April 2020 Business Outlook

BUSINESS OUTLOOK M

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APRIL 2020

April is

MOVE MORE

MONTH Learn more on page 10

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE PAGE 3

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR NOMINEES PAGE 3

RESPONDING TO COVID-19 PAGE 4-5

ELECTION NEWS PAGE 6

CHAMBER EVENTS UPDATES PAGE 7

OUR MEMBERS ANNOUNCE PAGE 12

…more announcements and opportunities inside!

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5 LEVEL SPONSORS S T A R

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2020-2021 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Kelli Perigo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chairman of the Board Jeremy Drinkwitz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chairman Elect of the Board

PARTNERSHIP PLATINUM LEVEL

Jerrod Hogan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Past Chairman of the Board

City of Joplin

Todd Chenault . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer

Downstream Casino Resort

Brent Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Co-Vice Chairman Membership/ Community Development Services

Freeman Health System Liberty Utilities

Betsy Kissel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Co-Vice Chairman Economic/ Workforce Development Services

DIRECTORS Melodee Colbert-Kean Todd Chenault Brandon Davis Vickie Dudley Chad Greer Rick Grise Jacqueline Hackett

Mark Johnson Julie Larson Dr. Alan Marble Matt McConnell Katrina Richards Dustin Storm

EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS John Bartosh Jim Dalrymple Nick Edwards Mike Gray Dr. Brad Hodson Kayla McCollum

Dr. Melinda Moss Bill Reiboldt Dr. Laura Rosch Gary Shaw Melissa Smith

Stronghold Data LLC

CHAIRMAN LEVEL Arvest Bank Joplin Globe Publishing Company KODE-TV/KSNF-TV Mercy Hospital Joplin Missouri Southern State University Results Radio, AMI Radio Group

CHAMBER STAFF

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine Southwest Missouri Bank

Toby Teeter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President

U.S. Bank, N.A.

Tonya Sprenkle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chief Financial Officer/Vice President Lisa Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Executive Assistant Debby Chaligoj . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Finance Manager

PRESIDENT LEVEL

Erin Slifka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marketing & Public Information Manager

BKD CPAs & Advisors

Alyssa Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Content Writer

Community Bank & Trust (CBT)

Grace Sitton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Graphic Design

KOAM-TV/FOX 14 – KFJX

Stephanie McGrew . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Special Events Manager

SNC Squared

Reggie Powers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Membership Sales Strategist

Weed Whackers, Inc.

Loni Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Small Business Incubation Ashton Chapman, PhD . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

DIRECTOR LEVEL General Mills

Tony Robyn . . . . . MOKAN Partnership Director of Business Attraction & Retention Lea Schroer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Administrative Assistant Debra Anderson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Program Services Assistant

Lakeland Office Systems, Inc.

Gary Shipman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facilities Maintenance Coordinator Patrick Haase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Facilities Maintenance Assistant

FIND US AT:

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 320 E. 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 (P) 417.624.4150 (F) 417.624.4303

www.joplincc.com /joplinchamber /joplinchamber

General Mills Motive Matters Sparklight

BUSINESS OUTLOOK APRIL 2020

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Missouri is currently one of only two states that does not collect Internet sales tax from outof-state sellers. This leaves our brick-and-mortar businesses, the backbone of our economy, at a competitive disadvantage. This legislative session offers an opportunity to create equity between Missouri companies and out-of-state sellers and improve our competitiveness as a state by passing Internet sales tax legislation – legislation that has been supported by business organizations around the state for years. Also, COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on local sales tax collections. With even more people staying home and shopping online, it’s now more important than ever to include this state legislation as part of Missouri’s emergency response to COVID and its economic impact on our communities.

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is urging lawmakers to address this issue in 2020 by passing legislation that would create sales tax fairness for our state’s retailers. Senate Bill 648 includes this language and is under consideration by the state Senate. As the Missouri Senate takes up Senate Bill 648, please urge Senator Bill White and State Representatives Bob Bromley, Lane Roberts, and Cody Smith to seize this opportunity to create fairness for our brick-andmortar businesses while considering Missouri’s future and our long-term prosperity.

2020 Business of the Year Nominees 1-50 EMPLOYEE CATEGORY n Big R’s n Commerce Bank n Higher Vision. Coaching. Training. Consulting. n Hometown Pediatrics of Joplin, LLC n Homewood Suites by Hilton–Joplin

51+ EMPLOYEE CATEGORY n American Ramp Company n Freeman Health System

NOT-FOR-PROFIT n Joplin Workshops, Inc. n Joplin Area Catholic Schools n Joplin Regional Community Foundation

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Toby Teeter President Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce President MOKAN Partnership

SPONSORED BY

Integrity Home Care + Hospice Midwestern Interactive Ramsey Media Works, LLC Schuber Mitchell Homes, LLC Tropical Tan Wayside Furniture

n Kansas City University-Joplin n Mid-Land Enterprises n Service Recycling

Chamber Work Groups Trails & Connectivity

Diversity & Inclusion

Professional Development

Cultural Enterprise Recruitment

Community Health & Wellness

Chamber Gives Back

Join Today!

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK APRIL 2020 The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting our community as regional businesses are impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. To help local business owners in their response to COVID-19, we have created a list of resources at the local, state, and federal levels.

For more information and resources regarding COVID-19, please visit https://joplincc.com/responding-to-covid-19/.

FEDERAL ASSISTANCE SBA ECONOMIC IMPACT DISASTER LOANS Economic Injury Disaster Loans can help overcome a small business’s temporary loss of revenue and may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster. Eligibility is based on the financial impact of COVID-19.

The interest rate for small businesses is 3.75 percent and 2.75 percent for private non-profit organizations. Long-term repayments are available, up to a maximum of 30 years.

Some tips for applying:

n Review the SBA Fact Sheet (English and Spanish)

n Attend one of the SBA’s free webinars

n Incomplete applications are one of the top reasons for denial

n To avoid long wait times, try applying or calling during off-peak times.

For more information visit https://disasterloan.sba.gov or call the SBA hotline at (800) 659-2955.

CARES ACT Known as the Paycheck Protection Program, the initiative provides $350 billion in 100 percent federally guaranteed loans to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic downturn. More information will be released soon, including the list of lenders offering loans under the program.

To learn more, see the U.S. Chamber’s Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide & Checklist and consult the U.S. Senate Committee for Small Business and Entrepreneurship’s Guide to the CARES Act for Small Businesses.

FAMILIES FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT

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The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) requires certain employers to provide expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. These provisions will be effective starting April 2, 2020 through December 31, 2020.

Covered employers qualify for dollar-for-dollar reimbursement through tax credits. Applicable tax credits also extend to amounts paid or incurred to maintain health insurance coverage.

For more information regarding reimbursement and tax credits, visit https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic/ ffcra-employer-paid-leave.

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

n Relaxing the work search requirement for claims

n Waiving the week waiting period

n Waive charging COVID-19 related claims on the employers’ unemployment insurance accounts, to help employers avoid negative impact on their payroll tax rate

APRIL 2020

STATE ASSISTANCE

DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE n Extended the tax filing deadline to July 15 n Granting automatic extensions on expiring driver licenses, nondriver licenses, and instruction permits

DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES Now accepting requests for enforcement discretion for businesses that may not be able to maintain compliance due to workforce shortages

DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE AND COMMERCE Waiving statutes and rules for pharmacists, nurses, and other health care fields to keep more professionals in the workplace and able to help combat the virus

EXECUTIVE ORDER Allowing restaurants to sell unprepared foods

LOCAL/REGIONAL RESOURCES

SWMO JOB CENTER SWMO Job Center Employer Hotline – if there are any needs the SW Missouri Job Centers can handle, this is the quickest, most effective way of reaching them ASAP – The EMPLOYER HOTLINE is 800-604-4175

NON-PROFIT RELIEF

n Community Foundation of the Ozarks, COVID-19 Response of Recovery Fund n United Way of SW Missouri and SE Kansas

CLEANING SERVICES – COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES – COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL JANITORIAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES SAFETY SUPPLIES OSHA REGULATIONS

GUIDANCE ON UNEMPLOYMENT, CLOSURES AND LAYOFFS MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF LABOR FAQ FOR BUSINESSES & WORKERS

n For information on unemployment, workers’ compensation and discrimination.

EMPLOYMENT TRANSITION TEAM

n Helps employers meet legal obligations while connecting employees to new career and training opportunities.

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK

4YES for Our Kids and for Our Community!

Vote n APRIL 2020

by David Weaver, Vote Yes Co-Chair

Imagine giving up the devices we have today and going back to the ones we had ten years ago. Think about how much has changed in the past ten years. Now imagine life, technology, and opportunities from 90 years ago. That was the Duquesne School in our community several years ago. I remember vividly the day our children in Duquesne went from that 90-year-old building to the new Soaring Heights Elementary. WOW! As I drive by Soaring Heights today, I notice economic growth, new houses going up, and increased traffic that has and will continue to bring new businesses. This vote will afford our children, our teachers, and our community the same opportunities we have already given to others in our district through newer, modern schools. It will bring economic growth to the northwest portion of Joplin and help our children for many years to come.

On June 2nd, Joplin School District voters have an opportunity to help our children. Please follow me in voting yes for our kids, yes for our community.

Joplin Health and Wellness Resource Directory

1 Million Cups Joplin is eager to launch our program and support our entrepreneurial community. However, the health and safety of presenters and participants comes first. Due to the unprecedented national events, we have delayed our launch until this crisis concludes.

Presenters are welcome to apply at www.1millioncups.com/present.

Once we announce our new launch date, all approved presenters will be scheduled.

If you have questions or comments about 1 Million Cups Joplin, you may reach us by email, joplin@1millioncups.com or visit our website www.1millioncups.com/joplin.

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This extensive directory is a guide to a wide variety of community services. It includes local resources in the Four States area as well as national resources.  The directory was created from a combination of resources from Freeman Health System and other community agencies who create lists for their participant’s specific needs.

We would like to thank all the community agencies who share the same passion for helping people with their Social Determinant Needs.

The Community Resource Directory is maintained by Freeman Health System. https://www.freemanhealth.com/assets/documents/communityresource-directory/community-resource-directory.xlsx

BUSINESS OUTLOOK With the concern of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to supporting the local business community. Currently, our top priorities during this time are the health and wellness of our community.

We have reviewed upcoming events and have decided to postpone or cancel the following events. Our sponsors are very important to us and we still plan to hold these events, just at rescheduled dates, which will be announced at another time:

APRIL 2020

Chamber Event Cancellations & Postponements Good Morning Joplin – postponed April Morning Brew – postponed April Business After Hours – postponed Annual Chamber Banquet – postponed Leadership Joplin April sessions – postponed Tomorrow’s Leaders Today sessions and graduation – canceled Golden Apple finalist interviews – postponed Business of the Year interviews – postponed with nominee profile deadlines extended Joplin Eggs & Issues – cancelled Although we regret to postpone or cancel any of our events, these decisions were made in response to concerns from our sponsors and regional developments of COVID-19. Furthermore, we believe that this is the best course of action for maintaining the overall wellbeing of our regional community.

Please note that all of our events scheduled for May are still currently a “go.” We will inform our members and community if this status changes.

As we continue to monitor the evolving situation on a local and national level, we will be collaborating with the City of Joplin and the Joplin Health Department to ensure that we take the proper steps to protect our community. Please watch our communication channels for updates.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the postponements or cancelation of these events, please contact the Chamber at 417.624.4150 or info@joplincc.com.

2020-2021 YPN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Kayla McCollum Chairman

Hayley Sirmon Alex Gandy Heidi Smorstad Hailey Arehart Dana Pim

Every Wednesday 12:00pm on Zoom

Erin Porter

(https://us04web.zoom.us/j/589327986)

Rose Peacock

To stay proactive with social distancing we are now doing Zoom HYPE Lunches every Wednesday. Check out Our Four States (https://ourfourstates.com/) or Support Joplin (https://supportjoplin.com/) to order your lunch for delivery or carry out.

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK PRESENTED BY… APRIL 2020

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Ribbon provided by COUNTRYSIDE IN THE CITY

Stealth Creative Garett Jeffries, Managing Director 1027 South Main Street, Suite 501 Grand Opening of New Location

Skyway Buick GMC Steven Gehrke, General Manager 808 South Illinois Avenue New Chamber Membership

Watered Gardens Gospel Rescue Mission James Whitford, Executive Director 531 South Kentucky Avenue Opening of Respite Shelter Center

To schedule a ribbon cutting or inquire about becoming an Ambassador, please call or email Stephanie, 417.624.4150 or stephanie@joplincc.com.

JACC ALERTS Do you often find yourself getting so busy you forget about a ribbon cutting or a networking event at the Chamber? Want to know everything that is going on at YOUR Chamber? If you answered YES to any of these questions, JACCAlerts can help!

Follow these simple steps to choose which JACCAlerts you receive via text messages. JACCAlerts are sent one hour prior to the event start time. You can opt out of JACCAlerts at any time in the Members Only area of Joplincc.com or simply by replying “STOP” when you receive a message.

Step 1. Log in to Members Only area on Joplincc.com or simply use the QR code at the top right to access Members Only.

Step 2. Choose “Login” on Joplincc.com.

Step 3. Choose “Member Representative Account” and enter your user name and password. If you do not know that information, simply click on the “Forgot Login” link and you will receive an email with that information.

Step 4. Once you log in, navigate to the “Address” tab. Enter your mobile number in Phone 2 if it isn’t already there, and choose “Mobile, Opt-in Text Alerts” in the drop down box. Click Save.

Step 5. Next navigate to the “Options” tab and choose which categories you would like to receive.

Step 6. Click Save and sign out. If you have any trouble, simply call 417.624.4150 and Lea will help you with the process.

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APRIL 2020

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

JACC Foundation Receives $111,334 Grant Award PLANS TO KICKSTART OUR REGIONAL ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to announce it received a $111,334 Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity (MOBEC) grant on March 10. The grant was awarded to the Chamber by the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) and the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

The grant will co-fund projects that aim to improve the structure of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Jasper, Newton and Barton Counties. Through a collaborative approach and unified branding of new and existing entrepreneurial events, educational programs, mentorships, workspaces, and funding sources, will include:

n Hosting a Joplin Regional Technology Summit & Showcase

n Establishing high school and collegiate startup pitch competitions

n Creating an innovator culture and community

n Organizing e-commerce meet-ups across the region

n Identifying and cultivating access to funding through the Joplin Angel Network

n Establishing an entrepreneurial mentoring program

n Launching Joplin 1 Million Cups event

“This grant will generate new and exciting programs the entire community can stand behind,” said Loni Smith, Director of Small Business Incubation at the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. “By jumpstarting talent attraction and retention while focusing on technological advancement, Joplin will be able to reinvent our ideas of economic prosperity. These programs have the ability to serve every demographic in our area and provide services that benefit us all.”

This project will significantly enhance the combined capacities and programs of the greater Joplin area entrepreneurial ecosystem, lead to the creation of high-paying private sector jobs, and build a sustainable community of resources for Joplin area entrepreneurs.

ABOUT JOPLIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOUNDATION Promote charitable endeavors that fall within the mission of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, with special emphasis on supporting charitable, cultural and educational programs and projects through which the community’s quality of life is enhanced.

ABOUT MTC & MOBEC The Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) is a public-private partnership created by the Missouri General Assembly to promote entrepreneurship and foster the growth of new and emerging high-tech companies.

The Missouri Building Entrepreneurial Capacity program (MOBEC) is a cornerstone of MTC’s investment strategy.

Through the MOBEC program, MTC makes strategic investments that expand the support system for entrepreneurs that are commercializing new technologies or that enhance the capacity of Missouri to grow its innovation economy.

The Missouri Technology Corporation works closely with Missouri’s Department of Economic Development. Together the two entities focus on supporting entrepreneurs, innovation, and job creation throughout the state.

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK

How to Move More Anytime Anywhere

Get Your Move More Month Tool-Kit

APRIL 2020

Article courtesy of American Heart Association

It’s really not that hard to fit in fitness. You can get up and move just about anytime, anywhere to be more physically active and stay healthy. And every minute counts toward the goal of at least 150 minutes per week of exercise. Every time you stand up and do something, you’re taking a step in the right direction.

Move more at home, outdoors and just about anywhere.

GET THE WHOLE FAMILY MOVING MORE AT HOME.

Finding ways to be more active around the house sets a good example for kids and can help you stay on top of housework. You can combine exercise with other activities, like watching TV, cleaning or cooking. n Make active chore cards. Let each family member draw a card each day with a different active task that needs to be done.

Cleaning up after dinner, walking the dog, taking the trash out, folding laundry and unloading the dishwasher are all good ways to get your family up off the couch – and get the chores done. n Clear some space, put on some music, and take a dance break! It can re-energize a study session, lazy Sunday or game night. Let each person take a turn as DJ so everyone’s favorites get played. n Put the screens on hold. Instead of heading right for the TV or game console after dinner, make that family activity time.

Take a walk, practice a sport, or play a game of hide-and-seek. n Tune into fitness during TV time. Walk or jog in place or on a treadmill, lift weights, or do yoga while you watch your favorite shows. Break up a TV binge with a bit of activity between episodes. Or challenge each other to see who can do the most burpees, push-ups or jumping jacks during commercial breaks. n Shake up your family’s routine. Join your kids for a bike ride or shoot some hoops before starting on homework and chores. You’ll all feel better and think better. n Play actively with pets. Throw a ball or stick for the dog to fetch. Lead the cat on a string chase around the house. n Include active games in family game night, like Twister, charades and hide-and-seek. n Keep a list of kid-friendly activities handy for when you hear “I’m bored.” n Choose toys for your kids that encourage physical activity, such as balls, skateboards, hula hoops and jump ropes. n Keep exercise equipment out where it can easily be used for a quick workout. n Instead of always having the TV on for company or background noise, play music that inspires you to get up and move.

IF THE GREAT OUTDOORS IS YOUR THING, TAKE YOUR WORKOUT OUTSIDE.

Being outdoors can make exercise seem more like play, so you may enjoy it more and stick with it. Dress in layers so you’re ready for changes in temperature and weather. And don’t forget hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. n When the weather’s nice, take a walk or bike ride around your neighborhood. n Get your garden on. Gardening, mowing and yard work are a great way to get active outdoors. No yard? No problem! Try container gardening or a local community garden. n After a heavy rain, put on some old clothes, grab some towels, and take the kids out for good old-fashioned mud fight.

WANT EVEN MORE WAYS TO SQUEEZE A LITTLE MORE ACTIVITY INTO YOUR LIFE? n Always wanted to learn how to ballroom dance, practice karate or shoot a bow and arrow? Find an online tutorial and teach yourself. It’s never too late to pick up a new skill and get more active. n When you’re out walking, throw in some wall push-ups, lunges and other exercises. Or do short, one-minute intervals at a faster pace to boost the intensity.

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n When you’re at home watching TV do some micro-movements like glute squeezes, abdominal contractions and pelvic floor exercises. Your core will thank you!

YPN/MSSU Partnership Event

APRIL 2020

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

This event continues to remind me of how engaging and philanthropic the Joplin community can be. This year, 437 Missouri Southern State University students benefited from community members contributing their time, opinions, clothes, shoes, accessories, and everything in between.

I saw students smile and blush as community volunteers complimented their professional outfits and “new looks.” These reactions, these boosts of confidence, are directly related to the amazing partnership between Missouri Southern State University and the Young Professionals Network, a program of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you to each of you and our Leadership Joplin Class of 2020: Whether you sorted clothes, sized countless pairs of pants, organized accessories, polished and shined shoes, or shopped with a student, each of you are appreciated for your time and efforts. Thank you for helping better prepare and equip MSSU students for their careers.

Alex Gandy

Director of Career Services Missouri Southern State University

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK ALL DATES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION APRIL 2020 12

AMI Radio Group is pleased to announce the addition of Shotgun Steve Kelly and Shawn Dodd to their team. Kelly joins KKOW 96.9 FM as Program Director with over 30 years of on-air radio experience. “I am ecstatic to be back in the Four States doing radio,” Kelly said. Dodd will represent all ten of AMI’s area signals as a Marketing Consultant; he is a Joplin High and MSSU graduate with over 15 years of marketing and business consulting experience.

—————————————————————————— Wayside Furniture Joplin is proud to announce it is now carrying the famous FLEXSTEEL brand. This includes power recliners, lift chairs, sofas, rocker/recliners, dining room groups and bedroom sets. All Flexsteel is on sale during the month of April. Flexsteel is headquartered in Iowa, and offers high-end home furnishings. Wayside offers discount prices, free area delivery, reduced sales tax and same-day pick up. Visit their store at 3732 North Main Street, or see their website, www.waysidefurniturejoplin.com.

—————————————————————————— The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – Springfield, MO Branch Office (SPBO) has announced the agency’s loan approval activity in 28 counties in Southwest Missouri for Fiscal Year 2020, 1st quarter (10/01/2019 – 12/31/2019).

The SBA approved 70 guaranteed loans in SPBO market totaling $23,662,900 in FY 2020, Q1. The totals include 60 loans for $17,200,900 under the agency’s largest loan program, the 7(a) general business loan program, and 10 loans for $6,462,000 under the 504-loan program. Guaranty Bank was the top SBA 7(a) lender based on loan count approving 11 7(a) loans for $3,067,900. The 7(a) program is SBA’s flagship loan program and offers guarantees on loans to small businesses of up to $5 million on reasonable terms and conditions. 7(a) loans are commonly used by small businesses for a wide variety of financing needs including acquiring land, purchasing equipment, or working capital.

“Small businesses play a crucial role in Southwest Missouri’s economy. SBA programs and services are taxpayer funded programs and every county could benefit from these guaranty loans. It is a shared responsibility of every citizen and economic development professional in each of these counties to learn about these programs and take advantage of them,” said Ram Basnet, SBA Springfield, MO Branch Manager.

—————————————————————————— Connect2Culture has postponed all Connect2Culturehosted events scheduled in April. This includes C2C Roundtables, as well as National Poetry Month-related events. They will update new dates in the coming weeks. As more arts, culture, and entertainment events are canceled each day, consider donating any purchased tickets instead of requesting a refund. The economic impact of COVID-19

OUR MEMBERS ANNOUNCE PRESENTED BY…

on Joplin’s arts and cultural community is uncertain. You can ensure that we do more than just survive during this time.

—————————————————————————— The Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Missouri is getting close to their 1st Annual S’Mac Down Mac and Cheese Event, with a new date to be announced soon! You’ll be able to taste all the different mac and cheese dishes and vote on your favorite! Check out their Facebook page at BGCSWMO for the new date!

—————————————————————————— Employers Health & Safety, LLC is pleased to announce its expansion into Northwest Arkansas. The Joplin, Missouri based environmental health and safety company has been under the ownership of Steve Bell since 2003. The company specializes in safety training, compliance with all government regulations, creating safety plans and building a culture of safety within the facilities of their clients. The company’s motto is “Our passion is your life.” “We’re excited about this expansion. With our proven track record I know we’re going to save lives in the workplace and help our NWA clients save unnecessary costs,” said Steve Bell, President/ Owner of Employers Health & Safety, LLC. Doug Hunt, Vice President of Business Development, will be active in the NWA area networking with area Chambers and reaching out to all industries who will benefit from developing a culture of safety. Employers Health & Safety, LLC is a leading environmental health and safety training company. The company is centered and focused on its mission of injury and death prevention in the workplace. The company is entering its 21st year in business and has developed a safety-training curriculum presented in a powerful and dynamic way ensuring retention. Employers Health & Safety, LLC works closely with and on behalf of their clients regarding any OSHA-related issues.

—————————————————————————— Hire Advantage has several permanent positions open.

Blenders, batchers, machine operators. Pay starts at $15.00 per hour with 12 hour rotating shifts in a Joplin local manufacturing company - excellent benefits after your first

520 hours. Hire Advantage does things differently to ensure that you are matched up with the best positions possible and to provide employers with the best employees possible.

Please forward resumes to resume@hireadvantage.com, or call 417.553.0700 for more information. Administrative Assistant positions are also available, as well as landscaping and several others. If you know of anyone needing a new work family, please send them their way. They only see people by appointments. Your health and family are very important. Hire Advantage is taking every precaution to keep their office sanitized and clean for every guest that comes in.

—————————————————————————— In light of current health issues and to ensure the safety of Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States families, they have suspended their volunteer meal donation program until further notice. In order to continue to provide meals for the families, they are asking for your help! We are accepting the following: Gift cards (Amex/Visa/MC, Restaurant & Grocery Store) and non-perishable, sealed food items. If you have any questions, please contact Shirley at Ronald McDonald House at 417.624.2273. Thank you in advance for your support!

—————————————————————————— Lori Smith, a financial advisor with the Joplin branch of Wells Fargo Advisors, has been named First Vice President – Investment Officer. Smith has served with Wells Fargo Advisors for 14 years and has 18 years of experience in the financial services industry. Smith holds a Masters of Business Administration in Finance from Westminster College of Salt Lake City and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from

the University of Michigan. She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional, a member of the Joplin Rotary Club, and a CASA Board Member for Jasper County as well as a CASA volunteer for Newton and McDonald County. Smith lives in Carthage with her husband Marty.

—————————————————————————— Rick Keller, a financial advisor with the Joplin Branch of Wells Fargo Advisors, has been named Associate Vice President – Investment Officer. Keller has served with Wells Fargo Advisors for eight years and has 12 years of experience in the financial services industry. Keller holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of WisconsinLacrosse. He is involved with his church, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way and Rotary Club of Joplin. Keller lives in Joplin with his wife, Janet, and they enjoy spending time with their two children and two grandchildren.

—————————————————————————— FREE HELP AS YOU DEAL WITH COVID-19. SNC Squared is here to help the community and local business. SNC WILL HELP YOUR BUSINESS STAY CONNECTED AND LET YOUR EMPLOYEES WORK SAFELY FROM HOME. Whether you are an existing client or working with another IT provider, they can assist you with access through 5/1/2020. Many businesses need to keep working but do not have remote work set up yet.

Let SNC help you set it up for free. There is no obligation or cost associated with this offering. They have a limited number of software licenses available, and will do their best to serve you during these times. Call if you need help at 417.622.0933 or follow the link and fill out the contact form on the bottom of the page: https://www.sncsquared.com/covid-19/.

APRIL 2020

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Please submit your Our Members Announce items by the 15th of the month to info@joplincc.com.

JOPLIN COUNTS

Respond to the 2020 Census TODAY! You can now respond to the 2020 Census at 2020Census.gov!

This is our chance to make sure the hard-earned tax dollars we send to Washington, D.C. make their way back to Missouri. For every adult and every child that is not counted in the Census, our state will lose $1,300 in federal dollars every year.

When every Missourian is counted, we get our fair share of funding to pave our roads and rebuild bridges. Our health care programs and community health centers get more funding to take care of our family, friends, and neighbors. And our schools get important funding to take care of our kids.

Respond to the 2020 Census online at 2020Census.gov, or by calling the toll-free number. Because Missouri Counts!

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK APRIL 2020 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today participated in the healthcare session. The class visited the Health Science Building at MSSU, Freeman Health System, Mercy Hospital Joplin and Kansas City University-Joplin.

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE TOMORROW’S LEADERS TODAY SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SESSION SPONSOR

http://cca.joplincc.com/EvtListingMainSearch.aspx?afgm 14

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Jefferson City Leadership Joplin 2020 visited Jefferson City. They toured the capitol, the governor’s mansion, had dinner with state legislators and toured the Jefferson City Correctional Center. Thank you to the sponsors!

SESSION SPONSORS

APRIL 2020

PRESENTING SPONSOR

BREAKFAST SPONSOR CONNELL INSURANCE

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK APRIL 2020

The Chamber’s Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome our newest Chamber Members.

Please keep these and all Members in mind when looking for goods and services.

Robert Brueckner Individual 614 South Pearl Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.623.7200 Sponsor: Reggie Powers and Loni Smith, JACC Employers Health & Safety, LLC Consultants/Training Programs/OSHA Regulations 2819 North Iowa Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.483.6492 www.ehsjoplin.com Steve Bell, President/Owner Sponsor: Doug Hunt, Employers Health & Safety; Reggie Powers, JACC

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Reynolds Warehouse, Inc. Warehousing/Distribution 774 South Black Cat Road Joplin, MO 64801 417.626.9585 www.reynoldswarehouse.com Jerry Reynolds, President Sponsor: Reggie Powers, JACC

Undercliff Grill & Bar Restaurants/Bar 6385 Old Highway 71 Joplin, MO 64804 417.629.2869 www.theundercliffgrill.com Brad Ezell, Owner Sponsor: Reggie Powers, JACC

E & P Wireless Telephones and Service – Cellular 100 West George East Phelps Blvd.

Carthage, MO 64836 210.324.1702 Facebook Michael Barnes, Small Business Solutions Manager Sponsors: Linda Teeter, Urban Art Gallery; Reggie Powers, JACC

GFI Digital Copier & Printer Products, Information Technology 1122 Illinois Avenue, Suite 107 Joplin, MO 64801 417.986.7500 www.gfidigital.com Toby Buckner, Account Manager Sponsor: Reggie Powers, JACC

Next Generation GayLen Plumbing Plumbing Service 2030 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.781.5136 www.nextgenerationgaylen.com Janet and Tony Stussy, Co-Owners Sponsor: Reggie Powers, JACC

Lazenby Optometry Associates, Inc. Optical, Optometrists, Opticians & Optical Labs 2318 East 32nd Street, Suite A Joplin, MO 64804 417.206.0399 www.visionsource-lazenby.com Kathryn Lazenby, Bookkeeper/Secretary Sponsor: Heather Carlson, Carlson Chiropractic Center; Reggie Powers, JACC

Invite your clients or vendors to join the Chamber. Contact Reggie Powers at 417.624.4150 or reggie@joplincc.com.

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING… ABC Supply Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Missouri Chapter . . . . .

AMI Radio Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

AT&T Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C & H Heating and Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Children’s Center of Southwest Missouri . . . . . . . . . . . .

Coleman Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Electrical Distributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Constellation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ducommon Properties LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Forged Waterjet Fabrications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gunlock Heating and Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Builders Association of SW Missouri . . . . . . . . . .

Impact Benefits, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Independent Living Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Insurance Benefits Consultants, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16 Joplin Globe Publishing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PRESENTED BY… 2016 2016 2001 2007 2013 2012 2003 2001 2019 2019 2008 2014 2007 1995 2014 2004 2011 1946

Kansas City University -Joplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mauve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Midknight Detailing LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mid-States Mechanical Services, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Newton’s Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ozark Adworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Petland Joplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

R & D Lawn & Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

River Bend Casino & Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States . . .

Sam’s Club #6415 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Schnelle Sheet Metal dba The Fireplace & More Store . . .

Team Dental of Joplin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Traci Thomas Agency, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wireless Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2016 2018 2017 2008 2006 1997 2017 2016 2007 1999 1993 2019 2016 2013 2000

APRIL 2020

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

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APRIL 2020

BUSINESS OUTLOOK

Increasing Sales through Exporting

by KENNETH SURBRUGG, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University

Albert Einstein once said, “Logic will take you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.” Most business managers have to use their imagination in order to devise methods to increase their sales revenue and obtain profit. Considering the multitude of potential customers around the world, imagining your company as an exporter may be closer to reality than you might imagine.

If your firm produces a product and you are trying to increase your sales, you may want to consider exporting. This may be a feasible alternative, considering that 96 percent of the world’s consumers, representing two-thirds of the world’s purchasing power, live outside the United States (www.sba.gov).

From the Office of the United States Trade Representative, nearly 300,000 small and medium-sized U.S. companies exported to at least one international market. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the United States exported over $1.65 trillion of goods and services in 2019. And according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Missouri businesses exported $13.4 billion in goods and services in 2019.

What type of companies are ready to start exporting? Companies that have a management commitment to grow their firms by expanding sales, have sold their products domestically, have adequate cash flow, and have the capacity and capability to produce exportable products are most likely to succeed at exporting.

Many small and medium sized companies now have increased access to worldwide markets because of improvements in trade finance and various trade agreements between countries. Exporting can be profitable for many businesses. According to the EXIM Bank, exporting companies tend to have faster growing sales and create more jobs, are more innovative, and are more productive. American businesses have a reputation for producing high quality, innovative goods and services.

If you want to be successful in exporting, your company will need to understand which international markets will be the most profitable for your firm. You will need to identify your international target markets, as well as identify how to get your products into the other country. Most importantly, you will need to be certain that your financial arrangements are considered.

You can save time and money by getting some good advice and assistance with each of these areas of concern. The Following is a list of international trade resources: www.trade.gov The U.S. Commercial Service is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. U.S. Commercial Service trade professionals operate in over 100 U.S. cities and in more than 70 international offices, helping U.S. companies get started in exporting or increase sales to new global markets. They provide trade missions and shows, business contact lists, and partner searches. In addition, they offer market intelligence, marketing research and help companies with trade, finance, and insurance strategies. www.exportmissouri.mo.gov The Missouri Department of Economic Development International Trade & Investment Office offers export assistance in Missouri.

It also has foreign offices that provide direct export assistance in Canada, the United Arab Emirates, India, Taiwan, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, China, Germany, Israel, and the United Kingdom/Europe. This office provides trade counseling, agent/distributor searches, customized market research, business protocol advice, export finance counseling, international trade shows, catalogue shows, trade leads, and export due diligence support. www.agriculture.mo.gov/abd/intmkt/ Missouri Department of Agriculture Domestic & International Marketing Program serves Missouri farmers, food processors, agricultural businesses and forest product companies. The office promotes Missouri agricultural products in foreign markets, provides export consultation, Export Documentation Issuance, trade leads and shows, sponsors trade missions, and brings international buyers to Missouri to show them Missouri producers and products. www.sba.gov/ U.S. Small Business Administration offers several loan programs designed to help small businesses who want to export. The (continued on next page)

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BUSINESS OUTLOOK APRIL 2020

SBA offers many different guides and online training programs to assist small businesses with export education. The SBA also offers several different export finance programs, such as the Export Express Loan, the Export Working Capital Loan, and the International Trade Loan. www.mssutraining.com The Missouri Small Business Development Center at MSSU offers consulting services to Southwest Missouri businesses desiring to export. Companies can receive assistance with developing an export strategy to increase their sales and profitability.

The Missouri Small Business Development Center at MSSU is hosting an exporting webinar that will discuss exporting and trade promotion.

Export Missouri: Taking a Look at International Business Webinar Register at www.mssutraining.com DATE: April 16 @ 11:30am-1:00pm (Reg. opens @ 11am) n LOCATION: Virtual Webinar (Link sent after registration) n COST: No fee

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER MISSOURI SOUTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY THE ROBERT W. PLASTER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS 3950 Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801-1512 Phone: 417.625.3128 • Fax: 417.625.9782

TRAINING EVENTS Register at: www.mssutraining.com

For a current list of training events, please visit our website: www.mssutraining.com and click on “View Events.”

JACC Job Board HOW TO POST A JOB

n Go to www.joplincc.com n Click Login at top of page. Log in using your Member Account login. If you don’t know it, click on Forgot Login?

If you don’t know your Member #, call the Chamber office at 624-4150 and ask for Lea, or email lea@joplincc.com. n Click on Business Center tab. Scroll down to Jobs. Any previous jobs you have posted will show here but are not available to the public unless it has been approved and is still an active posting. Click on Job Postings button on right. n Fill in the blanks. The more information you can give, the better. n Click Submit when finished.

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Your posting will not show online until we approve it on our side. It will remain live on our website for 90 days. If the job has not been filled in that time, let us know and we can reactivate it for another 90 days. If the job is filled before the 90 days is up, you can log in and check the Filled box at the right. If the job comes open again, you can uncheck the Filled box and it will be live again.

To post another job, click on Members Administration Business Center and you will be taken back to the Job Postings page.

Don’t forget to log out when you’re done.

If you need to make a change or minor correction, email lea@joplincc.com – you cannot edit from the website. If it’s a major correction, we’ll need to delete the posting and you’ll have to start over.

Once your job has been approved, you can see it at www.joplincc.com; click on the Job Board button. Click on Go to see all jobs or search using the Job Type and/or Category.

Questions? Call or email Lea at 624-4150 or lea@joplincc.com.

KEEP UP WITH ALL OF OUR EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS AT JOPLINCC.COM, OR SIGN UP FOR TEXT ALERTS AND RECEIVE REMINDERS FOR THE EVENTS YOU CHOOSE.

THANK YOU TO OUR CHAIRMAN LEVEL SPONSOR FOR HELPING US COMMUNICATE WITH OUR MEMBERS…