Discovering De Soto / Summer 2017 / Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Co mp Su S 20 lim m pe 17 en m ci ts of er al the Is Ci ty sue of De So to Community & Business

Discovering Exploring

De De SotoSoto

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On-Line Feature Publication

with printed copies throughout De Soto www.discoveringdesoto.com

De Soto, Kansas

located in Western Johnson County

Planes Trains & Automobiles • SUMMER 2017

Step inside these pages and learn about the many avenues of Transportation.

You’ll discover our residents have quite a passion for Planes, Trains & Automobiles– from racing to collecting cars and flying.

Learn about Kansas railroad lines, as well as important safety reminders.

Summer Events, Celebrations and Business News are also included.

Celebrating 160 YEARS H 1857 - 2017

Photos provided by the De Soto Historical Sociaty Shown on Cover top left: Crop Dusting Airplanes owned by Paul Morse, farm family in De Soto • Runyon and Davis Car by Dr. Marck’s Office • Train Eastboud thru De Soto/Whitelaw home • Railroad Depot in De Soto • Atwell’s Gas Station at 83rd & Kill Creek

“People’s

Sponsorship by Carriage

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Carriage Houses

Lots of FUN H Formation AIR BRING YOUR LAWN CHAIRS & COOLERS

OF JOHNSON COUNTY

www.chofjoco.com Bill Brown Sales 913-244-4954 29230 West 83rd Street in De Soto

CH

Carriage Houses of Johnson County is a veteranowned business selling garage condominiums on a 10-acre development just east of De Soto Kansas. Founded in 2009, the business opened the doors to their first garage building in 2011, and has since grown to five buildings with 109 total garage units.

The garages feature 23 foot high ceilings, windows, walk-in doors, 14 foot high garage doors, fully insulated walls, doors, and ceilings, stressed concrete floors, and electrical service tailored to each owner’s needs. Garage owners store large RVs, boats, classic car collections, or use them as workshops. There’s even a basketball court and batting cage! Several have improved their units with spectacular upgrades including car lifts and lofts, creating their ultimate man-caves.

Carriage Houses pricing begins in the low $30 thousands, and increases based on size and extra features. Sales have

been brisk, and several owners have sold their original units to upgrade into later buildings. Although the garage condos have intrinsic real estate value, the real value is the fun, supportive garage owners community. There is a unique energy and friendliness of this car-loving community. Owners will be wrenching on their hot rods, washing and detailing their luxury RVs, or just hanging out in the Carriage Club talking to friends. From Main Street to Roadster Road, from Gasoline Alley to Carriage Way–you can feel the sense of community throughout the development. Regular open house events, car shows, and owner appreciation cookouts add to the fun.

This summer Carriage Houses will add its sixth building at the end of “Main Street”, with a huge clock tower in the center. Come to the fourth annual People’s Choice Car Show held on the property July 15, and you’ll see where Building Six will be erected, and the new clock tower!

Choice” BIG SUMMER CAR SHOW & PARADE OF GARAGES

Saturday H July 15 H 6:30 pm to10 pm

People pick the Winners • Winners get Cash • Over $1,000!

Enter Your Classic/Collector Car and Register on-line www.kansascityautomuseum.com/peoplechoicecarshow WE ANTICIPATE OVER 250 SHOW CARS AND 1500 GUESTS • SHUTTLE PARKING AVAILABLE

Your $10 Car Entry Donation benefits the Kansas City Automotive Museum.

Houses of Johnson County

FOOD H Two LIVE BANDS H SHOW H Open to the Public

STAY FOR THE ENTIRE EVENT

ENJOY THE WHOLE EXPERIENCE

Joe Nuti and Eric Offill, founders of Carriage Houses of Johnson County, met in 1990 while flying Air Force A-10 combat missions together during Desert Storm. After the war, both men were reassigned to Randolph Air Force Base to teach new Air Force pilots. There the idea of going into business together began, but would be put on hold.

Several years later, Joe moved to Kansas City and brought his pilot skills to Southwest Airlines. Eric finished his Air Force career and also moved to Kansas City, joining his old buddy Joe at Southwest. Their dream of starting a business was revived, and they established the first garage condo business in the Kansas City area. Carriage Houses of Johnson County was born in 2009.

These entrepreneurs added two like-minded Air Force veterans and Southwest Airlines pilots to the team, Kent Yohe and Craig Wilcox. The four relied on each other’s skills, drive, and understanding of how to work together to attack their goals. They purchased 10 acres of raw land east of De Soto and went to work developing the property.

After two years of intense effort, they opened the doors to Building One in August 2011. Over the next nine months,

18 of of the 22 units in this first garage were sold and occupied by happy garage condo owners.

The business added a clubhouse called “The Carriage Club” in 2012. Another 20 unit garage was built, bringing the total units to 42. Building Two sold out before construction was complete. Carriage Houses’ success continued, as new buildings were erected and garages sales accelerated.

Today there are five buildings with 109 total garages on the property. Almost all units are occupied, and construction of Building Six begins this summer. Half of this building’s garages have already sold, as Carriage Houses’ success continues to grow. Eric and Joe’s business dreams have come true!

Enjoy this on-line Carriage Houses Video from the KC Star www.youtube.com/ watch?v=LhNQ-O431tw

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Discovering

De Soto

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Community & Business Feature Publication

www.DiscoveringDeSoto.com like us on facebook Discovering De Soto

WELCOME................................................................... 4 BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Lexington Lake/Arbor Ridge/KTen..................... 6/7 Business News & Events................................... 9

SPECIAL FEATURE Planes,Trains and Automobiles Reminiscing the Glories of Flying......................... 10 De Soto’s Mr. Model “A”........................................... 10 Global BNSF Intermodel......................................... 11 Resource/Directory....................................................14/15 Planes, Trains & Automobiles Art Exhibit.............14/15

Skillful and Innovative Students

De Soto’s very own Speedway Racer.................... 16/17 High Schooler’s Achievements.............................. 17

WELCOME! This issue was inspired by “Custom Garages of Johnson County” who is our Summer 2017 Sponsor. Attending their fall event, I learned about the“Big Summer Car Show”that takes place on July 15th, and that the owners were all pilots. I also remembered that former Mayor Dave Anderson was part of the BNSF Intermodel Project. This began the framework for a“Planes, Trains & Automobiles” Issue for Discovering De Soto.

I learned quite a bit on my interviews and hope you will enjoy reading about the Johnson County Sheriff Office and De Soto’s own racecar driver Mandy Chick. You’ll learn about “Grandpa’s Garage” and the “Clarke” Sign along 83rd Street, as well as De Soto’s Summer Events. Read about De Soto’s special residents on the “Celebrations Page” and construction updates and news on the Business Pages.

Thanks also for De Soto’s talented artists for their gallery contributions.

This was an exciting issue to compile– with quite a bit of legwork, elbow grease and sweat–capturing the drive of men (and women) and their passions.

Public Safety Organization

Protection and Law Enforcement............................18/19 FAITH A man and a (God’s) mission......................20 Vacation Bible Schools this Summer.......................21 EVENTS in and around De Soto..............................22/23 PEOPLE Celebrations and recognition..................24/25 HEALTH & SAFETY Summer Food Program..... 26 Seat Belt and Train Safety........................................ 27/28 Discovering De Soto is a free on-line features publication, with printed editions distributed throughout the community of De Soto.

Limited printed issues are available for $2.50 at area vendors/businesses.

Independently owned and published by RMB prints & design LLC. Publishing Quarterly with modifications and updates on Facebook.

Not responsible for errors or misprints. Information is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, however “RMB prints & design LLC” is not responsible for the accuracy of information not liable for any incurrances as a result of this publication. The material in Discovering De Soto is not intended for diagnosing or giving medical advice.

A Business, Organization or Entity Featured is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product, business or organization. There is no monitary exchange for editorial features, excluding “Sponsorship Page.”

Businesses featured are objectively selected for newsworthy content and/or being applicable to the current issue’s theme/focus/emphasis.

–Rose Burgweger, Editor/Publisher, Discovering De Soto RMB prints & design llc

Special Thanks to our Contributors:

CITY OF DESOTO Printing

CUSTOM GARAGES of Johnson County Sponsorship Helen Ash Copy Editor Meg Johnson Administrative Assistance Contributing Writer Dick Stine Contributing Graphic Designers Blake Bradford Tina Smith Rich Britnell Compass Art Logo Kathy Ross Historical Photos On-line Subscription Sign-up: rmbprints@icloud.com Advertising Information: rmbprints@icloud.com “Like” us on Facebook

Did you know De Soto has a Lumberyard?

W 103rd St

Clearview City

Lumber One is locally owned and has been in business for fourteen years. We began selling lumber to builders and later expanded to include windows and trim. We have grown to service a wide spectrum of commercial projects, and are now branching into retail sales. We are ready to assist you with your big and small projects.

We offer free local delivery.

Ave gt on

De Soto Water Tower

Sunflower Rd

Edgerton Rd

.

95th St

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.

95th St

K-10

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K-10

Directions: Lexington Avenue to 95th Street (West) to Sunflower Road (South) 9800 Sunflower Road in De Soto

Lumber One is now one of the larger lumber

yards in the KC metro area. Specialty items include pole barns, sheds and garages of all sizes. We carry a wide assortment of materials and manufacturers. We look forward to you visiting De Soto’s local lumberyard.

Open 7-5 Monday-Friday 9800 Sunflower Road in De Soto Phone 913-583-9889 Fax: 913-583-9887

www.lumberonekc.com

Where the Customer is our Lumber One Priority

Discovering De Soto

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Exploring

De Soto

465-acre Lexington Lake Park is getting

ready to open mid-June. The Johnson County Park is located just north of K-10, off the Edgerton Exit. The site includes a 30-acre fishing lake, walking trails, shelters restroom facilities and freshly “sprayed” grass.

NEW HOMES STARTING IN THE $290’S HOA DUES $100 A YEAR Welcome to Arbor Ridge, nestled in De Soto, Kansas!

Choose from a variety of custom homes and builders.

Most home sites accommodate daylight or walk-out plans!

You can find it all at Arbor Ridge!

Award-winning Schools v Close Proximity to work, shopping and entertainment v New Grocery Store v Small town Values v Warm, Peaceful Community v Aquatic Center v Nearby Parks De Soto is conveniently located in Western Johnson County, next to nearby towns of Lenexa, Shawnee and Olathe.

Easy access to Kansas City and Lawrence.

On West 83rd Street, four miles west of K-7 Just north of K-10, Kill Creek Road Exit.

Contact Bob McCoy, Keller Williams Real Estate 913-424-5974

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Photography by Rose M.Burgweger/rmbprints.com For additional nearby Parks information see Discovering De Soto Summer 2016 Issue Picturesque Parks pages 20-21 Riverfest Park pages 22-23 https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

Exploring

De Soto Try out our New Mobile Banking Apps!

TriCentury.com Mobile Deposit uses the camera on your smartphone or tablet and deposits checks directly into your account securely.

Mobile Bill Pay lets you pay your bills from your mobile device. Select a payee from your existing list, enter the amount and payment date and confirm. You can also view and modify pending payments.

Avaliable to all our online bill pay subscribers.

Mobile Popmoney ® is a fast and easy way to send money to family and/or friends–sending birthday money, splitting the dinner bill etc.

Arbor Ridge has begun development of its Phase II

construction. Land has been cleared along 83rd Street (shown at left). Mounds of mulch were transported via heavy equipment this Spring (see above photo).

A new entryway will bring residents into the Arbor Ridge subdivision. 47 lots are expected to be ready to build on

by August 2017

KTen Place 122-unit Apartment Complex broke ground this Spring at 9100 Commerce Drive.

1-2 bedroom units will be available Summer of 2018.

Located near Harp’s Grocery Store, with close access to physicians, veterinary services and several eating franchises. Amenities include a pool and clubhouse, and garages for select units. Developer Hike Properties look forward to offering additional housing options for the De Soto community and its employers.

Our standard Popmoney fees apply. This service is not available with our text banking option.

Mobile Alerts receive alerts about your account activity. Use alerts to know when your account balance reaches a certain level, or as soon as a paycheck is deposited. Mobile Alerts can also help prevent fraud by monitoring your account activity.

Available for all mobile devices that can send and receive text messages.

Message and data rates may apply.

A variety of Checking, Savings and Money Market Accounts for all your Personal, Family and Business Needs

Consumer and Business Loans– Commercial Real Estate, Rental Properties, Home Equity Lines of Credit (subject to approval)

“Your Hometown Bank”

33485 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-3222 24 Hour Telephone Banking: (800) 480-1747 Vive Customer Service: (888) 309-2240 LOBBY HOURS: Monday–Friday 8 am to 5 pm, Sat 9 am to noon Night Drop–ATM Available 24 Hours a Day DRIVE THRU HOURS: Monday – Wednesday 8 am to 5 pm, Thursday – Friday 8 am to 6 pm, Sat 9 am to noon

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Discovering De Soto

business news Exploring

& events De Soto

TriCentury fastest growing bank in the KC metro area for both total assets/loans

The Kansas City Business Journal reported at the end of 2016 that TriCentury assets grew by 1,800% in two years.

In addition, TriCentury increased its loan portfolio, up 55.98% from a year ago, being among the top ten KC Banks in loan grown. Articles appeared in the Kansas City Business Journal throughout March 2017 www.bizjournels.com

Turner Hardware expands to New Location You’ll find both more space and more inventory at Turner’s Hardware, located at 33080 W. 83rd Street in the former Dollar General Building, East of Wanda’s. (see story and ad on pages 20-21)

Ready to Buy or Sell?

If you are a seller, buyer or investor interested in De Soto area real estate, Shelly can help. When you’re ready to buy or sell, call Shelly or stop by her office in Downtown De Soto.

Shelly Doris Realtor®

Cell: 913.709.4425 shellydoris@stephensre.com

Real Estate Done Right StephensRE.com De Soto Office 33135 W. 83rd St. Main Office 2701 W. Sixth St. Lawrence, KS 66049 785.841.4500

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2017 Beautification Award given to 323.TV™ Newly designed and remodeled, 323.TV is located at 32525 Lexington Ave in DeSoto. (Readers may remember the former Apple Market in the building, and laundrymat.)

“CLARKE” signage stands in the field in front of the building.

Brothers Jared and Brant Clarke began their business in 2000, originally located on 83rd Street, upstairs with a wi-fi coffee shop below. They moved into their present location several years ago and presently have fifteen employees.

323.TV produces video and audio conference systems for clients located throughout the country and world. Their name was derived from H.323 which is the protocol for connecting voice and video over the internet. Learn more about their products and services at their web site: http://www.323.tv

Great American Bank Ranked No. 2 in KC’s five strongest Small Banks of 2016

Each year the Kansas City Business Journal divides up the 103 banks within its coverage area according to its assets. Banks are ranked using six areas measuring problem loan ratios, Texas ratio, core capitol ratio, equity capital, income and total loans and leases. Great American Bank scored very high in all these areas, and achieved a No. 2 ranking for being among the “Five Strongest Small Banks in Kansas City in 2016.” The bank is led by Les Dreiling and has four branches in the Kansas City area.

The full article appeared in the Kansas City Business Journal on March 23, 2017. www.bizjournels.com

De Soto Organizations/Groups De Soto Kansas Historical Society 2018 Calendar Picture Contest

The group is looking for photos prior to 1950 of De Soto’s buildings, events, people and places for consideration for next year’s calendar.

Submit your photos by June 27th via e-mail: desotohistoricalsociety@gmail.com 913-583-3178 “Women Soldiers of the Civil War” will be presented by historian Diane Eickhoff on Wednesday, June 28 at 6:30 pm in the De Soto City Council Meeting Room.

“Like” us on facebook De Soto Kansas Historial Society www.facebook.com/desotokshistoricalsociety

Great American Bank

Great American Bank 33050 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS Phone: 913 913--585 585--1131 / greatambank.com

Great American Bank 33050 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS Phone: 913 913--585 585--1131 / greatambank.com 33050 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS Phone: 913 913--585 585--1131 / greatambank.com

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9

Discovering De Soto

Shown below: De Soto resident, John Swander flying his pride and joy– 1932 WACO UEC. Bottom right: 1937 Stenson Reliant photos provided by John Swander

SPECIAL FEATURE: Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Exploring

Reminiscing the Glories of Flying

De Soto

I’ve been to several of the festive celebrations out at the hanger at Gardner Airport, where De Soto resident, John Swander keeps his plane. However, I had no idea of the scope of his passion, knowledge and history of flying high in the skies.

“As long as I can remember, I was always facinated with airplanes– even more than automobiles,” said John. His dad flew from 1951 to 1954, had a bunch of kids, and then resparked his flying in 1974. John took flying lessons in 1978, receiving his pilot’s license in 1979.

His first plane was a “1948 Stinson Station Wagon,” purchased in 1979 from his flight instructor. This purchase was influenced by a book John read about Stinson, who was far ahead of his time in the “Golden Age” of aviation from 1927 to 1941. This era began when Lindburg crossed the Atlantic in 1927, proving that air travel was safe enough to cross an ocean.

He searched for two years to find a 1937 Stinson Reliant. Only 498 were built. It was the “Cadillac” of airplanes, with an enormous wingspan of 42 feet, with a hefty gross weight limit of 4,100 lbs. Luxurious Stinson Planes were built with all metal wings, the highest-quality plane of its time. He eventually sold his Stinson to a guy in Australia that he met at the Oshkoch “Fly-In.” continued on page 12

De Soto’s Mr. Model “A” Any conversation you might have had with Dean Weller thirty nine years ago would have centered on his nearly 100 homes he had built in De Soto, or it might have drifted to years before when he first settled here in 1951 with his wife of 71 years, Dolores, and built the El Rancho Motel that he later sold and is still in operation as De Soto Inn Motel. However, it is a good bet in such a conversation today there would be no mention of building wooden structures but building steel antique Ford Model A’s.

Taking a stroll east on the south side of 83rd Street nearing the end of the block at 33015 just before crossing the street to Dale’s Service station, you glance up at a very old sign above your head, above what is now a service door. continued on page 11

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Discovering

De Soto residents

Shown above: Dean Weller in his De Soto Shop photo by Dick Stine dickstine.zenfolio.com

Share your story with our readers... e-mail info@discoveringdesoto.com

BNSF Railway Intermodal Facility in Logistics Park Kansas City located in Edgerton, Kansas

Exploring

Intermodal transportation is the transporting of truck trailers and containers by rail. These are lifted and transfered to trucking companies. Cargo is received from ocean carriers in Los Angeles/Long Beach and Chicago. BNSF delivers both domestic and international consumer goods–clothes, electronics, automobiles and a variety of other items. Note that one BNSF intermodal train is equal to 280 truckloads. photo by rmbprints.com

De Soto

Take a video tour at: http://www.logisticsparkkc.

Global BNSF Intermodal with local construction management from De Soto

Dave Anderson, former De Soto Mayor (2001-2013) shares his venture in overseeing the construction magagement for the BNSF Intermodal Facility.

A major project of gigantic proportions, began mid-2011.

In Fort Worth, Texas HDR Engineering, Inc. put together the designs for this global project. Dave Anderson was hired after a suggestion by De Soto resident Kent Dvorak, who was in Fort Worth, Texas, visiting family.

Dave came on board as the Construction Manager in early 2012 with five knowlegeable, skilled inspectors working under him. As representatives for BNSF (Burlington Northern Sante Fe) they watched all construction activities, payments, change orders, material submittals, weekly progress project meetings, and negotiated contract changes at the LPKC in nearby Edgerton.

Construction began on site with a million cubic yards of rock and dirt that had to be removed. An enormous amount. (Note: a cubic yard is 3 feet x 3 feet x 3 feet.)

“When working on a railroad project,” Dave said, “There are three rules: Safety 1st, Trains 2nd and Build the Project is 3rd.” Heavyweight freight trains run at 55 mph, and Intermodal trains at 70 mph for main transcontinental lines, needing up to two miles to stop.

The BSNF Intermodel located in the heartland of the US, has far-reaching transcontinental routes. The Edgerton facility is a “transfer hub” that actually begins in China.

Imports are transported by boat to ports in Los Angeles and Long Beach, California. These travel along BNSF’s

transcontinental line to New Mexico, Kansas City and Chicago–where trains are reloaded with oversea shipments that have come through the Great Lakes. Cargo is fully loaded on both ends of BNSF’s train route and distributed throughout the United States, being a major transportation hub for both imports and exports.

BNSF invested $250 million for the new Intermodel facility. This is part of a “world-class inland port” called Logistics Park Kansas City (LPKC) which has 443 acres (and 1,100+ acres for master-planned distribution and warehouse facilities). A large portion of Intermodal was moved from the 45-acre Argentine Yard (which continues to be one of Kansas City’s largest classification railroad yards and mechanical engine repair facilities).

The Intermodel Project was completed on time in October 2014 with eight tracks that are 8,000 ft. long.

Six miles of main line track run outside the facility.

Eight Electric Cranes (90 ft. high by 270 ft. wide) run back and forth along the tracks, loading and unloading the “train car containers.” Truck-to-train is the majority of the 1,000 lifts a day, though there are also train-totrain transfers. At no small cost, each crane cost $5 million. 500,000 containers are lifted annually, with the potential to expand to 1.5 million.

With additional expansion and maintenance needs, Dave continues to be a part of this global project. www.logisticsparkkc.com

–written by Rose Burgweger interview with Dave Anderson

www.bnsf.com

Now Hiring Dynamic People for an Amazing Career at LPKC! Apply at www.remprex.com

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Shown at right: 1932 WACO UEC stripped and ready to be rebuilt, Engine inside, Meticulously restored finished project

Exploring

continued from page 10 He brought the plane to California, where it was disassembled and shipped to Australia. John notes that “planes are very fragile on the ground.”

In 1989 he was looking for something to restore. His “find” was a 1932 WACO UEC–one of the 45 built in the US. It was in bad shape, and picked up in Wichita in pieces. He estimated it would take him five years to restore. It was stripped down to the “bare bones” and restored piece by piece. After a decade, it was ready to fly in October ‘99. John says, “It is the best airplane I ever had. I love it!” (Enjoy this great video by AERO on-line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1QTkAbKB8Q) “Aviation has brought me to places and people I can’t imagine life without,” John reminisces. Aviator people are a special group of people. For 36 years, John has attended the Blakesburg, Iowa “Fly-In” held by the Antique Airplane Association, where there are 350 airplanes that come in from across the country.

Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is the “Mega Fly-In” where there are 15,000 airplanes and over 600,000 attendees. John has attended for 28 consecutive years. Everything from guys building homemade airplanes to ultralights, WW II antique classics, fully restored B-29 Boeing, and all that encompasses aviation can be found. Ten pages of events can be found on their website including: seminars, air shows, demonstrations, concerts, church services, workshops, shopping...and the list goes on.

If you can’t make it up to Wisconsin this summer, enjoy photos of the “Fly-Ins” that will be attending and click on “Aircraft Highlights at AirVenture Oshkosh 2017.”

Henry Ford 2003 Air Tour Along with 28 antique

planes, John was hand-selected to participate in the 100 year Celebraton of Flight–commemorating the 1903 Wright Brother’s flight. Greg Herrick re-created the 1932 Tour that never happened due to the depression era.

Ford Motor Company was the sponsor for the 2003 Tour.

Henry and Edsel Ford helped put the nation on wings by encouraging the development of aircraft and an aviation infrastructure to serve the public. Their support for the original National Air Tours, along with Ford dealers across the nation, built public confidence in the safety and reliability of air transportation (www.nationalairtour. org/history_02.html).

The historic re-creation of the National Air Tour took place September 8-24 and included 23 stops in 17 days with 63 flight hours. (Normally John flies 50 hours a year.)

Throughout the country these pilots experienced the prestige of aviation, becoming celebraties at each stop, and the exhiliation of flying. Fortunately there were no injuries with such an intense schedule, though they did run into some challenging weather, a few mechanical issues, and a plane having to land in a field on the third day of the beginnning venture.

Comradery quickly grew among the 80 people that moved from town to town and continues today with reunions every five years. You can still find complete information, as well as John’s name/plane on their web site: www.nationalairtour.org/pilotplanespeople/index.cfm Throughout the years, John fortunately has not had any serious mechanical issues, though in younger years he pushed weather conditions at times. He now holds to “I’d rather be on the ground, when I wish I was up in the air” instead of “I wish I was on the ground, when up in the air.” His favorite time to fly–at sunset, with the sun filling the skies with its beauty as it sets in the distance.

Another glorious day in the skies.

De Soto

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh held July 24-31, 2017. www.eaa.org/en/airventure

–written by Rose Burgweger Interview with John Swander

Auto Home Life Business

Keith Nowland 785-542-3276 keithnowland.com

The ultimate hightlight of John’s flying career was the

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John’s other special gem– a ‘34 Ford 4-door Sedan was bought for $100 (including a $50 loan from his dad).

He began driving it when he was 16.

Restored in 2002 and later painted gloss black. Swander is a retired auto mechanic and owned VW Repair Shop. Not really retiring, he continues to work on his cars and plane.

Shown to left: Dean Weller’s “Grandpa’s Garage and Body Shop in De Soto’s Historic Downtown on 83rd Street.

Also shown, an assortment of Model A’s Dean has rebuilt. photos by Dick Stine web site?

Exploring

Building was his occupational love, but he still fixated automobiles. His retirement and purchase of the old Ford building opened new horizons.

His favoriite car was the Model A, where he dedicated his efforts.

Thirty years ago, it was not too difficult to find Model A relics and parts. Dean attended “shop & swap” meets to find parts from nuts and bolts to body frames. A visit to his basement reveals a virtual parts store with every item hanging from the ceiling or itemized on shelves. There are some needy shells of Model T cars and trucks, a beautiful green “T” pickup with finished wooden sides, and two colorful racing “A”s.

I noticed a rust-bucket 1926 Model T Touring backed up to the basement wall with a picture of its former glory on its massive radiator grill and a “?” where a price should be. The hulk is an emotional recollection of his grandfather’s first automobile that Dean trucked back from Mountain View to his old Ford dealership shop. He has no plans to restore the memories.

Upstairs, on the showroom floor is where the jewels reside. Whether you love a gorgeous restoration or Dean’s imagination-inspired racers, your jaw will hang open a lot.

Your author is fixated on these authentic restorations that fit the descriptions of my dad’s early cars. But how can one not want to drive away in an original “woody” or pickup? Don’t drool, because they aren’t for sale. Each “new” car is shuffled among the existing artist portfolio that is the showroom floor. Dean Weller’s intention is to create memorable art that evokes memories.

Dean Weller is the youngest 91-year old I have yet to meet. His is still living his dream of loving to come to work (play). He meets weekly with like-minded buddies as they chat about cars and life Tuesday mornings and then break for lunch; then Dean returns for an afternoon of building a new old car. He hopes to host a century celebration next year for this classic building.

Dean reminds us that he is a working man and cannot be interrupted. Visits are by appointment only. You can also visit and admire his work at this great on-line tour:

De Soto

continued from page 10 The store window reveals an odd, nostalgic message, “Grandpa’s Garage and Body Shop.” A closer look in another window–a 1903 Ford replica, the original Model A. What you have stumbled upon is the shop of Dean Weller, retired homebuilder and rejuvenated car builder.

Lucius Blaylock, formerly an owner of a livery stable, put up this building in 1918 (seven years before Dean was born). Eventually, the bank owned the building, and Dean Weller decided in 1974 to buy it. Four years later, it was time to retire from building houses and fulfill his real dream of creating cars. Thirty-nine years later, Dean has built 29 Model A’s and T’s, and has recently designed yet another convertible roadster whose skeletal frame is stretched out in his car-art studio with body, fenders, doors and hood primered grey and hanging from the rafters waiting to be bolted on the frame and finally painted.

Dean’s Depression-era childhood was spent in Mountain View in southeastern Missouri, where his father was a homebuilder. He also built the “Weller Courts,” the cabin-style forerunner of the motels we frequent today. No diplomas came Dean’s way because his father pulled him from school after the eighth grade as his apprentice builder. No salary, but a practical education in dad’s trade school. The Second World War interrupted Dean’s life along with millions of other men and women. He joined the Merchant Marines, and while at home on leave in Mountain View, he recognized a lovely girl. The two bright-eyed teenagers soon married.

The Wellers bought a service station fulfilling his lifetime love of cars. After selling the business, they moved to Oregon where population was growing fast and the need for new houses, just as fast. By 1951, with a nest egg of $12,000, they decided to move to De Soto where Delores’ parents then lived.

He set up shop and constructed the El Rancho Motel. Amazingly, the original El Rancho neon sign currently resides in the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xj7FAifVTNE

–written by Dick Stine interview with Dean Weller at Grandpa’s Garage & Body Shop

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Planes Airline History Museum Hangar 9 at KC, MO Downtown Airport 201 NW Lou Holland Drive KC, MO 816-421-3401 www.airlinehistory.org/ Flightline Aviation Media website/best places to watch planes KCI flightlineaviationmedia.com/planespotting/ airports/kansas_city/ Flying Club of KC flying lessons and rentals 12901 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 913-226-8399 www.flyingclubkansascity.org Hetrick Air Services lessons, rentals, flying tours over Lawrence 1930 Airport Rd Lawrence, KS 785-842-0000 River’s Edge Aviation helicopter tours 500 NW Richards Rd KC, MO 816-590-4033 RiversEdgeHeli@gmail.com TWA Museum 10 NW Richards Rd KC, MO 816-234-1011 twamuseum@gmail.com 95th Street Group Flying Club 7425 Gardner Road De Soto’s own airfield for radio-controlled model aircrafts.

The 50-member club flies at the Kaw Valley Aerodome and operates a 200’ x 600’ airfield space, complete with a shelter area. www.95thstgroup.org

Exploring

De Soto

Trains Belton Grandview and KC Railroad Co. short line passenger railroad/demonstration museum 502 E. Walnut St. Belton, MO www.beltonrailroad.org Cruses’ Cabooses Bed and Breakfast 781 NE 901, Windsor, MO 660-694-3506 www.crucescabooses.com Fred’s Train Shop 7327 W. 80th St. Overland Park KS 913-383-3500 www.fredstrainshop.com Fritz’s overhead mini-trains deliver burgers to familes 2450 Grand Blvd KC, MO 816-474-4004 250 N. 18th St. KC, KS 913-281-2777 13803 W. 63rd St. Shawnee, KS 913-375-1000 www.fritzskc.com Kansas Belle Dinner Train 1515 High Street Baldwin City, KS 785-594-8505 www.kansasbelle.com Kansas City Northern Railroad restored miniature train from KC Zoo 6060 NW Waukomis Dr KC, MO 816-746-5663 /www.kcnrr.com/welcome.html Midland Railway 1515 High St, Baldwin City, KS depot (785) 594-6982 www.midlandrailway.org Mystery Train Dinner Theater KCMO 816-813-9654 admin@kcmysterytrain.com Railfan train watching in KC and Lawrence www.kcrailfan.com Union Station Model Railroad 8,000 sq ft of toy trains KC Railway Experience Exhibit 30 W Pershing Road KC, MO 816-460-2020 www.unionstation.org/venues

14

Shown above: Sante Fe Express Oil Painting by Gil Rumsey

Shown above: BNSF Engine View in downtown Edgerton Rail Cars at Union Station View on northside of Union Station photography by Rose Burgweger

Shown at left: Roasterie Plane Photography by Dick Stine Shown below: Truck Lost Photography by Danny Lane

Exploring

De Soto

John Flegler, De Soto resident since 1965, has been in the auto parts business many years. His first store, Green Light, opened in 1975 in Olathe. Parts + and Big A were franchises prior to Car Quest at his present location in De Soto. John remembers when there were 4-5 body shops and mechanics, with more agriculture in the area. Gas Stations were “full-service,” people would fill their gas tanks on Saturdays, and everything closed on Sunday. Now it is a world of convenience.

John and his employers Quin, Gary and Glen continue to give assistance and service for all your auto parts needs–locally here in De Soto.

Next to CarQuest, are J Mart Convenience Store, Phillips 66 Gas Station and the self service car wash all located at 33530 Lexington Avenue..

SERVING DE SOTO & SURROUNDING AREAS SINCE 1983 Locally Owned by John Flegler

AUTO PARTS

33530 LEXINGTON AVENUE (913) 585-3180 OPEN Monday - Friday 8 AM - 6 PM Saturday 8 AM - 2 PM See Our Weekly Ad and Order On-Line For In-Store Pickup www.carquest.com/stores/ks/de-soto/5241 Business Delivery

Planes Trains & Automobiles SUMMER ART EXHIBIT UPPER LEVEL OF DE SOTO’S CITY HALL

•

Enjoy viewing Art/Photography portraying “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” from local De Soto Artists.

Inside De Soto City Hall/Front Entrance/upstairs.

View during business hours: 8 to 4:30 and during evening hours of City Meetings/Class Times.

The De Soto Arts Council is also offering Art Classes this Summer http://www.desotoartsks.org/classes-1.html Tree Sculpture Classes with Kathy Horniman Free •June 21 & August 1 • 10 am to noon ages 9 to 16 to Watercolors with Gil Rumsey $10 •JulyIntroduction 11 9:30 to noon & 12:30 to 3 pm • ages 6 to adult

Artists & Artisans are invited to apply this year’s •2017 Sunflower Art & Music Fest by Monday, June 19.

For more info: www.desotoartsks.org

Additional 10% off with this AD

Includes both Regular & Sales Prices for In-Store Purchases

& Automobiles Custom Carriage/KC Auto Museum People’s Choice Car Show & Parade of Garages • July 15 6:30 pm to 10 pm 29230 W 83rd St De Soto, KS www.kansascityautomuseum.com/peoplechoicecarshow KC Automotive Museum 15095 W 116th St Olathe, KS 913-322-4227 www.kansascityautomuseum.com KC Car Shows 2017 online listing www.eventbrite.com/d/mo--kansas-city/car-shows KC Classic Auto showroom and museum 10101 Lackman Rd, Lenexa, KS 913-888-1234 www.kcclassicauto.com Route 66/Johnson County Museum June 22 6pm 8788 Metcalf Ave OP www.jcprd.com barcode 38809 Wagner’s Classic Cars 741 East Front St Bonner Springs KS 913-422-1955 www.kansastravel.org/wagnersclassiccars.htm –Planes, Trains & Automobiles compiled by Meg Johnson

15

Discovering De Soto

Skillful and Innovative Students

Exploring

De Soto’s very own Speedway Racer

De Soto

At 15 years old, Mandy Chick, is an energetic, confident, accomplished Nascar Sanctioned Racer. She is the only female and the youngest racer on the Pro Late Model Class at I-44 Speedway, her home track in Lebanon, Missouri.

There she won the NASCAR Whelen All American Series Missouri State “Rookie of the Year” in 2016.

Her racing achievements began when Mandy was six and racing Quarter Midgets. At that time there were several girls racing. Topeka Kansas Quarter Midget Association (www.tkqma.org) is where Mandy got her start, taking a test drive. Located in Topeka, it is one of the best Quarter Midget racing facilities in the country.

(Parents can let their kids experience racing in a safe, controlled environment.) Mandy had four Quarter Midget Cars that competed in different classes, running at various speeds, with a range of 30 to 45 mph. She ranked among the top five drivers in the USA in multiple classes of USAC Generation-Next Quarter Midgets. At 12 years old she moved to a dirt modified.

Mandy comes from a family with a long history in racing.

Her grandfather, Steve Chick, Sr. has been building race cars since the early 1960’s. Mandy’s dad, Steve Chick, Jr. was groomed by his dad, Mandy’s grandfather, driving SCCA road racing MG Midgets and later an Asphalt Modified at I-70 Speedway. In the early 2000’s, both Steve Chick Sr. and Steve Chick Jr. owned Team Chick Motorsports that fielded a part-time NASCAR Camping World Truck Series team until 2006. Competing in the 2001 Kansas Speedway’s first inaugural NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race was a great highlight.

Mandy began her Asphalt Pro Late Model racing at her home track, I-44 Speedway, after receiving conditional approval as a 13-year old, not competing for points. For 1 1/2 years she transitioned from dirt racing in the Kansas City surrounding area to Asphalt Late Model Racing.

This year’s race schedule began in Lebanon, Missouri and she will join the JEGS/CRA All Stars Tour Series in June.

In the backyard shop are the two Asphalt Late Model “beauties.” Asphalt refers to the racing surface these cars compete on, versus dirt. There is an immense amount of mechanical preping and painstaking care taken before (and after) each race. This year, Butch VanDoorn was hired to be the Crew Chief for the touring series.

VanDoorn Racing Development is the builder of Mandy’s late models, and they have a long history of racing development of young drivers.

Mandy trains both on actual tracks and a computerized simulator that can bring her to any track in the country.

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“I’ve had alot of mentors and coaches through the years,” says Mandy. “Racers have a great comradery off-track to help develop each other, which hones their on-track competition.” A personal trainer works with Mandy three times a week to develop physical stamina. Controlling a racecar at speeds of 130-140 mph for 40 to 100 laps can be both grueling and exhausting. Races can last from just under an hour to two hours, depending on the number of “cautions.” There are no pit stops at her level. The 25 gallon gas tank last the entire race, with no refueling.

When Yellow Flags go up, racers reduce their speeds to “idle” until the track is cleared of debris or if a racer has “spun out.” A Red Flag on the track indicates a severe accident, and racers must completely stop.

Mandy’s mom, Jennifer, says there is an immense amount of safety equipment that is like a protective armor cover.

“Mandy was spun into the back stretch wall and walked away with just a scratch. There has been more blood from her bicycle, than her race car,” says Jennifer Chick.

I wondered about the extremely loud noise at race tracks.

“Actually being in the car is not as loud.” said Mandy. She wears a specially made helmet with custom-molded ear buds, which is also her source of radio-communication with her team and officials.

Race cars are open on the sides without glass, but have strong, mesh protective netting. With hot engines and summer heat, drivers are cooled with helmet fans. Outside air comes in from the back through a tube, is filtered and cooled. The driver can select high or low. (see below)

Exploring

The USD 232 High School Rocket Club competing in the national finals of the15th annual Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) on May 13 in Virginia, outside of Washington D.C. The team, represented both De Soto High School and Mill Valley High School.

Shown above: Chad Manhart, Zach Deibert, Maggie Miller, Cody Moose and Cody Murphy.

–photo courtesy of USD 232

De Soto

Show above left: Photograph of Mandy in her “Quarter Midget” with over 100 career race wins showcasing her trophies and ribbons.

Shown above: Mandy with one of her two Asphalt Late Model Racing Cars.

This year, she will have an additional racecar serving as a backup.

Race car number 23 has special meaning, as it has been passed down from her dad’s racing days. photography by rmbprints.com

In addition racers wear fire retardant clothing and a fire suppression system is located in the car, in the event of a fire.

Mandy has high aspirations to race in the “Big 3,” and ultimately in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Mom Jennifer says, “This has been quite the family bonding sport, spending immense amounts of time together as a family. Racing is a huge commitment and a lifestyle, not to mention the exuberant expenses along the way.” Sponsors help in many areas.

323.TV is one of their De Soto sponsors they are honored to represent (see business news on page 8). Cash compensation is given to everyone who starts a race, with awards increasing as racers place in races and advance to higher levels.

To experience some of Mandy’s racing, you can watch her video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fRB-nldgDk I did find it amusing that Mandy got her learners permit at 14, and now at 15, she has a retricted driver’s license.

–written by Rose Burgweger Interview with Mandy Chick in “The Shop” and Mom Jennifer Chick, Business Manager/Wellness Ambassador

Mandy also teams up with Pacer’s National Bullying Prevention Center “Race to Stop Bullying” Speaking Tour.

www.pacer.org/bullying/getinvolved/mandy-chick.asp

Lenexa Officers were honored to attend an art show held by DHS Student, Erilynn Meo to benefit the S.A.F.E. Program, an endowment for fallen officers families. It was especially touching to have the children of fallen KCKPD Captain Dave Melton present at the art show.Their family friendship inspired this art show to honor and remember their father.

–submitted photo

Now Hiring

Substitute Teachers Morgan Hunter Education (MHED) is currently hiring Substitute Teachers for all schools in the De Soto, Eudora and Lawrence School Districts.

If you enjoy children, value a flexible work schedule and like getting paid weekly, MHED would love to speak with you about becoming a Substitute Teacher.

Requirements: •

60 college credit hours

•

Authorize a criminal background check

www.mandychick.com mandythecoolchick@gmail.com FaceBook: Mandy Chick Twitter: @mandycoolchick Instagram: @mandycoolchick Shown at left: Race car drivers are surrounded by an enormous amount of safety gear: padded seats, head braces and a fire system located inside the race car.

Apply Today!

mhedteach.com 17 866-923-6433

Discovering De Soto

Public Safety Organization

Exploring

Protection and Law Enforcement in De Soto

De Soto

Law enforcement for the City of De Soto/Clearview City is provided under contract by the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office, headquartered at 27747 West 159th Street in New Century, Kansas. Serving the county since 1859, it continues to be the primary law enforcement agency for the unincorporated areas of Johnson County, and contracted cities.

Both newly elected Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden and appointed Undersheriff Doug Bedford have deep De Soto roots. Both grew up in the area, are graduates of De Soto High School and have been involved in the community for many years. They bring a wealth of knowledge and wide range of experiences to the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office.

Within City Limits, Deputy Sheriff Vickers has patrolled the City of De Soto/Clearview City for over five years.

In addition, Deputy Sheriffs patrol the surrounding rural areas outside city limits 24/7, with three rotating shifts. Deputy Leiker is the School Resource Officer for De Soto Schools.

The Johnson County Sheriff ’s Operations Center and the New Century Adult Detention Center (NCADC) are located in somewhat remote New Century, Kansas, 25 minutes south of De Soto. NCADC is a nationally recognized, well-designed detention facility that opened in mid-2000 with a capacity of 800 providing minimum to maximum security.

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Shown above: Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden (right) Undersheriff Doug Bedford

Arrests made in Johnson County are first held in the Central Booking in downtown Olathe, across from the Johnson County Courthouse (holding up to 300). It is also a pre-trial holding facility for DUI/Traffic cases to Misdemeanor charges. Pre-trial Felon cases are taken to New Century until disposition is rendered.

911 dispatch calls When a Johnson County resident calls 911, it is answered by the Johnson County Sheriff Communications Center (CCC). Deputy Sheriffs immediately answer 911 dispatch calls, asking “What is your emergency?” Medical/Fire emergencies are quickly transferred to the Emergency Communication Center (ECC) which dispatches Fire/Medical Units.1 Both the CCC and EDC are housed in the same facitility. Fire/ Medical/Law Enforcement agencies all support each other in their districts and other areas when additional backup is needed.

Unique to Johnson County, certified police officers receive 911 calls giving them immediate information to make critical determinations in dispatching services. All deputies in the Communications Division complete a 15-week Training and Evaluation Program in addition to their officer training. Deputies receive additional training throughout their career.

1 Northwest Consolidated Fire Department was featured in the 2016 Health & Wellness Issue of Discovering De Soto pages 14/15 https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto/docs/discovering_de_soto_final__2-16

Shown above: Sheriff’s Office Command Post (large van) is outfitted with radios/cameras. It is taken Used also as a command post during high profile court proceedings where extra security is needed;

Exploring

De Soto

Shown above: Johnson County Sheriff’s Operations Center and the New Century Adult Detention Center located in the Fred Allenbrand Criminal Justice Complex in New Century. In addition, the state-of-the art Criminal Laboratory is located in Olathe.

Staffing Over 500 Deputy Staff and 130 civilian employees are part of the following eleven units: Civil/Collections, Court Security, Criminalistics Laboratory, Dispatch, Honor Guard, Investigations, Patrol, Professional Standards, Sheriff ’s Emergency Response Team, Sheriff ’s Records, and Warrant Unit.

It is the largest Sheriff ’s Office in Kansas, serving 19 cities in Johnson County. In addition, volunteers assist with operations at the department, and traffic control at various events and parades.

Public Information Two Public Information Officers (PIO) were recently assigned. Press release training was received from Richard Brundage, who has taught world-wide community leaders effective communication, especially during crisis events. (www.mediatrainers.com) Sheriff Hayden met Brudage while attending Sheriff School in Hutchinson, Kansas.

The Public will find an enormous amount of information and resources at www.jocosheriff.org which include: Sheriff ’s Crime Mapping, Obtaining a Police Report, Sheriff ’s Office Community Programs (Self Defense Classes, CPR, Bully Awareness and Kid’s Gun Safety).

The Take Me Home program is available for Johnson De Soto/Clearview City Law Enforcement Boundaries: Kansas River (North), Lenexa (East), 115th Street (South), Douglas County Line (West)

to critical events where the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT) is called out. and as a “mobile office” during special events such as De Soto Days. –submitted photo

County adults/children with developmental/cognitive disabilities. jocosheriff.org/index.aspx?page=203 s Employment The web site also gives information for Deputy Sheriffs, Civilian Specialists and Crime Lab Positions. “It takes a special person to fill these positions, and we are constantly looking for good, qualified applicants,” says Sheriff Hayden. There is no maximum age, and retirees are welcome.

In addition, Johnson County adult residents are invited to be part of the (12) week Citizens Academy. This program meets Tuesday evenings from 6 pm to 9:30 pm and is free of charge. Eleven different areas are explored, with interactive instruction through classroom presentations and field experience. Apply at: www.jocogov.

org/department/sheriff/citizens-academy

The Johnson County Deputies and Civilian Specialists are committed to serving our community and achieving the highest level of excellence in law enforcement through courageous leadership and strong values.

–written by Rose M. Burgweger interview with Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden and Undersheriff Doug Bedford

Sheriff’s Operations Center 27747 West 159th Street, New Century, KS 66031 913-715-5400 www.jocosheriff.org www.facebook.com/JOCOSheriff/ EMERGENCY .............................................9-1-1 Sheriff’s Dispatcher Non Emergency..........913-782-0720 Administrative Offices & Information...........913-715-5800 Central Booking . ........................................913-715-5100 Adult Detention Center/New Century Jail....913-715-5900 Civil Summons & Subpoenas .....................913-715-5250 Courthouse Security ...................................913-715-5280 Delinquent Tax Unit .....................................913-715-7521 Investigations Division ................................913-715-5560 Laboratory ...................................................913-826-3209 Offender Registration Help Desk.................913-715-5476 Patrol Operations ........................................913-715-5400 Personnel ....................................................913-715-5511 Training ........................................................913-715-5598 Media Relations Officer ..............................913-715-5802 Warrant Unit ................................................913-715-5212 Records .......................................................913-715-5460

19

Discovering De Soto

FAITH

Exploring

A man and a (God’s) mission

De Soto

Jerry Turner showed up in De Soto, opened Turner Hardware ministering where needed with his wife Cheryl.

“Why we came here–its about the Lord’s Business!” exclaims Jerry. He does admit he is (quite) a bit radical about his faith, but God has and continues to use him.

I met with Jerry and his wife, Cheryl, in a little back room inside their Turner Hardware Store. Here they hold church services for their ministry “Life Changing Truth Church.” A name that captures their vision.

They are from Socorro, New Mexico. There Jerry was a former police officer, became Assistant Chief and then Warden in charge of 450 inmates and 100 employees.

Jerry encountered God during a hunting trip when his truck was stuck on a mountainside in a torrential thunderstorm, with lightning strikes too close for his comfort and no cell phone service. As he was taking his 4-wheeler out to ride down the mountain, one “bar” appeared and he was able to call 911. At 2 am help came.

Bargaining with God “If you get me out of this...” became a life changing commitment three months later.

God was at work. As Jail Administrator, the jail ministry was expanded and people were saved in the correctional facility and community. A Bible was placed in every office in the county, and there were hundreds distributed in the jail. He started the “Character First Program” which is based on valuing people and building character traits. This program was given to officers in the detention facility, as well as inmates. The employee turnover rate was reduced from 80% to 20%. Violence was reduced. Officers began teaching inmates who began teaching others. It was a collaborative effort.

His last year he became a Chaplain. Circumstances prompted a change in staffing, and his Chaplain position was removed. He was just short of retirement, having worked 19 years.

“I came to the total end of myself, only to find the beginning of God,” sighed Jerry. “My former marriage ended, my job ended and there was no retirement. And God said to him ‘I am your retirement.’” It would take radical faith to move forward. So with a door closed, he had his half share of the settlement and another opportunity opened. He met a man holding a “JESUS SAVES” sign. Duane Lyon, affiliated with Full Gospel Businessman Association and Christ for the Nations, was in New Mexico doing a mission outreach. Duane became Jerry’s mentor. For the next few years Jerry

20

So how is “mission work” crafted to open a hardware store? ...through hands on experience.

Earlier in his life, Jerry learned from his dad, as they built a house. (It was interesting to learn that Jerry’s dad retired from BNSF in New Mexico as a Bridge Foreman.)

When Jerry met missionary Duane Lyon, he built a house ground up for Duane and his family of six kids.Their family had always rented, and now each child would have a room of their own.

traveled with evangelists to 32 countries as a missionary, working primarily in the areas of South and Central America, and also Russia.

He attended Charis Bible College in Colorado from 2012-2014, cultivating his love for teaching Bible Studies and Discipleship Classes. This was put to use when he returned to New Mexico and started a church there in 2015. (Keeping close ties, the group has already visited De Soto.) And it was good.

It was here, Jerry met his wife Cheryl, who went through the year-long discipleship program that Jerry taught and compiled. She also has a heart for mission work, and has been several times to Haiti with LoveA-Child, serving as a hospital lab tech and helping in her brother’s orphanage.

Jerry continues, “After two years, God changed the desire of my heart. I went off to pray and seek God. “God spoke to my spirit” and told me those familiar words, “Come follow me...to Kansas.” “Really?” questioned Jerry. At first I said “no.” Eventually I took a look at Kansas, and Olathe jumped off the map.

Later I would find that I knew someone there from Bible College. So we came by faith, praying “Lord give us the ‘niche.’” We could not find a place to rent in Olathe without being employed. At the McDonalds by the former Great Mall, we saw De Soto on a map.

Upon arriving, first thing Cheryl said was, “They don’t have a hardware store.” Five rentals were available.

After getting settled in, we did research, talked to the City of De Soto, went to people in the town asking what they would need in a hardware store.

Turner Hardware opened Fall of 2016 on the side of “Suite A” next to Wanda’s. They have moved into “Suite C,” a much larger, more visible retail space on 83rd Street, on the other side of Wandas (in the former Dollar Store space).

“De Soto is blessed,” says Jerry. “We came and we love these people. The local people are supporting us.

We have volunteered with De Soto Youth Ministries in the inner city and look forward to working together.

We are not here to compete, but to have “all hands on deck” to do God’s Work.” He is excited to say, “God loves De Soto!”

–by Rose Burgweger interview with Jerry and Cheryl Turner at Turner Hardware

Connecting the Community of De Soto

Turner Hardware Building the Future!

Vacation Bible Studies this Summer: De Soto Baptist Church 8655 Church Street www.desotobaptistchurch.com 913-595-1026 Sunday Worship 11 am

Exploring HHH

Hardware and More HCustom Built Storage Sheds/Decks/Ramps HSmall home repairs and projects HLawnmower tune-up and blade sharpening HEquipment and Tool Rentals HSpecial Ordering and Delivery available HNew Expansion for summer HAntiques/re-purposed items/consignments welcome!

Jerry and Cheryl Turner Owners Jerry and Cheryl Turner Owners Phone: 575-418-7421 Phone: 575-322-0240 33080 West 83rd Street Downtown De Soto 33080 West 83rd Street Downtown De Soto

Maker Fun Factory VBS June 5-9 • 1 pm to 4 pm

For Ages 3 to 12 Free to Everyone!

Middle School and High Schoolers welcome as junior/teen leaders On-line Registration at www.desotobaptistchurch.org or call Richelle 481-7610 • Mary Jo 568-8313 • Karen 669-1991

De Soto

New Location Location East East of of Wanda’s Wanda’s Café Café on on 83rd 83rd St. St. New Faith Builders International Church 8390 Peoria Street, De Soto www.buildfaith.net Partners with Kenneth Copeland Ministries

Sunday 9 am Corporate Prayer 10 am Corporate Worship/Children’s Ministry 4:30 pm Bible Doctrine 6 pm Evening Service Tuesday 2 pm Healing School (Free and open to the public) 7 pm Overcomer’s Outreach Wednesday 7 pm Corporate Worship/Detour Student Ministry

June 4 • 10 am Guest Speaker: Pastor Bob Yandian from Tulsa, OK June 10 • 9 am • Men’s Meeting with Breakfast $8 (optional) June 18 • 10 am/6 pm Detour Student Ministries Bake Sale July 1 • 7 pm July 2 • 10 am/6 pm Guest Speakers: Harry & Cheryl Salem (Miss America 1980) July 11 • 7 pm • “Today’s Ladies” - Ladies Meeting All events are free and open to the public.

Starside/Lexington Trails 2017 Community School Supply Drive

For over five years, De Soto Methodist and Baptist Churches have worked together to collect school supplies for Starside Elementary (Title I School) and Lexington Trails Middle School.

SUPPLIES WILL BE COLLECTED JULY 6-JULY 24.

Donations collected at De Soto Methodist Church 8760 Kills Creek Road (Mon-Thurs. mornings) OR Cedar Creek Pharmacy in Harps. Monetary donations accepted at De Soto Methodist Church (Checks made out to DUMC with School Supply Drive noted) Needed are Expo Dry-Erase Markers• Crayola Markers • 24 pack Crayola Crayons • Black Sharpies • 1” plain clear cover 3-hole Notebooks • Calculators for LTMS Contact Karen Wall 913-669-1991 for more information.

De Soto United Methodist Church 8760 Kill Creek Rd www.desotoumc.org 913-583-1359

Worship Every Sunday 10:00 AM Adult and Children Groups Sundays 9:00 AM Visit our website for ongoing activities or follow us on Facebook

Summer Bash Movie Night • June 24 at Sundown Surf Shack VBS July 24-27 • 6 to 8:30 pm Optional Meal at 5:30 pm PreK-5th Grade Click or Call to Register: desotoumc.org or 913-583-1359

Life Changing Truth Ministires 33080 W. 83rd Street located at Turner Hardware (Now Located East of Wanda’s) Bible Study every Wednesday night at 5:30 pm.

Pastors Jerry and Cheryl Turner 575-418-7421

Holy Family

Good Samaritan Week June 5-9 • 9 am to 12:30

For 7th through 12th graders doing projects to help others

(575) 418-7421 e-mail Jesussaves0777@yahoo.com

CATHOLIC CHURCH IN EUDORA

820 Birch Street 785-542-2788 holyfamilyeudora.com Religious Education Registration is available on our website

Vacation Bible School June 12-15 To Register Contact the Parish Office at 785-542-2788 “Accept the risen Jesus into your life. Even if you have been far away, take a small step toward him: he awaits you with open arms.” –Pope Francis

Serving Eudora, De Soto and Linwood Communities

Mass on Saturday 5 pm • Sunday 9:30 am

21 Sacrament of Reconciliaton Saturday 4-4:30 pm

Discovering De Soto

For events in and around De Soto e-mail submittions to: info@discoveringdesoto.com

Submissions edited/printed at pulblisher’s discretion due to space limitations/photo quality/content

EVENTS

bSUMMER De Soto events... in and around De Soto

Exploring

6th annual Winesong at Riverfest Park

Saturday • June 3 • 3 pm to 7 pm www.winesongatriverfest.com De Soto Rotary Charitable Effort

Saturday • June 24 • 2 pm -10 pm

Pruddens Annual Fishing Derby

Vendor Booths • Craft Fair • Food Trucks Kids’Zone with Bouncy Houses * Face Painting

De Soto All-School Reunion

City of De Soto July 4th Celebration

Call 913-441-1486 or DHS All School Reunion facebook

See Ad For Additional Information

Saturday • June 3 • 9am -11am • 9705 Kill Creek Rd Saturday • June 10 • 6 pm • De Soto VFW City of De Soto Aquatic Center

Treasure Hunt * Glow in the Dark Parade

Tuesday • July 4th • begins at 7 pm

Carriage Houses of Johnson County

2017 Season • May 27 to September 3

“People’s Choice” Car Show/Air Show

Fresh Promises Farmers Market

See Sponsor Ad on pages 2 and 3

See Ad For Complete Information

2017 Season • May thru October • Wednesdays (4:30 to 6:30 pm weather permitting) See Ad Below

FRESH PROMISES

FARMERS’ MARKET

EVERY WEDNESDAY 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm May thru October LOCATED AT THE BARN AT KILL CREEK FARM

9200 KILL CREEK RD IN DE SOTO Visit our website for more information

http://thebarnatkillcreekfarm.org/farmers-market/

Farm Fresh Produce OPEN DAILY Open: Mon-Sat 8am to 7pm Mon - Sat: 8 am to 7 pm Sunday: 99am to 77pm Sundays: am to pm

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De Soto’s Summer Bash at Riverfest Park

31915 W 115th St, Olathe, KS 66061 913-583-9902 www.bowlinfarms.net

Saturday • July 15 • 6:30 pm -10 pm

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De Soto Library Summer Programs Johnson Couty Library Summer Reading • May 15 – July 31 Pick up your free prize book and a reading log to track your summer reading. Return July 1-31 to celebrate your reading with a certificate and entry into Grand Prize drawings.

StoneLion Puppet Theatre Presents: Reflections Wednesday June 7 • 10 to 10:30 am Creative Café • Wednesdays June 7– 28 • 3 to 5 pm Current technology shared in a fun and creative way. Grades 4-8.

Around the World • Wednesdays June 14 • 10:30 to Noon Tour the world through games and interactive fun.

Dinosaur O’Dell’s Build a Better World Wednesday June 21 • 10:30 to 11:15 am Dino takes us on musical storytelling adventures.

Dreaming Up! Wednesday June 28 • 10:30-Noon Recreate famous buildings• materials supplied Ages 3 and u accompanied by an adult cargiver.

Cardboard Challenge • Wednesday July 12 • 10:30-Noon You provide the imagination. Library supplies tools and cardboard.

LEGO drop in event • Wednesday July 19 • 10:30-Noon Age 5 and up; children under 7 accompanied by adult caregiver.

Operation Wildlife (OWL) Presents: Wings and Feet Wednesday July 26 • 10:30 to 11:30 pm A live owl, hawk and snake will be part of this educational program.

Summer Vacation Bible Schools Listed on the preceeding Faith Page 21

De Soto Arts Council Classes Listed on Page 15

Johnson County 4-H Fair

July 31 to August 5 Gardner Fairgrounds jocokansasfair.com

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Summertime Fun In De Soto 2017 Aquatic Center Season

Opening Day Saturday, May 27 12:30 pm – 6 pm Free Admission Dates Opening Weekend Saturday, Sunday & Monday May 27, 28 & 29 Sunday Fun Days Sunday, June 18 32907 W. 84th Street Sunday, July 23 Phone (913) 586-5283 Lap Swim www.desotoks.us/aquatics-center.html Monday - Thursday Daily Hours 12:30 pm – 7 pm Hours subject to change with special events, June 5 - July 27 inclement weather, staff availability 6:30 am –12 noon and school calendar.

Senior Swim 2017 Swim Lesson Sessions Tuesday & Thursday Session 1 • June 5–15 June 5 – July 27 Session 2 • June 19–29 8 am–9 am Session 3 • July 10–20 4th of July Session 4 • July 24–August 3 $35 per Session Class Size 3-7 participants Tuesday, July 4 Morning & Evening Classes (30-40 minutes) 12:30 pm – 6 pm Register On-Line no am or pm activities www.desotoks.us/parks-and-recreation.html Regular Admission Deadline Wednesdays before sessions begin

Exploring

De Soto

Splash ‘n Play - Night Swim Friday, June 9 $1 Admission 8:30 pm–10:30 pm Friday, July 14 9 pm –11 pm $1 Admission Appreciation Day Sunday, August 13 12:30 pm– 6 pm End of Season August 14 – September 3 Monday-Friday CLOSED Saturday 12:30 pm–6 pm Sunday 12:30 pm–6 pm

Closing Day Sunday, September 3,2017 12:30pm - 6:00pm

Doggie Plunge Monday, September 4, 2017 1 pm – 3 pm $3 per dog

American Red Cross Certified Instructors

De Soto July 4th Celebration at Riverfest Park Festivities for All Ages H Begins at 7 pm Food H Fun H Vendors & Booths “Good Sam Club Band” Performs at 7 pm H Fireworks display at 9:45 pm H

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a night under the stars.

No personal fireworks or alcohol allowed at this event. Parking Available Vendor’s FREE Booth Opportunity H Contact Lana to Sign Up H lmcpherson@desotoks.us Celebrating 160 YEARS H 1857 - 2017 23

Discovering De Soto

Celebration/Recognition submittions to: info@discoveringdesoto.com Celebrations for De Soto residents and/or DHS graduates.

Submissions edited/printed at pulblisher’s discretion due to space/content

PEOPLE

Exploring Celebrations and recognition De Soto

Marriages • Births • Retirement • 50th Anniversaries • Memorials A beautiful lady and very special birthday at 102

It was a joy spending an afternoon with June Davison, who lives comfortably at her home.

She is De Soto’s long-time resident and will celebrate her 102nd birthday on June 20.

She moved here when she was eight years old, being the first generation born in America. Her family, the Broveaks were of German decent and immigrated by ship. It was on this voyage that her uncle was born, while en route to America.

She remembers her dad’s first car–a 1920 Ford Coup.

Her mom was used to wagons and never drove. June, however, stopped driving only four years ago, when she was 97, saying it was quite difficult to lose that freedom.

We took a walk together that afternoon down memory lane as June recollected her thoughts of lifetime events.

I enjoyed her laughter as she remembered some humorous moments in life.

After graduating from De Soto High School in 1933 (with a classs of 95 and five teachers), she went to Illinois and completed her nurses training in 1936. She worked for several small hospitals in Highland and Belleville, Illinois. Returning to Kansas in ‘43 she worked at KU Extention Services and for Dr. Johnson in Eudora, being a registered nurse for ten years. After returning to De Soto, she met her first husband, Bill Linden, who also had German roots (through his grandfather, John Linden, who came to De Soto in 1860). Bill was one of twelve Linden kids.

During the war, June was ready to work on the line at the Sunflower Ammunition Plant, but was put in the plant hospital once they realized she was a nurse. Bill was killed shortly before the end of WW II in 1945, in

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the skies above Germany. The name of the VFW LindenTripkos Post honors both Bill Linden and Charles Tripkos.

Through the years, Penicillin began the era of antibiotics, there were lots of scientific discoveries and inventions, and the use of computers became part of everyday life. June said.

“But not as much change as Mom had...who saw covered wagons to the man on the moon.”

She was married for forty years to Tom Davison, who was from a family of ten. They had two daughters, Ann (Bookhamer) and Nancy (Steele). Her family ran and owned the Davison Corner Market Grocery Store from 1956 to 1973. It would be remodeled and the Butcher Block Restaurant opened. June remembers nothing was pre-cut.

Her husband would cut the fresh beef and pork used for the restaurant. He had brought someone in from Kansas City to teach him how to butcher. Everything was made from scratch. There were 125 breakfasts between 6 and 11 am.

“Omlettes were too popular, so we took them off the menu.” she said smiling. She retired at 64.

She is the proud grandmother of five grandsons, three greatgrand children (one girl and twin boys).

At 100 she had the honor of being the “Grand Master of De Soto Days” in 2015.

So how does one live into their 100’s? “Good genes!” says June. (Her mom lived to be 101.) “A healthy diet, some Weight Watcher foods throughout the years and I like sweets.” She keeps busy with needlework projects and has made detailed stockings for everyone in the family. She still has good eyes for detail. Computer games, puzzles, playing Solitare also fill her days, as well as daily visits from her daughters and family. “It is frustrating though to not be able to do the things you like to do, like cooking,” sighs June.

“And that walker is always in the way.” Still with a good sense of humor, and remembering well, she “thanks the Lord everyday that I’m alive and I’m very grateful.”

–written by Rose Burgweger reminiscing with June Davison

Some of June’s many pieces of Needlework Handiwork. photos by rmbprints.com and De Soto Historical Society

DAR Youth Citizenship Awards 2017

The John & Hattie Possum Chapter NSDAR (National Society Daughters of the American Revolution) awarded ten DAR Youth Citizenship Awards for 2017. Outstanding students with the qualities of honor, service, courage, leadership, and patriotism were nominated by school staff.

Middle School 8th Graders: Ingrid L. McGinnis, Nathan Ogden and Hannah Chern

Exploring

De Soto

Elementary School 5th Graders: Bryanna Burgos, Aiden Ferguson, Mia Lowry, Kennedy G. Tilley, Gabrielle Brown, Lauren Owens and Emeri Leisten

John & Jill Flegler, Married May 6, 1967 Celebrated 50 Years May 6, 2017

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–submitted photo

Make your financial future a priority.

Andy Jacober

Financial Advisor .

11128 S Lone Elm Rd Olathe, KS 66061 913-390-0488

KEEP DREAMING.

WE’LL BE THERE.

Whether you’re buying your first car or your retirement home, I’m here for you every step of the way.

Let’s talk about how I can help.

Let’s talk today.

Julie Coover Agency 32565 Lexington Ave Ste B 12715 W 87th St Pkwy #102 (913) 583-1219 jcoover@amfam.com

MKT-5894F-A-A1

www.edwardjones.com

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company, American Standard Insurance Company of Ohio, American Standard Insurance Company of Wisconsin, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2016 011780 – 4/16

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Located in HARPS Your Hometown Full Service Pharmacy HEALTH & SAFETY since 1992 USD 232 “Kids Eat Free” Discovering De Soto

Exploring

Summer Program

De Soto

Our Fifth year partnering with the USDA Federally funded Summer program

Just as the learning does not end when school lets out, neither does the need for good nutrition. The USD 232 Student Nutrition Department is pleased to announce that our “Kids Eat Free” sites are back this summer! Kids (ages 1-18) have the opportunity to eat FREE all summer at our district Summer Food Service Program sites shown below: June 5 through August 4 (Monday-Thursday) De Soto High School 35000 W 91st Street, De Soto Breakfast 7:45 am-10:30 am • Lunch 10:30 am-12:30 pm June 5 through August 4 (Monday-Friday) Mobile Lunch Truck * No service July 3rd or 4th Stop 1 • Clearview Village 36000 West 103rd Street in De Soto Lunch 11:00 am - 11:15 am Stop 2 • De Soto Library 33145 West 83rd Street in De Soto Lunch 11:30a - 11:45a Stop 3 • De Soto Aquatic Center 32907 West 84th Street in De Soto Lunch 12:00 noon-12:20 pm

No registration, no income requirements, and no residency limits required! The Summer Food Service Program is a USDA-funded (Federal) program that partners with local groups, including schools, to host sites that provide free, nutritious meals. Adults are also welcome for just $4.00 per lunch. All meals must be consumed on site. For more information, visit usd232.nutrislice.com

–submitted by Jolyn Mortenson Director of Student Nutrition, De Soto USD 232

John & Hattie Possum DAR Tulip Fundraiser

Mixed American Flag Tulip Bulbs (Red, White and Purple) $14/pack of 25 bulbs.

Order via e-mail: sherrybowlindar@gmail.com

DeSoto Kansas Lost and Found Pets and Animal Advocates Helpful information about lost and found pets, with additional resources. Created by local resident, Kristie Hinkle.

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Independently Owned and Operated Franchised with Health Mart Systems

Thank you for your business and loyalty.

We look forward to serving you in our new location–inside HARPS Located in the front, left southwest corner NOW OPEN 9am - 6pm Monday - Friday 9AM - 1 PM Saturday • Closed Sunday

SAME PHONE: 913-583-1117 FAX 913-585-9801 www.cedarcreekpharmacy.org 34040 Commerce Drive • inside HARPS SW Corner

Providing Veterinary Services over 30 years at our De Soto location Excellent Grooming for all Dogs and Cats

by Lea VanderVelde/groomer Diagnostic Medicine & Treatment Digital Radiography Surgery Boarding & Daycare Preventive Healthcare Dentistry Wellness Exams/Screenings We offer “CareCredit” financing system that aids when unexpected costs of emergency or critical care occur. All major credit cards accepted

Open Monday-Friday 8 to 5:30 Saturday 8 to 12 noon Same day appointments usually available House calls arranged

DE SOTO VETERINARY CLINIC

33900 Lexinton Avenue • 585-1115

Seat Belt Safety

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death among those aged 1-54 in the U.S. Most crash-related deaths in the United States occur to passenger vehicle occupants (drivers and passengers). For adults and older children (who are big enough for seat belts to fit properly), seat belt use is the most effective way to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes. Yet millions do not buckle up on every trip.

Exploring

De Soto

What can be done to increase seat belt use among adults?

Parents and caregivers can:

• Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short. This sets a good example.

• Make sure children are properly buckled up in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt, whichever is appropriate for their age, height, and weight.

• Have all children age 12 and under sit properly buckled in the back seat.

• Remember to never place a rear facing child safety seat in front of an air bag.

• Properly buckle children in the middle back seat when possible because it is the safest spot in the vehicle.

Everyone can:

• Use a seat belt on every trip, no matter how short.

• Require everyone in the car to buckle up, including those in the back seat.

• It is the law. The Kansas law enables police officers to stop and ticket the driver of any passenger vehicle if either the driver or front seat passenger is observed not wearing a seat belt. This law also applies to anyone under age 18.

The Northwest Consolidated Fire Department sponsors Public Safety and Information Ads reminding Residents of valuable Safety tips and procedures.

Railroad Safety is continued on the back page.

“Public Safety is of the upmost importance!” Chief Mike Whim

Northwest Consolidated Fire District

Proudly serving the City of De Soto and Northwest Johnson County IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 911 non-emergency 913-583-3886 • 9745 Kill Creek Road Soto 29520 W. 127th Street Olathe • 33150 W. 83rd Street De Soto Proudly serving the City of DeDeSoto and• Northwest Johnson County 27 Feature Article in Discovering Soto Spring 2016 Issue • www.discoveringdesoto.com • NWCFD IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 911 Denon-emergency 913-583-3886

NORTHWESTCONSOLIDATEDFIREDISTRICT

• 9745 Kill Creek Road De Soto • 29520 W. 127th Street Olathe • 33150 W. 83rd Street De Soto

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The train you see is closer and faster-moving than you think.

If you see a train approaching, wait for it to go by.

Trains cannot stop quickly.

Freight trains move at 55 miles per hour and can take a mile or more to stop.

Never drive around lowered gates it’s illegal and deadly.

Do not get trapped on the tracks; Do not stop on tracks in traffic.

Remember, the train is three feet wider than the tracks on both sides.

It isn’t safe to stop closer than 15 feet from a rail.

If your vehicle ever stalls on the tracks, get out and get away from the tracks, even if you do not see a train.

Locate the Emergency Notification System sign and call the number provided or 9-1-1 telling them about the stalled vehicle.

If a train is approaching, run toward the train but away from the tracks at a 45 degree angle.

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Resource for Educational Materials • safety videos • volunteer information • news • events • statistics and more