MEMBER NEWS

The Kansas City Zoo has some exciting news! To reflect the newest aquatic addition opening on September 1, we have changed our name to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Their new logo includes elements from both the Zoo and Aquarium as the new 650,000-gallon addition will increase the number of animals at the Zoo from 1,700 to nearly 10,000. The new logo retains the familiar font from the old one, a nod to the Zoo’s history with “& Aquarium” added to it. You’ll also see additional animals and colors to reflect the diversity of the many species that reside here as ambassadors of their native habitats.

When the Sobela Ocean Aquarium opens on September 1, it will be included with admission to the Zoo but will require timed reservations to facilitate as many guests as possible.

Assisting Hands Home Care’s Karvel Kofoed and his family were identified by franchise research firm, Franchise Business Review, as being one of 2023’s Franchise Rock Stars! The Kofoed Family was selected from over 36,000 franchisees, representing more than 360 brands that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research.

The Franchise Rock Stars were nominated by their franchise brand’s leadership in one of eight categories as franchisees who set admirable examples when it comes to leadership, business acumen, financial and professional success, and contributing to their community.

Children’s Mercy Kansas City is hosting their annual Dream Big Family Fest + Walk on Saturday, September 30. Children’s Mercy Dream Big Day is a family-friendly celebration and 1-mile walk to rally our community around Children’s Mercy and raise funds to provide answers, hope and care to patients and their families! With your support, any dream—big or small—can become a reality. Learn more at Childrensmercy.org

The Examiner invites you to attend the 8th Annual Women of Distinction Awards Ceremony and Luncheon on Thursday, September 28, at Stoney Creek Hotel in Independence. Twenty women will become members of this year’s class and one will be announced as the Woman of the Year! We are also bringing back Barbara Koirtyohann, class of 2020, to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. Barbara will be interviewed by Brad Speaks of Speaks Chapels, our Founding Sponsor. Emily Pegues will join Brad on stage to represent St. Mary’s Medical Center, our Presenting Sponsor. We are still looking for VIP and Corporate Sponsors, a dessert sponsor and more. Tickets are available now. Please visit www.womenofdistinctionejc.com for more details. Questions? Email us at womenofdistinctionejc@gmail.com.