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Heidi Koger Proofreader Stephanie McHugh Contributing Writer Marjorie Langas Graphics and Layout Margaret Phillips Developer/Programmer Randy Leiker IT Support Tempest Wright Intern Tonia Wright Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Tell us how we're doing online or on Facebook. The Buckner Clarion is published by Grace Advertising & Consulting, Inc. 325 Broadway Lexington, MO 64067 660.259.3700 or 866.824.1020 (press 0) TheBucknerClarion.com is the online arm of this print publication. A special thank you to our advertisers and sponsors in this issue: Citizens Organized for a Better Buckner (COBB) The Firm Insurance Group, Inc. Grace Advertising & Consulting, Inc. HCC of Rural Missouri Live Well Community Health Center - Buckner Red Cross Pharmacy 2 | TheBucknerClarion.com December 2016 The Buckner Chamber Seeks New Members The Buckner Chamber is undergoing a reboot. With a new logo, new website and several business networking activities underway, businesses in Buckner and surrounding communities have something to look forward to. Board President Stephanie Smith, who also serves as the director of public relations for the Fort Osage School District, said the Chamber is hosting a series of monthly business luncheons where members can network and collaborate on business development. "Each month the luncheon features a business speaker to provide professional development and growth ideas for our members," she said. "There is a small fee to cover the meal. In addition, the Chamber is providing free networking opportunities for members and potential members at our Business Before/Business After Hours. Each month we hold one of these networking events at a local Chamber member's business. It's a great way to meet and network with other Chamber members and to see what our local business community has to offer." Smith said after reorganizing last August, the Chamber is looking to plan a quarterly business development series, economic development initiatives, as well as initiatives to support local Chamber members beyond the Buckner area. Smith also underscores the benefits of local Chambers. "Membership in a local Chamber of Commerce offers a number of benefits and keeps business leaders on top of ever-changing issues and trends within their community. Research will tell you that consumers are more likely to do business with a company that is a member of their local Chamber of Commerce," she said. As for the new board, Smith said Chamber members can expect a board of directors that works hard to provide a Chamber that is of value to the members and sustaining over time. Current Chamber board members through December 31, 2016 include: Mike Larkin, Vice-President (Larkin Contracting) Kim Pittman, Secretary (Lifetime Investments, LLC) Ben Ross, Treasurer (Individual Membership) Ryan Matt, Board Member (Matt Ford) Amanda Arnold, Board Member (Live Well Health Clinic) Bryon Postlethwait, Board Member (Jeeves of Hudson Street) Although several activities are planned next year, Smith said the Chamber will add monthly luncheons beginning January 4, 2017 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Tuscano's. The guest speaker for that event will be announced. Additional announcements to come include Chamber fees for membership. Currently, fees can range from $30 to $150. Smith said details on how to join the Chamber will be available in the coming new year. Their initial focus is businesses in the Buckner area; however, any business is invited to join the Chamber. "The Chamber is working hard to be a voice for business in the Buckner community," Smith said. "It is our goal to help support our Chamber members and bring exposure to their business, help provide professional development and networking opportunities, and grow business in our community. None of this is possible without members. I would encourage any business in the Buckner area to join or come as a guest to one of our events to see what the Chamber can do for you." For more information, contact any of the Chamber board members or reach out to Stephanie Smith at 816.650.7019, ssmith@fortosage.net. Our Mission: To make a positive impact on our community by reminding city officials that they work for the people. We empower you by keeping you informed. Facebook.com/COBB.Truth BucknerCOBB@gmail.com Paid by COBB / Treasurer: Ben Ross Your source for the truth. Mailbox delivery of The Buckner Clarion is back! Have a Merry Christmas and may your New Year be filled with peace and many blessings.

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