Our Town: Sept and Oct. 2012

September/October 2012

www.everydayvictories.biz

September/October 2012

Our Town Contents North County Incorporated

8 Thirty Outstanding Young Professionals will be Celebrated for Making a Difference in the Community 9 NCI Hosts 35th Anniversary Celebration

Greater North County Chamber of Commerce

10 GNCC Scholarship Bowl Raises more than $5,000 11 Garden Villas North hosts “Business After Hours” 11 GNCC Hosts Women’s Entrepreneur Night

NorthWest Chamber of Commerce

12 Mingle at the Mills Takes Off September 21 at NASCAR Speedpark 12 Fall Business Showcase to be Largest Yet 12 13th Annual Chili-Dog Golf Tournament 13 The Recipe for a Great Golf Tournament

VOL 3 / NO 5

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.

Online subscriptions are FREE and available at www.mycnews.com

by Brian Goldman

Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce

For advertising information please contact:

14 Maryland Heights Chamber Seeks Nominations for Business Leader of the Year 14 Maryland Heights Chamber Announces Publication of 2013 Community Guide

Community News 2139 Bryan Valley Commercial Drive O’Fallon, MO 63366 636.379.1775 www.mycnews.com Publisher Robert Huneke Editor Shelly Schneider Staff Writer DeAnna Massie

5 Local Chamber of Commerce Award Thousands in College Scholarships

Contributing Writer Siddharth Kaul, MD, PhD, Neurology SSM Neurosciences Institute

by DeAnna Massie

U seful Tools for Stretching your Marketing Budget

by Mark Bretz 1 3 Steps to Better Customer Service C alendar of Events

15 Migraine Headaches - More than Just a Bad Excuse!

by Siddharth Kaul, MD, PhD, Neurology, SSM Neurosciences Institute

Photographer Ray Rockwell

16

Art Director/Creative Design Terrie Dehn, TJD Design Studio

17 18

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 Chambers of Commerce Award Thousands in College Scholarships

by DeAnna Massie According to the National Center For

analyzed, trends suggest that more

local organizations, can make up half of

Education Statistics (NCES), college is

students will need financial aid with

a student’s total financial aid package

expensive, and getting more expensive

each passing year. As the number of

and offer more to a student than a Pell

every year. Data reported in the NCES

students needing aid increases, along

Grant. A few thousand dollars may not

2007-2008

Postsecondary

with the average amount of aid needed,

seem like much when one considers the

Student Aid Study indicates that the

the available funds continue to decrease.

overall cost of education, but even the

average cost to attend a four-year public

In February, the U.S. Department of

smallest grant may make the difference

institution for one year can range from

Education reported to Congress that the

for a student struggling to cover that

$12,000 to $15,000 (10 years ago, the

number of students applying for Federal

first year of college.

average cost was 50 percent less per year).

Pell Grants had increased by 50 percent,

Private institutions are more expensive,

from 6.2 million in award year 2008-2009

with an average cost of $32,000 per year.

to an estimated 9.4 million in 2011-2012.

Some students choose to save money

The dramatic increase in need led to

by taking general education courses at

$8.5 billion in shortfalls, prompting the

a community college or other type of

Department of Education to request an

two-year school. Average cost per year

additional $28 million in funding to

at such an institution is a much more

cover the next year of $5,500 grants.

National

affordable $9,000, but students have to

Enter the local chambers of commerce and North St. Louis County, Inc. In addition

to

philanthropic

spear-heading missions,

countless

these

local

organizations dedicate a great deal of time and resources to creating, funding and presenting scholarships to local high school seniors. Maryland Heights

The NCES reports that the average

Chamber of Commerce, Greater North

take specialized classes at a university.

amount

an

County Chamber of Commerce and

undergraduate in 2007- 2008 year was

Northwest Chamber of Commerce raise

According to the same NCES report,

$12,740. Of that, $6,390 came from non-

thousands of dollars in scholarship

65.6 percent of undergraduates received

federally funded grants or scholarships.

money each year, and the out-of-the box

some type of financial aid in the

In other words, the merit and talent-based

fund-raising methods make scholarship

2007 - 2008 academic year. While more

scholarships provided by institutions,

events some of the most entertaining of

recent data has not been officially

along with scholarships earned from

the year.

At the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce, scholarship funding and awardee selection is overseen by the Philanthropic Commission. The primary fundraiser for the scholarship fund, or Education Foundation, is the Annual Holiday Gala. In a post-event statement following last year’s Gala, Executive Director Kim Braddy said, “Our members have provided when there are 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.”

items or gift certificates. Additionally, corporate partners offer large donations to create scholarships for students entering particular fields. For example, Ranken Jordan Pediatric Specialty

Hospital has donated a large portion of a scholarship for a student who plans to study nursing, and Fred Weber has contributed to an engineering student’s

pay more to obtain a four year degree or

of

aid

received

by

MHCC Keeping the Education Foundation afloat is a tough task. To supplement proceeds from the annual Holiday Gala, the Philanthropic Commission organizes five monthly raffles for member-donated 5

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S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Continued On Page 6

Continued From Page 5

scholarship. Edward Jones is also a frequent and generous contributor to the education foundation.

in January to examine applicants and make their selection.

“It’s a really difficult decision,” Braddy said. “These applicants are really top of the line students.”

The only step more challenging than raising the funds is selecting students.

The Philanthropic Commission convenes

GNCC

Greater North County’s total contribution is a close second, with $40,000 awarded since the scholarship program began nine years ago. Greater North’s leading fundraiser is the Annual Scholarship Bowl. Corporations may sponsor teams, or individuals pay for themselves. At this year’s event, more than 90 bowlers competed, netting more than $5,000 for the chamber’s education fund.

One hundred percent of Scholarship Bowl proceeds go to the education fund, but the chamber also incorporates smaller, informal fundraising techniques.

“Piggy Banks are passed around at the membership meetings,” said President Carolyn Marty. “People can put in a few dollars, or more if they want. And that also goes into the scholarship fund.”

Greater North County Chamber does not, however, own sole rights to “Pass the Piggy.” Northwest Chamber President/ CEO Brian Goldman said every chamber meeting features a round of visits from Porky and Petunia, the scholarship piggy banks.

“We also do a 50/50 raffle at every meeting,” Goldman said.

And, of course, much of the scholarship fund is provided by proceeds from the popular Mingle At The Mills, where local mayors compete at NASCAR Speedpark and visitors enjoy a wing cook-off and car show.

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S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Four to six scholarships, usually from $1,500 to $2,000, are awarded each year to local students. The total amount awarded varies depending on funds.

Since the program began 10 years ago, the Education Foundation has raised and distributed more than $68,000.

NWCC

Northwest has a unique scholarship selection plan. Eight scholarships totaling $9,000 are awarded to area

students, but one additional scholarship is reserved for a family member of a chamber member. Maintaining one grant

for a member’s relative is another way the chamber rewards members for their service and honors their commitment.

While North County, Inc. does not operate a specific scholarship program, the organization actively works to support local schools and students in a variety of ways. North County, Inc. contributed to the development of an educational public relations plan to help promote and highlight the positive growth and

achievements of local schools. NCI supports the local autonomy of school districts and opposes legislative efforts to impose new restrictions upon the authority of local districts, supports legislation to improve the budgets for the University of Missouri-St. Louis and St. Louis Community College’s workforce

development programs, participates in the North County School/ Business Partnership and more. In a section of the President’s Report called “North County Education Excellence,” North County, Inc. reports on the progress and success of local students and schools.

Chamber scholarships are an incredible

eligibility for chamber scholarships.

The local chambers generate a tiny

opportunity

NCI

college-bound

Chamber newsletters, along with this

piece of that scholarship pie, but they

seniors. Because applicants are restricted

publication, will also post scholarship

work very hard to make available as

by district, the process is less competitive

information and application deadlines.

many scholarships as possible, so make

than state and national scholarship

According

County

sure to encourage local students to take

programs. Students who want to be

Education Excellence” report, more than

considered should check with their

$30 million in scholarships and grants

advantage of every local program for which they are eligible. END

guidance counselors to determine their

were awarded to area high school seniors.

for

local

to

www.mycnews.com

July’s

“North

Rebecca Zoll, NCI President & CEO Photo by Kent Miller Photography

Thirty Outstanding Young Professionals will be Celebrated for Making a Difference in the Community North County Incorporated, Regional Development Association (NCI), in partnership with Community News and Gateway Television News Network, has named this year’s NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in their Thirties Leadership Award recipients.

This remarkable group of up-and-coming professionals and volunteers, all of whom are making a significant difference in the North County area, will be recognized at the NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in their Thirties reception at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, September 21, 2012 at Norwood Hills Country Club.

The 2012 NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in Their Thirties Leadership Award honorees, which will be recognized for their remarkable contributions to their profession and community, are: Montize Aaron, Ed.D., Pattonville School District Elena Amirault, Hazelwood School District Jeff Appel, Edward Jones Joshua Baumann, Lutheran High School North Wesley Bell, St. Louis Community College - Florissant Valley Donny Carver, US Bank Mike Crossno, Vantage Credit Union Nyron Edwards, Ed.S., Hazelwood School District Lindsay Gallahue, Commercial Bank Andrew Harris, Hazelwood School District Amy Hawkins, Christian Hospital Keeley Hayes, SSM DePaul Health Center Julie Hercules, Incarnate Word Academy LaRenda Hutt, Riverview Gardens School District Bonita Jamison, Jennings School District Rodney Lewis, Ed.D., Ferguson-Florissant School District Megan Martinez, Missouri Veterans Home Melissa McGuire, Garden Villas North Justin Naber, Fred Weber Inc. Jennifer Roper, Ed.D., Hazelwood School District Krista Sherman, Special School District Jason Shupp, Ferguson Roofing Craig Szczuka, Falcon Service

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Michael Vernon, Florissant Police Department Elizabeth Wade, Pulaski Bank Kari Welker, Countryside Townhomes, LLC Sandy Wiley, Ed.D., Ritenour School District Melanie Wiginton, T&L Tree Service, Inc. Eric Winkles, Ferguson-Florissant School District Cornell Young, Both Sides of the 50 “North County has some amazingly talented young business, civic and community leaders who excel in their professions, as well as volunteer for area civic and charitable organizations,” said Rebecca Zoll, president/ CEO of NCI. “Through their work and volunteerism they are making a positive difference in our community.

NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in their Thirties is our way of saying ‘thanks for your contributions.’”

The public is invited to attend the NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in Their Thirties reception and luncheon on September 21.

Reservations are required; the cost is $40 per person. More than 300 business, civic and community leaders attend this event each year. To make reservations, or purchase ad space in the event program book, contact the NCI office at 314.895.6231 or visit NorthStLouisCounty.com for more information. For the most up-to-date information about NCI find us on FaceBook at North County Incorporated Regional Development Association.

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. The Board is composed of community leaders and business owners. Sandy Weber, vice president and district manager for U.S. Bank, is North County Inc.’s 2012 Board Chair.

S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

North County Incorporated (NCI) held a 35th Anniversary Dinner and Silent Auction at Hendel’s Market Café and Piano Bar on July 22. This dinner was a kick-off to celebrate NCI’s 35 years of service to the North County community.

Guests enjoyed great company and an elegant five-course gourmet dinner and wine-pairing.

NCI was founded in 1977 as an economic and community development advocacy organization that represents the 47 municipalities and unincorporated areas in North St. Louis County.

Successful businesses of all sizes, chambers of commerce, neighborhood associations, individual professionals, residents, churches, hospitals, schools, law enforcement agencies and a variety

(Left to Right) Barbara Burke, Judge Dan Boyle - City of Florissant, Patrick Boyle, Jane Boyle, Jansen Thomas, former State Representative Gina Walsh and Councilwoman Kathleen Kelly Burkett – St. Louis County

(Left to Right) NCI President/CEO Rebecca Zoll with Event Chair, Chief Mike Gantner – Black Jack Fire Protection District

(Left to Right) Mayor Norm McCourt – City of Black Jack, Karen McKay, Jan Gantner and Event Chair - Chief Mike Gantner – Black Jack Fire Protection District

Cathy Bono of Delmar Gardens with guests

(Left to Right) Karen McKay and Lillie Dumas - Commerce Bank

(Left to Right) Carolyn Marty – Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, Matt Wade, Elizabeth Wade – Pulaski Bank, Carolyn Nimmons, Howard Nimmons – Nimmons Wealth Management, Mayor Tom Schneider – City of Florissant

9

(Left to Right) Kim Bakker – SSM Health Care – St. Louis, Mark Wiley and Patty Gould – Pattonville School District

(Left to Right) NCI President/CEO Rebecca Zoll with owner, Christina Bennett, Hendel’s Market Café and Piano Bar

Our Town

of other institutions make up their membership.

For the past 35 years NCI has connected the community, municipal and business leaders to collaboratively work toward positive growth and the sustainability of the North County community. For more information about the organization’s efforts on behalf of the region please visit NorthStLouisCounty.com.

Karen McKay and Alderwoman Shonté Harmon and Cornell Young

(Left to Right) Julie Wells, Carol O’Mara, Fletcher E. Wells II and Councilman Mike O’Mara - St. Louis County

S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

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

NCI Hosts 35th Anniversary Celebration

Carolyn Marty

Chamber Hosts Women’s Entrepreneur Night

GNCC President

Ladies night out

The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its first Women’s Entrepreneur Night at the chamber office. Twelve members who operate small independent businesses showcased their items and services. The guests shopped and networked while they enjoyed sampling wine and cheese.

Greater North County Chamber Scholarship Bowl Raises more than $5,000 More than 90 bowlers hit the lanes for a little friendly competition during the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce 2012 Scholarship Bowl on August 1 at AMF Dick Weber Lanes in Florissant.

which annually awards scholarships to area high school students.

Christian Hospital, City of Florissant, Attorney JoAnn Donovan, Northwest HealthCare, Paul Cerame Ford, St. Catherine Retirement Community, Stygar Florissant Chapel and Cremation Service, Valley Industries, Village North Retirement, Lutheran Senior Services, McClain Chiropractic Health & Injury, Handyman True Value Hardware, Trophy World, Community News and Independent News.

$5,000 for the chamber’s education fund,

Event sponsors included: Emerson Family YMCA, Ferguson-Florissant School District, Hazelwood School District, ITS Computers, Life Care Center of Florissant, The Lipton Group, SSM DePaul Health Center, Trinity Catholic High School, Zykan Family Partnership, Catering To You Banquet Center,

The team sponsored by Valley Industries show off

ITS Computers Team wins first place at the

Emerson Family YMCA staff members join in

their last-place trophies

Chamber’s 2012 Scholarship Bowl

the fun.

A team sponsored by ITS Computers came in first, while Valley Industries’ team finished last. The event netted over

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Garden Villas North hosted the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce “Business After Hours” on August 8 at the retirement community on Parker Road in Black Jack.

Garden Villas also sponsored a fundraiser that evening to benefit Florissant Police Officer Mike Vernon. Executive Director Melissa Russell, her staff, and several other Delmar Garden facilities donated beautiful baskets for a silent auction.

“Business After Hours” events offer chamber members and their guests a great opportunity to network in a relaxed setting while the host sponsor can showcase their facilities, products and services.

Enjoying the Chamber’s August “Business After Hours” are, from left to right: Board treasurer Craig Szczuka with Falcon Services, Vern and Betty Schmitz and Black Jack Fire Protection

Future “Business After Hours” include The Bridge of Florissant & Life Care Center in September, and Helfer’s Pastries & Deli Café in October. Look for more details on the chamber website at greaternorthcountychamber. com or call the chamber office at 314.831.3500.

District Fire Chief Mike Gantner. (Debbie Wright photo)

ssmdrs.com

Greater North County Chamber | greaternorthcountychamber.com | 314.831.3500

Garden Villas North hosts “Business After Hours”

Mingle at the Mills Takes Off September 21 at NASCAR Speedpark

Brian Goldman NWCC executive director

Fall Business Showcase to be Largest Yet More than 50 businesses will display their services and goods at the Northwest Chamber of Commerce Fall Business Showcase on September 13. This year’s event will take place at Harrah’s Casino and Hotel. Set-up begins at 9 a.m., and the Showcase will be open from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Come for the Showcase, stay for lunch!

During the lunch break members will be treated to a very special monthly

Northwest Chamber of Commerce is very excited to announce the 9th Annual Mingle at the Mills. Citizens and chamber members from all over North County will gather from 4 to 10 p.m. on Friday, September 21 for live music, charity and raffle go-kart races, food and games. This year’s event will, of course, include a display of classic and hot rod cars at the Car Cruise. And don’t forget the Mayor’s Challenge Cup, where North County mayors will face off at NASCAR Speedpark to claim the championship title. Proceeds from The Mingle, one of the most anticipated events of the year, will benefit area charities, the Chamber Scholarship Fund and the Northwest Chamber of Commerce.

luncheon at the Voo Doo Lounge. The Showcase will reopen at 1 p.m. and close at 2:30 p.m.

Although this year’s Showcase has room for more than 50 booths, spaces are filling up quickly so register today at northwestchamber.com The Fall Business Showcase is sponsored

by Bommarito of Hazelwood and Simploy.

13th Annual Chili-Dog Golf Tournament Registration is open for the Northwest Chamber of Commerce’s 13th Annual Chili-Dog Golf Tournament. This year’s contest will be held on Friday, November 2 at The Golf Club of Florissant.

Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the Four Person Scramble kicks off at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start.

Registration is $75 per golfer ($300 per team) and includes 18 holes of golf, lunch and the use of a cart. Don’t forget the hot dogs and chili dinner at the

For more information call 314.291.2131 or visit northwestchamber.com.

July 2012 New Members

Pictured: Brian Goldman-NWCC President, AJ Reese-Konica Minolta Business Solutions, Larry Brown-Just to Travel, James Cohen-Overland Sears Hometown Store, Dr. Robert Andel-Smart Pain Solutions, Sarah Ruffatto-Olneya Restoration Group, Brian Douglas-One Way Construction, Harry Lively-Simploy, Scott Polermo-A Skeetz Production, Larry King-Metro Shooting Supplies #2 Indoor Range & Training Academy, Mark Evans-Premier Rentals, Paul Winston-T-Mobile Bridgeton

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end of the day. Sponsorships are also available, including hole sponsorships for $75, dinner sponsorships for $250 and scratch- off sponsorships for $100. Businesses and individuals are also invited to donate prizes for the tournament raffle.

Registration forms may be found at northwestchamber.com or the Northwest Chamber office: 11965 St. Charles Rock Rd., Ste. 203 in Bridgeton, Mo.

August 2012 New Members

Pictured: Brian Goldman-NWCC President, Jennifer Gilliland-ZZone, Denise Richards-Candlewood Suites, Kathy & John Lovelace-Aflac, Scott Pope-RBO Logistics, Pat Hawn-Market Volt, Adam Madden- Mira Digital Publishing, Vicki CzechMississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, Kathy Witzke-Fifth Third Bank, Jerry Hart, Valley Industries, NWCC Board Chairman

S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

by Brian Goldman, NWCC executive director I was once told that most cakes have the same ingredients, but it comes down to the recipe and putting those ingredients together that make the cake something special. The same thing can be said about a golf tournament.

Most tournaments have the same basic ingredients, but it is how a tournament comes together that makes it special.

The Northwest Chamber of Commerce recently put its recipe together for the 26th annual Golf Classic…and it was definitely something special.

golfers (key ingredient) were asked to come up to the 18th green with a putter and a golf ball. At noon, a low-flying helicopter began circling over the 18th fairway and green. We sold raffle tickets and every ticket had a number that corresponded with a golf ball. We worked it out with the golf course to put a flag and cup in the 18th fairway near the green. As the helicopter circled over one more time, adjusting speed and height, it dropped 150 numbered golf balls and the ball that went in the hole (or closest to it) was worth $500.

Congratulations to Guy Tinker with ITS Computer Services for winning the helicopter ball drop raffle.

The first thing you need are a couple quality co-chairs like Cindy Bates (Bates CPA) and Terry Milam (city of St. John). Now mix in a great committee to work under them: Bob Aubuchon (city of Hazelwood), Donna Bell (Bates CPA), Tammy Durbin (Kelly Services), Naomi Francis (Choices Catering), Al Heinermann (IESI Waste Services), Donna and Steve Hewkin (Hewkin Auto Body), Steve Krazl (U.S. Bank-Bridgeton), John Pecher (Fastsigns of Bridgeton), Karen Penning (FedEx Ground), Jim Richmond (St. Johns Bank & Trust), Alicia Rundle (NASCAR Speedpark), and Tina Herrmann and Jessica Young (Northwest Chamber of Commerce).

With everybody on the green to watch, we had them mark their golf balls and circle the green for the putting contest.

The putting contest is an important ingredient for any golf tournament, but is usually a challenge because it lasts all day. We changed that. The course put the flag dead center, and with everybody on the green, we counted off “1, 2, 3, PUTT” and all 132 golfers hit at one time. It was definitely a sight to see! When the dust cleared, there were two balls in the hole. A quick putt off, and congratulations to AJ Reese from Konica Minolta for winning the Putting Contest. To everybody’s enjoyment, the contest was fun to be a part of, it was over quickly and with a start like that to our tournament, the recipe was shaping

All of these people contributed to the recipe and things started to come together. One of the most important ingredients in our recipe was the beginning of the tournament. All 132

up to be an amazing day.

Another key ingredient is all of the sponsors. Presenting Sponsor–Allied Waste Services, A Republic Services Company.

Birdie Sponsors–IESI, Panattoni, US. Foods, and Mattingly’s Sports Bar and Grill.

Contest Sponsors–Breakthrough Pain Relief Clinic, Montgomery Bank, Schaefer Auto Body and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Putting Contest Sponsor–Ferguson Roofing.

Hole in one Sponsor–Bommarito of Hazelwood. Dinner Sponsor–Westport Plaza. Concession Sponsors–Bates CPA – Lynchburg Lemonade & Hewkin Auto Body – Margarita stand. Beverage Cart sponsor–T & L Tree Service. Now add in all of our hole sponsors and this recipe is almost complete. Please visit www. northwestchamber.com for a full list of hole sponsors and great pictures – too many to list or show here.

Another key ingredients is a beautiful place to play, and Innsbrook Resort Golf Course stepped up and went above and beyond. The course was in great shape, the weather was beautiful, and the meal was delicious. Finish off with a silent and live auction, award cash prizes for our winners and this recipe is perfected and went down smooth and easy. If you want to taste a piece of it, join us next year for the 27th Annual Golf Classic on June 3.

Helicopter drop

Putting contest

Fletcher Wells II gets in the spirit with a stylish grass skirt.

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S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Northwest Chamber of Commerce | northwestchamber.com | 314.291.2131

The Recipe for a Great Golf Tournament

Kim Braddy MHCC President

Maryland Heights Chamber Seeks Nominations for Business Leader of the Year The Maryland Heights Chamber of

recognize

Commerce will host its 6th Annual

demonstrated

Business Leader Awards Ceremony on

commitment

business

award nominations. If you know of

Wednesday, November 28 at Harrah’s

community. This event also showcases

someone who has demonstrated an

Casino and Hotel. Registration begins at

our city’s business achievements and

exceptional commitment to excellence

7:30 p.m. and the ceremony will begin at

overall excellence.

and outstanding business leadership,

8 p.m.

individuals an to

who

have

outstanding our

However, help is needed to identify

The Business Leader of the Year Awards

those

ceremony is an opportunity to

be honored at this year’s ceremony.

individuals

who

deserve

to

The Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce

is

currently

accepting

please consider nominating him or her for this prestigious honor. Nominations forms and additional information may be found at mhcc.com.

Maryland Heights Chamber Announces Publication 0f 2013 Community Guide The Board of Directors and staff of the Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce are pleased to present the 2013 edition of the Chamber’s Community Guide.

The Chamber’s Community Guide offers an overview of resources available through the city and chamber of commerce. In the directory portion of this guide, users will find local businesses and individuals ready to attend to their needs and provide them with quality goods and services.

Printing will begin in late 2012 for January 2013 distribution. To learn more about the chamber and the benefits and services it offers, or to get your business’ name in the guide, please call 314.576.6603 or visit mhcc.com.

Maryland Heights Chamber hopes users will find the directory to be useful and encourage all to patronize the members and the businesses that supported this publication and the community.

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S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Migraine Headaches – More than Just a Bad Excuse!

by Siddharth Kaul, MD, PhD, Neurology, SSM Neurosciences Institute lights, tingling, numbness and nausea.

Elvis “The King” Presley, Whoopi Goldberg, Scotty Pippen, General Ulysses Grant, Sigmund Freud and Thomas Jefferson were great personalities, and they all had severe, debilitating migraines. It is also a fact that more than 20 percent of people will experience the same in our lifetime.

Why worry about a headache? Pain is a symptom, not a disease. When you have a headache, your brain is telling you something is wrong. While most headaches are painful but not life threatening, a small majority of them can signify something sinister like tumors, aneurysms and impending strokes. These can get missed if not investigated thoroughly, especially in migraine sufferers.

Migraine headache is the perception of distress in the neurons and blood vessels that make up the brain. What triggers this distress is still debated, but most scientists believe that is is a response of your brain to harmful chemicals released by the body in times of stress leading to a slow wave of “short circuiting” neurons in the brain. The brain has blood vessels that rely on these nerves to function properly. When they shut down, they cause the blood to engorge, resulting in the sensation of pain.

When should you seek treatment?

Everyone knows his or her own body better than anyone else. See a neurologist for headache management if you have any of these issues: • Sudden change in type or number of headaches • Change in location of headaches • Over-the-counter help anymore

Headaches hamper our ability to function, exacerbate our anxiety and disrupt our lives. There is no test for migraine headaches, and no definite symptoms to signify the disease.

Symptoms can vary from a feeling of pressure in a band around the head to more concerning visualization of bright

medications

don’t

• You make frequent visits to the ER because of headaches • Headaches are affecting your personal AND professional life What can you do about headaches?

get headaches. Do they occur at the beginning of your periods, more in the summer or winter, morning or evening, etc.

• Find “triggers.” Keeping the diary will help you identify events that trigger headaches, like exercise, weightlifting, or foods. Going hungry can often trigger migraine headaches.

• Sleep. Lack of sleep, bad sleep habits and broken sleep patterns cause headaches • Stress. While stress is an unavoidable string in the fabric of life, it can be modified to help your headaches.

Exercise and planned leisure activities can reduce life’s burdens and improve headache outcomes.

While there is no one medicine that cures headaches, the options are numerous with more being developed each day. Treatment is usually initiated as soon as indicated, and 80 percent of migraine headaches can be effectively controlled by lifestyle modifications and daily medications. Migraines should not dictate your life. You can take control and your neurologist will help you quickly and safely.

END

• Keep a headache diary. Note when you

13 Steps to Better Customer Service You’ve probably heard that most — 75 to 95

customer service:

percent of small businesses, depending on

2. Smile. Seems too simple, doesn’t it? Well,

the source — fail within the first five years.

1. Be a good listener.

Sure,

questions and concentrating on what the

economic

competition

for

turbulence, customers’

identify your customers’ needs by asking

fierce

dollars

Take the time to

or

customer is really saying. Use what Bill

offering the wrong product in the wrong

Clinton’s staff called his big ears, not just

place at the wrong time have a lot to do

listening but absorbing the customer.

with this staggering failure rate. So does

Make eye contact, nod, jot down a note. Ask

something so basic many small business

clarifying questions when the customer

owners overlook it: customer service.

is finished speaking to get more details.

Don’t interrupt! Listening doesn’t work

Ask any veteran salesman, and he’ll tell you:

when your mouth is moving. Listen to their

People don’t buy products. They buy good

words, tone of voice, body language and

experiences, good feelings, good solutions.

Most customer needs are emotional, not logical. So the more you know about what pleases customers, the better you become at anticipating their needs.

Here

are

13

lucky

tips

for

better

the simplest things are often the hardest.

In today’s fast-paced world, a smile can make a huge difference. It may not seem terribly scientific, but try not smiling at your customers for a couple of days and see what happens. This is all really a matter of perception: When people smile at us, we perceive we’ve had a much better experience even if it was mediocre.

Customers

like

to

be

treated

like

they matter.

most importantly, how they feel. Beware of

3. Be courteous.

Ah, those simple words

making assumptions — thinking you know

we

kindergarten:

what the customer wants. Do you actually

“Thank you” (and, of course, “Yes, Mom.”)

listen to find out what the problem is and

Now just add “May I help you,” “How are

what solution the customer would like,

you doing today,” “Is there anything else

before you try to resolve the situation?

I can do for you,” “How did you find your

Maybe they just need to vent.

service experience today.” Courteous phrases

learned

in

“Please,”

Continued On Page 17

15

Our Town

S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Useful Tools for Stretching your Marketing Budget Smart marketing need not be expensive

by Mark Bretz Who cares about your business more than you do? Who knows what you do or what services you provide? Who are the customers most important to you?

These are simple questions that provide a solid foundation for any successful enterprise. Given that you’ve worked hard to produce a product that you believe will have appeal to a certain segment of the public, how do you go about reaching those prospects?

Whether you’re just starting out in business or have been around for 50 years, the laws of supply and demand rule the marketplace. Chances are you’re in a business that has competition, so you need to fashion a plan to underscore your identity in a way that isn’t prohibitively expensive.

Fortunately, with the increasing flexibility and maneuverability of the Internet, coupled with relationship skills, you can stimulate awareness of your company and your services in a cost-effective manner. commercebank.com

Welcome To Whirlpool® Home Appliances

These days, prospects looking for a particular service routinely will go online to see what companies offer to differentiate themselves from their competition.

A quick visit to a company’s website enables a potential customer to review what your business has to offer in relation to others in your line of work.

If you have a website up and running, maintaining it to appear clean and direct is important. Your site can be compartmentalized to include information about pricing, the range of services or products you provide, testimonials from satisfied customers and brief biographical sketches of key company personnel. Make sure you provide contact information as well, usually a phone number and an email address along with your address and simple directions to your business.

Take advantage of free social media sites, also. LinkedIn often is utilized by professionals and businesspeople seeking to contact other professionals with news about their services. The service provides a number of possibilities, including updates about seminars, meetings, etc. that may have relevance for your company. It offers daily updates about its members, where you can post the latest news about your business, personnel, services, etc.

KEEVEN APPLIANCE Sales Service Parts 90 Days Same As Cash

Family owned & operated since 1955 FLORISSANT 3350 Parker Rd. 314-837-2723 ST. CHARLES 1976 Old Hwy 94 S. 636-949-2555

Facebook is another free service that is becoming more and more of a business tool. Companies and individuals routinely will post new events, sales, products, etc. for potential customers to check out on a Facebook site. This enables a marketer to get out the word about anything that may have interest to prospects as well as regular customers.

Other services such as Pinterest and Twitter are set up as sounding boards for a business or person to tout the latest Continued On Page 19

Continued From Page 15

are phrases of welcome. But courtesy also

found what they’re looking for. They didn’t?

employees to help you analyze how your

extends to actions. Walk your customers to

Next time they might if they like you.

policies, practices and processes could be

the item they asked about, get them a cup of

7. Know how to apologize.

coffee while getting yourself one.

When

something goes wrong, apologize. Customers

more customer-friendly. This is one of the most important things you can do to keep employees engaged and inspire them to

4. Get in touch with your customers’ reality. We often see this in politics, when

like it. The customer may not always be

we accuse elected officials of being out of

or you lose. Don’t be angry or defensive;

touch with reality. Bad customer service is

make it easy for customers to complain.

almost always a result of being out of touch

Yes, it is hard to say “It’s my fault.” Who

with customer reality. Again, it’s so simple

wants to admit fault? But those three words

it’s often hard to grasp: Customers like to

are going to make your angry customers

be treated like they matter. Do you have an

much

automated recording telling customers that

admitting fault is a strict no-no that can

11. Fix it! When customers have a problem

their call is important to you ... so important

get you sued. Nonsense. The way to avoid

and you fix it, they’re actually going to

that you keep telling them this over and

getting sued is not to have people mad at you

be more satisfied than if they never had

over that by the time they reach 10 minutes

in the first place.

a problem in the first place. Helping a

right, but the customer must always win

on hold, it actually becomes insulting for

happier.

You

may

think

8. Give more than expected.

them to be told that they’re important...

that

Since the

future of your company lies in keeping

when they obviously aren’t? This leads

think — and care — like they owned the business. Let them make decisions and judgment calls. And make it absolutely clear that they are not there to defend the company against complaints. They are there to make people happy. They are there to help people with their problems.

frustrated customer resolve the issue can turn them into an evangelist for your brand. They’ll tell their friends about you.

directly to No. 5.

customers happy, think of ways to elevate

5. Make customers feel important and appreciated. Always use their name

you give customers that they cannot get

and find ways to compliment them. Do it

and thank people even when they don’t

sincerely or don’t do it at all. Most of us can

buy? What can you give customers that is

12. Be knowledgeable.

tell the difference between sincerity and

totally unexpected? This will obviously

as annoying as going into a store and being

not caring. Ensure that your body language

vary

served by someone who has no idea what

conveys sincerity, too; words and actions

business. Think about it.

yourself above the competition. What can elsewhere? What can you do to follow up

should be congruent. Greet the customer

receptionist,

like, “Hello. How may I help you today?” Stop

and

bored

We’ve

twenty-something

the merchandise they’re selling, the curt

when

waitress.

delivering their order, set it in front of them

They

might

praises for months to come. They’ll proudly buy and wear T-shirts and hats with your logo on them.

Few things are

you are talking about. Customers commonly

counter, the clerk who doesn’t care about

are in the restaurant business, introduce name

your

staring balefully as you approach the

there. Allow the customer to respond. If you their

on

all encountered them — the irritated

Make eye contact, smile and say something

ask

depending

9. Treat your employees well.

in a friendly but business-appropriate way.

yourself,

enormously

They’ll blog about you. They’ll sing your

naturally

lack

compare products and/or services, so you and your staff need to be able to do this, too.

After all, you may be able to save them a trip to another store. You also need to be aware of any accessories or parts related to your products so you can tell customers where they can get them if you don’t supply them.

personality, social skills or the interest in

13. Enlarge your concept of service.

Watch your tips go up.

people required to give decent customer

Traditionally, customer service was viewed

service, but your business climate may also

narrowly as that slim channel between a

6. Look for ways to help your customers.

have contributed. Whether your employees

customer making a phone call, sending an

When they have a request (as long as it is

give great service when you’re not around

email or asking questions on the premises

reasonable) tell them you can do it. Figure

depends on whether you create a climate of

and an employee responding to that

out how afterwards. Look for ways to make

goodwill, pride and respect, not anger, fear

inquiry. Today, the definition of service

doing business with you easy. Then do what

and humiliation. Your people easily spot

must be enlarged to embrace all interface

you say you are going to do. Appear eager to

the hypocrisy — if it exists — between how

channels. Everyone and everything that

help but not in such an aggressive or rote

they’re treated and how they’re expected

interacts with a customer, current or

fashion that the customer is turned/driven

to treat customers. If they’re treated poorly,

prospective,

off. Continually trailing customers about

disrespectfully, or worse, then they will have

These are called touch points. Touch points

the premises or interrupting them every

trouble changing standards when dealing

begin the moment the customer becomes

two minutes to ask them how they’re doing

with customers. In fact, they’ll likely treat

aware of your company and are comprised

is just intrusive. Customers who respond to

customers the same way. Businesses lose a

of

the initial question by saying something

tremendous amount of internal credibility

transactions and contacts along the way —

like, “I just thought I’d take a look around”

when they tolerate double-standards of

every encounter between your company

should be approached after an acceptable

service: one for their employees, and one for

and the customer, each of which can

period of time (depending on your business,

their customers.

influence the customer’s perception of your

and say “Joe, you’ll really enjoy this dish.”

size of establishment, floor layout, etc.) to

10. Empower your employees, too. Ask

ask if they have any questions or if they’ve

multiple

influences

the

independent

customer.

interactions,

product, service or brand. This starts with a potential customer listening to a friend Continued On Page 19

17

Our Town

S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 012

Calendar of Events September 4 NWCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s

October 2 N WCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s

September 6 MHCC Breakfast Club Networking, 7:30 – 9 a.m., DJ’s

October 3 N WCC YPD-Young Professionals Division, 35 Years Old

Restaurant

Deli

September 6 NWCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

September 11 NWCC Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House

September 12 M HCC Member Luncheon, 11:30 – 1 p.m., Dave & Buster’s September 13 NWCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

September 13 NWCC Business Showcase and Membership Luncheon, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Harrah’s Casino, Voo Doo Lounge

September 18 NWCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant

September 19 Greater North Member-to-Member Expo and Monthly Membership Luncheon, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., Yacovelli’s Restaurant & Banquet Center

Restaurant

& Younger, Networking Group, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Syberg’s Restaurant

October 4 N WCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

October 4 M HCC Breakfast Club Networking, 7:30 – 9 a.m., DJ’s Deli October 9 N WCC Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House

October 10 M HCC Member Luncheon Expo, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Harrah’s

October 11 N WCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

October 16 M HCC Power Networking Event, 5 - 7 p.m., Spazio’s Restaurant

October 16 N WCC Lunch Networking, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant

September 20 MHCC Breakfast Club Networking, 7:30 - 9 a.m.,

October 17 N WCC WIN-Women Only Networking Group, 11:30 a.m. –

September 20 NWCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.,

October 18 M HCC Breakfast Club Networking, 7:30 – 9 a.m., Location

September 21 NWCC Mingle at The Mills, 4 – 10 p.m., NASCAR

October 18 N WCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.,

September 21 NCI Salutes 30 Leaders in Their Thirties Awards

October 20 M HCC Monster Mash Dash 5k, Westport Plaza October 20 G reater North County Chamber Casino Night, 6:30 - 11:00

September 25 NWCC Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 -

October 23 N WCC Tuesday Morning Coffee & Networking, 7:30 - 8:30

September 27 NWCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.,

October 25 N WCC Networking Happy Hour , 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.,

Location TBA

Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport Speedpark at the Mills

Ceremony, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Norwood Hills Country Club 8:30 a.m., Corner Coffee House

Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

September 28 NWCC Lunch & Learn, Taste of the Chamber, 12 - 1:30

1 p.m., Syberg’s Restaurant TBA

Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

p.m. 250 New Florissant Rd. South Florissant, Mo 63031 a.m., Corner Coffee House

Trainwreck Saloon @ Westport

p.m., Location TBA

You’ll Come for the Friendship

You’ll Stay for the Music • Home like atmosphere • Casual sense of camaraderie • Fun-filled activities • Chef prepared dining • Live entertainment

#1 Pratt Place | Florissant, MO 63031 | 314.839.5000

www.jeffowens-insurance.com

www.cn-video.com

Continued From Page 16

Continued From Page 17

news in quick, easy and inexpensive fashion. They’ll only continue to grow in popularity and value in the future.

An important source of potential revenue for many businesses is an email direct mail list. Whether you’re sending out a regular newsletter or simply information about the latest addition to your services, such a roster involves minimal expense and theoretically reaches audiences that are significant to your business, whether historically or as key potential customers. Once it’s established, it can be used on an ongoing basis as part of your marketing efforts.

Keep advertising in mind in specifically targeted outlets. If you have a sporting goods store, for example, it makes sense to run ads in the sports-related area of a publication, radio or TV station or website, in order to catch the eye and interest of someone already favoring

that topic. Consider also the importance of geographic ad purchases. Placing a concise, direct ad in a local church bulletin, weekly local newspaper or other media outlet can provide a meaningful return on investment by reaching prospects who may view you as convenient as well as useful to their needs.

review your product and continues through

Of course, the best method of promoting yourself and your business is always

can influence and what you can’t will give

you. Use any setting as a potential for building and cementing relationships.

You don’t have to be aggressive or pushy.

Just be yourself, demonstrating subtly whenever you can what it is your business provides to the community, and how its people, products and services are always available to address the needs of customers and prospects. Remember, you’re in command central of your marketing communications program.

best touch points you can have.

END

Mark Bretz is owner and principal of Bretz Public Relations, LLC, a public relations firm specializing in public relations, media relations and writing for small and mid-sized companies. For more information, contact Mark at 314.838.9371 or mark@bretzpr.com.

your website and Facebook page, well before the customer even considers your product, much less steps into your business. It includes the installation crew, loading dock folks, your out-of-office message and even the customer service helpline, if you have one. This might sound intimidating, but learning the difference between what you you peace of mind that you have the very

Customer service is really not all that complex. It’s really pretty simple. We just make it complex.

For personalized help for managing your business, contact your local MO SBTDC office. To find the center closest to you, go

to

www.missouribusiness.net/sbtdc/

centers.asp.

© 2012 Curators of the University of Missouri. Used with permission of the Missouri Small Business & Technology Development Program www. missouribusiness.net END

att.com

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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.

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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.