The Intertwined Lives Of Those In Lee's Summit
Read this list carefully. Notice how much these folks all interact? They are on so many boards together. Is there anywhere in Lee's Summit where REAL people have a SAY?!!! There is even someone from the Kansas City Star on here. Guess that is why we can't get the Star to do an objective report out here.
Established in 1993, the Lee's Summit Educational Foundation raises, manages, and distributes funds for educational programs that benefit students, staff, and patrons of the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. This charitable organization is managed by a voting Board of Directors and a non-voting Advisory Council composed of community members.
The Foundation provides funding for scholarships and for innovative learning activities not able to be funded by the school district. Such examples are competitive classroom grants to teachers called PEAK Grants (Promoting Excellence And Knowledge) and Scholarships to graduating seniors. The Foundation also led a Capital Campaign to build "Great Beginnings Early Education Center."
The Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, Inc. invites you to browse this website and learn how you can help create a legacy by investing in the future..........today!
Keith Asel, President
Commerce Bank
2820 SW Saddlewood Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2597
(816) 525-1548
Keith.asel@commercebank.com
Jane Rutherford, Vice President
Community Representative
2900 SW 14th St
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3811
(816) 966-6463
Job title: Vice-President
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
Mary Stilley, Secretary
Community Representative
219 NW Aspen Ct
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1448
Job title: Secretary
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
2001 Board of Education Election VOTERS ELECT MARY STILLEY AND TOM ZAMMAR TO BOARD OF EDUCATION ON APRIL 3Mary Stilley and Tom Zammar were both elected to the Board of Education during an April 3 election. Mary Stilley received 2,479 votes, and Tom Zammar received 2,126 votes. Candidate William F. Brittendall received 954 votes. This is Mrs. Stilley's third term on the R-7 Board of Education and Mr. Zammar's second term.
Mike Allen, Treasurer
New England Financial
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Job title: Vice-President
Company: Encouraging Families With Exceptional Children Together
4120 SW Leeward Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64082-4786
(816) 537-4685
Nancy Blackwell
Chinnery Evans & Nail
733 NE Seabrook Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1158
(816) 478-8345
info@chinnery.com
nblackwell@chinnery.com
Cheryl Collier
KD's Books
211 NW Hillcrest Lane
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2331
Michael Dodig
R-7 Board of Education President
1216 NE Colleen Ct
Lees Summit, MO 64086-3539
(816) 525-0808
Kent Kirby
Commerce Bank
412 SE Richardson Pl
Lees Summit, MO 64063-3240
(816) 525-7555
Diane Seif
DVA Enterprises, Inc.
Job title: Chairman of the Board
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Summit Bank of Kansas City
210 NW Spruce St
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1474
(816) 478-9919
210 SE Grand Ave, Apt 100
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2859
Rick Viar
Summit Bank of KC
Job title: President
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
1650 NE Grand St, Ste 100
Lees Summit, MO 64086-9797
(816) 246-4554
Rick.Viar@summitbankofkc.com
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Bill Baird
Infinity Realty
Vice Chair of Economic Development
Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
1531 SW Longview Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2544
bill@infinityrealtysells.com
Carl Chinnery
Chinnery Evans & Nail
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Summit Bank of Kansas City
Legal Counsel For Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
200 SE Douglas St, Ste 200
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2339
(816) 525-2050
cchinnery@chinnery.com
Janette Cooley
Pleasant Lea Middle School
Principal
13104 E 94th St
Kansas City, MO 64138-5016
(816) 554-3251
janette.cooley@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dave Eames
Kansas City STAR
109 SW Tess Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-4044
(816) 524-0387
Juli Ellisbill@infinityrealtysells.com
1901 SE 7th St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-1003
Becky Freetly-Graber
Pineapple Marketing Group
Job title: Vice-Chairman
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Vice Chair of Community Development
220 SE Main St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2332
(816) 524-2424
becky@justbecandid.com
Carson Graff
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
Financial Representative
816-412-1537
Carson Graff's primary focus is dealing with long term care and retirement solutions. His goal is to help his clients identify and address their financial needs. Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, he graduated from Southwest Missouri State University with a major in Marketing. Carson is a native of Lee's Summit, Missouri and now lives in downtown Kansas City.
Major Hammett
Major Saver Fundraising
Job title: Partner
Company: Hammett & Schmidt P C
Job title: President
Company: Major Saver Fundraising
2638 NE Hagan Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64064-2359
(816) 421-1521
Lea Anne Mallot
Silpada Designs
1121 SW Coachlight Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3780
(816) 966-1575
Dr. David McGehee
Lee's Summit R-7 Schools Superintendent
301 NE Tudor Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64086-5702
(816) 986-1000
david.mcgehee@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Brent Miller
Lee's Summit Journal
bmiller@lsjournal.com
Don Munce
NRCCUA
Job title: President
Company: The National Research Center For College & University Admissions
350 NW Lakewood Blvd
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1137
(816) 373-0030
Mary Naudet
R-7 Elementary Principal Representative
Job title: Principal
Company: Richardson Elementary School
2344 SW Waterfall Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-1792
(816) 554-1128
mary.naudet@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dr. Mary Alice Neal
R-7 Elementary Asst. Supt.
Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Instruction
Christine Pierson
Bayer
305 NW Rockhill Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2097
(816) 554-0650
Cindy Reams-Martin
Cindy Reams-Martin, P.C.
408 SE Douglas
Lee's Summit, Missouri 64063
816-554-6444
crmlaw@swbell.net
Bill Regan
Lawing Financial
13901 S Harris Rd
Greenwood, MO 64034-8902
(816) 537-0009
Adam Rutherford
JP Morgan
2900 SW 14th St
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3811
(816) 966-6463
Dennis Smith
Community Representative & Immediate Past President
1640 NE Baron Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64086-3397
(816) 524-7913
Mr. Dennis Smith, Class of 1969Prominent Lee's Summit educator; Greater Kansas City Principal of the Year;former Lee's Summit alderman
Michele SpilkerSpilker McKeone Nelson, CPA
330 SW Main St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2340
info@spilkermckeone.com
Dr. Ann Starlin-Horner
R-7 Assoc. Supt of Instruction & School Leadership
ann.starlin-horner@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dr. David Voris
Lee's Summit Animal Hospital
2724 NW Bent Tree Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64081-1828
(816) 246-5524
Patty Voss
R-7 PTA Area Council President
Bob White
Community Representative
Job title: Representative
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
Sheryl Franke
LS Educational Foundation Director
301 NE Tudor Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
Phone: (816) 986-1015
Fax: (816) 986-1170
Email: Sheryl.Franke@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Kristy Young
LS Educational Foundation Admin. Asst.
605 Hamblen Rd
Greenwood, MO 64034-9623
(816) 366-0251
Citizens For Excellence in Lee's Summit City Government
We are citizen volunteers from all areas of the city who share in the common support of excellence in Lee’s Summit.
Meet Our Members & Supporters
Annette Braam, Chair
Gene Gamber, Treasurer
Tony Jose, Secretary
Mike Allen
Porter Arneill
Bob Arredondo
Keith Asel
Mike Atcheson
Reverend Vern Barnet
Stan Beatty
Cheryl Bevel
Steve Braam
Gary Bromley
Debra Bronston
Robert L. Brooks
Lulu Brown
Thomas Brown
Dr. Steve & Patti Buie
Jack Campbell
Carl Chinnery
Stan Christopher
John & Edith Coleman
Brad Cox
Dave Cross
Dawn Davis
Jim Dawson
Norman Dexter
Trishia Drape
Bill & Rita Duvall
Randall & Helen Ferguson
Nick Fletcher
Alan Flory
Kay Ford
Diane Forte
Brian & Sheryl Franke
Daren Fristoe
Don Gardner
Stephen Gentry
Mark Gilgus
Reverend Tom Haley
Lori Harp
Terri Hendricks
Bud Hertzog
Jennifer Hicks
Geoff Hill
William "Skip" Hill
Rod Hubert
Brian Hutchin
Steve Israelite
Dr. Syrtiller Kabat
Denise Kelly
Gary Kemp
Leo and Debbie Lang
Mike & Sue LeVota
Adele Levi
Benny Lewis
Kurt Lutz
Paul Lutz
Manne Magady
Jim and Michelle Markey
Clyde McQueen
Chris Moreno
Basil North
Suzetta Parks-Pennington
Mark Parrish
Pete & Diane Peoples
Berkley Pernell
Jim Phillips
John Plaas
Ed Powell
Lonnie and Brenda Powell
Reverend Jim Preisig
Kurt Pycior
Herman Ransom
Bill Regan
Bill & Vicki Reisler
Drayton Riley
Kay Saunders
Amy Schumaker
Kent Shelman
Myron Sildon
Connie Smith
Dennis Smith
Marla Stout
Ken Stremming
Michael Paul and Mary Ann Swisher
Mike Vanbuskirk
Rick Viar
Dr. Michael Weaver
Jeremy White
Larry Williams
Patricia Wyatt
Marian & Bob Zajic
Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce Officers
Kurt Lutz 816-537-4200 Chair I have been a Chamber member since 1990, serving on the Board of Directors since 2003, currently Secretary/Treasurer, past Vice Chair of Membership Development and Services, served on the various committees that fall under the responsibilities of these Chair positions, Oktoberfest committee since 2002, and am a graduate of Leadership Lee's Summit. The chamber has been important as an opportunity to cultivate and sustain relationships with business and community leaders, which provides growth and an enhanced community profile for Gale Communities. The Chamber is the best resource and asset available for businesses to gain recognition, develop new business, educate employees and enhance community pride.
Mark Parrish 816-554-1500 Chair Elect I am Of Counsel with the Nash & Franciskato Law Firm specializing in products liability, vexatious refusal/bad faith litigation and commercial litigation involving cases and clients throughout the United States. I also advise small businesses regarding various insurance coverage and other litigation related matters. In addition to my involvement with the Lee's Summit Chamber, I also serve on the MATA Board of Governors and the board for Lawyers Encouraging Academic Performance. I am a member of AAJ, KsAJ, Public Justice, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Swiss American Chamber of Commerce. Through the Chamber I have become better involved with the community where I live and work as well as making many valuable business and personal contacts. I currently serve on the Education Committee, Legislative and Governmental Relations Committee.
Lynn Hinkle 816-347-8241 Secretary/Treasurer I have been a Chamber member for approximately eleven years. Over the years I have been on different committees and task forces - Membership, Annual Dinner, Holiday Reception, Membership Blitz and Annual Golf Tournament, but the one that I have been involved with since day one is the Oktoberfest Committee. I also attend as many of the Business Before/After hours and Ribbon Cuttings as possible. It really puts me out there and gives me the opportunity to meet more people, which is good for my business. I also treasure the many friendships that I have made over the years.
Diane Forte 816-524-2782 Vice Chair of Membership Development Dean's Trophies T Shirts and Awards has been a member of the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce since 2000. I have been active in many committees and feel it is very important for me personally and my business professionaly to give back to our community. Dean's Trophies T Shirts and Awards is a family owned business started by my father Dean Crawford in 1964. It is imperitive that all business's come together in a forum where they can grow and learn from each other and for me that is what the Lee's Summit Chamber is ALL about. I am also on the board for the Lee's Summit Rotary Club and an active member of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street.
Becky Freetly-Graber 816-309-2709 Vice Chair of Community Development An active member of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Becky Freetly- Graber is a board member and sits on the public relations committee. She is also a member of the Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation advisory board, a member of the Longview Foundation board and is a graduate of the 2006-2007 Leadership Lee’s Summit program. Becky was awarded the New Member of the Year in 2005 by the Lee’s Summit Chamber, and was named 2007 Woman of the Year by Lee’s Summit Business and Professional Women. Becky is a partner in candid marketing agency, a strategically creative full-service marketing firm. When she’s not focused on being candid, Becky and her husband Mark enjoy spending time with family and playing with their yellow Labrador retriever Sadie and chocolate Labrador retriever, Charlie.
Matt Baird 816-554-6368 Vice Chair of Economic Development Infinity Realty was formed for the purpose of creating a viable option in real estate services. We have always taken the approach of making a positive change not only for our clients but also our community. An active chamber member since 2002 Infinity Realty has been involved with many chamber events and recently was awarded the 2007 Business of the Year Parvus Level. A graduate of Leadership Lee’s Summit I have great appreciation and dedication to what the chamber of commerce does not only for businesses but the development of individuals. I am actively involved in the LS Sunrise Rotary Club, Partners in Education, and serve on the Historic Preservation Commission as well as LS Downtown Main Street board and Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors. Incredible opportunities lie within the growth and development of our wonderful city and with that personal belief I know we can always strive to achieve a better tomorrow.
Tom Jackson 816-525-5300 Chair Emeritis I have been fortunate to be a Chamber member for over seven years, and have enjoyed and appreciated the relationships made and strengthened through various Chamber functions. Having the opportunity to provide input on numerous committees, having served as former Vice Chair of Business and Economic Development and Membership Development and Service, as well as on the Strategic Planning Committee has provided me with a stronger overall knowledge base to assist the Chamber in my current capacity as Chair Elect for 2008.
Carl Chinnery 816-525-2050 Legal Counsel
Summit Bank of Kansas City
Our Board of Directors
Richard L. Viar
PRESIDENT, DIRECTOR
Mr. Viar has over 25 years commercial banking experience. Throughout his career, he has taken the opportunity to learn the best practices that would eventually lead to the successful strategic development of Summit Bank of Kansas City. By implementing and embracing the core values of customer focus, community leadership, and collegial integrity, he has realized his vision of true community banking. He has particular expertise in successful management of strategic, organizational and fiscal objectives.
He holds a Masters in Business Administration from Drury University and a Bachelors of Science Degree from Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. In addition, he attended the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin and the American Banker’s Association Commercial Lending School at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma.
Mr. Viar is currently on the boards of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Bi-County United Way of Cass & Jackson Counties, Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, and is a member of the Industrial Development Authority of the city of Lee’s Summit, MO. Mr. Viar is director of the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council and also a member of the East Independence Rotary and active in the Independence Chamber of Commerce.
Jack A. Accurso
DIRECTOR
Mr. Accurso is a native of Kansas City, Missouri and has owned several successful businesses during his career. In 1986, he founded American Foodservice Company with three of his sons, which has grown to become one of the region’s largest independent, full-line food distributors as well as one of Lee’s Summit’s most visible employers. American Foodservice’s customer base includes many prestigious restaurants, grocery stores, specialty retailers and casinos.
He is currently an honorary director of the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association.
Kathy Bennett
DIRECTOR
Kathy L. Bennett is the President & CEO of Bennett Packaging of Kansas City, a manufacturer of high-quality packaging and display products, ranging from standard brown shipping cartons to deluxe point-of-purchase display products.
Bennett Packaging was recently honored by the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce as a “Top 10 Small Business of the Year.” The award was given based on outstanding key elements of growth, sustainability in revenue, employee relations, and a commitment to community service in Kansas City. Kathy received the “Women Who Mean Business” recognition in 2005 from The Kansas City Business Journal.
Bennett Packaging is a member of the Chambers of Commerce of Missouri, Kansas City, and Lee’s Summit, the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council (Benefactor Level), Kansas City Smartport (Gold Level), Kansas City Council of Women Business Owners, National Association of Women Business Owners, Women Impacting Public Policy (National Level), American Business Women’s Association (National Level), Women Presidents Organization.
Carl L. Chinnery
DIRECTOR
Mr. Chinnery is founding partner of Chinnery Evans & Nail, one of Lee's Summit's oldest and most respected law firms. He has established an exceptional reputation for his extensive expertise in estate planning, business law, real estate and charitable giving, as well as his active and exhaustive support of the civic and educational efforts of the community.
His charitable service includes serving as Chairman of the Truman Medical Center Planned Giving Council; Chairman of the Children's Mercy Hospital Planned Giving Council; and Chairman of the Community Foundation of Lee's Summit. Mr. Chinnery's civic activities include the Rotary Club, serving as a District Governor of Rotary International in 2002-2003; the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce, serving as its president in 1978; the Lee's Summit Economic Development Council, as president in 1996-97; and the Rockhurst College Small Business Development Corporation, as past Chairman.
Mr. Chinnery has served as president of the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education, president of the Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and is a Charter Life Underwriter. Mr. Chinnery holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Beloit College and a law degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Will Coates
DIRECTOR
Mr. Coates is a longtime resident of Lee's Summit, Missouri, and has been the president of Billy Goat Industries, Inc. since 1994. The company manufactures outdoor power equipment used in debris management and exports product worldwide to markets in Canada, Western Europe, New Zealand, South Africa, and Japan. Today the company is owned and operated by two generations of the Coates family.
Mr. Coates holds a Bachelors Degree from Austin College in Sherman, Texas and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Texas.
Roger Fender, DDS
DIRECTOR
Dr. Fender is a native of Lee's Summit, Missouri. Following dental school, he founded Fender Family Dentistry, a comprehensive practice specializing in general dentistry and orthodontics. He is also co-owner of ProCorp Images Inc., a promotional products company, and ProLeasing Investments. Dr. Fender is a member of the Lee's Summit Community Church.
Dr. Fender earned his Bachelors of Science in chemistry from Central Missouri State University and is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Dental School.
Robert F. Glaser
DIRECTOR
Mr. Glaser enjoyed a successful career as senior manager for several large Sears retail stores in the Kansas City area before becoming the founding president of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation in 1994. In addition to extensive volunteer community involvement, he was the Director of Development for the Bi-County United Way of Cass and Jackson Counties, and is responsible for launching its endowment program.
He was most recently a property manager for Curry Association Management, managing Kirkwood Properties, a 10 acre DST Development. He is currently Vice President of Business Development for Summit Bank of Kansas City.
Mr. Glaser holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas.
Harlan Limpus
DIRECTOR
Mr. Limpus spent an illustrious career in the limestone mining, processing, and ready-mix industry before selling various related entities to Ashland Paving and Lafarge North America. He is the developer and owner of Winterstone Golf Course in Independence, Missouri and a managing member of Western Materials & Design. He is also an Executive Member of Mid-America Sand Co.
Mr. Limpus is a native of the area and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri.
Stan E. Ricketts
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Mr. Ricketts has been President-Midwest Region, for Capitol Bancorp Ltd. since April, 2004.
Previously, Mr. Ricketts was President of the Northeast Kansas Region for INTRUST Bank., N.A. Prior, he held several positions with Commerce Bancshares, Inc. and its flagship bank, Commerce Bank of Kansas City, N.A. With Commerce Bancshares, Mr. Ricketts served as a parent company liaison to bank presidents in communities in Missouri and Kansas. As a Senior Vice President with Commerce Bank of Kansas City, Mr. Ricketts served as a manager of the Business Banking department.
Mr. Ricketts holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from Wichita State University. He has also attended the University of Kansas and Rockhurst College with a focus on economics and accounting.
Carson Ross
DIRECTOR
Mr. Ross is currently the Mayor of Blue Springs, Missouri, where he has lived for over 34 years. He is the consummate civic leader, community volunteer, and public servant. He was elected in 1988 to represent eastern Jackson County, Missouri in the Missouri House of Representatives and served for over 14 years. Prior to his state service, he was a member of Blue Springs (MO) Board of Alderman, City Council, and mayor pro tem, chairman of St. Mary’s Hospital Board of Directors in Blue Springs, Missouri, and former member of Carondelet Health Board.
Mr. Ross retired from Hallmark Cards in 2005 ending a 39 year career. In 1995 and 1996, he was recognized by the Kansas City Globe as one of Kansas City’s most influential African Americans. He was awarded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference’s Black Achiever in 1985. He also received the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce in 1991. Mr. Ross is a past Chairman of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation and served on the Bi-County United Way of Cass and Jackson Counties Board of Directors. He is now a member of the United Way of Greater Kansas City Board of Trustees, and member and past Chairman of the Missouri Veterans Commission.
Mayor Ross is Chairman of the Metro Mayors Caucus of Cass, Clay, and Jackson counties, Co-Chair of the Eastern Jackson County Betterment Council and the Missouri Municipal League Board of Directors.
Mr. Ross holds a Bachelors of Science Degree from Rockhurst University in Kansas City Missouri.
Diane J. Seif
DIRECTOR
Ms. Seif is President and CEO of DVA Enterprises, Inc. in Lee’s Summit, MO. She has founded several companies, including Regulatory-Clinical Consultants Inc. (RXCCI), and Van Jones Building Company. DVA Enterprises, Inc. is a commercial real estate management company with an investment focus on small businesses. Ms. Seif provides strategic consulting services for pharmaceutical, life science, biotechnology, and device companies, as well as business development support while helping small business develop and grow.
She is past Chair of Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Chair of local operating board of Jackson and Cass Counties of United Way, University of Kansas NSF Advisory Board, Director of Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, Chairman of Development Committee for Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, Small Business Council for Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, and Lee’s Summit Economic Development. She is also involved in the National Association of Women Business Owners – NAWBO, Rotary Advisor and member of American Business Women’s Association. She was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and is on the Planning Commission for the City of Lee’s Summit.
Steven M. Silverstein
DIRECTOR
A board-certified ophthalmologist and fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Silverstein is active in a number of professional medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Midwest Cornea Society, the Kansas City Society of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology, the Missouri Medical Society, and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Dr. Silverstein serves as a clinical professor of ophthalmology at the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine and the University of Health Sciences
Dr. Silverstein is a councilman, mayor pro tem, and police commissioner for the city of Lake Winnebago, Missouri. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Truman Heartland Foundation, and the advisory board for the Gift of Life organ transplant organization. He has published in major medical journals, and lectures extensively around the world.
Dr. Silverstein earned his B.A. degree from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia and his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.
Established in 1993, the Lee's Summit Educational Foundation raises, manages, and distributes funds for educational programs that benefit students, staff, and patrons of the Lee's Summit R-7 School District. This charitable organization is managed by a voting Board of Directors and a non-voting Advisory Council composed of community members.
The Foundation provides funding for scholarships and for innovative learning activities not able to be funded by the school district. Such examples are competitive classroom grants to teachers called PEAK Grants (Promoting Excellence And Knowledge) and Scholarships to graduating seniors. The Foundation also led a Capital Campaign to build "Great Beginnings Early Education Center."
The Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, Inc. invites you to browse this website and learn how you can help create a legacy by investing in the future..........today!
Keith Asel, President
Commerce Bank
2820 SW Saddlewood Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2597
(816) 525-1548
Keith.asel@commercebank.com
Jane Rutherford, Vice President
Community Representative
2900 SW 14th St
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3811
(816) 966-6463
Job title: Vice-President
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
Mary Stilley, Secretary
Community Representative
219 NW Aspen Ct
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1448
Job title: Secretary
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
2001 Board of Education Election VOTERS ELECT MARY STILLEY AND TOM ZAMMAR TO BOARD OF EDUCATION ON APRIL 3Mary Stilley and Tom Zammar were both elected to the Board of Education during an April 3 election. Mary Stilley received 2,479 votes, and Tom Zammar received 2,126 votes. Candidate William F. Brittendall received 954 votes. This is Mrs. Stilley's third term on the R-7 Board of Education and Mr. Zammar's second term.
Mike Allen, Treasurer
New England Financial
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Job title: Vice-President
Company: Encouraging Families With Exceptional Children Together
4120 SW Leeward Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64082-4786
(816) 537-4685
Nancy Blackwell
Chinnery Evans & Nail
733 NE Seabrook Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1158
(816) 478-8345
info@chinnery.com
nblackwell@chinnery.com
Cheryl Collier
KD's Books
211 NW Hillcrest Lane
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2331
Michael Dodig
R-7 Board of Education President
1216 NE Colleen Ct
Lees Summit, MO 64086-3539
(816) 525-0808
Kent Kirby
Commerce Bank
412 SE Richardson Pl
Lees Summit, MO 64063-3240
(816) 525-7555
Diane Seif
DVA Enterprises, Inc.
Job title: Chairman of the Board
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Summit Bank of Kansas City
210 NW Spruce St
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1474
(816) 478-9919
210 SE Grand Ave, Apt 100
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2859
Rick Viar
Summit Bank of KC
Job title: President
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
1650 NE Grand St, Ste 100
Lees Summit, MO 64086-9797
(816) 246-4554
Rick.Viar@summitbankofkc.com
ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Bill Baird
Infinity Realty
Vice Chair of Economic Development
Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
1531 SW Longview Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2544
bill@infinityrealtysells.com
Carl Chinnery
Chinnery Evans & Nail
Job title: Board of Directors
Company: Summit Bank of Kansas City
Legal Counsel For Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
200 SE Douglas St, Ste 200
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2339
(816) 525-2050
cchinnery@chinnery.com
Janette Cooley
Pleasant Lea Middle School
Principal
13104 E 94th St
Kansas City, MO 64138-5016
(816) 554-3251
janette.cooley@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dave Eames
Kansas City STAR
109 SW Tess Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-4044
(816) 524-0387
Juli Ellisbill@infinityrealtysells.com
1901 SE 7th St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-1003
Becky Freetly-Graber
Pineapple Marketing Group
Job title: Vice-Chairman
Company: Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce
Vice Chair of Community Development
220 SE Main St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2332
(816) 524-2424
becky@justbecandid.com
Carson Graff
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
Financial Representative
816-412-1537
Carson Graff's primary focus is dealing with long term care and retirement solutions. His goal is to help his clients identify and address their financial needs. Prior to joining Northwestern Mutual, he graduated from Southwest Missouri State University with a major in Marketing. Carson is a native of Lee's Summit, Missouri and now lives in downtown Kansas City.
Major Hammett
Major Saver Fundraising
Job title: Partner
Company: Hammett & Schmidt P C
Job title: President
Company: Major Saver Fundraising
2638 NE Hagan Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64064-2359
(816) 421-1521
Lea Anne Mallot
Silpada Designs
1121 SW Coachlight Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3780
(816) 966-1575
Dr. David McGehee
Lee's Summit R-7 Schools Superintendent
301 NE Tudor Rd
Lees Summit, MO 64086-5702
(816) 986-1000
david.mcgehee@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Brent Miller
Lee's Summit Journal
bmiller@lsjournal.com
Don Munce
NRCCUA
Job title: President
Company: The National Research Center For College & University Admissions
350 NW Lakewood Blvd
Lees Summit, MO 64064-1137
(816) 373-0030
Mary Naudet
R-7 Elementary Principal Representative
Job title: Principal
Company: Richardson Elementary School
2344 SW Waterfall Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64081-1792
(816) 554-1128
mary.naudet@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dr. Mary Alice Neal
R-7 Elementary Asst. Supt.
Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Instruction
Christine Pierson
Bayer
305 NW Rockhill Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64081-2097
(816) 554-0650
Cindy Reams-Martin
Cindy Reams-Martin, P.C.
408 SE Douglas
Lee's Summit, Missouri 64063
816-554-6444
crmlaw@swbell.net
Bill Regan
Lawing Financial
13901 S Harris Rd
Greenwood, MO 64034-8902
(816) 537-0009
Adam Rutherford
JP Morgan
2900 SW 14th St
Lees Summit, MO 64081-3811
(816) 966-6463
Dennis Smith
Community Representative & Immediate Past President
1640 NE Baron Dr
Lees Summit, MO 64086-3397
(816) 524-7913
Mr. Dennis Smith, Class of 1969Prominent Lee's Summit educator; Greater Kansas City Principal of the Year;former Lee's Summit alderman
Michele SpilkerSpilker McKeone Nelson, CPA
330 SW Main St
Lees Summit, MO 64063-2340
info@spilkermckeone.com
Dr. Ann Starlin-Horner
R-7 Assoc. Supt of Instruction & School Leadership
ann.starlin-horner@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Dr. David Voris
Lee's Summit Animal Hospital
2724 NW Bent Tree Cir
Lees Summit, MO 64081-1828
(816) 246-5524
Patty Voss
R-7 PTA Area Council President
Bob White
Community Representative
Job title: Representative
Company: Lee's Summit Educational Foundation
Sheryl Franke
LS Educational Foundation Director
301 NE Tudor Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
Phone: (816) 986-1015
Fax: (816) 986-1170
Email: Sheryl.Franke@leesummit.k12.mo.us
Kristy Young
LS Educational Foundation Admin. Asst.
605 Hamblen Rd
Greenwood, MO 64034-9623
(816) 366-0251
Citizens For Excellence in Lee's Summit City Government
We are citizen volunteers from all areas of the city who share in the common support of excellence in Lee’s Summit.
Meet Our Members & Supporters
Annette Braam, Chair
Gene Gamber, Treasurer
Tony Jose, Secretary
Mike Allen
Porter Arneill
Bob Arredondo
Keith Asel
Mike Atcheson
Reverend Vern Barnet
Stan Beatty
Cheryl Bevel
Steve Braam
Gary Bromley
Debra Bronston
Robert L. Brooks
Lulu Brown
Thomas Brown
Dr. Steve & Patti Buie
Jack Campbell
Carl Chinnery
Stan Christopher
John & Edith Coleman
Brad Cox
Dave Cross
Dawn Davis
Jim Dawson
Norman Dexter
Trishia Drape
Bill & Rita Duvall
Randall & Helen Ferguson
Nick Fletcher
Alan Flory
Kay Ford
Diane Forte
Brian & Sheryl Franke
Daren Fristoe
Don Gardner
Stephen Gentry
Mark Gilgus
Reverend Tom Haley
Lori Harp
Terri Hendricks
Bud Hertzog
Jennifer Hicks
Geoff Hill
William "Skip" Hill
Rod Hubert
Brian Hutchin
Steve Israelite
Dr. Syrtiller Kabat
Denise Kelly
Gary Kemp
Leo and Debbie Lang
Mike & Sue LeVota
Adele Levi
Benny Lewis
Kurt Lutz
Paul Lutz
Manne Magady
Jim and Michelle Markey
Clyde McQueen
Chris Moreno
Basil North
Suzetta Parks-Pennington
Mark Parrish
Pete & Diane Peoples
Berkley Pernell
Jim Phillips
John Plaas
Ed Powell
Lonnie and Brenda Powell
Reverend Jim Preisig
Kurt Pycior
Herman Ransom
Bill Regan
Bill & Vicki Reisler
Drayton Riley
Kay Saunders
Amy Schumaker
Kent Shelman
Myron Sildon
Connie Smith
Dennis Smith
Marla Stout
Ken Stremming
Michael Paul and Mary Ann Swisher
Mike Vanbuskirk
Rick Viar
Dr. Michael Weaver
Jeremy White
Larry Williams
Patricia Wyatt
Marian & Bob Zajic
Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce Officers
Kurt Lutz 816-537-4200 Chair I have been a Chamber member since 1990, serving on the Board of Directors since 2003, currently Secretary/Treasurer, past Vice Chair of Membership Development and Services, served on the various committees that fall under the responsibilities of these Chair positions, Oktoberfest committee since 2002, and am a graduate of Leadership Lee's Summit. The chamber has been important as an opportunity to cultivate and sustain relationships with business and community leaders, which provides growth and an enhanced community profile for Gale Communities. The Chamber is the best resource and asset available for businesses to gain recognition, develop new business, educate employees and enhance community pride.
Mark Parrish 816-554-1500 Chair Elect I am Of Counsel with the Nash & Franciskato Law Firm specializing in products liability, vexatious refusal/bad faith litigation and commercial litigation involving cases and clients throughout the United States. I also advise small businesses regarding various insurance coverage and other litigation related matters. In addition to my involvement with the Lee's Summit Chamber, I also serve on the MATA Board of Governors and the board for Lawyers Encouraging Academic Performance. I am a member of AAJ, KsAJ, Public Justice, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Swiss American Chamber of Commerce. Through the Chamber I have become better involved with the community where I live and work as well as making many valuable business and personal contacts. I currently serve on the Education Committee, Legislative and Governmental Relations Committee.
Lynn Hinkle 816-347-8241 Secretary/Treasurer I have been a Chamber member for approximately eleven years. Over the years I have been on different committees and task forces - Membership, Annual Dinner, Holiday Reception, Membership Blitz and Annual Golf Tournament, but the one that I have been involved with since day one is the Oktoberfest Committee. I also attend as many of the Business Before/After hours and Ribbon Cuttings as possible. It really puts me out there and gives me the opportunity to meet more people, which is good for my business. I also treasure the many friendships that I have made over the years.
Diane Forte 816-524-2782 Vice Chair of Membership Development Dean's Trophies T Shirts and Awards has been a member of the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce since 2000. I have been active in many committees and feel it is very important for me personally and my business professionaly to give back to our community. Dean's Trophies T Shirts and Awards is a family owned business started by my father Dean Crawford in 1964. It is imperitive that all business's come together in a forum where they can grow and learn from each other and for me that is what the Lee's Summit Chamber is ALL about. I am also on the board for the Lee's Summit Rotary Club and an active member of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street.
Becky Freetly-Graber 816-309-2709 Vice Chair of Community Development An active member of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Becky Freetly- Graber is a board member and sits on the public relations committee. She is also a member of the Lee’s Summit Educational Foundation advisory board, a member of the Longview Foundation board and is a graduate of the 2006-2007 Leadership Lee’s Summit program. Becky was awarded the New Member of the Year in 2005 by the Lee’s Summit Chamber, and was named 2007 Woman of the Year by Lee’s Summit Business and Professional Women. Becky is a partner in candid marketing agency, a strategically creative full-service marketing firm. When she’s not focused on being candid, Becky and her husband Mark enjoy spending time with family and playing with their yellow Labrador retriever Sadie and chocolate Labrador retriever, Charlie.
Matt Baird 816-554-6368 Vice Chair of Economic Development Infinity Realty was formed for the purpose of creating a viable option in real estate services. We have always taken the approach of making a positive change not only for our clients but also our community. An active chamber member since 2002 Infinity Realty has been involved with many chamber events and recently was awarded the 2007 Business of the Year Parvus Level. A graduate of Leadership Lee’s Summit I have great appreciation and dedication to what the chamber of commerce does not only for businesses but the development of individuals. I am actively involved in the LS Sunrise Rotary Club, Partners in Education, and serve on the Historic Preservation Commission as well as LS Downtown Main Street board and Kansas City Regional Association of Realtors. Incredible opportunities lie within the growth and development of our wonderful city and with that personal belief I know we can always strive to achieve a better tomorrow.
Tom Jackson 816-525-5300 Chair Emeritis I have been fortunate to be a Chamber member for over seven years, and have enjoyed and appreciated the relationships made and strengthened through various Chamber functions. Having the opportunity to provide input on numerous committees, having served as former Vice Chair of Business and Economic Development and Membership Development and Service, as well as on the Strategic Planning Committee has provided me with a stronger overall knowledge base to assist the Chamber in my current capacity as Chair Elect for 2008.
Carl Chinnery 816-525-2050 Legal Counsel
Summit Bank of Kansas City
Our Board of Directors
Richard L. Viar
PRESIDENT, DIRECTOR
Mr. Viar has over 25 years commercial banking experience. Throughout his career, he has taken the opportunity to learn the best practices that would eventually lead to the successful strategic development of Summit Bank of Kansas City. By implementing and embracing the core values of customer focus, community leadership, and collegial integrity, he has realized his vision of true community banking. He has particular expertise in successful management of strategic, organizational and fiscal objectives.
He holds a Masters in Business Administration from Drury University and a Bachelors of Science Degree from Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. In addition, he attended the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin and the American Banker’s Association Commercial Lending School at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma.
Mr. Viar is currently on the boards of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Bi-County United Way of Cass & Jackson Counties, Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, and is a member of the Industrial Development Authority of the city of Lee’s Summit, MO. Mr. Viar is director of the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council and also a member of the East Independence Rotary and active in the Independence Chamber of Commerce.
Jack A. Accurso
DIRECTOR
Mr. Accurso is a native of Kansas City, Missouri and has owned several successful businesses during his career. In 1986, he founded American Foodservice Company with three of his sons, which has grown to become one of the region’s largest independent, full-line food distributors as well as one of Lee’s Summit’s most visible employers. American Foodservice’s customer base includes many prestigious restaurants, grocery stores, specialty retailers and casinos.
He is currently an honorary director of the Greater Kansas City Restaurant Association.
Kathy Bennett
DIRECTOR
Kathy L. Bennett is the President & CEO of Bennett Packaging of Kansas City, a manufacturer of high-quality packaging and display products, ranging from standard brown shipping cartons to deluxe point-of-purchase display products.
Bennett Packaging was recently honored by the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce as a “Top 10 Small Business of the Year.” The award was given based on outstanding key elements of growth, sustainability in revenue, employee relations, and a commitment to community service in Kansas City. Kathy received the “Women Who Mean Business” recognition in 2005 from The Kansas City Business Journal.
Bennett Packaging is a member of the Chambers of Commerce of Missouri, Kansas City, and Lee’s Summit, the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council (Benefactor Level), Kansas City Smartport (Gold Level), Kansas City Council of Women Business Owners, National Association of Women Business Owners, Women Impacting Public Policy (National Level), American Business Women’s Association (National Level), Women Presidents Organization.
Carl L. Chinnery
DIRECTOR
Mr. Chinnery is founding partner of Chinnery Evans & Nail, one of Lee's Summit's oldest and most respected law firms. He has established an exceptional reputation for his extensive expertise in estate planning, business law, real estate and charitable giving, as well as his active and exhaustive support of the civic and educational efforts of the community.
His charitable service includes serving as Chairman of the Truman Medical Center Planned Giving Council; Chairman of the Children's Mercy Hospital Planned Giving Council; and Chairman of the Community Foundation of Lee's Summit. Mr. Chinnery's civic activities include the Rotary Club, serving as a District Governor of Rotary International in 2002-2003; the Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce, serving as its president in 1978; the Lee's Summit Economic Development Council, as president in 1996-97; and the Rockhurst College Small Business Development Corporation, as past Chairman.
Mr. Chinnery has served as president of the Lee's Summit R-7 Board of Education, president of the Lee's Summit Educational Foundation, is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, and is a Charter Life Underwriter. Mr. Chinnery holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Beloit College and a law degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
Will Coates
DIRECTOR
Mr. Coates is a longtime resident of Lee's Summit, Missouri, and has been the president of Billy Goat Industries, Inc. since 1994. The company manufactures outdoor power equipment used in debris management and exports product worldwide to markets in Canada, Western Europe, New Zealand, South Africa, and Japan. Today the company is owned and operated by two generations of the Coates family.
Mr. Coates holds a Bachelors Degree from Austin College in Sherman, Texas and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Texas.
Roger Fender, DDS
DIRECTOR
Dr. Fender is a native of Lee's Summit, Missouri. Following dental school, he founded Fender Family Dentistry, a comprehensive practice specializing in general dentistry and orthodontics. He is also co-owner of ProCorp Images Inc., a promotional products company, and ProLeasing Investments. Dr. Fender is a member of the Lee's Summit Community Church.
Dr. Fender earned his Bachelors of Science in chemistry from Central Missouri State University and is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Dental School.
Robert F. Glaser
DIRECTOR
Mr. Glaser enjoyed a successful career as senior manager for several large Sears retail stores in the Kansas City area before becoming the founding president of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation in 1994. In addition to extensive volunteer community involvement, he was the Director of Development for the Bi-County United Way of Cass and Jackson Counties, and is responsible for launching its endowment program.
He was most recently a property manager for Curry Association Management, managing Kirkwood Properties, a 10 acre DST Development. He is currently Vice President of Business Development for Summit Bank of Kansas City.
Mr. Glaser holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, Texas.
Harlan Limpus
DIRECTOR
Mr. Limpus spent an illustrious career in the limestone mining, processing, and ready-mix industry before selling various related entities to Ashland Paving and Lafarge North America. He is the developer and owner of Winterstone Golf Course in Independence, Missouri and a managing member of Western Materials & Design. He is also an Executive Member of Mid-America Sand Co.
Mr. Limpus is a native of the area and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri.
Stan E. Ricketts
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Mr. Ricketts has been President-Midwest Region, for Capitol Bancorp Ltd. since April, 2004.
Previously, Mr. Ricketts was President of the Northeast Kansas Region for INTRUST Bank., N.A. Prior, he held several positions with Commerce Bancshares, Inc. and its flagship bank, Commerce Bank of Kansas City, N.A. With Commerce Bancshares, Mr. Ricketts served as a parent company liaison to bank presidents in communities in Missouri and Kansas. As a Senior Vice President with Commerce Bank of Kansas City, Mr. Ricketts served as a manager of the Business Banking department.
Mr. Ricketts holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from Wichita State University. He has also attended the University of Kansas and Rockhurst College with a focus on economics and accounting.
Carson Ross
DIRECTOR
Mr. Ross is currently the Mayor of Blue Springs, Missouri, where he has lived for over 34 years. He is the consummate civic leader, community volunteer, and public servant. He was elected in 1988 to represent eastern Jackson County, Missouri in the Missouri House of Representatives and served for over 14 years. Prior to his state service, he was a member of Blue Springs (MO) Board of Alderman, City Council, and mayor pro tem, chairman of St. Mary’s Hospital Board of Directors in Blue Springs, Missouri, and former member of Carondelet Health Board.
Mr. Ross retired from Hallmark Cards in 2005 ending a 39 year career. In 1995 and 1996, he was recognized by the Kansas City Globe as one of Kansas City’s most influential African Americans. He was awarded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference’s Black Achiever in 1985. He also received the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the Missouri Chamber of Commerce in 1991. Mr. Ross is a past Chairman of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation and served on the Bi-County United Way of Cass and Jackson Counties Board of Directors. He is now a member of the United Way of Greater Kansas City Board of Trustees, and member and past Chairman of the Missouri Veterans Commission.
Mayor Ross is Chairman of the Metro Mayors Caucus of Cass, Clay, and Jackson counties, Co-Chair of the Eastern Jackson County Betterment Council and the Missouri Municipal League Board of Directors.
Mr. Ross holds a Bachelors of Science Degree from Rockhurst University in Kansas City Missouri.
Diane J. Seif
DIRECTOR
Ms. Seif is President and CEO of DVA Enterprises, Inc. in Lee’s Summit, MO. She has founded several companies, including Regulatory-Clinical Consultants Inc. (RXCCI), and Van Jones Building Company. DVA Enterprises, Inc. is a commercial real estate management company with an investment focus on small businesses. Ms. Seif provides strategic consulting services for pharmaceutical, life science, biotechnology, and device companies, as well as business development support while helping small business develop and grow.
She is past Chair of Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, Chair of local operating board of Jackson and Cass Counties of United Way, University of Kansas NSF Advisory Board, Director of Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, Chairman of Development Committee for Lee’s Summit Education Foundation, Small Business Council for Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, and Lee’s Summit Economic Development. She is also involved in the National Association of Women Business Owners – NAWBO, Rotary Advisor and member of American Business Women’s Association. She was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and is on the Planning Commission for the City of Lee’s Summit.
Steven M. Silverstein
DIRECTOR
A board-certified ophthalmologist and fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Silverstein is active in a number of professional medical organizations, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Midwest Cornea Society, the Kansas City Society of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology, the Missouri Medical Society, and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Dr. Silverstein serves as a clinical professor of ophthalmology at the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine and the University of Health Sciences
Dr. Silverstein is a councilman, mayor pro tem, and police commissioner for the city of Lake Winnebago, Missouri. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Truman Heartland Foundation, and the advisory board for the Gift of Life organ transplant organization. He has published in major medical journals, and lectures extensively around the world.
Dr. Silverstein earned his B.A. degree from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia and his medical degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.
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