[img_assist|nid=510|title=|desc=|link=node|align=left|width=150|height=98]In business for 32 years, Whitney Auto Collision Repair Center, 5811 Troost, is a Southtown gem! At Whitney Auto, you will find collision repair, paint-less dent removal, frame repair, glass replacement, rental car assistance and free estimates. With a staff of 4 employees, owner Bruce Whitney is proud of the "outstanding customer service, attention to detail, fair pricing, lifetime warranty, and quality workmanship."

When Alexander Majors started in the freighting business, he had six wagons and teams. His first trip from Independence to Santa Fe and back was made in record time of 92 days, a feat that set the groundwork for a world-wide reputation as a freighting genius. Within 10 years after going into a partnership with William Russell and William Waddell, Majors was in command of an enormous number of men and animals. It was estimated that if all were put on the trail at one time in a single file, they would form a wagon train 50 miles long.

School supplies are needed! Gillis serves more than 900 families each year with counseling, education, and social services. When students are no longer able to function in a normal classroom because of severe emotional disturbance, schools send them to Gillis for treatment and education. More than 90% of the students come from low-income families. More than 80% make enough progress in treatment to return to the normal school.

Thanks to the Public Improvement Advisory Council, 4th District City Councilwomen Marcason and Gottstein, and taxpayers, the north side of 63rd St. from Harrison to Oak St. has new sidewalks, curbs, and driveways. More than 5 years ago, Southtown began requesting public improvement funds for this stretch of 63rd St. Because of the limited funds and the large number of projects requested annually, it took time for this request to rise to the top! This fall, new sod will be planted and the project completed.

Years ago, more than 100 storefronts were improved thanks to the Façade Rebate Program. Unfortunately, the program was shut down when funding ceased. Fortunately, this year the program is back, up and running! There are designated commercial areas in Kansas City that will now be eligible to receive assistance for fixing up storefronts. The Façade Rebate Program has been funded by the City this year and property/business owners will be eligible to receive matching grants up to $5000 per building for exterior improvements. Prospect Ave. (47th to 85th) and Troost Ave.

You are invited by Mayor Funkhouser and Councilwoman Beth Gottstein to attend the KC Food Summit on Friday, Aug. 20 at the Kauffman Center, 4801 Rockhill Rd. This summit is to educate, discuss and initiate the development of a comprehensive policy for Kansas City's food production and distribution. Registration begins at 7:30a followed by the conference at 8a until 3p. Learn about the "State of Food in the City" to address food issues for the health, wellbeing, and economic vitality of the citizens.