Newsroom Notes: SBJ adds weekly regional focus to newspaper

I'll borrow a technique from Joe McAdoo aka Rusty Saber this week and write a column about several things running through my mind.

Life at the Business Journal has been hectic, but I suppose that's good, because it means that there's plenty going on in the business arena and plenty for us to write about.

Regional coverage

Last week, readers probably noticed our new Regional Focus logo. That's delivery on a promise made by SBJ Managing Editor Clarissa French to increase our reporting on business developments in the communities surrounding Springfield.

Think about it covering regional news makes perfect sense. Because the residents of this region work and live in such close proximity, it stands to reason that growth and development in Nixa, for example, will directly affect the Springfield economy. People who live in Springfield might work in an outlying community and vice versa, so it makes sense that things that affect the work forces of those communities might be relevant to all area readers.

In any case, look for the logo as you read SBJ. You might be surprised to learn what some of our neighbors are up to.

Additions

The new logo isn't the only new addition these days at SBJ. Two weeks ago, we published a picture of the newest addition to the SBJ family Alexa Olson, the cute-as-a-button daughter of intrepid SBJ reporter Eric Olson. It's been fun watching Mr. New Dad adjust to all the changes that come with parenthood though I wonder if someone should tell him that just when he thinks he's got things figured out, they'll change at least for the next 18 years or so.

As I write this, the SBJ staff is preparing for another delivery, which is going to keep me out of the office for a month or so. As the plan stands now, my husband and I will welcome our third and final family addition May 6. All the signs so far say this bundle will be a pink one, which will be a treat, especially for our two boys, who are 5 and 6.

I have no doubt, though, that the gang in the SBJ newsroom will keep things going smoothly while I'm gone.

40 Under 40

By the time this edition of the Business Journal hits the stands, we will have finished honoring our 2003 class of 40 Under 40 recipients, who were selected for the award based on their accomplishments in business.

These individuals are often described as young up-and-comers, and that's exactly what they are movers, shakers and decision makers whose choices have the potential to shape the business community for years to come.

Up next for SBJ is the annual Economic Impact Awards. This year's event is scheduled for July 17 at the Tower Club. Companies will be honored in the categories of law, restaurant/dining, residential development, commercial architecture and public accounting. An individual will receive the Lifetime Achievement in Business Award. Nominations are still being taken, but they must be in by May 9.

Call Debra Fickbohm, special products coordinator, at 417-831-3238, or e-mail her at dfickbohm@sbj.net to make a nomination or for ticket or sponsorship opportunities.

How bout them Royals?

This last little tidbit serves no purpose except that I think it's terrific. My dad has always been a huge fan of the Kansas City Royals and as his daughter, some of that has understandably rubbed off on me. I can remember the "good ol' days" for the Royals George Brett, Amos Otis and the 1985 World Series.

I remember going to the stadium in "the big city," and my favorite trips were when they played double-headers. I used to want to be a beer vendor at the stadium aside from journalism, that was probably my only real career aspiration as a kid. Not that I really knew what beer was, and I sure never tasted it, but I knew what money was, and the "beer guys" always seemed to have the most in their hands.

I'm not really what most people would consider a sports fan OK, I do love the Green Bay Packers and in fact have a cheesehead that I keep here at my desk and often use as a "thinking cap" but I am happy about the Royals' terrific season thus far.

I've already called my dad and asked him to get some tickets so we can take a family trip to K.C. and take in a game.

It will be my kids' first major-league baseball game, and I'm betting they'll love it. I know I will, because it's been about 10 years since I visited the stadium and that's far too long.