This year is the 25th anniversary of Business West. It was 1985 when Joe and Katie Maderak founded the organization. For many years, Joe and other area business leaders had often expressed the desire for an organization that could be an advocate for business. But it wasn’t until some very dramatic action in 1985 at City Hall that motivated Maderak into action. 
   Joe hit the street, armed with a petition, encouraging fellow business owners and managers to join an independent organization. Maderak was upset because the City Council had fired its first permanent City Administrator, Jim Medin. The patronage-riddled city government changed in 1983; there was great enthusiasm among most residents as the professional City Administrator took over. Voters thought they had elected a reform-minded City Council. 
   However, a majority of Council members fired the administrator after a disagreement about who would be fire chief. There was a great hue and cry from grass roots constituents, with complaints that the old patronage system had raised its ugly head. Joe decided the time was right to start an organization that would represent business. 
   I doubt that Joe or any other business leader would have dreamed that 25 years later, there would be developments such as the Kansas Speedway, the Legends and other retail magnets such as Nebraska Furniture Mart and Cabela’s. 
   And there is much more to come with the new Hollywood Casino, the Wizards’ Stadium and the expansion of Schlitterbahn water park area that will include Scheel’s, a giant retail sporting goods store. 
   All of the Village West development is most welcome. But Business West has much more work to do. During the past few weeks, Alex Bradley of Bank Midwest, and Murrel Bland of Business West, have made more than 40 face-to-face calls on State Avenue landowners in an effort to set up a benefit district. The district would concentrate on three areas—appearance, security and marketing along State Avenue from 64th to 94th streets and 78th Street from State to Riverview avenues. This older suburban area needs a new identity. And there is much room for residential growth. 
   The past presidents have been invited as special guests as Business West celebrates it silver anniversary at its annual meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 16, at Highview Farm, 9306 Kansas Ave. All area business owners and managers are invited. There is no cost for the meeting or the meal; however, reservations are necessary. For reservations, telephone 913-766-4300 or 913-406-6266 (cell) or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . 
   Don Scaro is president of Business West.