January 2016 Business Outlook

JAN

Business outlook 2016

January 2016

Business Outlook

business expo 2016

all the information you need!

Pages 12-15

our members announce

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Better Skills, Better Opportunities

p. 3

INSIDE

The Value of educating your employees Page 17

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce | 320 East 4th Street | Joplin, MO 64801 | 417.624.4150 WWW.JOPLINCC.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/JOPLINCHAMBER | TWITTER.COM/JOPLINCHAMBER

PRESENTED BY

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January 2016

Business Outlook

Board of Directors 2015-2016 Executive Committee David Glenn

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Karen Plott

CHAIRMAN ELECT OF THE BOARD

Randy Moore

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 Clive Veri VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Lori Scott Dreiling CO-VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Directors Ex-Officio Directors Gina Atteberry Sam Anselm Michael Beatty John Bartosh Brad Beecher Mike Gray Brandon Davis Lindsey Hayes

Donovan Edwards Dr. Alan Marble

Jacqueline Hackett Dr. Jennifer Methvin Holly Hukill Matt Proctor Charles Keeter Dr. Norm Ridder Kelli Perigo Marilyn Ruestman Gary Pulsipher 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 Martha Getz Cynthia Marlow

DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & DEVELOPMENT MEMBER EVENTS PRODUCER MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR MEMBER SUCCESS STRATEGIST

Sponsors Platinum Level

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

Chairman Level

AMI Radio Group 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 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. Innovative Objects Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. Motive Matters Weed Whackers, Inc.

Communications & Finance Kirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Samantha Doubledee FINANCE DIRECTOR Economic & Workforce Development Steve Russell NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER DIRECTOR Kevin Welch

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS ATTRACTION Cary Beasley, IOM WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Mark Turnbull DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL STRATEGIES Administrative Support Lea Schroer NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Melissa Winslow ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 2

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

January 2016

Business Outlook

Better Skills, Better Opportunities As we begin the new year, I am particularly excited about new opportunities your Chamber and key partners are bringing to our community, particularly in the area of improving workforce skills. Right now, we have more people employed than ever before and an unemployment rate near 4 percent. In the meantime, we have employers, large and small and in every sector, who are looking for good employees with the skills needed to help businesses succeed. This is especially true in some key sectors such as manufacturing and health care, but every sector needs people with good skills.

We have been working on this workforce issue for some time, but in the past two years we have had an opportunity to move the effort to an entirely different level for manufacturing and health care. This comes about thanks to a series of events and good existing partnerships we have had for many years. The Rob O’Brian, President foundation of the effort is an existing 51,000-square-foot building east of the Chamber on 4th Street. This building was built as and remained a warehouse for more than 40 years. Then, post-tornado, the owner of the building, Gary Hall, let Franklin Technology Center move in as a replacement location for the building destroyed in the storm.

FTC filled the building with a number of classrooms, common area, culinary teaching kitchen and training areas for welding, auto repair and heating/ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). FTC also put in a carpentry training area on the north (4th Street) end of the building where it would be easy to move wood in and out through the existing dock doors. In creating this new training facility, Joplin Schools invested a lot of money in the building. Now, most of that was FEMA and State emergency money, and of course it was part of the immediate recovery investment. Nevertheless, it was a great investment that was pending being ripped out when the building went back to being a warehouse.

We had been eyeing that building for a number of years as an opportunity to expand the efforts of the Newman Innovation Center and create more space for fledgling businesses, but it was just too big and it was still in use as a warehouse. However, in early 2014, when it became obvious FTC would be gone by the end of the year, it seemed a shame to lose the great training space, especially when we could see the growing need for more skills in the workforce. So, we talked to the City of Joplin about the availability of federal disaster recovery dollars to help buy and equip the building. The initial response was very positive. Then we talked to the owner who, likewise, was positive about seeing the building used as a training facility. So with that, we needed a partner in training to make this happen.

The FTC folks were interested in some presence, but with all the new space coming at the high school, it was not feasible for them to support another operation. However, they turned to one of their higher education partners, Crowder College, and asked about their interest. Crowder was more than interested, especially seeing the demand to expand its advanced manufacturing and higher-level welding training.

Discussions with Crowder proceeded rapidly, with numerous walk-throughs of the building to determine what space the college would and could use and how that space would need to be upgraded for the advanced curriculum. In addition, the Workforce Investment Board was interested in getting closer to downtown for its interactions with the Career Center and the Chamber and indicated it would take the office area of the building.

General cost estimates for purchase and upgrade of the building and the needed equipment were done so the request could be made for disaster funding. In addition, the owner agreed to a handshake agreement to hold the building available, since no formal contract can be made until the disaster funding is finally approved. The City Council was very supportive of the request, although at a level lower than initially sought due to so many demands for the funds. Once Council approved the request, it took months of work to get federal approval and finalize the agreement between the Chamber and the City, which was completed just before the holidays.

So with the new year, we begin the task of acquisition and remodeling of the building for its new tenants. Crowder is committed to beginning the advanced manufacturing and high-level welding classes by fall. Also on tap are classes in community health and, perhaps, some additional IT networking classes. There will also be space available for companies to do their own customized training, either with Crowder or with their own instructors.

This training presents the opportunity for people to increase their skills to improve in their current job or to move into another job.

That means the opportunity for better wages and overall better life. For companies, it means better opportunities to have the skilled workers they need, with training close to home. Your Chamber’s partnership with education, the City and business created the opportunity for this win for our entire community.

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January 2016

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Business Outlook

2015-2016 Executive Committee Presented by

Message to the Network from Chairman Nicole Brown They say, “clothes make the man.” Last April, I witnessed this first-hand at the YPN/MSSU Dress for Success event. Nearly 190 students received clothing to prepare for interviews, career fairs and presentations.

My favorite quote of the day came from a student standing awe-struck in front of the mirror: “I look like a professional.” The clothing instantly boosted her confidence and self-image.

Many of us have extra pieces of professional clothing sitting in our closet; most college students do not. You can help them prepare for the job market through the second-annual YPN/MSSU Dress for Success event. First, go through your closet and ask others to do the same. All sizes of professional clothing and accessories are needed and will be appreciated. Next, host a collection in your office or civic group and drop off your donations to the Chamber Office between February 19 and March 15.

If you would like to witness these transformations yourself, volunteers are needed to help with the clothing distribution March 31 on the MSSU campus.

Personal shoppers and dressing room attendants will

January 2016

Business Outlook

Nicole Brown, Chairman Brent Baker, Co-Chairman Lindsey Hayes, Past Chairman Shawn Daniel Jake Heisten Jennifer Little Ryan Melton Stephanie Onstot Greg Sutton Megan Tyler Christina Williams

YPN New Members Anthony Giarratano, Standard Transportation Services, Inc. Tiffanie Roberts, Arvest Bank Ashley Stephene, The J.M. Smucker Company help students learn to assemble interview outfits, tie ties and fit suits. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Nicole Brown at brown-n@mssu.edu or 417.625.3137 or Martha Getz at martha@joplincc.com or 417.624.4150.

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Ribbon Cuttings

Dr. Eric Delman, Premier Surgical Institute

Mercy Gift Shop

Eric Delman, D.O. 198 Four States Drive, Suite 8, Galena, Kansas New General Surgeon and New Outpatient Clinic

Allison Craig, Gift Shop Supervisor 100 Mercy Way Grand Opening

CLEAN, The Uniform Company

Public Safety Training Center

Spencer Kelso, General Manager 1609 East Falcon Drive Chamber Membership

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

January 2016

Business Outlook

Sam Anselm, City Manager Highway 171, South of Former Joplin Airport Grand Opening

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.

Serve on a City of Joplin Board or Commission

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Whatever your interest, the City probably has a place for you to serve. Boards and commissions range from the City Tree Board and Conventions & Visitors Advisory Board to Historic Preservation and Traffic Commission. You must be a registered Missouri voter to apply. Find the complete list of boards and commissions, and the online application form, at www.joplinmo.org under the “Government� tab.

Presented by

Williams Event Center Linda Williams, Owner 1201 East 32nd Street Grand Opening

January 2016

Business Outlook

Bill and Virginia Leffen Center for Autism Paula Baker, CEO 2802 South Picher Avenue Grand Opening

Celebrate your business’ milestones with a ribbon cutting!

Gateway Mortgage

Contact Stephanie McGrew at 417.624.4150 or by email at smcgrew@joplincc.com.

Steve Kluthe, Branch Manager 3929 East 7th Street, Suite G New Chamber Member, New Location

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January 2016

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Welcome New Members

Cricket Wireless - Southern Group Telephones & Service - Cellular 420 North Range Line Road, Suite 1 Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.7488 www.southerngroupwireless.com Kamaron Rackleff, Area Manager Tammy Foster, Store Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce LovinGrace Transitional Housing 1414 Euclid Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.540.8640 www.lovin-grace.org Stephanie Meek, Director Sponsor: Cary Beasley, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce CherishedHC Home Health Care Providers 1801 West 32nd Street, Suite C208 Joplin, MO 64804 417.553.7591 www.cherishedhc.com Cheri Watkins, Administrator Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Gateway Mortgage Group Mortgage Loans & Bankers 3929 East 7th Street, Suite G Joplin, MO 64801 417.726.4060 www.gatewayloan.com Steve Kluthe, Branch Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Drury Inn & Suites Hotels; Meeting & Conference Facility 3601 South Range Line Road Joplin, MO 64804 417.781.8000 www.druryhotels.com Jim Adams, General Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

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The Baldknobbers Theaters - Live; Entertainment 2835 West 76 Country Blvd.

Branson, MO 65616 417.334.4528 www.baldknobbers.com Wanda Malmsbury, Sales Director Sponsors: Ruthann Crust, The Titanic Museum Attraction; Martha Getz, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Liberty Tax Service Tax Preparation 3120 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.208.9777 www.libertytax.com Shannon Startin, Owner Sponsors: Ginger LaMar and Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Advanced Practice Clinic Clinics & Medical Groups/Weight Control/Test Lab/ Medical Spa 1901 East 32nd Street, Suite 20 Joplin, MO 64804 417.781.2046 www.apclinic.net Quentin Caswell, FNP-C, Co-Owner Carl Smith, FNP-C, Co-Owner Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Desert Flora Plant Art Florist; Interior Decorators Miami, OK 74354 760.686.4223 www.desertfloraplantart.com Laurie Reisch, Owner/Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Endless Kiss Beauty Supplies 407 Islington Place Joplin, MO 64801 417.291.0580 Linda Dukart, Independent Beauty Consultant Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Continued on page 9

New Members, continued Murphy Business & Financial Business Brokers 1200 Crest Drive Joplin, MO 64801 417.437.0013 www.scottbelden-murphy.com Scott Belden, Owner Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Kozy Kamp Campground/Recreation 71 Elk River Road/P.O. Box 156 Pineville, MO 64856-0156 www.kozykamp.com Andi Monroe, Manager Sponsor: Martha Getz, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Communities of Wildwood Ranch Nursing Homes 3222 South John Duffy Drive Joplin, MO 64804 417.621.0175 www.communitiesofwildwood.com Tracy Rowe, Executive Director Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

January 2016

Business Outlook

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 the Chamber. Contact Cynthia Marlow at 417.624.4150 or cynthia@joplincc.com.

Calendar of Events for January 2016 January 4 12 pm Business EXPO Committee Meeting Chamber Office

January 18 12 pm Leadership Joplin Steering Committee Meeting Chamber Office

January 5 9 am Leads Group One Southwest Missouri Bank

January 19 12 pm Business EXPO--Business Community Only Joplin Convention & Trade Center 5 pm Business EXPO After Hours (adults only, please) Joplin Convention & Trade Center

January 6 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office January 8 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Bill and Virginia Leffen Center for Autism January 13 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office 11:30 am Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting Chamber Office January 14 3 pm Leadership Joplin 2016 Welcome Mixer Hideout Harley-Davidson

January 20 8 am Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Business & Industry Day Joplin Convention & Trade Center 10 am Joplin Business EXPO--Open to the Public Joplin Convention & Trade Center January 26 10 am Launch Pad Member Orientation Chamber Office January 27 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office January 27-28 Overnight Leadership Joplin Retreat Sky Ranch Retreat Center

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January 2016

Business Outlook

Our Members Announce presented by A new Master’s in Management program at Missouri Southern State University recently received approval from the Higher Learning Commission. The 30-credithour program, which will begin during the Fall 2016 semester, will offer a hybrid course of study – blending traditional classes with online study, with opportunities for independent study and research projects. Students will be able to select their focus of study, either human resources or general management. For more information, go to www. mssu.edu.

The 45th Annual Joplin Christmas Parade, organized by Freeman Health System, generated $2,795 from entry fees, which go to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

A separate event, Santa Meet-and-Greet, generated another $607.46, bringing the total to $3,402.46. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors of Southwest Missouri (NAIFA-SW) presented a $3,500 check to Cerebral Palsy of Tri-County in December.

This donation is from the NAIFA-SW HELP THE CHILDREN fund, a community service project started over 30 years ago that grows with the association’s annual fundraising efforts. The funds are used to help area children with special needs. For more information, go to www.naifa.org.

PRO 100 Inc., Realtors announced Judy Lowe was recently named 2015 Realtor Team Member of the Year by the Ozark Gateway Association of Realtors. The award is one of the greatest honors bestowed upon a Realtor by their peers at the local level and recognizes the Realtor for their meritorious contributions to the advancement of their profession and the real estate community at large. For more information, call 417.782.0800.

The United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas received a donation check for $907.48 from the Westside (Kansas) Elementary students by participating in Penny Wars between grade levels. For more information, go to www.unitedwaymokan.org.

The City of Joplin Public Safety Training Tower opened in early December. The training tower provides a realistic and safe training environment for fire and police personnel, and is part of the first phase of a two-phase development for the Public Safety Training Center. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

Registration is open through January 6 for indoor soccer and girls’ volleyball at the Joplin Family YMCA. For more information, go to www.joplinfamilyy.org.

The Alliance of SWMO presented a check for $1,800 to Joplin’s Youth Basketball Association in December. The Alliance helped purchase $1,800 worth of equipment and other various needs for the basketball team. This was made possible through The Alliance’s Full Potential program, which offers assistance with registration fees and equipment for most youth sports. For more information, go to www.theallianceofswmo.org.

A new rotation for the Joplin Regional Artist’s Coalition members’ show runs through February 26. This is an ongoing exhibit featuring members’ art work and is held at the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce during regular office hours. Showcased are the paintings of Paula Giltner and Tammy Geisert, and the pottery of Daria Claiborne. For more information, call 417.592.1673.

For the eighth time in 10 years, Freeman Home Care has earned National Research Corporation’s HomeCare Elite™ designation. The list identifies the most successful 10 home care providers in the United States. HomeCare Elite

identifies the top 25 percent of Medicare-certified agencies and highlights the top 100 and 500 overall. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

Personal Finance Company announces the newest addition to their office staff, Sofia Aguilar, customer service representative. Sofia brings with her excellent customer service skills and the added benefit of being fluent in English and Spanish to better serve their customers. Don’t forget, they offer fixed term loans with monthly payments to fit your budget. For more information, call 417.781.2314.

Thanks to a generous donation by the Mercy Health Foundation, Mercy Joplin now offers the Mercy Heart Pillows to patients recovering from open heart surgery. The therapy service was one heart patients once received as part of the original St. John’s Center for Heart Care, started in 1981. The pillows help support the incision site when the patient coughs and protects against a seat belt rubbing when traveling. For more information, go to www.mercy. net.

For a limited time, Uncommon Orthodontics is offering 2015 fees in 2016! That’s right, come in and get a free consultation and free X-rays along with 2015 fees. Did you previously decline or delay starting treatment? They are offering you a second chance in 2016! You can now recover your records discount, a $378 value, when you start, plus

The Tri-State Area Contractors Association announced at their 2015 Christmas party that they raised $3,595 for their scholarship program. For more information, email heather@tristatecontractors.net.

Joplin Regional Business Journal has promoted David Mink to the position of editor. Mink has been a reporter with JRBJ since 2011 and has 12 years’ experience in the field of journalism. In his new position, he will be responsible for guiding the editorial direction of the publication, leading the news team, and creating and maintaining JRBJ’s print and online media products. For more information, call 417.625.6699.

Leadercast is coming to College Heights Christian Church May 6, 2016! Mark this date on your calendar and bring your co-workers to the best leadership training of the year!

Leadercast broadcasts live from Atlanta to over 100,000 leaders around the world in communities like Joplin! Be inspired by speakers such as co-founder of Apple, Steve Wozniak, head coach for the University of Alabama, Nick Saban, as well as Andy Stanley, James Brown, Dr. Henry Cloud, Kat Cole and Chris Barez-Brown. For more information, visit www.leadercast.com.

Due to growth, Welcome Wagon, the nation’s largest welcoming service since 1928, is looking for enthusiastic community marketing executives to sell advertising and marketing programs to local businesses. This home-based position offers a flexible schedule, draw/commission, bonus, mileage reimbursement and more. Successful Individuals possess a passion for prospecting, meeting with potential clients and working independently.

Contact Marsha Blackburn, corporate recruiter, at www. welcomewagon.com.

Camp Mintahama will celebrate its 70th year of serving Girl Scouts and the community in 2016. In honor of this occasion, the Friends of Mintahama will host the inaugural Mintahama Food Fight & High Stakes Cakes event January 30. Proceeds will be used for camp operating and maintenance costs, and program development for local Girl Scouts, young women and the community. Twelve local culinary professionals will compete in three rounds, which will be judged by guests, and a “Best in Show” will be awarded to the overall outstanding competitor. A silent auction featuring local art, gift baskets, home furnishings and memorabilia, and a wine grab will be included. Cocktail hour starts at 6 pm; competition starts at 7 pm. Visit facebook.com/mintahamafoodfight to reserve your tickets today!

Business Outlook

The Joplin Demize NPSL season pass jerseys are now available for purchase. They are priced at $65. Season pass jerseys are good for free admission into all of the home games for the person wearing the jersey. Please contact info@joplindemize.com or call 417.782.3790 to place your order.

January 2016

you will get 2015 pricing in 2016! This offer expires April 29, 2016 at 5 pm. For more information, call 417.625.1114.

Looking for more games and activities for your kids to play? Check out a Launchpad tablet from the Joplin Public Library! Each Launchpad comes pre-loaded with fun learning apps for children as young as three years old, and each unit focuses on a specific theme, with dinosaurs, bugs and princesses being a few of the most popular choices. The Library has 25 units available for check out.

For more information, call 417.623.2184.

The Residence Inn by Marriott-Joplin and John Q. Hammons Hotels & Resorts announce the following Leadership Team promotions: Christopher Riggs was promoted to the position of guest service manager; Alice Stiles was promoted to the position of bookkeeper/ HRA; and Rachel Tremblay was promoted to the position of executive housekeeper. For more information, call 417.782.0908.

Joplin NALA Read is publishing a kitchen reader featuring recipes and stories from their learners, tutors, staff and friends. Writing recipes helps learners in a lot of areas: Food-related vocabulary, giving instructions, discussing ideas and having a meal together. To help NALA raise funds to grow and improve their programs, you can buy a Joplin NALA Kitchen Reader for $15 or two for $20. Place your order at www.joplinnala.org/cookbook-literacy/.

Premier Surgical Institute inpatient and outpatient hospital, located and owned by the City of Galena and serving Joplin and the entire Four State Area, announced that after only two-and-a-half years in operation, it is reporting a 2015 profit while continuing to provide patients below-average pricing for its world-class care. In calendar 2015, Premier Surgical Institute performed 2,572 surgeries/procedures (as of 11/30/15), contributed more than $1 million in property taxes and reported $176,000 in profit through the first 10 months of the year. For more information, call 877.394.5859.

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

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January 2016

Business Outlook

MEET ROYALS ALUMNI & SLUGGERRR JAN. 20!

JOPLIN CONVENTION AND TRADE CENTER

Tuesday, January 19 - Business Day (must present business card for entry)

12-8 pm

Wednesday, January 20 - Public DaY Open to the Public, $5 admission 10 am-6 pm

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See Joplincc.com for more details

SLAM DUNK Tuesday January 19, 2016 Open to the Business Community Only Noon-8 pm: Exhibitor Showcase Noon-7 pm: Silent Auction bidding in lobby 5-8 pm: EXPO After Hours, adults only, please 7:15 pm: Live Auction in lobby All Day: Register for your chance to win an allinclusive water sports trip from GalaxSea Cruises & Tours.

All Day: Vote for the People’s Choice Best Booth and Best Tchotchke Award! See the Chamber booth in lobby for details.

All Day: Shuttles will run from Sam’s Club parking lot.

DIG the EXPO App

Back this year, exhibitors and visitors will have access to the Business EXPO App! The app will offer exclusive coupons and deals from EXPO exhibitors, a listing of exhibitors, showcase auction items and display a map of booths so you can find your way to your favorite businesses!

The app is available for Apple devices in the App Store and for Android devices at Google Play.

Or just scan the code and download the app created and maintained by SNC Squared.

EXPO App Partner

WORLD CUP Wednesday January 20, 2016 Open to the Public $5 admission, kids 5 & under free 10 am-6 pm: Exhibitor Showcase 11:30 am AND 12:30 pm: Exhibitor lunch in the Lobby provided by Freeman Occumed.

(For Exhibitor Lunch details, see below.)

2-4:30 pm: Meet, greet, photos and autographs with Royals Alumni.

3-5 pm: Meet, greet and photos with Sluggerrr, the Kansas City Royals Mascot.

5:55 pm: Drawing for vacation giveaway.

All Day: Flu shots while supplies last at Mercy Hospital Joplin located in booths U1P-V1P. All Day: Register for your chance to win an allinclusive water sports trip from GalaxSea Cruises & Tours.

All Day: Shuttles will run from Sam’s Club parking lot.

Flu Shots

Don’t let the flu get you down this year! Stop

by Mercy Hospital Joplin’s booth (U1P-V1P) on Wednesday to get your free flu shots while supplies last.

Shuttles

Shuttles will run from Sam’s Club parking lot to the front door courtesy of Roper KIA both days.

Shuttle Partner

Walk-On Opportunities - YOU CAN MAKE THE TEAM! We would love to have your help! Contact Ginger LaMar or Martha Getz to volunteer at EXPO.

January 2016

Business Outlook

Need a Map?

Stop by the Joplin Regional Business Journal’s booth (K1P) and get your official EXPO map!

Exhibitor Lunch Details - Jan. 20

Exhibitors-only event. Choose between two meal times: 11:30 am OR 12:30 pm. Two tickets per booth (tickets distributed at EXPO check-in).

Provided by 13

January 2016

Business Outlook

Go for a Grand Slam!

Register in the lobby Tuesday and Wednesday for your chance to win an allinclusive water sports trip from GalaxSea Cruises & Tours. Your printed name tag is your registration.

Trip Sponsor

Bid on These Great Auction Items!

Disney World Tickets Estate Jewelry Puppy Zoom Teeth Whitening And much more!

Auction Partner

EXPO After Hours Tuesday, January 19, 2016 5-8 pm Mix and mingle while enjoying free “tastes” from a variety of member restaurants Cash bar available Be sure to try our “Signature Drink” Drawings & Giveaways Don’t forget the Auction!

Place your silent auction bids noon-7:10 pm Live auction begins at 7:15 pm Auctions benefit the Chamber Foundation Get your JACC EXPO bag in lobby

Hit a Home Run With Royals Alumni!

Wednesday, January 20 2-4:30 pm Meet, greet, photos Darryl Motley - Darryl caught the final out of the 1985 World Series and he hit .364 with 1 HR & 3 RBIs. Darryl was with the Royals from 1978 until 1986.

Greg Pryor - Greg played for the Royals from 1982 until 1986. An infielder, Greg was a member of the 1985 World Series winning team.

Jamie Quirk - Jamie played for the Royals three different times from 1972 until 1988.

John Mayberry - John played for the Royals from 1971 until 1977. He is a member of the Kansas City Royals Hall of Fame, Class of 1996.

Dennis Leonard - Dennis played for the Royals from 1972 until 1986. Dennis was the Royals Pitcher of the Month nine times during his career with the Royals. He is a member of the Kansas City Royals Hall of Fame, Class of 1989.

Willie Aikens - Willie played for the Royals from 1979 until 1983. Willie had four home runs in the 1980 World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Meet Sluggerrr, the Kansas City Royals Mascot Wednesday, January 20 3-5 pm Meet, greet and photos Presented by

Open to the Business Community only.

Adults only, please EXPO After Hours presented by

EXPO After Hours Sponsors

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Presented by

Sluggerrr's Profile

•Rookie Year: 1996 •First Game: April 5, 1996 •Height: 7'0" •Weight: Muscle weighs more than fat •Position: King of the Jungle •Throws: Hot Dogs, T-shirts, and visiting fans out of the park!

•Steals: Cotton candy, peanuts, and sometimes popcorn

$2 Off admission

$2 Off admission

Wednesday, January 20, 2016 10 am-6 pm

Wednesday, January 20, 2016 10 am-6 pm

Exhibitor Showcase

Exhibitor Showcase

Open to the Public $5 Admission

Open to the Public $5 Admission

Children 5 & Under Free

Children 5 & Under Free

Joplin Convention & Trade Center

Joplin Convention & Trade Center

Shuttle from Sam’s Club parking lot available

Shuttle from Sam’s Club parking lot available

Use QR code to show ticket at door, or print ticket at Joplincc.com

VOTE

All Day - Vote for the People’s Choice Best Booth! See the JACC booth in the lobby for details.

Pick up ballot at the JACC booth January 19.

Entries received must be by 8 pm Tuesday.

Winners will be announced Wednesday morning.

People’s Choice winner receives Business EXPO 2017 free booth!

January 2016

Business Outlook

Use QR code to show ticket at door, or print ticket at Joplincc.com

What’s in the Bag?

LAST CHANCE! Endorse your business and put something in the EXPO bags! Contact Cynthia Marlow to find out how to get your business in the hands of more than 1,000 Business EXPO attendees!

Banners

Please contact the official EXPO sign sponsor, Sign Designs, for your EXPO banner needs!

NEW THIS YEAR: Tchotchke Award Presented by

Champions of Business Sports Decor sponsored by 15

January 2016

Business Outlook

We Have Something NEW For You! Deals Dashboard is a Members Only Program from the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce designed to help member businesses reach other Chamber members and the public with their special offers, coupons and discounts.

Quick-start Guide   



Deals Dashboard is presented by Joplin Floor Designs. 



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Go to Joplincc.com/deals-dashboard You have three choices—Create a Deal, Find a Deal or Request Bids Anyone can Find a Deal—choose it and browse away. Remember, the Deals are between you and the business. No money is exchanged online.

To Create a Deal, login with your Members Only Rep login and a simple form will walk you through the necessary steps to create your deal.

Forgot your login? Just click—we’ll send it to you.

To Request a Bid, let our Members know what you need. The request form is simple and easy to understand. We will send the bid on your behalf to Members in the categories you choose.

Need help? Call our office at 417.624.

4150 and we will help you get your deals out there for other Chamber members and the public to find!

Don’t look everywhere for deals, find them all on Deals Dashboard!

The Value of Educating Your Employees

By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University B.F.Skinner, the psychologist, once said: “Education is what survives when what has been learned has been forgotten.”

Companies always seem to be looking for good employees who will be loyal, honest, dependable and understand the culture of their company. Yet, many companies invest very little in educating their workforce.

They hire individuals who have some industry-related work experience or education, and never really try to improve the skills of these individuals. They want their staff to be productive, but they don’t do much to assist them in this effort.

The owners and managers of these same companies wonder why they have high turnover and are constantly looking for new employees.

Even with good hiring practices, methodical interviews and thorough background checks, you still can’t assume the people you hire will have the skills they need to operate in a productive manner.

According to Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, “It’s all to do with the training: you can do a lot if you’re properly trained.” Sounds like good advice.

Educating and training your personnel does take time, money and planning. However, there really isn’t any other type of investment your company can make that will do more to improve productivity in your firm than to educate your workforce on a continual basis. The benefit of education far outweighs the cost in the long run.

Business owners, managers and employees need to have good customer service skills, understand marketing and sales techniques, utilize good communication skills, analyze financial statements and possess quality control expertise.

Some businesses fail, or don’t expand as quickly as they should, because their owners and employees haven’t been effectively trained.

In order to have a productive work environment, your company should have a strategic plan in place for continuous professional development for each owner, manager and employee. Make continuing education a priority. Maintain a training budget that will be used to help educate your employees on an on-going basis. Effective employee training programs keep all staff members up-to-date about current policies, procedures and technology used in their company. What steps can your company take to ensure you are educating and training your employees in an effective manner?

First, assess the skills needed to effectively operate and grow your company. Are there new regulatory changes

January 2016

Business Outlook

or technological changes in your industry? What skills, knowledge and training will your workers need to continue to do their jobs effectively? Do you have a new-employee orientation program?

Second, periodically examine the skill levels of owners, managers and employees. Do you need to hire someone with some unique expertise to expand your company? How do you want your customers treated? Can your workers use Internetrelated marketing methods? Does your staff know how to maintain high quality control standards? What certifications can your workers obtain that will help differentiate your company from the competition?

Third, evaluate your employee training and education options.Can you provide on-the-job training for your staff?

Will you need to send them to specialized workshops or certification programs to obtain the latest skills? Examine specialized training sponsored by industry trade associations.

Check out distance learning education offered through universities via the Internet. For example, Missouri Southern State University offers diverse courses and degrees via the Internet.

Fourth, seek information about government sponsored or employee training reimbursement programs. In Missouri, contact the Missouri Career Center (http:// www.missouricareersource.com); in Oklahoma, contact Workforce Oklahoma (http://www.workforceok. org); in Southeast Kansas, contact KansasWorks’ Southeast Region (http://southeastkansasworks.com); and in Arkansas, contact Arkansas Works (http://arworks.arkansas.gov).

Fifth, evaluate the training programs your company has implemented. Are you providing training in a cost effective manner that enables them to improve their effectiveness on the job and make your company more profitable?

Sixth, reward people for utilizing the skills they have learned. Set up a bonus system in which your employees are rewarded for improving the profitability of your company.

This will help increase employee loyalty, and keep those well trained people working for your company instead of for the competition.Reimburse employees for educational expenses and reward them for furthering their formal education.

According to Gandhi, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow.

Learn as if you were to live forever. You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Work to develop and implement a plan that will enable everyone in your firm to improve their skills and ensure the longevity and profitability of your business. As Stephen R. Covey said, “Always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers.”

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Gateway Mortgage Group, LLC 3929 East 7th Street, Suite G Joplin, MO 64801 417.726.4065 www.gatewayloan.com

New Member Spotlight

January 2016

Business Outlook

Nationally recognized heart care closer to home!

Our board-certified team of cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons offer rapid, expert care in all cardiac services.

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With over 90 offices in 18 different states, Gateway Mortgage Group is one of the largest privately held mortgage companies in the country. Since 2000, our driving purpose is to serve communities and families through homeownership.

We offer a robust line of loan products to meet nearly any need: • Single-close Construction and FHA 203K Rehab • First-time Home Buyer • Specialized Loan Programs (like Jumbo, Adjustable Rate Mortgages, Section 184 Loans– Native American) • Conventional, FHA, VA and USDA Gateway is also a Fannie Mae Direct Seller/Servicer and a Ginnie Mae Issuer, so our clients and referral partners can rely on fast answers, reliable closings and a servicefor-a-lifetime mentality. We are committed to servicing the loans we originate from application through payoff.

Call us. Visit us in person or online anytime. Ask us about our no obligations pre-approvals.

2016 is Full of GREAT JACC Opportunities to Get Your Business Name Out There 99th ANNUAL BANQUET April 21, 2016

This is an evening of celebrating events and honoring accomplishments from the past year, such as Golden Apple and our Citizen of the Year. Reserve your table today!

NOW AVAILABLE: PRESENTING SPONSORSHIP

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE & BUSINESS AFTER HOURS These networking events are held monthly and are extremely popular and fun. If you have ample space to have 125-plus JACC members come through your doors, you can be a host sponsor. These events are reserved several months in advance, so call today to find out how you can get yours!

BUSINESS EXPO 2016 Takes place January 19 and 20. Even if you don’t have a booth for this awesome EXPO that will attract 5,5006,000 people over the two days, you will want to be a part of it. We will hand out EXPO bags to the first 1,000 attendees to EXPO Business After Hours, and your business’ promotional flyer can be in the bag. Find out how!

BUSINESS OUTLOOK DIGITAL NEWSLETTER The newsletter is emailed to over 2,700 individual JACC members at the beginning of each month. Your current digital and print advertisements should be reaching your fellow Chamber members via this informational newsletter that contains great highlights and features such as ribbon cuttings, “Message from our President” and "Our Members Announce.”

For more information, contact Cynthia Marlow at 417.624.4150 or cynthia@joplincc.com.

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CHAMBER CONNECTION A fantastic way to meet and get to know other JACC members in our quarterly event held at the Chamber office. It gives participants an opportunity to enhance their networking skills and perfect their “elevator speech.”

LEADERSHIP JOPLIN This is a 6-month program in its 33rd year with more than 800 graduates. It teaches and motivates future community leaders through a 12-session curriculum that includes leadership development and Missouri Public Policy. There are several great sponsorship opportunities that can get you in front of this dynamic group of leaders.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TABLE The perfect way for you to create your “store window” right here in our main lobby for a full month. We will even keep it neat and your promotional information stocked for you, so that everyone who comes to our JACC office can learn more about your business’ products and services. And you won’t believe how inexpensive it is!

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK This is a vibrant and active group of area professionals, ages 21-40, who are doing great things in our community. There are many ways to support this program and its members’ positive work, including scholarships.

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January 2016

Business Outlook

We Say Goodbye to Cindy Weiss Finance Director Cindy Weiss has accepted a finance position with Joplin Workshops and will begin her new job after the holidays. We wish Cindy well, and we will miss her!

Finance Coordinator Samantha Doubledee has accepted the position of finance director. Please join us in congratulating Samantha on her new role with the Chamber!

Audio / Video Systems Pro Audio Equipment Camera Systems Healthcare Communications

Elite Commercial Audio/Video Sales & Service Toll Free: 800-621-5256 Local: 417-869-0770 aaius.com proaudiosuperstore.com 2120 S. Roosevelt Suite 3 Joplin, MO 64804

LABOR LAW POSTERS

FREE to Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Members Labor Law Postings are a mandatory requirement for businesses. Avoid hefty fines by obtaining your Free All-In-One State and Federal Labor Law Poster from the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce.

To order your Free Labor Law Poster, please call or email to schedule a time to deliver: Wendy Mashburn

(417) 623-0941 Email: wendy.mashburn@payrollvault.com

Attorney-Approved All-In-One State and Federal Labor Law Poster meeting labor law postings requirements (at time of purchase) Fully Laminated and Attorney-Approved

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THANK YOU FOR RENEWING AAA Auto Club of Missouri......................................... 1993 THANK YOU FOR RENEWING

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

Alpha Air Center, LLC................................................... 2011

Joplin Rental Center, LLC............................................ 2008

American Red Cross - Southern Missouri

Acme Brick Names andCompany..................................................

Numbers...................................................1988 1989

Region - Joplin............................................................... 2000

Ad Systems, Native Care Inc..............................................................

Health, LLC...............................................1983 2012

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

ADC Dental Group.........................................................

Ozarks Coca-Cola Bottling Company....................1981 1965

Arvest Bank...................................................................... 1997

Ray TheAlburty Payroll Company.

Company................................................... .................................................1973 2006

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

Alert One Pest Control, Inc........................................ 2008 Payscape Advisors. ........................................................

2011

CJ’s Auto Recon, LLC.................................................... 2014

Allgeier, and Authorized Associates, Inc........................

PremierMartin Locations, Agent of U.S. 1955

College Heights Christian Church........................... 1999

American Construction............................................... 1996 Cellular..............................................................................

2014

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

AMI RadioPlumbing, Group...........................................................

Satterlee Heating & A/C..........................2001 1996

Crowder College............................................................ 1995

Andy’s Frozen Custard.................................................

SERC Physical Therapy of Joplin..............................2012 2008

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

Annie’s Baking, LLC....................................................... 1952 Sherwin-Williams..........................................................

1993

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

Area on Aging................................................. 1990 Sign Agency Designs....................................................................

2011

Family Health Center of Joplin................................. 2006

Audio Inc...LLC............................................ .................................................. 1986 SkaggsAcoustics, Chiropractic, 2005

The Hershewe Law Firm, PC..................................... 2013

Autotronics, Inc..............................................................

State Farm Insurance-Jerry Sitton Agency..........1967 1999

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

Baker Roderique, CPAs, PC ............................ 1955 StormDavis Stanley. .................................................................

2014

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

Beimdiek Insurance Agency, Inc.............................. 1988 Tropical Tan. ....................................................................

2004

Hope 4 You Breast Cancer Foundation.................. 2007

Bicycle LLC................................................ 2009 City of Specialists, Webb City...........................................................

1992

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

Big Brothers Sisters of the Ozarks.................... 1997 Weiser Tent Big Service. ......................................................

2014

Joplin Construction Design & Management....... 1991

BKD, LLP............................................................................

Yorktown Properties.....................................................1962 1992

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Business Outlook

Blanchard, Robertson, Mitchell and Carter, PC... 1974 Boy Scouts of America, Ozark Trails Council....... 1994 Braum’s .............................................................................

1989 Small Business & Technology Development Center Briteway Building Maintenance............................... 1993 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

ENTREPRENEURSHIP 101 Jan. 5 (Tuesday), 10-11:30 am Location: Plaster Hall, Room 108, MSSU Cost: $10/person

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS Jan. 22 (Friday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Room 108, MSSU Cost: $29/person

INTRODUCTION TO QUICKBOOKS 2-DAY TRAINING Jan. 12 (Tuesday), 1:30-4:30 pm (Day 1) Jan. 14 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm (Day2) Location: Plaster Hall, Room 107, MSSU Cost: $124/person

HOW TO WRITE A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS PLAN Jan. 29 (Friday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Room 108, MSSU Cost: $39/person

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

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January 2016

Business Outlook

Welcome to the 2016 Class of Leadership Joplin!

Congratulations to what is sure to be another outstanding Leadership Joplin class!

Don Allen - Mercy Hospital Joplin

Kay Kleeman - Community Bank & Trust

Dorothy Alsenz - Joplin Schools Carrie Ball - The Joplin Globe Courtney Barnard - Ozark Center

Jacqueline Lea-Speller - AT&T Mobility Kayla Luton - Community Bank & Trust

Carla Bond - Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center

Sara McCleary - Mercy Hospital Joplin

Nathan Bramwell - Missouri Southern State University

Curt McLaughlin - Mercy Hospital Joplin

Angel Brown - US Bank

Stephanie Meek - LovinGrace

Wendy Brunner-Lewis - Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Jeff Miller - Modine Manufacturing Patsy Mulvaney - Empire District Electric Company

Trish Burmeister - Premier Surgical Institute Katy Myers - Arvest Bank Meghan Burnett - Arvest Bank Kelli Norris - Mercy Hospital Joplin Dustin Conard - Steve’s Frame and Body Alexandra O’Dell - The Independent Living Center Taylor Cunningham - City of Joplin Tyler Overstreet - City of Joplin Jonathan Dawson - Southwest Missouri Bank Dustin Parker - Mercy Hospital Joplin Rachel Dobbs - Downstream Casino Resort Sloan Rowland - Joplin Police Department Jennifer Doshier - Joplin Schools DeAnna Simon - Southwest Missouri Bank Mackenzie Garst - Children’s Haven of Southwest Missouri Travis Gaston - The Ark of the Ozarks Matthew Gibson - State Farm Insurance - Matthew Gibson Barbara Gollhofer - City of Joplin

Aaron Smith - UMB Bank Henry Stout, III - Freeman Health System - Crothall HealthCare Tracy Tune - Joplin Workshops Kerri Williams - Premier Surgical Institute and Orthopaedic Specialists of the Four States, LLC

Bob Higginbotham - Joplin Police Department Jared Young - The Employer Advantage Rebecca Hutchison - Jasper County Juvenile Court Suzanne Kelly - Hideout Harley-Davidson Drew Kimble - 12Eighty-One: Photography 22

Presented by

January 2016

Business Outlook

Each year during EXPO Business After Hours we host an incredible live and silent auction to raise funds for the JACC Foundation that provides education and professional development through programs such as Leadership Joplin, Tomorrow’s Leaders Today and the Young Professionals Network.

We dream BIG at JACC, so we’ve set our goal for 2016 to be the BIGGEST auction in EXPO history…and we’re going to need help. We have started gathering donations for the auction and we are looking for businesses and organizations to partner with who can provide us with items to help us meet our goal. We are looking for items of all price ranges, small to large, in order to provide things that will appeal to all demographics. However, our auction team has provided a “wish list” of items that have been a proven success in the past and we would love to see these items be the talk of the Auction...think BIG with us!

AUCTION CONTRACT 

Your company name listed on joplincc.com



Your company name listed on the bid sheet



Your company name and item listed on auction flyer (if received by January 8)



NAME:_________________________________________ COMPANY:_____________________________________ PHONE: ________________________________________ EMAIL: _________________________________________

Display of your item at the event

1.

iPad, camera or other electronic device

2.

Mountain bike, elliptical or other fitness equip.

3.

Golf, hunting or camping package

4.

Original artwork from a local artist

5.

Spa package

6.

Silver Dollar City season passes or Branson pack

7.

Fine jewelry

8.

Vacation package

9.

Home improvement package

10. Scooter, Vespa or 4-wheel vehicle

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM: __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _______________________________________ ESTIMATED VALUE (for minimum bid)______________________ I will deliver my item to the Chamber by January 8 I would like JACC staff to pick up my item Please fax (624.4303) or email confirmation to Stephanie, smcgrew@joplincc.com

Auction Partner:

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January 2016

Business Outlook

Filing Period for Candidacy in April 2016 City Council Election Closes January 12

Desert Flora Plant Art & Cacti Miami, Oklahoma 760.686.4223 www.desertfloraplantart.com

The Council will have five seats on the ballot, including three general seats and the seat in both Zone 2 and Zone 3. Currently Morris Glaze, Bill Scearce and Dan McCreary hold the general seats. Melodee Colbert-Kean holds the Zone 2 seat and Benjamin Rosenberg holds the seat in Zone 3. All seats would be elected for a term of four years, with the exception of McCreary’s general seat. This position will be a two-year term in order to complete the fouryear term Mike Woolston previously held. He resigned in September 2015, and Council members elected McCreary to fill the seat through the April 2016 election.

In order to be eligible, citizens are required to be a qualified voter and have been a Joplin resident for at least four years immediately prior to the election. They will also be required to show their voter identification card to the Clerk when applying for the election.

Zone candidates need to live in the zone they are seeking a position, and will need to obtain 150 signatures from registered Joplin voters, with 75 of those coming from the represented zone. Their election is included in the citywide ballot. General seat candidates should obtain 150 signatures from registered Joplin voters throughout the city. All candidates will also be required to sign a declaration of candidacy with the City Clerk’s office.

Candidates can seek the state requirements for filing financial reports on their campaigns through the County Clerks’ offices.

The City Clerk will provide a booklet on “Council Election Guidelines” to interested parties. It can also be found on the City’s website at www.joplinmo.org/electionguide.

For more information, contact the Joplin City Clerk on the second floor of City Hall, 602 South Main, or call 417.624.0820, ext. 220.

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New Member Spotlight

Citizens interested in running for a City Council seat in April 2016 may pick up their nominating petitions from the City Clerk through January 12. Petitions must be returned to the City Clerk by 5 pm, January 12, to be eligible for the April 5 election.

Desert Flora is a cacti, succulent and exotic plant artistic design service specializing in terrariums, centerpieces and modern “no rules” botanical arrangements and plant-based gifts that LAST! We create living art centerpieces and arrangements out of cacti, succulents and airplants for any occasion, whether it is staging a home for resale, decorating an office, restaurant, bank lobby or just sending a unique succulent to a friend or loved one. We provide high-end, artistic plant art and decor for any and all places.

Call Desert Flora and let us design a stunning botanical arrangement or fashionable gift that lasts.

And did we mention how totally original, unique a up-to-theminute this is? You will be a giftgiving superhero!

First (Second) Friday Coffee

Friday, January 8 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by and located at Bill and Virginia Leffen Center for Autism 2808 South Picher Avenue RSVP by January 6 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

January 2016

Business Outlook

Join us for this member orientation and involvement program that is NOT JUST FOR NEW MEMBERS! It's for members who want to get a better return on their investment, new employees of member organizations, ambassadors and past and future members who want to learn about the benefits of membership.

Tuesday, January 26 10-11 a.m.

Presented by

Chamber Office Presented by

Business EXPO After Hours

Tuesday, January 19 5-8 p.m.

(Adult-only event)

THANK YOU!

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

Located at Joplin Convention & Trade Center, 3535 Hammons Blvd.

Sponsored by

RSVP by January 15 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

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