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

MAY2016

our members announceINSIDE

PRESIDENT’SMESSAGECelebrating Success p. 3

joplin regional partnership update

PRESENTED BYPages 23-26

99th Annual banquet winnersPages 14-15

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2016-2017 Executive Committee

Karen Plott CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Clive Veri CHAIRMAN ELECT OF THE BOARD

David Glenn PAST CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

James Richards TREASURER

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

Directors Ex-Officio Directors Gina Atteberry Sam Anselm Michael Beatty John Bartosh Brandon Davis Dr. Nicole Brown Donovan Edwards Mike Gray Jacqueline Hackett Dr. Alan Marble Rodney Haynes Dr. Jennifer Methvin Holly Hukill Matt Proctor John Karry Dr. Norm Ridder Randy Moore Marilyn Ruestman Kelli Perigo 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

Communications Kirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATORMartha Getz YPN/COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

FinanceSamantha Doubledee FINANCE DIRECTORMelany Frederick FINANCE COORDINATOR INTERN

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 5-Star Partnership Level Sponsors

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

Chairman LevelCommerce 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 UniversityResults Radio, AMI Radio GroupSNC SquaredSouthwest Missouri BankUS Bank, N.A.

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

Director LevelChoice MarketingConnell Insurance, Inc.Joplin ProPrint Lakeland Office Systems, Inc.Motive MattersStorm Stanley Weed Whackers, Inc.

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

/joplinchamber

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Your Chamber celebrated 99 years during its recent annual banquet. It’s a great event, not because it’s an acknowledgement of the many successes the Chamber had this past year, as in every year, but because it’s an opportunity to recognize people who have a deep passion for their craft and for others in this community.

During 2015, the Joplin economy grew stronger, reaching record levels of employment. But even in good times, small businesses have to take serious stock of how they operate and what they can do to thrive. This year’s Small Business of the Year winners are notable because of their passion for what they do to serve their customers. Toner Connection, LLC (winner in the 1-10 employee category) may seem like a pretty basic company, but it provides excellent customer service for its clients from small firms like it to major area corporations. The winner in the 10-plus employee category, Stronghold Data, protects the computer systems and data of its customers, in real time, from natural and man-made disasters. Along with the Chamber, the State of Missouri Small Business and Technology Development Centers also recognized Stronghold as a rising

star among small businesses. In the not-for-profit sector, Watered Gardens Gospel Rescue Mission is well recognized for its immediate and continuing efforts to help provide support for individuals and families at the brink of becoming homeless as well as assisting those who are homeless. Watered Gardens works diligently to help people get back on their feet and into society.

Our Industries of the Year are great representatives of the fact that, large or small, our companies often are about family. Our Large Industry of the Year, Turbo Supply, began with a father and two brothers who started a shop to rebuild turbo chargers for diesel engines. The company grew from a small shop into a larger facility on Interstate 44 near the Oklahoma line. Two years ago, the Chamber worked with the company to move it into the Crossroads Business Park, specifically into the 50,000-square-foot building being vacated by Joplin Schools. Turbo Supply expanded the building to 100,000 square feet, and in the last year grew employment from around 85 to nearly 130. Brothers Kyle and Cory Theissen see substantial growth for the company, particularly since turbochargers are increasingly used in gasoline engines for power and fuel efficiency (like the Ford Eco-boost engines).

Our Small Industry of the Year, Forged Waterjet, was started just a couple of years ago by Josh and Megan Long. The couple started the company to provide water jet cut parts to area manufacturers and machine shops, but found the technology opened the doors to also making products for individuals. Water jet cutting allows the company to make unique, one-of-a-kind items for people. In addition, the system can be used to recreate parts that are no longer made but still needed. Forged has been heavily engaged in the community on a variety of projects, most recently producing the large-scale butterflies for the Joplin Proud tornado commemoration.

And then there are the Golden Apple winners: K-2nd grade – Joanne Lown, Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School; 3rd-5th grade – Caryn Deckard, Stapleton Elementary; 6th-8th grade – Zina Lewis, Thomas Jefferson; and 9th-12th grade – Kaara Schrader, McAuley High School. All of these teachers personify the commitment to quality education and dedication to student success in all of our area schools, public and private.

Kudos, too, to Linda Jarvis Teeter, the winner of this year’s Arty Award. While business and education play major roles in the success of a community, the arts add to a community’s soul. Linda’s enthusiasm for all things art has had a profound impact on the community in a number of organizations.

The Chamber’s Young Professional of the Year is Ryan Melton of Freeman Health System. Ryan’s dedication to the YPN’s community service efforts, including serving on the medical school fundraising committee, made him an easy choice for his peers. The YPN Service Award went to Shawn Daniel of Commerce Bank. And the YPN’s Rookie of the Year award went to Cameron Mabe of Pearson-Kelly Office Products.

Finally, a warm congratulations to Jim Fleischaker, the Chamber’s Outstanding Citizen. Jim is one of those quiet types who just “goes about the business” of serving his community. But the list of his accomplishments and where he has played a significant role in community leadership is awe-inspiring. Jim has been involved in leadership roles in health care, with Missouri Southern State University, with numerous social service organizations and in his synagogue. Several years ago Jim was also chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, and continues to serve on the public policy committee.

These companies and individuals remind us that great, positive things happen every day. The companies and organizations are committed to their employees and the community. The individuals give of their time, talent and treasure to lend a helping hand, to raise others up and to make this a better place. And all of them are an inspiration for all of us. We celebrate their success because they, in turn, bring success to our community.

Rob O’Brian, President

Celebrating Success

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Coming soon: Smaller, less expensive butterflies perfect for residential gardens or home decor. Watch for more details on the Monday and Mid-week Memos, and on the JACC website!

Presented by

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Message to the Network from Chairman Brent Baker Bigger. Better. Best. Have you heard the story about the monkeys and the bananas? I have heard the story twice, told with two different life applications. For me, it applies to every area of my life, and I think the same is true for all of us. Here’s the story: Scientists conducted a study in which five monkeys were enclosed in a cage. In the middle of the cage was a ladder with a bundle of bananas at the top. The first monkey tried to climb up the ladder to get the bananas, but as he reached to grab them, he was sprayed with cold water. The second monkey tried the same task but was also sprayed with cold water. Eventually, all the monkeys tried to climb to the bananas and had the same result. Soon, every time a monkey would start up the ladder, the others would pull it down. The scientists then replaced one of the original monkeys with a new monkey. The first thing the new monkey did was to try to reach the bananas.When the new monkey tried, the original monkeys worked together to pull him down to prevent him from being sprayed with water. The new monkey kept trying and trying, but the others kept pulling him down. Eventually, the new monkey just gave up. The scientists replaced the second monkey, and the same thing happened. A third monkey was replaced, and the cycle was repeated. The fourth monkey was replaced, resulting in the same, before the fifth was replaced as well. What was left was a group of five monkeys that, without ever being sprayed with water, continued to prevent any monkey from climbing the ladder.

2016-2017 Executive CommitteeBrent Baker, Chairman

Ryan Melton, Co-ChairmanDr. Nicole Brown, Past Chairman

Shawn DanielJennifer Little

Stephanie OnstotDustin ParkerGreg SuttonMegan Tyler

Whitney WarrenChristina Williams

YPN New MembersDale Clark, Jr.

The InsurancenterAngela Cossou

Owens Corning Mineral Wool LLCAnnetta Jamison

American Family Insurance - Pam GreningerCaelin Middleman

Owens Corning Mineral Wool LLCTiffany StoutOzark Center

This is what happens in any culture when we limit our beliefs and allow negativity or fear to creep into our lives. Have we let thoughts and actions of others limit our dreams or goals? As the community is about to celebrate an amazing recovery and many recent successes (can you name them?), it is easy to see how we have climbed the ladder. I am hoping the Joplin Proud celebration is just the springboard to bigger thinking, better opportunities and to making this the best region to live. We have begun our YPN visioning work and will be seeking input from many of our community leaders from all areas to help continue to climb the ladder. Will you help us continue the work of making the region we love the best it can be?

Friday, May 6 | www.joplincc.com for more information

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Joplin GardensKathy Rogers, Administrator2810 South Jackson Avenue

Grand Opening, New Membership

Kum & Go #454Dan Dripps, General Manager3434 South Range Line Road

New Location, New Membership

Ribbon Presented by

My Destiny Home CareGerard Mondestin, CEO

2405 East 7th StreetNew Location

Joplin WorkshopsSusan Adams, General Manager

501 School Avenue50-Year Anniversary

Largest Sweet Treats Reception Comes to Jefferson City The Class of 2016 Leadership Joplin held a huge Sweet Treats reception April 6 in Jefferson City. The reception is a way to say thank you to the legislators and their staff, and a way to show off Joplin and its businesses. The reception featured over 3,300 sweet treats from Joplin businesses. Afterward, the class toured the Capitol by day and by night, thanks to Rep. Charlie Davis and Rep. Mike Kelley. The trip wasn't complete without visits to the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson City Correctional Center, State Emergency Management Agency and Christopher S. Bond U.S. Courthouse.

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RNR Tire Express Steven Bynum, General Manager

2301 North Range Line Road New Membership, New Business

Ribbon Cuttings, Presented by

Ribbon provided by Countryside in the City

True Style Homes by Fox Creek Construction Group, LLC

Matt Harris, CEO; 2610 Joplin AvenueConstruction of Two New Homes

Joplin ProPrintCurt Medlin, Owner

1302 South Main StreetRebranding of DataGraphics and Fast Copy Printing

Lowry Hearing Aid CentersBrody Rink, Manager

2640 East 32nd Street, Suite 11New Membership, New to Joplin

Silver Creek Assisted LivingChristina Milar, Administrator

3325 Texas Avenue20-Year Anniversary

Carpet OnePaul Johnson, Owner

120 North Range Line RoadNew Location, New Ownership

Our Members Announce presented by Emma Frogge has joined United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas as the director of Success by 6. For more information, go to www.unitedwaymokan.org.

Arvest Bank in Southwest Missouri has teamed up with Joplin, Neosho, Carl Junction and Carthage Bright Futures, Monett Schools, Webb City Cares, Lockwood Tiger Power Pack and Nevada Community Outreach for the 1 Million Meals initiative, a two-month, bank-wide effort to provide one million meals or more to those in need. Call 866.952.9523 to contribute.

Debbie Anderson is the new branch sales manager at Arvest Bank at 402 South Range Line. Debbie has over 30 years of banking experience. For more information, go to www.arvest.com.

The board of directors of George A. Spiva Center for the Arts has hired Josie Mai as the executive director. Mai most recently held the position of Associate Professor of Art and Art Education at Pittsburg State University, teaching K-12 art education and museum education, as well as curating and developing programming and interpretive materials for the PSU Museum of Art’s Art Connectors Community Gallery. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts is issuing an invitation to area filmmakers to participate in the seventh annual FilmSpiva 48-Hour Film Competition. The competition challenges filmmakers to create a three-minute short film within a two-day period. Contestants must meet May 5 at 6 pm at Spiva Center for the Arts to receive this year’s criteria. Those who cannot attend may check Spiva’s Facebook page after 8 pm that day to get the criteria. The completed digital films must be returned to Spiva by 6 pm May 7. Entry fee is $10. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

Freeman Health System was recently presented with the Community Innovation Award from the American Heart Association. This award is given to a workplace that leads the development and implementation of innovative, effective programs that promote physical activity or nutrition in the workplace and the community. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

Freeman Health System was named one of the “Best 50” by Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX®). Founded in 2000, GHX uses cloud-based supply chain management technology and services to reduce costs, remove waste and drive efficiency for better patient care. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

Zac Dickey recently joined Joplin’s oldest insurance agency, The Insurancenter. He has more than three years of sales

experience, two of which were served as a general agent in the Pittsburg marketplace. For more information, call 1.800.444.8675, ext. 5329.

The Carthage Chamber of Commerce now has vendor applications available for the 2016 Maple Leaf Festival. If you are interested in setting up an art/craft, food or non-profit booth Saturday, October 15, go to www.CarthageMapleLeaf.com.

Forbes recently ranked Mercy a Top American Employer. Mercy ranks 108th this year, up from 122nd in 2015, and is among 25 health care companies on the 2016 list. For more information, go to www.mercy.net.

Walls are taking shape for the new Joplin Public Library at 1902 East 20th Street thanks to R.E. Smith Construction Company. This marks the third Joplin library the Smith family has helped build, beginning with the construction of the Joplin Carnegie Library over 100 years ago and the current Joplin Public Library. Residents can watch the progress on the new library through a live video feed on R.E. Smith’s Facebook page and website. For more information, call 408.766.GURU.

The Regional Hall of Fame Awards Dinner was presented by the Missouri Southern State University Department of Communication. The Hall of Fame Awards honor media professionals who have made a regional impact throughout their careers. The 2016 recipients are Jim Hamilton and Dave Koester, with the Legacy Award going to the late Larry Young. For more information, call 417.625.9777.

Marlo Wicklund recently began her new job as executive administrator with the Tri-State Area Contractors Association. For more information, email marlo@tristateareacontractors.net.

City of Joplin residents now have the option of curbside recycling service with their residential trash service. Recyclable items can be picked up at curbside for an additional $4.75 per month. For more information, go to www.joplinmo.org.

The City of Joplin will hold a free drop-off event for old automotive tires with or without rims or wheels May 13 and 14, 9 am-3 pm, at the Joplin Recycling Center, 1310 West A Street. The event is for Joplin residents, Joplin residential landlords and Empire District Electric residential customers only. Limit of 10 automotive tires per household. No commercial, tractor or race car tires. For more information, call 417.624.0820, ext. 501.

Joplin High School invites area cheerleaders to participate in Little Miss Cheer Camp. Sign your little cheerleaders up to learn from the experienced Joplin High School cheerleaders

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

May 23-26. The camp will be held 6-8 pm at Joplin High School and is just $30 per cheerleader for a t-shirt, drinks and a snack each night, plus you can add on the matching bow for just $5! Parents are invited May 26 for a special performance at 7 pm. Contact Melissa Wood at 417.850.5267 for more information.

Joplin Schools recently joined the Central Ozark Conference in the large division for all sports and activities effective in the 2018-2019 school year. The large school division of the COC currently includes the area school districts of Carl Junction, Carthage, Neosho and Webb City. It also includes the regional districts of Branson, Nixa, Ozark, Republic and Willard. For more information, go to www.joplinschools.org.

The Flip Shop invites you to open try-outs for their competitive cheerleading program May 12-13. Try-outs will be held 6-9 pm at the cheerleading location, The Flip Shop Cheer Zone, located at 1502 South Madison in Webb City. Boys and girls ages 3-18 are welcome to try out regardless of past cheerleading experience. For more information, see facebook.com/fscheerzone or call 417.624.2652.

The 2016 Hope 4 You Breast Cancer Foundation’s RACE4HOPE is excited to announce a new location this year! The RACE4HOPE 5k/1 mile walk will take place Saturday, June 4, at the Missouri Southern State University cross country course. A special survivor ceremony begins at 7:30 am with the race starting at 8 am. This is HOPE4YOU’s largest fundraiser. All money raised stays local to help provide mammograms for those in need. Please join us and help “Put Breast Cancer ON THE RUN!” Register today at www.hope4youbcf.org.

The Joplin Demize will host a free Family Fun night May 15. There will be food, games, prizes, and the Joplin Demize will play a Navy vs. Orange game against each other. The game will start at 6 pm at the Hershewe Championship Field, located past the baseball fields at the Joplin Athletic Complex. For more information, go to www.joplindemize.com.

To continue in the tradition of serving the Joplin area for over 75 years, Newton’s Jewelers, Fifth and Main, announces its wall-to-wall inventory reduction sale with discounts up to 80 percent off regular price. Every item in the store is on sale! For more information, go to www.newtonsjoplin.com.

If you or someone you know is looking for a fun summer job, Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland is looking for counselors for summer camp and a few other positions as well. Camp runs from June 12-July 29 with a variety of trainings before camp starts. It’s fun, paid and great leadership experience. Email Outdoor Specialist Melody Hutchison, mhutchison@girlscoutsmoheartland.org. Check out the different positions at www.girlscoutsmoheartland.org/content/careers.

In April, Residence Inn by Marriott-Joplin, a John Q. Hammons Hotel, completed an indoor and outdoor renovation. It included upgrades in all areas of the hotel with new carpet,

vinyl, window treatments, furniture and more. Suites, guest public spaces and expanded outdoor patio were also improved to enhance the guest experience. As one of the most awarded hotels in Joplin, the associates are looking forward to welcoming guests to their enhanced home away from home. For more information, call 417.208.1002.

Branco Enterprises, Inc., a general contracting company located in Neosho, has been named High Performance Builder by Butler Manufacturing™, a division of BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc., the world leader in the development and manufacture of metal building systems. The most notable Branco project completed in 2015 involving the use of a Butler building was the new 168,000-square-foot facility for Haas Warehousing in Neosho. For more information, go to www.branco.com.

Pro Musica presents Chris Brubeck’s Triple Play (jazz) May 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Ozark Christian College Chapel, 1111 North Main Street. Triple Play is the name given to three outstanding and versatile musicians. Tickets: Adults $10, children/students $5. Tickets can be purchased at www.promusicajoplin.org, at the door or at the Pro Musica office. Call 417.625.1822 for more information.

Club 1201 is hosting a full Mother’s Day brunch buffet, featuring traditional brunch menu and Bloody Mary bar, to make amazing moms feel extra special! Cost: Adults $22.99; children 10 and under $11.99. Space is limited so call 417.626.0032 today!

You’re invited to Joplin’s Premier Foodie Challenge! The 2nd Annual Culinary Quiz Bowl, benefitting Ronald McDonald House of the Four States will be held at JB’s Live Downtown, 112 South Main Street, on May 24. Register your team of four for only $125 (includes pizza buffet, salad bar and one drink ticket per person). Contact Heather Griffith at 417.624.2273 or assocdir@rmhjoplin.org for more information.

See KAB Electric for all your electrical needs: new construction offices, buildings, retail space, homes, duplexes and apartments; service and panel upgrades and repairs; remodels/rewire specialists for historic homes and commercial buildings; wiring for pools, spas and hot tubs; generator wiring and installation; lighting, new fixtures, indoor and outdoor; parking lot light repairs and maintenance; and more. Mention you met them at Joplin EXPO and get $10 off! For more information, go to www.kabelectric.net or call 417.649.6057.

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ABC Supply Co., Inc. Wholesale Building Materials 3632 East 20th Street Joplin, MO 64801 417.624.0486 www.abcsupply.com Susan Boyer, Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow

360° Auto Service Automobile Repairs & Service 724 South St. Louis Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.206.3603 www.360autoservice.com Shane Pennel, Owner Sponsor: Lisa Robinson, Small Business Technology & Development Center

RNR Tire Express Tire Dealers 2301 North Range Line Road Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.3440 Steven Bynum, General Manager Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow Deloitte Finanical Advisory Services Consultants 2200 Ross Avenue Dallas, TX 75201 214.840.7291 Ryan Foughty, Specialist Leader Sponsor: Tonya Sprenkle, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce True Style Homes by Fox Creek Construction Group, LLC Construction Co-Home Builders, General Contractors/Developers 2814 North Minnesota Avenue Joplin, MO 64801 417.291.0027 www.truestylehomes.net Matt Harris, CEO Sponsor: Ginger LaMar, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New MembersVantiv Credit Card Processing/Payment Processing 117 Hidden Valley Drive Joplin, MO 64804 310.702.1731 www.vantiv.com Anna Reynolds Sponsor: Cynthia Marlow

The Light At Joplin Churches 2501 East 20th Street Joplin, MO 64801 417.250.6104 Andrew Moyer, Pastor Sponsor: Martha Getz, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

My Little Puppy, Inc. Online Pet Store 7409 East 7th Street P.O. Box 429 Duenweg, MO 64841 417.627.9041 www.mylittlepuppy.com Linda McClintock, Office Manager Sponsor: Kirstie Smith, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

R & D Lawn and Landscape Lawn Care 18839 Hottle Springs Road Seneca, MO 64865 417.438.6590 www.randdlawncare.com Derrick Brown, Owner Sponsor: Ginger LaMar, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber’s Board of Directors and staff are pleased to welcome our newest Chamber members. Please keep these and all members in mind when looking for goods and services. Visit the Chamber’s online member directory at cca.joplincc.com/businesssearch.aspx.

Invite your clients or vendors to join your 5-Star Accredited Chamber. Contact Director of Member Services & Development Ginger LaMar at 417.624.4150 or glamar@joplincc.com.

Fill out the member application to join the Chamber at http://cca.joplincc.com/newmemapp.aspx?dbid2=mojop.

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BOOTS TO BUSINESS: REBOOT May 12 (Thursday), 8:30 am-4 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Cornell Auditorium, MSSU Cost: No fee Information: boots-to-business-reboot.eventbrite.com

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 May 13 (Friday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, Room 108, MSSU Cost: $29 per business

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

MICROSOFT EXCEL LEVEL 1 - 2-DAY TRAINING May 17 (Tuesday), 1:30-4:30 pm (Day 1) May 19 (Thursday), 1:30-4:30 pm (Day 2) Location: Plaster Hall, Room 303, MSSU Cost: $124/person

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arrow Box Company of Joplin................................. 1979

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

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

Baker Davis Roderiquqe, CPAs, PC ......................... 1955

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

Bemis Company, Inc. ................................................... 2012

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

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

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

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

Braum's ............................................................................. 1989

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

Brothers, Bezold and Associates ............................. 1951

Charles Burt Realtors ................................................... 1964

Carl Richard's Bowling Centers ............................... 1954

The Doris Carlin Team, Inc. ....................................... 1986

Carlson Chiropractic Center ..................................... 2003

Casa Montez, Inc. ......................................................... 1967

Cellular Advantage, Inc. - Northpark Mall ........... 2013

Central Christian Center ............................................ 1992

Cerebral Palsy of Tri-County .................................... 2007

Chick-Fil-A ...................................................................... 2007

Cleo's Picture Framing and Design ........................ 1983

Club 609 ........................................................................... 1991

CNC Machine Products, Inc. ..................................... 1988

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

Community Bank and Trust ...................................... 1981

Consumer Credit Counseling Service ................... 1993

Doc's Shop....................................................................... 2013

EaglePicher Technologies, LLC ................................ 1946

The Employer Advantage .......................................... 1990

Fagan Electric, Inc. ....................................................... 1987

FFO Home ....................................................................... 2013

THANK YOU FOR RENEWINGFirst American Title Company ................................. 1964

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

Frisco Station Apartments ......................................... 2004

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts ....................... 1985

Gryphon Building, LLC ................................................ 2009

Hardy, Wrestler and Associates, CPAs, P.C. .......... 1989

Hideout Harley-Davidson .......................................... 2013

Hiland Dairy, Inc. .......................................................... 1959

HuHot Mongolian Grill of Joplin ............................. 2013

The Insurancenter ........................................................ 1959

JCI Industries, Inc. ........................................................ 1955

Joplin Building Material ............................................. 1964

Joplin Family YMCA ..................................................... 1984

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

Joplin Museum Complex ........................................... 1988

Joplin Petro ..................................................................... 1987

Joplin Printing Company ........................................... 1959

Joplin Public Library .................................................... 1987

Joplin Stone Company ............................................... 1969

Joplin Supply Company ............................................. 1973

E.L. Jordan, Jr., D.O. .................................................... 1988

Joseph Properties, L.P. ................................................ 2013

KMXL 95.1 MIKE FM ...................................................... 1987

KOAM-TV ......................................................................... 1974

Lafayette House ............................................................ 1988

Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. ................................... 1988

Lamar Outdoor Advertising ...................................... 1986

Landis Construction Co., Inc. ................................... 1977

Mardick Furniture Store .............................................. 1985

Meek's Building Center ............................................... 1956

Mid-America Media, Inc. ............................................ 1992

Mid-Missouri Bank........................................................ 2001

Missouri Eagle, LLC ...................................................... 1955

Mizzou Aviation ............................................................. 1961

MSW, Inc. ......................................................................... 2006

Newton's Jewelry ......................................................... 2006

Olive Garden .................................................................. 2003

Olsson Associates ......................................................... 2008

Orthopaedic Specialists of the Four States, LLC 2006

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First American Title Company ................................. 1964

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

Frisco Station Apartments ......................................... 2004

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts ....................... 1985

Gryphon Building, LLC ................................................ 2009

Hardy, Wrestler and Associates, CPAs, P.C. .......... 1989

Hideout Harley-Davidson .......................................... 2013

Hiland Dairy, Inc. .......................................................... 1959

HuHot Mongolian Grill of Joplin ............................. 2013

The Insurancenter ........................................................ 1959

JCI Industries, Inc. ........................................................ 1955

Joplin Building Material ............................................. 1964

Joplin Family YMCA ..................................................... 1984

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

Joplin Museum Complex ........................................... 1988

Joplin Petro ..................................................................... 1987

Joplin Printing Company ........................................... 1959

Joplin Public Library .................................................... 1987

Joplin Stone Company ............................................... 1969

Joplin Supply Company ............................................. 1973

E.L. Jordan, Jr., D.O. .................................................... 1988

Joseph Properties, L.P. ................................................ 2013

KMXL 95.1 MIKE FM ...................................................... 1987

KOAM-TV ......................................................................... 1974

Lafayette House ............................................................ 1988

Lakeland Office Systems, Inc. ................................... 1988

Lamar Outdoor Advertising ...................................... 1986

Landis Construction Co., Inc. ................................... 1977

Mardick Furniture Store .............................................. 1985

Meek's Building Center ............................................... 1956

Mid-America Media, Inc. ............................................ 1992

Mid-Missouri Bank........................................................ 2001

Missouri Eagle, LLC ...................................................... 1955

Mizzou Aviation ............................................................. 1961

MSW, Inc. ......................................................................... 2006

Newton's Jewelry ......................................................... 2006

Olive Garden .................................................................. 2003

Olsson Associates ......................................................... 2008

Orthopaedic Specialists of the Four States, LLC 2006

Osborn Paper Company............................................. 1941

Ozark Center .................................................................. 1977

Ozark Christian College ............................................. 1987

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

Parker Mortuary ............................................................ 1946

Patterson Latimer Jones Brannon Denham ........ 1986

PCS Phosphate............................................................... 2002

Pearl Brothers True Value Hardware Company . 1967

Pearson-Kelly Office Products ................................. 2012

Penmac Personnel Services ..................................... 1991

Pinnacle Bank ................................................................ 1957

Preferred Family Healthcare, Inc. ............................ 2011

PRO 100, Inc., Realtors ................................................ 1980

Pro Musica ....................................................................... 1988

Professional Urgent Care ........................................... 2015

Railroad Salvage and Restoration ........................... 2006

Red-Wood Development, Inc. .................................. 1978

Results Radio, AMI Radio Group .............................. 2001

Roller City Skate and Play of Joplin ........................ 2015

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States ........1999

Roper Buick GMC .......................................................... 1952

Benjamin D. Rosenberg, D.D.S. ................................. 1994

S.S.S. Investment ........................................................... 1960

Schaeffler Group USA Inc. ......................................... 1969

Sebastian Equipment Company .............................. 1984

SERVPRO .......................................................................... 1997

Shade Tree Service Company .................................. 1970

Shamrock Bolt and Screw Company, Inc. ............ 1978

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

SMC .................................................................................... 1986

R.E. Smith Construction Company ......................... 1959

Tabitha Smith Accounting and Tax Services ...... 2008

Southwest Missouri Bank ........................................... 1986

Standard Transportation Services, Inc. ................. 1993

State Farm Insurance - Matthew Gibson Agency.....................2015

Stifel, Nicolaus and Company, Inc. ......................... 1983

Farmers Insurance Group - Linda S. Teeter Agency ................1982

Terrace Green Apartments ........................................ 2009

Touchton Electric and Alarms .................................. 2009

U S Bank, N.A. ................................................................. 1951

U.S. Cellular ..................................................................... 1990

U.S. Lawns of the Ozarks ............................................ 2014

UMB Bank, n.a. ............................................................... 1964

United Way of Southwest Missouri and Southeast Kansas ............................................................................... 1988

Waco Title ........................................................................ 1954

Wal-Mart, Inc. of Joplin #59 ..................................... 1972

Wal-Mart, Inc. of Joplin #79 ..................................... 1972

Wayside Furniture ........................................................ 1976

Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC .......................................... 1987

WestRock Company .................................................... 1988

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING

Community Pride Starts InsideStudents in Joplin's public and private schools were honored at the Community Pride Starts Inside awards assembly in early April. Over 600 entries told "How I can make a difference in Joplin."

Thank you to our sponsors: General Mills EaglePicher Technologies LakelandOfficeSystems Southwest Missouri Bank

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May 2016 CONGRATULATIONS

to the 99th annual banquet award winners

outstanding citizen

of the year Jim Fleischaker,

Fleischaker &

Williams

Arty award Linda Teeter,

Joplin Regional

Artists Coalition

ambassador

of the year Rick keller,

Wells Fargo

Advisors, LLC

small business

of the year

1-10 Employee

category

Toner Connection,

LLC

11-50 Employee

category

Stronghold Data

not for profit

category

watered gardens

gospel rescue

mission

small industry

of the year

forged waterjet

fabrications

large industry

of the year

turbo supply

golden apple awards

young professionals network

YP of the year Ryan Melton,

Freeman Health

system

YPN Service

Award Shawn Daniel,

Commerce Bank

rookie of the year cameron mabe,

Pearson-kelly office

products

k-2nd grade Joanne Lown, Thomas

Jefferson Independent

Day School

3rd-5th grade Caryn Deckard,

Stapleton

elementary school

6th-8th grade Zina Lewis, Thomas

Jefferson Independent

Day School

9th-12th grade Kaara Schrader,

McAuley High school

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May

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50 Years of Membership

Ozarks Coca-Cola Bottling Company

30 Years of Membership

George A. Spiva Center for the Arts

The Glenn Group at Keller Williams

The Herrod Financial Group

Mardick Furniture Store

Midcon Cables Company

Steve's Frame & Body Shop

20 Years of Membership

Boyd Metals of Joplin

Cintas Corporation

Community Blood Center of the Ozarks

Courtney's Candles and Creations, Inc.

Crowder College

Flames

General Dynamics Ordnance & Tactical

Systems-Munition

Granny Shaffer's Restaurant

Celebrating commitment and dedication in the business community, the Joplin Area Chamber of

Commerce proudly recognizes and honors our Milestone Members.

20 Years of Membership, continued

Home Builders Association of SW Missouri

Jasper County Elected Officials

Menke-McAllister

Red Onion Restaurants

schlotzsky's Deli

Tint 'N More, Inc.

10 Years of Membership

American Family Insurance - Pam Greninger

Atlas Risk Management, LLC

Children's Haven of Southwest Missouri, Inc.

Community Clinic

Deck The Walls

Embassy Embroidery, LLC

Michael J. Patterson, D.D.S.

Peterbilt of Joplin

PILR Technology Services

Skaggs Chiropractic, LLC

Turbine Engine Consultants, Inc.

Wildwood Ranch Development

sponsored by

The 99th annual banquet was made possible by the following sponsors:

presenting sponsor: owens corning mineral wool, llc

gold sponsor: downstream casino resort

silver sponsor: SNC Squared

venue sponsor: missouri southern state university

jacc highlights & accomplishments video: koam-tv

entertainment: mitch horner

master of ceremonies: gary bandy

photos & photo booth: Storm Stanley

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May 2016

Top 5 Reasons to Outsource PayrollWhile some businesses opt to handle their payroll internally, through manual bookkeeping, in-house bookkeeping or payroll software, increasingly, small business owners have come to prefer the expertise of professional payroll services. Outsourcing payroll, they’ve found, enables them to focus on processes and strategies that directly affect the future of their business.Herearethetopfivereasonsmanysmallbusinessownersfindbenefitsinoutsourcingpayroll:

1. Time Saved – Regardless of the number of people employed by your business, attending to payroll demands a great deal of time and attention to detail. Pay period follows pay period, each time requiring the business owner to input considerable amounts of data and double check for any errors, which takes time away from important tasks.

2. Money Saved – Time saved is money saved. Think of the time it takes calculating payroll each time period, printing, signing and distributing paychecks or pay stubs, generating reports for in-house and accountant use, preparing and remitting payroll taxes and returns to government agencies. When evaluated on a per payroll period on a monthly basis, outsourcing is the best option.

3. Enhanced Security – Payroll processing is a complex and potentially risky business operation. Even with trusted employees, there is always a risk of identity theft, embezzlement or tampering with company records.

4. Compliance with Government Regulations – Generally speaking, small business owners are not experts in the complicated world of tax regulations.

5. The Expertise of Professionals – A professional payroll provider employs individuals who know payroll processing inside and out. These individuals specialize in the complexities of payroll taxes as well as compliance with government regulations.

For more information about payroll services, contact J.D. Buckridge, Payroll Vault of the Fourstates, Business Development Manager,417.623.0941:office;417.438.4428:mobile;j.d.buckridge@payrollvault.com;www.payrollvault.com.

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May

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Veteran-owned Business Resources By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University

“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” -- George Washington

George Washington understood the dedication to freedom and the sacrificesmadebyAmerican veterans. Our veterans strive to maintain our liberty and to make a positive impact

on our U.S. economy. Americans owe a debt of gratitude to the 22.7 million veterans now living in the U.S. and abroad. American veteran business owners make important contributions by creating innovative companies that employ individuals and produce a variety of products and services. According to the Survey of Business Owners: Veteran-Owned Businesses 2012 (U.S. Census Bureau), there were 2.52 million businesses (or about 9 percent of all U.S. companies)ownedbyAmericanveterans.Thesefirmsgenerated $1.14 trillion in sales receipts and employed about 5 million people. They had payrolls totaling $195 billion dollars. Many of the skills veterans learned during their military service are the same skills that help them succeed as business owners. Skills such as decisiveness, integrity, endurance, discipline, leadership and knowledge that have helped them thrive. A variety of organizations provide information about business,financialandgovernmentalprogramsthatareavailable to American veterans. The following list of internet resources provides information to assist veterans.

http://www.va.gov/osdbu/ The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs provides the OfficeofSmall&DisadvantagedBusinessUtilization,whichis a resource for veterans wanting to start their own small business.TheycanuseGIBilleducationbenefitstopayforthe training needed to start their small business.

http://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp The Department of Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation&Employmentprogramprovidesveteranswithservice-connecteddisabilitiestopreparefor,findandkeep suitable jobs.

http://showmeheroes.mo.gov The Missouri Career Source service allows veterans to post their resumes and connect with employers who have pledged to hire veterans returning from active duty.

http://mvc.dps.mo.gov/ The Missouri Veterans Commission provides assistance to all veterans, their dependents and legal representatives by providing information regarding the rights of veterans and their dependents and to assist veterans accessing their availablebenefitsthroughstateandfederalgovernment.

https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits/nrd The National Resource Directory (NRD) is for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families and those who support them. It provides access to services and resourcesaboutbenefitsandcompensation,educationandtraining, employment, family and caregiver support, health, homeless assistance, housing, transportation and travel.

https://www.sba.gov/ U.S. Small Business Administration provides loan guarantees, online training resources, disaster assistance, business advocacy, local directories and a wealth of information that can assist veterans wanting to start and operate a business. Since 2012, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offered an entrepreneurship education and training program called Boots to Business as part of the Department ofDefense’sTransitionAssistanceProgram(TAP).Thefirstprogram will be offered May 12 at MSSU.

Boots to Business: Reboot

Boots to Business: Reboot is an entrepreneurial education program offered to veterans by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in partnership with the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University. Participants can elect to further their study through an instructor-guided eight-week online course led by the Institute for Veterans and Military Families. The curriculum for “Boots to Business: Reboot” provides valuable assistance to veterans exploring self-employment opportunities by leading them through the key steps for evaluating business concepts and the foundational knowledge required for developing a business plan. Participants must have left the military under honorable conditions in order to qualify.

When: May 12 (Thursday), 8:30 am-4 pm Where: Missouri Southern State University, Plaster Hall, Cornell Auditorium, 3950 E. Newman Rd., Joplin, MO 64801-1595 There is no cost to attend this workshop. Register at: http://boots-to-business-reboot.eventbrite.com

Sponsored by a partnership of the U.S. Small Business Administration and the MSSU SBTDC.

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May 2016

Joplin Proud welcomes your support in showing pride in Joplin. You can help in this effort by sponsoring a banner for $35. The 100 JOPLIN PROUD butterfly banners will be displayed on poles throughout the downtown area. Although these are to be initially displayed this May for the fifth anniversary of the 2011 tornado as a means of showing respect and pride in our community, many of them will be donated to the City for future display. The City will intersperse these with other event banners in the future as a reminder that we continue to be JOPLIN PROUD.

As our thanks to you for sponsoring, you will be listed on the JOPLIN PROUD website as a banner sponsor. Your sponsorship may be tax deductible. Your sponsorship should be made payable to Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (or JACCF). Submit payment along with the wording of how you want your sponsorship to be listed on the JOPLIN PROUD website.

Sponsor names will NOT be placed on the banners. Banners will be displayed in the locations and on the dates deemed appropriate by the City of Joplin.

Should you choose to support this effort, but wish to receive a banner (rather than donate it to the City), please indicate on your sponsorship; in this case your sponsorship would NOT be tax deductible. If you choose to receive your banner, it will be available for pickup at the Chamber office at 320 E. 4th Street the week of July 18. However, we highly encourage you to donate your banner so we can continue the efforts to be JOPLIN PROUD.

BECOME A BANNER SPONSOR

FOR ONLY $35

Business Name____________________________________

Contact Name ____________________________________

List my sponsorship in this manner: ________________________________________________

Mail check and form to JACCF, 320 E. 4th St, Joplin, MO 64801. To pay by credit card, visit www.JOPLINPROUD.com

I wish to keep my banner and will pick it up the week of July 18

I wish to donate my banner

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May

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Calendar of Events for May 2016May 3 9 am Leads Group One ChamberOffice

May 4 9 am Leads Group Three Southwest Missouri Bank (32nd and McClelland Blvd.)

May 5 8 am Leadership Joplin City Tour Session

May 6 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Joplin Supply Company 8 am YPN EDTalk: Leadercast College Heights Christian Church

May 11 9 am Leads Group Two ChamberOffice

May 16 12 pm Leadership Joplin Steering Committee ChamberOffice

May 17 9 am Leads Group One KAB Electric 5:30 pm Business After Hours Downstream Casino Resort

May 18 9 am Leads Group Three ChamberOffice 11:30 am Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting ChamberOffice

May 19 8:30 am Leadership Joplin Leadership Development Session Freeman Business Center

May 20 11:30 am Ribbon Cutting/Cook-out for All Joplin Businesses ChamberOffice

May 23 11:30 am Chamber Board of Directors Meeting ChamberOffice

May 25 9 am Leads Group Two ChamberOffice

May 30 Memorial Day OfficeClosed

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.

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May 2016

2016 Class of Tomorrow's Leaders Today Graduates The 2016 Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) class, along with invited guests, celebrated their achievements at a graduation ceremony and dinner April 12 at Missouri Southern State University. Hunter Jones, College Heights Christian School, was chosen by his classmates to speak at the ceremony on their behalf. Jennifer Nguyen, Joplin High School, was awarded the General Mills $1,000 scholarship for her essay “Innovative Leadership and My Community Involvement." The43membersofthisyear’sTLTclassspentthelastfivemonthslearningabouttheJoplinareabymeetingwith various community leaders and visiting businesses and organizations. Congratulations to all these area high school seniors as they take another step in their educational careers. On behalf of the TLT committee, sponsors and the JACC, “Best of luck!” Thank you to EaglePicher Technologies and General Mills for their presenting sponsorship of TLT, and thank you to Missouri Southern State University, TLT graduation sponsor.

Class Speaker Hunter Jones, from

College Heights Christian School. General Mills Team Joplin members Isabel Quepons and Calvin Wheeler present $1,000 General Mills Scholarship to Jennifer Nguyen, Joplin High School.

Presenting Sponsors

TLT Graduation Sponsor

Students and guests attend TLT graduation.

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May

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Elite CommercialAudio/Video Sales & Service

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Audio / Video SystemsPro Audio Equipment

Camera SystemsHealthcare Communications

LABOR LAW POSTERSFREE to Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Members

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

To order your Free Labor Law Poster, please call or email

to schedule a time to deliver:Wendy Mashburn

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

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

Fully Laminated and Attorney-Approved

Insurance you can design to meet your ever-changing needs.

• Business or Commercial • Call for a Farmers Friendly Review®

• Evening Appointments

Call 417-781-4820 today for Auto, Home, Life and Business.

LINDA TEETER, LUTCFwww.farmersagent.com/lteeter1321 ILLINOIS AVE • JOPLIN, MO 64801

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May 2016 First Friday Coffee

Friday, May 6 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by and located at Joplin Supply Company

302 South Michigan Avenue

RSVP by May 4 at www.joplincc.com or

417.624.1996.

Business After Hours THANK YOU!

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

Presented by

Presenting Sponsor

Tuesday, May 17 5:30-7 p.m.

Sponsored by and located at Downstream Casino Resort

69300 Nee Road

RSVP by May 12 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

Mimosas and

Bloody Marys

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May

201

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MSSU Gears Up For New Medical School In December, MSSU and KCU signed the “Advanced Medical Acceptance Program,” which will allow up to 25 MSSU students to be admitted to the KCU’s new school upon successful completion of Southern’s pre-med requirements. “This unique partnership with Missouri Southern State University guarantees students acceptance into medical school, paving a bright future for primary care in Joplin and the region,” said KCU CEO Dr. Marc Hahn at the announcement.

“It’s a differentiator for us,” it sets us apart from other schools that don’t have a connection like this,” said MSSU President Dr. Alan Marble. “It also raises the bar for everyone. It elevates the standards and the rigor that will be happening in our classrooms.”

A Medical School For The Region$100 Million Estimated Economic Impact;600 Students, 100 Faculty and StaffAfter years of effort, a new, major driver of the regional economy became a reality at the end of March. Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCU) began work on its new Joplin campus with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by thousands of people throughout the region.

KCU is the oldest medical school in Missouri and 12th largest medical school in the country. One hundred fifty students per year will be enrolled in the doctor of osteopathic medicine program at the new campus site. When fully operational, the Joplin campus, opening in 2017, will add 600 students to the 1,000 plus at the Kansas City campus.

“The expansion of KCU to an additional location marks a significant moment for our University, and an opportunity to help address the rural health care needs for the region,” said Marc B. Hahn, D.O., president and chief executive officer, KCU. “As the second-leading educator of physicians for both Missouri and Kansas, and with nearly 40 percent of our graduates practicing medicine in rural areas, this was a logical decision for us.”

KCU made the commitment to creating the 600-student campus contingent on the region raising $30 million, or about half of the total cost of obtaining accreditation of the new school, renovating and equipping the former 150,000-square-foot Mercy facility just vacated and having operational funds for the first few years while the student base grows.

Inside ...Pittsburg State Research Park

Two More Work Ready Counties

Shell Buildings Available

Economic Development UpdateSpring 2016

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May 2016

Helping Our Communities Help Existing Companies

In January, Pittsburg State University announced it selected TEConomy Partners to be its planning consultant for the expansion of its current science and research park.

“We received a number of quality proposals,” said Shawn Nacarrato, executive director of the Center for Innovation and Business Development at PSU. “TEConomy Partners

quickly distinguished themselves through the detail and professionalism of their presentation. We’re confident in their abilities and optimistic about the future of this project.”

The expansion project is coming to fruition because of a $330,000 grant from the Economic Development Administrations Office of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. The grant was given to PSU to explore the feasibility of expanding Pittsburg’s current science and research park.

“As with any project, you need a detailed plan before you can move forward,” said Nacarrato. “Investors, whether private or public grants, want to know that you’ve taken the time to fully study the situation and that you have community support. This is an important step forward for our community and our region”.

Based in Ohio, TEConomy Partners has a 25-year track record of helping universities throughout the world plan and implement strategies for research parks. They also serve as the economic and technology policy adviser to the Association of University Research Parks.

Existing firms are the engine of economic growth in the Joplin region. What’s why the JRP is helping its communities and counties strengthen their local business expansion efforts. JRP is using the Synchronist system to help local partners develop key data to work with their companies on expansion opportunities as well as what companies see as community needs. While sharing the Synchronist, each community has its own password-protected area to ensure confidentiality. The Synchronist system helps communities work with the local firms to show:

- Each company’s value to the community

- The opportunities for or obstacles to a company’s growth

- Support needed to assist a company and

- The company’s view of the community and its services to help that community improve its business support

For more information or to begin the process for YOUR community, email Mark Turnbull at Joplin Regional Partnership, mturnbull@joplinregionalpartnership.com.

PSU Selects Planning Consultant Science And Research Park Expansion Project

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May

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Two More JRP Counties Are Certified Work ReadyCherokee FIRST County in Kansas

Nathan Kubicek, Crossland Academy Education Department

Two more counties in the Joplin Regional Partnership area have been officially named Certified Work Ready Communities by ACT. The CWRC initiative certifies that communities meet specific goals designed to validate the key basic skills of existing workers and those coming into the workforce. The CWRC is based on the well-known WorkKeys testing system, which has a proven track record of indicating competency of basic skills related to nearly every job.

Cherokee County is the first county in Kansas to become Work Ready Certified, thanks to the efforts of its employers and high schools working with the County Economic Development Council. One of those employers, Crossland Construction, uses the WorkKeys assessments to help both existing and prospective employees at the company’s own training center.

“We’ve been using this ACT Work Readiness approach as an entry requirement into our training programs for about a year and one-half,” said Nathan Kubicek, of the Crossland Academy Education Department. “It lets us know where a candidate or trainee scores before they even come through the door, so it helps us customize their training plan,” he added. Barton County becomes the third Missouri county in the JRP area to become officially recognized as Work Ready Certified. Barton’s team, led by the City of Lamar, Community Development, County, Chamber of Commerce and school systems, completed all requirements in late 2015. The county was officially designated by the state Department of Economic Development Director Mike Downing on April 1, 2016.

“There’s no better way of saying Barton County has a dedicated workforce that’s ready to work right now than by having this CWRC certification in hand,” said Astra Ferris, executive director of the Barton County Chamber of Commerce. “We want to make sure employers understand the high-quality and agility of our workforce.”

The Certified Work Ready certification is a key part of the Joplin Regional Partnership’s comprehensive workforce development effort (see EarnMore article in this issue).

“Our partner communities know very well that city, county and state boundaries don’t matter to the people in our workforce; they go where they find a job that they want. The Work Ready Certification process is giving our region a common platform to discuss more ways to improve our workforce, which benefits our companies and our residents;” noted Mark Turnbull, JRP’s director of regional strategies.

Certified CountyIn Process

Pending

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May 2016

Joplin Regional PartnershipMark Turnbull, Director of Regional Strategies

417.624.4150 (O) | 417.437.8322 (C) | 320 East 4th Street | Joplin, MO 64801mturnbull@joplinregionalpartnership.com | JoplinRegionalPartnership.com

Supporting Employers, Narrowing the Skills Gap EarnMore.BIZ

Among the primary goals of the Joplin Regional Partnership is to identify opportunities to enhance the skills of the current workforce and increase the labor force overall. With an existing workforce of more than 150,000 in the seven-county JRP area, plus more than 90,000 in the surrounding counties, there is already a well-established base companies can draw from; the key is ensuring they have good skills. The JRP has launched the Earn More campaign, with the first effort aimed at encouraging those already in the workforce to improve their skills. The campaign is focused on our core sectors of advanced manufacturing, health

care services, transportation and distribution, professional services and construction. The new website, EarnMore.Biz, shows people the opportunities for better jobs and the key educational resources to obtain the skills needed for those jobs. The campaign is supported by a number of electronic and print media partners who are promoting that website to their audiences. The primary work group tasked with further developing the campaign to reach both their own students and high school students is JRP’s higher education workforce group consisting of professionals from Missouri Southern State University, Pittsburg State University, Coffeyville Community College, Crowder College, Labette Community College and Northeast Oklahoma A & M.

The Joplin Region has two new speculative buildings underway, offering area firms an opportunity to expand and new firms a quick and easy location to start up in the region. For more information on both, contact Kevin Welch, Director of Business Attraction, Joplin Regional Partnership, at 417.624.4150 or via email at kwelch@joplinregionalpartnership.com.

Spec Buildings Are Back

Miami, Oklahoma

54,000-sq.-ft. manufacturing/warehouse facility under construction now in the city’s Progress Industrial Park. Pre-engineered steel building with architectural facade. 200 ft. x 270 ft. dimensions, with 30 ft. sidewalls. Four loading doors in the basic plan. On 10+ acres. All city utilities. Located near Interstate 44.

Joplin, Missouri

48,000-sq.-ft. office/warehouse/manufacturing facility nearing completion in the Crossroads Business Park. Single or multi-tenant; lease or buy. Pre-engineered steel building with architectural facade and sides. 120 ft. x 400 ft. dimensions with 24-27 ft. clear height. Sixteen loading docks in basic plan. On 5+ acres. All utilities. Located near Interstates 44 & 49.