Our Town: Dec. 28. 2011

January/February 2012

January/February 2012

Our Town Contents North County Incorporated

8 NCI Celebrates 2011 Accomplishments

by DeAnna Massie 9 U.S. Bank’s Sandy Weber Named NCI’s Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for 2012

NorthWest Chamber of Commerce

12 NWCC Hires New President/CEO 12 NWCC Student of the Month 13 NWCC Announces 2011 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Educators Ingenuity Grant Recipients 13 NWCC to Hold Casino Night Fundraiser

Greater North County Chamber of Commerce 14 14 14 15 15 15

VOL 3 / NO 1

Our Town is a Community News

publication. It is published every other month and direct mailed to 7,000 business executives in North and Northwest St. Louis county, plus online circulation.

GNCC Offers Five $1,000 Scholarships Pretty N Posh Celebrates First Year Anniversary The Bridge at Florissant White Auto Body Gives Away Car Goin’ Postal Introduces New Service GNCC Hosts 2011 Nite of Stars

Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce 16 16 17 17 17

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Holiday Gala Benefits the MHCC Education Foundation MHCC Announces 2012 Officers and New Directors Rooks Gameday Bar & Grill Ribbon Cutting Upper Limits Rock Climbing Gym Ribbon Cutting MHCC Recognizes Business Leaders of the Year

Publisher Robert Huneke

Editor Shelly Schneider

5 Local Businesses Find Innovative Ways to Market themselves, Even in Down Economy

by DeAnna Massie 18 Calendar of Events 19 2012 Presents a New Opportunity to Own Your Own Business

by Pat Brown-Dixon

Staff Writer DeAnna Massie

Photographer Ray Rockwell Art Director/Creative Design Terrie Dehn, TJD Design Studio Copyright 2012 Huneke Publications, Inc. No part of the publication may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of the publisher.

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Local Businesses Find Innovative Ways to Market Themselves, Even in Down Economy

by DeAnna Massie Across the country, businesses are tightening their belts. The Wall Street Journal reports that the national outlook is pessimistic.

“Companies have been able to offset some of this year’s cost-price squeeze through higher productivity. But that trend looks played out,” said reporter Kathleen Madigan. “As a result, [businesses can] expect more downward pressure on profit margins in 2012.”

Sandy Weber, vice president of U.S. Bank in North St. Louis and newly elected Board Chair of North County Incorporated, said the local forecast is not nearly as bleak as most business owners would expect.

“It’s really a very good time for growth,” she said. “I think we are more optimistic here in Saint Louis than the nation is in general.”

U.S. Bank has published survey data to back up Weber’s perception. In a recent poll, the bank found that only 25 percent of local business owners view their state’s economic condition as weaker than the U.S. economy overall.

Weber said small business deposits are up, which indicates that owners are reluctant to invest in their businesses and would rather save, but U.S. Bank is entering its ninth year as the number one small business lender in the area.

“We are still lending and experiencing growth in all areas,” she said.

The key to maintaining lending growth during a time when most banks are turning record numbers of applicants away is U.S. Bank’s Second Look Program.

“We have always been a conservative lender,” Weber said. “We were never irresponsible and never offered loans to those who couldn’t afford them. Our underwriting criteria haven’t changed, but we are dedicated to our customers and growing the local economy.”

That means the bank had to find a way to responsibly lend money without weakening strict underwriting criteria.

U.S. Bank resolved the issue by adding another layer of application review. They appointed an underwriter to review applications that have been denied based on current underwriting criteria.

Very often, the second evaluation clears up red flags that had automatically disqualified the applicant, or uncovers some overriding factor that compels the bank to approve the loan.

At the branch level, U.S. Bank already gives other types of loan applications careful review, so managers had to find another way to make sure qualified applicants were getting the help they needed.

“The problem on the consumer side of

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things is very often property values,” Weber said. “So we look for other products that may help the customer. Sometimes you have to be creative.”

Creativity may be an unexpected asset for a bank, but restaurant owners like Christina and Nate Bennett depend on innovation to keep their business thriving. The Bennetts own Hendel’s Market Cafe and Piano Bar in Old Town Florissant, which has been honored with several top awards, including Best Outdoor Dining. Christina Bennett had to talk over the noisy lunch time crowd to explain what her business does to market itself.

“We work really hard to please our customers every time they come in,” she said. “We want them to enjoy really good food—to leave happy, and to be inspired.”

She attributes Hendel’s success to a willingness to adapt and update.

“We regularly revise our menus to offer new and original options,” Bennett said.

“It’s important to stay fresh and change with the times.”

Bennett also said one can’t underestimate the power of restaurateur fundamentals.

“We pride ourselves on professionalism and customer service. And of course cleanliness, along with a comfortable Continued On Page 6

Continued From Page 5

environment, is critical for any restaurant to retain customers.”

Hendel’s continues to attract new patrons mainly through word of mouth and electronic marketing. “We don’t have to do a ton of advertising,” Bennett said. “Our regulars have spread the word, and we use Facebook and an email database to share information about things like specials and coupons.”

Social media outlets like Facebook are now a go-to marketing strategy for businesses of all sizes, and across all industries. The U.S. Bank business survey revealed that 43 percent of local businesses are using social networking to promote themselves. That’s significantly higher than the 39 percent of national businesses using social networks to advertise.

The primary draw is cost-effectiveness. It costs nothing to start a Facebook page or Twitter account, and users share information about businesses for free.

Emily Zimmermann, assistant director of Marketing and Business Development at St. Louis Mills, said she focuses a lot of her efforts on social networking outlets and online media. She regularly posts videos on the free video site, YouTube, in a series called MillsMeansMore.

She also updates the St. Louis Mills Facebook page with up-to-the minute news about events and promotions.

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Mark Bretz, principal, Bretz Public Relations LLC, said new technology is an affordable way to market a business, but it’s important to use social media as one component of an overall marketing plan…not the sole component.

“It’s important to add new technology to your existing marketing efforts,” Bretz said. “While social media adds an important component to the marketing mix, it’s important to utilize all marketing elements available to you to give you the optimal return on your investment.

Those include: traditional advertising, point of purchase, direct mail, events, public relations and more. Smart marketers add the new means of marketing to the current mix, and adjust their budget accordingly. It’s not smart to put all your eggs in one basket.”

Ron Gossen, director of Marketing for University of Missouri, St. Louis (UMSL), said electronic marketing like that used by St. Louis Mills is most effective when businesses can focus on contacting the consumers who are most likely to spend.

“In bad economic times, you need to reach the most targeted audience possible,” Gossen said.

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To do that Gossen utilizes search engine marketing (SEM), which allows the university to reach web surfers who are already in the market for a university in the St. Louis area. The UMSL marketing team purchases key search terms, so that when prospective students explore search engines like Google or Bing for information about

colleges or degree programs, UMSL turns up at the top of search results list.

Gossen said the advertising budget is tight, so every dollar has to be maximized.

UMSL occasionally runs a radio or print ad in a potentially strong secondary market like Springfield, but primarily focuses on SEM and promoting UMSL as a competitive institution that offers an exceptionally high quality of education.

Lindenwood University is another local educational institution that relies less on traditional methods of advertising than more innovative means of promotion. Lindenwood Community Relations Director Charlsie Floyd said Lindenwood uses some billboard and magazine advertising, but also finds success through sponsorships and community involvement.

Lindenwood is a member of multiple chambers of commerce and North County Incorporated, and participates as a sponsor in a variety of local events.

Runners at the St. Charles Santa Dash received gloves branded with the

Lindenwood lion, for example.

The school also finds a variety of ways to give back, including a free speaker series and discounted matinee performances for school children in the new state of the art performing arts center.

The Lindenwood Christmas Walk has been a local tradition for generations.

Visitors are able to attend a variety of festive, family-friendly events on the beautifully-decorated historic campus for no charge.

“Community partnership and involvement is very important to our growth.” Floyd said. “We want the community to know that our students, our faculty, our staff—we all live here in the community. We market ourselves simply by being good community partners. We want to use our resources to give back, and that leads to growth.”

Giving back and being a reliable community partner seem to be common goals among local marketing professionals. U.S. Bank Vice President Sandy Weber recommends plenty of

community involvement to stimulate growth and develop relationships. Her employees at U.S. Bank are offered eight hours of paid time off to spend volunteering with the organization of their choice. The business owner survey results put out by U.S. Bank indicate that 64 percent of regional business owners agree that it is important for businesses to give back to the community.

Fletcher Wells II is the Vice President of Business and Research at St. John’s Bank.

He said the bank’s primary strategy is making sure customers and community come first.

“The budget isn’t as big as it once was, so when making decisions about sponsorships, we focus on supporting individuals and groups that are already our customers,” Wells said. “It’s important to us that we take care of our own.”

Like so many professionals in North St. Louis County, Wells is optimistic about the future. “Lately things have been going up—just a hair—but going up.”

END

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North County Inc. Celebrates 2011 Accomplishments

by DeAnna Massie 2011 was a remarkable year for North County Incorporated, which saw success across several areas. NCI defines itself as a regional development association, and is therefore focused on advocating for economic and community development for all of North St. Louis County. Members include; businesses, local municipalities, St Louis County, local chambers of commerce, schools, health providers, faith based organizations, residents, and other service organizations in North County.

there were some obstacles.

NCI members worked diligently in 2011 to bring together the community, municipal and business leaders to positively impact the growth of the region. Areas of focus were: economic development, transportation, healthcare, education, and marketing.

The information collected will include relevant data, such as the number of employees, but will also go beyond the profiles of local businesses.

“This has been a priority for the Board of Directors for a long time. But it’s been a challenge to maintain up-to-date data,” Tranel said.

In addition to collecting data about local businesses, Tranel and his team will develop a manual that lays out a specific plan for collecting current data in the future.

“We want there to be a capacity to continue this work,” he said.

“We also want to look at the population, including total expendable income, etc.”

Tranel said. “This is very important for both retention and attraction of business in this region.”

Accomplishments in Economic Development

NCI also worked in the political and policy arenas, supporting incentives to enhance the region’s international cargo and global competitiveness, helping to protect tax credits and stimulate employment and economic growth for the region, encouraging policies that would help grow small businesses and advocating for job training funding and workforce development programs.

NCI primarily seeks to develop the economic growth of North County.

This year the organization managed to do that in a number of ways. First, the association worked with the Public Policy Research Center to begin a yearlong project to develop a North County Community Economic Profile, which will be funded through a U.S. Bank Foundation Grant. This study will look at geography, business patterns/ trends, inventory available properties and current development, identify key issues and develop an online message for a community economic profile. Mark Tranel with the Public Policy Research Center said developing an economic profile has long been on the agenda, but

Accomplishments in Education NCI worked with school districts and private institutions on the development of an educational public relations plan to help promote and highlight the positive growth and achievements 8

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of local schools. It supported the local autonomy of school districts and opposed legislative efforts to impose new restrictions upon the authority of local districts.

NCI also supported legislation to improve the budgets for the University of Missouri-St. Louis and St. Louis Community College’s workforce development programs.

NCI continued its role in the North County School/Business Partnership, which seeks to develop integrated relationships between businesses and students and teachers. Efforts have helped to bridge the gap between businesses and curriculum and/or student work programs, helping students to gain the experience necessary to meet the ongoing needs of employers and industries in North St. Louis County.

Accomplishments in Healthcare NCI began the development of a communication plan to increase awareness about North County among the employees of area hospitals, and reached out to the community and business leaders to bring attention to the assets of North County’s health providers.

Always working to keep dollars local, the association encouraged the use of North County doctors and specialists by directing prospective patients to the NorthStLouisCounty.com Healthcare Directory.

NCI worked to increase access to healthcare by supporting efforts to

Finally, NCI backed continuation of legislation requiring a Certificate of Need for new hospitals and promoted local hospitals’ monthly community health events to increase knowledge of preventative care and healthy living.

“They were the biggest advocate for getting the study going,” Welty said.

“They brought community and business leaders together and got them interested.

Then they worked really hard to keep this issue in front of me and my bosses.”

Accomplishments in Infrastructure

Welty said a lot of the work MoDOT does is focused around what the community wants.

NCI recognizes that the maintenance and improvement of North County infrastructure is integral to attracting and retaining businesses and residents.

This year the association continued to focus time and energy in several critical areas. The association collaborated on a “Great Streets” improvement project with the City of Normandy, the University of Missouri-St. Louis and the East-West Gateway Council of Governments. The collection of members worked to develop a conceptual design for transportation improvements and suggested future land-use along the Natural Bridge Road Corridor. NCI served as a member of MoDOT’s Blanchette Bridge Community Advisory Group and the St. Louis County Northwest Parkway Study Community Advisory Group, and worked to make sure residents and local businesses were updated regarding major transportation projects.

“We knew the work was needed, and we would have gotten to it eventually, but NCI made it clear that this was very important to the North Saint Louis county community and it needed to be done now,” he said.

Accomplishments in Marketing The work to drive consumers into the area continued this year via several channels. NCI developed and launched ExploreNorthStLouisCounty. com, a comprehensive attractions and recreations website that promotes all the recreational opportunities in the region.

Listings include historic sites, museums, entertainment and arts venues, events and more. This information was also available to residents and visitors in a dynamic new brochure.

NCI continued to provide and promote NorthStLouisCounty.com, which is the most comprehensive regional resource website available for North County. The site provides information about North County’s resources and quality of life,

NCI also continued to advocate for equitable transportation and infrastructure for North County. It worked with MoDOT on the I-270 corridor Study by serving on the Community Advisory Group and helped

and informs site visitors about the work of NCI. Whenever necessary, NCI helped to connect community and business leaders with resources in the area and responded to various requests for information about North County services. This provided an excellent opportunity for member referral. NCI also supported members by publishing a monthly eNewsletter. The regular publication increased communication and kept everyone informed about each other’s events and accomplishments.

Three major events brought together members, community and business leaders this year. More than 300 guests attended the fifth annual “NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in their Thirties Recognition Reception,” which celebrated the accomplishments of local young professionals and helped develop relationships with these potential future leaders. Several distinguished business, civic and community leaders were honored for their contributions to the community at the 34th Annual Breakfast, attended by more than 500 guests.

Finally, NCI hosted a North County Legislative Reception in partnership with the area’s three chambers of commerce. The collective developed the North County Legislative Agenda, which was adopted by NCI and the chambers.

Congratulations to NCI for another year of excellence. North Saint Louis County thrives because of the endeavors of this indispensable association.

U.S. Bank’s Sandy Weber Named North County Inc.’s Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for 2012 The Board of Directors for North County Incorporated (NCI), a regional development association, has elected Sandy Weber as Chairwoman for 2012.

This is a one-year term, beginning January 1, 2012. Weber succeeds Patty Gould, School/Business Partnership director for the Pattonville School District, who served as North County Incorporated’s Chairwoman in 2011.

Sandy Weber has been an active member of the NCI Board of Directors 9

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and the community,” Gould said.

“Her background knowledge and life experiences in North County will be an asset as the incoming Chairman of the Board of Directors for North County Inc. I look forward to her leading the charge for the organization.”

Sandy Weber is Vice President/District Director with U.S. Bank. She has worked in the banking industry for 36 years and currently focuses on expanding the growth of U.S. Bank in the St. Louis

North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association | northstlouiscounty.com | 314.895.6241

to determine improvements needed to increase appropriate development and safety. Larry Welty, MoDOT North St. Louis County Area engineer, said work on the corridor would not have been prioritized without the efforts of NCI.

maintain a safety net for those who cannot afford or who are ineligible for health insurance. It supported programs that promote mental health parity and adequately reimburse providers.

North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association | northstlouiscounty.com | 314.895.6241

region. She and her husband have been lifelong residents of North County.

Weber has served on North County Incorporated’s Board of Directors since 1998 and has served in the Executive Board as secretary and vice chair.

“U.S. Bank has been involved with NCI since its inception because it serves as the voice for North County,” Weber said.

“I am totally committed to advancing their scope of work which includes providing a connection to a network of the key leaders needed to build collaborative partnerships necessary to sustain and improve our residential and business environment.”

The Board of Directors named several new board members for 2012. NCI’s incoming board members for 2012 are Mayor James Knowles III, City of Ferguson; Dr. Art McCoy, FergusonFlorissant School District; Justin Naber, Fred Weber Inc. Mayor James Knowles III was elected as Mayor of the City

to Excellence Award and 2011 NAACP Inspiring St. Louis Award of St. Louis City and County. He was a North County Inc. 30 Leader Award recipient in 2008.

of Ferguson in April 2011. Prior to his role as mayor, he served on the City Council for the City of Ferguson. He is a former employee of the Ferguson Police Department, serving nearly four years in the communications division. Mayor Knowles received a Master’s Degree in Public Policy Administration from the University of Missouri – St. Louis.

He is currently serving as the Eastern Missouri Council Director for the Associated Builders and Contractors. He was a North County Inc. 30 Leader Award recipient in 2009.

Justin Naber serves as the Director of Business of Development for Fred Weber, Inc. Naber is responsible for building and strengthening valued relationships for stone, asphalt, and specialty construction products.

He has established a successful track record in quality control, operations management, sales representation, and business development strategies.

He is involved with the Marygrove Child Center of St. Louis and the Stray Rescue Animal Foundation.

Dr. Art McCoy, Ed.D. serves as Ferguson-Florissant School District’s Superintendent. He was chosen by the Ferguson-Florissant School District Board of Education in the end of 2010.

He began his career in 1997 when he reported for teaching duties as Missouri’s youngest certified teacher (age 19).

Dr. McCoy has received many honors, including most recently the 2011 Salute

North County Incorporated is a regional development organization, which acts as a catalyst to define and advocate economic and community development for North St. Louis County. NCI was established in 1977.

North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association 2012 North County Incorporated Leadership Officers

Executive Board of Directors

Chair – Sandy Weber, US Bank

Kim Bakker, SSM Health Care – St. Louis Dan Boyle, Boyle Law Firm Cheryl Compton, Ed.D., Ritenour School District Lillie Dumas, Commerce Bank Mayor Norm McCourt, City of Black Jack Karen McKay, City of Florissant Mark Tranel, Ph.D., P ublic Policy Research Center University

Vice Chair – Ron McMullen, Christian Hospital Treasurer – Fletcher Wells II, St. John’s Bank & Trust Co. Secretary – Marcia Pfeiffer, St. Louis Community College – Florissant Valley Past Chair – Patty Gould, Pattonville School District

of Missouri-St. Louis

Board of Directors Jack Agnew, Individual/Resident Kim Bakker, SSM Health Care – St. Louis Everet Ballard, St. Louis County-Fire Standard Commission Fire Academy Milton Bischof, Trinity Catholic High School Brenda Bobo-Fisher, Individual/Resident Marsha Bonds, Coldwell Banker Gundaker Daniel Boyle, The Boyle Law Firm, LLC Kim Braddy, Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce T.R. Carr, Ph.D., Individual/Resident John Cary, Ed.D., Special School District Cheryl Compton, Ed.D., Ritenour School District Rita Heard Days, St. Louis County Lillie Dumas, Commerce Bank Chief Michael Gantner, Black Jack Fire Protection District Anna Gettemeier, Individual/Resident Dora Gianoulakis, Spanish Lake Community Association Patty Gould, Pattonville School District Mayor Patrick Green, City of Normandy Kevin Hall, Bommarito of Hazelwood, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen and Ford Jim Hessel, Individual/Resident Pat Komoroski, Ph.D., SSM DePaul Health Center Mayor James Knowles III, City of Ferguson Stanton Lawrence, Ed.D., Normandy School District

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Chief Terry Loehrer, Pattonville Fire Protection District Carolyn Marty, Greater North County Chamber of Commerce Mayor Norm McCourt, City of Black Jack Art McCoy, Ed.D., Ferguson-Florissant School District Karen McKay, City of Florissant Ronald McMullen, Christian Hospital Justin Naber, Fred Weber, Inc. Howard Nimmons, CPA/PPS, CFP, Nimmons Wealth Management John O’Mara, Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 562 Shirley Paro, City of Bellefontaine Neighbors Marcia Pfeiffer, Ph.D., St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley Karen Pierre, University of Missouri-St. Louis Steve Price, Ed.D., Hazelwood School District Terry Proffitt, Individual/Resident Carolyn Pryor, M.D., Serenity Women’s Healthcare, Inc. David Reed, St. Louis Mills Mayor Matthew Robinson, City of Hazelwood Mayor Thomas Schneider, City of Florissant Rance Thomas, Ph.D., John Knox Presbyterian Church Mark Tranel, Ph.D., Public Policy Research Center Gina Walsh, Former State Representative Mayor Kyra Watson, City of Berkeley Sandra Weber, U.S. Bank Fletcher E. Wells II, St. Johns Bank & Trust Co.

J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 012

Northwest Chamber Hires New President/CEO The Northwest Chamber of Commerce has announced the hiring of Robert Swank of Florissant as its new CEO and President, according to Chairman of the Board Kevin Hall. Swank began his duties on November 28, 2011. Most recently, Swank was the Executive Director of the St Clair Area Chamber

of Commerce in St. Clair, Mo. Prior to that, he had an extensive background as an Economic Development Director for several Missouri cities and the State of Missouri. He has also served as the Chamber Director in Centralia, Mo. Swank said he is “thrilled to be asked to serve in this position.” He feels there are endless opportunities for the Northwest Chamber and the 20 cities it serves. “It is critical to build relationships with cities and foster partnerships with area businesses and organizations to continue the rich traditions found in

the Northwest Chamber’s service area,” he said. “Building on what is already here and bringing some new ideas and fresh perspectives to the Chamber’s programs will be both challenging and rewarding. There are so many positive things going on in the area.”

Hall added, “The Selection Committee and Chamber Board of Directors welcome Mr. Swank to the position with full confidence that he is very well qualified to lead the Chamber into the future.”

NWCC Student of the Month recognition, and he or she is introduced to the luncheon attendees and recognized for his or her success and future goals.

The recognition of these students has become a welcome and encouraging part of Northwest Chamber meetings.

Chamber members are pleased to hear of the accomplishments of these young men and women and look forward to the good work they will do as leaders in the community.

Pictured with these December Students of the Month are Kevin Hall, 2011 chairman of the Northwest Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Cindy Gibson, assistant Ssuperintendent and director of Communication and Community Services with Ritenour School District.

At the Northwest Chamber of Commerce membership luncheon meetings held September through April, school districts that are Chamber members are invited to bring a Senior student to the meeting to be recognized

as their “Student of the Month.”

The students are selected by their educators for their academic success and involvement in extracurricular activities.

The Chamber presents each student with a certification of 12

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The students recognized at the December 8 Northwest Chamber of Commerce membership meeting were: Justin Jones from Riverview Gardens, Carlisha Abdullah from McCluer South-Berkeley, Kevin Petterson from Pattonville, Hunter Bright from Hazelwood West, Joyce Ha from Ritenour, Aaron Mosley from North Technical, Trevor Holloway from Christian Academy of Greater St. Louis, and Morgan Meyer from Lutheran North.

The Northwest Chamber of Commerce

teachers

recently announced the recipients for its

Sciences at Ritenour High School are

of

Family

and

Consumer

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

proud to be the recipient of the NWCC

Educators Ingenuity Grant for 2011. This

Ingenuity Award grant for the How

year the grant was split between two

Does Your Garden Grow project.

worthy projects.

grant provides us the opportunity to do cross-curricular instruction involving many of our courses, which we believe

Muhammad

South-

is key to preparing our students for

Denise

future success.

Berkeley

High

McCluer

School

and

This project will not

Schindler and Kelleen McFate from

only benefit the students’ learning, it

Ritenour High School. Each school has

is a green project and will involve the

received $250 to help with their projects.

community.

It is a wonderful way to

connect students and our community/ McCluer South-Berkeley’s project grant am

very

happy

to

receive

You can help support the Northwest Chamber of Commerce by purchasing tickets, donating prizes or sponsoring the event. Casino Night offers a widerange of sponsorship opportunities for business owners. There are four types of sponsorship to accommodate any budget: corporate, patron, dessert or food sponsorships. The fee includes tickets and a banner to de displayed during the event.

Prize donations are collected and used for the silent auction, raffle, and attendance prizes. Prizes are welcome in any price range. Donors will have their company name displayed and announced along with their donated prizes. Also, every business that donates a prize will be listed in the Casino Night program and in the Northwest Chamber newsletter.

business partners.”

was for composting of waste materials.

“I

The Northwest Chamber of Commerce’s 21st Annual Casino Night is coming soon! Casino Night 2012 is scheduled for Friday, March 9. It will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. at the St. Ann Community Center. Casino Night is a fun-filled event that features fellowship, food, drinks and prizes. Guests enjoy free food from various restaurants and an open bar. Each guest also receives $10,000 in casino play money. Once the casino opens, guest may use their event money to play Blackjack, Red Dog, Texas Hold’em, Roulette, Craps, and Wheel. When the casino closes, guests redeem their winnings for raffle tickets and chances to win amazing raffle prizes.

This

The recipients for 2011 are: Dr. Raghib from

NWCC to Hold Casino Night Fundraiser

this

The CTE Grant Award program helps

award from the Northwest Chamber

educators implement creative teaching

of Commerce,” Dr. Muhammad said.

strategies and projects that are outside of

“This grant will allow our students to

the school district’s budget. Each grant

participate in a project that will match

was for $250 and was presented to the

in class theory with outside of class

educators and students at the Chamber’s

practical application.”

general membership meeting held on

Alicia Collins, assistant principal of

December 8 at the Crown Plaza St. Louis

Ritenour High School said, “We the

Airport Hotel.

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Tickets to the event are only $35, and make a great gift for hard-working employees, a business client, friends or family. The event has completely sold out the past year few years, so get your tickets soon.

For more information, or to arrange for pick-up of a prize/auction donation, call the Chamber office at 314.291.2131 or visit northwestchamber.com.

Northwest Chamber of Commerce | northwestchamber.com | 314.291.2131

Northwest Chamber of Commerce Announces 2011 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Educators Ingenuity Grant Recipients

Carolyn Marty GNCC President

GNCC Offers Five $1,000 Scholarships The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for its annual scholarship program.

The chamber will award five $1,000 scholarships to high school students who reside in the Greater North County service area. Scholarship recipients will be recognized at the Chamber’s Membership Luncheon on March 21, 2012.

The

deadline

for

applications

is

noon on Friday, February 17, 2012.

Applications are available at the local high schools; at the chamber office, 420 W. Washington St.; or online at www.greaternorthcountychamber.com.

a commitment to North County, an interest in pursuing a career in business and who have demonstrated a record of community service are encouraged to apply.

The scholarship may be used for post high school continuing education expenses, including college tuition, room and board, books, fees or for expenses associated with a trade or technical school program. Seniors with

The scholarship fund was established with donations from chamber members and a fall bowling tournament. The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce has awarded $35,000 in scholarships to date.

Pretty N Posh Celebrates First Year Anniversary Greater North County Chamber member Pretty N Posh Spa, Parties & Accessories is marking its one year anniversary. The spa celebrates beauty inside and out, said owner Tiffany Jackson.

Jackson offers manicures, pedicures, parties and workshops for girls at Pretty N Posh, 696 St. Ferdinand St. in Florissant.

Tiffany Jackson (center), owner of Pretty N Posh— Spa, Parties & Accessories, celebrates the one year anniversary of her business at 696 St. Ferdinand St. in Florissant with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Joining in the festivities are her children; several members of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce; and, second from left, Florissant City Clerk Karen Goodwin. (Debbie Wright photo)

For the manicures and pedicures, the girls may choose from one of three flavors—chocolate, strawberry or vanilla—for the Ultimate Ice Cream Spa Experience. They can make their own perfume and sugar scrub and also enjoy a posh party, where they may be a princess, a diva rock star or a glamour girl for the day.

Jackson also offers workshops on nutrition, Internet safety and biblical principles that advocate sexual purity and morality.

For more information, call 314.921.7674 or visit prettyposh.com.

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The Bridge at Florissant Celebrating the recent completion of the newest senior living community in Florissant, The Bridge at Florissant, are from left to right: Florissant Mayor Tom Schneider; Tom Brozka, general manager of The Bridge at Florissant; Michelle Johnson, sales director; Scott Hylser, vice president of operations with Century Park Associates; and Carolyn Marty, Greater North County Chamber of Commerce president. The Bridge of Florissant, an assisted living community at 1101 Garden Plaza Drive off Parker Road, offers private residential housing and amenities in a resort-style atmosphere. (Debbie Wright photo)

Lewis and her 9 year-old daughter, Alexyia, of South St. Louis, were excited about owning the car. Lewis is currently working at a nursing home in Granite City, Ill., and she uses MetroLink as her sole means of transportation to get back and forth to work.

Shaneka Lewis (center) hugs her daughter, Alexyia, after she was presented with a “new” car from White Auto Body, Inc. in Florissant. Sharing the moment with Lewis are, from left to right, Valerie White, coowner of White Auto Body; Lewis’ mother, and Steve White, co-owner of White Auto Body. (Debbie Wright photo)

Greater North County Chamber would like to recognize one of its members for giving a very special Christmas gift. Steve and Valerie White, owners of White Auto Body, Inc., with the help of their employees, presented a “new” car on December 6 to Shaneka Lewis at their Florissant location, 8300 N. Lindbergh Blvd.

The previous car owners, Jim and Lorraine Drew, donated the car after it had been badly damaged in an accident.

All the employees at White Auto Body volunteered their time and talents to repair the vehicle. The company also paid the car’s taxes, title and six months of insurance.

During the past 12 years, White Auto Body, a Greater North County Chamber of Commerce member, has donated 27 cars to people who were in need of transportation.

Goin’ Postal Introduces New Service Renwick and Felicia Ware, owners of Goin’ Postal, recently added a new service for their customers: the JC Penney Catalog Kiosk. Customers may now order, pick up and return their JC Penney Catalog items at the Goin’ Postal location— 730 S. New Florissant Road. Among those joining the Wares in a recent ribbon cutting ceremony were Florissant Mayor Tom Schneider and members of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. (Debbie Wright photo)

Greater North County Chamber Hosts 2011 Nite of Stars More than 150 guests enjoyed the festivities at the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce 2011 Nite of Stars.

The event was held on December 2 at the Paul Detrick Atrium on the campus of Christian Hospital.

The holiday gala included food, drinks, dancing and live and silent auctions.

During the event, the Chamber announced the selection of Bonnie Barczykowski as its 2012 Outstanding Business Person of the Year.

Barczykowski is the owner of five area Curves franchises and past Board of Directors chairwoman. She will be honored at the Annual Installation Dinner held in April 2012.

Sponsors for the evening included: Platinum Sponsor, Christian Hospital; Gold Sponsor, SSM DePaul Health Center; Silver Sponsors, Garden Villas North/Delmar Gardens, Handyman True Value Hardware and US Bank; Bronze Sponsors, Incarnate Word

Academy and Zykan Family Partnership; Copper Sponsors, BrightStar Care, Click Heating & Cooling, Jamestown Chiropractic Center, Kwik Kopy Printing, Jeff & Roann Keeven, Pulaski Bank, Resler-Kerber Optometry, Inc., St. Catherine Retirement Community, Trinity Catholic High School and Valley Industries; Special Sponsors, Curves, White Auto Body, Lutheran Senior Services at Hidden Lake and Nimmons Wealth Management.

From left to right: Photo 1 - The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce announces the selection of Bonnie Barczykowski (center) as its 2012 Outstanding Business Person of the Year. Pictured with Barczykowski at the Dec. 2 Nite of the Stars are Julie Berthold (left), Nite of Stars chairwoman and Board vice-chair, and Carolyn Marty (right) Chamber president. (Kent Miller photo), Photo 2 - Guests enjoy the festivities at the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce 2011 Nite of Stars. (Debbie Wright photo), Photo 3 - Numerous items were donated by businesses and organizations for the live and silent auctions at the 2011 Nite of Stars. (Debbie Wright photo), Photo 4 - Howard Nimmons, with Nimmons Wealth Management, pets “Willow” before the live auction at the Nite of Stars. (Debbie Wright photo), Photo 5 - Guests were treated to a “Sweet Farewell” at the end of the evening. (Debbie Wright photo)

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Greater North County Chamber of Commerce | greaternorthcountychamber.com | 314.831.3500

White Auto Body Gives Away Car

Kim Braddy MHCC President

Holiday Gala Benefits the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce held its 10th annual Holiday Gala on December 14 at Spazio’s. The Holiday Gala, which is open to the public, raises money for the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation.

The money raised benefits area high school students for college scholarships. The Education Foundation has raised and distributed more than $68,000 over the past 10 years.

The Chamber is very dedicated to education within the community and maintains the tradition annually.

A check for more than $1000 was presented to the Education Foundation.

“We have always asked that members of the Chamber, as well as the community, contribute by attending this festive event,” said Kim Braddy, executive director of the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce. “Our members have provided in times of need, and since our scholarship fund has been depleted over the years due to the number of scholarships provided, our members have come forward to help once again.”

Industries, a Chamber member, provides meaningful employment for adults with developmental disabilities.

To help keep the event festive, the students from Parkway North Orchestra, led by Ken Rapini, performed for the attendees.

One additional announcement was made when Kim Braddy, executive director for the Chamber, unveiled a new logo for the organization. MHCC held a logo design contest and Scott Palermo from A Skeetz Productions had the winning design. Pictured in the group are current and past board members of the Chamber.

In addition, the Chamber held a gently used coat, scarf and mitten drive, all of which will be donated to Pattonville and Parkway students in need.

The Chamber also awarded a check to Valley Industries, a local charity that assisted with the Chamber’s Monster Mash Dash Event in October. Valley

MHCC Announces 2012 Officers and New Directors The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced its officers for 2012. They are: Chairman of the Board, Brian Douglas/New York Life; Treasurer, Roger Goessling/Zipp Express; Chair Elect, Brian Goldman/

Chi-Chi, LLC; Vice Chairs, Mike Sides/ Edward Jones and Tome Etling/Wolf, LLC. New members of the Board of Directors are: 16

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Scott Palermo – A Skeetz Production Bill Esterline - Pattonville Fire District Jamie Newell - SSM DePaul Health Center Kevin Guerra - Our Urgent Care Kelly Nelson - Hilliker Corp.

Jill Thurman - Harrah’s Casino & Hotel Andy Drazen - Doster Ullom For a complete list of Board of Directors for 2012, log onto mhcc.com The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce strives to enhance the general welfare and prosperity of businesses and citizens of the

Maryland Heights area, as well as provide opportunities for its members to address economic, commercial governmental and educational issues.

The Chamber is currently serving more than 400 businesses representing 20,000 employees. For more information on benefits and services, call 314.576.6603 or visit mhcc.com.

Ribbon Cuttings providing a full menu as well as live entertainment.

For more information on MHCC benefits and services, visit mhcc.com or call 314.576.6603.

Rooks Gameday Bar & Grill - The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce was honored to celebrate a current member, Rooks Gameday Bar & Grill of Maryland Heights, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, November 23. This ribbon cutting recognized and celebrated the new ownership of this established bar and grill.

This is Bar & Grill is currently owned and operated by mother and son team Peggi and Matt Strange, and is located 12322 Dorsett Rd. This family-run business has been growing and evolving,

Upper Limits Rock Climbing Gym - The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce was honored to celebrate a current member, Upper Limits Rock Climbing Gym of Maryland Heights, with a ribbon cutting ceremony on November 4.

This ribbon cutting recognized and celebrated the new business and Chamber member.

Over the past 17 years, Upper Limits Rock Gym has grown to become the largest privately owned rock gym in the county.

Their latest addition, a gym in Maryland Heights, offers climbers more than 14,500 square feet of climbing surface, 45’ tall ceilings, two massive lead arches and an impressive top-out boulder. Gym members also have access to cardio and weight equipment, a private meeting area, childcare, a spectators’ seating area and a climbers’ lounge. The gym is truly one of the premier gyms in the nation and something you have to see to believe.

Upper Limits is sure to provide hours of family fun for beginners, while still managing to challenge even the most experienced climbers. In addition to memberships and daily passes, Upper Limits offers birthday parties, Scout programs, group adventures, teambuilding activities and more. Their new gym is located at 1874 Lackland Hill Parkway in Maryland Heights. Upper Limits West County can be reached by phone at 314.991.2516 or on their website at upperlimits.com.

MHCC Recognizes Business Leaders of the Year The Maryland Heights Business Leaders of the Year showcased the city’s business achievements and excellence.

This Annual Award was designed to identify and recognize individuals who embrace leadership, strategic thinking, the pursuit of excellence and balanced workplace values.

Recipients are: The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce hosted its 6th Annual Business Leaders Award Ceremony on November 18 at the Sheraton Chalet.

The breakfast awards ceremony recognized individuals and businesses who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the community.

Business Leader of the Year: McDonalds Restaurants – John Lanman Corporate Commitment Award: Olneya Restoration Group Corporate Partnership Award: Fred Weber Inc Small Business Leader of the Year Award: Mike Wilcox – Vivid Cleaning 17

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Rookie of the Year Award: Networking Plus and Doreen Phillips Public Service Award: Pattonville School District & Metro St. Louis Construction, LLC Service Award: Harrah’s Hotel and Casino Staff Community Involvement Award: Chess Club and Scholastic Center of St. Louis Volunteer Leadership Award: Scott Palermo – A Skeetz Production Ambassador of the Year: Nichole Knight – Spartan Staffing A surprise award was presented to Kim Braddy, director for the Chamber, for her time and assistance in the Good Friday tornado relief efforts.

Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce | mhcc.com | 314.576.6603

Mike Wilcox - Vivid Cleaning Jeremy Turner - Lawn Dr. of MH/CC Tom Greco - Fred Weber Inc. Angie Lantz - Ranken Jordan Pediatric Hospital David Foster - Edward Jones - Financial Advisor Dr. Mike Fulton - Pattonville School District

Our Town Sales Rep

Full or part time. Generous commission rate growing into base salary plus commission. Looking for ambitious self starter, self managed professional.

Work from home or office. No experience necessary.

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Publisher Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Dr. O’Fallon, MO 63366 No phone calls please.

Calendar of Events January 3

N WCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m,. Syberg’s Restaurant

January 4

G NCC Board of Directors Meeting, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

January 4

GNCC

Ambassador Committee Meeting, 9 - 10 a.m.

January 5

N WCC Board of Directors Meeting, 12 - 1 p.m.

January 5

M HCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 – 9 a.m., DJ’s Deli

January 10

N WCC Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House

January 10

N WCC Ambassadors Meeting, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Yesterday’s Lounge

January 11

M HCC Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m, Spazio’s Westport

January 17

N WCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant

January 18

G NCC January Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m

January 19

M HCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 – 9 a.m., Roberg Tax Solutions and David A.Goldfarb, CPA, P.C. Offices, 111 Westport Plaza

January 19

M HCC Ribbon Cutting, 3:30 p.m., Crossroads Hospice

January 24

N WCC Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House

January 27

G NCC Last Friday Coffee, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.

February 1

G NCC Ambassador Committee Meeting, 9 - 10 a.m.

February 1

G NCC Board of Directors Meeting, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

February 2

M HCC Breakfast Club, 7:30 – 9 a.m., DJ’s Deli

February 8

M HCC Membership Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m, Spazio’s Westport

February 21

M HCC Business After Hours, 5 - 7 p.m., Rook’s Game Day

February 24

G NCC Last Friday Coffee, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m

2012 Presents a New Opportunity to Own Your Own Business

by Pat Brown-Dixon, Region 7 Administrator, U. S. Small Business Administration With a new year on the horizon, it’s a perfect time to dream about the future and set new goals and resolutions. If your plans include starting a new business, the best place to start is with the SBA. The SBA has an office in every state, and we have lenders, counselors, and other partners who work in thousands of communities across the U.S. With their help, we have been knocking down obstacles for entrepreneurs and small business owners for nearly 60 years.

SBA Lending in Fiscal Year 2011 Region 7 SBA as of 09/30/2011

SBA Office Nebraska Kansas City Springfield Des Moines Cedar Rapids Wichita St Louis REGION 7

Number 530 600 422 347 327 239 533 2,998

Dollars $ 167.6 million $ 246.5 million $ 162.6 million $ 155.4 million $ 138.2 million $ 86.2 million $ 210.9 million $1,167.5 million

In fact, for the fiscal year that just ended, we helped provide almost 3,000 small businesses across Region 7 with lending of over $1.166 million, and nationwide, we had our biggest year ever.

Generally, we can help in two big ways.

First, if you’re someone with a few ideas down on paper and you need someone who can help you formulate a business plan, the SBA or one of our “resource partners” is a great place to start. You can find local help by going to www.sba.gov/direct and

typing in your zip code. For example, you can find our Small Business Development Centers and check out www.SCORE.org , a volunteer organization with more than 350 chapters and more than 10,000 mentors, many of whom have “been there and done that” when it comes to starting a business.

The best part is that these folks can often help you for free.

Secondly, the SBA and our partners can help if you’re already a small business owner. Many small business owners have come to us over the past two years, looking for ways to reinvent their business and grow in the face of tough economic times.

Whether it’s getting an SBA loan, winning your first federal contract, or learning the ins-and-outs of exporting, the SBA and our partners can provide you the information and the local connections you need.

Why is all of this so important? Economists agree that small businesses are a big part of the solution to getting our economy moving again and to creating jobs that we lost in the recession. The President and Congress have used – and continue to use – the SBA and other federal agencies to help you get the tools you need to succeed.

So, if you’re thinking about starting or growing a business in 2012, you know where to go. There’s no time like the present to have that first conversation with the SBA or one of our partners in your area. Log on to a computer and join us. And, have a Happy New Year!

Pat Brown-Dixon is the regional administrator for SBA’s Region 7 Office in Kansas City, Missouri, and oversees SBA offices in Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska.

You’ll Come for the Friendship

You’ll Stay for the Music

The Villa at Riverwood offers more fun-filled activities than any other community. And those activities create a sense of camaraderie in a home-like atmosphere. The Villa at Riverwood has something for everyone. We’ll keep your mind and body active with games, live entertainment, day trips, or just enjoy your privacy. You will never be bored or lonely here! #1 Pratt Place Florissant, MO 63031 314.839.5000

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2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366

GENESIS OB/GYN Obstetrics and Gynecology Our Services • Comprehensive OB/GYN care from the adolescent’s first gynecologic exam through the challenges of menopause.

• daVinci Robotic assisted Hysterectomy procedures.

• Diagnosis and management of HPV related diseases, including abnormal PAP smears, inoffice treatment of pre-cancerous conditions of the cervix, and administration of the new HPV vaccine for prevention of cervical cancer.

• Pelvic and obstetrical ultrasounds performed in our office by a certified ultrasound technician including 3D. • ISCD certified bone density testing and osteoporosis counseling.

Left to right: Caroline Werner - MD, FACOG, Angela L. Cartwright - DO, FACOG, Anne Piche-Radley - MD, FACOG, Chris Gilmer - Nurse Practitioner, Ann Venegoni - Nurse Practitioner, Sharon Latham - Nurse Practitioner

• In-office laboratory for blood drawing and urinalysis.

• Family planning including birth control pills, patches and ring, in-office procedures IUDs (Mirena and Paraguard), Implanon, outpatient procedure including tubal ligation.

• Treatment of uterine fibroids, treatment of ovarian cysts, evaluation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), sexually transmitted infection screening and treatment, vaginal infections and testing and treatment of abnormal pap smears.

Hospital Affiliations • DePaul Health Center • St. John’s Mercy Medical Center • Missouri Baptist Medical Center A Division of

12266 DePaul Drive, Suite 200 Bridgeton, MO 63044

314.291.2975 www.genesis.com Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed on Saturday and Sunday Early morning & evening hours available.