PERSONNEL: SPARKS RECOGNIZED WITH OUTREACH AWARD

Rick Sparks, University of Missouri Outreach and Extension business and industry specialist in Jackson, has received the Missouri Chamber of Commerce Outreach and Extension Business Award.

Sparks works with businesses and entrepreneurs in Southeast Missouri to start and grow successful enterprises. Sparks also presents workshops on such topics as basic supervision, home-based businesses, pricing products and services, and dealing with on-the-job conflicts.

Many programs are delivered in cooperation with the Small Business Development Centers at Southeast Missouri State University and Mineral Area College.