Pictured Above: Congratulations to the 2014 Business of the Year winners! See page 4 for details >>
PAGE 2
JUNE 2014
Choose RED
to make your goals a reality.
Check out our programs that empower you to advance your education. UNDERGRADUATE COMPLETION PROGRAMS: • Criminal Justice • Management
GRADUATE PROGRAMS:
• Information Technology • Computer Science • Ethical Strategic Leadership • Occupational Safety Management
ucmo.edu/summitcenter
JUNE 2014
PAGE 3
WHAT A YEAR SO FAR... To say that 2014 thus far has been an exciting year for the Chamber would be a huge understatement! In March, the Lee’s Summit Chamber received the highest rating, a 5-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The 5-Star Accreditation recognizes the Chamber for sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. This is the first time in our organization’s history that we have received this great honor. Make sure to read the complete story on page 16. In addition to the exciting award, the Chamber has also rolled out a mentoring program for our new members. This program pairs new members to our organization with veteran members. It can sometimes be difficult to get out and network for the first time, but with a mentor/friend by your side you’re bound to feel more comfortable. With this new program, we are seeing great success with our new members. Thank you to the Board of Directors, Chamber members and staff for making this organization the champion of business in Lee’s Summit. The first half of 2014 has been great, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the reminder of the year.
4 ........... Businesses of the Year 8 ........... Leadership Lee’s Summit 10 ........... Ribbon Cuttings 16 ........... 5-Star Accreditation 18 ........... Young Professionals 18 ........... Grow Your Leads 19 ........... Yours Truly Update 20 ........... Washington DC Trip 20 ........... Community Branding 21 ........... Mentoring Program 22 ........... Upcoming Events
Yours Truly,
23 ........... Chamber Staff
Carolyn P. McKnight, Ed. D. - University of Central Missouri
FA M I LY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ROOM For beautiful floors that stand up to life, visit shawfloors.com
FLOORS Carpet I Area Rugs I Tile & Stone I Hardwood I Laminate I Resilient
1707 NE Rice Rd. Lee’s Summit 816-524-0255 Mon-Fri 10-5 Thur ‘til 7, Sat 10-2
www.flooringandmorekc.com
Carpet | Area Rugs | Tile & Stone | Hardwood | Laminate | Resilient | shawfloors.com
PAGE 4
JUNE 2014
Four local businesses were recipients of the Lee’s Summit Chamber Res in Motus Business of the Year awards at the monthly membership luncheon on May 16. The four award winners include: •
Pro Deo Youth Center (nonprofit with less than 20 employees)
•
Julia E. Hampton, CPA, PC (five or less employees)
•
Douglas Tire & Auto Service (6-20 employees)
•
Our Lady of the Presentatio Catholic School (more than 20 employees).
JUNE 2014
PAGE 5
2014 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR WINNERS
Sanctimonia – Pro Deo Youth Center is a non-profit organization started by Andy and Kylie Ewing that seeks to serve the teenagers in Lee’s Summit. They desire that every teen be loved, valued and equipped for change. Pro Deo does this by building intentional relationships and community with the Lee’s Summit youth.
We’re here to help.
Vegrandis – Julia E. Hampton, CPA, PC, provides accounting services for small and medium-sized companies. The firm is innovative in addressing the needs of businesses at all growth stages. They are known for the accuracy of their work, unwavering ethical standards and investment in the professional development of employees.
• Individual, Group and Family Counseling • Substance Abuse and Gambling Treatment
300 SE 2nd Street Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 trumed.org/lakewoodcounseling
Take that first step. Call 816.404.6187
• Child and Adolscent Services • Senior Services
We accept most health insurance plans and Medicare.
PAGE 6
JUNE 2014
2014 WINNERS CONTINUED
Parvus – Douglas Tire & Auto Service is a full line automotive tire, repair, and service company offering all brands of tires as well as services ranging from oil changes to engine changes. They strive to be a one-stop shop for Lee’s Summit.
Magnus – Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic School serves approximately 460 students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The teachers and staff of Presentation are committed to educating students in a Christ centered atmosphere with high academic expectations. Our Lady of the Presentation is Lee’s Summit’s premiere catholic school where they inspire spiritual and academic growth.
2014 Chamber Executive Committee
Carolyn McKnight, Ed.D. Board Chair University of Central Missouri
Joe Stasi Chair-Elect Saint Luke’s East Hospital
Vicky Cundiff Treasurer Weed ManTurfs Up
Bob Glaser Chair Emeritis Summit Bank of Kansas City
Jeff Sullivan, Vice Chair of Community Development Commerce Bank
Rosalie Newkirk, Vice Chair of Membership Development HSMC Orizon
Board of Directors John Brown Hollis + Miller Architects Jon Garlow Wells Fargo Advisors Trisha Goodale Pulaski Bank Home Lending Rodney McBride John Knox Village Paul McClain Freedom Wealth Advisors
Lesley McKeone Spilker, McKeone & Nelson Cindy Miller Columbia College - Kansas City Tyler Morehead Morehead Agency LLC Chip Moxley Tingle Flooring Dr. Matt Niewald Matt A. Niewald, DDS
Brian Hutchin, Vice Chair of Business & Economic Dev. UMB Bank
Ex-Officios
Colleen Sliffe Carrow Real Estate Services KC Kelly Spencer Bank of Lee’s Summit Terry Trafton Lakewood Counseling Service TMC Molly Wichman Life Transformation Fitness Jeremy Wood Cinematic Visions
Steve Arbo City of Lee’s Summit Carl Chinnery, Legal Counsel Chinnery, Evans & Nail, PC Dr. David McGehee R-7 School District Dr. Kirk Nooks MCC-Longview Mayor Randy Rhoads City of Lee’s Summit
JUNE 2014
PAGE 7
For All Your CommerCiAl & residentiAl needs!
816-524-8535 • www.doorsystemsinc.com
Overhead Garage Doors Garage Door Operators Entry Doors Patio Doors Springs 10% Windows discount
PAGE 8
JUNE 2014
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LEADERSHIP CLASS OF 2014 The Leadership Lee’s Summit program, sponsored by the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, graduated 24 students at a luncheon held in their honor on May 14, at Longview Mansion. The students completed nine months of leadership training, community service hours and a class project as part of their requirement. Congratulations to the following 2014 graduates: • Cindy Barber, TMC-Lakewood • Scott Barton, Hollis + Miller Architects • Mark Bieber, Unity Hotel & Conference Center • Jennifer Brown, Metcalf Bank • Chris Culbertson, Creative Planning Risk Services • Kaitlin Drennan, Northwestern Mutual - Wirsig Team • Andrew Felker, Chinnery Evans & Nail, P.C. • Sharel Hagar, Hawthorn Bank • Matthew Killion, Missouri Dept. of Transportation • Michelle Kinnison, Lakewood Counseling TMC • Kim Klockenga, John Knox Village • Michelle Kralicek, Saint Luke’s East Hospital • Patrick Kueny, Lee’s Summit Medical Center
• • • • • • • • • • •
Beto Lopez, Arvest Bank Kelley Manning, Waddell & Reed - Manning Tami Morrow, MCC-Longview Brett Randol, Polsinelli PC Kevin Reaves, Lee’s Summit Police Department Scott Rowe, Arvest Bank Brian Scott, City of Lee’s Summit Sarah Shelton, Reinhart Foodservice Vanessa Starke, Starke Law Offices Trevor Stiles, City of Lee’s Summit Katie Tholen, Equity Bank
Leadership Lee’s Summit was developed to assist in motivating the visionary leaders of the area. Since its inception in 1991, the program has graduated more than 475 leaders who have gathered knowledge and skills to become influential in the community. Approximately 25 participants are selected each year based on strict criteria, including personal motivation, an interest to serve in Lee’s Summit, potential or existing opportunities
JUNE 2014
PAGE 9
for advancement to top leadership positions, willingness to commit time and energy to complete the program and full support of the corporation/ organization that is represented. Applications are now being accepted for the class of 2014-2015. Copies of the application are available by contacting Chrissy Symes at 816.524.2424 or csymes@ lschamber.com. Tuition to attend the program is $595 for Chamber members; $825 for non-members. Registration fee covers materials and workshops. Tuition is payable by the individual, the employer or the sponsoring organization and is nonrefundable. Completed applications should be mailed to the Chamber office, 220 SE Main Street, Lee’s Summit, MO, 64063, no later than August 1, 2014.
Members of the Leadership Class of 2014 work together to complete a community service project for Hope House.
For more than 111 years, Simmons
Business Loans Business Credit Cards
Bank has been equipping businesses of all sizes with the financial products and services they need to be successful. Stop by any of our nearby & neighborly financial centers and see how
Cash Management Services
Simmons Bank can meet your business needs. 816-525-3242 1800 SE Blue Parkway
Retirement Plan Services
Lee’s Summit, MO
Member FDIC | simmonsfirst.com
PAGE 10
JUNE 2014
Sleep Number On February 27, Sleep Number celebrated a ribbon cutting at 940 NW Blue Parkway, Suite C. At Sleep Number, they have a mission: to improve lives by individualizing sleep experiences. They start by focusing on you. By providing you with innovative products designed to help you sleep your very best, only from Sleep Number. Discover a truly individualized sleep experience from Sleep Number for your coziest, most personalized sleep ever. Sleep well, dream big.
Developing Potential, Inc.
Work Express-Community Services League
Developing Potential, Inc. hosted a ribbon cutting on March 5, at 251 NW Executive Way, Suite 200.
Work Express-Community Services League was welcomed to their new location at 214 NE Chipman Road on March 20.
Developing Potential, Inc. is a nationally accredited, not-forprofit organization. We are dedicated to providing quality services and supports to adults with developmental disabilities so they might lead the most self-directed and fulfilling life possible.
Work Express Career Coaches work with clients to facilitate the transition from under-employment and joblessness to stable and satisfying work. Their employment development services address the continuum of needs to obtain and retain employment.
JUNE 2014
CITY SCRAP METAL, INC. MATERIAL ACCEPTED
1638 SE Decker St Lee’s Summit, MO 64081-3111 Office: 816-525-4322 Toll Free: 800-776-1396
Aluminum Cans, Cast, Die Cast, Radiators, Wheels, Extrusions, Painted, Thermo, MLCC, Old Sheet, Shavings, 60-61, etc. Copper Bare Bright Copper, #1 & # 2 Copper, #1, #2, #3 Insulated Wire, Sheet Copper, etc.
Fax: 816-525-2811
Brass Red & Yellow, Shavings, Breakage, Brass & Copper Radiators, etc.
www.cityscrapmetal.com
Batteries Lead Based Lead Stainless Steel All forms of Stainless Steel, Shavings, Breakage
Recycle with Us!
Alloys, Carbide, Magnesium, & Zinc E-Scrap CPUs, mother boards, processors, memory, hard drives, power supplies, etc. Other Items Purchased Electric Motors, etc. Items purchased for Steel/Iron Bicycles (must remove tires), Dishwashers, Dryers, Furnaces, Grills (No Propane Tanks), Stoves/
Hours of Operation Monday–Friday Saturday Sunday
7:30am to 4:30pm 7:30am to 12:00pm Closed
and tires), Trash Compactors, Washers, Water Heaters, etc. FREE drop off for the following Appliances if the Freon has not been evacuated: Machines, Any other appliance containing a compressor We ACCEPT the following for drop off: Cardboard, Computer Paper, Magazines & Catalogs, Newspaper, Phone Books
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
JUNE 2014
Turn the Page Online Marketing
McDonald’s - Longview
On March 27 Turn the Page Online Marketing celebrated a ribbon cutting at their expanded space at 206 SE 2nd Street.
McDonald’s - Longview hosted a ribbon cutting at their new location at 3275 SW 3rd Street, on March 31.
At TTP their approach to web development begins with putting themselves in your shoes and understanding what your business needs. Websites are not a “one size fits all” creation, and they believe that each client has unique needs. Websites are an investment, and that’s why TTP works hard to have the best customer care and satisfied clients.
“I’m thrilled to be able to open this brand new restaurant serving these nearby bustling neighborhoods of Lee’s Summit. I take pride in being an active member of the local community, and it’s always been important for me and for the restaurant to play a vital role in the area we serve,” said Patti Powelson, retired teacher, longtime Lee’s Summit resident and active community member..
CareSpot
Brandt’s Glass
On April 11 CareSpot celebrated the opening of their new Lee’s Summit location at 228 NW Oldham Parkway.
Chamber Members celebrated a ribbon cutting with Brandt’s Glass, 6212 Arlington Ave, Raytown, MO, on April 17.
When you’re injured or under the weather, the only thing nicer than getting better is getting better quickly. That’s why CareSpot is focused on giving you the medical services you need while always keeping your convenience in mind.
Brandt’s Glass is a manufacturing company providing commercial & residential glasses, auto glasses, mirrors and other glass products.
JUNE 2014
PAGE 13
Lee’s Summit Center for Women’s Wellness
Select Physical Therapy
Lee’s Summit Center for Women’s Wellness hosted a ribbon cutting on April 22, at 3600 NE Ralph Powell Road, Suite A.
Select Physical Therapy was welcomed to their new location at 1535 NE Douglas Street on April 24.
As a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Woods has intentionally created a smaller, more intimate office setting for your comfort and convenience. She provides innovative services that respect your body’s unique design and personal well-being.
Select Physical Therapy is part of the Select Medical Outpatient Division, a nationally prominent, locally driven provider of outpatient physical rehabilitation. The Select Medical family of brands carries wide recognition throughout the country..
Doggy Stylz
The Cancer Center - LSMC
On April 25 Doggy Stylz celebrated a ribbon cutting with Chamber Members at 3524 SW Market Street.
On May 1, The Cancer Center-Lee’s Summit Medical Center celebrated a ribbon cutting at 2000 SE Blue Parkway, #165.
Doggy Stylz is run by a mother/daughter team that not only loves dogs and animals in general, but is backed by 20 years of pet handling and grooming experience. This isn’t just a business for them—it’s a way to help dog owners with busy lives keep their animals safe and healthy. Rest assured that your dog is in good hands when you hire the staff at Doggy Stylz.
The Cancer Center offers a comprehensive array of diagnostic services such as the most advanced minimally-invasive technology for diagnosing and treating breast lesions, as well as a range of cancer care services. The site is staffed by skilled oncology nurses certified in chemotherapy who provide a wide variety of oncology and infusion services..
PAGE 14
JUNE 2014
Bodies Health & Fitness
Wells Fargo, LLC - Charles Cooper
Bodies Health & Fitness hosted a ribbon cutting at their expanded space at 1100 SE Century Drive, on May 12.
Wells Fargo, LLC - Charles Cooper celebrated a ribbon cutting on May 15 with Chamber members at their new location, 3171 NE Carnegie Drive, first floor.
Expanding the business to become Bodies Health & Fitness– the larger studio space created a way to train more clients, hire a team, and expand services – like partnering with Brad’s longtime friend Dr. Nicole Dierking of Dynamic Spine & Joint Center.
Summit Modern Dentistry On May 28 Summit Modern Dentistry, 940 NW Blue Parkway, celebrated a ribbon cutting At Summit Modern Dentistry, the staff is committed to understanding and meeting the needs of their patients. They take great pride in providing professional excellence, the best quality materials, and state-of-the-art equipment.
Their purpose is to provide their clients with customized strategies through the delivery and implementation of sophisticated risk adjusted investment plans with ongoing exceptional service. There is no one size fits all. Wells Fargo delivers a more personalized approach, one that takes more time and requires a deeper understanding of client’s goals.
JUNE 2014
PAGE 15
GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONIES
Sky Zone
Frontier Justice
Sky Zone celebrated a groundbreaking on April 10 with Chamber members at their future location, 2900 NE Independence Ave. Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park is the world’s first all-trampoline, walled playing court - perfect for just about any age, shape or physical ability. Whether you’re seeking a birthday party, corporate event, family fun & fitness outing or just an open jump, Sky Zone is the place for you.
Chamber Members celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony with Frontier Justice, 800 NE Jones Industrial Drive, on May 19.Projected to open in December 2014, this will be the flagship location for Frontier Justice. Located in Lee’s Summit, Frontier Justice will be a 33,000 sq. foot, next-generation firearms and archery training facility, firearms and archery retail, and a gunsmith along with clothing, jewelry and home furnishing retail.
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
THAT LAST
IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR BUSINESS.
tingle is a reliable distribution partner with layers of quality, service and teamwork above and below the surface.
be floored. you’re covered.
p: 816.524.9555 • wctingle.com
PAGE 16
JUNE 2014
LEE’S SUMMIT CHAMBER CAPTURES TOP ACCREDITATION The Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce has received the highest rating, a 5-star accreditation, from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The 5-Star Accreditation recognizes the Chamber for sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. “This past year, the Chamber staff, board, and volunteers spent countless hours completing the Accreditation process,” stated Chair of the Board Carolyn McKnight. “Our task: demonstrate competency in nine core areas ranging from finance to facilities. The result of our hard-work is evident by this impressive rating. But in truth, we should all be extraordinarily proud of this milestone achievement. It was a true team effort, and something certainly worth celebrating.”
are more than 7,500 chambers, of those, only 81 chambers have 5-Star Accreditation. Chambers may apply for accreditation every five years. Chamber President Nancy Bruns has led the organization through the rankings over the years.
Accreditation is the only national program that recognizes chambers for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.
“It’s because of the Board of Director’s willingness to explore new ideas and programs and not accept status quo that we have been able to go from a 3-Star Chamber in 2003 to a 4-Star in 2008 – and now a 5-Star Chamber,” said President Bruns. “This would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the Chamber staff, all of our volunteers and members. This is truly one of the greatest honors!”
Accreditation, and more specifically, 5-Star accreditation is a rare thing to find. Throughout the United States there
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Opportunity for you and/or your associates to attend more than 100 Chamber events each year Website business directory listing on LSchamber.com Listing on Smartphone app with direct dial access and map locator Directory Listing in Chamber Buyer’s Guide (5,000 distributed annually) Listing in printed Membership Directory (by company, representative, and under categories selected) Renewing member exclusive: listed in monthly Chamber Link newsletter Business Referral Services (web, phone, smartphone app, networking events, etc.) Your concerns and voice represented at the Federal, State, County and City legislative levels. Updates regarding pertinent legislative issues Representation in City government issues Weekly updates on City Council meetings Access to Chamber member discount programs (Humana, Trips, etc.) Free Certificates of Origin authorizations Assistance to address issues regarding your business
• • • • • • • • •
•
Provide assistance in helping you connect and build relationships with other member businesses Complimentary Membership Directory Membership Plaque and Window Cling Opportunity to post your business promotion online and create printable coupons News and events regarding your business may be posted on the Chamber’s website Post events through Community Calendar and Tourism Website Opportunity to post available job openings online Sponsorship opportunities to market your business that allow you to promote your business even if you’re not present Opportunity to advertise in member only publications (membership directory, Business Quarterly magazine, Chamber Link monthly newsletter, Health Care Directory, website, smartphone app, special publications, etc.) Twelve different committees/task forces committed to advocating and creating awareness to specific issues within our community (i.e., Health Care Committee, Education Committee, Visitors Council, etc.)
JUNE 2014
PAGE 17
Top 20 KW Team in the 5 State Region We list and sell everywhere in the KC area. Let us put our successful skills to work for you.
Kurt Lutz
816.313.7674 | kurt@galeteam.us
Linda Lutz
816.447.2315 | linda@galeteam.us
Susie Zammar
816.520.0409 | susie@galeteam.us
Leslie Marshall
816.500.5087 | leslie@galeteam.us
Tucker Marshall
816.808.3780 | tucker@galeteam.us
Keller Williams Platinum
facebook.com/GaleTeamKW
1201 NE Winsor Dr, Lees Summit, Missouri 64086
PAGE 18
JUNE 2014
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY The Chamber’s Young Professionals group recently completed a community service project at Lee’s Summit Social Services. A group of more than ten CYPs came out to help make a difference in the community they work in. Members sorted and stocked donated food. Membership to the CYP group is open to any Chamber Member between the ages of 21-35. The program provides young business professionals with opportunities for increased networking, civic engagement and lasting relationships. Each year members have the opportunity to participate in quarterly community service projects. Below are a few ways to get involved with the Chamber Young Professionals: •
Evening Networking Events: three times a year CYPs gather from 4:30–6 p.m. Evening networking events provide an informal and enjoyable opportunity to build upon professional connections.
•
Luncheon Networking Events: four times a year CYPs gather from 11:30–1 p.m. for networking luncheon events. After lunch all attendees participate in a round-robin networking which allows the YPs time to speak with every member, or a professional development seminar is held.
•
Social Events CYPs will host two social events a year. These events will take place in the evenings and allow for casual networking, and of course, lots of fun. Make sure to check the Chamber’s Calendar of Events for details.
•
Lee’s Summit Young Professionals Committee: the committee is the core of the CYP group, and is focused on planning events, soliciting sponsorships and in overall development of the program and membership. The committee meets on the fourth Thursday of each month.
Interested in learning more about the CYP program? Contact Gina Seibel at 816-524-2424.
CHAMBER LEADS GROUPS CONTINUE TO GROW Did you know that the Lee's Summit Chamber has two Chamber Leads Group? The CLGs meet twice a month over the lunch hour. The groups are composed of small business professionals who are looking to increase their revenue by forming relationships with other Chamber members for the purpose of exchanging direct client referrals and leads and provide a forum for the discussion of issues which businesses commonly encounter. Small businesses typically have a smaller marketing and sales budget than larger businesses and have less access to professional consulting services. By joining the CLG, businesses have the opportunity to multiply their exposure by educating fellow group members about their business so, when the occasion presents itself, CLG members can promote each other.
CLG membership is restricted to one representative from each profession/industry, and has an annual fee of $50. Want to check out a meeting or learn more? Contact Cathy Young at cyoung@lschamber.com or 816.524.2424.
JUNE 2014
PAGE 19
SURVEY RESULTS ARE IN FOR ‘YOURS TRULY’ CAMPAIGN In order to assess exactly what residents, visitors and investors think and feel about Lee’s Summit, the City recently launched a comprehensive evaluation process, conducted by North Star, one of the nation’s leading independent community and destination strategy and research companies. North Star compared their finding for Lee’s Summit against their findings for over 200 cities and 40 states across the nation. Their findings were prefaced by the following statement in their final report which was just recently concluded in April. “Congratulations to Lee’s Summit. Your scores are not only high, BUT they are the highest scores we have ever recorded in each respective category since the creation of our study. In fact, Lee’s Summit is a benchmark community for marketing implementation and success in the nation.” Let’s take a look at just some of the results…. • Our rating as a “Place to Live” is 7.5 times higher than the average • Our rating as a “Place to Visit” is 7.2 times higher than the average. • Our rating as a “Place to Conduct Business” is 12.9 times higher than the National Average. When it comes to “Sense of Community”, 75 percent of survey respondents stated “The marketing and advertising campaign materials make me feel proud of Lee’s Summit.” Other above average ratings included: great quality of life, a place where I belong, business friendly, active arts and cultural scene, full of potential, recreational opportunities, authentic / historic and a place where I belong. Lee’s Summit has fostered a resident passion for their community which is the envy of cities across the country.
Yours Truly,
Jim McKenna, Community Marketing Manager
MAKE HISTORY!
Preparing for Lee’s Summit’s 150th Birthday Did you know in 2015 the city of Lee’s Summit is turning 150-years-old? In preparation for the big Sesquicentennial Celebration (say that three times fast) a group of citizens have formed the Truly 150 committee to help plan a yearlong celebration. Want to be a part of history? Consider volunteering to help with the celebration. All kinds of talents and skills are needed to make this a year to remember. From artists to history buffs to good ol’ worker bees the Truly 150 committee would love to engage as many citizens as possible. Want to leave a lasting impression? Consider one of the multiple sponsorship levels, and leave a legacy long after 2015. For as little as $50 you can
help make a difference and have your family name listed as a donor. Of course there are also levels for corporate sponsors looking to make a big splash. For more information, to volunteer or become a donor for the Sesquicentennial, visit truly150.com or call 816.969.1000.
PAGE 20
JUNE 2014
MULTI-CHAMBER WASHINGTON DC FLY-IN
A delegation representing five chambers of commerce within the region including, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, South Kansas City, Grandview and Independence made their way to Washington, DC, in early April to discuss public policy and legislative issues important to businesses. The delegation, composed of community business leaders and chamber executives, met with Senators Roy Blunt and Claire McCaskill and House of Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, Vicki Hartzler and Sam Graves and their respective staff members. Four major issues affecting the business community were the focus of the trip - business taxation and entitlement reform, reliable and secure infrastructure, healthcare and transportation funding. “The Congressional lawmakers were attentive and seemed appreciative of the testimonials being offered by the chambers’ spokespersons and genuinely interested in
suggestions offered to address the concerns raised during the visits,” said Lee’s Summit Chamber Vice President Mark Dickey. The delegation also had the opportunity to host a luncheon at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Headquarters, directly across from the White House. The group was able to meet with top policy and public affairs personnel for briefings on important issues that face the nation’s business community. Takeaways from the briefings of the delegation and the U.S. Chamber indicate that Congress and the Administration face a multitude of weighty issues that will have a profound impact on the country’s economic future. The current environment reflects uncertainty and likely inaction moving forward until after the mid-term elections.
CHAMBER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO SENIORS Each year the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee awards $1,000 scholarships to four high school seniors. One scholarship winner is selected from each of the three Lee’s Summit high schools, and one is selected from a school outside of the district. One parent of each recipient must be a full-time employee of a Chamber member business. Congratulations to the following students who received scholarships in 2014: • • • •
Michael Kuehn - Lee’s Summit North High School Alexander Lange - Lee’s Summit West High School Paige Sapp - Lee’s Summit High School Lonnie Todd - Odessa High School
Winners from left to right, Paige Sapp - Lee’s Summit High School, Alexander Lange - Lee’s Summit West High School, Michael Kuehn Lee’s Summit North High School and Lonnie Todd - Odessa High School
JUNE 2014
PAGE 21
CHAMBER MENTORING PROGRAM
Angela Brown (pictured left) with Leadership and Personal Branding, shares her experience with the mentoring program. Angela’s mentor is Judy Pezzitti (pictured right) with Office Products Alliance.
Think back to when you first joined the Chamber. For many members going to that first event can be a little intimidating as you walk into the room as a newbie. As a result, the Chamber's Membership Committee has developed a mentoring program to help our new members get acquainted with our great organization! Each new member is assigned a mentor based on who would be a like-minded individual, as well as benefit from the connection. The Chamber’s mentoring program rolled out earlier this year, and so far has received great feedback. Angela Brown with Leadership and Personal Branding, shared her experience with the mentoring program. Angela’s mentor is Judy Pezzitti with Office Products Alliance.
“It was very refreshing and reassuring to know that immediately after paying for my membership fee, my mentor sent me an email inviting me to coffee. Her sole reason for meeting with me was to learn all about me and my business, so that I can maximize all the benefits the Chamber has to offer.
The unique thing about our meeting was the fact that she took on the role of a pseudo “business consultant,” who took the time to understand my specific business goals and nuisances. Through this process, we were able to determine the specific Chamber programs and resources that would help facilitate my company’s objectives. Time is money and as a business owner, it’s critical how I spend my time. Therefore, understanding the multitude of opportunities that the Chamber offers and knowing which specific opportunities align with my business goals, keeps me focused and on track. Kudos to the Membership Committee for implementing such a constructive method of orientation. The Mentorship Program alone is worth the price of entry. When you add that program along with all of the other benefits and opportunities the Chamber has to offer, you get way more than you ever expect. Thank you Lee’s Summit Chamber for all you do to assist in making our community one of the best places to own a business!” Would you like a mentor to help you get plugged in to the Chamber? Just contact Cathy Young at 816.524.2424 and she can help you out.
PAGE 22
JUNE 2014
CHECK OUT SOME UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS June 2 • 4 p.m. Ribbon Cutting -Saint Luke’s East Hospital 5th Floor 100 NE Saint Luke’s Boulevard
June 17 • 4 p.m. (open house until 6:30 p.m.) Ribbon Cutting/Open House - Pro Deo Youth Center 206 NE Chipman Road
June 3 • 3:30–4:30 p.m. Recess for Success TOPIC: Resources Available to Small Businesses PRESENTERS: Jenny Nepper, KCSourceLink; Amy Fisher, Mid-Continent Library; Darrell Brammer, UCM SBT&DC SPONSOR: University of Central Missouri John Knox Village - Manhattan Room
June 19 • 1 p.m. Ribbon Cutting - Summit Rehabilitation & Wellness Center 110 NE Tudor Road
June 6 • 10 a.m. Ribbon Cutting - R-7 CNG Public Fill Station 500 SE Transport Drive June 10 • 7:30–8:30 p.m. Wake Up to Success TOPIC: Five Keys to ReEnergize Work PRESENTER: Tom Schreiber, Schreiber Training & Consulting SPONSOR: Lee’s Summit CARES LOCATION: John Knox Village - Courtyard B June 12 • 4 p.m. Ribbon Cutting - Village Assisted Living at John Knox Village 1701 NW O’Brien Road June 12 • 4:30-6 p.m. Chamber After Hours - The Fountains at Greenbriar 2100 S Swope Drive, Independence, MO June 17 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Chamber Young Professionals Development Luncheon Baker University, 1278 NE Windsor Drive (RSVPs required)
June 20 • 11:30 a.m. Monthly Membership Luncheon PROGRAM: Mobility is the Third Technology Revolution PRESENTER: Russ McGuire, vice president of strategy, Sprint. SPONSOR: Developing Potential, Inc. Gamber Center, 4 SE Independence Ave (RSVPs required) June 24 • 7:30-8:30 a.m Chamber Before Hours, T-Bones Deli & Meat Market 27900 E Colbern Rd June 26 • 8 a.m. 2014 Chamber Golf Classic WinterStone Golf Course, 17101 E Kentucky Road
To register or view a complete list of events, visit LSchamber.com, or download the free LS Chamber smartphone app.
Community Calendar of Events!
Did you know that the Lee’s Summit Chamber has a contract with the city of Lee’s Summit to provide tourism services? As part of this agreement, the Chamber maintains the website LStourism.com. On this website and the Chamber’s website (LSchamber.com) is a community calendar of events. The Lee’s Summit Community Calendar of Events is the best place to find a comprehensive list of all activities happening throughout the city. With well over 100 events a year, there is always a fun event just around the corner. If you have a event you would like to be listed online, you can fill out a request form for consideration at LStourism.com. Of course you will also want to save the date for this year’s Lee’s Summit Chamber Oktoberfest presented by Pinnacle Bank, September 26 & 27, 2014. Applications for crafter booths and kids street booths are now available on the festival website at LSoktoberfest.com.
JUNE 2014
PAGE 23
MEET THE LEE’S SUMMIT CHAMBER STAFF As the champion of the business community, the Chamber provides an array of programs and events for our nearly 1,000 members, to increase the visibility of their business. We provide opportunities to network and and build relationships with the best and brightest leaders in business, government and education.
Mark Dickey, IOM Vice President
Gina Seibel Dir. of Communications
Chrissy Symes Dir. of Special Events
Cathy Young, IOM Dir. of Member Services
Sue McMilian Administrative Assistant
Nedra Hoover Bookkeeper
We also strive to multiply the effectiveness of businesses in Lee’s Summit by providing structure, volunteer leadership, and informative programs that meet the needs of the community. When looking for a product or service, remember to choose Chamber members first!
Yours Truly,
Nancy Bruns President, Lee’s Summit Chamber
We Care For Your Lawn
MO: 816-525-7600 KS: 913-378-0038
www.weedmanusa.com
PAGE 24
JUNE 2014 Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce 220 SE Main Street Lee's Summit, MO 64063
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 Permit Number 71