Progress 2011 by The Examiner

C3-4 Q/As with city leaders C9 EDC columns D3 Adams Dairy Landing D4 Hippie Chow and more

PROGRESS IN EJC C SECTION

Friday, February 25, 2011

What does progress look like?

Van Horn turnaround surprises community By KELLY EVENSON kelly.evenson@examiner.net

When Independence Superintendent Jim Hinson first sat down with state Sen. Victor Callahan to discuss the possibility of annexing western Independence from the Kansas City School District into the Independence School District, he had no idea that the positive changes would have happened so quickly. “I knew we would see changes, but those changes happened

quicker than I thought,” he said. “The people of western Independence were waiting for decades for these changes to occur. The level of frustration was high. The community saw the challenge, and I think wanted to be involved even more. That is why we are seeing positive changes happen in western Independence. It is because of the community.” Seven schools were annexed into the school district in 2008 – five elementary schools, one middle

See VAN HORN / C7

10 sure signs of success Here are developments from the last year that show how Eastern Jackson County continues to grow

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More, more, more at Adams Dairy Parkway, particularly the retailers and restaurants near Interstate 70. The area anchored by Wal-Mart, Target and Home Depot also now already has Gordmans, Kohl’s, Staples, Petco, Olive Garden, Chipotle and Michaels. On the way: Chick-fil-A, Arby’s and others.

It looks like Main Street By JEFF MARTIN | jeff.martin@examiner.net Downtown Main Street in Blue Springs is the focus of new life. Once a major destination in any American city, Main Street in Blue Springs has not been exempt from hard times. With the soaring popularity of fast food restaurants and strip malls, old time Main Street has taken a beating.

See MAIN STREET / C4

Opening the Ennovation Center in Independence. Independence Economic Development opened and runs the facility at the site of the old Independence Regional Health Center, which closed in 2007. The extensively renovated building at 201 N. Forest Ave. in western Independence has kitchen space that businesses can rent, bio-tech labs (converted surgical suites) and other space and support for start-up businesses. Independence Economic Development moved its offices there, and the Independence School District is in the process of doing the same. “It’s a product. It’s one more thing we can sell,” EDC President Tom Lesnak said. “ ... It’s a product nobody else has got.”

A significant extension of Jackson Drive in eastern Independence. The city opened a $22.49 million, two-and-a-half mile extension of the fourlane road from 37th Terrace to Missouri 78, near Metropolitan Community Colleges-Blue River. “This valley, in the next 15 years, is going to be rooftops,” said Independence Mayor Don Reimal. “... The businesses are going to come, the people are going to come, and we’re going to have a good expansion in our city.” Also under construction: a wider 39th Street from Noland

See SUCCESS / C11

C10

P ROGRESS

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

Fike — 65 years and growing stronger

manufacturer in the UK to expand its fire protection opportunities within Europe. “Fike is a smaller, privately-held company, but we compete with extremely large companies such as Tyco and United Technologies,” says Kopoulos. “We can’t out-spend our competition, but we can outperform them in many ways.” Fike believes its customer support and quality are key differentiators. Kopoulos says that many customers choose Fike because they don’t like dealing with large companies. “Customers don’t want to feel like they are just another number in line. With Fike, they know they can get fast, personal service. And they know we focus on world-class quality and attention to detail, so they trust the products we make.” Fike manufactures most of its products at its Blue Springs plant. This facility has more than 350 people, making Fike one of the largest employers in the area. Worldwide, Fike employs over 950 people. In May 2009, Fike celebrated a significant achievement in manufacturing safety, marking one million hours worked without a lost workday injury. “We are committed to providing excellent working conditions for our employees to not only maximize their productivity, but also to keep them safe,” said Kopoulos. He also reports that the company recently spent more than $1 million to build a new, modernized weld shop at the Blue Springs facility. In addition to its business success, Fike continues to be active in community involvement. Kopoulos says that although Fike has always been generous with charitable giving, the company recently formed a committee to better manage its financial donations as well as employee involvement in the community. “Fike is a great company but we’re not well known in the area,” he says. “We have employees serving local organizations in various ways, but we want to encourage more involvement. We want to be a more active part of the ever growing success that is Blue Springs.” At a recent event to celebrate the company’s 65th anniversary, Fike Chairman Lester Fike, Jr. said, “We’ve made it through a lot of years. Now we’re ready for 65 more!” From all indications, it seems that Fike is indeed well positioned for long term success.

By Jim Morgan Special to The Examiner

Over the past several years, many industrial product manufacturers in the U.S. were hit hard due to the global recession. Fike Corporation seems to have found a strategy that not only buffered it against the recession, but is positioning the company for future growth around the world. “The key to Fike’s success is diversification, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to quality,” says Chuck Kopoulos, Fike’s President and CEO. “Fike is a 65-year-old company but we’re not content to rest on past success. We keep innovating, we keep expanding, and we keep finding ways to meet customer needs around the world.” Fike was started by Lester Fike, Sr. in 1945 out of his home in Independence. In 1957, the company was moved to Blue Springs, where the company’s world headquarters is still located, on 10th Street near 40 Highway. Fike manufactures life and asset safety technologies to protect against risks such as fire, explosions, and over pressurization of storage vessels. Fike also makes products for use in oil and gas wells. Its customer base is diverse, ranging from chemical and food plants, to data centers and museums, to high rise buildings of all types. As an example, Fike’s fire protection products are installed in the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building located in Dubai. According to Kopoulos, the company’s diversification across product lines, customers, and geographic regions has led to its steady success over the years. “We started with one basic product line, but today we offer a wide range of solutions to a variety of customers. This is challenging because we have to maintain a high level of market and technical expertise across numerous industries and technologies. But that’s what makes Fike such a dynamic place to work. From the outside, we may not look flashy or leading-edge, but within the industries we serve, we are the technology leader.” Fike has been exporting products around the world for over 40 years, and now has operations and offices in North and South America, Europe, Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and Japan. In 2009 Fike established a sales office in Bahrain to better serve its growing business in that region. Also in 2009, Fike acquired a fire alarm

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project tracker

C11

By ADRIANNE DeWEESE | adrianne.deweese@examiner.net

Look around and see Englewood continues down artistic path success throughout EJC WHAT’S HAPPENING

▲

SUCCESS l From C1

Road to Crysler Avenue, and the final leg of the Little Blue Expressway all the way north to U.S. 24.

The Corner Spot. For years, people had complained it was hard to find a lot of everyday items at stores in western Independence. That changed in September, when IBS Industries opened the Corner Spot in the old drugstore at Truman Road and Ash Street in the Maywood area a few blocks east of Van Horn High School. The store has groceries, household goods, Van Horn Falcon items, and sandwiches and drinks. “It was a focal point for the neighborhood, and it is again,” Mayor Don Reimal said at the ribbon-cutting.

Opening of Mizzou Center in Blue Springs. The University of Missouri opened offices in Heartland Financial Services building on Coronado Drive. This is part of the university’s partnership with the community that is aimed at developing the Missouri Innovation Park, a 150-acre complex that matches university research and emerging companies in bioscience, sustainable energy and other areas. “I commend the community for their vision and their determination,” said Steve Wyatt, the university’s vice provost for economic development.

Plans announced for a new business park in the Little Blue River Valley in eastern Independence. The 360-acre Independence Business Park will be at Missouri 78 and Missouri 7 with industrial, office and retail space. So far no tenants have been announced, and the parties involved say development could take years. The city hasn’t added an industrial park in four decades. “The real work begins now. Now we can actually put this in front of businesses,” Independence Economic Development President Tom Lesnak said when plans were announced in August.

Trinity Woods. Already the site of the Corner Cafe, the development at the southeast corner of Interstate 70 and Little Blue Expressway is getting a Drury Inn and Suites in 2011 (it’s under construction now), and plans have been announced for a Children’s Mercy Hospital facility.

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School improvements. Many area schools have gotten upgrades in the past year, notably just about every building in the Independence School District, including significant additions or renovations at all three high schools. Another year, another bridge. It’s easy to take concrete and steel for granted, but that’s a vital part what keeps commerce moving. In 2010, it was a new U.S. 40 bridge over Interstate 435, as well as Blue Mills Road over the Little Blue River. In 2011, it’s the Blue Ridge Cut-off bridge over Interstate 70 (set to be done in late March). Others in recent years are Noland Road over I-70, Blue Ridge Boulevard over I-70, U.S. 24 over the railroad tracks in Fairmount and Ash Street over the railroad tracks near Fairmount.

Modest rebound in housing. Though overall figures remain low by historical standards, the number of permits issues for new single-family homes rose 21.8 percent in Eastern Jackson County in 2010, compared with 14.6 percent for the greater Kansas City areas. In Jackson County, new-home prices at the end of 2010 were 17 percent higher than at the end of 2009. – Jeff Fox

Englewood was once its own freestanding community with a post office, a dry cleaner and a Ben Franklin store, just to name a few amenities. Throughout the years, the western Independence storefronts became empty in a fourblock stretch that in many ways looke like it could have stepped out of 1950s small-town America. In November 2008, the district slowly started changing as the Green Dog Gallery opened its doors at 10922 E. Winner Road. More than two years later, an arts district feasibility study has taken place, and Englewood business owners work with dedication to make the historic area an official arts district.

BACKGROUND

In spring 2009, Independence Economic Development commissioned a study of the feasibility of an Englewood arts district. The result wasn’t a simple “yes” or “no” answer, but business owners marched on. Puppetry Arts Institute, a mainstay in Englewood for a decade, now has Green Dog Gallery, the Russ Lawrence Art Gallery, Winner Road Gallery, Frick Electronic Services & Art Gallery and 3 Trails Trading Post – and several dozen resident artists – among

Walks. In late January, the area received a Mid-America Regional Council grant for a streetscape project, and construction is to begin in 2012. The project includes the widening of the sidewalks on the north side of Winner Road to 17 feet; relocation of parking; improvement of transit bus stops and bicycle facilities; and corridor beautification. Monte Short, chairman of the Englewood arts district, said recently that business and property owners are working with the city to make the district designation official within the next year. Connie J. Boswell, a house artist at Winner Road Galley, recently offered this sentiment about the arts district: “I think it’s a wonderful concept, and I think it’s Examiner file photo happening, but I think also that it takes its neighbors. time to build.” Last year, the Independence Planning Commission and the City Council approved an amendment to the Unified Is there an issue you want us to Development Ordinance that outlines update? guidelines for an arts district. While If you’re wondering about something Englewood awaits “official” designation that was in the new but doesn’t have as an arts district, the guidelines are resolution, send your idea to: now in place. E-MAIL sheila.davis@examiner.net PHONE 816-350-6365 WHAT’S NEXT FAX 816-254-0211 Rain, sleet or sunshine, the art galMAIL 410 S. Liberty St., Indepenleries in Englewood open their doors to patrons for the monthly Third Friday Art dence, MO 64050

What does your part of town need? Q Phyllis Hanes

and restaurants is all you see any more.”

northwest Independence

Duncan Hill

“We need business. We need housing for people. I’m so glad we’re in the Independence School District now, because it’s been good. ... It used to be a thriving little community. ... It’s so run down and forgotten, I think.”

Independence

“Cheesecake Factory. It would be nice to have some classy restaurants in this area.” Don Schulte southwestern Independence

Bob Vidmar northwest Independence

“More business – you never see shoe shops any more. Gas stations

“I would like to have more of what Englewood Café used to be – family, home-style cooking. I’d like some sidewalks on one

side of the street or the other – I know the kids are walking down 31st Street on the way home from school.” Calista Allen Independence

“A Wal-Mart or a Target. I would also like to see a Price Chopper out near Buckner. We just really need a variety of places to shop in this part of town.”

– Jeff Fox, Kelly Evenson and Adrianne DeWeese

The Examiner

C12 Friday, February 25, 2011

P rogress

The Examiner

C2 Friday, February 25, 2011

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P rogress

INDEPENDENCE

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

Questions for city hall

ndependence Mayor Don Reimal, along with city officials from public works, community development and economic development, answered the following questions surrounding past, present and future progress across Independence.

What do you think qualified as the biggest sign of progress in Independence during 2010? Progress requires and reflects a spirit of community, of people working together. The overwhelming public support for the renewal of the parks and stormwater sales tax is a tremendous sign of progress. It will allow the city to continue to address new and emerging stormwater concerns and to continue to maintain our park facilities in a manner that enhances the quality of life in the community.

What is the city’s role in helping to fill in vacant retail spaces like Hartman Heritage Center? What efforts have taken place by city staff at that site to date? Independence has been recognized as a leader when it comes to assisting businesses in the permitting process. We help facilitate new businesses looking to locate here, and we work to meet the needs of existing businesses so that they can thrive. In business areas like Hartman Heritage and others across Independence, we meet with owners and brokers to identify and recruit potential tenants.

How does the city balance revitalizing areas of western Independence with upcoming growth in eastern Independence? Both geographic areas offer a wide range of development opportunities. Community Development and the Economic Development Division will continue to identify funding opportunities from federal, state and private resources to meet gaps in development. These include increased funding for foreclosure mitigation, enhanced job training programs and improved access to weatherization and other energy conservation measures. The city works continuously to identify development opportunities in the community. Staff meet with Independence EDC, developers and neighborhood groups to identify market opportunities. Revitalization and new growth offer different potentials but are assisted equally to achieve the result desired by the community.

What progress should Independence residents look for in 2011?

■ Continued emphasis on new development and redevelopment aimed at stimulating private reinvestment are the cornerstones for the future of Independence. ■ The Ennovation Center is transforming the former Independence Regional Health Center What kind of changes and growth into an incubator for businesses trying to get a should residents expect when the final start in today’s trying economy. The Ennovation portion of Little Blue Parkway opens Center provides companies with the facilities and this fall – and when will such changes support they would not be able to afford on their begin taking place? own. Incubator graduates have a higher success The (City) Council recently approved a $9.3 milrate long term than businesses that try to go it lion contract to extend the Little Blue Parkway alone. almost two miles from Truman Road to Bundschu ■ The Fairmount-Carlisle 353 tax abatement Road. This will be completed in 2011. When com- program is in the process of revitalizing neighborpleted, the entire north-south route will reach hoods in northwest Independence. The 353 plan seven miles from 39th Street to U.S. 24, linking offers residents an incentive to rehabilitate their four major roadways: U.S. 40, Interstate 70, Mishomes by offering tax breaks. Between 2007 souri 78 and U.S. 24. and 2010, there were 121 properties approved for The Little Blue Parkway will open the Little Blue abatement. And, there are currently more than River valley for a variety of development types, in- 160 participants proceeding with repairs. Those cluding residential, commercial and office space numbers translate into $3,725,786 in investdevelopments. For example, a new elementary ments into Independence neighborhoods. school for the Independence School District is in the planning stages on Jackson Drive south of – Adrianne DeWeese Missouri 78.

5 THINGS TO KNOW

Independence Business Park planned for area near Lake City plant 1 2 3

The 360-acre project will be at Missouri 78 and Missouri 7, in east Independence across M-7 from the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. It will straddle M-78 and could include industrial, office and even retail space. Although Independence has a large amount of underground industrial space, most of it along Missouri 291, it hasn’t added above-ground industrial space since the early 1970s.

Officials say the project has taken years to put together and will take years to fully develop. “The real work begins now. Now we can actually put this in front of businesses,” Independence Economic Development President Tom Lesnak said when plans were announced in August 2010.

The industrial park fits into the city’s vision for the Little Blue River valley with a mix of industry, commerce and housing. The valley lies in the 38 square miles of eastern Independence that remains undeveloped – an area larger than many metro suburbs – and growth plans get a boost later this year with the extension of the Little Blue Expressway north the way to U.S. 24, giving the area a four-lane north-south road from U.S. 24 to U.S. 40.

Key players in putting the project together have been: n Independence Economic Development. n Clayco, a development company based in St. Louis. n The city of Independence. n The Community of Christ, which owns the land. – Jeff Fox ADVERTISER NEWS

ADVERTISER NEWS

First Baptist of Independence focuses on a new generation By Sandy Turner The Examiner Pastor Kevin Payne and the congregation at First Baptist of Independence are making great strides to reach out to those who are searching for a church home or looking for answers to some of life’s most difficult questions. As the church celebrates 165 years of being a staple in the Independence community, the rich history behind its doors is also combined with renewed energy and enthusiasm as the church offers a mix of traditional and contemporary worship. “We hope we can accommodate the needs of all the people,” Pastor Payne said. “Just because this church has a long history doesn’t mean we aren’t keeping up with the times.” Adding a contemporary service, lead by popular local guitarist Nathan Dean, the congregation continues to grow through fellowship and two different styles of worship. With the contemporary service in full swing and young families finding a home at First Baptist of Independence, the children’s ministry and youth groups continue to grow. The youth group meets in “The Loft” on Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. enjoying tunes, listening to sermons geared towards their lifestyles and issues of today which is led by Mike Harper, Associate Minister in Student Education. KIDZ Street, a ministry for children in nursery through sixth grade, teaches bible truths through cooking, skits, song and movies. Chil-

The Examiner/ADAM VOGLER The Independence Council for Economic Development plans to turn several agricultural fields at Missouri 7 and Missouri 78, across from the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, into the Independence Business Park.

Adams Dairy Bank stays true to their community connection Making in a difference in the lives of those they serve

Submitted by Adams Dairy Bank

Redefining Community Banking

Pastor Kevin Payne from First Baptist Church of Independence. dren’s Ministry Coordinator David Scott believes that instilling the fundamentals of living a Godly life at an early age will lay the foundation for responsible young adults. Live Wires, a senior group, with some members who have shared their faith and fellowship for the past 40 years, enjoy various activities including meals together and day trips. “We feel we have something to offer for everyone,” Pastor Payne said. “With a true traditional and very contemporary service we can deliver the same biblical message in a way that everyone can experience God’s presence in their own style.” Embracing the community around them, First Baptist continues to offer Trunks of Fun, immediately following the Halloween Parade on October 31 along with the annual Easter egg hunt in the spring. An after church swimming party is planned for March 6 at the Henley Aquatic Center and the church’s day care program is expanding to increase it’s space as well as enrollment needs. “We are fortunate to have had the same day care director for 30 years,”

Sunday Morning 9 a.m. Traditional Service 9:30 a.m. KIDZ Worship 10 a.m. Sunday School 11 a.m. Contemporary Service Wednesday Evening 7 p.m. Bible Study 7 p.m. Student Activities 7 p.m. Small Group Studies Payne said of Lori Clemons, The Child Care Center with it’s expansion will be able to accommodate 120 children with operating hours from 6 a.m to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. “The majority of the families who have children enrolled in the Child Care Center aren’t part of our congregation. The popularity of the center stems from our long-standing reputation of providing quality care in a safe and educational environment.” Don’t be surprised if you see Pastor Payne and members riding through town on their Harleys on Sunday afternoons as they cruise to cool off with an ice cream cone. For more information visit www.fbcindep.org or call 2523377. First Baptist Church is located at 500 W. Truman Road.

In a recent customer survey, 99 percent of respondents said they “feel good about doing business with Adams Dairy Bank.” We are very humbled by this acknowledgment of our work but will not rest on our laurels. Entering our third year serving Blue Springs and eastern Jackson County, we are more committed than ever to redefining community banking. Calling yourself a community bank doesn’t make it so. It takes a higher level of action and engagement within the local community to truly deserve this distinction. At Adams Dairy Bank we believe we have earned the right to call ourselves a community bank simply through our actions. Today, our bank is fully owned and operated by local individuals, investors and business owners. Local ownership means being locally-focused. As one of the fastest growing banks in Jackson County, we have remained committed to our single location and our growing customer base in the surrounding area. The deposits made in our bank become loans to individuals and businesses right here in our own backyard. These loans create new opportunities for businesses and individuals, improving the quality of life close-to-home. We define community banking as the willingness to

get involved with our neighbors at a grass roots level. That’s why you will continue to see Adams Diary Bank and our employees within the community, helping to make it a better place to live. Redefining community banking also means listening closely to what our customers want and need. As we move into 2011, here is a look at just some of the ways we continue to work hard to be Blue Spring’s favorite bank.

“By remaining committed to our centrally-located branch, we keep our overhead low. When we say free checking and free ATMs, we mean it.” Free Means Free

Some banks are dependent on fee income as a revenue stream. At Adams Dairy Bank, free means free. As a community bank in a competitive banking environment, we made the decision very early to provide as many free services as possible. So when we say free checking and free ATMs, we mean it. So, if we don’t charge fees for everyday bank services, how does Adams Dairy Bank make money? Our bank succeeds by making quality loans to individuals and businesses, while following good lending practices. We

don’t take risks and we don’t expect our customers to take risks either.

Destination Banking

Unlike other banks, we don’t have a branch on every street corner, and for the time being – we don’t intend to. By remaining committed to our centrally-located branch, we keep our overhead low. Our bank location has turned out to be one of the best decisions we could have made. In the hot retail corridor along I-70 and Adams Dairy Parkway, our customers never have to go out of their way to stop in to visit. But if stopping by the bank to say hello isn’t in your plans, we’re doing all we can to make banking as convenient as possible. With over 500 ATMs throughout the city and online banking 24/7, you can bank with Adams Dairy from just about anywhere.

The Best is Yet to Come

New banking legislation taking effect in 2011 will have an impact on Adams Dairy Bank in a number of ways. As we explore the impact of these new banking rules, rest assured that we have the best interest of our customers at the forefront of every decision we make. Stay tuned throughout the year as we continue to grow and redefine community banking thanks to our friends and neighbors in Blue Springs and eastern Jackson County.

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Local church to provide ability to experience sermons from home By Sandy Turner The Examiner

As a church rich with history, First Presbyterian on the historic Independence Square, has a vision for the future as they embrace new ways of engaging people, reconnecting them to the word of God and one another. When Dave Carlson accepted the position as pastor at First Presbyterian nearly a year ago, he began to set the wheels in motion. “We all have ideas, dreams and visions,” he said, “I’m fortunate to be with a congregation who is willing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. I’m not here to be the ‘leader,’ but to work alongside them through the visioning process.” As First Presbyterian look for ways to connect with the communities and offer ways to worship in un-conventional ways, the internet will become an important component to reach out. “We are in the process of getting our website (fpcindep. org) and sanctuary equipped to live-stream worship services so it can be viewed from somewhere other than just inside the church,” Pastor Carlson explains. “Along with archiving the sermons, people can learn about God’s word where and when it’s convenient for them.” Building on one of the strongest aspects of the church — education — Pastor Carlson and the congregation are passionate about reconnecting people with not only a spirit-led life, but also helping them to be grounded in these times of trouble. “There are so many different ways to reach out and touch the lives of those searching for answers. Attending church on Sunday morning isn’t the only way to worship. Our goal is to equal-

C4 Friday, February 25, 2011 BLUE SPRINGS

Questions for the mayor B

Q It was “All Hands on Deck!” as the youth and leaders of First Presbyterian Church’s High Seas Expedition vocation Bible school embarked last June for a five-day tour of the Bible, craft activities and fun food for children ages through 8th grade. Call First Presbyterian at 252-6662 for information about the 2011 Vacation Bible School program.

ize the status of the church so that people know that any place can be a place to share faith and serve others. We are open to welcoming people in whatever way works for them,” said Carlson. Pastor Carlson earned his Master of Divinity degree at Princeton Theological Seminary, and speaks of his mission on the church’s website: “Being able to come alongside people at important junctures in their life and provide that touchstone to those things that are important to them, their sense of belonging, their sense of community, their sense of spirituality seems to be a strong calling for me.” Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, First Presbyterian was erected in 1888, although the energy and enthusiasm of the church is buzzing with a new sense of excitement. “We are continuously thinking of ways to engage the community,” Pastor Carlson said. “From holding concerts in the fellowship hall to launching a contemporary service through the direction of Rick Gilpin, who, in addition to directing the church’s

Chancel Choir, also leads Independence’s community chorus. There are opportunities for youth with our Wednesday night meal and activity led by Donna Bergstein, Children’s and Youth Ministries Director, as well as mission work in the Kansas City area.” As the church moves forward to realize its vision of inclusiveness, their goal is to find the most convenient and comfortable way for people to explore their sense of spirituality and find a place along side others following a similar path. “Our hope is that people will discover their own desire to worship, whether it’s from a pew, from their home, or serving in the community.” Worship times at First Presbyterian are at 9:30 a.m. with a traditional service and the contemporary service at 11:30 a.m., with Sunday school and fellowship time in between. For more information visit their website www.fpcindep.org or call 816-252-6662. First Presbyterian is located at 100 N. Pleasant Street in Independence.

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P rogress

lue Springs Mayor Carson Ross answered the following questions about progress in the city in 2010 and what’s ahead for 2011.

What specific progress has the city made in 2010 that makes you hopeful for 2011? First and foremost the Wall That Heals was a huge success this past fall, setting the standard for events like this and resulting in a national video highlighting the Blue Springs community. I am very proud of our collective accomplishments over the past year. In 2010, the City Council worked with RED Development in order to facilitate new retail stores opening in Blue Springs including Gordmans, Kohl’s, Maurices, Petco, Staples and Oliver Garden, to name a few. Michael’s just recently opened, and several other stores have been announced for 2011 that will add to the already impressive retail lineup. Despite many challenges in the retail markets, Adams Dairy Landing is doing well, and our residents have many additional shopping opportunities long desired for our community. In 2010 we opened the city’s first recycling drop-off center, disc golf park, advanced plans to help meet our long-term public safety needs, implemented a first-time home buyer’s program, funded the third year of our street overlay program and continue to implement bond projects approved by voters in August 2008. Our Citizen Survey scores continue to increase in many categories; reaffirming that elected officials and staff are in tune with local issues and citizen priorities.

What are the three projects you and the city are committed to most for 2011? Please be as specific as possible. Our number one priority in 2011 is the successful passage of a proposed sales tax increase on April 5. This proposed sales tax increase of a half cent was carefully evaluated by the Citizen Public Safety Advisory Board. It will be dedicated to critical public safety needs for the Blue Springs Police Department, including a federally mandated radio system upgrade, additional police officers and public safety personnel, and much needed facility upgrades. Secondly, we will continue to implement the infrastructure projects approved by voters in August 2008. Construction on the Colbern Road/Highway 7 intersection will begin in the spring of 2011, the expansion to the Sni-A-Bar sewer plant will be completed in late 2011, and work on Woods Chapel improvements will continue over the next few years. Thirdly, we will continue to work with RED development and do all we can to help facilitate and encourage the completion of the new retail shops at Adams Dairy Landing.

News has died down a little concerning the Missouri Innovation Park. How is that project coming along, and is there any new legislation being put forward? The partnership between the city, the Blue Springs EDC and MU was announced in December 2008. Since then, the nation has been faced with a terrible recession, and private funding for new and expanding business opportunities has become very difficult to obtain. Despite these economic challenges, we remain optimistic that the Missouri Innovation Park represents the right economic development strategy for the future of Blue Springs. We continue to position ourselves for when the economy improves and business deals become more feasible by master planning the properties included in the MIP, developing plans to address important infrastructure needs in the park, and leveraging partnerships in order to generate regional and national interest in the MIP. Although legislative efforts over the past two years in Jefferson City have not produced the outcome we had hoped for, we are hopeful that the Missouri Legislature (especially our local delegation), will support economic development legislation and do all they can to facilitate an environment that will help create jobs and new commerce in Blue Springs.

Main Street appears to have more activity. What is the city doing to reinvigorate that area and its surrounding downtown district? For a long time, the City Council has desired to invest more in our downtown, however, limited resources and competing priorities in other areas of the city has delayed progress until recently. Fortunately, the City Council has taken advantage of federal CDBG funds made available to the city. Through the annual capital improvements program, the city has allocated CDBG funding for sidewalk improvements, additional street lights, and street improvements at various intersections along Main Street. The improvements have enhanced safety and security as well as the visual appearance of Main Street and other older areas of our city. We are excited to see new businesses along Main Street doing well and will continue to allocate resources needed for this important part of our city.

Can you give us any hints about upcoming projects in the city? As indicated earlier, the creation of new jobs will continue to be a priority in 2011 along with many other community initiatives such as “March with the Mayor,” “Let’s Move,” “Blue Springs Fit and Stand Up” that will promote and encourage healthy life styles and wellness for our residents.

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Take Adams Dairy Landing in Blue Springs. While it’s become popular and successful, it has effectively drawn attention away from the city’s historic corridor. In January, Christine Smailys, owner of Christine’s Salon, acknowledged that most of the attention is being paid to the large retail center, which shows an average of one new store opening every other month. But in early December 2010, a group comprised of new and older downtown merchants met for the first time in a very long time. There had been a downtown association before, but they had disbanded and the interest was lost. While the definitive focus of the group remains unclear, the intended outcome is more definite: bring awareness and business back to the Main Street area. Some business has already located in the corridor, including Special Events, Memories on Main and Hattey’s on Main. Lara Vermillion, president of the Blue

Springs Chamber of Commerce, and downtown merchants recently spoke with Gayla Roten, state director for Missouri Main Street Connection, an organization designed to enhance the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of historic downtown districts. “Basically it was an informational meeting, one where we learned what other cities were doing to transform their Main Streets,” Vermillion said. Main Street is the site of some popular city events, including Boo Fest, Fall Fun Fest, weekend movies, car cruises and the farmer’s market. Vermillion said there could be more downtown events in the planning stages. For the time being, Blue Springs Main Street is seeing some general improvement. Using grant funds, the city is installing several crosswalks on Main Street. Several feet of new sidewalks have also been installed, as have decorative lights, and one office building near City Hall, the site of a fire as a result of arson, is nearly rebuilt.

P ROGRESS ADVERTISER NEWS

Looking for a get-away? Cruise on over to a professional By Sandy Turner The Examiner

When shopping for shoes you hope the person waiting on you has an overall knowledge of what will provide the most comfort or be the most stylish. If you were planning on going on a cruise, wouldn’t it make sense to have someone plan your trip whose experienced is first-hand? Mary House, an independently owned and operated franchise owner of Cruise Planners, can give her clients honest advice on cruise choices and excursions as she and her husband love to travel themselves and have enjoyed many MARY HOUSE trips aboard a cruise line. “Taking a cruise doesn’t have to be one of those luxury items you dream about but never do,” House said. “There are so many ways to make it happen and be within your budget.” By holding space, a year in advance, House is able to lock-in lower rates and then fill the cabins as people book cruises. “If you aren’t part of a group, my clients are still able to enjoy the lower rates as well as obtaining amenities such as credit on their account, chocolates, or a bottle of wine.” Group cruises are becoming more and more popular as many are realizing it’s an affordable and easy way to enjoy each other’s company within the security of the cruise liner. “Businesses are booking cruises to conduct seminars or continuing education classes,” she said. “There aren’t the extra charges for power strips or space, you’ve already paid for that because you’re on the cruise.” Also booking group trips are hobbyists, fraternal groups, weddings and family reunions. Cruise Planners, established 25 years ago, has built a reputation for providing their clients with quality trips through professional

“Taking a cruise doesn’t have to be one of those luxury items you dream about but never do.”

MARY HOUSE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED FRANCHISE OWNER OF CRUISE PLANNERS

service and competitive pricing and was voted the Home Based Agency of the Year 2010 for Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. Along with being knowledgeable about booking the cruise experience, House also helps her clients with every detail to insure their trip is stress free and relaxing. From booking excursions to knowing what documents you need to take to information on what you’ll need to pay for onboard and in port. Many of Houses’ clients make monthly payments and make deposits on their trip for as little as $25. “It’s very affordable when you can pay for it over a course of six months to a year,” she said. While House is capable of booking and planning every aspect of a cruise, she also has clients who choose the aspects of the trip they want to handle. “I can arrange everything and even escort the group or they can use my services ala carte.” A new venue for giving gifts for wedding or anniversaries through the Cruise Planners website allows people to contribute to a cruise for someone else. “Basically the couple registers with us, just like they would at a retail store, and those who want to give the gift of helping to pay for their honeymoon can do so with just a click of the mouse.” For more information on Cruise Planners contact Mary House at 816-796-9400 or visit their website www.have2cruise.com or email Mary directly at mary@hav2cruise.com

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

BR Carpet — addressing your flooring needs with professionalism By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Owners of BR Carpet, Dana Rothaus and Joe Bowman want to educate the public on the myth that being specialists in flooring needs means higher pricing for customers. “Actually it’s the other way around,” Rothaus explains. “Because we’re not a ‘big box’ store with huge overhead expenses we are able to pass along substantial savings as well as provide better customer service. BR Carpet offers specialized flooring service and products without the “specialEveryone on staff at BR Carpet is an expert ized” pricing. in all aspects of flooring products designs and services, as opposed “Because we’re not a ‘big to home improvement stores in which the box’ store with huge overhead employees float between departments and are as likely to know about plumbing as flooring.” expenses we are able to pass Having outgrown their previous location, along substantial savings as the current building at 1901 NW Jefferson in Blue Springs has 12,000 square feet of floorwell as provide better ing inventory from carpet to tile to hardwoods customer service.” and everything in between. DANA ROTHAUS “We cater to all the needs of our customCO-OWNER OF BR CARPET ers,” he said. “From business to resident, from high end to low end products, we work closely with our customers to match their lifestyle and trust them to be in our clients’ homes and needs and budget.” businesses.” The expert staff at BR Carpet can help Another advantage of not being a corpowith interior design as well as installation. rate owned business, BR Carpet offers free “Our knowledgeable staff will help each in-home consultation as well as flexible schedstep of the way,” he said. “From designing to uling times for installation. installing to filling out the warranty card when “Many times a business can’t afford to be it’s completed. This kind of service is what has closed for a day while new flooring is being made BR Carpet successful and the fact that installed,” Rothaus said. “We understand and you aren’t having to pay extra to be working work with our customers to accommodate with experts in the industry.” their needs.” Most of the installers are part of the staff Educating their customers, as well as the at BR Carpet, along with subcontractors, and general public, is important to BR Carpet use only quality products and materials. Every and through their website, Facebook and piece of inventory in BR Carpet has passed Twitter they answer questions, address comquality control, as they never purchase bulk mon flooring problems as well as give design carpeting that has had color shifting of any advice. kind or defects that would warrant them as Visit their showroom and design center Monday “seconds” or “knock-offs” as referred to in the through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays flooring industry. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evening appointments are also “We know our installers are going to show available upon request. Call 254-0777 for more inforup on time, clean up after themselves and mation or visit their website: www.BRCarpet.com above all else, we are confident in their work

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The Examiner

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The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

What’s the impact of a new school? By KELLY EVENSON kelly.evenson@examiner.net

Progress feels like coming home ▲

VAN HORN l From C1

school and Van Horn High School. One of those elementary schools, Mount Washington Elementary, was not reopened because of the immense expenditure it would have taken to renovate the more than 100-year-old building. The other four elementary schools are now excelling and some are well over capacity. The site of a new elementary school, funded by an $85 million bond issue approved in November 2009, was recently announced to be built in Sugar Creek. It will help to address some of those overcrowding issues. But one of the biggest surprises is the turnaround of Van Horn. Attendance at the high school has increased over the last three years. The graduation rate has also changed dramatically, increasing from 68 percent to almost 95 percent. Another increasing number is in the Missouri Assessment Program scores. Communication arts scores were as low as 16 percent under the Kansas City banner, but have increased to as high as 70 percent since the transition occurred. Hinson said if the enrollment trend at the high school continues at the same

pace, Van Horn could reach capacity in as little as three years. “We are so pleased with what is happening at Van Horn,” he said. “Before you know it, there will be no more room at Van Horn.” Pastor Bob Spradling, of Maywood Baptist Church, remembers watching the first Van Horn homecoming parade after coming into the school district. He said it was “heartwarming to see” the elementary students, cheerleaders and football players joining together as members of the community lined the streets cheering. “This kind of community action originates from the positive vision of the leadership of Van Horn’s principal, assistant principal and key teachers,” he said. “This is a small sample of the many values that are present by a vibrant, active community-based high school.” Among the most recent changes at Van Horn is a complete renovation. From new heating and air-conditioning units to a brand new football field and front entrance, the look of the high school is one of the most noticeable changes in the community. “The new look of Van Horn is stunning,” Spradling said. “The football field has transformed an eyesore into

an eye-catching addition to the neigh- “I think the first moment I saw what borhood. The best aspect of Van Horn, could be possible was the turnout at however, is the graduation rate. Who the first Extreme School Makeover. The would have dreamt of such a profound neighborhoods want to see the schools change in graduations in such a short succeed, so they are making that haptime.” pen.” Greg Netzer, principal at Van Horn, Spradling said said what he tries to focus on is creating t h a t a positive and enriching environate ment for students. That, ion r t a u he said, ultimately grad 2007 orn’s H leads to success. n % in a 8 V 6 as “We try to revel in from and w 9 rose the energy of adoles0 0 in 2 cents,” he said. “Our . 94% o 2010 t n i students, like most 83% adolescents, are interwith esting, engaging and the community’s always full of energy. involvement and people movAlumni of Van Horn are ing into western Independence, more also an integral part of the make- businesses should inevitably follow. over. They continue to contribute to “The Chamber of Commerce the school and the well-being of our informs us that retail is dependent student population.” on rooftops,” he said. “In addition to Hinson said the complete feeling many services that extend beyond of western Independence has changed education, the school district change since the annexation occurred. He said has spurred relocation of families to there continues to be the belief that affordable housing in western Indepen“anything is possible.” dence. Excellent schools and affordable “It is really inspiring that the com- housing are one of the reasons why munity has helped to make these attendance has grown. This indicator changes possible. The response has should translate into better business been absolutely phenomenal,” he said. opportunities in our area.”

ADVERTISER NEWS

The pool you can use year-round in the comfort of your home Art’s Billiards Supply - meeting your home entertainment needs By Sandy Turner The Examiner

For more than 40 years, when people have wanted items for home entertainment, they have counted on Art’s Billiard Supply to have everything they needed and more. Began by Art Deis in 1967, the store was located on Truman Road in Kansas City until 1995 when a new building began housing everything from pool tables to dart boards to rec room lighting. “It was an exciting time for our family to build a new place for our customers with plenty of space to browse the huge amount of inventory we carry,” said John Deis, who owns Art’s Billiard Supply along with his wife Cheryl and children Kimberly Flathers and David Deis. Located at 17801 E. 39th Street in Independence, the business is now in it’s fourth generation of providing sales, service and repair of gaming equipment and supplies as well as furniture needs for home entertainment. “We are very proud of our son David and daughter Kimberly, who work alongside us at Art’s,” John said. “And now

John and Cheryl Deis, with their children Kimberly and David at Art’s Billiard Supply in their fourth generation of providing sales, service and repair of gaming equipment and supplies.

with the grandchildren, it’s a fourth generation operation.” Walking into Art’s, you will immediately see various types of pool tables, bar stools, pool cues, darts, dart boards and many other items that one would need to entertain in style and at home. A proud distributor of Olhausen pool tables, for over 30 years, Art’s Billiard Supply can help you find the pool table to fit your lifestyle and room size. “We also have the capability to custom design your table,” John said. “From decorative legs, stain color, wood species, even tables with drawers. There are a

million combinations available for custom designing a table.” The Olhausen pool tables, manufactured in the United States, are also a family owned business and produce more than 30,000 tables a year. The tables have a lifetime warranty for defects in material or workmanship. The brothers who began Olhausen says this on their website www.olhausenbilliards.com: “We founded this company. We build our pool tables. We stand behind them. Always have. No exceptions. Any questions, call us personally.” Inside the showroom of Art’s, you will not only find a member of the family who will greet you with genuine and sincere friendliness, but thousands of items from custom pool cues, wall racks and bar stools to unique marble chess sets. Art’s Billiard Supply is located at 178901 E. 39th Street, directly across the street from the Target Superstore shopping center. Call 478-7474 for more information. Watch for their new and improved website coming soon at www.artsbilliardsupply.com

Construction on a new elementary school in eastern Independence will begin as soon as the ground thaws from the winter months. And the Independence School District has announced the purchase of property in Sugar Creek for the new west Independence elementary school. Building a new school, whether it is an elementary, middle or high school, can have a significant impact on the community in the form of purchasing supplies and putting people to work. Below is an estimate of how constructing an elementary school could impact the community. It is important to note that costs will increase as the size of the building increases.

Cost – Approximately $12 million to $14 million Cost to furnish the building

(including technology and anything that is not a part of the construction process) – approximately $800,000 to $1 million

Number of staff (including teachers, nutrition, custodians, therapists, early education, administration, etc.) – 40 to 50

Length of time to complete – 16 to 20 months

* Information provided by the Independence School District.

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The Examiner

C8 Friday, February 25, 2011 ADVERTISER NEWS

ADVERTISER NEWS

Blue Springs Chamber brings positive attitude to new year

Giving away more than chicken, Chick-fil-A gives back to community

With their goal for improving the climate for business owners By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Business is great and the Blue Springs Chamber has over 400 members who are benefiting from being part of this organization whose main goal and focus is to promote them and provide a sound economic environment for the city. “Our goal is to improve the climate for the business owner,” Laura Vermillion, Blue Springs Chamber president said. “We offer the tools to make it easier for businesses to succeed.” One such initiative, Buy Blue Springs launched in 2010, and chaired by Mark Whitlow, K&M Office Products, encourages local businesses, as well as residents, to shop their hometown. Bringing top of mind awareness to spend dollars locally keeps tax dollars within the city, while supporting the businesses. The website www.buybluesprings.com gives detailed information about Blue Springs businesses, their products and services along with chamber member to member deals. A newly formed Visitor’s Council, cochaired by Donna Best, First American Title and Todd Farley, CJCFPD is focusing on bringing non-residents into Blue Springs for shopping, entertainment and services. Four billboards have been placed along I-70 to support everything Blue Springs has to offer as well as developing a website www.discoverbluesprings.com and a brochure for travelers. “The Blue Springs Chamber’s effectiveness for its members increases every day,” Vermillion said. “The Chamber is continually seeking feedback and interaction from its members about what is relevant to them.” Developing an aggressive plan for outreach in 2011, The Connectors, a committee of the Blue Springs Chamber and chaired by Debra Weilbacher, will begin the process to consistently stay in contact with members to improve communication and seek feedback and suggestions on ways to improve the functionality of the chamber itself.

“We offer the tools to make it easier for businesses to succeed. . .” LAURA VERMILLION PRESIDENT, BLUE SPRINGS CHAMBER

Serving Blue Springs businesses since 1963, the chamber stays focused on the task at hand — bringing, retaining and developing businesses to their city. “We have so many talents within our membership,” Vermillion said. “The environment of the chamber has been reignited with energy and enthusiasm.” Chairing the board for 2011, Jennifer Splittorff recently kicked off the annual Blue Springs Chamber annual banquet with this: “we believe that a positive attitude and forward thinking are the first steps to succeeding in these tough economic times. Why is business great in Blue Springs? … because Blue Springs is great!” The strong connection between the chamber, residents and business owners is evident, throughout the year, at chamber-hosted events such as the Fall Fun Festival, golf tournament and administrative assistant’s event, which draw large audiences and additional revenue to local businesses. The value of becoming a member of the Blue Springs Chamber not only brings a sense of belonging to business owners put increases their visibility in the community and on the internet through the chamber’s website as well as having the opportunity to voice concerns and issues and act on them through the governmental relations chamber committee chaired by David Christian, KCP&L and Dena McLean of SCC Mortgage. For more information visit www.bluespringschamber.com, visit their office at 1000 SW Main Street or call 229-8558.

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Located in the hub of Independence, on 39th Street by the Independence Center, Chick-fil-A has been offering a free breakfast through the month of February and will launch an afternoon free special in the month of March. Lloyd Andersen, owner of Independence’s Chick-fil-A has been with the company for 26 years and fell in love with the organization because of its’ high standards and values for the community as well as to its employees. “Chick-fil-A wants to be the lighthouse of the communities,” Andersen said. “A place to get refreshed, be relaxed and have a quick service meal that is healthy.” Catering to the communities they serve, Chick-fil-A hosts several spirit nights a week, giving a portion of the sales back to the local school districts. “Our Chick-fil-A mascot (the famous cow) goes to the school and greets kids as they enter school on spirit night and then show up again when school lets out. The students really enjoy it.” Also serving the needs of the community, Chick-fil-A offers a college scholarship to those team members who work at the Independence restaurant for at least one year. So far the Independence location has given out 75 scholarships. “Many times these kids are trying to help support the family and don’t have the means to go to college,” Andersen said. “It gives them an incentive to enroll in college and since these scholarships aren’t based on a grade point average, it gives them the boost to get the ball rolling.” Offering a menu full of lean whole-breast chicken products, along with freshly cut vegetables, Chick-fil-A offers good health and good food at a great price. Breakfast begins at 6:30 in the morning with menu items consisting of Yogurt Parfait and house roasted coffee as well as the favorites such as bacon, egg and cheese biscuits made with smoked applewood bacon, biscuits and gravy, cinnamon cluster and chicken breakfast burrito. A new menu item — the spicy chicken biscuit — has been a huge success.

“It gives them an incentive to enroll in college and since these scholarships aren’t based on a grade point average, it gives them the boost to get the ball rolling.” LLOYD ANDERSON, OWNER INDEPENDENCE CHICK-FIL-A

Lunch and dinner menu items include sandwiches such as the chargrilled chicken club sandwich with a chicken breast that has been marinated in special seasonings, topped with bacon, Provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and honey roasted bbq sauce. “We recently hosted a special Valentine’s promotion,” he said, “that involved draping the tables with tablecloths and offering reservations for full service dining. It was a fun way to share, not only our great food, but our cozy and comfortable atmosphere.”

The four cow mascots on staff have made appearances all over town, including their sponsorship of the Missouri Mavericks hockey team and now also appearing at the Comets. “Our cows have been all over town, in parades and also attended the Mayor’s Christmas party this year. It makes for a great photo opportunity,” he said of the local cow celebrities. Chick-fil-A is located at 18785 E. 39th Street and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and is closed on Sunday.

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The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

INDEPENDENCE

EDC staying focuses on job creation in city

he past year certainly presented our community with its share of challenges but, in typical Independence fashion, the challenges were converted to opportunities and the result is a community that is continuing to grow and expand with new economic opportunities for our citizens. As we reflect on 2010, we saw the opening of the first stretch of the Little Blue Parkway, an announcement of a new business park in the Little Blue Valley, the redevelopment of the Independence Regional Health Center into a mixed-use business incubator, the launch of the BuyiN program, major improvements within many of the school facilities, and

“This year we will launch an economic gardening program, which will provide support for second-stage companies...”

TOM LESNAK president, Independence EDC

Guest column – the best news of all – we saw that local companies added more than 700 new employees and made just more than $29 million in new private capital investment. Companies such as ATK Small Caliber Systems and Centerpoint Medical Center led the way providing high-quality jobs in the areas of defense and health care, two of the

sectors that continue to be a strength for our community and sectors that we can build upon as we move forward. By all standards, 2010 was a pretty good year that any community would be proud of. As we move forward into 2011, there is no doubt some exciting times lie ahead for Independence. We will continue to work with our partners to solve issues and create opportunities. As an economic development organization, we are staying focused on job creation, efforts to redevelop older areas of the com-

munity, raising the image and profile of Independence within the metro and supporting the opportunities for entrepreneurial growth. We will continue to concentrate on retaining our existing businesses while also attracting new employers who can help diversify our job base and provide employment with wages and benefits that can increase the quality of life for our residents. This year we will launch an economic gardening program, which will provide support for second-stage companies on the verge of major

growth. We’ll help businesses cooperatively market their goods and services both locally, nationally and internationally so their growth can foster new job creation and enhanced wealth in our community. The competition to grow the economic base is fierce, and it will take our entire community working together to move it forward. Our success is not measured by awards, but by jobs and the quality of life that our residents enjoy. That is truly the measurement of progress.

BLUE SPRINGS

Even in challenging times we can thrive E

very day brings news of job cuts; chronic unemployment and global competition through numerous media sources, and more uncertain economic news remains in the forecast. We are told to focus on corporate innovation, entrepreneurs, green technology and workforce skills enhancement all hailed as “economic requirements” throughout our region, state and country. Meanwhile the lack of adequate resources to strengthen companies and the economy’s demand for educated, skilled and trained workers limits our children’s likelihood of entering the 21st century knowledge-based economy. We watch schools face losing battles with declining state and local revenues, growth in student needs, and the need to balance budgets, while we continue a pattern of not investing in long-term growth strategies that link the best parts of our locations to the regional, national and global economy.

“The global economy is no longer an ‘outside and out there’ concept. Rather it is here, now ...”

BRIEN M. STARNER president, Blue Springs Economic Development Corporation

Guest column Today’s economic news can leave us feeling desperate or worse, hopeless, about our economic security and prospects. Our global economy and society are forever linked to rapid and unimaginable scales of impacts felt worldwide, while societal demands positively or negatively are influenced and directed by advancements in science and technology. Think about cell phones with video and camera; iPads, swine and avian flu, global disasters, terrorism and democratic demands like the revolution in Egypt this month. All of us are impacted across the globe now in minutes, hours and days and less in

weeks, months or years by all these forces and more. The global economy is no longer an “outside and out there” concept. Rather it is here, now, immediate and far reaching. Each of us and every country and economy are left WITHOUT the option to withdraw or separate ourselves from the effects of globalization. Communities, counties, states, regions that make the leap to become effective “model communities” will be winners in the new global economy because they recognize and support SHARED CORE COMMUNITY VALUES, GOALS AND STRATEGIES aligned globally. Characteristics present and embraced by thriving communities improve the likelihood of these locations to make the economic and societal transition and arrive in a

stronger economic position that is shared among diverse residents and businesses. Without these characteristics, competitive opportunities for communities and their residents and companies will diminish rapidly, as exemplified by numerous examples of decay among East Coast and Midwestern cities over the past 40 years or worse. Collaboration: Working together on commonly held needs, resources, assets and goals among public and private organizations. Small business growth and entrepreneurship: Locations that provide ecosystems to promote and support widespread access to business tools, networks and growth resources to business incorporation, learning, business knowledge, skills to adapt, change and innovate through science and technology.

Strong relationships and understanding of local business needs: Knowing local employers while removing obstacles to growth and providing timely tools and resources to assist their growth. Resource- and asset-oriented regional economic growth strategies: Tailoring local community investments in resources and assets targeted to regional growth strategies that allow for repeatable business expansion and attraction opportunities. Community vision and advocacy for economic growth priorities: Big-picture growth and investment goals that link citizen and business priorities and their hopes to a sustainable and executable economic strategy backed political that is widely shared and owned at the grassroots level.

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The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Independence Audio, ahead of its time in the world of technology Celebrating 40 years of serving the communities with electronic needs for home, office and vehicles By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Independence Audio’s claim to fame is not only through serving the community’s home and car electronic needs but also being in business for 40 years and is proud to be the only independent, locally owned specialty electronics store in the area. Located on 23rd Street in Independence, as a second-generation owner, Scott Huffman is proud to continue the tradition and service his father began. “He began selling stereo equipment and speakers out of the basement,” Scott said of his dad Gary, who is still actively involved in the business, “as a hobby and eventually realized the need was there for this community and opened his own store.”

The store has built a reputation for having the complete package when it comes to home theater equipment and accessories as well as for car audio needs. “Our staff in the car audio department have been recognized as finalists for car stereo retailer of the year by Mobile Electronics Magazine,” Scott said. “And Independence Audio was recognized as National Dealer of the Year from JL Audio.” Inside the showroom at Independence Audio you will find six different areas in which to experience the effects of surround sound as well as perfection in watching television. Huffman, wanting to give back to the communities he serves, has partnered with the Mavericks, giving away electronics during hockey games. “It’s a lot of fun and a great way to introduce the public to everything Independence Audio has to offer,” he said. “We truly enjoy the partnership.” Guaranteeing to beat the big box store prices and carrying superior brands not found at the chain stores, Independence

Audio offers everything a person could need or want for home theaters or car audio systems. From the initial free in-home consultation, to delivery and installation, the experts at Independence Audio focus on customer satisfaction at every level. For a complete listing of brands they sell and products visit them at www.independenceaudio.com, visit their showroom at 16208 E. 23rd Street or call 252-9782.

Gary Huffman, founder of Independence Audio with his son, Scott who now owns the specialty electronics store in Independence.

“He began selling stereo equipment and speakers out of the basement as a hobby and eventually realized the need was there for this community and opened his own store.” SCOTT HUFFMAN OWNER INDEPENDENCE AUDIO TALKING ABOUT HIS FATHER GARY HUFFMAN, FOUNDER

Independence Audio Has been recognized as finalists for “Car Retailer of the Year” because of their large inventory of car audio equipment as well as expert installation services.

ADVERTISER NEWS

AAMCO offers much more than just transmission repair

The team at AAMCO in Blue Springs provide years of experience on mechanical repair of all makes and models of vehicles. By Sandy Turner The Examiner

After being a successful mechanic for nearly 19 years Harbans Singh decided it was time to open his own business and became part of the AAMCO Complete Car Expert franchise. Located at 1200 SW Quarry Road in Blue Springs, AAMCO has been servicing the community for the past four years in any kind of mechanical repair work that your vehicle may need. “We give honest estimates and quality work,” Singh said. “Even though we are known for specializing in transmission work, we can perform any service on your vehicle. Fifty percent of the people that come in here think that the problem is their transmission and it’s not.” With Brian Kelley, Customer Service Manager at the helm, customers feel at ease and comfortable discussing possible options and solutions in getting their vehicle back on the road. “Most of our business comes from existing customers. Approximately seventy percent of customers are repeat customers because we fix the vehicles right the first time and stand behind our work by offering nationwide warranty,” Singh said. As an independent local

Complete Car Care Center, AAMCO in Blue Springs offers free external diagnostic services, free tow with transmission builds, online discounts, computer diagnostic services and honor most extended warranties. “Our technicians are ASE certified,” Kelley said “and they are specialists in not only transmission work but engine repairs and replacements, wheel alignments, electric systems, brakes, suspension and any repair, besides body work.” AAMCO suggests preventing transmission problems by having regularly scheduled maintenance checks to catch little problems before they become big problems. According to AAMCO, your vehicle may have a transmission problem if it’s not going into or staying in gear or shifting is harsh or delayed. The longer the problem is ignored, the longer they continue, the more damage may be caused. Noises coming from the transmission may also indicate an abnormal function and according to AAMCO your vehicle may have a problem if you hear a buzzing, clicking or clunking noise when you change gears or is in four-wheel drive. Normal functioning transmissions should be virtually free of noise.

“..we are known for specializing in transmission work, we can perform any service on your vehicle. Fifty percent of the people that come in here think that the problem is their transmission and it’s not.” HARBANS SINGH Owner, AAMCO, Blue Springs

If you vehicle is leaking transmission fluid the ability to operate and keep the transmission cool is reduced. Overheating can quickly cause damage. If you are experiencing any of these problems or would like to have one of the experts at AAMCO run diagnostic testing on your vehicle call 816224-CARS (2277) or visit them at the corner of eastbound 40 Hwy and Quarry Road. Visit their website at www.thecarcare.com

ADVERTISER NEWS

Affordable senior rentals at Glendale at The Mansion

Copy submitted by Glendale at The Mansion

Glendale at The Mansion apartment community, designed for seniors aged 55 and better, is tucked in the back section of The Mansion Apartments on Lee’s Summit Road, in an area that was once a part of Glendale Farms. Driving up the tree-lined entry to visit Glendale is a drive down memory lane for many long-time Independence residents and their guests. Long ago, social functions that were attended by President Truman and other dignitaries often took place on the grounds. Many fond memories have been shared by residents who occupy Glendale at The Mansion, though the use of the grounds has changed dramatically over the years. “We offer a beautiful senior rental building, with controlled access and elevators, in a quiet setting of historical importance” said Lois Sanders, the property manager. She added, “We are close to shopping, restaurants and medical facilities … and we have everything needed to make life easy for seniors.” Glendale at the Mansion offers 140 one- and two-bedroom apartment homes. Each apartment has a full kitchen with a pantry, ceiling fans, individual heating/cooling systems, nice windows and closet space and is wired for cable and phone service. The apartments are finished in neutral colors and oak cabinetry is found in the kitchens and bathrooms. Interior hallways lead to each apartment, so residents don’t have to search for keys or juggle packages in the cold. In addition, 24 hour emergency maintenance is available, so Glendale residents can rest assured their needs will be met. Living the lifestyle they deserve, Glendale residents also enjoy use of the swimming pool, community room, business center, lending library, and

Glendale at The Mansions, for seniors ages 55 and older, offers affordable rentals along with planned activities and pharmacy and grocery deliveries.

fitness center located within the building and grounds of the community. In addition, planned activities are available on a regular basis and many residents enjoy playing cards and other games with fellow residents. Grocery and pharmacy delivery services are available for those who want them and laundry rooms are available on each floor. Sanders added, “Convenience and camaraderie are two great reasons for people to choose Glendale for senior living.” One bedroom apartments are currently leasing for $569 per month and two bedroom apartment rents start at $669 per month. New residents may take advantage of a special offer of $500 off the first month’s rent, good for move-ins by April 1, 2011. All leases are 12

months long and applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements to qualify for occupancy. If you’re looking for convenience, quality and professional management in a senior living environment, please call 816350-0026 to receive additional information on Glendale at The Mansion. Better yet, take a drive down memory lane to visit this great senior community at the rear of The Mansion Apartments property. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or by appointment on the weekend. Sanders said, “I’m confident that you’ll find Glendale to be a great place to call home!” Glendale at The Mansions is located at 16301 E. 29th Street in Independence

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The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

P rogress

Career takes a right turn at kitchen ▲

We are board certified General Surgeons specializing in minimally invasive surgery with a combined 50 years of general surgery experience. Our surgeons are on staff at Centerpoint Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Lee’s Summit Medical Center.

Christopher M. Daggett, D.O.

Specializing in Minimally Invasive surgical procedures: • Hernia • Colon • Morbid Obesity • Gallbladder ASA also performs surgery for the treatment of: • Breasts • Hemorrhoids • Anti-reflux surgery • Skin Lesion removal To schedule an appointment, call 816-246-0800. For more information, visit our website at www.asakc.com. The practice participates with most commercial insurance carriers.

Adam P. Kramer, D.O. M. Brook Redd, M.D.

3460 NE Ralph Powell Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

816-246-0800

CHOW l From D4

amazed if I’m in a public place and somehow it comes up and a complete stranger says, ‘Oh, Hippie Chow! I’ve heard of that.’ To me, that is what it’s all about.” In early 2010, Jennings learned of the Independence Regional Ennovation Center. One of the main obstacles that food entrepreneurs must first overcome is locating a licensed kitchen space. Because the Ennovation Center kitchen space was still under construction, Jennings initially rented space out of the community kitchen at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Lawrence, Kan. The Ennovation Center kitchen space is rented for $25 an hour, and unless they reach out for a licensed kitchen at a faith-based organization or elsewhere, food entrepreneurs don’t have much of a choice for kitchen space in the Kansas City region, according to Tom Lesnak, president of Independence Economic Development. Jennings agrees. In midJanuary, she attended the Fancy Food Show, a trade show for the specialty food industry, in San Francisco. The question that came up repeatedly in classes on how to start a fooad business, according to Jennings, was, “I can’t find a kitchen. Do you have any suggestions?” “I feel like Kansas City and my business, personally, are very fortunate to have that facility in our community,” Jennings said. “It’s not common, and I think that’s a hindrance to many food entrepreneurs.” Jennings officially left her full-time, 8-to-5 job on Jan. 1, but her work continues. As her own boss, Jennings will often ask herself, “When does the day start, and when does the day end?” She holds no regrets of her six years at Midland Loan Services. Jennings said she spent a significant amount of time there in negotiations, a skill that has proven helpful while reaching out to grocery store buyers and others she hopes will carry Hippie Chow.

“I’ve been sitting on the other side of the table with someone who’s like, 30 years older than me, and making 10 times as much money as me, and having a negotiation about a real estate transaction – and it’s all right,” Jennings said. Her goal for 2011 is to solidify Hippie Chow’s footprint among Kansas City area retailers. While Jennings said she is proud of Hippie Chow’s place in Dean & Deluca stores across the country, she doesn’t see herself actively soliciting business outside of Kansas City – yet. “I don’t see the product as ever being something you find in every single grocery store,” Jennings said. “That’s not what Hippie Chow is about. It’s about being selective and picking the right retailers that are going to be a good fit and appealing to the customer demographic that can appreciate how we’re doing things a bit differently.” ––– Peace. Love. Granola. It’s a handmade product that is likely more expensive, “but we think it’s worth it. It’s about finding the people and the places that are going to support that mission.” Jennings is the owner and the leader of Hippie Chow, but she also leans on an accountant for payroll questions and a creative team in designing the Hippie Chow branding package. She makes the sales calls on Mondays, creates the product on Tuesdays, and by Wednesday, Jennings herself is delivering Hippie Chow to grocery stores. To date, Jennings said, she hasn’t had to take out a small business loan, adding that she is putting that step off as long as possible. While still working her full-time job at Midland Loan Savings, Jennings built up some savings and invested money into her idea to get it off the ground. “Personally, I’m hoping to put it off maybe even as long as to the point when we need our own facility,” she said. Though Jennings lives in Kansas, Hippie Chow is counted as new job growth in Independence since she must

obtain a city of Independence business license along with required health permits, Lesnak said. To date, the Ennovation Center kitchen space includes five tenants and about 40 potential tenants have applied. Hippie Chow is a model for food entrepreneurship, Lesnak said. “She’s done it the exact right way,” he said. “She’s really been a great inspiration for a lot of our incubator clients.” The challenge often facing food entrepreneurs is that they’re great cooks, but they are unsure of how to market their product, according to Lesnak. He said Jennings mastered the marketing stumbling point early in her business. Because of that, Jennings will speak at an Ennovation Center workshop in March, sharing what’s worked and what hasn’t with others. “She knows what her focus is,” Lesnak said. “She’s already got her milestones in place and she really knows where she wants to be and when she wants to get there.” Because of the Ennovation Center is a “business incubator,” the goal is for Jennings and other clients to eventually “graduate” and then lease or rent their own building and equipment – hopefully in Independence or Eastern Jackson County, Lesnak said. “Ultimately, we’d love businesses to grow to the point that they are investing equipment and hiring people outside of the incubator,” he said. Jennings’ aspirations started at a young age, though she continuously talked herself out of her desires in starting a business. A common misconception among those with an entrepreneurial spirit, she said, is that you must have this grand invention, this oneof-a-kind idea that’s never been done. “That’s not true. What sets a business apart or makes a business successful is the idea, but it’s also how you run the business,” Jennings said. “Certainly, there are other granola products on the market, but Hippie Chow is different because of all the other parts of the story.”

ADVERTISER NEWS

Do you understand Medicare benefits and the health reform act? By Sandy Turner The Examiner

As new challenges and options with the new governments’ health reform law intact, seniors are having to make decisions that will not only impact their health care services but also their pocketbook. “Portions of the reform are beneficial for seniors,” Travis Gensler, owner of Beacon Point Insurance Group said. Travis Gensler, owner of Beacon Point Insurance Group, talks about the “Especially for prescription health reform law effects on senior health care services. drug costs, although there is a lot of information on MediEducating his clients, in layman’s terms, care benefits that can be confusing and hard Gensler continuously researches the health to understand. It’s so important that before reform act, Medicare procedures and gap purchasing supplemental (gap) insurance, insurance plans to provide seniors the muchseniors take time to talk with someone who is needed up-to-date information. knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects “Some people don’t even realize they have of what benefits are available through the to go to the Social Security office to enroll for health reform and what isn’t.” Part B of the Medicare package when they turn 65.” “The key is knowing what Consumers now have half the time they had last year to make adjustments to their coverage you have from Medicare insurance and Gensler hopes he can have the opportunity to help seniors sort Medicare. . .” TRAVIS GENSLER out what benefits they have and what they BEACON POINT INSURANCE GROUP may be lacking. “No one should be pressured or rushed into buying insurance. It’s crucial to underGensler, as an independent insurance stand the entire process, coverage and price broker, provides his clients with the ability to structure.” find the coverage they need, at a price they Gensler also suggests getting a second can afford. opinion on insurance coverage. “By being an independent insurance “You should feel comfortable talking to your provider, I have the ability to help my clients’ insurance agent, as they need to know as receive insurance coverage from a multitude much as they can about your health, lifestyle, of reputable insurance companies. There isn’t needs and wants, in order to help you make ever going to be one perfect plan that will fit the best decisions.” everyone’s needs, so why wouldn’t people Beacon Point Insurance Group’s symbol is want to have the option to explore all the posa lighthouse, as Gensler wants to be the guidsibilities, not just the coverage that particular ing light through the process of understanding company offers.” and purchasing insurance. Addressing the needs and concerns of his “We believe our clients want to be insured, clients, Gensler quickly realized the large volnot just to buy insurance,” he said as they ume of seniors who have been misinformed also offer information on insurance coveror misled on making decisions for their gap age for auto, home, life, business and group insurance and even what Medicare/Medicaid plans, health, dental, vision, flood insurance will cover. and umbrella plans. Beacon Point represents “Even moving from one county to another insurance companies such as Aetna, Assurcould greatly affect how Medicare will pay for ant, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Coventry, Humahealth care needs,” he said. “The key is know- na and United Health Care. ing what coverage you have from Medicare, Visit their office at 201 W. Lexington on the Indeand then based on that information, what you pendence Square or call 254-6100. Visit their website need from a supplement plan.” www.beaconpointinsurance.com.

P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

D11

P ROGRESS

The Examiner

D12 Friday, February 25, 2011

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P ROGRESS

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Brown’s Furniture has weathered the storm Submitted by Brown’s Furniture Amidst a somewhat unpredictable economy, Brown’s is forecasting increased business for 2011. Many furniture retailers have fallen off the map in recent years. We attribute it to a few things: We are fortunate to receive support from surrounding communities wanting to buy locally from family owned businesses. We give the customer personal attention and great customer service. We are keeping up with the trends in home furnishings and introducing new product lines at great prices. We believe we have something to fit every customers need. Brown’s Furniture in Blue Springs opened its doors in 1987. Our first store in Palmyra, Missouri was opened soon after World War II by Charles F Brown. This store and one other in Shelbina, Missouri are still operating under the direction of James and Charles II. Nationally, it is difficult for small family businesses to succeed in today’s economy. We feel fortunate to receive such great support from our local communities and the entire Kansas City area. We have loyal repeat customers and attribute it to our old fashioned way of doing business. It’s easy to buy here and our customers are proud to say “they bought it at Brown’s.” We have a large fully stocked warehouse on site. Customers can get instant gratification. All items can be taken the day of purchase or delivered quickly. Our staff is comprised of 12 dedicated employees. Five delivery/warehouse personnel: Jesse Lacey, Mike Rudd, Garrett Souders, John Brubeck, Jason Klee. Service Technician: Josh

Lewis. Six salespeople: Sheryl Earp, Norma Holthe, Vickie Dow, Teri Heiliger, Tamee Webb and Rhonda Hain. Office manager: Linda Dickhout. Store Manager: Jamie Burrell. Our staff has extensive experience in the furniture business. Two of the ladies have been here since we opened in 1987. Our delivery guys receive great compliments from many happy

customers. Our service technician is very knowledgeable and prides himself on service after the sale. Our staff has over 100 years experience combined. One of our goals is to continue to bring in fresh new items at all times. Our showroom floor changes daily. We have added about a dozen new manufacturers recently, including top quality brands like Bernhardt and Kincaid. We offer a wide variety of major brand name furniture, allowing us to provide the customer with almost anything they are looking for. We’ve taken advantage of some great offers from some of America’s leading manufacturers. Nationally, these companies are trying to generate business by offering special discounts and one time buys. We have special purchases arriving daily from brands like La-Z-Boy, Serta,

Broyhill, Lacrosse and many others. We also try to buy products made in America. We have three stores which gives us volume buying power, allowing us to pass the savings on to you. Many of the manufacturers also offer special prices on ready-to-ship items out of their warehouses. This allows us to offer great prices without the long wait. If you haven’t been in lately, or not at all, we have a big beautiful vignetted showroom and invite you to come and see our fresh new look at Brown’s Furniture. There’s always a special deal waiting for you. We’re located at 825 W 40 Highway in Blue Springs or give us a call at 816-229-3155. Store hours: Weekdays 10-6, Thursday 10-7, Saturday 10-5 & Sunday 12-5.

5 DYfgcbU` G\cddYf :cf Mcif =bgifUbWY Thanks to our customers, AAMCO Transmissions of Blue Springs is the premier auto repair center in the Kansas City area. As your local, independent car care center, we want to make sure you’re satisfied with the service you receive.

Representative for Multiple Carriers Patty Bott, Agent/Owner

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www.bottinsurance.com • patty.bott@bottinsurance.com

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Though we are "The World’s Largest Transmission Specialists," we are also certified in every aspect of car repair for every type of vehicle. We provide top quality service at lower prices. Now how many automotive service centers can say that? We provide:

• FREE External Diagnostic Services • FREE Tow with Transmission Rebuild • Computer Diagnostic Services • Specialists in All Types of Transmissions • ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified Technicians • Best Warranties in the Business • We Honor Most Extended Warranties Our transmission warranties are nationwide….from one year with 12,000 miles to 3 years with 36,000 miles to lifetime coverage…these are the best warranties in the business.

Call (816) 224-CARS (224-2277) 1200 S.W. Quarry Road, Blue Springs, MO Corner of Eastbound 40 Hwy. & Quarry Road

www.thecarcare.com

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securities offered through Brokers international Financial services, LLC, Panora, iA, Member FinRA/siPC. Brokers international Financial services, LLC and Bott Insurance Agency, Inc. are not affiliated companies.

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P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

Mizzou Center Grand happenings is springboard for future plans By JEFF MARTIN jeff.martin@examiner.net

Adams Dairy Landing giving shoppers what they’ve craved By JEFF MARTIN jeff.martin@examiner.net

Blue Springs residents and non-residents alike are always interested in the Adams Dairy Landing project. Newest additions soon to open at the large retail complex along Adams Dairy Parkway include T.J. Maxx, Ulta Beauty, and Ross Dress for Less. The developer – RED Development – informed the Blue Springs City Council in mid-January about the recent commitments. Spokespersons for RED have said they are pleased with the progress at the complex, located along Adams Dairy Parkway. Here are some recent announcements concerning the retail center:

■ Ulta Beauty, a popular cosmetics store, will open in the building that was initially constructed for Books-A-Million. ■ Chick-fil-A is scheduled to open in early summer. ■ Verizon Wireless is scheduled to open this month or March. ■ Arby’s will open in the fall. ■ Michael’s is now open. ■ Ross Dress for Less and T.J. Maxx/ HomeGoods will locate in the building that was originally going to be a Lowe’s hardware store. Other possible leasing tenants for the building include a toy store, sporting goods stores and other stores. Charming Charlie, a women’s fashion accessory store, also will open at an unknown time in the complex. Also, the “tower” building along Coro-

nado Drive, currently being framed, will include America’s Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, GNC, Heartland Dental Care and five other tenants unknown at this point. Several stores have already opened at the complex, including Target, Gordmans, Kohl’s, Staples, Petco, Olive Garden and Chipotle. Financing for phase two of the project, a phase that will address development of the middle corridor and lifestyles, or outdoor, area is under way. In April, art will be on display at the retail center as part of the Blue Springs Art Commission’s annual art exhibit. The art will be on display from April 1 to Sept. 30. Allen also said that news of a replacement company for Lowe’s is forthcoming. The building supply company backed out of the project in late September.

What does your part of town need? Q

Lori Morgan,

Mary Hinton,

Susan Orr,

north Blue Springs

south Blue Springs

I’d like to see more bike trails.

I’d love to see a community center, and we certainly don’t need anymore fast food.

I would like more places to shop and eat – other than fast food. – Jeff Martin

Classes continue at the Mizzou Center, and more may very well be on their way. Al Black, director of the center, said there has been a lot of activity at the new center, at 1600 N.E. Coronado Drive in the Heartland Financial Building, since it opened last summer. Approximately 8,000 square feet of office space on the first floor of the Heartland Financial Building has been transformed in the last few months. Six departments are available, with others planned for the future. “This spring we’re holding one-day seminars for business and professional people,” Black said. “It shows that the level of activities is increasing.” The center serves as a location where graduate students can finish specialized training in areas including life sciences, social work and technology. There is additional space available for companies that want to locate there and partner with the university. “We’re continuing to capitalize on that, trying to attract companies,” he said. Currently the center offers three graduate-level courses in library science and a masters program in social work. Black said the center is planning for additional classes. The city of Blue Springs and the University of Missouri opened the doors late last spring to what they called the anchor, or the magnet, that will attract students, researchers and, hopefully, aspiring companies to Blue

Springs and the greater Kansas City area. About a dozen university representatives operate the facility, which was designed to be temporary until an actual bricks-and-mortar Mizzou Center can be constructed. The Mizzou Center was initially to be the first building constructed for the hugely ambitious Missouri Innovation Park, an estimated 118-acre complex that is expected to house research facilities and start-up companies that focus primarily on the animal health and life sciences. The Mizzou Center would be that location where research would take place, where graduate students assist on-site companies, both established and start-ups. However, the university announced last March that it was scaling down its original plans because of budget concerns. Instead, the university would lease space at the Heartland Financial Building and build momentum from there. With more than 25,000 Mizzou alumni living in the Kansas City area, university spokesmen said earlier this year that was a significant pool from which to draw support and, hopefully, a work force. Tenants of the building are expected to build partnerships, develop smoother transitions for technology transfer and create jobs. It also will create opportunities for jobs, build connections with students, become a rallying point for alumni and assist development efforts. For more information, call 816-655-6718.

ADVERTISER NEWS

Metropolitan Community College-Blue River preparing students today. . . Submitted by Metropolitan Community College-Blue River

As part of the five campus system of Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, MCC-Blue River serves eastern Jackson and Lafayette counties. The campus, which is located at 20301 East 78 Highway in Independence, Mo., continues to grow with approximately 4,000 students enrolled this spring semester. Students can earn a two-year degree and enter the work force or transfer to a four-year institution. MCC offers over 350 articulation agreements with more than 20 four-year institutions, making transferring to a university a seamless process. Students can also earn a certificate in many fields. MCC-Blue River is prepared to train people who may find themselves in the job market now or those looking to upgrade their current skills. MCC-Blue River has a variety of certificate programs that can get you trained in as little as a few weeks. The Public Safety Institute (PSI) is one of the Midwest’s best training facilities for fire fighters and police officers. PSI offers two separate academies for fire and police that graduate students after completing 720 training hours in either academy. Short term certificate programs are available in managing telecommuters, bookkeeping, IT technicians and business computer skills. If you have an interest in health care, MCC-Blue River offers Certified Nurse Assistant certificates. The Certified Nurse Assistant program offers entry level training in the field of healthcare. In less than three months, an individual can be state-certified and ready for a job in this high demand industry. MCC-Blue River recently partnered with Microsoft to become an IT Academy and offer several career path choices ranging from Application Specialist to Systems Administration. Entry-level service technician skills will be learned in the A+ and the IT Technician courses leading to an A+ certificate. MCC-Blue River has a large selection of online courses in the Microsoft IT Academy. MCC-Blue River is also home to the Precision Driving Center (PDC), a 56-acre complex designed for transportation, public safety and student driver training. The PDC

includes an urban driving course, 400-by400- foot concrete skills pad, a 500-by-500foot skid pad, an outdoor classroom and driving simulators. These courses are used in training individuals for commercial driver licensing training and police, fire and student driver education. Also offered are CDL Classtraining and test preparation, emergency vehicle operation, motorcycle safety, driver’s education and defensive driving classes. The Sustainable Technology Center at MCC-Blue River is leading the way for green technology in the Kansas City metro area. With a Sky Stream 3.7 Wind Turbine and grid-tied photovoltaic array, MCC-Blue River is ready to meet your training needs in the area of Photovoltaics, Solar Thermal, and Energy Management, Efficiency and Conservation. MCC-Blue River offers an extensive arts program which includes visual, music and theatre arts. MCC-Blue River is home to the Metropolitan Chorale of Kansas City, a vocal ensemble made up of community members and students. In addition to the chorale, students have the opportunity to take instrumental courses and perform in the community. The Theatre department supports aspiring actors through stage productions and internships in screen writing and technical theatre. If fun and relaxation is what you’re looking for, MCC-Blue River also offers a number

community education courses such as belly dance, golf, foreign language and more. There are also a number of clubs and organizations in which students can get involved including student ambassadors, martial arts and Phi Theta Kappa. And for those students seeking athletic programs, MCC-Blue River offers a men’s and women’s soccer program. The Trailblazers compete as part of the National Junior College Athletic Association and offer scholarships to many student athletes. MCC-Blue River is committed to its mission: preparing students, serving communities and creating opportunities. Call 816.604.6400 for more information on any of these programs. You may also visit www.mcckc.edu or our Facebook page.

P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

Chow time Ennovation Center gives woman with a vision the kitchen she needs to grow her business asked herself what kind of jobs she could land post-college with such a degree. “I Just one day before her could be a banker,” Jennings 29th birthday, Valerie Jenreassured herself. nings received an early presSo, in 2003, she graduated ent. summa cum laude with a Her all-natural granola major in finance and a minor product, Hippie Chow, had in economics. Jennings then landed a shelf spot in yet applied and was accepted to another retailer: Nature’s Pan- law school at Washington Unitry at 19019 E. 28th St. South in versity in St. Louis. Independence. Nature’s PanShe lasted about one try now joins about 25 other month, Jennings said, laughretailers that carry the lessing. than-a-year-old Hippie Chow, She had grown up in the but this one is especially small town of Holden, Mo., important. and she attributes her law While Jennings lives in school dropout to the comLenexa, Kan., the Indepenpetitive nature at Washington dence Regional Ennovation University in St. Louis and the Center has allowed her entreculture shock of living in a preneurial drive to flourish, all major city. while adding new job growth Jennings relocated to the numbers to Independence’s Kansas City area, landing a employment base. Since job in Overland Park, Kan., at December, the Ennovation Midland Loan Services. JenCenter – located out of the nings said she still clung to rehabilitated Independence her desire of starting a busiRegional Health Center in ness, though those feelings western Independence – has were “more muted because provided kitchen space for I was having a reasonable Jennings’ business. degree of success in a corpoHippie Chow got its official rate environment, climbing start in summer 2010, but Jen- the ladder, getting promotions nings’ motivation to begin her and raises. own business started more “It felt pretty comfortable, than a decade ago. but at the same time, I was ––– always sort of looking for the From an early age, Jenidea that would allow me to be nings said, she was interested an entrepreneur.” in “doing her own thing.” At Jennings had several of 16, she and a couple of friends such ideas until one finally left started a business painting its mark in 2009. houses in the summer. As “the food person” in her But her entrepreneurial household, Jennings does the spirit took several detours grocery shopping and cooking along the way. As a freshman for herself and her boyfriend, at Missouri State University, Independence native and TruJennings majored for one man High School graduate semester in psychology before Joe Parrish. By mid-2009, Jenswitching to finance. She had nings had taken an interest By ADRIANNE DeWEESE

adrianne.deweese@examiner.net

in what ingredients went into their food, and after reviewing the ingredients of her boyfriend’s afternoon snack at work, she said she wasn’t too impressed. Instead, she created an all-natural granola snack. Friends, co-workers and family members caught on, and Jennings’ boyfriend suggested she sell the product. The timing wasn’t quite right, though. In her professional career, Jennings was involved in a major bankruptcy transaction. She worked long hours and frequently traveled. Phone calls came at all hours of the day – sometimes as late as 10 p.m. – and Jennings had to answer. The work was steady and busy enough, but Jennings said she still questioned whether she would be satisfied long-term. Then came the tipping point, Jennings said. She daydreamed about what she could call her granola product, if she actually went through with selling it. Hippie Chow. The name fit. According to Jennings’ Internet research, no one else had thought of the concept, playing off of the snack name Puppy Chow and the fact that granola is often connected with “hippie” types. She had to go for it now. “I have to preface it with I am the least creative person you’ll ever meet,” Jennings said. “It’s the one flash of creativity I’ve ever had in my whole life. I was like, ‘Oh, this is too good; I have to do something with this.’” ––– Step one: Seek professional

ADVERTISER NEWS

Making an offer you can’t refuse at Godfather’s Pizza

Some of the specialty pizzas offered include the “Humble Pie” which is loaded with pepperoni, green peppers, Italian sausage, onions and mozzarella cheese, along with the legendary Classic Combo, Taco Pie, All-Meat Combo, Bacon Cheeseburger, Hot Stuff and Veggie Pie. If that’s not enough you can take it to the next level with a Super Combo, Super Hawaiian and Super Taco Pizza. Gluten-Free pizzas are also available.

In 2004, wanting to make a difference in the communities they serve, Godfather’s Pizza became the first national sponsor of Boys Town. Side menu items include: breadsticks, cheesesticks, garlic bread, hot wings, calzones, potato wedges, Italian monkey bread or salad. Then finish the meal with a dessert choosing from a cinnamon or fruit streusel, cinnamon monkey bread or a big chocolate chip cookie.

advice in starting a business. The first piece involved Jennings’ creation of a business plan. In late 2009, Jennings sought advice from the Kansas Small Business Development Center at Johnson County Community College. Several months later, she completed a FastTrac business course within the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Jennings also did an independent study course while earning

her master’s in business administration at Rockhurst University. Hippie Chow officially launched in May 2010 at the Overland Park farmers market. Less than a year later, Hippie Chow is carried at more than 25 retailers, ranging from grocery stores on both sides of the metropolitan state line to the gourmet food retailer Dean & Deluca stores in Washington, D.C.; San Francisco; Char-

lotte, N.C.; Leawood, Kan.; and two locations in New York. Even with her background in business and the steps Jennings took to make it happen, she said she is still surprised at Hippie Chow’s success in its short lifetime. “It’s so exciting because I think a lot of it has to do with the name. There is a certain buzz around it,” Jennings said. “I am always completely

See CHOW / D10

ADVERTISER NEWS

Bott Insurance offers insurance and financial peace of mind Agency offers coverage for all circumstances and needs

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

From a little pizza shop in Omaha, Nebraska to more than 600 restaurants in 40 states, Godfather’s Pizza built its success by offering a pizza that’s anything but ordinary. Whether you choose to build your own pizza or order one of their famous specialty pizzas, you will get an abundantly topped pizza pie. They refer to their pizzas as pies, because they pile their pizzas so high with toppings that they have to put the cheese on last to hold it all together like a pie.

The Examiner/ADAM VOGLER Valerie Jennings prepares her all-natural granola , Hippie Chow, in the Independence Regional Ennovation Center's kitchen space. Jennings is able to rent licensed kitchen space in the center on a by-the-hour basis.

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Thirty years ago, Godfather’s Pizza, opened its doors in Blue Springs on 705 N, 7 Highway. They offer catering services for events such as business luncheons, family reunions, sporting events, picnics or banquets. A catering consultant will work with you to develop a menu that can be served at the restaurant or your place of choice. Godfather’s Pizza will also supply the utensils, plates, napkins and condiments. With a menu full of pizza choices, desserts and side items, it’s an easy and affordable way to feed a large group of people and let someone else do the work for you. In 2004, wanting to make a difference in the communities they serve, Godfather’s Pizza became the first national sponsor of Boys Town. As part of their sponsorship they began printing Boys Town’s 24-Hour crisis hotline on their pizza box. As stated on Godfather’s Pizzas’ website, the evidence was clear their partnership with Boys Town is making a difference: “Just over a year ago, we received a letter from an Omaha, Neb. mother thanking the partnership for saving her daughter’s life. Apparently, during a suicide attempt her daughter contacted the hotline. She later told her mother that she had gotten the number to the Boys Town hotline off of a Godfather’s Pizza box.” Godfather’s Pizza also offers fundraising opportunities for your school or organization, concession stands or event. .All-You-Can-Eat Lunch Buffet is offered Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tuesday evenings, Kids eat free buffet from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Godfather’s Pizza also offers delivery service and online ordering. Visit www.godfathers.com for more information or call 229-5455.

Bott Insurance Agency continues to grow in size and expertise. In June of 2009 Bott Insurance moved into a new location at 1500 NW Mock in Blue Springs and expanded its services by adding Carolyn Pittsenbarger to the staff. “It’s been a great partnership in services,” Patty Bott, owner and agency principal said. “We can now offer specialized assistance in auto, home and business insurance, as well as life, long term care and financial services.”

“Our main goal is to educate our clients so they understand the coverage and can make the best decision for themselves when purchasing insurance or in the event of a claim.” PATTY BOTT BOTT INSURANCE AGENCY

Both Bott and Pittsenbarger were nominated as businessperson of the year by the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce and each have more than 25 years of experience. In March, 2010, Mary Wescott joined the Bott Agency as a Personal Lines Account Manager. Mary also has 25 years of industry experience. As an independent agency, Bott Insurance can “shop”

From Bott Insurance Agency in Blue Springs, from left to right: Carol Pittsenbarger, Patty Bott and Mary Wescott.

multiple insurance carriers, to meet customers’ insurance needs. From personal to business insurance, Bott Insurance works with each individual to find the coverage that best protects their assets at a competitive price. “Our main goal is to educate our clients so they understand the coverage and can make the best decision for themselves when purchasing insurance or in the event of a claim,” Bott said. If rates should increase with one carrier, Bott Insurance has many others that they can move a client to, without the client having to change agents. In addition, with the multiple carriers, Bott Insurance is able to write insurance for virtually every individual, family, and business. As an endorsed Dave Ramsey Local Provider, Pittsenbarger lives by the motto of having the “heart of a teacher” and devotes her time and energy towards helping people make sound decisions for retirement, estate concerns, life and long term care insurance. “We offer free consultations,” Pittsenbarger said. “To help clients understand there are many options when

it comes to investing your money as well as insurance needs.” With more than 30 years experience in the financial industry, Pittsenbarger is concerned for those who make rash decisions about their future income and investments. “Anyone can benefit from getting educated about their investments, retirement or insurance needs,” she said. “There are so many great products and programs available for people to get the maximum benefits from their hard earned money and we’re here to help decipher what’s best for each individuals’ situation and needs.” Carolyn will soon begin offering a Dave Ramsey initiated program entitled, “Legacy Drawer,” which teaches the importance of getting financial matters in order. Everyone at Bott Insurance is dedicated, focused and committed to educating and meeting the needs of their clients so that they have peace of mind knowing their assets are protected. For more information visit www.bottinsurance.com, or call 220-7660, or visit them in person at 1500 NW Mock in Blue Springs.

P rogress ADVERTISER NEWS

Save today by looking out your new windows tomorrow

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Hawthorn Bank — involved in the communities they serve By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Owner of Clear Choice in Independence, Alex Gonzalez and staff member Tiffany Harris. By Sandy Turner The Examiner

After installing windows for eight years, Alex Gonzalez knew the time was right — to not only offer expert installation — but also provide the opportunity for clients to purchase quality windows at an affordable price. With the opening of Clear Choice USA Windows in Independence, Gonzalez and his team of experts offer replacement window and door products that are manufactured using high-tech, computer integrated equipment — although the customer receives the cost cutting benefits from their large volume of windows that are produced. As the Clear Choice offer for installing any size replacement windows for only $185 hit the streets in 2004, the company has become one of the largest purchasers and sellers of windows. “With spring just around the corner, our timing couldn’t have been better to open our showroom at Clear Choice,” Gonzalez said. “We’re excited to share with our customers the advantages of choosing Clear Choice for their window and door replacement needs.” Specializing in vinyl replacement windows, Clear Choice offers a maintenance-free product that doesn’t pit, crack, peel, fade or require painting and more importantly helps to insulate the home for energy efficiency. In addition to windows and doors, Clear Choice also offers gutters, fascia, and soffit which are also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. “Working as a window installer for so

many years has helped me to understand what works and what doesn’t,” Gonzalez said. “Vista windows are quality products at an affordable price.” As an Energy Star partner, Clear Choice installs windows that offer energy-efficient warm edge insulation and Low E-glass that reduces the overall energy costs of the home. “Our goal is for our customers to be 100 percent satisfied,” he said. “We offer free in home consultations and estimates. Clear Choice offers a non-pressured environment and we want our customers to take their time deciding what they want, need and can afford. There are never any hidden agendas or costs.” Clear Choice can virtually offer any style and shape of replacement windows from both double and single hung windows, sliding windows, casement, awning, patio doors as well as bay, geometric and garden windows “All of the windows are backed with a lifetime guarantee,” he said of the Vista products, and “as an installer I have installed many windows made by various manufacturers and it is my personal experience that the Vista product is by far the best window both structurally and efficient wise. Which is why we are excited to offer you our services.” Contact Clear Choice Windows for a free inhome estimate by calling (816)-373-0983 or visit their showroom at 13665 42nd Terrace, Suite A in Independence. Visit their website: www.clearchoice185. com.

With 24 locations in Missouri, Hawthorn Bank has built a reputation on providing big city banking services with personal hometown attitudes, professionalism and knowledge. “Our banks are staffed with employees who not only care about this company, but they have a commitment to providing the best customer service possible,” Kurt Lutz, Market President of Hawthorn Bank - Independence said. “The tellers and customer service rep’s are our front line for Hawthorn. They interact with customers on a daily basis and we’re fortunate to have such awesome employees who care about the communities they serve.” Being mindful of the needs of those they serve, employees at Hawthorn are engaged in various civic organizations and plan on increasing their volunteer and financial support of the Independence School District during the 2011-2012 school year. “Hawthorn Bank has and will always be involved in the community,” Lutz said. Understanding the needs of small businesses, whose employees many times can’t find time in the day to make deposits, Hawthorn has launched a cash management program that enables on-site remote deposits. “It’s a sophisticated technique with a simple process that allows business owners the freedom to deposit money at their leisure, in their own office,” Lutz explains. “Hawthorn understands the needs of small business owners and with additional federal programs available we hope to encourage more entrepreneurs to build the company of their dreams.” From business to personal

banking, Hawthorn offers a wide variety of services including checking, savings, personal and business loans, CD’s, IRAs, trusts and online banking. “With the merger of four banks, Hawthorn now has 1.2 billion dollars in assets,” Lutz said. “Which makes our bank financially strong as well as gives our customers the comfort of knowing that our holding company isn’t in another state or country – it’s just down the road in Lee’s Summit.” Providing the convenience of banking in the comfort of your home or office, Hawthorn Bank’s online banking services allows customers to inquire about account balances, transfer funds from one account to another and make mortgage and loan payments with just a click of the finger. For the customers’ convenience, an online demo is available, which gives stepby-step instructions on using the Online Banking service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, using Hawthorn Online. Senior customers at Hawthorn enjoy the Elite Advantage Club, which gives members 50 years and older

group activities to enjoy with day trips to local theaters and major excursions such as going to Mexico. Being a member of the Elite Advantage also entitles seniors to free travelers and cashiers checks, free money orders and ATM/debit cards, free direct deposits, online banking and notary service as well as no charge to make photocopies. On the other end of the spectrum, Hawthorn’s Kid Club and special mascot Blossom the Bluebird, encourage the opening of a savings account for children between the ages of newborn to 12years-old. Accounts can be opened with as little as $5 and children receive gifts when deposits are made. Hawthorn’s website www. hawthornbank.com provides detailed information about every banking service available as well as a branch locator, e-statements, access to all accounts, and also real estate listings in the area. For more information stop by either Independence location on The Square at 220 W. White Oak and at 17430 E. 39th Street or call 252-5000.

P rogress Buy Blue Springs encourages shoppers to stay in the city The Examiner

ADVERTISER NEWS

Credit Union focuses on financial education for youth Submitted by 1st MidAmerica Credit Union

1st MidAmerica Credit Union places a strong emphasis on financial education because teaching money management to youth results in lifelong skills. “Any knowledge that a child may gain through our educational programs can lead to positive financial habits,” said Barb Bellew, Regional Manager. “Our goal is to provide information that will grow their knowledge to help them begin their financial lives on the right path.” 1st MidAmerica offers Kirby Kangaroo Club for children up to 12 years of age. Members of the club receive quarterly newsletters, birthday cards and other periodic mailings that highlight positive financial habits. The Credit Union also offers CU Succeed for teens age 13 - 17, and active members ages 17-23 a complimentary subscription for brass, an upbeat, money magazine. 1st MidAmerica invites all kids (under age 16) to a FREE skate with Kirby Kangaroo at the Centerpoint Medical Center Community Ice from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 26. All kids in attendance can register to win a 6-week “Learnto-Skate” class at the center. See the 1st MidAmerica ad for more information. In addition to its kids’ clubs and educational materials, 1st MidAmerica Credit Union will award three $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors in May. Applications are available at the local 1st MidAmerica branch location, in area high school guidance departments, or online at www.1stMidAmerica.org. Additional services provided by 1st MidAmerica include: checking, savings,

D6 Friday, February 25, 2011

1st MidAmerica Credit Union, located at 19301 E. Valley View Parkway in Independence is available to anyone who lives or works in Jackson County.

its members. 1st MidAmerica Credit Union membership is open to anyone who lives or works in Jackson County. The branch is located at 19301 East Valley View Parkway in Independence, across from the Events Center. Changes within the market and financial services industry may have you looking for a safe, sensible place for your deposits and an affordable source for loans. 1st MidAmerica is dedicated to providing its members with those assurances, along with personal, professional service. If you have questions about the financial benefits that 1st MidAmerica can provide you, call 252-3252 or visit www.1stMidAmerica.org for more information.

“Any knowledge that a child may gain through our educational programs can lead to positive financial habits.”

BARB BELLOW REGIONAL MANAGER 1ST MIDAMERICA CREDIT UNION

money markets and certificates, as well as consumer loans, home equity loans, mortgage loans, financial investment services, and convenient electronic and online options for account access. The credit unions offers competitive savings rates, low borrowing rates, and convenient services to

uy Blue Springs home to purchase grocerLAURA is a recent initiaies. He may also stop at his VERMILION tive of the Blue accountant’s to drop off Springs Champaperwork. The accountant president, ber of Commerce. The goal will take the $20 and swing Blue Springs of the program is to encourby the local music store to Chamber age residents to think localpay for music lessons for ly first. “Locally” can mean the kids. The music store a lot of different things. To will use the $20 to hire local Guest column the chamber, it means shopteachers and, by the way, also ping one step closer to your make a small donation to the home. This can mean Blue Springs, Jackson school in the area. In this example, the initial County or even the state of Missouri. $20 spent locally had six times the impact. If we all take the time to think about where This doesn’t event count the fact that the we make purchases, we can have a huge local grocery store manager, accountant and impact on our community. Did you know that shop owners are probably serving on various in Blue Springs, sales tax supports services boards and committees in the community. you use every day like roads? It also supports They may be volunteering their time for the our local police officers, firefighters and even Chamber of Commerce, city, school district, the parks. Since we have a choice about where Parks and Recreation Department, or even we make purchases, why wouldn’t we want to serving as the coach and/or sponsor of a local have our money go directly toward services ball team. Doesn’t it make sense to do business that impact our community? with the companies who are investing in our Let’s think about this for a second. Let’s say community? you need to purchase a new coat for winter. For Please take the time to think about easy illustration, let’s say the coat costs $20. If where you make purchases. Visit www.buyyou go into a local store to purchase your coat, bluesprings.com or www.bluespringschamber. chances are that money will stay in the area. In com to make shopping locally easy. These webfact, most models show that it will be touched sites contain providers and products available at least six times by the community. in Blue Springs and our community. Buy Blue For example, the owner of the local store Springs, because next door really does mean will probably use that $20 to stop on his way more.

What does your part of town need?

Nancy Worthington,

Johnna Johnston,

north Blue Springs

south Blue Springs

I miss the grocery store that used to be behind QuikTrip (off Woods Chapel Road). So a grocery store would be nice.

I’d like to see the theater and roller rink updated.

Lillian Ratcliff,

Financial Service Representatives (from left to right): Sandra Bolden, Christina Peters, and Connie Willman.

Neil McCaskey,

south Blue Springs

I’d like to see more police officers in the neighborhood and less rental properties.

I want (the stores) Tuesday Morning, Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx. I’d like even more health care specialists.

Karen Blair,

Susan Brawner,

north Blue Springs

I’d like to see more educational offerings for families, like the Wall That Heals.

Nice restaurants.

– Jeff Martin

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P rogress ADVERTISER NEWS

A diverse congregation comes together as one By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Maywood Baptist Church, located in the northwestern portion of Independence, is reaching out to meet the needs of the people and not only from the inside of the church. Led by Pastor Bob Spradling, the 100-year-old church thrives on the diversity of their congregation as well as the willingness and passion they have to assist in projects throughout the community while spreading the word of God.

“There is a certain level of intimidation to enter a church when you don’t know anyone. Our congregation embraces everyone who decides to take that first step through the church doors...” PASTOR BOB SPRADLING MAYWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH

“Maywood enjoys working with the community towards the betterment of western Independence,” Pastor Spradling said. “We are pleased to partner with the Independence School District to provide GED classes in our building. In addition, English classes are offered to newcomers to our country. Currently we have students in English classes from China, Haiti and several different South American countries.” Thirty of the members at Maywood are involved with Youth Friends as they mentor

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

IPL customers can receive energy saving loans and rebates By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Having the vision and foresight to build and implement a master plan for the electric needs of Independence residents and businesses, Independence Power and Light (IPL) has numerous programs that will help your pocketbook and make a positive impact on the environment. Maywood Baptist Church offers a worship service that is casual and open to everyone.

elementary students at Korte and Fairmount. The congregation has helped in community projects such as the Extreme School Makeover and Project Shine. Pastor Spradling is currently on the board of 12 Blocks West, an initiative to develop existing strengths in this area of Independence. “Working with other church groups, non-profit organizations, the city, school district and neighborhood leaders, 12 Blocks West has several projects in various stages of readiness, including housing, homebuyer education and more,” he said. Although a lot of their time is spent ministering outside the four walls of the church, Sunday morning worship service is a time to become a follower of Jesus Christ in an atmosphere that isn’t intimidating or judgmental. “Everyone needs a home for their soul,” Pastor Spradling said. “We just want to be an usher to help them find their way.” Before the morning worship at 10:50, Bible study is offered for all ages beginning at 9:30. A Children’s Sunday School hour is available for grades one through six while pre-kindergarten and kindergarteners have their own Sunday School learning time. Toddlers have their own room

with cribs and fresh linens and a crawl area for playing and learning. Children under the age of 3 are checked in for the nursery and parents are given a pager in the event they need to be contacted. Maywood’s active youth group for grades 7 through 12 offer Sunday morning Bible Study as well as Youth Worship Nights which focuses on a Biblical, corporate worship time putting the focus on participation, not just observation. “Currently, adults in Sunday School classes can discuss a range of topics that span on how to bring up girls to a detailed study of the letter to the Galatians. Guests to Maywood are encouraged to try out different classes to find subjects and teaching styles that they prefer,” Spradling said. “There is a certain level of intimidation to enter a church when you don’t know anyone,” Spradling said. “Our congregation embraces everyone who decides to take that first step through the church doors, regardless of age or lifestyle, everyone is welcome.” Maywood Baptist Church is located in western Independence, Missouri. Their address is 10505 E. Winner Road or call 254-3344. Visit their website for more information at: www.maywoodbaptistchurch.org

IndependenceHELP PROGRAM

The IndependenceHELP Home Energy Loan Program is an initiative to help Independence homeowners finance energy efficiency improvements for their home from local contractors. Some examples of these energy saving improvements are: replacement of exterior doors and windows, air sealing and insulation, replacement of heat pump, central air conditioners and furnaces. All work performed must meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® specifications. A full list of eligible improvements can be found on www.independencehelp.org. IndependenceHELP is a partnership between the City of Independence Power and Light, the City Credit Union and the Metropolitan Energy Center. The low-interest loans for eligible energy efficiency measures are only for owner occupants of homes in the city of Independence. Homeowners can also receive rebates from IPL for qualifying air conditioners, heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. For detailed information on qualifying for the IndependenceHELP loan program and rebates visit www.independencehelp.org.

NEW HOMES REBATE

IPL has also implemented an Energy Star for New Homes Program. The Energy Star for New Homes Rebate Program’s purpose is to encourage and increase energy efficiency in new home construction. Builders and developers whose new home construction projects meet energy guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, will be eligible for reimbursement of the Home Energy Rating Systems inspection as well as rating costs up to $500 per home.

ENERGY EFFICIENT INITIATIVES

Financial incentives for builders to install energy efficient air conditioners, heat pumps and electric water heaters are also available. In an effort to help defray the initial costs of purchasing high efficiency appliances, IPL continues to offer residential customers heat pump, air conditioner, and water heater rebate opportunities. Rebates for qualifying equipment are issued after the application and receipts are submitted to IPL. These need to be submitted within one year of installation.

FREE INTERNET SERVICE TO HELP SAVE ENERGY

Energy Depot is a free web based service provided by Independence Power & Light By visiting: www.energydepot. com/hometown/ipl residential and business customers can find the tools they need to save energy and money. • An Energy Library that provides information on energy saving opportunities • An e-mail link to an Energy Advisor who can answer technical questions regarding home energy efficiency • An Energy Savings Calculator that shows costs of operating various types of electric appliances • A Comparison Tool which allows users to compare annual operating energy costs of different types of space heating and water heating systems • An on-line Energy Audit that provides a tailored evaluation of home energy use and energy savings opportunities For more information on any of the energy efficiency programs offered by IPL call 325-7485.

P ROGRESS

The Examiner

D8 Friday, February 25, 2011 ADVERTISER NEWS

ADVERTISER NEWS

“Where grand openings begin” Offering a team sport where everyone’s a winner By Sandy Turner The Examiner

M.A.C. Corporation, plays to win and celebrate victory laps with every successful construction completion or a businesses’ grand opening. The development, engineering and construction firm, with more than 30 years experience in the industry sets the goals high in reaching excellence by providing team work. “Our team sport is development, design and construction, Robert Andrew, owner of M.A.C. Corporation said. “We want to include everyone that is involved in our projects on the same team, from the owner and their staff, to the city staff, to the design team to the construction team, as well as the subcontractors and material suppliers.” Andrews’ true passion is in creating jobs as he transforms concepts into realities by bringing an all inclusive, comprehensive service to the table by offering the services as a Developer and Design Build General Contractor but with a value added initiative. “We not only conceptualize and design the pieces,” Andrew said “we also put them together.” From the initial meeting of brainstorming about the building of the owners’ dreams to the last piece of brick and mortar put into place, M.A.C. Corporation has the capability of delivering technically demanding projects, and adding value for their clients by effectively controlling the quality, schedule and cost of the project by the use of in-house personnel. “M.A.C. takes the gray out of the project,” Andrew said. “Because we are providing our clients with precise and detailed information about

RoBERT andREW m.a.c. coRpoRaTion

“We not only conceptualize and design the pieces, we also put them together.” RoBERT andREW owner, m.a.c. corporation

every aspect of the job. It’s all black and white, so that there are never any surprise costs.” Beginning with pre-development services, the staff at M.A.C. will identify all of the development and financing costs, verify zoning requirements, ordinances and utilities as well as conduct a study of the demographics in the area, site evaluation and a feasibility study. “We provide our clients with an in-depth and sound analysis before the project begins,” he said. “We evaluate the pros, the cons, lease back opportunities as well as building to suit.” By providing architectural and engineering services,

With you.

M.A.C. simplifies the entire building process for their customers. M.A.C. is currently set up to do business in 40 states. After the designs and blueprints are complete and construction begins, M.A.C. will bring in their own equipment and personnel for demolition and preparation, excavation, retaining walls, concrete foundation work, pre-engineered building systems, and interior finishes. “Basically we’re a one-stop shop for any size project,” Andrew said. “Development services, real estate brokerage, design services, construction, and store fixtures and equipment. M.A.C. takes the stress out of having to deal with multiple companies during the project.” Having designed and built over 240,000 square feet of interior finish office space in the last three years, M.A.C. actively pursues helping independent store owners expand their business with growth space. From the ground up and remodeling, M.A.C. has designed and built over 200 retail stores, casinos, 20 nursing home facilities, 10 senior housing projects, 72 restaurants and numerous manufacturing facilities. “From the first drawings to the last nuts and bolts, M.A.C. is truly set apart from the typical general contractor because we can deliver expeditiously and under budget If we don’t treat our business as a team sport, we aren’t giving our clients the best service we can provide.” To contact M.A.C. Corporation call 229-6090. Their home office is located at 900 NW Hunter Drive in Blue Springs.

After a year of renovations, Mid-Continent Library reopens By Sandy Turner The Examiner

After anxiously awaiting for the remodel of the Mid-Continent Public Library, North Independence Branch to be complete, patrons walked into a new and improved facility on December 24. With a grand opening scheduled for March 12, the public is invited to visit the library now, witness the major renovations and enjoy the “Working History of Independence” themes throughThe North Independence Mid-Continent Library is now open with a grand out the building. opening scheduled for March 12. The $3.25 million dollar project was completed ahead of time and The North Independence Mid-Continent Pubunder budget and includes a children’s and teens lic Library will also be host to revolving displays library, computer lab, five quiet study rooms, referof collections from the public. If you have a colence services as well as reading areas, meeting lection that you want to share with the public for spaces and a Bistro. a month please contact Beth Appleby, 252-0950. Artifacts from local businesses line the walls at March’s displays will be from Drumm Farm as the entryway as well as photos depicting the workwell as from a residents’ hat collection. force of the past from companies such as Armco, Southwestern Bell and Lipton Tea. with street signs pointing the way and an open “We have been collecting for the past year,” glassed-in viewing to the lower level. Staley said. “And it will be a continual process as Focusing on the needs of all ages, the children’s people learn of the themed library. We also are area on the upper level features a room especially making recordings of those who want to share their designed for storytelling time complete with a story of their own working history experience in refrigerator for snacks and a sink for hands-on Independence.” activities. It also features a children’s literacy center made possible by a donation from Dr. Victor Gragg and his wife Norma. The teen study is highlighted with individual study cubicles, booths for social interaction and high top tables and chairs. This floor also houses the computer lab, which is open and free to the public with 20 computers that will also be used for free computer training classes. The main floor of the library houses the adult fiction and non-fiction books, The new children’s area on the upper level was made possible by a donation from Dr. Victor Gragg and his wife Norma. This level is also audio and video, reading areas, perihome to a children’s literacy center, computer lab and study area for odicals, study rooms and conference teens. area. A drive-up window has also been installed for making drop off an easier End panels on bookshelves highlight photos and quicker process. from the 1960’s and 70’s work force among the “We have increased our space for patron usage thousands of books that have found a new home from 35,000 square feet to 50,000,” Staley said of since being transported back from their temporary the renovations. “We are extremely proud to have place at the Independence Regional Hospital locamade this investment for the community of Indetion. pendence.” “It’s been quite a feat moving everything back The library is located at 317 W. 24 Hwy and is into place,” Staley said. “Although we hired profesopen Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., sional library movers, all of us have been involved Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on in getting it ready to reopen.” Saturday. Their phone number is 252-0950. Visit Utilizing all of the floors at the library, the envitheir website: www.mymcpl.org for event times ronment now has a feeling of openness and order and dates.

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P rogress One sure sign of progress is work on the expressway The Examiner

Friday, February 25, 2011

ark the opportunities, residential rick calendar for housing developments and hemmingsen Saturday, business parks. There will Nov. 12. be a showcase display for president, CEO Mayor Don Reimal and our local property owners and Independence chamber members will be businesses to exhibit their Chamber having a ribbon cutting for building plans. If monies the opening of the Little allow, we will be creating a Blue Parkway! marketing video for them. Guest column At long last, after 39 years We are expecting elected offiof effort and $60 million, cials from city, county, state Independence will now have 32 square miles of and federal governments along with a breakland to market and develop. The dream of this fast crowd of 400-plus to attend. day has been on the minds of countless indiIn addition, we will be ramping up our viduals for decades. Cutting the ribbon with campaign to complete the next segment of the Mayor Reimal that morning will be two vision- road. It is called the Lewis and Clark Expressaries who have stayed with the project from its way, which will run from Interstate 435/Front beginning: Bob Reeds and Judge Jack Gant. Street to Sterling Avenue in Sugar Creek. The Those two have met hundreds of times with long-overdue segment is critical for the safety thousands of people to make this community of citizens on the west side of Independence dream a reality. By sharing that dream with and Sugar Creek. It will also open access to a others, they overcame much adversity and new business/industrial park that someday gathered around them a host of other likewill allow people to buy a house in an area and minded leaders. When newcomers came to walk to work. town, they shared that dream, and look what Do you have a dream to make Independence happened! They are to be commended for their an even better place in which to live and do life’s work. business? Don’t keep it a secret. Call us at the We will also be sharing some new dreams Independence Chamber of Commerce (816-252for Independence on that Saturday. They 4745). include the plans for future employment Because dreams not shared are wasted.

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The new face of heart disease By Cyndi Fahrlander St, Mary’s Medical Center

Debbie Westerman is making progress in her fight against heart disease. She started her fight in a big way — with a heart attack last November. But hers isn’t your textbook case of heart attack, treatment and recovery. Her story is downright amazing. “Debbie is a fighter and she’s lucky to be alive,” says Eric Hockstad, MD, an interventional cardiologist with the Carondelet Heart Institute. “I’ve never had another case like hers.” There are several reasons why her case is remarkable. First, she’s only 45 — although she admits she has made some bad choices in terms of her health. But what happened to her during her heart attack made a lasting impression on her health care team.

Signs of Trouble The day of her “big event” started like most others. She got up early after not sleeping well, had a pot of coffee, several cigarettes and went to her job at the Jackson County Courthouse. About mid-morning, she said her left arm started feeling “weird.” As the day progressed, the pain started shooting up to her neck. She says she knew something “wasn’t right” — she talked with a couple of friends who suggested perhaps Debbie was having an anxiety attack. Debbie thought that sounded logical and continued working. After work, she went home, took a nap and had dinner. Still, the pain and heaviness persisted. She told her roommate that she was going to drive herself to the Emergency Room, but couldn’t lift either arm to put on her coat. About 10 p.m., Debbie’s roommate took her to the ER at St. Mary’s Medical Center where she learned she was having a heart attack. “Debbie did not present with the traditional symptoms,” says Dr. Hockstad, “which is not unusual for women. While they can experience the same symptoms as men, often heart attack symptoms in women are much more subtle. Women may feel pressure rather than pain, they may be fatigued and feel a overall heaviness or anxiety.” Dr. Hockstad says Debbie was having the most serious type of heart attack — ST segment elevation myocardial infarction or STEMI. It’s caused blockage in an artery cutting off the blood supply, and therefore oxygen, to the heart. It can also disturb the heart’s rhythm. Debbie was rushed to the cardiac catheterization lab for angioplasty, a procedure to open the artery and restore the blood flow.

The Shocking Development The real trouble began just before the procedure was supposed to begin. While being transferred from the gurney to the procedure table, Debbie looked up at the monitor and saw that her heart stopped beating. She felt it at the same time. “Everything went black and I could feel someone pushing on my chest,” says Debbie. “Then I heard the whine of something charging — I recognized the sound from watching TV. I heard ‘CLEAR!’ and I knew what was coming. WHAM! I felt like I was hit by a train.” The defibrillation didn’t work; her heart rhythm didn’t return. The team continued doing CPR and Debbie was shocked again and again —she was aware of every one of them. “I kept watching the monitor to see my heart beat, but it just wouldn’t.”

“It’s unusual that her ventricular fibrillation was so resistant to electric shock,” says Dr. Hockstad, “and unusual that she stayed awake through the whole arrest. Once we’re doing CPR, and there’s not a normal rhythm, most people pass out.” “It was frightening, really,” says Amy Scofield, RN, Cardiac Cath Lab. “We don’t like them to stay awake, but Debbie was fighting to stay alive. She was not giving up.” “At one point, I thought, ‘I quit. I can’t do this anymore,’ and I sort of went to a nice, quiet, dark place in my mind,” says Debbie. “And I wanted to stay there, but the team didn’t give up. I heard Diane (Anderson, Cardiovascular Technologist) screaming, ‘You get back here. We need that fighter back.’” Finally, after 23 attempts, and six minutes, her heart rhythm stabilized and the staff could proceed with the angioplasty.

A good outcome The American Academy of Cardiology and the American Heart Association have set a goal of a ‘door-to-balloon’ time of less than 90 minutes. To minimize damage to the heart, the time between when a heart attack patient walks through the door of the ER to when the balloon is inflated opening the artery should be less than 90 minutes. Debbie Debbie Westerman considers herself to be the new face of heart disease as the 45-year-old recounts the day had two stents placed in her right her heart stopped beating. coronary artery, and despite the excitement of her heart stopping, her door-to-balloon time was 76 “It’s very dangerous to drive yourself, or have someone else minutes. Dr. Hockstad says she has no significant permanent drive you,” says Dr. Hockstad. “If she would have coded in the heart damage. She does have a new outlook on life, however. car, she would have died. And if she would have come in earShe says the events of that night made her appreciate her life lier, this probably wouldn’t have happened. It would have been and she’s making the changes necessary to be healthy. She’s an uneventful procedure and she wouldn’t have had to endured stopped smoking, watches her diet and has started Cardiac all of that.” Rehabilitation at St. Mary’s. She actually likes to exercise. “It was the most grueling, terrifying, amazing experience of “I’m learning so much through Cardiac Rehab,” says Debbie. my life,” says Debbie. “I’ve learned from it, changed because of “I have a whole team helping me with my war on heart disease. it and I never want to forget it.” I mean, look at me, I’m the new face of heart disease — it’s not an old person’s disease, it’s not a man’s disease, it’s mine, The Carondelet Heart Institute provides a personal heart health too. But we can fight it. I am determined to do what I need to screening for just $35. The screening includes a full cholesterol and do to live a healthier lifestyle and to help others live healthier triglyceride check, blood pressure check, body fat analysis, and a famlifestyles.” ily history and lifestyle review. To schedule a personal screening, call There’s another lesson to be learned in her story, if you 816-943-2787. have any unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Don’t drive yourself to the ER. Call 9-1-1.

P rogress Blue Springs Ford receives elite award

The Examiner

Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Third consecutive year of providing premiere customer service By Sandy Turner The Examiner

The leadership team at Blue Springs Ford is proud to announce the dealership will receive a prestigious nationwide President’s Award for the third straight year. The recipients of this elite award are selected based on meeting stringent qualifications for customer service and satisfaction. “Blue Springs Ford wants everyone to know that we have been a part of the Blue Springs community for 35 years,” stated Eric Prins for the leadership team. “With a re-focused attention on customer service the past three years, we’re here to take care of our patrons from sales to service. You can count on a continued focus on what is most important to us – our customers.”

“With a re-focused attention on customer service the past three years, we’re here to take care of our patrons from sales to service. You can count on a continued focus on what is most important to us – our customers.” ERIC PRINS PART OF THE LEADERSHIP TEAM BLUE SPRINGS FORD

With internal restructuring, extensive training and team building, the leadership team has brought this national recognition to Blue Springs Ford as they build a reputation for the dealership through honesty, respect and exceptional customer service. The Quick Lane Auto Service Center at Blue Springs Ford provides 30-minute oil changes and a 26-point checklist for all makes and models of vehicles. At the dealership, Ford and ASE certified mechanics man the 44 service bays which provide top quality work. Customers can wait comfortably in the lounge equipped with refreshments, cable TV and computer access while their car is being serviced. When needed, a shuttle car is available to return customers to their home or office. The leadership team believes customer service doesn’t stop when clients walk out the door as the sales team continues to

The Blue Springs Ford Dealership has been serving the communities for the past 35 years and was recently recognized nationwide, for their focused attention on the needs of their customers. make contact with those who purchase a vehicle. They take the time to follow up with a personal phone call to make sure everything is running smoothly. Their focus is on building relationships. Realizing that many pocketbooks and budgets are struggling in a recovering economy, Blue Springs Ford offers the X-Plan. The plan is available to employees, retirees and their spouses of companies and organizations that do business with Ford Motor Company. Blue Springs Ford is now offering buyers the opportunity to receive exclusive pricing on new Ford Vehicles, similar to the discounts that Ford employees receive.

The New 2011 Ford Fiesta

Blue Springs Ford also realizes that in times of economic troubles, trying to overcome less-than-perfect credit can be one of the most challenging obstacles in getting reestablished financially. Understanding that everyone deserves a second chance, Ford Credit is allowing everyone to have an opportunity to own a new vehicle by opening up their portfolio of buying. Ford Credit is taking into consideration all levels of credit and looking at the clients’ history of work ethics instead of focusing on any financial crisis they have endured that may have been out of their control. For more information on whether or not you qualify for the X-Plan discount call Blue Springs Ford at 224-0076. Blue Springs Ford is located at 3200 NW South Outer Road in Blue Springs. Sales hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Service hours are Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 7:30 am. until 4:00 p.m. Visit www.bluespringsford.com for more information or call 229-4400.

P rogress

The Examiner

E2 Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

A commitment to care—Centerpoint Medical Center

Submitted by Centerpoint Medical Center

“Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.” That is the first sentence of Centerpoint Medical Center’s mission statement and explains both the care given to patients in the hospital and to changes and advances made within the facility. “Every year we look at our community and ask, ‘what can we do to improve the care we provide?’” says Carolyn Caldwell, Centerpoint Medical Center CEO. “We always want to ensure that we’re providing the highest quality available for our community.” 2010 saw many changes at Centerpoint. The hospital added new physicians and new technology and received numerous quality awards. “We are especially proud of our recognition by HealthGrades, the leading independent healthcare ratings organization, which awarded us a 5-Star rating for the quality of our Heart Valve Replacement Surgery program,” says Caldwell. “Saving and improving the life of people in our community is our top priority. This rating showcases our commitment to quality.”

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“We are very proud of the level of care we are able to give to our community,” adds Caldwell. “While our facility is large, it takes a facility of this magnitude to provide all the services we offer.” These include services such as: • An accredited Chest Pain Center and extensive Cardiology Services including an cardiac catherization lab for both diagnostic and interventional procedures as well as cardiac rehabilitation services • 24/7 Emergency Care and a Level II Trauma Center • Women’s Care including Labor/Delivery, Antepartum and Postpartum services, and Gynecologic services • A Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the highest level of care available to care for premature or ill newborns • Imaging Services including MRI, 64-Slice CT, Ultrasound and Digital Mammography • Surgical Services including Same-Day Surgery • Extensive Outpatient Services including an Advanced Wound Care Center, Sleep Disorders Center, Imaging Services, Diabetes Center, GI, Pain Management, Spine Care, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation • Fully supported 221-bed acute care facility with all private rooms

• Wellness programs, community education programs and health screenings In 2010, Centerpoint Medical Center touched more than 200,000 individuals through inpatient care, outpatient service, emergency care, surgery, and newborn care. In addition, the hospital employs more than 1,000 full-time, part-time and oncall staff members. In addition, in 2010 Centerpoint Medical Center provided health screenings and various health care educational services to more than 2,500 individuals in our community. The hospital also has contributed more than $100,000 to local charitable organizations to help them provide needed services to the community. “This is an investment in the health and well-being of our friends and our families. Most of our employees live in Eastern Jackson County and we are committed to making sure that when anyone needs help, whether it’s surviving a heart attack or having a baby, that they will receive the best care available,” Caldwell adds. “We want to be your point of care whenever you need us.”

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P ROGRESS Important information from the city’s Health Department The Independence Health Department and the Jackson County Health Department are two separate entities, located just a block from each other, who share the same goals but provide different services. Located at 515 S. Liberty, the Independence Health Department focuses on protecting our health and preventing disease. They offer education on disease and injury prevention, develop policies that impact the health of the community, and promote the health care services that are available to the public. The staff of the Independence Health Department’s Health Promotion Division offers education in areas of maternal and child health, communicable disease prevention, chronic disease prevention, and public health emergency preparedness as well as providing certified copies of birth and death certificates, holding flu clinics, and offering CPR classes. Most recently, working through a grant received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act the staff is promoting the importance of receiving the Tdap vaccine. “Research has shown there is an increase of pertussis, or whooping cough, in the general public,” Shawnna Jackson, MSN, RN, Communicable Disease and Epidemiology Supervisor from the city of Independence said. “It’s especially important for new parents or those who will be in close contact with infants, to be vaccinated.” Whooping cough is a contagious disease that can be passed easily from person to person and is very serious for babies. Hundreds of babies are hospitalized each year for

Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

The Examiner

“Research has shown there is an increase of pertussis or whooping cough, in the general public.” SHAWNNA JACKSON, MSN, RN COMMUNICABLE DISEASE AND EPIDEMIOLOGY SUPERVISOR

pertussis and some even die from it. There are two types of whooping cough vaccines: DTaP for infants and children and Tdap for adolescents and adults. The childhood series of DTaP vaccine is given at the age of two months, four months, six months, 15-18 months, and four-six-years old. “Babies are not fully protected against pertussis until they have completed the series of shots,” Jackson said. “Although most of us were vaccinated against whooping cough as children with DTaP, it loses its effectiveness by the age of 11, making adolescents and adults at risk for pertussis infection.” Tdap vaccination is recommended for anyone ages 11-64. The newest guidance also recommends vaccination for adults 65 and older who have close contact with infants and children ages 7-10 years who had not completed a full primary series of DTaP. “Vaccinating adolescents and adults reduces the risk of spreading pertussis to infants,” she said. Adults should receive a tetanus and diphtheria booster (called Td) every 10 years and substitute a Tdap vaccine for one of the boosters. Tdap can be given earlier than 10

years; there is no minimum interval, especially if contact with an infant is expected. “When people go to get their routine tetanus vaccine, we hope they will ask for Tdap instead so they can be protected from pertussis,” Jackson explains. “Getting vaccinated with Tdap protects babies that are not yet protected by vaccination. It is especially important for anyone in close contact of an infant, such as parents, siblings, grandparents, caregivers or health care providers.” Jackson adds that parents can also help protect infants by keeping them away as much as possible from anyone who has cold symptoms or is coughing. “Pertussis can be difficult to diagnose in adults because adults won’t have the characteristic whoop sound babies make when they have the disease,” she said. In promoting the vaccine, the Health Department has been working with health care providers and the community. Because health care providers are twice as likely to get pertussis as other adults, the health department produced brochures and has provided multiple classes on pertussis and Tdap. They have also been educating pregnant women, new parents, and grandparents throughout the community through classes, health fairs, educational materials, and advertisements. “We are really working to get the word out on how important Tdap vaccination is to protect ourselves and our infants.” For more information on whooping cough or the Tdap vaccine, visit the health department’s website at www.independencemo. org/health or call 816-325-7185 or contact your health care provider.

A commitment to those who need hospice care

The private suites at Village House offer a serene atmosphere for patients and their loved ones to spend time together. In-room amenities include a microwave, refrigerator and accommodations for overnight guests. Submitted by John Knox Village

Village Hospice, a John Knox Village service, is excited to expand its already extensive array of services with the addition of Village House. Village House is located in the Village Care Center, a skilled nursing facility that is part of the continuum of services offered at John Knox Village. The new service provides inpatient hospice care that is facilitated by Village Hospice. The care is provided in a comfortable and serene, non-clinical atmosphere that meets the unique needs of hospice patients and their families. Although most hospice patients receive care in the comfort of their homes, there are times when the patient requires short-term specialized nursing care or their families need relief from the stress of providing care. This can include stabilizing treatments, pain management and transitional care for times when the patient could benefit from additional medication adjustment and caregiver education. “Because of John Knox Village’s commitment to providing quality care, we have the unique opportunity to create a designated area for the

“Because of John Knox Village’s commitment to providing quality care, we have the unique opportunity to create a designated area for the purpose of providing hospice care.” AMY WALROD VILLAGE HOSPICE DIRECTOR

purpose of providing hospice care,” said Amy Walrod, Village Hospice director. The care is coordinated by a multidisciplinary team of hospice trained nurses, social workers, chaplains, aides and volunteers along with the patient’s physician. With very few inpatient hospice care choices in the metropolitan area, Village House is the only facility of its kind in and around Lee’s Summit. Walrod said this especially fills a need for the Eastern Jackson County area. Phase one of the project opened in February 2011

and includes a hall with 11 dedicated private suites. The suites include in-room amenities such as a microwave and refrigerator as well as accommodations for overnight guests. The facility also features a designated family room with conveniences such as a computer with Internet Access, a galley kitchen with snacks available and a big screen television. All of this is provided to give the patients and their families a comfortable, home-like atmosphere to spend time together. The hall was named after Village Hospice’s founding director Barbara ElderOwens. Since it opened in 2002, Elder-Owens had a vision and dream to one day develop a dedicated inpatient care facility. Less than 10 years later, her dream became a reality. ElderOwens passed away in 2009. “For Barbara, the patient was always first,” Walrod said. “She was passionate about ensuring that patients had the ability to die with grace.” The second phase, which will include a private entrance, lobby, lounge and nine additional suites, will open later this year.

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The Examiner

E4 Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Carmel Hills embraces being in the heart of the community Offering long term care and bridging the gap between hospital and home By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Located in the heart of Independence, Carmel Hills Health Care, a skilled nursing facility, offers a range of services for health concerns ranging from recovery, rehabilitation and long-term care. Following in the footsteps of President Truman, Carmel Hills embraces the hometown hero and provides an atmosphere that is synonymous with Truman’s personality — homey, inviting and comfortable. Along with long-term health care, Carmel Hills also offers their Wellness and Rehabilitation Center, which bridges the gap between hospital departures and going home. For those with acute illness or injuries, prohibiting them from going home, Carmel Hills offers the opportunity to recover in an environment that promotes healing. The patients’ large rooms adhere to the recovering process, with equipment specific to their needs as well as having the opportunity to work with trained on-site specialists to increase recovery time. The most recent addition to Carmel Hills is “Renew” a rehabilitation unit designed specifically for women. The post-acute unit is also a short-term recovery program but also includes the opportunity for relaxation through the on-site salon, which offers massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and hair services. Dianne Williamson, Administrator of Carmel Hills, enjoys the kindred spirit that is shared among the staff and residents. “It’s always amazing to see how many of the people here have known each other previously or somehow have ties connecting them. It’s truly a close-knit community and they all know they’re among friends. Our staff is here because this is what they have chosen to do as their careers, and it shows through their ability to be professionals while being compassionate.”

Carmel Hills, centrally located in Independence offers residents long term care as well as short term and rehabilitation services.

The long-term portion of Carmel Hills has an allinclusive pricing structure that includes administration of medications, three meals a day along with snacks, with accommodations including private or semi-private rooms, multiple common areas, chapel, dining rooms and landscaped patios. “We have activities every day,” Williamson said as the residents begin to proceed to the Truman Room for bingo. “We recently crowned our king and queen at the Valentine’s Party,” she added. Working with the VA administration, Carmel Hills is nearing their completion of being approved to accept veteran’s benefits for partial payment of services. “It’s a very detailed and lengthy process,” Williamson said. “The inspection procedure through the VA is very intense and thorough and now that is complete and we are just a month away from being approved.” Carmel Hills also offers an Alzheimer’s and dementia unit. Physicians on staff include Dr. Richard Chung, medical director, Dr. Allan Enriquez, medical consultant and Dr. Mary Lillig, contract physician with Dr. Ahmed Madi as the VA physician. Each unit has an assigned coordinator who oversees all aspects of nursing and care for each resident. Carmel Hills staff also includes therapists, dieticians, and social workers.

Visit Carmel Hills at 810 E Walnut or call 461-9000. Visit their website at www.carmelhillshealthcare.com

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www.meyermusic.com

1512 Highway 40

816-228-5656

Boardwalk Square

816-746-0500

MIKE SCHWEDER, CHt

1133 W Main Street, Suite 203 Blue Springs, MO 64015 | (816) 560-6903 mike@ahchypnotherapy.com • www.ahchypnotherapy.com

P rogress Over 30 years, St. Mary’s has served Blue Springs area The Examiner

Friday, February 25, 2011

By St. Mary’s Medical Center A lot has changed at St. Mary’s Medical Center since it first opened its doors in 1981. The building itself has been expanded a number of times, and the addition of the medical mall, the expansion of the Birthing Center and Emergency Department have more than doubled the size of the original hospital. Medicine has changed a lot over those years as well. What has not changed is the commitment St. Mary’s made upon the opening to the community of Blue Springs to provide high quality, compassionate care. The changing technology of medical care has been phenomenal. Who would have thought, 30 years ago, that someone having a heart attack could get an outcome that has become the standard today? Now, someone presenting with heart attack symptoms to the Emergency Department would be evaluated, prepped, treated and recovering within an hour and a half. The interventional procedures provided by Carondelet Heart Institute at St. Mary’s have had a major, positive

Mission has remained constant as medical times have changed impact to the residents of our community. Patients receive state-of-theart care close to home. The interventional cardiologists from the heart institute work closely with interventional radiologists and other specialists in the Endovascular Center at St. Mary’s. The newly opened center can diagnose and treat a variety of conditions including leg pain, numbness or coldness, chest pain and stroke-like symptoms and non-healing wounds. The center works with specialists from the Center for Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine at St. Mary’s, which has earned a Center of Distinction award for meeting or exceeding benchmarks in healing outcomes and patient satisfaction. In the past year, St. Mary’s opened its Stroke Center. The nurses and physicians in the Stroke Center are certified by the National Institutes of Health and are specially trained to provide quick diagnosis and treatment for stroke patients, giving them the best chance for

recovery. St. Mary’s has services for stroke patients through every step of recovery-from inpatient rehabilitation to home health service and outpatient physical and occupational therapies. Many joint replacement patients are benefiting from outpatient therapies provided at St. Mary’s. It’s expected that the number of people having joint replacements will skyrocket as baby boomers age. The Orthopedic Center at St. Mary’s hosts free monthly seminars to educate people about joint pain and various treatments. If and when joint replacement becomes necessary, our physicians can provide the latest advanced treatments to get patients back to their lives as quickly as possible. The center has an orthopedic nurse navigator for the convenience of doctors and patients. Having a navigator works so well that other service areas are recruiting them. St. Mary’s added a navigator to its Breast Center this year to help streamline care for breast

cancer patients. The navigator helps streamline care and is a resource to help ease the burden of coping with the disease. St. Mary’s opened the first Birthing Center in the state of Missouri in 1986 and continues to provide “family-centered” care. The Birthing Center has a level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unite to care for newborns needing specialized treatment. The center also provides boarding rooms for patients of babies in the NICU so they can stay close by. Innovation and growth area important to the community and St. Mary’s Medical Center keeps growing to meet the demands of the area. And the community gives back to the medical center. The St. Mary’s Medical Center Foundation recently announced it reached its fundraising goal for the renovation and expansion of the surgery area of the hospital. The campaign was completed nearly a year ahead of schedule, thanks not only to the

community, but also employees and physicians. The project enlarges two operating rooms that had been virtually untouched since the hospital opened in 1981 and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The campaign raised $1 million of the $3.7 million cost. St. Mary’s and the community will celebrate the successful campaign and kick off another campaign for advanced imaging technology at the annual Butterfly Ball hosted by the St. Mary’s Medical Center Foundation and the Auxiliary. Butterflies on the Bayou, is set for Saturday, March 5 at the Adams Pointe Conference Center in Blue Springs. Individual tickets are $125 and table sponsorship begins at $1,750. Contact the St. Mary’s Medical Center Foundation at 816-655-5363 for tickets or for more information. To find a physician for information on St. Mary’s Services, call 816-228-3335

ADVERTISER NEWS

Answering the needs of the community through service and experience

Surgery procedures with less scaring and quicker recovery Advanced Surgical Associates offers minimally invasive surgeries

By Jeff Quibell CPRos

Webster’s dictionary defines progress as a “gradual betterment” or “forward movement”. The progress in Blue Springs, while admittedly gradual, is exciting to see and experience. Our Blue Springs citizens and local businesses have many opportunities to help move our community forward, to achieve the objectives identified by our citizen surveys, task forces and focus groups. Local businesses and citizens are making a difference, by choosing to become involved. The spirit of community engagement flourishes when dedicated individuals work together for the common good. It’s happening in Blue Springs! My business is CPros, a custom software and IT services company, providing services to individuals and businesses for 24 years. We sell Dell computers, assist businesses and nonprofit agencies develop and maintain their computer networks, clean viruses off of computers, and build service oriented computer software programs to help businesses provide quality service to their own customers.

“Local businesses and citizens are making a difference, by choosing to become involved.”

JEFF QUIBELL PRESIDENT, CPRos

During my term of service on the Blue Springs City Council, I advocated for policies that promoted cooperation between the city and the business community, looking for changes that would make it easier for business in Blue Springs to be successful. I’m proud of my involvement, and hope to enjoy another term as a City Councilman, should the voters of District 1 choose to elect me on April 5. Adams Dairy Landing is an excellent example of successful growth made possible by business friendly policies. By actively encouraging the development community to economically support our schools, and seek the support of the school district in all incentive programs that are considered, successful public-private partnerships evolve. It is crucial to ensure our continued progress that we

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Jeff Quibell, President of CPros

carefully consider every opportunity, weighing the potential benefits against proposed cost and risk. Strategic planning and advocating for our city is vital in positioning Blue Springs as a community of choice, both for citizens and businesses. CPros is a founding member and investing partner of the Blue Springs Economic Development Corporation, and I’m proud to serve as a City Appointee on their Board of Directors. The EDC works closely with our city, identifying opportunities and facilitating investment with businesses seeking to locate here. At CPros, my staff and I are here to help you with all of your computer issues. If you need to purchase a computer or computer software, if your business requires support for its computer systems, or your computer gets a virus, give CPros a call. For businesses with specific computer software requirements, let us build it exactly to your specifications. My father carried the following poem in his coat pocket and I carry it now in memory of him: “This is the beginning of a new day. God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it or grow in its light. What I do with this day is important, because I have exchanged a day of my life for it. When tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. I hope I will not regret the price I paid for it.” -Author Unknown Jeff Quibell, President, CPros, 1401 NW Jefferson in Blue Springs, 816-224-2890.

As surgical procedures evolve with new technology and methods, Advanced Surgical Associates (ASA) in Lee’s Summit is a leader in providing minimally invasive surgery for residents in Eastern Jackson County. Located in Lee’s Summit, Christopher Daggett, D.O., Adam Kramer, D.O. and Brook Redd, M.D’s, laparoscopic techniques benefit patients by allowing for shorter recovery times and minimal scarring. ASA has been meeting the surgical needs of patients in Raytown, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs and the surrounding areas for many years. The most common health issues which require surgery involve the repair of hernias, surgeries of the breast, gallbladder, colon, stomach and skin. Chris Daggett, D.O. added, “whether we meet you in the office for a consultation or in the Emergency Room in the middle of the night, our surgeons will perform a comprehensive exam, provide a diagnosis and a surgical plan that restores you to good health.” ASA also offers Bariatic surgery. The LAP-BAND procedure is performed on those obese clients whose weight could be considered a health

issue. Surgical weight loss involves consultation with an ASA surgeon, attending a LAP-BAND seminar, meeting with a counselor, a nutritionist and participating in an ongoing support group. Brook Redd, M.D. of ASA said, “we feel that our patients benefit from their surgeon providing all of their pre- and post-operative care. Their surgeon is with them on every step of their weight loss journey.” Dr. Redd and Dr. Kramer will be speaking at a free, informational seminar on the LAP-BAND procedure on Tuesday, March 8 from 6:008:00 p.m. at Lee’s Summit Medical Center. Registration for the event is necessary by calling 816-751-3000. Seminars must be attended before setting a consultation with a surgeon to discuss the LAPBAND procedure. The doctors at ASA also offer SILS, which is often referred to as “belly button surgery.” Dr. Adam Kramer explained, this approach replaces the four incisions required by standard laparoscopic surgery with just one incision in the belly button.” This technique virtually eliminates scarring and relieves the pain generally associated with multiple points of entry. ASA has been providing general surgery procedures

Dr. Christopher Daggett, D.O.

Dr. Adam Kramer, D.O.

Brook Redd, M.D.

since 1983 and have extensive experience and training in minimally invasive surgery. The surgeons partner with Lee’s Summit Medical Center, St. Mary’s Medical Center and Centerpoint. For more information call 816-246-0800. ASA is located at 3460 Ralph Powell Road in Lee’s Summit. Visit their website www. asakc.com.

Laparoscopic “Minimally Invasive” Surgeries offered by ASA: • Gallbladder • Colon • Hernia • Appendectomy • Small bowel resection • Anti-Reflux surgery • Lap Band®

Anal & Rectal Surgery Abdominal Surgeries “ Open-Exploratory” When Necessary • Colon • Small Intestine • Lysis of Adhesions • Stomach

Breast • Biopsy • Lumpectomy • Mastectomy (Simple/Radical) • Axillary Lymph Node Dissection Skin • Biopsy • Lesion/Cyst/Lipoma Removal

P ROGRESS

The Examiner

E6 Friday, February 25, 2011

Can you hear me? ADVERTISER NEWS

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Are you missing out on the simple things in life: hearing the rain, the laughter of children or even the ability to join in conversations with family and friends because of hearing loss?

“ I have needed hearing aids for several years and when I found Rita, a new world opened that I had not heard in years. I went to three of the corporate nationwide hearing aid companies but found very little personal assistance I needed to answer the questions I had. I love that Rita works with small overhead and passes the savings on to me. She worked personally with my Insurance company to maximize the benefit due me. The national company did not and would not do that. She realizes we all live and work in the outside noisy world and has encouraged me to come back as needed to adjust the aids to meet my daily hearing conditions. Thanks Rita for the personal service and many hours you spend with your clients.” Mario Powell , Blue Springs Rita Harman, owner of Rita’s Hearing Center understands the frustration of feeling isolated because of not being able to hear properly and is changing the lives of people who take the step to search out a professional who will take the time to find the best hearing aid for your lifestyle and needs. “My goal is to work with each and every client to be sure that they are receiving what they expect to receive from their hearing aids along with what they can afford,” Harman said.

“Being I’m only 44-years-old I was embarrassed to think I need hearing aids but a friend of my told me about Rita and how well she treats her customers and I should talk to her so I did. By the end of the testing and fitting I felt very confidant about my hearing aids. I live in st Joseph Mo. and the drive to Independence turned out to be well worth it. I was greeted by a woman with a friendly smile and a personality of someone who genuinely cares for people, no one is treated as a stranger in her office. Rita has open my world back up to things I was missing out on, like conversations with my wife, my kids and granddaughter and the rest of my family. I never really realized the strain hearing loss could put on a relationship ‘til after I got my hearing aids, the frustration of repeating words faded and conversations became enjoyable again for this I thank Rita.” Thank you — Jeff S. Rita’s Hearing Aid Center, operating out of the family’s home, began out of Rita’s concern for affordability for her clients.

“Recently my husband’s hearing-aid suddenly stopped working, so we contacted Rita’s Hearing Center for a same-day repair. This was the first time that we had used her service and we would like to say that she has provided us with timely, personable, professional service at an affordable rate. We would definitely recommend her services to others and plan to continue doing business with her for our hearing-aid needs in the future.” Mr. & Mrs. Larry Self, Independence MO “By operating out of my home I don’t have to charge more because of overhead expense,” she said. “I pass these savings onto my customers.” Beginning her career as a Hearing Instrument Specialist in 2001 and earning her Board Certified License in 2002, Rita has built a strong base of clients who consider her to be more than just their hearing aid provider. Along with giving free hearing tests and complimentary cleanings every three months,

Rita takes a no-pressure, nononsense approach to fitting her clients with the best hearing aid for their lifestyle and need. Offering hearing aids from companies such as Rexton/Seimens, Starkey, Phonak, Audina and Uintron, Rita has a wide variety of options along with a payment plan. Having a background in customer service has been advantageous for Rita as many of her clients have recognized her through her smile.

“Meeting Rita Harman has solved my hearing problems, like eating in our apartment dining room. After trying several different brands of hearing aids, from various stores, she has fitted me with hearing aids that are comfortable and that make mixing with people far more enjoyable. Also I feel that I gained a friend... and that is a blessing to me.” Thanks, Kay McArthur Making house calls isn’t unusual for Rita as she knows that many clients either have no transportation or are homebound. To contact Rita’s Hearing Aid Center call 816-796-8165.

“What’s happening? I don’t understand! What is everyone laughing about? I’m tired of missing out on important information!”

Does this sound all too familiar? Are you distressed over being shut out and feel you are often “left in the dark?” Similar experiences of unintentional, but thoughtless exclusions are an uncomfortable, frustrating part of a hearing–impaired person’s daily life. The accumulated weight of such experiences leads to a sense of alienation, to a sense that we

Good News! are not entirely welcome in group settings. YOU can CHANGE YOUR WORLD! CALL US TODAY AT 816.373.7900 FOR A RISK-FREE CONSULTATION AND SOON YOU WILL HEAR “WELCOME BACK TO YOUR LIFE”

www.JacksonCountyAudiology.com

ADVERTISER NEWS

Recovering at home with HealthBack Home Health By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Recovery is a process and may take some time before you feel completely healed. The recovery period, both in the hospital and at home, is necessary to rebuild your strength. The best way to approach recovery is with a positive attitude, realistic goals and statistics show, success rates are increased in getting your health back, while in the comfort of your own home.

“Being covered 100 percent by Medicare, HealthBack offers the opportunity to be in the comfort of your home while receiving skilled nursing services.” TOM WILLIAMS Administrator HealhBack

Focusing on the concept of health care at home, HealthBack, one of the largest home health companies in Oklahoma, has expanded its services to Missouri. “The main goal of HealthBack Home Health Care is to get clients back to their optimal health after a hospital stay, surgery, etc.,” Tom Williams, Administrator of HealthBack said. “Being covered 100 percent by Medicare, HealthBack offers the opportunity to be in the comfort of your home while receiving skilled nursing services.” HealthBack Home Health offers nursing care and therapy services such as physical, speech and occupational ser-

vices, advanced wound care, diabetic, ostomy, cardiac and catheter care, social services, disease, medication and nutritional management and education, IV therapy and lab draws. Lise Hill, clinical supervisor for HealthBack says that for many patients, peace of mind comes from knowing that they can get the assistance they need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “We work closely with our client’s primary physician,” Hill said. “The physician writes the original order for home care services and we work through his or her directives to what level of care the patient needs for independent living and optimal health.” Because the services of HealthBack are covered entirely by Medicare, patients do not have to worry about out of pocket expenses. “Eligibility for our services is through the guidelines determined by Medicare,” Hill explains. “As in the patients’ conditions and limitations are such that it is a considerable and taxing effort or requires

assistance to leave home, leaving for short, infrequent periods of time. So basically if you are now receiving Medicare and your physician signs an order for home care, you are 100 percent covered.” Although patients with Medicare can receive the services of HealthBack, private pay and Medicaid are also accepted. Family owned and operated since 1996, HealthBack is not an end of life service, but a way to regain health in your own home. “Another service we offer is teaching the patients, as well as those helping to care for them. Whether it’s transferring techniques or how to deal with long term diseases or disability, our goal is to provide information that will help with safety issues and the health of the patient,” Williams said. For more information on HealthBack visit their website www.healthback.com or call 350-2600.

Home…

is where you get your “Health Back”

Home health can be ordered for a number of different reasons. HealthBack Home Health can provide various services that you used to have to go to a hospital to receive. Now can receive them in the comfort of your own home! •Skilled Nursing •Physical, Speech & Occupational Therapies • Advance Wound Care • Medication Management/Education • Nurse on call 24 Hours - 7 Days a Week If you have Medicare as your primary insurance, our services are covered 100% with no out of pocket expenses to you or your family! We are highly trained professionals dedicated to serving you with Integrity, Excellence and Stewardship. Please call us now for a no obligation assessment

THE SCOTTSDALE CENTER 17020 E. 40 HWY., SUITE 9 INDEPENDENCE, MO 64055

(816) 350-2600

P ROGRESS ADVERTISER NEWS

Offering solutions to hearing loss at all levels and budget Jackson County Audiology caters to customers’ needs By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Do you or a loved one show signs of isolation? The solution could be as simple as discovering that hearing loss is causing a disconnection between the speaker and listener. “Living with a hearing loss causes frustration for the person trying to understand what’s going on around them as well as for their family, friends, co-workers or teachers,” Charles Hare, owner of Jackson County Audiology said. “Hearing loss can isolate you from the ones you love and from the activities that make you happy.” Early in his career, Hare was a speech pathologist for the Fort Osage School District, which eventually led him to pursue an education in audiology. “Working with the hearing impaired students as the speech teacher was very gratifying, and I began to have a real interest in the field of audiology,” he said. “It’s amazing how even a mild hearing loss can cause interference in a person’s life.” After working as an Audiologist in other clinics, Hare made the decision to open his own practice in 2003 at The Scottsdale Center in Independence. “I wanted to have the flexibility to offer my clients a wide range of choices for hearing devices and to recommend devices that fit correctly and match their lifestyle and budget.” Experiencing a loss in hearing isn’t something that only happens as we age, in fact, Hare has seen the results of school age children who aren’t properly diagnosed. “Undetected hearing loss

Charles Hare, owner of Jackson County Audiology.

“Undetected hearing loss may look like poor behavior or inattentiveness. It’s worth the time to have their hearing thoroughly checked.”

CHARLES HARE JACKSON COUNTY AUDIOLOGY ON HEARING LOSS IN CHILDREN

may look like poor behavior or inattentiveness,” he said. “It’s worth the time to their have hearing thoroughly checked.” Jackson County Audiology offers complete diagnostic hearing evaluation as well as the fitting and programming of a wide variety of hearing aids. “It’s difficult for the patient to know, without actually wearing the hearing aid, if the instrument will provide the benefit the customer wants and needs.” Hare reports many recent advancements in hearing aid technology that have translated to amazing benefit for

people with hearing loss. “For example, the Bluetooth technology allows users to hear television, ipods and cell phones better than ever before.” Hare explains that it’s made possible by using wireless connectivity. “One of my patients was thrilled that she could jog alongside her neighbors, while listening to her I-pod, yet still be able to hear oncoming traffic and join in her friends’ conversation.” Taking the time to explain the entire process as well as counseling on the proper care and use of hearing aids is an important function of Jackson County Audiology. “Many times patients will come with a loved one or friend, who has insisted they get their hearing checked because of the need to be able to communicate with them better,” Hare said. “And that’s understandable as many people think living with the hearing loss is easier than fixing the problem— it’s wonderful to see the change that comes after receiving their hearing aid and reconnecting with their friends and family.” For more information visit www.jacksoncountyaudiology. com . Their office is located at 17020 E. 40 Highway, Suite 9 and can be contacted by calling

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

40 years of service — Healthcare for Women

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Healthcare for Women, located in the medical building next to Centerpoint Hospital, is committed to not only addressing critical issues for women’s health, but to educating them on staying healthy. With six physicians on staff, as well as a certified nurse midwife and nurse practitioner, Healthcare for Women specializes in obstetrics and gynecology although after serving the community for the past 40 years, many patients look to them for many of their primary care issues.

“... whether we are at home, on call or in the office, everything we need to know about the patient is readily accessible.” DR. MORRIS Physician with Healthcare for Women, speaking on their electronic health record system

“Many of our patients who are pregnant are those who we delivered,” said Dr. Morris, who has been with the practice since 1979. “We have been with many of our patients through times of birth, death, joy and sor-

row and it’s about building and maintaining those relationships.” Beginning as Hausheer & Braby 40 years ago, Healthcare for Women continues the tradition of caring and educating women towards a better and healthier lifestyle. “Every woman should have periodic checkups with their obgyn,” Dr. Morris said. “Regardless of age.” With the advancement of technology, Healthcare for Women now offers inoffice procedures that not only provide a significant savings for the patient but also eliminates the need for hospital outpatient processing. In-office procedures include ESSURE, a female sterilization procedure with no incisions and a quick return to normal activities

as well as endometrial ablation for women with heavy menstruation issues. Bone density testing is also provided. Healthcare for Women provides complete pregnancy care including those with high risk conditions, preconception planning, counseling, infertility concerns as well as overall general health of the female reproduction system. “With our electronic health record system in place the physicians on staff have an efficient, safe and secure method of reviewing the patients health records,” Dr. Morris said. “Whether we are at home, on call or in the office, everything we need to know about the patient is readily accessible.” All of the physicians at Healthcare for Women live less than 20 minutes away and practice at both Centerpoint and St. Mary’s Hospital with two of them on call every evening. For more information visit www.hbahealthcareforwomen.com or call 3501200. Office hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Give your loved one the gift of hearing • Hearing Instruments to Fit All Budgets • Hearing Aid Designs for Every Lifestyle • FREE 30-Day Trial Period • FREE In-Home Testing • FREE Lifetime Programming • FREE Video Otoscopic Exam • FREE Cleaning & Retubing

• Great Battery Deals • Same Day Fittings • Walk-Ins Welcome • Financing Available • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Most Insurances Accepted • Licensed in Missouri

Rita’s Hearing Center

& Repairs

1914 N. Plymouth Rd. (Salem East) Independence, MO 64058

816.796.8165

Locally Owned & Operated

The Examiner

E8 Friday, February 25, 2011

P ROGRESS

Renew at Carmel Hills A truly innovative concept in post-acute care, designed especially for women, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just meet the needs of those recovering from an acute illness, injury or exacerbation of a disease process.

Renew also offers services to refresh your mind and rejuvenate your spirit with a facial or massage in our Spa. Renew is located in a separate area with a private entrance, and equipped with state of the art equipment and furnishings that are geared towards enhancing each step of your recovery.

Carmel Hills Long Term Care Our long term care services are designed for individuals who need 24 hour nursing care. Theses residents may be chronically ill, frail, or experiencing a very slow recovery from an illness or injury. Our long term care units offer private and semi-private rooms including room furnishings, multiple common areas and dining lounges. We offer respite care or vacation care that allows families an opportunity to take a brief break from the demands of round- the- clock care giving.

Sunset Place at Carmel Hills For those seeking short term medical and or rehabilitative services, we focus our efforts on working closely with patient and family and strive to achieve the most successful functional outcomes. Our nursing team is support by licensed therapists who provide physical, occupational, and speech therapies. This dedicated team works together to design individualized care plans tailored to each patients specific needs. We believe our best results are achieved when we work together

The dedicated Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Unit offers dedicated, caring and compassionate staff well trained to assist residents in living their lives to the fullest. We offer structured activities designed to maximize interaction with each resident. Personalized behavioral management designed to encourage participation in a calm environment. We provide semi private and private rooms, complimentary cable television, nutritionally balanced meals and rehabilitation services.

810 E. Walnut â&#x20AC;˘ Independence, MO

816.461.9600

P rogress

family Owned and Operated

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

EYERS

funeral chapels Dedicated to creating meaningful, personalized services that honor the lives of your loved ones Please call one of our locations below to learn more about us and our services.

www.meyersfuneralchapel.com Visit us online to send condolences to family and friends.

The Value of Family There are a few times in life when you want to be surrounded by family. When you experience a loss, call on a family-owned funeral home to give you the comfort and guidance you need. Meyers Funeral Chapels are family owned and operated – one of very few in the Greater Kansas City area.

When you are in search of funeral services ask your provider a few questions: Where is your home office? Do your owners live in my community? Meyers funeral chapel owners live and work in the Blue springs & parkville area. There is no “corporate headquarters” or “regional facility.”

Where will my loved one be taken during the preparation process? Meyers funeral chapels will transfer your loved one directly to the funeral home and our owners perform all preparation services here at our community chapels.

Who will be my contact during the process? When you work with Meyers funeral chapels you work with the owners who will stay with you during the planning, funeral or memorial services and final burial. As cremation is becoming more popular, Meyers Funeral Chapel strives to provide meaningful & unique memorial services. We offer basic cremations as well as traditional funeral services with cremation following. Our expertise & experience with cremations as well as burials allows Meyers Funeral Chapel to provide the highest quality services available in Eastern Jackson County.

What types of grief support do you offer? Meyers funeral chapel offers a one year grief program to the family of your loved one. We are also connected with many local churches that offer group counseling. links to online grief support are provided thru Meyers funeral chapel, Blue springs at www.facebook.com.

Why should I choose Meyers Funeral Chapel? Because we care for you like family.

Watch for our upcoming Open House to show our newly remodeled chapel. Meyers Funeral Chapel

Blue Springs Location

"How Does Meyers Funeral Chapels serve their communities?" • We are one of the proud sponsors of The Wall That Heals, that came to Blue Springs September 30th - October 3rd, 2010. • We offer live webcasting capabilities for families with outof-town relatives

Meyers Funeral Chapel Northland Location

• In these difficult economic times, we are here to help. We offer discounts and savings, including a special veterans discount. • We offer affordable cremations plans for all incomes. • Our Pre-Arranged trust account is held locally, helping to support our bank.

1600 West Main Street Blue Springs, MO 64105

816.229.3276

• We are a proud supporter of many little league teams and our high school athletic teams. • We are also a proud supporter or our area churches and civic organizations. • Every year we proudly present the Jimmy Meyers Baseball Scholarship.

401 Main Street Parkville, MO 64152

816.741.0251

P ROGRESS

The Examiner

F2 Friday, February 25, 2011 ADVERTISER NEWS

Bringing a touch of Germany to the Independence Square By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Rosie and Heinz Heinzelmann, owners of Rheinland Restaurant on the historic Independence Square, celebrate 20 years of serving authentic German cuisine.

Join Rheinland Restaurant on these dates to celebrate German festivities Fasching - Sat., Feb. 26 A mardi-gras tradition held immediately before lent Maifest - Sat., May 21 A German festival celebrating their heritage Octoberfest - Sat., Oct. 15 Let Rheinland show you how to truly celebrate this German tradition and the smell of fresh food cooking to perfection. Their daughter Sandra also helps in serving and preparing although she has built her own success through opening Wellness Point above the restaurant offering Swedish massage therapy. Come in to Rheinland’s for this month’s special which includes a piece of German chocolate cake and coffee for only $4.95. View Rheinlands menu online www.rheinlandrestaurant.com or visit them at 208 N. Main in Independence. They are open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. with live entertainment on Saturday evenings. Sunday and Mondays’ hours are 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Contact them by calling 461-5383.

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at the Independence Center www.weloveCFA.com

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While attending SantaCali-Gon one summer, their conversation with Nina Anders, owner of Scandinavia place across the street from where their future restaurant would be, made them wonder if opening a restaurant was the answer to bring a touch of German to Independence. “We began with one gas burning stove,” Rosie remembers, “and on the third day we opened, people were lined up down the street. I don’t know how we got it done.” Today, Rheinland has the equipment they need to make everything from scratch including Rouladen, Sauerbraten, Jaeger schnitzel (lightly breaded pork cutlet, topped with creamy Burgundy mushroom sauce and served with home fries, as well as German sauerkraut and hot and cold potato salad. “Everything is prepared here,” Heinz said. “Nothing is store bought with the exception of making trips to St. Louis to buy authentic German Bratwurst. We even make our own salad dressings.” The long-time employees at Rheinland add to the family friendly atmosphere among the pieces of German heritage including beer steins

% % %

Twenty years ago Rosie and Heinz Heinzelmann opened their doors and hearts as they began to share their love for authentic German cuisine through the founding of The Rheinland Restaurant. Located on the historic Independence Square, Rheinland quickly captured the attention of those searching for, not only homemade German dishes, but also a relaxed and inviting dining experience. Moving to the United States from Germany in 1986, the Heinzelmann’s and their 16-year-old daughter began a new life in a country they didn’t know the language or understand the culture. Even so, they pushed on and eventually Heinz found work as a mechanic and Rosie as a nanny to three small children. “Basically I learned English through reading Dr. Seuss books to the kids,” she said although she also enrolled in school to learn the language. “I’m still close to the kids and remember my first complete sentence in English – ‘What are we going to do today?’” Eventually Rosie landed a job in a German restaurant and deli in Kansas City until the opening of the Rheinland Restaurant. Wanting to produce pretzels, German-style, the couple had begun purchasing machinery and obtaining a license to operate a small company within their home. “We hadn’t thought about opening a restaurant,” Rosie said, “although we had noticed there weren’t many places that served German food or, if they did, it didn’t taste as authentic as we prefer.”

nging Seasons a h C

Ask about our V.I.P. Program

P ROGRESS

The Examiner

F4 Friday, February 25, 2011 ADVERTISER NEWS

ADVERTISER NEWS

New ownership at Desk Top Office brings new opportunities to the table By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Desk Top Office Products, on the Independence Square has been a “staple” in the community for many years, although recently it’s received an extreme makeover. Purchasing the business from Jim and Greta Alexander, Mark Whitlow is excited to bring his years of experience in office supplies and products to Independence. Their inventory of over 25,000 items range from paper clips to furniture and everything in between. “In the store we have 5,000 items stocked, although our full line of inventory is online as well as in a catalog and we will deliver to homes or businesses the same or next day for free.” Having had great success with K&M Office Products in Blue Springs for the past 18 years, Whitlow made the decision to expand into Inde-

pendence. “It’s an extension of both companies,” he said of K&M and Desk Top. “Both companies will work together to service the needs of the communities.” Passionate about keeping money local, Whitlow is involved in programs to support small business owners and to help educate the public on the importance of shopping locally. “We cater to small businesses and whenever possible patronize their establishments as well,” he said. “It’s very important to us to support local entrepreneurs who

Yogurtopia makes it debut in the Midwest Store opens offering a healthy choice for dessert

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Mark Whitlow recently purchased Desk Top Office Products on the Independence Square offering over 25,000 items of office supplies and product through in-store inventory as well as on-line ordering.

keep the community thriving with local spending. When business is good for the small business owners, everyone in the community benefits from it.” Setting themselves apart from the “big box” stores, Desk Top offers free delivery to homes or businesses, without a minimum purchase order. “We’re here to give back to the community,” he said. “And supplying our customers with affordable products along with convenience, is our goal.” Among the normal office supply needs such as copy paper, toner, folders, binders, envelopes and forms, Desk Top’s inventory extends into items for teachers, arts and crafts, health care supplies, cleaning and janitorial supplies, cameras, fax machines, printers and accessories for safety and security such as hearing protection and name badges. Furniture needs range from desks to chairs, armoires, office décor and lighting. With more than 25,000 items available, Whitlow is confidant Desk Top can meet the needs of anyone who contacts them. “If we don’t have something in inventory, we’ll help

“In the store we have 5,000 items stocked, although our full line of inventory is online as well as in a catalog and we will deliver free to homes or businesses the same or next day.” MARK WHITLOW OWNER, DESK TOP OFFICE PRODUCTS

them find it,” he said. “This is the advantage of working with a small business owner, its personal, individualized attention.” Desk Top also offers office design, earth friendly and recycled products. “We give our long time knowledge of office supplies and products for free,” Whitlow says with a smile. “And that’s invaluable.” Visit Desk Top Office Products at 101 S. Main Street. Store hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit www. desktopofficeproducts.com for a complete listing of supplies. Call 254-9620 or email: mark@desktopofficeproducts.com for more information.

Making its debut in the Midwest, Yogurtopia is giving consumers a healthy choice when it comes to having dessert, without the worry or guilt. Owned by Bill McMahon and Keith Hodge, Yogurtopia, located at 4277 Sterling Avenue, provides a dairy dessert, with frozen yogurt, that is lower in calories than ice cream, fat free and contain live active cultures which is beneficial for the digestive system and has been linked to providing healthy bones and joints through its’ calcium content. “Our yogurt does not come from a box or powder,” McMahon said. “It comes straight from the dairy product which makes it much more smoother and creamier.” This new concept of frozen yogurt comes in 12 different flavors with topping options and can be served in a cone or a cup. As relatively new to the scene for tasty desserts, Yogurtopia’s frozen yogurt provides a healthy alternative when deciding to splurge or it’s time for a snack. “Customers are always amazed how good it tastes, even if they think they don’t like yogurt,” McMahon said. “Just because it’s good for you, doesn’t mean it’s not going to taste great.” Being just as versatile as ice cream, Yogurtopia provides a low calorie, fat free indulgence with the benefits derived through the natural goodness of yogurt, which contains calcium and protein but is free of unhealthy additives or artificial ingredients. The probiotics, or live active cultures, found in yogurt are also referred to as “friendly bacteria,” and are similar to those that exist in

“Customers are always amazed how good it tastes, even if they think they don’t like yogurt. Just because it’s good for you, doesn’t mean it’s not going to taste great.” BILL MCMAHON CO-OWNER OF YOGURTOPIA

our digestive systems. “Our frozen yogurt is made with the best dairy available,” McMahon said. “It’s unlike any other and, as well as providing nutritional benefits, it is an affordable and fun way to enjoy dessert, anytime night or day. Yogurtopia is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located at 4277 Sterling Avenue, near the Wal-Mart Super Store at I-70 and 40 Hwys.

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P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

P rogress Missouri Comets give back to the community The Examiner

F6 Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Playing for keeps — on and off the field

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

For many soccer fans throughout the Kansas City area, hearing the team name of “Comets” bring back memories of the glory days when games were being played at Kemper Arena in the 80’s. Last year, a “revived” Missouri Comets team brought back the excitement of indoor soccer through the efforts of Top Of The Arc, LLC. Having almost completed their game schedule for this season, the Comets have energized the Independence Events Center with a schedule full of fast-paced matches from teams across the country. Head Coach Kim Roentved and his team have packed the Independence Events Center with fans who have missed the atmosphere only indoor soccer games can produce. Top of the Arc (TOTA) is a sports and entertainment business whose purpose is to manage, serve and promote the game of soccer, specifically professional indoor soccer, in the Kansas City area. The three founders of TOTA include Mickey Scheetz, Edward Scheetz and Brian Budzinski. Budzinski serves as president of TOTA and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Comets and also owns the Kansas City Soccer Dome, which he purchased at the age of 24, and then became the youngest owner of a Sports Clips Haircuts franchise at 26. “I think being involved in business at an early age has allowed me to make mistakes sooner and learn from those mistakes as I move into bigger projects,” Budzinksi said. “I have learned over the years that you surround yourself in business with really high quality people that are talented and more knowledgeable then you are in a specific area and you get out of their way. Age is just one of the many characteristics that drives me to be successful.” The partnership between the Comets and the Independence Event Center sparked a renewed interest in the community for indoor soccer, as their fan base has proven it was a good decision. “The City of Independence did an excellent job in building this first class arena,” he said. “The decision was an easy one, you couldn’t ask for a better arena to host major indoor soccer than the Independence Events Center. The location is fantastic, the site lines are beautiful and the parking is free. Working with GM Mike Young and Robert Heacock was a pleasure from day one and the Comets couldn’t have asked for a better partner than the City of Independence and the entire staff at the Independence Events Center.” Through his Danny Saves program, Comets goalie Danny Waltman is raising money for the local Boys and Girls Clubs by donating $5.00 per save, of his own money, and now, through a sponsorship with Citizens Bank and Trust, his efforts are being doubled for not only this season but also for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 seasons. “Danny has also given away 25 tickets to the Boys and Girls Club of Kansas City for every home game this year,” Budzinski said. “As an organization, we couldn’t be more thrilled about this program. Danny is such an incredible person and Citizens Bank stepping up the way they have, with their generosity, is going to go a long way in helping the underprivileged youth in Kansas City.”

“Danny has also given away 25 tickets to the Boys and Girls Club of Kansas City for every home game this year. As an organization, we couldn’t be more thrilled about this program. Danny is such an incredible person and Citizens Bank stepping up the way they have, with their generosity, is going to go a long way in helping the underprivileged youth in Kansas City.” BRIAN BUDZINSKI, PRESIDENT OF TOTA SPEAKING ON THE DANNY SAVES PROGRAM

TOTA is currently in the process of beginning another fundraising opportunity called “Comets’ Give and Go Foundation,” to raise money for other local charities. “The foundation is still in the early stages,” he said. “But no matter what, it will be an endeavor where the dollars raised go to a local charity.” During this Comet’s season the team raised funds by auctioning off their jerseys that were worn during the game on special events such as Retro Night where the proceeds went to Dalton Burner, a six-year-old from Blue Springs who is battling cancer for the second time. “Dalton has become a huge inspiration to our players,” he said. “The auction raised over $5,000 for his foundation.” Jerseys worn at the February 20 game, “Kick it for the Cure” were also auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. As the season comes to a close, Budzinski is already anticipating next year’s schedule. “The fan support has been unbelievable,” he said. “We are second in the MISL in attendance and our players say the arena literally vibrates when the crowd gets going. When our players are out in the community, the fans come out in droves to see them. I know our players appreciate our great fans and know we have the best fans in the league.” Watch for information coming soon on a Summer Youth Soccer Camp hosted by the Comets players and coaches. “The great thing about these guys (Comets’ players) is they want to be out in the community,” he said. “You won’t find a more accommodating group of guys anywhere.”

Comets goalie Danny Waltman, donates $5 for every save he has during the game to the Boys and Girls Club. With a sponsorship from Citizens Bank and Trust, his efforts are now being doubled.

COMETS 2011 HOME GAME SCHEDULE

at the Independence Events Center Friday, February 25 7:35 p.m. Comets vs Omaha Vipers Sunday, March 6 3:10 p.m. Comets vs Chicago Riot For ticket information visit the official site of the Comets: www.cometsindoorsoccer.com or www.independenceeventscenter.com

P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Three years of food, fun and friends at the Canoe Club Restaurant By Sandy Turner The Examiner

For the last three-plus years, the Canoe Club Restaurant at Lake Lotawana has given the people of Eastern Jackson County a reason to “stay local”. With equal dedication to great food, drink, and live music, the Canoe Club Restaurant is the opposite of cookie-cutter corporate chain restaurants. “We want the Canoe Club to be a destination that people look forward to visiting rather than just another eatery,” said coowner Andy Manz. Upon entering the restaurant, it doesn’t take long to notice the “lake cabin” charm and detail that surrounds the room. Beautiful knotty pine paneling from original Lake Lotawana cabins have found second life on the walls of the restaurant as well as old photos, canoes, and sailing trophy’s that date back to the 1940’s. Adjacent to the main dining room and bar area is the “Hearth Room,” which seats up to 25 guests and is highlighted by a natural stone fireplace. The room is used for overflow dining, as well as private parties and business events. When the weather allows, a large glass garage door is thrown open to connect the dining room with a spacious outdoor deck that can accommodate fifty to sixty guests.

“In our opinion, food is best enjoyed amongst good friends and family and that is the atmosphere we’ve tried to create here.” NICK CALKINS CO-OWNER CANOE CLUB

Known for their famous San Diego style “Phish” Tacos, Manz and business partner Nick Calkins say that their “Casual Surf and Turf” menu offers variety and fun twists for their customers. The Canoe Club menu has a variety of signature salads, burgers and sandwiches, as well as hand-cut steaks and fresh

seafood entrees. New this year, is dollar oyster night and fifty cent wings every Monday evening. On Tuesdays you can add a cold water lobster tail to any steak for just a buck! Wednesday night is “steak night”. For $16.99 customers receive an eight ounce filet mignon, baked potato, side salad, and a glass of wine or beer. Thursday night is the ever popular “locals night” where the famous phish tacos and margaritas are $2.00 each. “In our opinion, food is best enjoyed amongst good friends and family and that is the atmosphere we’ve tried to create here,” said Calkins, who’s friendship with Andy goes back to their college days at the University of Central Missouri. As for drinks, the Canoe Club offers a full bar with a variety of fine spirits, beers, and an extensive wine list. On Tuesday and Saturday nights, over a dozen wines by the glass are on special for $5.00. For the beer connoisseur, Monday night is your night. All twenty five bottled beers are just $2.50. Live acoustic, bluegrass, and jazz music is offered on most Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. “Come for the food, stay for the music,” is a phrase that the owners like to tell people. Beginning this March, the Canoe Club is pleased to announce a new Thursday night live music showcase called the “Pickin’ On Series”. Each Thursday night, Andy Manz and his musical friends will perform an acoustic tribute to a different artist or band. Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Neil Young, Crosby Stills Nash, Dave Matthews, and Jack Johnson are just a few of the names in store for the series that will run from March 10 to July 28. There will be a 7:30 and 8:45 show each Thursday evening beginning March 10. You will not want to miss these shows as some of Kansas City’s finest musicians will be stopping in to play! For the full schedule of the Thursday night “Pickin’ On” series, hours of operation, and online menu, please visit www.canoeclubkc. com. They are located at 27905 E Colbern Road in Lake Lotawana, MO. Contact them by calling (816) 578-5700.

When weather permits, patrons at the Canoe Club can enjoy dining at the spacious outdoor deck, which can accommodate up to 60 guests.

Live acoustic, bluegrass, and jazz music is offered on most Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at The Canoe Club. Beginning in March on each Thursday night, co-owner Andy Manz and his musical friends will perform an acoustic tribute to a different artist or band.

ADVERTISER NEWS

Independence looks toward 2011 with innovative means for tourism City’s new tourism director ready to tackle the task By Sandy Turner The Examiner

When Cori Day accepted the position as the city of Independence’s director of tourism, she knew the goals and visions were set high as she follows in the footsteps of previous director Stephanie Roush. “Stephanie had everything in place to help me succeed in bringing tourism to the forefront for Independence residents as well as travelers,” Day said. “I hit the ground running and am very excited to be a part of this community.”

“The economic impact a large sporting event can make on the city is tremendous.” CORI DAY CITY OF INDEPENDENCE DIRECTOR OF TOURISM

Although the history that envelopes Independence plays a major role in attracting visitors to the city, Day is also concentrating on highlighting the various arenas Independence has for sporting events. “The economic impact a large sporting event can make on the city is tremendous,” Day said. “We are soliciting Missouri Sports Properties so Independence can be their hub for softball and basement tournaments during the summer months. Independence is centrally located so out-of-town teams can also travel to Liberty or Lee’s Summit for tournaments outside of this city.” Along with the new Independence Events Center and

the Independence Athletic Complex and Adair Park, opportunities are endless for sporting events thus increasing the opportunity for touring Independence. “We are marketing ourselves nationally,” she said. “Through three major magazines and an increased online presence focusing on the historical attractions as well as being equipped to host large sports tournaments.” Also on Day’s list of this year’s tasks is to obtain the ability to have the city’s tourism website become mobile. In other words, it would help navigate out-of-town guests to their destination. “I’m fortunate to have received this position with the city at this time,” Day said, “as we are heading into 2011 armed with new ideas, new technology and a determination to share our city with those who don’t know everything Independence has to offer.” Day has extensive experience working in tourism related industries for the past 13 years and understands the volume of work ahead of her. “The love the residents have for their city is contagious,” she said. “And I’m right there with them. I’ve been overwhelmed with the support and guidance from the mayor and city council and the amount of volunteers Independence has from its’ residents is amazing.” Finishing 2010 on a positive note, the city received a Visitor’s Choice Award for “Best Day Trip” from the Kansas City Convention and Visitors Association. “To ensure we stay at the forefront for day trips and visits, one of our goals for 2011 will be to survey each historic site and begin any necessary

Cori Day City of Independence Tourism Director

“The love the residents have for their city is contagious. And I’m right there with them. I’ve been overwhelmed with the support and guidance from the mayor and city council and the amount of volunteers Independence has from its’ residents is amazing.” repairs. We need to be sure to keep our history intact so visitors want to return and tell others about the remarkable things to do and see in Independence.” Visit the city’s tourism departments website at www. visitindependence.com for more information or call 325-7112 for more information or to become an Independence volunteer ambassador.

Sunday Schedule 9:30am Bible Fellowship Groups 10:50am Worship Celebration Separate Preschool and Children’s Worship

6:30pm Wednesday Children and Adult Activities

Maywood Baptist Church 10505 E Winner Rd Independence, MO 64052 (816) 254-3344 maywoodbaptistchurch.org

A congregation dedicated to serving our city and the world

The Examiner

F8 Friday, February 25, 2011

P ROGRESS

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P rogress

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

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P rogress Proven skin and hair products dating back to 1851 By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Dillard’s at Independence Center has proudly partnered with Kiehl’s and opened a store-within-a-store, which offers a full line of products, specially formulated for skin and hair. Kiehl’s, which has a long history of its own, was founded in 1851 in New York, and offers skin and hair care products formulated with naturally-derived ingredients from botanical extracts from all over the world. Staffed with Angela Pryor, Kiehl’s representative at the store-within-a-store trained Kiehl’s representatives, inside of Dillard’s at Independence Center offers personalized personalized service is offered service for skin and hair products. to customers in order to address tion brick walls and Mr. Bones. Bright neon each individual’s needs and signs have been added to update the image. wants. “Mr. Bones is a replica of the actual skel“We are one, of only a handful of stores, eton that is the flagship for the original Kiehl’s Kiehl’s has chosen to partner with,” Robbie store,” Keeney said. “He tends to get his picKeeney, Dillard’s store manager said. “The line of products Kiehl’s has to offer is sold only ture taken a lot with customers who stop and browse through the products.” in limited department stores, such as ours, Among their line of skin care products online and in their own freestanding stores.” such as moisturizers, eye and lip care products, toners, cleansers, scrubs and masques, “All of the Kiehl’s prodKiehl’s “Healthy Skin Essentials,” formulated ucts are made in the United with natural ingredients at high concentrations, guarantees younger looking skin in 28 days States. The products are with a money back guarantee. true to their roots and some “All of the Kiehl’s products are made in the products are even displayed United States,” Angela Pryor, Kiehl’s represaid. “The products are true to their in the Smithsonian Institute in sentative roots and some products are even displayed Washington, D.C.” in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, ANGELA PRYOR D.C.” KIEHL’S REPRESENTATIVE Sales of the men’s products have A STORE-WITHIN-A-STORE increased as Kiehl’s products such as the DILLARD’S, INDEPENDENCE CENTER Cross-Terrain Dry Run Foot Cream, cleansers, Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream, after-shave, razor bump relief and Ultimate Man Body Scrub Soap have gained attention as being Products from Kiehl’s are sold internationvery robust products. ally and range from cosmetics to fragrances, For more information on the full line of lotions to skin care for every age, every genproducts Kiehl’s has to offer visit www.kieder. Kiehl’s product philosophy is to choose hls.com or visit the store-within-a-store at ingredients, which are going to produce true Dillard’s, Independence. Dillard’s is open Monbenefits for the skin and hair. With over 200 day through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. different products to choose from, Kiehl’s can and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. address skin and hair concerns for women, For more information on the full line of products Kiehl’s has to offer visit www.kiehls.com. Dillard’s is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

M.A.C. CORPORATION is a 31 year old, value added, Developer and Design Build General Contractor that brings to the table a diverse background in delivering technically demanding projects, cost effectively, and expeditiously. What sets M.A.C. CORPORATION apart from other general contractors is that we offer a very comprehensive package of value added services. 1. DEVELOPMENT SERVICES 2. REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE 4. CONSTRUCTION 5. STORE FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT

Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

children, men, babies as well as pets. The ambiance of Kiehl’s, which is located within the Dillard’s cosmetic department, reflects the history and beginnings of the family owned company with a replica of the chandelier from the original Kiehl’s store, old imita-

The Examiner

3. DESIGN SERVICES

M.A.C. CORPORATION is a small, intensely competitive firm, with all the resources of a large company. A snap shot of some of our projects, includes: M.A.C. has designed and/or built over 250,000 sf. of interior finish office space in the last four years. M.A.C. has completed over 70 restaurants. M.A.C. has designed and built over 150 retail stores, both ground-up and remodel, including grocery stores, convenience stores, auto parts stores, clothing stores, farm stores, toy stores, and drug stores. We have designed and/or built several office buildings, and medical clinics. M.A.C. has completed the construction of 20 nursing home facilities, 10 senior housing projects, medical clinics, dental clinics, and several hospital renovations. We have completed the design development, plant lay-out, and construction for over 1,200,000 sf. industrial and manufacturing space, including planning, reverse engineering, equipment breakdown, and physical relocation of all manufacturing equipment. M.A.C. has completed the design, plant layout, and construction of several food processing facilities. We would enjoy the opportunity to meet with your corporate staff, business development personnel, or your independent store owners at any time to assist in the growth of your business. Our interest is to learn as much as possible about your business model, so that we can do the best, most comprehensive, job assisting your company with new project development. Our company is actively seeking build to suit, lease back opportunities, with qualified businesses. Please contact us to see how your next project can be delivered expeditiously and under budget.

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Big changes on the horizon for Meyers Funeral Chapel By Sandy Turner The Examiner

The only locally owned and operated funeral chapel in Blue Springs is getting a makeover. Meyers Funeral Chapel will soon be transformed into a place where peace can be found while grieving and plenty of space to celebrate the life of a loved one with family and friends. Included in the renovations will be the ability to provide a streamlined webcast of funeral services for those who can’t attend. “The live web casting will be available for our military and veterans at no charge,” Marty Meyers said, who co-owns the funeral home with his brother Dennis. “It’s our way of saying thank you.” As first generation funeral directors, having the ability to renovate the funeral chapel is an exciting time for the Meyers brothers. “We have built this business from the ground up,” Marty said. “It’s a good feeling to know that with the community’s support we have been able to succeed. The building has been in need of repair since we bought it and I’m thankful we will be able to provide a funeral chapel that will be second to none for our patrons.” Along with an area showcasing the many team photos and plaques from Meyers’ years of sponsoring local teams, a coffee room will provide refreshments along with a new and updated chapel.

“The building has been in need of repair since we bought it and I’m thankful we will be able to provide a funeral chapel that will be second to none for our patrons.” MARTY MEYERS MEYERS FUNERAL CHAPEL

Having a genuine interest and passion for art, paintings hang on the walls which have special meaning for the brothers. Now, with the remodel, these paintings will be able to shine with special lighting effects and placing. “We’re happy to be able to create a feeling of peacefulness while providing convenience for those who are coming here in times of need. Being able to provide the ample space to grieve in a safe and supportive environment is very important to us,” he said. The compassionate and empathetic ways of Meyers are evident, as they believe every

Above: Dennis and Julie Meyers Below: Marty and Kim Meyers

service should be customized to that individual’s life and the staff takes the time and interest to reflect the life of those who have passed. “We try to make it a celebration of their life,” Marty said. Taking special pride of caring for your loved ones and operating through the highest code of ethics, The Meyers Family Promise™ is as follows: “We promise to be committed to helping your family during their grief, with the recognition that all grief is personal and specific to each individual. We will work with families to create the most personal and unique tribute to the person who dies and support any appropriate request to commemorate the life that was lived. We promise to keep your loved one in our care at all times. We promise to create opportunities for family members and friends to grieve in a safe and supportive environment. We acknowledge that we cannot make the pain go away, but through our efforts we can make the journey of grief less lonely and perhaps a little easier.” Contact Meyers Funeral Chapel by calling 2293625. They are located at 1600 W Main Street in Blue Springs. Visit their website at www.meyersfuneralchapel.com.

The Examiner

G4 Friday, February 25, 2011

P rogress Adams Dairy Landing retail development sees progress ADVERTISER NEWS

Submitted copy

Progress continues at the Adams Dairy Landing Retail Development, which opened in fall 2009. The first power center in Blue Springs, Adams Dairy Landing is a 65-acre, 600,000-square-foot development. Anchored by national retailers like Target, Kohlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Gordmans, Adams Dairy Landing also includes a specialty shop and restaurant component. RED Development continues to bring high-quality retail tenants to the development bringing new jobs and new shopping opportunities. Adams Dairy Landing is strategically located along I-70 at Adams Dairy Parkway, adjacent to Wal-Mart and Home Depot. Adams Dairy Landing serves the eastern portion of Kansas City as well as rural areas further east. This is the closest major retail center for thousands of homes in Jackson County. The centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design theme is Italian/Mediterranean style architecture with large areas for public gatherings. The overall retail development includes a pedestrian friendly walkable design that allows for community events and activities.

P ROGRESS

The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

Blue Springs Carpet and Tile offering more than just flooring By Sandy Turner The Examiner

Troy and Grace Thorpe recently came back home to Blue Springs Carpet and Tile after purchasing the business from Rex Pearson. “We sold the business to Rex four years ago and recently bought it back from him,” Grace said. “The store has been in business for 26 years and we wanted to continue the tradition of servicing the flooring needs of the community.” As certified carpet cleaners, Troy and Grace understand the flooring industry from the bottom up and are excited to again be in front of the customers offering expert advice on everything from carpet to tile to hardwoods as well as remodeling jobs. “As a flooring design specialist, I can help clients decide on accent colors as well as creating unique options for customizing so their tile work looks like no other,” Grace said. Until the end of April, Blue Springs Carpet and Tile is offering a ten percent discount on all sales as they usher in spring and the prime time for home renovations and remodeling. Pricing for Blue Springs Carpet and Tile customers is a simple process as the quote is all-inclusive. “The price we give you includes coming to your home for measurements, tearing up and hauling off the old flooring, upgrading your carpet padding and moving of basic furniture. The only exception will be in laying tile as it can vary depending on how intricate the design is.” As the second generation of being experts in flooring, Grace and Troy have followed in the footsteps of their father, Bob Thorpe. “We have had first-hand experience in all aspects of flooring. Bob trained us and now we’re training the third generation,” she said of their children. As a distributor of the SmartStrand line of carpet, Grace is a believer of its durability and resistance to stain. “I was attending a convention and witnessed the demonstrator pour bleach on the carpet and it came right out. I couldn’t believe it and even went over to smell the chemical to be sure it was bleach.” The SmartStrand flooring, made with a new ingredient, called Sorona, which is produced from corn sugar, provides not only a luxuriously soft carpet but also makes less of an environmental impact. Blue Springs Carpet and Tile, offers everything from high end flooring to commercial needs as well as products for the do-it-yourselfers. “We carry vinyl plank flooring from Luxe, with styles resembling hardwood to tile, is easy to install, durable and requires little maintenance.” Their large line of faux granite countertops is currently being sold at a discounted price. When purchasing flooring at Blue Springs Carpet and Tile they will also clean your carpets or seal your tile, the first time, for free. Cleaning services also include air duct cleaning, deck sealing, emergency water retraction, power washing as well as cleaning windows, screens, chandeliers, coach lights, gutters, carpet, upholstery, tile, grout and area rugs. For more information visit their showroom at 1701 W. 40 Hwy, Ste. 101 in Blue Springs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. Appointments are available during closed business hours. Call 228-2011 or visit www.bluespringscarpetandtile.com for more information.

Grace Thorpe along with her husband Troy recently re-purchased Blue Springs Carpet and Tile. Besides carrying a wide variety of flooring products, they are also certified carpet cleaners and specialize in many different cleaning services from power washing to air duct cleaning.

Troy and Grace Thorpe also own AmeriClean, a Blue Springs business, that has state-of-the art, truck-mounted cleaning equipment. Their staff of highly trained technicians are certified by IICRC, the cleaning industry’s standard-setting professional association. Offering cleaning services such as: • Screens • Chandeliers • Coach Lights • Gutters • Power Washing • Deck Sealing • Carpet & Upholstery • Emergency Water Extraction • Air Duct Cleaning • Tile & Grout • Area Rugs

Window Cleaning • Interior • Exterior • Whole House Pressure Washing • Decks • Siding Screens • Removal • Washing • Storage

For a cleanier, healthier home call Americlean AmeriClean is located at 2401 SW 40 Hwy, Suite A Blue Springs, MO 64015 or Call 816-224-9800 Visit www.americleanway.com

Bulb Replacement • Flood Lights • Post Lights

20% OFF

Any Lunch or Dinner Cuisine Item (excludes all drinks)

Feb. 27 - Mar. 3

One coupon per customer. Copies accepted.

DESSERT SPECIAL German Chocolate Cake & Coffee

$ 95

Serving Authentic German Food on the Independence Square for 20 years.

The Rheinland Restaurant 208 N Main • 816.461.5383

www.rheinlandrestaurant.com

St. John LaLande Catholic School— Where children learn, love, serve…, and grow in the grace of God. Children are a gift from God, and an awesome responsibility. St. John LaLande Catholic School fosters a caring community of students, parents, and educators called to create and nourish a rigorous academic and Christian foundation for each child’s unique God-given talents. • North Central Accreditation • Rigorous Academic Standards • School of Service • Parochial League Athletics • Daily Prayer

Now enrolling for 2011 – 2012 Half-Day and Full-Day Preschool, Kindergarten, and 1st through 8th Grades Call today to meet our faculty, and tour our school.

St. John LaLande Catholic School 801 NW R.D. Mize Road • Blue Springs, MO 64015 • 816-228-5895

Faith, Ser vice, and Education for Life.

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The Examiner

G6 Friday, February 25, 2011

ADVERTISER NEWS

ATK innovation drives progress at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant Submitted by ATK

Eastern Independence and Blue Springs residents familiar with the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) along Highway 7 can see a good indicator of the plant’s progress when driving by the facility’s main gate at Highway 78. The plant’s bright red wooden sign that for many decades welcomed visitors to the government-owned plant has been replaced with a stone monument more worthy of its status as a top national defense asset. For those who are not familiar with it, the plant has supported America’s war fighters since the beginning of World War II. At one time, 12 U.S. plants produced small caliber ammunition for our troops. Today, the LCAAP is the U.S. Department of Defense’s primary provider and the world’s largest manufacturer of high-quality 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm, .50 cal and 20 mm ammunition. ATK, a $4.8 billion corporation headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minn., is the plant’s operator with fixed-price contracts through September 2013. The LCAAP has the capacity to manufacture more than 1.5 billion rounds annually for American and international allied military forces. ATK’s machinery, facilities and engineering expertise in high-volume, high-rate ammunition manufacturing enabled the plant to meet the surge in demand after 9/11, receive ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification, and deliver 10 billion rounds of small caliber ammunition before the company’s tenth anniversary. The U.S. Army and ATK have saved taxpayers more than $1 billion by leveraging ATK’s manufacturing, engineering, supply chain management and quality assurance capabilities for improved process controls and “up time.”

While the ATK workforce meets heightened requirements in delivery and quality, ATK and the Army are executing the final phase of a $280 million modernization project at the plant. The seven-year project culminates this fall with equipment and processes replacing some of those installed in 1941. ATK uses the expertise it gained at the plant to provide non-standard ammunition and weapons (nonNATO) for the security forces of Afghanistan. Focusing its expertise in quality assurance, program management and supply chain management, ATK engages international manufacturers for timely delivery of critical supplies to Kabul. An addition to the ATK and LCAAP portfolio is a new 5.56mm cartridge the Army named the Enhanced Performance Round (EPR). ATK partnered with the U.S. Army to develop a flexible manufacturing plan

to rapidly transition the EPR program into high-volume production. The new round offers a higher velocity for more energy on target, improved hard-target capability, and greater accuracy and consistency for effectiveness at long range. The round’s technological advancements, coupled with ATK’s innovative approach to ammunition engineering, have delivered what the Army calls “the most significant advancement in general purpose small caliber ammunition in decades.” The Lake City Business Center offers businesses an opportunity to start up, expand and grow with all the benefits of a major industrial park, highly-competitive leases and unparalleled incentives. Lake City has more than 500 acres for industrial sites with approximately 645,000 square feet under-roof suited for a wide variety of operations. Ten commercial leases are currently in place with room for more.In a world of increasing risk and budget pressure, militaries are learning to manage budgets and program performance carefully. ATK’s focus on affordable, innovative platform capabilities uniquely positions the LCAAP to continue providing low-cost – but high performance – solutions for its customers.

ADVERTISER NEWS

Providing music for the communities for 45 years Meyer Music offers instruments and lessons

When you buy local, your money stays local. Your hometown office supplier.

Free Delivery Competitive Pricing

CROSS PEN & PENCIL GIVEAWAY

By Sandy Turner The Examiner

When it comes to choosing an instrument, whether it be a piano or top-of-the-line orchestra or band instrument, Meyer Music has been the leading choice for supplying everything a person may need for playing music across the greater Kansas City area. Since opening their doors in Blue Springs in 1966, Ted and Betty Meyer have dedicated their lives to bringing music alive through renting and selling instruments as well as providing lessons. Recently awarded the first ever “Distinguished Member” award from the Blue Springs Chamber, Meyer Music has also been honored as “Distinguished Alumni” by the University of Central Missouri, chosen as “Corporate Citizens of the Year” by the Truman Heartland Foundation and was named “Family Business of the Year.” Along with their children, Tom, Mike and Mitzi, the family owns and operates three locations including one in Overland Park and at the Boardwalk Square Shopping Center in North Kansas City. Their showrooms offer patrons the opportunity to not only learn about instruments for every level, from beginners to advanced, but is also home to music related trinkets, gifts and expert knowledge that can only be found from people who have dedicated their lives to music. Taking a family-oriented, down to earth approach with customer service and having a family member at each location, Meyer Music offers a full line of quality pianos, band and orchestra instruments, musical accessories and sheet music for almost all instruments. Private lessons on musical instruments are offered, from beginners to advanced, at all three locations. Through working with the school districts, the student line of rental instruments and the Rent-to-Learn program, Meyer Music helps students through the process of learning to play and discovering their love for music.

EntEr ! to wr oiunr

Ente to win drawing

(816) 254-9620 101 S Main St Independence, MO 64050

Meyer Music was recently awarded the first ever “Distinguished Member” award from the Blue Springs Chamber.

For more information visit their website at www. meyermusic.com or visit their showroom in Blue Springs at 1512 40 Highway Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They can be contacted by calling 228-5656.

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The Examiner Friday, February 25, 2011

www.independencemo.org/pl

stay informed.

VISIT THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE POWER & LIGHT WEB SITE AND STAY UP-TO-DATE ON IPL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES: IndependenceHELP ON-LINE ENERGY AUDIT SECURITY LIGHTING HEAT PUMP/AIR CONDITIONER REBATES SURGE PROTECTION PROGRAM ON-LINE BILL PAY TREE TRIMMING “OUT OF SIGHT” PROGRAM

816.325.7485 <RXU &RPPXQLW\ (QHUJ\ 3DUWQHU

The Examiner

G8 Friday, February 25, 2011

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