Creating Connections - September

By Barb Byerly, BJB Creative Services

Art McDonnell is overflowing with mixed feelings these days. He's excited to take the next step in his life, but knows he's going to miss seeing so many familiar faces in his store when he closes McDonnell's Market Place on Oct. 1, 2011. And it's no wonder - after 75 years of family ownership, he literally grew up in the store. On the positive side, this will allow him to spend more time with his family and to pursue some of his professional interests. He has filed for re-election as Kirkwood's Mayor and if elected, he will be focusing attention and efforts on several economic related projects to benefit the biz community and residents. Art welcomes all Chamber members to stop by the store before it closes - while you're there, you may want to share your memories of this great local biz for a special memory book being assembled by Art's and Barbara's sons, Peter and Alex. Congratulations, Art!

Ever wonder how Bob Croghan got so lucky? It's easy to understand the curiosity - consider how lucky he was to meet and marry the lovely Pat Meyer 56 years ago. And his establishing Croghan & Croghan CPA, in 1960 which since has become a wildly successful biz operated by his and Pat's children, each brimming with talent and delivering excellent customer service. Plus he's often the lucky winner of Chamber prizes, including large ones, like the beautiful car he won a few years ago. Well, we may have learned the origin of his luck - perhaps it's a case of, literally, the luck of the Irish! In fact, Bob, Sr hosted a trip to the Emerald Isle so he and his sons could visit their roots, with a stop at the Croghan homestead near Roscommon. Included in the voyage were Bob, Jr, Dick, Pat and Mike. Bob, Sr's daughter, Cindy Croghan Backes did not make the trip. Oh, and while traveling, their luck even lead them to a pub for a pint or two - imagine finding a pub in Ireland! We wish continued good luck to this fun-loving, Irish fam!

And speaking of the Croghan's, hat's off to Mike's and Debbie's lovely and talented daughter, Allison, on receiving the 2011 Excellence in Journalism Award at Ole Miss! This highly prestigious award is based on Merit, campus involvement, grades, internship experience and more. While a student, Allison interned at KMOX 1120, ESPN, WREG, Ole Miss Sports Production, and Ole Miss Sports Media Relations. She served as a Diamond Girl for Ole Miss Baseball and a Redhot for the Memphis Redbirds. During her junior year, she lived in London for a semester and backpacked Europe for a month. Allison loves everything about sports and especially enjoys watching baseball, hockey, and football. She is currently working as a general assignment reporter position in Joplin at KODE/KNSF - a job she accepted before the massive tornado hit this southwest MO community, but luckily didn't start until a week after. Great job, Allison - Bob Costas, take note - we're predicting a very bright sports broadcasting future for Allison!