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From Business Today Tax liens (02/20/12) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during January are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Business licenses (02/20/12) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during January include the following:Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 202 S. Broadview St. Bridge the Gap Now, 4053 Connor Drive El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant, 97 N. Kingshighway 10 El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant, 97 N. Kingshighway 10 (liquor license)... What an audit means for your business, and how to handle it (02/20/12) The word "audit" puts many business owners on edge, but auditor David Seabaugh of Baer & Edington LLC in Jackson says there's no need to panic if you get a notice. It doesn't automatically mean something is wrong, he says, and audits are actually becoming more frequent and common... Tips for protecting your business in case of disaster (02/20/12) More than 500 businesses were destroyed or substantially damaged last May after an EF-5 tornado left a 10-mile-long path of ruin in Joplin, Mo. Most were prepared for typical Midwest storm damage, but not for a tornado of that magnitude, says Rob O'Brian, president of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce... Briefs (02/20/12) BRIEFS TUTOR/DANCE STUDIO OPENS IN DONIPHAN DONIPHAN, Mo. -- Patti Hill and her son, Jesse Hill, opened Smart Moves Tutoring and Dance Studio at 4 Oak Tree Village, behind Patsy's Journeyman Restaurant in Doniphan. Patti, a licensed special education teacher, offers lessons in language arts, reading, math and study skills to students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. ... Names in the news (02/20/12) SAMMONS NAMED VP OF SALES Gregory Sammons was named vice president of sales, marketing and development for Campbell Mattress Co. He has been in the mattress business, including sales, manufacturing and development, for more than 35 years in national and regional companies... Health briefs (02/20/12) CASE MANAGERS EARN CERTIFICATION Cathy Ulrich and Lalita Toeniskoetter, nurses and care coordinators in SoutheastHEALTH's Case Management Department, passed the American Case Management Association certification exam and are now accredited case managers. Ulrich has worked at Southeast since 1985 and holds certification as a certified professional in utilization review. Toeniskoetter has also worked at Southeast since 1985... Bankruptcies (02/20/12) Bankruptcies filed through January for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Variety of liability insurance plans can protect businesses (02/20/12) Running a business isn't easy. And, unfortunately, mistakes sometimes happen. When those mistakes can cause harm or damage, that's when business liability insurance is needed. "In general, you carry liability to cover negligence," says attorney John Cook of Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz in Cape Girardeau... Business licenses (01/16/12) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during December include the following:Broadway Esquire Entertainment Group, 1606 Independence St., No. 7 Broadway Fashion Shop, 805 Broadway Cape Air, 420 Broadway Dynamite Coffee, 3049 William St., No. 9106... How massage is being used in health care (01/16/12) A massage isn't just a luxury anymore. It's been proven to relieve many symptoms and diseases, and is being used more often for medical health and well-being. "In my nine years, every one of my clients reports feeling better physically, emotionally and mentally after a massage," says Monica McLain, owner and massage therapist at Time Well Spent in Cape Girardeau... What you need to know about starting a workplace wellness program (01/16/12) Through its WorkWell training series, the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce is helping local businesses create wellness programs that are good for employees' individual health, workplace attitude and even the company pocketbook. "Really what these companies are trying to do is get a better handle on their health care expenditures within their place of business, as well as look at new strategies on how they can be more effective in having a healthy workforce. ... Dr. Sarah Holt discusses her latest endeavor (01/16/12) Administrator, professor, author. Dr. Sarah Holt's titles and responsibilities are extensive. Holt -- the administrator for Cape Surgical Clinic Inc. and Breast Care Center, Cape Medical Billing Corp. and the Doctors' Park complex -- is about to add another to the list with the launch of a medical insurance course Jan. 19. Holt says the class is already full and there's a waiting list for one she hopes to start in the spring... Tips for incorporating healthy habits into your workday (01/16/12) Staying healthy at work isn't always easy. Tempting treats await in the vending machine nearby, co-workers are sneezing and the stress is often mounting. Business Today asked several local health professionals for their advice on how to incorporate healthy habits at the office... Number of health care providers may not be able to meet growing demand (01/16/12) Eighty percent of Missouri, including all of Southeast Missouri, has already been designated a Health Provider Shortage Area by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. While the goal of federal health care reforms continuing to take effect is to ensure that more people get the care they need, in the future there may not be enough health care providers to meet these growing demands... Paying for diabetes: Disease, complications cost U.S. more than $170 billion (01/16/12) More than 25 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, according to the latest numbers from the American Diabetes Association. More than triple that number -- 79 million people -- have pre-diabetes. And the doctors' bills for all those people add up. In 2007, the total cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. was $174 billion... Tax liens (01/16/12) CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during December are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Names in the News (01/16/12) WATSON JOINS MRV BANKS STE. GENEVIEVE, Mo. -- Doug Watson joined MRV Banks as president and CEO. He has 33 years of banking experience, most recently as president and CEO for a bank in southwest Missouri. NORDENIA HONORS EMPLOYEES Stephen Wright, multicraft technician of Jackson, was employee of the month for December at Nordenia USA Inc. ... Business briefs (01/16/12) ELECTRIC BUSINESS OPENS IN DEXTER DEXTER, Mo. -- The Dexter Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting Dec. 9 for All About Electric, a new business owned by Brad Wright at the corner of County Road 412 and Three Mile Road. PAJCO TO OFFER FREESTYLE SODA FOUNTAIN... Health briefs (01/16/12) EYECARE OFFICE OPENS IN FARMINGTON FARMINGTON, Mo. -- Dr. Megan Pinkston began work Dec. 5 at the new Clarkson Eyecare office in Farmington, reported the Park Hills Daily Journal. The office is at 537 W. Karsch Blvd. COSTIE TRANSFERRED TO OHIO POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. ... Bankruptcies (01/16/12) Bankruptcies filed through December for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (12/20/11) MODERN WOODMEN HONORS VOLKERDING Ken Volkerding of Jackson, a financial representative with Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, was representative of the month for October in the Missouri East Region. He joined the company in October 2004... Briefs (12/20/11) ANDERSON AND GREEN IS AGENT OF THE MONTH SIKESTON, Mo. -- The Anderson and Green Insurance Agency of Sikeston received the Agent of the Month Award from the Stroud National Agency. Anderson and Green produced the most new farm insurance premiums in October in competition with more than 700 independent agencies that produce farm insurance policies for Stroud... Health briefs (12/20/11) ADJOVU, GIBSON JOIN SAINT FRANCIS Saint Francis Medical Center hired two family medicine physicians as medical partners at Cape Primary Care. Dr. Victoria Adjovu and Dr. Erica Gibson joined the practice at 3004 Gordonville Road in Cape Girardeau, focusing on preventive care and wellness. ... Bankruptcies (12/20/11) Bankruptcies filed through November for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Business licenses (12/20/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during November include the following:AA American Arms & Ammunition, 2105 Woodhaven Road Block Electric Co., out of town Colour Couture Salon, 1213 N. Kingshighway 100 Colour Couture Salon, 1213 N. Kingshighway 100 (flat rate)... A look at 2011 sales tax revenue totals in Cape Girardeau County (12/20/11) For the second consecutive year, sales tax revenue and retail sales are up slightly in Cape Girardeau County -- but there's still a ways to go toward economic recovery. "The numbers look pretty good and have for awhile," says John Mehner, president and CEO of the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce. ... Hello & goodbye: The business comings and goings of 2011 (12/20/11) HELLO Chick-fil-A After months of speculation and anticipation, Cape Girardeau's newest fast-food chain opened Sept. 8, and the hunger for Chick-fil-A's famous waffle fries and chicken has never ceased. Brian House of Cape Girardeau owns the free-standing restaurant at 3333 Gordonville Road and his wife, Tamilla, is the restaurant's marketing director. ... Legislative look: What is, and isn't changing, for businesses in 2012 (12/20/11) Missouri businesses will pay less in taxes in 2012 due to reforms passed by the Missouri Legislature this year. However, measures advocated for by business groups to address employee discrimination lawsuits and payment to workers permanently disabled on the job were not successful in the 2011 legislative session... Mitch Robinson, Magnet executive director, talks about the region's economic development (12/20/11) As executive director of Cape Girardeau Area Magnet, Mitch Robinson has played a part in the region's economic development over the past 18 years. Here, he reflects on 2011 and what the future holds for continued economic growth in Southeast Missouri... Tax liens (12/20/11) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during November are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Women in Business 2011: Laura Clubb (11/21/11) As the former chief consumer advocate for the state attorney general's office, Laura Clubb was a watchdog for Missouri residents. Since opening a law firm with her husband J.P. Clubb in 2007, she has carved out a niche in the area of employment law, working on sexual harassment and age discrimination cases. When she's not helping clients, Clubb serves on the G.R.A.C.E.S. Council of United Way and is a Brownie troop leader at Alma Schrader Elementary School in Cape Girardeau... Women in Business 2011: Angel Woodruff (11/21/11) She's had chances to go into private practice, but for more than a decade Angel Woodruff has served in the Cape Girardeau County prosecutor's office. She's Prosecuting Attorney Morley Swingle's second in command, handling a variety of cases. BT: You've been with the prosecutor's office for more than 10 years. Why that instead of a private practice?... Women in Business 2011: Sandy Hastings (11/21/11) Solving problems is what Sandy Hastings, president and co-owner of Servpro of Cape Girardeau and Scott Counties, likes best about her job. Sandy and her husband, Richard, co-own the Servpro franchise in this area. In addition, Sandy serves as vice president of the Servpro Missouri Directorship, which oversees all 33 Servpro offices in Missouri... Women in Business 2011: Tamilla House (11/21/11) From coordinating family nights and school spirit nights at Chick-fil-A to overseeing the offsite catering orders, it's working with people that Tamilla House enjoys most about her job. Tamilla and her husband, Brian, opened the Chick-fil-A location in September. Tamilla serves as marketing director of the quick-service restaurant... Women in Business 2011: Tiffany Jenkins (11/21/11) Tiffany Jenkins, director of marketing and public relations at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, is at the helm of communications efforts surrounding a major expansion at her company -- a new, $173 million hospital. BT: How did your career evolve to get you where you are today? ... Women in Business 2011: Summer Riney (11/21/11) In addition to serving as vice president of marketing at Premier Rehab Physical Therapy, where her husband is the owner, CEO and a physical therapist, Summer Riney recently started her own marketing firm targeting the health care industry. BT: How did your career evolve to get you to where you are today?... Briefs (11/21/11) BRIEFS BARBER SHOP OPENS IN P.B. POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting to open Cutting Edge Barber Shop and Salon at 104 S. Main St. Chris Jones owns the business. SMOKEHOUSE HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING... Health briefs (11/21/11) LUTHERAN HOME NAMES NEW ADMINISTRATOR Mitch Bachtel is the new administrator for the skilled nursing and assisted living facilities at the Lutheran Home, according to Michelle Sinn, CEO of the Lutheran Home and Saxony Village in Cape Girardeau. Bachtel is a licensed nursing home administrator and comes from the St. Louis area, where he served in a similar capacity... Bankruptcies (11/21/11) Bankruptcies filed through October for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Tax liens (11/21/11) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during October are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Women in Business 2011: Kim Heckemeyer (11/21/11) Kim Heckemeyer didn't intend to specialize in workers' compensation and Social Security disability cases. But in her 11 years practicing law, she's found those are the areas that really allow her to help people and make a difference in their lives. The desire to make a difference spreads to her personal life: In the past she's helped raise money for several local organizations. ... Names in the news (11/21/11) KASTEN GETS VENDOR AWARD Vernon L. Kasten Jr., CEO of Ceramo Company Inc., attended the 2011 Home & Garden Showplace Show on Sept. 25 in Philadelphia, where Ceramo was named the 2011 Home & Garden Showplace New Vendor of the Year. FARRIS GETS BURROWS AWARD... Business licenses (11/21/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during October include the following:Cash City, 885 N. Kingshighway Coastal International Security Inc., out of town Collections Recovery LLC, 2711 Thomas Drive H&H Seamless Gutters, 1938 State Highway Y Lil Pea Patch, 709 Broadway... Women in Business 2011: Shannon Daniels (11/21/11) Shannon Daniels has been fascinated by finance since childhood. As a vice president-financial consultant at Commerce Bank in Cape Girardeau for the past seven years, Daniels' No. 1 goal has been to educate others about investments and financial planning. Now, as she transitions to a new job as senior financial adviser at U.S. Bank, she hopes to continue helping clients plan a secure financial future... Women in Business 2011: Lori Fowler (11/21/11) For Lori Fowler, relationships are at the foundation of banking. "I always try to be professional and caring of others," says Fowler, vice president-commercial lending at Alliance Bank in Cape Girardeau. "I try to assist customers in the best way possible and help them in being successful in their business. It's kind of a partnership between the bank and the business. We try to help them be successful, and then when they're successful, we're successful."... Bankruptcies (10/17/11) Bankruptcies filed through September for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Business Licenses (10/17/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during September include the following: C&C Detailing, 1809 N. Main St. Chick-fil-A, 3333 Gordonville Road Coastal International Security Inc., out of town Crazy Dave's (mobile vendor), 5682 County Road 472... Writing a check may soon be a thing of the past when it comes to how we pay for our purchases (10/17/11) When Cape Girardeau photographer Chris Mackler is ready to make a sale, he no longer has to accept a written check, drive to the bank and wait for the funds to be available in his account. With his new Square device, he simply plugs a small, square credit card reader into his iPhone and swipes his customer's card, just like in a store. Transactions are deposited to Mackler's account within one business day, and his customers get their receipt via email or text message... Health briefs (10/17/11) CEO SEARCH ON HOLD SoutheastHEALTH still hasn't started its search for a new chief executive, more than three months after CEO Debbie Linnes resigned. A search timetable has not been set and no search planning is in progress, said spokeswoman Sally Owen in an emailed statement to the Southeast Missourian. ... Tax liens (10/17/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during September are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Names in the news (10/17/11) NORDENIA HONORS EMPLOYEES Thomas VanderFeen, plate finish operator II, was employee of the month for September at Nordenia USA Inc. VanderFeen, of Cape Girardeau, has been with the company since June 2000. Nordenia also recognizes the following employment anniversaries: David Stoll, 20 years of service; and Randy Lichtenegger, five years... Business Briefs (10/17/11) STEAKHOUSE HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING The Grecian Steakhouse held a ribbon cutting Sept. 21 to celebrate its reopening at 2013 Independence St. in Cape Girardeau. SALON HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING DEXTER, Mo. -- The Dexter Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting recently for Halo Hair Studio, 13147 State Highway AD. Ashley Mosier owns the business... Ask the experts: Local marketing gurus offer their best advice for common marketing questions (10/17/11) What are QR codes and why are they important? Dana Hukel, president and CEO of BOLD Marketing QR codes, or quick response codes, are a type of bar code designed to have its contents decoded very quickly, hence the quick response. They offer a specific set of information almost instantly to consumers who choose to scan the code. In most cases you need a smartphone to be able to scan and read the code. Usually the code will link you to a website for more detailed information... Shannon Davis discusses his foray into technology and his new company headquarters (10/17/11) @briefs_body copy:Shannon Davis grew up and attended school in Cape Girardeau, and he has deep roots in the local fast food industry. "My dad was a McDonald's operator, and I have been working in McDonald's since I was a kid," says Davis. His Arch Nemesis franchise now operates 11 McDonald's restaurants in Southeast Missouri and has more than 600 employees -- and will soon have a high-tech, newly renovated corporate office in the former Teamsters building on Broadview Street in Cape Girardeau. ... WavBall dials in on integrating cellphones with tourism, more (10/17/11) A 2009 trip to Alcatraz inspired a Cape Girardeau father and son, but not in the way one might expect. Steven and Jonathan Fritzler had been trying to figure out a way to tell the history of Cape Girardeau and Southeast Missouri, and the audio tour at the famous San Francisco prison gave them an idea... Smartphone apps offer tool for businesses, organizations to reach customers (10/17/11) With about 82 million smartphone users in the U.S., more and more companies are using mobile phone apps to increase awareness of their products and services. Earlier this year, electronics companies' shipments for smartphones surpassed personal computers for the first time... Health briefs (09/19/11) SHERRILL NAMED DIRECTOR OF NURSING Jean Sherrill was named director of nursing at the Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau. She has worked at the home for eight years in various capacities, including unit manager and staff development coordinator. She replaces Maria Hanschen, who retired after 20 years of service... Ask the experts (09/19/11) Local marketing gurus offer their best advice for common marketing questions Business licenses (09/19/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during August include the following:B&B Contractors, out of town Froshapers LLC, 245 S. Plaza Way Gooly Entertainment, 57 S. Plaza Way Logical Time Solutions, out of town Mighty Bagel, 450 Gerecke Lane The Kutters of Broadway, 1117 Broadway... Understanding health care reform (09/19/11) The federal law doesn't require businesses with fewer than 50 employees to provide coverage More doctors will be needed to handle the quickly growing senior population (09/19/11) With the oldest baby boomers turning 65 this year, the population will continue to get older faster -- and the need for primary health care will increase greatly. "Yes, the number of patients who are in that age category are clearly increasing. ... Bankruptcies (09/19/11) Bankruptcies filed through August for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Tax liens (09/19/11) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during August are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Kevin Wood, talks about the business, benefits and challenges of co-owning and operating a pharmacy (09/19/11) Broadway Prescription Shop is a Cape Girardeau institution. Homer George opened the pharmacy at the corner of Broadway and Sprigg Street in 1932, making it the oldest pharmacy in the city. Earlier this year, Kevin Wood and Lee Schlitt bought the pharmacy, maintaining its legacy while offering the most up-to-date products and services. ... Hospitals designed new facilities with input from their staff and patients (09/19/11) When Saint Francis Medical Center began planning its new Heart Hospital and Cancer Institute, one big question was asked of the doctors, hospital staff and patients: "What would you like to see?" From the high-impact laminate flooring to the durable vinyl chairs, from the blue floors designating nurses stations to the red-painted electrical outlets, every item in the building was placed with a purpose... Incorporating exercise into your daily routine (09/19/11) Dr. Julia Kinder knew during her medical residency that she needed to find time for fitness. But time was hard to come by when working 90 hours a week. "I began having back, neck and knee pain, and I didn't feel excited or passionate about anything," Kinder says... Names in the news (09/19/11) NORDENIA HONORS EMPLOYEES Timothy Cecil, slitter operator of Cape Girardeau, was employee of the month for August at Nordenia USA Inc. He has been with the company since August 2006. Nordenia also recognizes the following employment anniversaries: David Cox, Donnie Smith and Jeffrey Oldson, 20 years of service; Paul Sides, 15 years; Dirk Sutherlin, 10 years; and Timothy Cecil, Monti Ferronato, Randy Heise, Johnathon Knudson and Robert Puckett, five years... Bankruptcies (08/15/11) Bankruptcies filed through July for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Chambers of commerce partner for Current River marketing campaign (08/15/11) VAN BUREN, Mo. -- The Current River is already wildly popular in Southeast Missouri, but local chambers of commerce believe there's room for improvement. This summer, the Ozark Riverways Marketing Group launched a new website for the Current River, www.seecurrentriver.com, and shot a 30-second television commercial for use in the Springfield, St. Louis, Cape Girardeau and Poplar Bluff, Mo., markets, as well as the Paducah, Ky., and Jonesboro, Ark., areas... Health briefs (08/15/11) HOSPITAL GETS RED CROSS HONOR STE. GENEVIEVE, Mo. -- Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital reached Gold Level status in the American Red Cross' Champions For Life campaign, reported the Ste. Genevieve Herald. Champions for Life is a health care initiative based on partnerships with area hospitals. ... Real estate pros offer tips on boosting home values (08/15/11) Those working the Cape Girardeau real estate market say it's more important than ever for sellers to boost their home value. "It matters a lot to the sellers. As I go into a home, I make suggestions as I see them," says Laura Ritter, broker/sales with Century 21 Ashland Realty in Cape Girardeau. ... Business briefs (08/15/11) P.B. CHAMBER HOLDS RIBBON CUTTINGS POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting at the grand opening of Second Debut resale shop. Tracy Tipton owns the shop, which is in the Poplar Bluff Square. The chamber also held a ribbon cutting recently for G Set Recording Studio at 211 N. Broadway. Eric White owns the business... More real estate agents using QR codes to share information (08/15/11) Tiny black squares filled with jagged lines and dots are popping up on all sorts of products from ice cream pints to newspaper pages. These QR codes, short for "quick response," are becoming a popular way for businesses to link their customers with more information about their products... Kenny Pincksten works to restore one of Cape Girardeau's historic buildings (08/15/11) With Cape Girardeau making plans to improve the Broadway corridor, developer Kenny Pincksten and his company, Prestige Development, have begun a restoration project on one of the street's historic buildings. Site preparation has been done already to the two-story, 143-year-old building at the corner of Broadway and Sprigg Street, with plans for retail space on the first floor and apartments on the second. ... Names in the news (08/15/11) NORDENIA HONORS EMPLOYEES Brendan Love, customer account coordinator of Jackson, was employee of the month for July at Nordenia USA Inc. He has been with the company since September 2007. Nordenia also recognizes the following employment anniversaries: Michael Latham, Ronnie Moyers and Randy Mann, 20 years of service; Anthony Watson, Kevin Dorris and David Mott, 15 years; George Oldham, 10 years; and Eric Cathcart and Tommy Lambert, five years... Ask the experts: Using marketing to retain current customers (08/15/11) How can I use marketing to retain my current customers? Drew Janes: It would be the same as asking, "How can I use food to keep my body healthy?" To keep your body continually performing, you have to feed it. It's a pretty simple design and without it, well, unfortunately, you would die. ... Tax liens (08/15/11) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during July are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Business licenses (08/15/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during July include the following: Ashley Bailey Custom Cabinets (liquor license), 127 N. Main St. Dusty's Dog House, 125 S. Broadview 1 First Missouri State Bank, 800 N. Kingshighway Grecian Steak House (liquor license), 2002 Independence St... Semohousehunter.com a valuable tool for buying, selling houses (08/15/11) Although the home market has been unpredictable, Semohousehunter.com, run by the Southeast Missourian, gives people buying or selling a home the resources they need to make the process easier. "Semohousehunter.com has been available to anyone looking for real estate or an agent since 2005," says Glenda Mayberry, real estate account executive at the Southeast Missourian and manager of the website. ... Community education: Businesses can help schools through volunteer programs (07/22/11) Plenty of opportunities available for businesses, individuals to get involved with local schools Bankruptcies (07/22/11) Bankruptcies filed through June for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Education endeavor: A conversation with Sherry Copeland (07/22/11) An interview with Sherry Copeland, assistant superintendent for the Cape Girardeau School District Ask the experts: Building customer databases (07/22/11) Local marketing gurus offer their best advice for common marketing questions The ratcheting of education (07/22/11) College tuition, admission requirements and degree levels seem to be going up and up - what does this mean for your children and grandchildren? Ask the experts (07/23/11) Local marketing gurus offer their best advice for common marketing questions Licenses (07/22/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during June include the following:Dynamic Reo Property Preservation, 1606 Bessie St. Farmers Insurance -- Nick Laiben Agency, 1812 Carondelet 105 Federal Protection Inc., out of town Joseph West Design Studio, 1405 Thomas Drive... Donations 'out of the box': Schools make the most of unusual donations (07/22/11) How schools make the most of unusual donation Names in the news (07/22/11) DOCKINS JOINS DEXTER DEALERSHIP DEXTER, Mo. -- Donnie Dockins joined Blackwell-Baldwin Dodge as a parts manager. He has been with Blackwell-Baldwin for 28 years and recently switched the Dexter location. STUEVER COMPLETES TRAINING PROGRAM... Business briefs (07/22/11) ENTERPRISE HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING MALDEN, Mo. -- The Malden Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting June 25 for Enterprise Heating and Cooling, located in Enterprise Plaza at 2772 N. Douglass St. EDWARD JONES BRANCH RANKS NO. 1... Health briefs (07/22/11) CORLEW NAMED CFO AT MISSOURI SOUTHERN DEXTER, Mo. -- Vickie Corlew was named chief financial officer at Missouri Southern Healthcare on June 2. Corlew, a Dexter native, has served as controller at the hospital for 20 years. In her new position, she will focus on everyday financial operation of the hospital, accounting and the investment activities of the organization. ... Tax liens (07/22/11) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of Scott R. Clark, recorder of deeds, during June are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office at (573) 243-8123... Health briefs (06/20/11) LINNES RESIGNS FROM SOUTHEAST Debbie Linnes has resigned her position as CEO of SoutheastHEALTH, citing differences in management philosophy, according to a hospital statement released June 13. Linnes came to Southeast in September 2009, after serving as CEO at St. John's Regional Medical Center in Joplin, Mo. Wayne Smith has been named interim CEO. He joined Southeast in September 2010 as vice... Business licenses (06/20/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during May include the following:Brockmiller Construction Inc., out of town Concrete Construction Innovations, out of town Evolve Hair Studio, 3100 Pioneer Drive, No. 33 HD Media Systems, 2126 Kingsway Drive... Tax liens (06/20/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds during May are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office, Bankruptcies (06/20/11) Bankruptcies filed through May for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (06/20/11) BRAND JOINS SOURCE YOGA The Source Yoga 'n More, Cape Girardeau, hired Stephen M. Brand as an instructor of IntenSati, a workout that fuses aerobics, martial arts, dance, yoga, strength conditioning and spoken affirmations. Brand previously taught IntenSati at the Greenville Aquatics and Fitness Center in Greenville, N.C. He began teaching classes at the Cape Girardeau studio on June 15... Business briefs (06/20/11) PERRYVILLE CHAMBER HOLDS RIBBON CUTTINGS PERRYVILLE, Mo. -- The Perryville Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting April 11 for A Caring Corner Preschool. Additionally, ribbon cuttings were held April 18 to welcome new members L&R Electrical Service, and Juice Plus representative Pam Young. Other new chamber members incude Earth First Contractors, VNA-TIP Healthcare, Ultimate Tae Kwon Do and SADI... Wellness at work: How community wellness programs can help employees save on health care costs (06/20/11) In the fall of 2010, the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored its first-ever attempt at helping employees of local businesses, large and small, to become healthier. The result: a participation rate four times higher than executive director Missy's Marshall's expectations... Flood of business: With epic spring rains, storms and floods, it hasn't exactly been 'business as usual' in Southeast Missouri (06/20/11) It's been almost two months since heavy rainfall dumped over a foot of water on Southeast Missouri, flooding roads, homes, farmland and businesses. Though much of the water has receded, local businesses are still dealing with water damage and mold growth... Banking on the go: Local banks balance technology and interpersonal relationships (06/20/11) Twenty-first century banking is being driven more and more by the information superhighway. The digital age has made it simple to bank anytime, anywhere, through a growing number of ways. Business Today talked to three Southeast Missouri banks that are moving through this brave new world of banking. ... Banking report: A look at the Missouri Division of Finance's Annual Report, with input from local bankers (06/20/11) Last year was a challenging time for banks across Missouri, according to a new statewide report. During 2010, assets, deposits and loans at Missouri banks all decreased from the previous year. A new report issued in April by the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration details the state's banking industry... Escaping a scam: Local bankers discuss financial safety (06/20/11) On April 20, the Missouri Division of Finance sent a news release stating that scam artists have been targeting consumers who hold mortgages, apply for loans or do other finance-related business in Missouri. Local bankers say they have not seen local cases of these scams, which arrived via telephone and through the mail. Still, it's as good a time as any to be wary of phone calls and mailings when it comes to finances... Ask the experts: Making a marketing plan on a limited budget (06/20/11) How can I develop a good marketing plan with a limited budget? JOHN CHERRY: A good marketing plan is the product of a clear view of what's possible, balanced against what exactly you're trying to achieve. We'll get to budget in a moment, but for now, remember that you can't fix every problem or maximize every opportunity in one fell swoop... Growing banks: An interview with Greg Steffens, president and CEO of Southern Bank in Poplar Bluff, Mo. (06/20/11) Southern Bank, based in Poplar Bluff, Mo., was named to SNL Financial's listing of the top 100 community banks for 2010. It ranked second among all publicly traded community banks in the U.S., and 13th among all public and privately owned community banks on the list. Southern Bank was chosen based on its profitability, asset quality, efficiency and loan growth. Business Today caught up with Greg Steffens, president and CEO of this award-winning bank... Small business checkup: Restaurants take hit from rising food prices (05/16/11) Throughout the economic recession, small business owners have seen price increases in everything from gasoline to health insurance to electricity. Now, food prices are going up, too, taking an extra hit on the food industry. According to government statistics released April 15, the Consumer Price Index has risen 2.7 percent in the past 12 months, the largest increase since 2009. ... Health briefs (05/16/11) ALLERGY CLINIC OPENS IN CAPE Allergy Solutions opened at 1417 N. Mount Auburn Road, Suite D, Cape Girardeau. Affiliated with United Allergy Laboratories, Allergy Solutions specializes in pain-free skin allergy testing and also offers oral in-home allergy treatment. Allergens tested are molds, pollens, dust mites, grasses, trees, pet dander and weeds... Tools for success: SEMO program helps aspiring entrepreneurs (05/16/11) The Operation Jump Start program is equipping would-be business owners in Southeast Missouri with the tools they need to succeed. More than 550 people in Southeast Missouri have completed this free six-week entrepreneurship training program offered by the Southeast Missouri State University Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship since 2006... Public preschool may take away from private business (05/16/11) Cathy Clark says there is a place for preschool in public schools, but she worries that it may have hurt her own business in recent years. Clark, co-owner of A Small World Preschool, says enrollment at both her Cape Girardeau and Jackson locations is down 20 percent from previous years. She sees the increasing availability of preschool programs in the Cape Girardeau and Jackson school systems as a reason... Locally grown: Local produce becoming price-competitive (05/16/11) Farmers markets sound wonderful and wholesome -- bushels of fresh produce and loads of friendly folks seem the essence of the good life in a small town. Yet for many of us, this idyllic scene is like so many other nice ideas: something we would like to do, but just don't have the time or money for. It is easier and cheaper to run into Wal-Mart to grab a bag of salad along with a gallon of milk and bar of soap. Or is it?... How providers are battling bad health ratings in Southeast Missouri (05/16/11) Despite the variety of health care providers in Cape Girardeau, many of its neighbors are greatly underserved, according to a recent study. Nine of the 10 least healthy counties in Missouri were found to be in Southeast Missouri, reported the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. ... Ask the experts: Direct marketing (05/16/11) What is direct marketing, and why is it important? JOHN CHERRY: Well, simply, it's everything your buyer needs right here, right now: price, what you get, when and where and all the information needed to close the deal. The buyer's address, phone number and email. ... Tax liens (05/16/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds during April are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office... Business licenses (05/16/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during April include the following:Cape Ag Services LLC, out of town Cathy's, 2068 Silver Campine Lane Ducketts Power Washing, out of town El Torito, 1740 Broadway El Torito (liquor license), 1740 Broadway Element Night's, 807 Perry Ave. B... Bankruptcies (05/16/11) Bankruptcies filed through April for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (05/16/11) BISHOP HONORED FOR SERVICE SIKESTON, Mo. -- Lee Bishop, service technician with Presley Sales & Service, was honored for 15 years of service. He started in the HVAC field in 1987 and has worked at Presley since 1996. BLOOMFIELD CHAMBER PRESENTS AWARDS... Business briefs (05/16/11) Collection of short bits of regional business news compiled for Business Today's June 2011 edition. Teaching to farm: Farmer tries to better ag industry and own community (05/16/11) Charles Hinkebein admits farming can be a risky business. It's expensive, unpredictable and a long-term investment. But he's worked the Southeast Missouri land for most of his life, and he still believes farming is one of the best careers a guy can ask for... Care Credit offers interest-free credit for medical expenses (04/18/11) Several local medical offices now offer Care Credit, a way for patients to charge expenses to a credit card without incurring finance charges. "It's like a credit card for health care," says Jacque Branson, office manager at LaCroix Pet Hospital in Cape Girardeau. ... Health briefs (04/18/11) LAHMANN IS EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- Barb Lahmann was employee of the month for January at the Golden Living Center, Bloomfield. She works in the dietary department. OWEN IS EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH ADVANCE, Mo. -- Olivia Owen was employee of the month for February at Advance Nursing Center. She has worked in the housekeeping department for six months... Quake coverage: What it can mean for your property and your wallet (04/18/11) While it's been nearly 200 years since the New Madrid Earthquake of 1812, Missourians are still concerned about earthquakes and continue to purchase earthquake insurance to protect their property. Californians buy the most earthquake insurance in the U.S., but Missouri ranks third in the country, with a total premium volume at more than $84 million, according to the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Regulation... Covered: A small business owner's guide to insurance (04/18/11) Insuring your vehicles, your property, your health, your investments -- your success. Source: Missouri Dept. of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Regulation; and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Commercial Auto Insurance... Ask the experts: Research on a budget (04/18/11) What's the best way to conduct market research on a budget? drew janes: Whether you have products or services at a local or national level, the best place to start doing market research for any business on a budget is not as hard as you think... ... Business licenses (04/18/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau in March include the following Tax liens (04/18/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds during March are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact your recorder's office... Bankruptcies (04/18/11) Bankruptcies filed through March for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (04/18/11) Short bits of news about people in area business compiled for the May issue of Business Today. Business briefs (04/18/11) BRANDING IRON OPENS IN P.B. POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting recently for the Branding Iron. Jeremy Horton is general manager. SEARCH AND RESCUE TEAM RECOGNIZED BENTON, Mo. ... Health care reform brings flex account changes (04/18/11) With health care reform come two big changes to flexible spending accounts: a $2,500 limit to contributions, effective in 2013, and a doctor's prescription required for over-the-counter drug purchases, effective now. "It used to be that you could use flex spending accounts to purchase any manner of over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and even some devices. ... Now approved: Treatments allowed under insurance plans on the rise (04/18/11) As the need for different types of health care has expanded, so has the coverage available through some health insurance providers. "Medical technology is constantly evolving, and our medical policies must evolve to keep pace with new services and procedures that demonstrate the ability to improve the health and well-being of our members," says Deb Wiethop, public relations director for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Missouri. ... Who's Who 2011: Raelenna Ferguson (03/21/11) Ferguson, a broker/sales executive at Realty Executives of Cape County, is passionate about helping women and children around the world. She's led multiple service trips to Swaziland, Africa, coordinated Heart for Africa Fundraisers in Cape Girardeau, and will travel to Haiti this spring to volunteer in a women's clinic. ... Who's Who 2011: Trinka Hileman (03/21/11) Hileman is the director of Womancare at Saint Francis Medical Center, where she's worked since 1987. She is involved with the booster club at Notre Dame Regional High School, the American Cancer Society Breast Cancer Awareness luncheon, Reach to Recovery and Look Good...Feel Better, RESTORE Breast Cancer Support Group, Dig For Life and the United Way of Southeast Missouri. She is a member of the Southeast Missouri Cancer Control Coalition and the Friends of Saint Francis board of directors... Who's Who 2011: Toni Eftink (03/21/11) Eftink is a project manager with Old Town Cape, and is involved with Chamber Young Professionals, River Heritage COOP, Southeast Missouri Arts Council, Storytelling Festival Committee and the Tri-State AMP Marketing Club. She helps plan such events as Tunes at Twilight, River Tales Classic Car Show, Parade of Lights and the Downtown Historic Home and Garden Tour. ... Who's Who 2011: Sandy Duncan (03/21/11) Duncan is involved with the Cape Girardeau Road Runners, Medical Fitness Association Missouri, Heart to Heart Committee, AARP Community Fitness Committee, Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, and La Croix United Methodist Church. She is also a Southeast Missouri State advisory board member for the College of Health and Human Services. ... Who's Who 2011: John Gary (03/21/11) Gary grew up in Charleston, Mo., and now serves as executive director of Gibson Recovery Center and HillCrest Pointe in Cape Girardeau. He is involved with Community Caring Council; Missouri Bootheel Regional Consortium; Men at the Cross; Church of God in Christ Opportunity Family Outreach Center in Charleston, Mo.; Substance Abuse Coalition; Vision House; and the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce. ... Who's Who 2011: Cheryl Mothes and Rick Hetzel (03/21/11) Cheryl Mothes, a financial adviser for Edward Jones, grew up in Sylvia, Kan., and now makes her home in Cape Girardeau. Her husband Rick Hetzel, a Jefferson City, Mo., native, owns R. Hetzel Properties LLC, Irish Golf Vacations and Moxie Publishing Co. Together, Mothes and Hetzel spend countless hours volunteering with local organizations, including the Safe House for Women and the Humane Society... Who's Who 2011: Jay Wolz (03/21/11) Wolz, supervisor of market management at SoutheastHEALTH, has applied his career expertise to a number of local organizations, and is also working to improve health education and access in Southeast Missouri. He is involved with United Way of Southeast Missouri, Tri-State Advertising & Marketing Professionals (2010-2011 president), Southeast Missouri State University Theatre and Dance Society; Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce, and is a former member of the Cape Girardeau Public School Foundation Board. ... Who's Who 2011: Brenda Kluesner (03/21/11) Kluesner is an account representative at The Printing Co., where she manages the business' Perryville and Farmington, Mo., offices. She has been credited for helping immensely with acquisitions of new locations, logistics and future employee hires. In addition, she manages a sales staff of four as well as two customer service representatives. ... Who's Who 2011: Scott Givens (03/21/11) Givens, manager of HealthPoint Fitness in Jackson, advocates health and fitness at home, work and in the community. The 39-year-old father of four volunteers with health-related charities, promotes fitness among kids and adults, and is often spotted wearing Elvis getups and Superman costumes, all in the name of helping others. ... Who's Who 2011: Julia Unnerstall (03/21/11) Unnerstall is involved with the Cape Schools Foundation Board, Junior Achievement Board, Cape Girardeau Historical Association, Southeast Missouri Hospital Association, Daughters of the American Revolution, Cape Central Boosters, Cape Central Football Mom's Club, and St. ... Who's Who 2011: Traci Ritter (03/21/11) Ritter is involved with LaCroix United Methodist Church Junior High Youth Group and Open Arms ministry, Alma Schrader PTA and is a Parent Advocate. She is a paraprofessional for the visually impaired in the Jackson School District, initiated the development of the district's Parent Partnership Council to improve the educational experience for students with disabilities, and works with the council on the school system's annual Disability Week. ... Who's Who 2011: Kevin Noel (03/21/11) Noel moved to Cape Girardeau 16 years ago from Monmouth, Ill., and has used his role as sales manager with Charter Media to broadcast charitable campaigns for groups like the United Way and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He is a parishioner at St. ... Who's Who 2011: Gordon Glaus (03/21/11) Glaus is a partner at Dix & Glaus LLC, Attorneys at Law in Cape Girardeau, and is a former assistant prosecuting attorney. He serves as a member, public relations director and sponsor of CycleWerx Race Team, is involved with the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsors the SEMO Cycling Team. ... Who's Who 2011: Jessica Estes (03/21/11) Estes is a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church in Kelso, Mo., the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, and she recently became a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri. During a recent Jackson Chamber of Commerce event, Estes won free airline tickets to Jamaica. ... Who's Who 2011: Bob C. Summers (03/21/11) At 33, Summers -- principal/owner at Schultz & Summers Engineering -- has established himself as the "go-to guy" for all things involving community infrastructure. Summers is chairman of Poplar Bluff Industries; a member of Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Board; parish board for Poplar Bluff First United Methodist Church; and a member of the Eagle Scout Board of Review... Who's Who 2011: Teresa Birk (03/21/11) Birk makes her living as an outreach coordinator for the Alzheimer's Association Walk. Birk has traveled to Swaziland with co-nominee Raelenna Ferguson, and the two worked together to organize Celebrate HOPE and additional service trips to Africa. She is also involved with the Walk to End Alzheimer's committee; Lutheran Family and Children's Services; St. ... Who's Who 2011: Chrissy Warren (03/21/11) Warren has been chief operating officer at Cross Trails Medical Center for nearly nine years. During that time, she's seen tremendous growth in the medical center's sites and services, including the opening of a new facility in Advance, Mo., in 2010. ... Who's Who 2011: Michael Anders (03/21/11) Anders, an executive vaccine sales representative for Merck Vaccines, lives and breathes Kiwanis service. The 43-year-old father of three serves as lieutenant governor for Missouri-Arkansas District Kiwanis Club; past president of Kiwanis Club of Cape Girardeau; adviser to Southeast Missouri State University Circle K Club; treasurer of Cape Kiwanis Scholarship Foundation. He is a certified asthma educator and a member of Merck Vice President's Club... Who's Who 2011: Jeremy Anderson (03/21/11) Anderson, a partner/agent at Anderson and Green Insurance Agency in Sikeston, Mo., is known for his exceptional customer service, but serves the community in a number of areas, as well. With his involvement in two chambers of commerce, as well as some charitable organizations, the 33-year-old Sikeston native couldn't be more excited about the growth in his hometown. ... Who's Who 2011: Robyn Gautschy (03/21/11) Gautschy is a member of the Zonta Club of Cape Girardeau and volunteers at the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri; with Big Brothers Big Sisters; United Way's Read to Succeed program; and at the Missouri Veterans Home. She has participated in Relay for Life and attends church and Bible study. ... Who's Who 2011: Dr. Sonjay Joseph Fonn (03/21/11) Fonn, a 42-year-old surgeon at Midwest Neurosurgeons in Cape Girardeau, gives freely of his time, money and talents. He is a gold sponsor of Celebrate HOPE Cape Girardeau; bronze sponsor of Relay for Life; sponsor of the Muscle Walk; sponsor of the Alzheimer's Association; has sponsored Heartland's Best Teachers; supported international students at Southeast Missouri State University's Diwali Festival; participated in the City of Cape Girardeau's Parade of Lights; guest of "Ask a lawyer, ask a doctor;" and hosted an American Red Cross blood drive.. ... Who's Who 2011: Sherri Brethold (03/21/11) Brethold is the local American Red Cross chapter's health and safety director, an expert in the areas of first aid, Automated External Defibrillators (AED), emergency response, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and injury prevention. She's an advocate for the importance of safety and preparedness training because she understands that cardiac arrest or injuries happen at an instant, often with little warning, and people need to be prepared. ... Who's Who 2011: Dr. Julia Pewitt Kinder (03/21/11) Kinder is a physician at Jackson Medical Center and at Doctors Express; medical director for VaxCare Corporation, Missouri and Texas, and a fitness instructor at Healthpoint Fitness. She is a strong advocate for children with special needs and contributes to many panels on health, wellness and special needs education. ... Who's Who 2011: Kevin Greaser (03/21/11) As community bank president of Alliance Bank, Greaser is at a vantage point to understand the needs of his community. He holds leadership positions with many not-for-profit organizations in Cape Girardeau, and also spends time helping with hands-on charity and church projects. ... Names in the news (03/21/11) COUNTS, BRASCHLER RECOGNIZED POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Debra Braschler and Jeff Counts received the Briggs & Stratton Sump, Head and Conrod Business Improvement Team Suggestion of the Year Award for 2010. Their idea will save the company tens of thousands of dollars each year... Business licenses (03/21/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of February include the following:4 U Beauty and Fashion, 612 Broadway Bloom Studio & Gifts, 2121 Broadway C&E Cleaning Service, 29 S. Sprigg St. #5 China Wok, 1330 Broadway #102 Dino's Pizza, 1034 Broadway... Tax liens (03/21/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds during the month of February are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office. Bankruptcies (03/21/11) Bankruptcies filed through February for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Business briefs (03/21/11) SEWING STORE OPENS IN P.B. POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Sew Much More opened Jan. 1 at 1103 Cherry St. The store, owned by Paula Hefner, sells fabric, quilting and sewing supplies, and offers sewing and quilting classes for all skill levels... Living the law: For lawyers, business has remained steady throughout the economic downturn (03/21/11) No area of the economy is recession proof, but law may be faring better than other markets, say locals working in the field. A recent Northwestern Law study reported 15,000 lawyer and legal-staff jobs have been lost since 2008, but prelaw professor Dr. Hamner Hill says that, when looking at the overall economy, that's a "minuscule" figure... Poplar Bluff to host Chick-fil-A Leadercast (03/21/11) POLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Poplar Bluff will host its first-ever Chick-fil-A Leadercast on Friday, May 6, inviting Southeast Missouri businesspeople to hear nationally-known speakers via simulcast from Atlanta. "We all get stuck in day-to-day ruts, no matter what kind of business we're in," says Christy Frazier, marketing director for Southern Bank in Poplar Bluff. ... Desired outcomes: A comparison of how businesses are stepping up their marketing efforts to make the most of a slow economy (02/21/11) The economy's been rough, and business owners are taking a new look at their advertising strategies. "Whether the goal has been to increase revenue, awareness, foot traffic or change consumer attitudes, the focus seems to have revolved around inexpensive, yet efficient ways to communicate," says Dana Hukel, president and CEO of BOLD Marketing. ... Health briefs (02/21/11) A collection of news about the regional health care industry compiled for the March issue of Business Today. Marketing 101: A guide to advertising success, brought to you by the Southeast Missourian (02/21/11) Take time to decide what your business goals are for the year and how marketing can help you achieve them. An effective marketing plan is critical for success. A marketing plan is like a road map for your business. It helps you know which direction to go and keeps you from making hasty decisions. Your marketing plan should include:... Marketing metamorphosis: Advertising critical in medical field (02/21/11) It wasn't long ago that marketing and advertising were rare -- even frowned upon -- in the medical field. "No one advertised on billboards or on TV, and rarely in the newspaper," says Robyn Crocetti, administrator of Gastroenterology Associates and GA Endoscopy Center, who started her career at a family practice in 1982. ... Marketing to gender: Men and women are different when it comes to their health care needs (02/21/11) Women account for 85 percent of all consumer purchases, according to Ogilvy & Mather, an international advertising and marketing agency based in New York City -- and that includes health care. "Today, women are very savvy health care consumers," says Felecia Blanton, marketing manager at Saint Francis Medical Center. ... Business licenses (02/21/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of January include the following Tax liens (02/21/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds, during the month of January are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. Bankruptcies (02/21/11) Bankruptcies filed through January for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (02/21/11) A collection of news about regional businesspeople compiled for Business Today's March issue. Business briefs (02/21/11) A collection of short bits of business news compiled for Business Today's March issue. Becoming social: Local business owners and marketing experts share tips and tricks for conquering social media (02/21/11) Local businesses share how they're using social networking services to maximize their customer base. Give your back a break: Tips for keeping your back healty at work (01/17/11) Slouching. Locked knees. Sitting too long. Bad habits in the workplace can wreak havoc on spines and necks. But there is plenty you can do to keep your spine healthy -- and happy -- while on the job, according to local chiropractors. Daily maintenance:... Health briefs (01/17/11) A collection of short bits of health care news compiled for Business Today's February edition. Depressed state: On-the-job stress and anxiety can lead to depression (01/17/11) You feel helpless, hopeless, alone. It's a struggle just to get out of bed, let alone complete the basic tasks of your job. It's no way to work, and it's no way to live. Depression, anxiety and stress can emotionally tax the worker and the workplace... Fit to work: Training and occupational rehab keep workers safe and healthy on the job (01/17/11) As a renovation and construction worker for over 30 years, Chris Johnson is used to manual labor and knowing how to avoid being hurt on the job. But on the morning of July 10, while working with a cable release dumpster system, the cable released so suddenly that Johnson sustained a severe shoulder injury. He had reconstructive rotator cuff surgery and partial bicep reconstruction on Oct. 3, and has been doing occupational therapy at Saint Francis Medical Center ever since... Ask the experts: The importance of targeted marketing (01/17/11) Q. What is the importance of targeted marketing? JOHN CHERRY: Targeted marketing isn't merely important; it's your statement about who you are in the competitive marketplace, what benefits you have to offer, and most important, who exactly are your customers and your competitors. ... Business licenses (01/17/11) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of December include the following Tax liens (01/17/11) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds during the month of December are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. Bankruptcies (01/17/11) Bankruptcies filed through December for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Business briefs (01/17/11) A collection of short bits of business news compiled for Business Today's February issue. Dexter hospital opens new convenient care clinic (01/17/11) Immediate care clinics are popping up throughout Southeast Missouri -- Doctors Express opened in Cape Girardeau in July, and Southeast Hospital and Saint Francis Medical Center each operate walk-in clinics -- but Missouri Southern Healthcare is the latest provider offering quick health care... Moving on up: Jason Schrumpf names new CEO of Missouri Delta Medical Center (01/17/11) Business Today: Tell us a little about yourself -- where do you come from, and what brought you to this position at Missouri Delta Medical Center? Jason Schrumpf: I grew up in St. Louis with very supportive parents and two brothers and a sister. ... Longtime care: An interview with retiring Missouri Delta Medical Center CEO Charles Ancell (01/17/11) Business Today: You've worked at Missouri Delta Medical Center for over 38 years. How has the health care field changed in that time? Charles Ancell: I think hospitals have always sought to develop a qualified medical staff and then provide them with the appropriate space, personnel and equipment to provide quality health care to their patients. ... Rehabilitative growth: Demand for phyical therapy growing in Southeast Missouri (01/15/11) Employment in physical therapy is expected to grow 30 percent from 2008 to 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and expansion projects in Southeast Missouri may already be a reflection of the trend. "Everybody will need therapy at some point in their life, so it's definitely a growing field. ... Health briefs (12/20/10) A collection of short bits of regional health care news compiled for the January issue of Business Today By the numbers: Employment growth and loss in Cape Girardeau County (12/20/10) In August 2010, the U.S. Commerce Department released statistics showing the Cape Girardeau area was one of five metropolitan statistical areas nationwide that had more earnings growth in the private sector than in government jobs in 2009. 1,447...more people in Cape Girardeau County were employed in health care services, including hospitals and nursing homes, in 2009 than in 2004, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. ... Top 10 trends to watch in the health care world, and the fastest-growing areas of medicine (12/20/10) 1. Heart and cancer care: "We have more cardiologists than we've ever had on staff at the hospital," says Tiffany Jenkins, marketing director at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. "The baby boomers are getting older, and we don't have the healthiest people in our area or region, so we're going to see those trends continue with heart attacks and heart disease."... Hello goodbye in 2010: A look at the year's biggest business news (12/20/10) Cape Splash Family Aquatic Center opened Memorial Day weekend on North Kingshighway in Cape Girardeau. The park has a lazy river, four water slides, a splash play area, lap pool and concession stand. Attendance topped 1,000 visitors per day throughout the summer, said Amy Roth, recreation supervisor for Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation. ... Sales tax revenue increased slightly in 2010 (12/20/10) Sales tax revenue and retail sales are up slightly for Southeast Missouri in 2010, a welcome change to the downtrodden national economy -- but there's still a ways to go toward economic recovery. Beyond the Isle: What Cape's new casino could mean for other businesses (12/20/10) After winning voters over in November and gaining the Missouri Gaming Commission's approval in December, Isle of Capri will begin building its new casino in Cape Girardeau in late spring. "This project represents one of the largest economic development projects in the history of Cape Girardeau," said Paul Keller, Isle of Capri vice president and chief development officer. ... Business licenses (12/20/10) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of November include the following... Tax liens (12/20/10) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds, during the month of November are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office. Bankruptcies (12/20/10) Bankruptcies filed through November for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Business briefs (12/20/10) A collection of short bits of area business news compiled for Business Today's January issue. Power of positive: The difference positive thinking can make in life and business (12/20/10) From all I've read about the subject of positive thinking, I'm amazed we have to give ourselves pep talks about thinking forward. The human mind has evolved to be the engine of our successes; we are naturally biased toward positive thoughts about desired goals. Interestingly, this makes us something less than rational and objective; it's well understood that most of us aren't really dominated by logic and careful deliberation... Health briefs (11/15/10) A collection of short bits of area health news from Business Today magazine's December issue. Caring for women: Local hospitals focus on education and prevention in women's health care (11/15/10) One in eight American women will get invasive breast cancer, and one in 33 will die from the disease, says Trinka Hileman, director of Womancare at Saint Francis Medical Center. Yes, we've all heard the statistics, and yes, we know the importance of annual exams and a healthy lifestyle -- but there's laundry to fold, children to feed, Christmas shopping to do... Female trailblazers: Jeannette (Jeannie) Fadler (11/15/10) They care for their families. They volunteer in the community. They're passionate about everything they do. They learned by experience, and they admire the women who came before them. Business Today profiled five local women making a difference for other women in Southeast Missouri for its December issue. Female trailblazers: Nancy Jernigan (11/15/10) They care for their families. They volunteer in the community. They're passionate about everything they do. They learned by experience, and they admire the women who came before them. Business Today profiled five local women making a difference for other women in Southeast Missouri for its December issue. Female trailblazers: Maryann "Miki" Gudermuth (11/15/10) They care for their families. They volunteer in the community. They're passionate about everything they do. They learned by experience, and they admire the women who came before them. Business Today profiled five local women making a difference for other women in Southeast Missouri for its December issue. Female trailblazers: Karen Crites Hendrickson (11/15/10) They care for their families. They volunteer in the community. They're passionate about everything they do. They learned by experience, and they admire the women who came before them. Business Today profiled five local women making a difference for other women in Southeast Missouri for its December issue. Female trailblazers: Kathy M. Mangels (11/15/10) They care for their families. They volunteer in the community. They're passionate about everything they do. They learned by experience, and they admire the women who came before them. Business Today profiled five local women making a difference for other women in Southeast Missouri for its December issue. Ask the experts: What are effective ways to market to women? (11/15/10) Local marketing gurus offer their best advice to answer common marketing questions. Business licenses (11/15/10) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of October include the following Tax liens (11/15/10) Cape Girardeau County Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the office of area recorders of deeds, during the month of October are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. Bankruptcies (11/15/10) Bankruptcies filed through October for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (11/15/10) A collection of news about area business people compiled for Business Today magazine's December issue. Business briefs (11/15/10) A collection of short bits of regional business news compiled for Business Today magazine's December issue. Perryville Mayor Debbie Gahan committed to progress (11/15/10) Business Today: You were elected Perryville's first woman mayor in 2008. What inspired you to run for this office? Debbie Gahan: In all honesty, I would not have considered running for mayor if our longtime Mayor Bob Miget had not lost his courageous battle with cancer. ... Tax liens (10/18/10) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds, during the month of September are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. Business licenses (10/18/10) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of September include the following: Asian Express, 1001 Broadway Empire Finance, 121 S. Broadview No. 8 Fashion Nails (liquor license), 53 S. Plaza Way Favors, 536 S. Middle St. Groovy Gourds, out of town... Health briefs (10/18/10) A collection of short bits of area health news from Business Today magazine's November issue. Ag tech: Four-year agribusiness degree now offered at university's regional campuses (10/18/10) For the first time this fall, Southeast Missouri State University is offering its four-year agribusiness degree at the regional campuses in Sikeston, Malden and Kennett, Mo. Dr. Michael Aide, chair of the Department of Agriculture at Southeast, says the program specializes in row crop production and was tailored to the Missouri Bootheel's agriculture base... A nontraditional approach: University's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship opens new spot for students (10/18/10) This fall, the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Southeast Missouri State University added a new area designed with dynamic, enterprising students in mind. The Start-Up Studio, on the first floor of the facility at 920 Broadway, in Cape Girardeau, is quickly becoming a place for students to hold informal meetings, swap ideas and do research in a low-key setting. ... Southeast Missouri Hospital partners with iTriage for new smartphone app (10/18/10) BT: How did Southeast get started with this iPhone app? SW: Many people are now constantly connected to the web through mobile devices. The iTriage app was designed to help people quickly determine if their medical situation is emergent or not and find the appropriate health care provider, no matter where they are. ... Fans of Facebook: Many doctors and hospitals are using social media (10/18/10) Many Southeast Missouri medical practices have launched their own Facebook pages, taking the doctor-patient relationship to a new interactive level. "You can post information once and literally thousands of eyes can see it within seconds," says Dr. Eric Becking of Becking Chiropractic in Jackson. "It's a great way to communicate event notices and important schedule changes while also using the stage to offer valuable education."... Bankruptcies (10/18/10) Bankruptcies filed through September for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... David Patrick tells how he went from furniture salesman to entrepreneur (10/18/10) Business Today: Give us some background on your invention. What is it, and how did you come up with the idea? David Patrick: As a young man I had a pet peeve with unruly toilet paper flying off the roll, leaving a mess and causing waste. After many years of trying different materials to create a prototype, God gave me a vision of the perfect thing to use to take control of that runaway white roll. ... Names in the news (10/18/10) A collection of news about area business people compiled for Business Today magazine's November issue. Business briefs (10/18/10) A collection of short bits of regional business news compiled for Business Today magazine's November issue. Cape Girardeau businessman publishes advice book (10/18/10) At age 31, Cape Girardeau native Carson Heady has transformed a successful sales career into a book to help others find success. "Birth of a Salesman," published in August, is available in both print and audio versions at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com. Heady's website, www.carsonvheady.com, features a series of YouTube videos and a blog with more sales advice. The son of Chuck and Janet Heady of Cape Girardeau, he now lives in St. Louis with his daughter Madison, age 3... Health briefs (09/20/10) A collection of short bits of area health news from Business Today magazine's October issue. New building brings new opportunity for Cardiovascular Consultants (09/20/10) A recent move to a spacious, newly constructed facility for Cardiovascular Consultants of Cape Girardeau has enhanced the experiences of patients and employees. Cardiovascular Consultants more than doubled its old space when the offices relocated to a 28,000-square-foot building in June. ... Therapeutic expansion: Kenny Rogers Children's Center renovates and grows (09/20/10) SIKESTON, MO -- Since Michelle Fayette signed on as executive director of the Kenny Rogers Children's Center eight years ago, the Sikeston facility has constantly acquired new patients and equipment. With 100 children on the waiting list and hoards of equipment stashed in outdoor storage, the center is about to see the most significant expansion in its 37-year history... Cross Trails expands in Advance (09/20/10) By Erin Easton Ragan ADVANCE, Mo. -- At the request of patients for dental services and a need for more space to meet current demands for medical services, Cross Trails Medical Center is preparing to open a new 7,500-square-foot clinic in Advance. The company hopes to open the new facility in mid-October, where chief operating officer Chrissy Warren said Cross Trails will continue with medical services already offered at the current clinic, expand into dental services, and again offer X-ray services, which haven't been available for awhile. ... Convenient care: Medical services become more accessible in Southeast Missouri (09/20/10) Urgent care clinics are becoming more common, making it less likely that you'll wait for hours in the emergency room or hear that your doctor is unavailable -- when you need him now. "We want to be the in-between," says Pete DeLuca, regional director of operations and marketing of Doctors Express, which opened an immediate care clinic in Cape Girardeau in July. ... Economy delays expected nursing shortage (09/20/10) Though a national nursing shortage has long been foreseen, the economy seems to have delayed the shortage. According to the Missouri Hospital Association, the RN vacancy rate was down from 8.8 percent in 2004 to 4.1 percent in 2009. The MHA also reported a 3.7 percent vacancy rate in Southeast Missouri, compared to a 3.9 percent Missouri total vacancy. The numbers may be encouraging, but the shortage has far from disappeared, say local medical providers... Filling the gap: Nurse practitioners caring for more patients (09/20/10) The American population is getting older and sicker, and there simply aren't enough primary care physicians to go around. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the United States will see a shortage of 40,000 family physicians by the year 2020. To handle the demand for primary care health services, the need for -- and responsibility of -- nurse practitioners is on the rise, especially in rural and underserved areas... Ask the experts: How can I carve out a niche? (09/20/10) Local marketing gurus Gera LeGrand and Dana Hukel offer advice for small business. Business licenses (09/20/10) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of August include the following... Tax liens (09/20/10) Tax liens and lien discharges, recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds, during the month of August are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation. For more information, contact the recorder's office. Bankruptcies (09/20/10) Bankruptcies filed through August for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (09/20/10) A collection of news about area business people compiled for Business Today magazine's October issue. Business briefs (09/20/10) A collection of short bits of regional business news compiled for Business Today magazine's October issue. Creating culture: Bestselling author Jon Gordon will speak at the Saint Francis Medical Center Business Health Summit (09/20/10) Jon Gordon's books have been featured on CNN, NBC's "Today Show" and in Forbes, Fast Company, O Magazine, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times. He focuses on building a culture of greatness in an organization or business, a theme addressed in his latest book, "Soup: A Recipe to Nourish Your Team and Culture." Here's what Gordon told Business Today about his upcoming stop in Cape Girardeau... Health briefs (08/16/10) A collection of short bits of area health news from Business Today magazine's September issue. Distinctive style: Business Today talks housing trends and tips with local builder Rick Sample (08/16/10) From his one-room, one-man office in Cape Girardeau, Rick Sample has built at least 55 custom homes in seven years, plus handled 30 remodels and 40 to 60 commercial projects. Sample, owner of Distinctive Home Solutions, says his favorite part of homebuilding is the creative aspect... The rental rundown: What it takes to be successful in the rental business (08/16/10) Real estate can be a worthwhile investment, but when it comes to handling maintenance and tenants, it can also become a time-consuming venture. Cape Girardeau has a number of property management companies willing to handle the details for you -- and then hand you the check... Real transformations: Jason Coalter talks about his foray into real estate (08/16/10) You wear many hats -- tell us a little about your various jobs and roles. During the day, you are most likely to find me at Cape Girardeau Printing Co. surrounded by a fun and hardworking team. My daily tasks include serving clients, developing marketing ideas and recruiting new business. With regard to real estate, my tasks are much the same. I stay busy with acquisitions, financing, leasing and management... Ask the experts: Is it important to include price in ads? (08/16/10) Each month Business Today asks local experts important questions about small business marketing and advertising. Business licenses (08/16/10) Business licenses issued in Cape Girardeau during the month of July include the following... Tax liens (08/16/10) Tax liens and lien discharges recorded at the offices of area recorders of deeds, during the month of July are filed by the Missouri Department of Revenue, except as indicated by IRS designation... Bankruptcies (08/16/10) Bankruptcies filed through July for the Southeastern Division of the Eastern District of Missouri's U.S. Bankruptcy Court are listed below with their corresponding case number. The Southeast Division includes the counties of Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Madison, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Wayne. Court is held in Cape Girardeau... Names in the news (08/16/10) A collection of news about area business people compiled for Business Today magazine's September issue. Business briefs (08/16/10) A collection of short bits of regional business news compiled for Business Today magazine's September issue. Cape Girardeau's Queen of Cuisine: Real estate agent carves out niche in restaurant properties (08/16/10) It was Cynthia Austin's uncle, a broker, who first told her she would be good at real estate. She paid off the last of her student loans with her first commission check, working in a field that has little to do with her degrees in pre-med and pschology. "It is not that the education I received has not been valuable. Still, it proves your elders know you best," she says... Students look for alternatives to college (07/19/10) In an increasingly competitive job market, the need for some kind of post-secondary education is becoming more and more evident. While higher education has traditionally meant either a four-year bachelor's degree or two-year associate degree from a community college, personal circumstances prevent many from making either the financial or time commitment required to obtain those degrees. ... Caring for veterans: An interview with Glenn Costie (07/19/10) Business Today interviewed Glenn A. Costie, CEO and director of the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, Mo., for its August issue. Health briefs (07/19/10) A collection of short bits of area health news from Business Today magazine's August issue.