T H E CHA M B E R
CONNECTION JANUARY 2024
2023 Board Retreat
Buy Blue Springs Passport Challenge Congratulations to Carman Booker, our Buy Blue Springs Passport Challenge $400 grand prize winner! Thank you to everyone who participated in the Buy Blue Springs Passport Challenge! Your commitment to supporting local businesses has made a significant impact
CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR! As we reflect upon 2023, we are filled with gratitude for the unwavering support that
on our community. Let’s continue to champion local businesses, and invest in the vibrancy and sustainabliity of Blue Springs!
each of you has extended to our community. Your commitment to our shared mission of being the leading resource for business and an effective influential community partner has been the cornerstone of our success. We showcased our resilience at the annual golf tournament, where we weathered a torrential downpour that couldn’t dampen our spirits! We established a DEI task force to guide us in fostering a more inclusive environment within the Chamber and member businesses. We walked on the wild side during the Fall Fun Festival, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that make our community exceptional. We prioritized legislative affairs, ensuring member voices were heard on matters of significance. And our commitment to continuous learning was evident in the success of our Lunch & Learn series, where members had the invaluable opportunity to share knowledge and experiences. These highlights mark a year of achievements, resilience, and growth, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to each member for contributing to the success of these endeavors. As we look ahead to the future, we are inspired by the collective impact we can continue to make. Thank you for being the driving force behind our achievements! Here’s to a new year filled with shared accomplishments, meaningful connections, and the unwavering support of our extraordinary members.
2024 Annual Awards Banquet Join us for an unforgettable night of storytelling, recognition, and merriment as we create memories that will last happily ever after. The evening will unfold with cocktail hour merriment followed by a delectable feast fit for royalty. We will then honor the achievements of our esteemed award recipients, and delight in treasures galore during a festive dollar auction. Register to attend here.
Welcome New Members! The 14/Four Group (816) 200-1827 erik@the14fourgroup.com www.the14fourgroup.com
TidyKC LLC (816) 405-5364 Tidycleankc@gmail.com www.tidyKC.com
Yoga Journeys 816 463 1472 yogajourneys1200@gmail.com
Exclusively Dogs (816) 721-5486 Michelle.Toczek@exclusivelydogskc.com www.exclusivelydogskc.com
Read & Rooted
Happy Chamberversary! 1st Alliance Garage Doors American Hearing & Audiology Bank 21 Blue Springs Kiwanis Club Centerpoint Medical Center Central Jackson County Fire Protection District Cosentino’s Price Chopper North Evergy GRAYt Marketing & Business Services Hero Fund USA, Inc. Hope House International Association of Firefighters Union Local 3133 Johnny’s Tavern Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
(816) 400-9062
McDaniel Family Dental
readandrooted@gmail.com
Rela-Table
www.facebook.com/readandrooted
Tropical Smoothie Cafe Worlds of Fun
“ The Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce has allowed us many opportunities to meet other business leaders in our community. We work extremely hard at growing our business and it’s great to meet others who are doing the same. We love our community and our Chamber.” - Dion Laws, Focus + Films
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January Events 09
Financial Oversight Committee Meeting 8:00 am @ Chamber Office
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Meet Me For Lunch 11:30 am @ Indian Mix Grill Register here
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Legislative Affairs Task Force Meeting 7:30 am @ Sandy’s Restaurant Register here
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Sponsored by BV Contracting Solutions
Did You Know?
Corporate Transparency Act Informational Meeting 9:00 am via Zoom
Did you know that when you work closely with a group of
Register here
Building relationships builds business and your network.
people with a common goal in mind, relationships are built?
Co-hosted by MCPL Square One Attend this meeting to learn about this new
January is a great time to think about joining a committee or
regulation that will affect as many as 30 million
task force of the Chamber. The people who work on Chamber
small businesses in the United Sates.
committees and task forces are business people from our community. They are decision makers.
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DEI Task Force Meeting 12:00 pm @ Chamber Office
At the Chamber we believe that you should volunteer in an area that means something to you. We also believe that it should be fun. We want to help you find your place and volunteer where you fit and where you can contribute. You can find a list of current Chamber committees and task forces here. If you don’t like the first one you try, try a different area. Contact a
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Annual Awards Banquet Adams Pointe Conference Center
Chamber Staff person for more information on how to join a committee. (816) 229-8558.
5:30 pm - Cocktail Hour 6:30 pm - Dinner
2024 Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce Committees
7:00 pm - Program 7:40 pm - Dessert & Coffee
•
Business of the Year Program Committee
8:00 pm - Picadilly Style Auction
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Buy Blue Springs/Visitors’ Task Force
Register Here
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Chamber Champions
Title Sponsor: St. Mary’s Medical Center
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DEI Task Force
Corporate Sponsor: Evergy
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Fall Fun Festival Committee
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Financial Oversight Committee
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Golf Committee
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LEADership Blue Springs Committee
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Legislative Affairs Task Force
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Lunch & Learn Committee
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Legislative Breakfasts February 2, March 1, April 5, June 7 Each year the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce holds a series of Legislative Breakfasts to keep members informed and in touch with our government. Legislators invited to attend include Senator Mike Cierpiot and Representatives Jeff Coleman, Dan Stacy and Chris Sander. Each legislator will be asked to give a brief update about what they have been working on, the committees they serve on, and pending legislation that will affect businesses. If you have a question about pending legislation, please submit it to Lara Vermillion (lvermillion@bluespringschamber.com) by 9:00 am on the Friday prior to the breakfast. Questions will be sent to legislators before the breakfast so they can be prepared with quality answers. Register to attend the February 2 Legislative Breakfast here. The deadline to submit questions for the February breakfast is Friday, January 26 at 9am. The deadline to submit questions for the March breakfast is Friday, February 23 at 9am. The deadline to submit questions for the April breakfast is Thursday, March 28 at 9am. The deadline to submit questions for the June breakfast is Friday, May 31 at 9am.
Monthly Luncheons If you plan to attend multiple or all Chamber luncheons, you can pre-purchase seats in advance and save $2 per luncheon. Be sure to register for luncheons no later than the Monday prior, as we are required to submit a headcount to the venue by the Tuesday prior. Please note, paid registration is required even if you are not eating, as the facility charges based on total attendance.
Coming Up February 15 - “Unleashing the Power of ChatGPT: Revolutionizing Businesses” + New Member Showcase Register here March 21 - State of the City Register here April 18 - First Responders Awards Luncheon Register here
Save the Dates! FEB 26
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
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October 8 - TBD Register here
Holiday Social Our holiday social was an absolute blast - filled with laughter, connection, and festive cheer that set the perfect tone for the season. The highlight of the evening was the lively game of social bingo, where everyone eagerly marked off their cards in a race to blackout their bingo cards. The cookie decorating contest, generously sponsored by Price Chopper, brought out the inner artists in all of us, resulting in a dazzling display of creative and delicious treats. And our taste buds were treated to culinary delights as we savored mouthwatering horsd’oeuvres from a variety of local favorites, including Joker B’s BBQ, Sandy’s Restaurant-Home Cooked Meals, Side Pockets Blue Springs, Summit Pizza, Zarda Bar-B-Q & Catering Co., Los Cabos Mexican Grill, and Hy-Vee Food & Drug Stores. The Grinch even made a surprise appearance, adding an extra dose of holiday magic to our celebration. It was an evening filled with joy, good company, and memories that will last a lifetime!
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Member News Blue Springs School District The Blue Springs Education Foundation provided over $75,000 in funding for students, staff and schools through continuing education scholarships and classroom grants thanks to the generous donations from partners like Meyer Music, Oswald Rew LLC, Tandem Paving and many more! These funds helped purchase graphing calculators, microscopes, anatomy models, hands-on experiment equipment, writers workshop tools, bass amps, robots, books, and sensory materials.
Central Jackson County Fire Protection District Station 6 is officially open! They celebrated with an open house and dedication ceremony on Wednesday, December 6. “The Fire Chief and Staff of CJC would like to express our sincere thanks to the Citizens of the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District. Without the unfailing support of our taxpayers, most recently demonstrated by passage of the Bond making the construction of Station 6 possible, our ability to achieve Excellence in the Service of our Community would not be possible.”
Downtown Alive! Downtown Alive! and KC Makers Market hosted their second annual Christmas on Main event on Saturday, December 9. The event included special offers and activities at many Main Street businesses, photos with Santa and the Grinch, food trucks, and nearly 40 vendors setup in multiple downtown locations offering unique gifts and goodies. “Thanks so much to all who came out Saturday, Dec. 9 on that cold and windy day to participate in Christmas on Main! I hope all had a good time. Thanks to all the local businesses who ran specials and hosted vendors.” Jon Burke, Downtown Alive!
Board Resolution of Support 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.
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The Groom Gallery Ribbon Cutting The Groom Gallery celebrated their first year in Blue Springs with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, December 19. Owned by Jason and Kelli Cruse, this is their 6th location and their first store in Missouri. The Groom Gallery is a full line grooming service salon catering to dogs and cats of all breeds. Haircuts are by appointment only and walk-ins are accepted for baths and nail trims.
Queen Bee Boutiques Ribbon Cutting We celebrated the opening of Queen Bee Boutiques with a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, December 13! Queen Bee Boutiques is a collection of all of Kansas City’s best boutiques and local shops, all in one spot! Owned by Casie and David Bateman, Queen Bee Boutiques houses 165 small businesses and gives back to several charitable organizations such as Pawportunities, Hope House and more! Stop in for a visit at 824 US 40 Highway next to Bike Stop, or call (816) 988-8023. They have something for everyone!
New Day Massage + Yoga Journeys New Day Massage is partnering with Lisa LaCombe to bring Yoga Journeys to their services and offerings. Yoga is an important aspect of mental and physical health and will compliment and support their massage therapy practices. Yoga Journeys offers both private and group sessions. You can attend a free 30 minute session with Lisa on January 3 and get entered to win a free private session. Also, January 4-31, all new students can enjoy a 50% discount on their first session. Contact Lisa at yogajourneys1200@gmail.com for more information, or call New Day Massage at 816-463-1472
Beneficial Ownership Reporting The Beneficial Ownership Reporting regulation could impact
due by January 1, 2025. The US Chamber supports H.R. 4035,
up to 30 million small businesses in the United States. In an
the “Protecting Small Business Information Act 2023,” which
effort to gather information, Lara has been in touch with both
aims to delay the implementation of the Corporate Transpar-
the Missouri and US Chambers of Commerce. The regulation
ency Act and provide clarity. They’ve written a letter on the
suggests waiting until mid-year or later to file unless there’s
subject, accessible here. We will keep you updated on this is-
a triggering event, and Lara recommends consulting your ac-
sue and are actively seeking a knowledgeable speaker for a
countant or attorney for compliance guidance, as reports are
webinar to address your questions promptly.
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Blog Roundup Check out our blog for practical tips and useful information to help your business succeed. It’s like a toolkit for navigating the business world.
5 Content Marketing Strategies for Small Business Owners
7 Powerful Strategies for Aligning Your Team with Your Vision and Values
As a small business owner, you already know the importance
As a small business owner with employees, your success hinges
of marketing for business growth. Content marketing is an
on having a cohesive team that shares your company’s vision
excellent strategy to connect with your target audience and
and values. As a leader, it is crucial to ensure that your team
expand your reach. However, creating all the necessary content
members not only understand the purpose of your organization
can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll share five valuable
but also feel motivated to work towards achieving its goals.
content marketing tips to enhance your online presence,
Read on to discover seven impactful strategies that will align
attract new customers, and achieve your business goals.
your team with your company’s vision and values.
Ignite and Empower Your Team with Verbal Feedback
Amping Up Productivity with the “Quiet Protocol”
Verbal feedback is a great way for bosses and team leaders
In today’s hyper-connected world, maintaining focus and
to demonstrate their appreciation and encourage their
productivity can be a challenge. But fear not, there’s a game-
employees. When used correctly, this kind of feedback not
changing strategy called the “Quiet Protocol” to help you
only boosts morale but also creates an atmosphere where
achieve deep work and stellar outcomes.
employees feel valued, respected, and encouraged. If using
This approach involves allocating uninterrupted time for
words to affirm your employees does not come naturally to
focused work, minimizing distractions, and unlocking your true
you, you are not alone. Read on to learn more about when
potential to consistently deliver top-notch results. Learn more
to give positive feedback and what to say to open hearts and
about how you can implement the Quiet Protocol in our latest
minds.
article.
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Meet A Member Your Name Could Be Here! We’re excited to invite you to take center
and interests/hobbies, and don’t forget to
stage in an upcoming monthly newsletter!
include your favorite one-sentence quote.
Our “Meet a Member” section is dedicated
Additionally, please provide a photo of
to showcasing Chamber members that
yourself or your team to accompany the
make our community thrive, and we want
feature.
to feature YOU next. This is a fantastic chance to connect with To participate, simply share a paragraph
fellow members, boost your visibility,
that touches on key aspects such as your
and share your story. We look forward
role within the company, your business
to putting the spotlight on you in our
mission or purpose, a glimpse into your
upcoming newsletter. Email Becca to be
personal life including family, hometown,
included in an upcoming newsletter.
“In business and in life, a supportive community is the secret sauce to success. Cultivate relationships that inspire and empower.” - Unknown
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2023 Business & Not-for-Profit of the Year Nominees
2023 Not-for-Profit Nominees
Each year the Chamber recognizes businesses & not-for-profit organizations that are active members of the community and proud of what they have achieved in business. The 2023 nominees were presented with certificates of appreciation at the December monthly luncheon on Thursday, December 14. The winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet on Friday, January 26, 2024. Register to attend the Banquet here.
2023 Business of the Year Nominees
Center for Developmentally Disabled
Anthem Photography
Bank 21
Citizens Police Academy Alumni
Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co.
BV Contracting Solutions
Hillcrest Transitional Housing
East Forty Brewing
Kansas City Cannabis
Hero Fund USA
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Smedley Plumbing
Purple Peace Foundation
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O nce u’ o y
re invite
d
Upon ATime
Annual Awards Banquet jAN
AT
5:30
26 2024
PM
Adams Pointe Conference Center
RSVP ticket & sponsorship information at bluespringschamber.com
2024 Board of Directors Michael Scott, Chairman of the Board The Table Erika Lucas 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