Catalyst - The Business Magazine Q3 2019

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

HOMEGROWN:

3RD QTR 2019

Multi-Generational Businesses Rooted in Lee's Summit Sisters In Food Candace and Kelly Talk Family and Business

Oktoberfest 30th Anniversary

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21 SW 3rd Street | Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 | 816-287-2010 2 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

MOVE YOUR PROJECT TO THE

fastlane...

Lee’s Summit’s entrepreneurial spirit attracts forward-thinking business people and makers of all types. Our small-town values and big-time thinking make for a place where the collaboration of hard work and fresh ideas help your business take root and prosper. So whether you’re starting from scratch or taking your business to the next level, the Lee’s Summit Development Center stands ready to guide you through the entire development process, from start to finish.

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LSMEANSBUSINESS.NET | 816.969.1200

Building Permits Inspections Engineering Review Special Use & Events Codes & Administration Water Utilities Planning & Zoning Development Incentives Business Licensing

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 3

Pressing Forward in a Busy Summer Summer is upon us, but that doesn’t mean things are slowing down. We’re working closely with our partners on projects such as the City’s strategic planning process and workforce development. For example, the Chamber’s Intern Bootcamp on July 18, held in collaboration with our higher education institutions, will focus on the value of integrating interns into local businesses, as well as how to navigate that process.

Recently, the Chamber Board endorsed the No-Tax Increase Bond issue that will be on the August 6 ballot. Passage of the bond would mean upgrades to Lee’s Summit’s emergency services and public safety, including two new fire stations, police video systems and body cameras, improved fiber optic communications and more. I encourage everyone to get out and vote yes on August 6.

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

3RD QTR 2019

PUBLISHER Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER PRESIDENT Blake Fry ADVERTISING MANAGER Heather Thompson CREATIVE COORDINATOR Jordan Straits _______________________________ EDITORIAL STAFF Stephanie Kusek Jordan Straits Heather Thompson

In addition, Chamber staff has been working on a new concept for the 2020 Health Care Directory. A limited number of print copies will be distributed this year, with a brand new online directory offering easier access for residents. It also gives businesses the opportunity to add and update listing throughout the year. We’re looking forward to that launching this fall.

_______________________________

2019 is another milestone year as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest began in 1989 as a replacement for Cole Younger Days and a way to raise funds for a renovation. Read more about the festival’s evolution into the organization’s largest fundraiser on page 34.

_______________________________

I want to thank our members and volunteers for their flexibility following the Chamber’s recently rained-out golf tournament and adapting to the new date.

We can’t control Mother Nature, but I hope everyone was able to have a good time out on the course. Our members and businesses are the reason we’re here, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s something you feel the Chamber can do to help your business succeed.

Yours Truly,

Jon Garlow, CPWA® Cooper Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors 2019 Chair of the Board CHAMBER STAFF Blake Fry, President Matt Baird, IOM, Director of Business & Governmental Relations Stephanie Kusek, Director of Communications Cathy Young, IOM, Director of Member Services Heather Thompson, Advertising Manager Jordan Straits, Creative Coordinator Agi Bako-LaFave, Office Manager Vanessa King, Bookkeeper Marilyn Pemberton, Part-time Assistant 4 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS John Beaudoin, Jeff Driskill, Rick McDowell

ADVERTISING For advertising information, contact Heather Thompson at hthompson@lschamber.com or 816.524.2424 _______________________________ PRESS RELEASES Send to jstraits@lschamber.com

Publication is paid for by the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce-Blake Fry, President

220 SE MAIN STREET LEE’S SUMMIT, MO 64063 816.524.2424 • LSCHAMBER.COM

A BANKING PARTNER AS FOCUSED AS YOU ARE From nationally expanding corporations to beloved local bookstores, Country Club Bank believes in business. A venture only needs a financial spark to ignite success, and we understand that. We wouldn’t be what we are if a bank hadn’t taken a chance on entrepreneur/former Chairman Byron Thompson decades ago. That spirit of listening, believing and building through personal attention is the foundation of all we support at Country Club Bank. Advancing business is good for you, good for us and good for the city we call home.

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3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 5

12 8

PRO TIPS DISC Assessment Provides Helpful Tips for Leadership Communication

10

DOWNTOWN SCOOP Candace and Kelly: Sisters in Food

12

CHAMBER UPDATE Truly the Best Businesses of the Year

16

HEALTHY LIFE Colonial Gardens and Bean Counter Café 6 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

3RD QTR 2019

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NETWORKING PHOTOS

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Homegrown: Multi-Generational Businesses Rooted in Lee's Summit

SURVEY SAYS Benchmark Community Moments

COMMUNITY FOCUSED Oktoberfest Celebrates 30 Years

LEADERSHIP LESSONS Interns Proven Vital to Local Workforce

NOTES FROM THE PRESIDENT

33

ECONOMIC UPDATE Budding New Developments in Lee's Summit 3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 7

Pro

Tips

Jeff Driskill of Sandler Training presenting DISC Assessment to Chamber Young Professionals.

DISC ASSESSMENT PROVIDES HELPFUL TIPS FOR LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATION By: Jeff Driskill, Sandler Training

As a leader of a company, division, department, team or project, one of our most challenging tasks is to communicate effectively with our staff and team. How often does a leader share what they believe is a clear, defined message to learn later the outcome isn’t close to the expectations, yet, everyone involved indicated they clearly understood the goal? Is there someone on your team that you can easily speak to and them with you, and it’s as if you can finish each other’s thoughts? Are there others who it seems as if you’re never on the same page, and talking with them is typically difficult? You clearly state your expectations. You speak the same language. You specifically use words you think are familiar to 8 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

everyone. Despite all of your best efforts, maybe you are actually speaking a different language?

In the late 1920s, psychologist William Marston developed a theory that our behaviors and our communication styles center around four different classifications. To varying degrees, we all display natural or adjusted behavioral profiles that combine what he defined as Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S) and/ or Compliance (C). Based on Marston’s DISC Theory, a variety of tools have been developed to recognize behavioral characteristics and are commonly referred to as DISC Assessments.

Pro

“D” style people are direct and in a hurry. They often say exactly what they think, without a filter, and state their opinions as facts.

They are perceived to be aggressive, demanding and impatient. They tend to focus on the big picture, the bottom line and make decisions quickly.

“S” style people are calm and thoughtful. They aren’t easily excited, listen carefully and are easy going. They ask questions naturally, are supportive and patient.

Change is uncomfortable for them. They appear to struggle making decisions, but typically are trying to collect as many opinions and thoughts as possible before making a decision. They want everyone to feel included, and to know everyone’s thoughts, opinions and ideas are important.

The realization that each person’s DISC profile is a combination of the characteristics described above, it’s no wonder clear communication is such a struggle. When we provide information, share ideas and attempt to interact with everyone exactly as we want people to communicate with us, we effectively communicate with people like us, only. It is human nature to like people who are like us, and we tend to trust the people we like, also. Unfortunately, that eliminates the majority of everyone else who is different from us.

However, if we can identify a person’s dominate profile and make the effort to adapt our communications style and message to how they share and take in information, we stand a far better chance of achieving the basic human goal when communicating. We all want to be heard and understood.

When we share our message in our listener’s “language” they are more likely to understand the actual meaning.

Tips

“I” style people are open and friendly.

They tend to talk a lot, are animated and enthusiastic. They don’t focus on details, they don’t like to listen for long periods of time, and they usually don’t pay close attention. When they make a decision, it’s usually quick and spontaneous, and they can appear to be unorganized.

“C” style people are detail oriented and cautious. They appear to be reserved, timid and quiet. They ask a lot of questions, analyze data and strive to make the perfect decisions. They appear to struggle making decisions because they are waiting for the latest data, they want to analyze it and then make sure there isn’t more information available. They may be very critical, but the criticism is based on facts and not their opinion.

In addition to speaking our listener’s language, we must be active listeners, too. There is a difference between hearing and listening, but neither ensure understanding the message being shared. We are responsible for maintaining good eye contact, and responding both verbally and non-verbally to indicate we are listening to the speaker as they are talking. However, to be an active listener we are required to either restate the message or paraphrase what we heard to confirm our understanding, or to clarify the true message. That allows the speaker to know we grasped the meaning of what they said, or to redefine their message and clarify our understanding.

Leaders must communicate to accomplish the organizational objectives, but it’s rarely as simple as telling people what to do.

Leaders hire and build teams in order to scale the workload. In other words, the team multiplies the organization’s outcomes.

Striving to understand and use the “language” of the staff members enables leaders to communicate more effectively and build stronger relationships.

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 9

Downtown

Scoop

Candace & Kelly:

SISTERS IN FOOD By: Heather Thompson More than best friends – Candace Jennings and Kelly Olson are sisters, moms, and wives, all while running successful businesses. These sisters love food, especially when it comes to being creative and experimenting with new ingredients and recipes. Best of all, they enjoy sharing their creations with others in the Lee’s Summit community. Candace and Kelly grew up in Lee’s Summit, and couldn’t be happier to be here living, working and raising families of their own.

Both ladies have been working in the food industry for a while now, with no plans to change. Candace’s food track began with her first job when she was just 15 years old working at Boston Market. The goal then: save up enough money for a new car. She got the car, followed by her culinary certificate from Johnson County Community College, and has continued her path in the food industry since then.

In 2008, Candace purchased Whistle Stop Coffee and Mercantile, which has been in downtown Lee’s Summit since 1993, to continue with her love of food and coffee. While a local coffee shop seems like a straight-forward community staple, she works hard to keep everything fresh and exciting with weekly drink specials, regular menu updates and new treats.

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, coffee or a frozen caffeinated creation, the regulars keep coming back for more. But the shop isn’t just coffee and café items. The woodplanked walls host works from local artists, while the shelves are stocked with a number of local products and accessories.

10 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Downtown

Scoop

Whistle Stop's Granny Smith Panini complete with diced chicken, cheddar cheese, sliced green apples and Dijon mustard.

Neighborhood's famous house cinnamon rolls

Candace’s favorite part about the shop?

The people. Owning a local coffee shop means seeing regulars in and out everyday, as well as new faces. In addition to that, she has a great team behind her mixing up everyone’s favorite drinks and posting quirky posts on the shop’s Facebook page.

In 2011, Whistle stop expanded, increasing kitchen size and adding a restroom, but quickly outgrew the added space. There are future hopes of continued expansion, “I’d love to expand the inside area to allow for more couches and lounge space,” said Candace. A recent addition includes a new mobile app, which allows for online ordering and quick pick-up when you’re in a pinch, but still need your caffeine fix.

Just down the street from the coffee shop lies Neighborhood Café. While going to school at UCM, Kelly worked with her sister at Whistle Stop, where she met her future husband, Tony. Previously named Neighbors, Tony purchased the breakfast spot made famous by its cinnamon rolls in 2011, and he and Kelly have been tagteaming the business ever since.

Walking into Neighborhood Café off 3rd Street in downtown Lee’s Summit, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile and the delicious smell of fresh cinnamon rolls. In addition, you’ll find evidence of how Kelly and Tony have made the place their own – photos of their little boys, Abram and Max, who’ve already seemed to become a part of the family business.

Neighborhood Café has been a staple in Lee’s Summit for years, attracting both regulars and those seeking a delicious meal to remind them of some home cookin’.

The restaurant’s success has now led down

the road of catering, as well as a second location in the Waldo area. Most recently, they’ve launched a healthy prepped-meal service: Neighborhood Fit. Watching those carbs and macros? Simply order online and pick up from one of their multiple partner locations on a daily, weekly or even monthly basis. Fully prepped meals with all the nutritional facts included make it easy for anyone looking to have a tasty and clean diet. Choose from items like enchiladas, pulled pork, and breakfast wraps along with sweet potatoes, coleslaw and fresh veggies. The menu is evolving in order to fully launch as desired.

Staying healthy and active with family has remained a priority for both Kelly and Candace, who both live in the Lakewood area. When not in one of their restaurants, the duo enjoys time on the lake, a variety of fitness activities and just getting the families together to hang out. For example, Kelly, Tony and Candace all competed in a triathlon this June in Clear Lake, Iowa.

You can say success runs in the family, as both Whistle Stop and Neighborhood Café have been recipients of the Lee’s Summit Chamber’s Business of the Year Award in recent years. Both businesses are growing, and why wouldn’t they with coffee and cinnamon rolls? Growing their families in Lee’s Summit has been a blessing, with kids growing up together and building their businesses together. Candace and Kelly have learned to bounce ideas off each other and give feedback, but can quickly switch from business mode to family fun.

Candace & Kelly enjoyi ng coffee and conversation on Whistl e Stop's back patio.

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 11

Chamber

Update

Truly the Best winners: Dave Eames, Barbara Keller, Rebecca Case and Josh Rowland.

TRULY THE BEST BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Four local businesses were recipients of the Lee’s Summit Chamber Truly the Best Business of the Year awards at the monthly membership luncheon on May 17. Following the March announcement of the top three nominees in each category, all nominees underwent site visits and interviews before the award recipients were selected. The four businesses of the year are: Fossil Forge Design; All A’ Bloom Flowers & Gifts; Developing Potential, Inc.; and Lead Bank.

Congratulations to this year’s award recipients!

12 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Chamber

Update

TRULY THE BEST NOT FOR PROFIT Developing Potential, Inc. Developing Potential, Inc. (DPI) is a nationally accredited day habilitation program that has provided support services to adults with developmental disabilities in Jackson County since 1993. DPI employs the “gentle teaching” model to support individuals in reaching goals to become a part of their community, and partners with local businesses to offer meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities. DPI’s current Building Lives Campaign aims to raise $3.25 million to build a community-oriented, universally designed facility allowing more service choices close to home and increase overall service capacity by 40 percent.

"We are so grateful for the honor of being chosen as the 2019 Truly the Best Not for Profit. As we continue to grow in Lee’s Summit and work hard to meet the needs of the those we serve, we appreciate the support shown to us by the business community, led by the amazing Chamber of Commerce that sets the bar high for all of us!"

- Amy Cox, Developing Potential, Inc.

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3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 13

Chamber

Update

"Ben and I are very honored to be named 'Business of the Year'. Thank you to everyone who has supported our little company along its path. We look forward to the journey ahead for Fossil Forge and for the city we love, Lee's Summit!"

- Dave Eames, Fossil Forge

TRULY THE BEST 5 OR LESS EMPLOYEES Fossil Forge Design Founded in 2003 by Dave Eames, Fossil Forge Design uses vintage tool and high tech equipment to make signs, furniture, sculptures, awards, railings, graphics and much more. The company puts a strong emphasis on community and relationships, and having a bit of fun while working hard. Eames, along with Ben Wine and Ryan Harp, are designers and visionaries, with unique skillsets that perfectly complement each other. Fossil Forge is located in downtown Lee’s Summit, and participates in a number of community events and cultural arts initiatives throughout the year.

"We are truly honored to be the winner of Lee's Summit Chamber's 2019 Truly The Best Business award! We are so excited to be a part of the chamber and this community. We have always been an ambassador of all the wonderful programs developed by the chamber and the opportunities for collaboration and education but now we feel like we have a bigger platform that gives us the opportunity to encourage and support the growth and other businesses. That's what makes Lee's Summit such a special place to live and work!"

- Barbara Keller, All A' Bloom

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TRULY THE BEST 6-20 EMPLOYEES All A' Bloom Flowers & Gifts All A’ Bloom Flowers & Gifts has been in Lee’s Summit since 2004 and describes itself as innovative, creative and unique. Since new owner, Barbara Keller, took over in 2017, it has focused on creating a user-friendly web experience, including a new point-of-sale system.

The company plans to expand its events with additional staff to ensure seamless transitions for customers. All A’ Bloom’s staff works together as a family with a passion for beautiful flower creations and our community.

Chamber

Update

TRULY THE BEST 20+ EMPLOYEES Lead Bank Lead Bank opened its Lee’s Summit branch in 2008 with the mission to be at the heart of success in our community. It is creating a unique bank footprint by addressing the micro-level needs of its communities while remaining innovative and nimble. The bank is dedicated to the community and offers programs focusing on women and children in crisis, entrepreneurship and cultural arts. In 2016, Lead Bank created the Civic Contractor Funding Program to provide underserved small businesses with funding.

This unique program resulted in it being selected in 2018 to help fund the KCI Airport Single Terminal Project.

“Lead Bank is so proud to be a part of the Lee’s Summit business community. This honor encourages and inspires us to serve the people of Lee’s Summit with even greater enthusiasm and focus. Winning the “Truly the Best” business award is especially meaningful when we consider all of the super businesses in Lee’s Summit that do great work every day. To be in that select group is really amazing. Thank you again for selecting Lead Bank as business of the year.”

- Josh Rowland, Lead Bank

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 15

Healthy

Life

COLONIAL Colonial Gardens was founded in 1969 and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. For many years it was just known for nursery plants in south Blue Springs, a lot of flowers and seasonal plants within a greenhouse setting for your garden and home landscape, however, much has changed over the years and it is continuing to grow into a much fuller business.

Tory Schwope’s love for horticulture developed as a child while watching his father and uncle run a tree farm in Oak Grove, Mo. The tree farm was more of a hobby for the gentlemen as they also worked full-time jobs, so eventually they sold the farm to Colonial Gardens. Tory was devastated. A few years down the road, when Tory was 16, he approached Colonial Gardens for a job but was sadly denied.

Despite the denial, Tony decided to begin his own landscaping business in Olathe in 1997, and in 2016, Schwope purchased Colonial Nursery as the retail part of this overall business. Since then, Tory has developed a family of brands under the umbrella DCA Outdoor that includes agriculture and nursery production, landscape distribution, retail, and agri-tourism.

“I want people to understand that sustainability, agriculture, food, and health (both people and planet) should all be cyclical,” explained Tory. There seems to be two ends of the spectrum Owner, Tory Schwope; wife, Beth Ann Schwope; and General Manager Kelly Chamberlain at ribbon cutting in April 2019.

16 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Healthy

Life

GARDENS

Celebrating 50 Years!

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 17

Healthy

Life

when people think about food production. Either “we must feed the world” mass production or “back to the way it used to be” individual farmers. Really there is an efficient, corporate farm method that can be had in the middle.

Colonial Gardens saw many renovations in 2018. For example, the retail space was completely renovated to also include The Market. The Market at Colonial Gardens was created as a means of connecting our community to both locally grown produce and other sustainable producers. The Market sells produce grown on site and by farms in the area, farm-produced goods from regional growers, pasture-raised meat from some of the area’s best producers (Harmony Farms, River Watch Beef, et al), and health and wellness products.

Another 2018 renovation and part of the agri-tourism direction included the creation of event spaces. The courtyard at Colonial Gardens is a beautifully integrated open-air event space complete with a covered stage for performances, speakers or musicians. This outside area accommodates up to 150 and can be reserved for private events. Future plans are to build an outdoor kitchen and grill to complement the existing courtyard.

Below: The Colonial Market at Colonial Gardens offers locally grown produce as well as other sustainably produced regional products.

Above: The Community Room is a reservable multi-purpose room used for workshops, classes, crafts and private events.

The Loggia is the adjacent covered outdoor area which spans the full length of the courtyard and is often populated with vibrant, showy flowers and plants. The Community Room, positioned between the courtyard and the market, is a multi-purpose space for workshops, classes, crafts and a reservable private room, complete with large screen monitor and AV hook ups.

Renovations continue into 2019 with the redesign and updated landscaping of the Lathe house (nursery stock) area. A new, thoughtfully designed, walkaway showcases the abundance of paver options available from KAT (landscape distribution) and leads customers through the nursery stock. This intentional path helps customers navigate through the large variety of plants, such as shade plants, partial sun, full sun and even includes a section for Native and Wildlife Habitat and Japanese gardens.

Above: The nursery area is an enjoyable walk whether shopping for something specific or just flower gazing. Intentionally designed, this space is easy to navigate even for the most novice customers.

Left: Fresh radishes for sale at The Market.

18 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Healthy

Life

Right: The beautiful outdoor courtyard sets the stage for many events throughout the year including the popular Wine in the Gardens event complete with live music.

Another new and fun endeavor available now is the farmergrown food subscription service. The Colonial Farm Share subscription includes 15 weeks (June–September) of the best seasonal produce their farmers are harvesting. Members receive a wide variety of garden favorites and some that people may not have ever tried before! Each share contains 7-9 varieties of produce including: kohlrabi, broccoli, carrots, potatoes, lettuce, peppers, bok choy, summer squash, tomatoes, eggplant, onions, brussels sprouts, cabbage and much more. It is an easy way for people to receive fresh, nutrient-dense produce featuring the absolute best of what’s in season!

There is still much to come for Colonial Gardens. An open-air amphitheatre and future orchards open to the public for “self picking” are both on the horizon, but before they get too far off in the future Colonial plans to host a big 50th Anniversary Birthday Bash in September to celebrate their success thus far.

For more information about this event and others check out colonialgardenskc.com. Read more on page 20 about Colonial Garden's resident restaurant: Bean Counter Café.

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3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 19

Healthy

Life

BEAN COUNTER CAFE Colonial Gardens' resident restaurant packs a big punch with the locals

By: Heather Thompson

Jordan and I sat down for an incredible, garden-fresh, homemade lunch outside the doors of Bean Counter Café amongst beautiful flowers and plants at Colonial Gardens. Tucked away on south 7 highway, we never imagined what a lunch destination it would be, but now we understand why so many people love it.

Everything from the soups, sandwiches, salad dressings, croutons and pastries are intentionally made from scratch. All the ingredients come from local producers including much from the onsite Colonial Gardens. Lettuces for salads and wraps, spinach, herbs, multiple varieties of kale, tomatoes, cucumbers, and berries all influence the seasonality of the menu. The current special was a kale Caesar salad that of course was tossed with house-made dressing (with anchovies, but no eggs).

Sara Lawson-O'Bryan bought the Bean Counter Café eight years ago and just celebrated one year of their new location within Colonial Gardens. The new location couldn't fit Sara's concept for the restaurant better - fresh, seasonal produce at the heart of it all.

Turkey Bacon Avocado Wrap

It was amazing to see how many regulars Sara greeted at the door as she talked with us outside. Sara explained that alongside my wrap were pickles that her husband makes and jars for sale in the store. Also from Sara’s home garden are the jalapeños that she uses in the guacamole.

The sign inside shows the large variety of local producers and small companies that she brings into her space for sharing. A selection of gluten-free baked goods from Emily Cakes in Prairie Village, craft sodas from Polly’s Pop in Independence, coffee from Broadway Roasting Co. and Boyle's Famous Corned Beef are just a sample of the local goods.

20 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Strawberry Spinach Salad

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11 SE 2nd Street Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 21

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The Golf Task Force took time to stuff goodie bags with fun items from member businesses. The goodie bags were give to players at the 2019 Chamber Golf Classic held at WinterStone Golf Course.

Chair of the Board Jon Garlow with the Leadership Lee’s Summit Coordinators Lynn Hinkle, Amberlynn Isaacs, Lu Ann Ross and Fred Lane at the Class of 2019 Graduation.

22 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Networking

Photos

Chamber members ventured out to celebrate a ribbon cutting at Crestview Dairy Events on June 11. The new event space is located at 16499 E. 83rd St.

Jeff Driskill with Sandler Training put on a workshop for Chamber Young Professionals focusing on the importance of communication among different leadership styles.

GoodVets of Lee’s Summit, the latest addition to New Longview, celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Chamber on May 31 at 450 SW Longview Blvd.

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 23

Member

Spotlight

Multi-Generational Businesses Rooted in Lee's Summit Starting a business alone is hard work, but throw in family dynamics and it's a whole other ball game. A healthy business climate and ever-growing workforce has stayed constant in Lee's Summit, leading to the success of many businesses over the years, but also paving the way for the next generation to take businesses to new heights. As we dug into the fertile Lee's Summit business ground, it didn't take long to discover that there is a long list of multi-generational businesses in our community. While we weren't able to feature them all, we are proud to share a portion of these hardworking Chamber members and the stories of how they built their businesses alongside family.

Member

Spotlight

Mark Sandy with son Brian.

The world of finance sparked interest in Mark Sandy at an early age, as his uncle was an advisor with Edward Jones in Columbia, MO. While Mark studied at Longview Metropolitian Community College, he ran a vending route. His daily stops included the Board of Trade building on the Country Club Plaza. “I was always intrigued by everything that was happening and just wanted to talk business with them,” Sandy said.

In 1983, Mark went through his Edward Jones training at the same building in downtown Lee’s Summit that his office has come back to today. “We shared a four-person office in approximately 600 square feet. We now occupy the same space in the building with approximately 3,000 square feet.”

After 30 years of having his office in Raytown, Mark came back to Lee’s Summit in 2017 with his son Brian as

part of the team. Brian is the youngest of Mark's three sons, each with their own skills, and Brian’s are fitting to work in financial planning.

There is no hierarchy or shared clients, so Brian doesn’t ‘work for dad’ but they will talk business to get different views on the market, or pencil in lunch just to talk.

Brian got his degree in business finance and economics and then took some time to be active in the military. Once exiting the U.S. Army, he got his masters in commercial real estate and worked in the industry awhile but decided that it just didn’t allow him to build deep and lasting relationships with people.

Their multi-generation business can give a different level of confidence to the people they work with. Mark and Brian are able to combine experience and education to really approach financial planning and the market in new ways together.

“Financial planning actually allows me to use my number-based education and experience and combine it with people. I wanted to be able to grow relationships and work with people long-term,” said Brian.

Coming back to downtown Lee’s Summit really brings them full circle, and they both live in Lee’s Summit. “We love the energy down here and our clients and staff feel it too.”

As father and son in the office, they get along very well (and are eerily similar) but each has his own book of business.

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 25

Member

Spotlight

Jon & Vicky Cundiff and Cam & Brandon Cundiff Jon and Vicky Cundiff started Turfs Up in the spare bedroom of their Lee’s Summit home in 1987 as an entrepreneurial dream. Thirty two years later, they have evolved into the multi-generational family business known as Weed Man. Taking from Jon’s experience manicuring the Royals and Chiefs stadiums, combined with Vicky’s college degree in business management and data processing, they had the drive to start their own business.

While the focus was on lawn care, they often added in services to ensure year-round business such as leaf cleanup, wood delivery, and Christmas light installation. It was a small business they were determined to grow and support the employees they brought on.

In 2000, the Cundiffs decided to partner with the Canadian company, Weed Man, and become the first U.S. sub franchisor.

As husband and wife working in their business with a young family, they would deliberately shut off business talk by 5:30 p.m. to focus on the kids' activities and just being a family at home.

26 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Jon & Vicky Cundiff with son Cam.

Living in Lee’s Summit, they knew it was where the business would start, grow, and stay. The Cundiffs have now lived here for thirty five years and franchised Weed Man in seven states. “We felt completely blessed for what Weed Man has done for our family and we wanted to help other families begin a new franchise business for their own family to grow within as well,” said Vicky.

At age 15, Jon and Vicky's son, Cam, began working all sides of the business.

Whether door-knocking, in the field for lawn treatments, or in the office selling – he learned the full scope of what the business was. Determined he would find his own role in the workforce, Cam went to school for business accounting and started working with other companies.

Cam decided accounting in an office was not his favorite role but he explained, “I didn’t want a job my parents are just handing me.” Jon and Vicky made it clear that they would not just give him a job but that his experience, knowledge, and energy was perfect for what they needed in the company overall.

After a trip to corporate Weed Man in Canada, something clicked with Cam and he understood and saw many new aspects of the business that he never realized before. It was much more than lawn care. He is now the general manager over four locations including Kansas City, Fort Worth, Des Moines and Springfield.

Brandon is their other son, rounding out the family of four, who was also determined to do his own thing. Brandon had a successful engineering career until eventually the family schmoozed him enough to join the Weed Man team.

He began in January of this year to run operations in Texas, with the goal of expanding into the Dallas metro area.

It is a fast-moving business and each of them has a unique understanding of how to use technology in the business.

Together, the generations have totally different ways of thinking and seeing new perspectives for growth.

Member

Spotlight

Amy Robertson with parents, Steve & Sue Tominia.

Steve & Sue Tominia, Amy Robertson After working with Cameron’s Home Furnishings for a few years, Amy and her family decided to purchase the downtown Lee’s Summit business in 2001. While not always the case, the daughter and parent trio now all work together in the business daily. Amy is the buyer for all the trending furnishings and home accessories, Sue is the visionary and peace-keeper who customizes pieces, and Steve is the muscle, handling all the deliveries and finances.

12 NE Sycamore Street Lee’s Summit, MO | 816.246.7177 oadesbrothers.com

All Lines Of Tires

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 27

Member

Spotlight

Bill Oades Senior with sons Jimmy and Billy.

Proud to be a family-owned and operated business in the KC Metro area, father, Bill Oades, Senior opened the first store in 1987. After graduating college from Rockhurst in 1972, Bill worked with Mobile Oil Corp. for 16 years as resale and marketer for auto repair and gas. Moving on from that career, he was encouraged to open his own shop in Kansas City, KS. Since then they have expanded and have three metro stores, including the Lee’s Summit location: Douglas Tire and Auto that was built to open in June 2003. “Lee’s Summit was already a great, growing community then that we really wanted to be a part of,” said Bill.

It has always been a family business in which all six of the Oades kids have been

Bill Oades Sr, Billy & Jimmy Oades

a part of and worked within to some capacity over the years. The youngest son, Jimmy, graduated with a degree in finance and decided to stay with the family business working as bookkeeper and customer service. Today, Jimmy is the on-site owner and face of the Lee’s Summit location.

A couple years after Jimmy, older brother Billy came on to help manage their Overland Park location. Billy also helped add a third location (in Overland Park) in 2015. Bill says, “we really feel like having the on-site ownership builds our local reputation as being compassionate and sincere.” You can reach someone who genuinely cares about the issue you are dealing with at any time that you need.

The multi-generation dynamic has really affected our business technology wise.

Meaning, newer generations are so social and online savvy that Jimmy and Billy really understand the influence that online reviews have for example. People today will read through the 2-300 reviews that we have online before making the decision to do business with the Oades. It makes for a great combination of how to run the business and deal with customers.

With six kids, six in-laws, and 19 grandkids (all in the KC area), it’s a big family that definitely keeps business separate. “We make efforts to get as many together as possible at least once a month – and we don’t talk about business,” stated Bill Sr.

Tim & Tyler Morehead

Tim and Tyler Morehead.

28 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Tim started the Morehead (insurance) Agency in August of 2005 with son Tyler joining him in March of 2006. They've stayed in the same location just outside of Downtown Lee’s Summit since 2005. While they started exclusively as Nationwide, over the last few years have become more diverse to represent a handful of other companies as insurance brokers. Tim and Tyler spend each day working to retain current customers by devoting as much time as possible with face-to-face interaction. Sadly, today’s growing digital environment doesn’t bode well for face-to-face relationships with business clients. The Moreheads can be seen out and about in the community, effectively working on their business while supporting local organizations, including the Lee’s Summit Chamber Parks and Recreation and others.

Member

Spotlight

Dave Cross with sons Matt, Chad & David.

Dave Cross and sons Chad, David & Matt Cross Dave Cross Motors opened in 1960 by David Cross, as first generation, and has always been in Lee’s Summit. Still involved with the Buick/GMC automobile dealership today are second and third generations with son Dave as acting President; and three grandsons Chad, David and Matt.

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3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 29

Member

Spotlight

Gloria Guthrie, Jim & Debbie Stoddard, Courtney Laufketter & Taylor Stoddard The full Stoddard family is involved in Budget Blinds. Gloria Guthrie, grandmother, along with Jim and Debbie Stoddard are the owners of the multi-generational, downtown Lee’s Summit business. Daughters Courtney and Taylor are the third generation active in the business. Courtney acts as VP of regional sales while Taylor is a design consultant. Beyond that, even the spouses and fourth generation get involved by assisting with installs, deliveries, box moving, and whatever the family needs.

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30 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Survey

Says

SURVEY SAYS Lee's Summit has a long history of meaningful community moments, from festivals such as Oktoberfest to holiday celebrations and much more. We wanted to know what memories stick out in your minds so we asked longtime chamber members this question: What benchmark community moments stand out as you think back through Lee’s Summit’s history?

"I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of this great community since 1983 with my first office located in downtown Lee’s Summit and our current location on Windsor Drive. It’s a charming area and brings up many wonderful memories as I think back throughout the years. One event I’ve always been fond of is Legacy Blast where I helped Charlie Wald with pyrotechnics for the fireworks show back in 2008. Good times!”

- Jeff L. Harsch, DPM FACFAS, Foot & Ankle Clinic

“Oh so many changes…where to start? Western Electric opening in 1961 and then its eventual closing as AT&T. Summit Woods providing opportunities to shop without leaving town. The formation of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street and the resulting revitalization of our downtown.

Hy-Vee offering our first 24-hour grocery store. A second high school. We've come a long way from the town where the stop lights started flashing at 9:00 pm.”

- Wesley Veasman, Shelter Insurance

“Lee’s Summit has always been very community oriented. I remember when the Chamber supported a bond issue for sewers and we created a big outhouse off 291. We also enjoyed many years of our annual pasta harvest with past Chamber president Diane Demerest in the 70’s. Another fond memory was getting together with downtown businesses to clean up downtown. Those we’re fun things to do because we were working together as a community.”

- Carl Chinnery, Chinnery Evans & Nail, PC

“The Cundiffs settled in Lee's Summit because of the strong community pride and excellent schools.

Thirty five years later we are still enjoying that pride and wonderful schools (now for Grandkids).

Plus, our thriving economy through growth, our awesome downtown, running the Legacy Park Loop and participating in events such as City Strategic Planning, Oktoberfest, Jamaican Jam, and The Emerald Isle Parade! All of us at are proud to call Lee's Summit home and the Chamber our partner in business (and so much more)!”

- Vic Cundiff, Weed Man

“Being a long time Lee’s Summit community member there are several key moments that stick out over the years. The Centennial Celebration, Sesquicentennial Celebration of The City of Lee’s Summit and when the Chamber made their permanent home at the train depot.”

- Dr. Hertzog, Lee’s Summit Animal Hospital

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 31

Economic

Update

Cityscape Residential Downtown Apartment Project

Budding New Developments in Lee's Summit The Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council works hard to attract and retain major employers in Lee’s Summit. This summer the LSEDC is budding with new opportunities. The season has brought a bountiful supply of new looks and proposals from industries such as manufacturing, regional office users and data centers. Both new and expanding businesses are choosing Lee’s Summit for its convenient location, transportation options, education and growth opportunities. Employers also gain interest in Lee’s Summit thanks to the widespread availability of a qualified workforce that spans up to a 60-mile radius.

The landscape of Lee’s Summit is changing. In April, the city gave initial approval to a $52 million plan to redevelop the former Lee’s Summit Methodist Church into a new 276-unit multifamily complex at 2nd Street and Douglas. The first downtown apartment complex, developed by Cityscape Residential, will bring a new opportunity for downtown to flourish with new patrons for our locally-owned businesses. Cityscape’s proximity to downtown will also help Lee’s Summit meet the ever-growing demand for walkable living.

32 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Investors are also excited about the possibility of approximately 4,000 acres of undeveloped land that may become available for development in the future. The City and LSEDC are working with Property Reserve, Inc. (PRI) to foster new possibilities for developers on land that was previously unavailable. Much of the land that will become available is located in areas which have already been identified as key areas of development. Through working with PRI early in the acquirement phase, the LSEDC and the City are taking a proactive approach to ensure that businesses in Lee’s Summit are well-positioned to take full advantage of this momentous opportunity in Lee’s Summit history.

As the new fiscal year begins, the LSEDC is putting the finishing touches on a new, comprehensive strategic plan that will guide targets and decisions as we work to attract and grow business in Lee’s Summit over the next 3-5 years. Some of the top factors the LSEDC considered in formulating the strategic plan were industry recruitment, targeted development/redevelopment, site and building development, Lee’s Summit masterplanning, workforce development, business retention and expansion, image enhancement and target marketing. In addition to research and consulting with our investors, LSEDC made a deliberate effort to align the goals of our strategic plan with the goals laid out in the City’s strategic plan. The LSEDC believes that collaborating with the City toward a common goal will strengthen outcomes and provide greater opportunity for Lee’s Summit and the employers who sustain its economy. With the available resources and support, it’s no wonder businesses are choosing to spread their roots in Lee’s Summit.

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 33

Community

Focused

Cheers to 30 Years

What started as a replacement for Cole Younger Days and way to raise funds to renovate the historic depot in 1989 has since grown into the Chamber’s largest fundraiser. Celebrating it’s 30th anniversary this year, Oktoberfest has now grown into a festival spanning several blocks in downtown Lee’s Summit, bringing approximately 70,000 festival goers to the area the last weekend in September.

34 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Community

Focused

“I love volunteering for Oktoberfest.

I have been doing that for 19 years and enjoy working in brat tent one because I love to meet people and I see the same people come by year after year.”

Oktoberfest carnival set up on SE Main Street in the 1990s.

The inaugural event happened under Chamber President Diane Demerest (formerly Jennings) and was held primarily in the depot parking lot and a portion of SE Main St., with carnival rides on SW Main St. The event included live German music, catered German meals and, of course, beer. Oktoberfest was actually the first event in downtown Lee’s Summit that required a liquor license. Brad Culbertson, who volunteered his time for much of the planning and heavy lifting to get the event up and running, remembers the turn out that first Friday night, “We were pleasantly surprised at the number of people who came out to the event. I remember the line for food started to back up, so we grabbed trays and started selling beer while people waited in line.” The event, which also included a Saturday morning Chris Cakes pancake breakfast and mum sale put on by the Kiwanis Club, was overall a success.

- Jeff Silver, Oktoberfest Committee Member

As the years went by, the event continued to grow and the planning committee, led at the time by Karl Bertram, added arts and craft vendors, a 5K race, wiener dog contest, more carnival rides, entertainment stages and, in turn, more space.

The festival expanded to cover the streets of downtown Lee’s Summit from SW Main St. to Green St., Second to Fourth streets.

A memorable addition to the festival was the annual Pancake Race. The goal was to race from the railroad tracks down Third Street, while racers continuously flipped a pancake in their skillet. Trisha Drape and Nick Parker, who were on the winning Lee’s Summit Journal Golden Griddle team, remember what a crack-up the event was. “I remember watching John McCall race down the street, and it’s on an incline, and he was almost to the bottom and just lost it,” Trisha said. “I was not happy we lost and had to turn over our cherished Golden Griddle from the previous

m

hn Graha

ell & Jo Tom Lov

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 35

Community

Focused

year to the new champs, but it was still hard not to stop laughing. Was that wrong?”

A major turning point for the event came in the early 2000s when Central States and Reinhart Foodservice (American Foodservice at that time) partnered with the Chamber. Central States took care of the beer, making sure it was cold and ready to pour, while Reinhart volunteered the use anager sos and City M of their refrigerated food trucks. Former Fox 4's Nick Va pating in the annual rtici Chamber President Nancy Bruns recalls Steve Arbo pa ent. ev p om st grape staff and committee members spending Schuhplattle time spooning condiments into individual r Verein Blau tauler Dance to live Germ rs dance an music. squirt bottles, and cookie frosting into containers, while trying to transport food back and forth to refrigerators and coolers for storage. “Reinhart coming on board to help us was a gameChamber member bankers and accountants volunteer on changer for the event,” she said. the finance committee and are on-site and on-call the entire The Reinhart food trucks allowed for the creation of the brat weekend. The police and fire departments are vital in ensuring tents, a major revenue generator, that sell brats and hotdogs, that everything is planned according to code and that attendees pretzels, nachos, pulled pork and more. The addition of these remain safe. Simply put, it takes a village and the festival would brat tents helped increase the revenue from netting $60,000 not happen without the dedication of these individuals. to now more than $100,000. Reinhart has also contributed This year’s event marks 30 years, and is set for September 27countless hours of planning logistics and volunteer manpower 28 in downtown Lee’s Summit. Committee chair and co-chair to help the event succeed.

Melissa Grinlinton and Lynn Hinkle are leading the charge in The event itself takes more than 400 volunteers to keep things what’s sure to be another fantastic festival. “This is my 20th year running smoothly throughout the weekend. Chamber members volunteering for Oktoberfest, and it’s really come full circle that I volunteer to help set up, man beer tents, grill brats and much get to serve alongside Melissa, who I recruited to help out years more. The committee is made up of nearly 30 members who ago and has been an invaluable sidekick,” said Lynn. dedicate their time to plan logistics and entertainment, as well “Seeing the event grow year over year is what I enjoy as a as working nearly the entire weekend. “I love volunteering Chair of this event. I have to mention the community itself. for Oktoberfest. I have been doing that for 19 years and enjoy I love seeing the families I have met each year and watching working in brat tent one because I love to meet people and I their kids grow too,” Melissa said. Attendees can look see the same people come by year after year,” said committee forward to the traditional German meals and music, a home member Jeff Silver. “I enjoy working on the committee because brew competition, grape stomp, carnival, two stages of live we trade ideas to see what new ideas can work and what things entertainment and much more. For more information about work year after year. I'll probably stay with Oktoberfest until I'm this year’s event, visit LSoktoberfest.com. too old to do so.”

Ever wonder why Oktoberfest is celebrated in September?

The first Oktoberfest was held in 1810 in honor of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

Festivities began on October 12, 1810 and ended on October 17 with a horse race. In the following years, the celebrations were repeated and, later, the festival was prolonged and moved forward into September. Oktoberfest now kicks off the third weekend of September each year in Munich.

36 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Community

Focused

27 • 28 • 29 SEPTEMBER Downtown Lee's Summit 5-11 p.m.

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10 a.m.-11 p.m.

Noon-4 p.m. (carnival only)

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CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO ARRANGE A TOUR. 251 Executive Way, Ste. 200 Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 816.525.6000 EXT. 101 | developingpotential.org

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 37

Leadership

Lessons

INTERNS PROVEN VITAL TO LOCAL WORKFORCE By: John Beaudoin

When Glen Watson of Polytainers and other local companies are in the hunt for talented, young students and future employees, they know they’re in a target-rich environment right here in Lee’s Summit. Watson, the Human Resources Business Partner for the 300-employee, Lee’s Summit Polytainers, Inc., said between the local college scene and the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, the company’s workforce needs are in good hands.

“Even if they don’t get a job with Polytainers, they have a good experience and talk to others about their experience in that work environment,” he said.

Polytainers is just one of many Lee’s Summit and KC-area businesses that have been the benefactors of an intern-rich environment brewing at UCM and the Missouri Innovation Campus.

“We’ve worked with the Chamber on events, specifically National Manufacturing Day, where high school students to come in and see job opportunities,” Watson said. “Other times throughout the year, we partner with the Lee’s Summit School District on tours and spending time at the facility to get exposure about the company and opportunities, on-the-job training and careers they can pursue right out of high school.”

Polytainers offers both internships and fresh out of high school opportunities, Watson said. “We have great opportunities here to learn on the job, earn a great wage and support their families also,” he said. Watson noted interns from the University of Central Missouri’s Lee’s Summit campus have spent time at the company. More recently, Polytainers is welcoming an intern from the Summit Technology Academy this summer in their IT department.

38 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

The University of Central Missouri's Innovation Campus is responsible for supplying Lee's Summit and the Kansas City Area with hundreds of interns.

Leadership According to Janice Phelan, marketing and communications for UCM and the MIC, UCM has hundreds and possibly close to 1,000 students serving in internships annually within Lee’s Summit and Kansas City in areas such as business, nursing, education, technology, marketing.

“Internships provide students and employers an invaluable experience,” said Dr. Laurel Hogue, University of Central Missouri vice provost for Extended Studies. “Students gain the opportunity to apply the knowledge they learn in the classroom to a work environment. Employers are able to leverage their brand and proprietary knowledge with potential future employees. Both get to determine fit and culture, potentially saving companies both time and resources related to hiring and employee retention.”

Some of the local companies working with MIC interns are Ultrax Aerospace, AWNIX, the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District, JSC Engineers, ACT/NRCCUA, GEHA, Lead Bank and the St. Luke’s Health Systems. Phelan said there are 100 MIC interns in the program (counting those just starting in the cohort) working in businesses around Kansas City.

“The Missouri Innovation Campus Program internship was designed specifically to help eliminate the skills gap by providing

Lessons

a paid, three-year, year-round applied learning experience that helps reduce the cost of a college degree and keep talent in the Kansas City region,” said Stan Elliott, director of the Missouri Innovation Campus for UCM. Hogue said there are more than 55 business partners participating in the MIC program, not including employers who work with students in STA courses or offer semester or year-long opportunities to students in degree fields such as IT, healthcare, education and business.

“Lee’s Summit R-7 and UCM collaborated from concept through construction and now are continually creating seamless educational pathways for students to reduce the overall cost of college and time to degree. Couple that with internship opportunities, and we close the skills gap,” she said.

Watson said the educational system built in Lee’s Summit has been advantageous to Polytainers. “Being in the Lee’s Summit community and having these local opportunities has been beneficial for us,” Watson said. “We try to partner on all different levels with internships. We have to grow people within the organization, invest in people.”

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, July 18 MCC-Longview Participants will engage with area experts on the nuts and bolts of hosting interns, brainstorm possible jobs and even get a chance to post a job description. Bring your questions and learn how interns can help your business or organization succeed.

The cost to attend is $25, which includes lunch, and reservations are required.

Contact Blake Fry at 816.524.2424 for more information.

220 SE Main Street | Lee's Summit, MO 64063 | 816.524.2424 | LSchamber.com

3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 39

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40 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE A publication of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce 220 SE Main Street • 816.524.2424 • LSchamber.com

Claim your listing online and choose optional levels to expand your listing details online and in print. LShealthcare.net launches this fall with select print distribution mid-October. Print copies will be available at the Lee’s Summit Chamber, City Hall, major health systems, nonprofits and more.

CONTACT

Heather Thompson, Advertising Manager 816.524.2424 | hthompson@lschamber.com

Chamber

Update

MULTI-GENERATIONAL BUSINESSES The theme of this edition of Catalyst, multi-generational businesses, is one that is near and dear to my heart. This year marks the 60th Anniversary of Fry’s Car Care in Overland Park.

My grandfather started the business with a Standard gas station at the intersection of 95th Street and Mission Road when there was nothing but farm fields in the area. As a child, the business represented nothing more than a fun place to hang with my grandfather when we would visit Kansas City. All of that changed 35 years ago when my father left the corporate world to take over the business and my grandfather retired.

It did not take me long to gain an appreciation for the commitment it takes to run a small business and the pride that comes from continuing a family legacy. While I certainly saw my father more than I did when he as traveling around the country for Mobil Oil, there were years of early mornings, late evenings, and weekends involved in growing the business. I also gained a work ethic that is developed uniquely by working for the family business, which I did for many years. The realization that your efforts not only generate a paycheck, but directly affects the well being of your family is not one that is easily lost, even on a teenager. This became even clearer when my mother left teaching to run the business with my father.

and gone, and gas is no longer sold. Today Fry’s Car Care is owned and led by my sister and brother-in-law. I couldn’t be prouder of how they are carrying on the family business.

I want to congratulate and thank all of the multi-generational family businesses in Lee’s Summit, whether they are profiled in this edition of Catalyst or not. When asked what they like best about living in Lee’s Summit, residents will almost always start with the sense of community. Businesses that have been part of Lee’s Summit for generations with owners that are trusted and viewed as part of our society’s fabric, contribute greatly to that strong community feel. I am also aware of many businesses that are newer to Lee’s Summit where the wheels are already in motion for the business to be carried on by the next generation. We are thrilled to have you as part of our business community. Here is to your success in Lee’s Summit for generations to come.

Over the years, Fry’s Car Care changed and evolved. The original Standard station is now the location of a McDonald’s, stations in Prairie Village and Kansas City, Kansas have come 3RD QUARTER - 2019 | 41

CALENDAR OF

EVENTS LEADING LADIES WOMEN'S RETREAT 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 10 724 Main Street, Grandview Reservations Required

CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 23 Rachel House Pregnancy Resource Centers, Inc. 1260 NE Windsor Dr.

CHAMBER AFTER HOURS 4:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11 Powell Gardens 1609 NW US 50 Highway

RIBBON CUTTING METLIFE-JENNY SCHWEITZER COOK 4 p.m. Thursday, July 25 210 SW Market St.

JOINT COUNTY LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST 8 a.m. Friday, July 12 Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center 18011 Bass Pro Drive, Independence

RIBBON CUTTING FARMERS INSURANCE-JASON LANGSTON AGENCY 4 p.m. Wednesday, July 31 204 SE 2nd St.

RIBBON CUTTING - FLEX 365 11 a.m. Monday, July 15 920 NE Columbus St. RIBBON CUTTING - TIKKA TWIST 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 16 697 NW Blue Parkway CHAMBER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS HAPPY HOUR 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16 Farmers Insurance - Ballentine Insurance Agency, 16 SE Third St. INTERN BOOTCAMP 11 a.m. Thursday, July 18 MCC-Longview, 500 SW Longview Road Reservations Required MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 19 Faulkner's Ranch, 10600 Raytown Road Speaker: Chris Kuehl, Armada Corporate Intelligence Sponsor: Truman Heartland Community Foundation Reservations Required

42 | CATALYST - THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

RECESS FOR SUCCESS 4 p.m. Tuesday, August 6 Missouri Innovation Campus 1101 NW Innovation Pkwy.

Speaker: Kari Simpson, Digital Marketing, Inc. Sponsor: Blue Rain Roofing RIBBON CUTTING THIS & THAT FRAMING AND LS SCRAPBOOK BOUTIQUE 4 p.m. Wednesday, August 7 198A NW Oldham Parkway CHAMBER AFTER HOURS 4:30 p.m. Thursday, August 8 Liddle Sports & Apparel 100 NE Tudor Road, Suite 111 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug 16 Adams Pointe Conference Center 1400 NE Coronado Drive, Blue Springs Speaker: Alicia Cianciolo, NASA Sponsor: Weed Man Reservations Required MEGA CHAMBER OFFICE PARTY 4:30 p.m. Thursday, August 22 Arrowhead Stadium One Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City

CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 27 Sky Zone, 2801 NE McBaine Dr. CHAMBER 101: GET PLUGGED IN 3:30 p.m. Thursday, August 29 Paradise Park, 1021 NE Colbern Rd. RECESS FOR SUCCESS 4 p.m. Tuesday, September 10 Missouri Innovation Campus 1101 NW Innovation Pkwy.

Speaker: Todd Long, Leadership innovations Sponsor: Van Osdol, P.C. RIBBON CUTTING AR WORKSHOP LEE'S SUMMIT 4 p.m. Tuesday, September 10 1171 SE Oldham Parkway CHAMBER AFTER HOURS 4:30 p.m. Thursday, September 12 Hunt Midwest Real Estate Development, Inc. Location: TBD CHAMBER BEFORE HOURS 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 17 Lakewood Animal Health Center 5001 NE Lakewood Way MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. Friday, September 20 The Historic Longview Mansion 1200 SW Longview Park Dr. Speaker: Kathy Nelson, Kansas City Sports Commission Sponsor: KU Cancer Center Reservations Required

Registering for events is easy at LSchamber.com! Click the event you wish to attend and log in with your member ID. Don’t know your password or aren’t a member? Call 816.524.2424 for help.

Lee’s Summit, Missouri Brian Sandy, AAMS®, ® Brian R Sandy, AAMSCRPC® , MKT-8275B-A-AD

Financial CRPC®Advisor .

200 DouglasSte 105 200 S.E.SEDouglas Suite 105 MO 64063 Lees Summit, 816-272-5650 816-272-5650

Joel Wilson

410a SE 3rd Street Suite 102 816-554-3128

Mark A Sandy, AAMS® 200 SE Douglas Suite 105 816-272-5650

www.edwardjones.com

Joseph Hyde, CIMA®

Member SIPC

3550 NE Ralph Powell Road Suite 200 816-272-6219

Scott M Wall

3500 NE Ralph Powell Road Suite E 816-272-0460 www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Thom Schlosser, CFP®

192 Northwest Oldham Pkwy.

816-525-0770

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220 SE Main Street • Lee’s Summit, MO 64063