December 2016 Business Outlook

DEC

Business outlook 2016

December 2016

Business Outlook

Business expo coming january 24-25 Page 8

our members announce

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Joplin Continues to Grow

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INSIDE

business holiday promotions Page 14 PRESENTED BY Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce | 320 East 4th Street | Joplin, MO 64801 | 417.624.4150 WWW.JOPLINCC.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/JOPLINCHAMBER | TWITTER.COM/JOPLINCHAMBER

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December 2016

Business Outlook

Board of Directors 2016-2017 Executive Committee Karen Plott

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Clive Veri

CHAIRMAN ELECT OF THE BOARD

David Glenn

PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

James Richards

TREASURER

Louise Secker VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Kim Woodard CO-VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Lori Scott Dreiling VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Brad Beecher CO-VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Directors Ex-Officio Directors Gina Atteberry Sam Anselm Michael Beatty John Bartosh

Brandon Davis Dr. Nicole Brown

Donovan Edwards Mike Gray

Jacqueline Hackett Dr. Alan Marble

Rodney Haynes Dr. Jennifer Methvin Holly Hukill Matt Proctor John Karry Dr. Norm Ridder Randy Moore Marilyn Ruestman Kelli Perigo Michael Seibert Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Staff Executive Rob O’Brian, CEcD PRESIDENT Tonya Sprenkle VICE PRESIDENT Lisa Kelly EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Member Services Ginger LaMar, IOM Stephanie McGrew Jim Kesler

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & DEVELOPMENT MEMBER EVENTS PRODUCER MEMBERSHIP SALES STRATEGIST

Communications Kirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Martha Getz YPN/COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Finance Samantha Doubledee FINANCE DIRECTOR Melany Frederick FINANCE COORDINATOR INTERN Economic & Workforce Development Brian Kelly NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER DIRECTOR Kevin Welch

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS ATTRACTION Cary Beasley, IOM WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mark Turnbull DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL STRATEGIES

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Administrative Support Lea Schroer ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

5-Star Partnership Level Sponsors Platinum Level

City of Joplin Downstream Casino Resort The Empire District Electric Company KOAM-TV/FOX 14 – KFJX Stronghold Data LLC

Chairman Level

Commerce Bank EaglePicher Technologies, LLC Freeman Health System General Mills Joplin Floor Designs Joplin Globe Publishing Company Joplin Regional Business Journal Joplin Supply Company KODE-TV/KSNF-TV Lamar Outdoor Advertising Lancaster Signs Mercy Hospital Joplin Missouri Southern State University Results Radio, AMI Radio Group SNC Squared Southwest Missouri Bank US Bank, N.A.

President Level

Arvest Bank BKD, LLP Community Bank & Trust (CBT) Roper Honda Show Me The Ozarks Magazine

Director Level

Choice Marketing Connell Insurance, Inc. Joplin ProPrint Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. Motive Matters Storm Stanley Weed Whackers, Inc.

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 320 East 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 Phone: 417.624.4150 Fax: 417.624.4303 www.joplincc.com /joplinchamber /joplinchamber

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

December 2016

Business Outlook

Joplin Continues to Grow In late October, more than 50 Chamber members and community representatives joined our annual Economic Growth Tour. Even in the limited amount of time, we had numerous positive comments about the growth and recovery in the community, with the most frequent comment being, “I didn’t know all of this was going on.” That comment makes sense, when you consider we are all creatures of habit.

We drive to and from work or school the same way, we usually shop at the same stores, and we eat at the same restaurants. Basically, we see the same places most days and know what is going on there, but seldom do we get to other corners of the community. That’s why we do the tour.

Rob O’Brian, President

But even that tour covered only a part of the community, so as this year draws to a close, I think it’s worth quickly reviewing some of the key things that happened during 2016.

Perhaps the top of the list should be that we are “Joplin Proud.” Five years after the tornado that devastated a good portion of our city, we memorialized the event with memories of those family, friends and neighbors who were lost and celebrated how far the community has recovered.

After initial concerns that we would lose population for the long-term, the 2015 interim census, which was released just before the fifth anniversary, showed Joplin with more population than in the 2010 census. We have more housing, more businesses and more people than before the 2011 tornado, showing that the vows to come back better than before were not hollow words.

Owens Corning is well into its nearly $90-million construction of its new mineral wool insulation facility and began hiring in late fall.

The company plans to have the facility fully on-line in early 2017 and have more than 100 people on-site mid-spring.

At the end of 2015, General Mills closed its Annie’s operation on the west side of Joplin and laid off 120 people. However, the company indicated it would work closely with our economic development team to find a new company to go in that facility and was aggressive in fulfilling that promise. In July, we announced HS Baking would acquire the facility for production of baked treat products for school and other institutional cafeterias. The company, as of this writing, has nearly 30 people hired and will add 30 more in the coming months. HS Baking plans to have 120 people employed within three years.

At Crossroads Park, EaglePicher Technologies completed its new 100,000-square-foot facility to produce the next generation of power systems for its customers. The new building project was supported by our economic development team, beginning more than five years ago when EP was bidding on a federal project that would support new product lines. The initial and continued support eventually resulted in the company winning the contract and the new project.

Heartland Pet Food Manufacturing, which opened its new 150-plus employee operation in 2014, worked with our team on a new product line expansion that will add 45 new jobs toward the end of 2017. This 112,000-square-foot, $5-million expansion reflects the company’s view that the Joplin area is a great place for food processing, with its access to raw materials and consumer markets as well as the transportation system that reaches both.

Work began in earnest on the new Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences medical school. The medical school is one of those “once in a generation” opportunities to change the economy of our region. At full operation, the school in Joplin will have 600 students and nearly 100 faculty and staff. These are non-traditional students (average age of 24), and typically about half are married. KCU has begun hiring faculty and vetting students for admission for fall 2017. The school is truly a game changer for our region.

And last, but not least, after nearly two years of work, your Chamber acquired the 51,000-square-foot building next door to create the new Advanced Training and Technology Center. This building was used by Franklin Tech after the tornado, and had lots of classrooms “ready to go.” But it also needed lots of TLC to be a long-term facility. With support of the City for disaster recovery funds, this building has been obtained, upgraded and now is home to the Workforce Investment Board and Missouri Enterprise.

In early 2017, there will be space available for small firms, and in fall 2017, Crowder College will begin classes in advanced manufacturing, including high-end welding, information technology and community health.

This facility gives a place in Joplin for manufacturers, IT firms and some medical operations to upgrade skills of existing employees and train people interested in obtaining jobs.

With the growth this year, and new projects getting started in 2017, Joplin continues to be on an upward trend. As your Chamber enters its 100th year in 2017, we are honored to play a role in making our community and region better.

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December 2016

Business Outlook

Sponsorship Opportunities 2017 Sponsorship Opportunities - Providing Opportunities To Help Grow Your Business Sponsorships are a highly visible form of marketing and provide opportunities to prominently promote your business. Understanding your objectives is an important step in this process, and crafting a plan based on those objectives is our priority. From speaking at key events to showcasing your products and services, we have a variety of sponsorships built into popular and successful programs and events.

Sponsorships include marketing and hospitality benefits such as: 

Inclusion in a full range of advertising, i.e. print, radio, television, web, email, social media

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Targeted marketing with powerful in-house Chamber communications

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Opportunity to speak at the sponsored event

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Company banner displayed and promotional items distributed at the sponsored event

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Complimentary tickets to the sponsored event

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Naming rights to a program or activity within the sponsored event

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Comprehensive marketing wrap up reports for your future use.

2017 is filling up quickly! For more information, contact Jim Kesler, membership sales strategist, at 417.624.4150.

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2016-2017 Executive Committee

Presented by

Message to the Network from Chairman Brent Baker Best Time of the Year It seems this year has gone by more quickly than last year, but maybe I say that every year. I just realized it is time to cut down our family Christmas tree. Every year, since we moved to the Joplin area in 2002, we have cut down a real tree. Back when our daughter Maya was 4 years old and Bella was 7 months old, they would ride on the hay wagon at Precious Moments tree farm. After a few years, that tree farm closed and we went to a small farm hidden between Oronogo and Carthage. The best part of the hidden tree farm was that Maya got to drive my truck through the farm field to pick out our tree, when she was 12 years old. Now that our little hidden tree farm is closed, we found a new spot north of Joplin, Bridgestone Christmas tree farm. Last year when we went there, we had a great time and made memories once again. Maya is 18 years old and Bella is 14, a senior and a freshman in high school. These years have flown by, but we have made sure to enjoy them the best we can.

The reason I write about this is because I was recently eating lunch with a friend discussing a few things that frustrate me. We all do it and it is probably healthy to some extent. But there I was, talking about the frustrations I have. My friend shared with me some of his recent frustrations and then mentioned to me that his life was 98 percent great but these frustrations were getting to him. He really put things into perspective for me, and I hope for you as well. When I have something bothering me or something that is just not perfect, even if it is only 2 percent of my life, I have a tendency to let those thoughts consume me.

After that lunch, I began thinking about those things that aren’t so frustrating. For me, it is time with my family, talks with my daughters, and lunches with friends. Even though several Christmas tree farms have closed over the years, we still found a way to make it through. Just kidding, it is not that dramatic, but it is important to my family to keep the tradition alive and those memories I can recall when I need a reminder of the good times.

Enjoy the upcoming holidays and remember to keep things in perspective!

Brent Baker, Chairman Ryan Melton, Co-Chairman Dr. Nicole Brown, Past Chairman Shawn Daniel Jennifer Little Stephanie Onstot Dustin Parker Greg Sutton Megan Tyler Whitney Warren Christina Williams

December 2016

Business Outlook

New YPN Members Alyce Alford The Buckle Adam Greek Empire District Electric Company Jeffrey Moore Baker Davis Roderique, CPAs, PC

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Ribbon Cuttings

Mercy Clinic

ABE Painting

Gary Pulsipher, President 202 East 50th Street Grand Opening

Tim Albertson, Owner 1248 West 10th Street Free Touch Ups for Life

Mystique Boutique

Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity

Ben Miller CPA, LLC

Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts

Gold and Silver of Joplin

Shanna Gruver, Owner Northpark Mall, 101 North Range Line Road Grand Opening

Ben Miller, Owner 1 South Main Street, Suite 101, Webb City New Membership, New Office

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Presented by

Josie Mai, Executive Director 222 West 3rd Street Gift Shop Grand Reopening

Scott Clayton, Executive Director 2415 Porter New Home Dedication

Scott Clayton, Executive Director 1401 East Central Ground Breaking

Kellie Gerner, Eric Gerner, Owners 2705 South Range Line Road, Suite B New Membership, Grand Opening

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

December 2016

Business Outlook

Calendar of Events for December 2016 December 2 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Freeman Rehabilitation & Sports Center

December 2016

Business Outlook

December 5 12 pm Business EXPO Committee Meeting Chamber Office December 7 7:15 am Good Morning Joplin Butcher's Block Event Center 9 am Presentation from James Robinson, director of Missouri International Trade & Investment Office in Greater China Chamber Office December 9 11:30 am-1:30 pm Holiday Open House Chamber Office December 13 5:30 pm Business After Hours Payroll Vault of the Four States & Baker Davis Roderique CPAs, PC December 19 12 pm Leadership Joplin Steering Committee Meeting Chamber Office December 21 11:30 am Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Chamber Office December 23 Office Closed for Christmas Holiday December 26 Office Closed for Christmas Holiday January 2 Office Closed for New Year's Holiday

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December 2016

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Business Outlook

December 2016

Business Outlook

2017 Missouri Chamber Federation Priorities 1. Create sustainable funding plan for a comprehensive transportation system to better support Missouri’s economic growth.

2. Take a multi-pronged approach to improve Missouri’s economic development system. a. Develop a concierge delivery system for economic development support. b. Improve access to capital through resources such as the Missouri Technology Corporation, angel tax credits, crowdfunding and Show-Me Rural Jobs. c. Improve training funding and effectiveness. d. Support incentives for large capital investments made by existing business. e. Enhance and simplify local tax abatement process.

3. Enact tort reforms needed to balance our courts to serve all parties fairly, including employers.

4. Implement internet sales tax reform to level the playing field between online and main street retailers.

5. Advocate for systemic education reforms driven by employers’ workforce needs.

6. Reform Missouri’s unemployment insurance trust fund to protect and stabilize this safety net for unemployed Missourians.

7. Support policy to expand access to broadband, including the final mile buildout, to help Missouri meet 21st century business needs.

8. Enact a statewide prescription drug monitoring program that lowers workforce drug abuse and insurance costs for Missouri employers.

9. Align employment law to federal standards to block frivolous claims against employers.

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December 2016

Business Outlook

Our Members Announce presented by The Children’s Center 20th Annual Gala Mardi Gras is February 4 from 6-9 pm at Downstream Casino Resort. This is an annual fundraising event to support the Center’s direct services for child victims of abuse and to increase community awareness.

Enjoy cocktails, live and silent auction, an elegant dining experience, dancing and entertainment. Tickets are $95 per person or $175 per couple. Sponsorships are available. For more information, call 417.623.2292.

The Joplin Family YMCA Chilly 5K and Kids’ Frozen Fun Run is December 31. The Fun Run begins at 10 am, and the 5k begins at 10:30 am. Both events start at the Downtown Y and end at the South branch. Childcare is available at no additional charge for race participants and race volunteers from 9:30-11:30 am on race day at both branches. Register at http://joplinfamilyy. org/events/yearly/chilly-5k-run.

Freeman Health System was honored with an “A” grade in The Leapfrog Group Fall 2016 Hospital Safety Score. Freeman is one of 17 hospitals in Missouri to receive the grade. The score rates how well hospitals protect patients from errors, accidents, injuries and infections. For more information, go to www. freemanhealth.com.

Freeman Health System recently broke ground at Freeman Neosho Hospital to celebrate the beginning of a project to expand computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services. The project is the largest at the Neosho campus since 1983 and is scheduled for completion in late 2017. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

The Jeff Slama Memorial Scholarship Fund donated $1,500 to Joplin Area Catholic Schools to be divided equally to families in need that attend St. Mary’s Elementary School, St. Peter’s Middle School and McAuley High School. For more information, call 417.624.9320.

Higdon Florist is ready to help you with your Christmas shopping and holiday entertaining. They are featuring all the Teleflora Christmas Specials this year, including the Thomas Kinkade “Jolly Santa Bouquet.” This is a hand-painted, handsculpted Christmas collectible. They have gorgeous poinsettias and gift ideas, and don’t forget Higdon Hotspot for homemade soups and sandwiches! Higdon Florist is open Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5 pm and 9 am-3 pm Saturday. Give them a call at 417.624.7171 or check out www.higdonflorist.com.

U.S. Bank recently hired Victoria “Vicki” Daniels Chew as a residential mortgage loan officer at the branch at 300 East 32nd Street in Joplin. For more information, go to www. usbank.com.

Downstream Casino Resort has a few remaining openings for 10 your company’s holiday party during December or January.

With a discounted $22 Sunday-Thursday menu available and

excellent weekend options, you and your guests will enjoy your full-service experience. All Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce members that mention the code “JACC” will receive a complimentary upgrade to $10 Freeplay for their event attendees. For more information, call 918.919.6178.

The Law Firm 500 Award team announced its inaugural list of honorees, ranking Sticklen & Dreyer of Joplin 14th on its list of top 100 Fastest Growing Law Firms in America. Nominees were evaluated by an outside accounting firm, and subjected to an identical review process. The honorees demonstrate innovation, operational excellence and a commitment to client service within the legal industry. For more information, call 417.626.9880.

Mercy Hospital Joplin has received a top “A” rating from the Leapfrog Group, which has announced its fall 2016 release of the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. The program assigns letter grades to more than 2,600 U.S. hospitals bi-annually and is the gold standard measure of patient safety in the United States.

Of the 2,633 hospitals evaluated, 844 earned an A. For more information, go to www.mercy.net.

Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine’s move to 3126 South Jackson Ave., Suite 102, provides a convenient location with easily accessible parking for patients. The practice occupies space formerly housing Mercy Clinic Family Medicine, which moved to the new 50th Street Clinic near Mercy Hospital Joplin.

Internal medicine hours are 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am to 4:30 pm Friday. For more information, go to www.mercy.net.

Modine Manufacturing Company recently hired Ashley Grafton for its plant controller position. Ashley joined ModineJoplin October 24. She is originally from the Tulsa area. For more information, call 417.781.9500.

Children’s Haven of Southwest Missouri wishes everyone Happy Holidays! As you consider your year-end giving plan, remember, you can help some of our area’s most vulnerable children by supporting Children’s Haven’s crisis care with your gift. Gifts of $100 or more qualify for up to a 50 percent state tax credit! Giving is easy – call 417.782.4453 or go to www. childrens-haven.com, to give today!

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts is hosting the regional exhibit “Cowboys – The Symbol of the West” through December 31. This exhibit explores the cowboy personification and captures the true life and spirit of the American Cowboy.

Gallery and gift shop hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 am-5 pm, Sunday 1 pm-5 pm. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

The holiday season has arrived and Uncommon Orthodontics wants you to enjoy this time of year. Did you know their

Doug Hunt and Melody Morgan are excited to announce a dynamic new Turning Point Seminar and Workshop focusing on small businesses, corporate departments and organizations. With their combined professional years of experience in marketing, PR, business management, event planning, sales training, increasing profits, disaster recovery and team building, this is the Turning Point you’ve been looking for! Email Melody at mmturningpoint@gmail.com to book your Turning Point Seminar and Workshop. Personal and professional transformations for spectacular growth!

Children are invited to write a letter to Santa and drop it in Santa’s Mailbox at the Joplin Parks and Recreation Department at 3301 West 1st Street. The letters will be delivered to the North Pole where Santa will respond to each child who writes him a letter. Santa’s Mailbox is available through December 2. Letters need to include the child’s full name, wish list and a return address. Please address letters to: Santa’s Workshop, 9 Reindeer Road, North Pole. For more information, call the Joplin Parks & Recreation office at 417.625.4750.

Crosslines Ministries, 320 South School Avenue, will open for evening hours on the first Monday of each month beginning December 5 from 6-7:30 pm. The focus is helping Joplin, Webb City and Carl Junction area residents who don’t already access daytime services due to work schedules. Evening services include monthly food commodities, clothes shopping, and rental or utility assistance. Households interested in evening appointments should call Crosslines at 417.782.8384. More information is available on the Crosslines Ministries – Joplin Facebook page.

Men, J. Hilburn Luxury Custom Clothing for Men has a deal for you! Use your own personal stylist! You pick an awesome fabric, design your own shirts, trousers, jackets, outerwear, shoes and ties at great value without leaving your office or home. Set up your appointment with Nancy at 417.389.5131.

The Tri-State Area Contractors Association Holiday Party is December 3 at Downstream Casino Resort from 6-11 pm. For more information, email marlo@tristatecontractors.net.

Ozark Christian College announces its candidacy status for regional accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission.

OCC has been accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)—a national accreditation agency—since 1988. For more information, call 417.626.1234.

Joplin Little Theatre presents "A Christmas Story: The Musical"

Business Outlook

December 14-18 at 3009 W. 1st Street. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and students, and $6 for children. For reservations or for more information, call 417.623.3638.

December 2016

after-hours services will be available through the holidays?

Want to know more about this UNCOMMON service? Read their blog post to find out more. Or call Ashley, the after-hours representative, at 417.625.1114 and let her know how she can assist you today! Not an Uncommon patient? The holidays are a great time to plan for a new smile; call to make your appointment today!

Comeau Jewelry in the Bel-Aire Plaza at 20th and Range Line is hosting ladies' night December 1 from 6-8 pm. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, gift bags for the first 100 ladies, door prizes and a chance to build a wish list for Santa. Bring your friends! For more information, call 417.625.1755.

Now is a great time to make your home away from home for family members traveling in. R&D Lawn and Landscape is offering 15% off all custom firepits, outdoor kitchens and retaining walls. Call 417.438.6590 today for a free estimate.

ABE Painting is now offering any single 15' x 15' single room or smaller for $195. Call 417.208.6676 for a free estimate today.

Fore Media, LLC has opened pre-sale advertising opportunities for their 2017 television programming schedule. Call Lauren Hall at 417.317.7321 today for your free consultation.

Payroll Vault of the Four States is offering free human resources audit assessments to prepare for 2017. If you have had any changes in your organization, call 417.623.0941 today for a free consultation.

Mystique Boutique is proud to announce Happy Hour every Saturday from 2-4 pm, offering premier special in-store discounts. Stop by today for great deals. Located inside Joplin's Northpark Mall. For more information, call 417.624.4202 Crystal Clean Carpets is offering a free trial cleaning of any one spot in your home or business at no charge. Call 417.291.1172 today for a free evaluation.

Cheezies Pizza is now offering buy 2 get 1 free any singletopping large pizza for all members of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce at both Joplin and Webb City locations.

Call 417.782.0900 or 417.673.7373 to place your order today.

Scratch the golfers off your list with gifts from Schifferdecker Golf Course, a City of Joplin park. If your golfer is looking for items to add to his or her bag, Schifferdecker Pro Shop has teed up its holiday sale with markdowns in the Pro Shop.

Schifferdecker Golf Course offers gift certificates of any amount, as well as multi-play passes to the golf course for multiple rounds. The golf course is located in Schifferdecker Park at 7th Street and Schifferdecker Avenue. For more information, call 417.624.3533.

The Chamber is interested in your business. If you won an award, opened another office or are planning an event, let us know. We want to share your accomplishments and events with your fellow members! For our next issue, submit your announcement to wendy@joplincc.com by December 10. Please include “Our Members Announce” in the email subject line. Find all our members in our online Membership Directory.

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December 2016

Business Outlook

Welcome New Members

Automated Technology Company LLC Automation/Computer-Services/Products/Software 407 South Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 204 Joplin, MO 64801 417.625.6679 www.atcjomo.com Frank Thompson, Partner Sponsors: Brian Kelly, Joseph Newman Innovation Center; Jim Kesler, JACC Signature Interior Expressions Granite/Floor Covering 1299 South Range Line Road Joplin, MO 64801 417.623.1299 www.signaturexp.com Natty Redd-Mourglia, Sales Specialist Sponsors: Chris Mazzocco, Steam Way Restorations; Jim Kesler, JACC Quality Lawn LLC Lawn Care 5886 East Zora Joplin, MO 64801 417.206.0995 Misty Southard, Office Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC United Healthcare of the Midwest Insurance 13655 Riverport Drive Maryland Heights, MO 63043 314.592.7000 www.uhc.com Jimmie Gaddis Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC J. Hilburn Clothing 561 East Spring Street Neosho, MO 64850 417.389.5131 www.jhilburn.com Stephanie DeTar, Managing Partner Nancy Paul, Associate Partner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC

Casey's General Stores, Inc. Convenience Stores 201 Maiden Lane and various locations Joplin, MO 64801 417.624.3922 12 www.caseys.com Joyce Embrey, Supervisor

Sponsors: Heather Lesmeister, Children's Miracle Network; Jim Kesler, JACC Fastenal Company Industrial/Safety Supplies 2626 East 7th Street Joplin, MO 64801 417.624.7977 www.fastenal.com Eric Thullesen, General Manager Sponsor: Rick Moore, Freeman Health System HOPE Restored Support Services/Life Skills Training P.O. Box 4072 Joplin, MO 64803-4072 www.hoperestoredjoplin.com Darci Peterson, Founder/Executive Director Sponsor: Darci Peterson, HOPE Restored 5 Star Impressions Cleaning Service - Commercial 5016 East 15th Place Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.8104 Dena Ranz, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC RefineM, LLC Consultants/Training Programs 405 North Jefferson Avenue Springfield, MO 65806 417.837.2680 www.refinem.com Lowell Lane, Sales Sponsors: Reggie Powers, Top Seal Packaging; Jim Kesler, JACC S.O.S. Ministries Church 1846 West 23rd Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.499.4649 www.serveoutpoursacrifice.com Aaron Garcia, Founder and Director Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Legacy Credit Union Credit Union 3929 East 7th Street, Suite A Joplin, MO 64801 417.659.6013 www.yourlcu.com Justin Coyne, President/Manager Sponsors: Curt Medlin, Joplin ProPrint; Jim Kesler, JACC

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING Above Par Transportation, Inc................................................. 2002

Joplin Floor Designs.................................................................... 2000

Accenture Federal Services...................................................... 2004

Joplin NALA.................................................................................... 2001

Donny Allen-Keller Williams Realty of SWMO................... 2011

Joplin Plaza..................................................................................... 2008

American Red Cross- Southern Missouri Region-

Joplin Venetian Blind.................................................................. 1997

Joplin................................................................................................. 2000

KAB Electric, Inc............................................................................. 2012

Benefit Management, Inc.......................................................... 2008

Kelly Insurance............................................................................... 1993

Big R's................................................................................................ 1998

Kings Kettle Corn.......................................................................... 2010

Bill's Electric, Inc............................................................................ 1992

Legacy Farm and Lawn.............................................................. 2003

Branco Enterprises, Inc............................................................... 1999

LovinGrace...................................................................................... 2015

Child Care Aware of Southern Missouri.............................. 2001

Mercy Hospital Joplin................................................................. 1951

Clevenger Financial..................................................................... 2006

Missouri State University-Joplin Campus........................... 2011

Colonial Life.................................................................................... 2003

Murphy Business & Financial................................................... 2015

Comeau Jewelry Company...................................................... 2008

Mythos Euro Greek Kuzina........................................................ 2004

Community Support Services of Missouri......................... 1991

Payroll Vault of the Four States............................................... 2013

Continental Banquet & Catering Services.......................... 2001

Peregrine Corporation................................................................ 2004

Copy Products, Inc....................................................................... 1996

R&R Trucking.................................................................................. 1997

Corporate Business Systems.................................................... 2004

Rufus Racing, LLC.......................................................................... 2014

Courtney's Candles and Creations, Inc................................ 1995

Rustic Ridge Villas......................................................................... 2014

Covert Electric Supply, Inc........................................................ 1993

S&H Farm Supply, Inc.................................................................. 2010

Distinctive Home Products....................................................... 2010

ServiceMaster of Southwest Missouri.................................. 1994

Express Employment Professionals...................................... 1993

Simmons Bank............................................................................... 2004

Family Pharmacy.......................................................................... 2002

Simpson Sheet Metal, Inc.......................................................... 1994

Flames............................................................................................... 1995

Skaggs Chiropractic, LLC........................................................... 2005

Flat Branch Home Loans............................................................ 2013

SNC Squared................................................................................... 2004

Great Plains Federal Credit Union.......................................... 2004

Southwest Missouri Lodging Association.......................... 2010

Hampshire Pet Products............................................................ 2004

Total Electronics Contracting................................................... 2002

Home Pro......................................................................................... 2000

Tropical Tan..................................................................................... 2004

Hometown Pediatrics of Joplin, LLC..................................... 2014

Vatterott College........................................................................... 1991

In & Out Car Wash and Express Detail.................................. 2004

Wildwood Ranch Development............................................. 2005

December 2016

Business Outlook

Jasper Products, LLC.................................................................... 2001

Welcome New Members, cont.

Miss Daisy's Attic Antiques/Furniture/Paint 2702 Richard Joseph Blvd., Suite 104 Joplin, MO 64804 417.437.3060 www.missdaisysattic.com Christy Caddy, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC

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. Visit the Chamber’s online member directory at cca.joplincc.com/businesssearch.aspx.

Invite your clients or vendors to join your 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Contact Membership Sales Strategist Jim Kesler at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

Fill out the member application to join the Chamber at http://cca.joplincc.com/newmemapp.aspx?dbid2=mojop.

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December 2016

Business Outlook

Successful Holiday Promotions

By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University The National Retail Federation (NRF) predicts holiday retail sales during November and December 2016 will be about $656 billion (3.6 percent more than 2015 holiday sales).

These sales figures exclude restaurant, auto and gas sales.

Internet sales are projected to be about $117 billion (7 to 10 percent higher than last year).

According to the NRF, about 90 percent of U.S. consumers will purchase gifts and related services during December. Historically, about 10 percent of people will wait until the last two days before Christmas to purchase gifts. The NRF believes Americans have reasonably high consumer confidence in the economy and are increasing their use of credit, which means the 2016 holiday season should be profitable.

While many businesses started planning for their December marketing activities back in June, it’s not too late to start now. Remember, marketing is always about carefully examining the perception and opinion of your customers. You need to determine how you can best serve your customers by providing them with gift ideas, unique products and creative services. Following are some last-minute tips for increasing your sales during December:

customers to order online and pick up the merchandise in your store instead of having it mailed. They are more likely to make impulse purchases if they are in your store and see attractive displays.

4. Expand holiday hours. Your company’s success depends on your customers. Consider when, where and how customers want to purchase products and services.

5. Train employees to have holiday cheer. You may need to provide extra incentives and training to employees to ensure they know how to treat your customers to a festive and positive shopping experience.

6. Bundle products and services together. Wrapping and bundling merchandise together for gifts will help make your customer’s purchase decisions easier. Pre-wrap products together in plastic with a ribbon. Display photos of bundled gift items on your website as special promotional items. Restaurant owners can pre-wrap gift cards with their restaurant menus. It’s all about making the customer’s purchase decision easier.

7. Social entrepreneurship. Consider donating a portion of your sales to charity. You will have customers who are trying to decide what to get for the person who has everything. You could offer a program where food products you sell are donated to a food pantry, or pet food and supplies are donated to an animal shelter in honor of a person.

8. Offer unique services to draw customers to your store.

To compete with online sales, offer in-store extras such as free gift wrapping, or have membership programs that offer discounts or free items that can be earned.

1. Promote to your existing loyal customers. Send promotional emails and make social media posts (i.e. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.) to existing customers who are familiar with your company. Offer them special daily prices and promotions that are exclusive to them. This will encourage repeat sales from customers.

2. Cross-sell complementary products and services. Use this sales technique on your website and with in-store promotions. For example, a clothing store could place accessories near clothing that matches. On your website, place similar complementary products together that customers might use in conjunction (i.e. fitness equipment, clothing).

3. Offer in-store pickup for internet sales. In order to get people into your store-front business, offer the ability for

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9. Say “thank you." Send Christmas cards to your business prospects, customers or vendors. Give unique but affordable gifts to your best customers (i.e. gift cards, candy, etc.). Hold an open house for customers. Host a free lunch or dinner as a thank you.

10. Sell gift cards and certificates. Whether you sell products or services, you can sell gift cards or gift certificates that make great last-minute gifts. You can offer promotions like a “service of the month club” (i.e. salon treatment, house cleaning, etc.), or a “product of the month club” (i.e. toys, candy, pet products, etc.).

As Charles Dickens wrote, “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Now is the time to build good relationships with your customers, and keep them coming back throughout the coming year.

2017 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Class Chosen and In Session!

The following 42 high school seniors have been selected to participate in the 2016-2017 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today program through the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. There were 95 applicants for this leadership program that guides students through various aspects of business and community leadership training.

December 2016

Business Outlook

Tomorrow’s Leaders Today is now in its 23rd year of introducing these future leaders to the community. The class was chosen based on their responses to written applications, personal interviews and references, and represent seven area high schools.

Tomorrow’s Leaders Today sessions run from November through April. This year’s TLT class participated in its first session November 2, which was the Opening Retreat. Sponsored by Pittsburg State University, the students heard presentations on professionalism from Logan Stanley, Edward Jones; finding your passion from Maryann Mitts, MSSU; finding and maintaining your enthusiasm for leadership by Howie Nunnelly, AMI Radio; and keeping to your values by Gary Pulsipher, Mercy. A common theme from each one of these community leaders was the qualities of leadership and integrity they look for in individuals and what choices they made on their own pathways. A highlight of the session was the opportunity for the students to engage in small-group discussions over lunch with the following civic leaders: Brad Beecher, Empire District Electric Company; David Glenn, Keller Williams; Karen Plott, Choice Marketing; Michael Seibert, City of Joplin; Sam Anselm, City of Joplin; Stephanie Brady, Community Clinic; Lori Jones, Joplin Family Y; Dr. Alan Marble, MSSU; Dr. Norm Ridder, Joplin Schools; Peggy Fuller, SMB; Howie Nunnelly, AMI Radio; and Rob O’Brian, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. The day ended with group work attempting to solve a community challenge and several team-building exercises led by Todd Taylor, St. Paul’s Methodist Church. The next session of TLT, Government and Law, is December 7 at Joplin City Hall.

The Presenting Sponsors of the TLT program are

Carl Junction High School Chase Boyd Trent Dunlop Lucas Hatfield Kecia Houpt Matthew Richmond Miranda Skinner Olivia Toney Carthage High School Emerson Cochran Andrea Collier Maquelle Huntley Annie Johnson Jessica Kaup Nakota Millard Allison Peterson College Heights Christian School Mattie Beard Jonathan Calandro Matthew Gao Myles Jackson Kenlee Jonas Austin Martin

and

.

Joplin High School Ethan Brown Madeline Campbell Emma Dillon Emmy Drouin Anna Graves Sam Griesemer Gwenyth Jones Lauren Landers Kaeden Morris Tulsi Nursariwala Brooke Parker Farhath Sulthana Kendall Vowels Morgan Wilson McAuley High School Emily Freitas Jake Freitas William Motazedi Monica Onstot Shea Schrader Webb City High School Shalaela Block Blake Catterson Sydnie Storm 15

December 2016

Business Outlook

Small Business & Technology 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

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS

Before you start a business, be certain to attend this training. Participants will have an opportunity to assess their business idea, learn about the importance of planning, discuss legal and regulatory requirements, learn about marketing strategies and identify sources of financing. Each participant will receive a start-up manual.

December 1 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $29 per business

HOW TO WRITE A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS PLAN Participants will learn key elements of a business plan including writing style tips, required contents and how to use it as a management tool. Participants will leave this session with a greater understanding of what their business plan should look like and how to get started writing one.

December 8 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $39

Find the full schedule of workshops at www.mssutraining.com.

STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY: A REPORT FROM YOUR CHAMBER

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MSA is comprised of Jasper and Newton counties. Information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

December 2016

Business Outlook

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December 2016

Business Outlook Insurance you can design to meet your ever-changing needs.

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Call 417-781-4820 today for Auto, Home, Life and Business.

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IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: DOL Requires All U.S. Employers to Update Federal Posters

Replace your posters now to stay compliant!

Contact Payroll Vault today to get your new poster.

Phone: 417.623.0941 Email: j.d.buckridge@ payrollvault.com

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December 2016

Business Outlook

First Friday Coffee

Friday, December 2 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by and located at Freeman Rehabilitation & Sports Center 2206 East 32nd Street

RSVP by November 30 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

Presented by

Business After Hours

THANK YOU!

Presenting Sponsor

Tuesday, December 13 5:30-7 p.m.

US Bank, N.A., Chairman Sponsor, for helping us communicate with our members!

Sponsored by Payroll Vault of the Four States and Baker, Davis, Roderique, CPAs, PC Located at

RSVP by December 9 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

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