April 2021
IN THIS ISSUE
2 :: New Members 2 :: New Resident Mailing 3 :: April Meeting & Golf Tourney 4 :: Member News 5 :: Annual Gala 6 :: Spring BBQ 8 :: Ambassador Spotlight 8 :: Renewing Members 9 :: Member Events 10 :: Rock & Roll Bingo 11 :: Member Discounts
Saturday, May 1, 2021 Andre’s Banquet Center 4254 Telegraph Road
April 8 :: Thursday General Membership Meeting Royale Orleans Banquet Center 11:15 am April 15 :: Thursday New Resident Mailing Inserts Due Affton Chamber Office 1:00 pm April 21 :: Wednesday Economic Development Meeting Zoom 9:00 am April 27 :: Tuesday Ambassador Committee Meeting Affton Chamber Office 10:00 am May 1 :: Saturday Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala Andre’s South Banquet Center 6:00 pm May 8 :: Saturday Spring BBQ Cotton’s Ace Hardware Parking Lot 10:30 am - 5:30 pm
$40 per ticket includes dinner, open bar, and opportunity to bid on silent & live auction items ~ tables of 8 available ~ In addition to social distancing and masks at this event...
We are excited to introduce GiveSmart GiveSmart is a mobile bidding tool that allows attendees to bid on silent auction items from their mobile phone.
We chose this program because:
There’s no app to download, simply send a text message. You’ll avoid pushing through crowded auction areas to bid. You can browse items ahead of the event. Checkout on your phone before claiming the items you’ve won.
Technology Sponsor
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.
HOY SHOE COMPANY, INC.
Jeff Downs 4970 Kemper Avenue (63139) 314.772.0900 www.saltwater-sandals.com Hoy Shoe Company is a manufacturer of children's and women's leather sandals that are distributed globally under the Sun-San (R) and Salt Water (R) brands.
SIMMONS BANK
Lacey Van Damme 8083 Watson Road (63119) 314.962.2223 www.simmonsbank.com Simmons Bank is a community bank that just happens to have the strength of one of the premier banks in the region. By investing in friends and neighbors, Simmons Bank empowers local leadership to make decisions at the local level. For more than 100 years, they’ve worked hard to help make our customers’ dreams come true – dreams like buying a home, starting a business or simply having the ability to manage your money safely and securely, anywhere you happen to be. As a member, YOU are our best salesperson because YOU know the value of membership!
Recruit a new member & you can choose: lunch at a member meeting or
business card newsletter ad Your name or business must be indicated as referring them on the application. The new member cannot have been a member during the past 2 years.
The New Resident Mailing is sent quarterly to new homeowners in 63123 welcoming them to our area. This is a great way to put YOUR BUSINESS in THEIR HOME! This is for any member that is 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 Thursday, April 15.
*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)!
Has designing and printing an insert been the reason you haven’t participated in the New Resident Mailing?
NEW IN 2021: Our staff will design your insert and print it!
For an additional $15, we will use your guidance to design & print a one-sided, half-page, color insert on white paper with your logo, services, discounts, contact information, etc.
A proof will be provided for your approval. Deadline for this service is Friday, April 9
ANNUAL BLOOD DRIVE Wednesday, June 2, 2021 2:00-7:00 pm Affton Fire Station #1 9282 Gravois Road Save the date and watch for detailed registration information soon.
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PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling
Speaker: Ranken Technical College Ranken Technical College is a private technical college. It offers programs in five main divisions: Automotive, Electrical, Construction, Information Technology, and Manufacturing. Ranken’s representatives will share their vision of providing opportunities for student education to enhance the local workforce for Affton companies.
Thursday, April 8 11:15 am Registration - 11:50 am Lunch Royale Orleans Banquet Center 2801 Telegraph, 63125
Meeting Sponsor
$15 members | $20 non-members register at afftonchamber.com by April 2 All St. Louis County guidelines for gatherings including face coverings and social distancing will be followed. 2021 MEETING SPONSORHIPS AVAILABLE ... $100 one luncheon attendee | 3-5 minute “commercial” at meeting exclusive rights to place materials on tables | recognition on all promotional materials Call the Chamber office if you're interested!
May Membership Luncheon Thursday, May 13, 2021
Orlando’s Event Center
Speaker: The Values Conversation Sponsorship Available...contact the Chamber office if you’re interested!
Tuesday, July 13 | 10:00 am Tapawingo National Golf Club GOLF | SPONSOR | VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE MEMBERS ARE NEEDED TO MAKE THIS A SUCCESS! Call or email the Chamber office.
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank
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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.
Congratulations to Lois Mans Farmers Insurance Agency for being named 2020 Agent of the Year in their district! They also won #1 Home New Business, Commercial Top Producer, Topper Club, Commercial Cup, and The Masters awards.
Our Condolences to Jake Baretich of J & J Construction & Remodeling on the passing of his brother.
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Check out what Kathleen Brewer of Tammy Luechtefeld’s State Farm office won at the March membership meeting...a Tower Tee Golf & Recreation tshirt! Our next luncheon is April 8, check out page 3 for more details. NOTE: This shirt was printed last year and their new targeted opening date is June. Thanks to Dick Walkenbach for donating the t-shirt!
PARTNERS Gold…Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center, Mercy Hospital South, Tammy Luechtefeld - State Farm Agent
Affton Chamber of Commerce
Annual Awards & Dinner Auction Gala Presented by:
Saturday, May 1, 2021
Sponsor Advertise Attend Donate Volunteer
Andre’s Banquet Center
Maximize your exposure! Sponsorships begin at $100
4254 Telegraph Road $40 per ticket tables of 8 available
Reach potential buyers! Ads begin at $25 $40 per person includes dinner, open bar & bid number
Doors Open & Silent Auction 6:00 pm Open Bar begins at 6:30 pm Buffet Dinner Served 7:00-8:00 pm Live Auction begins at 8:15 pm Awards Ceremony following Auction
Donate a product or gift certificate to find new customers! Help us make this night special by volunteering!
Technology Sponsor
Major Sponsors
First Responder Sponsors
Wall of Wine Sponsor
Jewelry Raffle Sponsor
Volunteer Table Sponsors H C SHARP CO
Section Sponsors Tammy Luechtefeld
Est. 1947
PARTNERS Bronze...Affton Christian Food Pantry, Cindy’s Photo, Commerce Bank, Crawford-Butz Insurance Agency, Syberg’s: An Eating & Drinking Company
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AFFTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SATURDAY, MAY 8TH 10:30AM - 5:30PM (or until food runs out) Located at
Cotton’s Ace Hardware Parking Lot 10042 Gravois Road
CARRYOUT ONLY
DINNERS: $10.00 INCLUDES (2) SIDES
PORK STEAKS | HALF CHICKEN 1/3 SLAB RIBS | (2) BRATWURSTS TICKET SPONSOR:
Sandwiches Also Available:
Hamburgers, Brats & Hot Dogs Selection of Soda and Chips
Volunteers Needed Two-Hour Shifts Wear Your Company Attire Network with Other Workers Contact the office or visit the website for shift availability and to sign-up!
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PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling
March Membership Meeting March 11, 2021
Thanks...
Orlando’s Event Center for the delicious lunch. Amanda Willis Real Estate - Brokered by EXP Realty for sponsoring the meeting. Greeter Michael Butz, MB Insurance Consulting dba MB health. Rob Smith, Gapsch Carstar Collision Center for technology support. Katrina Utz, MPPA, St. Louis County Department of Public Health for speaking about COVID vaccinations. Members of the Lemay Chamber for attending. Photos provided by Cindy’s Photo
New Member Theresa Fox
The Values Conversation
The 50/50 amount of $68 was won by Kevin Dean, Executive Construction Services. Kathleen Brewer, State Farm-Tammy Luechtefeld won a Tower Tee Golf & Recreation t-shirt donated by Dick Walkenbach. Luis Seise, State Farm-Dane Huxel won a Swag Bag of Affton Chamber member items. Want to see your name mentioned here? Attend a meeting, buy 50/50 tickets & win OR donate an item for the 50/50 drawing.
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank
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We asked our newest Ambassador to answer a few questions so we can get to know him better. Photo provided by Cindy’s Photo.
Luis Seise State Farm-Dane Huxel TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I’m a native Saint Louisan. I love everything about this city! I have 2 Amazing kids! Matthew is 21 and Isabella is 16. I’ve been working for Dane Huxel’s State Farm agency for 2 years. I really enjoy my job! I’m a professional risk advisor. I help people manage their everyday risk. I really enjoy helping people in or outside of work. I approach everything I do in life with a positive attitude and enthusiasm. I do my best to live in the moment each day while being the best version of myself. FAVORITE HOBBIES/PASTIMES
Thanks to the following businesses and organizations for renewing their memberships. Year joined is in parentheses. Listed renewals are February 19-March 25.
American Roofing & Exteriors (2012) Bethesda Health Group (2015) Center St. Louis (2014) Crown Vision Center (1998) F2 Garage Door Solutions (2008) Gardenville Masonic Temple (2020) Grace Union Church (2020) Pamela Knox (2015) Linda Stephenson Agency - Farmers Insurance (2018) Mercy Hospital South (1991) Monuments of St. Louis (2001) State Farm Insurance-Huxel (2012) Yorkshire Cleaners, Inc. (2005) Zisser Tire & Auto (2000)
My escape from reality is sports! I love watching them and attending events! My favorite teams are the Cardinals, the Blues and the Dallas Cowboys. I like history. I like the outdoors. I also like attending concerts. Hopefully we’ll be able to do that soon again. I like to invest in myself. I enjoy reading / listening to any motivational or training topics on sales. FAVORITE QUOTE
Live in the moment and enjoy life to the fullest! Be the best version of yourself every day! If it’s important to you, you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find an excuse. FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION
Chicago or anything near a beach. WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BE AN AMBASSADOR?
To give back to the community as much as I can. WHAT IS A GOAL YOU’D LIKE TO HELP THE CHAMBER ACCOMPLISH
I’d like to help the Chamber grow. Get to know new members and help them make the most of their membership with the Chamber. 8
PARTNERS Gold…Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center, Mercy Hospital South, Tammy Luechtefeld - State Farm Agent
Help support our members by voting for them in the St. Louis Magazine A-List! It's the annual tribute to the region's finest. You can vote once per day through April 16 at https://www.stlmag.com/alist#//
Here's a list of our members with the categories they're nominated in: 9 Mile Garden: Comedy Club Ace Hardware: Home Improvement Store Commerce Bank: Bank Courtesy Diner: 24-Hour Restaurant, Diner Delmar Gardens Family: Assisted Living Facility Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers: Auto Repair & Mechanic, Tire Shop Edward Jones: Wealth Manager/Financial Advisor Farmers Insurance: Insurance Agency Federhofer's Bakery: Bakery First Community Credit Union: Credit Union, Mortgage Grateful Pets: Pet Trainer/Obedience School Imo's Pizza: Pizza (St. Louis-Style) Keller Williams Realty, Inc.: Real Estate Agency Kenrick's Meats and Catering: Butcher Lou Realty Group: Real Estate Agency Affton Medicine Shoppe: Pharmacy McKelvey Homes: Home Builder Reinhold Electric: Electrician Scott Credit Union: Credit Union SSM Health Physical Therapy: Physical Therapy/Rehab State Farm: Insurance Agency Syberg's: Bar, Business Lunch, Family Restaurant, KidFriendly Restaurant, Salad, Sports Bar, Wings Tapawingo National Golf Club: Golf Course Total Access Urgent Care: Urgent Care Tower Tee Golf & Recreation: Driving Range Woodard Cleaning & Restoration: Residential Cleaning Services Zisser Tire & Auto: Tire Shop
Flea Market Saturday, April 17 8:30 am-1:00 pm Affton Community Center (9801 Mackenzie) Here is your opportunity to clean out your clutter as a vendor or to collect a rare treasure as a buyer. Advance registration for vendors is required as limited space is available. Admission is free. $25/vendor table. For more information or to register call (314) 615-8822. Family Bingo! Friday, May 7 6:00-7:30 pm Affton Community Center (9801 Mackenzie) Make it a family game night at Affton Community Center! Play up to 6 rounds for prizes. Pre-registration is required. Call (314) 615-8822 for more information or to register. Ages 5+. $2/person.
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT TO OUR CALENDAR! If it is posted by the 15th of the month, it will be published in the next month’s newsletter.
Did you know the Calendar is one of the most visited pages on our website?
Need help posting? Contact mandy@afftonchamber.com.
AFFTON CHRISTIAN FOOD PANTRY Pantry Requests: Health & Hygiene Supplies Toilet Paper, Laundry Detergent, Hand Soap, Body Soap, Shampoo
Breakfast Items Cereal, Breakfast Bars, Granola Bars, Protein Bars
Meal Supplements Hamburger Helper, Rice, Pasta, Potato Side Dishes
PARTNERS Bronze...Affton Christian Food Pantry, Cindy’s Photo, Commerce Bank, Crawford-Butz Insurance Agency, Syberg’s: An Eating & Drinking Company
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A fun night for Chamber members, their families, and residents to test their musical knowledge! Contact Charlie Merx at 314.544.7464 if you’re interested in joining the planning committee.
TWO LARGE-SCALE VACCINATION EVENTS IN SOUTH ST. LOUIS COUNTY
The St. Louis County Department of Public Health will host two large-scale vaccination events in South County early next month. The first event will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 3 at South Technical High School, 12721 West Watson Road. The second event is scheduled during the same hours on April 8 at the Kennedy Recreation Center, 6050 Wells Road. These are appointment only events. Plans for additional dates for vaccination events at the South County sites are still being developed. “St. Louis County continues to work hard to remove barriers to vaccinations for all County residents,” St. Louis County Executive Dr. Sam Page said. “This week we are vaccinating a record 15,000 individuals, and as long as the state continues to increase the supply of vaccine we get, our capacity to administer doses will increase as well.” DPH has been working with Councilman Ernie Trakas and other community leaders for sites in South County that can be used repeatedly. The availability of such sites improves efficiency because less setup work is required between events. That is the case at the Florissant Valley campus of the St. Louis Community College in North County, which was the County’s first mass vaccination site outside of DPH clinics. The County already provides hundreds of vaccinations weekly in South County through partnerships with area fire districts and emergency personnel. The addition of the two new sites means that the County will administer vaccinations in more than 15 locations, including mobile units that serve senior housing complexes and homebound individuals. 10
2021 Affton Chamber of Commerce Janet Broderick Scholarship Recipients Charlotte Krakowski, Affton High School Annie Vo, Bayless High School Grace Mueller, Cor Jesu Academy
PARTNERS Diamond...J & J Construction & Remodeling
Utilizing the Library for Business Research April 19, 2021 @ 6:00pm Virtual Program
Registration required at: https://stlouis.score.org/content/take-workshop-224
As a business owner, you need access to information about your market, your competition, and where to find your potential prospects. You could spend hours of time and hundreds, or even thousands of dollars to acquire this data critical to your business. But really smart business owners have a secret resource, the library. Let your St. Louis County Library card save your business time, money, & resources. Pull lists of prospective clients, investors, or partners. Access consumer expenditure and market demand information for your area. Opening a new location? Make an educated decision based on competitor locations and retail demand. All available through St. Louis County Library for FREE. Topics covered in this workshop include: Pulling potential client lists, lists of investors, and potential partners in ReferenceUSA, Mergent Intellect, & Hoovers. Using DemographicsNow to find out who you want to reach, what area they live, how they spend their money, and what media they are using. Using the same databases to find information on competitors, where they're located, and create heat maps of the best areas to place your new business based on demand. Key take aways: The library has access to multiple databases you can access with your library card for free. After the workshop, you'll know how to create prospecting lists tailored to your needs, utilize market demographics to your advantage, and get information for an in depth competitive analysis.
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. F2 Garage Door Solutions—Free safety inspection for garage door and garage door opener! Fran Ann Engraving—10% off purchase from store. 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.
AFFTON CHAMBER INFORMATION CENTER
Did you know that you can put YOUR business cards and brochures in the Affton Chamber entryway lobby? Residents and fellow members are always browsing the offerings when they stop by the office. Just drop them off during our normal hours.
PARTNERS Platinum...Dane Huxel-State Farm Agent, Great Southern Bank
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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
2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
FEBRUARY 2021
• New Members: Empowered: A Center for Sexuality LLC; • • • • • • •
Glennon Inc.; Mid America Testing Laboratory Inc.; Jess Lepage - The Nations Network Realty; ZenBusiness. Held February Membership Meeting Held Virtual Happy Hour Monthly Board of Directors Meeting Met with South County Stakeholders and St. Louis County Health Department Committee Meetings: Annual Gala Member Communication: 2 E-Blasts (2 members participated) Website: 1,243 page views (590 unique visits); top visited pages: History of Affton, Annual Gala, Frequently Asked Questions; 9,025 impressions of banner ads on website & member’s area with 196 click-thrus
Officers President
Cindy Tiefenbrunn
President-Elect
Jake Baretich
Vice-President
Dr. Tara Brooks
J & J Construction & Remodeling Affton Veterinary Clinic Secretary
Rob Smith
Treasurer
Alex Knebel
Gapsch CARSTAR Collision Center
Knebel Realty Directors Michael Bamvakais Dill, Bamvakais & O’Keefe, PC Michael Butz MB Insurance Consulting LLC dba MBhealth Dane Huxel State Farm Insurance Yvonne Merlotti Affton Plaza Charlie Merx Merx Flooring Angie Muegge Sharpshooters Pit & Grill Dr. Abigail Overby Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy Gerard Schmidt ServPro Rich Whited PenTech Computer Services Ex-Officio Chief Nick Fahs Capt. Guy Means Lisa Rackley Mandy Montgomery
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Cindy’s Photo
Affton Fire Protection District St. Louis County Police-Affton Executive Director Office Assistant