Discovering de soto holiday edition

Discovering Exploring

De De SotoSoto

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Your Community On-Line Feature Publication from De Soto, Kansas located in Western Johnson County

Holiday • Winter Edition • 2015 De Soto’s on-line feature publication A festive celebration of our community...

Meat MarketProgram Reopens CitySteve’s Beautification 95thPantry Street Bridge Reopens/Scenic Food • Fresh Promises Drive Pioneer 4-H Club reports on a successful Pathways and Partnerships end of Summer Johnson County Fair Christmas in July • DHS Choir/Band De SotoArt Residents Return•and Bring Student Collection Books The Bahamas to Kansas The Art of Tree Sculpture End in of aSummer/Fall Events: of the Season Away Manger • Lights •De Soto Days “Fun in the Sun” Holiday Markets •Sunflower Artfest& Open Houses DYM • Groups A Royal Celebration •The Great Kaw• Adventure Race •Cookin’ on the Kaw Blues & BBQ Festival and more discoveries from De Soto... and more disoveries from De Soto...

Supporting the community where we work

Around the globe, we support the communities where we work through countless material donations and most importantly, great employee volunteers. In De Soto, we are proud to support the arts, the De Soto Food Pantry and our local schools, just to name a few. We see this as an important part of our everyday business and our focus on community will only continue to grow. www.us.huhtamaki.com

Discovering

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS ABOUT DE SOTO: CITY OF DE SOTO

De Soto

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A community located in Western Johnson County, Kansas.

www.DiscoveringDeSoto.com like us on facebook Discovering De Soto

De Soto’s on-line feature publication WELCOME City Beautification Program page 5 FOOD Food Pantry Fresh Promises

City Government & City News

www.desotoks.us

City of De Soto Newsletter Insert will be distributed 11/29 in the Lawrence Journal-World Also available at City Hall in December

USD #232 School District School District News and District Newsletter

page 6 www.usd232.org page 7 Quarterly Newsletter will be

PEOPLE Pathways and Partnerships page 8

page 9 SCHOOLS DHS Choir/Band page 10 ARTS Student Art Collection, Books page 12 The Art of Tree Sculpture page 13 GALLERY OF ARTS page 14 FAITH Away in a Manger page 16 HOLIDAY EVENTS Lights of the Season page 18 Holiday Markets & Open Houses page 19 ORGANIZATIONS Meetings & Groups page 20 CELEBRATIONS A Royal Celebration page 22 and more discoveries from De Soto...

Christmas in July

Discovering De Soto is a free on-line features publication, with limited printings distributed to advertisers, editorial features, and contributers. independently owned and published by RMB prints & design LLC. Publishing Quarterly with modifications and updates on Facebook.

Not responsible for errors or misprints. Information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, however “RMB prints & design LLC” is not responsible for the accuracy of information not liable for any incurrances as a result of this publication.

A Business, Organization or Entity Featured is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product, business or organization. There is no monitary exchange for editorial features, excluding “Sponsorship Page.”

distributed Wednesday, 11/18 in the Shawnee Dispatch, Sunday, 11/22 in the Lawrence Journal-World and mailed to Lenexa/Olathe

GREEN PRIDE

De Soto High School News

dhsnews.org

SHAWNEE DISPATCH

Education News from De Soto

www.shawneedispatch.com Special Thanks to our Sponsor

Huhtamaki

Our Advertisers that support Discovering De Soto

Great American Bank TriCentury Bank American Family Insurance JB Walker Photography Gil Rumsey Art Bowlin Farms The Barn Holiday Market Our Community Supporter

The De Soto Rotary

To become a Reader Supporter

www.DiscoveringDeSoto.com

Discovering De Soto WELCOME!

Welcome to the Holiday/Winter Edition of “Discovering De Soto”–our second publication.

This issue features many of De Soto’s Social Services. As I interviewed local organizations, I was quite moved by the “heartbeat” of De Soto...the compassion of many volunteers to help their fellow neighbor. Just over a year ago the De Soto Food Pantry began–giving and receiving abundantly. The longtime members of the Rotary look for ways to serve.

This summer, a young man in our community experienced “Christmas in July” as schools, a church, organizations and many individuals gave so an ADA-Accesible bathroom project was completed in six weeks! This was somewhat of an influence on me, to pursue “Discovering De Soto” and to share all the good that goes on in our community.

Locally we are blessed with many creative and talented artists and artisians. Inside you’ll find many area venues to find that special, locally made gift...and you’ll learn about the many people that produce them.

And there are the lights of the Christmas Season, with its festive outdoor displays to enjoy! I recently discovered indoor mini-fairy lights, and the warm glow of a fireplace has always been a comfort through the darkness of winter. Enjoy some soup with a friend, too.

This is your on-line feature magazine about De Soto–its community of people, businesses, organizations, schools and all the things that make it special and unique!

Use this as a resource and pass it on to those that have De Soto roots, and continue being a great community!

–Rose Burgweger, Managing Editor “Like us” on facebook discovering de soto and submit posts to inform Visit our web page and give your ideas: www.discoveringdesoto.com

Your support through advertising and telling others about“Discovering De Soto”will ensure its success.

To become a Reader Supporter visit our web site.

Thanks to all who contributed articles and photography, and proofing. next quarterly issue publishing:

February 2016 featuring

Health & Fitness Hearts of Valentines Day Easter Joy and more...

In the 70th Anniversary Edition of the Kansas Magazine, the Hackworth’s property in De Soto is part of the Kansas Winter Gallery. www.travelks.com/ks-mag/http-www.travelks. com-ks-mag-current-issue/ Photo by Rose M. Burgweger This is also part of the “Country Fences & Rural Posts” Desktop Calendar available in De Soto (see next page)

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Advertising Deadline: Friday, January 15th Editorial Submissions: Friday, January 15th

De Soto’s Beautification Award Program

In June, 2015, the De Soto City Council established the “Property Beautification Award Program,” to recognize and celebrate property owners and businesses within the community who have made an effort to maintain, improve, and beautify their properties. Once each quarter a threemember committee selects a deserving recipient for recognition. The winner gets a $50 cash prize, certificate of recognition, and a yard sign to display at the property.

The first ever beautification award was given to Dennis and Katie Erwin for their work in restoring and enhancing a single-family home. Mr. and Mrs. Erwin purchased this property in the late 1990’s and have been making improvements ever since.

Home at 33220 West 83rd, owned by Dennis & Katie Erwin PhotographY by Linda Lane

The most recent addition is an intricately designed deck, porch, and pergola–which add charm and interest to the home.

–Submitted by Cynthia Wagner If you would like to nominate a property for future Beautification Award consideration, fill out the online nomination form at: www.desotoks.us/beautification.html

Warm Wishes for a Bright Holiday Season!

A variety of Checking, Savings and Money Market Accounts for all your Personal, Family and Business Needs

Consumer and Business Loans– Commercial Real Estate, Rental Properties, Home Equity Lines of Credit (subject to approval)

2016 DESKTOP CALENDAR photography from De Soto, Flint Hills & Rock Springs

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“Country Fences & Rural Posts” from Kansas or with Scripture Verses

“Cowboys & Cattle” Inspirational

Annual Desktop Calendar in a CD Display Case Great Stocking Stuffer • Special Gift for friends • De Soto residents (new/former) • Businesses • Cowboys and those who enjoy Rural Life!

Available in De Soto • Mainstreet Crafters The Corner Crafter • The Barn Holiday Market rmbprints@icloud.com • www.rmbprints.com

“Your Hometown Bank”

33485 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-3222 24 Hour Telephone Banking: (800) 480-1747 Vive Customer Service: (888) 309-2240

LOBBY HOURS: Monday–Friday 8 am to 5 pm, Sat 9 am to noon Night Drop–ATM Available 24 Hours a Day DRIVE THRU HOURS: Monday – Wednesday 8 am to 5 pm,5 Thursday – Friday 8 am to 6 pm, Sat 9 am to noon

Discovering De Soto FOOD

Providing Food Preserving Dignity Nurturing Compassion

“With 25 great volunteers, a commited Board of Directors, our area churches, generous doners from individuals, famillies and businesses–much has been accomplished,” said Lori Murdock, Board President. She was instrumental in the formation of the pantry. “After the Johnson “To help the people in our community County Multi-Service Center relocated to a more who are experiencing financial difficulties regional location to serve the entire USD #232 to provide food for themselves and their School District, there was a need locally to be families. We provide a confidential filled,” said Lori. environment that respects the privacy of the You’ll find Food Pantry Bins at our local banks– clients. We strive to involve the community TriCentury, Great American and Great Southern; in a way that encourages commitment to Cedar Creek Pharmacy, American Family the community while teaching empathy and Insurance, local churches–United Methodist, nurturing compassion.”

De Soto Baptist, and Seventh Day Adventist in –The Food Pantry of De Soto,Kansas Established April 2014 as a 501c3 organization Lenexa, and De Soto’s City Hall.

The Pantry has both given and received. A Just over a year old, The Food Pantry of De Soto family Grant provided an enormous oversized has 219 families enrolled. There are 100 visits each refrigerator and a freezer. A second freezer was month, with 300-400 people that are nourished, provided by Great Southern Bank. Both are used nurtured and fed because of a caring community. for an assortment of donated meats (antelope, elk, wild turkey), Venison (from Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry, coordinated with Steve’s Meat Market) and fresh eggs and produce, donated from local farmers and gardeners. The De Soto Rotary donated funds from their annual Winesong Event. Schools across the district and area organizations and businesses have food drives throughout the year. Visit the De Soto Kansas Food Pantry on facebook for photos, donations received, and current needs.

With Thanksgiving approaching, Food Baskets are once again being coordinated through many local companies–Huhtamaki, Merk, and area organizations.

As always, The Food Pantry of De Soto thanks you for your generous and on going support of this community project!

–Rose M. Burgweger The new oversized refrigerator allows for storage of fresh produce and other perishable items.

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Monthly Board Meeting at The Food Pantry in De Soto

Located at 32905 West 84th Street in De Soto West of City Hall, next to the De Soto Chamber Food Pantry Hours: Tuesdays 10 am to Noon Thursdays 4 pm to 6 pm Saturdays 9 am to 11 am For De Soto Residents, twice a month shopping (bring a photo ID/current public utility bill/school registration) Donations of non-perishable and refrigerated items accepted as well as Monetary Donations Volunteers needed for Shopping • Pick ups • Food Pantry www.DesotoksFoodPantry.wordpress.com volunteer@commit2community.com De Soto Kansas Food Pantry like us on facebook

Additional Resources: Johnson County NW Multi-Service Center 22123 W. 83rd St, Shawnee, (913) 715-8970 serving USD #232 School District Boundaries. www.foodpantries.org

Fresh Promises FARMERS MARKET Now Open Year Round

1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month • 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm • The Barn at Killcreek Road

Bowlin Farms

NATURE’S BEST PRODUCE

You can enjoy produce in De Soto now year round– inside The Barn as long as customers keep coming!

Steve & Sherry Bowlin Owners

31915 West 115th Street 913-583-9902 steve@bowlinfarms.net

www.bowlinfarms.net

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Discovering De Soto PEOPLE

Pathways and Partnerships I unexpectedly discovered Pathways and Partnerships as I walked by Wanda’s Cafe and saw “Garage Sale.”

This De Soto operated business provides day and residential support for I/DD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) adult clients 18 years and older.

They clarified, they are not an adult day care, but rather a learning environment teaching day activities to develop daily living skills, cooking classes, money management and more. Their clients volunteer for our local Food Pantry and pick up the filled bins throughout De Soto.

The “Garage Sale” is run by their clients, who offer a variety of items for the community.

There are always FREE clothes, shoes, hats, gloves, coats, sheets available.

Other items– jewelry, household and miscellaneous items are available at a minimal cost. Furniture is not available.

All of the proceeds from the “Garage Sale” go towards extra client activities that they personally would not be able to afford. This helps everyone learn planning, budgeting and saving.

The community is invited to come and “shop” at this year-round “Garage Sale.” Bring clothes to swap, have your kids do inexpensive Christmas and gift shopping, or help a person in need by letting them know about the FREE items available. Merchandise is recycled periodically, donating items to other organizations, as new items become available.

Owners Connie Woodroof and Amanda Jasper (mother and daughter) brings years of combined personal and professional experience in serving both children and adults with intellectual developmental disabilities. Pathways and Partnerships opened in 2014. They are licensed by the State of Kansas, receive state funding, and are affiliated with Johnson County.

In addition to day services, they offer independent living in area apartments with laundry and internet, provide trans– portation, and offer a family-like environment.

Presently, there are openings for new clients.

To meet the staff and learn more, contact: Connie Woodroof 913-709-4192 connie@pathwaysandpartnerships.org

Amanda Jasper 913-271-6913 amanda@pathwaysandpartnerships.org–

Shown on opposite page: Amanda Jasper at the Pathways and Partnerships year-round Garage Sale.

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Pathways and Partnerships, Inc. Located at 33080-A 83rd Street in De Soto around the corner from Wanda’s Cafe “Garage Sale” Hours: Thursdays & Saturdays 10:30 am to 2:30 pm www.pathwaysandpartnerships.org Pathways and Partnerships Inc. like us on facebook Additional Resources: http://www.kancare.ks.gov I/DD

Christmas in July It was an exciting summer to see Riyan’s Project come together with the help of many of you!

The project began as a “Go Fund Me” to “Make Riyan’s Home ADA Accessible” with focusing on the bathroom and a budget of $10,000.

Families from the USD #232/Lexington Trials Middle School that Riyan attends, and Harvest Ridge Covenant Church, that his family attends, came together. In addition, the VFW and others donated stairlifts.

Several special people stepped forward to donate their time to meet and draw up plans– with the City of De Soto’s quick turnaround of the Building Permit. Suggestions were also given from a parent whose son also has Muscular Dystrophy. A very special couple donated an enormous amount of hours doing the carpentry, plumbing, tiling, and finishing work.

As donations came in, and plans were drawn up, the budget dropped to $5,000. Donations of a black marble sink, discounted tile, and much donated labor dropped the budget even more.

$2,500 was received through the “Go Fund Me” Riyan Azzouz Fund with a final budget of $2,500.

It was awesome to see God provide through so many generous people, and to amazingly reduce the budget to work with the exact amount of money received.

Thank you so much for your kind donation.

Our family has been humbled by the generosity of so many people, both monetarily and people’s time and talents. I pray you will be blessed for what you have given, as we certainly have been.

–Azzouz Family

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Discovering De Soto DE SOTO SCHOOLS

Let the music sing!

The Choral and Instrumental Departments of De Soto High School will hold their Traditional Winter Concert Tuesday, December 15 • 7:30 p.m.

De Soto High School • Main Gym All students will be featured, and the conclusion will be the singing of the “Hallelujah Chorus,” with former students joining as an Instrumental Ensemble accompanies. Begun in the 1960’s, this is a long-time tradition, bringing together students and community!

ß Music is a great gift to enjoy for the Christmas State Women’s Choir: Katie Dossett, Season and throughout the year. Our area schools Emily Everson and Liv Young. have great programs for all ages. Diligent practice First-ever State Men’s Choir: Dough Bedford, Simon Couch, Mack Matth has resulted in many awards for both the Band and PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF MARY ETTA COPELAND AND TOM KUHN Choral Programs at De Soto High School. There are was exceptionally represented by seven singers many performances throughout the year. earning places in the Kansas Choral Directors Honor Choirs, performing in July in Topeka.

Choral Music is preparing for a busy holiday (see above photos) Simon Couch received a season. Madrigal Singers will record a place in the 7-State Southwestern Division of performance at the Kauffman Center on the American Choral Directors Association November 23, which will be aired several Regional Honors 11th-12th Grade Choir. The times throughout Christmas Day on the honor will culminate in a 4-day experience and local NBC channel in Kansas City. They will performance at the Kauffman Center in March! be performing live at Crown Center at 1:00 pm on November 23. Then of course our –Submitted by Mary Etta Copeland, own De Soto lighting of the Mayor’s Tree Director of Choral Activities on December 5th will find both Choir and Mary Etta began teaching music in 1967 at DHS, Madrigal students adding to the festivities. and went part-time in 2010. One of her joys of Choral Music is a year-round adventure, inteaching music is the “life lessons”students have volving both soloists and groups. In July, DHS said they have learned throughout the years.

The De Soto High School Newspaper dhsnews.org

on-line and printed monthly subscriptions available on web site

Take a look at the great, informative video on the Phrase 3 Construction at DHS http://dhsnews.org/top-stories/2015/10/14/phase-3-dhs-construction/ DHS Sports News http://dhsnews.org/category/sports/ and more...dhsnews.org

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BAND PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TOM KUHN

Mr. Matt Bradford, Band Director of De Soto High School joined the DHS hies, Adam Rettig staff in 2012 and has continued the strong Band Program developed through the years by Mr. Freeman, Mr. Love and others; with assistance by Mr. Foster and Mr. Kuhn.

Concert Band and Symphonic Band receiving “1” ratings in April for the KSHSAA (Kansas State High School Activities Association) Large Group Festival. Seven students made the KMEA (Kansas Music Educators Association) All-State Band last year. 22 students participated in the KSHSAA Solo/Ensemble festival last spring.

The DHS Marching Band received a “1” rating at the Baker Marching Festival in October taking home the Grand Champion Trophy.

“The Band has a long history of “1” ratings at the Baker Marching Festival–receiving the Grand Champion Trophy five times,” said Matt Bradford.

August Band Camp kicks off the year to prepare for the Fall Football Season. Half-time shows with the Band, Flag Team and Dance Team have entertained many throughout

the years. Many Band members also volunteer for the Pit Band for DHS Theater Productions. Seven Brides for Seven Brothers was performed this fall.

The DHS Band has had many memorable trips with extremely supportive parent volunteers:

2014 Band Trip to New Orleans “Birthplace of Jazz” 2012 Band Trip to New York City “Broadway” 2010 Chicago Field Museum of Natural History 2008 San Antonio Festival of the States performance 2006 Washington D.C. National Memorial Day Parade 2004 Dallas Cotton Bowl Parade 2002 Colorado Springs Cavalcade of Music 1998 Washington, D.C. 150th Anniversary of the Washington Monument

This year, the De Soto High School Band will travel to Disney Parks in Orlando, Florida in March of 2016. Donation for the band trip can be mailed to: DHS Band, 35000 W. 91st Street, De Soto, KS 66018. Make checks to: DHS Band (student name in the memo area).

For more information, visit our website at: http://dhs.usd232.org/ pages/desotohs/Extracurricular/ Clubs/band

–Rose M. Burgweger former band parent 11

Discovering De Soto ARTS

L to R: Da’kavion Emery, Breck Butcher, Aubrey Leonard, Morgan Cravens, Lilly Shroeder, Chaney Rowse, Christine Znidarsic, Tatus Elliot, It tookBY more than 3 years to complete and spans more than 60 years of and Jordan Powell. Not Pictured: Madison Moody, Taylor Felshaw CONTRIBUTED USD 232 dedicated art and life’s experiences. It features over 180 paintings .

Student Art Collection Selected by District

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District USD #232 Students were honored on November 2, at the Board of Education meeting.

Their work was selected for display at the Board of Education/Administration Building in De Soto.

–Submitted by USD The 232 show will also present a sampling of Gil’s newest work, which includes mosaics, mobiles, and traditional p “Surviving the Fire” Remember: Books and pictures make great gifts for YOU and OTHERS!

An autobiography by local artist, Gil Rumsey. The book took more Best Wishes - G www.gilrumseyart.com • By appointment: 913-441-6064 • email: lindarumsey@yahoo.com • Like us on Facebo three years complete and 21, 10 am - 4 p Local author Niki Svenson writes about OPEN HOUSE atthan the De Soto Arts Council Gallery: to November 20, 5 - 8 pm; November spans more than 60 years of dediMichael, who is deaf. Yet, it makes him unique and he rises above his own disability. cated art and life’s experiences.

Over 180 paintings are featured. http://ican.tateauthor.com/

Mime for Michael

$8.99 plus tax

Additionally, enjoy 30% OFF FRAMING now through December 15

www.GilRumseyArt.com $35 plus tax

Where to find De Soto’s local Artists & Artisans: Gil Rumsey Annual Holiday Party • De Soto Arts Council Arts Center (City Hall - lower level) November 20 - 21 • Friday 5 pm - 8 pm • Saturday 10 am - 4 pm Local Artists • De Soto Arts Council Holiday Open House • December 5 • Saturday 5 pm - 7 pm www.desotoartsks.org/events Carrie Dvorak • Rose Burgweger • Hollis Winter Art Fair • December 5 - 6 • Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 12 - 5 pm http://www.holliscenter.org/Winter_Hollis_Art_Fair.html Kathy Horniman • Barn Artists Holiday Open House • December 5 • 10 am - 5 pm http://www.barnartistsgallery.com LOOK FOR More Holiday MARKETS AND OPEN HOUSES on PAGES 18-19 12

WARM WISHES & GOOD CHEER! The Art of Tree Sculptures 35 years ago, a friend who had a bunch of copper wire called Kathy Horniman, who was living in Hutchison, Kansas at that time. “The first wire creations looked like a bush,” Kathy said. “Then I began to develop my own style in the deep winter, after the holidays. I looked at magazines, Bonsai books, and the neat trees in the area. Something fostered an interest in trees with The “Lucky Tree” in Hutchison.”

However, the “Trees” did not fully bud till later years. Kathy, with a BS degree in Education from K-State, was working full time as a coach and art teacher. She taught at Fairfield High School, west of Hutchison and Meeker High School in Colorado. She also enjoyed another passion, Dog Shows–showing Dobermans for over 20 years, making it into the Top 20 in the country.

A career change with Westar Energy brought new opportunities with “wire” as she worked in the Design Group. She began making her Tree Sculptures for building managers.

A move 17 years ago brought Kathy and husband, Mike, to the area, where her Tree Sculpures began to grow and flourish. Through the years, she has had many venues to display and sell her fine art Tree Sculptures: Phoenix Gallery, Artichokes, several local Wineries, and our local Sunflower Artfest and De Soto Arts Center.

Earlier this year, she was honored to receive the “Best of 3D” in the Arti Gras Juried Art Showbenefiting the Leawood Foundation.

On December 5th she will be part of the The Barn Artists Gallery 20700 Elm Grove Road in Platte City, Missouri.

On her web site, she shares about her technique.

The Copper-Colored Trees are made of a “Magnet Wire” or “Inverted Duty Wire.”

continued on next page

May the season be filled with Dreams come true!

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Discovering De Soto GALLERY OF ART

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A collection of real their essense capt

and sculpted Trees– tured well by Kathy.

Each season beholds its own beauty. The colorful leaves have fallen.

Kathy Horniman explores their artistic trunks and branches.

They are coated with a class H-insulation of varnish that withstands high temperatures. I use many different gauges of wire, depending on the size and type of tree I’m designing. This wire is often used in small electric motors.”

Kathy has also worked with some ‘tinned’ copper wire, which has a silver look to it and is a smaller gauge. The tin coating adds some stiffness to the copper center, which makes it more manageable to work with. “I like the ‘ethereal’ effect is has upon the trees,” says Kathy.

Trees are secured on a base and secured with “envirotex,” a polymer coating, which also helps to waterproof and accentuate the colors.

You can view her trees and contact her at: www.coppertreesbykathy.com.

–article and photography by Rose M. Burgweger

“I just can’t seem to keep my hands away from these pieces, and the satisfaction I get from creating them.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.”

Tree Sculpture Artist, Kathy Horniman

Shimmering Trees and “Mini Lights” give a nice holiday glow.

A nice addition in your home or office. google fairy string lights

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Discovering De Soto FAITH

Away in a Manger...

“A way to take people back in time, to the setting of “The Manger” and capture the essence of Jesus’ Birth– both simple and profound.”

–Pastor Dan McKnight, Kaw Prairie Church It has been an interesting journey for a special Christmas service and a unique partnership between Kaw Prairie Church, the Zimmerman Family, and The Barn at Kill Creek Road. Back in 2004 Kaw Prairie was just beginning and meeting at Mize Elementary.

With sparse funds, custodians were hard to afford and find for a Christmas Eve Service.

Pastor Dan McKnight had joined the De Soto Chamber and was attending a meeting held in The Barn (Zimmermans Kill Creek Farm at that time). Pastor Dan met Darrel Zimmerman, and the Christmas Eve Service at The Barn was soon birthed with a divine partnership beginning.

As in many journeys, there are unexpected events, twists, and turns. May of 2010 came with tornadic winds and left Zimmerman’s Kill Creek Barn in a pile of rubble. That year, Kaw Prairie innovatively moved “The Barn” to its permanent home and church building in Western Lenexa.

Animals, a wooden pen, hay bales, with the Zimmermans family support were transported to nearby suburbia for the next several years to continued the tradition. All public offerings were donated to The Barn Rebuilding Fund.

Each service has incorporated a casual, entertaining 2-3 act play, with many original scripts written by Todd Bartelt, a long-time Kaw Prairie member.

The Christmas Story is brought to life in the barn with its rustic setting, complete with animals.

Without any devices, it is visually stimulating to children. Christmas Songs and Carols begin and end the drama presentation, with a meaningful message bringing us to the manger with the Christ Child. Candles are turned-on and Silent Night is sung for a joyful conclusion.

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Christmas Services throughout the years (from top left to right) 2013 at K (bottom left to right) 2014 Service held at The Barn and Kaw Prairie • 20

Local churches’ Live Nativity-2003 at Zimmermans Kill Creek Farm.

12/20 De Soto Baptist Drama 11 am Christmas Musical 7 pm 12/24 De Soto United Methodist Christmas Eve Services 4 pm 8 pm

Through the years, the unique service has grown, and eventually was moved to the Sunday before Christmas Eve. Last year was the first year returning to The Barn. “The Fairy Tale Christmas” will be performed this year, and the public will be invited via postcards and other avenues. Come Early, as the word is spreading.

Identical Services will be held in the “rustic” Barn, and indoor “comfort” Church setting.

Kaw Prairie has always “been casual on the outside, but serious on the inside” inviting all to experience changed lives with Jesus’ Love.”

photography Rose M. Burgweger

An “outward-focused” church, over 100 of its attendees are part of “teams” that plan, setup, perform, and take-down the worship services.

The Barn is transformed and transcends well beyond its location in De Soto.

–Rose M. Burgweger

Kaw Prairie Church has traveled many years to The Barn at Kill Creek Road to rekindle the awe and wonder of that Special Night. While The Barn was being rebuilt, the Manger moved to Kaw Prairie. They returned last year to The Barn.

Google “Live Nativities in Kansas” and also visit www.JourneyToJudea.com in Olathe.

Kaw Praire • 2005 at The Barn • 2011 at Kaw Prairie • 014 at The Barn with Candlelight PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY KAW PRAIRIE CHURCH

“The Fairy Tale Christmas” The Barn

9200 Kill Creek Road in De Soto

Sunday, Dec. 20 • 4pm & 6 pm Space heaters & Warm Cider provided but dress warm.

H Kaw Prairie Church

9421 Meadow View Road in Lenexa

Christmas Eve, December 24th 2 pm & 4 pm

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Classic Christmas Eve Service Kaw Prairie Church 7 pm & 9 pm www.kawprairie.org www. thebarnatkillcreekfarm.org 17

Discovering De Soto HOLIDAY EVENTS

Enjoy the Lights of the Season–near and far!

Thanksgiving Day at 6:53 pm The Plaza Lights are switched on. You’ll find an evening full of events at www. countryclubplaza.comevent/plaza-lighting-ceremony/

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Best Light Displays in KC Metro Areas www.kansastravel.org/kansascitychristmasdisplays.htm

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Free-Holiday Lights on Farmsted Lane November 26-January 3 Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm Fri-Sun 5pm-11pm

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead 13800 Switzer Rd. - Overland Park 38 minutes of Music & Animation

The City of De Soto’s annual Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting December 5 Saturday • 5:30 pm Watch for Santa at 5:35

Come Early at 5:00 pm and Enjoy the annual Rotary Club Community Supper • Serving Soup, Chili and Dessert in the Senior Center. Donations are appreciated!

The De Soto Arts Council Arts Center, lower level of City Hall, will be open 5 pm -7 pm

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Holiday Luminary Walk Nov 27-28 • Dec 4-5 • 5-9

Overland Park Arboretum/Gardens Tickets at http://arfop.donorshops. com/product/2CF2469/luminarywalk2015eticket.php

Plaza Lights • City Hall • 2013 Mayor’s Christimas Tree lighting PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSE M. BURGWEGER

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Enjoy your local artisians, crafters and bakers at a variety of venues this Holiday Season:

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De Soto Mainstreet Crafters 33045 W. 83rd in De Soto (former De Soto Flower Shop) Open Every Saturday 10am - 4pm December 5• 5pm-7pm Snacks-Cider Friday, December 11 6pm-9pm Ladies Night Out with raffles Monday Madness in December check facebook page for details

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A HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE ARTISANS • ART • CRAFTS • FOOD Friday-Saturday 10 am - 4 pm Nov 20-21 • 27-28 • December 4-5 The Corner Crafter 33720 West 83rd Street in De Soto

Blankets Betty Tyler • Crocheted Toys Kati Asher Quilts Gladys Bowlin • Embroidery Arylis Neal Homemade Salsa/Jams Bowlin Farms De Soto Flowers Liquidation sale Chrissy Behee’s Peanut Brittle Desktop Calendars/Photos Rose Burgweger Jellies/Breads Boots Linden • Art Avis Garrett-Baptist Pink Dot Black Jewelry De Soto Photography/Calendars Rose Burgweger Two Wives Creations Custom Monogramming Pop Can Creations DLCCreations.com Jen’s Pretty in Pink • Cathi’s Card Sets Wall Hangings Diane Ellenberger Janesko Jeans and Jewels Soaps/Lotions Rosie Inman • Jewelry Sandy Tugman Brown Bag Soaps • Tasty Mayhem Dips Jewelry Michelle Jensen • Novelties Charlotte Whim Mary’s Delectables-Pumpkin Rolls Cheesecakes The Corner Crafter fabric delights Judy Macy Whitetail Strokes Furniture The Wrens Nest repurposed vintage Shelly Beyond the Bloom Boutique Purses Table Runners Anita Martin Pallet Pieces • Body Warmers Lighted Bottles Karen Hines-Rogers Handmade Jewelry/Crocheted items Mary Kay Kristi Hinkle • Tupperware Kim Frieling Damsel in Defense Patti Dingman Ameo Oils Patsy Allenbrand

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Christmas Cookie Walk Saturday, December 12 10 am - 2 pm De Soto United Methodist Women 8760 Kill Creek Road in De Soto $5/lb assorted cookies supports missions

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Pendleton’s Holiday Open House Nov. 21-22 & 28-29 9am-5pm 1446 East 1850 Road in Lawrence

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Lawrence Farmers Holiday Market Saturday, December 12 • 9am-5pm Lawrence Holiday Inn 200 McDonald Dr.

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Gifts are also at Cedar Creek Pharmacy and De Soto Feed & Garden

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December 12 • Saturday • 10 am to 4 pm 9210 Kill Creek Road in De Soto Enjoy our local vendors who will help make your gift giving unique and special: Bowlin Farms • Happy Valley Farms Country Road Meats • Kansas Kettle Corn Tina Marie’s Bakery • Tupperware Mona C’s Fudge • Trades of hope Tasty Mahem • Sisco Crafts Thirty-One • and more Featuring from Silver Dollar City Robbie Wisdom • Basketweaver • Music by Larry & Rosie Inman •

Discovering De Soto ORGANIZATIONS

Twenty years of Serving Jesus– locally and globally “A year of action and purpose” is the theme for De Soto Youth Ministries as they celebrate 20 years. De Soto Youth Ministries (DYM) was founded in January of 1996 by Bill and Donna Wilting to help teens make right choices in their lives. Thousands of teens have been part of this local youth ministry making a difference with youth helping them to make wise choices (socially, spiritually, and emotionally); helping to develop leaders; giving teens a place to hang out with friends; and giving youth opportunities to travel on mission trips, nationally and internationally.

DYM headquartered in downtown De Soto, at The Crossing–is a hub for vibrant programs and a safe and friendly place where friends can meet. Staff and volunteers invest time, energy and creativity in the next generation, hoping to make a lasting impact. The passion of DYM staff is changing the world, one teen at a time, by helping some through crisis, helping some to develop their gifts and talents, helping some to spiritually grow into leadership, and helping some to make a difference in missions. Donna says, “Youth ministry is rewarding, but also heartbreaking as some teens head down the wrong path. But, we care about each of them, unconditionally. Year after year we see God changing lives, helping teens to stay on the right track.”

DYM is preparing for their 48th mission trip in March to Nicaragua. They fully expect to take teens on 49th and 50th mission trips before their 20th year celebration is complete. Hundreds of young people have traveled with DYM to places nationally and internationally, stepping out of their comfort zones, enlarging their worldview, 20

Photo Submitted by De Soto Youth Ministries located at: 33180 West 83rd Street in De Soto, across from the post office.

along with making a difference in poverty ridden third world countries.

The Crossing is open to all teens and young adults, and hosts a variety of weekly and monthly events. Bill and Donna Wilting are grateful to the community of De Soto for being supportive through the past 20 years and they look forward to continuing to serve, taking teens further than they ever imagined.

–Submitted by Donna Wilting De Soto Youth Ministries 33180 West 83rd Street in De Soto 913-583-3411 www.desotoyouthministries.org 1st Sundays LIVE 6 - 7:30 PM First Sunday of every month till May Music & Message for the whole family The Crossing Cafe’ will open till 9 pm.

Extreme Life for Teens Thursdays 7 pm Meal served before program Extreme Study Tuesdays 5:30 pm Extreme Praise Music practice Tuesday 7pm Extreme Edge Sundays for young adults Sharing, Service and Mission Extreme Edge sponsors First Sundays Live Extreme Team Mission teams next mission trip March to Nicaragua

To submit listing of a group/organization that meets in De Soto: info@discoveringdesoto.com

De Soto United Methodist Church 8760 Kill Creek Road in De Soto 913-583-1359 Sunday 12/13 10 am Children’s Christmas Musical “A Tree Lot Christmas” Sunday 12/20 10 am Choir Christmas Contata “ He Has Come, Christ is Born” Dec. 24th 4 pm Family Christmas Eve Service 8 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service De Soto Baptist Church 8655 Church Street in De Soto (913) 585-1026 Saturday 12/12 Women’s Brunch 10 am Sunday 12/13 11 am Children’s and Youth Christmas Musical Sunday 12/20 11 am Dramatization “The Tax Collector” Pastor Richard Copeland Sunday 12/20 7 pm Christmas Musical “Let There Be Christmas” Ensemble playing carols starting at 6:30 p.m.

DE SOTO ROTARY Meets Weekly Friday Mornings 7 am United Methodist Church 8760 Kill Creek Road in De Soto Bob Zindler, President bzindler@gmail.com PIONEER 4H CLUB Meets Monthly Fourth Monday 6:30 pm United Methodist Church 8760 Kill Creek Road in De Soto (816) 896-3707 pioneer4-h.com MONDAY PLAYGROUP Meets Mondays at 10 am USD 232 Early Childhood PTA http://usd232.wix.com/usd232ecpta M.O.P.S. MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS Meets Monthly at De Soto Baptist Church For Info 782-562-8532 DE SOTO ARTS COUNCIL Meets Monthly Third Thursday 6:30 pm De Soto City Hall Arts Center 32905 W. 84th http://www.desotoartsks.org

DE SOTO LIBRARY 33145 W. 83rd Street in De Soto Phone (913) 826-4600 Closed Sunday-Monday Tuesday 10 am - 6 pm Wednesday 10 am - 5 pm Thursday - Friday Closed Saturday 10 am - 2 pm De Soto Book Group Meets Monthly First Wednesday 1 - 2:30 pm

Second Saturdays Happy Birthday Kansas!

Saturday 1/9 11 am - 1 pm Hands-on activities inspired by Kansas history Make a Pioneer Rag Doll and/or Sunflower Weaving

A new Journey After dedicating 13 years to the Johnson Country Library, Janine Myers will be retiring on December 31.

Janine reflects on her favorite memory and first visit to the De Soto Library. On a sunny, September morning she arrived at the library and was greeted by Bud Kobler and John Taylor, two long-time daily patrons. They told her the library would be closed until 10 am. She said she was there to be interviewed and was asked “Are you the new librarian?” It was the beginning of her De Soto journey and meeting the many patrons she has come to know through the years.

The Johnson County library appreciates Janine’s dedication and commitment to the De Soto community these past thirteen years, and we wish her the best.

–Submitted by Christine Cooper 21

Discovering De Soto

CELEBRATIONS A Royal Celebration of Blue!

It was an exciting day as many De Soto residents were part of the 800,000 people that made the adventuresome journey to ”The Parade” on November 3, 2015.

There was BLUE everywhere– from the lights...fountains... buildings...and streets... as far as you could see.

It was a memorable day and worth the walk to be part of the royal procession!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSE M. BURGWEGER • PLAZA FOUNTAIN COURTESY OF TOM KUHN • UNION STATION JIM WALKER

My most popular 8” X 24” panorama of Downtown Kansas City, “A Royals Night in Kansas City” Special Holiday Price

$29 95plus $2.85 sales tax

Fine Art quality Prints on heavy weight Hahnemühle Photo Lustre paper, and Epson Professional UltraChrome inks. Limited Edition prints are signed and numbered and include my Certificate of Authenticity.

Framing and Matting available at an additional charge, and custom sizes.

A Great Gift • A Great Celebraton of 2015 • A Great Memory Keepsake jbwalkerphotography.com jbw@jbwalkerphotography.com

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Jim Walker, Photographer

Happy Holidays!

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Discovering

De Soto

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A community located in Western Johnson County, Kansas.

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