M AG A ZINE
Moved to Say Thanks
2 017 V i s i t or’s G uide C ur ta in s Up A T our of S h aw ne e G a rde n s Sc av e ng e r Ro c k Hun t
Spring/ Summer
2017
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Shawnee M A G A Z IN E
Vol. 9 / No. 2
FALL/WINTER 16
Editor Kelly Gibson Designer/Art Director Jenni Leiste Copy Editor Leslie Andres Account Executives Teresa Johnson-Lewis Anna Newman Ad Designer Jenni Leiste Contributing Photographers Kevin Anderson Beautiful Isolations Contributing Writers Gloria Gale Katy Schamberger Kimberly Winter Stern General Manager Katy Ibsen
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce
dear reader, In March, a man in Kansas City met a woman working at a fast food restaurant. She told him she wanted to go back to school to be a nurse. That single comment from a stranger planted a seed in this man’s mind.
President/CEO Sr. Vice President Executive Assistant Communications Manager
Linda Leeper Mary Taylor Marlene Shirley Joyce Allard
Visit Shawnee
Executive Director
Kevin Fern
Shawnee Economic Development Council Director, Business Development and Retention
Elli Bowen
Shawnee Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of Ogden Publications.
He couldn’t stop thinking about how easily he could help her. He started a crowd-sourced fundraising campaign that same evening, and in only 24 hours, he had raised more than the $1,500 needed to send the woman back to school for her CNA. He didn’t know the woman and expected nothing in return. It’s acts of kindness like this we see all over social media, but what about in Shawnee? In this issue, we highlight ways the people of Shawnee have decided to brighten someone’s day. Twelve-year-old Marissa Hitt has launched her own campaign to honor first responders through her MOVE initiative. And Beth Kornegay spends her spare time painting and hiding rocks around town as a way to beautify Shawnee and to get her neighbors outside to explore their surroundings. It’s my hope that this issue will inspire you to find some peace by painting a rock or planting a garden. Beautify Shawnee in your own way. Give back to the community by thanking a veteran or a first responder for his or her service. Donate your time or resources to a good cause that means something to you, your loved ones and your Shawnee home.
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on the cover M AG A ZINE
Moved to Say thankS
Kelly editor, Shawnee Magazine
2017 V i s i t or’s G uide C ur ta in s up a t our of s h aw ne e G a rde n s s C aV e nG e r roCk hun t
Spring/ Summer
2017
Marissa Hitt, 12, started MOVE, a way for the Shawnee community to thank its first responders. Marissa also appeared on the spring 2010 cover of Shawnee Magazine. Photo by Beautiful Isolations
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contents departments
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Rock Star
12
now playing
16
sean winn
Shawnee resident Beth Kornegay elevates the humble rock to a community art project
Two local families find success, shared purpose in movie theater renovation
Film producer and board president with Patriot Features
features
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Backyard Botany
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on the move
Gardening enthusiasts share a preview of this summer’s Garden Sampler Tour and tips on creating a lush outdoor work of art.
Marissa Hitt, 12, has a special way of showing her respect and appreciation for first responders. And she’s asking for others to join her.
Visitors Guide
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your guide to shawnee
30
travel guide
32
city map
34
close to everything
37
quick guide
38
shawnee events
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Local Profiles
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Rock
STAR Shawnee resident Beth Kornegay elevates the humble rock to a community art project.
story by Kimberly Winter Stern | photography by Beautiful Isolations
D
on’t be surprised if you climb into Beth Kornegay’s car and find a bunch of rocks scattered everywhere— painted, in their natural state, small, medium and large. The 22-year Shawnee resident is a rock enthusiast, rock collector and unofficial curator of Shawnee’s one-andonly rock-lending library—Shawnee KS Rocks! Inspiring creativity, community exploration, family togetherness and
much more, the Facebook group, which boasts nearly 1,000 members, has gained popularity since Kornegay launched it in July 2016. The gem of an idea caught Kornegay’s eye while she was scrolling through her Facebook feed. A sponsored story for Port Angeles Rocks, a group in Washington State, piqued her curiosity. When she clicked the link, a page popped
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up brimming with posts of brightly painted rocks portraying wildlife, forests, killer whales and symbols of peace and love. She learned how much the Pacific Northwest community enjoyed the rock-hunting adventure and was intrigued by how something as a rock could make people smile. “All ages, some with artistic talents, some just caught up in the spirit, were painting rocks and hiding them along the Olympic Peninsula for others to find and replace with their own creations,” Kornegay says. “The notion resonated with me, and I called a friend to bounce the idea off her—would it work in Shawnee, too?” Kornegay’s pal, Shawnee mayor Michelle Distler, was equally enamored with the idea of transforming rocks into works of art and stashing them around the community. The scavenger hunt with a twist was born on Fourth of July weekend 2016 when Distler and her daughter set to work with Kornegay to paint pounds of inaugural rocks for Shawnee KS Rocks! “I created at least 100 rocks that weekend,” says Kornegay, who found her rocks both at a local business and at the end of her driveway. “I’m not an artist, but I painted rocks with mountains, fish, palm trees.” On the back of each rock, they painted “Shawnee KS Rocks!” and the Facebook logo. Kornegay and Distler hid the rocks around businesses, parks, landmarks and unexpected spots. Kornegay set up a Facebook page and invited people in the community, especially those with children, and the rock project gained momentum. The guidelines to participate in Shawnee KS Rocks! are simple. First, no artistic skills are required and all painted rocks must be kid-friendly. Second, the rocks must be hidden on public land—private property is prohibited. Third, if you fancy the rock you find, you can keep it but are strongly encouraged to hide at least one to replace it. Finally, Kornegay wants people to take pictures of their rock-finding and rock-hiding missions and post them on the group’s Facebook page. “Some rocks have blown me away,” says Kornegay, who has kept half a dozen rocks that appealed to her. “The people of Shawnee are extremely talented, and their enthusiasm exceeded my expectations. One woman drew a series of exquisite lizards. There are Chiefs and Royals designs, too, and some sport pompoms and some are fluorescent.”
For the past year, Shawnee residents have been painting and hiding rocks around Shawnee for others to find. The Shawnee KS Rocks! initiative encourages the community to get outside and explore the area.
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“Seeing Facebook posts of someone finding a rock is like watching someone unwrap a present.” —Beth Kornegay, Founder of Shawnee KS Rocks!
Local Profiles
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Distler likes that Shawnee KS Rocks! gathers people, especially families, to paint, hide and search for rocks together. But the project has produced other positive benefits, according to the mayor. “Families find Shawnee parks they didn’t know existed,” she says. “It’s bringing people to Shawnee, and people are discovering and stopping in at local businesses. Newcomers learn the city and even learn bits of Shawnee history from placards they find in parks.” During the past year, Kornegay hid rocks on her way to or from work. Although she’s lived in western Shawnee for more than two decades, Kornegay was shocked to find a tiny community garden tucked away near Wonderscope at 57th and King while hiding rocks. “It’s off the beaten path, beautiful and serene,” she says. “Monarch butterflies were thick there during migration.” Kornegay has enjoyed watching her project take root. “Seeing Facebook posts of someone finding a rock is like watching someone unwrap a present,” she says. “It’s fun to see their face. That makes me smile.” For more information on how you can get involved, visit Facebook at Shawnee KS Rocks!
Traveling Rocks
Beth Kornegay estimates that in the 10 months since she initiated Shawnee KS Rocks! on Facebook, more than 4,000 painted rocks have been created, hidden and subsequently found in the community hide-and-seek.
“People paint and hide rocks and scour the city, searching for rocks,” she says. “It’s really addictive once you start.” Shawnee KS Rocks! has even wandered outside the city’s limits. Kornegay packed eight rocks to hide during a trip to Sanibel Island and Key West, Florida, and was delighted that three were found and posted on the Shawnee Facebook page. “One of the rocks I hid on a fishing pier was discovered and posted on Facebook. It turns out the man who found it was a former Kansas City Hallmark employee, just like me,” Kornegay says. “This has been an exercise in not only community camaraderie, but also proving just how small the world is.”
Beth Kornegay, right, started painting and hiding rocks around Shawnee in July 2016, after a similar initiative in Washington inspired her.
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Local Profiles
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Now
PLAYING Two local families find success, shared purpose in movie theater renovation
story by Katy Schamberger | photography by Kevin Anderson
R
enovating a movie theater isn’t all that different from making a movie. After months (even years) of planning, the work begins. Slowly, the vision comes to life. And then, the red carpet rolls out, the doors open and the finished product is unveiled to an excited public. There may not have been a red carpet involved when B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 with Grand Screen opened its doors the second week of November, but there was no shortage of fanfare. After closing the first week of September, the theater was completely gutted, from the theaters to the box office (even the parking lot was resurfaced). Each of the extensive improvements was designed to deliver a memorable experience for theater patrons. That experience is what B&B Theatres—a fourth-generation, family-owned company that oversees the 7th-largest theater chain in the U.S.—works tirelessly to deliver.
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“This is so much more than a typical movie theater,” says Brock Bagby, vice president of programming and business development for all 50 B&B Theatres, including the theater in Shawnee. “It’s definitely more catered to what the customer wants and needs.” That experience actually begins outside the theater. Beloved film scores swell from speakers placed strategically throughout the parking lot. Inside, a sleek lobby beckons, the focal point of which is a new concession stand complete with a full bar, expanded menu and convenient self-service features including popcorn toppings and touchscreen beverage stations. “We’re all about self-service and freedom of choice,” Bagby says. The movie-going experience culminates inside the renovated theaters. Comfortable recliners that extend at the touch of a button replaced traditional stadium seating. All of B&B’s Shawnee theaters underwent reduced seating during the renovation, a purposeful decision. “We widened the aisles between seats so there’s plenty of room to stretch out on the recliners,” Bagby says. “We also moved the screens forward by 20 feet, which creates a more intimate feel.” The crown jewel of the renovation: the Grand Screen theater, a high-tech paradise for film enthusiasts. The spacious theater includes 210 seats—all recliners—and a towering screen that measures six stories wide and three stories tall. The theater is also equipped with DTS-X, immersive audio that emits an incredible 100,000 watts of sound. Get to the theater early and check out the extensive speaker system, which is enhanced with red lights that disappear when the movie begins. Fourteen of the 18 theaters have now been fully renovated, and Bagby says the remaining renovations are scheduled to be complete by Memorial Day. That work aside, just one project remains inside B&B Theatres Shawnee 18. And for aspiring performers throughout Kansas City, it’s the most exciting one of all.
It’s Showtime! Ready to experience the B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 renovation firsthand? Check showings and special events at: www.BBTheatres.com/Shawnee-18 B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 with Grand Screen 16301 Midland Dr. (913) 954-4671
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Local Profiles
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Lights, Camera, Eat (and Drink)
Walk up to the B&B Theatres concession stand and you might notice something different—aside, of course, from the renovated, eye-catching layout. It’s the theater’s popcorn machine, and it’s front and center.
A firsthand concessions perspective from freelance writer Katy Schamberger
“Our popcorn is the most important product we have,” says Brock Bagby, vice president of programming and business development. “It’s made fresh, and we don’t use warmers. We pride ourselves on the quality.”
Is there anything as enticing as the smell of freshly popped popcorn wafting through a movie theater? Nope. Definitely not. I’ve been a movie popcorn enthusiast for most of my life and, aside from the movie itself, it’s my favorite thing about going to a theater. Not a popcorn fan? Well, we’ll question your life choices later. For now, rest assured that the B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 now provides an expanded concessions menu, thanks to the addition of a fryer and a pizza oven. Food options now include chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, cheese or sausage pizza and hot dogs, to name a few. And if you, like me, have an insatiable sweet tooth, don’t fret. An enticing array of candy beckons as you make your way to the register, highlighted by displays of freshly made pink and blue cotton candy, a big hit with pint-sized movie-goers. If you’re of legal drinking age, don’t miss the full bar and lounge area at the end of the concession stand. The movie-inspired drink list includes concoctions like The Actor (Malibu rum, Cruzan 151 Rum, Midori melon liqueur, apple Schnapps, pineapple juice and Mist Twist) or M.I.6 (Grey Goose vodka served dry with a lemon peel; also available dirty). The B&B Theatres marketing team also creates a rotating selection of cocktails that celebrate new movie releases. During my trip to the theater, Old Man Logan was the featured selection, a surprisingly smooth combination of Knob Creek whiskey, Disaronno amaretto and orange that’s disarmingly dangerous— just like the drink’s lethal namesake. But back to the popcorn. Grab a bag and head over to the selfserve stations, complete with butter dispensers, salt and an assortment of flavored toppings. I’m a purist—just butter and salt for me. And plenty of napkins, of course. I’m not ashamed to admit I devoured my bag of popcorn in record time. The verdict? Warm, fresh, crunchy and perfectly popped: I give it five out of five kernels.
“The Perfect Partnership” To the immediate right of the new concession stand and lounge area is Theater 7, the one space inside B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 that hasn’t yet been renovated. If all goes according to plan, this will be the new, permanent home of Music Theatre Kansas City, a professional music theatre and preparatory training program started in Kansas City by Cary DanielsonPandzik more than two decades ago. MTKC is in the midst of a capital campaign to raise funds for improvements and construction that would turn the 500-seat theater into a fully equipped live theater performance venue, complete with a proscenium stage nearly 50 feet high, a full orchestra pit and an extended backstage area with dressing rooms, storage and space for set and prop construction. “Our campaign will be as long as it needs to be, but we’re trying to raise $1 million by May 1,” says Julie Danielson, MTKC artistic director (and Cary’s daughter). “Our ultimate goal is $3 million, and that would cover everything, including the interior work— curtains, stage lights, sound installation, dressing rooms, et cetera.” Securing a permanent space fills a critical need for MTKC, which is considered the premier professional preparatory training program in the Midwest. As Danielson explains, kids who are interested in a career in the arts can participate in MTKC’s rigorous performance program, which enables them to put their training into practical application.
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“That’s what excites me— being able to give back to the Kansas City arts community.” —Julie Danielson, MTKC artistic director
“Everything we do is through performance—we don’t teach classes,” Danielson says. “We do full-scale productions on a one-week timeline to mimic what they’d do at a professional theater company.” That program is what brought the MTKC and B&B families together. Bagby and his sister, Brittanie, both participated in MTKC’s training program. Although Bagby isn’t currently acting, he credits MTKC for helping him to hone skills that he now uses in the business world. “My time with MTKC definitely helped my stage presence, including speeches and presentations,” Bagby says. Julie says that when she and her mom approached B&B with the idea to transform
one of the Shawnee theaters into a performance venue, the family jumped at the opportunity. “There’s a neat connection,” she says. “B&B is family-owned, and my mom started this organization 33 years ago in Wichita (25 years ago in Kansas City), and I work with her now. We’re both these family-rooted organizations that have stood the test of time with high standards of excellence and a passion for representing our communities. It’s the perfect partnership.” For Bagby and his family, working with MTKC is a chance not only to team up with an organization they support and admire but also to diversify Shawnee 18’s show schedule and fulfill a key goal.
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“We want the theater to be an entertainment destination,” Bagby says. That goes not just for theater patrons, but also for other performance-based organizations. “This theater will be made available to any local arts or educational group that wants to use it,” Danielson says. “We’d rent it out, and it would give groups another option so we’re not all fighting for the same place. That’s what excites me—being able to give back to the Kansas City arts community. We’re doing this because we need a home, but we want other groups to have a home, too. I grew up in Kansas and really want to represent arts in our state and in Johnson County.”
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Shawnee Résumé
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Sean
winn Film producer and board president of Patriot Features
Interview by Kelly Gibson | Photography by Kevin Anderson
S
ean Winn is passionate about telling stories—especially the story of veterans. So his life goal is to develop an online archive of veteran documentaries, starting here in Shawnee, through his nonprofit organization, Patriot Features. SM: What is Patriot Features? SW: Patriot Features is three things. It’s a gift to the veteran and their family. We don’t ask anything except they say yes and let us make a short documentary of their military service for them. Second, it’s an education for future generations. We’ve been privileged to be in a number of school assemblies here in town. Veterans come in, we show their feature and then do a Q&A. Third, it’s an archive. We intend to create an online archive populated by thousands of short documentaries. SM: Tell me about the birth of Patriot Features? SW: When we moved to Kansas City, I started video production with a desire to do more storytelling features. I got connected with a couple of people who work with Heartland Honor Flight here in Shawnee, and I became the videographer. I fly to Washington D.C. twice a year with veterans to see the national memorials, and I produce a video of the entire day. Patriot Features took on a life of its own. In May 2015, we became a 501c3. Our first patriot feature was WWII POW Roy Shenkel, who lives here in Shawnee. He was the seed of Patriot Features.
SM: Why veterans? SW: I never served in the military, but I love all things military. If I could go back today and sign up for a four-year stint, I’d do it. I love the elderly. I love veterans. Patriot Features tells the stories of soldiers and citizens. We’re in their homes, so you actually feel like you know them. SM: How do you find the veterans who participate? SW: It’s funny because finding veterans has been the easiest thing to do. You know people who know people. When I started in 2015, Patriot Features was designed to tell the service stories of our combat veterans all through our history. But I shifted the focus exclusively to WWII veterans because we’re losing them so fast. SM: Tell me about your love of films. I can see you’re passionate. SW: From childhood through high school, I’ve always been in love with movies. When Star Wars came out in 1977, I was there! I remember watching that in theaters, and I went back I don’t know how many times. In high school when Raiders of the Lost Arc came out, I was at the Plaza 3 Theater in Tulsa, alone, watching the movie. When I was in Dallas on staff at a church there, I got an associate’s acting degree. One of my big claims of fame was when Walker Texas Ranger was on, they filmed in Dallas, and I was an extra.
SM: Wow! Did you do any other acting? SW: I went out to L.A. in 1999-2000, and I lived right down the street from Warner Bros. I was an extra on Dharma and Greg, a sitcom on then; The West Wing; I was an extra on a Disney movie; and two or three other things. By the end of my time there, about six months, it became my goal to work on every Hollywood lot, which I got to do. I didn’t “make it” in L.A. as an actor, but video production has always been a way to be involved in that area creatively. You’re telling stories. I love doing that. We’re all living as part of a story. SM: So, this is probably like asking which child is your favorite child, but do you have a favorite Patriot Features documentary? SW: They are all wonderful, but there is one that is unique on the site because it’s two features in which the subject of each feature appears in the other’s feature: Iwo Jima survivor Ed Boswell from Prairie Village, and his medic, a guy named John Connolly from Pennsylvania. They lost contact with each other for 60 years and reconnected through the 9th Marine Division Association. Ed called me one night and said, “I’m driving up to Pennsylvania to see John. Will you come with me and do a feature?” Who would turn that down? Visit www.patriotfeatures.org
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Martin Family Dentistry, P.A.
Serving the Shawnee community for over forty years. Founded in 1964 by, our father, Dr. Gorby R. Martin.
Steven K. Martin, D.D.S. Alan J. Martin, D.D.S. Philip H. Martin, D.D.S.
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. Other dental services include—cosmetic fillings, root canals, extractions, dentures, cleanings, periodontal procedures and implant restorations.
Before
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VOTED BEST OF SHAWNEE DENTIST 2016 (913) 631-4373 | 6130 Nieman Road Shawnee, Kansas 66203
www.drmartindds.com
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Photo courtesy Carole Prentice
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Backyard
Botany
Story by Kimberly Winter Stern Photos by Kevin Anderson
T
he collective virtuosity of gardeners across the world creates a dazzling landscape where others can find serenity, inspiration, and a connection to the natural world. Whether crafted from the hands and imagination of a master gardener, landscape architect or hobbyist, gardens share a commonality: they emerge from the earth. Beyond that, it’s the passion and flair of the individual gardener that define a garden. The Shawnee Garden Club, established in 1990, helps its members take advantage of the diversity—and joy—of gardening.
Made up of gardeners representing myriad experiences and abilities, the club is a resource for gardening-related subjects ranging from beekeeping to supporting wildlife and the environment. It also encourages community involvement, such as maintaining the Shanna Morrison Memorial Rose Garden in West Flanders Park. Lucky for us, club members share some of Shawnee’s unique gardens during the muchanticipated biannual Garden Sampler Tour. Meet some of the talent behind this year’s event, scheduled for June 10.
MORE INFORMATION The Garden Club of Shawnee on Facebook or www.gardenclubofshawnee.org
20 How Does Your Garden Grow? Shawnee gardeners share sage tips on getting the most from your gardening experience— from choosing plants, to digging and planting, to enjoying the fruits of your labor. Carole Prentice offers the simplest bit of garden wisdom: “You just need to begin,” she says. “Start digging.” Christine & Tom Bradley “Get to know your own yard in terms of light conditions, soil and moisture. Be aware of the hard conditions of our climate … plant as many drought and drought-resistant plants that you can.” Carole Prentice “Preparation of the soil is important. It’s always a good idea to add compost or gypsum if you have clay.” Sally & Lonnie Roberts “Consider planting a combination of flowering and nonflowering plant varieties. Perhaps intersperse potted annuals with flowering annuals. We’re not mum lovers, and last fall we planted pansies, which lasted until the first hard freeze.”
Ch ris t in e
&
Tom
bradley “I’m not a choreographed gardener—I’m an everyday gardener,” says Christine Bradley, who draws inspiration from visiting botanical gardens and arboretums. “I love beauty, and that’s what I hope people will take away after visiting my garden on this summer’s tour.” A member of the Shawnee Garden Club for four years, Bradley enlists the help of her husband, Tom, to dig holes and craft things like fairy houses out of tree stumps for ornamentation in her garden. Bradley has honed her passion for gardening through trial and error. “Gardening takes a bit of trial and error—over time you learn what grows and what doesn’t,” she says. “One of my downfalls is that I have a lot—a little bit of everything, from hostas and coral bells and varieties of day lilies to much, much more.”
The Bradleys’ garden isn’t just about shade and sun-loving perennials—they have generously sprinkled 30-40 pots of color-drenched annuals into their dazzling garden. A champion of native plants that attract hummingbirds, birds and butterflies, Bradley is eco-conscious by placing coneflowers, daisies, phlox and coreopsis throughout. Various Mother’s Day gifts are also proudly displayed in the garden, including a statue of a little boy posed with a golden retriever that Tom gave her years ago. The Bradleys’ garden does triple-duty. It’s a place of dirt-digging therapy and a space they gravitate to enjoy and unwind. Occasionally, it’s a scenic backdrop for their photography business. “I try to have something blooming, spring through fall,” Bradley says. “We love to spend time outdoors.”
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Prentice Your only locally owned Smoothie King in the Shawnee/Mission area.
#1244 - Shawnee, KS
HOURS: M-F: 7AM - 9PM SAT: 9AM - 9PM SUN: 9AM - 7PM
9 1 3 - 2 68-K I N G ( 5 464)
12 1 0 6 - B S H AW NE E MISSION P K WY, SHAWN EE K S
Carole Prentice recalls the genesis of her inspiration to start digging in the dirt. “Before I moved to Shawnee 40 years ago, my neighbor in Merriam, George, was an avid gardener, and I admired his handiwork,” Prentice says. “He gave me a few plants and the bug bit me—I fell in love with gardening.” A member of the Shawnee Garden Club since its inception in 1990, Prentice keeps a garden that blooms from spring to fall, consisting of perennials and garden flowers—“things that do well in the Midwest.” She moved to a new home in Shawnee three years ago and welcomed the challenge of starting a garden from scratch. “I’ve learned a lot through the members and programs of Shawnee Garden,” Prentice says. “We have a plant exchange twice a year, and everyone brings a plant or two. There’s a learning curve with this pastime, no matter how long you’ve gardened, but the support from the club members is encouraging.” For Prentice, gardening is a form of relaxation that yields a sense of peace. “Something about gardening makes everything okay in the universe, no matter what craziness is happening,” she says. “And the sense of satisfaction to see things I’ve nurtured grow and thrive is enormous.” Some of Prentice’s favorite plants include some that are ideal for full/hot sun: rudbeckia, shasta daisies and garden phlox. “They’re my happy flowers,” she says. Chairwoman of the Garden Sampler Tour 2017, Prentice notes this year’s itinerary illustrates distinctive interpretations of gardens. “One has a miniature railroad that runs through it, one surrounds an outdoor gourmet kitchen and two are out in the countryside of Shawnee, so their perennial gardens are a bit larger,” Prentice says. “These gardens are essential to the owners’ quality of life and are considered an extension of their home. And for garden tour attendees, there’s something for everyone.”
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S a l l y
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roberts Sally and Lonnie Roberts credit teamwork for much of their garden’s success. “I’m the dreamer, architect and decorator, and Lonnie is the planter,” Sally says. “We built a pool in 1984 and started putting things around it.” The couple’s stunning backyard paradise, situated on three-quarters of an acre, is a scheduled stop on the Garden Sampler Tour where tour-goers will have an opportunity to see how well-executed hardscapes are complemented by carefully selected plantings, trees and a water feature. “I always tell people when they look at our backyard that the hardscapes are great, but it’s the plantings that really make it pop,” says Lonnie, who owned a landscaping company for 20 years and now works in hardscapes. “We have a number of large hydrangeas, some really large Montgomery blue spruce, six varieties of hostas, weeping blue spruce, Alberta spruce, weeping Norway, ruby falls weeping redbuds, garnet Japanese maples, weeping viridis Japanese maples, blue and China holly and, for a splash of color, Knock Out roses. All of this combined with the annuals is what really makes our backyard.” Sally decided she wanted to add a koi pond about six years ago, and the couple scouted out the perfect place to build one in their garden. “Ponds aren’t easy,” she says. “It’s difficult to keep fish healthy, and because we’re in a lake community, there’s a big blue heron who visits quite often and thinks the pond is his private sushi bar. Last year I lost 40 fish, but he didn’t get the giant koi.” The tranquil pond, which includes a waterfall, has a combination of hardy and tropical lilies, and each season the Roberts plant flora with varying heights. “It’s different each year,” Lonnie says. The couple spends most of their time outdoors in the spring, summer and fall, with a stone fireplace extending a month to each end of the entertaining season. Entertaining and pool parties are frequent since their eight grandchildren live nearby. Lonnie is the chef, cooking every meal outdoors for most of the summer, whether it’s a pizza in the wood-fired pizza oven, salmon on the grill or ribs in the smoker. “We probably live more outdoors than in,” Sally laughs. “That’s what we’ve built—an outdoor sanctuary.”
Mark Your Calendar WHO: Garden Club of Shawnee WHAT: Self-Guided Garden Sampler Tour WHEN: June 10, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. WHERE: Six gardens throughout Shawnee COST: $10; all proceeds go to the club’s grant program, which provides support to Shawnee schools, churches, museums and non-profit organizations. Tickets for the tour will be available on the website (gardenclubofshawnee.org); Family Tree Nursery, Shawnee and Overland Park; Wild Bird Center; Hartman Hardware and Earl May Nursery.
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On the
Move a
Marissa Hitt, 12, has a special way of showing her respect and appreciation for first responders.And she’s asking for others to join her. Story by Kelly Gibson
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Photos by Beautiful Isolations
he soot on a firefighter’s helmet has always been a badge of honor in the firefighting community, and Shawnee’s own firefighters are no different. “It’s a macho thing to show how much heat you can take,” says Shawnee Fire Marshal Corey Sands. But the standard practice by firefighters of leaving soot on helmets is changing across the nation. A 2013 whitepaper by the Firefighter Cancer Support Network cited a 2006 study through the University of Cincinnati, which analyzed increased cancer risk among firefighters due to prolonged contact with contamination. To reduce that risk, firefighters must remove soot and other particles from themselves and their gear. “We started an effort within the fire department to employ strategies for cancer prevention,” Deputy Fire Chief Sal Scarpa says. “Finding out how many cancer-causing agents are in smoke, now we wipe down our necks and ears. Our hoods meant to protect us hold a lot of carcinogens.” Enter Marissa Hitt. The 12-year-old Shawnee resident has always had a strong respect for first responders, and she wanted to find a way to express her gratitude. “Firefighters get honor and respect if their hats are really dirty,” Marissa says. “It means they’ve worked a long time and been in many fires, but now they have to wipe down their hats. They are probably grieving that.” Marissa wanted to give a gift to area firefighters. When she asked the Shawnee department what they needed, Sands and Scarpa told her they would appreciate wipes for their gear. “My family and I have always prayed for first responders when we heard sirens,” Marissa says. “We prayed for the people working and for the people involved in the tragedy. They don’t know that we’re praying for them. So it’s important to show that we appreciate them and Shawnee appreciates them, too.”
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So she developed MOVE, which stands for “Motivating Others to Value and Encourage.” It’s an initiative focused on donating healthy snacks and other safety items for first responders to keep in their vehicles. It’s her way of saying thanks. “People who live in Shawnee should show respect to first responders,” Marissa says. “It’s really important. What if the first responders are involved in the tragedy too? What if my mom was a firefighter, we had a disagreement, she left home and I never saw her again? It’s a dangerous job. Some first responders are volunteers. That means they don’t get paid for what they do.” The Hitts keep a large, plastic donation tub on their front porch, where neighbors can place antibacterial wipes and individually wrapped snacks for area firefighters and police officers to keep in their vehicles. Marissa packages the wipes and snacks, then delivers them to the fire and police departments. “So often they sit down to eat and get pulled away on a call and don’t get to eat,” Terri Hitt, Marissa’s mother, says. Marissa continues to spread the word in Shawnee, trying to encourage homeowners associations to support the
initiative through donations of items. “Part of our five-year goal is an effort to enhance public safety and understanding,” Scarpa says. “Our prevention efforts touch less than 10 percent of the Shawnee population. The community can get a better understanding of some of the challenges the local fire department faces. They are stepping up to help us in that effort. “ For the police department, Marissa wants to help bridge the social divide. She hopes to get out in the community and discuss the importance of respecting police officers. Marissa has been working with Master Police Officer Roman Madrigal to connect the two communities. “I feel MOVE can benefit the Shawnee community by giving citizens another opportunity to engage on a more consistent basis with Shawnee’s first responders,” Madrigal says. “Also, it’s a grassroots effort started by one of Shawnee’s youngest citizens. I can see Marissa’s initiative getting a real boost from her youthful energy and enthusiasm.” Madrigal works as the Shawnee Police Department’s community outreach, relations and engagement officer. He’s been with Shawnee PD for 22 years.
Serendipity Behind the Scenes Occasionally, stories converge. This spring, as Marissa and the first responders were finishing the MOVE photo shoot outside the fire station, they found two painted rocks from the Shawnee KS Rocks! project. “I’ve never had two stories collide like that before, so we snapped a few photos of Marissa and Officer Madrigal with their rocks,” photographer Sarah Reeves says. Learn more about the Shawnee KS Rocks! project on page 8.
We love this town. We love this town. We love this town. this town.
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Thanks, Shawnee.
We love being here to help life go right ™ in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do. Thanks, Shawnee.
We love being here to help life go right ™ in a community where people are making a Thanks, Shawnee. difference every day. Thank you for all you do. We love being here to help life go right ™ in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do. Thanks, Shawnee. We love being here to help life go right ™ in a community where people are making a difference every day. Thank you for all you do.
John Wills, Agent 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: 913-631-9007 john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com
Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Erin Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com Bus: 913-648-1100
John Wills, Agent 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: John913-631-9007 Wills, Agent john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com john@Long jwills.net 6339 ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: 913-631-9007 john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com
Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Erin Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Bus: 913-648-1100 Erin Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com Bus: 913-648-1100
John Wills, Agent 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: 913-631-9007 john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com
Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Erin Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com Bus: 913-648-1100
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“MOVE will benefit the first responder community by putting us in contact with those who wish to show their support but maybe aren’t quite sure how to best do so,” Madrigal says. “We can start to build positive and hopefully ongoing relationships. As these relationships grow, it can only strengthen the bonds we need with citizens to create a strong working environment, which will allow first responders to continue to provide Shawnee with the professional and efficient emergency services our community deserves.” Marissa was named USA National Miss Midwest Preteen 2017 last November. The natural pageant—one that doesn’t involve stage makeup, but rather encourages natural beauty— will host its national competition this July. Marissa and her family will make the trip to Boca Raton, Florida, to compete for the top title. For Marissa, this gives her the opportunity to spread the word about MOVE. “If I win the national title USA National Miss Preteen 2017, I would be honored to go around the states to promote MOVE. I can have the other girls donate healthy snacks to local police officers and firefighters in their states. The girls would bring them in and I can go with them into the stations.” All involved with the MOVE initiative agree that Marissa’s spirit is the driving force to perpetuate positive will and respect for Shawnee first responders. “I am proud of the young lady that she is,” Terri says of Marissa. “Especially the fact that she really does care. I look forward to seeing what God can do through her with MOVE.”
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Shawnee
visitors guide
shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
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travel guide
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city map
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close to everything
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quick guide
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shawnee events
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shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
See 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 – Veterans’ 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.
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.
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.
Wonderscope – Children’s Museum of Kansas City
5700 King Street A leading, quality family destination. Wonderscope provides dynamic, interactive experiences where your family will find wonder, joy and magic.
shawnee visitors guide
Shop
Nellie & Nico’s, an Antique Boutique
Downtown
6495 Quivira Road (913) 631-6767 nellie-nicos.com
Dodge City Beef
Nigro’s Western Store
Quick Guide
The Other Place Shawnee 22730 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66226 (913) 441-0094 theotherplace.com
11101 Johnson Drive (913) 647-8796 dodgecitybeef.com
10509 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-2226
Restaurants
Doll Cradle
Prairie Point Quilts
11950 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3333 prairiepoint.com
6493 Quivira Road (913) 962-7447 batescitybbq.net
10910 Johnson Drive (913) 631-1900 dollcradle.com
Encore Unique Boutique 11004 Johnson Drive (913) 268-5393 encorekc.com
Farmers’ Market
Springfield Music
12710 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5555 funkymunkymusic.com
Eat
(May-October) 11110 Johnson Drive, City Hall (913) 248-2360 cityofshawnee.org
Bar & Grill
Hartman Hardware
Bar West
11018 Johnson Drive (913) 631-7592 hartmanhardware.com
Painted Clover
5720 Nieman Road (913) 730-6833 paintedclover.com
ShananiGanns Boutique
Bates City BBQ
Big Bam’s Burgers 5930 Nieman Road (913) 962-1230 bigbams.com
The Big Biscuit
12276 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 912-7350 bigbiscuitrestaurant.com
Casa Latina
7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 barwestgrill.com
Barley’s Kitchen & Tap Shawnee
16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 barleysbrewhaus.com
11200 Johnson Drive (913) 248-4411
Chen’s Kitchen
7166 Renner Rd. (913) 268-1668 chenskitchenshawnee.com
Country Club Cafe (in Country club bank) 21911 W. 66th St. #101 (913) 441-2444
Blind Box BBQ
Eggtc.
13214 W 62nd Terrace (913) 268-4227 blindboxbbq.com
7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 eggtckc.com
12045 Johnson Drive (913) 915-8200 vintageinkc.com
Jake’s Place
Firehouse Subs
12001 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5253 jakesplacebarandgrill.com
6415 Quivira Road (913) 631-0033 firehousesubs.com
Around Shawnee
Johnny’s Tavern
Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant
11006 Johnson Drive 913.549.8793 facebook.com/shananiganns
Vintage in KC Creative Arts
By B! Boutique 6314 Monrovia (913) 213-5255 byBboutique.com
Designer Consignment
12205 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3330 designerconsignment.biz
Family Tree Nursery 7036 Nieman Road (913) 631-6121 familytreenursery.com
La Vita Bella Day Spa 5416 Roberts Street (913) 441-9090 lavitabelladayspa.com
13131 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 962-5777 johnnystavern.com
Knub’s Pub
5362 Roberts Street (913) 441-5682
Saint’s Pub & Patio
11900 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 217-7260 saintspub.com
Tanner’s Bar & Grill 22374 W. 66th St. (913) 745-8100 tannersbarandgrill.com
13803 W. 63rd St. (913) 375-1000 fritzskc.com
Grand Wok
15810 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-8668 grandwokks.com
Hereford House Shawnee 17244 Midland Drive (913) 268-8000 herefordhouse.com
Jose Pepper’s Border Grill & Cantina 16605 Midland Drive (913) 631-1011 josepeppers.com
Quick Guide
shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
McAlister’s Deli
Stay
11330 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3354 mcalistersdeli.com
Minsky’s Pizza
7198 Renner Road (913) 631-0059 minskys.com
Old Shawnee Pizza and Italian Kitchen 6000 Rogers Drive (913) 631-5716 shawneepizza.com
Oishi Sushi Japanese Cuisine & Bar
12220 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3888 oishisushiks.com
Paulo & Bill
16501 Midland Drive (913) 962-9900 pauloandbill.com
Pegah’s Family Restaurant 11005 Johnson Drive (East Location) (913) 962-6700
5354 Roberts St. (West Location) (913) 422-3600 pegahsfamilyrestaurant.com
Pine & Bamboo Garden
10915 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-9545 pinebamboogarden.com
Renee Kelly’s Harvest 12401 Johnson Drive (913) 631-4100 reneekellysharvest.com
Sombrero’s Mexican Cantina
22702 Midland Drive (913) 441-6700 sombreroskc.com
Sushi Mido
6010 Nieman Road (913) 322-8888 sushimido.net
Sutera’s Pizza
22716 Midland Drive (913) 667-3000 suterasshawnee.com
Twisted fresh
22030 W. 66th St. (913) 441-0444 twistedfresh.com
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Hotels Comfort Inn & Suites (Opening Summer 2017) 16510 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 choicehotels.com (877) 424-6423
Courtyard by Marriott 17250 Midland Drive (913) 631-8800 marriott.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites (Opening Winter 2018) 16550 Midland Drive fairfield.marriott.com (888) 236-2427
Hampton Inn
16555 Midland Drive (913) 248-1900 hamptoninn.com
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 B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 1630 Midland Drive 913.631.0871 bbtheatres.com/shawnee-18/
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shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
shawnee visitors guide
Shawnee City Map
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out & about
Western Spike 3
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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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in S hawnee
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outside
Shawnee Golf and Country Club Stump Park Mid-America West Mid-America Sports Complex Kansas City Ice Center Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball Mill Creek Streamway Park Starwood Park Shawnee Mission Park The Theatre in the Park Tomahawk Hills Golf Course Holiday Inn Express Courtyard by Marriott Suites Hampton Inn Comfort Inn & Suites Fairfield Inn & Suites B&B Theatres Shawnee 18 KU MedWest Park Lanes Swarner Park Veterans Park Johnson County Library Thomas A. Soetart Aquatic Center Civic Centre 22 PowerPlay 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 Centra Care Urgent Care Shawnee 31 SkyZone Trampoline Park 32 Jaycee Park 33 Listowel Park 34 Shawnee Mission Health
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Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, CC BY-SA, www.openstreetmap.org
What & Where
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Shawnee City Map
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shawnee visitors guide
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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 year-round. 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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1,600 Acres 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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shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
shawnee visitors guide
Close to Everything
Shawnee is conveniently located just minutes from everything you want to do while you stay in the Kansas City area.
Family Fun & Entertainment In Shawnee
Shawnee C lose to E ver y thing
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 retain a sense of yesteryear as mom-andpop 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, worldclass 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
Kansas City Ice Center and Ice Pavilion PowerPlay Family Entertainment Center Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball Shawnee Mission Park Sky Zone Trampoline Park Splash Cove at Jim Allen Aquatic Center Theatre in the Park Wonderscope Children’s Museum
Shopping Shawnee is home to a wide variety of niche and specialty shops, while world-class shopping venues are just minutes away. • 10 minutes – Legends Outlet Mall • 13 minutes – Country Club Plaza • 15 minutes – Oak Park Mall
Sports • 10 minutes Community America Ballpark, home of the T-Bones • 10 minutes – Children’s Mercy Park home of Sporting KC Soccer •30 minutes – Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs •30 minutes – Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals
Travel •30 minutes to the Kansas City International Airport
www.visitshawneeks.com
STUDY SKILLS
MATH
SAT/ACT PREP
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shawnee magazine WRITING READING HOMEWORK HELP sunflowerpub.com
With Summer Learning at Sylvan Ah, summer break: Sunshine, vacation plans and R&R. But, did you know, your child can lose up to 2-1/2 months of learning over the summer? Sylvan’s got you covered. With our summer sessions, your child can beat summer learning loss, build skills, and get off to a great start in the fall. Summer sessions are filling up fast. Call today!
Sylvan of Shawnee
22046 West 66th Street Shawnee KS 66226
913-543-6085
www.sylvanlearning.com
SYLVANLEARNING.COM
Your Adventure Starts Here Some Rooms Too Hot! Some Rooms Too Cold! With a ductless cooling and heating system from Fujitsu any room can be perfectly comfortable, from the upstairs bedroom to the basement and anywhere in between.
Your Comfort is Our Business! call for more info (913) 534-8884 | www.envirotechks.com 11003 West 59th Terrace
Shawnee, KS 66203
Quick Guide
shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
shawnee visitors guide
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Emergency & Medical Emergency Assistance
centracare shawnee mission urgent care
KU Midwest Urgent Care
911
(913) 888-1151
(913)-588-8450
Overland Park Regional Medical Center—ER of Shawnee
Shawnee Mission Health Prairie Star
(913) 227-8400
(913) 676-2000
shawneemission.org
Shawnee Information Visit Shawnee visitshawneeks.com
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce
Shawnee Dispatch
Shawnee Magazine
shawneedispatch.com
sunflowerpub.com
(913) 631-6545
shawneekschamber.com
(913) 962-3000
(888) 497-8668
(913) 631-6545
Hotels Hampton Inn
Courtyard by Marriott
Holiday Inn Express
Comfort Inn & suites
HamptonInn.com
marriott.com
hiexpress.com
(913) 248-1900
(913) 631-8800
(913) 400-2509
choicehotels.com/comfort-inn (877) 424-6423 (Opening Summer 2017)
Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee Town 1929
Attractions Wonderscope children’s museum of kansas city
jcprd.com
shawneetown.org
(913) 888-4713
(913) 248-2360
City Hall
Fire Department
Police Department
cityofshawnee.org
(nonemergency number)
(nonemergency number)
(913) 631-1080
(913) 631-2150
spectrum
Google Fiber
timewarnercable.com/midwest
fiber.google.com/KansasCity
Consolidated Communications
wonderscope.org
(913) 287-8888
City Services
(913) 631-2500
Internet/Cable/Telephone
(816) 358-8833
consolidated.com
(913) 825-2882
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shawnee magazine sunflowerpub.com
May 2017 May 6 Farmers’ Market Opens The season’s local bounty begins to 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 6 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 27 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) 6317177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Drive, (913) 631-0054.
May 31 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 fundraiser. Tickets are $25 and include two entries in the Tomato Roll. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., (913) 248-2360.
June 2017 June 1-4 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 12 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.
shawnee visitors guide
JUNE 30 PARKED!
Music, Food Trucks & Fireworks! Get ready for a fun evening with friends and family from 5:00-9:30 p.m. at Stump Park, 4751 Woodland Drive, Shawnee, KS 66218.
July 2017 July 2 - July 9 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 26 JAMMIN’ ON THE GREEN
Shawnee Town 1929
August 2017 AUGUST 11 SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to relax and enjoy live music and great food. Concert begins at 7 p.m. at West Flanders Park (55th & Nieman).
August 12 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 27 Tour de Shawnee
Get in the action with this annual bicycle tour. The tour will begin and end at PowerPlay Family Entertainment Center, Shawnee Mission Parkway and Pflumm. The event benefits the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
September 2017 September 9 Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show
Looking to show off a classic hot rod, or even a brand new, trickedout car or motorcycle? Downtown Shawnee is the place to be. The annual Wheels & Dreams Car, Truck and Bike show will fill the streets downtown. Pre-registration forms can be found at Hartman Hardware (11018 Johnson Drive) and Encore (11006 Johnson Drive). Food and drinks will be available from downtown vendors, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Johnson Drive and Nieman Road.
September 16 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 22-23 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 2017 october 7 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, pie contest and activities for the kids. 9 a.m.-noon, Shawnee City Hall, 11110 Johnson Drive.
Shawnee Events
October 28 Holiday Treasures Craft Festival
Beat the crowds this holiday season and pick up some unique, handcrafted 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 28 Historical Hauntings
Bring the whole family to Shawnee Town for an evening of hayrides, trick-or-treating, costume contests and more. Entrance and activities are free. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St., shawneetown.org
November 2017 November 11 Veterans Day Celebration
The City of Shawnee, along with VFW Post 10552, American Legion No. 327, Knights of Columbus, Civil Air Patrol-Kansas City Composite Squadron No. 034 and the Sons of the American Revolution-Monticello Chapter invite you to join them in honoring all men and women who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. 4-5 p.m. Shawnee Civic Center.
December 2017 December 2 Mayor’s christmas tree lighting ceremony
Get into the holiday spirit at Shawnee’s annual community Christmas celebration—in downtown Shawnee. Hightlights include Christmas tree lighting, santa, entertainment and hot chocolate beginning at 4:30 p.m.
March 2018 March 11 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.