December 2020
IN THIS ISSUE 2 :: New Members & Dec Mtg 2 :: Key to the 123 3 :: Happy Hour & Shout Out 3 :: New Resident Mailing 5 :: Renewing Members 5 :: Helping Hands 8 :: Member News 10 :: Ambassadors 11 :: Member Discounts
from your Chamber Team! SAVE THE DATE December 2 :: Wednesday Key to the 123 Zoom 8:00-9:00 am December 10 :: Thursday General Membership Meeting CANCELED December 11 :: Friday Virtual Happy Hour Zoom 4:00 pm December 25 :: Friday Office Closed December 29 :: Tuesday Ambassador Committee Meeting Affton Chamber Office 10:00 am January 1 :: Friday Office Closed January 15 :: Friday New Resident Inserts Due Affton Chamber Office 1:00 pm
Small Business Deployment Fund
More than $3 million in CARES Act funds will be distributed to small businesses and restaurants in the County’s continued response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “These grants come at a critical time for small businesses and restaurants in St. Louis County,” said County Executive Dr. Sam Page. “We know these businesses have been acutely affected by the pandemic and our efforts to control the spread of the virus. I implore all businesses that qualify to apply for these grants and I call on our leaders in Washington to get together now and approve a stimulus package so that we can get more financial assistance out into our communities. This should have happened months ago.” The county earlier this year awarded $19.7 million to more than 1,600 small businesses and restaurants. The additional funds come at the recommendation of the Economic Rescue Team, a group of volunteers appointed by Dr. Page earlier this year to help lead the County’s economic recovery efforts. The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership will administer the new program, known as the Small Business Rapid Deployment Fund. “As a catalyst for economic development in the St. Louis region, we remain committed to helping existing businesses weather the devastating impact of the COVID-19 virus. These funds are part of a comprehensive support plan,” said Rodney Crim, CEO and President of the St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. Small businesses impacted by COVID-19 can apply for $5,000 grants to pay for operating expenses or business costs, including rent and payroll. Restaurants that have had to adapt to COVID-related public health restrictions can apply for $5,000 grants to off-set related costs for things such as equipment for outdoor dining, heaters, tents, and curbside service.
In order to qualify, businesses must have 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees and have a physical presence in St. Louis County. The grants can only go to businesses significantly impacted by the continued economic challenges created by COVID-19 and will only cover expenses and costs incurred between April 1, 2020 and December 16, 2020. Businesses that have already received a County CARES Act grant are not eligible. Application for the Small Business Rapid Deployment Fund grants open Monday, November 23, at 9 a.m. and will remain open until 5 p.m. Monday, December 7. Businesses and restaurants are encouraged to apply as early as possible because funding may be limited based on demand. To apply, go to the Partnership website at STLPartnership.com.
MISSION STATEMENT The Affton Chamber of Commerce exists to support the business and general interests of the greater Affton area, and to provide opportunities to network, advertise, and educate its member businesses.
LAKE FRONT FLIPS
Norm Bennett 2194 San Simeon Dr (63010) 573.218.2114 Lake Front Flips purchases properties in any condition to stylishly remodel. Homes are staged and put back on the market.
UPLIFT MARKETING LLC
Matthew Hanses 7473 Cornell Ave (63130) 314.650.3675 www.uplift.marketing Uplift is a marketing and consulting company with clients across North America and Europe. They create websites, print promotion, logos and everything else needed to generate more business. They deliver highly customized consulting and strategy to expand your business and make your goals a reality. Uplift creates high-end marketing that truly reflects a company’s mission and culture, taking a holistic view of marketing. Rather than treat it as something separate from the rest of the company, they create marketing which forwards its core mission and gets results.
The December Membership Luncheon has been canceled due to the St. Louis County Public Health Order restricting gatherings to no more than 10 people.
Unlock your Membership! Wednesday, December 2 8:00 am -9:00 am Watch for direct Zoom link or use Meeting ID: : 831 7604 0379 Passcode: 990311 Can’t make it? Contact us to set up a 1-on-1 in person or over Zoom! Learn how to make the most of your Affton Chamber membership by taking advantage of opportunities to network, market your business, use online tools, and more!
New Members, New Representatives, and Prospective Members Welcome
Complimentary Please RSVP at afftonchamber.com.
Through their partnership with Operation Food Search, the Affton Christian Food Pantry is officially a distribution location for reusable face masks. If you’re interested in obtaining some of these masks, please contact them at (314) 580-3138 or ebrandes@afftonchristianfoodpantry.com.
For more guidance in St. Louis County during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit: 2
www.stlcorona.com
PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling Platinum...9 Mile Garden, Affton Plaza
Join us from your home or office on Friday, December 11 at 4:00 pm for a fun, casual time to connect with other members! All Happy Hour attendees will be entered into a drawing for a prize from our sponsor...but, you must be present to win! Watch for the direct Zoom link or use Meeting ID: 839 8633 6082 Passcode: 886189 Thanks to ServPro for sponsoring the November happy hour.
WANTED‌Sponsors for future Virtual Happy Hours!
Simply provide an attendance prize and you’ll be featured to tell attendees about your business.
Contact the office to reserve your month.
The New Resident Mailing is sent quarterly to new homeowners in 63123 welcoming them to our area. The New Resident Mailing is perfect for: Restaurants | Churches | Financial Institutions Service-Based Businesses or any member trying to reach new customers! You provide 200 half-page inserts & $40 and we do the rest! Drop off 200 half-page* inserts & $40 by 1 pm on Friday, January 15, 2021.
*Have so much to tell new Affton residents that you need a full sheet? Simply double the price ($80) and fold the sheets (in half or tri-fold)!
Have you used an Affton Chamber member and had a great experience? We want to know about it!
ServPro Thanks to ServPro for fogging/disinfecting the Affton Fire Protection District stations. Watch here for more featured Shout Outs! You can see all the Shout Outs or submit your own at afftonchamber.com/shout-out.html. Or email it to shoutout@afftonchamber.com
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank, Harster Heating & Air Conditioning
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Ribbon Cutting at Excel Sports & Physical Therapy October 29, 2020
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PARTNERS Gold…Mercy Hospital South, Tammy Luechtefeld - State Farm Agent Silver…Affton Veterinary Clinic, Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center
Thanks to the following businesses and organizations for renewing their memberships. Year joined is in parentheses. Listed renewals are October 23-November 20.
ABC Animal & Insect Innovations LLC (2001) Affton Education Foundation (1988) Affton White-Rodgers Community Center (1998) American Eagle Waste Industries (2018) Americom Imaging Systems, Inc. (2013) Andre's Banquet Center (2012) Arnold Air Inc. (2011) Bartolino's South (2017) BDN Properties (2018) Carondelet Park Rec Plex YMCA (2008) Cindy's Photo (2008) Citizens National Bank (1991) City of Lakeshire (2010) Collaboratech (2007) Courtesy Diner (2014) Crestside Heating & Cooling (1988) Crestview Senior Living (2008) Dairy Queen (2009) Deca Realty Co. Inc. (1994) Dill, Bamvakais & O'Keefe, PC (1973) Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers (1975) Domian Asphalt Paving (1992) Donelson Cycles Inc. (1971) Essex Industries (1973) Federhofer's Bakery (1975) Financial Resolutions LLC (1993) First Community Credit Union (2008) Fred's South County Auto Repair (1974) Gateway Insurance (2007) Gateway Metro Federal Credit Union (2012) Georgetown Apartments (1991) Grateful Pets (2019) H. C. Sharp, Company (1997)
Heartland Industries, Inc. (1977) Jardon Accounting & Tax Service (2001) Landscape Concepts (2003) LiUNA Event Center (2019) Lots of Curb Appeal, LLC (2002) Lutheran High School South (2005) Mackenzie Crossing (8001 Mackenzie LLC) (2018) Massey Tuckpointing and Masonry, LLC (2019) MB Insurance Consulting LLC dba MBhealth (2013) McDonalds--Mackenzie Pointe (2001) Michael Vogt, Attorney at Law (2002) Mid America Arms (2001) Modern Imports (2019) Plasti-Lite Signs (2019) R. G. Ross Construction Company (2017) John Remelius (2011) Rooftop Church (2017) Saint Louis County Library (2012) Saint Mark Catholic Church (2009) Salem Lutheran Church & School (1975) Save-A-Lot Reavis Barracks (1999) Show Me Electrical Services (2019) Raquel Sklebar (2019) South County Times (1986) State Farm Insurance-Eckert (2006) STL Auto Care (2013) Surco, Inc. (2018) Trinity United Church of Christ (2016) Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (2010) Village of Marlborough (2019) Rich Whited (2015) Wilbur Park, Village of (1998) Wilmington Clinic (2008)
With increased presence of charitable organizations that provide assistance to families in need around the holidays, the Affton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has decided to continue the annual Helping Hands Program by collecting and distributing monetary support to our area organizations. We feel that instead of adopting families, we will have more of an impact in this manner. Please contact the Chamber office if you would like to participate in this worthwhile effort. PARTNERS Bronze...Affton Christian Food Pantry, Cindy’s Photo, Commerce Bank, Syberg’s: An Eating & Drinking Company
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DID YOU KNOW? Affton is not a city!
Affton is a neighborhood with a very strong identity. It has many different definitions of boundaries including by zip code, school district, fire district, etc. Since Affton is not a city, there is no city hall. There is NO Mayor of Affton. Representation in county government is through the St. Louis County Council. You can find a list of elected officials that represent Affton and read more about the history of Affton on our website.
Economic Outlook Breakfast attendees were provided this interesting information about St. Louis County, Affton’s governing body:
For more information about St. Louis County, please visit their newly redesigned website:
www.stlouiscountymo.gov
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PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling Platinum...9 Mile Garden, Affton Plaza
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank, Harster Heating & Air Conditioning
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If you have hired someone, received an award, or added to your family, send it to mandy@afftonchamber.com by the 15th of the month for publication in the next month’s newsletter.
Welcome to the new commander of the St. Louis County PoliceAffton Southwest Precinct, Captain Guy Means.
Kami Kimes delivered 180 pounds of ground beef from Hillsboro Title Company to Affton Christian Food Pantry for their clients.
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R.G. Ross Construction is excited to announce Devin Schreiber will be joining us as Project Manager, beginning January, 2021. Devin is graduating from Missouri University of Science and Technology, Rolla, MO., with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, and will estimate and manage large and small commercial projects, including office, retail, civil, and medical work.
Our Condolences to
The family, friends, and co-workers of Sidney Guller. He and his brother, Harold, founded Essex Industries 73 years ago.
PARTNERS Gold…Mercy Hospital South, Tammy Luechtefeld - State Farm Agent Silver…Affton Veterinary Clinic, Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center
Economic Outlook Breakfast November 12, 2020
Thanks...
LiUNA Event Center for the delicious breakfast. Keynote Speakers: Alex Garza, M.D., Incident Commander, St. Louis Regional
Pandemic Taskforce; Dr. Simone Cummings, Dean, George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology, Webster University; Craig Fehr, CFA Investment Strategist, Edward Jones Emcee: Carol Daniel, KMOX Anchor and Radio Personality Photos provided by Cindy Tiefenbrunn, Cindy’s Photo and Mary Butkus, Mary Butkus Media
AFFTON CHRISTIAN FOOD PANTRY Pantry Requests: Hygiene & Cleaning Supplies Pump & bar soap, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, disinfectant cleaning products
Meal Supplements Rice, pasta & potato side dishes, Hamburger Helper
Canned Entrees chili, chicken, beef stew, Vienna sausages, chicken & dumplings
Canned Vegetables
PARTNERS Bronze...Affton Christian Food Pantry, Cindy’s Photo, Commerce Bank, Syberg’s: An Eating & Drinking Company
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Charlie Merx
Gerard Schmidt
Merx Flooring
ServPro
AMBASSADORS
Rob Smith
Gapsch Carstar Collision Center
Cindy Tiefenbrunn
Cindy’s Photo
YOU could be here!
Ambassadors are official representatives of the Affton Chamber that serve as volunteers on the “front-line” of our meetings & events. They help educate prospective members & guests, welcome new members, and facilitate networking. The committee attends Affton Chamber events (meetings, ribbon cuttings, social hours, etc.) and facilitates Key to the 123 Seminar. Mission Statement The Affton Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors promote member commitment through raising awareness of Chamber activities and benefits, promoting member engagement in various activities, and serving as a connection between the chamber and its members. Qualifications Member in good standing for at least one year, attendance at meetings and events, attend monthly Ambassador meetings, mentor new members, and volunteer to support Chamber staff at meetings and events. If you’re interested in joining the Ambassador committee, contact Chair Rob Smith (rob@gapschcarstar.com or 314.894.2322) or the Chamber office.
Photos courtesy of Cindy's Photo
CHAMBER BENEFIT PLAN Looking for health insurance options for 2021? There’s Strength in Numbers!
Thanks to everyone that donated to The Backstoppers at our Fall BBQ. Captain Guy Means, Neighborhood Policing Officers Eric Tripp & Dan Schroeder accepted the donation from Affton Chamber Executive Director Lisa Rackley. 10
We are proud to offer a medical plan that lets small businesses join together for more plan options and lower rates. Say hello to the Chamber Benefit Plan. A multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA) designed for small businesses who are members of a qualified Chamber of Commerce, like ours. Powered by the Missouri Chamber Federation and administered by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, the Chamber Benefit Plan is available to small group employers in Missouri who have 2 to 50 eligible employees. Chamber Benefit Plan Certified Brokers: MB Health 314.544.5400 Sonus Benefits 314.677.2550
PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling Platinum...9 Mile Garden, Affton Plaza
What is SCORE? SCORE’s mission is to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education. With the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. With SCORE, you are not alone on your business journey. SCORE Small Business Resilience Hub Disasters and economic downturns bring unprecedented challenges. But what if the obstacle you are experiencing right now is your opportunity to grow stronger and more successful than you’ve ever been? What if you could do more than just survive? What if you could thrive? SCORE’s Resilience Hub offers training, resources, and remote mentoring to help your small business adapt and succeed. Visit www.score.org to learn more or get started!
Shop Chamber Members! See more offers and details at afftonchamber.com Add your offer to this list by emailing mandy@afftonchamber.com Ad Source One—10% discount. Crown Optical—10% off all eyeglasses, contact lenses, sunglasses & accessories. Not valid with insurance or other discount plans. The E & A CFO Group—One month free payroll or other accounting service with 1 year commitment. Call for free quote.
F2 Garage Door Solutions—Free safety inspection for garage door and garage door opener! Fran Ann Engraving—10% off purchase from store. John G’Sell DDS—10% discount off services. Gateway Alarm, Inc.—Receive 3 months free monitoring with a new system. Gateway Tree Care—10% off services. Insite Advice—Free Extended Internet Marketing Analysis ($300 value) MB Health—$50 discount on Business Consultations Precision Garage Door of St. Louis—Free tube and tune-up with any repair service. St. Louis Bone and Joint Center—FREE Consultation/Exam and Report of Findings.
Retiring members of the Board of Directors: Marty Carr, Deca Realty Carrie Carrigan, Great Southern Bank Lois Mans, Lois Mans Farmers Insurance Agency State Representative Bob Burns, 93rd District for providing flags that were flown over the Missouri State Capitol building for our First Responder Memorial Flag Pole in front of the Chamber office.
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank, Harster Heating & Air Conditioning
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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage
AFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.afftonchamber.com 9815 Mackenzie Road Affton, MO 63123-5424
P AID
ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT No. 3156
TIME-DATED MATERIAL
2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Officers President President-Elect
OCTOBER 2020
Vice-President
• New Members: Coralic Architecture, Smoothie King, State
Secretary
•
Treasurer
• • • • • • • •
Bank, The Values Conversation. Held Candidates Forum at the October General Membership Meeting Held Virtual Happy Hour Monthly Board of Directors Meeting Held Fall BBQ Prepare & mail New Resident Mailing Ribbon Cutting at Excel Sports & Physical Therapy Committee Meetings: Ambassadors, Annual Gala, Economic Development Member Communication: 4 E-Blasts (4 members participated) and 1 E-News Website: 1,145 page views (574 unique visits); top visited pages: Member Directory, History of Affton, Frequently Asked Questions; 6,326 impressions of banner ads on website & member’s area with 165 click-thrus
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Directors Michael Bamvakais Jake Baretich Dr. Tara Brooks Alex Knebel Yvonne Merlotti Charlie Merx Angie Muegge Gerard Schmidt Rob Smith Rich Whited
Carrie Carrigan Great Southern Bank Marty Carr Deca Realty Co. Inc. Cindy Tiefenbrunn Cindy’s Photo Lois Mans Farmers Insurance Agency Dane Huxel State Farm Insurance Dill, Bamvakais & O’Keefe, PC J & J Construction & Remodeling Affton Veterinary Clinic Affton Plaza Merx Flooring Sharpshooters Pit & Grill ServPro Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center PenTech Computer Services
Ex-Officio Chief Nick Fahs Capt. Guy Means
Affton Fire Protection District St. Louis County Police-Affton
Lisa Rackley Mandy Montgomery
Executive Director Office Assistant
The Gala Committee is working to determine the best course of action with this event and keep everyone safe during the pandemic. Watch your email for an announcement.
Saturday, February 6, 2021 5:30-10:30 pm Andre’s Banquet Center 4254 Telegraph Road St. Louis, MO 63129
Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala
Presenting Sponsorship
$1,000
Exclusive Sponsorship
- (8) Tickets to Auction, Seating at Reserved Table premium location - Inside Front Cover Ad (7½” w x 9¾” h black & white) in Auction Program - Logo on Invitation and all promotional material - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media (newsletter, website, etc.)
Major Sponsorship
$500
- (4) Tickets to Auction - Half-Page Ad (7½” w x 5” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media
$350
Exclusive Sponsorship
- (2) Tickets to Auction - Quarter-Page Ad (3½”w x 5” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media
$350
- Full-Page Ad (7½” w x 9¾” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media (newsletter, website, etc.) Designed for company desiring to support but unable to attend
Volunteer Table Sponsorship
$300
- Half-Page Ad (7½” w x 5” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media (newsletter, website, etc.) Designed for company desiring to support but unable to attend
$250
Limited Sponsorship - (2) Tickets to Auction - Business Card Ad (3½” w x 2” h black & white)
in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media (newsletter, website, etc.)
Supporter Sponsorship
$100
- Signage at Event, Recognition in Media
(newsletter, website, etc.)
Wall of Wine Sponsorship
First Responder Sponsorship
Section Sponsorship
(newsletter, website, etc.)
Jewelry Raffle Sponsorship
Presenting Sponsor
$350
Exclusive Sponsorship
- (2) Tickets to Auction - Quarter-Page Ad (3½”w x 5” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media
(newsletter, website, etc.) Designed for company desiring to support but unable to attend
In-Kind Resource Sponsorship
- Quarter-Page Ad (3½”w x 5” h black & white) in Auction Program - Signage at Event, Recognition in Media
(newsletter, website, etc.) Designed for company offering their resources for: Printing (Auction Invitations & Programs, Awards Programs), Flowers
(newsletter, website, etc.)
Deadline for inclusion in Auction program is Friday, January 22, 2021 ** Ads for Program will appear in Black and White. Please email ad in a JPEG or image file **
Name____________________________________________ Business Name_________________________________________ Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________ City _____________________
State ______
Zip ________
Phone _______________________________________
MC, Visa, Discover, AmEx # _____________________________________________Exp. _____________ V-Code_______
Send completed form and payment to: Affton Chamber of Commerce, 9815 Mackenzie Road - Affton, MO 63123
Saturday, February 6, 2021 5:30-10:30 pm Andre’s Banquet Center 4254 Telegraph Road St. Louis, MO 63129
Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala Presenting Sponsor
Affton Chamber of Commerce
2021 Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala Program Advertising Form
By placing an ad in the Affton Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala program you can: • Reach potential buyers for your product and/or service • Enhance your image and promote good community/business relations • Help the Chamber continue its mission to promote the business and general interests of the greater Affton community, and to provide opportunities to network, advertise and educate its member businesses.
PLEASE REVIEW OPTIONS BELOW AND INDICATE SELECTED AD SIZE Deadline for inclusion is Friday, January 22, 2021.
** Ads for Program will appear in Black and White. Please email ad in a PNG or JPEG image file **
Ad Size □ Full Page Ad
□ Half Page Ad □ Quarter Page Ad □ Business Card Ad
Dimensions (w x h) 7½” x 9¾”
Cost $100
7½” x 5”
$ 75
3½” x 5”
$ 50
3½” x 2”
$ 25
Name_________________________________________ Business Name_________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________ City _____________________
State ______
Zip ________
Phone _____________________________________
MC, Visa, Discover, AmEx# _____________________________________________Exp. _____________ V-Code _________
Send completed form and payment to: Affton Chamber of Commerce, 9815 Mackenzie Road - Affton, MO 63123