Business Outlook

1

J

uly

2015

Business outlook

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

JUL2015

our members announceINSIDE

BUTTERFLY PROJECTYOUR OPPORTUNITY TO BEAUTIFY JOPLINPage 4

PRESIDENT’SMESSAGENot America? You Bet It Is p. 3

hot links 2015august 21

PRESENTED BY

Business Outlook

2

July 2015

2015-2016 Executive Committee

David Glenn CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Karen Plott CHAIRMAN ELECT OF THE BOARD

Randy Moore PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

James Richards TREASURER

Louise Secker VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICESKim Woodard CO-VICE CHAIRMAN MEMBERSHIP/COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICESClive Veri VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICESLori Scott Dreiling CO-VICE CHAIRMAN ECONOMIC/WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

Directors Ex-Officio Directors Gina Atteberry Sam Anselm Michael Beatty John Bartosh Brad Beecher Mike Gray Brandon Davis Lindsey Hayes Donovan Edwards Jason Cravens Jacqueline Hackett Dr. Alan Marble Holly Hukill Dr. Jennifer Methvin Charles Keeter Matt Proctor Kelli Perigo Marilyn Ruestman Gary Pulsipher Michael Seibert

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Staff ExecutiveRob O’Brian, CEcD PRESIDENTTonya Sprenkle VICE PRESIDENTLisa Kelly EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Member ServicesGinger LaMar, IOM DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES & DEVELOPMENTStephanie McGrew MEMBER EVENTS PRODUCER Martha Getz MEMBER EXPERIENCE COORDINATORCynthia Marlow MEMBER SUCCESS STRATEGIST

Communications & FinanceKirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Cindy Weiss FINANCE DIRECTORSamantha Doubledee FINANCE COORDINATOR

Economic & Workforce DevelopmentSteve Russell NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER DIRECTOR Kevin Welch DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS ATTRACTION Cary Beasley, IOM WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGERMark Turnbull DIRECTOR OF REGIONAL STRATEGIES

Administrative SupportLea Schroer NEWMAN INNOVATION CENTER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Melissa Winslow ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Board of Directors Sponsors

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

Chairman LevelAMI Radio GroupCommerce BankEaglePicher Technologies, LLCFreeman Health SystemGeneral MillsJoplin Floor DesignsJoplin Globe Publishing CompanyJoplin Regional Business JournalJoplin Supply CompanyKODE-TV/KSNF-TVLamar Outdoor Advertising Lancaster SignsMercy Hospital JoplinMissouri Southern State UniversitySouthwest Missouri BankUS Bank, N.A.

President LevelBKD, LLPCommunity Bank & Trust (CBT)Roper HondaShow Me The Ozarks Magazine

Director LevelArvest BankChoice MarketingConnell Insurance, Inc.Innovative ObjectsLakeland Office Systems, Inc.Motive MattersWeed Whackers, Inc.

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce 320 East 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801Phone: 417.624.4150Fax: 417.624.4303www.joplincc.com

/joplinchamber

/joplinchamber

Business Outlook

3

J

uly

2015

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

In 1776, 56 men signed a document publicly acknowledging they were committing treason against the most powerful nation in the world; a nation of which they were a part. In this Declaration of Independence, these citizens of Britain laid out a series of grievances against the government and declared their colonies would become independent. In doing so, this group of leading citizens pledged to each other their lives, fortunes and sacred honor.

We tend today to think of the 13 colonies being united in the cause and in the subsequent actions 12 years later to create our Constitution and create the United States of America. The reality was vastly different. Even the 13 colonies were vastly different. They had different economics, different cultures and different views of how much, if any, autonomy to give to a central government. They

would go to war just 85 years after the Declaration to settle the seething issues pulling our fledgling country apart.

When we look around the landscape today, there is a great deal of dissension and debate in our country. Many believe the federal government is out of control, while many want it to take more action. And in taking more action, many want Congress to be decisive on some things, but are happy when it is stalemated on others. We want our schools to be better, our roads to be fixed, our borders to be defended and our economy to be healthy. And then there is the debate on who pays for those and how. And, overall, many believe what we have today is “not America.” But maybe more specifically, it is not the America many of us grew up in. However, history shows our country has always been one of tension and dissension. Our Constitution allows for anyone and everyone to join the debate which, at times, has created turmoil. It has never been pretty or neat.

Having said that, it is my view that it is even more vital and more important that people take action to make our nation, state and community better. No one could be blamed for throwing up their hands right now and saying “Why bother?” Certainly it would have been easier for the Founding Fathers, for General Washington, for the thousands of foot soldiers and more, to give up. But, there are better things that can happen for all when people work together for a common goal.

Lofty view, indeed, but let me bring it down locally, because I believe we start by making a difference at home. Long before the tornado, there was discussion of a medical school in Joplin. It started with one person, Dr. Larry McIntire, who brought a few other people on board with the idea. The process has been through a lot, but today, seven years later, we stand at the brink of having a premier medical school in our community by 2017 (so only a decade in the making).

Since the tornado, the City of Joplin has worked diligently on how to use federal funds committed to help rebuild. Now remember, some of those funds were committed in fall 2011, however the larger funding opportunity came in 2012 and again in 2013. And there are lots of strings attached that, if not addressed, means the City or its sub-recipients of funds will have to pay the money back. And, contrary to general thinking, there is no pot of money in the City’s hands. It has to get projects approved, spend the money upfront and then get it from the Feds. But the City has now set the outlines for expenditures of nearly $100 million of those funds starting very soon. And by bringing people to the table and getting a lot of input on priorities (and not all unanimous), the City will spend the dollars in a manner to have a huge impact for our community.

You, as a Chamber member, but more importantly a community member, have a vested interested in this community’s success. The schools need to work. The city needs to work. The overall economic climate needs to work for your firm to thrive and for people to have jobs. Your participation is critical to helping the Chamber help the community, but your time, talent and treasure help your church or community organizations in which you believe.

Fifty-six people stepped out to eventually create a new nation and change the world. We should do as much to make our community a better place.

Rob O’Brian, President

Not America? You Bet It Is

Business Outlook

4

July 2015

It is now time for the Joplin Business Community to Spread Our Wings - Fly High and Proud. You can support this project by showing your colors in the form of a beautiful butterfly exhibited at your business, your home or other location in the Joplin area.

With all due respect and in honor of the fifth anniversary of the May 22, 2011 tornado victims, survivors and all those who helped us through those tough times, we can all be JOPLIN PROUD by purchasing, decorating and displaying these larger-than-life butterflies.

Net proceeds of this project will help support a disaster conference to be held in conjunction with the fifth anniversary events scheduled for May 2016. This conference is just one way we can “pay it forward” to help better prepare others for what disasters might be in their future.

Spread Our Wings - Fly High and Proud is a project of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation. We will take orders from now until October 31, 2015. All orders must be PRE-PAID before your order can be put into production. All butterflies are being produced by Forged Waterjet of Joplin. They offer some added customizations beyond those included in the order form; please indicate on the form if you choose to have them call to discuss those options with you.

Find the order form at www.joplincc.com or call Tonya at 417.624.4150 for more information.

Butterfly Project Offers Larger-than-life Sculptures for Your Business, Home

Presented by

Business Outlook

5

J

uly

2015

Message to the Network from Chairman Nicole Brown I have a confession to make: I think I might be addicted to my cell phone. In “Leaders Eat Last,” Simon Sinek shared, “It is said that if you wake up in the morning and the first thing you crave is a drink, you might be an alcoholic. If you wake up in the morning and the first thing you do is check your phone to read e-mail or scan through your social media before you even get out of bed, you might be an addict. Craving a hit of chemical feel good, we repeat the behaviors that we know can produce that hit. In the case of alcohol or gambling, we are aware of it. In the case of our love of our devices and social media, we are less aware of the addictive qualities.” Apparently, this obsession is not limited by age. As a society, we have become used to being alone while together. A loneliness epidemic has sprouted from our device addiction. While surrounded by colleagues, family or friends, we carry on completely separate virtual conversations and ignore those standing nearby. As for me, I am taking baby steps and challenge you to do the same. I am committing to cell phone-free meals and making an effort to actually talk to people on my phone instead of emailing or texting them when possible.

2015-2016 Executive CommitteeNicole Brown, Chairman

Brent Baker, Co-ChairmanLindsey Hayes, Past Chairman

Shawn DanielJake HeistenJennifer LittleRyan Melton

Stephanie OnstotGreg SuttonMegan Tyler

Christina Williams

YPN New MembersKaty Berryman, Cook Communications

Cherie Howerton, Turbine EngineConsultants, Inc.

Reese Rosenow, Roper HondaJennings Sirmon, McCallister Body Shop

Amanda Tinney, Con-way TruckloadKimberly Williams, Turbine

Engine Consultants, Inc.

JOIN YPN TODAY! For more information, go to www.joplinypn.com

or call Martha at 417.624.4150.

A couple of weeks ago, our JACC Annual Report was mailed to all of our member organizations. We hope you have had a chance to read it, and were pleased with the things we accomplished during the past fiscal year.

So much of what we are able to achieve and provide for our members is made possible because of the sponsorship support from the organizations that are recognized in our Annual Report on the page titled “5-Star Partnerships.” Before the beginning of each fiscal year, these Chamber member organizations make annual commitments to support JACC programs and events, beginning at a minimum of $5,000 annually. Their commitment of support is absolutely critical to our mission. We are very pleased that before the start of our current fiscal year, we received new 5-Star commitments from Connell Insurance and Innovative Objects.

Please take the time to read the 5-Star Partnerships page, and recognize these organizations that contribute so much financially to our Chamber and the success of our members. We could not do it without them!

5-Star Partnerships Help Your Chamber Fulfill Mission by Cynthia Marlow

Business Outlook

6

July 2015

Joplin Demize NPSL TeamLuis Percovich

3301 West 1st StreetNew Season Kick Off

Mercy Cancer CenterGary Pulsipher, President

100 Mercy WayGrand Opening

Innovative ObjectsRuss Grundy, CEO

2340 South Range Line RoadGrand Opening

Missouri American Water CompanyMatt Barnhart, Manager1118 West 21st Street

WaterFest

Joplin Area Habitat for HumanityScott Clayton, Executive Director

2515 South Picher AvenueNew Home Dedication

My Sister’s ClosetSusan Guthrie, Owner

1510 South Main Street20th Anniversary, New Ownership

Ribbon Cuttings

Business Outlook

7

J

uly

2015

Ribbon Cuttings Presented by

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

City of JoplinChris Cotten, Director of Parks and Recreation

Ewert Park, 836 Southeast Murphy Blvd.Grand Opening of Skate Park

PRO 100 Inc., RealtorAllen Hall, Office Manager

2401 East 32nd Street, Suite 135th Anniversary

DataGraphics Printing 1302 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64801 417.624.3744 www.datagraphicsprinting.com

2015 Small Business of the Year Winner:

1-10 Employee Category

DataGraphics Printing has been in business over 30 years. During that time, owner Curt Medlin and Operations Manager Chris Meeks have learned some tricks to keeping their small business thriving. “If the business isn’t managed well, a lot of people will be hurt, namely customers and employees,” Curt says. “Small businesses need to develop a plan and a brand. They need to know their numbers from a business standpoint.” Chris agrees. “Know what your numbers are telling you. Hope is a bad plan. It’s great to have, but a bad thing to do business by.” Curt is the third owner of DataGraphics and learned from experience that the owner of a small business needs to have a plan for generational ownership, which doesn’t always mean a family member is going to take over the business. “Have a plan in place that will get the upcoming family member or future owner on board so they know the challenges the business is facing.” “New business owners shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help,” Chris says. “They’re following someone else’s trail, and it’s okay to ask for help and mentorship. Admit what you’re not good at.” Chris stresses that small businesses need to remember who they are. “People know the real you, and you are your small business. Any service or product has to be an extension of you and your business.”

Mee

t O

ur

Sma

ll B

usi

nes

ses

Celebrate your milestones with a ribbon cutting!

Contact Stephanie McGrew at

417.624.4150 or by email at smcgrew@joplincc.com.

Our Members Announce by Looking to update your bathroom? Look no further than Joplin Supply Company’s Galleria. Their premium products and wide selection offer stylish solutions for every home. Make an appointment with their bath experts today by calling 417.624.2422 or view their products at www.thegalleriashowroom.com.

The latest Joplin Regional Artists Coalition exhibit at the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce runs through August 31. JRAC members in this rotating display are Koral Martin, photography; Janice Kinman, paintings; and Heather Grills, ceramics. Viewers may see the display during regular Chamber hours. For more information, call 417.592.1673.

Construction of a naturalistic park in the southeast corner of 26th Street and McClelland Boulevard should begin this fall. The proposed park will be located on land that was part of the former location of St. John’s Regional Medical Center and was donated to the City of Joplin by Mercy Hospital. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

The City of Joplin’s Independence Day Celebration will be held July 3 at the Joplin Athletic Complex, 3010 West 1st Street. This year’s event will focus on the fireworks show scheduled for 9:30 p.m. It will last approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Various sites at the complex will be open for viewing areas, including Wendell Redden Stadium, Gene Bassman Softball Complex and Schifferdecker Park. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

Bicycle Specialists is celebrating its 60th anniversary! They sell TREK, GIANT and RedLine bicycles and accessories and make repairs on all bikes. They also have a full-service disc golf and skateboard section. Stop by for their Precision Fit service to be properly fitted to your bicycle. They are located at 1202 South Range Line Road. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 10 am-6 pm, Saturday 10 am-4 pm, and Monday by appointment. For more information, go to www.bicyclespecialists.com or find them on Facebook or Twitter.

Tri-State Area Contractors Association is celebrating its 15-year anniversary! To celebrate this special event, everyone is invited to join them Monday, July 13, at 3 pm for a ribbon cutting, snacks and great conversation. For more information, call 417.627.9392.

Integrity Home Care & Hospice Corporate Director of Home Health Jessica Steenbergen was awarded the Administrative Staff and Support Staff Award at the Missouri Alliance for Home Care Annual Conference. This award recognizes an individual whose actions have significantly improved the operations of their agency. For more information, go to www.integrityhc.com.

Integrity Home Care & Hospice has expanded its therapy department to include a new physical and occupational therapist to serve the needs of their clients. Physical Therapist Barbara Taylor is a registered physical therapist with almost 50 years of

continuous experience in patient care. Occupational Therapist Cara Stone joined the Integrity Home Health team in 2014. Her background is primarily in home health and skilled nursing/rehabilitation facilities. For more information, go to www.integrityhc.com.

Carl Junction’s outdoor pool, Bulldog Beach, is open to the public and open for the summer. The Joplin Family Y manages Bulldog Beach and is offering swim lessons, birthday parties and everything you need to make it the best summer ever. For more information, call 417.649.0420.

Chris D. Churchwell, C.P.A., with Mense Churchwell & Mense, P.C., was the winner of the drawing for the Joplin Blasters t-shirt, held when the Blasters sponsored the table in the Chamber lobby. For more information, call 417.624.4150.

Freeman Health System donated five iPads to Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States to help families watch over their critically ill babies while away from the hospital. Families with children in Freeman Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will use the iPads to view live video of their babies via the AngelEye® camera system. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

The following Star Performer Products are available from Distinctive Home Products, your complete building and remodeling solution at 2211 East 7th Street. Marvin’s Ultimate Multi-Slide Door is designed with narrow stiles and rails for maximum daylight openings and views, and is as smooth to operate as it is dramatic. Available in large sizes with standard widths up to 50’ wide and 12’ tall, this door comes in a variety of configurations ncluding pocket and stacked. http://goo.gl/sDkNcD Elevate your kitchen workspace to a new level of efficiency with the Kohler Prolific stainless steel kitchen sink that features beveled tiers and five accessories that let you create a customized, multi-use workspace. http://goo.gl/1XlU6d

Higdon Florist is celebrating summer with artistic and elegant floral designs for all occasions! Flower of the month for July is the alstromemeria, a Peruvian lily. These awesome blossoms have exotic beauty and long vase life, and come in many different colors. When you want to send the best, call Higdon Florist and they will do the rest. Check out www.higdonflorist.com and their Facebook page, visit the shop at 201 East 32nd Street or call them at 417.624.7171.

Kerstin Landwer joined the staff of Spiva Center for the Arts as assistant director, effective June 1. Landwer comes to Spiva from Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center, where she served as development and volunteer associate. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

Spiva Center for the Arts is seeking artists to create gallery-worthy art that can be worn. Artists can create clothing, hats, masks, over-the-top accessories or full ensembles for an exhibit.

Business Outlook

8

July 2015

The Chamber is interested in your business. If you won an award, opened another office or are planning an event, let us know. We want to share your accomplishments and events with your fellow members! For our next issue, submit your announcement to wendy@joplincc.com by July 10. Please include “Our Members Announce” in the email subject line. Find all our members in our online Membership Directory.

Entries may be submitted during regular gallery hours from August 30 through 5 p.m. September 6. There is no entry fee. Entry forms with complete information are available at Spiva or may be obtained by emailing spiva@spivaarts.org.

Missouri Southern State University is now allowing all kids ages 12 and under free admission to all athletics events. And Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce members can receive an exclusive 15 percent discount on all football non-Lionbacker season tickets. Football season tickets are regularly priced at $60. For more information on tickets or Lionbacker memberships, call 417.625.9820 or visit www.mssulions.com.

Joplin Little Theatre held its 32nd annual Encore Awards Night June 6, which was also a celebration of the now-completed 75th anniversary season. “Bertha, the Beautiful Typewriter Girl” won Best Play, “JLT in Concert” won Best Musical and Bill Perry was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award. For the full list of winners, go to http://joplinlittletheatre.org/.

Having a get together? Need great food for a crowd but don’t need it catered? The Butcher’s Block Event Center & Catering has added an order page to their website for pickup and delivery items with 24 hour notice: brisket, ribs, chicken, sandwiches, sides and more! Go to www.butchersblockeventcenter.com or call 417.624.1000 for more information.

FOX 14’s Mike Olmstead was recognized as Best News Anchor by the Missouri Broadcasters Association at its annual convention at the Tan-Tar-A Resort at Lake of the Ozarks. Olmstead is the executive producer/anchor of FOX 14 News at 9. For more information, call 417.782.1414.

Pittcraft Printing welcomes back Susan Mathes to their team. After a short hiatus with Joplin Schools, she has returned to add to her 18 years of service with Pittcraft and is excited to serve the Joplin market again. Contact Susan at susan@pittcraft.com or 800.557.7471, ext. 25.

Join Ronald McDonald House of the Four States as they celebrate 17 years of keeping families together. You are invited to the Joplin Blasters game against the Lemurs July 29 when they host a Ronald McDonald House Charity Night. Ticket holders will receive a Blasters team photo, which can be used for autographs at the meet-and-greet following the game. Attendees can also participate in a silent auction and a special appearance by Ronald McDonald. Tickets are $5/general admission, $8/outfield reserved seats, $10/upper reserved and dugout seating, and $12/box seats. Tickets can be purchased by voucher at the Ronald McDonald House or at the Blasters field on game day (mention Ronald McDonald House when buying tickets). Call 417.624.2273 for ticket information.

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States announces the 17th annual golf tournament “Fore our House” at Twin Hills Golf and Country Club August 13. This tournament is a flighted, 4-person scramble with mulligans, favors, carts, dinner, awards, door prizes and much more. Help families heal together by participating on a team or sponsoring the event. Visit rmhjoplin.

org/annual-fund-raisers/ for a registration and sponsorship form.

Community organizations are partnering to provide toys and resources during the Christmas in July event for Children’s Haven, an organization that assists children in crisis situations. Partnering organizations include Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity, The Independent Living Center, Joplin Blasters, and College Heights Christian Church. Donations accepted at Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity, College Heights Christian Church or The Independent Living Center. New puzzles, games, DVD movies, art materials, toys, pajamas, backpacks, drawstring packs and socks are appreciated. Please do not wrap items. To find out more about Children’s Haven’s services or to learn how you can make a difference, call 417.782.4453 or email childrenshaven@att.net.

Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity is offering 25 percent off items in the ReStore to people who bring a $10-$20 unwrapped gift for the Christmas in July event benefiting Children’s Haven (see above). For more information, call 417.782.6533.

Ozark Christian College recently made improvements to its soccer field, complete with newly graded field, new sod and a scoreboard. The first game on home field will be September 4 at 3 pm against Southwestern College. For more information, go to www.occ.edu.

Cardinal Scale Manufacturing Company recently announced the election of Matthew R. Stovern as president. Stovern began his career at Cardinal Scale in 1998, working in the Customer Service Department and ascended to various production management positions and plant manager. He has served as vice president of operations since 2011. For more information, go to www.cardet.com.

Candy House Gourmet Chocolates is offering summer candy classes for kids ages 4 and up in the downtown Joplin location, 510 South Kentucky Avenue. Olaf’s Beach Party is July 14-18, Candy Monster Party is July 21-25, Superhero Party is July 27-29 and Pirate/Pretty Pirate Party is August 4-8. Cost: $15/child. For more information, go to www.candyhouse.net or call 417.623.7171.

The Color Dash 5k is coming to Joplin’s Landreth Park September 12 to benefit the Animal Adoption & Resource Center. The fun run/walk is for all ages and abilities. Fifty percent of the proceeds will benefit the Animal Adoption & Resource Center. For more information, go to www.cd5k.com.

The Fireplace Shoppe is hosting an open house July 3 from 11 am-6 pm to showcase their new outdoor kitchen designs and their backyard grilling products. Stop by 2120 East 7th Street to help them celebrate! For more information, call 417.782.2235.

Business Outlook

9

J

uly

2015

Business Outlook

10

July 2015

Farmers Insurance - Donnie Greenlee Agency Insurance 4318 South Main Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.553.0153 www.farmersagent.com/dgreenlee Donnie Greenlee, Owner/Agent Sponsors: Donnie Greenlee, Farmers Insurance; Ginger LaMar, JACC

Artisun Solar Solar Energy 520 West 103rd Street, Suite 161 Kansas City, MO 64114 816.265.1786 www.artisunsolar.com Kirk Kreisel, CEO Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow, JACC

Hire Advantage Employment Agency 2024 South Maiden Lane, Suite 102 Joplin, MO 64804 417.553.0700 www.hireadvantage.com Monica Burlingame, Employment Recruiter Sponsor: Gayle Sawyer, Employer Advantage Starting Point Outpatient LLC Substance Abuse Programs 740 South Illinois Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.0043 Kelly Young, Owner Sponsor: Donald Heaney, Great Southern Bank The Chamber’s Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome our newest Chamber members. Please keep these and all members in mind when looking for goods and services.

Invite your clients or vendors to join the Chamber. Contact Cynthia Marlow at 417.624.4150 or cynthia@joplincc.com.

Welcome New MembersCalendar of Events for July 2015

July 1 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

July 3 Independence Day Holiday Office Closed

July 7 9 am Leads Group One Southwest Missouri Bank—McClelland Blvd.

July 8 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

July 10 7:30 am Second Friday Coffee The Independent Living Center

July 13 12 pm Business EXPO Committee Meeting Chamber Office

July 15 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

July 21 9 am Leads Group One Chamber Office

July 22 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

July 23 5:30 pm Business After Hours Briarbrook Golf Course

July 28 2 pm Launch Pad Member Orientation Chamber Office

Business Outlook

11

J

uly

2015

Elite CommercialAudio/Video Sales & Service

Toll Free: 800-621-5256Local: 417-869-0770

a a i u s . c o mp r o a u d i o s u p e r s t o r e . c o m

2120 S. Roosevelt Suite 3Joplin, MO 64804

Audio / Video SystemsPro Audio Equipment

Camera SystemsHealthcare Communications

Teeter Insurance Agency Since 1979

Missouri, Oklahoma and Kansas

"REST ASSURED WHEN YOU INSURE WITH TIA, YOU GET PLENTY OF TLC"

www.lindateeter.com

1321 S. Illinois Avenue, Joplin, MO 64801 wk. (417) 781 4820 • fax: (417) 781 7187

Linda S. Teeter, LUTCF

Business Outlook

12

July 2015

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING

Acme Brick Company ................................................. 1988

Ad Systems, Inc. ............................................................ 1983

ADC Dental Group ........................................................ 1981

Ray Alburty Company ................................................. 1973

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

Allgeier, Martin and Associates, Inc. ...................... 1955

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

AMI Radio Group .......................................................... 2001

Andy’s Frozen Custard ................................................ 2012

Annie’s Baking, LLC ...................................................... 1952

Area Agency on Aging ................................................ 1990

Audio Acoustics, Inc. ................................................... 1986

Autotronics, Inc. ............................................................ 1967

Baker Davis Roderique, CPAs, PC ........................... 1955

Beimdiek Insurance Agency, Inc. ............................ 1988

Bicycle Specialists, LLC ............................................... 2009

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks ................... 1997

BKD, LLP ........................................................................... 1962

Blanchard, Robertson, Mitchell and Carter, PC .. 1974

Boy Scouts of America, Ozark Trails Council ...... 1994

Braum’s ............................................................................ 1989

Briteway Building Maintenance .............................. 1993

ABC of Joplin, Inc. ........................................................ 1992

Able Manufacturing and Assembly, LLC ............... 1986

Apollo Industries, LLC ................................................. 2007

Area Hearing and Speech Clinic.............................. 2013

Atlas Safe Rooms........................................................... 2012

Beverly’s Traffic Control and Safety, Inc. .............. 2011

Central Caisson ............................................................. 2014

Children’s Haven of Southwest Missouri, Inc. .... 2005

City Pointe Beauty Academy .................................... 2009

Commerce Bank ........................................................... 1957

Craig Williams Creative, Inc. - CommunityLink . 1998

Contractors Portables, Inc. ........................................ 2014

Coventry An Aetna Company .................................. 2014

Crossroads Warehouse ............................................... 2014

Dolence Law Office, LLC ............................................ 2014

Downstream Casino Resort ...................................... 2007

Embassy Embroidery, LLC ......................................... 2005

First Home Mortgage .................................................. 2002

First United Methodist Church ................................. 1960

Frank Fletcher Mercedes ............................................ 2014

Foxberry Terrace Assisted Living and

The Cottages .................................................................. 2013

Dr. James R. Goff, O.D. ................................................ 2014

HealthCare Solutions Group, Inc. ........................... 2010

Hogan Agency - Farmers Insurance ..................... 2014

Homewood Suites by Hilton-Joplin ...................... 2012

Housing Authority of Joplin ..................................... 1991

HVW Specialists ............................................................. 2014

Indian Creek Surveying, LLC ..................................... 2014

Jenny Craig Weight Managemet ............................. 2014

The Joplin Demize NPL Team .................................. 2014

Joplin Globe Publishing Company......................... 1946

THANK YOU FOR RENEWINGJoplin Memorial Run ................................................... 2014

Joplin Metro Credit Union ......................................... 1991

Joplin Regional Medical School Alliance ............. 2014

Lee Inspection and Consulting Services, Inc. ..... 2014

LPL Financial .................................................................. 2014

Thomas McGee, L.C. .................................................... 2014

Mense, Churchwell and Mense, P.C........................ 1980

Mid America RV ............................................................. 2014

Mortgage House ........................................................... 2014

Odell Trucking, LLC ...................................................... 2014

Oxford HealthCare ....................................................... 1978

Pediatric Associates of Southwest Missouri ........ 2012

People’s Bank of Seneca ............................................. 1996

PILR Technology Services .......................................... 2005

Professional Exteriors .................................................. 2014

Reeves Tire and Automotive ..................................... 1984

RKS Development, LLC ............................................... 2014

RWI Benefits ................................................................... 2011

S & S Computers ............................................................ 2011

Scott Electronic Systems, Inc. .................................. 1996

Sleep Number Store ..................................................... 2012

Specialty Risk Insurance ............................................. 2014

St. Mary’s Catholic Church ........................................ 2014

Stronghold Data ............................................................ 2007

Sweet Caroline’s Cream and Coffee ....................... 2014

TalentForce ..................................................................... 2014

Tri-State Engineering, Inc. ......................................... 1991

UniFirst Corporation .................................................... 2004

US Kustoms Collision Center .................................... 2014

Visiting Angels ............................................................... 2014

Willis and Associates ................................................... 2014

STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY: A REPORT FROM YOUR CHAMBER

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

Business Outlook

13

J

uly

2015

Acme Brick Company ................................................. 1988

Ad Systems, Inc. ............................................................ 1983

ADC Dental Group ........................................................ 1981

Ray Alburty Company ................................................. 1973

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

Allgeier, Martin and Associates, Inc. ...................... 1955

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

AMI Radio Group .......................................................... 2001

Andy’s Frozen Custard ................................................ 2012

Annie’s Baking, LLC ...................................................... 1952

Area Agency on Aging ................................................ 1990

Audio Acoustics, Inc. ................................................... 1986

Autotronics, Inc. ............................................................ 1967

Baker Davis Roderique, CPAs, PC ........................... 1955

Beimdiek Insurance Agency, Inc. ............................ 1988

Bicycle Specialists, LLC ............................................... 2009

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks ................... 1997

BKD, LLP ........................................................................... 1962

Blanchard, Robertson, Mitchell and Carter, PC .. 1974

Boy Scouts of America, Ozark Trails Council ...... 1994

Braum’s ............................................................................ 1989

Briteway Building Maintenance .............................. 1993

Joplin Memorial Run ................................................... 2014

Joplin Metro Credit Union ......................................... 1991

Joplin Regional Medical School Alliance ............. 2014

Lee Inspection and Consulting Services, Inc. ..... 2014

LPL Financial .................................................................. 2014

Thomas McGee, L.C. .................................................... 2014

Mense, Churchwell and Mense, P.C........................ 1980

Mid America RV ............................................................. 2014

Mortgage House ........................................................... 2014

Odell Trucking, LLC ...................................................... 2014

Oxford HealthCare ....................................................... 1978

Pediatric Associates of Southwest Missouri ........ 2012

People’s Bank of Seneca ............................................. 1996

PILR Technology Services .......................................... 2005

Professional Exteriors .................................................. 2014

Reeves Tire and Automotive ..................................... 1984

RKS Development, LLC ............................................... 2014

RWI Benefits ................................................................... 2011

S & S Computers ............................................................ 2011

Scott Electronic Systems, Inc. .................................. 1996

Sleep Number Store ..................................................... 2012

Specialty Risk Insurance ............................................. 2014

St. Mary’s Catholic Church ........................................ 2014

Stronghold Data ............................................................ 2007

Sweet Caroline’s Cream and Coffee ....................... 2014

TalentForce ..................................................................... 2014

Tri-State Engineering, Inc. ......................................... 1991

UniFirst Corporation .................................................... 2004

US Kustoms Collision Center .................................... 2014

Visiting Angels ............................................................... 2014

Willis and Associates ................................................... 2014

Hot Links2015

Presenting Sponsors

Gold Sponsor

Friday, August

21

$350 per team

Shotgun Starts at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club

You could win a NEW CAR from Roper Honda by sinking a hole-in-one like Gary Greene of Pro 100 last year!

Your entry fee includes:• Four person scramble• Green fees• Golf cart• Breakfast from Panera• Networking lunch from

by Rib Crib• Special on-course

contests• 1st through 3rd places

awarded in two flights per shotgun start

• Hole-in-One prize from Roper Honda

Gold Sponsor

Presenting Sponsors

Team Members

Player 1 - Team Captain

Player 2

Player 3

Player 4

Please check your preferred start time 8 a.m. 2 p.m.

Payment Methods

Payment enclosedCharge my credit cardInvoice my business

Card Number

Business Name (if invoicing)Signature

Expiration Date and CVN#

Email, fax or mail your registration to Stephanie McGrew: Stephanie@joplincc.com, 417.624.4303 (F) 320 East 4th Street, Joplin, MO 64801

OR REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.JOPLINCC.COM

Business Outlook

14

July 2015

Matt Alcorn Edward Jones Investments

Kyle Allen Southwest Missouri Bank

Michael Brown Arvest

Robert Carlson Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School

Casey Chastain Connell Insurance, Inc.

Randon Coffey Missouri Southern State University

Shawn Daniel Commerce Bank

Sandra DeWitt Mid-Missouri Bank

Shawn Dodson Joplin Police Department

Nathan Doss Community Bank & Trust

Alicia Edens Great Southern Bank

Brad Ezell Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking

Trenton Gorman Community Bank & Trust

Maggie Hagins Mercy Clinic

Mitch Horner Studio One Fitness

Tami Houston Hershewe Law Firm, PC

Whitney Jacobs Modine Manufacturing Company

Presented by

Brian Kelly City of Joplin

Kimberly Kory Mercy Hospital Joplin

Drew Landoll Empire District Electric Company

Heather Lesmeister Freeman Health System/CMN

Trista McDaniel BKD, LLP

Sarah McMullen Boys & Girls Club of SWMO

Julie Munn Joplin Schools - Kelsey Norman Elementary

Tim Murphy Mercy Hospital Joplin

Pat Nagel Choice Marketing

Stephanie Onstot The Alliance of Southwest Missouri

Sean Parks U S Bank, N.A.

Jason Pierce Monitor Technology

Eric Pitcher Joplin Schools

Congratulations to the 2015 Graduating Class of Leadership Joplin

Brent Powers The Joplin Globe Publishing Company

Cari Ray Southwest Missouri Bank

Susan Rhoads-Mickels H.O.U.S.E., Inc.

Jeff Ruch Mercy Clinic

Erin Slifka Joplin Convention & Visitors Bureau

Michele Smith Mercy Hospital Joplin

Valine Springer Hershewe Law Firm, PC

Christen Stark Freeman Health System

Alison Stone Mercy Hospital Joplin

Amy Storms Ozark Christian College

Tiffany Stout Ozark Center

Cindy Sundy CableONE Business

Jonathan Wallner Freeman Health System

Mike Wardlow Mercy Hospital Joplin (Class Speaker)

Julie Wengert Missouri Southern State University

Dominic Willis Realty Executives Tri-State

Hunter Wool American Ramp Company

Business Outlook

15

J

uly

2015Leadership Joplin 2015 Fun

Business Outlook

16

July 2015

Bill Gates once said, “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.” In every business, there will be times when things go wrong and your customers complain. How can you successfully deal with customer complaints? Following are a few suggestions. Listen carefully to your customers. Many customers have valid complaints. Some customers just want you to listen to them. They want you and your employees to know they were not satisfied with the level of service at your company or the quality of the products. Show sincere interest in what your customers have to say. They may be doing you a favor. Something may be wrong in your company that needs to be quickly resolved before you have to face a great amount of unsatisfied customers. Determine what the customer wants. Perhaps they are asking for a refund, credit, discount or replacement. Most customers are complaining because they have a problem they want resolved as quickly as possible. Find out what their problem is so you can work toward finding a solution that will be good for the customer and your company. Consider the customer’s point of view. Put yourself in the customer’s situation and try to understand why they are angry or dissatisfied. What if you were the customer and had this same negative experience? How would you feel about the situation? This may help you remain polite and calm as the customer relays his or her frustration. Get all the facts. Make certain you are making a decision to resolve the customer complaint with all the accurate details of the situation. Details might include if the product is still under warranty, which employee actually completed the service work, etc. Be honest with the customer. Don’t make promises you won’t be able to fulfill. Don’t be personally offended by complaints. Most complaints are about policies in the company,

Dealing with Customer Complaints By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship, MSSU

lack of on-time delivery, receiving the wrong product, etc. Complaints are usually not about you personally. Remember, it’s not about you, it’s about the customer. Take responsibility. Many customers have valid complaints. Don’t start assigning blame and making excuses to customers. No matter who or what caused the problem, never blame or make excuses. This will make you appear insensitive to the customer. Instead, take full responsibility and have the initiative to do whatever you can to solve the problem as quickly as possible. Be prepared to apologize for the problem. Resolve the problem. You may have to make phone calls, send emails or contact manufacturers to get the situation resolved. If it is a situation where you have to order replacement products or parts, make certain to keep in touch with the customer to update them on the progress of the complaint resolution. Make certain to give the customer a realistic time when the

situation should be resolved. Resolve the problem to the best of your ability, as soon as possible. Offer an alternative if needed. If you can’t correct the problem, then offer an alternative such as a discount or substitute product or service. This way the customer will hopefully remember that

you worked to resolve his or her problem and will be satisfied with your company. Follow up with the customer. You want to keep them as a customer, so send them a coupon or some other method of encouragement to do business with your company in the future. You want your customer to tell all their friends or relatives about your good customer service level and about your great products and services. You want your company to improve. According to Zig Ziglar, “Statistics suggest that when customers complain, business owners and managers ought to get excited about it. The complaining customer represents a huge opportunity for more business.”

Business Outlook

17

J

uly

2015

Small Business & Technology Development CenterMissouri Southern State University

The Robert W. Plaster School of Business3950 Newman Road, Joplin, MO 64801-1512 Phone: 417.625.3128 Fax: 417.625.9782

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS July 9 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 p.m. Location: Plaster Hall, Room 108, MSSU Cost: $29

MICROSOFT EXCEL LEVEL 3 July 21 (Tuesday), 1:30-4:30 p.m. and July 23 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 p.m. Location: Plaster Hall, Room 320, MSSU Cost: $119

HOLIDAY SUCCESS PLANNING July 29 (Wednesday), 7:30-9 a.m. Location: Plaster Hall, Cornell Auditorium, MSSU Cost: $20

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

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

Business Outlook

18

July 2015 First (Second) Friday Coffee

Friday, July 10 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by and located at The Independent Living Center

2639 East 34th Street

RSVP by July 8 at www.joplincc.com or

417.624.1996.

Business After Hours

Presenting Sponsor

Thursday, July 23 5:30-7 p.m.

Sponsored by Joplin Supply Company

Located at Briarbrook Golf Course 502 Briarbrook Drive, Carl Junction

RSVP by July 17 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

THANK YOU!

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

Save the Date!

Hot Links Annual Golf Tournament

August 21

Good Morning Joplin

September 17

Launch Pad September 30

Presented by

Partner: Carl Junction Area Chamber of Commerce