Open for Business

Donnie and Joyce Ellison opened Ellison’s Home Boutique on Sept. 14 at 318 W. Walnut. The shop features made-in-Missouri crafts and the Ellisons’ own line of hand-made baskets. Joyce Ellison said her husband has been a master basket maker at Silver Dollar City for 33 years. The Ellisons, in their mid- to upper 50s, wanted to open their own store so they could leave their children something to run after retirement. “At our age, we felt like if we were ever going to do this, this was the time to do it,” Joyce Ellison said. Their store carries items priced from $4.99 to $300, displayed in 1,380 square feet they lease from Dale DeToni. The Ellisons have used about $20,000 of a $50,000 line of credit from Citizens Union State Bank for the startup. Hours are 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The Law Firm of Lee Ann Walker PC

Lee Ann Walker on Oct. 19 opened The Law Firm of Lee Ann Walker PC at 201 W. Hall in Ozark. Walker, a 1986 graduate of Pepperdine University’s law school, practices family law cases such as divorce and child custody. She previously worked in the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and in private practices. She said her startup costs have been only $6,000 and that she used no financing. She is leasing business space, including a reception area, private office and conference room, from Greg Hanks. Hours are 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Carnahan-White Fence Co.

Stacey and Carrie Hammit on May 1 relocated Carnahan-White Fence Co. from two south Campbell Avenue locations to 1845 S. State Highway MM. Stacey Hammit said they moved to have bigger facilities – 50,000 square feet versus 25,000 square feet – better highway access and a new 5,000-square-foot retail area for do-it-yourself types. The Hammits, who employ around 70, financed the move with an undisclosed amount from Guaranty Bank. Hours are 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m.–noon Saturday.

Contact Cory Smith with your Open for Business submissions. He may be reached by e-mail, by fax at (417) 799-0603 and by phone at (417) 831-3238.