magazine sp/su 2016
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free
Shawnee
visitors guide The Basketball f a m i l y
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Dear
Reader
Vol. 9 / No. 1
spring/summer 16
magazine
sHawnee
Editor Nadia Imafidon Designer/Art Director Jenni Leiste Copy Editor Leslie Andres Account Executives Teresa Johnson-Lewis Anna Newman Ad Designer Jenni Leiste Contributing Photographers Kevin Anderson Jason Dailey Emily Steele Contributing Writers Gloria Gale Katy Schamberger Kel Woods General Manager Katy Ibsen Director of Special Projects Bert Hull
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dear reader, I’m a strong believer in the idea that we learn by example. Not only do we learn from other people but we are also inspired by them in many ways. Shawnee resident and esteemed Kansas artist Charles Goslin inspires us to find and celebrate the stories that make our state unique. His curiosity about his family history and where he came from led to a career of creating a body of work that honors people and places set in the past. But he doesn’t just recreate old faces. He learns his subjects’ stories first so his pieces are rich with detail—often times stumbling upon a new figure that will set him on track for the next project. Goslin’s work in Shawnee honors integral parts of local history. In Shawnee’s Pioneer Crossing, find a celebration of 1800s-era pioneers who traveled along the Santa Fe Trail. Our cover gives you a small taste of this life-sized, three-dimensional brick-wall mural. But you don’t have to go too far back to find some inspiration. We spoke to Big D Cycling, which started a racing team to honor the late son of one of the founders. The members had been interested in cycling competitively for a while and finally formalized a team as a tribute to the lost son, friend and fellow cyclist who meant so much to them. In our story on a basketball family with a Shawnee legacy, Johnny Carver wanted to follow in the footsteps of his brother and father, who both left Shawnee Mission High School with scoring records that led to playing D1 college basketball. Because of health issues, Johnny was unable to do the same. Instead, he created a future by exploring a territory unfamiliar to the rest of the Carvers—writing. We hope you find something in this issue to inspire you to get started on whatever you’ve been putting off. Please enjoy our spring/summer 2016 issue. Nadia editor, Shawnee Magazine
Linda Leeper Mary Taylor Marlene Shirley Joyce Allard
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Executive Director, EDC Director, Business Development and Retention
Andrew Nave Elli Bowen
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sp/su 2016
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SHAWNEE
VISITORS GUIDE THE BASKETBALL F A M I L Y
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Welcome Enjoy this complimentary copy of Shawnee Magazine featuring the Shawnee Visitors Guide, created by Sunflower Publishing in cooperation with the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce and Visit Shawnee. Photo by Ben Anderson
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Contents
sp/su 2016
departments local profiles
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8 Carving a Future Whether on the court or behind the scenes, the Carver family has made basketball a way of life.
16 The Silly Songbirds of Shawnee Where there’s music, movement, slobber and sing-alongs.
12 Pedal Pushers
20 That’s Your ’Cue
Honoring the memory of a fellow cyclist, a hearty team of athletes pays tribute to father and son.
Blind Box BBQ is bringing gourmet barbecue (and good bourbon) to Shawnee.
feature 26 Crafting a Legacy
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Local artist Charles Goslin combines his artistic talent and love of history to capture the integral moments and people of the past. Story by Katy Schamberger
shawnee magazine
visitors guide 37 your guide to shawnee 38 travel guide 40 City Map 42 Close to Everything
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45 Quick Guide index 26
46 Shawnee events
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6345 Long Ave., Shawnee, KS 913-631-6400 Open Monday–Friday
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photography by Kevin Anderson
8
Carving a
future
Whether on the court or behind the scenes, the Carver family has made basketball a way of life.
local profiles
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At 20 years old, Johnny Carver looks like an average college kid. But, if you strike up a conversation with him, you’ll soon realize he is anything but average. While most kids in college are trying to figure out their careers, Johnny has a clear vision. “Basketball has been a part of my life ever since I was born,” Johnny says. By age six, he had memorized NBA media guides, full of great players’ bios. “Most kids that age are playing computer games,” he says. “I was busy looking up NBA stats and watching basketball videos.” At age 11, he began writing profiles on his favorite players—for fun. It comes as no surprise that basketball has been a key part of his life. His father, Brad, played basketball at Kansas State University, and his older brother, Steve, played at Holy Cross in Worchester, Massachusetts, before a concussion ended his career. Both are basketball legends in Shawnee. Brad was Shawnee Mission Northwest High School’s all-time scoring leader with 893 points over the three years he spent at the school. The expectation was that his son Steve would break the record. So he beat his father’s scoring record with 1,115 points upon finishing high school. Then, it was Johnny’s turn to step into the spotlight. He had been going to games at SMNW since he was five and to their basketball camps since age eight. He was ready to carry on the legacy of the Carver name. His freshman year of high school, he made the Shawnee Mission Northwest Cougars basketball team. He was well on his way to make a name for himself—or so he thought. “I definitely felt pressured,” he says. “I felt that I had to follow the same path as my brother and dad.” So Johnny spent his days weightlifting, running sprints and training intensively. But, then his health began deteriorating: his stomach ached, he fatigued easily and he couldn’t keep up with his teammates. He felt defeated. After several unusual symptoms, appointments with doctors, and multiple tests and misdiagnoses, Johnny finally had an answer. He was diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis; Addison’s disease, which affects his adrenal efficiency; and an autoimmune nerve disorder called autonomic dysfunction. On a good day, his body would function at only 60 percent of its maximum for speed, strength, and endurance.
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“The feeling you get when you go down a rollercoaster, I don’t have that naturally,” Johnny explains. “It makes it very hard to play basketball without it. I didn’t have the same stamina. I felt like I put in more effort than anyone. I wanted to prove to everyone that I could keep going. I was always trying to get back on the floor and play basketball.” During his senior year he decided it was time to throw in the towel. “I just couldn’t do it anymore. My body couldn’t physically handle being on the court. At first I was really upset with myself about it. But, I realize it’s something I can’t help.”
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“I felt that I had to follow the same path as my brother and dad.” —Johnny Carver
The mark of a writer Johnny stepped away from basketball for writing. The same determination he used on the court, he poured into writing a book. What he aimed to reveal to readers was nothing short of ambitious—the greatest player to compete in the NBA. The idea came from continuing his childhood writing when his obsession for the NBA spurred him to research and write player profiles. With the help of his older brother, Steve, the two were able to use statistics to reassess who really was the greatest player of all time—and prove it quantifiably. “We wanted to eliminate bias and back opinions by mathematics,” says Steve. “Everyone has a favorite player of all time. But we wanted to turn the bias into a science.” Johnny spent the summer of 2013 and his senior year of high school working meticulously on the book. Whether in the hospital after tests were run, home sick or after school, he was writing.
“I’m really proud to see how far he’s come,” Steve says. “Despite his health issues, he’s a determined guy who wants to be the best he can be.” With the help of his grandfather Bill Hudson, a published author, and roughly 12 rounds of edits, the book, Ranketology: A New Way of Determining Basketball’s Greatest Player, was completed. Selfpublished during the fall of 2014, the book became available on Amazon in January 2015. The future of Carver Since his book was published, Johnny has received praise from many basketball executives including former Celtics star Larry Bird, who invited him to a Pacers game. Former Arkansas Razorbacks’ shooting guard Scotty Thurman spoke highly of his work. A successful career is Johnny’s number one focus. “I am competitive with myself and want to continue to push myself more,” he says. Johnny is now a student at the University of Arkansas, where he received a $10,000 scholarship after writing an essay on his book. He is pursuing a degree in business management, with minors in business analytics and sports management. He also works in the analytics division for the Razorbacks’ men’s basketball team. Of course, when he graduates he hopes to work in the analytics division for an NBA team. “My family and I are just happy he’s found his way,” Steve says. “He’s so talented and determined. I’m glad to see he’s as successful as he is and at such a young age.”
ABOVE (From left) Steve, Johnny and Brad Carver all played basketball for the Shawnee Mission Northwest High School Cougars.
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book
breakdown
Ranketology: A New Way of Determining Basketball’s Greatest Player is 334 pages. The first part of the book is technical and explains the math behind the analytic process while the second half is reader friendly, containing profiles of the top 25 NBA players. The statistical algorithm that he used to determine the greatest player contains 19 categories, each weighted by a percentage. Categories include NBA Finals MVPs, championships, and skills efficiency.
local profiles story by Gloria Gale
shawnee magazine
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photography by Jason Dailey
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Pedal Pushers Honoring the memory of a fellow cyclist, a hearty team of athletes pays tribute to father and son .
local profiles
Shawn Hawkins (left) and Stephen Whalen are two of the original Big D Cycling team members.
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A sense of calm envelops Shawn Hawkins as he spins down the road cycling in rhythmic cadence. As a confirmed bicyclist, Shawn loves to ride. When his 18-year-old son, Dalton, died in 2009, Shawn emerged with an even greater appreciation for the camaraderie and spirit the sport can provide. “One of the ways to honor Dalton was a long-distance bike ride across the USA he and I were going to do,” says Shawn. Getting ahead of himself, Shawn digresses momentarily to think back on his love affair with cycling. “This isn’t a new sport for me. I began cycling with my family on our mountain bikes while the kids were young. Our family camping experiences always included biking. I remember I used to pull our daughter, Makenzie; my wife, Rhonda, and Dalton would roll alongside.” Then, another memory emerges. “I remember a high school buddy from Iowa gave me his dad’s old road bike. My neighbor, Stephen Whalen, checked it out with a ‘thumbs-up.’” It was the beginning of a long road of friendship with Stephen. Shawn and Stephen started gathering at Jerry’s Bait Shop in Lenexa regularly for Monday night rides. Soon, they were introduced to other cyclists who, in Shawn’s opinion, “just love to ride.” The joy of biking became a ritual for the budding cycle group. Shawn did his first century ride in 2003 with Stephen and fellow cyclists from St. Louis. The MS 150 followed and continued for several years. “Dalton joined us in 2008,” he recounts. As Dalton grew older, the father and son shared more rides together. “We were able to spend a week in the mountains with many of my family members who also love to ride. We rode the Triple Bypass in 2007, and I can recall that Dalton loved every minute of it. Was I ever the proud dad,” Shawn says. After Dalton passed away, Stephen Whalen was touched by the tragedy and decided it was time to pay tribute to Dalton. “A group of men and women who enjoy bike racing decided to ride in his memory. The Big D Cycling, named in honor of Dalton, came together not just to ride for fun but also competitively,” says Stephen, president and one of the principal organizers. “That was his nickname, Big D,” adds Stephen reflectively. “I named him that when he was in third grade.”
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local
profiles Cycling
for all!
Last year was a big year for Big D Cycling. USA Cycling named the Shawnee team 2015 Masters Club of the Year, a significant accomplishment with more than 2,400 teams in the USA competing for that title, says team president, Stephen Whalen. USA Cycling is the national organization for the country’s numerous competitive bicycling teams.
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USAC recognized Big D’s mission to promote of cycling for everyone in the community by hosting rides and rider clinics, and hosting the annual Veterans Cyclocross Race on the front yard of the Leavenworth Veteran’s Administration hospital, an event that brings out as many as 150 cyclists. And this year, Stephen says, they hope to move it to Wyandotte County Lake to draw even more cyclists from the Kansas City area.
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A big part of promoting racing, Stephen adds, is reaching the young cyclists and helping them get involved in competing. Big D Cycling’s sponsor, Keen Wealth Advisors, will actually sponsor junior racers so they can race free. “It’s about growing the sport, helping people get into the sport of bicycle racing,” Stephen says. “We have to get the young members.” —Nadia Imafidon
Getting back on track After Dalton’s death, Shawn took off a couple of years before deciding it was time to try the long-distance ride across the coast to coast—the one he and his son would’ve shared. “I found a small group of riders from across the country. I thought this was a chance to do something to honor my son. We started in San Francisco and ended 47 days later in New Hampshire.” During the ride, Shawn’s 50th birthday came and went as he rode with several family members. Big D Cycling team drove out to the middle of Kansas as Shawn passed through and joined for a day. “At the end of the ride to the coast, we dipped our tires in the Atlantic Ocean—it was quite a journey,” recalls Shawn.
“We now have over 50 members, both men and women. We are competitive in the cycling arena and rank at or near the top in many of the race categories we enter.” —Stephen Whalen, President of Big D Cycling In many ways finding camaraderie with his teammates during the long-distance ride gave Shawn the desire to re-enter the world of team cycling with Big D. When he finally returned to the group, he found they were organized with a board of directors. Now the team is sponsored by Keen Wealth Advisors, which helps fund cycling and philanthropic ventures. Those efforts include fitting helmets in collaboration with the Shawnee Rotary Bike Safety Rodeo and the Bike Safety Rodeo in Wyandotte County. The team has also helped restore gently used bicycles in conjunction with Shawnee Parks and Recreation department. Big D Cycling races in USAC-sanctioned road races; criterium races, or one-mile or less circuits where “all kinds of mayhem happens,” explains Stephen; and cyclocross races on enclosed tracks with obstacles. “And it’s not just men anymore,” Stephen says. “We now have over 50 members, both men and women. We are competitive in the cycling arena and rank at or near the top in many of the race categories we enter.” Recently, 20 members of the team returned from their annual spring training camp in Scottsdale, Arizona. “We have already posted our first victory of the season at the Annual Froze Toes bike race in Columbia, Missouri,” Stephen says. Currently, Shawn rides to honor his son’s memory. “I want to give thanks to all team members who have come together to make Big D cycling a group of individuals who have all joined together to support and encourage each other in cycling, as well as any and all aspects of life for the good of each other, family and community,” he says. “I know that Dalton would be proud of each and every member of this team.”
local
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Shane Jones, of Big D Cycling, at the Robidoux Roundup in St. Joseph, Missouri. Jones took 2nd in Masters 40+. Photo by Randy Braley
local profiles story by Kel Woods
shawnee magazine
sunflowerpub.com
photography by Emily Steele
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The Silly Songbirds
of Shawnee Where there’s music, movement, slobber and sing-alongs.
local profiles
Porter Funeral Homes & Crematory Locally owned and operated since 1902
8535 Monrovia Lenexa, KS 66215 913-438-6444
1835 Minnesota Ave. Kansas City, KS 66102 913-621-6400
www.porterfuneralhome.com The Littlest Birds is not your typical music class. Specifically designed for young ones, it’s not rigid with note perfection or competition. And it expects a few slobbers here and there from the littlest song birds. The Littlest Birds Music Together in Shawnee focuses on the idea that young children learn best from their role models and their loved ones when they are actively making music with them. Sounds, movement and rhythm are all foundations of music, and parents can help foster those skills and a love of music in their children through participating in the program alongside them. While it’s typical to see children waddle, crawl, scream or laugh during class, says director of the music center, Kari Alejandre, these minor deviations from music itself are all part of the process. “There’s a method to the madness,” Alejandre says. “We let them find their own way through rhythm. Families are able to learn these songs and take joy and giggles out of it. That’s the greatest gift we can give them.” Through a friend, Alejandre was first introduced to the global Music Together program. It wasn’t until she had her own child, however, that she experienced firsthand the power of music. Her son Paolo would recognize and respond to songs Alejandre sang to him while he was still in the womb.
—Kari Alejandre “I would sing to him and play guitar,” she says of her now four-year-old son. “I could feel him respond and move. His favorite song was The Beatles’ ‘Blackbird.’ As a newborn, Paolo would only be calm after I sang ‘Blackbird’ to him. I knew then how music is such a nurturing component to childhood.” Six months after Paolo was born, Kari was attending Music Together teacher training sessions in Fort Meyers, Florida.
School of Dance
913-268-4403 www.nalliaschoolofdance.com Classes for all ages All Styles of Tap * Ballet * Jazz * Acrobatics
Contemporary Ideas with Classic Technique
15331 W. 67th St., Shawnee, Kansas 66217 (S.M. Pkwy & Lackman/Maurer)
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“The whole class is one long song of joy. Several of the parents are grownup children who just want to participate in having fun with our kids.”
Nallia
17
Philip C. Gaus DDS
Justin W. Labart DDS, MD
Dr. Philip Gaus has been practicing in northeast Kansas since 1991, having previously spent over a decade serving in the United States Air Force. Dr. Gaus is proud that he is now caring for the grandchildren and even great-grandchildren of some of those patients from decades ago. Dr. Justin Labart, another long-time area resident, joined the practice in 2013, having received his DDS and MD degrees from UMKC with honors. Shawnee Oral Surgery takes pride in employing the latest in surgical technology and in its commitment to the highest level of compassionate care. We can book appointments for any of your treatment needs, including extractions, implants and corrective jaw surgery, and we can perform most procedures with IV anesthesia.
Please call today – we are looking forward to seeing you! Kari Alejandre used to sing songs to her son Paolo (pictured) while he was still in the womb. He would later recognize and respond to those songs as she sang to him as a newborn.
6844 Silverheel Street, Shawnee KS 66226
913-441-7868 www.gausdds.com
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profiles
The Beat goes on
Each 10-week semester has a curriculum of 12 to 14 songs that focus on rhythmic chants, tonal and rhythm patterns and instrumental play-alongs that invite children to explore music. Families are given a book and CD of the song collection. Kari Alejandre shares some snapshots of the sessions below.
(Opposite) Every Wednesday and Saturday, Kari Alejandre holds her Littlest Birds Music Together sessions in hopes of nurturing a love for music in young children. Russell Dorn takes a closer look at Alejandre’s guitar. (Above) Simone Allen tries out the maracas during class.
“The Hello Song” … Each class begins with “Hello Song.” “Hello, everybody, so glad to see you!” they all sing together. Free Dance includes … playing with colorful scarves and often listening to Bob Marley’s “Everything’s Going to Be Alright.” “The Snail and Mouse” ... is a song that plays on rhythm and alliteration: “Slowly, slowly, creeps a garden snail.” Playing in the kitchen includes … a jam session of kitchen utensils like pots, pans, spoons and ice cube trays.
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The littlest songbirds Since the fall of 2014, eager children and their loved ones gather to participate in Alejandre’s class, The Littlest Birds Music Together, every Wednesday and Saturday with the purpose of making music together. For 45 minutes, families are invited to join the fun and imagination of exploring the different ways to bring music into their children’s lives. Joy and giggles are inevitable when you fill a room with children recently up from their naps. Under the direction of Alejandre, families work through a set of songs that explore singing, keeping rhythm, and playing different musical instruments like drums and wooden sticks. “The whole class is one long song of joy,” Alejandre says. “Several of the parents are grownup children who just want to participate in having fun with our kids,” Alejandre says, adding that she is no exception. Many of the parents have recognized the difference music has made in their kids’ lives, like Kelcy Barger and her husband, Lance. They play guitar and keyboard many times through the day with their three-year-old daughter, Annabel. Kelcy, Lance and Annabel have attended the class for a year. The Bargers find that the class helps Annabel socialize and has instilled in her a love for music. “I love her reaction and seeing how much she’s grown and interacted with people,” Kelcy says. “As a baby she loved music, and now that love has exponentially grown. Her favorite song is ‘John the Rabbit.’ She asks to sing it all the time.” The children make a lot of requests and suggestions. Four-year-old Bryson Reitz, a regular on Saturdays with his mom, Cathleen, is always down for superhero fun. “Can we play Batman?” he asks as he looks gleefully at Alejandre. “Kids know what to expect when they come to class,” Alejandre says. “Each week it’s the same set of songs, but we change it up with our style. And they genuinely look forward to it.” In the future Alejandre simply hopes to see more smiling kids and parents at her sessions. “My goal is to bring music into the homes of Shawnee,” she says. “This isn’t some magical formula. We know the power of music. The power of connection. There’s no such thing as exposing your child too early.”
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local profiles story by David Grimes
shawnee magazine
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photography by Kevin Anderson
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That’s Your
’Cue
Blind Box BBQ is bringing gourmet barbecue (and good bourbon) to Shawnee.
local profiles
Opposite One of the starters, Butcher’s Block, is a classic charcuterie board with an assortment of cheeses and smoked meat. Middle right The Carolina Q sandwich with pulled pork, house slaw and onion straws.
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There’s a new pit master in town. And he’s setting a new precedent for high-end barbecue in Shawnee at Blind Box BBQ. When owner of the new business, Joe Tulipana, graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in civil engineering, he had no idea that in a few short years, he would be smoking meat and serving it in his own barbecue restaurant. But the signs were all there.“Barbecue is something I’ve always loved doing, just as a hobby to enjoy with friends and family,” Tulipana says. Blind Box BBQ was born from Tulipana’s dream of classic barbecue served with style, and a lot of helping hands made the dream come to life. From the massive smoker constructed by a family friend to the rustic-style wooden barn doors that separate part of the dining area for reserved parties, this restaurant is hand-made. Just last summer, this space was an old Japanese steakhouse. Tulipana and his younger brother, John, built the light fixtures, the black walnut bar, and even the wooden tabletops. “We pride ourselves on presentation,” Tulipana says. “We want everything to look just as good as it tastes.” He and his staff have certainly managed that. Instead of using Styrofoam containers or plastic trays typical of a barbecue joint, all the food is served on white china plates. Each meal is arranged by Tulipana or one of his chefs to feed the eye (before feeding the body). One of the starters on the menus is a Butcher’s Block, “a classic charcuterie board, Blind-Box style” that includes in-house smoked meats such as ribs, sausage, and brisket, and a variety of aged cheeses. You’ll find Granny Smith apple slices thoughtfully included as a palate cleanser. Since Blind Box’s opening last August, Tulipana has put together a staff as passionate as he is. None of his staff had any previous job experience with barbecue. Even the pit master, “the very integral piece to the whole thing,” learned everything he knows from Tulipana—from his smoking technique for all of the meats to his recipes for original rubs and sauces. But it’s obvious Tulipana is in his element, constantly on his feet and working just as hard as his staff. “I love being in the kitchen,” he says. “They can’t keep me out. That’s where my true passion is. If something’s not right, I’ll go back there, and we’ll figure it out. If it’s not right, then it’s not going into the dining room.” Tulipana’s modern take on classic Kansas City barbecue is reflected in his menu. He drew inspiration from common barbecue staples like pulled pork, burnt ends and baby back ribs. Hog wings, while not original, are a fresh twist to traditional chicken wings, made from pork shanks tossed in spicy chili and honey glaze.
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Opposite Joe Tulipana, owner of Blind Box BBQ
“It’s important to educate. People find out what they like, that they might not have known about before.” —Joe Tulipana
contact: 13214 W 62nd Terrace Shawnee KS 66216 (913) 268-4BBQ(4227) blindboxbbq.com
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He has also included treats for more adventurous diners, like the Notorious P.I.G., a sandwich with smoked sausage topped with pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, and onion straws. It’s not for the faint of heart, but with it you can enjoy a hot, grilled romaine salad with smoked salmon, sautéed onions and carrots, marinated tomatoes, blue cheese and a light olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Tulipana also decided when planning his restaurant to add a fully stocked bourbon bar. His vision was to provide a nice place for after hours, up scale drinks. To that end, he reached out to Andrew Olsen, a locally known mixologist, to help him design his selection of cocktails. Together, they’ve crafted a drink list that is simple enough to keep casual diners from getting lost but varied enough to stand alone and attract liquor connoisseurs. The drink menu is sleek, simple, and easy to navigate, and offers learning opportunities throughout. Each page includes a fun guide to the style of glass in which each drink is served. The menu also helps patrons discern the difference between bourbon and whiskey (a noble cause). But if you’re not a fan of bourbon or whiskey, you will also find crafted cocktails with vodka, rum, gin, tequila as well as beer and wine. The drink menu even details the kinds of grapes that make the different colors of wine. “You can list stuff all day long, but if nobody knows what it is, they’re not going to order it,” Tulipana says. “It’s important to educate. People find out what they like, that they might not have known about before. Then, they’re more apt to get it, rather than just saying, ‘Well, I know what Bud Light tastes like.’” It’s this simple yet sophisticated style that makes Blind Box BBQ stand apart. A sign on the wall explains the restaurant’s name, defining it as “a box in which BBQ competition teams prepare their entries for presentation and turn-in.” Tulipana has never competed and didn’t go to any culinary school to learn the craft. But he treats each customer like a competition judge— giving them the best meal he can make.
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#1244 - Shawnee, KS
Hours: M-F: 7aM - 9pM SaT: 9aM - 9pM SUN: 9aM - 7pM
913-268-KING (5464)
12106-B ShawNee MISSIoN PKwy, ShawNee KS
www.visitshawneeks.com
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Do You Fancy? A whiskey flight is a collection of three pours of different whiskeys. The pours are only half an ounce each, so the buyer can sample the three different drinks without having to pay full price for them. This is an excellent way to decide your favorites. Blind Box offers a whole page of whiskey flights on its drink menu, so it’s high time to start sipping. There’s even a Japanese Whiskey Tour. Highly recommended comes the World Whiskey Flight, which showcases exemplary brands from America, Canada and Ireland. While patrons may be more familiar with the American varieties, they can compare their favorites to the smooth sweetness of the Canadian selection and lingering sharpness of the Irish one. Experiment and let your taste buds explore. Blind Box BBQ is the perfect place to cultivate a palate for good whiskey.
One whiskey flight called the Bourbon Country 2 features Elijah Craig 12 Year Small Batch, Woodford Reserve Double Oak, and Blanton’s.
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Which Flight
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Crafting a
Legacy shawnee magazine
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Local artist Charles Goslin combines his artistic talent and love of history to capture the integral moments and people of the past.
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story by
Katy Schamberger
photography by Kevin Anderson
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Pioneer Crossing Park
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“I’d like to find that unknown hero that’s out there—male or female— and introduce them to the world.”
Recreating history Shawnee is among several cities that display Goslin’s work, a combination of murals, paintings and sculpture that commemorate integral moments in local history. Discovering that history is part of what Goslin loves most about his work—and it’s that drive to learn that got Goslin hooked on Shawnee history. “It’s intoxicating to be with Charles and listen to him,” says Neil Holman, director of the City of Shawnee Parks and Recreation Department. “When
he’s talking, you can actually visualize what he’s saying.” After moving to the area in 1955, Goslin discovered several years later that the old stone house where wagonmaster Dick Williams served Santa Fe Trail travelers was scheduled to be demolished for a grocery store parking lot. Goslin persuaded the store owners to delay the parking lot construction until every stone in the home was numbered, then the home disassembled and the pieces moved to Shawnee Mission Park (some of these stones have since been raided). It was a fitting campaign, given Williams’ importance to the community’s earliest travelers. “He was like the Yellow Freight of Shawnee,” Holman says. “He would move goods down the trails.” Holman shares Goslin’s love of Shawnee. He’s worked with the city for 25 years and has worked with Goslin on a number of his commissions, including the two sculptures at Shawnee’s Pioneer Crossing Park. “I went to him and wanted a gateway sculpture,” Holman says. “Parks aren’t always ball fields and playgrounds. They’re also entryways into a city and its history.” Because of Shawnee’s rich history, there are many stories to tell, so Goslin’s art has been an invaluable addition to the Shawnee landscape. “Shawnee was a city before Kansas was a state,” says Kevin Fern, executive director of Visit Shawnee. “We have a deep and rich history, and to have a local icon be able to document that history is incredible.” Fern also credits the city and surrounding community not just for recognizing Goslin’s skills but also for believing in the value of his contributions. “The investment the community has made to commemorate Shawnee history is unique,” Fern says. “Few other communities have that.” Good friends with Goslin’s son and a long-time admirer of Goslin’s talent, Fern is proud to see that Goslin’s art has become an integral part of the community. “He was like a legend when I was growing up,” Fern says. “There aren’t too many sculptors and artists who are so celebrated in their communities.” Holman couldn’t agree more. “I would love to work with Charles again on something,” Holman says. “In this city of 60,000 people, art needs to be a central part of the community.”
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It all started on his grandfather’s front porch. “If there was a catalyst that really got me going, it was my grandfather telling stories about our family,” says Shawnee resident and celebrated artist, Charles Goslin. “My grandfather would pull a pallet on the front porch, and he and I and my brother would lay out there on a hot summer evening with the crickets going and the stars shining. He could tell stories—I mean, you were there. You could hear the sounds, smell the sweat of the horses. The idea that these things happened—and happened to my great-great grandfather—it was exciting.” Goslin has created a body of work that’s nothing short of impressive. He has casted bronze sculptures in several locations in the Kansas City area and painted murals in various Shawnee buildings, at downtown Kansas City’s Steamboat Arabia Museum and at the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence. Goslin’s family settled in mid-Missouri long before statehood, in a tumultuous time that captured Goslin’s imagination through his grandfather’s stories. “They came to Boone County in 1818,” he says. “It’s fun when you know where your folks came from and how they got there.” It’s only fitting that Goslin’s fascination with his family’s history led to a lifetime of capturing an historic moment or figure in time in paintings or sculpture. He spent years juggling commissions with full-time careers at a local engineering firm and as an illustrator at Hallmark. As Goslin’s body of work grew, so too did his opportunity to create more as word started to spread. One particularly memorable year, Goslin worked on two murals at one time—on opposite sides of Kansas. “I have a large mural in the Hollinburg Ranch Museum, right on the Nebraska border, and one in the Elkhart Museum, in the furthest corner of Kansas. That’s a terrible drive,” he adds with a laugh.
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Chief Charles Bluejacket, Herman Laird Park
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Revealing untold stories
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A big part of what drives Goslin’s creations isn’t just the historic figure or event—it’s the larger story that provides context for how he’ll approach each painting or sculpture. “The most recent piece I’ve done is a figure of Saint Teresa of Ávila for Avila University,” Goslin says. “I asked the university president for any books or writings about her so I could learn more. He gave me a book that she wrote, and I was really inspired by her. She was a fantastic woman— way ahead of her time.” Creating art grounded in history is a way for Goslin to learn about the people and events that
shaped the world around him. “My dad used to love to take me hunting,” he says. “I never really shot anything, but I found arrowheads in the fields. I had an insatiable desire to find out who made those arrowheads, the people who lived there and who they were.” Fast forward several decades, as Goslin struck up a close friendship with Fred McGraw, a librarian at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. The two enjoyed collecting and trading ancient artifacts, and, when McGraw passed, his widow sent several books to Goslin, including a Methodist hymnal written in the Shawnee language.
It was a fitting gift for someone who had heard about Native Americans since he was a boy, first through his grandfather’s stories, then later as he discovered remnants of their lifestyles on his hunting trips. Goslin’s respect for NativeAmerican heritage is evident in several of his sculptures, including a life-sized bronze statue of Chief Charles Bluejacket, which proudly stands in Shawnee’s Herman Laird Park in honor of the Shawnee Indian chief, minister and farmer whose legacy dates back to the early days of the city. Not content to merely honor the past, Goslin found a way to bring the gift from his friend—and his connection to Native-
American history—to forge an in-person connection. “I was told by a friend about a Native-American church in Kansas City, Kansas,” Goslin says. “I took along the hymnal, and they were so excited about it. An older Shawnee woman told me that when she was a little girl, she had her mouth washed out with soap because she spoke the Shawnee language. When she saw the hymnal, it moved her to tears. I thought to myself, ‘I’m going to do something about that.’” So Goslin had approximately 400 copies of the hymnal printed and presented them to the church, a moment that led to a treasured memory.
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“We went and heard these hymns sung in Shawnee, Cherokee and several different Native-American languages,” he says. “It was a dream come true to be a part of this community.”
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Charles Goslin among several finished paintings in his home studio in western Shawnee.
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Seeking more stories You’d think that, after immortalizing so many historic moments in his art (not to mention traveling the world to paint, learn and explore), 85-year-old Goslin might opt to slow down sometime soon. Not likely—unless his wife steps in. “Liz talked me into giving up a piece last year, and it was like giving up a member of the family,” Goslin says with a laugh. “There was good thinking behind it. Getting up on a ladder is a problem for me, and the piece of sculpture they wanted me to do was about four stories high.” Goslin might steer clear of super-sculptures, but he’s always on the lookout for another moment to capture, another story to tell. “I’d like to find that unknown hero that’s out there—male or female—and introduce them to the world,” he says. “I feel like there are a lot of stories out there that haven’t been told.”
of r u o eaT
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Shawnee artist Charles Goslin has a number of pieces of public art throughout Shawnee, each of which celebrates historic moments. Here are several to add to your must-see list.
Shawnee Historic Murals
Chief Charles Bluejacket
Shawnee City Hall | 11110 Johnson Drive
Herman Laird Park | Northeast corner of Johnson Drive and Cody
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You might not initially expect to see works of art in a city hall, but it’s a fitting place to pay tribute to local history. Goslin created three murals that wrap around the building’s lobby and collectively depict 90 moments and individuals from Shawnee’s history. Be sure to grab a pamphlet, which guides you through each mural and its details.
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Wagon Train And Dick Williams, Wagon Master
A life-size bronze sculpture honors Chief Charles Bluejacket, who was elected Shawnee chief in the early 1860s. The sculpture depicts Chief Bluejacket reading to two children, a testament to Chief Bluejacket’s dedication to spending time every day to read, counsel and listen to children.
Shawnee Indian Prayer Wheel Blackfish Parkway Trail | 13717 Blackfish Parkway
Pioneer Crossing Park | Shawnee Mission Parkway and Melrose Pioneer Crossing Park is Shawnee’s newest park and celebrates the pioneers who came through Shawnee in the 1800s as they traveled along the Santa Fe Trail. Goslin has two works of art in the park: an original painting of a wagon train that was recreated as a lifesized, three-dimensional brick wall mural and a limestone and bronze sculpture of Dick Williams, Wagon Master. According to the Shawnee’s visitor center, Shawnee saw a peak of 600 wagons per week.
The heritage of the Shawnee Indians is a focal point of the 1.5-mile Blackfish Parkway Trail (suitable for hiking and biking) with a Shawnee Indian Prayer Wheel sculpture created by Goslin.
Shawnee Crossings ZARDA- RIEKE DEVELOPEMENT 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
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shawnee visitors guide
See Shawnee Caenen Castle 12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 reneekellysharvest.com Caenen Castle was built in 1907 by Remi Caenen, who quarried the home’s stones by hand. Since 2004, it has been managed by Renee Kelly, first as a private venue site and now as a farm-totable restaurant called Harvest. 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. 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.
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Pioneer Crossing Statue Shawnee Mission Parkway at Melrose Lane Statue by artist Charles Goslin celebrates the pioneers who traveled through and settled Shawnee in the 1800s.
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Shawnee Town 1929 11501 W. 57th St. (913) 248-2360 shawneetown.org Shawnee Town 1929 is an outdoor museum depicting the community in the 1920s. Wells Fargo House 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.
travel guide Wonderscope – Children’s Museum of Kansas City 5700 King Street A leading, quality family destination. With a world-class design Wonderscope provides dynamic, interactive experiences. It provides a friendly, convenient and accessible environment for young children. A place where your family will find wonder, joy and magic.
Shop Shawnee Downtown
Dodge City Beef 11101 Johnson Drive (913) 647-8796 dodgecitybeef.com Doll Cradle 10910 Johnson Drive (913) 631-1900 dollcradle.com Encore Unique Boutique 11006 Johnson Drive (913) 268-5393 encorekc.com
Family Tree Nursery 7036 Nieman Road (913) 631-6121 familytreenursery.com
Saint’s Pub & Patio 11900 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 217-7260 saintspub.com
Funky Munky Music 12710 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5555 funkymunkymusic.com
Tanner’s Bar & Grill 22374 W. 66th St. (913) 745-8100 tannersbarandgrill.com
Laura’s Couture Collection 13010 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-3010 laurascouture.com
Twisters Grill and Bar 13410 W. 62nd Terr. (913) 549-4156 twistersgrillandbar.com
Nellie & Nico’s, an Antique Boutique 6495 Quivira Road (913) 631-6767 nellie-nicos.com
Bates City BBQ 6493 Quivira Road (913) 962-7447 batescitybbq.net
Nigro’s Western Store 10509 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-2226 Prairie Point Quilts 11950 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3333 prairiepoint.com
Eat Shawnee Bar & Grill
Restaurants
Big Bam’s Burgers 5930 Nieman Road (913) 962-1230 bigbams.com The Big Biscuit 12276 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 912-7350 bigbiscuitrestaurant.com Chen’s Kitchen 7166 Renner Rd. (913) 268-1668 chenskitchenshawnee.com
Farmers’ Market (May-October) 11110 Johnson Drive, City Hall (913) 248-2360 cityofshawnee.org
Bar West 7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 barwestgrill.com
Country Club Cafe 21911 W. 66th St. #101 (913) 441-2444
Hartman Hardware 11018 Johnson Drive (913) 631-7592 hartmanhardware.com
Barley’s Brewhaus & Restaurant 16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 barleysbrewhaus.com
Dos Reales 6453 Quivira Road (913) 962-5014 dosrealeskc.com
Western Shawnee
Blind Box BBQ 13214 W 62nd Terrace (913) 268-4227 blindboxbbq.com
Eggtc. 7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 eggtckc.com
Around Shawnee
Jake’s Place 12001 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5253 jakesplacebarandgrill.com
Fogones 11200 Johnson Drive (913) 248-4411
Doll Hospital & More 7003 Millridge St. (913) 271-8561
By B! Boutique 6314 Monrovia (913) 213-5255 byBboutique.com
Bridal Extraordinaire 12109 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5566 bridalextraordinaire.com Designer Consignment 12205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3330 designerconsignment.biz
Johnny’s Tavern 13131 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 962-5777 johnnystavern.com Knub’s Pub 5362 Roberts Street (913) 441-5682
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant 13803 W. 63rd St. (913) 375-1000 fritzskc.com Grand Wok 15810 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-8668 grandwokks.com
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Hereford House Shawnee 17244 Midland Drive (913) 268-8000 herefordhouse.com
Sutera’s Pizza 22716 Midland Drive (913) 667-3000 suterasshawnee.com
Jose Pepper’s Border Grill & Cantina 16605 Midland Drive (913) 631-1011 josepeppers.com
Twisted 22030 W. 66th St. (913) 441-0444 twistedfresh.com
Stay in Shawnee
McAlister’s Deli 11330 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3354 mcalistersdeli.com
Courtyard by Marriott 17250 Midland Drive (913) 631-8800 marriott.com
Old Shawnee Pizza and Italian Kitchen 6000 Rogers Drive (913) 631-5716 shawneepizza.com
Hampton Inn 16555 Midland Drive (913) 248-1900 hamptoninn.com
Paulo & Bill 16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900 pauloandbill.com Pegah’s Family Restaurant 11005 Johnson Drive (East Location) (913) 962-6700
Pine & Bamboo Garden 10915 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-9545 pinebamboogarden.com Renee Kelly’s Harvest 12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 reneekellysharvest.com Sakura Japanese Restaurant 7474 Nieman Road (913) 962-6361 sakurajapaneserestaurant.net Sombrero’s Mexican Cantina 22702 Midland Drive (913) 441-6700 sombreroskc.com Sushi Mido 6010 Nieman Road (913) 322-8888 sushimido.net
19617 W. 101st St. K-10 & Woodland, Lenexa, KS
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Hotels
Minsky’s Pizza 7198 Renner Road (913) 631-0059 minskys.com
5354 Roberts St. (West Location) (913) 422-3600 pegahsfamilyrestaurant.com
OM DEL NO BO IVE W TH RIN LO G CAT 6000 Rogers Drive ION 61st & Nieman, Shawnee, KS S 913.631.5716
Holiday Inn Express 17346 Midland Drive (913) 400-2509 hiexpress.com
RV Park
Walnut Grove 10218 Johnson Dr., Merriam (913) 262-3023 walnutgroverv.com
theaters in Shawnee B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 1630 Midland Drive 913.631.0871 bbtheatres.com/shawnee-18/
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any new class enrollment or week of summer camp 23803 W. 83rd Terr. | Shawnee, Kansas 913-422-0161
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Shawnee City Map
out & about
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Western Spike
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Western Shawnee offers a number of recreational outlets, including the popular Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball. Spring through fall, this organization is catching rays on its 18 sand courts. Saturdays at the Beach are popular for pick up games. smbv.com
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1 Shawnee Golf and Country Club 2 Stump Park 3 Kansas City Ice Center 4 Mid-America Sports Complex 5 Mid-America West 6 Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball 7 Shawnee Mission Park Trails 8 Starwood Park 9 Shawnee Mission Park 10 The Theatre in the Park 11 Tomahawk Hills Golf Course 12 Holiday Inn Express 13 Courtyard by Marriott 14 Hampton Inn 15 B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 16 KU MedWest 17 Park Lanes 18 Swarner Park 19 Johnson County Museum of History 20 Veteran’s Park Johnson County Library Thomas A. Soetart Aquatic Center Civic Centre 21 PowerPlay 22 Simply Unique Events 23 Caenen Castle 24 Shawnee Town 1929 Herman Laird Park 25 Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City Splash Cove 26 City Hall 27 Downtown Shawnee 28 Overland Park Regional Medical Center - ER of Shawnee 29 Pioneer Crossing Park 30 Sky Zone 31 Jaycee Park 32 Listowel Park 33 Shawnee Mission Health
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14 Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, CC BY-SA, www.openstreetmap.org
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What & Where
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History 101 Shawnee Town 1929 is a living museum that celebrates Shawnee’s heritage and community by preserving the city’s architectural relics. Be sure to check out various events that occur yearround. shawneetown.org
Downtown Enjoy shopping, restaurants, culture and a variety of festivals held year-round in downtown Shawnee. visitshawneeks.com
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Park It Parks are found all over the Shawnee region. Listowel Park is an ideal place to host a picnic. The space includes a great playground and large shelter with four tables. cityofshawnee.org
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Shawnee Mission Park takes the prize for 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. jcprd.com
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1,600 Acres
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shawnee visitors guide
close to everything
Wonderscope | 5700 King St. | wonderscope.com
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“You’re less than 15 minutes from everywhere you probably need to be. And having groceries, medical care, a gym and a variety of other services and amenities within walking distance from our house is so nice. Shawnee is convenient for all things in life.” —Whitney Yadrich, Shawnee resident
C l os e to E v e ry t h i n g Shawnee enjoys a winning combination of rich culture, successful schools and reasonable commutes. So exactly what does it mean to live, work and play in this comfortable city? 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. Money Magazine has cited Shawnee as one of the “Best Places to Live” in America for affordable housing, air quality index, and median commute time. BusinessWeek Magazine selected Shawnee as one of the “Best Affordable Suburbs in the United States.” Shawnee’s broad demographics 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. Its 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 Kansas City, coming home to Shawnee’s small-town charm is savored by residents and businesses alike. — Gloria Gale
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YOU’RE INVITED! Take part in the
xxxBeach | 11501 W. 57th St. | Shawneetown.org Shawnee Mission Volleyball | 19800 Johnson Drive | smbv.com
formal Wedding Register
Shawnee is conveniently located just minutes from everything you want to do while you stay in the Kansas City area.
Shopping Shawnee is home to a wide variety of niche and specialty shops while world-class shopping venues are just minutes away. • 7 minutes – Legends Outlet Mall • 13 minutes – Country Club Plaza • 15 minutes – Oak Park Mall Sports • 30 minutes – Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs • 30 minutes – Kauffman Stadium, home of the 2015 World Series Champions Kansas City Royals travel 30 minutes to the Kansas City International Airport
Commemorate your 2015 or 2016 wedding with a formal wedding announcement in Kansas Weddings Magazine. visitshawneeks.com shawnee magazine
Family Fun & Entertainment In Shawnee • Kansas City Ice Center and Ice Pavilion • Power Play Family Entertainment Center • Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball • Shawnee Mission Park • Sky Zone Trampoline Park • Splash Cove at Jim Allen Aquatic Center • Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City
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This special opportunity will create a memory unlike any other for your wedding. Our formal wedding announcements are written by you and feature your beautiful wedding pictures.
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Quick Guide index
shawnee visitors guide
Emergency & Medical Emergency Assistance
KU Midwest Urgent Care
911
(913)-588-8450
Overland Park Regional Medical Center—ER of Shawnee
(913) 227-8400
Shawnee Mission Health Prairie Star shawneemission.org
(913) 676-2000
Shawnee Information Visit Shawnee visitshawneeks.com
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce
(913) 631-6545
shawneekschamber.com
Hampton Inn
Courtyard by Marriott
(913) 631-6545
Shawnee Dispatch
Shawnee Magazine
shawneedispatch.com
sunflowerpub.com
(913) 962-3000
(888) 497-8668
Hotels Holiday Inn Express hiexpress.com
HamptonInn.com
marriott.com
(913) 248-1900
(913) 631-8800
(913)-400-2509
Johnson County Museum
Shawnee Town 1929
jocomuseum.org
shawneetown.org
(913) 715-2550
(913) 248-2360
City Hall
Fire Department
Police Department
cityofshawnee.org
(nonemergency number)
(nonemergency number)
(913) 631-1080
(913) 631-2150
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Shawnee Events
shawnee visitors guide
May 2016 May 2 – Farmers’ Market Opens 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 14 – spring starts here Downtown Open House Visit downtown businesses and enjoy a buzz among neighbors at this open house. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. City Hall parking lot, 11110 Johnson Drive, (913) 742-6226. May 28 – 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 2016
shawnee magazine
visitshawneeks.com
June 1 – Bloody Mary Kick-Off A fun celebration featuring tomato-inspired drinks and dishes to get the community revved up for the Shawnee Town Museum’s Tomato Roll fundraiser. 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 2-5 – 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. oldshawneedays.org June 3 – Fun Fridays at the Pool Fun Fridays are back yet again. 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 to 5 p.m. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., (913) 631-7177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Drive, (913) 631-0054.
June 27 - July 5 – Flags 4 Freedom Honor those who protect and preserve our freedom with this magnificent event. The City of Shawnee and the City of 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.
July 2016 July - Summer Concert Series The series kicks off in July at Swarner Park (63rd and Lackman) on July 8. The concerts offer live music and great food. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and lawn games. Concerts begin at 7 p.m. and dates include July 22 at Stump Park (47th & Woodland) and August 5 at West Flanders Park (55th & Nieman).
August 2016 August 20 – K-9’s at the Cove Join the city at Splash Cove with the four-legged friends in your family before the end of the season. With proceeds benefiting local pet charity organizations, this event will give you the opportunity to have a fun play day at the pool with your dog. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. August 28 – Tour de Shawnee Get in the action with this annual bicycle tour. 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.
September 2016 September 11 – 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 annual Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show will fill the streets downtown. Preregistration forms can be found at Hartman Hardware (11018 Johnson Drive) and Encore
All dates and times are subject to change.
(11006 Johnson Drive). Food and drinks will be available from downtown vendors, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Johnson Drive and Nieman Road. September 17 – Friends of Shawnee Town Craft Fair Shoppers can browse through 100 craft booths featuring handmade jewelry, food, woodworkings and other artisan items at this 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. shawneetown.org September 23-24 – Shawnee Great Griller’s Blues & BBQ Contest Enjoy some of the best barbeque in the Midwest and activities for the whole community to enjoy. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., shawneegreatgrillers.com September 30 – Oktoberfest The Shawnee German-American Club’s 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 2016 october 1 – Scarecrow Festival Celebrate the autumn season at the annual Scarecrow Festival, presented by the Shawnee Downtown Partnership. Festivities include a scarecrow contest, pumpkincarving contest, pie contest and activities for the kids. 9 a.m.noon, Shawnee City Hall, 11110 Johnson Drive. October 22 - Holiday Treasures Craft Festival Beat the crowds this holiday season and pick up some unique, hand-crafted holiday gifts while you’re 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.
October 29 – Historical Haunting Bring the whole family to Shawnee Town for an evening of hayrides, trick-ortreating, costume contests and more. Entrance and activities are free. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., shawneetown.org
November 2016 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. Shawnee Civic Center.
December 2016 December 3 – Christmas Around Town Get into the holiday spirit at Shawnee’s annual community Christmas celebration—in and around the downtown area and Shawnee Town 1929. The evening includes local carolers, carriage rides, Christmas tree lighting, hand painting and even a visit from Santa. Food, fun and entertainment at 4:30-7:30 p.m.
March 2017 March 12 – 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. Be sure to attend the Heroes Pull, and at 4:30 p.m., plan to watch the 23rd Annual Duck Race at Herman Laird Park.