McLain's BakeryMcLain’s Bakery’s recent decision to relocate was prompted by a sign from above; the ceiling of their old location collapsed into a fresh batch of dough. They moved their business to 201 E. Gregory because they saw the opportunity for a sunny, open, clean, and structurally sound space that allowed ample room for operation, pastry display, and café seating. What they were not expecting was the welcome they received from the neighborhood. The bakery has become the destination for mothers taking their young children on outings and an after-school hang-out for local youth. “Whenever had any visitors like this before at our store. Gregory Blvd is so much quieter than the expressway we were on and people walk in here. I can’t say it enough, we are so happy to be in the neighborhood,” owner Don Peattie said.

Dr. HodgeThe dental practice of Dr. Jay Hodge, 6247 Brookside Blvd., has been awarded the prestigious 2011 Angie’s List Super Service Award, an honor bestowed annually on approximately 5 percent of all the businesses rated by consumer reviews of local service companies. “Our patient’s reports have placed us in the top 5% of medical and dental practices. We have the best patients in the city. We are so grateful to them!” says Dr. Hodge.

The Marlborough Community Center, 8200 Paseo Blvd., will be hosting a job fair April 10th from 5-7 pm. Organizers are seeking local businesses wishing to invest in their surrounding neighborhoods by employing local residents. You or an employee can represent your business for free. Tables and chairs will be provided. If you cannot physically represent your business at the fair or if you hire primarily through online application please call Marlborough Recreation Director,
Steve Hensley at (816) 784-3100 between 12 pm-3pm Tuesday through Friday. Mr. Hensley will be happy to pick up and disperse printed literature or applications on your behalf.

Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS), 5835 Troost Ave., announced last month that their request for a $500,000 Patient Loan was approved by US Bank. Patient Loans are uniquely structured to accommodate the timelines and special circumstances in which non profits operate.

This funding will help NHS make an even greater impact in targeted Kansas City neighborhoods as they help low income homeowners responsibly finance home purchasing and renovation. “This is another funding source we are going to use to address the problem of foreclosed and abandoned properties” said Angie Splittgerber, NHS Board Chair. “With decreased federal funding, resources are shrinking. NHS plans to use these funds to help leverage the resources Kansas City does
have, and as a result, increase the overall number of projects that can be completed.”

Let new area residents know about your business by providing promotional materials, brochures, or goodies for welcome baskets. The Southtown Council will be collecting materials for these welcome bags that will be distributed by surrounding neighborhood associations to their new neighbors. Please submit your materials in counts of one hundred to our 6814 Troost Avenue location or feel free to call (816) 523-5553 with questions.

Hogan Prep Academy, 1221 E. Meyer Blvd., is famous for their reputation of propelling KC youth into higher education. They want nothing to deter their young people from entering into college and are asking the community to help soften the shock that comes with entering the world of academia, dorm rooms, tight finances, and distance from family. Hogan would like to equip 65 of their college bound seniors with laundry baskets stocked with commodities such as dish soap, toilet paper, band-aids, blankets, sheets (twin XL), towels, and the laundry detergent.