Discovering De Soto Fall 2021 Golden Colors of Fall by Discovering De Soto

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De Soto, Kansas and Western Johnson County

Golden Colors of Fall

Fall 2021

Pages 17-20 Pull-Out Section

LABOR DAY WEEKEND Downtown De Soto

Local Beekeepers • USD 232 School Calendar • Fall Events • Health • Faith De Soto City Pages • NWCFD • De Soto Public Art & Fall Art Show and more...

Happy Holidays from your locally owned community bank!

Great American Bank

GreatHAmerican Bank

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f our 5 branches and see us today! 33050 West 83rd St. De Soto, KS Phone - 913-585-1131

3901 Main St. Kansas City, MO Phone – 816-561-8866

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33050 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS Phone: 913 913--585 585--1131 / greatambank.com

Come in to any of our 5 branches and see us today! 888A New Hampshire St. Lawrence, KS Phone 785-838-9704

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Discovering

De Soto

Community Feature & News Publication

Online viewing of all issues: https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/ discoveringdesoto/

Welcome

SPECIAL FEATURE “Golden Colors of Fall”

Painterly Leaves, Picturesque Sunflowers and the Sweet Taste of Honey.......................................................6-9 Business News.................................................................10

CITY OF DE SOTO Pages

City Hires New City Clerk............................................... 11 2022 City of De Soto Proposed Budget........................ 11-13 Summer Concert Series................................................... 13 City Directory / De Soto Parks & Recreation.............. 13

Health

COVID-19 Resurges with Variant..............................15 Health & Wellness for Life Seminars............................15 DE SOTO DAYS FESTIVAL 2021 Pull-Out Section Events & Entertainment .................................................17 Parade & Carnival Map / Vendors & Sponsors..........18-19 De Soto Days History / Committee Volunteers..........20 JT’s De Soto Days Treasure Hunt..................................21 Harps Food Online Recipe Collection.........................21 SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR Fall 2021.............22-23

USD 232

COVID Guidelines for 2021-22..................................... 24 USD 232 School Calendar..............................................25 ORGANIZATIONS Area Group & Clubs De Soto Public Art / Peace Poles Exhibit.....................26-27 Friends of the Kaw/U.S. Agriculture Queen/4-H... 28-29 FAITH Fall Church Events/ Golden Scriptures........30-31 AUTO In Remembrance Dean Weller Carriage Houses Car & Air Show and BBQ............ 32 PUBLIC SAFETY 20th Anniversary of 9-11.............34 NWCFD & JCSO Honor Blake Lindbloom............35 Discovering De Soto is printed and distributed to De Soto residents and businesses throughout De Soto through funding from the City of De Soto. Additional distribution in portions of Lenexa, Olathe, Linwood and Shawnee. Independently owned and published by RMB Prints & Design LLC. Publishing Quarterly. Printed by Allen Press Lawrence, Kansas Online publications https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Mailed Copies $2.50 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 and not liable for any incurrances as a result of this publication. The material in Discovering De Soto is not intended for diagnosing or giving medical advice. Business, Organization or Entity Featured is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product, individual, business or organization. Businesses featured are objectively selected for newsworthy content and/or being applicable to the current issue’s theme/focus/emphasis.Publisher/Editor reserves the right on final editing of all content herein, including acceptance of submissions and advertising.

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I truly enjoy the rich rustic colors of Fall. There is both a brilliancy and delicate side to this season. The brightly-colored pumpkins and leaves brighten the countryside, as the fields begin to turn golden hues of yellow and brown. It was six years ago that Discovering De Soto began publishing. This issue celebrates that with expanded pages and distribution. Our readers, advertisers and the City of De Soto have affirmed the value of this printed publication...with much help received from God, who gives the inspiration and keeps it flowing. As our clock will turn back in early November, let us keep moving forward with strength, mercy and grace for the days ahead. COVID still looms, the economy is fragile, times seem uncertain...but in many ways, it is the best of times, amidst the worst of times. We have so much in this country, so much more than many...including vaccines that are readily available to all. The media and politicians have come together to encourage all to do their part in the pandemic. Sincerely, Rose Discovering De Soto, publisher/editor

Kudos to our Advertisers who fund the staffing & production of Discovering De Soto! Published by RMB Prints & Design, LLC Rose M. Burgweger, publisher / editor

For editorial submissions and advertising information, contact

Discovering De Soto by email: RMBPrints@icloud.com

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Blake Bradford Contributing Graphic Designer Katherine Diaz Contributing Writer Meg Johnson Administrative Assistant Ashton DelVecchio, Helen Ash Copy Editors

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Special Thanks to The City of De Soto for funding Printing & Distribution

City Pages written/designed by Whitney Lange

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Printed Copies are available at these area locations: De Soto Harps Foods Steve’s Meat Market Downtown De Soto look for our bin Lenexa Suburban Lawn & Garden Shawnee Price Chopper courtesy of The Kansas City Star Earl May Country Club Cafe Sign up for free online subscription at RMBPrints@icloud.com All Issues Online: https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Mailed copies $2.50 each like us on facebook https//www.facebook.com/DiscoveringDesoto

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For more information about Arbor Ridge, https://www.ArborRidgeks.com To learn more about Phase III lots and homes, call (913) 444-2029

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Enjoy the Golden Colors of Fall– painterly leaves, picturesque sunflowers and the sweet taste of honey Photos by Rose Burgweger/rmbprints.com unless noted otherwise

The Kansas River named for the Kansa or Kaw people who lived in the area, is also the name for the state of Kansas chosen to honor the people and their river. according to Kansapedia/Kansas Historical Society. Beginning in Manhattan, it flows into the Missouri River. Cedar Creek and Kill Creek both feed into the Kansas River. Shown at right is the view from the reopened Wyandotte Bridge. From 2010 to 2018 the Sunflower Artfest was held at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm. The event was held by the De Soto Arts Council, and showcased area artists and musicians. Shown at right, a colorful array of Sunflowers, grown for the De Soto Rotary Polioplus Project. Heat, winds, storms and deer destroying the Sunflowers were all factors ithat contributed to ceasing the community event.

The Muth Bottle was the first jar to be made for honey. Charles F. Muth founded the Muth Honey Business in 1858. Shown at right is honey from Happy Valley Farm in a replica bottle. These and other sizes, can be refilled at The Honey Shack, located on its premises. See ad on page 22H.

For many years, Verle Istas produced an assortment of metal sculptures–sunflowers, bugs and animals–that decorated Lexington Avenue. I recall driving by, viewing the array of colorful pieces that would adorn the street. I spoke with Verle several years ago, and he was proud of each piece. I noticed a “for sale” sign earlier this year and called, inquiring about the property. Verle had passed away last October. All his pieces, intricately made, have been sold and are now treasures in many special places.

De Soto is home to its very own Sunflower Mural, located on 83rd Street in the downtown area. Emily Euler (2017 DHS grad) designed and painted the mural. Shown above is the photo by Emily that inspired the mural shown at right. The project was sponsored

G ol d en Colors of Fa ll 2 0 21 For a delightful Fall craft, embelish pumpkins with dried or artificial flowers, fabric or artwork. Glue onto pumpkins and then decoupage. Googling “decoupage pumpkins’ will provide a bounty of ideas, videos and instructions.

Cover photos shown at left. Sunflowers and honey comb at local vendor show by Steve’s Bees. Golden Fall trees outside the front gymnasium entrance of De Soto City Hall. Bees and honeycomb stock photography. Truckload of colorful pumpkins available at Steve Bowlin’s Farm.

and funded by the De Soto Arts Council. As stated in the Fall 2018 Discovering De Soto issue, “Sunflowers had always been Loya Berry’s vision for the building, but it was Emily’s talent that brought the painting to life.” A great mural for a memorable family photo.

After doing Rural & Inspirational Photography for over 15 years, I finally made it out to the renown Grinter Farms in Lawrence last year. Spectacular! Wide open spaces Without a doubt, filled with golden Sunflowers. Plenty of outdoor space during a the mother of Covid Summer of distancing and all Kansas vast fields inviting me to explore! sunflower fields is Grinter Farms! Farmer Ted Grinter posted on –Mickey Shannon the farm’s facebook page “Our sunflowers are typically planted in July and bloom for about two weeks around Labor Day.” Check for updates: https://www.facebook.com/GrinterFarms The sunflower fields can be found at 24154 Stillwell Road in Lawrence–just about 30 minutes from De Soto via KS-32, crossing over the newly-opened Wyandotte Bridge. Avoid peak weekend and evening

times. No street parking / use parking lots. Please be respectful of this free event and patient with traffic. Do not litter. No bathrooms. Donation box available.

KansastTravel.org, TripAdvisor.com and a myriad

of other sites feature Grinter Farms online. For a picturesque tour of sunflower fields throughout Kansas, visit online: https://www.mickeyshannon.

com/articles/kansas-sunflower-fields/

–written by Rose M. Burgweger

This panoramic photo was taken with my phone to capture the spacious 40-acre sunflower field that is open to the public by Grinter Farms. “I planned on raising sunflowers for birdseed—I didn’t plan on tourism. But it puts smiles on people’s faces,” says Ted Grinter, family farm operator.

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Steve and Terre Messbarger are familiar faces at many vendor events. You’ll find them at Bowlin Farms, The Barn at Kill Creek Farm, De Soto Days, Maple Leaf Festival, Sugar Mound, Just for Her and more.

“We know a bee or two, because we have a bee or two!”

local honey available at: Bowlin Farms 31915 West 115th Street https://www.bowlinfarms.net Happy Valley Farm 29080 West 95th Street https://happyvalleyfarm-ks.com/ Steve’s Bees https://www.facebook.com/Stevesbeeshoney Steve’s Meat Market 32685 Lexington Avenue https://stevesmeat.com/ Interviews with Steve Messenger and Fred Jones by Rose Burgweger Photos on page 9 provided by Fred Jones

You’ll find this line on the business card and vendor signs for local beekeeper Steve’s Bees. Owner Steve Messbarger has cultivated many years of experience over the 15 years he has worked with bees. Steve was president of the Northeastern Kansas Beekeepers Association for three years (2016-2019). The group meets monthly at the Douglas County Fairground and is a great resource for novice and experienced beekeepers. Visit their website: http://www.nekba.org Steve was introduced to bees by a coworker. The first year he lost his hives, as the three queen bees did not take. The next year he tried again with two hives, then six and kept going. Retiring five years ago, Steve keeps “busy as a bee” working 100 hives every 14 days. He checks on the queen and monitors the progress of each hive. His hives are located from Basehor to Spring Hill. Stipulations for a good location include a water source and being accessible by a vehicle. Bees bring water into hives, cooling the hive fanning their wings as a type of “air conditioner.” Nutrition is the best thing for bees. “We supply good sources of food, with plenty of plants in the one-mile area,” said Steve. Both pollen and nectar are collected by bees. Nectar is the raw material for honey that is “processed” in the hive, and pollen provides necessary nutrients. There is a whole society “Order of Bees” in a colony, informed Steve. An egg-laying queen establishes a strong honey bee colony. In the spring an egg is laid every 20 seconds, establishing a colony of over 50,000 bees per hive. 1Workers are the majority of the colony, and are entirely female. The queen releases a pheromone which signals workers to do their jobs. They first function as nurse bees taking care of young. As they grow, they build wax combs and store nectar and pollen. As a scout (or forager) they find good sources of nectar. Workers also defend the colony with their barbed stingers. They will die once they sting. Drones, or male honey bees, fertilize new queens. When a honey bee colony grows too large and runs out of space, the colony will swarm, with a portion of workers looking for a new home. In addition to being a beekeeper, Steve also does swarm removal, bee rescue, bee sales and has a variety of bee products: raw, unfiltered honey; twelve flavors of creamed honey; lotion bars, soap and lip balm– all produced by his own hives. Visit their facebook page online at https://www.facebook.com/Stevesbeeshoney or call 913-226-2849

1 https://www.perfectbee.com/learn-about-bees/the-life-of-bees/inside-and-out-ofthe-beehive

G ol d en Colors of Fa ll 2 0 21

De Soto is a land flowing with honey–as local beekeepers hone their skills. De Soto residents Fred Jones and Danny Lane shown above are extracting honey from a honeycomb hive. Becoming a beekeeper has been passed down and around through Darrell Zimmerman, showing Fred Jones his observation shed of bees back in 2010. Fred shared his bee hobby with Danny about four years ago, and recently with Bob Bruce, produce employee at Harps and local gardener. “I like the challenge and there is always something new to learn,” shared Fred. “And it was a great hobby during the pandemic!” Fred first began with an order of a “live” package from Georgia with three pounds of 10,000 bees and a queen bee (in her own matchbox). He now picks up his own order, as well as others, each spring with his trailer shown far right. He started with top-bar hives and now uses medium-size frame boxes shown above center. Fred has used frames with premade plastic combs and frames where the bees make the combs. Bees will deposit honey in both types of combs. After bees deposit honey in the comb and the moisture gets low enough, bees will “cap” it with wax shown below. The filled frames are actually quite heavy. It is amazing that bees

can create a perfectly engineered comb, which store their larvae, pollen and honey. Shown above are the large male drone larvae and the smaller female worker larvae. Young larvae are initially fed “royal jelly,”and once hatched they begin to clean out their cells. Nectar and pollen are deposited in separate cells. The honey production process is intricate and fascinating. Fred enjoys sharing the end product of honey with friends and neighbors.

Grass Seed & Fertilizers

Cat Food • Dog Food Chicken, Horse & Livestock Feed Bird Seed & Feeders Fairy & Miniature Garden Items Outdoor Garden Decor Ice Melt d Refill Propane Bottles

Locally Owned & Operated for 15 Years

DeSoto DeSoto Feed Feed && Garden Garden

www.desotofeed.com

8155 Hadley Road (across from Miller Park) 913-585-1112 or 913-583-1112 Open Monday-Friday 8:30 to 5 Saturday 9 to 2

Online Ordering Available on our New Website: https://www.bowlinfarms.net Fresh Fruits & Vegetables • Melons • Honey • Butters • Salsa • Jams • Pumpkins • Mums & more! Farm Stand OPEN Daily X M-S 9am-8pm Sun 10am-6pm (913) 208-1186 (913) 583-9902

31915 W. 115th Street (115th & Kill Creek Road) Farm Stand closes for season October 31 9

Discovering De Soto

BUSINESS O’Reilly Auto Begins Construction

Construction has begun in Hike 10 Commerce Park. Keith Steward, O’Reilly Auto Parts Project Administrator, confirmed that construction was scheduled to begin in August 2021. The auto parts store is located next to Harps Foods, across from Burger King. Construction revealed rich, red dirt in the area.

Mercato vacates building in Downtown De Soto

RESIDENTIAL I RURAL I COMMERCIAL I RECYCLING

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For 16 years, a bit of Italy was part of De Soto. The owner of Mercato Italian Antiques and Artifacts, would “go to Italy...find great things...and bring them home”...to De Soto. The vintage building with its high ceiling suited the rustic elegance of the furniture and decorative pottery well. See Discovering De Soto Spring 2017 Exploration Issue article on pg 14. Mercato will still be open for business and you can view their online marketplace at: https://mercatoantiques.com The building, located at 33071 West 83rd Street, is owned by De Soto No. 40 Masonic Lodge. The Board of Trustees recently voted for Reach Church to rent the previously occupied space for their children’s ministry expansion and community events. The present-day brick building was erected in 1908, by the local lodge and the Taylor Mercantile Company according to De Soto, Kansas Is 100 Years Old by Dot Ashlock-Longstreth (republished by the De Soto Historical Society 2007). De Soto Lodge No. 40 was instituted during the Civil War, within six years of the town’s founding on October 20, 1863. The group has continued to hold their meetings on the upper floor all these years.

Volume 5 Issue 3 Fall 2021

City Publication

www.desotoks.us

The City of De Soto hired Brandon Mills to fill the position of City Clerk and the newly-created role of Assistant to the City Administrator. Brandon joined the team on June 14, 2021. In an effort to expand public services in a time of fast growth and opportunity in De Soto, the City redeveloped and split the open City Clerk position into two roles; this new employee would take on City Clerk duties as well as fill a much-needed Assistant to the City Administrator role.

First and Third Thursdays @ 7pm Fourth Tuesdays @ 6pm Second and Fourth Mondays @ 6pm City Council and Planning Commission Agendas/ Minutes can be found on the City website:

During the hiring process, City Administrator Mike Brungardt said he was confident the City had found the mix of analytically minded, governmentally experienced, and positively dispositioned needed in a candidate to fill this position. "Brandon’s public administration education and background in municipal finance made his resume stand out, but it was his engaging personality that convinced us he was the right fit for the position." Not only was the role the ideal blend of duties for Brandon, but the city itself stood out to him. He said, "De Soto is a rapidly growing community. New businesses are opening, and new homes are being built every day. The chance to work in a booming community was hard to pass up, and I'm thrilled to see how I can build this new role for the City."

BRANDON MILLS | CITY CLERK & ASSISTANT TO THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR

Brandon has jumped feet first in his role and is already spearheading projects like the redevelopment of the old street department building and assisting the City Council And Park Board on their long term strategic goals.

De Soto, Kansas 66018

www.desotoks.us

“After just a few months on the job, Brandon has already become a valued member of the team here at City Hall, not only fulfilling the City Clerk duties but pitching in on special projects like the public art installation at City Hall.” Mike Brungardt continues, “we’re lucky to have him on board!”

The 2022 budget process was a notable contrast to the previous year’s effort when COVID shutdowns prompted the City to consider bleak economic forecast scenarios with corresponding scaled-down levels of service. Rather than steep revenue declines, 2021 continued a years-long growth trend in sales tax, permitting, planning, and utility revenues. Renewed confidence in future non-property tax revenue projections allowed the City to consider meaningful service increases in 2022 while achieving yet another year with declining mill levies and healthy long-term fund balances. While the City budget is reviewed and approved annually, most revenue and allocation decisions are driven by long-range projection trends. As with every budget, there are policy implications inherent in our revenue and expense figures. Significant changes from previous budget cycles and corresponding policy implications are discussed below.

This volunteer board is a valuable resource that helps enhance the long-term vision and value of parks and recreation opportunities for the residents of the City of De Soto. Monthly Meeting Residency Required

ASSESSED VALUATIONS De Soto’s overall assessed value increased by 12.2% from the previous year. Approximately one third of this increase resulted from new construction, while the remaining two thirds is the result of increasing property values. This year’s total assessed valuation is $96.2 million, up from $85.8 million last year.

(continued on page 12)

11 11

Providing adventure and lifelong opportunities for De Soto residents. Civic pride, collaboration and inclusiveness are hallmarks of our welcoming city where responsible growth is a goal. Responsive, accountable government working in the best of public interest. (continued from page 11)

ASSESSED VALUATIONS CONTINUED.... Appraisal trends over the past four years are as follows:

MILL LEVY The mill levy is a property tax applied to a property or home based on assessed value. De Soto collects that property tax to help fund general operations of the City including administration, street maintenance, parks & recreation, and municipal court. In addition, property tax collections pay for law enforcement services and debt service on outstanding debt. It is calculated by determining how much revenue each tax jurisdiction will need to fund the upcoming year.

GENERAL FUND Recent property tax base growth along with revenue increases in sales tax, permitting, and other revenue streams allows us to consider level of service increases for 2022 and beyond. The chart below shows projected year-ending General Fund balances along with a trendline showing the balance as a percentage of operating expenses. Like previous budget cycles, significant current balances are modeled to moderate downward over the protection period towards the 30% level required by our fiscal policy.

The proposed 2022 total mill levy for De Soto is 23.223 Mills. Historic mill levies, beginning in 2017, are shown below:

SALES TAX REVENUES Continuing trends from recent years, sales tax collections continued to exceed projections in 2020 and the first half of 2021. Sales tax collections are a crucial part of the City’s ability to maintain its sound financial footing, representing approximately 40% of General Fund revenues. Sales tax is also a significant source of revenue for the Debt Service Fund, representing 1/3rd of the fund’s revenues, as well as the Capital Improvements Fund. Despite the COVIDrelated economic shutdowns in 2020, annual sales tax collections were up approximately 3.54% from 2019. As of June 30, 2021, collections continued to exceed previous year’s amounts by 16%. The chart in the following column reflects actual sales tax collections through 2020, a projected amount for 2021 based on collections through June, the budget amount for 2022, and projections for 2023 through 2027.

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The fund balance spike in 2021 is the result of the distribution of federal dollars pursuant to the CARES act in 2020 and the COVID Relief act in 2021. De Soto received nearly $671,000 in federal funding in 2021 and will receive an additional $494,000 in funds in 2022. These funds were deposited into the General Fund, and a transfer of $850,000 to the CIP fund is included in the 2022 budget. These funds are constrained to infrastructure, and their use will be deliberated as part of the CIP update process.

General Fund Initiatives Personnel: The 2022 budget includes a new full-time position in the Street Department. With added capacities resulting from our new public works facilities and equipment purchases, the department will be in a position to provide increased levels of

FREE F E S T PAR

RIVE

SUMMER SUNSET CONCERT SERIES The Summer Sunset Concert Series kicked off on July 16th, 2021, with performances by The Instamatics & Landrush. The next concert is August 20th at 6:30PM. Lily B Moonflower Band opens at 6:30PM and Travis Marvin takes the stage at 8PM. Join us for a night out at Riverfest!

service at a time when new development is adding incrementally to the department’s workload. Summer Concert Series: The 2022 budget includes funding for the continuation of our summer concert series at Riverfest Park and increases the allocation from $20,000 to $25,000. Road Maintenance Program: The 2022 budget provides a significant increase for the road maintenance program funding from $425,000 to $500,000. The 5-year projections maintain the $500,000 allocation throughout the projection period. Capital Improvements: The 2022 budget for Capital Improvements reflects the results of our latest Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) update, which was approved in February. This year’s update increased annual CIP expenses from an average of $1.5 Million to approximately $2.1 Million. To pay for this increase, there are several new debt issuances planned, and we took a more aggressive approach to projecting future ongoing revenue streams.

in 2014 to a maximum of 86% in 2018 and ended 2020 at 77%. The health of the water fund can largely be attributed to a 10% water rate increase in 2016 that was needed to offset the $7 million renovation of the treatment plant. Following the renovations, utility and chemical costs reduced significantly because of efficiency gains and tighter controls on costs, specifically overtime.

The proposed 2022 budget includes a 1% water rate increase. However, as we have done in past years, the need for this increase will be evaluated near the end of 2021; we have been able to hold the water rate steady for the past three budget cycles.

Capital Improvements New or one-time revenue sources for 2022 include the following:

SEWER FUND Like the Water Fund, Sewer Fund balances have increased in recent years. From a low of $230,000 in 2017, year-end fund balances ended 2020 at $445,423 and are projected to end 2021 over $500,000. The 2022 budget includes a modest 1% increase, but we will evaluate the need for that increase in the fall. 2022 CIP projects:

The chart below shows year-end fund balance projections for the sewer fund, which are crafted to moderate toward the 30% expenditure level. Of note in the 5-year projections is the expected addition of one full time position in 2024 to account for increasing workload on the department.

WATER FUND

Since 2014, year-end balances in the Water Fund have steadily increased. While expenditures during that time have also increased, fund balance as a percentage of expenses have increased from 32%

The budget will be approved at the September 2nd City Council meeting.

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MAYOR Rick Walker 913-375-7729 Cell

City Hall Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm

CITY ADMINISTRATOR/ENGINEER Mike Brungardt, P.E. 913-586-5253 Direct 785-764- 8737 Cell CITY ATTORNEY Patrick G. Reavey 913-586-5299 Direct 816-474- 6300 Office CITY CLERK / ASSISTANT TO THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR Brandon Mills 913-586-5250 CITY BUILDING OFFICIAL Cameron Maughmer 913-210-9186 Cell CITY BUILDING INSPECTOR Dale Hamilton 913-274-8259 Cell CITY CODES & CIP INSPECTOR Walter Gardenhire 913-586-5263 Direct 913-940-8552 Cell CITY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Whitney Lange 913-586-5255 CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Lori Murdock 913-636-2679 Cell CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS Rob Daniels 913-221-4498 Cell Kevin Honomichl 913-583-1623 Home Danny Lane 913-634-9150 Cell Kevin Ritter 913-208-5352 Cell CITY FINANCE OFFICER Bonnie Bennett 913-586- 5262 CITY PLANNER Brad Weisenburger 913-586-5286 Direct MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK Erika Carrillo 913-586-5290 PARK & RECREATION DIRECTOR Jay Garvin 913-586-5280 Direct 913-544-8073 Cell AQUATICS & RECREATION MANAGER Justin Huslig 913-586-5281 Direct BUILDING MAINTENANCE Nate Johnson 913-626-6567 PLANNING COMMISSION Tim Fisher 913-915-5416 Cell Bob Garrett 913-707-6284 Cell Linda Lane 913-634-8299 Cell Todd Manson 913-909-0145 Cell Ian McPherson 913-585-1827 Home John Shultz 913-585-3511 Home Roger Templin 913-583-3183 Home STREET SUPERINTENDENT Ron Creason 913-238- 0437 Cell City Shop 913-586-5257 UTILITIES 913-583-1182 Nancy Steele x112, Erika Carrillo x122 WATER/SEWER SUPERINTENDENT Doug Smith 913-238- 0434 Wastewater Plant 913-585-9956 WATER DEPARTMENT Water Plant 913-669-6359

MUNICIPAL COURT 913-586-5290 CITY PROSECUTOR Amy R. Mitchell 913-782- 2720 CITY JUDGE Randy McCalla 913-390-1555 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Sara Ritter Director 913-583-1585 office 913-238-2206 cell ANIMAL CONTROL Johnson County Sheriff 913-782- 0720 JOHNSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPT. non-emergency 913-782-0720 emergency 9-1-1 JOHNSON COUNTY NORTHWEST CONSOLIDATED FIRE DISTRICT Todd Maxton, Fire Chief non-emergency 913-583-3886 emergency 9-1-1 HONEY CREEK SANITATION Randy Weldon 785-423-1809 Cell DE SOTO US POST OFFICE 33155 W. 83rd Street 913-583-1543 Mon-Fri 9am-11am 12:30pm-4:30pm Sat 9am-noon

www.desotoks.us/151/Parks-Recreation

REGI STRA TION OPT IONS:

In-person: De Soto City Hall 32905 West 84th St. Online: https: //bit.ly/DeSotoParksActivities Mail In: PO Box C, De Soto, KS 66018 After Hours Drop Box: 32905 West 84th Street

20 21 Y OUTH AC TIV IT I ES Youth Basketball Clinic Girls & Boys Grades K-6 | Fee: $20 Begins: Saturdays, November 7, 14, and 21

Tiny Basketball Girls & Boys Grades 1-2 | Fee: $30 Registration Deadline: November 7th

Youth Basketball Girls & Boys Grades 3-6 | Fee: $45 Registration Deadline: November 7th

20 21 F ALL A DULT AC TIV I TI ES Adult Co-Ed Volleyball Fee: $120 per team Registration Deadline: September 3rd Begins: September 13th

D E SOTO A QUAT I C CENTER August 7 - September 5 Closed: Monday - Friday & September 4 Open: Saturday & Sunday

Doggie Plunge (Dogs-Only Swimming) Monday, September 6th | 1:00 - 3:00 PM

EMPL OY M EN T OPPORTU N IT IE S Youth Soccer Officials Youth Basketball Officials Youth/Adult Volleyball Officials Fitness Instructors

For more information, please contact Justin Huslig at jhuslig@desotoks.us

Fall 2021

COVID-19 resurges with variant

Golf & Fitness Center

Fitness&Center Open 24/7 Golf Book your TeeFitness Times conveniently online

www.greatlife-burningtree.com 75% off initiation fees until March 31, 2021 Call 913-301- 3000 to set up your Golf & Fitness Membership Today!

Freshly Circulated Air & Clean Equipment

Single $34.99 plus tax $29.99 with referral

Family $44.99plus tax $39.99 with referral

Referral Program Savings for both New and Referring Member

Fitness Center City Hall Gymnasium 32905 West 84th Street • De Soto Burning Tree Golf 7909 Wyandotte • De Soto North side of Kansas River Bridge

HEALTH

During these summer months, it has been surprising that Covid continues with a much more transmissible Delta variant. 1 Those unvaccinated are at a much greater risk for complications and death. While there are still breakthrough Covid cases for those who have been vaccinated, the data and news report there are more hospital beds filled with unvaccinated patients. By then, it is too late to get the vaccine. We are fortunate in the United States to have the vaccine accessible and available. Many countries are lacking in both. Consult your doctor with concerns or your medical conditions. Cedar Creek Pharmacy continues to offer the Johnson & Johnson and Moderna Vaccines for those 18 years and older. Call 913-583-1117 for appointment availability. Additional locations online at: https://www.vaccines.gov/search

1 https://theweek.com/magazine#/reader/readsvg/515459 Choosing Covid/Delta variant drives surge among the unvaccinated Also see Get Out & Play Safely Discovering De Soto Summer 2021

Cedar Creek Pharmacy resumes informative Health & Wellness for Life Seminars

The community is invited to FREE SEMINARS that discuss a holistic approach to optimal health and wellness. Seminars are held monthly at 7 pm on the following dates: September 15, October 20, November 17, December 15 Held at the Senior Center, 32905 W. 84th Street (parking and entrance at the back side of De Soto City Hall building).

Health & Wellness for Life Your Hometown Full-Service Pharmacy

Membership Rates include Burning Tree Golf & GreatLife Fitness

Serving the De Soto Community Since 1992 Full Service Prescription Care • Delivery Automatic Refills • Syncing Medications Pharmacists Lori Murdock, Betsey Gallinger and Caleb Weinhold look forward to assisting You!

Health & Wellness Center

Vitamins • Botanicals • Homeopathic

Join now & get your THIRD MONTH FREE TWO LIVE DE SOTO JAZZERCISE LOCATIONS AND ONLINE JAZZERCISE De Soto Community Center•32905 W. 84th St. Jazzercise De Soto CAUSE COFFEE•33180 W. 83rd St.

Class Schedules online https://www.jazzercise.com Call 913-226-4616 or email desotojazzercise@yahoo.com follow us on facebook: Jazzercise DeSoto

If schools are closed due to weather, the 5:30 AM class is cancelled. Watch Facebook for updates on other class times.

Health & Wellness for Life Monthly Seminars 7 pm Senior Center See schedule shown above

Cedar Creek Pharmacy & Wellness Center

Located inside Harps 34040 Commerce Drive Phone (913) 583-1117 Fax (913) 585-9801 www.CedarCreekPharmacy.org Drive Thru Open Monday-Friday 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 1 • Sunday closed

Authentic Mexican Food Food Prepared Hot, Fresh & Right off the Grill!

Dine In & DRIVE THRU OPEN

u Appetizers, Salads, Ala Carte & Combos Variety of Mexican Enchiladas, Burritos, Fajitas Quesadillas, Pork, Chicken & Steaks, Seafood, Vegetarian

Imported & Domestic Beers u Wines u Sangria u 10 Varieties of Margaritas

Mondays u 1/2 Price Kids Meals Wednesdays u Seniors 10% off With Coupon (kids under 10 / seniors over 60)

Take out Online with Full Menus

facebook page Specials El Patron De Soto

EL PATRON

MEXICAN FOOD • BAR & GRILL

34429 West 91st Street u De Soto 913-586-3060 u ElpatronDesoto.com

Open Monday-Thursday 10am -9pm Friday & Saturday 10am -10pm Sunday 10am -9pm NO PURCHASE NECESSARY Must present coupon. One 3 pc. order per customer. Mention offer when ordering.

Now Hiring All Positions! Apply Today at Jobs.PizzaHut.com

Redeem only in De Soto, KS Expires 11/30/2021 Offer 2089

SPECIAL DEALS JUST FOR YOU! SPECIAL DEALS JUST FOR YOU! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY Must present coupon. One order per customer. Mention offer when ordering.

Redeem only in De Soto, KS Expires 11/30/2021 Offer 3728

Pizza & Wings Deal! Family Meal Deal DESOTO BONNER SPRINGS Get aKANSAS large Pizza 2 Large 1-Topping Pizzas 34080 COMMERCE DRIVE 13028 AVENUE 913-585-1265 913-441-2435 up to 3-toppings 5 Breadsticks WEST LENEXA & 8 Bone out Wings & 2-Liter Pop 22903 WEST 83RD ST $26.99 (K-7 & WEST 83RD) $19.99

913-745-0020 Save over $7.00 off regular price Save over $12.50 off regular price

Additional Charge for Pan, Stuffed Crust, Additional Toppings & ExtraDEAL Cheese. FAMILY MEAL Specialty not available. Valid De Soto,1-TOPPING Bonnor Springs and GET at 2 LARGE PIZZAS, Lenexa Pizza&Huts. Code ZS 5West BREADSTICKS A 2-LITER FOR $26.99

DE SOTO OVER $12.50 OFF OF REGULAR PRICE 34080 Commerce Drive CODE: ZS 913-585-1265

34071 Commerce Drive | Open 6 am for Breakfast 16

Hours: Daily 7am - 10pm | Drive-Thru open to 11pm

Additional Charge for Pan, Stuffed Crust, Additional Toppings & Extra Cheese. PIZZA AND WINGS DEAL Specialty not available. Valid at De Soto, Bonnor Springs and GET A LARGE UP TO West Lenexa PizzaPIZZA Huts. Code 1B 3-TOPPINGS & 8 BONE OUT WINGS FOR $19.99

BONNER SPRINGS OVER $7.00 OFF OF REGULAR PRICE 13028 Kansas Avenue CODE: 1B 913-441-2435 ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR PAN, STUFFED CRUST, ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR PAN, STUFFED CRUST, WEST LENEXA ADDITIONAL TOPPINGS AND EXTRA CHEESE. ADDITIONAL TOPPINGS AND EXTRA CHEESE. SPECIALTY 22903 NOT AVAILABLE. VALID AT THE DESOTO, (K-7 WEST 83RD & WEST 83RD) SPECIALTY NOT AVAILABLE. VALID AT THE DESOTO, BONNER SPRINGS & WEST LENEXA PIZZA HUT. BONNER SPRINGS & WEST LENEXA PIZZA HUT. 913-745-0020 ORDER ONLINE WWW.PIZZAHUT.COM ORDER ONLINEAT AT WWW.PIZZAHUT.COM

D e S oto D a ys 2 0 21

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L P U L L - O U T S E C T I O N

www.DeSotoDays.com

LABOR DAY WEEKEND Downtown De Soto

l iva rn Ca t 2 • 6 pm to 10 pm

Evans Midland

Thursday, Sep wristband $21 CASH ONLY Friday, Sept 3 • 6 pm to 10 pm wristband $24 CASH ONLY Saturday, Sept 4 • two sessions • 11am to 4 pm • 5 pm to 10 pm wristband $24 per session CASH ONLY

Carnival Closed from 4 pm to 5 pm • ATM on-site

••••••••••••

Events & Entertainment • • • • • • • • • • • • Saturday, Sept 4

10 am to 11am • Parade & Car Cruise Show 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm 11am to 3 pm • Dean Weller Memorial Car • The Merlots 11am to 3 pm • Balloon Creations 8:30 pm to 9 pm 11am to 1 pm • Folk in the Flow d Pantry* • Tae Kwon Do White Tiger 12 noon to 4 pm • New! Dunk Tank proceeds to De Soto Foo it Pie Baking Contest Reach Church Fru w! Ne • pm 3 to on no 12 3 ber tem Friday, Sep 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm • Dance Expressions 7 pm to 10 pm 3 pm to 5 pm • Drew Six • The Suburbans 5 pm to 8 pm • Caprice Classic 8 pm to 10 pm • Pompous Jack

Thursday, Sept 2

www.DeSotoDays.com

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L P U L L - O U T S E C T I O N

NWCFD activities throughout the day NWCFD Station 3

Cause Coffee

W 91st St

Lexington

Parking Lot

De Soto High School

Ave

LTMS

ton

g xin

Handicapped Parking

Miller Park 83rd St

Peoria Street

Ferry Rd

Wyandotte

Pe De Soto Baptist

USD 232

Hadley Rd

84th St

Delaware

Av e

Peoria

83rd St

Please use your wise discretion with masks and social distancing, for your safety and the safety of others, when attending De Soto Days and other public gatherings and events.

83rd Street

USD 232

c c

Dunk Tank by De Soto Days proceeds to De Soto Food Pamtry

Reach Church Baricade Thurs-Sun

Vendor Staff Entertainment Parking

MANY THANKS &

c c 18

l Library

84th Street

De Soto Days Parade Saturday, Sept. 4 • 10 am K10 Highway

Post Office

Pie Contest

e Av

Parade & Car Cruise • Most Creative • Original • Best Performance • Best of Parade • Mayor’s Choice • Grand Marshal Car Cruise line up 8 am De Soto Baptist Church Parade line up 8:30 am De Soto High School Le

Dunk Tank

Perky’s Cafe Jenna Boom

Wea Street

LABOR DAY WEEKEND Downtown De Soto

First Aid

Vender Area

Parade begins at De Soto HIgh School Saturday 10 am

Baricade Tues-Sun

Carnival

alleyway

Car Show Sponsors Alex Tree Service American Family Insurance Coleman Implement Dales Service De Soto Auto Parts Dr. Chuck Klestinske Emmet Kurtz Harps Food Hayward’s BBQ Heritage Tractor John’s Auto Repair Kansas Land Management Keller Williams Lumber One Murphy Tractor Santa Fe Tow Shuck Implement Co. Spectra TriCentury Bank

DIAMOND

D e S oto D a ys 2 0 21 De Soto Days Vendors Food

alleyway Handicapped Parking Food

Dr.

Food Food

Food

Stage 1

Free to enter 1 pie per person Pie Registration the day of event Pie Drop off 12 to 1:30 pm, Sat Sept 4 De Soto Days renames car show to honor Dean Weller

Tues-Wed

Baricade Thurs-Sun

Parade ends at Miller Park

83rd Street

Vender Area

Dale’s

Vender Area

alleyway

Office

e tag

De Soto KJ’s AnaHistorial Pizza bel’s Society

The Great De Soto PIE BAKE-OFF Saturday, Sept 4 12 to 3

Beer Klestinske Garden

Public Tent seating area

rnival Area Mason Building

Food

Baricade Thurs-Sun

alleyway

HEY, LANDLORD! LET’S PROTECT YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY WITH6 INSURANCE YOU CAN TRUST.

Baricade Sat only

84th Street Baricade Sat only

Dean Weller Memorial Car Show

Whether your rental property includes one building or many, you deserve real support Car Show Area and protection that evolves with your business dream. That’s where I can help. Community City Hall At American Family Insurance, we’ve been protecting propertiesCenter like yours for over 40 years.

Contact me today, and let’s talk about customized coverage you and your tenants can depend on.

Delaware Street

Great American Bank

Shawnee Street

Information Tent

Baricade Tues-Sun

Community Pool

Julie Coover, Agent

Bowlin Farms Dottie’s Kitchen Dolelicious Frenzel’s BBQ Las Gordas Mexican Max’s Lemonade MoGo KC, LLC Polar Oasis Premier Shaved Ice Sticky Rice on Wheels

Craft & Commercial

Arte Perdida Fresh Feature Photography Green Compass Global CBD Quilting in Kansas Pampered Chef KC Handmade Goods Auntie Amy’s Handmade Leather Goods Color Street Creativity with Tracey Ivy Lena Kayla Rae Handmade More than 13 Impossible Things Rooted Press Scentsy Soggy Bottom CBD Succ.a.lot Tastefully Simple Trio Paparazzi Woodland Custom Cookies

A P P R E C I A T I O N32565t Lexington o a Ave l lSte B,oDefSotoo u r 2 0 2 1 D e S o t o D a y s S p o n s o r s Bus: (913) 583-1219 juliecoover.com

PLATINUM

De Soto

Clinic

DIAMOND PREMIER

EXECUTIVE

Discovering

De Soto

Mayor Rick Walker FIBER

Community Feature & News Magazine

Cedar Creek Pharmacy & Wellness Center

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L P U L L - O U T S E C T I O N

D e S oto D a ys 2 0 21

www.DeSotoDays.com De Soto Days History

LABOR DAY WEEKEND Downtown De Soto

De Soto Days History • 1964-2021 De Soto Days Festival is the largest on-going event in our community. It began in 1964 by the Jaycees who encouraged all of our community organizations to join in the event. In true Jaycee spirit, the De Soto Festival’s mission was: • To promote the City of De Soto with pride and enthusiasm • To develop a yearly event to enhance the lives of the De Soto residents & members of neighboring communities through events which appeal to a diverse audience • To unite the citizens of De Soto • To celebrate the past & envision the future De Soto Days has been held at various locations over the years: both sides of 83rd Street, in the old High School football field, Riverfest Park, Miller Memorial Park and Downtown De Soto.

Much Thanks to the 2021 De Soto Days Committee Volunteers!

After the Jaycees, the event was organized by the City and then passed to the City Park Board, with help from the De Soto Chamber of Commerce. It is now organized by a volunteer group of citizens who spend many months and hours planning. Currently, the Evans Midland Carnival Company has guaranteed their participation over Labor Day weekend. A Saturday morning parade & car cruise has almost always kicked off the festival’s celebration. Food vendors, craft booths, car show and live music are just a few of the scheduled events that are part of each year’s festival. De Soto Days Committee P.O. Box 188, De Soto, Kansas 66018 desotodaysks@gmail.com

Committee Chairman Rhonda Patterson Treasurer Bob Zindler Advertising Chair Angela Shopper Car Show Chair/Co-Chair Ron Creason & Patrick Reavey Entertainment Chair/Co-Chair Dan Leap & Kristi Hinkle Parade Chair Heidi Capling Sponsorship Chair Toni Caldwell A few of the 2019 De Soto Days Committee Volunteers Vendor Chair Anabel Sanchez Website Leslie Fischer General Committee: Doug Bedford, Emily Berg, Loya Beery, Garret Capling, Amy Carey, Michelle Carter, Jaime Church, Carol Coffman, Jeff Cook, Mark Crumbaker, Emmet & Molly Kurtz, Chyann Franklin, Laura Huffman, Whitney Lange, Jessica Rogers, DeAnn Theamert, Dave Thelen, and Whitey Whitney

JT’s first annual De Soto Days Treasure Hunt offers $500 cash

Family Favorite Sportsbar! Enjoy Our Weekly Specials: Burger Mondays Taco Tuesdays Steak Nights Friday & Saturday

Whitey Whitney, owner of JT’s Grill, has announced a Treasure Hunt that will be held during De Soto Days. The gold medal shown at left will bring a $500 Cash Prize to the lucky person who finds the treasure! Find your first clue on JT’s facebook page beginning at 7 am Friday, September 3. Look for one clue every hour on JT’s facebook page until the gold medal is found. Last clue will be given at noon Saturday, September 4. The gold coin will be hidden on public property in De Soto on Thursday, September 2. See JT’s facebook page for details & official rules.

1/2 PRICE Select Appetizers Monday-Friday 4 pm to 6 pm

Dine-In • Carry-Out • Curbside 33255 Lexington Ave. Online DeSoto,Ordering KS 66018 JTsgrill.com

913-585-1116 Open Monday - Friday 11am -10 pm Saturday & Sunday 7am -10 pm Happy Hour 4-6 M-F Join usselect for Weekend ½ price appetizersBrunch 7 am - noon

https://www.facebook.com/jtsgrilldesoto JT’s is currently hiring food service staff for a variety of positions. Apply online at: https://www.jtsgrill.com/join-our-team

33255 Lexington Avenue De Soto 913-585-1116

Harps Food Recipe Collections are available in the Recipes Section on the Harps Rewards App

Berries are plentiful in this heartwarming Berry Cobbler l Mix 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/3 cup cornstarch in a 4-quart Dutch oven. l Add 2 cups of each: raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. l Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and toss untill coated. l Heat to boiling. Boil 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened. l Spoon mixture into casserole dish.

l Mix 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 3/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon in large bowl. l Cut in 1/4 cup butter until mixture looks like coarse crumbs. l Stir in enough hot water (2 to 3 tablespoons) until a soft dough forms. l Drop by spoonfuls onto berry mixture. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Serve warm or cool...and enjoy!

33255 Lexington Ave. DeSoto, KS 66018 913-585-1116

INTRODUCING THE

HARPS Happy Hour 4-6 M-F ½ price select appetizers

Visit us in De Soto 34040 Commerce Drive

MOBILE APP

• Weekly Ad • Sale Notifications • Digital Coupons • Item Location • Shopping List • Exclusive Promotions HARPS

HARPS FOOD STORE OPEN DAILY 6 AM to 10 PM

913-585-9876

https://www.harpsfood.com

Pop-Up Paddle at Lexington Lake Park Saturday, August 21 • 9 to noon

Friends of the Kaw, in partnership with De Soto Rotary Club Free public event (life jackets, paddle and canoe/kayak’s provided). Free hot dog lunch provided by Great American Bank.

...

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L E V E N T S C A L E N D A R

De Soto Chamber ‘Cookin’ on the Kaw Friday, October 8 & Saturday, October 9 Riverfest Park 33440 W. 79th Street

Nationally-sanctioned BBQ Competition. Public invited Free admission/parking. See website for scheduled activities. www.cookinonthekaw.com

...

57th annual De Soto Days Festival 2021 Thursday, Friday, Saturday • September 2-3-4 Labor Day Weekend in Downtown De Soto

Anabel’s Makers Market’s Fall Fiesta Saturday, October 16 • 10 am to 3 pm

...

Rotary & Great American Bank’s Oktoberfest Friday, October 29 • 6 pm to 10 pm The Barn at Kill Creek Farm

Parade Saturday 10 am • Carnival Rides • Live Entertainment Food • Vendors • Car Show and more! https://www.desotodays.com Pull-Out Section pages 17-20

1st annual VFW 6654 Cornhole Tournament Saturday, September 11 • 11 am Free Event

...

https://www.facebook.com/VFW6654

Great American Bank Appreciation Day! Friday, September 24 • 10 am to 2 pm 33050 W. 83rd Street

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Lunch from Steve’s Meat Market and PRIZES

De Soto Half Marathon & 5K Sunday, October 3 • 8 am

Proceeds benefit the Kansas City Chapter of PanCan.org Sign up online by October 1 https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/DeSoto/DeSotoHalfMarathonand5k

...

Enjoy Family Fun, Local Shopping Vendors and more!

Celebrating with the 20th year Barn Anniversary Food, Live Music, Country & Polka Dancing, Beer $20 donation

...

20th Barn Anniversary The Barn at Kill Creek Farm Saturday, October 30 • 10 am to 5 pm 9200 Kill Creek Road (K10 & Kill Creek Road) Celebrate with our Free Event for the Community! Enjoy Food & Drink, Petting Zoo, Historical Presentations, Antique Car & Tractor Show, and plenty of Family Fun! See Ad Below http://thebarnatkillcreekfarm.org

...

Kaw Valley Farm Tour October 2 & 3 • Sat 9 am to 6 pm • Sun 10am to 5pm Happy Valley Farm • 29080 W. 95th Street

Tour 30 farms, including De Soto’s local Happy Valley Farm. Enjoy area farms with Alpacas to Zucchini A-Z and wineries. A great educational, family event $10 per carload for both days. Tickets and Information at http://www.kawvalleyfarmtour.org

n CIDER

Make your ow

APPLES–by the b ushel or pound local HO NEY

gacy! e L a g in d il s...Bu For 20 Year Our family-owned farmstead has been part of the De Soto community for more than 70 years. From Farmers’ markets and art festivals, to family celebrations and community gatherings, The Barn stands as a testament to hard work and community support.

Join Us for our 20th Barn Anniversary Saturday, October 30, 2021 10 am to 5 pm Petting Zoo • Historical Presentations • Food & Drink Antique Car & Tractor Show • Family Fun A Free Event for the Community

S HAY RIDE & S N I K PUMP Happy Valley Farm 29080 W. 95th St. De Soto 8 to 6 Online Store HappyValleyFarm-ks.com

Building a Legacy

TheBarnatKillCreekFarm@gmail.com 913-535-4092 TheBarnatKillCreekFarm.org

Fa ll 2 0 21 Fall Trunk-n-Treats Sunday, October 31

...

See Faith Pages 30 & 31 for times and locations.

Election Day! Tuesday, November 2 • 7am-7pm Election Information shown at right

Annual De Soto United Methodist Church Election Day Dinner Tuesday, November 2 • 5:30 pm to 7 pm 8760 Kill Creek Road A tradition since 1936. Enjoy a complete dinner before or after you vote!

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De Soto Arts Council Fall Fine Arts & Crafts Show Friday, November 5 • 5:30 pm to 9 pm Saturday, November 6 • 9 am to 5 pm Linden-Tripkos VFW Post 6654 33725 W 84th Street

...

www.desotoartsks.org See pages 26-27 for additonal info

Polls are open 7 am to 7 pm Registration Deadline October 12 https://jocoelection.org/ registration

2021 General Election • November 2 Election of City Officials–De Soto

Mayor 4-Year Term Council Member At-Large 2 Positons 4 Year Term Up for reelection and uncontested: Mayor Rick Walker Council Member At-Large Kevin Honomichl Council Member At-Large Rob Daniels Please use your wise discretion with masks and social distancing, for your safety and the safety of others when attending public gatherings and events. Note that events may be cancelled due to public mandates during the current and continuing COVID Pandemic.

De Soto Rotary Presents

Oktoberfest

Barn Dance Sponsored by Great American Bank

October 29th 6 to 10 PM

Live Music & Dancing 7:00-9:00 PM German Food & Beer! $30 Donation Per Person Limited to 100 people

Event held at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm 9200 Kill Creek Road

Reservation & Information: Bob Zindler 913.717.3066 bzindler@gmail.com

Kim Ingalls 913.302.3210 gmamoomoo12@gmail.com

Discovering De Soto

USD 232 Website https://www.usd232.org De Soto High School The Green Pride https://dhsnews.org Mill Valley High School Jagwire https://www.mvnews.org Our vision in USD 232 is to maximize each student’s potential through inspiration and discovery, challenging all students to become self-sufficient and positive contributors to society. The mission of the school district is to prepare all students for their future through excellent, innovative learning opportunities with caring, dedicated and passionate staff in a safe and secure environment. Content adapted from the USD232.org website.

COVID Protocols for the USD 232 School District

The following protocols were adopted by the USD 232 Board of Education at the August 3, 2021, Board of Education meeting. Masks: Board members adopted the mask requirement in response to concerns about the spread of COVID-19 and maintaining in-person learning. Masks will be required indoors for students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12, as well as visitors. Masks will be required indoors for all staff when students are present. Mask exceptions include persons with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a face covering. (See mask exemption form https://www.usd232.org/Domain/4076) Barrier masks are not required while eating or drinking. Barrier face mask requirements on school buses should match classroom mask requirements unless there are mask regulations governing school buses that are more restrictive. Barrier face masks may be required of any staff member while working in close proximity to students with certain medical needs. Exclusions: Individuals who are considered contagious or are presumed to be contagious with a communicable disease will be excluded from school. Individuals who are fully vaccinated or have a documented case of COVID-19 in the last six (6) months are not considered exposed and will not be excluded from school unless they are symptomatic. Testing: The school district, through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, will offer voluntary COVID-19 testing for symptomatic individuals, screening of non-symptomatic individuals, and voluntary testing for individuals who are exposed to COVID-19. Individuals are encouraged to self-monitor for symptoms of illness. Individuals who are ill should stay home. Hand Hygiene: Individuals are encouraged to wash their hands or use a hand sanitizer frequently. Hands should be washed or sanitized before and after using shared supplies. Vaccinations: USD 232 will continue to collect vaccination information from families in accordance with district policy and state law. If families provide verification of voluntary COVID-19 vaccination, the information will be recorded. As with all communicable diseases, vaccination information may be used when making exclusion decisions. The district will, at times, partner with outside agencies to provide voluntary vaccination clinics. See the USD232 website for complete guidelines at: https://www.usd232.org/Domain/4076

Mize Fifth Graders Publish Pandemic Book

All three fifth grade classes at Mize Elementary participated in a project-based learning opportunity by publishing their own book, P is for Pandemic – An A to Z Student Guide. This idea was first introduced by Mize art teacher Shelly Souders in October 2020. Over the course of six sessions of art class, students learned about the publication process as well as three primary roles: writer, illustrator and graphic designer. The budding publishers, 66 in all, then decided which of the three roles they wanted to experience. While the creation and collaboration of the student guide began in the art room, the efforts continued in their fifth grade classrooms. Teachers Sabrina Andrews, Suzanne Cox, and Trish Orth, served as final editors and helped them organize their hand-drawn guidebook of a fifth grader’s point-of-view during the Coronavirus pandemic. Copies may be ordered online at https://www.amazon.com Proceeds fund the new Mize Student Care Fund.

C: 816.392.9365 D: 913.825.3116 B: 913.825.2100 krisjohnson@kw.com krisjohnson.kw.com 21648 Midland Dr Shawnee, KS 66218

KRIS JOHNSON

LEGACY PARTNERS

Supervising Broker

61 De Soto homes sold January 1-June 30 Average sales price of homes $327,370 Average days on market 27 days Many homes sold in less than 6 days Let’s talk. It’s a great time to sell your home!

21648 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 Direct 816-392-9365 krisjohnson@kw.com

Fall 2021 USD #232 School Calendar 2021-2022 • K-12 (with Early Education) 1st Quarter • August 12-October 14 2nd Quarter • October 19-December 16

August 2021 Rob Moser

Jan Hicks

Megan Turpin

Jennifer Smith

USD 232 District Appoints New Position and Principals

Rob Moser joins the district in the new role of Coordinator of Safety and Transportation. The position was made possible by the reallocation of a staff position that ended due to retirement. Rob’s public service background will strengthen the district in many aspects of safety and crises response. He was Chief of Police for five years, completing a 29-year career with Shawnee Police. The school district also welcomes new principals for three area schools: Jan Hicks, Starside Elementary Principal; Megan Turpin, Riverview Elementary Principal; and Jennifer Smith, Monticello Trails Middle School Principal. All positions became effective July 1. For additional information, view the district website: https://www.usd232.org What’s New

USD 232 Board Member 2021 Election Candidates: Member 4 Crystal R. Duke Danielle Heikes Member 5 Amy Parke Calley Malloy John Gaignat Member 6 Brandi Jonasson Emily Carpenter Voters within the USD 232 School District vote for all positions during the General Election held November 2, 2021. Terms begin on the second Monday in January 2022. For more information, visit the Johnson County Election Office website: https://jocoelection.org/current-candidates

WELCOME BACK TO CLASS! This fall, schools are ready to get back to normal, and we're hiring for Substitute Teachers for all schools in the De Soto, Eudora and Lawrence school districts. • Enjoy a rewarding career helping our local students • Make your own schedule • Receive weekly paychecks

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12 First Day ½ Day Kindergarten, Grades 1-6 and 9 13 First Day ½ Day Early Childhood First Day Grades 7-8, 10-12 Full Day Grades K-12

September 2021

6 No School Labor Day 22 2-Hour Delayed Start K-12, No A.M. Early Childhood 2 Hours Teacher Professional Development 29 ½ Day K-8 Full Day 9-12 No School Early Childhood Elementary, and Secondary Parent-Teacher Conferences 30 No School Parent-Teacher Conferences

October 2021

1 No School Buildings Closed 15 No School Professional In-Service/Teacher Workday 18 No School Professional In-Service Day 19 Classes Resume

November 2021

10 2-Hour Delayed Start K-12 No A.M. Early Childhood 2 Hours Teacher Professional Development 24-26 No School Thanksgiving

December 2021

15-16 ½ Day High School Final Exams 16 ½ Day Grades K-12 No School Early Childhood 17 No School Teacher Workday 20-31 No School Winter Break 3rd Quarter • January 5-March 11 4th Quarter • March 22-May 24

January 2022

3 No School Professional In-Service Day 4 No School Teacher Workday 5 Classes Resume 17 No School Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

February 2022

16 ½ Day K-8 Full Day 9-12 No School Early Childhood Elementary, and Secondary Parent-Teacher Conferences 17 No School Parent-Teacher Conferences 18 No School Buildings Closed 21 No School Presidents’ Day 22 Classes Resume

March 2022

14-18 No School Spring Break 21 No School Professional In-Service/Teacher Workday 22 Classes Resume

April 2022

6 2-Hour Delayed Start K-12 No A.M. Early Childhood 2 Hours Teacher Professional Development 15 No School Buildings Closed 18 No School Professional In-Service Day

May 2022

MHedteach.com 866-923-6433

21 High School Graduation Ceremonies 23 Last Day Early Childhood 23-24 ½ Day High School Final Exams 24 ½ Day K-11 25 Teacher Workday

Find the right ﬁt.

The Board reserves the right to change the calendar to respond to unforeseen circumstances. Board approved February 1, 2021. Four emergency closure days are included in the calendar.

Discovering De Soto

ORGANIZATIONS

De Soto Chamber of Commerce https://www.desotoks.org 913-5831585 32905 West 84th Street P.O. Box 70, De Soto, KS 66018 Contact: Sara Ritter sritter@desotoks.org

De Soto Chamber Luncheons held second Thursday of each month.

Thursday, August 12 11:30 am Reach Church September 9 11:30 Zoom Meeting October 14 11:30 Zoom Meeting

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De Soto Historical Society 33055 West 83rd Street • Downtown De Soto http://www.facebook.com desotokshistoricalsociety Contact: Kathy Ross kathy@grandmasshop.com

De Soto Historical Building is open Thursdays from 10 am-4 pm

2021 “De Soto Disasters” Calendar

reflects the current COVID-19 pandemic. The historical calendar portrays disasters throughout the years, along with accompanying newspaper articles. Explanations and current photo location are included on each month. Purchase your calendar at the De Soto Historical Society Building, De Soto Days or TriCentury Bank at 33485 Lexington Avenue.

Local Citizen Forum • Wednesday, September 29 • 6:30 pm Guest speakers tbd

Kansas Humanities Presentation Wednesday, October 27 • 6:30 pm • in-person and Zoom meeting “Railroad: The Industry That Shaped Kansas Presentation by Leo Olivas, Kansas Humanities, examining the complicated legacy and influence of the vast railroad industry and westward expansion in Kansas. Yearly Memberships $25 Join at a monthly meeting or mail to: De Soto Historical Society P.O. Box 86, De Soto, KS 66018

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De Soto Rotary Club https://portal.clubrunner.ca/4383 https://www.facebook.com/De-Soto-KSRotary-Club-112342748793494/ Contact: Bob Zindler desotorotaryclub@gmail.com

Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month at 7 am De Soto Methodist Church, 8760 Kill Creek Road (lower level). Evening meeting held monthly, 4th Thursday at 6 pm. Visitors and spouses invited to these “social” event meetings.

Thursday, August 26 • 6:30 pm • The Barn at Kill Creek Farm Guest Speaker Rotary District Governor Vernon Henricks from Manhattan, Kansas.

Summer and Fall Service Projects: Native Plant Restoration • July 19

See photo and information on page 28.

Pop-Up-Paddle at Lexington Lake Saturday, August 21 See “Fall Events” pages 22 & 23

Oktoberfest at the Barn Friday, October 29

See “Fall Events” pages 22 & 23

Shown at right, Installation of “Native Spirit” with Tim Mispagel, sculpture artist, and Nate Johnson, City building employee. Detailed view lower right.

De Soto Arts Council 32905 West 84th Street • De Soto City Hall (lower level) http://www.desotoartsks.org https://www.facebook.com/art.desoto.1 Contact: Diana Zwahlen desotoartsks@gmail.com Our dream to put art in public places has come to fruition.

The De Soto City Council and De Soto Arts Council have selected Tim Mispagel’s “Native Spirit” as our first sculpture to be on public display. The installation for the sculpture was made on Wednesday, August 4, 2021. The piece is on display at De Soto City Hall, 32905 West 84th Street.

“Native Spirit” Public Presentation

The public is invited to attend the Presentation of the Sculpture to the City, Friday, September 3 at 4:15 pm. Check the DAC website for information.

Fall Art Show Submission

Apply online at the De Soto Arts Council website. For more information email desotoartsks@gmail.com or call Diana Zwahlen, DAC president, 913-638-8998.

Local Artists

De Peace

Cindy Heller loves anything

creative, but for the last 15 years, her main interest has been photography—mostly nature, still life and abstract. She enjoys participating in a few local art fairs each year. Along with the Lenexa Art Fair, Cindy has exhibited at the Sunflower Artfest, Olathe Station Art Fair, Art Westport and Summit Art Festival. She has also participated in Art at the Center Gallery and the Heartland Artist Exhibition. As a lifelong Johnson County resident, DeSoto has been her home for nearly 40 years. Cindy shares, “My peace pole design features flowers with peace sign centers, representing the growth of peace surrounding the four ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ plaques written in English, Spanish, Hebrew and Chinese.”

Cindy Heller was awarded Second Place in the Peace Pole Art Exhibit. A panel that included art professionals

judged the 31 Peace Poles that were designed by groups and individuals. The exhibit inspires peace, hope, creativity and gave an opportunity for community involvement.

Fall 2021 Shown at left, “Native Spirit” Public Art at De Soto City Hall.

Tim Mispagel is the awardwinning sculpturer chosen by the De Soto Arts Council for the City of De Soto Public Art Display. The Native Spirit Sculpture,

shown at left, is an indigenous piece that invites the viewer to see themselves and engage with it. Viewing it from various angles gives additional depth and perspective. “We are all natives of this land,” explained Tim. “This is a representation of everyone, an inclusive sculpture that welcomes all.”

The 4’ x 3’ x 3’ piece was constructed using steel rings and “TIG” welding. “Heating up metal makes it bendable,” Tim explained. “I always thought it was an impenetrable, rigid force, but it is softer than I ever imagined.”

Soto Public Art Pole Art Exhibit

Two local residents are part of The Peace Poles Community Art Project on display at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park in Lenexa through October 31.

This project is organized as a partnership between Lenexa Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Western Johnson County, the Lenexa Arts Council and the City of Lenexa. Poles will be auctioned on November 12 to benefit Project 1020. More information at: https://www.lenexa.com/government/departments___divisions/parks___ recreation/arts/peace_poles_community_art_project

Therese McKechnie is personally invested to promote

peace with a vision of 1,000 peace poles in Kansas City and beyond. In 2017, she founded PeacePoleKC with a goal to encourage and promote the planting of Peace Poles.

On her website at: http://www.peacepolekc.org/peacesocieties, you will find information on how to make your own peace pole, along with dedication ceremonies. Peace Poles were originally created in 1955 by the late Mr. Masahisa Goi in Japan. The first Peace Pole in the US was in California (1986). The Peace Pole is an international sign of peace with the universal message “May Peace Prevail on Earth.” This is the registered trademark of the World Peace Prayer Society (WPPS) in New York, which is the international headquarters. The United Nations established International Peace Day on September 21. Therese shares, “The peace pole [on display at Sar-Ko-Par] carries the universal peace message—May Peace Prevail on Earth—in eight languages: English, Chinese, Spanish, French, Hebrew, Arabic, Japanese and Russian.” Shown at right is Therese’s original peace pole made in 2016, with the universal peace message in eight languages.

Each ring is handcut from steel tubing. While working on the project, a field trip to the Plains Indian Show at the Nelson Art Gallery actually gave confirmation for this project. He observed the Indigenous American’s work and connected on a spiritual level. He observed that when the people did their beadwork, they cut tiny beads from the quills of feathers. In the same way, Tim cut rings from steel tubing for this sculpture. By stitching beads and connecting the steel rings, “many become one.”

Tim used TIG welding to connect the multitude of “rings” together. The process requires a good amount of dexterity as a rod is handfeed, melting the stainless steel to the size of a pea. Tim is decked out in safety gear, as there are lots of sparks.

“I’m committed to my art being more than just a personal narrative, but the reflection of a larger culture that surrounds me.”

“‘Tiny, little components coming together to make a whole,’ –Tim Mispagel is a concept that I both teach and utilize in my art,” stated Tim. “I’m committed to my art being more than just a personal narrative, but the reflection of a larger culture that surrounds me,” expounded Tim Mispagel. Knowing more about the meaning and techniques used in The Native Spirit Sculpture will give viewers a greater understanding and appreciation for the piece.

“Mr. Mispagel,” as his students address him at De Soto High School, has been teaching in the USD 232 District since 2000. Both a 2D and 3D instructor and artist, he has continued to develop and hone his skills throughout the years. For the upcoming 2021-22 school year, Tim will continue to teach drawing, sculpture and AP studio art at DHS. He will add graphic design and illustration as part of the “Design Pathway” Strand at Cedar Trails Exploration Center (CTEC), and emerging technologies in the “Emerging Tech” pathway. Learn more about artist Tim Mispagel at his studio website: http://www.mispagelart.com –phone interview with Tim Mispagel by Rose Burgweger, editor/publisher

Congratulations! 27

Discovering De Soto

Organizations continued from page 26 De Soto Resident Randi Cole Crowned 2021 National Elite Ms. United States Agriculture Queen

A huge “Thank You” to the Rotary Club of De Soto and the De Soto Boy Scout Troop 54 for volunteering for the De Soto Native Plant Restoration Project Workday that was held on Monday, July 19. The volunteers removed plant debris and installed tarps over much of the area. The tarps will be left in place over the summer to kill the invasive and non-native plants underneath. Native plant species will be replanted in the fall. This project is part of The Rain Garden Project that will help slow and filter stormwater runoff from the boat ramp parking lot and Riverfest Park areas. Grant funding was received from the City of De Soto

Friends of the Kaw 30-Year Anniversary

Friends of the Kaw (FOK) celebrates its 30-year anniversary with an accomplished legacy that continues to grow each day. The organization strives to educate the public about the importance of protecting the Kansas River, as well as create a connection to the river. “We believe that when people get connected to the river by immersing themselves in it, that they’ll want to help protect it and keep it clean,” Kansas Riverkeeper and Executive Director Dawn Buehler described. Advocacy and education remain important aspects for Friends of the Kaw. It also works to further develop the Kansas River Water Trail. Friends of the Kaw was started 30 years ago by a group of people that lived in North Lawrence concerned about drudging on the Kansas River and how it would impact the river itself. De Soto is unique, as it has access to two boat ramps (Riverfest Park and Cedar Creek) along the Kaw that are five miles apart, unlike most ramps at 10 miles apart. Through the years, FOK has worked closely with the City of De Soto, USD 232 School District, Great American Bank and the De Soto Rotary Club. Resources are provided to residents about safety and precautions while on the river and FOK hosts various educational events to local schools and the community. To learn more about Friends of the Kaw, upcoming events and educational resources, visit www.kansasriver.org 30th Anniversary Sandblast September 18 See “Fall Events” on pages 22 & 23 for locally held events.

–Katherine Diaz, Contributing Writer 28

Randi Cole of De Soto, Kansas was awarded the title of Elite Ms. United States Agriculture on Saturday, June 19, 2021. Contestants traveled from all over the United States to Orlando, Florida the weekend of June 18, 2021 to compete for the honor to reign as a National Miss United States Agriculture Queen. The contestants competed in Interview, On-Stage Introduction, Evening Wear, OnStage Question, State Fun Fashion and Photogenic. National Director Ciera Ingram, says “The idea behind the Miss United States Agriculture Pageant Program celebrates the agriculture industry and our local farmers, while promoting self-esteem, building strong leaders and awarding scholarships to encourage a continuous pursuit of education. Throughout the program, we incorporate our motto: “Teach. Inspire. Advocate.” For Randi, this is the first time she has won at the national level during her pageant career. Starting at the county level, which began in 2019 for Johnson County, she later won the state title as Mrs. Kansas United States. At the end of her reign in 2020, Randi wanted to continue to advocate her platform and work with Hearing Charities of America, based in Kansas City, Missouri. “I was trying to find a way to keep promoting this work,” Randi said. “So I started brainstorming.” Her love for agriculture and her experience growing up on a chicken farm in Southern Iowa set Randi on a new path of discovery in the pageant world. “I just happened to do a Google search and there was a Mrs. United States Agriculture pageant,” Randi shared. “I began talking with the director of that system and decided to give it a go, and it has worked out very well!” For the continuation of her work, Randi is targeting farmers and helping raise awareness about hearing loss and how to protect their hearing. Continuing work with the Hearing Aid Project, youth hearing aids are refurbished and given to individuals in need. “I’m able to reach the people that basically raised me, so that means a lot to me,” Randi said. Another objective is recruiting more participants from the midwest. “The cool thing about this pageant is the focus is on agriculture,” Randi stated. –Katherine Diaz, Contributing Writer

Celebrations & Congratulations

Fall 2021

Pioneer 4-H remains active during a challenging year!

Pioneer 4-H club had one of the most memorable years in its more than 60-year history. Although this past year was not ideal, due to the Covid restrictions, members adapted and learned the all-important life lesson of resilience. Many of them persevered to begin and often complete projects on their own, with little inperson help. While participation declined some when the club switched to all virtual meetings, those that attended stepped up and contributed to interesting and informative meetings. An Olathe fire captain and Johnson County MedAct emergency medical technician were invited to speak via zoom. De Soto resident and 4-H volunteer Randi Cole shared her experience in the Mrs. Johnson County Pageant as a special speaker as well as led our club in a blood drive. Being a community service club, members creatively thought of ways to contribute to the community virtually and in-person when allowed. The club made valentines for the residents of Hillside and helped Happy Valley Farm for the Kaw Valley Farm Tour. Last autumn they organized and helped distribute over 100 Thanksgiving meals to De Soto residents through the De Soto Food Pantry. In May they partnered with the De Soto Rotary Club and The Friends of the Kaw to help clean up the riverboat ramps. Pioneer also graduated several seniors who will be greatly missed. After many years of meeting on the 4th Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m., at the United Methodist Church in De Soto, Pioneer moved meeting locations to The Barn at Kill Creek Farm so that we could meet in the open air. UMC has graciously hosted Pioneer and we thank them for their many years of generosity. Pioneer is geared up for the Johnson County fair the last week in July. Members showed livestock, entered art, woodworking and food projects, and participated in the fashion judging. Pioneer ran the 4-H food stand on Saturday afternoon, July 31, and helped clean the fairgrounds both before and after the fair. It was a hot, but rewarding fair. –Rebekah Wheeler, Pioneer Club Reporter

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33485 Lexington Avenue in De Soto Phone 913-583-3222 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, Thursday – Friday 8 am to 6 pm, Sat 9 am to noon 29 23

Discovering De Soto

FAITH

Trunk‘n Treats fill streets and lots with a Fall Bounty of Fun

Downtown De Soto, along 83rd Street, was transformed into a fall celebration of “Trunk ‘n Treats” for kids of all ages. There were many trunks open with plenty of candy and treats for all. shown at right Likewise, area churches De Soto Baptist, De Soto United Methodist and Harvest Ridge Covenant have also held similar events in their parking lots and TriCentury’s parking lot.

photo provided by Reach Church

Trunk ‘n Treat Community Events

As in past years, there are several area Trunk ‘n Treat Events for the community to enjoy this Fall. Families are invited to bring their children to any and all of these fun gatherings. Masks are appropriately timely. Check church websites for additional information and updates: Reach Church De Soto 33085 West 83rd Street, De Soto www.reachdesoto.com October 31 5 pm-7 pm Harvest Ridge Covenant Church 22015 Midland Drive, Shawnee www.harvestridge.org Check our website for Trunk ‘n Treat information

22015 Midland Drive, Shawnee, KS 66226 | (913) 441-5500

Worship at Mill Creek Middle School • 8001 Mize Road

De Soto United Methodist Church Our annual Trunk ‘n Treat held in the TriCentury Parking Lot located at 33485 Lexington Avenue www.desotoumc.com October 31 5:30 pm to 7 pm See Fall Events page 23 for Election Day Dinner 5:30 pm to 7 pm De Soto Baptist Church 8655 Copeland Way, De Soto www.desotobaptistchurch.com Check our website for Trunk ‘n Treat information

8655 Copeland Way | 913-585-1026 www.desotobaptistchurch.com 11 am Sunday Services both in-person and online 9:45 am Sunday School for all ages Men’s & Women’s Bible Study 2nd & 4th Mondays

check our church website/facebook for updated activities

“For we know that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Fall 2021

...let the light of your face O LORD

shine upon me from PSALM 4:6 95th Street in De Soto, Kansas

photo by Rose M. Burgweger

“May the LORD bless you and keep you, May the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” from NUMBERS 6:24-26

Kind words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. from PROVERBS 16:24

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The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul, His statues are trustworthy, making wise the simple. His precepts are right, giving joy to the heart. His commands are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. His ordinances are sure, and altogether righteous.

They are more precious than gold,

than much pure gold; sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. from PSALM 19:7-11

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith

– of greater worth than gold,

which perishes even though refined by fire– may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ comes. from I PETER 1:6-7

gold

I will come forth as gold from JOB 23:10

Walking through Scripture

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Discovering De Soto

AUTOS Shown at right Dean Weller inside “Grandpa’s Garage.”

In Remembrance

Dean Weller, age 95, of De Soto passed away on July 2, 2021. Funeral services were held at De Soto Baptist Church.

Dean was born in Mountain View, Missouri to Charles and Mae (Ellis) Weller. As a teen, he joined the Merchant Marines during WW II. When he came home from the war, he married Delores J. Allen in 1945. Dean built and operated a gas station in Mountain View and later moved to Oregon. The couple then moved to De Soto, Kansas, where Dean built the El Rancho Motel, which they owned for 29 years. Dean also owned Weller Construction and built houses until he retired at age 52. He “retired” when he bought the old Ford building, known as “Grandpa’s Garage” in De Soto. There he built antique cars piece by piece–including tooling the engine parts. He enjoyed meeting with fellow car enthusiasts weekly in his shop and periodically hosted hands-on seminars there. Dean was a member of “Plain Old A’s” Club and Heart of America Car Club in Lawrence, and a former member of Rotary and Oddfellows. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and left a legacy of his work in “Grandpa’s Garage.” Dean Weller was featured in the “Planes, Trains & Automobile” Summer 2017 Issue of Discovering De Soto on pages 10, 13 You can find this issue online at www.issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

Carriage Houses of Johnson County Fall Events: 8th annual People’s Choice Car & Air Show 1st annual BBQ competition

The local annual car and air show held each summer has moved to fall, and will be held on Saturday, September 18. Enjoy viewing lots of cars and custom-decorated garages; food from The Rub BBQ and other vendors; and live entertainment featuring the Wakarusa River Band. • Show Cars arrival at 3 pm (Car Show entry is $10 per car) • Gates open to the general public at 4 pm • Sunset N Smoke Air Show begins at 7 pm • Awards at 7:30 pm 1st place $500 2nd place $300 3rd place $200 Garage of the Year President’s Award recognition. Carriage Houses of Johnson County will also host their first annual BBQ competition Friday, October 8 and Saturday, October 9. Live entertainment by Dating Sarah. Both events are free and open to the public. More information at: http://www.garagecondoskc.com

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Discovering De Soto

PUBLIC SAFETY

20th anniversary of 9-11

Our family had just taken a trip out east–visiting New York, driving past the Trade Towers in 2001. Just a few month later, that morning my husband called–“Turn on the TV!” The first plane seemed like a horrible accident. When the second one hit, we knew this was horrible, but no accident. That day became a lifelong journey for many. Since that day, we ventured back to the site of the Trade Towers (with the memorable New York DHS Band Trip in 2012) and have viewed the somber, but well-done memorial and museum that keep the stories of loss, recovery, and hope alive.

In Remembrance

Blake Ryan Lindbloom of De Soto, KS passed away on June 23, 2021, after a hard-fought battle with esophageal cancer. Blake was a Master Firefighter at the Northwest Consolidated Fire District for eleven years, followed by five years as a Deputy with the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office.

Blake was born in Topeka, KS on May 12, 1986 to Dale and Nancy Lindbloom. He graduated from De Soto High School in 2004. He attended Neosho County Community College for track and field, completed the Fire Academy at Hutchinson Community College, then obtained his EMT Certification through Johnson County Community College. On March 21, 2015, he married the love of his life, Morgan. In 2016, on May 19, they welcomed their daughter Charlotte, who was the most important part of their lives. Blake dedicated his life to serving the community and helping others. He enjoyed the outdoors–including camping, lake life, hiking and fire pits. Above all, he cherished his time with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Shown above is a photo from the morning of 9-11. Over 4000 planes were grounded and redirected to the nearest airport by Ben Sliney, Federal Aviation Administration’s National Operations Manager. With it being his first day in that position, he had 25 years of solid experience and made the call without direct orders from the President. –Photographed in De Soto by Rose Burgweger

Blake is survived by his wife, Morgan Lindbloom (Mishler); his daughter, Charlotte Lindbloom; his parents, Dale and Nancy Lindbloom of Rogers, AR; and his sisters, Hana Lindbloom of Rogers, AR and Angela (Skip) Russell of Topeka, KS.

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Fall 2021

Northwest Consolidated Fire District and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Honor Blake Lindbloom and his service to the community.

It was a solemn, cloudy day as Blake Lindbloom was honored with a procession and flag tribute on June 28, 2021. Services were held at Kaw Prairie Church in Lenexa. Speakers Chief Todd Maxton, NWCFD; Doug Bedford, (retired) Undersheriff, JCSO; and Captain Brian Brown gave tributes to Blake, their fellow worker and friend. Attendees exited the building with agency staff lined up on both sides. The flag in Lenexa was displayed by Lenexa Fire Station 3. The motorcade began at Prairie Star Parkway and passed by all three NWCFD Stations. As the procession came into downtown De Soto, along 83rd Street, staff stood at attention in front of Fire Station 3. The flag was displayed by Johnson County Fire District 1 ladder truck (Truck 81). A meaningful and honoring tribute for a special man–Blake will be missed greatly by the ones fortunate to serve alongside him.

photos by Rose Burgweger / Lindbloom photos provided

• Look for the Northwest Consolidated Fire District in the De Soto Days Parade. • Station 3 in downtown De Soto will serve as a first aid station throughout the event. • Showings of the fire truck and other apparatus will also take place at the Station 3. NWCFD assisted the De Soto Days Planning Committee–especially from a safety standpoint, to ensure a safe, fun event for all those attending. See information on pages 17-20.

Northwest Consolidated Fire District Proudly serving the City of De Soto and Northwest Johnson County

1 De Soto Station 2 Lexington/Olathe Station 3 De Soto • Station • •33150 West 83rd Street 9745 Kill Creek Road 29520 West 127th Street

https://www.nwcfd.org

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In an Emergency Call 911

non-emergency 913-583-3886 35

Discovering

De Soto A community located in Western Johnson County, in Kansas.

Postal Customer De Soto, KS 66018 like us on facebook and receive community updates

https://www.facebook.com/discoveringdesoto

Kansas City Chiefs Fall 2021

Fresh

Meats

Smoked Ribs Chicken & Pork for Tailgating! Regular Prices Only

10% OFF Thursdays with Coupon

Sides of beef, sold hogs, turkeys or Specials are not included Expires 12 -1-21

CUSTOM CUT-TO-ORDER MEAT Monthly Stock-up Specials Deer processing USDA slaughter house

Online Specials www.stevesmeat.com

Sun Sep 12 vs Cleveland Browns 3:25 pm CBS Sun Sep 19 at Baltimore Ravens 7:20 pm NBC Sun Sep 26 vs Los Angeles Chargers 12 noon CBS Sun Oct 3 at Philadelphia Eagles 12 noon CBS Sun Oct 10 vs Buffalo Bills 7:20 pm NBC Sun Oct 17 at Washington Football Team 12 noon CBS Sun Oct 24 at Tennessee Titans 12 noon CBS Mon Nov 1 vs NY Giants 7:15 pm ESPN Sun Nov 7 vs Green Bay Packers 3:25 pm FOX Sun Nov 14 at Las Vegas Raiders 7:20 pm NBC Sun Nov 21 vs Dallas Cowboys 3:25 pm FOX

BYE WEEK

Sun Dec 5 vs Denver Broncos 12 noon CBS Sun Dec 12 vs Las Vegas Raiders 12 noon CBS Thurs Dec 16 at Los Angeles Chargers 7:20 pm FOX Sun Dec 26 vs Pittsburgh Steelers 3:25 pm CBS Sun Jan 2 at Cincinnati Bengals 12 noon CBS Sun Jan 9 at Denver Broncos 3:25 pm CBS

Great Recipes & Tips online at “The Butcher’s Blog”

Games played at Arrowhead Stadium in gold Games played away in black Subject to change due to pandemic developments during the season

Caring For Our Customers Since 1969

Ready for Some Good Cheer!

Steve’s MEAT MARKET Open Tuesday-Friday 9 to 6 Saturday 8 to 5 Closed Sunday / Monday

32685 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-1390

WINE LOVER’S SUNDAYS 10% OFF Walk-in Beer Cooler Coldest beer in town! GREAT SELECTIONS & BRANDS

Locally Owned for 12 years!

MIKE’S LIQUOR

9160 Lexington Avenue 913-583-1711 Open Mon-Thurs 9am-10pm Fri-Sat 9am-11pm Sunday Noon-8pm

Visit our De Soto Days Beer Garden

WEDNESDAYS

Harley Hog Wings $1 TAKE OUT AVAILABLE except for Taco Tuesdays

Angus Beef Burgers & Wide Glide Fries “Great place and great atmosphere”

9150 Lexington Avenue 913-585-1416

Open Sunday-Thursday 11 to 11 Friday-Saturday 11 to 2am Check our facebook page for entertainment BEER.30

Discovering De Soto Fall 2021 Golden Colors of Fall

Articles inside

FaiTH Fall Church Events/ Golden Scriptures auTO In Remembrance Dean Weller

PuBliC saFeTY 20th Anniversary of 9-11

Friends of the Kaw/U.S. Agriculture Queen/4-H