Heard on the Street

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DELTA WINGING TO TOWN?|ret||ret||tab|

Rumors that Delta Air Lines might add service from Springfield to Cincinnati were in the air at the Breakfast with Champions event Feb. 27, inspired, perhaps, by the presence of speaker Chris Dunham, director of Delta Air Lines risk management department. Sherry Wallace, director of marketing and communications for the Springfield-Branson Regional Airport said there is nothing to confirm or deny. "We have been to see them very recently. We like them. We'd love to see them come in because they would offer more northeastern connections and options favorable to business and leisure travelers," Wallace said. She added, "Delta is an excellent airline. It would be great to have them here." However, there is no contract or even negotiations to bring the airline here. With the impending sale of TWA, "a lot of airlines have been calling us" and airport management has always kept in contact with airlines, including Delta, she said. But as for the possibility of Delta coming to Springfield, "we won't know until a contract is signed and they are painting the planes."|ret||ret||tab|

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ARTSFEST SET FOR MAY 5-6|ret||ret||tab|

Although temperatures have been frigid, it's not too early to dream about the warmth of spring and Artsfest 2001 on Walnut Street. Visual artists for the juried art display to be held May 5 and 6 will be chosen March 5. Sponsored by the Springfield Area Arts Council, the 21st annual festival celebrates spring, food, fun and the visual and performing arts. Visual artists may compete in painting, fiber, drawing, leather, printmaking, clay, photography, glass, paper, metal, wood or mixed media. Exhibiting artists will be eligible for cash awards of at least $2,000 and the Best of Show award. For more information, call Shellie Jones at 417-831-6200.|ret||ret||tab|

LEADING IN TROUBLED TIMES|ret||ret||tab|

Linda Wachner, Warnaco group chairman, has five tips for leading businesses during difficult economic times, according to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal. First, she advises, focus on what you're doing. "If you're a dilettante and jump from one thing to the next you can't get the maximum result." Second, give customers what they want and grow with them. Third, trust your instincts and rely on yourself first. "Know in your heart you're doing the right thing." Fourth, surround yourself with people whose brains and judgment you respect. She believes that's more important than trust. Finally, live by the golden rule, because, "What goes around comes around." |ret||ret||tab|

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MARKETING THE OZARKS|ret||ret||tab|

A local community has jumped on the bandwagon to help the Ozarks area market itself as a destination for travelers. The Buffalo Chamber of Commerce was approved for membership in the Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau's area marketing partnership program, according to Melanie Earl-Replogle of the CVB. Since the program began in August 2000, 25 area businesses have joined including Silver Dollar City, the Dixie Stampede, Exotic Animal Paradise and Fantastic Caverns, Earl-Replogle said. Dallas County, where Buffalo is located, has many outdoor activities available for travelers, including fishing and floating the Niangua River.[[In-content Ad]]