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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

SEPT2016

our members announceINSIDE

PRESIDENT’SMESSAGE

Advanced Industries Surprisingly Important to Metro Area

p. 3

6 Steps to small business success

PRESENTED BY

Page 16

Problem-Solving Tips for businessPage 14

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September 2016 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 PRODUCERJim Kesler MEMBERSHIP SALES STRATEGIST Communications Kirstie Smith COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Wendy Brunner-Lewis COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATORMartha Getz YPN/COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

FinanceSamantha Doubledee FINANCE DIRECTORMelany Frederick FINANCE COORDINATOR INTERN

Economic & Workforce DevelopmentBrian Kelly 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

/joplinchamber

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Recently, the Brookings Institute released its report on the status of advanced industries in the U.S. This report outlined the importance of the advanced industry sectors to the U.S. and state economies in terms of providing better, higher-paying jobs and more economic output than other sectors. Missouri was noted as a Top 10 state in employment growth in the advanced industries sectors. But the Joplin Metro Area is also strong in these sectors.

Brookings defined the advanced industries group as a "supersector that encompasses 50 diverse industries, including 35 manufacturing, three energy and 12 service industries. These industries include advanced manufacturing industries like aerospace, auto, medical devices and pharmaceuticals, energy-oriented industries such as oil and gas extraction and electric power generation, and high-tech service activities such as computer system design, R&D services, software and telecommunications.”

In the U.S., about 8.5 percent of all jobs are in the advanced industries sector, but more than 17 percent of total economic output comes from these 50 industries. Brookings looked at the individual metro areas as well as states. For the metros, they looked at the Top 100, including Kansas City and St. Louis, and the 280 small metros, including the other metros in Missouri.

In the Top 100 metros, Kansas City ranked 23rd in the amount of total employment in advanced industries, and St. Louis ranked 52nd. Of the 280 small metros, Joplin ranked 103, with just over 7 percent of our employment (more than 6,000 jobs) in advanced industries. The economic output of advanced industries for the Joplin metro was 14.7 percent, or more than $1 billion annually. Only St. Joseph was higher in terms of the portion of economic output in the advanced industries supersector.

Metro Rank # of Jobs % of Total Jobs Output Billions $ % Total Output

Cape Girardeau 245 1,601 3.4 0.4 10.8

Columbia 149 5,820 5.8 0.9 10.8

Jefferson City 157 4,660 5.7 0.9 14.3

Joplin 103 6,018 7.1 1.1 14.7

Springfield 144 129,004 6.0 2.2 12.2

St. Joseph 159 3,665 5.6 0.9 15.4

Kansas City 23 109,208 10.2 15.2 15.1

St. Louis 52 114,316 8.3 20.2 15.4

Within our metro area, about 78 percent of jobs in advanced industries are in manufacturing. However, more than 17 percent of jobs in advanced industries is in the information technology sectors.

But there are some concerns Brookings noted, of which we should be aware. From 2013 to 2015, most of the growth in the advanced industries was focused in automotive and information technologies. The other manufacturing sectors were generally stagnant, and energy collapsed with low oil and gas prices.

We saw a similar picture, with growth in information technology jobs, but a slide in energy and a loss in advanced manufacturing.

However, the advanced industries in the Joplin Metro Area are, overall, in good position and continue to seek new market opportunities that could lead to more growth in the future. That is important to our area since these jobs pay about $20,000 more, on average, than the average wages, and add economic impact that ripples throughout the region.

These advanced industries, according to Brookings, are the country’s best shot at supporting innovative, inclusive and sustainable growth. They are the same for us as well.

Rob O’Brian, President

Advanced Industries Surprisingly Important to Metro Area

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Presented by

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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

New YPN MembersLindsey Bragg

Hershewe Law FirmJason Burkhart

Clean Uniform CompanyFallon Donlan

Mercy Hospital JoplinSergio Rizo

Ozark Christian College

Calendar of Events for September 2016September 5 Office Closed Labor Day

September 7 7:33 am Membership Event - Team Captain's Training Missouri Southern State University End Zone Facility 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

September 9 7:30 am First Friday Coffee Mercy Hospital Joplin Cancer Center

September 14 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

September 15 7:15 am Good Morning Joplin Victory Ministry & Sports Complex

September 20 9 am Leads Group One Steam Way Restorations 5:30 pm Business After Hours Results Radio, AMI Radio Group

September 20-22 JACC High-Energy Membership Event Advanced Training & Technology Center

September 21 9 am Leads Group Three Chamber Office

September 26 11:30 am Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Office

September 28 9 am Leads Group Two Chamber Office

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Tri-State Engineering, a division of Olsson Engineering

Gabe Lett, CPSM702 South Main Street

Acquisition by Olsson Engineering

Missouri Southern State University/Empire District Electric Company

Alan Marble, MSSU; Brad Beecher, EmpireLocated at MSSU

Plug-in Stations for Electric Vehicles

Ribbon Cuttings Presented by

Ozark Christian CollegeMatt Proctor, President 1111 North Main Street

Grand Opening of Idleman Ministry Center

Spring River Christian VillageScott King, Administrator

201 South Northpark Lane Remodel

Farrell Construction, Inc.Cory Farrell, Vice President

16131 Overlook Lane, Neosho40-year Anniversary

Wildcat Glades Conservation/Audubon CenterDonna Whitehead, Director

201 West Riviera Drive, Suite ARecipient of 2016 Missouri American Water

Environmental Grant

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to join. Dues are only $25 per year.

Would you like to keep up to date on current payroll issues? Do you need to network with other payroll professionals? Would you like to become certified as a payroll professional? Then we have the place for you!

Join us for our 13th Annual Payroll Conference September 30, 2016.

If you would like more information about our chapter or conference, contact Wendy Mashburn at 417.623.0941 or Debbie Cash at 417.782.3909, ext. 148.

American Payroll Association Joplin Chapter

of Southwest Missouri

New Member SpotlightJoplin has a local American Payroll Association Chapter that can help you grow as a payroll professional.

The chapter was formed in 2003 by local members of the National American Payroll Association. We have monthly meetings with

guest speakers and an annual seminar, along with other activities. All payroll, human resource, benefits and finance professionals are welcome

13TH ANNUAL JOMO REGIONAL PAYROLL CONFERENCE

September 30, 2016 Piecing Together the Puzzle

LOCATION: The Butcher's Block, 499 W. Fountain Rd, Joplin, MO

Earn 5 RCH Credits

Personal

Our Members Announce presented by On September 17, Victory Ministry and Crossroads Ministries are hosting “Dream Days – Giving a City Permission to Dream” at Victory Ministry & Sports Complex, 3405 South Hammons Blvd. Businesses are invited to help our community become the very best it can be by setting up booths to showcase how you can help others pursue their dreams. For more information, email dbillings@cableone.net.

Dave Woods, president of the American Advertising Federation of Joplin, and the digital media manager at Choice Marketing, was honored recently with the 2015 President of the Year award for AAF District Nine. The award recognizes outstanding performance of a president in chapter leadership and accomplishments. For more information, call 417.291.4997.

Distinctive Home Products offers a wide selection of bathroom and kitchen fixtures, faucets, cabinets and countertops. They will answer any of your questions and help you before, during and after your project is complete. Plus, you can get up to $1,200 back from the KOHLER Dream Kitchen & Bathroom Rebate on KOHLER purchases now through November 30. Find Distinctive Home Products at 2211 East 7th Street, 417.781.2648 or distinctivehomeproducts.com. Shop rebate products at http://www.kohlerassets.com/kohlerus/ads/tt/rsys/bathing-rebate/index.htm.

Rapha House recently received the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability Seal of Approval for its commitment to financial responsibility and transparency. Learn more at https://raphahouse.org/about/financials.

Missouri Small Business & Technology Development Centers will host “Customer Service: Does It Still Exist?” September 20, 11:45 am-1 pm, at Carthage Water & Electric Plant, 627 West Centennial Avenue, Carthage. $10 per person for lunch. Pay at the door, but please register in advance at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ed05asvo9272d102&oseq=&c=&ch=.

Watered Gardens and the True Charity Initiative invite you to learn about and discuss the history of poverty-fighting efforts and how our current course can be corrected to promote effective charity and compassion. This all-day event featuring Marvin Olasky, author of “The Tragedy of American Compassion,” takes place September 12 from 10 am-4 pm at Ozark Christian College. For more information, go to http://www.truecharity.us/course-correcting-for-effective-charity/.

Pro Musica begins its 36th season by presenting Harlem String Quartet September 30 at 7 pm at College Heights Christian Church, 4311 East Newman Road. The quartet’s mission is to advance diversity in classical music through the discovery

and presentation of varied repertoire that includes works by minority composers. The concert is open to the public at no charge with donations appreciated. For more information, go to www.promusicajoplin.org or call 417.625.1822.

Spiva Center for the Arts announces Rhea Cooper, Spiva’s bookkeeper, was named one of Missouri’s Outstanding Older Workers. Nominees must be Missouri residents who are age 60 or older; employed at least 20 hours a week in a Missouri job site; and demonstrate success in learning new skills and job training. For more information, call 417.623.0183.

Did you know September is Life Insurance Awareness Month? A quick online calculation at www.lifehappens.org/howmuch can help determine your life insurance needs, and local NAIFA-Southwest Missouri agents are available to help. Connect with us on Facebook @NAIFASouthwestMissouri and check “get life insurance” off your to-do list.

The Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Missouri is hosting its annual fundraiser, Club Comingo, October 8 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. This dinner-auction benefits the Club by raising critical funds to support its after-school and summer programs. Individual tickets and table sponsorships available. For more information, call 417.623.8072 or email emarion@bgcswmo.org.

The Joplin Museum Complex is hosting the Missouri State Archives exhibit titled “Mapping Missouri” through September 17. Over 100 examples of cartography from the Missouri State Archives special collection are featured. For more information, call 417.623.1180.

Sweet Emotion - A Chocolate Boutique announces their all new “Choctail” line up of truffles. The Choctails include Amaretto Truffles, Kahlua Truffles, Chocolate Mudslide Truffles, Grand Marnier Truffles, Pina Colada Truffles and Irish Cream Truffles (all virgin, of course). Stop by and see them for a whole new way to experience Happy Hour today! For more information, call 417.691.8504.

Joplin Area Habitat for Humanity is hosting its 4th Annual A Brush with Kindness event September 24 at Landreth Park at 8 am. They will help homeowners who are in need of light exterior repairs, weatherization or yard work. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Kelsey Milholland at 417.782.6533, ext. 7, or sign up at joplinhabitat.org.

KAB Electric is expanding its services in solar panel technology. They can complete the project from design build, panel and equipment installation, and the final electrical hook up. They offer full-service in battery and/or generator back-up power for the solar panel system. KAB Electric is currently

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

offering a free consultation and estimate on businesses, homes and rural outbuildings. Rebates and tax incentives are still available for solar power installations completed in 2016. For more information, call 417.649.6057.

Ben Miller, CPA, has established a new Joplin-area CPA firm, W. Ben Miller, CPA LLC. Ben has extensive experience providing audit, tax and accounting assistance to small- and medium-sized businesses as well as not-for-profit organizations. Contact Ben at 417.674.1213 or cpabenmiller@gmail.com to set an appointment.

The Missouri Community College Association awarded Branco Enterprises with the Distinguished Business/Industry Award. This award is presented annually to individuals and/or businesses that have engaged in significant partnerships with their local community college to stimulate economic activity and support community college students and programs. For more information, go to www.branco.com.

Active Lifestyle Events Inc., the organization behind Joplin Memorial Marathon, presented a check for $40,000 to Freeman Health System’s Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism August 15. It is the second installment of a $100,000 pledge. Funds were raised during the annual Joplin Memorial Marathon. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

Students injured in Friday night football matchups or other fall sports have access to orthopaedic specialists on Saturday mornings. Whether injured during practice or competition, Freeman Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine will evaluate students free of charge. The clinic is open through October 22 to middle school, high school and college athletes who were injured during the previous week’s activities. For more information, go to www.freemanhealth.com.

The Alliance of Southwest Missouri hosts Joplin High School football game tailgate events for students and parents September 2, 16 and 30. Tailgating is 4-6:30 pm in front of the football stadium. Tailgating activities include a drunk goggle course, puzzle activity, wrecked cars, fire prevention smoke house and more. Activities are geared to reach students and parents about issues surrounding impaired driving, driving without a seatbelt, fire safety and more. For more information, call 417.782.9899.

Tri-State Area Contractors Association, Inc., will host its 15th Annual Pig Roast September 15 from 6-10 pm at 5305 County Road 175 in Carthage. $25 per person (designated drivers get $5 off). For more information, call 417.627.9392.

Restaurateurs, don't miss the September 14 presentation on the U.S. Labor Department’s Changes to the Salaried Overtime Exemption by Missouri Restaurant Association’s CEO Bob Bonney. The presentation is at 2 pm in The Trolley Room at Granny Shaffer’s, 2728 North Range Line Road. RSVP to

SLuke@MoRestaurants.org or call 417.894.3512.

George Washington Carver National Monument released a new promotional short video, “Discover George Washington Carver National Monument.” The five-minute film provides an overview of the site’s history and resources to engage the public. It is available on the park’s YouTube and Facebook pages. The film can be purchased at the park bookstore through the Carver Birthplace Association. For more information, call 417.325.4151.

On August 31, the Joplin Proud committee, along with representatives from State Farm Insurance and Walmart, dedicated a tile mural in the new City of Joplin Mercy Park. The Butterfly Mural is a 10-feet tall by 20-feet wide tile mural that features the colorful stretched-out wings of a butterfly. For more information, call 417.625.4789.

Arvest Equipment Finance (AEF), a division of Arvest Bank, once again has received recognition from MonitorDaily, a leading publication of the equipment leasing and finance industry. Ranked No. 100 in 2014, AEF climbed to No. 93 in 2015. For more information, go to www.arvest.com.

Manufacturing Day is a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. This year, Manufacturing Day is October 7. In support of Manufacturing Day, Missouri Enterprise is offering manufacturers a banner to place inside or outside their facility, free of charge. The banner is 8’ x 2’ and has grommets on all four corners. They will add your logo to personalize it for you. And if you are not a manufacturer but want a banner, it will say “Proud Supporter of Manufacturing.” For more information, call 417.429.6066.

You are invited to a free Compassion Fatigue Prevention & Resilience Workshop sponsored by the Joplin Area Ministerial Alliance. The workshop is October 4, 8:30 am-12:30 pm at the Chamber office. RSVP to danking@cableone.net or 417.439.1206.

Farrell Construction, Inc., recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Farrell Construction is a third-generation family-owned construction company specializing in commercial construction, design-build and property development. The company recently purchased True Style Homes and launched Solar Energy Systems. For more information, call 417.825.4058.

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First Financial Group Financial and Financial Advisors 705 Illinois Avenue, Suite 10B Joplin, MO 64801 417.553.4815 www.ffg-llc.com Gary W. Larson, Advisor Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Maningas Cosmetic Surgery Plastic Surgery 620 West 32nd Street, Suite B Joplin, MO 64804 417.437.0303 www.mcosmeticsurgery.com Aimee Maningas, Practice Manager Talon Maningas, D.O., Owner Sponsors: Nancy Johnson, Frank W. Shagets, Jr., M.D., P.C.; Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

4 State Staffing Employment Agencies 2131 East 32nd Street, Suite 1 Joplin, MO 64804 417.621.0520 www.4statestaffing.com Bonnie Thurman, Manager Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Domino's Pizza #1542 Restaurant/Bar 2316 South Maiden Lane Joplin, MO 64804 417.623.5211 www.dominos.com Emily Elwell, Owner/Franchisee Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

W. Ben Miller, CPA LLC Accounting Services 103 Jason Blvd. Webb City, MO 64870 417.674.1213 www.cpabenmiller.com Ben Miller, CPA, Owner Sponsor: Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Welcome New MembersOn Your Left Marketing Marketing/Internet Consulting 2825 East 17th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417.622.9697 www.onyourleftmarketing.com Curtis Miller, Owner Sponsors: Larry Chalmers, Shield Financial; Jim Kesler, Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Midwest IT Services Computer-Services/Software/Products P.O. Box 154 Neosho, MO 64850-0154 417.451.9184 www.midwest-it.com Lynette Brown, Owner Charlie Brown, Owner Sponsor: Skyler Powers, Toner Connection

Nutrition Rehab Health Foods and Supplies 2217 South Main Street, Suite A Joplin, MO 64804 918.729.0963 Aaron Haight, Wellness Coach Sponsor: Jim Kesler, 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 Membership Sales Strategist Jim Kesler at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry Advocacy Mission to Washington D.C.

Sept. 20-22

Be part of the annual group of Missouri delegates of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry Advocacy Mission to Washington D.C. The Missouri delegation will meet with members of Missouri's congressional delegation and discuss, in person, federal issues that impact Missouri's business community.

Register Now

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ABE Painting ................................................................... 2012

Advanced Family Medicine & Wellness Center .. 1999

The Alliance of Southwest Missouri ....................... 1999

Anchor Stone Company ............................................. 2015

Aspire of Southwest Missouri ................................... 2010

Sharon Beshore ............................................................. 2009

Binky Guy Custom T's ................................................. 2011

Bourne Logistics Management, Inc. ...................... 2013

Cartridge World ............................................................. 2006

Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics ................. 2013

Choice Technology, LLC ............................................ 2013

Crabby's Seafood Bar & Grill .................................... 2015

Elite Promotions, Inc. .................................................. 2015

Enterprise Rent-A-Car ................................................. 1993

Federal Protection, Inc. ............................................... 1999

Home Instead Senior Care ........................................ 2011

Hunter & Millard Architects, Inc. ............................. 2014

J.E. Dunn Construction Co. ....................................... 2011

Joplin Industrial Electric, Inc. ................................... 1986

THANK YOU FOR RENEWINGKOA Kampground......................................................... 2004

Living Green Interior Landscaping, Inc. ............... 2011

Millennium Tennis & Fitness Club, LLC ................. 1999

Oasis Salon & Day Spa ................................................. 2001

Pittsburg State University - University

Advancement ................................................................. 2007

Premier Surgical Institute .......................................... 2015

S&S Security Systems ................................................... 2001

Schlotzsky's Deli ............................................................ 1995

SCORE of Southwest Missouri .................................. 2014

Shield Financial ............................................................. 2011

Silver Creek Assisted Living ....................................... 2001

Sophie, LLC ..................................................................... 2007

Star Mechanical/Wholesale Supply ........................ 2012

The Stevenson Law Office, P.C. ................................ 2013

The Titanic Museum Attraction ............................... 2010

Uncommon Orthodontics ......................................... 2014

Viking Line, Inc., dba Viking Trailways .................. 1989

Leadership Joplin 2017 – Engaging Future Community Leaders

Applications coming soon

The Leadership Joplin program provides a foundation for participants to expand their current leadership roles in the community. During the six-month course, class members develop a broad appreciation of our unique quality of life as well as an understanding of the complex opportunities they face as stewards of the community. Do you aspire to become an outstanding leader? Are you interested in cultivating productive professional relationships and a professional presence? Then LJ 2017 is the program for you!

Begins in January │ 12 Sessions │ Concludes in June │ Motive Matters Color Code Training

The Leadership Joplin program was awarded the Programs & Campaigns Award of Excellence at the 2015 Chamber of Commerce Executives of Missouri (CCEM).

This will be our 34th year with more than 850 community leaders graduating from the program.

For questions, contact Ginger LaMar at 417.624.4150 or glamar@joplincc.com.

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Problem-Solving Tips for Business By Karen Bradshaw, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship at Missouri Southern State University

"Problems are only opportunities in work clothes." Henri Kaiser Business owners and managers are faced with many problems and make many decisions each day. Given the competitive business environment each company faces, the ability to analyze each situation and come up with a game plan is paramount. Considering the competitive environment, government regulations, new technology, globalization, innovations and an array of other uncertainties business owners face, it can be quite challenging to deal with the many unforeseen problems that appear. Being able to creatively solve problems is a very valuable skill to master and can make the future of your business more stable. Oftentimes in business, it’s hard to see “the forest for the trees.” A situation may exist in which you can’t figure out what the real problem is, let alone find a good solution to the problem. Following are some tips to help you with problem solving in business.

1. Carefully define and clarify the problem. Ask yourself why you see the current situation as a problem. What are the circumstances of the situation? How did this happen? When and where is this problem occurring? Why do you think there is a problem? Is this part of a trend or a larger situation?

2. Consider the possibility that the situation you are dealing with may not actually be a problem after all; it may be an opportunity in disguise. Oftentimes our view of the world makes us see certain situations in a negative light. Clearly look at the situation for what it is. Challenge your pre-conceived ideas.

3. Examine the potential cause of the problem. This can be useful when you are trying to find a good solution. What is the root cause of the problem? Seek advice and input from other people as to the potential causes of the problem so that you can see the situation from other points of view. As Peter Drucker said, “The most serious mistakes are not being made as a result of wrong answers. The truly dangerous thing is asking the wrong questions."

4. Brainstorm and generate ideas in order to find as many

solutions to the problem as possible. Once again, make certain to get the input of others so you have as many ideas as possible to choose from. Make certain to not discount any ideas at first; you want to have many alternatives. Write down all ideas.

5. Evaluate ideas and prioritize potential solutions to the problem. Which solution is the most realistic choice that will not only solve the problem now, but have the best long-term effect on your company? Which solution is the most affordable, feasible and realistic solution that can be achieved in a reasonable amount of time?

6. Select the best solution to your problem and develop a plan to help you implement your solution. You will need to communicate with other people to assist you

in this effort to complete your plan. You will need to examine the resources needed and a time needed to accomplish your plan. Use your best ideas.

7. Implement your plan. If you are not the only person working on the resolution of the problem, then you will need to assign responsibility to individuals and effectively communicate your plans and expectations.

8. Monitor and measure the implementation of your plan to solve the problem. Remember, you will need to continue to observe whether your plan is working and to get regular feedback about the process. Always consider if the problem was actually solved.

Companies face a variety of problems on a daily basis. Having a systematic method of trying to solve problems can help you clarify the real issues and develop workable solutions. Remember, what starts out as a problem may actually be an opportunity. A new competitor may result in your company revising its outdated marketing plan and thereby increase sales. Declining sales may encourage managers to look at their product offerings and start selling new profitable product lines. New government regulations may force your company to look at revising its business operations and thereby increase sales. “The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them." Albert Einstein

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016Joplin Metro Area Top Place for Logistics & Quality of Living

Business Facilities Magazine has named the Joplin metro area as a “Top Ten” place in two areas in its recently released 12th Annual Metro Rankings Report.

The Joplin Metro area was ranked seventh in the magazine’s Logistics Leaders of the locations that have “tremendous assets serving all modes of transportation: air, land, water and rail.” Memphis, Tennessee, was ranked first.

Business Facilities ranked Joplin eighth in its Quality of Life ranking. The magazine looked at cost of living and economic growth potential, among other factors. Oklahoma City was ranked first in the quality of life ranking.

“With a central U.S. location, excellent Interstate and rail service, access to three regional airports and a new intermodal facility in the works, it is clear why Business Facilities gave our metro area Top Ten ranking for logistics," said Rob O’Brian, president of Joplin Regional Partnership. “Along with that, people across our entire three-state region have long enjoyed a low cost of living and a wide array of amenities and education options that enhance our quality of life.”

Business Facilities looks at all 380 metro areas in the U.S. and rates metro areas on nearly 20 categories from quality of living to entrepreneurial development to economic growth. Business Facilities is a leading full-service media brand specializing in the site selection marketplace.

Hot Links 2016Championship Flight 1st: Freeman Health System Jeff Carrier Brandon Gibson Bob Stauffer Todd Twiss 2nd: Cartridge World JC Burd Dantley Harbin Paul Ashe Dana Meadows 3rd: Arvest Chad Evans Kasey Cowger Blake Bard Donny Allen

A Flight 1st: Keller Williams Seth Dermott Steve Johnson Dustin Johnson Tim Breedlove 2nd: KOAM-TV/FOX 14 Mike Olmstead Steve Holinsworth David Fink Russell Schaap 3rd: MSSU Kevin Greim Derek Skaggs Ronnie Ressel Tom Rutledge

B Flight 1st: Rib Crib Eric Esposito Lee Goodman Joey Gorenc Tim Windsor 2nd: Independent Living Center Kristi Benefiel Kay Smith Dawn Smith Marti Shelton 3rd: Lakeland Office Systems Mike Booe Nick Booe Darrell Dudley Bob Tyson

Longest Drive: Daniel TurnerClosest to Pin: Jeff Carrier

Thank you to our Hot Links 2016 Sponsors for another great tournament! Presenting Sponsors: Downstream Casino Resort & Freeman Health System

Gold Sponsor: Joplin Supply Company Lunch Sponsor: Rib Crib Breakfast Sponsor: Panera Hole in One Sponsor: Roper Honda Cart Sponsor: Missouri Southern State University

T-shirt Sponsor: Binky Guy Custom T's

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September 2016

This is an evening of celebrating events and honoring accomplishments from the past year, such as Golden Apple, Small Business of the Year and our Citizen of the Year.

JACC 100th ANNUAL BANQUET 2017

CHAMBER CONNECTION A fantastic way to meet and get to know other JACC members in our quarterly event held at the Chamber office. It gives participants an opportunity to enhance their networking skills and perfect their “elevator speech.”

FIRST FRIDAY COFFEE & BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

These networking events are held monthly and are extremely popular and fun. If you have ample space to have 125-plus JACC members come through your doors, you can be a host sponsor. These events are reserved several months in advance, so call today to find out how you can get yours!

LEADERSHIP JOPLIN This is a 6-month program in its 34th year with more than 875 graduates. It teaches and motivates future community leaders through a 12-session curriculum that includes leadership development and Missouri Public Policy. There are several great sponsorship opportunities that can get you in front of this dynamic group of leaders.

GREAT JACC Opportunities to Get Your Business Name Out There

BUSINESS EXPO 2017 Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

25th Annual Business EXPO January 24 & 25, 2017

Downstream Casino Resort’s Grand Pavilion Tuesday, January 24, 2017 - noon – 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, January 25, 2017 - 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sponsorships Available

The perfect way for you to create your “store window” right here in our main lobby for a full month. We will even keep it neat and your promotional information stocked for you, so that everyone who comes to our JACC office can learn more about your business’ products and services. And you won’t believe how inexpensive it is!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT TABLE

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

This is a vibrant and active group of area professionals, ages 21-40, who are doing great things in our community. There are many ways to support this program and its members’ positive work, including scholarships.

BUSINESS OUTLOOK DIGITAL NEWSLETTER The newsletter is emailed to over 2,700 individual JACC members at the beginning of each month. Your current digital and print advertisements should be reaching your fellow Chamber members via this informational newsletter that contains great highlights and features such as ribbon cuttings, “Message from our President” and "Our Members Announce.”

For more information, contact Jim Kesler, Membership Sales Strategist at 417.624.4150 or jkesler@joplincc.com.

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STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS: THE FIRST STEPS BEFORE YOU START A BUSINESS (Participants will have an opportunity to assess their business idea, learn about the importance of planning, discuss legal and regulatory requirements, learn about marketing strategies and identify sources of financing. Each participant will receive a start-up manual.) September 16 (Friday), 1:30-4:30 pm Location: Plaster Hall, MSSU Cost: $29 per business

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE: DOES IT STILL EXIST? (This workshop will present ideas to participants about the importance of customer service and tips for improving and implementing great customer service in any organization.) September 20 (Tuesday), 11:45 am-1 pm Location: Carthage Water and Electric Plant, 627 West Centennial Ave., Carthage Cost: $10 includes lunch (pre-registration required)

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

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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DATE: October 28thTIME: 9am-2pm (Lunch provided)LOCATION: The Endzone Facility

Missouri Southern State University3950 Newman RoadJoplin, MO 64801

COST: $49.00 RSVP: (417) 624-4150 | www.joplincc.com

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce (417) 623-0941 - Payroll Vault

Six Steps to Small Business SuccessPresented by Sean Manning, CPA, author: Six Steps to Small Business Success

with guest speaker Malvina Messler, Executive VP of Business Development

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a special presentation at The Endzone by CEO, author, and CPA, Sean Manning. Sean will be joined by busi-ness development expert Malvina Messler, who will present secrets on building relationships and growing a business.

The Six Steps to Small Business Success presentation is designed to give the audience the necessary tools, guidance, and knowledge to take their small business goals and make them a successful reality.

Sean Manning CPA & CEO

Malvina Messler Executive VP of Business

Development

Join Us at The Endzone and Learn How to

Take Your Business to the Next Level!

™

Client Focused. Technology Driven.P A Y R O L L R E - D E F I N E D.

PRESENTATION SPONSORS:

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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

IMMEDIATE AC TION REQUIRED:DOL Requires All U.S. Employers to

Update Federal Posters

Contact Payroll Vault today to get your new poster.

Phone: 417.623.0941Email: j.d.buckridge@payrollvault.com

Replace your posters now to stay compliant!

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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First (Second) Friday Coffee

Friday, September 9 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by and located at Mercy Hospital Joplin

100 Mercy Way (Located in the Cancer Center)

RSVP by September 7 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, September 20 5:30-7 p.m.

Sponsored by and located at Results Radio, AMI Radio Group

2510 West 20th Street

RSVP by September 16 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996.

Good Morning Joplin

Located at Victory Ministry and Sports Complex

3405 South Hammons Blvd.

Presented by Sponsored by

7:15 a.m. - Breakfast | 7:30 a.m. - Program |

$14 at the door or if invoiced $12 if prepaid online only

RSVP by September 13 at www.joplincc.com or 417.624.1996

Thursday, September 15

7:15-9 a.m.

Now taking GMJ speakers! Call Stephanie at 417.624.4150!