Long-time Resident of Lakewood

Interview by Cariann Dureka

This month I had the pleasure of meeting with Kim Curran—a resident and LOCC Golf Member who has been in Lakewood since 1976: whose parents purchased one of the lots in 1974, just one year after Lakewood’s formation. I had the chance to ask some questions about Kim’s experience of Lakewood over the years, and how things have changed or stayed the same!

What was one of the first aspects of Lakewood that you remember? I would probably say the pools! We would ride our bikes to the the Cove, which was one of two of the pools at the time. The Clubhouse was originally at the Cove—it hosted tap, ballet, gymnastics, and other classes there. The pool was orignally just a 25 meter pool, but it had a lookout tower that over the years, got smaller and smaller until it was eventually torn down. The lakes were another memorable part of Lakewood—boating and spending afternoons on the water.

Had you lived elsewhere before purchasing your own Lakewood home in 1998? Did you consider other areas before choosing to purchase in Lakewood? I grew up on Locust Street, and my parents eventually moved to Edgewater—when I first began looking for a home I considered a neighborhood in Johnson County that advertised having a lake; which turned out to be a retention pond. There was just not another community quite like Lakewood—with its lake, the golf course, and other amenities. You could spend more elsewhere and get less! It really feels like resort living here.

What about Lakewood has changed the most, and what has stayed the same, from your perspective? I think the growth of the community is a big change. When we first moved in there wasn’t a lot in the surrounding area—there was one restaurant where the Cove pool is now, and my parents frequented it since there just wasn’t a lot to choose from nearby. The closest grocery store was at 291 and Chipman. One thing that has stayed the same for me is being able to see and keep up with neighbors—I’ll go to the Argyle and still see my Campfire Girl Leader. And everyone is very friendly, you won’t meet a stranger.

What is one thing you’d tell younger/newer

Lakewood residents about the community? I would say get involved and try everything! Whether that’s a round of golf, or joining one of the many clubs, renting a boat or having dinner at the restaurant. A lot of residents will be involved with multiple things in Lakewood, like a club and a committee—and get to know people from different walks of life.

Lakewood Fourth of July Show

We are now accepting donations for our Annual 4th of July Fireworks Show! The funds go towards the contract for the display, LS Police Stand-by and other miscellaneous items needed to ensure the show proceeds smoothly. It’s been recognized as one of the best in the area, and so residents are encouraged to donate! We strive to make each year’s show a memorable and fun experience, and we hope you’ll show your support and join us. Donors will be featured in the Ripples each month.

To donate, either stop by the office and fill out a form or go to the LPOA.com > Member’s Area > Downloadable Forms > Lakewood 4th of July Fireworks Donation Form to download, fill out, and bring to our office. Deadline to donate is Monday, June 12, 2023.

Now Hiring for 2023 Seasonal Positions

Attention Students and Retirees! The Lakewood Community Service Department is currently accepting applications for the upcoming summer season. Qualified applicants must be at least 18 years of age, be self-motivated, possess a valid Missouri Driver’s License and be able to pass a background screening. Must be available to work nights, weekends and holidays.

The Lakewood Community Service Department is responsible for enforcing the rules, regulations and architectural guidelines for one of the Midwest’s largest homes associations.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Patrolling pools, lakes, and amenities

• Ensuring that valid ID’s are present

• Enforcing association rules/policies

Salary commensurate with experience. Please apply in person between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 735 NE Lakewood Blvd. Lee’s Summit, MO 64064. Contact Tim at tim@lpoa.com for more information.

Spring Athletic Field Reservation Meeting

The Spring 2023 Athletic Field Reservation Meeting will be held February 7, at 5:30 p.m., at the Lakewood Oaks Golf Club. Reservations will be needed for this meeting, and only one representative from each team will be allowed to attend. You can reserve your spot by emailing Ann Bellinghausen at ann@lpoa.com. For those that aren’t able to attend the meeting, you can contact Ann via phone (816-373-4343) or email the day after and she will help you find an available field.