Chamber
First Responders Awards Luncheon
We held our annual First Responders Awards Luncheon on Thursday, April 10, 2025 to honor the incredible men and women who serve and protect our community. This meaningful event is our way of recognizing and thanking the First Responders who put themselves in harm’s way to keep our businesses, schools, and residents safe.
Presented by Molle Chevrolet, the luncheon featured important updates from the Blue Springs Police Department, Central Jackson County Fire Protection District, Southern Jackson County Fire Protection District, and the Blue Springs School District Department of Public Safety.
Awards were presented in recognition of heroism, community service, and dedication — with honorees nominated by community members, fellow First Responders, and their superiors. These nominations reflect the deep appreciation and respect our community has for the work they do every day.
We’re proud to support our First Responders and grateful for their unwavering commitment to our community. Honoring
Events Calendar
RIBBON CUTTING 2:00 pm @ Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More Register here
Emergency Planning For Your Business 10:00 am via Zoom Register here
CHAMBER CHAMPIONS 8:30 am @ Chamber Office Call the Chamber to register
FEST PLANNING MEETING 12:00 pm @ Chamber Office Call the Chamber to register JUNETEENTH Chamber Office Closed THU 19
MONTHLY BREAKFAST 7:00 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Sponsored by All In Physical Therapy Register here
Summer Series
We’re mixing things up this summer! Instead of our usual Monthly Luncheons, the Chamber will be hosting a Summer Series of Monthly Breakfasts in May, June, and July. These morning events will offer the same great networking and programming you’ve come to expect— just with coffee and a fresh start to your day. We’ll return to our traditional lunchtime schedule in August.
Real World Learning in Blue Springs
Thursday, May 15 @ 7:00 am
Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here
Hear from Andy Mayfield, Director of the Career Innovation Center, about Real World Learning happening right now in Blue Springs School District and how your company can be involved.
Peak Performance Comes with Permission to Pause - Mental Health in the Workplace
Thursday, June 26 @ 7:00 am
Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here
Join us as Rachel Murdock, owner of Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health, LLC, explores how to move beyond surface-level solutions and create a workplace where employees don’t feel the need to escape.
A Conversation: Bridging the Workforce Generational Gap
Thursday, July 17 @ 7:00 am
Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here
This will be a panel discussion of those who just recently entered the workforce or will be entering it soon. We will explore what motivates them, what they are looking for in a place to build a career and what is important to them. This panel will be moderated by Rebeca Swank, Job One.
50 Years
Durvet, Inc.
20 Years
Blue Springs Rotary Club
15 Years
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center
Woods Chapel Lodge
PowerPlus Cleaning Systems 10 Years
Rockhill Orthopedic Specialists, Inc
Smitty’s Carpet Rescue
5 Years
Kansas City Curling Club
Joey Zarillo, Z Team at RE/MAX Heritage
Resources
Did you know your Chamber membership includes access to a wealth of business resources, available anytime you need them? Through our Member Information Center (MIC), you have an entire library of valuable tools designed to help both employers and employees succeed.
Whether you’re looking for tools for new members, policy & procedure guidance, educational videos, or Power Hour replay sessions, the MIC’s Resources section has you covered. These materials are curated to support your business with expert insights, best practices, and important updates to keep you informed and ahead of the curve.
How to Access Your Resources:
1. Log in to your member profile through the Chamber’s website.
2. Click on the “Resources” tab.
3. Explore and utilize articles, documents, and videos tailored to help your business grow.
By providing easy access to these resources, the Chamber strives to be a trusted partner in your business success. Log in today and take advantage of this exclusive member benefit! MIC Resource Library
Members of the Month
February: Blue Springs Auto Service
Blue Springs Auto Service has built a reputation for high-quality auto repair and exceptional customer service. Owner Jamie Rangel began working in the automotive industry at just 18 years old, and when the opportunity arose to purchase the business from its retiring owner, she made it happen with the support of her family.
Today, Jamie and her team continue to serve the community with pride, standing behind every repair they make. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a major fix, you can count on Blue Springs Auto Service to get you back on the road with confidence. Learn more or schedule your next service at autorepairbluesprings.com or call 816-229-8301.
March: Cuddle Up Pup
This one-of-a-kind pet resort was born out of a shared passion for giving dogs a home away from home. Stephanie’s lifelong dedication to animal care—shaped by her early experience in veterinary clinics and her work with rescue animals during Hurricane Katrina—inspired a vision for cage-free, comfort-first pet boarding. Together, she and her husband, Andrew, turned that vision into reality with Cuddle Up Pup.
From luxury suites with real beds and couches to enriching daycare play areas, professional grooming, and a thoughtfully curated retail selection, Cuddle Up Pup offers top-notch care tailored to every pup. Their commitment to animal well-being and exceptional service shines through in everything they do. Learn more at www.cuddleuppup. com, call 816-427-4253, or follow them at facebook.com/CuddleUpPupBlueSprings.
April: A&B Home Improvement
Rooted in small-town values and built on resilience, this family-owned business has a story of dedication that began when the founder started learning construction from his uncles at just 12 years old. After years in the railroad industry, a layoff in 2019 sparked a full-time return to his passion— and A&B Home Improvement was born. With a commitment to “old-fashioned values with a modern touch,” they’ve been transforming homes and businesses ever since.
Specializing in residential and commercial remodeling, A&B Home Improvement stands out for their honesty, reliability, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re tackling a kitchen renovation or refreshing a commercial space, they treat every project like it’s their own. For a remodeling partner you can trust, contact Andrea Burks at 660-351-0245, email abhi.burks@gmail.com
Member News
Benton House Senior Living Honored for Outstanding Customer Experience
Benton House Senior Living is thrilled to announce that it has received multiple Customer Experience Awards from Pinnacle Quality Insight. This recognizes Benton House’s outstanding performance in cleanliness, response to problems, dignity and respect, communication, activities, and solidifies their position in the top echelon of care providers nationwide. Qualifying for the Pinnacle Customer Experience Award signifies that Benton House has consistently ranked within the top 15% of care providers across the nation over the past 12 months. Contact Benton House at (816) 8884-2727.
Whiten For A Cause
McDaniel Family Dental is gearing up for their Whiten for a Cause event this April and May, and they need your help! As part of this special event, a portion of proceeds from every teeth whitening treatment will be donated to a deserving charity—but they haven’t chosen one yet!
They want to give back to a cause that matters to our community, and would love your input. Do you have a favorite local nonprofit or a cause close to your heart? Let them know your suggestions, and help them make a meaningful impact together!
Drop your recommendations in the comments on their Facebook Whiten for a cause post! They can’t wait to brighten smiles together!
Jag TV wins Mid-America EMMY Award
Blue Springs South High School’s Jag TV has made history by winning its first-ever Mid-America Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS). Their “Christmas Edition” broadcast earned top honors in the high school category, marking a major milestone in the program’s 15-year history. After eight consecutive “All Missouri” awards and a nomination last year, this win cements Jag TV’s reputation for excellence. The students will be recognized at a ceremony in October in St. Louis, celebrating alongside college and professional broadcasters. To mark the achievement, Jag TV plans to host a school-wide celebration, honoring the dedication and talent that made this moment possible. Congratulations Jag TV!
Sunset Yoga at Burr Oak Woods
Discover the healing power of yoga while exploring our own unique connection to the earth and the wonder of the natural world.
Join yoga instructor Lisa LaCombe with Yoga Journeys to experience the sunset at Burr Oak Woods on April 29 from 6-8 PM.
This event is free, but registration is required. Email Lisa at yogajourneys1200@gmail.com for more information and to register.
MCC College for Kids
Summer is just around the corner and that means so is MCC’s College for Kids! The summer camps are held on each of our conveniently located campuses: Longview in Lee’s Summit, Blue River in Independence, Penn Valley in Kansas City and Maple Woods in Liberty for ages 11-17.
There’s a class for every kid: Engineering, Coding, Hair Braiding, Babysitting, Chess, Vet Academy, and more. Camps take place in June-July with a duration of four or five days. Daily sessions are from 8AM to 11AM or 12PM. Click here for more information and enrollment or call (816) 604-5254. Make Summer FUN!!!
Take a look at last year’s College for Kids
CTC Annual Career Fairs
The Fort Osage Career and Technology Center invites Chamber members to participate in their upcoming career fairs—an excellent opportunity to connect with the next generation of talent. The 3rd annual Healthcare Career Fair will take place on Thursday, May 1, followed by the 10th annual CTC Career Fair on Friday, May 2 at the CTC main campus. Friday’s event will highlight a variety of career paths including trades, emergency services, IT, culinary, and agriculture. These events provide a great platform to showcase your business, share industry insights, and inspire future professionals. If you’re interested in getting involved or have questions, please reach out to Becky Brown at rbrown@fortosage.net.
BSSD Career Day
The Blue Springs School District will host their fourth annual Career Day on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, for all freshmen students. The purpose of Career Day is to provide the students with an opportunity to listen about careers and specific industries from local business and community members. We see this day as a great opportunity to connect our students with the local community.
If you are interested in participating, please click here to complete an online form. BSSD will be in contact with you with more details.
The Copper Whisk LLC
Edward Jones
Austin Reine - Heartland Payment Systems
IRONWOOD Business Consulting
Shelter Insurance - Dakota Sullivan A Plus Janitorial Services LLC
Morning Star Coffee
Rampage Athletics
Smalls Sliders
Fun Ice LLC
Tucker Chiropractic
Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health LLC
Home Effects Remodeling
Click Magnet Marketing
Simplicity Financial Planning
Risinger Development, LLC
Heartland Mobile Testing Services
Ultimate Pool USA LLC
Stock Event Rental
816 Rehab and Performance
Impulse & Optimism
Heartland Fence and Concrete Company LLC
Get Jacked Concrete Lifting LLC
Lara’s Cakes and Bakes LLC
9 Foot Brewing
Extreme Cleaning Inc.
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
Birdies Indoor Golf
Power Hour: Virtual Learning Sessions
Tune in to our monthly Power Hour Virtual Learning Series on the first Tuesday of each month via Zoom. These sessions are designed to offer quick, impactful seminars to equip you with tools for success - all from the convenience of your office or home.
Conflict Resoultion in the Workplace
Tuesday, May 6 @ 10:00 am Register here
Join us virtually for our upcoming Power Hour session, Conflict Resolution in the Workplace, a timely and practical presentation designed for businesses of all sizes. With today’s changing political climate and the potential for increased workplace tension, learning how to navigate conflict effectively is more important than ever. Mitch Guimond, SHRM-CP, an experienced HR Coordinator at IRONWOOD with over eight years in the private sector, will lead the session.
Emergency Planning for Your Business
Tuesday, June 3 @ 10:00 am Register here
Are you prepared for the unexpected in your business? Attend this session to learn how to create effective emergency plans. Learn how to identify potential risks, develop response strategies, and ensure business continuity in the face of natural disasters, attacks, or other crises.
This session will be presented by Jason Bonney, assistant chief for the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District (CJCFPD) in Blue Springs, Missouri.
Power Hour: Replays
Ways to Improve Workplace Culture
Tuesday, July 1 @ 10:00 am Register here
This session will explore practical steps leaders can take to improve culture from the inside out, along with guidance on how to build and implement a customized culture improvement plan tailored to your business. Presented by Jacob (Jake) Garza, Human Resources Administrator at IRONWOOD Business Consulting, LLC, this session offers expert insight and real-world takeaways to help you strengthen team dynamics and workplace satisfaction.
Missed a previous Power Hour session? You can catch the recordings anytime on the Chamber Channel or in the Resource Center of your Member Information Center (MIC). It’s a great way to stay up to speed and revisit valuable insights at your convenience.
February 4, 2025
Outlook Optimization: Speed Up Your Email Workflow
Watch the Replay
March 4, 2025
Understanding Missouri Prop A: Minimum Wage and Paid Sick Leave. Watch the Replay
April 1, 2025
Big Impact, Small Budget: Building a Strong and Simple Brand
Watch the Replay
Th ank Y ou Sp on sors!
2025 golf tournament
Membership Madness Say Hello to our Newest Members!
March was an incredible month for the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce as we wrapped up our Membership Madness campaign with record-breaking success! We are thrilled to welcome 17 new businesses to our Chamber family! This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the enthusiasm and support of our current members, who invited friends, colleagues, and business connections to experience the value of Chamber events firsthand. Your dedication is what makes our Chamber strong, and we are grateful for the role you play in helping our business community grow and thrive.
Now, let’s keep the momentum going! We encourage all members to extend a warm welcome to these newest businesses, and help them get connected. A strong Chamber is built on relationships, and by continuing to spread the word about the benefits of Chamber membership, we can ensure that Blue Springs remains a vibrant place for business. Thank you for making Membership Madness a resounding success—let’s keep building something great together!
816 Rehab and Performance
“Reclaim Your Joy: Overcome Injuries and Achieve Your Health Goals for a Longer, Happier Future.”
Rehab Chiropractor located in Blue Springs, MO - If you find yourself removed from your favorite activities or the gym, look no further for your solution. We are here to bridge the gap between injury and returning to your normal life.
Website: 816rehabandperformance.com
Email: mike@816rehabandperformance.com
Facebook: 816rehabandperformance
Home Effects Remodeling
Our expert team can bring your vision to life! Whether it’s a small update or a full remodel, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Facebook: facebook.com/Homeeffectsremodeling
Email: pat@homeeffectsllc.com
Click Magnet Marketing
“Stop Guessing & Start Growing your Business Today!”
At Click Magnet Marketing, we’re not just another agency; we’re your growth partners. We’re here to guide you through the sometimes confusing world of digital marketing, cutting through the jargon and showing you exactly how we can achieve amazing results together.
Website: clickmagnetmarketing.com
Email: info@clickmagnetmarketing.com
Simplicity Financial Planning
At Simplicity Financial Planning, we take pride in setting ourselves apart by offering holistic financial planning that truly encompasses the essence of your unique financial journey. What makes us different is our unwavering commitment to understanding not just the numbers, but your aspirations, values, and dreams. Our advisors believe in creating a partnership where your financial goals become our mission.
Website: simplicity-fp.com
Email: jake@simplicity-fp.com
Extreme Cleaning Inc
Reliable, honest, and efficient cleaning services.
Email: Extremecleaninginc1@gmail.com
Facebook: facebook.com/extremecleaninginc
Stock Event Rental
STOCK EVENT RENTAL was founded to provide our local community with reliable rentals and exceptional service. We started with just a few chairs and tables, but over this year, we have grown to offer a wide range of services. At Stock Event Rental, we understand that the details make the event.
Email: stockeventrental@gmail.com
Facebook: facebook.com/SideHustleBG
Beyond the Storm Behavioral Health, LLC
Our team of professionals provides mental health counseling for trauma survivors, first responders, women with anxiety/perinatal issues, and individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD/PTSI, or OCD who desire relief, healing, mental well-being, and lasting recovery.
Website: beyondthestormkc.com
Email: rachel@beyondthestormkc.com
Heartland Mobile Testing Services
“Your 24/7 Mobile Drug/Alcohol Testing Solution”
We offer an array of testing from but not limited to DOT, Non DOT testing, Post accident, Pre employment, Random drugs tests, we come to you and take care of everything. We also offer DNA, Paternity, Covid and any other testing needs you may need.
Website: heartlandmobiletesting.com
Email: trevor@heartlandmobiletesting.com
Ultimate Pool USA LLC
Ultimate Pool, the Worlds most exciting 8-ball, now Stateside!!
Ultimate Pool USA is a division of the global Ultimate Pool organization, focusing on bringing the exciting 8-ball pool format, popular in the UK and Australia, to an American audience through tournaments and leagues.
Website: ultimatepoolusa.com Facebook: facebook.com/ultimatepoolusa8
Email: team@ultimatepoolusa.com
Impulse & Optimism
“Marketing & Communications Plans & Solutions for Small to Midsize Businesses”
I help small agencies overcome creative roadblocks with fresh perspectives and actionable solutions. I specialize in short-term strategy engagements that energize teams and spark innovation, leaving you with long-term results.
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laylanpennel
Email: laylanpennel@gmail.com
Heartland Fence and Concrete Company LLC
At Heartland Fence & Concrete Co., we specialize in top-quality fencing and concrete solutions. With a team of skilled professionals who are passionate about their craft, we bring expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction to every project we undertake. We take pride in our strong track record of positive reviews and happy customers.
Website: heartlandfenceconcretekc.com
Email: marie@heartlandfnc.com
Get Jacked Concrete Lifting LLC
“Polyjacking Done Right: Raising Your Concrete, Lowering Your Stress”
Get Jacked Concrete Lifting provides cutting-edge polyurethane concrete raising (polyjacking) solutions for homeowners and businesses across the Kansas City area. We efficiently lift and stabilize sunken or settled concrete slabs, offering a durable and less disruptive alternative to replacement.
Website: getjackedconcrete.com Facebook: getjackedconcrete
Email: getjackedconcrete@gmail.com
Lara’s Cakes and Bakes, LLC
Lara’s Cakes & Bakes offers delicious, customizable cakes, cupcakes, and treats made from scratch with love. Specializing in gluten-free and vegan options. Located on Main Street in downtown Blue Springs!
Website: larascakesbakes.com
Email: lara@larascakesbakes.com
9 Foot Brewing
“Brewing a rotation of small batch craft ales, lagers, sours, and seltzers because life is too short to drink bad beer.”
Website: 9footbrewing.com
Email: 9footbrewing@gmail.com
Risinger Development, LLC
At Risinger Capital Partners, we specialize in single-family developments and self-storage construction projects in Kansas City. Our mission is to address the ongoing housing shortage while offering investors a secure, high-demand real estate investment opportunity. With over 50 years of combined experience, we handle everything from land acquisition to entitlements, engineering, construction, and sales, ensuring a seamless project lifecycle.
Website: risingercapital.com
Email: chad@risingercapital.com
Birdies Indoor Golf
Birdies Indoor Golf is a fun indoor golf entertainment experience! Enjoy playing on over 158 courses on the world’s best and most accurate simulators.
Website: birdiesindoorgolf.com
Email: Jhud4242@gmail.com
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
Comprehensive Mental Health Services, Inc. (CMHS) is a non-profit community mental health center that has been providing caring services for over 50 years. CMHS is the behavioral health provider for all of Eastern Jackson County and provides residential and outpatient substance use services to the Urban Core of Kansas City.
Website: thecmhs.com
Email: lori.byl@burrellcenter.com
Case Studios Photography
Portraits that are uniquely you! A luxury photography experience for one-of-a-kind seniors and busy families in and around Blue Springs.
Website: casestudios.com Facebook: facebook.com/CaseStudios
Email: photos@casestudios.com
Business of the Year
New Day Massage
New Day Massage was named the 2024 Business of the Year by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, recognizing its dedication to wellness, community involvement, and business growth. Founded with a passion for holistic healing, New Day Massage is a trusted resource for pain relief, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
A MISSION OF WELLNESS
“Our mission is to empower individuals on their journey to wellness by providing effective pain relief, reducing stress, and fostering a supportive community,” says owner Shawna. “Through expert therapeutic services and compassionate care, we strive to help our clients find relief, achieve balance, and reconnect with their bodies.”
SPECIALIZED THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
New Day Massage offers a variety of services tailored to clients’ needs, including:
Deep Tissue & Sports Massage: Relieves chronic pain, improves mobility, and enhances athletic performance.
Cupping Therapy & Prenatal Massage: Reduces tension, increases circulation, and provides relief for expectant mothers.
Neurokinetic Therapy (NKT) & Craniosacral Therapy: Addresses muscle imbalances and promotes deep relaxation.
Lymphatic Drainage: Detoxifies the body and reduces inflammation.
These advanced techniques set New Day Massage apart, helping clients achieve long-term wellness.
GROWTH & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
This past year, New Day Massage expanded its office space to accommodate more clients and therapists. Shawna achieved Level 3 Master certification in Neurokinetic Therapy, further enhancing their expertise. The business also partnered with Yoga Journeys to offer yoga, integrating movement and relaxation into their wellness approach. Beyond the clinic, Shawna is enrolled in the Chamber’s Leadership Program and actively participates in networking groups. “I pour my knowledge into my team members, and we are always looking to partner with other businesses,” she shares.
GIVING BACK
Committed to supporting the community, New Day Massage donates gift certificates to organizations such as Wild Souls, the You Matter Movement, local schools, and Hillcrest Transitional Housing. The team also hosted a food drive for Hillcrest Housing, offering discounts in exchange for donations.
A LEGACY OF HEALING
Shawna has called Blue Springs home for 45 years. Since 2005, New Day Massage has grown from a one-person practice into a thriving clinic. As they prepare to celebrate five years as a stand-alone business this March, New Day Massage continues to set the standard for wellness in Blue Springs.
New Day Massage
1200 NW South Outer Rd, Suite 228
Blue Springs, MO 64015
Website | Facebook @newdaymassage1
New Member Benefit:
Ironwood Business Consulting
The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with IRONWOOD Business Consulting to offer a new FREE benefit to Chamber members. This collaboration offers Chamber members access to regulatory telephone support with a team of HR, Safety, and DOT specialists—all at no cost to your business.
This valuable support service, funded by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, is designed to serve as a dedicated management and ownership support line. Members can rely on IRONWOOD’s team of experts to provide regulatory guidance and best-practice advice to navigate the complexities facing today’s employers.
To take advantage of this service, members simply complete a Service Beneficiary Agreement. Once this agreement is on file, members can contact IRONWOOD directly or via email to get immediate assistance with their questions and concerns.
IRONWOOD Business Consulting specializes in helping employers reduce risks, address workplace challenges, and prepare for future success. Their team offers expert guidance in key areas such as DOT (Department of Transportation) compliance, OSHA regulations, HR best practices, and contractor compliance.
This service is exclusively available to active members of the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce, reinforcing the Chamber’s commitment to supporting its members. By providing no-cost access to IRONWOOD’s regulatory expertise, the Chamber aims to help businesses save time, reduce stress, and confidently handle workplace challenges.
“Partnering with IRONWOOD Business Consulting is a key step in enhancing the resources we offer to our members,” said Lara Vermillion, Chamber President. “We understand how complex and overwhelming regulatory compliance can be, and we’re thrilled to provide this service at no cost to help our members thrive.”
This partnership reflects the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful resources and benefits to the local
business community. Contact IRONWOOD today to set up your no-cost agreement and start taking advantage of this valuable resource.
For a full list of available services, visit www.ironwoodbc.com or scan the QR code below.
Ironwood Benefits
Human Resources
HR@ironwoodbc.com
Hiring, wages, overtime, employee benefits, FMLA guidance, conflict resolution, etc.
Crisis Management
info@ironwoodbc.com
OSHA investigation/complaints, employee personal crisis, threat assessment, post-citation guidance, etc.
Health, Safety & Environmental
safety@ironwoodbc.com
Recordkeeping guidelines, accident reporting, training requirements, safety manual review, etc.
DOT/FMCSA/Fleet Compliance
DOT@ironwoodbc.com
DOT investigations, recordkeeping requirements, driver qualifications files, post-accident recommendations, etc.
Not for Profit of the Year
Ararat Shriners
The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce has named Ararat Shriners the 2024 Not for Profit of the Year, recognizing their unwavering commitment to providing medical assistance, community engagement, and leadership development. Since relocating to Blue Springs, Ararat Shriners have made a lasting impact on local families by supporting children in need of specialized healthcare and fostering a strong sense of community.
A MISSION ROOTED IN CARE
The mission of Shriners Children’s is to provide high-quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries, and other special healthcare needs, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. The organization also contributes to medical research and the education of healthcare professionals, ensuring long-term improvements in pediatric care. Ararat Shriners proudly uphold this mission by supporting several hospitals that provide essential treatments for orthopedic conditions, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate issues.
SERVING BLUE SPRINGS AND BEYOND
Ararat Shriners offer a variety of services and programs that directly benefit the Blue Springs community: Shriners Hospitals for Children: Providing world-class pediatric care at no cost to families.
Transportation Assistance: Ensuring families have reliable access to specialized medical treatment.
Community Events & Fundraising: Organizing parades, festivals, and fundraisers that bring the community together while supporting critical healthcare services.
Youth Programs: Hosting events such as the Shrine Circus and a public Children’s Christmas Party to promote joy and community involvement.
GROWTH & COMMUNITY IMPACT
Since moving from Kansas City, Ararat Shriners have fully renovated their new Blue Springs facility to better accommodate their mission. They also reintroduced bingo as a community outreach initiative and fundraising effort to support Shriners Kids. These strategic moves have helped them expand their reach and ensure financial sustainability.
LEADERSHIP & OUTREACH
As a predominantly volunteer-led organization, Ararat Shriners focus on leadership development through a progressive six-year leadership track, culminating in a one-year term as Potentate. This structure ensures strong, well-prepared leadership dedicated to the organization’s mission.
Despite facing challenges such as declining membership and financial strain, Ararat Shriners have adapted by enhancing outreach programs, diversifying fundraising strategies, and strengthening community partnerships. They have also embraced hybrid event models to increase accessibility and engagement.
A LEGACY OF SERVICE
Through their commitment to medical care, community involvement, and leadership development, Ararat Shriners have built a legacy of service in Blue Springs. Their dedication to supporting children and fostering community connections makes them a deserving recipient of the 2024 Not for Profit of the Year award.
Ararat Shriners
499 S. 7 Highway Blue Springs, MO 64014 (816) 923-1975
AraratShrine.org | Facebook @araratshriners
Game Plan
FIFA World Cup 26™ Prep for Your Business
As the global spotlight turns to our region for the FIFA World Cup 26™, businesses across Blue Springs have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shine. Whether you’re looking to boost visibility, prepare your staff, or stay ahead of changing regulations, this series will help you stay informed and ready. Each month, we’ll share tips, tools, and timely updates to support your planning and keep your business running smoothly during this major international event. Let’s make sure we’re not just watching from the sidelines—we’re ready to win.
World Cup Task Force: Breakout Groups
From March-October, 2025, we plan to meet with members in person in breakout groups based on industry. Proposed groups are food/catering, retail, health/wellness, entertainement/ recreation, etc. These meetings will be a roundtable discussion where members are encouraged to share their tentative thoughts and plans for FIFA World Cup 26™, and to discuss potential issues they may see in their industry during this time. To be notified about future World Cup Task Force breakout sessions, text WORLDCUP to 855-931-0402.
Workplace Regulations & Employee Management: Setting Expectations for World Cup
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup 26™ headed our way, it’s an exciting time for our region—but it also brings new dynamics to the workplace. Whether it’s a distracted team, longer hours, or increased foot traffic, now is the time to get ahead of any challenges and set clear expectations with your staff. Read more on the Chamber Blog
Risk Management & Security: Staying Vigilant During the World Cup
As Blue Springs prepares for the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 26™, businesses need to think ahead about how they’ll manage risk and respond to real-time situations. From increased foot traffic to large crowds and unexpected incidents, now is the time to take a proactive approach to security and continuity.
Read more on the Chamber Blog
Demand & Staff Preparedness: Supporting Your Team Through the World Cup
The FIFA World Cup 26™ is expected to bring a major boost in activity across our region. Whether you see a surge in customers or slower foot traffic due to road closures and crowd patterns, it’s important to prepare your team for shifts in demand—while keeping morale high.
Read more on the Chamber Blog
In the News
Stay Up To Date On the Latest News
KC2026 Leads in FIFA World Cup 26™ Transportation Planning
KC2026 is proud to be the first of the 16 Host Cities to announce the procurement of buses for the FIFA World Cup 26™. This initial lease includes 200 buses and will provide expanded service complementing existing bus routes, facilitating travel to matches, the FIFA Fan Festival™, Kansas City International Airport, and other key locations. This early move to procure buses underscores Kansas City’s leadership and regional collaboration in FIFA World Cup 2026™ planning.
Read more: https://kansascityfwc26.com/kc2026-leads-in-fifa-world-cup-26transportation-planning-first-to-announce-critical-bus-lease/
Kansas City’s official poster unveiled for FIFA World Cup 26™
Selected from more than 100 submissions from artists across Kansas and Missouri, FIFA World Cup 26™ has unveiled “Woven Together” by Jadie Arnett as Kansas City’s official Host City Poster. Jadie’s design captures the energy, spirit and momentum of a region that’s ready to shine on the world’s biggest stage.
Read more: https://kansascityfwc26.com/kc2026-unveils-official-fifa-world-cup26-kansas-city-host-city-poster/
Tech N9ne Drops Kansas City’s Official Sonic ID, Host City Remix for the FIFA World Cup 26™
In partnership with KC2026, Kansas City-based artist Tech N9ne has created a oneof-a-kind anthem for the FIFA World Cup 26™. As the producer and vocal artist behind the track, Tech N9ne is the voice of the FIFA World Cup 26™ Kansas City Sonic ID, which will be used online, at in-person events throughout the build-up to the tournament, in stadium, at the FIFA Fan Festival and more.
Read more: https://kansascityfwc26.com/tech-n9ne-drops-kansas-citys-officialsonic-id-host-city-remix-for-the-fifa-world-cup-26/
Watch the Video
Watch the Video
2025 Investors
TIER ONE
Asphaltic Surfaces
Jackson County Tow Service
Mr. Electric
Saint Luke’s East Hospital
Sam’s Club
Santa Fe Tow Service
Santa Fe Outside Storage
St. Mary’s Medical Center
TIER THREE
Apple Roofing Bank 21
BV Contracting Solutions
Central Bank
Cosentino’s Price Chopper
Diamond Electric Equity Bank
Evergy
Kohl’s Distribution Center
Molle Chevrolet
Raising Cane’s
Chamber Staff
TIER FOUR
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.
Christian Brothers Automotive
Community America Credit Union
Crosslin Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
First American Title
Greco Agency Farmers Insurance
Hy-Vee
Kansas City Cannabis
MCC - Blue River
Meyers Funeral Chapel
Zarda Bar-B-Q
TIER FIVE
5-Star Garage
All In Physical Therapy
East 40 Brewing
Job One
Kona Ice
Lighthouse Legal
Lara Vermillion, IOM - President lvermillion@bluespringschamber.com
Trish Totta, IOM - Vice President ttotta@bluespringschamber.com
Becca Blake - Director of Communications bblake@bluespringschamber.com
Shelby Bohr - Events Coordinator sbohr@bluespringschamber.com
Rose Hall - Administrative Assistant rhall@bluespringschamber.com
Contact Us
1000 W Main Street, Blue Springs, MO 64015
816-229-8558 www.BlueSpringsChamber.com
2025 Board of Directors
Cody Raithel - Chairperson of the Board Central Bank of the Midwest
Ashish Patel - Chair Elect Hampton Inn Kansas City/Blue Springs
Travis Hunt - Secretary/Treasurer New York Life Insurance
Michael Scott - Past Chair The Table
Carman Booker - Leadership & Community Development, Bank 21
Phill King - Membership Events & Services Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More
David Mann - Business Support & Promotion East Forty Brewing
Joshua Alexander City of Blue Springs
Roy Boyd BV Contracting Solutions
Suzanne Gochis Metropolitan Community College Blue River
Warren Goessling Kohl’s Distribution Center
Lisa LaCombe
United Real Estate & Yoga Journeys
Tara Lavelle VaughanFire Solutions
Nathan Manley Central Jackson County Fire Protection District
Lorne Meinershagen Meinershagen & Co.
Dan Nelson Kansas City Cannabis
Kelly Pearce St. Mary’s Medical Center
Tim Porter Christian Brothers Automotive
Vanessa Starke Starke Law Offices, LLC
Katie Woolf Blue Springs School District