Selah Secret Supper
Hush-hush menu for special parties
Destination:
Cancer Center Leader
Dear Readers, welcome
As you well know, Gardner is a busy place. In this issue, we visit places and meet people who are part of a movement to push the city forward. Along with the Gardner Chamber of Commerce, we’ve selected a few articles to help you keep up with what’s happening in your backyard.
First off, the chamber is celebrating! Send your congratulations to the staff at the chamber as they celebrate its 50th anniversary. You’ll meet Jason, Stacy and Alyssa, who are all eager to promote Gardner and your businesses.
Then we have a profile of Dr. Roy Jensen. He’s a Gardner native who has accomplished great things, specifically as the director of the University of Kansas Cancer Center in Kansas City. He is also a professor at KU and advocates for health equity in the region.
Another profile looks at a group rather than an individual. All in Blazers at Gardner Edgerton High School spotlights students involved in the volunteering program, which not only helps the students learn leadership skills and keeps them grounded but also provides a way for them to give back to the community.
Then visit with Sandra and Anthony Liperuote as they serve gourmet dinners at their lakefront home and offer sunset rides on Gardner Lake. For special occasions, keep Selah Secret Suppers in mind!
Another article provides a glimpse into the Gardner Destination Downtown project that is moving the city forward with new development, new businesses, and new points of interest. I know you’ll find reading about what’s going on in Gardner as fascinating as I did.
the cover
Of course, we’ve also included the chamber’s membership directory, highlighted a couple members, and added information on Gardner. It’s a section you’ll want to hang on to for future reference.
Here’s to Gardner! Jean, editor
At their Gardner Lake home, Sandra and Anthony Liperuote welcome guests for a homemade dinner and a trip around the lake. Photograph by Sarah Reeves
Editors Kalli Jo Smith
Jean Teller
Designer/Art Director Alex Tatro
Copy Editor Leslie Clugston Andres
Advertising Angie Taylor ataylor@sunflowerpub.com
Contributing Photographers Jason Dailey Kalli Jo Smith
Sarah Reeves
Contributing Writers Ian Brannan
Amber Fraley
Debbie Leckron Miller Lucas Shivers
Publisher Bill Uhler
Director Bob Cucciniello
GARDNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
109 E. Main St | PO Box 402 Gardner, KS 66030 info@gardnerchamber.com | 913.856.6464 www.gardnerchamber.com
President | CEO Jason Leib
Member Relations Alyssa Petrik
Member Relations Stacy Boyajian
GE Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of Ogden Publications, Inc. sunflowerpub.com
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6 history CHAMBER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
Officially organized in 1975, the Gardner Chamber of Commerce continues to spotlight the community.
12 community spotlight EXPERT LEADS KU CANCER CENTER
Gardner native Dr. Roy Jensen advocates for health equity in the area.
16 school ONE FOR ALL, ALL IN BLAZERS
High school program builds leadership skills for student-athletes through community volunteering.
22 IT’S A SECRET
Couple offers special dinner parties with hush-hush menus and rides on Gardner Lake.
32
DESTINATION: DOWNTOWN
Gardner’s business district is on track for redevelopment in a big way.
41 WELCOME LETTER A greeting from Gardner Chamber of Commerce
42 MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
The Gardner News, Little Building Blocks, and Blazer’s Restaurant
44 CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP LISTINGS A guide to businesses and services
50 #GEMAG 53
PROFILE All about the Gardner area
history
A group gathers at the former chamber office to celebrate a groundbreaking.
Chamber Celebrates 50 Years
Officially organized in 1975, the Gardner Chamber of Commerce continues to spotlight the community.
Article by Amber Fraley and Jean Teller | Photography courtesy Gardner Chamber of Commerce
Talk to current and former members of the Gardner Chamber of Commerce, and a theme quickly emerges: community.
Amateur historian Claude Steed found the unofficial beginnings of the Gardner Chamber go back much further than 50 years, to at least 1956 when the first group numbered 28 members. But 1973 was the year local chiropractor Dr. David Matheny began rallying the area business community to commit to Gardner.
“He felt Gardner was really growing and moving forward and could stand to have an organization that got behind that,” Steed says. Matheny organized a letter-writing campaign to local business owners, who voted to create an official chamber of commerce. That meant filing the proper paperwork for a nonprofit organization in 1975, and Matheny served as the first chamber president, a position he held for two years. In those early years, Steed served on the chamber board and represented Farmer’s Bank, where he worked.
“The chamber made a real good effort to become a presence and become impactful and make a difference,” Steed says.
The chamber had approximately 60 members in 1975 and was known as the Gardner Area Chamber of Commerce. Later name changes included Southwest Johnson County Chamber of Commerce, Gardner-Edgerton Chamber
of Commerce, and finally, Gardner Chamber of Commerce.
More Than Business
From the beginning, the chamber was never just about business, Steed says. It’s always been about promoting the City of Gardner and surrounding areas to businesses outside of Gardner. “I don’t even think it was a term at the time, but networking—just getting together with other people in business and people in the community,” Steed says.
Nine area businessmen were elected to the board of directors during the reorganization, including Matheny.
In a 1982 newspaper interview, Matheny said, “After the letter we found that people were really interested in serving the community and the thing just kind of took off by itself.”
The bylaws were broadened at that time to allow more people to join the organization and to address areas that were not previously covered. Each member of the chamber was to be part of a working committee; an executive board and committee chairs coordinated activities.
“The committee system spread the work through the organization and allowed everyone to have their say,” Matheny said in 1982. “When you do that you usually come up with good solutions.”
Change in Organization
In 2000, the chamber hired its first executive director, Cherlyn WhiteConklin. The chamber board president at the time, Sherry Laquet, said in a newspaper article that the change from a volunteer staff to a paid professional was long overdue. “This is something we’ve been working toward for two years. Clearly we need someone in our office who is totally committed to the chamber.”
At the time, White-Conklin said her first goal was to increase participation by the city and business owners. “This city has all kinds of opportunities to offer. It’s growing and has an excellent location,” she said.
In 2007, the chamber moved offices to its current location inside the Central Bank of the Midwest (formerly the First Kansas Bank) at 109 E. Main St. Previously the chamber office was located at the Senior Center and then at Gardner National Bank.
By 2009, the chamber’s top spot had changed from executive director to president, and former mayor Carol Lehman was named interim president in May of that year and served for a few months until the chamber could hire a new president. Former president Peter Solie had stepped down in April.
Solie had taken over when WhiteConklin left; he was followed by Steve Devore, Jason Camis, who was named
Gardner Chamber of Commerce Board
Chairs by Year
1974 - Kenny Moll
1975 - Dave Matheny
1976 - Derrell Sweem
1977 - Dave McBride
1978 - Norm Osland
1979 - Larry Bruce
1980 - Lee Peters
1981 - Lee Peters
1982 - Jim Price
1983 - Bruce Clayton
1984 - Dan Thompson
1985 - Chuck Keller
1985 - Steve Ashley
1986 - Dr. Thomen Reece
1987 - Kurt Hoffman
1988 - Don Lehman
1989 - Shirley Brown (now BrownVanArsdale)
1990 - Dr. Gary George
1991 - Marty Powell
1992 - Marty Powell
1993 - Joyce O’Connor
1994 - Joyce O’Connor
1995 - Joyce O’Connor
1996 - Jim Deam
1997 - Karen Weston
1998 - Gini Lively
1999 - Rhonda Humble
2000 - Sherry Laquet
2001 - Ralph Leno
executive director in October 2014, and current president & CEO Jason Leib, who joined the staff in 2022.
Chamber Accomplishments
Shirley Bruce Brown-VanArsdale is a long-time Gardner resident, and she’s also served twice as the chamber board president.
During Carol Lehman’s time as mayor, Brown-VanArsdale says, the residents of Gardner had to pay long-distance charges to call anywhere in the Kansas City Metro area. “It was a burden on small businesses,” she said. “No one would move here with the extra rates.”
The chamber worked with the phone company to eliminate those long-distance charges, Brown-VanArsdale says, and it was key to helping the city grow.
Lehman agrees. “There was a charge to even call Olathe. We worked with (the phone company) to implement metro dialing, and everything opened up for Gardner. … It was interesting because people voted on it. (The phone company) held a vote to make sure customers were in favor of the extra charge added to their phone bills.” She also says the phone company allowed anyone to opt out if they didn’t want to pay that extra charge. Lehman was mayor from 1989 to 2009.
The chamber also spearheaded the celebration of the U.S. bicentennial in 1976. “The whole town did it,” Brown-VanArsdale says. “It was the most memorable thing this town did together.”
Brown-VanArsdale remembers the days when the chamber was run strictly by volunteers. “Now it’s a professional chamber,” she says. “It’s had its ups and downs, but there is nothing better for welcoming people and new businesses. We’re fortunate to have the current chamber.”
Lehman recalled a time when the chamber and city cooperated to bring to fruition the Southwest Johnson County Economic Development Corp, which was instrumental in representing the area to potential developers and businesses before disbanding. It was an effort between The Gardner News, New Century Air Center, the chamber and the city, she says. “It helped drive and direct the development of Gardner, and the chamber was behind the city in that effort.”
Today’s Chamber
Stacy Boyajian is a longtime member of the Gardner Chamber and now works part-time for the chamber in member relations. She and her husband, Sam, purchased the Bill Bond Pharmacy in 1997, and at the time, they lived in Lenexa. Changing the business name to Gardner Pharmacy, the couple moved their family to Gardner that same year.
“We felt very strongly that we were not only purchasing a business in the community, but that we literally needed to be a part of the community and raise our kids in this community,” she says. That also meant joining the chamber, and even though the Boyajians no longer own the pharmacy, they are still chamber members.
Boyajian leads the planning of most of the events for the chamber, including the Gardner Chamber Spring Swing Scramble, the annual Gardner Sporting Clay Shoot, and the Women in Business Breakfast. She’ll also be helping to plan the 50th-anniversary celebration next year, to be held in conjunction with the annual dinner in April.
“We feel like it’s our responsibility and our role to elevate the entire community,” says Leib. To that end, Gardner Chamber of Commerce events are never “members only.” Anyone is welcome to attend chamber events, and the chamber tries to hold events that appeal to a broad range of tastes and interests. “(Businesses) want to get the word out and let people know about their business to anyone who wants to show up. Those conversations and interactions can lead to beneficial results for any of the parties, so the more people, the better off we are,” he says.
Boyajian and Petrik (in back) concentrate on member relations.
Photograph by Jason Dailey
Of course, they hope businesses do decide to join, and today membership has risen to approximately 220 members. Members enjoy perks such as educational resources and advocacy at the local, state or national level. Belonging to the chamber can provide leverage to businesses that they wouldn’t necessarily have on their own, Leib says, and the services the chamber provides can be as simple as help with grant writing or as important as communicating with city officials, legislators and state departments.
“Gardner is very lucky to have the current chamber staff. An active chamber says the businesses are all enjoying success because of the chamber efforts,” Lehman says. “The staff works hard to make members feel included and that the businesses know the chamber is there to help in any way possible.”
2002 - Ralph Leno
2003 - John Cosentino
2004 - Mary Peters
2005 - Todd Winters
2006 - Sam Boyajian
2007 - Tom Mertz
2008 - Rex Cummings
2009 - Sue Donoho
2010 - Karen Rumble
2011 - Mary Nelson
2012 - Mary Nelson
2013 - Jim Coughenour
2014 - Stacy Boyajian
2015 - Stacy Boyajian
2016 - Tim Miller
2017 - Steve Hines
2018 - Callie Stephens
2019 - Mary Nelson
2020 - Rex Cummings
2021 - Ray Coleman
2022 - Rob Wyrick
2023 - Adam Mauck
2024 - Raelee Wright (now DeJung)
2025 - Julie Dean
913-856-6464
email: info@gardnerchamber.com www.gardnerchamber.com
Photograph by Jason Dailey
community spotlight
Also part of the University of Kansas faculty, Dr. Roy Jensen leads the KU Cancer Center, advocating for health equity.
Expert Leads KU Cancer Center
Gardner native Dr. Roy Jensen advocates for health equity in the area.
Article by Lucas Shivers | Photography by Kalli Jo Smith
Staying persistent is a personal motto for Dr. Roy Jensen, a world-renowned expert in hereditary breast cancer. As the director of the University of Kansas Cancer Center, Jensen tirelessly advocates for health equity in underserved communities. His work hasn’t gone unnoticed. He was awarded The Chamber Award by the Gardner Chamber of Commerce, giving the keynote presentation at the annual dinner in 2023. He was inducted into the Gardner Edgerton School’s Hall of Fame in 2024. The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and the Johnson County Community College Foundation have also recognized Jensen’s work.
Jensen is also a professor of pathology and laboratory medicine, a professor of cancer biology, and the William R. Jewel Distinguished Kansas Masonic Professor at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
“Our region needs a national center of excellence that allows people to stay close to home for treatment and be confident they are getting the best care possible,” Jensen says.
Jason Leib, president and CEO of the Gardner Chamber of Commerce, notes that Gardner is proud of Jensen and his dedication to enhancing patient care and inspiring future generations.
“Dr. Jensen has become known throughout the Kansas City region and the country for his work fighting cancer, and it’s great to have him be such an advocate for Gardner, remembering where he came from,” Leib says. “The community takes great pride in him and his accomplishments.”
Greatness from Gardner
Jensen grew up in Gardner and lived on Ott Lane until he was a sophomore in high school and his family moved to a farm south of town. He played basketball on the team that took fourth in the 1975 state tournament, and he graduated in 1976 from Gardner High School.
“I met my wife, Linda, in high school, and our first date was an Eric Clapton and Santana concert,” Jensen says.
The couple raised three sons, now married and living in Kansas City, Wichita, and Orange County, California.
Power of Learning
After signing a letter of intent to play basketball at Neosho County Community College, Jensen completed an associate degree before finishing his undergraduate studies at Pittsburg State University with a double major in chemistry and biology.
“I had some great teachers at both places,” Jensen says. “My chemistry professor at Neosho, Norma Steinman, was an important mentor for me [and played] a key role in my subsequent success. She connected me with other great teachers at Pitt State who prepared me for the next steps.”
Jensen found his passion and graduated from medical school at Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
“I went to med school thinking I was going to be a cardiologist as an athlete interested in sports physiology,” Jensen says. “Instead, my mentors stimulated my interest in cancer research, which led to my focus on breast cancer.”
Professional Journey
After medical school, Jensen completed his residency in anatomic pathology, followed by a surgical pathology fellowship at Vanderbilt, which led to a three-year research stint at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Maryland.
“In 1991, I joined the faculty at Vanderbilt, where I worked until 2004 before becoming the director at the University of Kansas Cancer Center,” Jensen says. “I had worked with Harold Moses, who started the cancer center at Vanderbilt, and he was a great leader and mentor. From day one, my goal at KU was to develop an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center.”
Through the 1990s and 2000s, Jensen spent time establishing his lab with grants focused primarily on breast cancer. He also served as a breast pathology consultant and lectured widely on breast cancer and preneoplastic breast disease.
“At KU, it took a little bit of work to qualify for the NCI designation we earned in 2012,” Jensen says. “The guidelines state you have to be in that status for 10 years before stepping up to comprehensive, the highest level, in 2022.”
In total, that work resulted in a $1.3 billion investment in the KU Cancer Center. The growth of the cancer center and reaching comprehensive status would not have been possible without a variety of support.
“That effort was the result of hundreds of people who came together to be part of the team with tremendous support from the institution, philanthropy, Kansas Masons and local government,” he says.
Visions Achieved
The center’s funding increased from $14 million when Jensen started in 2004 to nearly $85 million today, expanded the number of patients by about four times, and recruited a number of leaders to build an outstanding team.
“Reflecting the work of our whole team, we’ve been very blessed,” Jensen says. “Cancer touches many of us personally, and, overall, half of all men and a third of all women are diagnosed at some point in their lifetime.”
Jensen played a key role in helping KU earn the esteemed NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center designation, which is a solid testament to the quality of its program.
“The center has come a long way over the last 20 years, with many things set up for continued success after I’m gone. The current plan is to work another three years to coincide with the renewal of our cancer center grant,” Jensen says. “Outside of work, I run, lift weights and play with grandkids.”
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One for All, All in Blazers
High school program builds leadership skills for student-athletes through community volunteering.
Article by Ian Brannan | Photography courtesy Tyler Cordts
A Gardner Edgerton High School student plays with elementary schoolers as part of the All in Blazers program.
The All in Blazers program at Gardner Edgerton High School helps student-athletes develop leadership skills as they connect with the community through volunteering.
Assistant principal and athletic director Jason Radel first envisioned the program about six years ago and implemented it two years later. His goal was to help the community, which consistently supports the school. Community members and organizations can request assistance from the student volunteers, and the volunteers can fulfill those needs individually or in groups.
Radel says there was a time when the school received less-than-favorable publicity in the news, which he said did not reflect the caliber of the students.
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“I wanted to do something more, so a couple years ago, Mr. (Frank) Bell, our principal, started some action groups, and I asked him if we could make one of those,” Radel says.
He received approval, and the All in Blazers program took off from there. The community service–based program leads students to find ways to help and participate in their community.
Lending a Hand
Radel says students have helped at the elementary schools by playing games with the younger children, reading to them, and helping them with homework. Other students have helped at the high school on their days off, worked a carnival at the elementary school, and volunteered with Harvester’s, among other projects.
Almost from its inception, All in Blazers has focused on Harvester’s. Divine Mercy Parish and Kiwanis Club sponsor the Saturday distributions, and Divine Mercy Parish also sponsors the Wednesday distributions.
As cars drive through a line at TradeNet, students help load the cars with food. Radel says
the All in Blazers program has made helping load food a regular volunteer event, and students work every third Saturday of the month.
“The kids love it, and it’s such a cool thing to do for people in the community. They come from all over,” Radel says. “They come from Olathe. They come from Kansas City. They come from everywhere.”
Senior football player Kaleb Dewey, 17, says his favorite thing to help out with is Oktoberfest. It is a fundraiser for a dog shelter with a CrossFit-like premise, where the students referee events.
Dewey first participated in the program his freshman year. He learned about it from his older brother, who was a senior when it started.
Dewey says it was a great way to help athletes connect with the community and that he has found joy in helping others.
“I really like being able to help out in the community and hang out with my friends. It doesn’t feel like a job,” Dewey says. “It just feels like being with your buddies while helping out in the community.”
High school students volunteer in a variety of ways to help out their Gardner community. Here they work with Harvester’s to prepare food for distribution.
Contact Tyler Cordts, teacher and coach at Gardner Edgerton High School
email: cordtst@usd231.com phone: 913-856-2745 usd231.com/o/gardner-edgerton-hs
Future Leaders
Radel says he wanted the program to also aid in developing leadership skills for students.
“We have regular meetings during (the students’) seminar period at school where we’ll bring in coaches and kids who have graduated from Gardner. … We really wanted it to be a leadership development and community service type program,” he says.
Radel says one of the more difficult aspects of the program is availability.
Students are often involved in multiple sports, which take up a lot of time.
“People reach out to us and say, ‘Hey, do you have kids who can help with this?’ and we just figure it out,” he says.
There is no requirement for how many hours each student puts in.
“We really want kids to do it because they want to do it,” Radel says. “We don’t want to force them to do anything. We want them to build that intrinsic motivation to do things for the people who do things for them.” One student, Radel says, began regularly mowing the lawn for an older woman when she couldn’t do it herself.
While student-athletes can volunteer individually, there are also opportunities for entire teams to work together to help the community.
“Our boys basketball team and both of our boys and girls soccer teams have been involved with Harvester’s, for instance,” Radel says. “They’ve gone as a team and done Harvester’s on a Saturday all together.”
In addition to volunteering with the community, he says the students have raised money for scholarships over the past two years.
“Outgoing seniors—we’ve given four scholarships, $500 apiece, for the last two years,” he says.
With the new school year, Radel is looking forward to student involvement in the community through the All in Blazers program and watching students develop their leadership skills while having fun helping others.
High schoolers help their elementary school counterparts maneuver on the playground (top); Santa and Mrs. Claus are proud of the All in Blazers participants!
It’s a Secret
Couple offers special dinner parties with hush-hush menus and rides on Gardner Lake.
Article by Debbie Leckron Miller
Photography by Sarah Reeves
The word’s out about Selah Secret Supper! Its sumptuous multi-course meal, lakeside setting and sunset cruise are literally drawing a boatload of fans.
On Saturday evenings, May through October, Sandra and Anthony Liperuote host dinner parties for area residents at their Gardner Lake home. After front-door greetings, introductions and signature cocktails, the party of six to eight people moves outdoors for a group photo and the main attraction, a “secret” dinner on the Liperuotes’ lakefront deck. But there’s no rush to dig in. Guests get a chance to unwind and slow down for a three-hour dining affair while they soak up the scenic surroundings.
Sandra and Anthony, both chiropractors in Olathe and parents of two children, moved to Gardner Lake eight years ago. “When our youngest child was graduating, Anthony and I had a heart-to-heart about what the next phase of life was going to be like,” Sandra says. “I’d always loved cooking for people, and we had hosted countless dinner parties at our homes. We decided that at Gardner Lake—where we have the best view and such a calm and peaceful setting—what if we hosted dinner parties at our house?”
So, two summers ago, the couple cooked up their first Selah Secret Supper and have delighted diners ever since.
To be clear, they’re not trying to keep their creative feasts a secret, as the name might indicate. Instead, it’s the menu served to guests that’s a secret. “When you come to our supper, you don’t know what you’re going to eat throughout the meal. When we serve each course, we tell them what it is,” Sandra explains.
Guests indicate if they prefer pork, beef, chicken or seafood when they make reservations and advise Sandra if anyone has food allergies. Beyond that, the menu is hush-hush.
All in a Name
The “Selah” in the supper’s name (and etched on a stone in the front yard) symbolizes a pause, a time to reflect and rest, “similar to the rest symbol in music,” Sandra explains. “We’ve always wanted this to be a place where people could come, take a deep breath, relax and let everything melt away.”
For Sandra, it’s also a chance to share the culinary skills she’s been honing since childhood. “I’ve been experimenting and cooking for as long as I can remember. In elementary school, I used to play restaurant a lot with a neighborhood
Sandra Liperuote grows vegetables, bakes bread, and serves delicious, nutritious meals for the Selah Secret Suppers.
Sandra cooks, and Anthony serves their guests at the Gardner Lake home.
friend,” she says. And in high school and college, Sandra learned to cook nutritious meals for herself due to a serious medical condition that required a special diet. She was eventually introduced to a chiropractor whose alternative health care brought her relief and inspired her to enter chiropractic college.
“Throughout my 30-year career, I have paralleled both my chiropractic and cooking skills, and used food alongside my medical knowledge to help patients heal and thrive,” she says. “I have family members who are gluten- and dairy-free, and I like to advise my patients on dietary techniques they can take home.”
At Selah Secret Suppers, Sandra’s creativity shines, starting at the front door with signature cocktails named after friends who live at the lake. “I’ve served a lot of ‘Brendas’ this season,” she laughs. It’s a jalapeno-strawberry-lemonade margarita, which describes my friend Brenda perfectly.”
The culinary parade moves to the backyard gazebo, where Anthony serves as waiter and Sandra comes and goes with her food. “Anthony gets along with everybody,” Sandra says about her easy-going, congenial co-worker.
First course is a nibble board, often served with her popular butter candles and homemade bread that’s dipped into the butter and herb candle as it melts. Soup follows and, like all her dishes, depends on her creativity and the local ingredients she buys at the Wednesday farmers market— from artichoke soup to a cold peach recipe.
After a grilled romaine or maybe a fennel-orange salad, fresh figs with goat cheese often highlight the
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fruit course. A veggie—such as delicata squash deep-fried with cranberries and apples—leads to the entrée. “Everything is served as small plates. I don’t want anyone feeling uncomfortable when they leave,” Sandra says about the glazed salmon or Italian beef roll that might appear as the main course.
Next-door neighbor Sandi Davidson has the enviable job as taste tester. She was a reliable reviewer when the suppers first started, sampling whenever Sandra needed an opinion. “And today, when Sandra tries something new, she lets us taste it,” Sandi says about the neighborly arrangement.
Among Davidson’s favorites on the menu: the melting butter candle with its flavorful herbs and
Sandra’s Mexican coffee served with homemade ice cream and chocolate torte for dessert.
“Outside, overlooking the lake, it’s a relaxed atmosphere and not rushed. There’s time for chit-chat between courses and camaraderie,” Davidson says about the experience.
All Aboard
After the entrée, guests board a pontoon boat for a leisurely sunset cruise around the 100-acre lake. Capt. Anthony narrates the float trip, where they often encounter ducks, geese, herons or eagles. He also points out a special house—home of the namesake of the Brenda cocktail! Upon return, Sandra has dessert ready for the finale, which usually includes
her chocolate torte and a second complementary creation.
Shawnna Steele, a friend and neighbor who has been a guest at several Selah Secret Suppers, gives rave reviews. “From the exquisite food to the impeccable service and the setting, every aspect of the experience is elevated,” Steele says. “Sandra’s passion for cooking shines through in every dish she serves, seamlessly blending traditional comfort with unexpected and innovative twists.
“The boat ride is the perfect ending to the evening,” Steele says about the peaceful sunset excursion.
It’s just what Sandra hopes for. “We want everyone to simply have fun, good food, laughter, joy and calm,” she says.
After supper, guests board a pontoon boat for an evening ride around Gardner Lake.
For Reservations
Selah Secret Supper reservations (on Facebook or Instagram) are required for Saturday evenings, May–October, for groups of six to eight people ($100 per person).
In winter, the food and socializing move indoors at the Liperuotes’ home for Ladies’ Nights (limited to six women).
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DEST INAT ION:
D O W N T O W N
Gardner’s business district
is on track for redevelopment in a big way.
Article by Bob Luder
Photography by Sarah Reeves
Asmall bronze plate discreetly attached to the front of the old Bruce Furniture building on Main Street in downtown Gardner is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. It reads, “Site of the first Furniture Store and Undertaker, Est. 1885” an odd but charming vestige of the times and part of the town’s historic ambiance.
That building at 139 E. Main, along with many other structures and spaces along the four-block strip that makes up Downtown Gardner, is undergoing—or soon will be undergoing—a major facelift. After delays caused by the pandemic and some push and pull on the city’s budget priorities, it appears all systems are go for significant redevelopment and renovations along Gardner’s central core, both from a municipal standpoint and with a lot of private investment in the area.
It’s a process that some consider a long time coming, but the city, despite the obstacles, never lost focus.
“Gardner just got named the fastest-growing city in the (Kansas City) metro and 60th fastest in the entire country,” says Jim Pruetting, city administrator. “We’re surrounded by employment centers like Logistics Park KC, the New Century Commerce Center, and the new Panasonic development. We want to make Gardner a place where you not only buy your first starter home, but a place people can stay for a second or third home.”
A brass plate recites the history of the building that once housed Bruce Furniture.
Gardner Destination Downtown
The Gardner Destination Downtown project has been on the city’s agenda for some time, but the project—which builds on the recommendations of the Gardner Main Street Corridor Plan, aided by a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation—is finally moving forward. The city acquired two properties at the northern edge of the Downtown district—the Security 1st Title building and an adjacent home to the north—and plans to create public open spaces, including but not limited to public parking lots.
“That’s the first action toward implementing the Destination Downtown Plan,” Pruetting says, “and the purchases were key to doing that because we need more parking and open space in that area to support the plan.”
The vision includes building a multipurpose building with first-floor retail and second-floor office space.
In addition, the city intends to build a covered space adjacent to city hall that can be used for a variety of events, including a large farmers market.
There are discussions of beautifying Main Street’s sidewalks and adding curb appeal, such as planters and signage and addressing ADA issues. Since the street doubles as U.S. Highway 56, there are obstacles, especially when creating medians or bike/ pedestrian lanes.
“A challenge is our Main Street also is a U.S. highway,” says Jason Leib, president and CEO of the Gardner Chamber of Commerce. “There are some things we just can’t do ....”
An important part of the process, Pruetting and Leib say, is forming a Downtown Council to help brainstorm and organize more downtown redevelopment. Pruetting says the intent is to have that council in place soon.
www.gardnerkansas.gov/ government/departmentsand-divisions/planningand-zoning/gardner-mainstreet-corridor-plan/gardnerdestination-downtown-plan
The former Sacred Heart Catholic Church building is now Warren Place, a venue rented out for weddings, reunions, and more.
Private Investment Ongoing
Though Downtown Gardner’s redevelopment has picked up recently, especially from a city standpoint, the area has seen investment and new development over the last decade. For example, after Groundhouse Coffee & Bakery opened 10 years ago at the corner of Main and Elm, it firmly established itself as a meeting and gathering hub.
In July 2023, Transport Brewery opened a second location (the original is in Shawnee) at 131 E. Main, selling craft beer in an updated, roomy space with an outdoor patio. Around the corner on Elm is the Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge in a renovated building that includes a speakeasy, The Forge, and an outdoor space called The Bellows.
“I grew up here,” says Derrick Stockton, owner of both businesses. “I always thought we had such a cool downtown, but there wasn’t anything for anybody to do. It was important to me to stay in Gardner, and to create this family business here has been great.”
Perhaps a major focus of downtown redevelopment occurred in 2017 when the grounds and buildings of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church were purchased and converted to Warren Place, a venue that can be rented for weddings, business retreats, reunions, and other gatherings. Warren Place hosted its first event in the fall of 2020 and, despite the interruptions and chaos from COVID-19, has thrived and established itself as a premier event space in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
The original chapel, built in 1905, is a popular venue. The rectory, constructed in the 1950s, has been remodeled into three suites that can be used for staging areas or overnight stays. And the Warren Place building, built in the ’80s, can host up to 200 for receptions or large meetings/gatherings.
More recent redevelopment plans received an economic stimulus in the form of an approved historical district designation that allows property owners to receive tax credits at both state and federal levels for up to 80% of renovation costs.
That includes the redevelopment of the Bruce Furniture building, which was acquired by Carrie Brandon, a local artist, in 2023. Preserving as much
Groundhouse Coffee & Bakery (above) and Transport Brewery (left) are major components of Gardner’s new business profile.
of its historical character as possible, Brandon wants to create the Main Street Market Place, a deli/diner/full-scale bakery and seller of community-sourced food products. She wants to celebrate local agriculture in the area and form a synergy with Groundhouse Coffee, Transport and Ash & Anvil. She also plans to take the section of the building facing Elm Street to form a space where local artists can sell pottery, jewelry and wellness products.
“I want to bring something productive and community related to Downtown Gardner,” she says. “It’s a historic property with unique features. We want to preserve everything we can.”
Brandon says she also bought the building at 208 Main and plans to create the Main Street Media Group, a space where local media can work and create content.
Another resident, Manual Oregel, owner of Union Tile & Marble, recently opened El Luchador, a restaurant that serves
authentic Mexican food, and has acquired other buildings for redevelopment.
Jeff Cordray, owner of Cordray Roofing at Main and Sycamore, purchased a 1920s building at 231 Main and fully renovated it to house a chiropractic office. Two doors down, next to El Luchador, he’s acquired another building he plans to tear down to create additional parking.
While it’s taken more time than some would like, it’s clear that Downtown Gardner is in for some real changes over the next few years.
“I’ve lived in Gardner since 1992, and I love what’s happening in Downtown Gardner right now,” Cordray says. “I like that they’re doing it slowly and organically. I like that we’re getting family-oriented businesses that the community can patronize.
“Once downtown development is done, it’s done forever. We’re doing it the right way.”
Cordray Roofing (top) on Main Street and Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge on Elm Street are both in renovated downtown buildings.
Welcome to the past, present, and future of Gardner, Kansas, the fastest-growing city in the Kansas City metro area in 2023!
As we embrace our community’s growth and development, we’re excited to share the stories of our past and our vision for the future. Our city has seen remarkable progress over the 50 years that the Gardner Chamber of Commerce has existed, with both new and long-standing businesses enriching our downtown. We also showcase the giving spirit of our residents and a hidden treasure in our community.
Looking ahead, we are committed to fostering a thriving and innovative economic environment, continuing to enhance the downtown, supporting existing businesses and new ventures, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Join us as we continue to build a Gardner that shines with opportunity and community spirit!
913.856.6464
info@gardnerchamber.com www.gardnerchamber.com
Julie Dean, Board Chair Gardner Chamber of Commerce
Jason Leib, President/CEO
Chamber of Commerce
member spotlight
Featuring...
Little Building Blocks
Family owned and operated, Little Building Blocks is an early childhood educational center offering programs for children 4 weeks old through school age. Programs include daycare for infants along with a creative curriculum for toddlers and 2- and 3-year-olds; a pre-kindergarten program to help develop literacy and other skills; and a school-age program with before and after school care for children attending Nike Elementary. With 11 classrooms and a staff knowledgeable and experienced in early childhood development, Little Building Blocks has space for up to 192 children. Learn more at www.littlebuildingblocks.com
Saying Goodbye to…
The Gardner News, which ceased publication in July. Founded in 1982, the paper was a cornerstone of community journalism. Rhonda Humble ran the paper for nearly 40 years, until her retirement in 2022. Humble passed away later that year. Under her leadership, the Gardner News was known for being invested in the community and publishing what was best for Gardner. Sunflower Publishing understands the challenges facing newspapers today, and we and the Gardner Chamber of Commerce mourn with Gardner residents the loss of this community linchpin.
Featuring...
Blazer’s Restaurant
Since 1976, Blazer’s Restaurant has been a Gardner icon, serving the best burgers around. It’s the oldest restaurant still in business in Gardner, and it was named after the high-school mascot, the Trailblazers. They specialize in fresh food cooked to order. Currently under the ownership of Wally and Dawn Borth, Blazer’s also donates and contributes to a number of charities, schools, and individuals in the community. Their motto is “You have to take care of those who take care of you.” Open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, the restaurant is closed on Sundays. Learn more at www.blazers-restaurant.com.
Listings highlighted in blue are GE Magazine advertisers.
Advertising & Media
Buzzfish Media (913) 208-0349 www.buzzfishmedia.com
Russell-Hampton Company (913) 254-0500 www.russellhampton.com
Southwind Advertising (913) 515-4390 www.southwindonline.com
Wingert Billboards (913) 201-5436 www.wingertbillboards.com
Agritourism & Farming
Gieringer’s Family Orchard & Berry Farm (913) 893-9626 www.goberryfarm.com
KC Pumpkin Patch LLC (913) 484-6251 www.kcpumpkinpatch.com
Prairie Center Meats (913) 238-9597 www.prairiecentermeats.com
Arts, Culture & Entertainment
Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge (913) 558-8074 www.ashandanvilcigars.com
KC Wine Co. (913) 484-6251 www.kcwineco.com
MY Play Cafe (913) 314-5162 www.myplaycafe.com
Warren Place Venue (816) 813-4958 www.warrenplaceevents.com
Automotive & Transportation
Bret’s Autoworks (913) 856-5169 bretsautoworks.com
First Student (913) 856-5650 www.firststudentinc.com
Johnson County Airport Commission (913) 715-6000 www.jocogov.org/dept/ airport-commission
Olathe Ford RV Center (913) 856-8145 www.olathefordrv.com
TransAm Trucking Inc. (913) 538-4172 www.transamtruck.com
TSL Companies (402) 895-6692 www.4tsl.com
Winters Automotive & Transmission (913) 856-4646 www.wintersauto.com
Business & Professional Services
Adams Pro Photo (913) 515-4390 www.adamsprophoto.com
Adobe (408) 753-5826 www.adobe.com
AMS HCM Consulting (682) 559-0006 amshcm-firm.com
Blazer Strategies LLC (913) 938-6420 www.blazerstrategies.com
Bruce Funeral Home Inc. (913) 856-7111 www.brucefuneralhome.com
Corson Consulting & Bookkeeping (913) 980-3444 corsonconsulting.com
Design 4 Sports (913) 938-5393 design4printing.com
The Law Offices of Stockton and Kandt LLC (913) 856-2828 www.stocktonlaw.com
LegalShield (913) 788-0589 mmcruse.wearelegalshield.com
ProLogistix (816) 730-8278 apply.prologistix.com
S&S Electronics LLC (913) 270-1765 sselectronicsks.com
Shawnee Copy Center (913) 268-4343 www.sccink.com
SPACESINC (913) 894-8900 www.spacesinc.com
Stern & Mauck LLC (913) 674-5222 www.smlawkc.com
Synergize Consulting LLC (708) 972-2846 www.synergizeconsulting.solutions
Troutt Beeman & Co., P.C. (913) 764-1922 www.tbco.net
ZenBusiness (844) 493-6249 www.zenbusiness.com
Construction & Contractors
All Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating (913) 780-0076 www.allseasons-ac-heat.com
Anthem Concrete Coatings (913) 944-0853 www.anthemconcretecoatings.com
BCI Mechanical Inc. (913) 856-6747 www.bcimechanicalinc.com
Chapman Electric LLC (913) 575-1612 chapmanelectrickc.com
Cordray Roofing (913) 856-7663 www.kcroofing.com
Corson Construction and Roofing LLC (913) 208-3171
Deck & Rail Supply LLC (913) 884-3335 www.deckandrailsupply.com
Elliott Construction LLC (913) 208-9602 constructionelliott.com
GBA (913) 492-0400 www.gbateam.com
Grand Street Development LLC (913) 712-8440
Grata Development (913) 732-4778 www.gratadev.com
Hickman Home Comfort Heating & Cooling (913) 856-7730
Johnson County Comfort LLC (913) 212-6900 johnsoncountycomfortllc.com
Koch Construction and Remodeling (913) 815-3969 www.kochconstructionkc.com
Mr. Handyman of Olathe, Gardner (913) 286-4466 www.mrhandyman.com/ olathe-gardner
Penny’s Concrete Inc. (913) 441-8781 www.pennysconcrete.com
Santa Fe Air Conditioning (913) 856-5801 www.santafeair.com
Shaw Stone and Tile (913) 602-4489
Family, Community & Civic Organizations
Abdallah Shriners (913) 362-5300 abdallahshriners.com
Community Blood Center (816) 213-2728 savealifenow.org
Divine Mercy Parish (913) 856-7781 www.divinemercyks.org
Faith Chapel (620) 282-1315 fcgardner.com
First Baptist Church (913) 884-7228 www.gardnerfirstbaptist.com
Gardner Grange (913) 558-5261 www.grange.org/gardnerks68
Gardner KS Pride Inc. (785) 418-9005 www.gardnerkspride.com
Gardner Lions Club (913) 707-2703 lionsclubs.org
Gardner Rotary Club (913) 406-4688 www.gardnerrotary.org
GFWC Athena Club (913) 787-2252
Grace Baptist Church (913) 856-2880 www.gracebaptistgardner.com
The Hope Market (913) 586-6110 thehopemarket.org
Johnson County Developmental Supports (913) 826-2626 www.jocogov.org/dept/ developmental-supports/home
Johnson County Fair Association (913) 856-8860 www.jocokansasfair.com
King of Kings Lutheran Church (913) 856-2500 www.kingofkingsks.org
Kiwanis Club of Gardner (913) 963-3126
Living Life Ranch (913) 731-5579 www.livingliferanch.org
New Life Community Church (913) 856-5683 www.newlifegardner.com
Olathe Family YMCA (913) 393-9622 www.kansascityymca.org/ locations/olathe
Restoration Church (913) 717-5556 www.restorationgardner.org
Safehome (913) 432-9300 www.safehome-ks.org
Southwest Multi Service Center (913) 715-6653 www.jocogov.org/facility/ southwest-multi-service-center
Finance & Insurance
A & D Haas Health Insurance (913) 245-1253 myhst.com/agent/aleshka-haas
American Family Insurance - Tim Miller (913) 856-6177 www.timmilleragency.com
ARVEST Bank (913) 953-4100 www.arvest.com
Capitol Federal (913) 652-2431 www.capfed.com
Central Bank of the Midwest (913) 856-1056 www.centralbank.net
Central National Bank - Walmart (913) 856-2136 www.centralnational.com
Central National Bank Mortgage & Commercial Lending (913) 856-3218 www.centralnational.com
Edward Jones - Aaron Wyant (913) 856-6233 www.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones - Pete Carr (913) 856-8846 www.edwardjones.com
Farm Bureau Financial Services (913) 856-2197 www.fbfs.com
Farmers Insurance -
Robert K. Kelly Insurance (913) 856-3816 robertkellyinsurance.com
Frontier Community Credit Union (913) 651-6575 www.frontierccu.org
Health and Wellness Advisors LLC (913) 601-0824 www.hwadvisors.org
Joe Oldham’s State Farm Agency (913) 856-6124 www.joeoldhamagency.com
Mid America Bank (913) 884-2155 www.mid-americabank.com
MJH Insurance & Financial Services (913) 856-0002 www.mjhins.com
New York Life (913) 271-7450 www.newyorklife.com/agent/ apeacock
Patriots Bank (913) 856-8809 www.patriotsbank.com
Prime Capital Investment Advisors (913) 340-8012 pciawealth.com/blog/teammember/taylor-yaw
Truly Affordable Health Insurance (785) 214-4089 www.TrulyAHI.com
Government & Education
Shirley Allenbrand, Johnson County Commissioner (6th District) (913) 579-8206 www.shirleyallenbrand.com
City of Gardner (913) 856-7535 www.gardnerkansas.gov
Fire District #1, Johnson County, Kansas (913) 764-7635 www.jocofd1.org
Gardner Edgerton Schools Foundation (913) 856-2031 www.usd231.com/o/foundation
Johnson County Community College (913) 469-8500 www.jccc.edu
Johnson County Election Office (913) 715-6800 www.jocoelection.org
Johnson County Government (913) 715-0430 www.jocogov.org/dept/ board-county-commissioners
Johnson County Park and Recreation District (913) 438-7275 www.jcprd.com
Johnson County Sheriff’s Office (913) 715-5800 www.jocosheriff.org
Little Building Blocks (913) 856-5633 www.littlebuildingblocks.com
Open Arms Lutheran Child Development Center (913) 856-4250 www.kingofkingsks.org/ Open-Arms.html
USD 231 (913) 856-2000 www.usd231.com
Health, Wellness & Fitness
AdventHealth South Overland Park (913) 373-1100 AdventHealthSOP.com
Baxter Orthodontics (913) 856-4465 www.baxterorthodontics.com
Beck Chiropractic & Acupuncture (913) 605-1223 www.beck-chiro.com
Blazing Trails Martial Arts (913) 210-0829 blazingtrailsmartialarts.com
Catalyst Chiropractic LLC (913) 286-4968 www.catalystchirokc.com
CenterWell Senior Primary Care (913) 547-1710 www.centerwellprimarycare.com
Drs. Hawks, Besler, Rogers & Stoppel, O.D. (913) 856-6360 www.hbreyecare.com
Gardner Dentists LLC (913) 856-7123 www.gardnerdentists.com
Great Life Golf Gardner (913) 856-8858 www.gardnergolf.com
Imagine Dental (913) 856-6171 www.mygardnerdentist.com
Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital (913) 856-8747 meadowbrookrh.com
Meadowbrook Rehabilitation South (913) 856-6520 www.medicalodges.com
Olathe Health (913) 791-4200 www.olathehealth.org
Olathe Health Family Medicine - Gardner (913) 856-5577 www.olathehealth.org/gardner
Olathe Health Rehabilitation Services - Gardner (913) 324-8680 www.olathehealth.org/ rehabgardner
SERC Physical Therapy (913) 856-7927 www.serctherapy.com
St. Croix Hospice (913) 354-5511 www.stcroixhospice.com
Winters Chiropractic Center (913) 856-8135 www.doctodd.com
Home & Garden
Attic Storage Gardner (913) 856-5757 www.attic-storage.com
Curby’s Lawn and Garden (913) 764-6159 www.curbyslawn.com
Rooted Landscape (913) 782-1845 www.rootedland.com
Sherwin Williams (913) 856-7888 www.sherwin-williams.com
Travis Hutton Lawn and Landscape Inc. (913) 710-5771 www.facebook.com/ TravisHuttonLawn
Two Maids Overland Park (913) 738-2198 twomaidscleaning.com/overland-park
Manufacturing, Logistics & Distribution
AAC Enterprise (913) 515-3216 www.aacenterprise.com
Amazon Fulfillment www.amazon.com
ColdPoint Logistics Warehouse LLC (913) 229-3800 www.coldpointlogistics.com
Excelligence Learning Corporation (913) 303-8411 www.excelligence.com
FedEx Ground (913) 856-1880 careers.fedex.com
Hershey Salty Snacks Co., The (701) 566-8520 www.dotspretzels.com
ITI Intermodal of Kansas LLC (708) 333-7510 iti-intermodal.com
TradeNet Publishing Inc. (800) 884-7301 www.tradenetonline.com
Personal Care & Services
Colour Closet (785) 845-9809 www.courtneycolourcloset.com
Design Co. Salon (913) 856-5464 www.facebook.com/designco. gardnerks
Rejuvenate Medspa (913) 645-5815 rejuvenatemdspa.com
Relax Skin Studio (785) 317-7209 www.relaxskinstudio.com
Pets
&
Veterinary
Gardner Animal Hospital (913) 856-6255 www.gardnerah.com
Gardner Pet Supply & Grooming (913) 605-1125 gardnerpetsupply.com
Oakbrook Animal Hospital (913) 884-8778 www.oakbrookanimalhospital.com
Prairie Paws Animal Shelter (785) 242-2967 www.prairiepaws.org
Stepping Stone Animal Hospital (913) 938-6977 www.steppingstoneah.com
Real Estate Services
Bates, Sue - Platinum Realty (913) 706-7284 www.movewithplatinum.com/ suebates
Bethel Estates of Gardner (913) 856-4107 wheatlandinvestmentsgroup.com
Big Water LLC (913) 406-4688
The Bristol Groupe (785) 838-4888 www.bristolgroupe.com
Conestoga (913) 755-9464 www.conestogakansas.com
Crown Realty (913) 215-9004 www.crownrealty.com
Horizon Trails Apartments (913) 605-1060 www.horizontrails.com
Keller Williams Realty Partners / John Tramble Jr. (913) 653-8640 john-tramblejr.kw.com
Kirk Home & LandCompass Realty Group (913) 244-5480 www.compass.com/agents/ nancy-kirk-matthew
Layton Real Estate (785) 883-2379 www.laytonre.com
Master Management (913) 856-3888
Moving Proz (913) 251-9037 movingproz.com/kansas-city/gardner
Nottingham Village Apartments (913) 938-5155 www.wilhoitliving.com/property/ nottingham-village
Rausch Coleman Homes (913) 433-0208 rch.com
Security 1st Title (913) 938-5340 www.security1stks.com
The Reserve at Moonlight (913) 884-3986 www.thereserveatmoonlight.com
Treadway at New Trails Apartments (913) 686-9030 treadwaynewtrails.com
Vintage Park at Gardner (913) 856-7643 www.vintageparkassistedliving.com
W.D. Gay Rentals (913) 856-6487 www.forrent.wdgay.com
Willow Chase - Twin Homes (913) 938-5532 www.willowchasetwinhomes.com
Restaurant, Food & Beverages
ACA Cottonwood Catering (913) 882-6142 www.acaofficecatering.com
Blazers Restaurant (913) 856-6565 www.blazers-restaurant.com
Cosentino’s Catering (816) 744-2146 www.cosentinoscatering.com
Culver’s of Gardner (913) 247-1040 www.culvers.com
DayLight Donuts (913) 429-0575 www.daylightdonutskc.com
Fronteras Mexican Restaurant (913) 884-2303 www.fronteraskc.com
Goodcents (913) 856-4611 www.goodcentssubs.com
Groundhouse Coffee (913) 856-5711 www.groundhousecoffee.com
HTeaO (913) 274-0335 www.hteao.com
Jason’s Lunchbox (913) 633-9386 www.jasonslunchbox.com
Panera Bread (913) 397-8383 www.panerabread.com
Pizza Hut of Gardner, KS (913) 884-6116 www.pizzahut.com
Planet Sub (913) 605-1068 www.planetsub.com
Smoke-n-Seoul (646) 515-2519 www.smokenseoul.com
Sonic Drive-In of Gardner, KS (913) 856-5111 www.sonicdrivein.com
The Tipsy Tavern (913) 208-0306 www.facebook.com/tipsytav
Transport Brewery (913) 766-6673 www.transportbrewery.com
Retail
Bomgaars (913) 884-6767 www.bomgaars.com
Corinne’s Creations (913) 221-4592 www.facebook.com/ CorinnesCreations12
Cosentino’s Price Chopper #117 (913) 856-8380 www.mypricechopper.com
Hometown Sports Gear (816) 304-3403 www.hometownsportsgear.com
In Full Bloom Too (913) 800-1850 www.infullbloom-gardner.com
Joy Closet (913) 856-8868 www.facebook.com/ JOYClosetGardner
Pyro Papas Fireworks (913) 787-2219 www.pyropapas.com
Walmart Supercenter of Gardner (913) 884-8004 www.walmart.com
Westlake Ace Hardware (913) 856-4536 www.acehardware.com/ store-details/18561
Travel, Lodging & Tourism
Commemorative Air Force (913) 907-7902 www.kcghostsquadron.org
Dream Makers Vacations LLC (913) 927-0078 www.dreammakersvacations.com
Gardner Historical Museum Inc. (913) 856-4447 www.gardnerhistoricalmuseum.com
Gardner Super 8 (913) 856-8887 www.super8.com
Hampton Inn & Gardner Conference Center (913) 856-2100 www.gardnerconference.com
Lanesfield Historic Site (913) 715-2575 www.jcprd.com/435/ Lanesfield-Historic-Site
Utilities
&
Public Services
Clearwave Fiber (877) 293-2973 www.clearwavefiber.com
Evergy (816) 556-2200 www.evergy.com
Gardner Disposal Service (913) 856-3851 www.gardnerdisposalservice.com
Kansas Gas Service (800) 794-4780 www.kansasgasservice.com
KsFiberNet (316) 712-6030 www.ksfiber.net
KwiKom (800) 379-7292 www.kwikom.com
Next Level Solar LLC (816) 659-1776 nextlevelsolarsolutions.com
Water District #7, Johnson County (913) 856-7375 www.water7.com
GARDNER GOLF COURSE
Photos courtesy Gardner Chamber of Commerce, City of Gardner, Todd Riggins Frozen in Time Photography and Angellina Cappelatti
snapshotscommunity
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29475 W. 189th Terrace, Gardner 913-856-5577
olathehealth.org/gardner
Gardner, Kansas
Gardner, Kansas, is located just 25 miles southwest of Kansas City and is the ideal location to start a business or settle down with your family. Named the No. 1 fastest-growing city in the Kansas City Metro area, this vibrant and progressive city has a high quality of life, affordable housing, excellent schools and perfect proximity to road, rail and air transportation.
Gardner at a Glance
Total population
27,652
• Previous year: 25,602
• Fastest growing city in KC metro
• Peak Earnings: 53.7%
Total households 9,738
• Family: 72.9%
• Homeowner: 67.9%
• Average value of homes: $261,774
• Previous year: $243,991
Median age 33.1
• 5 or 7 years younger than the KC metro and national average, respectively
• Avg. household income: $101,834
• Median household income is 13% higher than the KC metro and 14% higher than the national median
Retail sales
• $420 million in 2023
• $280 million in 2019
USD 231
6,000+ students
100% certified teachers
100% retention rate for certified staff
• More than 98 student teams, clubs and organizations in academics, arts, athletics, leadership, service and STEAM.
• Gardner Edgerton High School has 14 career pathways, 19 dual-enrollment classes, and a state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center, with students earning 262 industryrecognized certificates.
• Kauffman Real World Learning Grant recipient
• Lowered district’s overall mill levy for 8th straight year
Things to do
Recreation
A wide variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, including the area parks, trails, golf and disc golf courses, lakes and more! Enjoy the many options of programming with Gardner Parks and Recreation Department.
Dining and Entertainment
Decades-old locally owned restaurants, national favorites, mobile food trucks, breweries, and a cigar lounge. Enjoy the variety of the area with something to suit everyone’s tastes!
Events
A host of events throughout the year, from holiday celebrations to family-fun activities, including national sports tournaments, unique conventions, and the Johnson County Fair.
“Gardner was recently recognized as the fastest growing city in the Metro area! This is in large part due to the balance of a smart, business-friendly approach that welcomes opportunities and growth, while maintaining a sense of community and small-town feel.”
— Mayor Todd Winters
Gardner, Kansas
Location, Location, Location
The Gardner community offers a valuable location with easy access to road, rail and air transportation near I-35. BNSF Intermodal Facilty and New Century Art Center are two adjacent major employment centers.
A Smart Move
Gardner, Kansas, is a historic community with a keen vision for the future. Its roots stretch back over 150 years to its founding in 1857 along the route of the Santa Fe and Oregon/California Trails. Gardner is committed to maintaining its traditional small-town values while focusing on providing for future growth and development.
913.706.7284 suebateshomes@gmail.com
Sue Bates 30 year Gardner resident 913.706.7284 suebateshomes@gmail.com
