3rd Bi-Annual - St. Charles County Ambulance District

29 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER2009 SCBM

3rd Bi-Annual

In St. Charles County 2009

St. Charles County is blessed with a number of individuals who are active throughout the area. Some are young, some are old, but all are dedicated to making our community

the best possible place to live and work.Although a great number of young people are

becoming active within our community, it is clear that they are following the lead of individuals like this year’s Community Shapers. To recognize the achievements, dedication and hard work of these predecessors, Saint Charles Business Magazine, in partnership with Heffernan Insurance Brokers, is proud to present the Third Bi-Annual 50 Over Fifty Community Shapers Awards.

On the following pages we would like to introduce you to the recipients, all of whom have been exceptionally active in the development of St. Charles County. More than 70 people were nominated for this honor, and although only 50 were selected to receive awards, all of the nominees have made a notable difference in St. Charles County. Some of the recipients only recently turned 50, while others are more experienced, but all have been instrumental in shaping and molding the county into what we have grown to know and love.

This year’s Mistress of Ceremonies Kasey McKee is the annual giving manager for the St. Charles Community College Foundation. McKee works tirelessly to raise funds for scholarships and equipment to help students reach their greatest potential. Prior to joining SCC, McKee helped the Friends of St. Louis Children’s Hospital raise

$2.5 million and increase the Friends of SLCH membership by 11 percent.

Our Keynote Speaker Ben Blanton is president of Blanton Construction Company, a previous Community Shaper Award recipient and forever an advocate for St. Charles County. Blanton’s reputation speaks clearly for itself. His vigorous efforts and time have been devoted to serving on countless nonprofit boards, fundraising committees and prayer groups that have touched the lives of immeasurable residents of our community.

These local leaders were chosen to participate in the event for obvious reasons, but most importantly, they were selected because of their desire to recognize, congratulate and honor all of the award recipients.

Saint Charles Business Magazine would like to thank all of the sponsors who made this event possible. This year’s companies include title sponsor, Heffernan Insurance Brokers and corporate sponsors: Ameristar Casino Resort Spa; Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital; Baue Funeral Homes, Crematory & Memorial Gardens; Brown, Smith, Wallace, LLC; Charter Business; Danna McKitrick, PC, The Millstone Company and SSM St. Joseph Health Center. We would also like to extend a warm thank you to HOME nightclub for the private cocktail party they hosted for our recipients and sponsors, as well as to Rhythm of the Nite, featuring performer Emily Nicole, for providing the evening’s entertainment.

Ben BlantonKasey McKee

© Saint Charles Media Group

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Judy Alexander-WeberCompassionate, Diligent, Leader

Elaine BastlTenacious, Globe-Trotting, Generous

Ronald Berrey, Ed.DDedicated, Compassionate, Humble

Harold J. BliggenstorferLeader, Light-Hearted, Loyal

Nadine BoonAmbitious, Optimistic, Pleasant

James A. BorchersIntelligent, Creative, Resourceful

Judy Alexander-Weber, president and CEO of Emmaus Homes, is a strong advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, frequently testifying before Missouri House and Senate committees and meeting with state legislators. She is an active member of the Missouri Association for Rehabilitation Facilities as well as other state-wide advocacy associations. Judy is a compassionate leader who treats everyone with respect and understanding. This married mother of three volunteers her time by serving on many committees as well as the Central Institute for the Deaf board and the City Academy board.

Elaine Bastl, executive director at Lake St. Charles Retirement Community, is one of St. Charles’ best kept secrets. Currently, she is on the board of directors for the Better Business Bureau and is a winner of their Torch Award for Customer Service Excellence. This past summer Elaine was one of the team leaders of the first Divas Building Dreams 2009 Women’s Build for Habitat for Humanity. A huge supporter of charities, in 2005 she competed in the Great Kona Marathon to raise money for the American Stroke Association. Elaine was active with the St. Charles chapter of Zonta International and was a member of the St. Charles Rotary Club for almost 20 years — one of the first women inducted into membership in the club.

Dr. Ron Berrey, Ed.D. has served St. Charles County as both an educator and a volunteer for the past 25 years. Dr. Berrey was an associate superintendent from 1985-1991 and the superintendent of schools in the Wentzville District from 1991 until his retirement in 2000. During his tenure, he was instrumental in bringing early childhood special education to the district. His positive approach was instrumental in the passage of numerous bond issues and a tax increase. Dr. Berrey has also served on numerous boards including leadership positions with the Lake St. Louis Ambassadors, the Wentzville Rotary, the St. Charles County Economic Development Center, Crider Health Center, the YMCA, and Crossroads Regional Hospital. Dr. Berrey currently serves as the chairman of the Community and Children’s Resource Board of St. Charles County.

As the formation attorney for the city of Weldon Spring, Jim Borchers was instrumental in its creation. He later served as the general counsel for Weldon Spring, successfully handling litigation before the Missouri Court of Appeals. Jim serves on the board of directors for the St. Charles Community College Foundation, and as the governmental affairs committee chair for the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the Lutheran High School board. Experienced in many areas from franchise law to SBA 504 and commercial loan transactions, Jim has taught adult education classes in estate planning, new business creation, and business growth. Active in the community, Jim is also a member of Ambassadors of Harmony, and a basketball coach for Immanuel Lutheran School.

As the economic development director for the City of St. Charles, Nadine Boon plays an important role in the growth of of our community. She is past president of Discover 370 and currently serves on the board of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce and the Missouri Economic Development Financing Association. Nadine has a passion for the arts. Not only is she married to a talented artist, she serves on the board of the Foundry Art Centre and is a founder of St. Charles Riverfront Arts, an organization that coordinates art walks, plein air events, and the “Art of the Motorcycle.” Nadine understands the impact the arts have on the economy and has rallied for an Arts district in St. Charles for several years.

H. J. “Bligg” Bliggenstorfer spent 14 years as a high school teacher and coach, and 16 years as a middle school principal in the Hazelwood School District, earning the title Principal of the Year by the St. Louis Area Secondary School Principals Association. After retiring from the education field, Bligg began his second career as the executive director of Parkside Retirement Living. An active member of his church, Bligg is also a member of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, referees high school athletics as a registered official (for the past 25 years) and is a lifetime member of the Masonic fraternity, where he also served in leadership roles on the local and state levels.



Dan BorgmeyerGenerous, Civic-Minded, Respected

Ronald J. BrockmeyerRespected, Professional, Compassionate

Tom BrueningEnergetic, Authentic, Civic-Minded

John BurnsIntelligent, Positive, Real

Ted DettmerFamily-oriented, Knowledgeable, Dedicated

Jan DunhamEnergetic, Committed, Loyal

Dan Borgmeyer worked for several well known companies before he eventually took on small business ownership and became president of B&B Retail Automotive Marketing Services, LLC. Dan is a past chairman of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, and a longtime board member and president for the Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County. He has served on the board of directors for Duchesne High School, the Parents Coordinating Council, The Academy of the Sacred Heart, the Endowment Board for St. Cletus Parish and the Historical Restoration Committee for St. Charles Borromeo Parish, as well as many other business and civic organizations. Dan was also recognized by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce as their 2006 Citizen of the Year.

Ronald J. Brockmeyer received his bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri and his Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University. An attorney for over 30 years, he also serves as municipal judge for the cities of Flordell Hills, Ferguson and Breckenridge Hills located in the 21st Judicial Circuit, St. Louis County. In addition to his service as municipal judge, Ron is the prosecuting attorney for the cities of Florissant and Belfontaine Neighbors. He is a member of the Missouri Municipal & Associate Circuit Judges Association, and both the Missouri & Illinois Bar Associations. Outside of the judicial realm, Ron is vice president of finance for Platinum Sports & Entertainment Management, a sports service agency located in St. Charles that represents baseball players around the country.

Ted started Dettmer Homes with his two sons because of a passion and expertise for home building, a dedication to building beautiful homes and developments in St. Charles County and an opportunity to continue the legacy with his own family. In addition to his devotion to his family as well as the home building industry, Ted extends his commitment to the St. Charles community by actively serving the region. He serves as chairman of the board for 1st Advantage Bank in St. Peters, is on the St. Charles board of the Home Builders Association (HBA) and is also a very active and long-time supporter of United Services, the nonprofit organization in St. Peters and Dardenne Prairie that supports an inclusive educational environment for area children.

As a financial advisor for Edward Jones Investments, John Burns has received several prestigious awards. The 2008 Winners Circle Award, 2008 Century Award, 2009 Regional Leader’s Award, and 2009 Jack Phelan Award denote just a few of his accomplishments. In addition to his exemplary work record, John is very involved in the community of Cottleville, where his offices are located. Treasurer of the Cottleville Main Street Merchants Association, John was active in creating a Foundation to place Cottleville on the Register of Historic Towns. Both the Association and Foundation are charged with the task of beautifying, enhancing, and revitalizing the city as well as raising funds for charitable organizations. Mr. Burns is also a member of the Weldon Spring/Cottleville Chamber of Commerce and an active member of his church.

Tom Bruening was an educator in the Hazelwood School District for 25 years, during which time he also maintained a full-time real estate presence, working for Gundaker Realtors St. Charles. Since retiring from teaching in 1995, Tom has dedicated his efforts solely to real estate sales. He ranks among the Top 20 Realtors in the Coldwell Banker/Gundaker organization and is a member of the Gundaker Hall of Fame. Tom is a former member of the Orchard Farm board of directors, the Huntington Park board of trustees, the St. Charles Pikers Club and the St. Charles City Planning & Zoning Commission. Tom is a Boys Club boy and has served the St. Charles Boys & Girls Club as a board member and a past president.

As a 25-year veteran in the financial world, Jan Dunham brings a poise and personality that is second to none. Currently a vice president for U.S. Bank, Jan has invested deeply in the St. Charles County community. She has served as the chairman of the St. Peters Chamber of Commerce, sat on the advisory board for United Services as well as the St. Charles Library District board, is a past president of the St. Charles Sunrise Rotary, hosted FOCUS St. Charles County, and has volunteered at Community Living, Inc. For the past six years, Jan has served on the St. Charles Community College Foundation board where she is presently co-chairing a new fundraising event set to debut next spring.


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Steve EhlmannDedicated, Knowledgeable, Charming

Sally FaithFair, Welcoming, Inspiring

Kathleen FeldewerthTrustworthy, Reliable, Kind-Hearted

Thomas J. FeldewerthGenerous, Compassionate, Genuine

Gloria GoellnerTalented, Loyal, Extraordinary

Terry GravemannLoyal, Faithful, Role model

Steve Ehlmann took office January 1, 2007 as only the second, elected St. Charles County Executive. Uniquely chosen to serve in all three branches of government, Steve has been a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, was elected to the Missouri Senate, and has served as both Associate Circuit Judge and Circuit Judge. A published author, Steve currently serves on the board of trustees for the Missouri Historical Society, and is a former member of Rotary International. He is a past board member of the United Way, Boys and Girls Clubs of St. Charles County, Crider Center for Mental Health, Habitat for Humanity, Friends of the Missouri Archives, and the St. Charles County Economic Development Center.

Sally Faith is a member of the Missouri House of Representatives, where her hard work has made our state and our community a better place to live. Sally is currently the chair of the Fiscal Review Committee, vice chair of the Transportation Committee, and a member of the Budget, Insurance, and Appropriations for Public Safety Committees as well as the Joint Committee on Stabilization and House Committee on Autism. In addition to her work for the greater good of the state, she is also the director of development for Bridgeway Behavioral Health, and serves on many local boards and commissions including the Foundry Art Centre, St. Charles Noon Day Rotary Club and Athena Leadership.

As a young mother, Kathleen Feldewerth raised four daughters in a loving home while managing the books for Eisenbath Concrete. When her youngest started school, she took on the additional responsibility of managing the accounting for two other family businesses, including The Flower Petaler, owned by her brother-in-law Tom. Twenty-five years later, Kathy is still working 3 days a week at The Flower Petaler. Diagnosed with a heart condition three years ago, Kathy has brought it upon herself to bring joy to those who join her in cardiac rehab. With birthday surprises, Valentines and Christmas presents in hand, she has united the patients as friends, and cardio rehab attendance is at an all time high.

As president of Duchesne High School, Terry Gravemann’s dedication to youth and education is clearly evident. He was awarded Outstanding Educator by the St. Charles Jaycees, has served several years on the Education subcommittee with the Economic Development Center’s Partners for Progress board, and works tirelessly as the chief advancement executive to raise necessary funding for Duchesne High School. Terry currently serves on the SSM Health Center Lay Advisory board of directors and the High School Facilities Endowment Council with the Archdiocese of St. Louis, and is a former board member of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce.

Gloria Goellner has been demonstrating her love for the St. Charles area for over 50 years. She is the co-founder of the St. Charles Artists Guild, where she has held many titles including president, publicity chairperson and tour director. Several times Gloria was voted president of the Sinawiks — a club for the wives of Kiwani members. She received the “Cultural Person of the Year” award from the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, the “Arty” award from the St. Charles County Arts Council as well as a commendation from the State Senate and House of Representatives for lobbying efforts on behalf of the guild. Presently Gloria is a member of the St. Charles Artists Guild, St. Charles County Arts Council, National Women in the Arts, Oakley Artists Guild, and St. Louis Watercolor Society.

Blessed with a green thumb, Tom Feldewerth, owner of The Flower Petaler, has been in business for over 35 years. Having grown his business from a single room on the 2nd floor, to a retail store of over 12,000 square feet, Tom keeps his focus on his customers. From genuinely thanking every customer who walks through his door, to bringing fresh flowers to friends and family, he never takes anyone for granted. Mr. Feldewerth has been active in many charities, including Habitat for Humanity, Snuggle and the Humane Society among others. Believing that charity begins at home, Tom has even found forever homes for over 500 homeless animals through his store.



Ann HazelwoodCreative, Civic-Minded, Enterprising

Brian HowardDynamic, Devoted, Honorable

Kevin F. KastVisionary, Charismatic, Dynamic

Edie KirkInnovative, Collaborative, Encouraging

Ken KochDriven, Compassionate, Professional

Paul LambiVisionary, Leader, Compassionate

Edie Kirk is the associate vice president of Foundation and Alumni Relations at St. Charles Community College, where she has grown the scholarship program from $12,000 in awards a year to more than $60,000; a 500 percent increase from when she began in 2005. Praised for her out-of-the-box thinking, Edie has raised more than $100,000 for academic programs and educational equipment. Currently involved with the Association of Fund Raising Professionals St. Louis Chapter, she remains active with the Women in Leadership program of Coro, and is a past president of ESPW. Edie is also a member of St. Charles Noonday Rotary, Zonta International - St. Charles Chapter and Toastmasters International.

Since 2004, St. Charles County Ambulance District CEO Ken Koch has ensured that residents have access to the best pre-hospital medical care possible. Ken’s talent for budgeting and judicious use of funding have created one of Missouri’s most technologically advanced ambulance districts, adopting numerous new technologies, both in patient care equipment and record keeping. Ken works diligently with local police and fire agencies as well as hospitals to facilitate the role of EMS throughout the county, and has spent many hours in Jefferson City to make certain EMS receives adequate representation. Ken has also spearheaded the creation of numerous public safety programs for a variety of audiences, including children, senior citizens and parents, focusing primarily on accident/injury prevention and patient advocacy.

Brian Howard, senior consultant with the Heffernan Group, has been enacting change his whole life. From helping break down racial barriers at Syracuse University — where he roomed with Ernie Davis, the first African-American winner of the Heisman Trophy — to reducing the burden of health care costs for his clients, Brian has always been devoted to doing what is right. After 35 years in employee benefits and human resources in the high-tech manufacturing industry, he opened an insurance agency, which eventually sold to Heffernan Insurance Brokers. A member of the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce, Brian has found time over his professional career to volunteer extensively with many community and charity organizations. He currently is serving on the O’Fallon YMCA board of managers and has been involved in numerous charity events in the county.

Ann Hazelwood was the owner of Patches, Etc. Quilt Shop for over 30 years. She now spends her time authoring books — including 100 Things to Do In and Around Historic St. Charles. A quilt collector and historian, Ann is also a teacher, lecturer, writer and editor of numerous quilting topics. She is a board member of the Museum of the American Quilting Society, and a founding member of Patches Quilt Study Group. Ann has been involved with the St. Charles Community for many years, serving on numerous City boards and commissions. She’s also the founder of South Main Preservation Society, a past board chairman for the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce and is a certified quilt appraiser.

After a 17 year career in sales, Paul Lambi decided to settle down in the city of Wentzville. While running a new retail division for Forklifts of St. Louis, Paul began to volunteer his time to the community — helping out at the St. Charles County Fair, joining Rotary, hosting six foreign exchange students, volunteering with the Wentzville St. Charles Relay for Life as a committee person and co-team captain, and eventually serving as alderman. Elected mayor in 2004, Paul continues his service to the community as president elect for the Wentzville Rotary Club, board member and founder of LOC, founder of VIP, executive board member of the Tri County YMCA, and a volunteer at the Crisis Nursery among many other positions.

Kevin Kast is a visionary leader whose work has forever changed the landscape of healthcare in the greater St. Charles metropolitan area. During his tenure as president/CEO/market executive for SSM Healthcare — St. Charles County, Kevin led a team of more than 600 physicians and 2,000 employees. He developed the HW Koenig Cancer Center and had the highest employee satisfaction scores of all SSM Health Care hospitals nationwide. Kevin’s most recent endeavor is Assisted Living at The Meadowlands, LLC. Working with St. Charles community leaders such as Tom Hughes, Grace Harmon and Shawn Saale, Kevin designed Assisted Living at The Meadowlands to ensure that senior patients have cost-effective, high quality assisted living options within St. Charles County.



Cathi LammertPassionate, Caring, Supportive

Steven J. LangHonest, Successful, Generous

Denise LiebelCollaborative, Supportive, Community-Servant

Joyce Lindstrom, ED. DEnergizing, Supportive, Dedicated

Dan W. LuedkeCompassionate, Visionary, Leader

Andrew Mannino, Sr.Generous, Energetic, Loyal

Cathi Lammert, R.N. is the current executive director of the national office of SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc., a position she has held since 1992. Her duties include managing the national office, conducting workshops for professionals, clergy, bereaved parents and their families, writing articles/material on perinatal bereavement issues, supporting 80 SHARE support groups, serving as a resource for professionals and the media and advocating for bereaved parent’s rights. Cathi was instrumental in bringing the Angel of Hope Monument to Blanchette Park, is the co-author of Angelic Presence, developed the SHARE Companion Program, participated in the Stillbirth Research Roundtable, and moderated a nationwide telecast on loss issues with the national office of Head Start.

As president of Lang Insurance Service, Steve Lang helps families and businesses find quality and affordable health insurance. He also sponsors numerous charitable golf tournaments, makes contributions to church picnics, donates to local food pantries, and gives to various other local events that support finding cures and improving the lives of others. The number of lives he touches is more than impressive. Steve’s generosity spans across the country and internationally as well. Recently he sponsored mission trips to South Dakota, Poland and Uganda, which repaired a church, held an English-based bible camp, and provided orphans with meals and educational materials. These are small acts of kindness from a successful businessman who always makes giving back a priority.

Denise Liebel is the executive director of the Community Council of St. Charles County, a nonprofit that exists solely to help other nonprofits be as successful as possible. In this position, Denise’s leadership allows the Community Council to help the St. Charles community offer affordable housing, community resources, and monthly luncheons for the nonprofit community to network/collaborate with one another. In addition to this important work, Denise is also the executive vice president of Heat Up St. Louis and a member of both the Transit Authority of St. Charles County and the Professional Advisory Network Team for Community Living, Inc. She is a Leadership St. Louis Alumni, winner of a Regional Economic Development Award from Winning Women and alumni of Vision St. Charles County Leadership, Class of 2000.

When Andy Mannino, Sr., owner of Amco Ranger Termite & Pest Solutions, first entered the pest control field, he was simply looking for a way to supplement his family’s income, not become one of the Midwest’s most highly regarded pest control companies. Although success did not come overnight, Mr. Mannino used his interpersonal and entrepreneurial skills to build a successful business from scratch. Having held positions in both regional and national pest control associations, Andy is also a current member and past president of the St. Peters Kiwanis Club, as well as active in his church. He is a respected leader and a devoted family man who has the respect of his peers.

Dr. Dan Luedke, MD is the founder and president of Missouri Cancer Care, PC and has been providing oncology care to the residents of St. Charles County since 1987. Missouri Cancer Care combines medical oncology, hematology, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and laboratory services within the same suite. Prior to entering into private practice, Dr. Luedke was chief of medical oncology and an associate professor at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He has served on numerous local hospital committees, has been published in medical journals and presents before professional peer groups. Dr. Luedke is truly committed to his patients, and serves on the board of SSM Health Care, on committees of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the Missouri Cancer Coalition among others.

Dr. Joyce Lindstrom is a professor in the math department and the coordinator of the Education Program at St. Charles Community College (SCC), but these titles don’t represent the true depth of her commitment to education and teaching. Dr. Lindstrom wrote the proposal to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create the teaching program at SCC, which she continues to coordinate. She has served on numerous state-wide task forces to facilitate transfer and articulation of professional education courses from community colleges to four-year schools, and recently assisted in the creation of a state-wide Associate of Arts in Teaching Degree. Dr. Lindstrom continues to serve SCC as a faculty leader on campus and provides a great model for those entering the teaching field.



Christopher C. McCoyCivic-Minded, Knowledgeable, Professional

Sandra MerandaSincere, Poised, Civic-Minded

Wally ObremskiVisionary, Energetic, Savvy

Nina G. PilgerCompassionate, Caring, Kind-Hearted

Dale PosloskySuccessful, Civic-Minded, Honest

Greg PrestemonLeader, Service Oriented, Dedicated

Nina Pilger has been a leader in the credit union industry and the community for many years. Currently president/CEO of 1st Financial Federal Credit Union, a position she has held for 25 years, Nina has served the St. Louis Chapter of Credit Unions executive committee, the Missouri Credit Union Association, the Credit Union Management Association and the operations committee for Midwest ATM Company. She pioneered the concept of Shared Branching in the state of Missouri, and as the president of 1st Financial, she established the first three Credit Union Shared Branch outlets in Missouri. In addition to her work-related service, Nina is a strong supporter of Habitat for Humanity of St. Charles County, where she is currently the secretary and chairperson for the finance committee.

In 2000, Dale Poslosky and his partner Mitch Stern purchased Modern Business Interiors (MBI) when it was located on Main Street in St. Charles. MBI has achieved an annual growth of over 30 percent each year since 2000. Along with offering great service and products to their client base, Dale is very involved in the St. Charles community, where some of his activities include: St. Charles Rotary Club, supporter of Youth In Need, United Services, Community Living, Inc., Boone Center Inc., and Family Support Services. Dale is also a member of the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce where he is chairman-elect on the executive committee for the board of directors. In 2006, the City of St. Charles awarded Modern Business Interiors the best employer award in the retail category.

Sandra Meranda is a top real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Gundaker, earning the Outstanding Customer Service Award 2009, the title of President’s Elite Agent, and the 1999 Rookie of the Year Award for the St. Charles office. Sandra is a member of the St. Charles County Association of REALTORS and an alumni member of the Alpha Phi Sorority, where she serves as treasurer for the house corporation board at Washington University. She has been nominated for the Athena Leadership Award, and currently serves as the chairman of the board for the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce as well as on the advisory board for New Frontier Bank. In her spare time, Sandra enjoys ballroom dancing and traveling the world with her husband Gino.

Chris McCoy is a recognized and well-respected community leader in St. Charles County, as well as a knowledgeable and sought-after banker in his industry. As senior vice president of Business Banking and SBA of Regions Bank, Chris is a past chairman of Community Living, Inc.’s (CLI) board of directors, where he has served since 2004. Chris was instrumental in helping CLI purchase their first property, and his expertise put CLI in the financial position to eventually acquire an additional property. He is also on the board of directors for the St. Louis Business Development Fund, an emeritus member and former president of the St. Charles Community College Foundation Board, and a member of the Missouri Venture Forum.

Greg Prestemon is the president and executive director of the Economic Development Center (EDC) of St. Charles County. He joined the EDC in April 1993 and oversees business incubation, business finance, and marketing programs to help businesses grow in St. Charles County. Since its creation, the EDC has served more than 50 area companies with over 250 new jobs created. In 2000, under Greg’s direction the center received the Marketing Organization of the Year Award from the Missouri Department of Economic Development as well as a national award from the Council of Development Finance Agencies. President of the Industrial Development Authority, president of the Economic Development Center and president of Partners for Progress of Greater St. Charles, Greg was recently recognized as a National SBA 504 Lender of the Year in Washington, D.C.

Wally Obremski, owner of B & B Financial Planning Co., Inc., has been in the investments/financial services business since 1971, specializing in investments and financial analysis. He uses his expertise to teach finance classes at St. Charles Community College. Wally has been a board member for 3 years and is currently the club president at Lake Forest Country Club. He was instrumental in bringing the “Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship” program to Lake Forest. This program is a full-tuition scholarship, renewable for up to four years, with strict selection criteria. Wally is a former member of Norwood Hills Country Club, where he served on the board of directors, as a past president, and chaired the entertainment and membership committees.



Karen PrideauxEnergized, Committed, Organized

Richard L. RackersPassionate, Dedicated, Knowledgeable

David RossEnergetic, Entertaining, Passionate

Nancy SchneiderVivacious, Generous, Philanthropic

Susan SchneiderLoving, Giving, Caring

David SkilesInnovative, Steadfast, Compassionate

As president of Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital, David Ross leads a community hospital that offers full inpatient services, including 24-hour physician staffed emergency, pediatric, obstetric, and intensive care coverage. Under his guidance, the hospital recently completed a new Outpatient Surgery Center, a Women’s Center, a Cardiology Center, and a new $28 million expansion. Throughout his career, David has been an active member of the community, serving with chambers of commerce and other civic groups. Currently he is a board member of the Make A Wish Foundation, United Way, Crider Health Center, St. Charles Community College Foundation, Economic Development Center, Partners for Progress and Commerce Bank. David also serves on the St. Peters Economic Development Task Force and the Academy of Sacred Heart finance committee.

Rich Rackers, CPA, has a passion for helping small businesses. With partner Sergio Fernandez, he opened Rackers & Fernandez, a full-service CPA and business consulting firm, in 1996. Offering the area’s only performance accounting services for small and family-owned businesses, the company’s motto is “Your Industry, Your Size, Your Success”. Rich’s reputation is built upon a commitment to quality service, uncompromising integrity and a continuous reach for excellence. He is a frequent speaker and instructor at Maryville University on the subject of building business dashboards and performance accounting. Rich holds memberships in the American Institute of CPAs, the Missouri Society of CPAs and Consulting Accountant’s Roundtable, as well as sitting on the board of directors for several St. Charles and St. Louis businesses.

For more than 10 years, Karen Prideaux has been a leader for Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital. Her involvement in St. Charles nonprofit organizations is inspiring, working with many excellent charities including the Crisis Nursery. A current board member of the Crisis Nursery, Karen has chaired the Over the Top for Tots event, which raises funds for the Nursery. She is the Salvation Army Council member for the City of St. Charles. Karen has a talent for bringing people together to achieve great outcomes. A recent golf tournament fundraiser hosted by Karen raised over $10,000 for the family of a young man paralyzed in a swimming accident. Past chair, she currently sits on the executive board of directors for the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce.

Nancy Schneider started Ronan sign in 1993, as a single mom on government assistance. A business that began with placing and picking up real estate agents signs for them on the weekend has grown into a company doing over a million dollars worth of business a year. Ronan Signs has developed into a full service manufacturer and distributor of interior and exterior signs with design, installation, sign removal and maintenance departments. In addition to running a successful business, Nancy is concerned about the environment and has started an initiative to help St. Charles businesses be green. Honored with a Dove Award, and recognized year after year by the Children for Cancer non-profit, Nancy also serves on the board for Bridgeway Behavioral Health.

Susan Schneider is the owner of Consign by Design, a women’s consignment clothing store in O’Fallon, MO. While in the corporate world for over twenty years, she learned first hand how hard it is to find an affordable, quality wardrobe; which led to the creation of her latest business. Susan is also an ordained minister for The Rose Ministry in honor of her late mother, Rose Schneider. She officiates at weddings, both civil and religious, and performs baptisms and funerals. Sue is involved with the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce and multiple non-profit organizations in the metro area. She enjoys golfing, reading, dancing, boating, riding her Harley, supporting St. Louis football and baseball teams, vacationing in the Ozarks and looking for ways to better herself and her community everyday.

David Skiles has spent 24 years at UMB, demonstrating leadership in positions ranging from senior vice president to his current position of executive vice president of Commercial Lending. He has been internally recognized for his outstanding client relations and business development efforts by earning the “UMB Scout Award” an unprecedented six times. David has lived in St. Charles County for many years and has been extremely involved in his community, previously serving as treasurer and board member for Family Support Services of St. Charles County and on the board of overseers of Lindenwood University. He has also been a part of the fundraising committee for the Boy Scouts and served as a member of the local Kiwanis chapter.



Richard J. SmithLoyal, Dedicated, Honorable

Bruce SowatskyCompassionate, Visionary, Committed

Bob WamhoffCaring, Leader, Successful

Ed WatkinsPassionate, Honest, Fun

Debby WatsonVisionary, Educator, Determined

Jann Rudd WeitzelCompassionate, Dedicated, Loyal

Bruce Sowatsky, executive director of the Community and Children’s Resource Board of St. Charles County (CCRB), has been an advocate for children’s services for over 27 years. Bruce worked as a child and family therapist for 17 years with several local agencies, but truly found his niche when he took on the executive director position with the CCRB in 1999. Bruce has served as a member of the St. Charles Family Stress Council and supported efforts to bring the Crisis Nursery as well as the Child Advocacy Center to St. Charles County. He orchestrated the construction of a 3rd Crisis Nursery in 2008 by utilizing partnerships with SSM St. Joseph Hospital and T.R. Hughes. Bruce is an alumnus of the Vision St. Charles County Leadership and Leadership St. Louis programs.

Richard Smith is a long time volunteer for the Saints Joachim and Ann Care Service who volunteers his time every Thursday evening coordinating and packing food for the many families in need that come to the Care Service for assistance. Retired from AT&T, Richard is the current president of the Optimist Club of Harvester/Mid Rivers where he performs numerous duties including organizing fundraisers, purchasing gifts and food for the several families that the Optimist Club adopt every Christmas, and running the club’s daily activities. Dedicated to his family, Richard is keenly aware that service to others is needed on a year round basis, a fact that he demonstrates clearly with his actions.

Ed Watkins, president and CEO of Winning Endeavors, is credited for playing a major role in changing the way America prepares people for their jobs and careers. While teaching sociology at Pembroke State University, Ed established a campus wide service learning program that provided every student with an opportunity to compliment their classroom theory with a service learning work experience. For his innovative idea, Ed received the first Career Service award by the American Legion. He is also the recipient of the 2002 Children’s Champions award and the 1999 Distinguished Leadership Award. Ed was instrumental in the construction of the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex and T.R. Hughes Ballpark, is a co-founder of Sports St. Charles County, and founder of the Mike Bush Fantasy Baseball Camp for hearing-impaired children.

A few years ago, Debby Watson decided to leave a long career at Villa Duchesne and pursue a dream — the establishment of a new school with a 21st century educational model that would transform young people into student leaders. Service learning would become a key component of the educational curriculum, with students working towards advancing causes related to the environment, children’s and elderly issues, and support of those in need. With the help of supporters who also believed in her dream, Debby was able to open Barat Academy in the fall of 2007. Today Barat Academy, led by Debby, is home to over 100 students, athletic teams, performing arts programs, and a service learning program that allows students to fully live the mission of Barat Academy.

As vice president for Academic Affairs and Provost of Lindenwood University, Dr. Jann Rudd Weitzel is the chief academic officer and the second highest ranking official. She directs the development of the university’s curricula and coordinates the work of the academic deans. In charge of ensuring academic honesty, Dr. Weitzel has recently taken her message on the topic to the national stage. She also hosts a Lindenwood University television program called Topics in Education, on various topics such as Student Teaching, School Security, and Cyber Bullying. An educator for 35 years, Dr. Weitzel is a member of the American Association of University Women, Phi Delta Kappa, Kappa Delta Pi, and NCTE. She is a published author, and has received several awards and nominations in her field.

Bob Wamhoff, president of Wamhoff Financial Planning & Accounting Services, currently manages $255 million in assets for over 800 active clients. In addition to his #1 ranking by Registered Rep Magazine, Bob was nominated as an “Outstanding Broker of the Year” for his successful business practices, leadership and community service. Recently, Bob was named the top producing representative for his broker, VSR Financial Services, for the 3rd consecutive year and selected as a finalist for the Community Leadership Award by InvestmentNews. Outside of his work, Bob runs a large charity in Honduras with his wife Diane, called Just Because We Care. Established in 2003, Just Because builds schools and houses and provides food and basic medical care to students and their families in a small Honduran village.



Sharon WestInnovative, Savvy, Generous

John WunderlichHonest, Brilliant, FunAs consultant for the St. Charles CPA firm Brown Smith Wallace, John Wunderlich serves as the lead consultant for the ‘CFO As You Grow’ program, which helps clients design performance measurement systems, and assists family-owned businesses with succession planning. John’s newest business venture is serving as one of the managing members of Assisted Living at The Meadowlands. John volunteers his time by serving on the national board of directors for Boys Hope Girls Hope, the foundation board of directors for SSM St. Joseph Health Center and St. Joseph Hospital West, and the board of trustees for St. Louis University High School. He is the past chairman of the board for the Crider Health Center and the St. Charles chapter of the Salvation Army.

When opening Westinn Kennels in 1999, Sharon West recognized that kennels must provide service to two species, humans and dogs, and devised policies and classes to fit the needs of both. Not limiting herself to the dog world, she has been an alderwoman for Dardenne Prairie since 2000. Sharon has been a savvy leader in the explosion of development both residential and commercial while maintaining a sound base of support. She helped create new lines of communication to keep information flowing between constituents and the city. In addition to educating children in dog bite prevention, Sharon takes her dogs to nursing homes to visit the elderly. She volunteers her time and facilities to the St. Charles County 4-H, and is a member of many prestigious associations.

3rd Bi-Annual

In St. Charles County 2009

Thank you to our sponsors


3rd Bi-Annual - St. Charles County Ambulance District

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Transcript of 3rd Bi-Annual - St. Charles County Ambulance District