T H E CHA M B E R
CONNECTION February 2024
Congratulations! Bank 21
2023 Business of the Year For over 100 years, Bank 21 has been a locally-owned and operated full-service bank. Since Bank 21 was chartered in 1903 in Bogard, Missouri it has grown and expanded. Today, there are four locations located in Carrollton, Marshall, Sedalia, and Blue Springs, Missouri with the desire to serve and invest in these communities. Although Bank 21 has grown, they still pride themselves in the ability to give each individual customer the attention, service, and quality they expect and deserve from their bank.
Hillcrest Transitional Housing 2023 Not for Profit of the Year
Hillcrest Transitional Housing is Kansas City’s regional leader in solving homlessness. They serve over 1,020 children, individuals, and families each year through its five residential sites in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties in Kansas and Jackson County in Missouri. Hillcrest also
offers intensive case management for residents
that works on solving the root causes of their homelessness; and advocates for action on homelessness, poverty, affordable housing, and hunger.
Travis Hunt & Joanie Shover
2023 Outstanding Citizens of the Year Travis Hunt, New York Life Insurance, was nominated by Blue Springs Rotary Club. Travis volunteers his time and energy to numerous not for profit organizations, the Chamber and the community. Joanie Shover was nominated by the Blue Springs Historical Society. Joanie is a member of the Kansas City Master Gardeners and volunteers her time and energy to improving the Historical Society’s garden, Downtown Main Street planters, raising funds for restoring the Chicago-Alton Hotel, and educating youth in 4-H.
Welcome New Members! Amerikick Blue Springs (816) 308-4781 sensei@amerikickbluesprings.com
Happy Chamberversary! Abundant Life Baptist Church
www.amerikickbluesprings.com
ABWA Dynamic Connections
Beehive Homes of Grain Valley
Blue Springs Christian Church
(816) 918-1322 Malonda@beehivegv.com www.BeehiveGV.com
Blue Springs City Lifestyle (816) 560-7478 austinbrewer@citylifestyle.com citylifestyle.com/bluespringsmo
Dr. Galen Ericson (816) 210-8293 galen.ericson@gmail.com
Fun Foam Events (816) 200-0288 info@funfoamevents.com http://funfoamevents.com
KC Industrial Services LLC (816) 258-5121 corporate@kcis.com
Main Event (816) 350-1000 Kaylee.Barger@mainevent.com www.mainevent.com
Sallee Development (816) 525-2891 tyler@salleedevelopment.com salleedevelopment.com
Zelmo Realtyy 816 463 1472 yogajourneys1200@gmail.com
Caring Hands, Inc. Church of the Resurrection City of Blue Springs Comfort Dental Hampton Inn Kansas City/Blue Springs Heartland Cremation & Burial Society Hy-Vee Food & Drugstore Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina Nothing Bundt Cakes Raymond James Financial Services - Steve Heggs Saint Luke’s East Hospital Southern Jackson County Fire Protection District Spring Oak Property Management St. John LaLande School St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church Steven P. Thurmon CPA The Emerald Event Space
February Events 02
Legislative Breakfast 7:30 am @ Adams Pointe Golf Club Register here
06
Financial Oversight 8:00 am @ Chamber Office Chamber Lunch & Learn 11:30 am @ CJCFPD Training Facility Register here
Did You Know? Did you know the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce
08
After Hours Networking 4:00 pm @ Sinclair’s Restaurant Register here
awards four academic scholarships to college bound graduating seniors in each of the three Blue Springs High Schools and one from another area district? To be eligible to apply, applicants must have at least one
09
Legislative Affairs Task Force 7:30 am @ Sandy’s Restaurant Register here Sponsored by BV Contracting Solutions
parent or guardian who is employed by a Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce member business or, they must be employed by a Blue Springs Chamber member business. Applications can be found on the Blue Springs Education Foundation’s website and are due to the Blue Springs Education Foundation by Friday, February 23.
15
Monthly Luncheon “Unleashing the Power of ChatGPT:
Criteria:
Revolutionizing Businesses”
•
Demonstrate a strong work ethic.
11:30 am @ Adams Pointe Conference Center
•
Demonstrate extraordinary determination in
Register Here
overcoming adverse circumstances to further their
Sponsored by Cosentinos Price Chopper
educational pursuits. •
Demonstrate a commitment to community involvement.
22
Meet Me For Lunch 11:30 am @ Tacos4Life Register here
•
Demonstrate a pursuit of growth and improvement in all areas.
Students applying who do not attend a Blue Springs
27
Legislative Advocacy Day - EJC Day at the Capital 7:00 am - Meet @ the Chamber
District high school may remit applications to:
Register here
Katie Woolf
Blue Springs Education Foundation 1801 NW Vesper
28
DEI Task Force Book Club 3:00 pm @ MCPL South Branch Register here
Blue Springs, MO 64015 Contact Katie Woolf with questions: KWoolf@BSSD.net
2024 Annual Awards Banquet The Blue Springs Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet presented by St. Mary’s Medical Center was held on Friday, January 26. We were thrilled to present the 2023 Business of the Year award to Bank 21, the 2023 Not for Profit of the Year award to Hillcrest Transitional Housing, and the 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year awards to Travis Hunt, New York Life Insurance and Joanie Shover, Blue Springs HIstorical Society. The Chamber staff was pleasantly surprised to receive a Legacy Award presented by David Melhorn of Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina. And we also bid farewell to the 2023 Chairman of the Board, Cody Raithel of Central Bank of the Midwest, and welcomed the new 2024 Chairman, Michael Scott of The Table. The “Once Upon a Time” theme carrried throughout the event with special corporate table centerpieces themed around a variety of fairytales and storybooks. Dessert was provided by Aleuro Bakery and Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers donated a diamond ring which was raffled off at the end of the evening. Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and guests for helping make this year’s Banquet a magical event!
Thank You to Our Corporate Table Sponsors 5 Star Garage Door Service Bank 21 Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co. Blue Springs R-IV School District Blue Springs Rotary Club Business Assistance BV Contracting Solutions Central Bank of the Midwest Citizens Police Academy City of Blue Springs CJCFPD Diamond Contractors, Inc. Equity Bank Evergy Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina MCC Blue River Meyers Funeral Chapel Paulette Crawford Purple Peace Foundation St. Mary's Medical Center The Table
Member News Legacy Brokers LLC Legacy Brokers LLC is offering a “Level UP Series” in partnership with Sandler Sales Training to offer you expert sales advice, aiming to enhance your skills and boost your success in winning and closing deals. This exclusive sales seminar is designed for seasoned employee benefits consultants and features three dynamic classes to enhance your skills and revolutionize your approach to group health insurance sales. Click here to learn more and register to attend.
Datasource Background Screening Services Datasource Background Screening Services, an industry leader in background screening, is celebrating its 30th anniversary, showcasing its legacy of trust, experience and longevity. With a primary focus on hiring, volunteer and tenant screening services for clients across the U.S. and particularly in Kansas City, Datasource has become synonymous with reliability and innovation in customer service-focused background screening. Learn more about Datasource Background Screening Services here. Datasource is actively seeking dedicated professionals to join its team. For more information on our services or career opportunities, get in touch here.
Chasing Serenity Ribbon Cutting We celebrated Chasing Serenity’s new location with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, January 23. Chasing Serenity, owned by Kimberly Gibson, specializes in budget-friendly customized massage therapy services including Swedish massage, cupping, hot/ cold stone treatments, facial massage, foot scrub and aromatherapy. They are proud to offer discounts to First Responders, Medical professionals, Teachers, Military and Veterans. Stop in for a visit at 1400 NW South Outer Road, Suite B in Blue Springs, or call (816) 379-6567
BSSD No Tax Rate Increase Bond - Vote Feb. 6 At the November luncheon, State of the School District,
for students. At the December Chamber Board of Directors
Superintendent Dr. Jerome talked about a no-tax-increase
meeting, there was a presentation from the School District
bond issue that will add multipurpose rooms to the middle
about the bond issue and answered Board member questions.
schools that can be used as performing arts space and can
Following the presentation, the Chamber’s Board of Directors
withstand an EF5 tornado. It will also update and add space
passed a resolution of support for this bond issue and
for several elementary schools and build the Career Innovation
encourages you to vote yes on this initiative on February 6,
Center which will provide real world learning opportunities
2024.
Darrell Denish Retirement from Bank 21 Bank 21 announces the retirement of President Darrell Denish after an illustrious 42year career in banking. A visionary leader, Darrell has played a pivotal role in steering Bank 21 through years of success and growth in the financial industry. Under Darrell’s guidance, Bank 21 has thrived, navigating economic shifts, fostering innovation, and maintaining a steadfast commitment to clients and community values. Tyler Knott, CEO and Chairman of the Board at Bank 21, expresses gratitude, saying, “We are immensely thankful for Darrell’s dedication and vision.” Bank 21 extends heartfelt thanks to Darrell Denish for his exemplary service and wishes him a fulfilling retirement ahead.
Scout Coffee For the month of February Scout Coffee will be doing a pop up with the help of some students from the Blue Springs Career Innovation Center. On Friday, February 2 they will debut a menu that the students helped design. They helped name the drinks too! All month long a portion of the sales from this menu will be going to a charity that they chose as well - Paws for Autism. Stop in and try an old favorite or something new! This menu will be available at both the Blue Springs and Grain Valley locations.
The Big Biscuit Ribbon Cutting On Thursday, January 25 we celebrated the grand re-opening of The Big Biscuit in Blue Springs! Following a change in ownership, they are thrilled to continue to serve the community that has supported them for years. President Chad Offerdahl says “There will be minimal updates and improvements to the building and interiors. Our goal is to maintain the history of the brand.” Stop in and enjoy a delicious breakfast at 530 NW Hwy 7 in Blue Springs and welcome them back!
Candidate Forum - March 19 The City of Blue Springs will hold its general Municipal Election
and questions will be asked of candidates. You may submit
for Mayor on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
questions for candidates prior to the forum to Lara Vermillion
The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce will host a Candidate
at lvermillion@bluespringschamber.com
Forum on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. All candidates for the
The last day to register to vote for the April 2, 2024 General
April election have been invited to attend. Candidates include
Municipal Election is March 6, 2024. Voter registration
Chris Lievsay, Galen Ericson and Jerry Kaylor.
information can be found through the Jackson County Election
Each candidate will provide an opening and closing statement
Board or (816) 325-4600.
DEI Book Club Join us in the DEI Task Force Book Club where we dive into thought-provoking reads that explore these crucial topics. It’s not just a book club; it’s a space for open conversations, diverse perspectives, and collective growth. We believe in the power of literature to spark meaningful discussions and foster understanding. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey towards a more inclusive world, everyone is welcome. Let’s learn, share, and grow together! The first book we will be reading is “So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo. Books have been reserved at the Mid-Continent Public Library South Branch. When you visit the branch, let them know you are looking for the Blue Springs Chamber Book Club book. Our first Book Club discussion will be held on February 28 at 3:00 pm at the Mid-Continent Public Library Blue Springs South Branch. You may attend the Book Club even if you have not finished the book. Register here.
Lunch & Learn: Meet Your Chamber Staff Join us for an informative panel discussion with your Chamber staff, where we’ll share our perspectives and experiences navigating the triumphs and challenges of helping businesses grow. Moderated by Melodie Chrisman, Meyers Funeral Chapel. Sponsored by Anthem Photography and Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina. Tuesday, February 6 @ 11:30 am CJCFPD Training Facility Register here
Save the Dates! FEB 27
Eastern Jackson County Day at the Capital Register here
MAR 19
Candidate Forum Register here
MAY 10
39th Annual Golf Tournament Register here
SEP Fall Fun Festival - “Once Upon A Time” 20-22 Sponsored by Saint Luke’s East Hospital
Lunch & Learns The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce provides support geared towards business and professional development to its members through the Lunch & Learn series. This program offers panels and workshops on topics to encourage business development, advance personal and professional growth, and increase community knowledge. Lunch & Learn events are $10 for members and are held at CJCFPD Training Facility. February 6 - Meet Your Chamber Staff Register here April 9 - TBD Register here July 9 - TBD Register here October 8 - TBD Register here
Meet A Member Jeremy Rowan, The Dojo JRMA Family Martial Arts My name is Jeremy Rowan and I am the
and receive their blackbelts together. In
owner and head instructor (master) of
most other sports, parents are the kids’
The Dojo JRMA Family Martial Arts. We
coaches not peers. “The family that kicks
are an all ages martial arts school mainly
together sticks together” (my wife, Shelly,
based in the Korean art of Tae Kwon Do,
and son, Max, have also earned blackbelts)
but we pepper a few other things in for a
Blue Springs has been an amazing place to
well rounded experience.
raise my family and run my business. With
I started my martial arts journey over 20
the help of the Chamber, we’ve expanded
years ago, and it changed my life in so
our business and made a lot of great
many ways. I just want to offer that to as
connections. Last year we added yoga to
many people as possible. It is an excellent
our services, and hired a few instructors
way to exercise your body and your mind.
to our fun little group.
One of my favorite things about our
We are currently looking to add more
Visit JRMA Family Martial Arts online at
program is the family aspect. With our all-
instructors and a few new classes. I can’t
Jrkaratekids.com or contact them at (816)
ages concept, kids and parents can train
wait to see what the future holds.
878-5150
“You put water into a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put it in a teapot, it becomes the teapot. Water can flow, or it can crash. Be water, my friend.” - Bruce Lee
121K
2023
PEOPLE REACHED ON FACEBOOK
4 8 9
BY THE NUMBERS RETENTION A T E
88%
75 NEW
MEMBERS
2,884
2,720
POSTING VIEWS
MEMBER EVENT REGISTRATIONS
78,590
MEMBER PAGE HITS
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
MEMBERS
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TIER PARTNERS
169 EVENTS HOSTED
REGULARLY ADVOCATED FOR THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT LOCAL, COUNTY, STATE & FEDERAL LEVELS.
1000 W Main St, Blue Springs, MO 64015 | 816-229-8558 | BlueSpringsChamber.com
2024 Board of Directors Michael Scott, Chairman of the Board The Table Erika Lucas - Chair Elect Sandy’s Restaurant
2024 Partners TIER ONE
TIER FOUR
Jackson County Tow Service
Abundant Life
Saint Luke’s East Hospital
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.
St. Mary’s Medical Center
Community America Credit Union Meyers Funeral Chapel
TIER TWO Santa Fe Tow Service
TIER FIVE Greco Insurance
TIER THREE
Lighthouse Legal
Anthem Photography Bank 21 Cosentino’s Price Chopper Evergy Equity Bank Los Cabos Mexican Grill & Cantina Molle Chevrolet
Jeff Carpenter - Secretary/Treasurer Job One Cody Raithel - Past Chairman Central Bank of the Midwest Ashish Patel - Business Support & Promotion Hampton Inn Kansas City/Blue Springs Travis Hunt - Membership Events & Services New York Life Insurance Carman Booker - Leadership & Community Development , Bank 21 Bobby Olm-Shipman Saint Luke’s East Hospital David Mann East Forty Brewing Jason Norbury City of Blue Springs Katie Woolf Blue Springs School District
Chamber Staff Lara Vermillion, IOM - President
Kirk Lair Central Jackson County Fire Protection District
lvermillion@bluespringschamber.com
Lisa LaCombe United Real Estate
Trish Totta, IOM - Vice President ttotta@bluespringschamber.com
Lorne Meinershagen Meinershagen & Co.
Rose Hall - Events Coordinator
Melodie Chrisman Meyers Funeral Chapel
rhall@bluespringschamber.com Becca Blake - Communications Specialist bblake@bluespringschamber.com Mikayla Lavelle - Administrative Assistant mlavelle@bluespringschamber.com
Phill King Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More of Independence Suzanne Gochis Metropolitan Community College Blue River Tim Porter Christian Brothers Automotive Vanessa Starke Starke Law Offices, LLC
Contact Us 1000 W Main Street, Blue Springs, MO 64015 816-229-8558 www.BlueSpringsChamber.com
Warren Goessling Kohl’s Distribution Center