magazine
sHawnee
sp/su
Finding adventure
in Shawnee Shawnee days
Old
free
t h e o ff i c i a l
Shawnee Guide
l o c a l
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2012
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• Hand Cut Aged Premium Steaks • Private Meeting Rooms with Audio and Video Components • Kansas City’s Premier Steak House • Full Service Bar • 6 Large, HD Televisions in the lounge for viewing sports • Fast, Friendly, and Professional Service Staff 17244 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 913-268-8000 (located off I-435 & Midland drive, Exit 5)
Dear
Vol. 5 / No. 3
Reader
spring/summer 12
magazine
sHawnee Editor Katy Ibsen Designer/Art Director Shelly Bryant Copy Editor Christy Little Account Executive Kathy Lafferty 785.224.9992 Mary Hay 913.631.1611 Ad Designers Jenni Leiste Chief Photographers Jason Dailey Contributing Photographers Tim Andersen Ben Anderson Contributing Writers Claire M. Caterer Gloria Gale Kate Leibsle Vince Meserko General Manager Bert Hull
dear reader, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce President | CEO Linda Leeper Sr. Vice President Mary Taylor Director of Member Service & Communications Stacey Dickson Executive Assistant Marlene Shirley Shawnee Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director, CVB Kevin Fern
Shawnee Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of The World Company. www.sunflowerpub.com
find us on facebook facebook.com/ShawneeMagazine Follow us on twitter @shawneemag
Spring is always a time of new beginnings, and this issue of Shawnee Magazine marks the beginning of what we at the Shawnee Convention & Visitors Bureau hope is a long and fruitful partnership. A marriage, so to speak, of our mission and theirs, to provide all the information we can about all the fun things there are to see and to do in Shawnee. Dorothy said it best, “There is no place like home,” and we in Shawnee are always ready to share our hometown and provide the kind of old-fashioned heartland hospitality that is hard to find today. So whether it’s a business trip, a family outing or a simple weekend getaway, the welcome mat is always out in Shawnee because “Good Starts Here.” If we can do anything to help you in making your stay more memorable or enjoyable, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Katy Ibsen editor, Shawnee Magazine
Kevin Fern Executive director, Shawnee Convention & Visitors Bureau
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Shawnee Economic Development Council Executive Director, EDC Andrew Nave Business Growth Coordinator Tom McVey
This issue of Shawnee Magazine marks a unique collaboration among Sunflower Publishing, the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and the Convention & Visitors Bureau. By combining our same great content with a guide for area visitors, this issue is one you’ll want to keep around all year. Our unique features and profiles will entertain and shine new light on the people and places in this community. Meanwhile, the second half of the publication is dedicated to the many attractions Shawnee has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or want to explore the area’s outdoor living sites, the Shawnee Guide will point you in the right direction. Join us again this fall when our next issue will include the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce Resource Guide, highlighting the community’s economic successes and endeavors. As always, thank you for reading.
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Contents
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departments shawnee profiles
shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
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4
Dear Shawnee
Celebrating past and present with images from the Johnson County Museum
10 Old Shawnee Days
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feature shawnee businesses
18 Take the Train to Japan Sakura Japanese
26 Shawnee Magazine Photo Odyssey
Restaurant serves up quirky entertainment with its sushi
As the year unfolds, Shawnee springs to life with activities and events Story by Gloria gale
Shawnee Resume
One community event celebrates tradition passed down through the generations
22 Renee kelly Chef/Owner Renee Kelly at Caenen Castle
14 House warmers
25 Larry Larimore
Mother-and-daughter volunteers provide ongoing support in the Ronald McDonald House kitchen
Chief of Police
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48
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shawnee guide 34 introduction 37 Quick guide index
44 History 48 Eat and drink 54 Shop 58 City Map
sHawnee
magazine
on the cover
60 the metro sp/su
Trainers and members from Snap Fitness take a jog at
{Photography by Jason Dailey}
Finding adventure
in Shawnee
free
Shawnee dayS
Old
Shawnee Mission Park.
the oFFicial
Shawnee Guide
l o c a l
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2012
62 Shawnee events
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
38 Parks and recreation
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local
profiles story by Claire M. Caterer
shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
photography by Jason Dailey and courtesy of the Johnson County Museum
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Dear
shawnee
Celebrating past and present with images from the Johnson County Museum
local
profiles
Once A haven for the Shawnee Indian tribe and witness to 600 wagon trains a week, the city of Shawnee grew from a small farming town in the 1800s to the vibrant population of 62,000 we know today. In this photo essay, we take a look at various sites around town— how they looked then, and how they appear in the
Shawnee Mission Park In 1964, seven years before this shot of a rowing team was taken, Shawnee Mission Park was dedicated. John Barkley, a decorated war hero and farmer living in Mission, personally scouted the 1,250 acres of land for the park and negotiated its purchase. Later Barkley became the first superintendent of Johnson County Parks and Recreation. In 2012 Shawnee Mission Park, at 79th and Renner Road, is the home of the celebrated Theatre in the Park program as well as numerous picnic areas, nature trails, a beach and marina, sporting events and a 53-acre offleash dog park.
Vintage photographs courtesy of the Johnson County Museum
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community now.
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local
profiles
extra
information
Johnson County Museum
6305 Lackman Road | (913) 715-2550 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Monday–Saturday Closed Sundays and major holidays www.jocomuseum.org
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Shawnee Magazine borrowed images of iconic Shawnee locations from the Johnson County Museum. We then revisited these locations to see exactly how things have changed. With Chief Photographer Jason Dailey’s help, we blended the images for this unique look at Shawnee.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
Shawnee State Bank
In 1868, Father Rudolph Deustermann became the first resident pastor of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 11311 Johnson Drive, near Flint Street. More than 30 people attended services that first Sunday in the little parish, and the congregation grew quickly. When fire destroyed the original building in 1894, a “new” one (seen here) was erected under the pastorate of Father Frank Herberichs. In 1908, Herberichs had the 14-year-old church photographed to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his ordination. Today, in addition to serving the burgeoning parish, St. Joseph’s operates the St. Joseph’s Grade School for kindergarten through eighth grade.
On July 4, 1915, Tom Davis (center) posed with his daughter Helen and another gentleman in front of the Shawnee State Bank on the corner of Johnson Drive and Nieman Road. Parked at the east end of Johnson Drive was a lone automobile—surely one of very few in town at a time when the in-town speed limit was 12 miles per hour. Today Dodge City Beef is located in the bank building, and buildings adjacent to the old Shawnee State Bank are still standing, housing the Masonic Lodge 54 (operating in that location since 1930), Jose’s World Wide Barber Shop and the Law Office of Joe B. Vise, Esq.
Vintage photographs courtesy of the Johnson County Museum
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Blending past and present
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Service for all of your automotive needs
The Johnson County Museum, which loaned Shawnee Magazine these photographs, is the go-to source for all things historical pertaining to Johnson County. Attend events, tour the All-Electric House and see historical exhibits. To view the photographic archives, visit www.jocohistory.org.
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Find Out More
Proudly serving the community since 1937
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donovan’s service 5912 Nieman Road | 913-631-9877
local
profiles story by Kate Leibsle
shawnee magazine
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photography courtesy of the shawnee convention & visitors bureau
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Old
Shawnee days One community event celebrates tradition passed down through the generations
local
profiles A photorealist’s perspective on suburban life.
For Shawnee native Lori Barngrover, being involved with Old Shawnee Days has been a lifelong experience. She’s attended many years, served as volunteer coordinator and this year is chairperson for the 46th annual event, set for May 31-June 3 at Shawnee Town. “It’s just a neat thing to be a part of,” Barngrover says. “It continues to grow.” Old Shawnee Days was originally founded as a fundraiser by the Shawnee Historical Society to save the old Shawnee stone jail, says Donna Sawyer, a former chairperson for the event and booth coordinator for 2012. “The building needed to be moved, so the city and the county came to an agreement about moving it to what was originally county park land (now Shawnee Town 1929), so the event was started to raise funds to do that,” Sawyer says. In the ensuing years, the Historical Society continued to organize the event each summer. Eventually, the Society wanted to retire as the event’s producer, but since the city didn’t want to see it end, a nonprofit was founded to ensure it continued.
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Martin Family Dentistry, P.A.
“People attended as children, and now they are bringing their children or grandchildren.”
Steven K. Martin, D.D.S. Alan J. Martin, D.D.S. Philip H. Martin, D.D.S.
-Donna Sawyer sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
Today, the nonprofit’s only duty is production of Old Shawnee Days, Sawyer says. If this year’s festival is like years past, anywhere from 75,000 to 90,000 visitors will be in Shawnee for the weekend. “I’m always interested in how far away people come for the event,” Barngrover says. Popular at the annual event is the lineup of musical concerts to get people rocking. This year Old Shawnee Days welcomes a little bit of country and a little bit of Dixieland with Women of Rock; Double Vision, a tribute to Foreigner; Hells Bells, a tribute to AC/DC; Eddie Money; Leveetown; Rain Dogs; KC Dixieland Band and Thorpe and McElroy. Concerts are scheduled for the evenings and Sunday afternoon.
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Serving the Shawnee community for over forty years. Founded in 1964 by, our father, Dr. Gorby R. Martin. We offer a variety of cosmetic services, including all-porcelain crowns and veneers to reshape and restore your smile. We use Cerec technology to create custom ceramic restorations.
Before
After
Other dental services include—cosmetic fillings, root canals, extractions, dentures, cleanings, periodontal procedures and implant restorations. We strive for patient comfort and satisfaction to help you keep your teeth for a lifetime.
Located in the heart of downtown Shawnee! (913) 631-4373 | 6130 Nieman Road | Shawnee, Kansas 66203
www.drmartindds.com
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“I’m always interested in how far away people come for the event.”
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-Lori Barngrover
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extra
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Old Shawnee Days
May 31-June 3, 2012 Shawnee Town 1929 | 11501 W. 57th Street www.oldshawneedays.org
A success of Old Shawnee Days is that organizers don’t try to recreate the event each year but continue to offer festival favorites such as the parade –this year’s is scheduled for 10 a.m. June 2. Featuring a wide variety of floats, participants will carry the theme “Home Grown Fun.” Many aspects of life in Shawnee are represented in the parade–from local businesses and organizations to neighborhoods that come together to design floats and walk the parade route. Parade participants are eligible for a number of awards, including Most Spirit, Most Creative, Best Kid’s Entry, Most Unique Vehicle, Best Vehicle Group, Grand Marshall’s Award (best depicts theme) and the Mayor’s Award (best overall entry). Each year, the parade organizers develop a new award, designed to recognize a different group of parade entrants. This year, a special award will be given to the outstanding patriotic float entry, says Rick Wartko, parade committee chairman. “We know that there are a lot of veterans in Shawnee, many of whom already participate in the parade, and we want to increase that and recognize their efforts,” says Wartko. It’s that community spirit that makes Sawyer proud to be involved year after year, she says. “The community really comes together,” Sawyer says. “People attended as children, and now they are bringing their children or grandchildren. People support the event by volunteering; the business community helps by sponsoring events; and, it provides a great way for civic groups to raise money. It really fulfills its mission of being a community event.” Be sure to bring the children for a number of free games and the carnival, all sure to entertain. Popular shenanigans include hula hoop, wooden horse race, sack race, three-legged race, egg and spoon race, frog race and turtle race. For the creative attendees, visit the more than 100 crafters’ booths. “There will be a lot of crafts to buy, and nonprofits and church groups will be onsite selling food and drinks,” Barngrover says. And if that’s not enough, historical and educational demonstrations throughout Shawnee Town will occur over the weekend. Most notable to the festival is its tradition of offering free admission to the event and concerts. “We really pride ourselves on that fact,” Barngrover says. “I think it’s very well-rounded,” she says. “We have something to interest every age group.”
Facebook: www.facebook.com/oldshawneedays Twitter: @oldshawneedays
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profiles
Get involved in OSD
www.oldshawneedays.org
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Volunteers are always welcome and still sought for the 2012 festival. More information about volunteering is available at
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Old Shawnee Days is a savored tradition in Shawnee, from the parade to the food to the carnival. The weekend event is expected to draw 75,00090,000 visitors to Shawnee.
local
profiles story by Gloria Gale
shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
photography by Jason Dailey
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House
warmers
Mother-and-daughter volunteers provide ongoing support in the Ronald McDonald House kitchen
local
profiles
It’s been a long and circuitous route to find meaningful volunteer opportunities for Pat Coplen and her daughter, Cathy Robinson.
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Striving to balance busy lives with the needs of their respective families, the Shawnee residents have finally found their calling as volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House in Kansas City, Missouri. As most organizations with a volunteer component would admit, good volunteers are worth their weight in gold. “They thrive, in part, on the dedication and spirit of a cadre of volunteers—the Ronald McDonald House is no exception,” says Megan Harding, volunteer manager at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City. Coplen found herself bumping into walls after her husband of 45 years passed away. “I knew I wanted to get out of the house and get busy,” she admits. Eight years later, she found herself working as a manager at McDonald’s, followed by stints at the Milburn Country Club and Myron Green. “That led to a couple of other careers in the food management industry,” she says. At that point, she wanted to adopt a charity for her birthday. “I didn’t need another set of earrings or perfume—it was time to do put my skills to work and do something purposeful for others,” Coplen says. Robinson, a stay-at-home-mom, agreed. “I was the leader of a Girl Scout troop and took on a service project for the Ronald McDonald House. Mom and I decided to give the volunteer coordinator at that time, Diane Edison, a call. She was gracious enough to spend at least an hour explaining various volunteer opportunities at the house.” In December of 1995 the mother-daughter pair served meals to the families who temporarily live at the house during a child’s illness.
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Cathy Robinson, left, and her mother, Pat Coplen, are two Shawnee residents making a difference at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kansas City.
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“They’re there every Thursday and to date logged in 10 years of service with us.”
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-Megan Harding
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ronald McDonald House
The Ronald McDonald House mission is to reduce the burden of childhood illness on children and their families by providing a “home away from home” for families traveling to Kansas City for their child’s medical care. www.rmhckc.org
“We also cleaned up the pantry,” says Robinson. “And then we decided to cook and bake—it was immediately heartfelt. We looked at each other and realized we had found our charity,” says Coplen. The women found themselves enjoying the routine that has persisted for a decade. Every Thursday, Coplen and Robinson work in the kitchen at Kansas City’s Longfellow House, one of two Ronald McDonald House locations. “Luckily, we both enjoy cooking, but it’s more than that. The Ronald McDonald House offers so much to families with ill children and has been called ‘a soft place to fall,’” says Robinson. The women understand and find themselves cleaning the fridge along with stocking the pantry, where nonperishables are stored for families. “Often we become sounding boards for family members who need to talk to someone. I even encourage conversation; you walk into my kitchen, you’re going to have to speak,” Coplen says. The RMHC-KC is a place where family members who are weathering the serious illness of a child need a comforting place that’s away from the hospital environment. “The Ronald McDonald House serves the need, offering a pleasing, home-away-from-home appeal. This year to date, we’ve served 1,115 families, so relying on volunteers like Pat and Cathy is worth so much,” says Harding. Three years ago, when Harding started at Ronald McDonald House, she quickly saw the amazing impact Coplen and Robinson have on families. “They’re there every Thursday and to date logged in 10 years of service with us. Since we, fortunately, receive meal donations on a regular basis, they are in charge of handling and organizing all of the food—they have a great sense of what’s available—in the freezer, in the fridge and pantry. I like to think of these two as our kitchen and pantry managers. They make certain that we are good stewards of the gifts received,” she says. Serving as a volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House is a pleasure, according to this motherand-daughter team. “We get as much out of our service as the families we interact with. When Cathy bakes muffins or I fry potatoes, it doesn’t take long before we hear, ‘It smells like Grandma’s house’ or ‘It feels so warm and welcoming,’” says Coplen.
REFRESH
YOUR SPACE at The Ridge
7410 Nieman Rd Shawnee, KS (913) 268-7979
Mon-Sat: 10am-8pm Sunday: Noon-6pm
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take the train to
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Japan 18
Sakura Japanese Restaurant Serves up Quirky Entertainment with its Sushi story by Vince Meserko
photography by jason dailey
I suppose you could say I hopped on the sushi train—the Sushi Train Happy Hour. Shawnee’s Sakura Japanese Restaurant is the only place in town where I have discovered such a wonder. The miniature Amtrak train shuffles sushi on a 30-40 foot path around the restaurant’s interior; the diverse array of sushi rolls can be nabbed a la carte-style.
At Sakura Japanese Restaurant, sushi chefs wow patrons with their skills.
Co-owner Tri Nguyen, who began at Sakura as a sushi chef before becoming the owner in 2005, cannot explain the train’s origins, or even why it makes sense to have an Amtrak train inside a Japanese restaurant. “When I started here they already had the train, and then I just followed the system,” Tri says. Despite its origins, the train is just one of many appeals of Sakura. The restaurant features a giant fish tank with swimming eels, a giant hibachi grill used for steak, salmon, shrimp, lobster and swordfish, and even private tatami rooms that are meant to recreate the unique Japanese aesthetic. Equally as enticing are the many dining options, from the hibachi grill to seats perfectly positioned near the train. Behind the scenes is co-owner and head chef Blanka Nguyen, who has been cooking on the hibachi grill for nearly 20 years. “We do ‘show’ cooking,” Blanka says of Sakura’s meals. “Everything is raw, and we cook it on the grill.”
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Sakura japanese restaurant
“The cooks are really knowledgeable. They’ll tell you if it’s spicy or if it’s chewy if you’re big on texture.” -Danica Webster
Sakura is known for its sushi train, a model Amtrak that circles the bar delivering small sushi plates.
shawnee
businesses
Asian influence
Shawnee is home to many delicious Asian restaurants. Explore these various cultures through your taste buds. Chen’s Kitchen (913) 268-1668 7166 Renner Road China King (913) 422-8855 22068 W 66th St. East China (913) 422-0188 5556 Hedge Lane Terr. Grand Wok (913) 268-8668 15810 C Shawnee Mission Pkwy. Great Wall Chinese Buffet (913) 962-7888 6457 Quivira Road happy banzai japanese steakhouse (913) 268-9888 12220 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. Home Delight Chinese Buffet (913) 2956-7322 13214 W. 62nd Terr. Pine & Bamboo Garden (913) 268-9545 10915 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. Sakura Japanese Restaurant (913) 962-6361 7474 Nieman Road Sushi MIDO (913) 322-8888 6010 Nieman Road
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Serving all kinds of diners, Blanka prefers being an entertainer, while cooking is second nature. “I just like to work with people. If they’re happy, then I’m happy,” he says. Watching the food preparation appeals to Danica Webster, who estimates that she visits Sakura at least once a week. “It’s really good sushi. Best I’ve ever had. They make it right in front of you so you can see them making sure everything’s clean and fresh,” she says. “The cooks are really knowledgeable. They’ll tell you if it’s spicy or if it’s chewy if you’re big on texture.” This writer’s senses and sushi curiosities are spinning, so I make a reservation for one. The sushi train is beckoning me with a variety of different cooked and uncooked sushi, while Tri’s hibachi grill sizzles and smokes as he flips a simmering medley of vegetables into the air. Danica suggests that novice sushi diners begin with something crunchy, but despite this advice I decide to go with a large (and very raw) sushi variety platter on my visit. I take a seat at one of the booths adjacent to the train. The service is efficient and timely, with three different waitresses attending to my table. The appetizer was a snappy miso soup. My sushi sampler consisted of crab, egg, mackerel, smelt roe, octopus, salmon, shrimp and white fish in addition to three tuna rolls and three cucumber rolls. The cucumber rolls, crab and sushi were crisp and fresh. Additionally the egg roll and smelt roe were both surprisingly sweet and tasty, with the smelt roe having a unique crunchy/sweet flavor.
7474 Nieman Road (913) 962-6361 www.sakurajapaneserestaurant.net
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shawnee
businesses Equally as enticing are the many dining options, from the hibachi grill to seats perfectly positioned near the train. Sakura also specializes in more traditional steakhouse offerings, and for those who like their food cooked to perfection, the hibachi grill entertainment ensures a delicious, well-prepared meal. While this novice sushi eater may lack the sophisticated palate to discern the nuance of sushi dining, more experienced foodies like Danica keep coming back. “I have a few friends who have been to a lot of sushi places that say this is the best, and then I have friends who don’t know anything about sushi who crave sushi now because of this place,” she says.
Dinner hours
5-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday 4:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday
Sushi Train Happy Hours 5:30-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday
(913) 764-5600 Olathe New Location (913) 745-2500 Shawnee (913) 387-3500 Overland Park (913) 299-3300 Kansas City
READY, WILLING AND ABLE. www.BrotherhoodBank.com
75th & Quivira | SMParkway & Long | 913.321.4242
MEMBER FDIC
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Renee Kelly
Occupation: Chef/Owner Renee Kelly at Caenen Castle, author, food stylist, caterer, personal chef Birthplace: Shawnee
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Born and raised in Shawnee, Renee Kelly went to St. Thomas Aquinas High School. She grew up active in sports, the outdoors and spending time with her family. After attending culinary school in Houston she eventually returned home and opened Caenen Castle. She says, “Being active in sports taught me at an early age challenges make people grow mentally, emotionally, and, of course, physically.” Through a few health concerns, she’s learned more about food than the average culinarian and has a different outlook on how food should be cultivated and prepared. “Let’s face it, food is a powerful elixir,” she says.
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My hero growing up was Mary Lou Retton. She became my hero when she won her medal. When people ask me what I am good at … my response is usually, “I’m kind of like Mary Lou Retton of the culinary field.” I enjoy all parts of cooking, from the tiniest amuse to sauces, meats and desserts.
If I were on “American Idol” I would sing Gary Allan’s “Right Where I Need to Be.”
My job is a physically demanding job, which requires endurance, creativity and a love for working with other people.
My dream job would be traveling the world and working from kitchen to kitchen in homes and restaurants and writing about all my experiences.
If I were running for president, the first thing I would change is the food industry. Find a way to meet Americans’ nutritional needs without turning to chemicals, factory farming and genetically engineered products. My favorite high school job was as a server/hostess at an Italian restaurant; my first job in the food industry, which has turned into a rewarding and prosperous career as a chef.
In my car I carry everything but the kitchen sink. Kitchen knives, a rolling pin, notebooks and pens—never know when a bright idea strikes—snacks, gym bag, dog toys and food magazines for a little inspiration on the go. I’m constantly on the go and always seem to need everything at my fingertips. The car is like a traveling house.
The best vacation I’ve ever had was on a cruise from Sydney to New Zealand with Michel Escoffier. I was the guest chef on the cruise, and I absolutely loved pairing with my friend Michel on our cooking demos. My favorite restaurant is Blue Koi for their dumplings and Hot Basil for their Pineapple Fried Rice and Curry. My favorite meal is having friends and family over to the house and eating on the patio in the middle of summer. My favorite family pet is Alpha, my 30-pound, fluffy black foxlike dog.
My pearls of wisdom are enjoy life and absorb every morsel of knowledge from any situation. With patience comes accuracy. The accuracy you develop makes you faster, which makes you better. Best business advice: Never compromise quality or honesty and moral value.
My favorite sports team is the LA Lakers. Two things nobody knows about me: Unique fashion style—I still love to play dressup. I draw, paint and love to dance. Interview conducted by Gloria Gale, edited by Katy Ibsen. Photography by Jason Dailey.
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Formerly Miller Pharmacy.
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202 Oak Street, Bonner Springs
Monday-Friday: 1pm-8pm Saturday: 10am-7pm Sunday: Noon-6pm
304 Oak Street Bonner Spring Kansas 913.749.8894
Home of Kansas City Renaissance Festival | National Agricultural Center & Hall of Fame Cricket Wireless Amphitheater | Sunflower Hills Golf Course | Wyandotte County Historical Museum
Larry Larimore
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Occupation: Chief of Police Birthplace: Kansas City, Kansas
Larry Larimore was born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. He loved to play sports growing up, and that passion continued into his adulthood. After graduating from high school, he kicked around some before going to school to be an emergency medical technician. While working with Med-Act, he met and married his wife, Debbie, and raised two children. “In 1985, I attended a Reserve Police Officer Academy put on by the Shawnee Police Department, which started me down the law enforcement path,” he says, adding that he was hired as a police officer in Shawnee in January 1987. “Other than marrying my wife, being hired as a police officer is my proudest accomplishment,” he says.
If I were running for president, the first thing I would do is: Enact mandatory twohour siestas, 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Do you think I would get any support? My favorite high school job: I played sports all through high school, so my only parttime job back then was selling shoes and sportswear at a store called the Athlete’s Foot on the Plaza. The biggest perk was the discount on shoes. Back then I owned sneakers for every day, every sport and in every color.
Deb juggles our family life with my busy and chaotic work schedule. She has great patience with the grandsons, our own kids and me. She is the chief at our house. The best vacation I’ve ever taken is snorkeling off the beaches a few years ago on St. John Island, US Virgin Islands; just my wife and me. The scenery, above and below water, was fantastic. My favorite restaurant is Shawnee’s Bates City Barbeque Restaurant. I spend enough money eating there I should qualify as a major stockholder.
If I could change one thing about myself it would be to become more organized. In the past, my office has always been a mess, and at home I have equipment and paperwork boxed up in the basement covering 25 years of police service.
My favorite meal is Friday’s Lunch Special: Rib Tips. Even my grandsons are on a first-name basis with Tom Roberts, the owner.
In my car I carry all the normal stuff … guns, bullets, handcuffs, collapsible baton, bullet-resistant vest, portable police radio and the most-used item … The Big Easy Automotive Lock-Out Door Opener.
My favorite way to travel is by car. It’s a control thing. I want to move about the cabin anytime I wish.
My heroes growing up were the Harlem Globetrotters. It wasn’t until later I came to appreciate their humanitarian lessons and efforts. Today, my hero is my wife, Debbie.
Two things nobody knows about me is that I am nuts for my grandsons, and through that zeal I have become a crazed Fisher-Price GeoTrax collector (small plastic RC trains, cars, tracks, buildings). We now have at least a 20- by 30-foot area in our basement dedicated to just GeoTrax play. When the boys stop playing with them, the plan is to sell them and retire on the proceeds.
Chief of Police Larry Larimore with his wife, Deb, and their grandsons, Blake, Aiden, Astin and Dillon.
Interview conducted by Gloria Gale, edited by Katy Ibsen. Photography by Jason Dailey.
Dream job: I have spent the last 34 years of my life in the emergency services field with the last 25 being on-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so the only thing I can imagine (and I do … often) doing full-time other than what I am doing now is being happily retired.
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My pearls of wisdom are: I’ve had teenagers, but here are two great quotes for kids by the great Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz: “Do right. Do your best. Treat others as you want to be treated,” and “If you’re bored with life—you don’t get up every morning with a burning desire to do things—you don’t have enough goals.”
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S h a w n e e
M a g a z i n e
Photo Odyssey Story by Gloria Gale
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As the year unfolds Shawnee springs to life with activities and events blossoming throughout the community. Inspired residents discover new paths, hone hidden talents and reach out to help with renewed vigor. Experience Shawnee’s vitality.
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Photograph by Tim Andersen
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Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball brings the coast to the metro area. Featuring seasonal leagues and a dose of good clean fun, SMBV is popular among young professionals and families. Don’t miss the delicious fare and frosty brews after a game on the patio of The Beach Bar and Grill.
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Jeff Gerson and Andrea Spruyt, both doctors of optometry and co-owners of Westglen Eyecare, decided to bring progressive architecture to Shawnee with an edgy, sophisticated medical office building. Kansas City-based 360 Architecture obliged, designing a contemporary and environmentally conscious building distinctive from a conventional strip mall facility.
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Photograph by Jason Dailey
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Helping residents in need to live independently is the mission of local nonprofit Rebuilding Together Shawnee. Donating time and effort, this all-volunteer organization inspires citizens to make a difference helping Shawnee’s elderly, disabled and disadvantaged population with home repairs and upgrades. Photograph by Jason Dailey
Photograph by Tim Andersen
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Swingin’ Singles Square Dance Club has been gathering at Shawnee’s Old Town Hall dance floor for more than 40 years. Three times a month, in a rousing flurry of petticoats and boot stompin’, this lively group kicks up its heels. Knowing right from left helps, as are lessons, required before taking a spin.
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The future arrived at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in 2005 with four mobile robots. REMi, Rolbot, Gort and Romeo are quietly efficient ‘bots’ that make the rounds via a joystick controlled remotely by the doctor. Though the doctor isn’t physically present while conferring with patients, their face is in full-view, in real-time on the robot’s monitor. Now, a doctor can log in to the robot and visit patients from anywhere with internet access. “Actually seeing the patients in real-time is priceless,” says Dr. Joe Petelin, a surgeon. Photograph by Jason Dailey
A welcome atmosphere prevails at Central Baptist Theological Seminary. A recent renovation has improved the once-staid space into a graduate school seminary and now a place for the community to utilize. The 3,000-square-foot BaughMarshall chapel is flooded with light and state-of-the-art acoustics. “This entire graduate school is a community space we want to share with all,” says John Gravley, vice president of institutional advancement at CBTS.
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Photograph by Jason Dailey
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Shawnee’s hometown favorite Big Bam’s Burgers never disappoints. This old-school burger joint customizes freshground chuck topped with mountains of goodies. The fast food guys have nothing on owner Joe Bacarro and his Big Bam’s Ladder 49, a two-fisted mouthful. Photograph by Jason Dailey
Jazzman Bobby Watson is one cool cat. An accomplished University of MissouriKansas City professor of jazz studies, producer and arranger, this music man aims to squeeze every note out of life. After living most of his life in New York, he joins his wife, Pam, moving back to his roots and finding harmony living in Shawnee. Photograph by Jason Dailey
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Julie Cirlincuina enjoys a challenge. Avidly inspired by the outdoors, she wrote a book, Kansas Outdoor Treasures, then decided to share her experiences. Women’s Outdoor Recreation, a MeetUp group, offers members the chance to gather, hike, rock-climb, kayak, raft and canoe—all within a supportive atmosphere. Photograph by Tim Andersen
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Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City is a place for exploration and education. Featuring a number of exhibits and traveling acts, this unique organization continues to share the motto “Learn. Play. Grow.” to families all over the metro area.
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Photograph by Jason Dailey
Russell Sifers makes memories the old-fashioned way – carefully hand-dipping silky chocolate and fluffy marshmallow candies to produce Valomilk. As president of locally made Russell Sifers Candy Co., Sifers is carrying on a tradition that was started by his grandfather. According to Sifers, “People still remember eating Valomilk as a child. Now people are buying them for their own children.” Photograph by Jason Dailey
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“Shawnee is a community that celebrates its history, residents and the opportunity to stop and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.�
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Photograph by Tim Andersen
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-Katy Ibsen, Shawnee Magazine editor
shawnee guide
your shawnee guide
A Resident and Visitor’s Guide to Shawnee i n c o o p e r a t i o n w i t h t h e S h a w n e e C h a mb e r o f C o mm e r c e and the convention & visitors bureau
Easy living flourishes in this growing suburb, where fireflies wink, flags flutter, and neighbors still say hello
Shawnee, Kansas, is as American as apple pie. Modest by most big-city standards, it’s never a tradeoff. Shawnee enjoys a winning combination of affordability, successful schools and reasonable commutes.
Money Magazine cites Shawnee as one of the “Best Places to Live” in America, with a ranking of 17 on the 2010 list. BusinessWeek Magazine selected Shawnee as one of the “Best Affordable Suburbs in the United States.”
Its close proximity to the amenities of vibrant, metropolitan Kansas City only heightens Shawnee’s appeal. With major league sports, world-class cultural attractions, cool jazz, sophisticated shopping and fine dining just minutes away in the metro area, coming home to Shawnee’s small-town charm is savored by residents and businesses alike. Shawnee has a proven track record balancing the needs of businesses and residents with an optimistic “Good Starts Here” attitude—something’s always perking in this city. —Gloria Gale
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Foremost, it’s a livable community with roots firmly anchored in its proud pioneer heritage. Located in Johnson County, where “quality of life” factors consistently rank it as one of the premier counties nationwide, accolades continue to mount.
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So exactly what does it mean to live, work and play in this comfortable city?
Shawnee’s broad demographic bolstered by a rich community spirit retains a sense of yesteryear as mom-and-pop merchants mingle with modern conveniences. It’s a city where you can walk to the local coffee shop, the florist, park or living history museum. There’s no rush and no congestion in this quintessential American city.
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Quick Guide
Quick Guide Index
shawnee guide
Resource Website Telephone Emergency & Medical Emergency Assistance Kansas Poison Control Center Shawnee Mission Medical Center www.shawneemission.org KU MedWest www.kumed.com Tip Hotline (Kansas Bureau of Investigation) Mission MedVet (emergency animal care) Fire Department (administrations/operations) Police Department (dispatch)
Shawnee Information Shawnee CVB Shawnee Chamber of Commerce
Hotels Hampton Inn Shawnee Courtyard by Marriott
911 (800) 332-6633 (913) 676-2000 (913) 588-1227 (800) 572-7463 (800) 790-7766 (913) 631-1080 (913) 631-2150
www.shawneekscvb.com www.shawneekschamber.com
(913) 631-6545 (913) 631-6545
www.hamptoninn.com www.marriott.com
(913) 248-1900 (913) 631-8800
Attractions
Johnson County Library www.jocolibrary.org Johnson County Museum www.jocomuseum.org KC Ice Center www.kcicecenter.com Mid-America Sports Complex www.jcprd.com Old Shawnee Days Society www.oldshawneedays.org Power Play www.powerplaykc.com Park Lanes www.parklaneskc.com Shawnee Civic Centre www.cityofshawnee.org Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball www.smbv.com Shawnee Mission Park/Theatre Park Shawnee Town 1929 www.shawneetown.org Wonderscope www.wonderscope.org
Media Shawnee Dispatch Shawnee Magazine Kansas City Star
www.shawneedispatch.com www.sunflowerpub.com www.kansascity.com
To adverTise conTacT
sunflower Publishing sunflowerpub.com
e-Mail: sunpubads@sunflowerpub.com Phone: 888.497.8668
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(913) 826-4600 (913) 715-2550 (913) 441-3033 (913) 826-2900 (913) 248-2360 (913) 268-7200 (913) 248-1110 (913) 631-5200 (913) 422-4070 (913) 888-4713 (913) 248-2360 (913) 287-8888
(913) 962-3000 (800) 578-8748 (816) 234-4741
shawnee guide
Parks and Recreation
Compiled by Gloria Gale
Can’t miss
Wet and
wonderful Shawnee’s two aquatic centers are the epitome of summertime fun
All the Reasons, All the Seasons Lace ‘em up: Shawnee is on the move
Float in a lazy river, join a community class, tour outdoor public art and practice your swing. Don’t miss Shawnee’s family-friendly activities
3 & 2 Baseball Club complex 79th and Renner Road (913) 888-8055 Competitive league youth sports facility comprising 26 fields for K-12 players.
Shawnee Civic Centre 13817 Johnson Drive (913) 631-5200 Featuring meeting facilities, which include regulation basketball and volleyball courts, six meeting rooms, aerobics room, full commercial kitchen and AV area.
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Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center 13805 Johnson Drive (913) 631-0054 Eight-lane, 50-meter competition pool, two 125foot body slides, Lazy River, Bubble Beach, lockers, concession, enclosed baby pool area, party cabana.
Skateboard Park
Packed with acres of parks, hugged by streams and intertwined by hiking trails, Shawnee’s commitment to outdoor recreation is a priority. Active visitors will delight in a lush and varied landscape, including generously appointed and maintained athletic fields, miles of on-and-off road bicycle paths, two state-of-the-art aquatic parks, civic centre, beach volleyball and skateboard park. Neil Holman, director of Parks and Recreation, extends an invitation. “Our parks offer unique facilities and programs featuring a broad variety of outdoor experiences. We take pride in our recreational facilities throughout the community,” he says. “Shawnee listens and responds with state-of-the-art equipment and upgrades deemed vital for an enriched outdoor experience.” Whether you’re a weekend warrior or adrenaline junkie, get a move on. Shawnee’s outdoor adventures beckon.
Swarner Park 63rd and Lackman Bicyclists, in-line skaters, beginners, and intermediate and advanced “shredders” are welcome at Shawnee’s state-of-the-art skateboard park. Ramps, jumps, half-pipe and a 16-foot full pipe are cradled in the 11,500-square-foot concrete area.
Leading the pack Shawnee has been officially cited as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists. As one of the first cities in the Kansas City Metro area to incorporate off-road and share-theroad recreational trails, Shawnee offers a growing network of 56 trails.
Photographs from left: Courtesy of Shawnee CVB (2), Jason Dailey
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Splash Cove At the Jim Allen Aquatic Center 5800 King Ave. (913) 631-7177 This pool is the ideal choice for parents of young children. Features include a wave pool, lockers, cabana, interactive playground, 125-foot full-body slide, instructional pool, concessions and WiFi.
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Parks and Recreation
Tee
it up Lake Quivira Country Club 100 Crescent Blvd. Lake Quivira (913) 631-7707 Lake Quivira Country Club is a private country club nestled among blooming trees just north of Shawnee. This gated country club community features a championship 18-hole golf course, an elegant clubhouse and patio for dining and events, a sparkling 200-acre lake for boating, fishing, swimming and sunning on the beach, and much more.
Tomahawk Hills Golf Course
6404 Hedge Lane Terrace (913) 422-8357 Affordability is the hallmark of this 27-hole championship bentgrass golf course. Open to the public, or memberships are available. This course welcomes beginners through advanced. Members can enjoy a new clubhouse and state-of-the-art fitness center.
Lake Quivira Country Club
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Shawnee Golf and Country Club
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17501 Midland Drive (913) 631-8000 Golfers of all levels will find a challenging 18-hole championship course at Tomahawk Hills, one of the oldest golf courses in the metro area. Highlights include 6,000 yards of course set within 250 acres adjacent to Shawnee Mission Park, new carts, updated driving range, putting and chipping green, new clubhouse.
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Parks and Recreation
Meet the Champions
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Elizabeth Gunkel takes to water like a fish. Blessed with a natural competitive streak, Gunkel acknowledges, “It’s always served me well from the time I first became involved with swim meets as a 9-year-old all the way through high school.” As a member of the Shawnee Sharks, Gunkel has participated in numerous competitions over the years. She counts as her most significant win a firstplace medal in an eight-city swimming relay when she was 16. Gunkel also won a second-place medal in an all-city diving meet in 2009. It seems she’s always been involved with Shawnee Parks and Recreation. “I worked at the Civic Centre pool for four years, taught swim lessons for the city for three years, and this year, I’ll be managing all of the swim instructors for the two city pools.” On the deck or in the water, Gunkel is happy to gain all of this experience. “Teaching people how to swim is ideal training for me.” Currently, this aspiring elementary education major attends Johnson County Community College and hopes to eventually have her own classroom.
Matt Lepley is the modest type, except when he channels his fighting spirit into the ancient Korean martial art of Taekwondo. Lepley’s skill has been honed into a fine art, winning a gold medal in the 2010 Men’s Division/Patterns National Taekwondo competition in Philadelphia. But harnessing his skill didn’t happen overnight. The road to recognition has taken this second-degree black belt nearly his whole life to achieve. “It’s been worth the effort,” he says. When Team USA invited Lepley to participate in the 2010 International Taekwondo Federation World competition in Cheongju, South Korea, he was rewarded with a bronze medal. The countless hours Lepley spends training with his instructor, Susan Crochet, at Shawnee Civic Centre, is time well-spent. Today he is already training for the next National competition. —Gloria Gale
Photographs: Jason Dailey
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Hooked!
dynamically disciplined
This is your story, Shawnee,
and we love to tell it.
In photos and stories, we bring you the news of our community; high school sports, local government and much more.
ShawneeDispatch.com 6301 Pflumm Road, Suite 102 • 913.962.3000
Your summer starts with...
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www.villagewestliquors.com | 913.721.5288 | 11010 Parallel Parkway | Kansas City, KS 66109
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Parks and Recreation
find
your
park
Compiled by Gloria Gale
Herman Laird Park
Monticello Springs Park
Sister Cities Park
57th and Cody 13 acres encompassing basketball court, shelter, picnic, playground, sport fields, swings and tennis court. Take a moment to reflect on Shawnee’s past and visit Charles Goslin’s bronze sculpture of Shawnee Indian Chief Charles Bluejacket.
79th and Monticello 9 acres, two shelters, picnic, playground, 0.30-mile walking trail loop
Johnson Drive and King 0.4 acres, shelter, playground, three Rolle Bolle courts
Pflumm/Bichelmeyer Park
63rd and Lackman 34 acres, fishing, green space, three shelters, playground, picnic tables, skate park, soccer field, swings, 0.58-mile walking trail loop
Swarner Park Johnson Drive and Pflumm 4 acres, green space, two picnic shelters, playground, sand volleyball, 0.24-mile walking trail loop
Jaycee Park Caenen Park Caenen and Johnson Drive 0.4 acres featuring picnic, playground area
69th and Quivira 1.2 acres, picnic, playground
John F. Lynch Park Charles J. Stump Park 47th and Woodland 60 acres, two shelters, picnic, playground, 0.60-mile walking trail loop, baseball and soccer fields
Johnson Drive and King 3.9 acres, green space, swimming pool
KCP&L Park 51st and Long 10.2 acres, green space, 0.21mile walking trail loop
Thomas Soetaert Park Pioneer Crossing Melrose and Shawnee Mission Parkway At 2.2. acres, this is Shawnee’s newest park, a small but impressive introduction to the city. Encompassing 2.2 acres, this gateway park is the site of a three-dimensional bronze-and-limestone wagon train sculpture created by artist Charles Goslin.
Donald B. Gamblin Jr. Park
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60th and Monticello 13.3 acres, picnic, swings, playground, green space and 0.50-mile walking trail loop
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Douglas Highlands Park Switzer Lane and 63rd Terrace Picnic, playground, swings
Garrett Park 47th and Anderson 33.5 acres, baseball fields, basketball court, shelter, playground, picnic, swings, 0.35mile walking trail loop
Gum Springs Park 65th and Cody 18.5 acres, baseball field, two park shelters, picnic, playground, soccer field, swings, 0.58-mile walking trail loop
61st and Pflumm 1.1 acres, green space, picnic tables
Water District Park Quivira and 49th Terrace 1.4 acres, baseball field, green space
Water Tower Park 70th St. 0.5 acres, shelter, picnic tables, playground
Quivira Glenn Park Listowel Park 71 and Quivira This beautiful park is filled with recreational opportunities. Pack a picnic, the kids and their gear for a day outside. Amenities include: baseball field, two shelters, picnic, playground, roller hockey, sport fields, tennis court and 0.35-mile walking trail loop. st
Mill Creek Streamway Park 19425 Wilder Drive This long, linear park boasts 17 miles of jogging, nature, bike and horseback riding trails. Trails wind from the northernmost point at Nelson’s Island, southward to Olathe.
51st and Summit 9.7 acres, green space, picnic, playground, soccer field, swings, 0.18-mile walking trail loop
Wedgewood Park Midland and Blackfish Parkway 63 acres of green space, 2-mile walking trail loop
Shawnee Mission Park 7900 Renner Road The 1,250-acre multi-use Shawnee Mission Park features a 120-acre lake, boating, fishing, nature and bike trails, picnic, playgrounds, shelters, tennis courts, archery, sand and volleyball beach, marina and boat rentals. Don’t forget the dogs, where they can run offleash and splash in the lake at the Dog Park. Theatre in the Park is also housed on 10 acres within Shawnee Mission Park.
West Flanders Park 55th and Nieman 8.7 acres, green space, two park shelters, picnic tables, playground, sports field, swings, 0.48-mile walking trail loop
Wilder Park Prairie Drive and Wilder Road 0.2 acres, green space
shawnee veteran’s Memorial Park Johnson Drive and Pflumm 2.6 acres, green space
Parks and Recreation
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Photograph by Tim Andersen
shawnee magazine
If you can’t make performances at Theatre in the Park you can still enjoy lunch on the grounds surrounding the county’s largest outdoor amphitheater. Return on a summer evening for show-stopping Broadway musical productions featured each season. Affordable, quality entertainment is provided by a troupe of dedicated community volunteers.
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shawnee guide
History
Compiled by Kate Leibsle
Shawnee:
Historic Sites Shawnee is a city full of history and importance to the development of the west in the United States. In its earliest days, it was an important political and religious center of life for the Shawnee Indians. Later, it was central to the development of the Old West thanks to its prime location on the Fort Leavenworth-Fort Scott Military Road and the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails. Its place in Civil War history was cemented after an invasion from William Quantrill and the Missouri bushwhackers on Oct. 17, 1862. Most of the town’s buildings were looted, and a fire nearly destroyed everything. The raid injured 13 people and killed two. From its brief stint as county seat of Johnson County, as Gum Springs, to its location close to the Campbellton stop on the Kansas City, Fort Scott & Gulf Railroad, Shawnee became an agricultural town of importance in eastern Kansas.
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Shawnee continued its growth throughout the latter part of the 20th century and into the 21st. It doesn’t ignore its past, however, instead choosing to celebrate and honor it with a number of historic sites and markers throughout the city. History buffs and those with a passing interest will find many of them interesting to visit.
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By the 1920s, the town was seen as one of the leading fruit and vegetable producers in the area–as a result, Shawnee’s farmers fared better during the Depression than many of their counterparts in other parts of the country.
Pioneer Crossing statue
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Shawnee Mission Parkway at Melrose Lane This magnificent statue by artist Charles Goslin celebrates the pioneers who traveled through and settled Shawnee in the 1800s. The brick wall mural depicts an original painting of a wagon train; the wagon master has been recreated in native limestone and bronze. Settlers came through Shawnee on the Santa Fe Trail, sometimes as many as 600 wagons per week.
History
shawnee guide
points of interest museum
theater
cultural attraction
Chief Charles Bluejacket statue
Wells Fargo House 5707 Nieman Road Chris Fangro built the Wells Fargo House in 1824 in what was then called Gum Springs. Built with hand-pressed bricks, native stone, walnut floors and beams, the house was heavily damaged during Quantrill’s raid in 1862. After it was rebuilt and restored, it was used as a Wells Fargo Express Office on government trails from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Scott and on to Fort Gibson, Oklahoma.
Johnson Drive and Cody Street, Herman Laird Park The statue that welcomes visitors to Shawnee Town 1929 depicts one of the most wellknown Shawnee Indians of the 19th century. Charles Bluejacket
Johnson County Museum of History and the 1950s All-Electric House Indian Cemetery 6305 Lackman Road (913) 715-2550 www.jocomuseum.org The Johnson County museum features long-term and changing exhibitions, including a hands-on exhibit space. The museum is open from 1-4 p.m. MondaySaturday. Groups can arrange private tours. The unique 1950s All-Electric House is a five-room home that originally was first constructed by Kansas City
Power & Light as a model home. Built as a home for the future, it features a hidden television, electric curtain opener, a garage door opener and a heat pump. The model home was open to the public first for six months after it was built, attracting more than 60,000 visitors. After, it was a single-family home for 40 years before it was moved to the museum and opened to the public.
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10905 W. 59th Terr. The site of an Indian council house where voting first took place in the early years of Kansas statehood, the cemetery was also military headquarters when Shawnee was a battleground, it burned twice and is a burial place. In 1840, the first Methodist church in Shawnee was built on the ground next to the cemetery.
entertainment
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Photographs from left: Ben Anderson (2), Jason Dailey, Ben Anderson
was a Shawnee Indian chief and Methodist minister in the 19th century. Born in Michigan, he moved to Kansas in 1833 when he was 16 years old; he worked as an interpreter for the government, a farmer and a businessman. During the Civil War he was chief of the Shawnee tribe for three years. Two of his sons were in the Union Army, and one of his daughters-in-law was known to have killed a William Quantrill raider. In 1869, he moved with most of the Shawnee tribe to Oklahoma, where a town was named for him.
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shawnee guide
History
history abounds
all around
shawnee
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12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 Caenen Castle was built in 1907 by Remi Caenen, who quarried the home’s stones by hand. The home took two years to build and featured a full basement, 14 rooms, two-and-a-half stories and an interior water system. Caenen also constructed the two stone homes across the street from the castle. Since the last Caenen family members left in 1925 the site has been a nursing home, a restaurant, a nightclub and a Halloween haunted house. Since 2004, it has been Renee Kelly’s at Caenen Castle, a private event venue and catering business.
Virginia School, District No. 33 7301 Mize Road The Virginia School is an example of a typical one-room school of the late 19th and early
Booth Family Hall of Athletics, University of Kansas
20th centuries. The building is
Hands of Freedom Monument – Veteran’s Tribute Park 13500 Johnson Drive Designed by Maurice D. McMullen, the 20-foot statue is a tribute to all military veterans of the United States. The statue is surrounded with meditation stations and stone benches. The area around the statue includes walkways that lead to the Freedom Walk. The statue was designed so that its vertical slabs are holding the globe aloft –meant to recognize the work of veterans in holding the world up in freedom.
a rectangular school with three windows on each side. Founded in 1865, the building opened in 1878. Through the years various improvements were made to the building, including installation of electric lights and an oil-burning furnace added in the 1940s. A second building was added in 1954. In the 1950s, one building was used for students in grades 1-4, and the other housed older students in grades 5-8. Indoor plumbing was never installed, and an outhouse still sits on the property.
1651 Naismith Drive Lawrence http://www.kuathletics.com/ facilities/kan-booth-hall.html
Frontier Army Museum 100 Reynolds Ave. Fort Leavenworth www.ffam.us
Haskell Indian Nations University Cultural Center & Museum 155 Indian Ave. Lawrence www.haskell.edu
Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 4420 Warwick Blvd. Kansas City, MO www.kemperart.org
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art 12345 College Blvd. Overland Park www.nermanmuseum.org
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art 4525 Oak St. Kansas City, MO www.nelson-atkins.org
Photographs from left: Jason Dailey (2), Royal Krueger (3)
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Caenen Castle
Don’t miss these free must-see museums on your next day-trip.
History
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11501 W. 57th St. (913) 248-2360 Shawnee Town 1929 is an outdoor museum depicting a Kansas town from the 1840s to the 1920s. The site has seven original and 12 replica buildings and gardens. It is currently undergoing a renovation and expansion to depict what life was like in Shawnee in 1929, including a farmhouse, barn, garage, market shed and garden. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday from March to October.
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Shawnee Town 1929
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shawnee guide
Eat and Drink
Compiled by Gloria Gale
Sip and Sup A Foodie’s Guide to Savoring Shawnee
Take a charming suburban city blessed with a distinctive fourseason climate, an energetic farmers’ market and a jumping restaurant scene. Add a generous helping of talented chefs who know exactly what to do with the bounty, and you’ve got a foodie paradise with dining options galore. Linger and sample Shawnee’s freshest flavors for every meal and price point.
Bar & Grill Barley’s Brewhaus & Restaurant One-stop shop for the perfect beer 16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 www.barleysbrewhaus.com
Bar West Cozy, casual, cheerful— need we say more? 7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 www.barwestgrill.com
Jake’s Place
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J Murphy’s Irish Pub & Grille Luck of the Irish where taps never run dry 22730 Midland Drive (913) 825-3880 www.jmurphys.com
Johnny’s Tavern Family-owned since 1953— that’s reason enough for a visit 13410 W. 62nd Terrace (913) 962-5777 www.johnnystavern.com
Tanner’s Bar & Grill Want the pause that refreshes? This is the place 22374 W. 66th St. (913) 745-8100 www.tannersbarandgrill.com
Photographs: Jason Dailey
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Aching for a juicy tenderloin sandwich? This is THE place 12001 Johnson Drive (913)-962-5253 www.jakesplacebarandgrill.com
Eat and Drink
shawnee guide Where the story begins... Aqui la historia, Comienza...
Banquetes • taquizas • tacos Burros • tamales • y mas...
tacos, Burros, tamles and more...
816-977-5684
fagonmexico@gmail.com 11200 Johnson dr. • shawnee, Ks 66203
49 lifetime whitening
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Offering Oral COnsCiOus sedatiOn for our patients who are fearful or don’t want to remember their dental visit!
Providing quality dentistry to our family & friends for three generations.
11005 W. 60th Street • ShaWnee, KS • 913.631.5622 Just off Nieman Rd. at 60th St. between Shawnee Mission Pkwy. & Johnson Dr.
No dental insurance? Ask about our Private Dental Plan! We accept most dental insurance.
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Businesses featured in the Shawnee Guide are chosen based on independent and local franchise ownership.
Eat and Drink
Restaurants A Cut Above Natural Meats 5431 Roberts (913) 825-4375 www.acanaturalmeats.com
Big Bam’s Burgers
Eggtc.
Local, consistent and scrumptious; now for vegetarians too 5930 Nieman Road (913) 962-1230 www.bigbams.com
They’re crackin’ eggs and frying potatoes 7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 www.eggtc-kc.com
Aunt Jean’s Gelato Smooth gelato and coffee—the perfect indulgence anytime 11210 Johnson Drive (913) 268-0550
Barb’s Kolache Bakery One bite of these sweet and savory Czech treats, and you’re hooked 22354 W. 66th St. (913) 422-8300 www.barbskolache.com
Experience goes a long way at JP’s. Best chips in town 16605 Midland Drive (913) 631-1011 www.josepeppers.com
El Maguey Mexican Restaurant The Big Biscuit Where biscuits are good and big biscuits are even better 12276 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 912-7350 www.bigbiscuitrestaurant.com
Country Club Cafe Just like Cheers, where you’re never a stranger 21911 W. 66th St. (913) 441-2444 www.countryclubcafe.net
Bates City BBQ of Shawnee Delicious BBQ for the entire family 6493 Quivira Road (913) 962-7447
Jose Pepper’s Border Grill & Cantina
Dos Reales Authentic Mexican fare 6453 Quivira Road (913) 962-5014 www.dosrealeskc.com
Authentic Mexican fare 22702 Midland Dr. (913) 422-9900
Fogones Authentic Mexican fare 11200 Johnson Dr. (913) 248-1242
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant All aboard! Betcha never had burger and fries delivered by rail 13803 W 63rd St. (913) 375-1000 www.fritzskc.com
Happy Banzai Japanese Steakhouse Go ahead, become a Japanese steakhouse snob 13214 W. 62nd Terrace (913) 956-7322 www.happybanzai.com
Hereford House Shawnee shawneekschamber.com
In a town where meat is an art form, this house has 50 years of experience 17244 Midland Drive (913) 268-8000 www.herefordhouse.com
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Ixtapa Family Mexican Restaurant Friendly and attentive, you’ll always feel welcome 5386 Roberts St. (913) 422-5003 www.ixtapaofshawnee.com
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A Cut Above Natural Meats
Mi Ranchito Cocina & Cantina A true taste of Mexico 10904 W 75th St. (913) 599-5969 www.miranchitokc.com
Moe’s Southwest Grill Modern wrap on Southwest classics 22235 W 66th St. (913) 441-2533 www.moes.com
Minsky’s Pizza Have a Minsky’s moment and mull over this award-winning menu 7198 Renner Road (913) 631-0059 www.minskys.com
Old Shawnee Pizza and Italian Kitchen Mama Mia! Shawnee’s original cozy little pizza place 6000 Rogers Drive (913) 631-5716 www.shawneepizza.com
Paulo & Bill Romantically inclined … head straight for this Italian trattoria 16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900 www.pauloandbill.com
Pegah’s Family Restaurant Home cooking with low prices— can’t beat that 11005 Johnson Drive (913) 962-6700 7437 Nieman Road (913) 248-1882 www.pegahs.com
Photographs: Jason Dailey (2)
shawnee guide
Eat and Drink
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shawneekschamber.com shawnee magazine
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Old Shawnee Pizza and Italian Kitchen
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Eat and Drink
Pine & Bamboo Garden
Sutera’s Pizza
Best dim sum in the area– where everyone treats you like a rock star. 10915 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. (913) 268-9545
A perfect slice for a perfect occasion 22716 Midland (913) 667-3000 http://suterasshawnee.com
Pizza West
The Pick Smoke ‘n Grill
Pizza buffet for everyone 5436 Roberts St. (913) 422-9010
Fall-off-the-bone tender, eat, drink, save money— what a concept 5354 Roberts St. (913) 422-7428
Sakura Japanese Restaurant Bento boxes, chef’s tapas and Omakase, in other words, “As you like it” 7474 Nieman Road (913) 962-6361
qua restau lity ran The has t in olde bee shaw st n fi ne rst e w sin he ce 1 re 969 .
61st & Nieman, Shawnee, KS
913.631.5716
34th & Gibbs, Kansas City, KS
913.677.1844
Follow us on
pizzas ~ pastas ~ salads ~ sandwichs ~ calzones ~ banquet room catering ~ school fundraisers ~ daily lunch specials ~ full bar
www.ShawneePizza.com
Tina Marie’s You don’t knead the dough, Tina does, and exceptionally well 7410 Nieman Road (913) 268-4447
Sharks Restaurant and Billiards
twisted
Consider the billiards league 10320 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. (913) 268-4006 www.sharkskc.com
Fresh. Fast. Flawless. 22030 W 66th St. (913) 441-0444 www.twistedfresh.com
Dine in, carry out or Delivery online ordering at goodcentssubs.com
two Shawnee locations to serve you: 22724 Midland Drive 913.441.5588
13216 W. 62nd terrace 913.631.4244
Sushi Mido Affordable, all-you-can-eat sushi 6010 Nieman Road (913) 322-8888
Paulo and Bill RestauRant 16501 Midland in shawnee shawneekschamber.com
Open-air, healthy and always fresh – come meet and eat local! 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, May-October City Hall Parking Lot 11110 Johnson Drive (913) 248-2360
shawnee magazine
Farmers’ Market
913-962-9900
www.pauloandbill.com Locally owned and operated serving
gourmet tacos, wraps, salads and sandwiches. Made from scratch, never deep fried and far from ordinary!
Catering available for any group size with
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party platters, taco 12 packs & Box lunches!
913-441-0444
22030 W. 66th St. • Shawnee, KS. 66226
www.twistedfresh.com
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Shop
Shawnee:
Shopping
No matter what you are looking to buy, there’s a store in Shawnee that’s sure to meet your needs. While most national chain stores are represented at area shopping centers, Shawnee boasts an impressive and wide-ranging array of locally owned retailers as well.
Shop
Compiled by Kate Leibsle
shawnee guide
Downtown Dodge City Beef Store sells Black Angus beef raised on family farm near Pratt. 11115 Johnson Drive (913) 499-0204 www.dodgecitybeef.com
Doll Hospital & More Shop sells vintage and new dolls; also does repairs and restoration. 7003 Millridge Drive (913) 271-8561
Encore Unique Boutique An eclectic collection of women’s apparel, accessories and new and vintage home furnishings. 11006 Johnson Drive (913) 268-5393
Hartman Hardware
Wild Birds Unlimited
Located in the heart of downtown Shawnee’s, this is a traditional hardware store selling tools, hardware, gardening supplies and more. 11018 Johnson Drive (913) 631-7592
This nature shop has everything you could need to welcome birds to your backyard. 13222 West 62nd Terr. (913) 962-0077 www.shawnee.wbu.com
KC Trends Motorsports Shop sells tires, wheels and accessories for cars, trucks and motorcycles. 10818 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5200 www.kctrends.com
The ridge A large selection of antiques and collectibles 7410 Nieman Road (913) 268-7979
Blues to Bach
Bridal Extraordinaire
Shop caters to beginner and intermediate musicians with instruction, instruments and sheet music. 22366 W. 66th St. (913) 441-3132 www.bluestobach.com
Atelier offers bridal and special occasion gowns and accessories. 12109 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5566 www.bridalextraordinaire.com
CM Tack Riding Apparel and Saddlery Riders of all ages and types will find something at the store selling saddles, clothing and accessories. 17100 W. 53rd St. (913) 631-4677 www.cmtack.com
Funky Munky Music Shawnee Shoe Repair & Tailoring Husband-and-wife team offers shoe repair and tailoring. 11022 Johnson Drive (913) 268-3868
Store offers music instruction, sells instruments, equipment and sheet music. 12710 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5555 www.funkymunkymusic.com
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Shawnee Books and Toys Consider this your one-stop shop for enlightening your kids with books and toys. 7311 Quivira Road (913) 962-1428
Art Source & Design Shop features gallery of art in addition to offering custom framing services. 7379 Quivira Road (913) 962-6000 www.artsourcekc.com
shawneekschamber.com
Photographs clockwise from left: Jason Dailey, Shutterstock, Jason Dailey (5)
Farmers’ Market The weekly farmers’ market features fresh, locally and regionally grown produce and products. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, May to October 11110 Johnson Drive, City Hall (913) 631-2500 http://www.cityofshawnee.org
Western Shawnee
Around Shawnee
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Shawnee Crossings the job done right...at the right price
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Contact: Tom Zarda 7730 Hedge Lane Terrace Shawnee, KS 66226 (913) 441-9932 Fax: (913) 441-9934
Shop
shawnee guide
Designer Consignment
The Scrapbook Page
Offers unique and stylish furniture and interior décor on consignment. 12205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3330 www.designerconsignment.biz
Shop offers a wide variety of scrapbooking supplies. 13205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 383-1552 thescrapbookpageonline.com
Family Tree Nursery
Family-owned jewelry shop. 6642 Nieman Road (913) 766-8875 www.thompsonsjewelry.com
Thompson’s Jewelry Local franchise offers nursery, garden supplies, accessories and home and garden décor items. 7036 Nieman Road (913) 631-6121 www.familytreenursery.com
Nellie & Nico’s, an Antique Boutique Former grocery stores house hundreds of antique, flea market booths offering clothing, accessories, furniture and collectibles. 6495 Quivira Road (913) 631-6767 www.nellie-nicos.com
shawneekschamber.com
shawnee magazine
shawnee magazine
Photographs: Tim Andersen (2)
shawneekschamber.com
Nigro’s Western Store Longtime Shawnee store offers authentic western wear, shoes, boots, accessories and tack. 10509 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-2226
Prairie Point Quilts Full-service quilting store with more than 5,000 bolts of fabric and supplies. 7341 Quivira Road (913) 268-3333 www.prairiepoint.com
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shawnee guide
Shawnee City Map
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Western Spike
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Western Shawnee offers a great deal of recreational outlets including the popular Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball club. Spring through fall, this organization is catching rays on its 18 sand courts. Saturdays at the Beach are popular for pick up games. www.smbv.com
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18 culture outside
1 Swarner Park 2 Johnson County Museum of History & All Electric House 3 Veteran’s Park Johnson County Library Thomas A. Soetart Aquatic Center Civic Centre 4 Caenen Castle 5 Shawnee Town 1929 6 Wonderscope Children’s Museum 7 St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 8 City Hall 9 Downtown Shawnee 10 Pioneer Crossing 11 Jaycee Park 12 Listowel Park 13 Shawnee Mission Medical Center 14 Trailridge Shopping Center 15 Tomahawk Hills Golf Course 16 Courtyard by Marriott 17 Shawnee Mission Park 18 Shawnee Mission Park Trails 19 Hampton Inn Shawnee Dickinson Westglen 18 Theatres 20 Stump Park 21 Kansas City Ice Center 22 Mid-America Sports Complex 23 Lake Quivira 24 Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball 25 Shawnee Golf and Country Club 26 Monticello Corner 27 Woodsonia West Center 28 Mid-America West Sports Complex 29 Starwood Park
19 15 Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, CC BY-SA, www.openstreetmap.org
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What & Where
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To K-10
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Shawnee City Map
History 101
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Shawnee Town 1929 is a living museum that celebrates Shawnee’s heritage and community by preserving various architectural relics. Be sure to check out various events that occur yearround. www.shawneetown.org
It’s Electric The All Electric House at the Johnson County Museum of History is a treasured attraction in Shawnee and the metro area. Showcasing an actual home from the 1950s, it was constructed by Kansas City Power and Light and illustrates suburban life and the American Dream post World War II. www.jocomuseum.org
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Park It 11
Parks are found all over the Shawnee region. Listowel Park is an ideal place to host park picnics. The space includes a great playground and large shelter with four tables. www.cityofshawnee.org
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Shawnee Mission Park takes the cake for the largest recreational park in Shawnee. This natural space also features unique events throughout the year, including performances at Theatre in the Park, the Shawnee Mission Triathlon and overnight fishing opportunities. www.jcprd.com
Be sure to see our guide to the
Kansas City Metro area on page 60
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1,250 Acres
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shawnee guide
The Metro
The Country Club Plaza
Schlitterbahn Water Park
Designed with Spanishinspired architecture, the Country Club Plaza is the location for upscale shopping. Famed Halls department store, Burberry and Tiffany and Co. are among the dazzling storefronts.
Summer is covered with a few trips to this outrageously popular water park. Unique to the Schlitterbahn family parks, families can bring their own picnics for a day among waves.
Kansas speedway
Hollywood Casino
The Kansas City Speedway wows race fans with national races, including NASCAR.
Bringing the sights and sounds of a Vegas-style casino is the brand new Hollywood Casino at the Kansas Speedway. The casino features five delicious dining experiences and plenty of gaming options.
www.kansasspeedway.com
www.hollywoodcasinokansas.com
www.schlitterbahn.com/kc/
www.countryclubplaza.com
Metro
Crown Center Argosy Casino Riverside Gaming, hotel, spa, and five restaurants.
Shawnee is uniquely positioned
www.argosykansascity.com
in the metro, locating itself
www.crowncenter.com
in the center of all the action. westport Known as Kansas City’s original entertainment district, this area north of the Country Club Plaza features unique dining options, shopping and events all year round.
Harrahs Casino
Surrounding Shawnee is a bustle of activity for shoppers,
Gaming, 810 Sports Zone and VooDoo Lounge.
sports fans and artists. Enjoy
www.harrahsnkc.com
one of these nearby attractions
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shawneekschamber.com
www.westportkcmo.com
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The NelsonAtkins Museum of Art This museum continues to welcome art enthusiasts of all ages. The Bloch Building, celebrating architectural art, opened in 2007.
just a short drive away.
Kansas City Crossroads Arts District Home of the popular First Fridays Art Walk, the Crossroads boasts fine dining, galleries and studios. www.crossroadskc.com
www.nelson-atkins.org
The Power and Light District Entertainment in downtown Kansas City has lit up with the Power and Light District. Developed to preserve downtown architecture and become a hub for entertainment and nightlife, the P&L district is quintessential for nighttime fun. Catch a show or game at the neighboring Sprint Center. www.powerandlightdistrict.com
The Dole Institute of Politics This exceptional institute was built to honor former Senator Bob Dole, as well as becoming a destination to foster an interest in politics and civic engagement. Among displays on Bob Dole’s career are archives and items celebrating politics in the United States. www.doleinstitute.org
Shawnee
Get to know Kansas City, Missouri, with a stop at Crown Center, featuring shopping, Legoland Discovery Center, a new aquarium, dining and entertainment, all matched with two luxury hotels. In the winter, enjoy iceskating on the terrace. A trip through nearby Union Station reveals a unique museum experience.
This beautifully designed park opened in 2011 as a means to engage sport fans and community members in the LIVESTRONG mission. Home to MLS soccer team Sporting Kansas City.
Downtown Lawrence The heart of Lawrence is found in its downtown. Featuring local restaurants, businesses, annual events and much more, Massachusetts Street is considered the hub of this community activity.
www.livestrongsportingpark.com
www.visitlawrence.com
Community America Ballpark
Legends Outlets
aw ay
This outdoor mall features some of the hottest outlets and dining venues. It was created around the idea of also highlighting some of Kansas’ legends. A walking tour of the site highlights various sculptures and displays.
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Perched atop Mount Oread, the University of Kansas boasts a storied history dating back to the Civil War. Today the university is known for valuable academics, winning sports teams, museums and alumni who actively participate in our Jayhawk nation. www.ku.edu
Pack up the kids and head out for a day of amusement at Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun. From roller coasters, arcade games and a few splashes at the water park, this will wear the kids out for days! www.worldsoffun.com
www.tbonesbaseball.com
nu tes
University of Kansas
Worlds of Fun
Home to the Kansas City T-Bones, an American Association of Independent Professional Baseball team. Tucked among other amenities, a visit to the ballpark makes for a great family outing.
www.legendsshopping.com
Kansas City International Airport
Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium
Jet in and out of Kansas City with the convenience of the Kansas City International Airport, north of the metro area. Just 35 minutes from Shawnee makes the area a convenient option for visitors. www.flykci.com
Cheer on the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs at their home fields. Kauffman Stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities and highdefinition scoreboard make The K a must-see.
sa wa y
mi
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The Metro
LIVESTRONG Sporting Park
www.royals.com, www.kcchiefs.com
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Kansas City Zoo
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Excitement abounds at the Kansas City Zoo with the new African Sky Safari, exotic animals, celebratory events and much more. Plan your visit online and be sure to cool down with the Polar Bear Environment of Fun. www.kansascityzoo.org
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www.kcstarlight.com
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inu te sa wa y
www.thenewoakparkmall.com
Concerts, theater, events and an all-around exciting experience is waiting at the Starlight. This outdoor venue nestled in Swope Park makes for memorable evenings filled with entertainment.
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Indulge in Kansas City’s upscale shopping at Oak Park Mall, including popular stores such as Nordstrom, Banana Republic and Abercrombie & Fitch.
Kansas City Starlight Theatre
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Oak Park Mall
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61 Scan the QR Code to find an interactive map of Shawnee and the metro.
shawnee guide
Shawnee Events
May 2012 May 5 – Farmers’ Market Open The season’s local bounty begins to bloom and find its way to Shawnee’s weekly Farmers’ Market. 7 a.m. Saturdays, May-October. City Hall parking lot, 11110 Johnson Drive, (913) 248-2360. May 26 – Pools Open Splash Cove and the Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center open for the season, delighting families across the area. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., (913) 631-7177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Drive, (913) 631-0054.
June 2012
shawnee magazine
shawneekschamber.com
May 31-June 3 – Old Shawnee Days Kick off summer with this favorite Shawnee event. Join friends and neighbors for a weekend of fun and entertainment the whole family can enjoy: music, carnival, contests, games, parade, crafts, shopping, food and so much more. Free event at Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360. www.oldshawneedays.org
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June 1 – Fun Fridays at the Pool Come join us the first Friday of every month to celebrate the summer. These days will include concession deals, coordinated games and prizes for the winners from noon-5 p.m. Additional dates July 6 and August 3. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., (913) 631-7177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Drive, (913) 631-0054. June 22 – Shawnee Day at the K Come cheer on the Royals as they take on the World Series Champions, the St. Louis Cardinals. Event price includes transportation to and from the game, parking, a tailgate dinner at the “K,” and your ticket to the game. $20 for adults, $16 for children under 12, buses depart at 5 p.m. from the Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive. More info at www.cityofshawnee.org. June 30 – Summer on the Farm Learn about summertime on a 1920s Shawnee farm. Interpreters will demonstrate summer chores such as churning butter, hanging wash, harvesting the vegetable garden and other typical activities. Tickets are $3 per adults; $1 per child (ages 5 - 17) and children under 5, free. Event dates: June 30, July 7, July 14, July 21, July 28 and August 4. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360. June and July – Flags 4 Freedom Honor those who protect and preserve our freedom with this magnificent event. The cities of Shawnee and Merriam sponsor the Flags for Freedom, a patriotic
display celebrating our freedom and honoring veterans. More than 2,000 American flags will be displayed in downtown Shawnee and downtown Merriam. www.shawneekscvb.com
July 2012 July 6 – Freedom Fling Celebrate America’s most patriotic holiday at the pool! Contests and family fun add to the festive atmosphere. Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center and Splash Cove. July 13 - Summer Concert Series Kicking off in July, the Summer Concert Series offers live music and great food for those interested in music on the lawn. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and lawn games. No alcoholic beverages allowed. Concert begins at 7 p.m., Swarner Park, 63rd and Lackman. www.shawneekscvb.com July 27 - Summer Concert Series Charles J. Stump Park, 47th and Woodland. www.shawneekscvb.com
August 2012 August 3 – Summer Sizzler Family Party Celebrate the end of summer at the pools. Fun games and contests will entice participants to win an assortment of fun prizes and grand prizes for each event. Be sure to make your way to the concession stand, where an assortment of tasty summertime grilled favorites will be available. Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center and Splash Cove. August 10 - Summer Concert Series Charles J. Stump Park, 47th and Woodland. www.shawneekscvb.com August 18 – K-9 at the Cove Join the city at Splash Cove with the fourlegged friends in your family before draining to pool at the end of the season. Space is limited, and pre registration is required. Sessions available at 9, 10, 11 a.m. and noon. www.shawneekscvb.com August 26 – 23rd Tour de Shawnee Get in the action with this annual bicycle tour. Choose from a 12-mile or 24-mile route. The tour will begin and end at Power Play Family Entertainment Center, Shawnee Mission Parkway and Pflumm. The event benefits the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. www.shawneekscvb.com
All dates and times are subject to change.
September 2012 September 9 – Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show The seventh annual Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike Show will fill the streets downtown. Pre-registration forms can be found at Hartman Hardware (11018 Johnson Drive) and Encore (11006 Johnson Drive). Food and drinks will be available from downtown vendors, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Johnson Drive and Nieman Road. www.shawneekscvb.com September 15 – Shawnee Town Craft Fair Shoppers can browse through a hundred craft booths featuring the handmade jewelry, food, woodworkings and other artisan items at this 37th annual event. A $1 donation to benefit Shawnee Town will be accepted at the gate. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360. www.shawneetown.org September 21-22 – Shawnee Great Griller’s Blues & BBQ Contest Enjoy some of the best barbeque in the Midwest and activities for the whole community to enjoy. Slides and games for kids will be set up at 6 p.m. Friday. At 10 a.m. Saturday the community is invited to vote on their favorite barbeque in the People’s Choice Tent. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St. www. shawneegreatgrillers.com
October 2012 October 5 – Oktoberfest The Shawnee German-American Club’s 10th Annual Oktoberfest is intended for the whole family. The celebration will include German food, beverages and a raffle with multiple prizes to benefit a local charity. All events are open to the public, and admission is free. 5:30 p.m., Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive. October 6 – Scarecrow Festival Celebrate the autumn season at the annual Scarecrow Festival, presented by the Shawnee Downtown Partnership. Festivities include a scarecrow contest, pumpkin carving contest, pumpkin pie contest and activities for the kids. 9 a.m.-noon, Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive. www.shawneekscvb.com October 13 – NeighborWood The Parks & Recreation Department will celebrate Arbor Day in the City of Shawnee with the annual proclamation and tree planting to commemorate the event. Some registration required, call (913) 742-6403. 9 a.m.-noon, Listowel Park, 71st and Quivira. October 29 – Historical Hauntings Bring the whole family to Shawnee Town for an evening of hayrides,
trick-or-treating, costume contests and more. Entrance and activities are free. The Optimists will be selling snacks at the Ghoul Cafe. 6-8:30 p.m. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 West 57th St. www.shawneetown.org
November 2012 November 11 – Veterans Day Celebration The City of Shawnee, along with VFW Post 10552, American Legion No. 327, Knights of Columbus, Civil Air Patrol—Kansas City Composite Squadron No. 034 and the Sons of the American Revolution-Monticello Chapter invite you to join them in honoring all men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. 4-5 p.m. Shawnee Veteran’s Memorial Park, Johnson Drive and Pflumm.
December 2012 December 1 – Christmas Around Town Get into the holiday spirit at Shawnee’s annual community Christmas celebration—in and around the downtown area and Shawnee Town. The evening includes local carolers, carriage rides, Christmas tree lighting, hand painting and even a visit from Santa. Food, fun and entertainment abound. 4:30-7:30 p.m., downtown Shawnee. www.shawneekscvb.com
February 2013 February 1 & 2 – Cinderella’s Ball Hosted by Shawnee Parks and Recreation Department, the 13th annual Daddy & Daughter Date Night, welcoming princesses and their prince to Cinderella’s Ball. Daddy (grandpa, uncle, etc.) and daughter may attend Friday or Saturday night at Prince Charming’s castle and enjoy a dinner, dancing, prizes and a special commemorative picture. Tickets are $40 per couple, includes corsage, dinner, dancing and mementos. Additional guest is $20 each (suggested ages 5-13). Space is limited. Register at www.shawneeconnect.org. 6:309:30 p.m., Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive.
March 2013 March 17 – St. Patrick’s Parade Whether you are Irish in truth or in spirit, don’t miss the Shawnee St. Patrick’s Parade, a great family event for spectators and participants. The parade begins at 1 p.m. along Johnson Drive, from Monrovia east to Nieman Road. At 4:30 p.m., plan to watch the 23rd Annual Duck Race along Turkey Creek. Downtown Shawnee.
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