February 2017 Business Outlook

business outlook FEBRUARY 2017

2016

FEBRUary 2017

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE pg. 3

Gap Between a Stronger Economy & Funding

EXPO 2017

pg. 8-9

A recap of winners and pictures

OUR MEMBERS ANNOUNCE

pg. 10-11

Awards, announcements and opportunities inside!

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FEBRUARY 2017

business outlook BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016-2017 Executive Committee

Directors

Karen Plott

Gina Atteberry Brent Baker Michael Beatty Brandon Davis Donovan Edwards Jacqueline Hackett Rodney Haynes Holly Hukill Randy Moore Kelli Perigo

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

Open

Co-Vice Chairman Economic/ Workforce Development Services

Ex-Officio Directors Sam Anselm John Bartosh Dr. Nicole Brown Mike Gray Dr. Alan Marble Dr. Jennifer Methvin Matt Proctor Dr. Norm Ridder Marilyn Ruestman Michael Seibert

CHAMBER STAFF Executive

Rob O’Brian, CEcD President Tonya Sprenkle Vice President Lisa Kelly Executive Assistant

Member Services

Ginger LaMar, IOM Director of Member Services & Development Stephanie McGrew Member Events Producer Jim Kesler Membership Sales Strategist

Finance

Navon Cook Finance Director Samantha Doubledee Finance Coordinator Melany Frederick Finance Coordinator Intern

FIND US AT: 2

Communications

Kirstie Smith Communications Director Wendy Brunner-Lewis Communications Coordinator Martha Getz YPN/Communications Coordinator

Economic & Workforce Development

Mark Turnbull Director of Regional Strategies Kevin Welch Director of Business Attraction Brian Kelly Director of Entrepreneurship & Technology Strategies Cary Beasley, IOM Workforce Development Manager

Administrative Support Lea Schroer Administrative Assistant

5 LEVEL SPONSORS S T A R

PARTNERSHIP

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 www.joplincc.com 320 E. 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 /joplinchamber (P) 417.624.4150 /joplinchamber (F) 417.624.4303

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Gap Between a Stronger Economy and Funding One of Governor Eric Greiten’s first steps on taking office in January was to cut the current year state budget by around $146 million due to continued revenue shortfalls. It was a necessary step and one that had to be done until the new governor’s team has time to work with the legislature on the budget for the coming year.

Of the cuts, more than half—some $79 million—came out of higher education. Around $67 million came from the core budget and an additional $12 million for capital projects and new programs. For our own Missouri Southern State University, those cuts translated to about $1.77 ROB O’BRIAN, million out of the core budget for the remaining six months of the year. However, the state is PRESIDENT also withholding $800,000 of a projected $2 million for MSSU to launch a new dental school in conjunction with UMKC. With that withheld, the dental school is on an indefinite stop.

Part of the budget problem for any governor and the legislature is the set-in-stone funding for Medicaid. In the 2015-2016 fiscal year, 36 percent of the state’s expenditures were on Medicaid, according to the National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO). Add in 23 percent for K-12 public education formula spending, and 60 percent of the state’s budget is untouchable when it comes to finding places to cut mid-year. And yes, the governor did withhold some public K-12 funds around new programs or non-classroom functions.

But current matters aside, the larger question looms about how our state, or more specifically, our own people including our children and grandchildren, will compete in a technology-driven economy when the state is already struggling to fund higher education. In the 2015-2016 fiscal year, even with an increase in state funding, Missouri was dead last among our surrounding states in the dollars per population (state total) spent on higher education. Missouri spent about $191 per person in the state, or $1.16 billion. The next closest was Illinois at $205 per person. In terms of percent of total budget, higher education is around 4.8 percent in Missouri, second to last to Illinois.

The jobs of today, let alone the future, are demanding an increasing level of education and training. It is true not all jobs require a four-year degree, but the increasing majority of jobs require training beyond high school. We hear from employers constantly about finding enough people with skills to do the jobs.

But our state, and in fact nearly every state, has reduced funding in real inflation-adjusted funding for higher education at the time when more education is needed for people to get and hold good jobs.

The offset for declining inflation-adjusted state funding is to raise tuitions. We are fortunate in Missouri that the previous governor and legislature worked with higher education to, in effect, trade off holding tuition flat for increasing funding for education as we had recovery from the economic downtown. But now, with overall state revenues falling short of projections, then all bets are off when it comes to tuition increases.

Right now, our state is still very affordable. In our area, MSSU and Crowder College have very low tuition compared to the U.S. and the state. They are great values. But the only place higher education institutions have to go to replace funding lost to inflation, let alone new funding, is tuition increases. And tuition increases make it more difficult to afford the education and training for better jobs.

State revenues are flat but costs continue to increase. Our state puts, as a percentage of budget, a lot into Medicare compared to the U.S. average and our surrounding states, according to NASBO figures, which makes a pretty big perceived block of untouchable funding. We’re about average on K-12 education spending, but we have a lot of needs there as well. And we are behind in funding higher education (and transportation) compared to our adjoining states. There is a lot for the new governor, his team and our legislature to figure out. But if the number one priority is to position our state to grow and attract the jobs of the future, we need a well-educated and trained workforce. If we want our children and grandchildren to have those jobs of the future, that are really happening now, then they need the best educational opportunities possible. The status quo is not an option for Missouri.

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Your Chamber, Then and Now Follow us on our journey through time as we celebrate how your Chamber shaped the area from its inception in 1917 to today.

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce was still in its infancy during the Roaring ‘20s. The nation was undergoing growth and expansion, as was Joplin, our own corner of the world.

In July 1922, according to Bill Caldwell in The Joplin Globe, a broadcasting license was issued to Hafer Co., for a radio station with the call letters WHAH. This was the first radio station to air in Joplin.

The station went on air in September 1922 with a program that opened with a short talk by Mercer Arnold, president of the Joplin Chamber of Commerce. Arnold spoke about the “area’s musical talent, the concerts the Fortnightly Music Club had brought to Joplin and the high quality of the high school orchestra.”

The station enjoyed success for 10 years, but the Great Depression hit it hard, forcing a bankruptcy sale. The first Joplin radio station permanently went off the air in May 1932.

According the historian Brad Belk, the city was growing during the 1920s. Two brand new schools were built for the Joplin School District to help accommodate the growth on the south side of town.

These schools were Irving Elementary (Irving was destroyed in the May 2011 tornado and is now housed in a new building at the site of the former St. John’s Regional Medical Center) and South Junior High (which would later become South Middle School). In addition to the growth of the school district, the City of Joplin also saw an increase in population from 29,902 to 33,454 over the course of the decade. This growth occurred through the annexation of many communities including Freeman Grove, Castle Rock, Stapleton and Royal Heights. A minority of the registered voters made the decision to be annexed as this election had one of the smallest voter turnouts in years.

Freeman Hospital was established in 1925, when the Freeman family gave their home at 2008 Sergeant Avenue to be used as a community hospital.

In 1927, St. John’s added 40 beds, bringing their total to 100.

Check back next month to see what Chamber treasures we’ve uncovered as we journey through 100 years of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce!

2016-2017 Executive Committee

Presented by

Message to the Network from Chairman Brent Baker Build the Best Region--Vision Joplin 2022 At YPN, we have been talking for several years about the opportunities to improve our region and the role YPN can play. In late 2016, a team of citizens of Joplin put together an initiative to develop a vision for the next 5 years for the Joplin region. You may have heard of Vision Joplin 2022. More information can be found at www. joplinmo.org/VisionJoplin.

Many engaged citizens are part of this project and have already joined a committee to help develop the vision for the future. Also encouraging is the number of YPN members involved, including several on the core team and leading committees. You are invited to get involved, even if you weren’t in the initial meetings. The following committees are established and meeting dates are listed on the Vision Joplin website: s Education s Governance s Healthy Living/Wellness s Job Growth s Positive Marketing/Branding s Quality of Life I encourage all of you to find a committee that you can serve. This is your opportunity to guide the next five years of progress!

2017 Small Business of the Year Nominations Now Being Accepted This is your opportunity to nominate a small business or a not-for-profit organization for the 2017 Small Business of the Year Awards presented by BKD, LLP and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. The awards recognize the contributions of small business to the local economy and to the overall progress of the Joplin area: w Contributions to the community w Business or management philosophy w Response to challenges w Innovative products or services w Employee involvement/recognition Awards will be presented at the 100th Annual Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet May 4 to three deserving businesses serving our community: one business employing 1-10 employees, one business employing 11-50 employees and one not-for-profit business.

Visit www.joplincc.com to post your nomination.

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

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New YPN Members

Jordan Blythe MSSU Super Leaders Tyler Elsten MSSU Super Leaders Ashton Gibson MSSU Super Leaders Jordyn Hill The Law Store Zackary Keckler MSSU Super Leaders Courtney Maresh Visiting Angels Curtis Miller On Your Left Marketing Brittany Minear MSSU Super Leaders Ashley Nicholson MSSU Super Leaders Curtis Prunty Mount Hope Church of Christ Tabitha Schramm Mercy Hospital Joplin Kutz Suso MSSU Super Leaders Chee Yang MSSU Super Leaders Hope Yarick MSSU Super Leaders Hae-Chan Yoan MSSU Super Leaders

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Presented by

Candy House Gourmet Chocolates

Joplin Early Childhood Center

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Hedman Chiropractic, LLC

Wayne and Cara Adolphsen, Owners 510 South Kentucky Avenue New Ownership

Rob O'Brian, President 320 East 4th Street New Branding Campaign

Dr. Norm Ridder, Superintendent 2901 South McClelland Blvd.

Ground Breaking

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

FEBRUARY 2017

Ribbon Cuttings

Eric Hedman, Owner 517 East 7th Street New Location

Ambassador Partnership

Churchwell Hedman Tax Group

Chris Churchwell, Owner; Caley Hedman, Staff Accountant 515 East 7th Street New Location

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"I have been an Ambassador for about 5 years. As an Ambassador, we wear our red coats to ribbon cuttings and have the opportunity to meet with many new and existing business owners on a personal level. Ribbon cuttings are an opportunity for our Chamber members to show off a new location or share a new product or a significant milestone with the community. Being an Ambassador allows me to share that significant moment with them."--Larry Chalmers, Chalmers Insurance

Calendar of Events for February 2017 February 1 8 am Tomorrow's Leaders Today Community Service/ Leadership Development Session Lafayette House 9 am Leads Group Three Southwest Missouri Bank, 32nd and McClelland February 2 & 3 7:30 am Leadership Joplin 2017 Overnight Retreat Sky Ranch Cave Springs Retreat Center February 3 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Express Employment Professionals February 6 12 pm Business EXPO Committee Meeting Chamber Office

February 15 5:30 pm Chamber Night at MSSU Basketball Missouri Southern State University February 16 8:30 am Leadership Joplin 2017 Community Service/ Healthcare Session Premier Surgical Institute

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February 17 10:15 am Eggs & Issues Legislative Forum Great Point Assembly, Carthage February 20 12 pm Leadership Joplin Steering Committee Chamber Office

February 7 9 am Leads Group One Chamber Office

February 21 9 am Leads Group One Consolidated Electrical Distributors 5:30 pm Business After Hours Mercy Hospital Joplin (3rd Floor Heart Care)

February 8 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

February 22 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

February 15 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office 11:30 am Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Chamber Office

February 23 6 pm Golden Apple Nominee Reception Missouri Southern State University Connor Ballroom February 27 11:45 am Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Office

STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY: A REPORT FROM YOUR CHAMBER

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

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Thank you to the many volunteers and our sponsors for making another great Business EXPO happen!

CRUISES & TOURS

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First place winner of the "WOW" Factor Award: Americare 2nd place winner of the "WOW" Factor Award: Skaggs Chiropractic

EXPO 2018 Jan. 23 & 24, 2018 Downstream Casino

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Winner of the Tchotchke Award: All Seasons Outfitters First place winner of the Theme Performer Award: Southwest Missouri Bank 2nd place winner of the Theme Performer Award: Kraft Insurance Services Winner of the People's Choice Award: Ortho of the Four States Winner of the Walt Disney World trip sponsored by GalaxSea Cruises & Tours: Oleg Tyurikov Winner of the Early Booth Set-up: Joplin Globe Publishing Company

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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.

Jacob Fauvergue has joined Arvest Bank as a commercial banker and will be housed at the 1515 W. MacArthur Drive location in Webb City. Jacob brings seven years of banking experience to his new position and will work directly with commercial customers on their business loan needs in Joplin and the surrounding communities. For more information, go to www.arvest.com.

Freeman Health System upgraded its state-of-the-art hybrid cardiovascular operating room (CVOR) at Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute. As part of the upgrade, new technology gives Freeman cardiothoracic surgeons and cardiologists maximum flexibility to use the treatments most appropriate for each patient. For more information, go to www. freemanhealth.com.

Freeman Health System announces the addition of Kami Gollhofer as director of professional development. Some of her responsibilities include designing, developing and evaluating quality education programs for Freeman. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

Standard Transportation recently promoted the following employees: Ja’Mes Ammons, Warehouse Manager at Warehouse #1 and #2; David Hunter, Operations Dispatch over the Company Fleet Trucks, OTR Units; Justin Hatfield, Operations Dispatch over the Local Company Fleet Trucks, metro units; Mike McGinnis, Warehouseman Lead at Warehouse #1 and #2; and Jason Wells, Warehouseman/ Driver at Warehouse #1 and #2. For more information, call 417.782.1990.

For the first time in company history, Pearson-Kelly Office Products was named Elite Dealer and “Leaders of the Pack” for the year of 2016 by ENX Magazine. The magazine is a top nationwide document imaging industry reporter for news, trends, products and industry insight. For more information, go to www.pearsonkelly.com.

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via the “natural,” or “organic” algorithm of Google. Studying this algorithm is a true science, and KM Guru Marketing has managed to obtain the benefits for years via their SEO tactics. KM Guru Marketing is the first established SEO agency in Joplin. For more information, go to www.kmguru.com.

Missouri Southern State University is hosting their annual Spring Career Fair Wednesday, April 5. Businesses and organizations interested in recruiting MSSU students and alumni for internships and career opportunities can register now! Sponsorship opportunities are available. Call 417.625.9343 or email HireALion@mssu.edu for more information.

At Uncommon Orthodontics, they care about every aspect of your smile. That’s why they work so closely with your general dentist to make sure your oral health is at its best! This February, they are launching a couples program to encourage the best dental hygiene practices in our patients and to maximize their uncommon smiles! Want to know more? Call 417.625.1114.

Higdon Florist is ready for Valentine’s Day with roses, spring bouquets and awesome classy flowers to say “Happy Valentine’s Day!” Order early to ensure timely delivery. Valentine’s Day is Tuesday, Feb. 14! Higdon Florist is open Monday through Friday 8:30 am-5 pm and 9 am-3 pm Saturday. You can reach Marcia, Higdon Florist owner, nights and weekends when the store is closed. Remember, when you want to send the best, call Higdon Florist and they will do the rest! Call 417.624.7171 or go to www. higdonflorist.com.

City of Joplin WIC has announced that a contract to continue to provide Women, Infants and Children (WIC) services for federal fiscal year 2017 was signed with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Under the terms of the contract, Joplin City WIC will be able to serve 3,312 persons eligible for WIC every month. In 2016, the Joplin WIC contract allowed service to 3,504 persons eligible for the program. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

Tickets are on sale for the 18th Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night hosted by the City of Joplin Parks and Recreation Department.

Two date nights are scheduled: February 17 and 18, 6:30-9 pm.

Tickets are $35 per couple and may be purchased by calling 417.625.4750.

Consider partnering with Rapha House by sponsoring a safe house at www.raphahouse.org/safehouse or by making a one-time gift. You can send checks by mail or make donations at www.raphahouse.org/donate. Contact Rapha House today at www.raphahouse.org/contact-us to get started.

Pro Musica presents Nordic Voices February 16 at Central Christian Center, 410 S. Virginia Ave., in Joplin. Nordic Voices is a six-voice (3 male, 3 female) a cappella ensemble that performs a repertoire ranging from the medieval to the contemporary and is unrivaled in the fine art of sophisticated music-making and stylish performance. The concert, which starts at 7 pm, is open to the public at no charge with donations appreciated. For more information, go to www.promusicajoplin.org or call 417.625.1822.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving the visibility of your company’s website in search engines

Now is a great time to have a free payroll checkup to ensure your business is compliant. Contact Payroll Vault today at

Fore Media, LLC announces production of their new television show titled “On the Town.” They offer affordable advertising packages available for their 2017 TV season that will air each Saturday at 5 pm. Contact them at 417.438.4428 about featuring your business as a Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce member.

R&D Lawncare and Landscaping is now offering free custom fire pits with the installation of any outdoor kitchen or retaining wall.

Call Derrick Brown today at 417.438.6590 for a free estimate or go to www.randdlawncare.com.

V’s Barbershop announces the addition of Creinna Miller to their team. Creinna is now accepting appointments. Call 417.621.0901 today to book your appointment, and remember they always offer discounts for veterans. Go to www.vbarbershop.com.

Mystique Boutique is offering a February storewide sale of 14 percent off on all inventory as well as all denim 60 percent off while inventory lasts. Make sure to like and follow them on Facebook and Snapchat for daily deal specials.

For more information, call 417.624.4202 or go to www. mystiqueboutiquejoplin.com ABE Paint Team announces free touch ups for life. Call now and receive 14 percent off any interior paint job up to three rooms and receive your free touch ups for life. Call 417.291.4122 or book your free estimate at www.abepaintteam.com.

Start the new year off by creating a great new smile. Dr. John Durling and ADC Dental Group is the area’s premier provider of Invisalign. Call 417.208.3192 today for your consultation.

Tri-State Area Contractors Association is offering a free 10-hour OSHA training at Carthage Water & Electric Plant, 627 West Centennial Avenue, February 23 and 24, 7 am-12:30 pm. Call 417.358.4007 to reserve your seat.

J. Hilburn has gift ideas for your Valentine. Design takes time and the right size is a must, so don’t be late, call Nancy Paul today!

Shirts and jackets are just a few of the men’s items you’ll find. Call Nancy at 417.389.5131 today and order a shirt just for him.

A $1 million gift for the establishment of the Debra and David Humphreys Excellence Award was announced at Missouri Southern State University. The Debra and David Humphreys Excellence Award will be given to Missouri Southern students over the next 10 years. For more information, go to www.mssu.edu.

Bunco Night, an evening of the fun (and easy) dice game, great food, prizes and camaraderie, will be Thursday, February 16, hosted by Soroptimist International of Joplin at The Independent Living Center, 2639 East 34th Street, starting at 6 pm. Entry is only $20. RSVP to lea@joplincc.com. No experience needed!

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts features the Main Gallery exhibit “The Reins: Paintings by Juan Kelly” and the Regional

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Gallery exhibit “Exquisite Miniatures by Wes & Rachelle Siegrist.” The exhibits are open to the public through February 19. Gallery and gift shop hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 am-5 pm and Sunday 1-5 pm. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

After 34 years of service and dedication to the insurance industry, JoAnn Evans, vice president of employee benefits, retired from Beimdiek Insurance January 31. For more information, call 417.358.4007.

FEBRUARY 2017

417.623.0941 or www.payrollvault.com for a free initial payroll run as a member of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.

If you’re looking for Kyle Allen or Michael Matney, two of Southwest Missouri Bank’s lenders, you’ll need to look in a different branch! Kyle is now at the Zora branch and Michael is at Stone’s Corner. They are both ready and willing to help you with your lending needs, and can be reached at the following numbers: Kyle Allen - 417-206-6800 or kallen@ smbonline.com and Michael Matney - 417-623-0400 or mmatney@smbonline.com.

Sharon Beshore, Connect2Culture chairman, was awarded the Martin Luther King Drum Major of Service Award by the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Southwest Missouri.

This distinguished award goes to volunteers who perform extraordinary everyday acts of service with reliability and commitment, but who seldom receive recognition. For more information, call 417.625.6683.

Follow your heart to Mercy Hospital Joplin’s Breakfast in Red heart-health education and breakfast. Choose February 17 or 24 at Mercy Hospital Joplin Conference Center, 7-9 am, or February 22 at Mercy Hospital Carthage Employee Life Center, 7-9 am. Register here.

Friends of Girl Scouts Camp Mintahama presents Mintahama Food Fight 2017, a fast-paced evening of local culinary competition benefitting the historic Girl Scout and recreational camp, Camp Mintahama. Professional and amateur food enthusiasts will present appetizer, entrée and dessert tasting plates for popular vote. Silent and live auctions, wine pull and an evening of great food for a great cause await February 25, 6-10 pm at Downstream Casino Resort. To reserve your table, or for more information, go to www.Facebook.com/mintahamafoodfight or call 918.504.9563.

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 February 10. Please include “Our Members Announce” in the email subject line. Find all our members in our online Membership Directory.

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THANK YOU FOR RENEWING Alpha Air Center, LLC............................................. 2011

Holden Buildings.................................................... 2013

Arvada Technologies, Inc........................................ 2012

Joplin Dental Care.................................................. 1984

Bank of Little Rock Mortgage................................. 2012

Lancaster Signs....................................................... 2000

Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks................ 2011

Mallory Canvas Products........................................ 1998

Bug Zero Pest Services .......................................... 2016

Midwest Minerals, Inc............................................. 2012

CB Title.................................................................... 2013

Protein Solutions, LLC............................................. 2008

Cell Phone Medics.................................................. 2009

Service Recycling.................................................... 2008

College Heights Christian School........................... 1992

Simpson Funeral Home.......................................... 2016

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

Sleep Inn................................................................. 2000

Compassus Hospice............................................... 1998

Twin Hills Golf & Country Club............................... 1966

Fresenius Medical Care........................................... 2008

2017 Tomorrow's Leaders Today Class Completes Two Sessions The 41 members of the TLT Class of 2017 were at Joplin City Hall for Government & Law Day December 7.

After a welcome by Michael Seibert, Joplin mayor, the students heard a presentation on the Missouri Court of Appeals by The Honorable Daniel Scott, Judge-Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District. The case, which went to appeal, had an outcome that was not as clear cut as originally thought. A criminal investigation and mock trial followed, with the students hearing the details regarding a DUI case and then taking on the roles of defendant, witnesses, prosecution, defense, judge and jury. They were assisted by Jasper County Prosecutor Dean Dankelson; Rusty Rives with the Joplin Police Department; The Honorable Mark Elliston - Municipal Court Judge; and Charles Genisio and Mitchell Cross, attorneys at Parrish Cross Genisio & Hawkins, LLC. The day concluded with several presentations by the Joplin Police Department SWAT Team, Corporal Clay Collard; the DTF team, Adam New; and K-9 operations with Randy Black, JPD, and his K-9 partner, Fighter, an explosives detection dog. The class came away with new perspectives on the various careers, opportunities and challenges faced by these individuals on a day-to-day basis.

Business & Industry Day was January 11, and the TLT class toured area businesses. Cardinal Detecto Mfg., KSNF-TV, Southwest Missouri Bank, General Mills, Component Packaging and a presentation by Stronghold Data were on the agenda. Each stop was unique in both type and either product or service provided, and the students were given a behind-the-scenes look at the technologies used and a view of the innovative techniques under development. What to study, needed skills and career opportunities were highlighted at every facility. Both local entrepreneurship and national companies were the focus for the students. The idea behind this session is to show the students what careers are available in the business and manufacturing realm for individuals with advanced degrees.

TLT is sponsored by &

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Welcome New Members G. L. Hunt Exteriors, LLC Home Improvement-Roofing, Siding, Windows 729 South Range Line Road, Joplin, MO 64801 417.758.8655 Chris Kuykendall, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Access Home Health Agency Home Health Care Providers 1329 East 32nd Street, Suites 8-9, Joplin, MO 64804 417.623.9991 access-home-health.com Daxton Holcomb, Branch Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Charlie's Chicken Restaurant/Bar 2020 East 32nd Street, Joplin, MO 64804 417.621.9900 www.charlieschickenjoplin.com Mitch Allen, President Sponsor: Dave Clemons, Results Radio, AMI Radio Group Red Hot & Blue Restaurant/Bar 2601 South Range Line Road, Joplin, MO 64804 417.782.7427 www.redhotandblue.com Mitch Allen, President Sponsor: Dave Clemons, Results Radio, AMI Radio Group J.D. Byrider Automobile Dealers 3215 East 20th Street, Joplin, MO 64801 417.208.0451 www.gojdb.com Winston Sleeth, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Optic Communications Telephone/Cable/Internet Services 224 South Kansas Avenue, Columbus, KS 66725 855.806.7325 www.optic-communications.com Nick Saporito, Marketing Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC

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ColorGraphic Printing, Inc. Printers 4150 West Division Street, Springfield, MO 65802 417.869.0848 www.colorgraphicprint.com Sally Moffatt, Account Executive Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Fred & Red's Restaurant/Bar 1719 South Main Street, Joplin, MO 64804 417.781.5341 www.fredandredschili.com David Schaefer, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC; Joe Craigmile 417 Cabinets Cabinets/Woodworking 2203 East 32nd Street, Suite B, Joplin, MO 64804 417.823.8160 www.417cabinets.com Dustin Lane, Sales Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina Restaurant/Bar 3000 South Range Line Road, Joplin, MO 64804 417.622.5725 www.ontheborder.com Nova Fancher, General Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, JACC Tactical Marketing Co. Marketing Research & Marketing Companies 407 South Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 209B, Joplin, MO 64801 417.260.5114 www.tacticalmarketingco.com Greg Powell, Owner Sponsors: Jim Kesler, JACC; Brian Kelly, 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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5 Tips for Selecting Business Productivity Software “Efficiency is doing things right; effectiveness is doing the right things.” – Peter Drucker Whether you work in business, government, education, medicine, transportation, agriculture or another profession, everyone is trying to find ways to be more efficient and effective. Business productivity software applications can serve as useful tools to accomplish “working smarter, not harder” goals.

Business productivity software has traditionally included word processors, database management systems, graphics software and spreadsheet applications.

Within the last several years, new software application programs that promote collaboration and communication are now considered valuable types of business productivity software. With the expansion of the internet, the development of social media platforms, the creation of smart phones, the reduced cost of data storage space, increases in computer processing abilities and the enhancements in online video programs, there are now many kinds of business applications. These include collaboration and communication software applications, and financial data organizing programs.

“The Cloud” led the way to the development of many kinds of business productivity software applications.

The Cloud basically refers to the internet. New software applications are continuing to be developed, so it can be confusing deciding which application will meet your needs. Using a computer or smart phone, you can store and access your data and software programs.

If your company doesn’t have some type of Cloudbased storage for your information, you could lose all your customer database files, accounting data and valuable information when a disaster occurs.

Cloud- or internet-based software and file storage enables people and businesses to have access to data 24/7 via their smart phone, laptop computer or other handheld device. This allows for greater productivity since you don’t have to be sitting at your computer to access information. In the event of a disaster, you can be up and running the same day.

Following are useful tips to consider when selecting business productivity software: 1. Use a mobile version of your business productivity software. Whether you are using your laptop or phone, you may need to access your company’s information when you are not in the office.

2. Select reliable and functional software. It’s fun to try new applications, but does the software actually

have the features you need, and are the flaws worked out so you don’t run into costly mistakes and downtime? Microsoft and Google both offer a 99.9 percent uptime guarantee to users of their products.

FEBRUARY 2017

By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University

3. Find software that allows collaboration and file sharing. These features will allow you to share files with co-workers, customers, vendors and others.

Use programs that allow real time file sharing where you can update and change files using hand-held devices from any location.

4. Security is a major concern for all types of organizations, so selecting software that is constantly updated to prevent security problems is paramount. Maintaining accurate, secure data that will not be compromised by computer hackers can be challenging.

5. Compatibility with other organizations is always a concern. Does your company send information to customers, vendors or governmental offices? You will want to make certain whichever programs you use will be compatible with the systems and file formats these entities need.

Remember, business productivity software is designed to encourage teamwork among fellow employees, not conflict. Whether you decide to use Microsoft Office, Google Apps or other software, consider these factors when making your decision.

Following is a training event that may assist you in learning about a well-known productivity software.

Microsoft Excel Level 1 Learn the practical uses of Microsoft Excel. Participants will be given an overview of Excel and will learn how to build, format, save and print Excel workbooks. During this training event, participants will learn how to create basic worksheets with text, numbers, formulas and functions. Learn to utilize ribbons, the help system and other Excel features. Find out how to insert, delete, move and copy data. Learn how to create and modify charts. Each participant will receive a manual and completion certificate after participating in this two-day training event.

Date: February 21 & 23 (Tuesday & Thursday) Time: 1:30-4:30 pm each day Location: MSSU, Plaster Hall Cost: $124 per person

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business outlook FEBRUARY 2017

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

Learn the practical uses of Microsoft Excel. Participants

Before you start a business, be certain to attend this

will be given an overview of Excel and will learn how to

training. Participants will have an opportunity to assess

build, format, save and print Excel workbooks. During

their business idea, learn about the importance of

this training event, participants will learn how to create

planning, discuss legal and regulatory requirements,

basic worksheets with text, numbers, formulas,and

learn about marketing strategies and identify sources of

functions. Learn to utilize ribbons, the help system and

financing. Each participant will receive a start-up manual.

other Excel features. Find out how to insert, delete, move

February 9 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $29 per business

ACHIEVE MORE: BE THE BOSS OF YOUR DAY

Are you in charge of your day or does it boss you around?

Would you like to be more productive during your work day? This session will explore tracking systems, a productivity matrix, tips for scheduling appointments/

MICROSOFT EXCEL LEVEL 1

and copy data. Learn how to create and modify charts.

Each participant will receive a manual and a completion certificate.

February 21 (Tuesday), 1:30-4:30 pm and February 23 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: $124 per person UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The first in a series of three, this training is designed for

tasks and suggestions for keeping on top of tasks.

business owners, managers and those who want to learn

Pre-registration is required. Participants will receive a

how to turn financial statements into useful management

customized BizMiner industry financial report for their

tools. Participants will review the accounts listed on the

firm.

Profit & Loss statement and Balance Sheet and will learn

February 15 (Wednesday), 3-4 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: No cost ANALYZING AND MANAGING CASH FLOW

The second in a series of three, this training is designed for those who want to know how to turn financial statements into useful management tools. During this

how to calculate several useful ratios from these financial statements. Participants will then learn how to make business decisions from this information.

February 28 (Tuesday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU (yellow signs at entrance will list room information) Cost: $49

course, participants will take a close look at where cash comes from, where it’s used in day-to-day business, and learn to identify and correct cash flow problems.

February 16 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: $59

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

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FEBRUARY 2017

business outlook

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business outlook FEBRUARY 2017

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