Chamber Connection: October 2025

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amber

OCT, NOV, DEC | 2025

CONNECTION Thank You for a Successful Fall Fun Festival!

September 19, 20 & 21, 2025

In this issue . . .

2

EVENTS CALENDAR October, November, December

5

MEMBERS OF THE MONTH August, October

6

MEMBER NEWS Updates from Chamber members

10

POWER HOUR Virtual Learning Sessions

12

RIBBON CUTTINGS Celebrating our members

16

WORLD CUP READINESS Prepare Your Business

Events Calendar October WED

15

THU

16

FRI

22

MEET ME FOR LUNCH 11:30 am @ Frankie’s Italian Bistro Register here MONTHLY LUNCHEON + NOT FOR PROFIT SHOWCASE “Strategic Decision Making” 11:15 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here Sponsored by Job One THE IDEA EXCHANGE 12:00 pm @ Chamber Office Register here

THU

CHAMBER COMPASS 8:30 am @ Chamber Office Register here

TUE

GENBLUESPRINGS 10:00 am @ Chamber Office Register here

WED

RIBBON CUTTING 2:00 pm @ Hydro Pool and Spa Register here

23 28 29

November TUE

10:00 am via Zoom Register here

06

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

TUE

VETERAN’S DAY Chamber Office Closed

FRI

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS TASK FORCE 7:30 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here Sponsored by BV Contracting Solutions & Kansas City Cannabis

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14

WED BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 4:00 pm @ East Forty Brewing Register here

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THU

MONTHLY LUNCHEON “State of the School District” 11:30 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center Register here Sponsored by Central Bank of the Midwest

THU

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

FRI

THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

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27

28

December TUE

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

THU

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

02

04

HOLIDAY SOCIAL 4:00 pm @ Adams Pointe Golf Club Register here FRI

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

THU

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

FRI

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

12

VIRTUAL POWER HOUR

04 “Best Practices of Hiring and Firing” THU

November cont...

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19 WED

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

THU

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY Chamber Office Closed

24 25

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

50 Years

for the 2025 Business of the Year and Not-for-Profit of the Year

Durvet, Inc.

awards!

20 Years

Bank 21 Blue Springs Rotary Club Chad Smith Insurance Agency Side Pockets The Millay Group Inc.

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

2024 Business of the Year New Day Massage

2024 Not for Profit of the Year Ararat Shriners

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 10 Years Rayne Storm Consulting LLC Staybridge Suites Independence 2 Twenty 2, LLC Woods Chapel Lodge Dog Obedience Group

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!

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

5 Years

GAGE Center Lighthouse Legal, LLC PowerPlus Cleaning Systems Reece Nichols Rockhill Orthopedic Specialists, Inc Sandy’s Restaurant Senior Benefit Services Smitty’s Carpet Rescue

All In Physical Therapy Aspen Infinity Insurance Group BV Contracting Solutions Dental Depot Dickerson Concrete LLC Guier Fence Hootchie Cootchie BBQ Joey Zarrillo, Z Team at RE/MAX Heritage 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 Wild Souls Wildlife Rescue Rehabilitation

3

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

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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

W

Welcome New Members!

Frankie’s Italian Restaurant Tim Hortons Ken Horrell 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.

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

Members gathered at Indoor Par Fore for After Hours Networking on Wednesday, October 8.

Your Health Strategy You Matter Movement Accurise Medical Billing Solutions Broom Hauling LLC

Mayor Lievsay provided an update on the City’s Strategic Plan at the Legislative Affairs Task Force meeting on Friday, October 10.

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888-743-5238 INFO@IRONWOODBC.COM

For a complete list of available services, visit our website:

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.

A single point of service for compliance and operational support needs.

WWW.IRONWOODBC.COM

GET HELP WITH: Audits

Employer advocate, ambassador, and advisor dedicated to helping our business community.

Branding Compliance Crisis Management

Dedicated partner invested in helping businesses thrive, not just survive.

DOD DOT Hiring/Firing

Regional staff provide quick, effective solutions with real-world experience.

Human Resources Marketing Policy Development Safety/OSHA Employee Training & More!

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

Networking at Events to Build Relationships

Tuesday, Nov. 4 @ 10 am Register here

Tuesday, Dec. 2 @ 10 am Register here

Discover the keys to effective and legally

Attend this session to learn how to

compliant hiring and firing practices in

choose the right networking events,

this concise, one-hour course.

prepare for those events and make the

This session will be presented by

most of them.

FROM ANY MOBILE DEVICE

Mitch Guimond, SHRM-CP, Ironwood Business Consulting.

Power Hour: Replays

CAR WON'T GO?

CAR WON'T GO?

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.

Sept 4, 2025 ADA Reasonable Accommodation Watch the Replay

** TOW or 816.524.9688 SANTAFETOWSERVICE.COM

FROM ANY August 5, 2025 MOBILE Increase Your Sales: Get Your Business DEVICE Digitally Ready Watch the Replay

July 1, 2025 Ways to Improve Workplace Culture Watch the Replay ** TOW or 816.524.9688 SANTAFETOWSERVICE.COM

Community Profile 15

YOUR STORY TOLD THROUGH POWERFUL VIDEO ABOUT US At Optimum Visuals, we specialize in crafting cinematic, story-driven video content that captivates, connects, and converts.

WHAT WE DO BEST

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

WHY CHOOSE US?

Collaborative Process

Cinematic Quality

Local & National Reach

Guiding You Every Step of the Way to a finished product

High-quality production with storytelling at our core.

Proudly serving clients in Kansas City and beyond.

Based in Kansas City | Available Nationwide (816) 200-7161

OptimumVisuals.com

info@optimumvisuals.com 11

Ribbon Cuttings

Heartland Fence and Concrete (816) 905-2432 heartlandfenceconcretekc.com

7/15/25

Elevation Fitness (816) 281-1348 elevationfitness.fit

Lara’s Cakes and Bakes (816) 405-0833 larascakesbakes.com

7/17/25

Greco Agency Farmers Insurance (816) 228-2886 farmersagent.com/jgreco

Ballet Academy of Missouri (816) 314-2266 bamokc.com

8/22/25

McAlister’s Deli mcalistersdeli.com

7/15/25

8/15/25

9/29/25

Keys Health Direct Primary Care (816) 265-9270 keyshealthdpc.com

9/30/25

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Kansas City’s Home for Advanced Orthopedic Care Broken bones and other injuries can turn your fall fun into a fall fail.

When life slows you down, Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists is here to get you moving again.

Schedule an appointment 816-246-4302 saintlukeskc.org/rockhill

• 16 fellowship-trained physicians • Specialized expertise in knee, hip, wrist, and foot injuries • Non-surgical and surgical treatments • Advanced robotic-assisted procedures • Walk-in clinic in Lee’s Summit

Blue Springs • Lee’s Summit • Shoal Creek

WWW.ASPHALTICSURFACES.COM

Asphalt & Concrete Paving Services OUR SERVICES Asphalt Resurfacing

CALL TODAY! 816-313-5466

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.

17 15

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

Data Privacy & Compliance: Protecting Your Customers and Your Business

With visitors from around the world arriving to watch the world’s

As the FIFA World Cup 26™ brings international visitors to our

largest soccer tournament, your business’s online presence

region, businesses must be mindful of how they handle customer

matters more than ever. People will be relying on their phones

data. Collecting names, emails, payment details, or even Wi-Fi

to search, navigate, and connect—and that means your digital

login information comes with legal and ethical responsibilities.

footprint should be accurate, engaging, and easy to use.

Clear communication and compliance with global privacy expectations will help you build trust and avoid potential issues.

•

Google listings & messaging apps

•

Mobile-friendly experiences

•

Customer expectations

Read more on the Chamber Blog

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/

OUR SERVICE A Sweeter Home Starts Here

Roofing Protect your home with durable, stylish roofing solutions. Our expert team ensures a smooth installation process and reliable replacement and repairs, giving you peace of mind.

Siding Enhance your home's beauty and protection with our high-quality siding services. We provide expert installations and repairs that stand the test of time.

Windows Upgrade to energy-efficient windows that boost your home's curb appeal and performance.

Experience precise installations that last.

Gutters Prevent costly water damage with seamless gutter installations and maintenance. Trust our team to protect your home’s foundation and longevity.

MAKE ROOFING A

SWEETER EXPERIENCE At Apple Roofing, we walk with you every step of the way, providing quality renovations and superior service from start to finish. Whether you're enhancing curb appeal, boosting energy efficiency, or recovering from storm damage, we're here to make your home improvement journey smooth and stress-free.

Why Choose Us? Licensed, insured, and certified, Apple Roofing is your top choice for exterior contracting.

We’re committed to excellence, integrity, and customer satisfaction in every project.

CONTACT US info@appleroof.com (855) 855-8742 appleroof.com 2209 US 40 Highway Blue Springs, MO 64015

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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

2025 Investors TIER ONE

TIER FOUR

Asphaltic Surfaces

Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.

Jackson County Tow Service

Christian Brothers Automotive

Mr. Electric

Community America Credit Union

Saint Luke’s East Hospital

Crosslin Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

Sam’s Club

First American Title

Santa Fe Tow Service

Greco Agency Farmers Insurance

Santa Fe Outside Storage

Hy-Vee

St. Mary’s Medical Center

Kansas City Cannabis MCC - Blue River

TIER THREE

Meyers Funeral Chapel

Apple Roofing

Zarda Bar-B-Q

Bank 21 BV Contracting Solutions

TIER FIVE

Central Bank

5-Star Garage

Cosentino’s Price Chopper

All In Physical Therapy

Diamond Electric

East 40 Brewing

Equity Bank

Job One

Evergy

Kona Ice

Kohl’s Distribution Center

Lighthouse Legal

Molle Chevrolet

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

Raising Cane’s

Nathan Manley Central Jackson County Fire Protection District

Chamber Staff

Lorne Meinershagen Meinershagen & Co.

Lara Vermillion, IOM - President lvermillion@bluespringschamber.com

Dan Nelson Kansas City Cannabis

Trish Totta, IOM - Vice President ttotta@bluespringschamber.com

Kelly Pearce St. Mary’s Medical Center

Becca Blake - Director of Communications bblake@bluespringschamber.com

Tim Porter Christian Brothers Automotive

Shelby Bohr - Events Coordinator sbohr@bluespringschamber.com

George Schmitz City of Blue Springs

Rose Hall - Administrative Assistant rhall@bluespringschamber.com

Brady Tieman Kohl’s Distribution Center

Contact Us 1000 W Main Street, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-229-8558

Vanessa Starke Starke Law Offices, LLC

www.BlueSpringsChamber.com

Katie Woolf Blue Springs School District