downtown Hardcore
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Park
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Dog Park
theatre in the park
Shopping
Shawnee Mission Park valomilk
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Hammers pioneer crossing history
events Gone Fishin’
near the
event bowling Old Shawnee Town
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Shawnee
magazine
Gone Fishin tour de
near the good starts
metro Hardcore ice Hammers
here.
hockey Shawnee, kansas
bbq tour de
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events h i s t o ry
shawnee town 1929
Made in Shawnee wonderscope valomilkbeach volleyball free
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OAK VALLEY
SHOPPING CENTER K-7 Hwy. and Johnson
Broderius Animal Care DVM Primp My Pup • East China Roth Orthodontics • KFC\Taco Bell Goodyear Tire • Bank of Blue Valley Available space for lease contact Parkway Real Estate 913-268-8700
We love having you here! • • • • • •
Complimentary Hot Breakfast Free High Speed Internet Indoor Pool and Fitness Center 127-Rooms including Jacuzzi Suites Conference Room for 12 1875 square feet Banquet Room
Contact Sales Department for meetings and special events.
16555 Midland Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66217 913-248-1900 • 1-800-HAMPTON (Located off I-435 & Midland Drive – Exit 5)
Come join us for any oCCasion! • 90 Deluxe Guest Rooms • Free High Speed Internet • Indoor pool and fitness room • Outdoor courtyard with fire pit • 1,700 sq feet of Meeting Space • King Conference Suites • The Bistro offers breakfast and evening food with cocktails and Starbucks coffee Contact our Sales Department for meetings & special events 17250 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 • 913-631-8800 (Located off I-435 & Midland Drive – Exit 5)
• 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. 6 / No. 1
Reader
spring/summer 13
magazine
sHawnee
Editor Katy Ibsen Designer/Art Director Shelly Bryant Copy Editor Christy Little Account Executive Joanne Morgan 785.832.7264 Ad Designer Jenni Leiste Chief Photographer Jason Dailey Contributing Writers Gloria Gale Kimberly Winter Stern General Manager Bert Hull
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce President | CEO Linda Leeper Sr. Vice President Mary Taylor Director of Member Services Stacey Dickson & Communications Executive Assistant Marlene Shirley Membership Sales Manager Lynn Matthews
Shawnee Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director, CVB Kevin Fern
Shawnee Economic Development Council Executive Director, EDC Andrew Nave Business Growth Coordinator Tom McVey
Shawnee, Kansas, remains a delightfully quaint community among those in the Kansas City Metro. Visitors and residents take satisfaction in appreciating its small-town identity with the amenities and attractions of a larger city. Peter Ehrlich, longtime resident, touches on the sincerity of area residents by saying, “I’ve experienced this quality repeatedly over the years, and I still find it unique.” We agree, Peter! Shawnee and its folks are in a league of their own. This season we celebrate the community starting with Shawnee Mission Park. This Midwest “Central Park” offers limitless activities on water and land. Then a well-known residential developer in Shawnee, Darol Rodrock, opens up about his other hobby—quarter horses. Keeping with the success of Shawnee’s residents, we also meet a few entities that chose Shawnee for their manufacturing headquarters. Find our Shawnee Visitors Guide in the back of the book featuring flavors on Midland and our quick guide to shopping and historic points of interest in the area, as well as our many reasons to love Shawnee. You’ll find this and much more this season as we tip our hat to the enjoyable community of Shawnee!
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
Shawnee Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of The World Company. www.sunflowerpub.com
dear reader,
3 find us on facebook facebook.com/ShawneeMagazine Follow us on twitter @shawneemag
Katy Ibsen editor, Shawnee Magazine
Contents
6
12
departments local profiles
shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
6 Behold, Shawnee Mission Park Playground to
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millions over the decades, this expansive jewel keeps ‘em coming back for more
12 Horse Sense Darol Rodrock’s hobby and passion go beyond building communities
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feature Shawnee Resume
16 Mike Unterriener Hartman Hardware & Downtown Shawnee Partnership Chairperson
19 Carol Gonzales Shawnee City Manager
20 Made In Shawnee Products City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality Story by Kimberly Winter Stern
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2013
EXTRA, EXTRA S h aw n e e
M a g a z i n e
presents
YOUR GUIDE TO
Shawnee Featuring
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Longtime resident Peter Erlich reflects on Shawnee’s homey qualities
Reasons GUIDE shawnee visitors guide to shawnee calendar 34
26 your guide to shawnee
28 There’s no place like home Longtime resident Peter Ehrlich reflects on Shawnee’s homey qualities
Shawnee’s Midland Fare 30 travel guide TRAVEL GUIDE TO 34 Shawnee’s Midland Fare
Palate-pleasers star in convenient access point for KC commuters
40 City Map
Sunflower Publishing in cooperation with the Shawnee the Shawnee Convention & Visitors Bureau.
metro 2013
Dog Park
theatre
near goodthe starts
n the park metro iHardcore ice Hammers
here.
hockey Shawnee, kanSaS
bbq tour de shawnee
events
h i s t o ry Shawnee TOwn 1929
Made in Shawnee wonderscope
valomilkbeach volleyball free
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t o
shawnee mission p a r k
Chamber of Commerce and
near the
bbq
Shawnee MiSSion Park valomilk
visitors guide
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43 15 reasons to love shawnee
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Shopping
Visitor Guide, created by
eventS bowling Old Shawnee TOwn
featuring the Shawnee
miDlanD
copy of Shawnee Magazine
Gone Fishin’ tour de
Hardcore shawnee Shawnee Hammers MiSSion pioneer crossing Park hiSTOry
events
Enjoy this complimentary
downtown
magazine
Welcome
Shawnee
45 Quick Guide 46 Shawnee events
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Gone Fishin’
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE
shawneekschamber.com
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5
local
profiles story by Kimberly Winter Stern photography by Jason Dailey
shawnee mission park
shawnee magazine
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Behold,
6
Playground to millions over the decades, this expansive jewel keeps ‘em coming back for more
local
profiles Shawnee Mission Park has paradise beautifully covered. This lush grand dame of suburban recreational spots straddles Shawnee and Lenexa, spanning 1,600 sprawling acres. The space boasts amenities earning it the unofficial title of Johnson County’s—and indeed, Kansas City’s—backyard. Park perks include some of the region’s most scenic bike trails, a premier off-leash dog park and a sparkling 120-acre lake for canoeing, kayaking and pedal boating, with a marina, beach and enough fish to satisfy even the fussiest of anglers. Other highlights include an 18-hole disc golf course, picnic shelters galore and even a radio control airplane flying area maintained through a partnership with an active local RC club.
“The Park enhances life for people living in the greater Kansas City area. To have access to this level of leisure activity in a nature setting is unusual for a large metropolitan area. It certainly helps boost our quality of life.”
- Kelby Hellwig, senior manager of Shawnee Mission Park
Room to Grow Acquired by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District in 1987, the 363-acre Oakridge Farm property is adjacent to the north side of Shawnee Mission Park. Part of a master plan launched in 2006, the J-shaped land includes the historic 5,000-square-foot, 1940s-era Mack House. Fundraising events throughout the year, such as the annual Double Ogg Dare Festival (named for the road leading to the property) are staged to help transform the verdant land into the Oak Ridge Lodge and Parklands. In the spirit of classic Adirondacks-style retreats, Oak Ridge Lodge and Parklands eventually will be a retreat for hikers, cyclists, birds and all nature lovers and include multiple trailheads, magnificent views and native prairie surrounded by 254 acres of hardwood forest.
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For added value—as if Shawnee Mission Park needed to raise its enjoyment threshold—there is the 44-year-old Theatre in the Park. Nestled in the Park’s northeast corner, the country’s oldest outdoor community theater attracts nearly 50,000 people annually to watch productions under the summer stars like this season’s Peter Pan and Hairspray. Multiuse Shawnee Mission Park, which was purchased through a 1956 bond issue and dedicated to an eager public in 1964, is consistently Kansas’ most-visited park. Maintained by the Johnson County Park & Recreation District, the Park’s myriad recreational opportunities appeal to anyone seeking respite from life’s daily hustle-bustle that is punctuated by technology, distractions and obligations.
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profiles
extra
information
shawnee mission park
For more information on Shawnee Mission Park, its features and many activities, visit jcprd.com.
Dog Day Afternoon Call it the ultimate play date.
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sunflowerpub.com
Clock out early or kick off the weekend by taking your four-legged friend to Kansas City’s highest-rated off-leash dog park in Shawnee Mission Park. With 53 acres in which to romp around, catch a Frisbee (or tennis ball, if that’s what Fido prefers) and meet new canine pals, Shawnee Mission’s dog park is a pooch’s perfect playground. The dog park features easy access to pet/ owner fun, including the main lake, trails and timber and grassland areas.
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“The dog park is not only terrific exercise, the entertainment it provides is priceless,” says Kelby Hellwig, senior manager of Shawnee Mission Park. If your pet’s paws are less than pristine after playing in the dirt and running free on the grass, check out Bubbles 2 KC Mobile Dog Wash. This self-contained, solar-powerassisted dog-washing station frequently pulls up to the off-leash area at Shawnee Mission Park on weekends to give your pal a good scrub.
Families flock to Shawnee Mission Park for good old-fashioned bonding, and cycling enthusiasts hit some of the 8 miles of secluded mountain bike trails for vigorous rides or the 17 miles of the adjoining paved Gary L. Haller Trail. Avid bird watchers from across the Sunflower State enjoy identifying indigenous species and following the migration of waterfowl—and those who are patient and observant can even spy majestic bald eagles swooping through the Park to monitor feeding opportunities. Intergenerational reunions are common throughout the spring, summer and fall in modern picnic areas outfitted with ample tables and grills. In fact, 1.9 million visits in 2012 found people of all ages and interests communing with nature in some way at Shawnee Mission Park. Acclimate yourself to the Park’s wonders at the John Barkley Visitor Center with maps, brochures on its history and other Park information. Then disconnect from the world and soak in nature. Tag along with Kelby Hellwig for a day, and it’s apparent why he loves his job. The nimble and affable
senior manager of Shawnee Mission Park knows every nook, cranny and field of his openair office. He begins and ends his workday at the Johnson County Park & Recreation District office with a crew of eight that maintains the Park and its various features. “I’m so fortunate I get to play where I work and work where I play,” says Hellwig, who along with his wife and two young sons takes advantage of everything Shawnee Mission Park offers. “My 8-year-old son is convinced I own this park.” As a Kansas State University student studying park resource management, he performed a Park internship in 1996. Working his way up the chain, Hellwig was named senior manager in 2010, which included overseeing Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center and Shawnee Mission Park. He moves around both parks with the ease of someone intimately familiar with his surroundings. Shawnee Mission Park’s fisheries component is a favorite of Hellwig’s. Two rearing ponds stock the main lake and Kill Creek and Heritage parks in Olathe with catfish and bluegill. Shawnee Mission Park Lake is stocked with trout three times a year. “Watching fathers and sons bond while fishing together is incredible,” says Hellwig,
LEFT Mike Zybko enjoys the Frisbee golf course at Shawnee Mission Park. RIGHT Larry Streeter takes his pups out on the paths at the park. OPPOSITE Shawnee Mission Lake offers various water sports such as canoeing and paddle boating.
shawneekschamber.com
shawnee magazine
9
Park, Naturally
Martin Family Dentistry, P.A. Steven K. Martin, D.D.S. Alan J. Martin, D.D.S. Philip H. Martin, D.D.S.
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. Loose dentures? Mini implants may be the solution you are looking for.
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. Please call our office to schedule a consultation.
Located in the heart of downtown Shawnee!
who angles with his children, too. “It’s just one of the Park’s activities that encourages stepping away from video games and big-screen televisions and getting active outside.” One of Hellwig’s profound joys as caretaker of Kansas City’s version of Central Park is watching patrons give Shawnee Mission Park TLC. “All of us who work here get satisfaction from watching people enjoy what we work hard to maintain,” says Hellwig. “The public responds to Shawnee Mission Park with a sense of ownership and commitment.” As the sun begins to set on one of Hellwig’s long days looking after Shawnee Mission Park, he pauses to reflect on the magnitude of this natural wonder. He says, “It is here for leisure, and that’s exactly what it provides for anyone coming through the Park’s gates.”
Shawnee Mission Park Senior Manager Kelby Hellwig says the 1,600acre Park’s biodiversity is staggering. “We are fortunate to have several high-quality remnant prairie areas that have never been grazed or plowed,” he says. “In an eight-acre plot our district biologist has identified some 200 species.” Hellwig says a prairie can be replanted but not duplicated, so Shawnee Mission Park’s remnant prairies are priceless. The Park also showcases dense oakhickory stands, walnut tree groves and ornamental trees like maples and ashes. “We’re working toward a native palette of trees and grasses,” says Hellwig. “Things indigenous to the area that can withstand our region’s extreme temperatures and wind loads.”
(913) 631-4373 | 6130 Nieman Road | Shawnee, Kansas 66203
www.drmartindds.com
Kelby Hellwig, Shawnee Mission Park senior manager
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local
profiles story by Kimberly Winter Stern
shawnee magazine
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photography by Jason Dailey
12
Horse Sense Darol Rodrock’s hobby and passion go beyond building communities
local
profiles
In a warm barn at Rodrock Ranches, a 2-dayold foal struggles to lift itself from a fluffy bed of hay. Gangly, stick-thin legs unfold with awkward jerks, seeking balance. Suddenly the focused filly successfully achieves its goal. Although still tentative in its connection with terra firma, the foal has done what it set out to do. The young equine stands in the stall, steady with confidence and purpose.
Two passions
‘Nothing halfway’ Darol is always chasing his dreams. “There’s nothing halfway about me,” admits Darol, who is affable, engaging and accessible despite a driving desire to succeed. “It may be cliché, but my cup runneth over. I practice gratitude.”
FEEL GREAT WHEN YOU DONATE! sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
Darol Rodrock, best known in Shawnee and Johnson County for building quality subdivisions marked by an extraordinary sense of community, is the owner of Rodrock Ranches and Rodrock Quarter Horses in Bucyrus. A big, strapping man, he’s dressed in a leather jacket and well-worn cowboy boots. He has a shock of white hair and an etched face, rendering him movie star handsome. Striding through the modern 24-stall horse barn—one of several on his property—with the self-assurance of someone with years of success under his belt, Darol, now nearly 70, is in his element. Out here in the wide-open spaces of rural Kansas, on 800 acres of prime Johnson County real estate, he raises award-winning quarter horses, also enjoying a second career as a respected national competitor in the world of cutting horse events. Darol is a self-made man. He learned to ride horses bareback, sans stirrups, fashioning a bridle out of balling twine— the same way he taught his three children—and fell a time or two. But he always got back on the horse. “You don’t let your emotions get tied to the results. Never quit trying,” says Darol. “It’s not failure—it’s a short-term interruption.” That was 62 years ago. Darol has been back in the saddle every day since, spending 11 years as a teacher, wrestling coach and football coach at Shawnee Mission West High School and decades as a cutting-edge businessman. He is a loving husband to Karen, his wife of 48 years, and together the couple have raised their family, which now includes eight grandchildren.
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It’s time to clean out those cluttered closets, basements and garages. Bring your donations to Shawnee Savers and receive your 20% off coupon, we will also PAY Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater KC for your donation. BBBS of Greater KC received over $3million in 2012 from KC area Savers stores, help us reach our goal of $3.5 million in 2013.
Sa ve rs pa ys B ig B ro th er s B ig Si st er s of KC fo r ev er y do na ti on .
Having a Garage Sale? Bring what did not sell to Shawnee Savers or contact BBBS of Greater KC for a residential pick-up. Either way, you are helping the youth of Kansas City with every donation.
13233 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Shawnee, KS 66216 • 913-248-1938
and
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extra
rodrock ranches Rodrock Quarter Horses
information
Karen, a national champion in western pleasure horse shows, is by his side today, her arm hooked through his. She sometimes finishes his sentences, always nods in agreement, a smile curling her lips as Darol shares what can only be defined as a “Darol-ism.” “You’re not going to be first every day in what you do in life, but you can be the best in whatever it is you’re doing,” Darol’s booming voice bounces off the barn’s soaring ceilings. “You won’t hit the bull’s-eye every day, but for gosh sake, don’t miss the target.” Darol’s shining legacy, 25 years of spot-on home building, is familiar not only to residents living in his custom communities, but also real estate agents and high-profile business people. The man behind the name that graces stone monuments at subdivision entrances throughout the area is widely regarded as innovative, creative and flexible. Those are the same principles Darol applies to building homes for families are the foundation of his thriving quarter horse and champion breeding operations. In fact, Darol, whose self-described roughand-tumble early childhood included living in an orphanage and foster homes, is also a man marked by old-fashioned determination. The Golden Rule, in Darol’s estimation, will never go out of style—as long as people practice -Darol Rodrock it, he admonishes. “It’s one of the simplest lessons on the Golden Rule I learned as a child, and I do my best to live by it,” says Darol. The walls inside the comfortable office and living room of Rodrock Ranches are filled with the fruits of Darol and Karen’s victories in the horse world. Ribbons, framed magazine and newspaper articles, photographs of them in their chosen equine events hang as testament to Darol’s can-do attitude. Karen’s original saddle stands proudly in the corner of the room, a symbol of pride and accomplishment. Darol points to a framed plaque that has a gleaming belt buckle won during a cutting event encased in the center. A phrase near and dear to Darol’s heart is inscribed above the buckle: “I will and I can.” For Darol, whose love of success is fueled by determination and work, those words may be his personal motto.
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“It’s one of the simplest lessons I learned as a child, and I do my best to live by it.”
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rodrockquarterhorses.com
The Winner’s Circle Darol and Karen Rodrock are fixtures on the equine circuit around the country. He competes in cutting horse events and also in the show ring. Some of Darol’s career highlights include winning the Select Amateur Western Pleasure at the Quarter Horse Congress in 2006, his second Congress championship. He began riding cutting horses that same year and placed fourth out of 280 riders in the Amateur National Cutting Horse Association World Championship Futurity, in addition to countless other futurity wins in western pleasure. Karen competes in western pleasure classes and has placed at the Congress and the AQHA World Show. She has earned top-10 placings at the Select World Championship show and the All-American Quarter Horse Congress, in addition to other major western pleasure circuits.
local
profiles
The Rodrock File
TOP Darol and Karen Rodrock at the stables of their quarter horse farm in Bucyrus. Rodrock is known for his popular subdivisions in Shawnee.
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
With the exception of one, Darol Rodrock has bred and raised every pleasure horse he has shown over the years. Known throughout the equine world as a worthy competitor and breeder, Darol owns exceptional stallions and some of the top mares in the country. Rodrock Ranches and Rodrock Quarter Horses not only produces award-winning horses, it has a solid reputation of integrity and honesty. Cecelia Jönsson, a graduate of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, is Rodrock Ranches’ resident equine veterinarian. She oversees the birth of some 40 to 50 foals annually and tends to more than 100 horses living on the ranch. Jönsson, who grew up in Kansas City, admires Darol’s business and life philosophy. “He treats others the way he wants to be treated, and that goes for his employees here, the horses, the buyers,” she says. “It’s important for me to work for someone who is respected in the horse world, and Darol certainly is.” Darol is active in the horse world, serving as past president of the National Snaffle Bit Association and is the recipient of the prestigious NSBA Jack Benson Award for his dedication to the organization. At the state level he has served as a Kansas Quarter Horse Association director and was a national American Quarter Horse Association director for several years. Darol also served as a member of the AQHA Foundation Committee.
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shawnee
Resume
Mike Unterriener
Occupation: Hartman Hardware & Downtown Shawnee Partnership Chairperson my first job was: a hod carrier for my uncle, who was a bricklayer
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Anyone who has worked with Mike Unterriener knows he’s a dedicated character. Owner of Hartman Hardware and chairperson of the Downtown Shawnee Partnership, Unterriener has quite the narrative to share. “I ended up in Shawnee after meeting Lisa Hartman at the age of 19 at a local bar. We dated for a year when Lisa’s father, Red Hartman, asked if I was interested in working at his store, Hartman Hardware,” says Unterriener. “I took him up on the offer and started working for Hartman Hardware in 1984.” Lisa and Mike married in 1986. He opened his own screen-printing business in 1993, and in 1998 when Red wanted to semi-retire, the pair purchased the store. “I continued to run both businesses until 2009, at which time I decided to focus solely on the hardware store and sold the print shop,” he says. The Unterriener family includes two children, both of whom graduated from Benedictine College. And as one would suspect, they both worked at the store. “We hope to keep the store open until it’s time for us to retire,” he says. “The friendships we have gained over the years of being at the store are priceless.”
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My hero growing up was Speed Racer, because he had a cool car!
The best vacation I ever had was Vegas. The worst … I honestly have never had a bad vacation.
My favorite restaurant is Old Shawnee Pizza if it’s pizza I’m craving, Chipotle for my Mexican food craving, but for a nice evening out, I choose Bristol.
Every dog we had came with many vet bills, but they were worth every penny.
The best advice I ever received was work hard and never give up.
Pearls of wisdom Life is too short to take seriously!
If I could go back in time I would honestly not change a thing. I consider myself pretty lucky.
If I were a finalist on American Idol, I’d sing … nothing. I would never appear on that show. Two things nobody knows about me are that I am actually not a Hartman, I just married one, and my last name would not fit on the front of the building. I would love to have lunch with Julia Roberts or Sandra Bullock.
Shawnee is a large city with a hometown feeling. Interview conducted by Katy Ibsen Photography by Jason Dailey
Santa Express Midland Railway Historical Association
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Join us for a train ride -bring the whole family! Normal excursions trains June - October every year. Midland 1515 High Railway Street Historical Association
Special Events Include:
1515 W. High Street BaldwinCity, City,KSKS66006-0005 66006-0005 Baldwin Phone(913) (913)721-1211 721-1211 Phone Depot Depot(785) (785)594-6982 594-6982 www.midlandrailway.org
• Thomas the Tank Engine • Haunted Halloween Train • Santa Express • Easter Bunny Train
www.midlandrailway.org
The Midland Railway operates excursion trains on a line originally constructed in 1867. Train rides feature an over 20mile round trip from Baldwin City via “Norwood, Kansas” to Ottawa Junction, Kansas, traveling through scenic Eastern Kansas farmland and woods via vintage railway equipment. The Midland Railway is a completely volunteer-staffed, non-profit 501c3, common carrier railroad operated to preserve and display transportation history as an educational demonstration railroad. Join us for a train ride – bring the whole family! We are in easy reach of Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Ottawa and Lawrence, Topeka, and nearby communities. Normal excurions trains June-October every year.
Special Events Include; Easter Bunny Train Thomas the Tank Engine Haunted Halloween Train Santa Express
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800.942.7245
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7th Annual Marble Day Celebration, Saturday, May 4, 9:30 am-2:00 pm, Downtown Bonner Springs, Cedar and Second Streets.
Carol Gonzales
shawnee
Resume
Occupation: Shawnee City Manager my first job was: a clerk in a Liberty, Missouri, pharmacy owned by a friend of my parents City Manager Carol Gonzales grew up on a farm north of Kansas City. She attended Drake University where she received a degree in economics and sociology as well as her master’s in public administration. “I was drawn to local government because I wanted to do meaningful work that provided direct service to people,” she says. Gonzales interned with the city of Olathe before working with Emporia, Seal Beach, California, and back to Kansas for the city of Lenexa. “In 1998, an open department head position in Shawnee offered the opportunity to work for a wellrespected manager and to grow in my career without having to move,” says Gonzales. “I was selected for that position, fell in love with the Shawnee community and have continued to learn something new every single day.” Accompanying in her Shawnee journey is her husband of 21 years, Michael, and their three teenagers, Natalie, Ethan and Erica.
I would love to have lunch with my Grandma. I still miss her.
Every dog we had, I never really liked. (I don’t like dogs—it’s a character flaw.) If I could go back in time I’d like to be part of drafting the U.S. Constitution.
My hero growing up was Jesus.
Pearls of wisdom: Treat people the way you want to be treated, with kindness and respect.
My favorite restaurant is La Fonda. I had my wedding rehearsal dinner there in 1991 and still go eat there at least once a month. Try the Caldo de Pollo!
If I were a finalist on American Idol, I’d sing “The Impossible Dream.”
The best advice I ever received was to be happy with what you have.
Shawnee is my home.
Two things nobody knows about me are: There aren’t two things about me that nobody knows. I have really good friends!
Interview conducted by Katy Ibsen Photography by Jason Dailey
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
The best vacation I ever had was just this January— Cabo with my girlfriends. The worst was skiing—I was terrified of hurting myself, and I hate the cold.
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shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
ty home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch succ aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success story by Kimberly Winter Stern aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch 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quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success aftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City mall-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsm nd quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to smalluccess in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and ome to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality
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Products City home to small-batch success in craftsmanship and quality
Driving Force
Rick Spencer, Hardcore Hammers
What happens when man meets nail? Hardcore Hammers to the rescue. Brothers Rick and Steve Spencer have worked in the construction business for decades and had given up on using hammers not worth their mettle. “We’re professional carpenters and required a work tool that could survive banging 50 to 100 pounds of nails a day,” says Rick. “We couldn’t find one so decided to design a new type of heavy-duty hammer.” The problem with framing hammers came down to the core—the grooved, steel-waffle part—that had to endure infinite blows of driving large nails and usually wore smooth after repeated use. Space-age titanium hammers, which cost more than traditional tools, didn’t cut it, either—their traction lasted a fraction of a steel waffle’s lifetime. So Rick of Shawnee and Steve in Chicago put their noggins together to dream up a durable, toughas-nails hammer good enough to be a handyman’s best friend at a demanding worksite. Following years of due diligence and research, the Spencer brothers hit upon a brilliant design: a patented hardened steel-recessed traction surface that grips nails only—not materials. While the brothers cobbled together their innovative hammer they
added a smooth outer rim to protect fingers and a straightened claw for pulling stubborn nails and ripping apart boards. Hardcore Hammers launched in late 2010, and the product started selling in earnest a month later. In 2012, after receiving national press from publications like Esquire and Men’s Journal, Hardcore Hammers flew out the Shawnee manufacturing facility’s doors. The sleek design coupled with an 18-inch, artisanturned-hickory wood handle resonated with workers in hardhats as much as couples with weekend honey-do lists. Today the Spencers can produce more than 1,300 hammers a week to satisfy brisk website sales. The love letters they receive about their product’s job performance are gratifying. The company’s future is bright, with potential shelf placement in big-name home improvement stores. “People like Hardcore Hammers because they have design integrity,” says Rick. For the Spencer brothers, the popularity of their hammer is equal to hitting the nail on the proverbial head. Knock-knock, who’s there? Hardcore Hammers, proudly made in Shawnee.
Hardcore Hammers hardcorehammers.com
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
cess in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City in home to manship -batch d quality City
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Sweet Surrender shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
Russ Sifers, Sifers Valomilk Candy Co.
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In 1903 the first Ford Model A sold in Chicago, the Kansas State Capitol building in Topeka was declared officially complete after 37 years of construction, and Sifers Candy Co. in Iola started making penny hard candy. The family-owned company was headed by Samuel Mitchell (S.M.) Sifers. In 1916, his son, Harry, opened a branch of the business in Kansas City. The candy maker perfected the recipe in the 1920s. According to sweet legend, a Sifers candy maker got drunk off the real vanilla while whipping up a batch and undercooking the marshmallow, making it runny. S.M.’s son Harry experimented with the ruined candy, carefully scooping the gooey marshmallow into chocolate cups. Sifers’ employees tasted the accidental creation and deemed it messy but tasty. In 1931 the newly christened 5-cent Valomilk Dip made its debut. By the end of the ’50s, Sifers Candy made Valomilks exclusively, with premium ingredients and a little TLC. Today Russ Sifers’ son, Dave, is the fourthgeneration producer of the 2-ounce Valomilks, now made in Shawnee. The candy factory uses his greatgrandfather’s original equipment and recipe for the
S i f e r s Va l o m i l k C a n d y C o . valomilk.com
timeless treat made the old-fashioned way—single batch, by hand. According to Russ, who has reduced his personal Valomilk consumption over the years, the name is derived from “V” for vanilla, “ALO” for marshmallow and “MILK” to describe the chocolate cup’s center. Modern-day Valomilks are sold in two packs—one to eat, one to share. Russ doesn’t know how many thousands of Valomilks his 10 employees make annually, and frankly, he doesn’t care—it’s the priceless memories spun by the petite candy that are paramount. Customers still write Russ about fond recollections of the first time they experienced a Valomilk. “Bingo,” says Russ. “We’ve scored if our candy creates good memories. I have boxes packed with letters from people about their fondness for Valomilks. Now I get emails.” Russ takes pride in knowing 21st-century Valomilks made in Shawnee don’t disappoint memories. That’s a big order for a tiny candy company to fill, but Russ wagers he’ll continue to follow the path of quality his grandfather embarked on many Valomilks ago.
Fido’s Best Friend
UPPER LEFT Hairy enjoys treats from the All American Pet Company.
watch what they eat, Margulies says pet owners transfer their own habits to their pets. “The food bars and Chewies produced in our Shawnee facility are well-priced and well-made with a dog’s health in mind,” he says. MUTT Dog Bars, ChompBars and NutraBars are 4-ounce bars equal to an 8-ounce cup of dry food. They’re perfect for between meals—say, when you’re at the off-leash park with your dog and need to give him some quick energy or a reward for good behavior. Chewies are on-the-go, bite-size, protein-rich treats with no byproducts. They are gluten-free and come in delicious flavors like bacon, cheese and peanut. “The bars are an acknowledgement of our new, more mobile lifestyles and health-conscious choice we make for ourselves and our dogs,” says Margulies. Currently distributed through broker organizations and national sales team, All American Pet Co. is preparing to roll out products to the world’s largest retailers and nation’s largest pets products distributors, in addition to supermarkets, mass merchants, drug stores, big-box stores and convenience stores nationwide this spring and summer. When it comes to the human/pet bond, All American Pet Co. has their finger on the pulse—er, paws—of the trend.
A l l A m e r i c a n P e t C o m pa n y allamericanpetcompany.com
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
Turns out there is probably something your pet likes better than you and a walk in the park—All American Pet Company’s line of dog-gone good, heart-healthy protein food and treats. MUTT Dog Bars, ChompBars, NutraBars and Chewies, all made in Shawnee, are a dog’s dream for satisfying kibble and an owner’s demand for healthy pet food. With packaging designed for the human eye—think a granola bar for your dog—and easily portable for busy lifestyles, All American Pet Co. caters to the notion that our four-legged friends are members of the family. Hardly junk food for your pooch, the company’s life-enhancing products are intended as an extension of a dog’s diet and a pet owner’s penchant for their dog’s long-term health. Joel Margulies, vice president of marketing for All American Pet Co., based in the Los Angeles area, says opening a Midwest operation, manufacturing and warehouse site in Shawnee has given the brand a leg up in smooth and efficient production in a 33,000-square-foot space. “Combined with the Shawnee employees’ strong work ethic and city and state government willing to work with us, we couldn’t be happier,” he says. “It’s been a marvelous experience.” According to Margulies, All American Pet Co.’s products are endorsed and recommended by veterinarians. Just like humans
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H e i r l o o m P o t s & Pa n s sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
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V i ta C r a f t vitacraft.com Chances are the pan grandma used to make her signature Sunday pasta sauce isn’t just any old vessel—it could be the czar of pots and pans that started in Kansas City in 1939. Vita Craft produces heirloom-quality 5- and 9-ply stainless-steel cookware for the home with a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship. Manufactured in Shawnee since 1946, it’s no doubt Vita Craft’s ironclad guarantee has weathered generations of seasoned owners nationwide. “People bring us their great-grandma’s saucepan and want the broken handle replaced—not the entire pan,” says Karie Keeney, who worked during college in Vita Craft’s Shawnee distribution center and is now the company’s national marketing manager. “They are emotionally attached to the pan and special memories of family meals.” Thousands of customers have purchased the Vita Craft cooking system and individual pieces over the decades through home demonstrations. An independent distributor actually prepares a three-course meal, including entrée,
Pots and pans from Vita Craft.
vegetables and dessert, in a family’s home to illustrate that meat doesn’t shrink, veggies maintain nutrients and bright colors, and Vita Craft’s five-ply conductivity can even bake a cake on the stovetop. In the end, says Keeney, Vita Craft trims household budgets while making tasty food. Local chefs Renee Kelley at Shawnee’s Harvest, Mark Alan Mollentine and Culinary Center of Kansas City’s Matthew Chatfield swear by Vita Craft. KC celebrity chef Jasper Mirabile is putting the finishing touches on his line of Vita Craft cookware, too, that will be available to consumers. According to Keeney, Vita Craft’s 10- and 13-inch chef’s pans are the most popular. The company will introduce a deeper 13-inch pan that will allow a cook to braise a roast on the stovetop, finish it in the oven and serve it at the table in the same pan. Vita Craft plans to launch a new line of cookware to retailers later this year. When it comes to cookware, there’s no pan like made-in-Shawnee Vita Craft. Just ask some of the hand-me-down owners who wouldn’t get a new pan for anything.
s o u v e n i r C u ps
Souvenir cups from Churchill Containers.
Ch u r c h i l l C o n t a i n e r s churchillcontainer.com Known for their one-stop shop, in-house graphics department, ability to fulfill huge orders effortlessly and the lowest minimum in the industry, Churchill is a slam-dunk champ when it comes to accommodating customers such as Major League Baseball, NFL franchises, arenas, colleges, hockey teams, schools and other organizations requiring beverage cups. The manufacturing facility has been located in Shawnee for more than 25 years. Churchill Containers is owned by Koller Enterprises in Fenton, Mo., a family-owned and full-service provider of injection plastic-molded products for the automotive industry, consumer products, general industrial and more. Churchill manufactures millions of customized drink cups each year. Bottoms up!
sunflowerpub.com shawnee magazine
They’re stashed in cupboards, car consoles and garage shelves—the plastic souvenir cups emblazoned with our favorite team’s logo or a nonprofit event we attended. Maybe we sipped cold beverages from them during a Royals or Chiefs game. Perhaps we toted them home empty from our neighborhood pub or pizza joint. Most families of four have enough plastic cups from various activities to outfit their own small restaurant. You get the idea. Odds are good that the ubiquitous cups working beyond their intended use originated in Shawnee at Churchill Container, a leading manufacturer—and the oldest—of plastic souvenir cups, drinkware, containers and myriad food service catering products. Established in 1980 as Graffi Cups, Churchill Containers could be called the champion of customimprinted drink cups.
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extra, extra S h aw n e e
M a g a z i n e
presents
visitors guide to
Shawnee Featuring
There’s no place like home shawnee magazine
shawneekschamber.com
Longtime resident Peter Ehrlich reflects on Shawnee’s homey qualities
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Reasons guide to shawnee calendar
Shawnee’s Midland Fare Travel guide to
shawneekschamber.com
shawnee magazine
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shawnee visitors guide
One-on-one with Peter Ehrlich
Story by Gloria Gale Photography by Jason Dailey
Hardly a day goes by that Peter Ehrlich isn’t intrigued by his adopted hometown—Shawnee. Ehrlich, originally from the Washington, D.C., metro area, had the opportunity to test the experience when he relocated to Shawnee over 30 years ago. “The move turned out to be a more than pleasant change,” he says, recalling a business opportunity that lured him and his dog, Frodo, to the Midwest. Ehrlich recounts how this “small-town feel” within a larger metro area initially captured, and continues to sustain, him and his wife, Kathy.
Longtime resident Peter Ehrlich reflects on Shawnee’s homey qualities
He waxes nostalgic at the demise of the old drive-in theater and the Merry-Go-Round club. “How can you forget Stern’s Restaurant downtown—what a great place to eat and people-watch.” Progress has replaced those places with newer reincarnations, but what he finds interesting is the sincerity of Shawnee residents. “I’ve experienced this quality repeatedly over the years, and I still find it unique.” Unlike most city governments, Ehrlich finds an approachable quality to Shawnee’s city government. “If you have a question or issue about the city, I just contact your council member. Our city services and servants are second to none. ” As a former business owner, Ehrlich considers Shawnee’s Chamber of Commerce a tremendous asset. “Now, with a job in sales in another’s employ, I still maintain my Chamber relationship. Membership in the Shawnee Rotary Club also keeps me involved,” he says. Ehrlich expounds on the pleasures of small-town life.
shawnee magazine
shawneekschamber.com
There’s no place like home
“The city was a well-kept secret for many years. I remember when Kathy and I first moved into our house, we would look out our back windows on to farmland. Unfortunately, that doesn’t exist anymore. No more. Word has gotten out.”
“Shawnee Town 1929 is a gem, and Old Shawnee Days is one of my favorite events. People seem to be amazed that it’s free and features top-notch entertainment.” Across the country, homogenized suburbs are a dime a dozen. In the name of progress, many of these cities have lost their original charm. Shawnee manages to hold its own. It’s a tangible mix that the Ehrlichs continue to find engaging.
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“When and if we ever move, the prerequisite will be a Shawnee address,” says Ehrlich.
Peter Ehrlich is dialed in to what makes Shawnee a great community.
shawneekschamber.com
shawnee magazine
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shawnee visitors guide
See Shawnee Historic points of interest Indian Cemetery 10905 W. 59th Terrace 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.
Travel Guide 2004, it has been managed by Renee Kelly, first as a private venue site and now as a farm-totable restaurant called Harvest.
KC Trends Motorsports
The Scrapbook Page
10818 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5200 www.kctrends.com
13205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 383-1552 www.thescrapbookpageonline.com
Virginia School, District No. 33
Western Shawnee Blues to Bach
Thompson’s Jewelry
7301 Mize Road The Virginia School is an example of a typical one-room school of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
5707 Nieman Road Chris Fangro built the Wells Fargo House in 1824. It was heavily damaged during Quantrill’s Raid in 1862. After restoration it was a Wells Fargo Express Office on government trails.
Chief Charles Bluejacket statue Johnson Drive and Cody Street, Herman Laird Park The statue welcomes visitors to Shawnee Town 1929 and depicts Charles Bluejacket, a Shawnee Indian chief and Methodist minister from the 19th century.
shawnee magazine
shawneekschamber.com
Pioneer Crossing statue
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Shawnee Mission Parkway at Melrose Lane Statue by artist Charles Goslin celebrates the pioneers who traveled through and settled Shawnee in the 1800s.
11501 W. 57th St. (913) 248-2360 Shawnee Town 1929 is an outdoor museum depicting a Kansas town from the 1840s to the early 1920s. Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday from March to October.
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.
Shop Shawnee Downtown
Dodge City Beef
11115 Johnson Drive (913) 499-0204 www.dodgecitybeef.com
CM Tack Riding Apparel and Saddlery 17100 W. 53rd St. (913) 631-4677 www.cmtack.com
Doll Hospital & More
6305 Lackman Road (913) 715-2550 www.jocomuseum.org The Johnson County museum features long-term and changing exhibitions, including a handson exhibit space. The museum is open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Doll Cradle 10910 Johnson Drive (913) 631-1900 www.dollcradle.com
Encore Unique Boutique 11006 Johnson Drive (913) 268-5393
Farmers’ Market 11110 Johnson Drive, City Hall (913) 631-2500 www.cityofshawnee.org
Caenen Castle 12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 www.reneekellys.com Caenen Castle was built in 1907 by Remi Caenen, who quarried the home’s stones by hand. Since
Eat Shawnee Bar & Grill Bar West
Funky Munky Music
7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 www.barwestgrill.com
12710 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5555 www.funkymunkymusic.com
Around Shawnee Art Source & Design 7379 Quivira Road (913) 962-6000 www.artsourcekc.com
Bridal Extraordinaire 12109 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5566 www.bridalextraordinaire.com
12205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3330 www.designerconsignment.biz
Jake’s Place 12001 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5253 www.jakesplacebarandgrill.com
J Murphy’s Irish Pub & Grille 22730 Midland Drive (913) 825-3880 www.jmurphys.com
Johnny’s Tavern 13410 W. 62nd Terrace (913) 962-5777 www.johnnystavern.com
Tanner’s Bar & Grill
Family Tree Nursery
22374 W. 66th St. (913) 745-8100 www.tannersbarandgrill.com
7036 Nieman (913) 631-6121 www.familytreenursery.com
A Cut Above Natural Meats
Nellie & Nico’s, an Antique Boutique
5431 Roberts (913) 825-4375 www.acanaturalmeats.com
6495 Quivira Road (913) 631-6767 www.nellie-nicos.com
Hartman Hardware 11018 Johnson Drive (913) 631-7592
7341 Quivira Road (913) 268-3333 www.prairiepoint.com
7003 Millridge Drive (913) 271-8561
Designer Consignment Johnson County Museum of History and the 1950s AllElectric House
6642 Nieman Road (913) 766-8875 www.thompsonsjewelry.com
Prairie Point Quilts Shawnee Town 1929
Wells Fargo House
22366 W. 66th St. (913) 441-3132 www.bluestobach.com
Restaurants
Aunt Jean’s Gelato 11210 Johnson Drive (913) 268-0550
Nigro’s Western Store 10509 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-2226
Barb’s Kolache Bakery 22354 W. 66th St. (913) 422-8300 www.barbskolache.com
Providing your family gentle, caring, state of the art dentistry for 3 generations
Travel Guide
shawnee visitors guide Barley’s Brewhaus & Restaurant
Grand Wok
Paulo and Bill
The Pick Smoke ‘n Grill
15810 Shawnee Mission Pkwy. (913) 268-8668 www.grandwokks.com
16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900 www.pauloandbill.com
5354 Roberts St. (913) 422-7428
Pegah’s Family Restaurant
Bates City Bar B Que
Happy Banzai Japanese Steakhouse
6493 Quivira Road (913) 962-7447 www.batescitybbq.net
13214 W. 62nd Terrace (913) 956-7322 www.happybanzai.com
Big Bam’s Burgers
Hereford House Shawnee
5930 Nieman Road (913) 962-1230 www.bigbams.com
17244 Midland Drive (913) 268-8000 www.herefordhouse.com
Pine & Bamboo Garden
The Big Biscuit
Ixtapa Family Mexican Restaurant
Renee Kelly’s Harvest Farm to Table
5386 Roberts St. (913) 422-5003 www.ixtapaofshawnee.com
12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 www.chefreneekelly.com
21911 W. 66th St. (913) 441-2444
Jose Pepper’s Border Grill & Cantina
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
Dos Reales
16605 Midland Drive (913) 631-1011 www.josepeppers.com
16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 www.barleysbrewhaus.com
12276 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 912-7350 www.bigbiscuitrestaurant.com
Tina Marie’s 11005 Johnson Drive (913) 962-6700 7437 Nieman Road (913) 248-1882 www.pegahs.com
10915 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-9545
Country Club Cafe
6453 Quivira Road (913) 962-5014 www.dosrealeskc.com
Minsky’s Pizza 7198 Renner Road (913) 631-0059 www.minskys.com
Eggtc. 7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 www.eggtckc.com
Old Shawnee Pizza and Italian Kitchen
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant 13803 W. 63rd St. (913) 375-1000 www.fritzskc.com
6000 Rogers Drive (913) 631-5716 www.shawneepizza.com
7474 Nieman Road (913) 962-6361 www.sakurajapaneserestaurant.net
12613 Johnson Drive (913) 387-4302
Twisted 22030 W. 66th St. (913) 441-0444 www.twistedfresh.com
Farmers’ Market 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays, May-October City Hall Parking Lot 11110 Johnson Drive (913) 631-2500
Stay in Shawnee Hotels Courtyard by Marriott
Sombrero’s Mexican Cantina
17250 Midland Drive (913) 631-8800 www.marriott.com
22702 Midland Drive (913) 441-6700
Hampton Inn
Sushi Mido 6010 Nieman Road (913) 322-8888
16555 Midland Drive (913) 248-1900 www.hamptoninn.com
Sutera’s Pizza
RV Park Walnut Grove
22716 Midland Drive (913) 667-3000 http://suterasshawnee.com
10218 Johnson Dr., Merriam (913) 262-3023 www.walnutgroverv.com
Catering available for any group size with
Party Platters, taco 12 Packs & Box lunches!
now 2 locations! 913-441-0444 913-387-4811 22030 W. 66th St. Shawnee, KS
11737 College Blvd. Overland Park, KS
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
VASCULAR SURGERY ASSOCIATES P.A.
Old Shawnee Days 1st Weekend in June
ent of Vascular Disease anagem sive M u l c x dE sive an Comprehen
Vein Institude of the Midwest
We offer a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins using stateof-the-art technology. Our surgeons are certified by the American Board of Vascular Surgery.
Please call for appointment. Screening Program Available No referral necessary. No Doctor order required. If you are 55 years of age or older and have diabetes, a smoking history, high blood pressure or a family history of vascular or heart disease, you are at increased risk for vascular disease. We are now offering screening for: CAROTID ARTERY DISEASE • ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSMS • PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE
To compliment this treatment, we also offer spider vein treatment, permanent laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation.
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913-322-2211
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shawnee visitors guide
Eat
Story by Gloria Gale
Photography by Jason Dailey
Shawnee’s Midland Fare
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Palate-pleasers star in convenient access point for KC commuters
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One might say that the Midland and Interstate 435 intersection is a bit of a culinary mecca for Shawnee. Boasting fine dining, breakfast favorites and bars to catch the big game, this location has a lot to offer hungry palates.
Your breakfast boardroom It feels like home—that’s a common response after eating at Eggtc. This homegrown hash house does breakfast and lunch right. The folks at Eggtc., Minsky’s and Osteria il Centro (in Kansas City, Missouri) run the show—so you’re in good hands.
The best bet for breakfast is the Classico—it hits the mark time after time. It’s exactly like what it sounds: two eggs, bacon or sausage, hash browns and a choice of bread. Top it all off with a cup of Joe, and you won’t go hungry all day.
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You can’t go wrong with a place that is unpretentious, with owners who love to serve and food as good as it looks. And a word to the wise: Eggtc. is always packed, so go early!
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Photographs from left: Ben Anderson (2), Jason Dailey, Ben Anderson
How does Pequenade, Salubrious, Ranchero and Margherita sound? Those are just four of the loaded omelets on the menu.
35 Eggtc. 7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 http://eggtckc.com
Paulo and Bill 16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900 www.pauloandbill.com
Buongiorno! There’s pasta, and then there’s pasta. At Paulo and Bill it’s not just the pasta, but a roster of sugo, garlic, cream and aioli that drape a litany of dishes. Jim and Cathy Marks, owners of Paulo and Bill, have years of tenure between them, and it shows. The restaurant, once in PB&J’s stable, is a local favorite that’s maintained a following since the Markses took over the operation in 2003.
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Cathy and Jim dote on their professional crew—many of whom have been with the couple since the beginning. Together, the team continues to appeal to a broad demographic that expects delicious food and reasonable prices in an appealing atmosphere.
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Best bet: Any of the woodfired pizzas. Cracker-thin crust supports a variety of toppings on these pies, all designed to send you swooning.
Eat
What’s for dinner? There’s not much to quibble about when beef is the focus. Hereford House, routinely on the Midwest’s best lists, is a legend. The cuts here are primed for perfection. Whether serving a melt-in-your-mouth filet, cowboy ribeye, sirloin or
Kansas City strip, this chop house knows exactly how to please. Selections from the turf are renowned, but if it’s surf, Hereford House has it covered. There’s always a fresh catch on the menu. And if those palate pleasers aren’t
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enough, delve into their signature sides, sauteed portobello mushrooms, cheddar ranch potatoes, rice pilaf and a host of vegetables. When a restaurant has been around for over 50 years, you know they’re doing something right.
Hereford House 17244 Midland Drive (913) 268-8000 www.herefordhouse.com
Contemporary Ideas with Classic Technique SUPERCENTER
OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY Pharmacy • Jewelry • Shoes • Vision Center • Subway Tire Lube Express • One Hour Photo • Baker • Deli Grocery • Produce 16100 West 65th Street (S.M. Parkway and Maurer) 913.268.3468 • www.walmart.com
Nallia
School of Dance
5722 Nieman Rd. Shawnee, Kansas 66203 913-268-4403
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Eat
Bar West
Barley’s Brewhaus & Restaurant
7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 www.barwestgrill.com
16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 www.barleysbrewhaus.com
Catch the Game Two distinct locales are ideal for Sunday football or the NCAA tournament. Bar West and Barley’s Brewhaus and Restaurant have taps aplenty to match menus that will satisfy the tastes of any sports fans.
Shawnee Crossings Perimeter Park Property Development Shawnee Crossings • 60 Acre Commercial Center • Restaurant, Retail, Commercial Space Available • Pad Sites and Multi-tenant Buildings
Contact: Tom Zarda 22712 Midland Dr. Shawnee, KS 66226 913-908-5051 Fax: (913) 441-9934
shawnee visitors 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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culture outside misc.
Shawnee Golf and Country Club Medicine’s Hall of Fame & Museum Stump Park Power Play Kansas City Ice Center Mid-America Sports Complex Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball Starwood Park Shawnee Mission Park Trails Shawnee Mission Park Tomahawk Hills Golf Course Courtyard by Marriott Hampton Inn Dickinson Westglen 18 Theatres KU MedWest Park Lanes Swarner Park Johnson County Museum of History & All Electric House Veteran’s Park Johnson County Library Thomas A. Soetart Aquatic Center Civic Centre Caenen Castle Shawnee Town 1929 Wonderscope Children’s Museum Splash Cove Herman Laird Park City Hall Downtown Shawnee Pioneer Crossing Sky Zone Jaycee Park Listowel Park Shawnee Mission Medical Center
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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
out & about
Downtown
in Shawnee
There is plenty of shopping, dining, culture and events in downtown Shawnee. From the delicious Big Bam’s Burgers to the Shawnee Civic Centre, visitors can even enjoy a Downtown Walking Tour. www.shawneekscvb.com
History 101 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
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Park It 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
15 reasons to
on page 43
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1,600 Acres
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There’s Magic Just Down the Road
Come Visit Lawrence. Just 40 short miles from Kansas City, where big-city sophistication meets college-town charm.
Rich in hisToRy, it offers World Class Museums and attractions.
Find out more and book your hotels at
visitlawrence.com
You will see why it’s called one of AMeRicAs MosT AuThenTic MAin sTReeTs when you visiT hisToRic DownTown. Offering Eclectic boutiques, sidewalk cafes and restaurants, and one of kind galleries... soMeThing foR eveRyone! The nighT coMes To life every night of the week with Rock, blues, jazz and everything in between.
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15 Reasons to Love Shawnee
Shawnee Mission Park:
1,600
2
acres
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of beautiful outdoor recreation with plenty of amenities including kayaking, dog park and 23 miles of trials.
Old Shawnee Days
This celebration is a summer favorite, including local and national music acts and a parade. Plan to attend June 6-9, 2013. www.oldshawneedays.org Get your little ones out and about for the ultimate Animal Kingdom experience at the Kansas City Zoo. www.kansascityzoo.org
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1929
Reasons to shawnee 8
Spectator Sports
Stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals are just 30 minutes northeast of Shawnee, making pro sports a reality to Shawnee residents!
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Roll the dice at one of Kansas City’s popular casinos. Just minutes from Shawnee, Hollywood Casino, Harrah’s Casino and Argosy Casino welcome visitors from near and far.
Team Players:
24 annual th
the
Tour de Shawnee will sweep the streets to celebrate the community’s appreciation for cycling. Held each summer. www.cityofshawnee.org
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Shop until you drop! Shawnee is uniquely located at the heart of Kansas City’s many shopping districts, including Legends Outlet, Oak Park Mall, The Country Club Plaza and Crown Center.
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Downtown Historic sites, Wonderscope Children’s Museum and gelato abound in downtown Shawnee. Don’t miss local shops and Big Bam’s Burgers. www.cityofshawnee.org
Encore! 15
Arts Scene
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Shawnee is conveniently located amid two popular art districts hosting monthly events. First Fridays in the Kansas City’s Crossroad District and Final Fridays in Lawrence boast new and old artists from all over the region.
Sushi to 6
Slice
Shawnee’s unique selection of restaurants includes sushi, Chinese, Mexican, bar and grills, fine steaks, choo-choo menus for the kiddos and, of course, pizza!
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KU Daytrip:
30 Only
minutes
from Shawnee rests one of the state’s older institutions—University of Kansas. From the Booth Hall of Athletics to the Dole Institute of Politics, there is plenty to absorb. www.ku.edu
GOAL! Deemed the most popular team City, Sporting KC & Sporting a must-see while staying in Located just 10 minutes from www.sportingkc.com
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Tour de Shawnee:
Get in the game at the Mid-America Sports Complex or KC Ice Center. Both located in Shawnee, these venues offer everything you need for team sports.
Learn about a working truck farm that is unique to Shawnee’s heritage. www.shawneetown.org
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Feeling Lucky?
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Shawnee Town
4
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in Kansas Park are the area. Shawnee.
Enjoy a night at the theater? Consider catching a show at Theatre in the Park (in Shawnee Mission Park), the Starlight or the new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
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Quick Guide
Quick Guide Index
shawnee visitors guide
Resource Website Telephone Emergency & Medical Emergency Assistance Kansas Poison Control Center Shawnee Mission Medical Center www.shawneemission.org KU MedWest www.kumed.com Kansas Crisis Hotline (domestic abuse/sexual assault) Tip Hotline (Kansas Bureau of Investigations) Kansas Protection Report Center (Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services)
Shawnee Information Shawnee CVB Shawnee Chamber of Commerce Shawnee Magazine
Hotels Hampton Inn Shawnee Courtyard by Marriott
Children and Family Wonderscope Johnson County Museum Shawnee Civic Centre Shawnee Mission School District Unified School District #232
Community Volunteerism Shawnee Community Services Sunflower House Old Shawnee Days Society
911 (800) 332-6633 (913) 676-2000 (913) 588-8450 (888) 363-2287 (800) 572-7463 (800) 922-5330
www.shawneekscvb.com www.shawneekschamber.com www.sunflowerpub.com
(913) 631-6545 (913) 631-6545 (888) 497-8668
www.hamptoninn.com www.marriott.com
(913) 248-1900 (913) 631-8800
www.wonderscope.org www.jocomuseum.org www.cityofshawnee.org http://smsd.org www.usd232.org
(913) 287-8888 (913) 715-2550 (913) 631-5200 (913) 993-6200 (913) 667-6200
http://scsks.com www.sunflowerhouse.org www.oldshawneedays.org
(913) 268-7746 (913) 631-5800 (913) 248-2360
City Services/Utilities
SureWest Time Warner Cable Business Class
Media Shawnee Dispatch Shawnee Magazine Kansas City Star
www.surewest.com www.timewarnercable.com/midwest
(913) 825-3000 (816) 358-8833
www.shawneedispatch.com www.sunflowerpub.com www.kansascity.com
(913) 962-3000 (800) 578-8748 (816) 234-4741
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Internet/Cable/Telephone
(913) 742-6200 (913) 631-1080 (913) 631-2150 (913) 631-3300 (913) 441-5400 (913) 406-9460 (816) 835-6629 (913) 742-6014 (913) 742-6003 (913) 742-6098 (913) 631-5200 (913) 667-5105 or (800) 383-1183 (888) 442-1313 (800) 794-4780
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City Manager’s Office (Carol Gonzales, City Manager) www.cityofshawnee.org Fire Department (administrations/operations) Police Department (dispatch) Deffenbaugh Industries Inc. (waste) www.deffenbaughindustries.com A-1 Disposal (waste) http://a1disposalinc.com Superior Disposal Service Inc. (waste) www.superiordisposalservice.com Infinity Compost (yard waste) http://infinitycompost.com City Ride (for seniors 62+) Municipal Court Animal Control Parks and Recreation Westar Energy www.westarenergy.com Atmos Energy www.atmosenergy.com Kansas Gas Service www.kansasgasservice.com
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shawnee visitors guide May 2013 May 4 – 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 11 – Beauty and Best Downtown Open House Visit downtown businesses and enjoy a buzz among neighbors at this open house. 9 a.m. Saturday. City Hall parking lot, 11110 Johnson Drive, (913) 742-6226. May 25 – 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 2013
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June 5 – Bloody Mary Kick-Off A fun celebration featuring tomatoinspired drinks and dishes to get the community revved up for the Shawnee Town Museum’s Tomato Roll fund raiser. Tickets are $25 and include two entries in the Tomato Roll. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360.
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June 6-9 – 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 June 7 – Fun Fridays at the Pool Come join us on Friday each month to celebrate summer. These days will include concession deals, coordinated games and prizes for the winners from noon to 5 p.m. Additional dates July 5 and Aug. 2. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., (913) 631-7177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Drive, (913) 631-0054. June 22 – Garden Party Shawnee Town 1929’s seventh annual Garden Party features an afternoon of teacakes, crafts, games and old-fashioned fun for young ladies, mothers and grandmothers. Tickets are $18 per person (or $15 for Friends of Shawnee Town members). Children must be at least 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. 10 a.m.-noon, Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360 for reservations.
Shawnee Events
June 30 through July 6 – Flags of 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 2013 July 5 – 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. 12:30 p.m. July-August – 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 games. Concert begins at 7 p.m., and dates include July 10 (Swarner Park, 63rd and Lackman), July 26 (Stump Park, 47th and Woodland), Aug. 9 (West Flanders Park, 55th & Nieman). www.shawneekscvb.com
August 2013 August 2 – 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. 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 25 – 24th 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
September 2013 September 8 – Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show Looking to show off a classic hot rod, or even a brand new, tricked-out car or motorcycle? Downtown Shawnee is the place to be. The seventh annual Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show will fill the streets downtown. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Johnson Drive and Nieman Road. www.shawneekscvb.com
All dates and times are subject to change.
September 21 – Friends of Shawnee Town Craft Fair Shoppers can browse through a hundred craft booths featuring 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 27-28 – Shawnee Great Griller’s Blues & BBQ Contest Enjoy some of the best barbeque in the Midwest and activities for the whole community. 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 2013 October 4 – 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 5 – 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 City Hall parking lot, 11110 Johnson Drive. www.shawneekscvb.com October 12 – NeighborWood Get your free tree fix this fall with NeighborWood (tree giveaway for the first 100 families). This celebration will be hoppin’ with the latest and greatest on tree care, composting, backyard habitats and rain barrels classes. There will be an opportunity for Webelo Scouts to complete the requirements for the Forester Badge (10:30 a.m.). 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 26 - Holiday Treasures Craft Festival Beat the crowds this holiday season and pick up some unique, handcrafted holiday gifts while you are at it! Check out the annual Holiday Treasures Craft Festival. Admission is free. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive. www.shawneekscvb.com
October 26 – Historical Haunting 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 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St. www.shawneetown.org
November 2013 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 RevolutionMonticello 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. Veteran’s Tribute Park, Johnson Drive and Pflumm.
December 2013 December 7 – 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 2014 TBA – Cinderella’s Ball Hosted by Shawnee Parks and Recreation Department, the 14th 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 and includes corsage, dinner, dancing and mementos. Additional guest is $20 each (suggested ages 5-13). Space is limited. Register at www.shawneeconnect.org. 6:30-9:30 p.m., Shawnee Civic Centre, 13817 Johnson Drive.
March 2014 March 16 – St. Patrick’s Parade Whether you are Irish in heritage or in spirit, don’t miss the Shawnee St. Patrick’s Parade, a great family event for spectators and participants. The parade will begins at 1 p.m. along Johnson Drive, from Monrovia east to Nieman Road. At 4:30 p.m., plan to watch the Annual Duck Race. 1 p.m., downtown Shawnee.