Winter 2014 - Clayton Chamber of Commerce

spotlight
WINTER 2014
CONGRATULATIONS 2013 HONOREES!
The Clayton Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor the following businesses and individuals for their outstanding
achievements, contributions and commitment to Clayton. We are extremely proud of their accomplishments!
The success of these businesses and individuals contribute to the success and quality of life for all of us.
Business Person of the Year:
BOB O’LOUGHLIN
R
obert O’Loughlin is the Chairman and CEO of
Lodging Hospitality Management (LHM) which he
founded in 1986. In the more than 27 years LHM
has been in business O’Loughlin has developed
several hotels and managed over 50 hotels around
the country. His most recent acquisition is the
historic St. Louis Union Station and the Doubletree
St. Louis Union Station Hotel. Also new to the LHM
family of hotels is the recently opened Cheshire
Restaurant, Basso Italian Gastro Pub, The Market at
The Cheshire, The Back Room and The Upstairs at
the Cheshire.
Some of the LHM properties include the two
Sheratons at Westport, Hilton at the Airport,
Marriott at the Airport, Hilton at the Ballpark,
360 Rooftop Bar, The Seven Gables Inn, Doubletree
Westport and the entire Westport Plaza Complex
located in St. Louis County.
Bob has been in the hotel business for over
40 years. He began his career with Hilton Hotel
Corporation. He
managed properties in Hartford,
Connecticut;
Cincinnati, Ohio;
Oakland and
San Francisco,
California.
He moved to
St. Louis in 1976
where he grew AIRCOA Hospitality from eight hotels
to 60 hotels prior to forming LHM.
He is a member of several community and
business organizations including the Regional
Business Council and sits on the Boards for
Logos School, St. Louis University, St. Louis Zoo,
St. Louis Sports Commission, St. Louis Police
Foundation, Enterprise Bank and Trust, the
Jefferson National Park Association and past
Governor of the Missouri Athletic Club.
Excellence in Retail/Service:
TIMEKEEPERS
T
he Ilyashov family came to the United States
from Minsk, Belarus in 1979 with the hopes of
living the American Dream. Semyon, a watchmaker
by trade, and Alina, a baker, worked hard to make
enough money to open a store on Olive in 1981.
It was with a tremendous amount of hard work
that their dream became a reality. In 1996, upon
graduating from The Gemological Institute, their
daughter Ella, along with her parents opened the
Clayton location. The stores specialize in the repair,
restoration and sale of timepieces, jewelry and
music boxes. The Ilyashov family is very proud to
be the place around the corner that will work on the
“unworkable”. The family enjoys seeing the
progression of their customers’ lives and being a
part of their lives. Customers become family.
In both of the locations you will see the rarest of
antiques and jewelry that will not be seen anywhere
else! You will also view the largest selection of preowned timepieces including Rolex, Patek Philippe,
and many other high grade watches. Like Ella who
started working as an eight year-old behind the
counter that was too high to see over, you will now
see her children behind the counter. The third
generation of a very proud family! A family that
came to the United States with $500 and through a
lot of hard work and support from wonderful friends
is now living the American Dream. The stores are
their homes and they take great pride in making
their homes open to all of their customers.
Cornerstone Award:
St. Louis Economic
Development Partnership
S
t. Louis City and St. Louis County have
ushered in a new era of collaboration in economic
development. Years of cooperation on business
development, international trade initiatives and
entrepreneurial support finally culminated in
2013 with the creation of St. Louis Economic
Development Partnership.
CEO Denny Coleman from St. Louis County,
President Rodney Crim from the City of St. Louis
and a 15-member board appointed by the County
Executive and Mayor now guide this joint CityCounty effort to support new and growing
businesses. This formal collaboration promises to
make St. Louis more successful through a common
strategic plan and core messaging. It immediately
puts the region on track for additional successes
and sets the stage for job growth, an enhanced
national and international image and ultimately
economic progress. St. Louis City and County will
now be marketed as one.
The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership
reflects the sentiment that St. Louis citizens and
business leaders have championed for many years.
The Partnership will focus on some of the most
important areas of regional economic development – business development, entrepreneurship,
international trade and business finance.
The St. Louis Economic Development
Partnership is unique. It is among just a handful
of agencies in the country to strategically position
its regional economic development efforts.
The partnership offers both immediate and
long-term benefits – shared strategic plan, shared
leadership and shared team. It is a one-stop
economic development organization serving the
geographic regions of St. Louis City and County and
positioning both for greater success for businesses,
residents and the region.
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Board of Directors
Executive Director
Ellen M. Gale
(314) 726-0068
egale@claytoncommerce.com
Officers 2013
President Rebecca Boyer
KellyMitchell
Treasurer
Kate Becker SSM St. Mary’s Health Center
Vice President
Emily Castle Castle Design
Vice President
Mike Schoedel Apex Oil Company
Vice President
Josh Ferguson
Kaldi’s
Past President
Patrick Buehring
Pulaski Bank - Clayton
Board of Directors
Jon Boesch St. Louis County Government
Gary Carter City of Clayton
Art Kerckhoff
CBRE
Emily Kiser
Lathrop & Gage, LLP
David MolhoBrighton
Amy Moss Bond Architects, Inc.
Barb Nikolychik HM
Craig Owens City of Clayton
Allen Palmquist Fifth Third Bank
Matt Reh
Armstrong Teasdale, LLP
William Reichmuth Centene Corporation.
Jeff Schmitt Danna McKitrick, P.C.
John Sendobry Commerce Bank
Edward Sluys Curtis, Heinz, Garrett and O’Keefe P.C.
Peter Sortino Washington University in St. Louis
Trip StraubStraub’s
Sharmon Wilkinson
School District of Clayton
Carol Will Lola & Penelope’s
Stacy Engles Wipfler Husch Blackwell, LLP
Nicole Zellweger Stinson Leonard Street LLP
Tom Zetlmeisl RubinBrown LLP
President’s Letter
H
appy New Year! As I reflect back on all the
accomplishments in 2013, I am inspired by the great
leadership of the Chamber over the years. Our outgoing
President, Pat Buehring, a leader in our Clayton Banking
Rebecca Boyer
Community, along with all of the staff at the Chamber,
have continued to set the bar high and work tirelessly behind the scenes to make everything run seamlessly. I am honored to be a part of this great organization.
I am extremely excited for what 2014 has in store for our thriving business
community here in Clayton! The Chamber has over 40 events planned this year.
Our goal in the Chamber is to continue to make an impact in our business
community with educational programs and networking events that bring our
business community together. One of our greatest accomplishments each year is
our Leadership Clayton program which works to develop the next leaders in our
community. In addition, the Chamber offers numerous opportunities to market your
company, various team building activities for your colleagues, as well as occasions to
learn more about our region.
On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, I want to thank you for your
commitment to our exceptional business community and encourage you to get
involved in all of the opportunities in front of you this year through the Chamber.
Let’s bring our leaders together and make it a great 2014.
Rebecca Boyer
President, 2014
Retiring Board Members
2013
brought Board terms to an end for seven very dedicated Board members.
We thank them for their invaluable contributions and dedication to the Clayton
business community. Pictured: Jaci Barrett, Enterprise Holdings; Jeff Kaiser, CBRE;
Cheryl Adelstein, Washington
University; Keith Williamson,
Centene Corporation and
Scott Neubauer, Graybar.
Not pictured are Howard Kaplan,
Stinson Leonard Street LLP
and Blair Mehlman,
Marks S. Mehlman Realty, Inc.
Associate Director
Mary-Ellen Tobin
(314) 726-3070
mtobin@claytoncommerce.com
Membership Director
Trish Zupon (314) 726-2512
tzupon@claytoncommerce.com
Office Manager
Mary Rosner
(314) 726-3033
mrosner@claytoncommerce.com
Chamber Office Info
Phone (314) 726-3033
Fax (314) 726-0637
www.claytoncommerce.com
225 South Meramec, Suite 300
Clayton, MO 63105
Advertise in the Spotlight
It’s a great way to get your message to hundreds of
local businesses. For more information, contact Trish Zupon at
tzupon@claytoncommerce.com or by phone at 314-726-2512.
Chamber Executive Director
Ellen Gale with 2014 Chamber
President Rebecca Boyer,
KellyMitchell Group and 2013
Chamber President
Patrick Buehring, Pulask Bank.
New Board Members
T
he Clayton Chamber of Commerce welcomes to the 2014 Board of Directors
Art Kerckhoff, CBRE; Emily Kiser, Lathrop & Gage, LLP; William Reichmuth, Centene
Corporation; John Sendobry, Commerce Bank; Edward Sluys, Curtis, Heinz, Garrett
and O’Keefe P.C.; Peter Sortino, Washington University in St. Louis and
Nicole Zellweger, Stinson Leonard Street LLP.
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Leadership Clayton Class of 2014
Presented by
Leadership Clayton is designed to educate and develop effective community leaders. The program provides an opportunity to learn about the
Clayton community and focuses on significant issues facing our area today. Participants interact with key leaders in Clayton and St. Louis County
government, business and other civic organizations. We invite you to meet the Class of 2014.
PAUL COWHERD
DJ FUCHS
Paul Cowherd works as a Business Banking Officer for
Great Southern Bank in Clayton. He is a 2008 graduate
of the University of Missouri-Columbia where he studied
Agriculture Economics. Currently, his primary focus is small
business lending. Previously, Cowherd worked for a small
dairy company in southwest Missouri, where he managed Paul Cowherd
the accounting, budgeting and inventory. He is active in
the community, being involved in America’s Future in Agriculture
Leadership Program and the Red Shoe Society of St. Louis.
DJ Fuchs joined the Office Division of Cassidy Turley in
June 2011. He specializes in sales and leasing of office
space throughout the St. Louis area. Before moving into
brokerage, DJ spent three years on the Edward Jones account
in the Corporate Services Division of Cassidy Turley. DJ served
as Facilities Manager and Leasing Coordinator on the account
DJ Fuchs
where his primary tasks included corporate transactions,
project management, negotiating and maintaining all service
contracts and leases, and tenant relations. DJ has a BS in Business
Administration from the University of Missouri – Columbia. He is a member
of Licensed Brokers in Missouri, St. Louis Association of Realtors and the
National Association of Realtors.
JENNIFER DIETZ
Jennifer Dietz graduated Summa Cum Laude from the
University of Missouri with a dual major in Finance and
Real Estate. She joined KellyMitchell in December 2010,
after working for 8 years at ISC Contracting. Her career
progressed from accounting and project management
at ISC to a Team Lead/Account Manager at KellyMitchell.
Jennifer Dietz
KellyMitchell Group is a premier technology consulting
company dedicated to matching the most qualified IT professionals with
top organizations nation-wide. Jennifer enjoys being active in the United
Way as well as other community organizations such as Stray Rescue and
the Center for Women in Transition.
NEAL GRIFFIN
Neal Griffin is a litigation associate at Stinson Leonard
Street LLP and focuses his practice on a variety of business
litigation issues. He also has experience in antitrust, First
Amendment, TIF and special business district financing and
trust and estate litigation. Neal received his J.D. from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Law, where he received
Neal Griffin
Order of the Coif honors and served on the executive board of
the Missouri Law Review. Before attending law school,
Neal worked at the Public Defender’s Office in St. Louis City. He graduated
from Washington University in St. Louis in 2007 with a B.A. in Philosophy.
MICHAEL DISPARANO
Michael Disparano is employed with SSM St. Mary’s as the
Environmental Services Team Leader. He manages a 6 million dollar book of business that serves patients, employees and the community. He has worked in the healthcare
industry for the past 5 years and prior to that spent 7 years
in retail management for Williams Sonoma and Restoration Michael Disparano
Hardware. While working with SSM, he has led teams for
two Heart Walk campaigns, is the chair person for the Preservation of
the Earth Committee and received a special ambassador award from the
Special School District/St. Louis Arc for his department’s work with their
students. In the past he worked with the United Way and Habitat for
Humanity on a number of campaigns to clean, build or repair structures.
stacey grote
Stacey, a graduate of Washington University School of Law,
is a member of the Real Estate, Development & Construction
industry team for Husch Blackwell, LLC. Stacey concentrates
her practice on the development, leasing and financing of
real estate. She assists clients with commercial real estate
transactions including leasing, sales and acquisitions, and
Stacey Grote
development. She has represented numerous buyers and
sellers in all stages of real estate sales and acquisitions,
from drafting and negotiating contracts to due diligence review and closing
documents. A significant portion of her practice includes the drafting and
negotiation of office, retail and warehouse leases on behalf of landlords and
tenants. She is a member of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis
and The Missouri Bar.
RYAN FREEMAN
Ryan Freeman serves as McCarthy Building Companies,
Inc’s Commercial Director of Business Development.
McCarthy is a national construction manager and general
contractor. In his current role, Ryan is responsible for client
development in major construction markets such as office,
multifamily, airport, entertainment and justice facilities.
Ryan Freeman
Ryan serves on the Board of Directors for the Associated
General Contractors of St. Louis and supports the Family Resource
Center. A mechanical engineering graduate of Southern Illinois
University Edwardsville, Ryan is a proud father of three.
Shannon Martini
Shannon is currently a Mortgage Loan Officer with Gershman
Mortgage. She graduated from St. Louis University in 2007
with degrees in Sociology and Business Administration.
She is a Board Member for HOPE for Young Adults with Cancer
and volunteer/member of the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.
Recreationally Shannon loves to spend time with family and
Shannon Martini
friends and her two Great Pyrenees, Kingston and Paris.
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Leadership Clayton Class of 2014
Lisa Prinster
Diann Straatmann
Lisa Prinster, Vice President, Brokerage Services at The Maune
Company, is responsible for providing a resolution for all of her
clients’ real estate needs including: acquisition, disposition,
leasing, financial analysis and consultation. Previously, Lisa
was a Vice President with both Colliers Turley Martin Tucker
and Trammell Crow Company. She is an active member of
Lisa Prinster
the National Association of Realtors, St. Louis Association of
Realtors and Clayton Chamber of Commerce. She is a member
of the Advisory Board of Kids in the Middle and a Member of the National
Charity League. Lisa is also the mother of two children and enjoys watching
their sporting events and traveling with them as much as possible.
Diann is currently a Battalion Chief with the City of Clayton Fire Department.
She was hired in 1994 and proceeded through the ranks of Private and
Captain prior to becoming Battalion Chief in 2006. Her education includes
an Associates of Arts - Science, Associates of Arts-Fire Technology and a
Bachelor’s degree from Webster University in Business Management. Her
hobbies include outdoor activities, mainly backpacking and canoeing.
Ryanne Tilley
A financial advisor and benefits consultant with MRCT
Benefits Plus and Ryanne joined the financial services
industry after more than 10 years in marketing and fundraising
for nonprofits. Previous employers include JWT Specialized
Communications, U.S. Bank and Independence Center.
Ryanne recently served as the Communications Chair for
Ryanne Tilley
FOCUS St. Louis’ ConnectWith Board and has been active in
connecting young professionals to charities and leadership
opportunities in the community. Graduating with honors from Truman
State University, she studied abroad in London, England and travels at
every opportunity. She is also active in her church, The Crossing.
Ernesto Segura
Ernesto is an attorney with Husch Blackwell LLP. He represents
developers and public bodies in the areas of real estate transactions and public financing. Ernesto advises clients on all
aspects of development work, including public financing tools
and incentives, such as TIF and state and federal tax credits.
He also has experience in drafting legislation and assisting
Ernesto Segura
in its passage through the state legislative process. Ernesto
lives in the City of St. Louis with his wife and son. He received
his BA from the University of Colorado in 2000 and his JD from Saint Louis
University in 2008. Ernesto enjoys volunteering with the Young Friends of St.
Louis Children’s Hospital.
Maggie Wichmann
Maggie Wichmann is an Associate in the Transactional Team
at Danna McKitrick PC. She represents small and mid-sized
companies in matters related to intellectual property, technology and general corporate law, often acting as general counsel
for companies that do not have in-house counsel. She advises
clients on a wide range of issues, including trademark prosecuMaggie Wichmann
tion and enforcement, copyright registration and enforcement,
software development and licensing, mobile applications, advertising and
promotions and e-commerce strategies. A native of St. Louis, Maggie earned her
J.D. in 2010 from Washington University School of Law, where she was awarded
an LLM in Intellectual Property and Technology Law in 2011.
Michelle Stoeppler
Michelle has now been back in Clayton as Director of
Sales & Marketing of the Sheraton Clayton Plaza since
December 2012. She has been in the hospitality industry for
over 25 years which includes being a Director of Sales at
various hotels and 10 years of convention & visitor’s bureau
experience between Nashville, TN and St. Louis, MO.
Michelle has been active in many organizations including
PCMA, MPI, HSMAI and currently volunteers for the Gateway
Hemophilia Association and is an Elk Club Member.
Michelle Stoeppler
Christina Solomon
Christina Solomon is a Partner in RubinBrown’s Business
Advisory Services Group. As a financial forensics expert, she
performs forensic accounting analysis, fraud investigations
and internal control evaluations. Christina’s consulting
services include developing financial analyses, quantifying
damages, writing reports and providing testimony at deposiChristina Solomon
tion and trial. In addition, she has extensive financial modeling
and data analysis experience. Christina has been with RubinBrown for 13
years. She was a recipient of RubinBrown’s Community Service Award
in 2011. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner
(CFE), and Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF). She has two school-age
children who keep her on her toes with school and extra-curricular activities.
Allison Stein
With a background in account management and public
relations, Allison utilizes her strong communications skills
to bring insights and solutions to her clients as an account
executive with Brighton, a Clayton-based advertising and
marketing agency. Allison helps lead the strategic development and execution of marketing and communications
Allison Stein
initiatives for Monsanto. Her past experience, along with
her solid understanding of the agriculture industry, has made
Allison a valuable member of her team. Prior to joining Brighton, she worked
for OsbornBarr, an agriculture-focused advertising agency in St. Louis.
Her clients included Monsanto, the Propane Education & Research Council
and ICL Performance Products. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass
Communications from Miami University.
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Past President’s Letter
What a year we had in 2013!
Community, The Best of Clayton, Art of
Tasting, Political Debates, Overseas
Excursions and the Corporate Challenge –
just to name a few. I want to congratulate
Rebecca Boyer on her appointment to this
office. Rebecca, an outstanding leader, is
dedicated, innovative and high-minded.
Patrick Buehring
She will undoubtedly make a positive
impact to the CCC.
I am grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve you and have grown
in my commitment to and understanding of our local businesses. I look
forward to staying very involved my friends here and with our chamber
activities for many years to come. Thank you for your commitment to the
Clayton Chamber of Commerce and for helping to make our business
community exceptional. I wish you only the best in 2014.
The Chamber was involved in a whirlwind of activity from the Clayton
Mayoral debate to the Pillars event honoring Jim McKelvey and over 40
events in between… outstanding and professionally run programs. I want to
acknowledge the Chamber’s talented Executive Director Ellen Gale, and her
highly capable team, Mary-Ellen Tobin, Trish Zupon, and Mary Rosner for their
dedicated work and hours of preparation to make this Chamber run smoothly
and seamlessly…like a watch from Timekeepers.
We have a thriving business community here in Clayton, with some of
the most talented business people in our region living or working here.
I want to offer my congratulations to the award recipients being honored at
the Chamber’s Annual Awards Dinner: Bob O’Loughlin, Timekeepers and
The St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. We are excited to honor
all of you – who have made such a difference in Clayton and in the Greater
St. Louis Region.
The role of the Chamber for the individual and company is critical to
bringing us together. The Chamber serves our membership with such
signature events as Parties in the Park, The Power Hour, Pillars in the
Patrick Buehring
President 2013
Mayor’s Message
Parties in the Park
T
he end of 2013 is significant in
many ways, not the least being the
closing of a chapter with the celebration of Clayton’s 100th birthday.
Kudos to the Clayton Century Foundation for its work throughout the year,
and a special “wow” to Judy Goodman for producing what truly was the
“Party of the Century” on November
29th. Our year-long celebration will
be consigned to history with the
sealing of a time capsule in March so
future generations will know how we
celebrated our first 100 years.
Now it’s on to our 2nd century.
We have a great history and our
renowned “Clayton Culture” to help
us continue our leadership in the
St. Louis region, provide outstanding services to our residential and
business communities and continue
to enhance the quality of life that we
enjoy in Clayton.
The challenges we face in 2014 are
significant in nature, but achievable
through community effort. Clayton
city staff and Board of Aldermen are
prepared to face these challenges
with our community partners,
the Clayton Chamber of Commerce,
the Clayton School District, our
distinguished higher educational
institutions and, of course, the individuals, both those who do business
in Clayton and those who live here,
who unselfishly volunteer their
time and expertise on boards
and commissions.
R
eturns to Downtown Clayton
May 14, 2014!
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Contact Ellen Gale 314-726-0068 for
more information
Harold Sanger
Our mission in 2014 will be to
continue to strengthen Clayton
finances, encourage new development in the downtown area and
enhance the vibrancy of our business
districts with new events to attract
shoppers and diners. We will
continue to position Clayton as a
walk-able, bike-able, pedestrian city,
and as the place to go for food, fun
and a great shopping experience.
Watch for an announcement about
our new and exciting events.
The bond between the City of
Clayton and the Clayton business
community is a critical piece of the
formula for the city’s success. We are
proud to be a part of that formula and
look forward to a great 2014 together.
Harold Sanger
Clayton Mayor
6
News From Our Members
Armstrong Teasdale LLP
Daniel Sakaguchi
David Kim
Jonathan Wolff
Thomas Weaver has been elected to
the board of directors of the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers.
Sheena Hamilton has been selected
by the American Bar Association
Section of Labor and Employment
Sheena Hamilton
Law as a fellow.
David Kim was named Central
Regional Governor of the National
Asian Pacific American Bar
Association. Daniel Sakaguchi
was named to Lawyers of Color’s
Inaugural Hot List. The Firm
welcomes Jonathan S. Wolff.
Thomas Weaver
AT&T
AT&T partnered with the OASIS
Institute to provide Smartphone
“Tech Training” for adults 50 plus.
More than 100 adults 50+ received one-on-one
coaching sessions with AT&T representatives
during a complimentary “Get Smart” technology
training workshop at the Center of Clayton.
The Business Bank
The Business Bank of
St. Louis recently raised
$10,000 for Big Brothers
Big Sisters (BBBS) at its “Bowl for Kids’ Sake”
event. Business Bancshares, Inc. (BBI), parent
of The Business Bank of St. Louis raised approximately $10 million through a private placement
of 203,067 shares of common stock and 392,171
shares of non-voting common stock. The net
proceeds from the private placement will be used
to further strengthen BBI’s capital position and
for other general corporate purposes.
Butcher Joseph Hayes
Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers
Butcher Joseph Hayes welcomes
Rose Newport as the Director
of Marketing.
The hottest trend in fine jewelry
is the Iris earrings. H.Stern’s
Iris earrings are exclusive to
Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers.
Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers
hosted a JudeFrances Designer Showcase.
Rose Newport
Carrollton Bank
Carrollton Bank announced Shannon (VanBibber)
Beube joined the bank as Vice President and
Branch Manager, serving in the bank’s
Clayton office. Leslie Payton is now Assistant
Vice President at the Clayton branch.
Castle Design
St. Louis Homes &
Lifestyles awarded a
kitchen designed by
Emily Castle, ASID,
Kitchen of the Year Platinum Winner in the
Photo by Alise O’ Brien
“Less than 200 square
feet” category. The kitchen was also selected
for the cover of the magazine’s January/February
2014 issue. The winning design was inspired by a
painting of a beach scene homeowner, Ellen Gale,
Executive Director - Clayton Chamber of
Commerce purchased at the Saint Louis Art Fair.
FASTSIGNS®
Brad Kauffman and
Tom Sandheinrich, visual
communications experts at FASTSIGNS® of
St. Louis, were recognized with Bronze Sales Awards
at the 2013 FASTSIGNS® Outside Sales Summit.
Gershman Commercial Real Estate
Bruce Brophy, Executive Vice President & COO
announced Mark Long and Carrie Davis have
been promoted to Senior Vice Presidents, and
Lauren Witham joined the team as a
Property Manager.
Carrie Davis
Mark Long
Lauren Whitman
CBRE
Husch Blackwell LLP
CBRE announced Brian Lyss
joined its St. Louis office as an
Associate in Office Properties.
Concordia Seminary
2014 marks Concordia
Seminary’s 175th academic
year. Bach at the Sem,
presented by Concordia Seminary and the
American Kantorei, entered its 21st season this
past October and concludes the season in April.
Husch Blackwell has added Mark Falkowski,
Associate; Sonni Fort Nolan, Senior Counsel;
Jonathan R. Waldron, Associate.
Danna McKitrick, P.C.
Danna McKitrick announced
J. Clifton “Cliff” Smith has been
promoted to
Associate in the
firm’s ligation
department. They
also announced
Daniel W. Fort has
joined the firm as
Daniel Fort
Of Counsel.
Mark Falkowski
Sonni Nolan
Jonathan Waldron
Kohn, Shands, Elbert, Gianoulakis & Giljum, LLP
Kohn, Shands, Elbert,
Gianoulakis & Giljum, LLP
announced Douglas W. King has
joined the firm as a Partner.
Clifton Smith
Doug King
Elizabeth Real Estate Group, LLC
MB Technology Solutions
Elizabeth Real Estate
Group announced
two new full-time
sales associates:
Sarah Nixon and
Fred Hessel.
MB Technology Solutions welcomed
Chris Brennan as its new Managed
Services Engineer.
Fred Hessel
7
Sarah Nixon
Chris Brennan
News From
Our Members
Rafco
Tom Schmittdiel, Director of Marketing-Rafco,
Donna Stephens- Stephens Creative, Tina Rafael,
Senior Vice President-Rafco, Ali Ruzicka-Stephens
Creative, and Mike Bowman-Bowman Copy.
Rafco Properties was recognized by the Business
Marketing Association (BMA) at their annual Targeted
Advertising and Marketing (TAM) awards. Rafco
received two TAM Awards. Rafco and design firm
Stephens Creative were recognized for their work in
the Corporate Identity Graphics Category.
St. Louis Jewish Light
The St. Louis Jewish Light’s Primetime Expo, Better
Living for Baby Boomers & Senior Adults partnered
with The St. Louis Jewish Book Festival to bring Dr.
Arthur Agatston to the event as its keynote speaker.
SSM St. Mary’s Health Center
Left to right, World Wide Technology Inc. Business
Development Senior Manager Juanita Logan, Sharita
Kyles Wilson (Cedric’s sister), Rosetta Boyce Kyles
(Cedric’s mother), Cedric the Entertainer and
SSM St. Mary’s Health Center President Kate Becker.
St. Louis native Cedric the Entertainer announced
plans for “A Night with Cedric and Friends,” his
inaugural event supporting a future women’s
pavilion at SSM St. Mary’s Health Center.
Stinson Leonard Street LLP
Stinson Morrison Hecker joined Leonard, Street and
Deinard and is now called Stinson Leonard Street LLP.
Stone Carlie & Company, L.L.C.
Stone Carlie welcomes Melissa Gragg to the
Valuation & Litigation Support Services Group.
Stone Carlie hosted along with its
partner, Clearwater Compliance, and
a faculty of leading national HIPAA
experts, a one day HIPAA Compliance
Boot Camp to provide
an intensive educational experience
focused on HIPAAMelissa Gragg
HITECH regulations.
Convenient Parking On Site
Marie Carlie was elected President of
Missouri Venture Forum.
Marie Carlie
8
Best of Clayton
News From
Our Members
Presented by
Two Men & A Truck
T
he 2013 Best of Clayton presented by Centene Corporation proved to be the place to be to make
connections and learn about our business community!
Nearly 800 people had the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives from more than 40
local businesses that comprise the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.
Special Thanks to our Sponsors
Presenting Sponsor:
The Missouri Committee for Employer Support of
the Guard and Reserve awarded TWO MEN AND A
TRUCK® St. Louis the Above and Beyond Award.
The Above and Beyond Award is presented to recognized employers at the local level who go above
and beyond the legal requirements of the Uniformed
Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
United Way
The United Way of Greater
St. Louis’ Executive Board
announced it is naming its
Downtown Headquarters to
honor the legacy of caring created by the United Way of
Greater St. Louis’ former President & CEO, Gary Dollar.
Wolken Family Dentistry
Platinum Reception Sponsors:
Drs. Steven and his sons Chris & Andy Wolken
Wolken Family Dentistry is celebrating 75 years of
providing family dental care.
Premium Vendors:
Best of Clayton Vendors
Aqua Systems
Ambruster Great Hall
AXA Advisors
Bethesda Barclay House
Clayton’s 2013 Centennial
Clayton Chamber of Commerce
Clayton Computer/
The Fantastechs!
CompuVault, Inc.
Crowne Plaza Hotel Clayton
FastSigns
Fifth Third Bank
Fontbonne University
Forsyth School
GO! St. Louis
Laclede Cab
The Leukemia & Lymphoma
Society – Gateway Chapter
The Maune Company
Midwest BankCentre
Nerium International
Powers Insurance and Benefits
Protzel’s Deli
St. Luke’s Urgent Care Center
School District of Clayton
Shen Yun St. Louis 2014
Sheraton Clayton Plaza
Straub’s Market
Timekeepers in Clayton
Total Access Urgent Care
Universal Creative Concepts
Wellbridge Athletic Club & Spa
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Corporate Challenge 2013
Presented by
A
beautiful morning greeted more than 350 athletes as they competed for
bragging rights and good old-fashion fun. The 2013 Corporate Challenge
presented by SSM St. Mary’s Health Center on September 28th brought out
a record number of family and friends to cheer on the competitors.
Our Clayton businesses didn’t disappoint their fans as they brought their
best game to Shaw Park. The annual event promotes health, fitness and
fun. The 2013 bragging rights belong to:
Division 1
Thank You!
The Chamber salutes the
participating companies of the 2013
Corporate Challenge Presented by
SSM St. Mary’s Health Center.
Divison 2
OVERALL WINNERS
1st Stone Carlie & Company LLC
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
2nd Mueller Prost PC
Commerce Bank
3rd Buckingham Asset Management SSM St. Mary’s Life Savers
Bags
1st Buckingham Asset Management Enterprise Holdings
2nd Mueller Prost PC
Commerce Bank
3rd Pulaski Bank
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
Sand Volleyball
1st Mueller Prost PC
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
2nd Buckingham Asset Management SSM St. Mary’s Life Savers
3rd Maher & Company PC
Commerce Bank
Basketball Free Throw
1st Stone Carlie & Company LLC
Brown Shoe Company - Solemates
2nd Mueller Prost PC
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
3rd Buckingham Asset Management RubinBrown LLP
Relay Obstacle Course
1st Rafco Properties
Commerce Bank
2nd Pulaski Bank
SSM St. Mary’s Life Savers
3rd KellyMitchell
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
Tug-of-War
1st Stone Carlie & Company LLC
Graybar
2nd Maher & Company PC
Brown Shoe Company - Athfeets
3rd Pulaski Bank
SSM St. Mary’s Vital Signs
Barry-Wehmiller
Brown Shoe Company
Buckingham Asset Management
City of Clayton
Enterprise Holdings
Graybar
KellyMitchell
Maher & Company PC
Mueller Prost PC
Pulaski Bank
Rafco Properties
RubinBrown LLP
This event would not be possible without the outstanding
Corporate Challenge Planning Committee.
D alal Bad ra n , Brow n Sh o e Co m pa ny
Lo u Callen , Me r r ill Lyn ch
J e nn ifer I n travia, SSM S t . Ma r y ’ s H ea l t h Ce n te r
Neil Kies el , SSM S t . Ma r y ’ s H ea l t h Ce n te r
Kevin Mc Can n , Brow n S h o e Co m pa ny
J oa nna Ro thweiler, S ton e Ca r l i e & Co m pa ny
Kr istin Ru gen , S to n e Ca r l i e & Co m pa ny
Brad T h eel , S to ne Ca r l i e & Co m pa ny
D avi d Will , Hea r t la n d Ba n k
Br yan Wo mack, Ke ll y M i tch e ll
K i rk Wo n i o, Ru bi n B row n L L P
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Special Thanks to
School District of Clayton
Bob Bone & the
Clayton Athletic Department
Clayton Parks &
Recreation Department
Center of Clayton
City of Clayton
Aqua Systems
Kaldi’s Coffeehouse
Ben Lanning
Sangita
Two Men & A Truck
Thank you, thank you, thank you
to our volunteers who give of their
time Saturday morning to ensure
the success of the Challenge!
Neal Ramon
Kathy Barnes
Laura Benjamin Cheryl Reinhold
Nancy Rogers
Sarah Coats
Brett Rugen
Shela Coleman
Trish Saddler
Catrice Cooper
Rick Scarfino
Erin Cox
Shannon Jarosz Stephen Schranck
Alli Shawn
Travis Johnson
Janet Smith
Ben Lanning
Lisa Sykora
Brittany Lickiss
Iva Walker
Michele Muller
Naomi Nelson Adrienne Wallace
Amber Odom
Ruby Windham
Jessica Pienkos
Andrea Wuller
New Members
Ambruster Great Hall
Mr. Jeffery Mize
6633 Clayton Road
St. Louis, MO 63117
(314) 863-1301
Website: www.ambrustergreathall.com
Restaurant/Catering/Hall
Clare’s of Clayton is an upscale salon, an oasis tucked
in the heart of Clayton. The salon specializes in lively
believable color and modern styles to enhance image
and lifestyle. Let one of our designers create a beautiful
look that is right for you.
Cowell Engineering
Built in 1931, Ambruster Great Hall is a multi-use facility
for all of life’s celebrations. Experience the perfect blend
of history and elegance, and host your next memorable
event, from intimate gatherings to large extravaganzas
at this amazing hall.
Ms. Jean Cowell
3008 Sutton
Maplewood, MO 63143
(314) 644-4002
Fax: (314) 644-1988
Website: www.cowelleng.com
Charles L. Crane Agency
Engineering/Surveying
Mr. Steve Simon
100 N. Broadway, Suite 100
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 241-8706
Fax: (314) 444-4970
Website: www.craneagency.com
Cowell Engineering is a WBE-qualified structural
engineering firm focused on designing commercial
construction projects and building lasting
client relationships.
Insurance Services
The Charles L. Crane Agency provides expertise in
Commercial Property and Casualty Insurance, health
benefits and Surety bonds for start up, established and
companies in transition. We also supply competitive
and innovative insurance products to solve our
clients needs. Patrick Clarkin instructs and lobbies
for the Missouri Association of Insurance Agents in
Jefferson City.
Clare’s of Clayton Salon
Ms. Clare Taylor
7751 Carondelet
Suite 110
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 862-4492
Email: claresofclayton@charter.net
Beauty/Personal Care
Crescent Coast
Ms. Terry Warner
169 Carondelet Plaza
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 726-7979
Website: www.shopcrescentcoast.com
Retail
Clothing Crescent Coast specializes in casual,
coastal-inspired apparel and accessories. From middle
school to middle-age, we offer head to toe looks for men
& women.
Gallery 618
Mr. Luke Pinion
7513 Forsyth Blvd.
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 862-2500
Art Gallery
Gallery 618 is a contemporary art gallery focusing on
pop, urban and graffiti.
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New Members
Kingdom House
Ms. Jennifer March
1321 S. 11th Street
St. Louis, MO 63104
(314) 627-1128
Website: www.kingdomhouse.org
Not-For-Profit
Kingdom House believes in transformation from
the inside out. Through a variety of social services,
Kingdom House helps thousands yearly to achieve
self-sufficiency and gain economic independence.
The Wheelhouse
World Chess Hall of Fame
Mr. Stephen Savage
15 N. Central
Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 726-7955
Website: www.wheelhousestl.com
Ms. Lauren Stewart
4652 Maryland Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108
(314) 367-9243
Fax: (314) 367-7801
Website: www.worldchesshof.org
Restaurant/Catering/Hall
Located in the heart of Clayton, the Wheelhouse is
dedicated to reinventing the sports bar with their
inspired hand crafted menu. Settle in to watch the
Cardinals, Blues, Rams, Missouri Tigers, SLU Billikins
or just about any big game your inner sports fan desires
on our 36 HD TVs.
Chamber Events
Nationwide Insurance The Jerome Smart Agency
Ribbon Cuttings
Not-For-Profit
The WCHOF focuses on educating visitors, players
and scholars by preserving, exhibiting and
interpreting the game of chess by continuing
cultural and artistic significance.
Karen Lenz, Director, Strategic Planning & Business Development,
St. Luke’s Hospital; Brenda Kelly, Vice President, Surgical Services,
St. Luke’s Hospital; Elizabeth Lucas, MD, Medical Director,
St. Luke’s Urgent Care Centers; Deborah Baysinger, Nurse
Manager, St. Luke’s Urgent Care in Ladue; Nancy Spewak, Mayor,
City of Ladue; Linda Hayden, Director, St. Luke’s Urgent Care
Centers; Ellen Gale, Executive Director & Trish Zupon, Membership
Director, Clayton Chamber of Commerce and Don Miller,
Vice President, Operations, St. Luke’s Hospital.
St. Luke’s Urgent Care
Vanity-Complete Aesthetic Perfection
Patrick Buehring, Chamber President; Jerome Smart,
Michelle Smart, Edi Fazlagic, Danielle Smart, and
Theresa Byles, Nationwide Insurance - The Jerome
Smart Agency and Harold Sanger, Mayor of Clayton.
Lisa Breite, Tennie Rust of Vanity; Harold Sanger,
Mayor of Clayton; Jill Alaimo and Shaylyn Gilmer of
Vanity and Ellen Gale, Executive Director of Clayton
Chamber of Commerce. Back Row: Gary Carter,
Director of Development for City of Clayton.
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Chamber Events
Culinary Creations
Presented by
tizer Party
Created by Yo
u
An Appe
at Kitchen Conservatory
Shred Fest
Drew record-breaking numbers.
Presented by
Cintas representative with
Karl Zang and John Sendobry of
Commerce Bank
13
14
Chamber Events
The Art of Tasting
Held on the rooftop of Clayton on the Park
Event featured Spanish wines from The Wine Merchant
and tapas from bocci and Coastal.
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Pillar in the Community
Presented by
T
he Clayton Chamber of Commerce recognized entrepreneur
extraordinaire Jim McKelvey as the 2013 Pillar in the Community December
9th at the Ritz-Carlton.
Patrick Buehring, Pulaski Bank and 2013 Chamber President; Jim McKelvey,
2013 Pillar; Ellen Gale, Clayton Chamber Executive Director and Keith Williamson,
Centene Corporation and Chamber Board Member and presenting sponsor.
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Clayton Chamber Travels to
Prague/Berlin and Cuba
Texplored
he Clayton Chamber
the world in October
of 2013! We offered two
overseas adventures.
One group traveled to Berlin
and Prague and the other
had the special opportunity
to explore Cuba. Our travelers enjoyed incredible food,
outstanding accommodations,
spectacular sites and made
life-long memories.
These reasonably priced, high
quality trips are open to
anyone! Don’t miss out next
year! We are currently
exploring travel options for
2014. If you have suggestions, please call Ellen Gale at 726-0068.
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Chamber Events
Power Hour Networking Luncheon
Presented by
Power Hour Networking Luncheon
Ellen Gale, Clayton
Chamber Executive Director;
Ryan McClure, Communications
Director for CityArchRiver 2015
Foundation; Robert Wiltenburg,
Dean of University College and
Mark Abbott, Adjunct Professor
at Washington University.
December New Members
Steve Simon, Charles L. Crane Agency;
Jennifer March and Deanna Carpenter,
Kingdom House.
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225 South Meramec Ave., Suite 300
Clayton, MO 63105
www.claytoncommerce.com
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February 18, 2014
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