New and improved front door to the Ozarks
Major investment at General Aviation at SGF improves the rst impression for business leaders and visiting VIPs.
BY REN BISHOP
PHOTOGRAPHED
BY
BRANDON ALMS
An expanded and renovated Midwest Premier is taking flight. At SpringfieldBranson National Airport (SGF), Midwest Premier is the hub of private and corporate travel. This fall, its $6.7 million renovation and expansion will be complete.
On one of Jessica Robinson’s first days in General Aviation, she saw the Sexiest Man Alive, one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actors, just outside her window.
“I looked out and there he was, an A List celebrity, literally sitting on the grass with his wife, playing with their new puppy,” she says. “They were on the secure side of General Aviation and couldn’t wait to meet their Saint Bernard. And all of a sudden I realized, oh, this is part of what we do here at Midwest Premier.”
Just east of the commercial terminal, Midwest Premier is the home of private and corporate
travel out of Springfield-Branson National Airport. In 2023, 19,439 planes were serviced out of the Fixed Based Operation, an increase of 5 percent over 2022, with more traffic projected.
That’s why the Airport Board chose to invest $6.7 million in a year-long remodel and expansion of Midwest Premier. The renovated space features aircraft charter hold rooms, updated restrooms, a dedicated pilot’s lounge and a new (well named) multi-purpose space: the Four One Seven Room.
“The Airport Board made it clear early on that the new GA Terminal should be a strong contributor to the Quality of Place efforts underway in Springfield,” says Brian C. Weiler, Director of Aviation for the Springfield-Branson National Airport. “The ROI to our community is a front door for business leaders and VIPs that makes a positive first impression and shows they have arrived at a quality place.”
Large windows take advantage of natural light, and high-end finishes allow plenty of room to relax in the lobby.
On any given day, dozens of private passengers and pilots may walk through Midwest Premier as the front door to the Ozarks. While owned by the airport and City of Springfield, Midwest Premier functions as its own entity. Branded water bottles, custom signage, lounges with TVs playing golf, newspapers and magazines in the lobby—the experience is meant to help upscale customers feel comfortable and at ease.
“In every interaction, we want to make sure that we’re making a good impression,” says Jessica Robinson, director of Midwest Premier. “When you travel as much as our customers, they may see dozens of airports in a very short amount of time. When they are here, even for a brief amount of time, we want this to have a positive impression of our airport and community that they carry with them when they leave to go conduct business.”
To better meet the growing needs of corporate customers that utilize the airport, nearly 4,300 square feet of high-end finishes have been added on to the original facility. A kitchen has been added for catering, and redesigned restrooms now better serve larger planes with more passengers.
Built in 1990, the General Aviation facility also manages long-term leases on hangars for corporate aircraft. In total, 21 companies lease space in corporate hangars, including one hometown Fortune 500 company.
The new Midwest Premier terminal welcomes nearly 30,000 pilots and corporate travelers each year.
The entrance to the Four One Seven Room has large windows with a view of a sculpture just outside.
This space features a flexible design, so tables and seating can be used for a variety of meetings.
“We consider the airport as a whole to be an economic engine for the entire region,” says Dave Schaumburg, assistant director of aviation. “Providing abundant amenities and strong service at the airport helps make this area attractive for businesses and people who want to do business here. It allows us to connect people and places in ways that we all likely take for granted but are truly impressive.”
In total, 17 employees support the traffic on the ramp and overall airport operations. Midwest Premier team members provide safety and security for private passengers, stock food for the nearly 30,000 pilots who landed in 2023 and ensure that all planes are fueled up and ready to for their next flight.
Nearly 1.8 million gallons of fuel were supplied by Midwest Premier in 2023, generating revenue that goes back into supporting the operations of SGF Airport. That improves the aviation experience and facility upgrades for everyone who flies out of southwest Missouri, two key elements to attracting more airlines and flights, says Schaumburg.
“These past two years, we have been updating the Airport Master Plan that is helping define many of our facility improvements needed over the next 10-20 years,” he says. “The strong growth of our community is reflected in our traffic numbers and causing us to look deeply into what areas of the airport need to grow to continue to meet growing demand. The sky’s the limit.”
The front desk is sta ed around the clock and provides concierge services.
Taking inspiration from FAA sectional aeronautical charts, the design element on this meeting room gives the space a customized look.
Each year Biz 417 selects 100 powerful regional business leaders who are having the biggest impact on southwest Missouri. Consider this your guide to who you need to know, and who’s shaping the future of 417-land right now.
PROFILES BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST, JO JOLLIFF, PEYSON MECKE, KATIE POLLOCK ESTES, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE
EDITED BY DORI GRINDER AND JO JOLLIFF; PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON ALMS AND COURTESY THE 2024 BIZ 100 HONOREES
ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION
DAVID ATKISSON, P. 42
BRANDON DAKE, P. 42
BRAD ERWIN, P. 42
STEVE PRANGE, P. 45
BEN SAPP, P. 42
JOHN TORGERSON, P. 42
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
BETH DOMANN, P. 45
GEOFF STEELE, P. 42
KYLE WYLIE PICKETT, P. 42
AUTO & TRANSPORTATION
ROBERT LOW, P. 42
MARK WALKER, P. 42
BRIAN WEILER, P. 42
DARREL WILSON, P. 45
BUSINESS SERVICES
RACHEL ANDERSON, P. 42
MATT MORROW, P. 42
EDUCATION
DR. HAL HIGDON, P. 43
DR. BRAD JOHNSON, P. 43
DR. GRENITA LATHAN, P. 43
DR. MIKE RAKES, P. 43
FINANCE & BANKING
JOSELYN BALDNER, P. 43
PAULA DOUGHERTY, P. 43
JASON ENGLAND, P. 43
ROB FULP, P. 43
MARK HARRINGTON, P. 43
GARY W. SCHAFER II, P. 46
JOSEPH W. TURNER, P. 43
FOOD & BEVERAGE
SHAWN ASKINOSIE, P. 44
MICHAEL CHO, P. 44
ANDI HILBURN-VAINI, P. 44
YOUNG JUN, P. 46
ANDY KUNTZ, P. 44
TERESA MCGEEHAN, P. 44
JEFF SEIFRIED, P. 44
PAUL SUNDY, P. 44
JOSHUA WIDNER, P. 44
TAMMY ZACHARY, P. 44
HEALTHCARE
DAVID ARGUETA, P. 44
MAX BUETOW, P. 44
MICHAEL CALHOUN, P. 44
TERESA COYAN, P. 44
CLAY GODDARD, P. 44
PHIL MELUGIN, P. 46
INSURANCE
TREVOR CRIST, P. 47
MARSHALL KINNE, P. 47
RICHARD OLLIS, P. 47
LAW
DAVID AGEE, P. 47
CODY FENTON, P. 47
JASON SMITH, P. 47
RANDELL WALLACE, P. 47
ELIZABETH WENTE, P. 47
MANUFACTURING
RICK BRITTON, P. 47
SALLY HARGIS, P. 49
DAVID MOORE, P. 47
JOE REYNOLDS, P. 47
JACK STACK, P. 47
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
CHRIS JARRATT, P. 48
JOHN PRESLEY, P. 49
LISA RAU, P. 48
JOSH SULLIVAN, P. 48
NONPROFIT
ERIN DANASTASIO, P. 48
HAL DONALDSON, P. 48
BRANDY HARRIS, P. 48
WINTER KINNE, P. 49
KRYSTAL SIMON, P. 48
JAIMIE TRUSSEL, P. 48
PUBLIC & ELECTED OFFICIALS
DAVID CAMERON, P. 48
GARY GIBSON, P. 48
LINCOLN P. HOUGH, P. 49
KEN MCCLURE, P. 48
CRYSTAL QUADE, P. 48
CATHY STEPP, P. 50
PAUL F. WILLIAMS, P. 48
REAL ESTATE (Residential/Commercial/Development)
CHRISTINA ANGLE, P. 50
JOHN GRIESEMER, P. 50
BRYAN MAGERS, P. 51
PATRICK MURNEY, P. 51
ROSS MURRAY, P. 51
RYAN MURRAY, P. 51
TOM RANKIN, P. 51
DEBBIE SHANTZ HART, P. 51
STEPHANIE STENGER, P. 51
BRAD THESSING, P. 51
RETAIL
BRAD BECKHAM, P. 51
AUDREY GARARD, P. 51
JONATHAN GARARD, P. 51
RICK HUFFMAN, P. 50
PERSON OF THE YEAR:
JOHNNY MORRIS, P. 54
JEFFREY W. RUSSELL, P. 51
TECHNOLOGY
THOMAS H. DOUGLAS, P. 52
DAVID FOSS, P. 52
DOUG PITT, P. 52
TRAVEL & TOURISM
DEBBIE BENNETT, P. 52
KIRK ELMQUIST, P. 53
MARK HECQUET, P. 52
PETER HERSCHEND, P. 52
MARY KELLOGG-JOSLYN, P. 52
TIM O’REILLY, P. 52
DAN REITER, P. 52
BRAD THOMAS, P. 53
PAMELA YANCEY, P. 53
Denotes first-time Biz 100 honorees.
METHODOLOGY
The Biz 100 is selected by Biz 417’s editors, publisher and advisory board members. We evaluate current and prospective nominees based on their individual business success, their impact on the local business community and their community involvement this year. Current honorees are eligible to appear again, but as people retire, leave the area or otherwise take a step back, they may be taken off the list. Generally speaking, leaders who are new to their roles don’t make the list in their first year, but when someone dives in and has an immediate effect, we make an exception. List-makers can come from any industry and hold any title; we’re looking for people whose hard work and vision make tangible differences in 417-land. Some leaders on this list might prefer to avoid the limelight, but we’ve chosen to brag about them anyway. For more information or to tell us who we missed visit biz417.com/nominate.
DAVID ATKISSON
Spring eld Of ce Leader, JE Dunn
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Second Year
JOHN TORGERSON
Founder & President, Torgerson Design Partners
B. Arch., Drury University New
ROBERT LOW
President and Owner, Prime Inc. Returning, Ninth Year
BRANDON DAKE
Executive Director, Dake Wells Architecture B. Arch., Kansas State University New
GEOFF STEELE
Executive Director, Gillioz Center For Arts & Entertainment Returning, Second Year
MARK WALKER
Chairman and CEO, Transland B.A., Drury University Returning, Eighth Year
HIGH POINT, RACHEL ANDERSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EFACTORY:
She led the successful launch and momentum of Innovate SOMO serving 47 counties throughout Southern Missouri
BRAD ERWIN
President, Paragon Architecture
M. Arch., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Returning, Ninth Year
KYLE WYLIE PICKETT
Music Director & Conductor, Spring eld Symphony
D.M.A., Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University; M.A., California State University, Chico; A.B., Stanford University Returning, Second Year
BRIAN WEILER
Director of Aviation, Spring eld-Branson National Airport
M.S., University of Central Missouri; B.A., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Returning, Sixth Year
RACHEL ANDERSON
Executive Director, efactory - Missouri State University
B.G.S., University of Missouri Returning, Third Year
BEN SAPP Partner | Business Development, Sapp Design Architects University of Arkansas Returning, Second Year
BOOK RECOMMENDATION, JOHN TORGERSON, FOUNDER & PRESIDENT, TORGERSON DESIGN PARTNERS:
Convince Them in 90 Seconds by Nicholas Boothman
MATT MORROW
President/CEO, Spring eld Area Chamber of Commerce
B.S., M.B.A., Southwest Baptist University Returning, Ninth Year
DR. HAL HIGDON
Chancellor, Ozarks Technical Community College
B.S., University of Alabama;
M.ED., University of Southern Mississippi; PH.D., University of Southern Mississippi Returning, Ninth Year
DR. GRENITA LATHAN
Superintendent, Spring eld Public Schools
PH.D., Southern Illinois University;
M.S., University of North Carolina; B.S., North Carolina A&T State University Returning, Fourth Year
President, College of the Ozarks
ED.D, Baylor University; MAMFC, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; MARE, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; BSED, Baylor University
Returning, Second Year
HIGH POINT, DR. BRAD JOHNSON, PRESIDENT, COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS:
“In my rst two years as president, I have had the privilege to work with talented individuals to shape the vision and the campus landscape. The completion of two new state-of-the-art facilities, The Watson Student Center and Lively Hall, has signi cantly enhanced the level of service to students and enriched the campus culture.”
FINANCE & BANKING
DR. MIKE RAKES
President, Evangel University
Doctor of Management Studies, Biola University; M.A., AGTS/Reformed Theological Seminary/Biola University; M.Div., Biola University Returning, Second Year
HIGH POINT, JOSELYN BALDNER, PRESIDENT AND CEO, CENTRAL BANK:
“I am incredibly proud of the successful launch of Restore SGF (local nonpro t focused on helping families achieve home ownership and raising residential property values), and all the families we are helping to improve their homes or become homeowners. And I became a Jojo this year with the birth of my rst grandson, Christopher.”
JOSELYN BALDNER
President and CEO, Central Bank Returning, Fourth Year
ROB FULP
Regional Managing Director, Great Southern Bank
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Seventh Year
JOSEPH W. TURNER
President/CEO, Great Southern Bank
J.D., University of Missouri; B.S., Drake University Returning, Ninth Year
PAULA DOUGHERTY
Owner/Private Investment Wealth Advi-
sor/Investor in People, Achieve Private Wealth/Ameriprise Financial
B.S., M.B.A., Missouri State University Returning, Fifth Year
MARK HARRINGTON
President/CEO, OMB Bank
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Third Year
JASON ENGLAND
President/CEO Spring eld Region, Arvest Bank
B.S., University of Arkansas; A.B.A., Stonier Graduate School of Banking New
SHAWN ASKINOSIE Founder/CEO, Askinosie Chocolate
B.S., J.D., University of Missouri Returning, Ninth Year
TERESA MCGEEHAN Owner/Operator, Class Act Management/McDonald’s Returning, Fourth Year
TAMMY ZACHARY
Co-owner, Gettin’ Basted, Downing Street Pour House New
MICHAEL CHO
Co-Founder, Craft Sushi Rolls & Bowls
B.S., Rutgers University New
JEFF SEIFRIED
President, Mother’s Brewing Company; Owner, Blackwell’s Men’s Clothing Drury University Returning, Fourth Year
DAVID ARGUETA Regional President, Mercy East and Southwest Communities
B.S., M.B.A., Baylor University Returning, Second Year
HIGH POINT, TERESA MCGEEHAN, OWNER/OPERATOR, CLASS ACT MANAGEMENT/MCDONALD’S
“After celebrating my 40th anniversary with McDonald’s, I decided it’s time to get out of the restaurants and get more involved in community a airs, especially legislation at a local and federal level.”
ANDI HILBURN-VAINI Owner/Operator, 28 McDonald’s Restaurants
M.B.A., Drury University Returning, Second Year
PAUL SUNDY
Co-Founder, Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar
AA, Ozarks Technical Community College; B.B.M., Evangel University Returning, Fifth Year
MAX BUETOW President/CEO, CoxHealth Returning, Third Year
TERESA COYAN Chief of Staff/VP of Governmental Relations, CoxHealth
M.B.A., Webster University; B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Seventh Year
ANDY KUNTZ President and CEO, Andy’s Frozen Custard Returning, Ninth Year
JOSHUA WIDNER Owner and Business Manager, Good Spirits & Company Returning, Third Year
MICHAEL CALHOUN CEO/Executive Director, Citizens Memorial Hospital
M.B.A., Southwest Baptist University New
CLAY GODDARD President, Southwest Region, Brightli Behavioral Health
B.S., M.P.A., Missouri State University Returning, Second Year
MICHAEL
STEVE PRANGE
Senior Vice President - Director of Strategy & BD, Crawford, Murphy & Tilly
B.S.C.E., Bradley University New
CATEGORY
Architecture, Engineering & Construction
As the lead consultant with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly for the vision of the Lake Springfield Plan, Steve Prange guided the city through one of its boldest, most ambitious redevelopment projects. His innovative ‘eco island’ concept will repurpose the lake bottom’s accumulated silt into several small islands, all connected by boardwalks. This approach improves water quality, creates new wildlife habitat and drastically enhances public access, reimagining Lake Springfield as a multi-use nature preserve. Prange anticipates the development will be completed in phases over the next 5 to 10 years.
Lake Springfield isn’t the only project Prange is involved in. He also played a key role in the ongoing Grant Avenue Parkway revitalization, personally creating the preliminary plans. Under construction now, the three-mile corridor will connect Wonders of Wildlife to downtown.
Prange is at the forefront of some large infrastructure projects, including widening I-44, expanding Springfield-Branson National Airport and re-evaluating passenger rail projects all over Missouri. “We’re [Crawford, Murphy & Tilly] happy to call Springfield home,” he says. “We like the Midwest work ethic, and we love our local partners.”—Taryn Shorr-McKee
WBETH DOMANN Executive Director, Spring eld Little Theatre
B.F.A., Stephens College Returning, Ninth Year
CATEGORY
Arts & Entertainment
hat I do is a secret,” Beth Domann laughs, and by that, she means she is the executive director at Springfield Little Theatre, which is celebrating its 90th season this year. Domann oversees the theater, picks the seasons, hires the directors and produces the shows. She joined the theater in 1996 as the education director, was appointed artistic director in 2002 and became the executive director in 2004. Domann has shaped Springfield Little Theatre into what it is today. “I feel like my job is to fly at 30,000 feet and see the ripple effects, and try to see as far ahead as I possibly can—to be the linebacker and clear the way,” Domann says. “That’s really what I try to do—give people the opportunity.”
The theater gives people the opportunity to perform and be a part of the arts. Economically, the arts in Springfield have a huge impact on this community. “One of my favorite things is to see kids that come in, and even adults, and are maybe shy and help them find their voice and gain confidence,” Domann says. “The show must go on, and I love that. I could do that every day—watch people blossom.”—Jordan Blomquist
P“
CATEGORY
Auto & Transportation
resident and Chief Executive Officer at Wilson Logistics Inc., Darrel Wilson bought his first truck in 1980. He then founded Wil-Trans in 1990, pairing with company partners Prime Inc. and the Advance Fleet to offer 100% power only trucks.
The company has now evolved to a 500-truck fleet with terminals in Dallas, Texas and Springfield. Wilson strives to help drivers on his team build careers and empowering them to succeed while supporting them like family. Outside of employee wellness, Wilson always keeps an eye out for new opportunities for growth and acquisitions.
Wilson Logistics Inc. has commercial plans in the works at its corporate campus in Strafford to be a trucking and logistics-related community that seeks to complement existing offerings in Strafford. In addition, this summer marked the opening of the Wilson Logistics Arena at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds.
The arena seats over 6,400 patrons and is designed for trade show events, concerts, sporting events, horse shows and more. The opening of the arena played a pivotal role in the addition of the Ozarks Lunkers Arena Football team.—Jo Jolliff
“One of my favorite things is to see kids that come in, and even adults, and are maybe shy and help them nd their voice and gain con dence.”
—BETH DOMANN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SPRINGFIELD LITTLE THEATRE
DARREL WILSON Owner, Wilson Logistics New
TGARY W. SCHAFER II
Managing Partner, Forvis Mazars
B.S., Missouri State University Returning,
Sixth Year
CATEGORY
Finance & Banking
his year, FORVIS acquired Mazars USA to create the Forvis Mazars global network. The addition of the Mazars USA team members occurred in June 2024 and unlocks additional capabilities and services that Forvis Mazars can bring to their clients.
This acquisition follows a previous merger in 2022 when BKD became FORVIS, which made the local company a top 10 accounting firm in the U.S., according to Schafer. That organizational change allowed an opportunity to develop new and improved processes and tools. That, along with learnings from a substantial change, have been able to be leveraged throughout this most recent acquisition to set the stage for continued growth.
“With locations in 110 countries around the world, Forvis Mazars is now much better positioned to help our clients who have international needs,” Schafer explains. “And, it provides our talented team members with new opportunities.”
Between a new set of tools and capabilities and a remodeled Springfield office coming soon to more than 600 Southern Missouri team members serving clients nationally, growth for Forvis Mazars isn’t slowing down.—Peyson Mecke
YOUNG JUN
Co-owner, Ariake Sushi & Robata, Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill, Karai Ramen & Hand Roll Fine Art, Ewha University, South Korea New
CATEGORY
Young Jun is new to the Biz 100 list this year, but she’s definitely not new to the restaurant industry in Springfield. She and her husband John Jung have owned Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill for 25 years, and its success has opened up opportunities for the couple to create other dining ventures like Kai After Dark (which they recently sold to a longtime manager) and Karai Ramen & Handroll.
But after a quarter century running successful restaurants—each one adding its own personality to the dining scene—Jun recognized there was still an opportunity to give diners a different kind of Japanese dining experience.
She and Jung opened Ariake Sushi & Robata in June 2023, offering a full omakase sushi experience, A5 wagyu beef, robatayaki dishes and shareable small plates that have raised the bar for fine dining in Springfield.
Prior to making her mark on the restaurant industry in 417-land, Jun got a degree in fine art from Ewha University in South Korea and worked for a few years as an interior designer for LG. She has put that design experience to work in her restaurants, creating chic spaces that evoke an upscale atmosphere and sophisticated mood that are both in sync with the quality of the restaurants’ food.—Katie Pollock Estes
SFounder and CEO of Phoenix Home Care & Hospice
M.Ed., Wichita State University New
CATEGORY
erving more than 8,000 patients and providing careers to nearly 4,000 healthcare professionals, Phoenix Home Healthcare & Hospice is delivering on improving the quality of life of the people they serve. Phil Melugin and his wife, Kim, started Phoenix in Springfield, and have grown the organization to communities across Missouri, Kansas and Illinois.
While recruitment can be challenging for healthcare, Phoenix hired more than 1,000 caregivers, nearly 400 nurses and nearly 80 therapists and social workers in 2023 to fulfill the increasing demand for care—about 60,000 total hours per week—in clients’ homes. “In today’s fast-paced business world, it is essential to focus on outcomes,” says Melugin. “Management by objectives allows for a clear and measurable way to track success and drive results. By prioritizing what is produced over how it was produced, we can streamline operations, increase efficiency, and ultimately achieve greater success.”
Phoenix actively lobbies state legislatures for better reimbursement rates, and their in-home care model helps reduce the cost of healthcare to their patients by lowering the number of hospital admissions and doctor’s visits, as well as postponing or eliminating the need to move into skilled or assisted living facilities.—Peyson Mecke
“Management by objectives allows for a clear and measurable way to track success and drive results. By prioritizing what is
produced over how it was produced, we can streamline operations, increase e ciency, and ultimately achieve greater success.”
—PHIL
MELUGIN, FOUNDER AND CEO, PHOENIX HOME CARE & HOSPICE
PHIL MELUGIN
TREVOR CRIST
CEO, Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
HIGH POINT,
JOE REYNOLDS, PRESIDENT, CENTRAL STATES INDUSTRIAL: “CSI grew an exceptional 16% in scal 2024. This is the result of the hard work of great employees! I believe CSI’s culture is second to none and it is evident in customers’ satisfaction.”
MARSHALL KINNE
President, Med-Pay, Inc.
B.B.A., Southern Methodist University Returning, Second Year
DAVID AGEE
Partner, Husch Blackwell LLP
J.D., University of Missouri, Order of the Coif; B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
RANDELL WALLACE
Partner, Kutak Rock LLP
J.D., Vanderbilt University Law School; B.A., Drury University Returning, Eighth Year LAW
RICK BRITTON
President/CEO, Digital Monitoring Products Inc. Returning, Second Year
DAVID MOORE
President/CEO, Paul Mueller Co.
M.B.A., University of Chicago; B.A., Middlebury College Returning, Ninth Year
RICHARD OLLIS
CEO, Ollis/Akers/Arney
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
CODY FENTON
Partner, Fenton & Grimwood, Attorneys at Law, LLC
J.D., Faulkner Law; M.S., Missouri
Southern State University
B.S., Southeast Missouri State University
ELIZABETH WENTE
Deputy General Counsel, SRC Holdings Corporation
J.D., Southern Methodist University; B.S., Tulane University Returning, Second Year
JOE REYNOLDS
President, Central States Industrial
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Sixth Year
JASON SMITH
Of ce Managing Partner, Spencer Fane LLP
J.D., Washington University; B.S., Maryville University New
JACK STACK
President and CEO, SRC Holdings Corp.
B.S., Elmhurst College Returning, Ninth Year
CHRIS JARRATT
Chief Creative Of cer/Co-Founder, Revel Advertising
B.A., Drury University Returning, Second Year
ERIN DANASTASIO
Executive Director, Hatch Foundation
B.S., University of Missouri Returning, Fourth Year
JAIMIE TRUSSELL
CEO, Council of Churches of the Ozarks B.A., M.A., Missouri State University Returning, Second Year
LINCOLN P. HOUGH
Missouri State Senator, District 30
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Eighth Year
LISA B. RAU
Communications Director, City of Branson Communications/TV/Radio degree, Stephens College New
HAL DONALDSON
Founder and CEO, Convoy of Hope B.A., San Jose State University; B.A., Bethany University Returning, Eighth Year
KRYSTAL SIMON CEO, Care to Learn B.S., Drury University New
KEN MCCLURE
Mayor, City of Spring eld
M.A., University of Missouri; B.A. (Magna Cum Laude), Missouri State University Returning, Eighth Year
JOSH SULLIVAN Partner & Executive Creative Director, Fried Design Company New
“
BRANDY HARRIS
CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Spring eld
M.A., Missouri State University; B.A., Drury University Returning, Fifth Year
“I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to dream about some big, impactful community projects this year, and have loved seeing some already come to fruition.”
—ERIN DANASTASIO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HATCH FOUNDATION
DAVID CAMERON City Administrator, City of Republic B.S., John Brown University Returning, Fourth Year
CRYSTAL QUADE
District 132 Representative, Missouri House of Representatives
**candidate for Missouri Governor
B.S.W., Missouri State University Returning, Seventh Year
GARY GIBSON
President/CEO, City Utilities of Spring eld
B.S., Missouri University of Science and Technology Returning, Fifth Year
PAUL F. WILLIAMS
Chief of Police, City of Spring eld
M.S., Northeastern State University; B.S., Northern Michigan University Returning, Fourth Year
SALLY HARGIS
Vice President/Chairman of the Board, Ozarks Coca-Cola/ Dr. Pepper Bottling Company
B.A., B.A., Missouri University Returning, Ninth Year
CATEGORY Manufacturing
Ozarks Coca-Cola, family-owned and operated in 417-land since 1920, added a new canning line in 2024—the first in its history. Completed this spring, the canning line was part one of a two-phase expansion that resulted in approximately 40 new jobs. “If we can produce locally what we sell locally, we cut down on transportation and other costs,” Hargis explains. “That’s more money we can put into local production.”
Phase two of the project is a new corporate office complex on the same site as the canning line. The building, expected to be ready in early 2025, will serve double-duty as a showplace, highlighting the company’s rich history in the Ozarks. Expect lots of antique Coca-Cola memorabilia, including a 1915 GMC truck originally built for WWI. “It’ll be an even more fun place to work,” Hargis says. “Everyone who joins our team is so proud of the brand.”
Looking ahead, Hargis is focused on a large-scale warehouse automation project set for completion in August 2025. The technology, which will assist in loading orders, will make jobs less physically demanding, “more foolproof” and safer. “We’re excited about warehouse automation, for the opportunities it will bring our employees,” she shares.—Taryn Shorr-McKee
“Everyone
FJOHN PRESLEY Founder and Creative Director, VALIDATE B.S., Drury University New
CATEGORY
Marketing & Communications
or John Presley, growing up learning the piano was beyond school recitals — he was on-stage talent for his family’s Branson show, Presleys’ Country Jubilee, starting at age 10 and performing more than 200 shows each year. Learning to hone a skill and dedication to a craft helped inspire him to see where his talent and passion met and ultimately led to him starting local production company VALIDATE in 2016.
Since its start, VALIDATE has supported area businesses and brands as a local creative partner, where previously TV and commercial production was primarily sourced outside of the area, according to Presley.
“Everyone has their own approach to networking, but I’ve found the most success by giving my time,” says Presley. “Look for organizations or people in need and serve with your art. Connections and new opportunities will naturally come from that.”
The company was most recently behind the creative for Silver Dollar City’s revamped attraction, Fire in the Hole. As the team looks forward to 2025 and beyond, they’re focused on creating commercials, brand films and music for companies in the tourism and hospitality space.—Peyson Mecke
AWINTER KINNE President/CEO, Community Foundation of the Ozarks
B.A., MBA, Drury University New
CATEGORY
Nonpro t
fter nearly two decades with Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), Winter Kinne stepped into the role of President/ CEO in early 2024. She succeeded longtime leader Brian Fogle, becoming only the fourth CEO in the organization’s 51-year history. “Our board put a lot of work into an extensive search; I am humbled and excited by the opportunity,” Kinne says.
The CEO’s first priority? Listening. “I don’t assume I know everything just because I’ve been with the organization for nearly two decades,” she explains. One of her major goals is to spend more time with CFO’s 55 affiliate community foundations, particularly in central and southern Missouri. The organization serves a staggering 62 counties in Missouri.
Another priority: hiring additional staff to support tremendous recent growth. CFO purchased the former Missouri State University Meyer Alumni Center in February, ending a two-year search for “somewhere impactful for both the community and organization.” After remodeling, the building will be the Springfieldbased staff’s “forever home,” something Kinne believes is key. “It’s been very cool to dream about what it will mean for the CFO and our mission moving forward,” she says.—Taryn Shorr-McKee
has their own approach to networking, but I’ve found the most success by giving my time. Look for organizations or people in need and serve with your art.
Connections and new opportunities will naturally come from that.”
—JOHN PRESLEY, FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR, VALIDATE
CATHY STEPP
City Administrator, City of Branson New
CATEGORY
Public & Elected Of cials
Cathy Stepp has worn many hats over the years. For 18 years, she and her husband ran a small home-building business in Wisconsin, starting from their tuck-under garage. “I come from the regulated side of the community, so I know what it’s like to have rules that are local,” Stepp says. She then moved to the public sector, running for the state senate in her Wisconsin district and served four years as a state senator before becoming a cabinet secretary under Governor Scott Walker. She later joined the Trump administration as the regional administrator for the U.S. EPA in Chicago.
Now, Stepp has gone from larger stage positions to local government as the City Administrator in Branson. Her previous roles provided her with a deep understanding of how different branches of government operate and allowed her to see things from a broader perspective. “Here, I have a lot more hands-on ability to see a problem, solve the problem immediately and keep moving,” she says. Moving to Branson and finding a job that fits has been a long time coming, but Stepp finally feels at home. “This has been, by far, the most fun and rewarding job I’ve ever had,” she says. “It’s as if I’ve been here forever.”—Jordan Blomquist
CHRISTINA ANGLE
CFO/Vice President of Group Services, Erlen Group
B.S., Washington and Lee University Returning, Fourth Year
CATEGORY
WJOHN GRIESEMER
President/CEO, Erlen Group
B.S., Purdue University Returning, Ninth Year
ith cousins Christina Angle and John Griesemer in two key leadership positions, the homegrown Erlen Group saw major advancements in all facets of its business in 2024. Cold storage logistics company Cold Zone at Springfield Underground broke ground on its firstever surface facility in June—a 170,000-square-foot building in Partnership Industrial Center West. The $57 million investment, slated for completion in August 2025, allows Cold Zone to offer greater temperature flexibility and accommodate growing demand. Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Group Services Angle explains, “We are growing to meet both the success of the Springfield region and the national trends for more cold storage [toward fresher, healthier foods].”
Looking ahead, Erlen Group has several other big projects in the pipeline. The company plans to expand its Umlaut Industrial transloading operations thanks to a grant from MoDOT’s Freight Enhancement Program, as well as start developing 600 acres above Springfield Underground for industrial use. In addition, its aggregates division continues to deliver quality crushed stone to be used as foundations in construction projects all over the Ozarks.
“It’s an exciting time!” Angle says, pointing to growth across the company’s multiple pillars as key areas for continued expansion.—Taryn Shorr-McKee
““Branson has a very active group of opinion and business leaders who give so much to the betterment of our community. I’m fortunate they have embraced me in this position to help us elevate both here and regionally. We are always better together!”
—CATHY STEPP, CITY ADMINISTRATOR, CITY OF BRANSON
RICK HUFFMAN Chief Executive Of cer, HCW Development New
As Chief Executive Officer, Rick Huffman has led HCW Development in their mission to assess the needs and wishes of the development of communities. Locally, Huffman led the development of the Branson Landing in 2003, including the convention center and the famous gathering area around the Branson Landing water and fire show fountain. “I wanted to make sure that we had the wow factor of the Landing,” Huffman says. “Branson always lacked a downtown gathering area so we wanted to create an area where not only can the citizens have their events, but tourists too.” Huffman has extended his work outside of the region with a variety of projects across the country. “Branson is still home to us even though we office in Phoenix and I go back and forth,” he says. “The company’s grown to a thousand employees now and we’re excited for the future.” This year Huffman has been working on the opening of Caesars Republic in Scottsdale, Arizona, apartment units in Phoenix and Tucson, an A.C. Marriott in Kansas City, restaurants and a retail center in Overland Park, Kansas, a warehouse project in Branson and plenty more on the horizon.—Jo Jolliff
BRYAN MAGERS
Owner/President, Bryan Properties Management University of Missouri Returning, Third Year
TOM RANKIN
Owner, Rankin Development
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
BOOK RECOMMENDATION,
STEPHANIE STENGER, CEO, SPRINGFIELD LAND LP: Life Worth Living: A Guide to What Matters Most by Miraslov Volf
PATRICK MURNEY
Owner, Murney Associates, Realtors
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
DEBBIE SHANTZ HART
Principal, DHTC Development, LLC/ Housing Plus, LLC/HP Construction J.D., University of Missouri-Columbia; B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Eighth Year
BRAD BECKHAM Chief Executive Of cer, O’Reilly Auto Parts New
JOHNNY MORRIS
CEO/Founder, Bass Pro Shops
B.A., Drury University Returning, Ninth Year
ROSS MURRAY President, R.B. Murray Company Returning, Third Year
STEPHANIE STENGER
CEO, Spring eld Land LP J.D., University of Southern California; B.S., University of Missouri Returning, Eighth Year
AUDREY GARARD
Owner, Grooms Of ce Environments
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Fifth Year
JEFFREY W. RUSSELL CEO, Russell Cellular Inc. Returning, Ninth Year
RYAN MURRAY CEO, R.B. Murray Company Returning, Third Year
BRAD THESSING
Founder, Thessing Commercial Properties
B.S., University of Missouri Returning, Second Year
GARARD Owner, Grooms Of ce Environments Returning, Second Year
JONATHAN
THOMAS H. DOUGLAS CEO, JMARK Returning, Ninth Year
HIGH POINT, DEBBIE BENNETT, PRESIDENT, BASS PRO SHOPS HOSPITALITY:
“I consider it a great privilege to introduce people, from all over the world, to the Ozarks and the importance conservation plays in our work through Bass Pro Shops.”
DAVID FOSS
Executive Board Chair, Jack Henry & Associates, Inc.
M.S., Minnesota State University Returning, Seventh Year
President, Bass Pro Shops Hospitality New
MARY KELLOGG-JOSLYN Co-Founder, Titanic Museum Attraction Northwestern University Returning, Ninth Year TRAVEL & TOURISM
“DOUG PITT
Owner, Pitt Technology Group, LLC/Pitt Development Group, LLC; Founder, Care to Learn
B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Ninth Year
MARK HECQUET
President/CEO, Spring eld Convention & Visitors Bureau
M.S., B.S., University of Kentucky Returning, Second Year
TIM O’REILLY
CEO, O’Reilly Hospitality Management
J.D., University of Missouri–Kansas City; B.A., Westminster College Returning, Ninth Year
PETER HERSCHEND Co-Founder/Co-Owner, Herschend Enterprises Returning, Ninth Year
General Manager, Spring eld Cardinals
B.S., University of Missouri Returning, Fourth Year
“Being part of the Biz 100 is a wonderful honor. However, I am even more honored to lead the exceptional team of tourism professionals at the Spring eld Convention and Visitors Bureau. Every day, we strive to boost Spring eld’s economy by growing our vibrant tourism community.”
—MARK HECQUET, PRESIDENT/CEO, SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
DAN REITER
KIRK ELMQUIST
Executive Director, Branson/Lakes Area Tourism Community Enhancement District B.S., Liberty University New
Kirk Elmquist launched his business career right after graduating college in 1990. He moved to St. Louis, where he met his wife—they’ve been married for 30 years and have two children. Elmquist relocated to Springfield, where he worked with John Q. Hammons, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame and the Price Cutter Charity Championship. He then helped launch the Double–A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. “That was such an absolute joy to help start an organization in our community that is still thriving today,” Elmquist says.
After pursuing other business ventures, Elmquist is now the Executive Director of the Branson/Lakes Area Tourism Community Enhancement District. “Branson has a lot of moving parts,” Elmquist says. “My role is to make sure we get all seasons flowing for the very best opportunity for tourism to enhance each month.”
One of his team’s accomplishments has been the marketing partnership designating Branson as the official vacation destination of the Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs. “That’s been a really exciting opportunity, to be affiliated with the number one brand in the NFL, and then to see how it’s blended into all kinds of society,” he says. “Just to be a part of that has been one of the more joyful things I’ve gotten to do in my career.”—Jordan Blomquist
RTHOMAS
President, Silver Dollar City Attractions
M.B.A., B.S., Missouri State University Returning, Eighth Year
ecently announcing the largest-ever park expansion, Silver Dollar City will develop 1,200 acres of land, adjacent to the current park. With Brad Thomas, president of Silver Dollar City Attractions at the helm, the construction project is just one part of the 10-year strategic plan. Calling the plans “exciting and bold,” Thomas says the new developments will continue to strengthen the Silver Dollar City brand with the addition of a 262-room resort. “Visitors will have even more reasons to come to Missouri’s beautiful Ozark Mountains,” Thomas says, smiling.
Under his leadership, the theme park saw a banner year, largely due to the spring grand opening of the second generation of Fire in the Hole, its iconic indoor roller coaster. The ride was the nation’s longest-running indoor coaster, hosting tens of millions of riders in its 51-year history. “The new ride helped drive record attendance at the park this year, drawing guests from all 50 states, as well as international visitors,” Thomas, who has a 30-plusyear history with the company himself, shares.
The reimagined Fire in the Hole also won two prestigious global awards from Amusement Today in 2024: Best New Theme Park Family Attraction and Best New Attraction Installation.—Taryn Shorr-McKee
President/CEO, Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau and Taney County Partnership Returning, Second Year
You may recognize her from last year’s Biz 100 list, but this year, Pamela Yancey has pivoted into a new role, leading the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and Taney County Partnership as the organizations’ President and CEO.
From finance to community leadership, Yancey has taken the past year to learn more about the wide range of initiatives these organizations focus on to continue making Branson not only a visitor’s destination, but a place to live and work. She embodies a listening and trust-focused approach to leading her teams to ensure the decisions made are best for associates, the organization and the community.
“The best advice I can offer is to find organizations that align with your passions and get involved,” says Yancey. “Be strategic and intentional with your time—seek out opportunities where you can make a meaningful impact. Show up consistently, build relationships with community leaders, and don’t underestimate the power of personal connections.”
So far in 2024, Branson has hosted its first Chiefs rally at Branson Landing, drawing in more than 8,000 fans, secured more than $6.2M in funding for the Highway 76 Revitalization Project and conducted a study geared toward attracting sports tourism.—Peyson Mecke
“Find organizations that align with your passions and get involved. Be strategic and intentional with your time—seek out opportunities where you can make a meaningful impact. Show up consistently, build relationships with community leaders, and don’t underestimate the power of personal connections.”
—PAMELA YANCEY, PRESIDENT/CEO, BRANSON/LAKES AREA CHAMBER OF
BRAD
PAMELA YANCEY
For some, the gap between brainstorming a great idea and bringing it to life can feel wide. For Johnny Morris, it’s just another day at the o ce. His latest big idea to advance the Ozarks, Thunder Ridge, is why he’s Biz 417’s Person of the Year.
STORY BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST • REPORTING BY LOGAN AGUIRRE, DORI GRINDER
Johnny Morris (second from right) wanted to share the spotlight at Top of the Rock with some of his longest-tenured employees. Clay Self, 35 years of service; Jan Riddle, 50 years of service; and Carol Greene, 44 years of service.
WWITH AN OFFICIAL GRAND openingthis year, Johnny Morris added Thunder Ridge Nature Arena to his portfolio of one-of-a-kind business and conservation ventures. The inspiration behind this project was simple and reflective of his other initiatives: to display the stunning Ozarks landscapes in a new way.
The Ozarks have a way of feeling like home for locals and visitors alike. For Morris, that feeling led him to build a conservation empire. His parents are both from the Ozarks, and he spent his childhood reeling in fish on the White River with the rolling hills of the Ozarks serving as his backdrop. When Morris was 21 years old, he fished in the first national bass tournament held on Table Rock Lake. “That gave me the fever,” he laughs. While at the tournament, Morris made a list of different lures used by other anglers and presented it to the sporting goods department manager of Gibson’s Discount in Springfield, where he was a loyal customer. Gibson’s was located where the Bass Pro Shops headquarters store stands today. “After some time he said, ‘Johnny I’m sorry, but I can’t get permission from my home office to carry these things,’” Morris recalls. “That’s when I went to my dad and approached him about putting lures in his liquor store at 3543 S. Campbell Ave. on the way to Table Rock Lake.” For the first 13 years, this was the company’s
only store. Morris’ affinity for the great outdoors and entrepreneurial ethos turned into a significant conservation foundation in the United States.
Now, Morris’ firstborn business venture, Bass Pro Shops, is known globally. What started as a tackle shop in the back of his father’s Brown Derby store has catapulted into a collection of world-class attractions, and it seems like the wheels are always turning—Morris is constantly thinking up the next best thing for the Ozarks. His most recent project, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, sews together people’s love for nature and music.
For Morris, though, Thunder Ridge was less about creating a music venue and more about showcasing the beauty of the Ozarks, which is what he does best. “Hopefully, families go there 100 years from now, and they see the same view, the same nature that’s inspirational to people,” Morris says. “It’s a slice of the Ozarks where, yes, you can have entertainment, but Mother Nature is a part of the whole experience.” While music will always be at the center of Thunder Ridge, Morris shared that there will eventually be all kinds of events that allow visitors to sink into nature and enjoy matchless views.
The 20,000-seat nature amphitheater opened this year with an impressive lineup featuring Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, Imagine Dragons, Pitbull and even The Rolling Stones, who stopped by Thunder Ridge to complete their Hackney Diamonds Tour. Morris secured The Rolling Stones for the inaugural lineup through his connection with the band’s keyboardist, Chuck Leavell. “He lives in a little town outside Macon, Georgia,” Morris says.
Founder of Bass Pro Shops, Johnny Morris is passionate about enjoying the Ozarks (top). The original Bass Pro Shop was located inside Johnny’s dad’s Brown Derby liquor store at 3553 South Campbell in Springfield. For the first 13 years, it was the company’s only store (right).
“We opened a store there 20 years ago, and he came and played the piano.” After that, he took Leavell on a fishing trip where Leavell reeled in a big one. The friendship stuck, ultimately leading to the band performing at Thunder Ridge in July.
Thunder Ridge is just the latest of Morris’ conservation projects, behind Big Cedar Lodge, Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, Top of the Rock, Finley Farms, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park and 176 Bass Pro retail stores.
Morris and his team transformed Big Cedar Lodge into a leading golf destination, attracting professional golfers, celebrities and visitors from around the world to the Ozarks. Top of the Rock was the first of Big Cedar’s courses to open, followed by Buffalo Ridge, Mountain Top and Ozarks National. The newest course, Payne’s Valley, opened in 2020 and is the first-ever public access championship course designed by Tiger Woods.
In September, Morris was awarded the highest honor at the 35th Annual Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Banquet and Auction, the Dingell-Young Sportsmen’s Legacy Award. This
award honors individuals for outstanding leadership in conservation and preserving hunting and angling traditions—something Morris doesn’t take lightly. Since the emergence of Bass Pro, Morris has dedicated his life to conserving wildlife and habitats, advocating for sportsmen’s rights and connecting people to nature. The company employs 32,000 people nationally, including 4,000 veterans and 6,093 employees in 417-land. Supporting veterans has been a core commitment for Morris. The company donated $3 million to establish a series of memorials at the College of the Ozarks to honor heroes, including a Vietnam War Memorial, Gold Star Families Memorial and Korean War Memorial. He also launched the Helping A Hero “100 Homes Challenge,” pledging to cover the full cost of the first 10 homes and 25% of the cost for the next 100 specially adapted homes for wounded veterans.
Morris is a risk-taker with a pioneering spirit. He developed the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, a not-for-profit committed to advancing the cause of conservation. The foundation operates Dogwood Canyon Nature Park,
Together with his father, mentor and hero, John A. Morris, and Johnny Morris (left). Showing interest in fish at a very early age, Johnny plays in a minnow bucket in the front yard of his childhood home in Springfield (below).
Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, Auduboncertified Nature Golf courses and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium. Thunder Ridge Nature Arena is also a part of the foundation and directs all proceeds to conservation efforts, protecting the land, wildlife and habitats of the Ozarks. In 2019, Morris received The Audubon Medal, considered by many to be one of our nation’s highest conservation awards; he was only the 58th recipient throughout the 119-year history of the National Audubon Society. “What we’re proudest about today is that over the last decade, our company has given over 10% of our earnings to conservation,” he says. “Most people in the company are very passionate about the outdoors and conservation—it’s a shared passion we all have.”
Although Morris is an entrepreneur, he is a conservationist at heart. He is one of the United States’ leading advocates for preserving natural habitats and wildlife for future generations to protect and enjoy. He is also passionate about the vital part hunters and anglers play in con-
“Hopefully, families go there 100 years from now, and they see the same view, the same nature that’s inspirational to people.”
servation and safeguarding the Ozarks. “How do we celebrate the role of hunters and anglers, sportsmen and women?” Morris asks. “To me, they are true conservationists of our country, like Roosevelt and Audubon—two of my biggest heroes.” Through their passion, they have spent enough time in the outdoors to realize the importance of habitat and thoughtful regulation, he says.
Fishing and showcasing the Ozarks is more than a vocation for Morris. He’s continually inspired by those around him, striving to give them spaces where they can view the best sunsets, take in fresh air and connect with one
another. “417—if there is an area code that says ‘nature and genuine, friendly people,’ you’ve got it right here,” Morris says. “We live in the best place in the world.”
Although we can’t predict Morris’ next move to enhance the Ozarks, we can be sure it will be innovative, timeless and rooted in conservation of this region where he is deeply proud of his Bass Pro Shops team. He acknowledges the pride his team takes in their work and is ever grateful for their support of his big ideas. “I’m more of a daydreamer,” Morris says. “I think there’s no place better for any daydreamer to start a business than in the Ozarks.”
Showcasing the vast hillside where Thunder Ridge Nature Arena is located, more than 18,000 attendees
filled the arena for the inaugural concert of the season featuring Morgan Wallen in May 2024.
Join us July 23–24, 2025 at the Branson Convention Center. Tickets on sale November 15!
