M AG A ZINE
A E K A M H! S A L P S
S UPE R VOL UN T E E R S B A RBE R S HOP BUZ Z 2 01 8 V I S I T OR S G UIDE
SPRING/ SUMMER
2018
20% off
any new class or summer camp enrollment
NOW OPEN IN SHAWNEE
Shawnee Mission Pkwy and Pflumm by Johnny’s. Now offering
dance, ninja, and gymnastics classes. 7703 Meadow View Drive | Shawnee, KS 913-422-0161 | pinngym.com
4
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
Shawnee M A G A Z IN E
Editor Designer/Art Director Copy Editor Account Executive Ad Designers Contributing Photographers Contributing Writers
Kelly Gibson Jenni Leiste Leslie Andres Jean Teller Nathan Peterson Jenni Leiste Amanda Nagengast Sarah Reeves Beth Kornegay Katy Schamberger Kimberly Winter Stern Publisher Bill Uhler Director Bob Cucciniello Production Manager Shelly Bryant
Shawnee Chamber of Commerce
dear reader,
President | CEO Chief Operating Officer Administrative Manager Director of Membership
Ann Smith-Tate Mary Taylor Marlene Shirley Shelby Ostrom
Visit Shawnee
Executive Director
Kevin Fern
Shawnee Economic Development Council Director, Business Development and Retention
Eric Ely
Shawnee Magazine is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of Ogden Publications. sunflowerpub.com (888) 497-8668
One of the greatest things about Shawnee is how easy it is to entertain yourself, both as a resident and a visitor.
But something truly inspiring is the spirit of giving back that Shawnee exudes. There are so many volunteering opportunities around Shawnee, and we wanted to highlight some of the folks around town using their talents and interests to engage their community. Enjoy Katy Schamberger’s story about three volunteers with three different Shawnee-based organizations and what drives them to give back. And be sure to read Kimberly Winter Stern’s story about how a canine-focused organization partners with Shawnee’s fire department to socialize service animals with first responders. Additionally, we hope Beth Kornegay’s story about where to find some sun and sand in Shawnee this summer entices you to get outside, soak up some rays and enjoy Shawnee. Happy Reading!
FIND US ON
facebook.com/ShawneeMagazine
Follow us on twitter @shawneemag
Shawnee M AG A ZINE
Kelly
MAKE HA! SPLAS
editor, Shawnee Magazine
S UPE R VOL UN T E E R S B A RB E R S HOP B UZ Z 2 01 8 V I S I T OR’S G UIDE
SPRING/ SUMMER
2018
On the cover Pups can beat the heat this summer at Shawnee Mission’s dog beach. Photo courtesy of Johnson County Park and Recreation District.
OAK VALLEY
SHOPPING CENTER The Hampton Inn-Shawnee offers real comfort and value that our guests love!
Primp My Pup / Broderius Animal Care DVM KFC\Taco Bell / Nail Salon Kidstop Child Care / Coopers Cork & Bottle Right Fit & Fuel Fitness / Allstate Insurance Goodyear Tire / Bank of Blue Valley
• • • • • • •
K-7 Hwy. and Johnson
Our hotel features:
127 deluxe guest rooms Complete renovation in 2017 Flat Screen LCD TV’s Mini-Refridgerators Hilton Honors points Free Wi-Fi Flexible meeting space
• Free, hot breakfast • 100% Happy Guarantee • Indoor salt water pool and fitness center • Walking distance to local restaurants and movie theatre
16555 Midland Drive Shawnee, Kansas 66217 913-248-1900 • 1-800-HAMPTON
Available space for lease contact Parkway Real Estate 913-268-8700 W W W. PA R K WAY R E K S. C O M
(Located off I-435 & Midland Drive – Exit 5)
www.hamptoninn.com
It’s afeatures New Satay! The Courtyard Shawnee lobby with modern décor, flexible spaces to work or relax, and innovative • 90 Deluxe Guest Rooms offering relaxing and functional space, technology, in addition to: featuring Courtyard’s latest contemporary CYnergy design • •
Free High Speed Internet Indoor pool and fitness room
COME JOIN US FOR ANY OCCASION! • Hand Cut Aged Premium Steaks
• 24-hour Fitness Center • 90 deluxe guest• rooms Outdoor courtyard with fire pit • Private Meeting Rooms with Heated Pool • King Suite or Spa• King Meeting Space w•ill a ccommodate Indoor groups from 15 to 50-‐people Audio and Video Components • King Conference • Suites Bistro® Restaurant with upgrades • The Bistro offers breakfast and evening food with • Kansas City’s Premier Steak House • 32’ Flat Screen LCDcocktails TV’s and Starbucks multiple dining options coffee • Large Work Desks • Starbucks Beverages • Full Service Bar Contact our Sales Department for meetings and special events • Mini-Refridgerator & • Signature Cocktails, Beer, • 6 Large, HD Televisions in the 17250 Midland Drive Microwave Wine, & Happy Hour Shawnee, KS 66217 * 913-‐631-‐8800 lounge for viewing sports (Located off I-‐435 & MSpecials idland Drive – Exit 5) • Complimentary Highwww.marriott.com/mcism • Fast, Friendly, and Speed Wi-Fi • Outdoor Courtyard with Professional Service Staff • 24-hour Business Center Fire Pit
Contact our Sales Department for meetings & special events 17250 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 • 913-631-8800 (Located off I-435 & Midland Drive – Exit 5)
www.marriott.com/mcism
17244 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 913-268-8000 (located off I-435 & Midland drive, Exit 5)
WWW.HEREFORDHOUSE.COM
6
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
contents DEPARTMENTS
8
THE NEW FACE OF SENIOR LIVING
10
BEACHES OF SHAWNEE
14
RONNELL JONES & ANTHONY CHEGE
How an active senior couple decided they didn’t want to be home alone and joined the trend of cooperative-style, turnkey living.
Enjoy a little Kansas sun and sand this summer.
JC Barbershop
FEATURES
16
THE LOVING CONNECTION THAT HEELS
22
DRAWN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
VISITORS GUIDE
29
YOUR GUIDE TO SHAWNEE
30
TRAVEL GUIDE
32
CITY MAP
34
CLOSE TO EVERYTHING
37
QUICK GUIDE INDEX
38
SHAWNEE EVENTS
Canine Companions for Independence gives people with disabilities a new leash on life.
Meet three volunteers who are making an impact throughout Shawnee.
8
Local Profiles
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
The New Face of
Senior Living
How an active senior couple decided they didn’t want to be home alone and joined the trend of cooperative-style, turnkey living.
story by Kimberly Winter Stern photo courtesy Larry and Martha Schmitt
M
ore than just an aphorism, “it takes a village” definitely applies to the new lifestyle enjoyed by Shawnee residents Larry and Martha Schmitt. They remember the exact moment they decided that phrase became relevant. It was 2015 and the couple was in Sacramento, babysitting their two young grandsons, when they received a call from the sales manager at the Village Cooperative of Shawnee. During the 90-minute phone conversation, Larry and Martha—who had expressed interest in the community set to open in April 2016— kept nodding at one another from across the kitchen table in agreement as each point was being made. The Schmitts were familiar with the cooperative style of living, having visited communities in the Kansas City area and Florida, south Texas and Arizona. Intrigued by the concept of “intentional living” where the tax benefits of homeownership are combined with a democratic decision-making process, the Schmitts hadn’t yet found “the one”—a community that fulfilled their priority of location,
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
location, location. It was essential that wherever they lived, it was convenient to their daughter and her family in Olathe and an easy road trip to visit relatives in Indiana. “The more that the Village Cooperative of Shawnee representative talked, the harder Martha and I shook our heads and smiled at one another, realizing we’d found the one,” Larry recalls. “Before hanging up, we made a commitment with a $500 reservation and started making plans for the rest of our life.” For the past decade, the Schmitts had carefully envisioned their post-working years, taking into consideration their desire to sell the traditional single-family home they owned in Raymore, Missouri, and trade it in for worry-free retirement living. But the active couple, now in their 70s, wintered November through April each year in south Texas’s Rio Grande Valley and didn’t want to reside in a typical retirement home setting. “The cooperative arrangement made sense for us financially because we’d have home ownership and it was affordable—unlike more traditional senior living communities, there’s no meal plan or medical,” explains Martha. “And a maintenance-free lifestyle was extremely attractive so we could focus on what was important to us— family, travel, friends and community activities.” In addition to owning a share of the community and having a voice in how it’s run—a cooperative community is governed by a board of directors—there was another compelling motivation for transitioning from lifelong home ownership to a unique, hassle-free environment. “A very practical reason, actually,” Larry admits. “Martha and I wanted to jointly make the decision where the survivor was going to live and remove as many of the heavy decision-making details as possible. Regardless of which one of us passes first, we wanted to ensure whoever remained could walk out the front door and be surrounded by caring individuals and a strong community identity. It also removes that burden from our children about what to do when the inevitable happens.” After the Schmitts sold their Raymore home in 2015, they moved into an apartment while waiting for their new home to be completed at the Village Cooperative of Shawnee. They moved into their residence April 11, 2016, three days after the community officially opened, with a lot less stuff and the exciting opportunity for a brand-new lifestyle. “There are 53 homes in our three-story complex and 80 residents, along with a club room, woodworking shop, exercise room, a parking garage with a car wash bay, and much more,” Larry says. “We can be with people at our weekly happy hour or card game, at a dinner party or potluck, go out into the community and volunteer with different organizations, or Martha and I can relax at home. We happen to like being with people so this alternative style of senior living is ideal for us.” Although senior cooperative housing has been a familiar fixture in the Midwest for more than three decades, it’s received a makeover that appeals to many people like Larry and Martha Schmitt. Equipped with amenities like fitness rooms and indoor, heated parking and enhanced by the social aspects, it’s a niche in senior living that’s bound to gain more popularity as the population continues to age and explore—and expand—the definition of the golden years. “It certainly does take a village,” Larry Schmitt laughs. “Martha and I have immense life satisfaction and thrive on the strength of community and the people that make up the whole.” And for this senior couple, the peace of mind found in cooperative living is priceless. “We’re having the time of our lives,” Martha says.
Cooperative Living at a Glance Larry and Martha Schmitt did their homework on what their retirement living would be like. “Modern cooperative-style living has changed the landscape of retirement living,” Larry says. “We like the challenge of meeting new people and like to be alone yet love to be out with other people. Community living was for us—it was the right time, cost and place.” RESIDENTS OF A COOPERATIVE LIVING COMMUNITY ENJOY: Growth of initial investment: As a resident and shareholder, residents reap tax benefits of homeownership. Affordable lifestyle: Although there’s a range in costs for buying a home in a cooperative community, there’s not the additional cost of a meal plan or medical. Voice for the ages: A community-elected board of directors helps guide decisions—a corporation doesn’t call the shots, so residents have a sense of empowerment and independence.
9
10
Local Profiles
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
Beaches of Shawnee Enjoy a little Kansas sun and sand this summer
story by Beth Kornegay | photos courtesy Johnson County Park and Recreation District and Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball
W
hen many people think about hitting the beach during the summer, few may consider Shawnee as a beach destination city. However, Shawnee offers a few recreational sandy beaches for people and dogs alike. You may even luck out and find a seashell or two. For sports enthusiasts, Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball offers league play six nights a week from March through November. There are teams for players of all skill levels from friends just trying to have fun in the recreational league to teams with intermediate to advanced skills. Coed teams are the most popular, with teams between six and 10 players.
Located one mile west of I435 on Johnson Drive, SMBV opened in 2003 and had around 200 teams compete during the inaugural season. Last year there were more than 1,900 teams playing in three different sessions. This year’s spring league started play in late March, marking SMBV’s 15th year. It took 900,000 tons of sand harvested from the Kaw River to create the setting for Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball, and another 200 tons of sand were purchased from local sand supplier Kaw Valley Companies to replenish the courts and get ready for this year’s league competition on the seven-acre, 18-court complex.
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
11
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
11
Owner Dave MacKay said that he even sometimes finds tiny seashell treasures in the sand. “We typically find three or four species of freshwater seashells when spreading the sand when it arrives from Kaw Valley,” MacKay says. “Also, we clean the sand on a daily basis and tend to see clam shells or spiral shells that came directly from the river. The kinds of shells we find vary from year to year.” With around 600 people playing volleyball each night, MacKay also takes pride in the care that is taken to keep the sand on the courts clean and clear of obstructions such as rocks, which can sometimes work their way through the sand from the soil below. Each morning the courts are scoured for any sort of debris, and the sand is regularly groomed and re-leveled as well.
Play for Your Pets
Shawnee Mission Park sees more than 2 million visitors each year, but it might surprise some to know that the park is home to two beaches—one for people and one for canines. According to park authorities, 1 in 5 visitors comes to the park for the large off-leash dog area. Dogs can socialize with one another, as well as explore the wood-chip and natural surface trails that lead through native grasses down to the dog beach. Local resident Andrea Thomas has been taking her dogs Daisy and Daphne to the dog beach at Shawnee Mission Park since they were puppies. Daisy, an 11-year-old standard poodle, and Daphne, a 2-year-old miniature poodle, enjoy being offleash in the 53-acre park, especially during the summer when they can swim at the beach, designed especially for canines. “We like the openness of the dog park and how there is a long walk down to the swim area from the parking lot as well as the trails going down to the water,” Thomas says. “It’s always fun to see the variety of dogs that are out there. Everyone is friendly and likes to talk about their dogs.” With plenty of space to play, Thomas knows Daisy and Daphne will get plenty of exercise running around, chasing tennis balls, and exploring the wooded paths. Even during the winter, she takes her dogs to the park at least once a month. “It almost makes us feel like we are on a hike with all of the trees,” she says. “Down by the beach area of the dog park, rocks line the shore, which helps with muddy paws. Retaining walls give everyone a place to relax and enjoy watching all of the dogs play with each other.” To keep a safe environment for everyone, there are some limitations, including a rule that dogs must be up-to-date on their vaccines and have tags visible on their collars. No more than three dogs per person are allowed at one time and no food should be brought into the dog park due to potential aggression from other dogs. Puppies less than 12 weeks old are not allowed in the off-leash area, and each owner is required to pick up their dog’s waste to avoid the spread of parasites. Access to the off-leash park and dog beach are during regular park hours, but it is closed Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. for routine maintenance.
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
After
We strive for patient comfort and satisfaction to help you keep your teeth for a lifetime. Please call our office to schedule an evaluation.
VOTED BEST OF SHAWNEE DENTIST 2016 (913) 631-4373 | 6130 Nieman Road Shawnee, Kansas 66203
www.drmartindds.com
12
Local Profiles
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
Dive In
Take a Dip! Shawnee Mission Park’s swimming beach opens in May and is accessible during the following hours. Monday: 12–6 p.m. Tuesday: 12–5 p.m., Open Swim: 5:30–7 p.m. Wednesday: 12–6 p.m. Thursday: 12–6 p.m. Friday: 12–6 p.m. Saturday: 12–6 p.m. Sunday: 12–6 p.m. Admission: Ages 12 & Under: $4 / $4.50 nonresidents Ages 13–59: $6 / $6.50 nonresidents Ages 60 & Older: $5 / $5.50 nonresidents Open Water Swim Training: $7 per session
Swimmers of all ages have enjoyed the beach at Shawnee Mission Park since 1987, and park custodians felt it was time for a facelift after 30 years of sun and play. After some concerns about structural integrity, the beach house closed in September 2016 and was replaced at the cost of $925,000. The new 11,344 square-foot beach house, completed in time for the 2018 summer season, will welcome swimmers and sunbathers with a concession stand, checkin area, plus a wave-like roof design and a blue glazed block exterior. The building will have an ADA-compliant walkway to the beach. “This new 11,344 square-foot beach house will provide a fresh, new facility for patrons to enjoy playing in the sand and water on a nice summer day. We anticipate the facility to be a popular place this summer, and we look forward to seeing all the smiling faces,” said Marshall McKinney, aquatics manager with Johnson County Park and Recreation District. “We also have lifeguards on duty during regular hours of operation.” Set to open at noon May 26, the new beach will also contain five to 10 truckloads of new “masons sand,” a special sand blend meant to be easy on feet, not too gritty, and not too dusty for beach-goers. While more than 6,000 swimmers visited the beach in 2016, there’s also a beach volleyball area that is set-up to entertain and add to the genuine beach feel. In July, the facility will host the Open Options Shawnee Mission Triathlon and Duathlon.
Your only locally owned Smoothie King in the Shawnee/Mission area.
Philip C. Gaus DDS
Justin W. Labart DDS, MD
Shawnee Oral Surgery would like to thank Dr. Philip Gaus for his years of dedicated service to Northeast Kansas, and to congratulate him on his upcoming, well-earned retirement. We would also like to assure all of our patients that Dr. Justin Labart, who has been practicing with Dr. Gaus for over five years, will seamlessly transition Shawnee Oral Surgery into the future, continuing our tradition of pride in employing the latest surgical technology and our 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! 6844 Silverheel Street, Shawnee KS 66226
913-441-7868 www.gausdds.com
#1244 - Shawnee, KS
HOURS: M-F: 7AM - 9PM SAT: 9AM - 9PM SUN: 9AM - 7PM
913- 268- KI N G ( 5464)
1 2 1 0 6 - B S H AW NE E M I S S I O N P KW Y, S HAW NE E K S
14
Shawnee Résumé
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
Ronnell Jones
(Clockwise from top left) Matt Gordan, Ronnell Jones, Anthony Chege
& Anthony Chege JC BARBERSHOP
Interview Conducted by Beth Kornegay | Photography by Sarah Reeves
N
SM: How did you decide on this location? Anthony: After I graduated from Headline, I had the idea to open a shop.
SM: How many people work here? Ronnell: Just three of us. I’m a master barber with fourteen years of experience; my partner Anthony has two years of experience, and our floor manager is Matt Gordan, who is a U.S. Air Force veteran.
SM: Why do you love being a barber? Anthony: I like helping people feel good about themselves, and I really like meeting all the people who come in. Sometimes people will get their hair cut and then sit down in one of our chairs and keep visiting with us because we’re having fun.
amed for owners Ronnell Jones and Anthony Chege, the barbershop is located on Johnson Drive directly across from City Hall. Jones and Chege are thrilled to be part of the Shawnee community and downtown business district. The JC Barbershop opened in September 2017 and sees customers Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
SM: What’s your connection with each other? Anthony: I came to know Ronnell when I was in Headline Barber Academy, located in Kansas City, Kansas. Ronnell is the owner of the academy, and he took me under his wing.
Ronnell: And at the same time, I had that same idea. I found this empty shop in August of last year. The area was perfect; it was across from City Hall and had lots of traffic. We both looked at this and said to each other, “This is it!” I also have family in Shawnee and got to know the area.
Ronnell: I really enjoy dealing with people. Every day we get to meet someone new. There are lots of people who move to the area, so we get to meet people from everywhere. Also, a haircut can take a person a long way and give them lots of confidence.
SM: What is the specialty of JC Barbershop? Anthony: We have all the things that a traditional barbershop has including hot lather shave with steam and a hot towel, something few barbershops do anymore. We also put lots of detail in our work as well. We also like to keep things with a family atmosphere with a relaxed ambience at our shop, and we love talking and engaging with our customers. We give plenty of kids’ haircuts too. We can do anything imaginable,z and we have a great mix of races as customers. Ronnell: We like how Shawnee has embraced us. People are always walking by and saying hello. We’re excited to be here. SM: What is your favorite spot in Shawnee? Anthony: We both like the downtown area. There are always new people walking around. People are so friendly, they walk by and wave, and we always have new customers coming in. We love going next door to Sweet T’s to get coffee, lunch, and great cookies for our sweet tooth.
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
15
www.sweettsshawnee.com COFFEE • BAKERY • SANDWICHES • Homemade Breads • Danishes • Muffins • Cookies • Sweet Breads • Sandwiches • Coffee & Smoothies •Custom Pastrami • Custom Corned Beef • Off-Site Catering • Everything is Homemade • 150’ Television • FREE WiFi
SHAWNEE 11101 Johnson Drive
(In the old bank building across form City Hall) Lots of parking in the back
913-396-0850
Monday-Friday 6am-3pm Saturday 7am-3pm • Closed Sunday
16
17
the loving
CONNECTION t h a t
h e e l s
Canine Companions for Independence gives people with disabilities a new leash on life. Story by Kimberly Winter Stern | Photography courtesy Lisa Rickards
O
ne sunny October Sunday afternoon last year, a parade of a dozen tail-wagging black and yellow Labrador retrievers and golden retrievers enthusiastically made its way into the garage bay of the Shawnee Fire Department on Renner Road. Each tethered by a leash, their sleek black and yellow coats partially covered by the official yellow-and-blue vest of Canine Companions for Independence, the dogs were preparing to embark in an event blending training and socialization.
18
The Kansas City Chapter of Canine Companions for Independence takes part in a socialization event at the Shawnee Fire Department. They have been partners for four years.
Ranging in size from 50 to 75 pounds, the dogs—following crisply delivered commands issued by their trusted handlers—would go through the vigorous paces of a two-hour session including climbing obstacles and stairs, obeying commands and meeting other dogs. Lisa Rickards, a Shawnee resident and volunteer member of the Kansas City Chapter of Canine Companions for Independence, North Central Region, led 17-month-old Lima, a handsome Labrador-golden retriever mix, in one of the monthly field trips held for local volunteer puppy raisers and their puppies. “We’ve had a relationship with the Shawnee Fire Department for four years,” Rickards says. “It represents the ideal environment for our dogs-in-training to be exposed not just to other dogs in the program, but situations that might include an emergency vehicle starting up to answer a call. Any time we can put our puppies in real-life situations to ultimately benefit the individual who will receive them as a service dog is a good thing. We are so grateful that the Shawnee Fire Department embraces our mission and goals.” Rickards observes that the training at the fire station, which teaches puppies about strange noises, different surfaces and emergency personnel, “helps a working dog understand, should they ever encounter them, that their job is to focus. And in the event their future person should have a personal emergency, the dogs are well socialized to meet first responders, so they can perform their service dog job without becoming protective or fearful.” Canine Companions for Independence was founded in 1975 in Santa Rosa, California, after Bonnie Bergin, a dog researcher and the inventor of the concept of a service dog, witnessed guide dogs helping those with visual impairments achieve a level of independence. The service-dog training program is a nonprofit that offers people with disabilities more than just a helping paw with daily tasks taken for granted. The oldest and largest service dog organization in the United States, Canine Companions for Independence, breeds Labrador and golden retrievers and crosses of the two; volunteers at the Santa Rosa headquarters nurture the newborn puppies for eight weeks, after which the dogs are sent to volunteer puppy raisers across the country and spend 14-18 months in intensive training to learn basic and intermediate obedience training and care. Each dog is valued at around $50,000, but because of generous private and corporate donations, are given to qualified recipients. The North Central Region of Canine Companions for Independence—one of six nationwide—is located just outside of Columbus, Ohio; the Kansas City Chapter is an extension of the region office and has more than eight volunteer puppy raisers like Rickards. Each volunteer receives an eight-week-old puppy from Santa Rosa that has been raised in a certified breeder-caretaker home and is responsible for its veterinary care, obedience training, socialization and ensuring the dog has a loving home to grow up in.
20
Firefighters at the Shawnee Fire Department welcome service dogs in training to help acclimate the dogs to emergency service personnel.
Lima, Rickards’ ninth puppy to raise, returned to the North Central Region Center in Ohio in early November where she underwent temperament testing and health testing and then proceeded to a six- to nine-month period of advanced training to learn skills essential to helping someone with a disability live a more independent life. “It’s very difficult to give up these puppies we bring into our home and love with all of our hearts, but everyone who volunteers to train a dog for Canine Companions for Independence gives back to someone else in an incredible way,” Rickards says. “I’m not aware of any other way to help someone for not just a day or a week or a month, but for a lifetime. And many volunteer puppy raisers end up doing it over and over and over again. I started working with my tenth puppy after Lima left last November.” Canine Companions for Independence trains four types of dogs: service dogs to assist adults with physical disabilities accomplish daily tasks; hearing dogs that alert their deaf or hearing-impaired partners to important sounds; facility dogs that work with clients with special needs in a visitation, education, criminal justice or health care setting; and skilled companions that enhance independence for children and adults with physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities. If a dog develops a health issue or a behavioral issue during training, they might be a candidate for a so-called “change of career” prior to graduation from the Canine Companions for Independence program—perhaps in search-and-rescue, for example. On average, each dog learns more than 40 commands during the puppy-raising stage into advanced training.
“The organization maintains ownership of the dog throughout its working life, following the dog from birth to death, making sure it’s healthy and that skills are maintained to the high level of training expected from each service dog,” Rickards says. “As a dog ages, it might retire early if it’s been pulling a wheelchair. Canine Companions for Independence helps individuals with the sometimedifficult aspect of knowing when to retire their dog. From a working life, a dog can be adopted back to the individual or a friend or family member, the original volunteer puppy raiser or to the public.” In addition to assisting with pulling wheelchairs, opening and closing doors and drawers, picking up dropped items and even brushing hair, these highly trained dogs provide an invaluable level of emotional support for their human companions. “We always say the dogs that Canine Companions for Independence breed, raise and train aren’t simply the ears, hands and legs of their human partners—they’re goodwill ambassadors and their best
friends,” Rickards said. “If you’ve ever seen a service dog and their person, it’s immediately evident that the relationship transcends just the notion of ‘helping.’ It’s a heart-and-soul thing.” Rickards has had the good fortune of meeting nearly every recipient of the dogs she’s helped raise. “As a puppy raiser, I’m invited to Ohio for graduation,” she said. “It’s an opportunity to not only meet the person, but to share stories and photos with them of their dog’s puppyhood. Sometimes I even bring toys the dog loved, and I always make a paw print when a puppy first arrives at my house. It’s a cherished memento that has an enormous sentiment to the person receiving the dog.” During the graduation ceremony, Rickards and her fellow puppy raisers hand over the leash to the individual receiving the dog. “This gives me a huge sense of closure and always helps me realize the momentous meaning behind a service dog,” Rickards says. “Undeniably it’s a very emotional moment, but there’s a quote I like ... once a heart is broken, it’s rebuilt into a larger one.”
21
this town. this town. Thanks, We love this town. Shawnee. 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.
Training for Solid Connections
™ We love here to here help life go right We being love being help lifeingoa community right in a where people are maki Thanks,to 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 community where people are making a difference difference every day. Thank you for all you do. every day. Thank you for all you do. ™
John Wills, Agent
The work that Canine Companions for Independence does to help people with disabilities develop a life-long bond and relationship with a service dog doesn’t happen without great effort, commitment and dedication.
John Wills, Agent 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: 913-631-9007 john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com
John Wills, Agent 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Bus: 913-631-9007 john.wills.j3nl@statefarm.com
“We train these remarkable animals to be of assistance, first and foremost, but what happens is truly magical between the person and their dog,” says Lisa Rickards, who is now working with raising sixmonth-old Yara. The Kansas City Chapter of the North Central Region of Canine Companions for Independence is constantly building awareness not just of their mission but also of the need for volunteers to join their ranks in helping a puppy get to advanced training. They meet monthly at the Shawnee Library and also hold regular field trips and bimonthly skill-based training classes.
1601493
6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Bus: Erin913-631-9007 Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com john@ jwills.net Bus: 913-648-1100 Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Erin Barrett CLU, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurekcmetro.com Bus: 913-648-1100
John Wills,1601493 Agent State Farm, Bloomington, IL 6339 Long ste A Shawnee, KS 66216 State Farm, Bloomington, IL 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
Thank you for being patient as our Nieman Now! construction continues! 1601493
State Farm, Bloomington, IL
“Puppy raisers and even foster sitters are always needed,” Rickards says. “I’ve never experienced anything more satisfying.” For more information on becoming involved with the Kansas City Chapter of the North Central Region of Canine Companions for Independence or to make a donation, visit www.cci.org or caninecompanionskc@gmail.com.
Please continue to support Downtown Shawnee businesses during construction.
D o n ’ t b e s c a re d o f
the Orange Cone Zone!
22
Difference Drawn to Make a
Meet three volunteers who are making an impact throughout Shawnee. Story by Katy Schamberger | Photography by Sarah Reeves
23
C
haplain. Running coach. Historical interpreter. What do these three things have in common? They’re all volunteer roles fulfilled by three people who are united by a common purpose: helping others throughout Shawnee. Volunteer opportunities are as varied as the people who fulfill them, but there’s no doubt that all volunteer work shares a goal of making the surrounding community a better place.
Empowering Young Girls On and Off the Track When Marilyn Boaz realized she wanted to return to volunteering (she had previously volunteered with Special Olympics for eight years), she did what so many of us do when we need help: she reached out to a friend. “I told my friend that I was thinking about signing up with Cancer Action to drive people to their doctors’ appointments,” Boaz says. Her friend, however, had a different suggestion: become a coach with Clear Creek’s Girls on the Run team. “I thought Girls on the Run was all about teaching young ladies how to run a 5K,” she says. Boaz, who discovered a love of running as an adult, thought she could contribute to the group’s mission. “I thought to myself, ‘Well, I discovered a lot about myself through running,’” she says. “‘I can teach young girls how to run a 5K.’” But Boaz soon realized that GoTR is so much more. The nationwide program, created for girls in third through fifth grades, inspires them to “recognize their inner strength and celebrate what makes them one of a kind,” according to the GoTR KC website. Adds Boaz, “It’s really a youth development program. It inspires and helps girls to be healthy and self-confident in their lives moving forward. All of that is creatively driven home through running.” GoTR KC teams are located throughout the metro area—typically at local elementary schools—and offer two 10-week seasons per year. During each season, teams meet twice a week for curriculum-guided discussion, interactive learning and, of course, 5K training. Boaz says a recent topic focused on what to do if something upsetting happens, especially if it makes a student angry or sad. “Each girl had to say something that makes them angry, and every time they said something, we blew up a balloon,” she says. “Eventually, the balloon pops, which showed them that all of those things make them angry, and if they don’t deal with them, they will explode like the balloon and say things they shouldn’t.” The discussion then turned to calming techniques or suggestions on how to respond. While that was happening, Boaz says, air was released from the balloon, showing the girls the relief that comes from dealing with anger or sadness in a constructive way. As the season concludes, each team hosts a practice 5K so the girls have a test run. Then, all of the GoTR KC teams gather for a citywide 5K, typically held at Arrowhead Stadium or Children’s Mercy Sporting Park. Friends or family members sign up to be running partners, making the GoTR KC 5K one of the largest 5K runs in the metro area. And although the 5K marks the culmination of the GoTR KC season, Boaz says there’s an intentional emphasis not on competition, but instead on improvement. “We never talk about racing,” she says. “The girls are here to take away more than the 5K. We always talk about running at our own pace, and it’s fine if you have to take a walk break. We don’t care if you hop, walk, skip or run—as long as you’re moving forward and making forward progress.” Boaz is in her fifth year with GoTR KC and now serves as a lead coach for a new team at Belmont Elementary. She has a hard time singling out one specific highlight of her work, instead saying the true reward comes when people around the girls— and the girls themselves—recognize how far they’ve come. “When I talk to a parent, sometimes they’ll say, ‘I saw such a change in my daughter when she started GoTR KC,’” Boaz says. “When you hear that from a parent, you know you’re involved in something that’s truly making a difference for young girls. What’s even better than that is when the girls tell me that they were doing something and thought about what we talked about at GoTR KC and it really helped. When they realize those changes in themselves—can it get any better than that?”
24
Answering a Call to Serve
Graves has served as a chaplain for about two years and also does other volunteer work throughout the community, including Doug Graves, Ph.D., is no stranger to the darkness that follows with the City-Church Partnership for Shawnee. Graves says the tragedy. goal of the group is to unite the churches of Shawnee to help meet Five years ago, his wife, Carol, succumbed to a hard-fought the needs of individuals throughout the community. illness, and Graves found himself adrift in the wake of the “It could be an elderly couple with problems getting their lawn tremendous loss. mowed,” he says. “The City-Church Partnership will step in, take a “It was devastating,” he says. “It probably took me two and a look, ask for volunteers, and get the needs fulfilled.” half years to get to a point of feeling like I had some life left in me. Graves also recently joined the Strengthening Families That’s when this feeling started bubbling up in my spirit: it’s time. I Program, a nationwide initiative with local programs organized said, ‘OK. Time for what?’” by Johnson County Mental Health Center, in addition to other Less than three months later, Shawnee Mayor Michelle Distler agencies and faith partners. During the 14-week series, at-risk approached Graves at church and asked if he’d consider becoming families are taught interpersonal skills and interaction dynamics, a chaplain to the Shawnee Police Department. and Graves says the transformation that occurs is remarkable. “That was my answer,” he says. “Each night begins with a meal To prepare for the chaplaincy, and the family sits at the table,” he says. Graves fulfilled a number of “Early on, they have no clue of what to primary requisites, including do. They don’t know how to interact completion of the Citizen’s Police with each other. By the end of the 14 Academy, which he calls “one of the weeks, it’s so fulfilling and so exciting to most fantastic experiences I’ve had. see the families sitting together, enjoying I think every citizen of Shawnee a meal, respectfully interacting with should do it. It’s just an eyeeach other.” opening understanding of what the Graves’ commitment to serving his police officers have to quickly and community recently hit an unexpected routinely deal with.” obstacle. After developing some Graves joined four other troubling symptoms in early 2018, chaplains—a strictly volunteer Graves had open-heart surgery in position—to work with the police February and continues his recovery. Yet department and, in some cases, the given his background, his love of family Shawnee Fire Department. The and his unwavering drive to help those goal: provide a trustworthy, spiritual around him, it’s likely it won’t be long connection, both to the department before Graves is back at full speed. and to the people they help. “I’m seventh-generation military,” “If there happen to be any issues –Doug Graves, Shawnee volunteer he says. “I had thought, years ago, that going on at the police department, it would be neat to work in a spiritual anyone who has anything at all that capacity with the military. The more I learned about that and with they’d like to talk about, we schedule time to be at the department,” my own experience, I realized it’s an inside job—they have their Graves says. “In the event that an issue that involves the police own chaplain corps and facilities.” department also includes someone who’s a member of a church and Instead, that interest in serving as a chaplain got pushed to they’d like to have someone called, we would step in and visit with the back burner as Doug and Carol started their family and Doug the people to provide that extra level of caring and concern and built his career, first in the corporate world before taking a hiatus to comfort to the citizens of Shawnee.” pursue his master’s in psychology and a doctorate degree in Biblical Occasionally, Graves also rides along with each police officer, Counseling. He then worked as an associate pastor before retiring an invaluable opportunity for both Graves and the officer to get to to care for his wife. know one another. Now, he cares for others throughout the Shawnee community “I let them know why we’re there and what our purpose is,” he and beyond, and it’s an experience he treasures. says. “We’re not trying to set up a church in the department; we’re “Serving as a chaplain is probably the most satisfying and just trying to provide a trustworthy, spiritual connection. One of rewarding work I’ve been a part of in a long, long time,” he says. “I the greatest benefits of this work is being able to touch base with can see that what we do is appreciated and I can see the effect, that the officers themselves. I’m so incredibly impressed with every one it’s making a difference.” that I’ve met.”
“Serving as a chaplain is probably the most satisfying and rewarding work I’ve been a part of in a long, long time.”
26
Sharing the Wisdom of the Past Sometimes, volunteer opportunities happen unexpectedly. That’s what happened to Sally Jercha, who regularly spends summers taking her children (now 12 and 7) on what she laughingly refers to as “dorky field trips. I take them everywhere and we check out everything.” One of their favorite destinations is Shawnee Town 1929, which gives visitors an opportunity to experience life on a typical 1920s farm. “They have a lot of activities for a wide variety of ages, and everyone there was so nice,” she says. “If I ever had questions they would really dig deep and tell me interesting things, then my kids got to feed the chickens. Let’s be clear—the chickens were the priority!” During one visit, Jercha says museum staff asked if she’d considered helping out at Shawnee Town. The rest, as they say, was history—living history, to be exact. Last summer, Jercha and her children all volunteered as historical interpreters at Shawnee Town. They dressed in authentic outfits and assumed different roles at the museum. Jercha, for example, would help guide field trip visitors through the available programming. Her oldest son enjoyed working in the garden, while her younger son played games in the town square area and invited visiting youngsters to join him. During each volunteer shift, Jercha would pack a picnic lunch that they’d enjoy together. Jercha has been a volunteer since August 2016, and she’s worked most of the tasks required to keep the museum running. Field trip programming is a big emphasis in the warmer months. During the winter off-season, she’s pitched in with tasks like inventory. For Jercha, the chance to volunteer at Shawnee Town isn’t just intellectually fulfilling (she had to learn quite a bit of information to prepare for the interpreter role, including annual training). She also enjoys the chance to truly immerse herself in the time period. “Even though I’m in the middle of the city, I’m surrounded by a farm,” she says. “I like being able to get away from technology, really—technology –Sally Jercha, Shawnee Town 1929 volunteer and responsibilities. I don’t have to worry about anything else that’s going on. And I really like surprising kids with how much things have changed in such a short period of time. The museum is 1929—it’s really not that long ago. But there’s also many things that have stayed the same.” Jercha also loves the interactive nature of the museum, which she credits for keeping younger visitors interested and engaged. “Kids love coming here,” she says. “Not a single one of them looks at their phones when they’re here. I think kids learn best using tactile responses to things, and here, they actually get to churn butter, scrub laundry and wring out the wash, plant seeds, pull vegetables—they can even harvest vegetables, take them home, wash and eat them.” By participating in the living museum, rather than simply studying exhibits, Jercha hopes she leaves a lasting impression on visitors, especially the children. “I hope I inspire them to learn more about the natural world and more about how things work, instead of having things done for them,” she says. “I’ve planted blueberry bushes and tomatoes at my home, and I wouldn’t have done that if I hadn’t volunteered at Shawnee Town.” The museum undoubtedly receives its fair share of Jercha’s time and attention, yet she’s also no stranger to juggling a variety of volunteer roles. She serves on school PTOs for both of her sons, is a member of the Blue Valley Curriculum and Instruction committee and also is a “huge Scout volunteer,” she says. Jercha leads Cub Scout Pack 3472, serves as the day camp director for the Soaring Eagle district, which includes all Blue Valley schools; and works with Troop 10 in Leawood. For Jercha, the chance to volunteer is something that comes naturally. “I want to fill as much time as possible and really give to my community,” she says. “I feel a call to do it. I can’t stand sitting around—I’ve got to do something!”
“I want to fill as much time as possible and really give to my community.”
27 Sally Jercha volunteers her time at Shawnee Town 1929, a living history museum recreating Shawnee in the year 1929. She values helping children learn through experience, be more present and take advantage of the history the museum provides.
A GREAT MARKETING TOOL FOR YOUR BUSINESS
to advertise contact Sunflower Publishing sunpubads@sunflowerpub.com | 785.832.7264
29
Shawnee
VISITORS GUIDE
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
30
travel guide
32
city map
34
close to everything
37
quick guide
38
shawnee events
30
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
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 as a private venue site.
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.
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. 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.
SHAWNEE VISITORS GUIDE
Shop Shawnee DOWNTOWN DOLL CRADLE
10910 Johnson Drive (913) 631-1900 dollcradle.com
FARMERS’ MARKET
(May–October) 11110 Johnson Drive, City Hall (913) 248-2360 cityofshawnee.org
HARTMAN HARDWARE 11018 Johnson Drive (913) 631-7592 hartmanhardware.com
SHANANIGANNS BOUTIQUE 11006 Johnson Drive 913.549.8793 facebook.com/shananiganns
SWEET T’S BAKE SHOP 11101 Johnson Drive 913.396.0850 www.facebook.com/ sweettsbakeshop1/
NIGRO’S WESTERN STORE
10509 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 631-2226
PRAIRIE POINT QUILTS
11950 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3333 prairiepoint.com
VINTAGE IN KC CREATIVE ARTS 12045 Johnson Drive (913) 915-8200 vintageinkc.com
Eat Shawnee BAR & GRILL BAR WEST
7174 Renner Road (913) 248-9378 barwestgrill.com
BARLEY’S KITCHEN & TAP SHAWNEE
16649 Midland Drive (913) 268-5160 barleysbrewhaus.com
BLIND BOX BBQ
WESTERN SHAWNEE DOLL HOSPITAL & MORE 7003 Millridge St. (913) 271-8561
AROUND SHAWNEE 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
FUNKY MUNKY MUSIC
12710 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-5555 funkymunkymusic.com
NELLIE & NICO’S, AN ANTIQUE BOUTIQUE 6495 Quivira Road (913) 631-6767 nellie-nicos.com
13214 W 62nd Terrace (913) 268-4227 blindboxbbq.com
JAKE’S PLACE
12001 Johnson Drive (913) 962-5253 jakesplacebarandgrill.com
JOHNNY’S TAVERN
13131 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 962-5777 johnnystavern.com
KNUB’S PUB
5362 Roberts Street (913) 441-5682
TANNER’S BAR & GRILL 22374 W. 66th St. (913) 745-8100 tannersbarandgrill.com
THE OTHER PLACE SHAWNEE 22730 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66226 (913) 441-0094 theotherplace.com
RESTAURANTS BATES CITY BBQ
6493 Quivira Road (913) 962-7447 batescitybbq.net
Quick Guide
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
COUNTRY CLUB CAFE
21911 W. 66th St. #101 (913) 441-2444
DOS REALES
6453 Quivira Road (913) 962-5014 dosrealeskc.com
EGGTC.
7182 Renner Road (913) 631-4400 eggtckc.com
CASA LATINA
11200 Johnson Drive (913) 248-4411
FIREHOUSE SUBS
6415 Quivira Road Shawnee, KS 66216 (913) 631-0033 firehousesubs.com
FRITZ’S RAILROAD RESTAURANT 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
HUHOT MONGOLIAN GRILL 13342 West 62nd Street 913-248-7600 www.huhot.com
JOSE PEPPER’S BORDER GRILL & CANTINA 16605 Midland Drive (913) 631-1011 josepeppers.com
MCALISTER’S DELI
11330 Shawnee Mission Parkway (913) 268-3354 mcalistersdeli.com
Quick Guide
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
Stay in Shawnee
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
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
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
SUTERA’S PIZZA
22716 Midland Drive (913) 667-3000 suterasshawnee.com
TWISTED
22030 W. 66th St. (913) 441-0444 twistedfresh.com
31
HOTELS COMFORT INN & SUITES 16510 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 choice hotels.com (877) 424-6423
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT 17250 Midland Drive (913) 631-8800 marriott.com
FAIRFIELD INN &SUITES (OPENING WINTER 2018) 16550 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66217 courtyard.marriott.com (888) 236-2427
HAMPTON INN
16555 Midland Drive (913) 248-1900 hamptoninn.com
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 17346 Midland Drive (913) 400-2509 hiexpress.com
RV PARK WALNUT GROVE
10218 Johnson Dr., Merriam (913) 262-3023 walnutgroverv.com
Theaters in Shawnee AZTEC THEATRE
11119 Johnson Drive Shawnee, KS 66203 913-207-4148 www.facebook.com/ AztecShawnee/
B&B THEATRES / SHAWNEE 18 / MUSIC THEATRE KANSAS CITY 1630 Midland Drive 913.631.0871 bbtheatres.com/shawnee-18/ www.mtkc.org
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
31
32
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
SHAWNEE VISITORS GUIDE
Shawnee City Map
2
OUT & ABOUT
Western Spike 3
5 6
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
4
IN SHAWNEE
1 7 8
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
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 & Suites Courtyard by Marriott Hampton Inn Comfort Inn & Suites Fairfield Inn & Suites B&B Theatres/Shawnee 18/Music Theatre Kansas City The University of Kansas Health System Park Lanes Swarner Park Veterans Park Johnson County Library Thomas A. Soetart Aquatic Center Civic Centre 22 PowerPlay 23 Caenen Castle 24 Old Shawnee Town 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 32 Jaycee Park 33 Listowel Park 34 Shawnee Mission Health
misc.
12
13
15 14
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors, CC BY-SA, www.openstreetmap.org
What & Where
culture
11
9
18
19
10
TO K-10
Shawnee City Map
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
SHAWNEE VISITORS GUIDE
33
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
25 26
24 23
21
20
27
22
28
Park It
29
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
16
31
30
32
33 17 34
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
34
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 CLOSE TO EVERYTHING
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 momand-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, 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 Power Play 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. • 7 minutes – Legends Outlet Mall • 13 minutes – Country Club Plaza • 15 minutes – Oak Park Mall
SPORTS • 15 minutes – Community America Ballpark, home of the T-Bones • 15 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
Compare Our CD Rates
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
35
Bank-issued, FDIC-insured
6-month
1-year
2-year
% % % Keep your crop working for 1.85 2.10 2.60 Keep your crop working for you, even after the harvest. APY*
Minimum deposit $1000
APY*
APY*
Minimum deposit $1000
Minimum deposit $1000
you, even after the harvest.
* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective 04/02/2018. CDs offered by Edward Jones are bank-issued and FDIC-insured up to Edward Jones can helpbutyou create a and interest Edward$250,000 Jones(principal can help youaccrued createnot a yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category. Please visit www.fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability strategy designed to help you your and price change. CD values are subject to interest ratereach strategy designed to help you reach yourrisk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early financial goals. withdrawal financial goals.may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest and do not allow interest to compound. CDs offered through Edward Jones are issued by banks and thrifts nationwide. All CDs sold by Edward Jones are registered with the Depository Trust Corp. (DTC).
Stop by orToday! contact me to schedule Call Ellis or visit your local financial advisor today. Stop by or contact me to schedule Call D Bryant 913-362-0400 a financial a financial review. review. Ellis D Bryant Financial Advisor Ellis D Bryant Ellis D Bryant 6400 Glenwood St Ste 308
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
.
Financial Advisor Financial Advisor Overland Park, KS 66202
Member SIPC
FDI-1867G-A
BRT-3307C-A
BRT-3307C-A
.
6400 Glenwood St Ste 308 913-362-0400 6400 Glenwood St Ste 308 Overland Park, KS 66202 Overland Park, KS 66202 913-362-0400 913-362-0400 .
Call for free in-home consultation
913-221-0770 www.mollymaid.com
of Central Johnson County
d For This i a M e r ’ e W
Mention this ad and save $100 off regular service
ABILIFY • ADVAIR DISKUS • AGGRENOX • AZILECT • CIALIS • DETROL LA ELIQUIS • ENABLEX • ENTOCORT EC • EYE DROPS • INVOKANA • J ANUVIA LATUDA • L IALDA • L EVITRA • MYRBETRIQ • ONGLYZA • PRADAXA PREMARIN • PRISTIQ • RELPAX • SERC • RENEXA • SPIRIVA • SYMBICORT ULORIC • VAGIFEM • VESICARE • VIAGRA • XARELTO • X IFAXAN • ZOMIG AND MANY MORE!
Quick Guide
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
SHAWNEE VISITORS GUIDE
37
Emergency & Medical EMERGENCY
CENTRACARE SHAWNEE MISSION URGENT CARE
911
www.centracare.org/ Kansas
THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS HEALTH SYSTEM www.kansashealthsystem.com
(913)-588-1227
OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER—ER OF SHAWNEE
SHAWNEE MISSION HEALTH PRAIRIE STAR
hcamidwest.com/service/ emergency-care
(913) 676-2000
shawneemission.org
(913) 227-8400
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
HAMPTON INN
(913) 631-6545
Hotels COMFORT INN & SUITES
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
FAIRFIELD INN &SUITES
choice hotels.com
marriott.com
(OPENING WINTER 2018)
(913) 631-8800
(877) 424-6423
HamptonInn.com
(913) 248-1900
(888) 236-2427
Attractions JOHNSON COUNTY MUSEUM
SHAWNEE TOWN 1929
jocomuseum.org
(913) 248-2360
wonderscope.org
(913) 715-2550
shawneetown.org
(913) 287-8888
City Services CITY HALL cityofshawnee.org
(913) 631-2500
CITY OF SHAWNEE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
FIRE DEPARTMENT
POLICE DEPARTMENT
(nonemergency number)
(nonemergency number)
(913) 631-1080
(913) 631-2150
GOOGLE FIBER
TIME WARNER CABLE BUSINESS CLASS
(nonemergency number)
(913) 631-5200
Internet/Cable/Telephone AT&T att.com
CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS
(800) 331-0500
consolidated.com
(913) 825-2882
fiber.google.com/ KansasCity
hiexpress.com
(913)-400-2509
courtyard.marriott.com
WONDERSCOPE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF KANSAS CITY
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES
timewarnercable.com/ midwest
(816) 358-8833
38
SHAWNEE MAGAZINE sunflowerpub.com
MAY 2018 MAY 5 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 5 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 Dr., (913) 742-6226.
MAY 26 POOLS OPEN
Splash Cove and the Thomas A. Soetaert Aquatic Center open for the season, delighting families across the area. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., (913) 631-7177; Aquatic Center, 13805 Johnson Dr., (913) 631-0054.
MAY 30 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.
MAY 31–JUNE 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 2018
JUNE 1 FUN FRIDAYS AT THE POOL
Come join us to celebrate the summer on June 1, July 4, August 3. These days will include concession stand deals, coordinated games and prizes for winners from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Splash Cove, 5800 King Ave., 913-631-0054, 13805 Johnson Dr.
SHAWNEE VISITORS GUIDE
JUNE 29 PARKED! MUSIC, FOOD TRUCKS & FIREWORKS!
Get ready for a fun evening with friends and family from 5:00–10:00 p.m. at Stump Park, 4751 Woodland Dr, Shawnee, KS 66218.
JULY 2018 JUNE 29–JULY 7 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 2018 AUGUST 10 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 18 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 26 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 2018 SEPTEMBER 15 FRIENDS OF SHAWNEE TOWN ARTS & CRAFTS 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 21–22 SHAWNEE GREAT GRILLER’S BLUES & BBQ CONTEST
Enjoy some of the best barbeque in the Midwest and activities for the whole community to enjoy. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St. shawneegreatgrillers.com
SEPTEMBER 28 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 2018 OCTOBER 6 SCARECROW FESTIVAL
Celebrate the autumn season at the annual Scarecrow Festival, presented by the Shawnee Downtown Partnership. Festivities include a scarecrow contest, pumpkin-carving contest, pie contest and activities for the kids. 9 a.m.–noon, Shawnee City Hall, 11110 Johnson Drive.
OCTOBER 27 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.
Shawnee Events
OCTOBER 27 HISTORICAL HAUNTING
Bring the whole family to Shawnee Town for an evening of hayrides, trick-or-treating, costume contests and more. Entrance and activities are free. Shawnee Town 1929, 11501 W. 57th St. shawneetown.org
NOVEMBER 2018 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 2018 DECEMBER 1 CHRISTKINDLMARKT
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 Christmas tree lighting, Santa, entertainment and hot chocolate from 2:00–6:00 p.m.
MARCH 2019 MARCH 11 ST. PATRICK’S PARADE & CELEBRATION
Whether you are Irish in truth or in spirit, don’t miss the Shawnee St. Patrick’s Parade & Celebration, a great 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 Annual Duck Race at Herman Laird Park.