Your Chamber at Work - March 18, 2024

FROM PRESIDENT AND CEO JOE REARDON

Saturday’s home opener for the Kansas City Current proved the truth in the saying, “Build it and they will come.” This was another historic moment for our region as CPKC Stadium opened as the first purpose-built stadium in the world for a women’s professional sports team, and everyone in attendance felt the significance of the day. From the stadium seats to the fans in the stands as well as buildings around town, the team’s teal color was everywhere you looked. And the joyous smiles on every face showed the sense of pride felt in taking part in this momentous occasion. It was a perfect spring day for the Current to win this inaugural match against the Portland Thorns by a score of 5-4. Congratulations to co-owners Angie and Chris Long and Brittany and Patrick Mahomes on achieving their history-making vision. 

As hoped, CPKC Stadium is already serving as a catalyst for future development of Berkley Riverfront Park. Earlier last week, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II announced $4.12M in funding for the Missouri River Access and Development Project. The funds are key for developing a premiere 420 ft. Missouri River dock at Berkley Riverfront and will aid in extending trails into downtown Kansas City, KS. This is an exciting boost for Port KC and its ongoing efforts to keep all of Kansas City connected and ensure that Berkley Riverfront is a must-see destination. 

As residents, I encourage you to be a tourist in our city – experience our parks, catch a game and visit our museums. Get on the free streetcar and ride the entire line, jumping off to eat at our restaurants and shop in our businesses. I promise that you’ll be awestruck by all the incredible people and places that help make Kansas City so special.

NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKING – CREMA AND CHICKEN N PICKLE

All aboard for productive networking! Our Neighborhood Networking tour is full steam ahead on March 22, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., with a stop in the Crossroads to visit Crema (1815 Central St., Kansas City, MO). Join us for this opportunity to connect with area professionals while learning more about this design and technology consultancy company that was a Top 10 Small Business in 2023. Neighborhood Networking events are free for KC Chamber members and $15 for non-members, so register now.

Journey to Chicken N Pickle (5901 W 135th St.) in Overland Park on Friday, April 5, as Neighborhood Networking makes a stop at this unique, indoor/outdoor entertainment complex. Network in a fun atmosphere that inspires friendly connections regardless of industry or age. Register now!

Thank you to the KC Chamber's 2024 Neighborhood Networking Sponsors, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City, Delta Dental, Southwest Airlines, UMB, and Unbound.

VIRTUAL LISTENING SESSIONS FOR STADIUM SALES TAX CAMPAIGN

Election Day is just two weeks away, and Jackson County voters still have a chance to learn more about the Royals and Chiefs' long-term plans to stay in Kansas City as they prepare to cast a ballot on April 2. Registered voters in Jackson County are encouraged to attend a virtual listening session on March 26 to hear more information before deciding how to vote on the extension of Jackson County’s 3/8-cent sales tax for stadium projects.  

Virtual ONLY  
Tuesday, March 26  
11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (Session 1)  
Register Here

Virtual ONLY  
Tuesday, March 26  
3:00-4:00 p.m. (Session 2)  
Register Here

Please register for just one session. You can also read the KC Chamber’s message of support for keeping the teams in Kansas City by clicking here.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP: INSPIRE AND EMPOWER LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Join us for a day of inspiration, networking, and empowerment on Thursday, March 28, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the KC Chamber Board Room inside Union Station, as we explore the intersection of technology and humanity, forging a path towards excellence in leadership. Don't miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event that promises to elevate your aspirations and ignite the spark of greatness within you. Learn more and reserve your spot now for a conference that goes beyond the ordinary, propelling you towards a future of limitless possibilities! 

HEALTHY KC EMPOWERING CONVERSATIONS: REDUCING THE STIGMA AROUND LEAVE

How can employers recognize when someone needs help? What can employers do when an employee is taking leave? How can teams support a colleague on leave? On Thursday, April 4, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the KC Chamber Board Room inside Union Station, we'll answer these questions and cover the basics from a compliance lens. You’ll also learn from a manager on how leaders can take action and hear a case study on culture and compassion fatigue in the workplace. In addition to a Q&A with the presenters, attendees can visit resource tables focused on underrepresented reasons for employee leave. Click here to register!