Officials with Bass Pro Shops and Richard Childress Racing unveiled their new partnership during a Feb. 2 ceremony. Bass Pro is sponsoring RCR's No. 3 Chevrolet Silverado truck for the 2010 Nascar Camping World Truck Series, and the vehicle was on display at Bass Pro's Springfield flagship store. On hand for the event were Bass Pro founder Johnny Morris, RCR President and CEO Richard Childress and driver Austin Dillon, who will be at the helm of the truck this season. Members of the Ozarks Area Racing Association Hall of Fame also attended the event.
Bass Pro and RCR have partnered on vehicle sponsorships since 1998, when the outdoor retailer was an associate sponsor of the No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevy Monte Carlo driven on NASCAR's main circuit by Dale Earnhardt. Bass Pro also has sponsored vehicles for other NASCAR drivers, including Kevin Harvick, Kerry Earnhardt and Martin Truex Jr.
Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends. Baker uses a variety of tools like rubber stamps and special ink pens to customize pages.
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Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens. Crews maintain a 45-acre tree farm at Carson's 6607 S. Campbell Ave. site.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens. The whitebud trees at Carson's Nurseries' South Campbell location have blossomed for the spring.
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Carson's Nurseries' owner J.J. Cybulski says the recession, combined with a warmer spring, is spurring sales as customers want to spruce up their homes and cultivate gardens. The whitebud trees at Carson's South Campbell location have blossomed for the spring.
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Former Councilwoman Mary Collette receives an award recognizing her service.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Former Mayor Tom Carlson, along with former council members John Wylie, Mary Collette and Denny Whayne, look on.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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New Mayor Jim O’Neal takes the oath of office under the watch of former Mayor Tom Carlson.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Former Councilman Denny Whayne receives recognition for his years of service.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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New Mayor Jim O’Neal, right, presents a plaque to former Councilman John Wylie recognizing his council service.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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New Mayor Jim O’Neal, right, presents a plaque to his predecessor, Tom Carlson, recognizing his years of service.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Jim O’Neal takes the oath of office as Springfield’s new mayor.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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General A Councilman Bob Stephens takes the oath of office.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Zone 4 Councilman Scott Bailes receives the oath of office from City Clerk Brenda Cirtin.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Zone 1 Councilman Nicholas Ibarra takes the oath of office.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Acrylic paintings by Jeanie Morris, including "Dusk," decorate the back wall of Fresh. She is the wife of Bass Pro Shops' founder Johnny Morris.
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St. Louis Cardinals hall of fame pitcher Bruce Sutter signs a baseball before throwing at the ceremonial first pitch.
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Springfield Cardinals players pause during the national anthem.
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Richard Herman raises sheep at his home. He leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Richard Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Springfield Cardinals starting pitcher Kyle Mura delivers a pitch to Frisco clean-up batter Chad Tracy. Mura pitched three innings, allowing two runs, prior to a lengthy rain delay.
Springfield Cardinals pitcher Elvis Hernandez waves to the crowd at opening day at Hammons Field on April 9.
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Oyster mushrooms are among the foods Richard Herman grows at his home. Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Richard Herman offers this motto at his home north of Springfield. Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Richard Herman uses a homemade wood stove at his home north of Springfield. Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
Buy this photo
Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
Buy this photo
Local professionals – including Kole Carter – turn to martial arts for fitness, as well as foundational traits that can be applied to everyday life and leadership.
Click here for the full story in this week's After 5 feature.
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Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
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Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
Click here for the story.
Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
Click here for the story.
Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
Click here for the story.
Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
Click here for the story.
Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
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No. 5
Duck Creek Technologies Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $29.3 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 24 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 29 percent
• Words to work by: “I don’t think there’s a business out there that can say that the economy hasn’t impacted their business.” – Robin Robeson, vice president of corporate services.
• Tip for economic survival: “Obviously you have to have a product that the market demands and has a need for. I don’t think you can ever let your product slip – become less relevant in the marketplace,” Robeson said
Click here for No. 4
The English as a Second Language class at Ozarks Technical Community College held a tree-planting ceremony April 22 to commemorate Earth Day. Breaking ground for the “Liberty Elm” are, from left, OTC instructor Fran Giglio, student Pathy Shafer and President Hal Higdon. Giglio also spoke about the significance of the elm tree in America.
Ann Meese works on an acrylic painting while watching over the Fresh Gallery, 411 S. Campbell Ave., on a recent weekday. The gallery opened April 3 under the banner of Springfield Regional Arts Council. About 25 artists share the expenses and responsibilities of running the gallery.
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Fresh Gallery opened April 3 under the banner of Springfield Regional Arts Council. About 25 artists share the expenses and responsibilities of running the gallery.
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Fresh Gallery opened April 3 under the banner of Springfield Regional Arts Council. About 25 artists share the expenses and responsibilities of running the gallery.
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Carol Penprase's "Forest Dreams" incorporates fibers and other media.
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Carol Penprase works in mixed-media fibers. This piece is called "Fantasy Forrest."
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Stephanie Cramer's acrylic painting, "Moxie," shown here in detail, incorporates the logo of the local independent cinema.
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Springfield Cardinals' opening day starter Kyle Mura throws the season's first pitch to Frisco RoughRiders' center fielder Craig Gentry. The pitch – a called strike – kicked off the Cardinals' bid for their first opening day win. They had not won a season opener in the previous four seasons.
The Cardinals took the lead early, but rain threatened their chances of recording a win. Despite enduring a two-hour-and-forty-five-minute delay, the Cardinals took home a 16-4 victory around 1:00 a.m. Friday morning.
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St. Louis Cardinals hall of fame pitcher Bruce Sutter chats with Springfield Cardinals Manager Ron "Pop" Warner after throwing out the first pitch during opening day festivities at Hammons Field on April 9.
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Missouri State University President Michael Nietzel is on hand for the second award presentation, along with Linda Walker of Transport Graphics, MSU SBTDC Director Rayanna Anderson, Steve Makoski of Transport Graphics and SBTDC Consultant Isabel Eisenhauer.
State Sen. Delbert Scott presents an award to Aaron Mayfield of A.M. Pyrotechnics. The company, along with Transport Graphics, was one of 20 outstanding small businesses in Missouri honored by the General Assembly in January. The business showcase was sponsored by the Missouri Small Business & Technology Development Centers.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
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Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
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Bruce Burnaugh has several sculptures on display at the Fresh Gallery. "Angie" is carved from Colorado Yule marble.
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Kyle Krause, president and CEO of Kum & Go LC, cuts the ribbon April 8 on the newest Kum & Go location along with Springfield Mayor Pro Tem Gary Deaver, right. Kum & Go purchased 37 Cody’s Convenience Stores for an undisclosed amount in March and is in the process of rebranding the Springfield stores. Kum & Go now operates 71 locations in southwest Missouri.
No. 11
Citizens Memorial Healthcare
• 2008 Revenues: $196.5 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 4.7 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 8 percent
• Words to work by: “The organization, I think, will always continue to grow because we do a lot of planning and focusing on the future.” – CMH CEO Donald J. Babb
• Tip for economic survival: “I think it’s just knowing the details of your operations and adjusting where you need to adjust, and trying to do that before you get yourself in a bind,” Babb said.
No. 12
Queen City Roofing and Contracting Co. Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $5.6 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 51 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 4.5 percent
• Words to work by: “I know the budgets get tight, but I think it’s a drastic mistake to cut back on training.” – Owner Larry Stock
• Tip for economic survival: Don’t get lost in negativity, and focus on factors that can be controlled. “You’re either in business for the short term or long term, and then stay the course. You can’t bounce back and forth,” Stock said.
Dan Vega, CEO of Blue Star Business Institute, cuts the ribbon on the new business during an April 21 ceremony. The company, 901 St. Louis St., Ste. 105, offers five-day courses for aspiring entrepreneurs; the first session was earlier this month, with the next scheduled for June. (
Click here to read more about Blue Star and the entrepreneurial climate.)
Karla Breeding Trammell's jewelry pieces are displayed in a glass case on the floor of Fresh.
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"Painted Lady" is part of Angel Nahon's "Key West Postcard Series" hanging in Fresh.
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Angel Nahon has a collection of acrylic paintings called "Key West Postcard Series" hanging in Fresh.
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Mayor Jim O’Neal presides over his first council meeting.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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City Clerk Brenda Cirtin, left, administers the oath to General B Councilman John Rush.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Springfield Cardinals Vice President Kirk Elmquist and Great Southern Bank's Theresa Chasteen Calhoun present a $100 check on behalf of Springfield's Best to outfielder Daryl Jones, the St. Louis Cardinals' minor league player of the year.
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The Springfield Cardinals kicked off their fifth season on April 9 at Hammons Field.
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Richard Herman grows peach blossoms on his land. Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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No. 6
Midwest Metro Foreclosures Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $3 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 118 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 24.5 percent
• Words to work by: “I want to grow, but I want to grow the right way. To grow just to grow doesn’t make sense for anybody.” – Charlie Nelson
• Tip for economic survival: “You have to communicate and do an awesome job on what they give you. It’s not rocket science, but a lot of people don’t. That’s how we were able to grow.” – Founder Bryan Cates
Click here for No. 5
No. 7
BKD LLP
• 2008 Revenues: $354 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 10.8 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 11 percent
• Words to work by: “We are not sitting back; we’re going to keep the focus on growth like we always have, and we expect to close the year with good growth, both in the local market and firmwide.” – Managing Partner John Wanamaker
• Tip for economic survival: Keep marketing your business. “We think it’s more important than ever to fight the economic headwind. You’ve got to attempt to grow, so now is not the time to put your head in the sand and just hunker down. You’ve got to get out there and grow your business to offset what might otherwise be lost,” Wanamaker said.
Click here for No. 6
No. 8
CoxHealth
• 2008 Revenues: $1.9 billion
• Revenue Growth: 2006–07: 10.7 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 11 percent
• Words to work by: “(A limited liability purchasing partnership) will help us reduce our costs, because we’ll be able to purchase in greater volume … which will then be passed on to the patients we serve.” – Laurie Cunningham, vice president of corporate communications
• Tip for economic survival: “First, keep your customer – and in our case – our patient first. Second, look for opportunities to grow and enhance revenue. Third, maintain a low cost structure by eliminating waste,” CEO Robert Bezanson said.
Click here for No. 7
No. 9
Dynatek Laboratories Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $4.2 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 19.5 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 108.7 percent
• Words to work by: “You have to be able to hire good people, educated people, and pay them what they need to be paid. – co-owner Elaine Strope
• Tip for economic survival: Be flexible and willing to change direction quickly. “That ability to change and adapt quickly is something a small company can do that a large company can’t match,” Strope said.
Click here for No. 8
Gov. Jay Nixon announces during a Jan. 23 news conference at Missouri State University that the state’s two-year public colleges will see no cuts in state appropriations in his budget proposal for fiscal 2010. In exchange, two-year school leaders have pledged not to raise tuition or academic fees for the 2009–10 school year. Nixon detailed a similar plan with the state’s four-year public institutions on Jan. 21.
Springfield Cardinals third baseman Brett Wallace laces a hit down the first base line to drive in the first run of the season in the bottom of the first inning on April 9. Wallace finished the evening with four hits – including two home runs – and six RBIs. Wallace was the Cardinals first round selection in the 2008 First-Year Player Draft and is rated as the organization's second-best prospect by Baseball America.
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The Springfield Cardinals kicked off their fifth season on April 9 at Hammons Field.
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Springfield Symphony director Ron Spigelman leads the symphony brass quintet in the national anthem during opening day ceremonies.
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The 2009 Springfield Cardinals stand on the first base line during opening day festivities.
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Springfield Cardinals starting catcher Tony Cruz rides in the bed of a red Chevy pickup during opening day festivities at Hammons Field on April 9.
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Artist Ann Meese works on an acrylic painting while watching over the Fresh Gallery, 411 S. Campbell Ave., on a recent weekday.
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Artist Ann Meese works on an acrylic painting while watching over the Fresh Gallery, 411 S. Campbell Ave., on a recent weekday.
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Employees Donna Chastain and Cissy Altevogt speak with MERS/Missouri Goodwill Industries CFO Dewayne Barnett. The St. Louis-based company has opened 15 stores across the country in the last two years.
Assistant Store Manager Teena Snyder and Store Manager Karen Freeman cut the ribbon on the remodeled Goodwill store, 520 E. Battlefield Road. The location is one of the company’s first to feature a new store model with brighter interiors and more open design.
Brent Baldwin, senior vice president at BancorpSouth, addresses a crowd gathered at the March 10 groundbreaking ceremony for Child Advocacy Center. Baldwin is the center’s board president. The center is adding a second program area to its existing facilities including rooms for families to wait, interviews, observation and medical examinations. The $675,000 expansion is funded by a grant from the C.W. Titus Foundation and three anonymous donations. Bates & Associates designed the project and SBI of Springfield is constructing the facility, which should be complete by early fall.
Brent Baldwin, senior vice president at BancorpSouth, addresses a crowd gathered at the March 10 groundbreaking ceremony for Child Advocacy Center. Baldwin is the center’s board president. The center is adding a second program area to its existing facilities including rooms for families to wait, interviews, observation and medical examinations. The $675,000 expansion is funded by a grant from the C.W. Titus Foundation and three anonymous donations. Bates & Associates designed the project and SBI of Springfield is constructing the facility, which should be complete by early fall.
Community Foundation of the Ozarks presented grants to seven organizations during a March 11 ceremony. Among the groups receiving funds are, above, Lighthouse Child and Family Development Center, right, which received $19,820 to fund a second facility in partnership with Messiah Lutheran Church.
CFO, represented in both of these photos by board treasurer Doug Thornsberry, distributed $135,000 through its Children’s Issues in Education grant program.
City Attorney Dan Wichmer, left, confers with City Manager Greg Burris.
Four new members of Springfield City Council and a new mayor were sworn in during a special council meeting April 14 in historic City Hall. Jim O’Neal is the city’s new mayor after winning in the April 7 election, while new council members Nicholas Ibarra, Scott Bailes, Bob Stephens and John Rush represent Zones 1 and 4 and General Seats A and B, respectively.
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Community Foundation of the Ozarks presented grants to seven organizations during a March 11 ceremony. Among the groups receiving funds are, above, Drury University’s Summer Scholars Program, which received $23,390 for program expansion.
CFO, represented in both of these photos by board treasurer Doug Thornsberry, distributed $135,000 through its Children’s Issues in Education grant program.
Richard Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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Richard Herman shows off the bamboo he grows at his home. Herman leads a self-sufficient lifestyle at his home north of Springfield by using natural resources – instead of electricity – for energy.
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The Springfield Cardinals 2009 team was brought out in red Chevy trucks during opening day festivities at Hammons Field on April 9.
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No. 1
Incredible Pizza Co.
• 2008 Revenues: $82.6 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 78 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08 29 percent
• Words to work by: “We’re going to build another five stores this year beyond the three that are under construction.” – Owner Rick Barsness
• Tip for economic survival: “It doesn’t cost a lot: take out a pencil and paper, go out to the customer and ask him, ‘What do you think? How are the prices? How do I compare to the competitor? What do you like about us? What do you not like about us? Why’d you come here?’ And adjust whatever business they’re in to what the customer wants. It took us a few years … but we finally figured it out, and it’s made a huge difference.” – Scott Axon, director of franchise development
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No. 2
O’Reilly Automotive Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $3.5 billion
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 10.5 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 37.8 percent
• Words to work by: “O’Reilly has always been a growth-oriented company … especially since we went public, and one of those ways is acquisitions.” – Mark Merz, investor relations manager
• Tip for economic survival: “You certainly have to find a product or service you can take and you can make unique. O’Reilly has done it with it’s dual-market strategy … and then we decided to be perfectionists at it,” Merz said.
Click here for No. 1
No. 3
Russell Cellular Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $26.5 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 55 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 31.5 percent
• Words to work by: “You can grow and have bigger numbers, but if you don’t make more money, it doesn’t always count.” – Kym Russell, vice president
• Tip for economic survival: “Focus on what you’re good at, and then focus on what makes money.” – President Jeff Russell
Click here for No. 2
No. 4
MaMa Jean’s Natural Market
• 2008 Revenues: $5.4 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 44 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 38.5 percent
• Words to work by: “Give (employees) loose reins and don’t pull them back unless they start going too far.” – co-owner Diana Hicks
• Tip for economic survival: “I put myself in the customer’s spot when I’m in the store. What do I see? What would I want? And then we try to make that happen.” – co-owner Susie Farbin
Click here for No. 3
No. 10
Healthcarefirst Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $5.7 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 35 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08 19.7 percent
• Words to work by: “I would be very surprised if we (have) not completed two acquisitions by this time next year, so our growth will be much more rapid … ” – President and CEO Bobby Robertson
• Tip for economic survival: “All of our employees that come in know what we morally and ethically expect. … By taking care of our clients, all of our clients are taking care of us.” – Robertson said.
Click here for No. 9
No. 11
Citizens Memorial Healthcare
• 2008 Revenues: $196.5 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 4.7 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 8 percent
• Words to work by: “The organization, I think, will always continue to grow because we do a lot of planning and focusing on the future.” – CMH CEO Donald J. Babb
• Tip for economic survival: “I think it’s just knowing the details of your operations and adjusting where you need to adjust, and trying to do that before you get yourself in a bind,” Babb said.
Click here for No. 10
No. 12
Queen City Roofing and Contracting Co. Inc.
• 2008 Revenues: $5.6 million
• Revenue Growth 2006–07: 51 percent
• Revenue Growth 2007–08: 4.5 percent
• Words to work by: “I know the budgets get tight, but I think it’s a drastic mistake to cut back on training.” – Owner Larry Stock
• Tip for economic survival: Don’t get lost in negativity, and focus on factors that can be controlled. “You’re either in business for the short term or long term, and then stay the course. You can’t bounce back and forth,” Stock said.
Click here for No. 11
Nixa-based Ample Industries uses high-tech equipment to create professional labels for clients such as candle-makers and BBQ sauce companies.
Click here for the story.
The official ID card and catalogue from Westminster. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
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Sophie is judged at Westminster. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
Click here for the story.
Sophie's Cavalier of the Midwest ribbon. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
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Sophie and her owner, Shawn Barton, backstage at Westminster Kennel Club. This month, Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
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Sophie's champion certification from 2006. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
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Suzy Shoe Shine, aka Susan Snider, who works in SBJ’s trade show booth, has the tables turned by Ken Hurley of Insultech Spray Foam LLC during the 2009 Greater Springfield Home Builders Association Home Show. The two were in neighboring booths at the show, which ran Feb. 6–8 at the Springfield Expo Center.
Five SBJ staff members – from left, Dee Dee Jacobs, Karen Ross, Mary Warner, Layla Harding and Jeremy Elwood – receive the trophy for most money raised during the media session of Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Bowl for Kids Sake event. Three sessions at Nixa’s Century Lanes on Feb. 7 raised more than $18,500 for the organization; additional sessions are scheduled for March 12 at Lighthouse Lanes and March 14–15 at Battlefield Lanes.
The Garbanzos perform at the 10th Annual Pizza Bowl and Auction on Jan. 27 at the Ramada Oasis & Conference Center in north Springfield. The event – held the week before the Super Bowl – raised about $15,300 for the council’s youth and adult literacy programs, said Executive Director Paula Shumaker. That’s $3,000 more than last year, she said. Neighborhood Pizza Café, Godfather’s and Domino’s all won awards in this year’s competition, which featured 10 vendors.
Springfield Cardinals clean-up batter Tony Cruz waits on a pitch from Frisco RoughRiders starter Omar Poveda.
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Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
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Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
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“Miss Peacock” stands as SBJ’s submission to the bowling pin decorating contest. All decorated pins are being auctioned at www.bigbro.com/pinheads_auction.asp, with proceeds going to BBBS.
Springfield Symphony Orchestra Music Director Ron Spigelman and artist Jane Troup show off Troup’s work, “Symphony,” during the orchestra’s 2009–10 season preview luncheon Feb. 25 at The Tower Club in Hammons Tower. The luncheon, which serves as a sneak peek into the orchestra’s plans for the upcoming performance season, is offered in gratitude to orchestra donors and sponsors.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Bob Lewis and George Lindsay represent Harry Cooper Supply Co., one of nearly 240 vendors that offered a full range of booths, demonstrations and seminars showcasing the latest in home improvement.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Above, Jeremy Reed of Bijan’s and Tony Garcia of Avanzare take a break from feeding the crowd of 340 at the American Heart Association Heart Ball on Feb. 14 at the Ramada Oasis Convention Center. The list of restaurants providing food for the event also included Fire & Ice, Gilardi’s, Kai and Touch.
Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends.
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Holly Elkins blends watercolor, acrylic and ink for her work, including "To Zora."
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Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends.
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Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends. Baker uses items from travels and events to personalize scrapbook pages.
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Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends. Baker adorns scrapbook pages with beads of different sizes and colors.
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Gloria Baker, district manager for Evergreen Enterprises, has a room in her home dedicated to her scrapbooking hobby. Many of her creations are given to family and friends.
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Springfield Cardinals right fielder Adam Brown steps in to face Frisco starter Omar Poveda in the bottom of the first inning.
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St. Louis Cardinals hall of fame pitcher Bruce Sutter throws the ceremonial first pitch - his signature split-finger fastball - to cap off opening day festivities at Hammons Field on April 9.
At left, KSPR anchors Joe and Christine Daues pause from their emcee duties. The event, dubbed the “Heart of Rock & Roll Heart Ball – Heart & Soul Tour,” included a silent auction and music from The Allie Catz. The event raised $110,000 for heart health research.
Retailer Posh Maternity’s Feb. 7 Let the Love Grow Round fashion show, brunch and silent auction raised $2,500 to be split by Pregnancy Care Center and Isabel’s House Crisis Nursery. Above, Posh owner Amy Hopper and her husband, Dru Hopper, show off their fundraiser T-shirts.
Below, emcee and expectant mother Maria Neider of KY3 introduces the next fashion diva to hit the stage at Parlor 88, host of the event, which was attended by about 85 people.
A custom blanket for Sophie, used at Westminster. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
Click here for the story.
Retailer Posh Maternity’s Feb. 7 Let the Love Grow Round fashion show, brunch and silent auction raised $2,500 to be split by Pregnancy Care Center and Isabel’s House Crisis Nursery. Above, Posh owner Amy Hopper and her husband, Dru Hopper, show off their fundraiser T-shirts.
Below, emcee and expectant mother Maria Neider of KY3 introduces the next fashion diva to hit the stage at Parlor 88, host of the event, which was attended by about 85 people.
Sophie's Best of Breed medallions. This month, Shawn Barton, a St. John's Health System privacy and data security analyst, showed her 5-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Sophie, at what many consider the world's most famous dog show, Westminster Kennel Club in New York.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has moved into a new operations center, the former Summer Fresh grocery store at 220 W. Plainview Road. The new location, for which renovations cost $5 million, has four times as much lab space, more parking and 10 acres of potential expansion space.
Click here for the story.
JPMorgan Chase presented a $15,000 donation to Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield on Dec. 4 for the club’s Power Hour tutoring program. On hand for the presentation are, from left, Chris Whitehead, director of resources and development for Boys & Girls Clubs; Michael Replogle, Chase’s local vice president of operations; Erica Frazier, Chase team manager of community relations; and Boys & Girls Clubs Executive Director Pat Gartland.
Matt Miller and his development company, Miller O’Reilly Co., unveiled Six23 Condos during a Dec. 5 open house in conjunction with First Friday Art Walk in downtown Springfield. The 39-unit condo complex, 623 W. Walnut St., features one-, two- and three-bedroom units along with a Zen garden and gated entry. According to www.six23condos.com, all but 10 of the units have been reserved. The available condos are listed for sale between $109,900 and $209,900.
Matt Miller and his development company, Miller O’Reilly Co., unveiled Six23 Condos during a Dec. 5 open house in conjunction with First Friday Art Walk in downtown Springfield. The 39-unit condo complex, 623 W. Walnut St., features one-, two- and three-bedroom units along with a Zen garden and gated entry. According to www.six23condos.com, all but 10 of the units have been reserved. The available condos are listed for sale between $109,900 and $209,900.
Matt Miller, and his development company, Miller O’Reilly Co., unveiled Six23 Condos during a Dec. 5 open house in conjunction with First Friday Art Walk in downtown Springfield. The 39-unit condo complex, 623 W. Walnut St., features one-, two- and three-bedroom units along with a Zen garden and gated entry. According to www.six23condos.com, all but 10 of the units have been reserved. The available condos are listed for sale between $109,900 and $209,900.
Skip Tinney, local manager for Wal-Mart Stores Inc., on Wednesday presented a $100,000 check on behalf of the Wal-Mart Foundation to the Rotary Club of Springfield North. The donation will go toward building a baseball and softball field for children and young adults with disabilities in Dan Kinney Park.
Skip Tinney, local manager for Wal-Mart Stores Inc., on Wednesday presented a $100,000 check on behalf of the Wal-Mart Foundation to the Rotary Club of Springfield North. The donation will go toward building a baseball and softball field for children and young adults with disabilities in Dan Kinney Park.
Skip Tinney, local manager for Wal-Mart Stores Inc., on Wednesday presented a $100,000 check on behalf of the Wal-Mart Foundation to the Rotary Club of Springfield North. The donation will go toward building a baseball and softball field for children and young adults with disabilities in Dan Kinney Park.
The Salute to Construction Council on Oct. 28 held a kick-off ceremony for this year's Salute events, which include a Nov. 6 banquet honoring the local design and construction industry. The kick-off was held at the new JQH Arena, and officials gave guided tours of the $67 million facility.
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Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
Professional embalmer Vernie Fountain brings closure to tragedy with his global business, Fountain National Academy of Professional Embalming Skills. Fountain reconstructs the bodies of traumatic death victims for funerals, and he teaches his skills to others.
Click here for the story.
The Salute to Construction Council on Oct. 28 held a kick-off ceremony for this year's Salute events, which include a Nov. 6 banquet honoring the local design and construction industry. The kick-off was held at the new JQH Arena, and officials gave guided tours of the $67 million facility.
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