August 04, 2008 10:30 am
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Wal-Mart expands produce program
Wal-Mart Stores recently rolled out its Locally Grown program in Tulsa, Okla.
The nationwide program is meant to demonstrate Wal-Mart’s commitment to carry more local fruits and vegetables.
Angela Stoner, senior public affairs manager for Wal-Mart, said that while the stores have offered local produce in the past, the company is now making it a priority.
“We have seen customers want to support the local community and be able to buy products that sustain our environment,” she said. “They also want to purchase products that are affordable.”
Wal-Mart reported that partnerships with local farmers have grown by 50 percent over the past two years.
Items such as Oklahoma-grown cantaloupe and organic okra are being sold in 14 stores, compared with zero stores last year. About eight categories of produce will now be locally supplied to Oklahoma stores.
Business help offered in Galena
GALENA, Kan. — Representatives from the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Pittsburg State University will provide free, individual business counseling sessions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday in the City Council room at Galena City Hall.
Local residents who are interested in developing new or existing businesses, and existing business owners who are interested in discussing financing and other needs can meet with business counselors during the day.
Appointments are encouraged and may be made by calling the development center at (620) 235-4921. Walk-ins will be accommodated as time permits.
Commerce OKsregular dividend
Commerce Bancshares recently announced that its board of directors has approved a regular quarterly dividend of 25 cents per share on the company’s common stock, payable Sept. 26 to stockholders of record at the close of business on Sept. 12.
People in business
Gay Lynne Dawson has opened Wildwood Ranch Realty in the Wildwood Ranch development west of Joplin.
Dawson, a graduate of the University of Missouri, was an elementary schoolteacher who started a career in real estate after retiring from teaching. She has been in the real-estate business since 2000.
She is a member of the Ozark Gateway Association of Realtors, having served as an officer, director and a member of various committees. She also is a member of the Missouri Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
Wildwood Ranch is a 2,064-acre development at West 20th Street and Central City Road. The development includes property for single-family dwellings, and sites for commercial and industrial businesses.
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