Fick, Interior Designer at Sapp Design Architects. “I think the main goal was just that the school’s building was only about 57% of the square footage required for the student population.” A common thread connecting both the re-imagined existing spaces BIZ417.COM

and newly constructed ones was to match the school’s modern teaching approach with flexible classroom and common spaces, while also keeping future growth in mind. First constructed in 1955, the original Maplecrest school building includes several additions—without much focus put towards cohesion or adaptability. “Education used to be more confined to a single classroom. Students sit there and the teacher teaches to them for eight hours a day,” says Architect and Project Manager Kristi Beattie. “Now it’s much more project based, collaborative, interactive, one-to-one. So, the spaces that we’re designing have to be able to adapt to that new teaching method.”

PROJECT GOAL Through renovation and new construction, create a modern, flexible, multifunctioning school building to serve the district’s students, teachers and community at large.

A forward-thinking focus was put on modern teaching methods—propelling the school into the 21st century. “To do that, we had to make every design vision an opportunity to create space for learning,” says Fick. Overhead garage-style doors can be opened, for lunchtime or collaborative learning, and then closed to create two independently functioning classroom spaces. “Every move was intentional for learning,” adds Fick.

INTERIOR DESIGNER Jennifer Fick Sapp Design Architects

And while the school building itself is for second and third grade students, the newly built gymnasium serves as a gathering place for students district wide and as a symbol of community pride. According to Fick, “the Lebanon community— they love to emphasize their school colors and their mascot, Buzz, so balancing that with this idea that this was just phase one was extremely important.”

ARCHITECT AND PROJECT MANAGER Kristi Beattie Sapp Design Architects

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CATEGORY 2: HEALTHCARE

Shah Plastic Surgery

PROJECT GOAL To turn an outdated medical facility into a bright, modern and sophisticated plastic surgery center, using a mix of complete redesigns and facelifts to existing features.

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lighting, finishes and cabinetry— needed updating. “The building wasn’t super old, but the design was really a little more dark and moody than we were looking for,” says Long. “We were wanting that clean, fresh, more modern feel—some more geometric shapes, just a brighter look to it.” Long took an “old meets new” approach by enhancing already established architectural elements and reinventing them to match today’s aesthetics. “There were some features that we maintained by just changing the finish on them,” says Long. “We did a completely new front desk reception area that kept the drop-down ceilings above it and changed the finish to kind of tie into the new look.”

LEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER Haden Long Ellecor Design

With creating “wow” factor top of mind, the initial thought was to revamp the existing front desk before Long proposed a complete redesign. “That was really where everything started was with that big look of that desk,” says Long. She then carried the same design style into other areas like the waiting room, office spaces and patient treatment rooms.

INTERIOR DESIGNER Robbie Moncrief Ellecor Design

Throughout the design, Long carefully balanced modern elements—like contemporary lighting, wide vein marble and geometric wallpaper—with warm established features like the richly stained wood built-ins to deliver a reinvented, modern medical facility that’s so inviting, you may be tempted to show up a few minutes early for your next appointment.

ARCHITECT Bo Hagerman BOTI Architecture and Engineering

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PHOTOS BY BRENNA STARK

oing to a doctor’s office can be an unnerving experience—even when it’s an elective occasion. But when the space is thoughtfully designed—with natural light, rich wood finishes and a calming mix of patterns and textures—the experience can feel more like a spa visit than a surgical visit. When Shah Plastic Surgery acquired a new facility, they turned to Haden Long, owner and lead designer of Ellecor Design, to transform the dated space into a chic, modern and elegant medical facility. The building had previously been another plastic surgery office, so while the layout was conducive to the new owners’ needs, the overall feel of the space—the

CATEGORY 3: RENOVATION

Toth and Associates

PHOTOS BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC

t’s one of the great modern day office debates—open concept and collaborative or defined, focus-forward spaces? When hired to renovate a dated 35,000-square-foot office space for Toth & Associates’ Springfield headquarters, the team at Sapp Design Architects asked, “Why not both?” “They were moving from an existing facility where they were really cramped, and they were on separate floors,” says Cheryl Doran, Director of Interiors at Sapp Design Architects. “Adam Toth hired me to come in and give them a vision of how they could operate as one.” That vision included sleek modern lighting, open concept gathering spaces and a communal dining area for family style meals. A major impact maker of the Sapp

PROJECT GOAL To transform a dated and segmented office space into a fun, bright and collaborative environment for a fast-paced, growing local company.

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team’s design was the replacement of existing solid interior walls with glass—opening up the space and increasing visibility without sacrificing privacy. With the perimeter private offices now accented with interior glass walls, engineers working in the center of the office can enjoy the natural light coming in from the exterior windows. “That was important to the team and to the managers, to where they could all be and work together, but they could still feel like they could have a view of the outside,” says Doran. Another important part of the renovation process was finding a way to reflect the company’s impact on the local landscape. For that, Doran turned to artist Andrea Ehrhardt. “She came and spoke to

DIRECTOR OF INTERIOR DESIGN Cheryl Doran Sapp Design Architects

my Rotary Club a couple weeks before we started designing this,” Doran says. “I wanted to bring in some of their local flair…mapping out some of their projects that they had done locally.” The break room features a mural of local eateries such as Gailey’s and Garbo’s, while a second mural in the conference room showcases

ARCHITECT AND PROJECT MANAGER John McNabb Sapp Design Architects

schools the company has worked on. In the lobby, custom millwork in the form of vertical slats covers the glass wall of an adjacent conference room. Functioning like vertical blinds, the slats can be rotated shut during private meetings but otherwise kept open. “They love it. They’re really proud of it,” says Doran.

ARCHITECTURAL INTERN Kate Stockton Sapp Design Architects

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CATEGORY 4: GENERAL OFFICE & PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

hen you think of an attorney’s office, what comes to mind? Mahogany rich meeting rooms? Tufted leather furniture? Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in an Ivy League-style library? Now what about an onsite chapel? Rather than developing two completely independent structures to serve their client’s dual career endeavors, the team at Dake Wells Architecture—led by Project Manager Jason Hainline and Principal in Charge Andrew Wells—conceptualized one harmonious structure to house them both. “There was an office side which was intended to house a law practice and a chapel side for a church that the same client was going to be establishing,” says Hainline.

PROJECT GOAL To build a dualpurpose, modernist inspired building with office space for the client’s law practice and a chapel for church services.

July/August 2022

And for a final twist, the team needed to meet the client’s vision of a clean, simple modern space, influenced by his fondness for past modernist architects. Though the specifics of the project were unique, the process was familiar. “It’s the same approach we take with most any of our projects,” says Hainline. That approach started with conversations to better understand why the client was so drawn to this particular design style. “We’re not trying to copy previous work but understand what it is about that work that this particular client really responded to,” says Hainline. References to the clean, simplistic, midcentury design can be found throughout the chapel and into the office space. And in true architect

ARCHITECT AND PROJECT MANAGER Jason Hainline Dake Wells Architecture

ARCHITECT AND PRINCIPAL IN CHARGE Andrew Wells Dake Wells Architecture

fashion, the team’s design is an equal balance of form and function. The chapel side walls are clad in a clear coated white oak—softening the space while also providing acoustical benefits. Over on the office side of the building, the same wood—carried through in trim and additional framing—is met with large floor-to-ceiling windows, which Hainline describes as “flooding the office space with light” to foster energy efficiency, productivity and wellbeing.

PROJECT ARCHITECT Matthew Thornton Dake Wells Architecture

As it does in all of Dake Wells’s work, sustainability played a large role in the team’s design decision making. “[The client] was very supportive of us trying to optimize building performance but minimize environmental impact,” says Hainline. An added bonus of the building’s abundance of natural light: “We can reduce and, frankly, keep most all of the lights off during the majority of the day,” says Hainline, making positive impacts both environmentally and economically.

DESIGN ASSOCIATE Andrew Zelenak Dake Wells Architecture

DESIGN ASSOCIATE Kurtis Gibson Dake Wells Architecture

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PHOTOS BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC

Madaline Terrace

CATEGORY 5: UNBUILT PROJECT

Neosho Performing Arts Center

RENDERINGS BY SAPP DESIGN ARCHITECTS

rom painting to poetry, symphonies to soliloquies, “the arts” encompasses a wide range of genres, mediums and expressions. When the Neosho Public School System reached out to Sapp Design Architects to design their new performing arts facility— attached to the existing high school— they not only wanted a space for orchestra concerts and spring musicals, but a place for the whole community to gather and connect. And at the top of the “must-have” list, it needed to be big. “Their goal was to build a 1,500-seat performing arts center for the community,” says Cheryl Doran, Director of Interior Design at Sapp Design Architects. “They want it to be multipurpose, which would be

PROJECT GOAL To design a 1,500-seat performing arts center— connected to the existing high school—to host both school performances and community wide events. BIZ417.COM

for music, choir, orchestra and theater.” To get a better understanding of their client’s needs and goals for the space, Doran—along with Senior Project Manager Steve Telscher and architects Neill Scheiter and John McNabb—took their client on tours of several other performing arts spaces around the region. From the onset, the project was a collaborative one between Doran and the architects. “We worked as a team,” says Doran. “We wanted this to be seamless—from the exterior to the interior.” The concept for the team’s design came from something intrinsic to all forms of art: movement. From the performance hall’s canopy mimicking the hinged opening of a grand piano to sound wave

DIRECTOR OF INTERIOR DESIGN Cheryl Doran Sapp Design Architects

striations represented through metal slats, references to movement are sprinkled throughout the design. “We carried that movement through as a wave,” says Doran. Through carefully selected colors, materials and shapes, that wave of movement can be seen from the exterior of the building, all the way through the lobby and into the performance space. “And that's how we sold our inspiration to the client,” Doran adds.

ARCHITECT Neill Scheiter Sapp Design Architects

With its connection to the already built Neosho High School, the project includes updates to the existing structure, to create a sense of cohesion and a seamless transition of old to new. Included in the lobby’s redesign are tiered benches leading up to a dualpurpose stage area. It’s ideal for showcasing a small band or singer during community events and makes the perfect gathering spot for students during the school day.

ARCHITECT John McNabb Sapp Design Architects

ARCHITECT AND SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER Steve Telscher Sapp Design Architects

July/August 2022

PROMOTION PROMOTION

Sapp Design Architects

S Contact Us 417–877–9600 sdaarchitects.com 3750 S. Fremont Ave. Springfield

417 HOME July/August 2022

WINTER

app Design Architects, locally As part of their design process, owned since 1986, is a com- their interior designers are integrated mercial design firm whose mis- into every project from inception to sion is to enrich life for generations completion as visionaries for design with each project they design. In 2018 and functionality. The designers work the firm made the strategic move to with the entire team to establish cruhire its first interior design direc- cial project goals and a design concept that become tor, Cheryl Doran, who has led the prominent design As part of their efforts to grow drivers throughdesign process, their out the project. the department interior designers are Inspiration for to three full-time integrated into every this year's wininterior designers with the addining commerproject from inception tion of Jennifer cial design projto completion. ects was defined Fick and Hope Ash. This talented through this progroup is responsible for the interior cess to successfully reflect each design of three of Biz 417 ’s winning organization's vision and exceed commercial design projects this year: design expectations through mindful Toth & Associate's new headquarters, use of space, materiality, and craftMaplecrest Elementary and Neosho ing environments that will enrich life for generations. Schools' new Performing Arts Center.

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PROMOTION

Unique Tile

nique Tile provided the tile for the Maplecrest Elementary renovation project. The biggest challenge for the Unique Tile team was finding a tile that would interest the kids while keeping the school colors in mind. With direction from Sapp Architects, Unique Tile was able to help create a design that fit the Maplecrest look. Unique Tile has been a Missouri-based wholesale distributor of designer-oriented tile and stone since 1988. The team strives to set the standard for style, design and attention-to-detail for a nationwide client base both residential and commercial. Unique Tile offers a variety of fashion-forward products to accompany all design aesthetics and to fit every price range.

Melissa Turpin 417–725–5515 uniquetile.com 1364 Kelly Ave. | Nixa

PHOTO BY ARCHITECTURAL IMAGEWORKS, LLC

Ready for an office upgrade? SEARCH ONLINE

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July/August 2022

EVERYWHERE YOU NEED TO BE

PHOTO BY BRAD ZWEERINK

We're thrilled to welcome a sold-out crowd to Ladies Who Launch on July 14. Ondemand tickets are still available. Visit biz417.com/lwl for more information.

CALENDAR

SCENE

68 NETWORK

69 Small Business Award

71 Salute to Travel & Tourism

70 Art of Being ME

72 Downtime

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July/August 2022

Morning Event

LADIES WHO LAUNCH SPONSORED EVENT Biz 417’s fifth annual half-day leadership conference is a way for women from around 417-land to connect, reflect and inspire. Women can meet and hear from other female business leaders from the community and beyond. In-person tickets are sold out, but on-demand tickets are available and allow ticket holders to access and view the conference content after the event. When: 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Thursday, July 14

Where: Oasis Hotel & Convention Center, 2546 N. Glenstone, Springfield. Cost: $85 in person, $40 on-demand More information: Visit ladieswholaunch.biz417.com for more information, to purchase ondemand tickets or to put your name on the waitlist for in-person tickets.  Ongoing MEET WITH A MENTOR Connect with experienced local business professionals and receive honest advice during one-on-one mentorship meetings through the Missouri Small Business Development Center and Missouri State University. The program offers a system of professionals with a wide range of expertise who can meet with business owners virtually. Free. Visit efactory.missouristate.edu for more information and to schedule appointments with mentors.  7:30–8:30 a.m., Fridays, July 1 and August 5

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE Enjoy coffee and pastries in an informal networking atmosphere where you can meet, mingle and make contacts with other chamber members and businesses. Free for chamber members, Ozark residents and Ozark businesses. Location varies each month. Visit ozarkchamber.com for more information.

July/August 2022

Lunch Event

 8:30–10:30 a.m., Wednesdays 1 MILLION CUPS Hear about local entrepreneurs who are growing businesses and ideas at this weekly presentation. Bambino’s Community Space, 2810 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield. Visit 1mcsgf.com for more information.

There you can meet potential clients and customers alongside food, drink specials, and door prizes. July’s event is being held at Cennox and the August event is at Hyvee on Sunshine Street. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417-862-5567 for more information.

 5:30–8 p.m., Wednesday, July 6

 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Friday, July 22 MEMBER APPRECIATION CELEBRATION 2022 Celebrate the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s members and the region’s vibrant and ever-growing business community at this year’s annual Member Appreciation Celebration. At the event, you can reconnect and network with members while enjoying fun extras like a photo booth, a soda fountain and trivia. $35 for members. Oasis Hotel & Convention Center, 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417-862-5567 for more information.

THE BUSINESS MIXER Meet with other Springfieldarea business owners in at We&Company’s Business Mixer. Try appetizers and take part in wine giveaways while you network in a light social setting. The Riff, 1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield. Visit weandco.org for more information.  7:30–8:30 a.m., Thursday, July 7

GOOD MORNING, SPRINGFIELD! Start your day with networking over breakfast at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly breakfast event. $30 for members, $40 for non-members. Hillcrest High School, 3319 N. Grant Ave., Springfield. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417-862-5567 for more information.

 11 a.m.–1 p.m., Tuesday, July 12

NIXA CHAMBER LUNCHEON Stay in the know and attend the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon. Network and hear chamber and community information that impacts you and your business. $15–25 for members, $30 for guests. The Bridge, 308 W. Mt. Vernon, Nixa. Visit nixachamber.com for more information.  4–6 p.m., Thursdays, July 14 and August 11

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Mingle with other business professionals in a casual atmosphere at Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly happy hour.

 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursdays, July 28 and August 25

GOOD AFTERNOON OZARK! Attend Ozark Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon to get caught up on local events and hear from fellow Chamber members about issues in the community. $15–17 for members, $20 for nonmembers. Ozark Community Center, 1530 W. Jackson, Ozark. Visit ozarkchamber.com for more information.  11 a.m.–1 p.m., Tuesday, August 2

STATE OF THE STATE Hear from Governor Mike Parson at the annual State of the State event. There, Parson shares his vision for the future of the State of Missouri and his outlook on economic opportunities, workforce development and infrastructure development. Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417-862-5567 for additional information.

All Day

Evening Event

 7:30–8:30 a.m., Thursday, August 4

GOOD MORNING, SPRINGFIELD! Start your day with networking over breakfast at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly breakfast event. This month, hear from the superintendent of Springfield Public Schools, Dr. Grenita Lathan, at the annual State of the Schools presentation. $30 for members, $40 for nonmembers. Robert W. Plaster Center for Advanced Manufacturing, 1001 E. Chestnut Expy., Springfield. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417862-5567 for more information.  11 a.m.–1 p.m, Tuesday, August 9

NEW TEACHER LUNCHEON Welcome new teachers to the Nixa School District at a special Nixa Area Chamber luncheon dedicated to teachers. Tickets are $30, each ticket bought sponsors a teacher’s lunch. Nixa Junior High, 205 North St., Nixa. To purchase tickets and find more information visit nixachamber.com.  4–5:30 p.m., Tuesday, August 9

THE NETWORK’S SOCIAL Join The Network for a Social to check out the local Mother’s Brewing Company and get to know other members of The Network. Mother’s Brewing Company, 215 S. Grant, Springfield. For more information and registration visit thenetworkspringfield.com.  11 a.m.–1 p.m., Wednesday, August 24

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK Learn about trends in the regional and national economies alongside other local businesses and community leaders at this year’s Economic Outlook. Oasis Hotel & Convention Center, 2546 N. Glenstone, Springfield. Visit springfieldchamber.com or call 417862-5567 for more information.

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W. Curtis Strube Small Business Award

Biz 417 was proud to be the presenting sponsor for the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Award. Finalists included Audio Acoustics, Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks, hdesigngroup and Hold Fast Brewing. Cabinet Concepts by Design won the award. Date: May 4 | Host Organization: Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce | Location: Oasis Hotel & Convention Center Website: springfieldchamber.com

The team from hdesigngroup

PHOTO BY MEGAN JOHNSON, JENNIFER MASSEY-BROWN

Mackenzie Hurlich, Cynthia Lee, Sarah Tweedle, Emma Fagerland

John Oke-Thomas, Abe McGull

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Matt Morrow, Amber Vanderwal

Charlie and Mary Beth O'Reilly, Joe Daues

Jami Wightman, Shelley Wehner, Theresa Hughlett, Matt Wehner, Steve Hughlett July/August 2022

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Reception for Randy Bacon’s The Art of Being ME

Randy Bacon’s multimedia collaboration with the Burrell Foundation and Burrell Behavioral Health shared stories of mental health. To introduce the exhibit to the public, the Burrell Foundation held an opening night at Burrell Behavioral Health's Administrative Campus. Date: April 21 | Host Organization: Burrell Behavioral Health and Burrell Foundation | Location: Burrell Administrative Campus Website: burrellcenter.com

Jacob Robbins, Stephanie Robbins, Emmy Robbins

Sarah Hassan, Christina Ford

PHOTOS BY MADDIE BANE

Karen Braun, Phaedra Craig

Juanita Vela, Molly Hines, Taj Suleyman

PHOTO BY TK PHOTGRAPHER

Heidi and Randy Bacon

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Salute to Travel & Tourism Banquet

Hosted by the Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau to celebrate the last year of travel and tourism in Springfield, the event’s host recognized some of the area’s key players in growth and development, with a look ahead towards further improvements in 2022. Date: April 28 | Host Organization: Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau | Location: White River Conference Center Website: springfieldmo.org

Wes Pratt, Sean Mabins

Austin & Ana Elliott

PHOTOS BY RYAN KOWALSKI

Avery Parrish, Erin Goodman, Mary Kromrey

PHOTO BY TK PHOTGRAPHER

Dr.Tyrone Bledsoe, Teresa & Richard Ollis, Kendrick Edwards, Ryan Mooney

Emily Hertzog, Jill Ingold, Sarah Ablele, Courtney Pinkham-Martin

PHOTO BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

DOWNTIME

Up, Up and Away

Unlike most pastimes, Associate Circuit Judge Jerry Harmison’s hobby doesn’t take place on the ground. “I don’t hunt, and I don’t golf, or at least I don’t do it well,” he jokes. “Flying is my hobby.” He earned his pilot’s license in 2014 and has taken to the air ever since, flying over beautiful 417land landscapes like Table Rock Lake as well as out-of-region trips over the St. Louis arch and Florida. “Flying allows me to disconnect from job responsibilities and focus on something I enjoy,” he says.—Jo Jolliff

July/August 2022

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JULY/AUGUST 2022 | $4.95

07 2111 S. Eastgate Ave. Springfield, MO 65809

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