Chamber Connection: October 2025

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Events Calendar

October

MONTHLY LUNCHEON + NOT FOR PROFIT SHOWCASE “Strategic Decision Making” 11:15 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here

Sponsored by Job One

8:30 am @ Chamber Office Register here

2:00 pm @ Hydro Pool and Spa Register here

November

“Best Practices of Hiring and Firing” 10:00 am via Zoom Register here

MONTHLY LUNCHEON

“State of the School District” 11:30 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here

Sponsored by Central Bank of the Midwest

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

VIRTUAL POWER HOUR

“Networking at Events to Build Relationships and Increase Your Customer Base” 10:00 am via Zoom Register here

CHAMBER CHAMPIONS

8:30 am @ Chamber Office Call the Chamber to register

HOLIDAY SOCIAL

4:00 pm @ Adams Pointe Golf Club Register here

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS TASK FORCE

7:30 am @ Sandy’s Restaurant Register here Sponsored by BV Contracting Solutions

MONTHLY LUNCHEON

“Business & Not For Profit of the Year Nominees” 11:30 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here Sponsored by All In Physical Therapy

THE IDEA EXCHANGE 12:00 pm @ Chamber Office Register here

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed WED 24

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

Now Open!

Business & Not for Profit of the Year Nominations

Do you know a business or organization making an outstanding impact in our community? We are now accepting nominations for the 2025 Business of the Year and Not-for-Profit of the Year awards!

Nominees must be Chamber members in good standing and have been in business for at least three years. Nominations are due by Friday, November 7, 2025. All nominees will be recognized at our December Luncheon on December 18, and winners will be announced at the Annual Banquet on January 23, 2026.

Click here to submit your nominations

genbluesprings

We’re bringing back our young professionals group — and you’re invited to help shape its future!

If you’re a professional under 40 and looking to connect with others in your age group, this is your chance to be part of something from the ground up. Join us for an informal gathering where you can share your ideas, provide input on the purpose and goals of the group, and help lay the foundation for what’s to come.

This meeting will help guide the official launch of genbluesprings in 2026. Bring your voice, your vision, and your curiosity!

Durvet, Inc.

20 Years

Bank 21

Blue Springs Rotary Club

Chad Smith Insurance Agency

Side Pockets

The Millay Group Inc.

15 Years

Blue Springs First Church of the Nazarene

Blue Springs Siding and Windows

Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center

Dave’s Service Center

Davis Auto Wrecking & Sales, LLC

Friendship Manor

Leadership Innovations

Morgan Painting

Rayne Storm Consulting LLC

Staybridge Suites Independence

Woods Chapel Lodge

5 Years

All In Physical Therapy

Tuesday, October 28 10:00 am @ Chamber Office Register here

10 Years

2 Twenty 2, LLC

Dog Obedience Group

GAGE Center

Lighthouse Legal, LLC

PowerPlus Cleaning Systems

Reece Nichols

Rockhill Orthopedic Specialists, Inc

Aspen Infinity Insurance Group

BV Contracting Solutions

Dental Depot

Dickerson Concrete LLC

Guier Fence

Hootchie Cootchie BBQ

Kansas City Cannabis Co.

Kansas City Curling Club

New Day Massage, LLC

Novel Place Blue Springs, LLC

Rela-Table

Smoothie King

StorTropolis Self Storage

The Emerald Event Space

Platinum Realty - Lisa LaCombe

50 Years 3

Sandy’s Restaurant

Senior Benefit Services

Smitty’s Carpet Rescue

Joey Zarrillo, Z Team at RE/MAX Heritage

Wild Souls Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation

2024 Business of the Year New Day Massage
2024 Not for Profit of the Year Ararat Shriners

Member News

Sponsorship Opportunities at Blue Springs Golf Club

Blue Springs Golf Club is offering fellow Chamber members the first opportunity to become promotional partners through their new GreatLIFE Golf Gallus GPS and electronic scorecard app.

The club has 16 hole sponsorships available on the app, which currently has more than 2,500 downloads and is expected to see significant growth over the next year. Each sponsorship allows businesses to feature their information or special offers, with the ability to link users directly to their website.

Chamber Member Special: sign up by 11/15, receive a free listing with URL Link in the December GreatLIFE KC Holiday Edition Newsletter with an email distribution of over 40,000 customers. For more information about this opportunity, email Dave Teeman at dteeman@greatlifegolf.com or call 816-522-5200.

Bank 21’s Carman Booker Named Woman of the Year

Carman Booker, senior vice president with Bank 21 in Blue Springs, was honored with the Missouri Bankers Association 2025 Woman of the Year Award on Thursday, Aug. 21, during MBA’s 60th Banking on Women Conference in Osage Beach.

Booker is the first person to receive this award, which recognizes a banker who is excelling in her career while also making a significant impact on the banking industry and the banking community through professional growth and community involvement. A state banking association selected Booker among several nominations.

New Dementia Education Series: Tools and Support for Caregivers

Benton House Senior Living is proud to announce the launch of its new, enhanced dementia training program, setting a new standard in comprehensive dementia care for residents and their families. The expanded initiative features updated training modules for care staff and introduces an innovative series of educational video resources designed specifically for family caregivers.To learn more about Benton House’s dementia resources, visit www.bentonhouse.com or call 855-461-2552.

Side Pockets Blue Springs Celebrates 20 Years

This October, Side Pockets Blue Springs is proud to celebrate its 20th Anniversary! Side Pockets redefines what a sports bar and restaurant can be, offering more than 16,000 square feet of entertainment space. Guests enjoy 30 pool tables—including Diamond Pro Am tables and an authentic 1900’s Snooker table— plus electronic dartboards, regular tournaments, and multiple 8-foot HD big screens to catch every play. With more than 60 dining and drinking tables, there’s always room for friends, fun, and food. Join in the celebration this October and experience for yourself why Side Pockets Blue Springs is “Sports Bar Redefined”. www.sidepocketsbluesprings.com

Trish Totta, Chamber Vice President, Recognized as a 2025 Women of Distinction

Congratulations to our Vice President, Trish Totta, on being honored at the 10th annual Women of Distinction awards luncheon on Thursday, September 25. In her time with the Chamber, Trish has nearly doubled our membership to around 500 and continues to champion and support small business owners across our community. The Women of Distinction Awards celebrate the impact and leadership of women throughout Jackson County, and we are proud to see Trish recognized among them. Be sure to congratulate her when you see her!

Members of the Month

August: BR Carpet

What began as owner Joe Bowman’s college job installing carpet has grown into a trusted, full-service flooring company serving Blue Springs for decades. From a small shop on Walnut Street to their current location on the North Outer Road, BR Carpet has built its reputation on quality workmanship, personal service, and a commitment to doing every job right.

BR Carpet offers much more than carpet — their team provides a wide selection of flooring solutions including hardwood, tile, luxury vinyl, and area rugs, along with expert installation for residential, commercial, and multifamily spaces. Many customers return year after year, knowing they’ll receive the same care and attention that has defined the business from the start. As an active Chamber member, BR Carpet values the connections and community support that help them continue to grow and serve Blue Springs.

October: Mr. Appliance Lee’s Summit

Mr. Appliance of Lee’s Summit and Raymore, owned by Allison and her husband, is built on a foundation of service and integrity. Their business journey began with Mr. Handyman, another Neighborly brand, where frequent appliance repair requests inspired them to expand and open Mr. Appliance. Guided by a strong code of values—including respect, integrity, and customer focus—they’re committed to delivering reliable, professional service that puts people first.

What makes their story unique is their background as former teachers, which shines through in their dedication to helping others. As active Chamber members, they’ve grown their business through valuable connections and referrals that keep their schedule full. We’re proud to recognize Mr. Appliance of Lee’s Summit and Raymore as our October Member of the Month!

Member Resources

Employer FAQ on Paid Sick Leave Changes

With the passage of HB 567, Missouri has officially repealed the Earned Paid Sick Time mandate created by Proposition A. This mandate placed heavy costs and burdens on businesses, forcing many to overhaul policies and cut staff.

Signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe, the new law took effect Thursday, August 28, 2025.

To help employers navigate what this change means, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce put together an FAQ with best practices and key guidance. Read the FAQ

Grow Your Business

The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that the 2026 Sponsorship Guide is now available! Sponsorships are a great way to showcase your business, build brand recognition, and connect with our community while supporting the mission of the Chamber.

From annual events to publications and digital exposure, there are opportunities for every business to stand out and reach new audiences. Sponsorships not only help you achieve your marketing goals but also strengthen our local business community.

Early Bird Discount: Choose your sponsorship items by January 1, 2026, and receive 10% off your selections!

If you’d like help choosing the options that best fit your business, call the Chamber office at 816-229-8558 or email Trish Totta at ttotta@bluespringschamber.com. Don’t miss this chance to make 2026 a year of visibility and growth for your business!

Chamber in Action

Lara presented the 2024 Not for Profit of the Year, Ararat Shriners, with a check for just over $1800. The money was collected as tips in the Beer Garden during Fall Fun Festival.

Frankie’s Italian Restaurant

Tim Hortons

Ken Horrell

Aloha KC Spa

Ballet Academy of Missouri

The Paperback Playhouse

Murphy, Kinney, & Sumy, LLC

Ethos HR Consulting

KC Auto Center

Blue Springs Wellness & Rehabilitation

Curtis Stout Inc.

McAlister’s Deli

Honest Maids

Your Health Strategy

You Matter Movement

Mayor Lievsay provided an update on the City’s Strategic Plan at the Legislative Affairs Task Force meeting on Friday, October 10.
Members gathered at Indoor Par Fore for After Hours Networking on Wednesday, October 8.

Ironwood specializes in helping employers navigate the complexities of regulatory compliance. The Blue Springs Chamber is pleased to partner with Ironwood to help our members minimize risk, resolve issues within their organization, and build resilience for the future.

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.

Best Practices of Hiring and Firing

Tuesday, Nov. 4 @ 10 am Register here

Discover the keys to effective and legally compliant hiring and firing practices in this concise, one-hour course. This session will be presented by Mitch Guimond, SHRM-CP, Ironwood Business Consulting.

Networking at Events to Build Relationships

Tuesday, Dec. 2 @ 10 am Register here

Attend this session to learn how to choose the right networking events, prepare for those events and make the most of them.

Power Hour: Replays

Missed a previous Power Hour session? You can watch 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.

At Optimum Visuals, we specialize in crafting cinematic, story-driven video content that captivates, connects, and converts.

Whether you're showcasing your company culture, launching a new product, or building brand trust, our team brings the vision, experience, and execution to make it happen.

We serve ambitious brands across industries, with a deep focus on service-based companies, manufacturers, construction, restoration, and corporate organizations.

Brand Videos

Social Media Content

Recruitment & Culture Videos

Testimonial/Case Study Videos

Commercial Campaigns

Event Recaps & Highlights

Heartland Fence and Concrete 7/15/25 (816) 905-2432 heartlandfenceconcretekc.com

Lara’s Cakes and Bakes 7/17/25 (816) 405-0833 larascakesbakes.com

Elevation Fitness 7/15/25 (816) 281-1348 elevationfitness.fit

Greco Agency Farmers Insurance (816) 228-2886 8/15/25 farmersagent.com/jgreco Ballet Academy of Missouri 8/22/25 (816) 314-2266 bamokc.com

Asphalt & Concrete

Paving Services

OUR SERVICES

Asphalt Resurfacing

Asphalt Crack Sealing Repair

Asphalt Sealcoating

Asphalt Paving

Asphalt Patching

Concrete Paving and Maintenance

Striping and Marking

New Asphalt Construction

CONTACT US

We are a licensed and insured Contractor specializing in asphalt and concrete projects, using advanced technologies to ensure high standards of excellence in our work.

Game Plan

Prepare Your Business for the Global Stage

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.

Digital Presence & Customer Engagement: Making Your Business Easy to Find and Love

With visitors from around the world arriving to watch the world’s largest soccer tournament, your business’s online presence matters more than ever. People will be relying on their phones to search, navigate, and connect—and that means your digital footprint should be accurate, engaging, and easy to use.

• Google listings & messaging apps

• Mobile-friendly experiences

• Customer expectations

Read more on the Chamber Blog

Data Privacy & Compliance: Protecting Your Customers and Your Business

As the FIFA World Cup 26™ brings international visitors to our region, businesses must be mindful of how they handle customer data. Collecting names, emails, payment details, or even Wi-Fi login information comes with legal and ethical responsibilities. Clear communication and compliance with global privacy expectations will help you build trust and avoid potential issues.

Read more on the Chamber Blog

KC2026 Launches KC Game Plan

KC2026 has launched the KC Game Plan to help small businesses prepare for the FIFA World Cup 26™ Kansas City. Start preparing today with the readiness assessment, interest form and training calendar. Additional resources and the KC Game Plan toolkit will be available later this year. https://kansascityfwc2026.com/kc-game-plan/

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

Roy Boyd BV Contracting Solutions

Suzanne Gochis Metropolitan Community College Blue River

Lisa LaCombe Platinum Realty & 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

George Schmitz City of Blue Springs

Vanessa Starke Starke Law Offices, LLC

Brady Tieman Kohl’s Distribution Center

Katie Woolf Blue Springs School District

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