Discovering De Soto / Holiday • Winter 2018

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Community & Business Feature Publication

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On-line & Printed Distribution https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

De Soto, Kansas

located in Western Johnson County

HOLIDAY • WINTER 2018

Celebrating Christmas In De Soto Holiday Gift Guide Markets & Map Christmas Tree Farm Opens Celebrations Organizations & Groups City of De Soto Section

Broadband Approval Expanding Social Media City Incentives ...and more inside

• 1 & 2 BEDROOM LUXURY RENTAL RESIDENCES • LARGE OPEN FLOORPLANS • QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS • PLANK FLOORING • WALK IN CLOSETS • FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN • WASHER AND DRYER • GARAGES WITH SELECT UNITS • FITNESS CENTER • SWIMMING POOL

NOW LEASING! 2

9100 COMMERCE DR. DE SOTO, KANSAS 66018

913-583-2111

KTENPLACE.COM

Discovering

De Soto

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Community & Business Feature Publication

On-line viewing of all issues: https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/ discoveringdesoto/

WELCOME.................................................................. 3 CHRISTMAS IN DE SOTO

Cedar Valley Forest................................................ 4-5 Holiday Markets & Festivities.............................. 6-7 Holiday Gift Guide................................................. 8-9 Organizations & groups...................................... 10-11 FAITH..............................................................................12-13

BUSINESS NEWS

Harps Celebrates two years!!................................ 14 RG Fiber’s Venture into Fiber Optics.................. 16

CITY OF DE SOTO Pages

Broadband Approval for Community................. 17-18 City Tribute................................................................ 17 Expanding Social Media........................................ 18-19 Holiday City Events................................................. 18-19 De Soto Parks & Recreation................................... 19 Directory/City Incentives....................................... 20 Commercial & Residential Development..... 24 Volunteer De Soto.................................................. 24 USD 232 NEWS....................................................... 26-27 Celebrations............................................................ 28 Tributes..................................................................... 29

PUBLIC ORGANIZATIONS/SAFETY

Christmas Tree Safety/School Safety.................... 30-31

Discovering De Soto is printed and distributed to De Soto households and businesses and throughout De Soto courtesy of the City of De Soto.

Additional distribution in Western Lenexa, Linwood/Shawnee retailers.

Independently owned and published by RMB prints & design LLC. Additional printed issues are available for $2.50.

Publishing Quarterly with printed and online publications. https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Harvest Graphics Print Solutions 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 and not liable for any incurrances as a result of this publication.

A Business, Organization or Entity Featured is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product, business or organization. There is no monetary 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.

WELCOME As I begin writing, the first snow of the season has begun.

Its the transition from a surprisingly colorful fall to the season of Thanksgiving and Holiday Festivities!

This issue is full of De Soto’s local Holiday Events and special pages of all the unique findings of our town with plenty of rural heritage. There is an easy to follow map to guide you throughout our City to make Christmas Shopping a fun outing–with several food establishments to stop at along the way.

Broadband is arriving in all parts of De Soto!

You’ll learn more about details and time frame in both the City Pages and RG Fiber Feature Article.

Enjoy this Thanksgiving time and the many avenues to celebrate Christmas.

–Sincerely, Rose Rose M. Burgweger, Editor/Publisher, Discovering De Soto Front Cover Photographed

by Rose M. Burgweger Cedar Valley Forest Tree Field I attended the AAEA Midwest Conference held in St. Paul, Minnesota this fall. The Agriculture Communicators Network held several worthwhile workshops on journalism writing skills and photography. Enjoyed being with other writers and photographers, and learning more techniques.

Special Thanks to our Contributors:

CITY OF DESOTO Printing & Distribution in De Soto Helen Ash Copy Editor Meg Johnson Pen Point Administrative Assistance Blake Bradford Contributing Graphic Designer Katherine Diaz Contributing Writer Janice Kresin, Contributing Writer Dick Stine, Contributing Writer

Much Thanks & Appreciation To the above Staff Who have been a Great Help in 2018!

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Many Thanks to our Advertisers who fund the design and writing of Discovering De Soto!

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Discovering De Soto

CHRISTMAS IN DE SOTO

Cedar Valley Forest reopens its gates once again for 2018

Exploring

De Soto

Memories and Traditions will once again fill De Soto’s Historic Christmas Tree Farm.

New owners acquiring the historic Christmas Tree Farm at the end of 2017, were just beginning their new venture. After a year, many ideas began to saturate the grounds (despite dry seasons). The gates are ready to open once again to the public. Dustin Keith will manage Cedar Valley Forest, being the fourth generation in the tree business. He continues a long line of tree lineage.

His dad, Randy Keith has been owner of Instant Shade for 40+ years, and Uncle Ron Keith is owner of Arbor Masters® family owned and operated since 1956. Both are investors in Cedar Valley Forest. Dustin has been in the wholesale plant and tree nursery business for 15 years, operating Kokopelli Wholesale Nursery and working with Instant Shade. His tree expertise is interwoven with both business and personal value.

“You see, what I’ve realized over the years is that I’m not just passionate about planting a tree. I’m more passionate about planting a memory. I’m in the memory-making business” said Dustin. Cedar Valley Forest is the perfect place to build on the Russell Christmas Tree Farm heritage “You see, what I’ve that began back in 1960. My realized over the years Grandpa, Lloyd Keith, knew is that I’m not so original owner, Jack Russell, passionate about who “worked more than 60 just planting a tree. years to grow and shear and shape the Christmas trees on 20 I’m more passionate or so acres of his 80-acre farm.” 1 about planting a Keith remembers coming out memory. I’m in the and tree spading with his memory-making Grandpa at the farm. business” “Jack started something really cool and had a creative mind. I want to carry that on with a new family and new traditions,” Keith says

Photo Courtesy of Keith Family

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2018 Season Dates / Hours Weekends Dawn to Dusk November 23 / 24 / 25 December 1 / 2 / 3 December 8 / 9 / 10

“Choose & Cut” with “Pre-Cuts” Available White, Norway & Blue Spruces Frasers Fur, White & Austrian Pines Fresh Wreaths / Stands / Accessories Baristas • Food Trucks • Christmas Market

29145 W 83rd Street • De Soto Phone 913-278-8818 info@cedarvalleyforest.com

passionately. “I have alot of care for this City and want to showcase what De Soto has to offer. Planted and vested in the area, both Keith and his wife, Lindsey, are De Soto High School graduates (class of ‘99). As they were sorting through things, it was Lindsey who noticed the well-worn guest book from 1975. A special treasure of signatures that contain many memorable years. You just might find your family’s name written inside, reminiscing past visits.

With quite a bit of creative energy, Dustin is excited to build upon ideas each year.

He looks forward to offering hay rides and Christmas tree mazes, adding to the fun festivities and resurgence of family outings.

Look for some grooming and growth of this favorite nostalgic Christmas tree farm. written and photographed by Rose M. Burgweger, editor and publisher

De Soto residents have many cherished memories of Cedar Valley Forest.

The Keith Family, looks forward to cultivating memories at the Christmas Tree Farm, that is rich in history. “New Memories and New Traditions” will incorporate the traditional Christmas Tree excursion with new facets available next year. Currently, renovations are taking place on the former manufacturing bulding. The 40’ x 120’ space is being transformed into a venue for hosting events. The public will enjoy the beautiful, scenic surroundings year-round for weddings, graduation parties, corporate retreats and a variety of private functions. They expect to host events beginning Spring 2019.

Exploring

De Soto

Shown at top: Rejuvenated Event Space being currently remodeled for future public, private and business events.

Cedar Valley Forest gates will open Black Friday, November 23.

Referred to as “Green Friday” by the Christmas Tree Industry.

The Cedar Valley Forest entrance is located just west of CedarCreek Road at 29145 West 83rd Street in De Soto, Kansas.

1 An excellent article and tribute to Jack Russell, founder of Cedar Valley Forest, can be found online: https://www.kansascity.com/news/business/article51263050.html December 23, 2015 In a big year for live Christmas trees, one area farm goes dark by Eric Adler

The original “Saw House” still remains. Replanted in a closer proximity, by nearby Christmas Trees.

The Keith Family–four generations of Tree Businesses Grandpa Lloyd Keith owned Shawnee Mission Tree Service for over 40 years. Upon retirement, there were two companies formed–Instant Shade and Arbormasters, Arbor Masters operates in six metropolitan areas within the states of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

Experts in tree care, the Kansas City office also provides landscaping design and installation, property maintenance, lawn care, insect and disease control as well as irrigation installation and maintenance. The Emergency Storm Response Division provides clean up and tree pruning services throughout the United States. Volunteer projects include helping build a Dominican Republic church and providing trees for Nativity House KC. Certified Arborists are committed to preserve and protect our natural resources, providing quality, environmentally friendly services, committed to building green and utilizing green landscaping techniques. http://arbormasters.com/arbor-masters-history/ Instant Shade has been a family tradition since 1979.

They are Tree Transplanting Specialists, moving large trees through tree spading.This technique allows you to have treed property without waiting the many years for trees to mature. An informative video of the process is on their web site: http://www.instantshadetree.com/ big-trees video in action.

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Cause Coffee

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33180 W 83rd St Thurs & Fri 8-6 Sat 8-2

W8 3rd St.

The Corner Crafter

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De Soto City Hall Mayors Tree Lighting

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32905 W 84th St Dec 1 • 5:30 pm

Lexington Avenue

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Mayor’s Annual

Christmas You Are Invited!

Tree Lighting Visit the De Soto Arts Council in the lower level of City Hall.

Saturday, December 2nd Watch for Santa at 5:35 p.m.

Donationsareappreciated.

Artists will be on site displaying their work and gift purchases are available.

5:30 PM, City Hall

The City of De Soto will kick off the holiday season with the annual Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 2nd, 2017, at 5:30 p.m. in front of City Hall.

Commerce Dr.

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The Barn at Kill Creek Farm Holiday Market

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Dec 8 • 10-4

Christmas Eve Worship at The Barn

Dec 24 • 3 • 5 • 7 • 11 pm see Kaw Prairie page 13

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8760 Kill Creek Rd Dec 8 • 9-2

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83rd Street

Cookie Walk United Methodist Church

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2nd & 4th Thurs & Fri 4-8 • Sat 9-2

33055 W 83rd St Nov 30-Dec 1 • 8-5 Dec 8 & 15 • 8-5

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Waverly Road

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33080 W 83rd St.

Historical Society Christmas Sale

Exploring

33720 W 83rd

Nov 16-17 & 23-24 Nov 30-Dec 1 • 10-4

Lea Grace

Kill Creek Road

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95th Street

mark HOLIDAY festivities& See Ads Below

Christmas Cookie & Candy Walk

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Delightful & Delicious Assortment of Homemade Holiday Treats to share with Friends & Family.

Let Us Help with your Holiday Baking!

Join us for A HOLIDAY Open Hous e ofHouse Join us for ourSA4th Annual HOLIDAY Open ARTI NS • ART • CRAFTS • FOOD ARTISANS • ART • CRAFTS • FOOD weekend s from 10 amam - 4 pm Fridays & Saturdays • 10 DECEMBER 4 • 5 to 4 pm NOV 16 & 17 and NOV 23 & 24 NOV 30 & DEC 1 • C ORNER C • CORNER RAFTER•• CRAFTER

Saturday • December 8 • 9 to 2 De Soto United Methodist Women /UMC 8760 Kill Creek Road in De Soto

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33720 W 33720 West 83rd Soto est 83 rd StStreet reet DeDe Soto

e Corner&Crhandcrafted Everything isTh Handmade locally! after • visitA our facebook page & browse our 25 vendors • Perfect Place to Shop for Unique Gifts@ kc.rr.com The Corner Crafter more info macykc As Every thing wil l be Handmade!

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Cedar Valley Forest Christmas Tree Farm 29145 W 83rd St Nov 23-24-25 Dec 1-2-3 Dec 8-9-10 Dawn to Dusk

Corliss Road

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Saturday, December 1st Watch for Santa at 5:35 p.m.

29080 W 95th St Dawn to Dusk

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Christmas Tree Lighting 5:30 PM, City Hall

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Mayor’s Annual

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The De Soto High School Band and Madrigals Perform at 5 pm

Enjoy the Holiday Music!

De Soto’s Rotary Club

serves their annual

Community Soup, Chili & Dessert Supper 5 pm-6:30 pm Donations Appreciated

De Soto Arts Council meet Local Artists & view Artwork on Display

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lower level of City Hall enjoy Holiday Treats

and Pages 8 & 9 Map Illustration by Blake Bradford

5 pm-6:30 pm

Come and Celebrate With Us! De Soto City Hall 32905 West 84th Street De Soto, Kansas

Please join us for the fifth annual...

Gift Purchases Available

HOLIDAY HOURS EVERY 2nd + 4th THURSDAY + FRIDAY 4 to 8 EVERY SATURDAY 9 to 2 closed for Thanksgiving

A SHOP FOR EVERYONE!

• HOME DECOR ART & REFURBISHED FURNITURE • CHIC CLOTHING & JEWELRY • HAPPY VALLEY FARM HONEY, BEES WAX & JAM • CIGAR HUMIDOR + ACCESSORIES • ESSENTIAL OILS & DIFFUSERS • HANDMADE QUILTS + WINTER ACCESSORIES • BATH & BEAUTY PRODUCTS plus so much more!

Like Us ON FACEBOOK LEAGRACEDESOTO for specials/new items

33080 West 83rd Street in Downtown De Soto

Holiday Market at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm

December 8th 10 am to 4pm

• 9200 Kill Creek Road in De Soto • Handcrafted Gifts Santa at noon Live Music Variety of Vendors, Foods–honey, jellies & more 7

Discovering De Soto

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Gifts that Make a Difference

Exploring

Cause Coffee gives year round– donating proceeds to worthwhile causes.

Your purchases help provide Christmas pajamas to orphans in Haiti. For December, the coffee shop will help local foster care children. The next cause will support anti-human trafficking.

Gifts Fashions & Furnishings Lea Grace brings

De Soto

Fair Trade Coffees, Hearty Breads & Gourmet Breakfast Treats

all make special gifts. You’ll also find unique gifts from various cultures.

Black Pottery from Nicaragua, Handwoven Purses, crafted items

all support artisians in South America.

Cause Coffee is Open Thursday/ Friday 8 am-5 pm & Saturday 8 am-2 pm.

Closed the weekend after Christmas, December 27-29.

Gifts of Food are plentiful throughout De Soto.

The 5th annual Holiday Market at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm grows each year with New Vendors & Favorites Chrissy Behee’s

Classic Chic to De Soto!

Open year round, the store rotates a variety of Gifts,

Furnishings & Fashions–

perfect for the upcoming holiday season. Co-owners Jill Janesko and Sara Ritter opened the Boutique Shop earlier this year. “Lea Grace is a shop of many local vendors,” described Jill “With a fun selection of Clothing,Jewelry, Repurposed Furniture,

Home Decor, Wood & Art, Personalized Signs, Quilt Ladders, Honey & Jam and more. As the holidays near,

you’ll also find a variety of Christmas items for sale!

Keep up with the latest specials on Facebook and give Lea Grace a “Like,” or follow the shop on Instagram @lea_grace_boutique. Located at 33080 W. 83rd Street (just around the corner from Wanda’s) Lea Grace is

Open second & fourth Thursday & Friday 4 pm-8 pm; and every Saturday from 9 am-2 pm.

Peanut Brittle & Cinnamon Spiced Pecans, Bowlin Farms Food Selections & Steve’s Bee Company.

Mary Leslie’s Homemade Baked Goods are available

at The Corner Market. The Honey Shack at Happy Valley Farm is worth your visit with a wall of honey & Honey on Tap, as well as pure beeswax candles, and canned goods. Visit all the Markets in De Soto shown on pages 6 and 7 with hours and locations.

Visit these Fine Food Establishments while enjoying Unique

Family Favorite Sportsbar!

Merry Christmas & HappyNew Year

Hearty Breakfasts til 11 n Variety of Omelets Pancakes & Waffles n Sausage & Gravy n Sandwiches n Healthy Salads n Burgers n Old-fashioned Beef & Mashed Potatoes Country Dinners n Homemade Pie/Desserts

WANDA’S ROADSIDE CAFE

33080 W. 83rd Street in De Soto 913-586-5063 OPEN 7 am to 2 pm Wednesday – Sunday 8

Enjoy these Weekly Specials: Burger Mondays Taco Tuesdays Prime Rib Wednesdays Steak Nights Friday & Saturday 1/2 PRICE Select Appetizers Monday-Friday 4 pm to 6 pm 33255 Lexington Ave. DeSoto, KS 66018 913-585-1116

Open Monday – Thursday 11am to 11pm Happy Hour 4-6 M-F Friday 11am to 1am ½ price select appetizers Saturday & Sunday 7am to 11pm 33255 Lexington Avenue De Soto 913-585-1116

Gifts made Locally This quaint home is transformed into The Corner Crafter each Holiday Season and brings together a group of local ladies (and a few men) to share their assortment of crafts, art and food delicacies.

“Everything is Handmade” says organizer Judy Macy.

“This is our 4th Year and we have another wonderful assortment of Homemade Creations.”

Exploring

Bonny Aureli Knit Items Thomas Bauers 3D Carictures Chrissy Beehee Peanut Brittle Janelle Benninghoff Refinished Furniture Ann Bookhamer Ukranian Egg Art Rose Burgweger Calendars / Cards Diane Ellenberger Wall Hangings Alaina Esposito Tic Tac Toe Boards Tammy Holwick Cricket Art ie flowers Rosie Inman Body/Hand Lotion Linda Lane Photo Cards Mary Leslie Cheesecake /Pumpkin Rolls Boots Linden Holiday jelly & breads Babette Macy Photo Cards Judy Macy Sewn Aprons /Baby & Kitchen Items Sarah Macy Original Art Creations Anita Martin Purses /Table Runners Mike Martin Candied Jalapenos Brenda Mize Misc Crafts Julie Schneider Wooden figures Kendee Seymour Wooden figures Judy Siscoe Wooden Treasures Indoor /Outdoor Spike & Patty Durkin jams, honey, butter Kimberly Thelen Hand Spun Yarn Creations Sandy Tugman Pottery Creations

Fresh Holiday Meats for all your family gatherings

De Soto10% OFF Thursdays

one time use expires 2/28/19 Does not include sides of beef or sold hogs, turkeys or specials

CUSTOM CUT-TO-ORDER MEAT •••••••••• See Holiday Market Map on Previous Pages with Directions Dates & Times •••••••••••

Finest Cigars–now available in De Soto.

Ritter Cigar Company located inside Lea Grace, offers a great selection of fresh Cigars kept inside a Humidor.

Makes for a great gentlemanly gift!

Monthly Stock-up Specials

Deer processing USDA slaughter house

Steve’s MEAT MARKET Caring For Our Customers Since 1969

Open Tuesday-Friday 9 to 6 Saturday 9 to 5 Closed Sunday/Monday www.stevesmeat.com Great Recipes & Tips on-line at The Butchers Blog

32685 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-1390

Authentic Mexican Food Monday-Thursday 10 am-9 pm Friday & Saturday 10 am-10 pm Sunday 10 am - 9 pm

Holiday Shopping in De Soto!

u Wide Variety of Mexican Enchiladas, Burritos, Pork, Quesadillas, Fajitas, Chicken & Steaks, Seafood & Vegetarian Food Prepared Hot, Fresh & Right off the Grill! u Appetizers, Salads, Ala Carte & Combos

Lunch Pizza Slices M-F til 2PM Eat in & Carry Out Monday - Saturday 11am - 9pm Sunday Noon to 8pm Lunch Pizza Slices M-F til 2PM Eat in & Carry Out Monday - Saturday 11am - 9pm Sunday Noon to 8pm

Lunch Pizza Slices M-F til 2PM Eat in & Carry Out Monday - Saturday 11am - 9pm Sunday Noon to 8pm

Wide Assortment of Beverages u Imported & Domestic Beers, Wines, Sangria, and 10 varieties of Margaritas Take Out Menu Kids plates (under 10)

Available for Meetings

Catering Available

Corporate/Weddings Large & Small Events

EL PATRON

MEXICAN FOOD • BAR & GRILL

DOWNTOWN DE SOTO, KANSAS WWW.KJSPIZZERIA.COM 913.586.5141

34429 West 91st Street u De Soto 913-586-3060 u ElpatronDesoto.com

Full Menus and Take Out items available on-line Visit our facebook page at El Patron De Soto for Specials 9

Discovering De Soto

De Soto

Organizations & groups Exploring .

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THANK YOU DE SOTO– from the De Soto Days Festival Committee!

On behalf of the De Soto Days Festival Committee, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the community and attendees of our 54th Annual Festival.

Your presence helped make this event a great success.

Without the generous contributions from the local businesses and the City of De Soto, this festival would not have been possible. Thank you for helping us create such a wonderful yearly event. The community connection you’ve provided is priceless. We look forward to continuing our tradition of unity and celebration.

Happiest Holidays and New Year!

Festival Committee

De Soto

De Soto Chamber of Commerce

The De Soto Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Dinner will be held on Friday, January 25, 2019. Look for additional information on our website. www.desotoks.org The new website unveiled this Fall, allows members to go online and make reservations to luncheons and events, as well as get automatic invoicing and other benefits.

The website also includes Chamber, Economic Development and our two BBQ fundraiser links.

The De Soto Chamber of Commerce works to provide quality events and programs that allow businesses and professionals to connect. This is done through networking events, committees and boards, community development programs, and more. Join us at our next Chamber Luncheon, Thursday, December 13 at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm.

Held monthly, second Thursdays, 11:30 am to 12:45 pm.

2018 De Soto Days Parade Awards Mayor’s Choice De Soto Rotary Best in Parade De Soto Baptist Church Most Original Kiddie Korner Most Creative Shawnee Mission Primary Care Most Spirited tie DHS Cheer and Cub Scouts Best Performance DHS Cheer and DHS Band

Grand Marshall Dot Stephens

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For more information, contact Sara R. Ritter, Executive Director, De Soto Chamber of Commerce/EDC 913-583-1585 email: sritter@desotoks.org

De Soto Rotary (shown below left) De Soto Baptist Church (shown below right)

De Soto Library Winter Programs

De Soto Book Group Wednesdays • 1 pm to 2:30 pm December The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir Jennifer Ryan January News of the World Paulette Jiles February Where the Crawdads Sing Delia Owens Meets at TriCentury Bank 33485 Lexington Ave. Join us for Lego We Do Fun • Friday, Feb 15 • 10:30 Kids Create • Saturday, Feb 16 • 10:30 to 12:00 Drop in for a morning art project.

& Feeders d d BirdCatSeed & Dog Food

Chicken, Horse & Livestock Feed Fairy & Miniature Garden Items Outdoor Garden Decor Ice Melt

d Refill Propane Bottles

Locally Owned & Operated for 12 Years

DeSoto DeSoto Feed Feed && Garden Garden www.desotofeed.com

8155 Hadley Road (across from Miller Park) 913-585-1112 or 913-583-1112 Open Monday-Friday 8 to 5:30 Saturday 9 to 2

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Calendar

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$10 each

Exploring

Rock Church and Abbott Hall

Postcards $1 each

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”Meet the Artist” Reception Lexington Lake Park in De Soto November 17 10 am

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Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center, The De Soto Rotary Club and De Soto Arts Coucil will co-host this event for the community.

A ra as Inst a Bac Art Hist You are invited to “Meet the Artist” Ann-Marie Yang andstarting out a learn about the process, approach and inspiration for her graphic designer before transitioning into “Ephemeral Peace” Sculpture.

Ann-Marie is from Atlanta, deciding to focus on ceramics and art histo Georgia and was awarded a Institute scholarship to the Kansas Art Crossroads GalleryCity as a gallery Art Institue. She has worked at the Kansas City Art Institute Museum installing shows and fabricating ex Crossroads Gallery as a gallery assistant and the NelsonKey Award numerous times from the S Atkins Museum, installingSilver shows and fabricating displays. is frequently exhibited at the Kansas City A The sculpture will be on display at Lexington Lake Park in De Soto through December 31, 2018.

Thison is an part of “My work is based examination of t The Elsewhere Project for seniors in the Ceramics be realism or the abstraction of gestural li Department at the Kansas City Art Institute. prevalent in my work and vital to my pract Enjoy Hot Chocolate, Coffee and Treats andmy favorite places to has become one of support public arts in JCPRD Parks. work to portray a juxtaposition between Lexington Lake Park is located at 8850 Sunflower Road. the permanence of ceramic material.”

De Soto

“The Creamery” (shown on calendar cover)

De Soto Historical Society

The 2019 De Soto HIstorical Society Calendar is available with a new selection of authentic historical photos from De Soto.

New this year are a set of four collector postcards.

Proceeds fund speakers/events/historical displays.

De Soto Historical Society Christmas Sale Lots of New & Used Goods for Christmas Holidays!

De Soto Historical Society Calendars and Postcards 8 am to 5 pm • 33055 West 83rd Street Friday & Saturday • November 30 & December 1 Saturdays Only 8 am to 5 pm • December 8 & 15 See Christmas Events Map on Page 6

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Join us for our De Soto Historical Society meetings, held last Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm Downtown De Soto, 33055 West 83rd Street

De Soto Rotary Thanks to YOU De Soto!

Rotarians delivered a pickup full of coats to the Johnson County Christmas Bureau on Monday, November 5.

“This far exceeded our expectations and we appreciate your generosity!” said Mark Crumbaker, De Soto Rotary President.

“Your donations will result in a happier and warmer holiday season for many less fortunate in Johnson County.”

Share your pics and though

@jcprd, #JCPRDartin

Rotary/4-H Plant-A-Tree at Riverfest Park

De Soto Rotary and Pioneer 4-H will be planting several trees at Riverfest Park during the month of November.

Greg Vanbooven, owner of VanBooven Professional Tree Maintenance, will be providing guidance and equipment to ensure planting is done properly.

Trees are ordered and the City has staked out where they will be located. Shumard and Red Oaks will be planted in the stage area and on the east side.

Rotary’s International president has encouraged local groups to be involved in replenishing trees. We look forward to partnering with our local Pioneer 4-H Group.

De Soto Rotary meets Friday mornings, 7 am, De Soto United Methodist Church, 8780 Kill Creek Road.

On the fourth week, the De Soto Rotary meets at 6:30 pm, The Barn at Kill Creek Farm, 9200 Kill Creek Road.

Bob Zindler and Mark Crumbaker deliver the truck full of coats to the Johnson County Christmas Bureau. Upon their arrival, they were greeted with much thanks for the generous amount of donated coats that will keep their clients warm this winter.

http://www.jccb.org

On Thursday January 24 at 6:30 PM, De Soto Rotary will be meeting to detail the International Health/Water Project in Ecuador. Our group is participating with area Rotary Clubs, including the host Rotary Club of Manta, Ecuador. We will be providing food and refreshments. Anyone in the De Soto community interested in learning about Rotary’s international efforts or wanting to participate is welcome to attend.

Please RSVP to desotorotary@gmail.com.

–submitted by Mark Crumbaker, De Soto Rotary President

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Discovering De Soto

FAITH Silent Night will celebrate its 200th Anniversary this

year on Christmas Eve. It was first performed in 1818 at the St. Nicholas Church of Oberndorf near Salzburg.

Joseph Mohr created the words to “Silent Night!” as a poem in 1816 in Marlapfarr, a village in the Lungau area of Salzburg. He served from 1815-1817 at the Parish Church of Marlapfarr.

In 1818, Mohr as assistant priest at St. Nicholas in Oberndorf, requested Franz Xaver Gruber to “write a fitting melody” for the poem on Christmas Eve. Later the same day, Gruber gave Mohr the musical composition for this famous Christmas melody. The song was included that evening in the Christmas Mass. “The song was met with ‘general approval by all’ in attendance (mostly shipping laborers, boat builders and their families) according to Gruber’s authentic account.”

This beloved Christmas Hymn was written and performed during very difficult times. The Napoleonic Wars (1792-1815) had recently ended and had caused great suffering. For centuries the Salzach River provided a prosperous salt trade for Oberndorf. This greatly declined during the Napoleonic wars, causing a depression in the local economy for the transport companies, boat builders and labors facing an unsure future. When Mohr wrote the words, he was witness to the suffering of Marlapfarr, during the withdrawal of Bavarian occupation troops.

Silent Night has concluded many Christmas Eve Services throughout the ages. Its text continues to “express a great longing for peace and comfort.”

Exploring

De Soto

Stille Nacht Gesellschaft: http://www.stillenacht.at/en/origin_song.asp

De Soto United Methodist Church Events:

8760 Kill Creek Road • 913-583-1359 • www.desotoumc.org Sunday Worship 10 am This Christmas Season we’ll focus on the story of “Silent Night,” as we prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas.

December 8 • Cookies by the Pound 9 am to 2 pm (see ad pg. 6) December 9 • Children and Youth Christmas Program “Crazy, Busy, Peaceful, Holy Night!”

December 16 • 7 pm Chancel Choir Cantata “Christmas is Calling” December 24 • Calm + Bright Celebrating 200 years of Silent Night 4 pm Family Service 8 pm Candlelight Service February 9 • 3 pm Mr. Stinky Feet Family Concert All Welcome!

De Soto Baptist Church Events:

8655 Church Street • 913-585-1026 • www.desotobaptistchurch.com Sunday School 9:45 am Sunday Worship 11 am November 18 • All-Church Thanksgiving Dinner following Worship December 2 • Children’s Youth Musical during Worship December 9 • Advent Worship December 16 • Advent Worship Adult & Youth Choir Cantata December 24 • Pastor Copelund’s Christmas Character drama February 2 • Super Bowl of Soup Lunch additional info TBA February 10 • Celebration of Love Banquet 6 pm

Faith Builders International:

8390 Peoria • 913-583-11670 • www.buildfaith.net Sunday Worship 10 am and 6 pm Children’s Services 10 am Midweek Worship Wednesdays 7 pm Detour Student Ministries 7 pm (Grades 6th - 12th) Overcomers Outreach Fridays 7pm 12 Step Program Christmas Eve Service Sunday, December 23rd 10 am & 6 pm

Life Changing Truth Church:

33080 West 83rd Street • 575-418-7421 Jesussaves0777@yahoo.com Sunday Worship at 10 am Wednesday Bible Study 5:30 pm

www.lifechangingtruth.net 12

Christmas Eve Worship Returns to The Barn

Kaw Prairie Church will once again hold Christmas Eve Services at 3, 5, 7 and 11 pm at The Barn At Killcreek Farm.

Exploring

De Soto

With an essence of what it could have been like “away in a manger” Kaw Prairie Community Church in neaby Lenexa, looks forward to returning to The Barn, located at 9200 Kill Creek Road. Christmas Eve Worship Services will be held in the afternoon, at 3 pm and 5 pm, and evening, 7 pm and 11 pm (Candlelight at all services).

The journey began in 2004, when the church was meeting at Mize Elementary. Pastor Dan met Darrel Zimmerman, and the service was soon birthed with a divine partnership.

For many years Kaw Prairie traveled to De Soto, to rekindle the awe and wonder of that special night.

The special services ceased several years ago, when The Barn was being rebuilt. Kaw Prairie continued to support the rebuilding effort with “We felt God Christmas Offerings.“ prod us this year “We felt God prod us this year to return to De Soto’s nostalgia heart- to return to De Soto’s place, Kill Creek Farm, and offer these simple, acoustic services,” notaligia, said Pastor Dan. “We look forward heart-place to return this Christmas Eve, for Kill Creek Farm community worship in De Soto.

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Then all the Trees of the Forest will Sing for Joy and all the Trees of the Field will clap their hands...

Let the heavens Rejoice...

Let the Earth be Glad!

Christ the Saviour is Born A JOYOUS CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR TO ALL From all of us at Discovering De Soto from Psalm 96: 11, 12 Isaiah 55:12 Luke 2:11

GOLDEN L A N D S of K A N S A S Serene Photography \ from De Soto & Kansas 2019 Desktop Calendars \ Notecard Collections Congregatonal Care Ministry Cards \ Comfort Book

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Rural & Inspirational Photography by Rose M. Burgweger \ for your Home, Business & Ministry \ rmbprints@icloud.com

Serving the Greater Kansas City Faith Communities for 29 years FREE weekly e-newsletter http://metrovoicenews.com/ 13

Discovering De Soto

Harps Celebrates two years in De Soto!!

Exploring

November 9th, 2016 seems just like yesterday.

It is hard to believe it has been two years since that spectacular opening day!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support. Our staff has enjoyed serving the community for the past two years.

There has been a great response from the community for an unknown grocery retailer in the market. We strive to provide the best overall experience for our shoppers. We are excited to see the community continue to grow and are blessed to be a part of it.

Harps introduces Instacart Program Instacart delivers groceries right to your door, in as little as two hours, and is now available for Harps shoppers.

Personal Shoppers pick, check out, and deliver items from the customer’s online shopping list. There is a minimum $10 purchase.

Purchases $10-$35 incur a $9.99 service charge.

Purchases above $35, are $5.99 for the service.

Instacart operates daily from 9 am to 10 pm, with special hours during holidays. Begin your Harps food order

De Soto

–Johnny Chapman

We have enjoyed Johnny Chapman’s pleasant personality, helpfulness and have appreciated all his hard work in getting Harps established in De Soto. We wish him well in all his future endeavors, as he returns to Arkansas.

You’ll find him at the Harps in Lowell.

online at https://www.harpsfood.com/delivery

Harps announces new store manager

Welcome Shane Murray– new Harps Store Manager in De Soto. He relocated from Joplin, Missouri, where he was store manager for two years. He has been with Harps for 13 years.

Shane is looking forward to getting to know the community and serving your grocery needs.

Located at 34040 Commerce Drive • 913-585-9876 • Open Daily 8 to 10

Celebrating 2 years in De Soto!

Hometown Fresh

Our promise to you is simple – quality really is the difference. And at Harps, quality means fresh. Our butchers cut meat fresh in-store several times a day. We stock only the freshest vegetables and ripened fruits for your family. And our bakery and deli are second to none.

14

Exploring

De Soto

De Soto Food Pantry distributes Bags of Thanksgiving Joy to those in need

Filled grocery bags will help provide Thanksgiving dinner for those with financial difficulties during this holiday season. Families also receive a $15 gift card to Harps Foods.

Around 125 bags are collected each year, and distributed before Thanksgiving (with remaining given at Christmas).

To learn more about the Food Pantry, donate or volunteer: De Soto Kansas Food Pantry facebook page www.DesotoksFoodPantry.wordpress.com

Call or Stop by for our Great Rates!

“Your Hometown Bank” Headquartered locally in De Soto

Try out our New Mobile Banking Apps!

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

fresh decisions Cedarmade Creek Pharmacy easy Wellness Center

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.

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.

Independently Owned and Operated Franchised with Health Mart Systems

Your Hometown Full Service Pharmacy

Serving the De Soto Community Since 1992 Prescriptions • Health & Wellness Center Vitamins • Botanicals • Homeopathics Pharmacists Lori Murdock, Betsey Gallinger and Caleb Weinhold look forward to assisting You!

OPEN 9am - 6pm Monday - Friday 9 am - 1 pm Saturday • Closed Sunday Phone 913-583-1117 Fax 913-585-9801 www.CedarCreekPharmacy.org

Located inside HARPS 34040 Commerce Drive Additional Location inside Shawnee Mission Health 23351 Prairie Star Parkway Building A / Suite 115

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 15

Discovering De Soto

RG Fiber’s Venture into Fiber Optics

Exploring

With firsthand experience, fast and efficient internet service is coming to De Soto!

Fiber optic cable versus coaxial cable and traditional phone cable uses light to transmit data versus electrical pulses. Using fiber optic cable sends a clearer signal farther, and has more capacity to send information down a signal. “Many cable companies / phone companies use fiber optics to jump between towns and then they’re stepping down to your copper (wire) network for distribution into town,” Mike explained.

Fiber broadband service providers run fiber optics directly into homes or businesses. The signals are transmitted into a fiber box, which replaces traditional internet modems, to get efficient internet service.

“Electricity can only go so far before it has to be retransmitted. (It’s the) same with light, but it can go much farther than electricity,” Mike said.

De Soto

RG Fiber is the fiber optic network of tomorrow. With its own take on modern technology, the company became “the first operational software-driven fiber optic network” when it launched in 2015. What truly makes RG Fiber unlike other telecommunications companies is its emphasis on small town values. “(Historically), prosperity always follows infrastructure,” Founder and CEO Mike Bosch said. “When it was waterways, railways, airports, highways, towns grew or died based on their proximity to this infrastructure. In today’s society that infrastructure is digital,” Mike emphasized.

RG Fiber understands first-hand the issues with working and living in a small community that lacks the capacity to provide efficient broadband. How did RG Fiber become the digital infrastructure solution for small communities? The story began in 2013 when Mike was struggling to acquire efficient broadband services for his startup company, Reflective Group, a cloud-based software company in Baldwin City. After Reflective Group’s growth and service demand outgrew the inter– net capacity available, Mike reached out to the various internet providers that served the area. The search proved unsuccessful. None provided the gigabit internet Reflective Group needed.

Taking on the task of creating better internet service, Mike looked at Google Fiber’s model and believed he could bring that concept to Baldwin. In the end, this particular fiber optics model was not feasible.

“It doesn’t work for a town of 5,000 people,” Mike stated. “That initial idea failed.”

“We soon realized that the way we build internet, the model for designing internet, is very hardware-centric,” Mike said. In other words, internet is brought into town, then the signal is processed through hardware. However, this hardware (also known as headend, central office or fiber huts) can range from a quarter of a million to two million dollars, depending on the needed capacity.

Fast forward to 2014. As a member of Pipeline Organization, one of Mike’s advisers encouraged him to search for a different alternative to his company’s internet capacity issue. What Mike came up with was the idea to replace expensive hardware with software, his area of expertise.

“There were intriguing concepts out there, very academic and it wasn’t operational,” Mike said. Despite lack of reallife scenarios, he began creating a prototype of software 16

Learn more about RG Fiber: https://rgfiber.com/ that would replace hardware to achieve fiber optic broadband in a small town. Mike’s hard work paid off. In the summer of 2015, RG Fiber officially launched.

“We connected from Kansas City and brought gigabit all the way to Baldwin City,” Mike explained.

Since the inception of RG Fiber, Mike and his team work to evolve the technology, working on solutions to ensure small communities exist for the next generation.

When creating a sustainable small-town-for-the-future, one must look at the copper wiring being used, he explained. “Every company out there that’s building these data centers (clouds) are all wired with fiber optics,” Mike said. Putting fiber optics in small communities where companies can establish data centers is an opportunity Mike wants to provide through RG Fiber. “Now, you’re really starting to look at it as becoming limitless on what you can do in a small town,” he stated.

Mike saw an opportunity when De Soto sent out the Request For Proposal (RFP) for broadband services.

On October 18, RG Fiber received the contract becoming the city’s 100% fiber broadband service provider.

RG Fiber understands small towns. According to Mike, “Our proposal was to actually put in multiple conduits with our existing network and give them back to the city,” Mike explained. “The city could lease in to another (internet) provider or have them for the city’s use.”

In addition to creating opportunities for other possible internet service providers, Mike and his team proposed putting free Wi-Fi in parks. This was based on how RG Fiber impacted Baldwin’s public areas and its significance to residents. continued on page 21

Volume 2 Issue 4 WINTER 2018

City Publication IN THIS ISSUE: Broadband Approval for Community................17-18 Memorial for Tim Maniez.......................................17 City of De Soto Expands Social Media............18-19 Holiday City Events..........................................18-19 De Soto Parks & Recreation.................................19 City Incentives for Residential Development........20 City Directory.........................................................20

City Information/Meetings 32905 West 84th Street P. O. BOX C De Soto, Kansas 66018 913-583-1182 913-583-3123 fax n CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS First and Third Thursdays at 7 pm

n CITY PLANNING COMMISSION Fourth Tuesdays at 6 pm

n MUNICIPAL COURT Second and Fourth Mondays at 6 pm

City Council and Planning Commssion Agendas and Minutes can be found on the City Website:

http://www.desotoks.us/government.html

City Tribute Timothy Joe Maniez 1952-2018

The City of De Soto would like to recognize the contributions of Tim Maniez during his many years of service in our community.

Beginning in the 1980’s, Tim served on the De Soto Enhancement Committee, and was part of the Planning Commission from April, 1986 to April 1989.

For twenty years Tim served as City Council Member, from April, 1986 to April 2009. He was elected Council President in May, 1998 and continued in that position until April, 2009.

Tim Maniez served as Mayor for the City of De Soto from May 2013 until January 2018.

Our sincere thanks and appreciation for a job well done.

See additional Tribute on page 29

www.desotoks.us

BROADBAND A P P R O VA L F O R COMMUNITY Approved on October 18, 2018, the City Council will partner with RG Fiber to provide Internet Services throughout the Community.

For the past two years, De Soto has been working to increase the availability of broadband internet services in the city, particularly in the areas south of K-10 where service is not currently available.

Increasingly, the City is concerned that the state of existing data infrastructure lags significantly behind the rest of the Kansas City region, and has become a significant impediment to our economic growth and viability. There are significant portions of our city with no broadband internet options at all, and City leaders feel that the overall lack of private investment in data infrastructure has not prepared us for the growing demands of our current and future citizens and businesses.

On October 18, 2018, the City Council approved an agreement with Baldwin City based RG Fiber to provide fiber-to-the-home gigabit internet services throughout the community.

RG Fiber has committed to immediately start the network build in the areas south of K-10 with a deadline of 12 months to have service available to that area. In addition, RG will provide free internet service to several City-owned facilities, and will diligently pursue the provision of the gigabit services throughout the entire City within 24 months. This partnership is the culmination of an effort on behalf of City leaders to solve our broadband issues.

In 2016 the Council formed a “Broadband Committee” to advance an effort to increase access to high speed data services throughout De Soto and the surrounding areas. Since its inception, the Broad-band Committee has been actively engaged on several fronts to encourage broadband investment in our community.

The committee’s efforts include reaching out to our existing internet service providers to encourage them to expand and improve their networks; working with our elected representatives at the state level to address the negative impacts of franchise legislation; encouraging internet service providers to consider building a network in De Soto; and investigating public-private partnerships to facilitate a fiber buildout. continued on page 18 17

H O L I DAY C I T Y E V E N T S P lease J oin U s for the Annual M AYO R’ S CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Build Your Life With Us

www.desotoks.us

CITY HALL 32905 West 84th Street 913-583-1182 fax 913-583-3123

Mission Statement

Providing adventure and lifelong opportunities for De Soto residents.

Civic pride, collaboration and inclusiveness are hallmarks of our welcoming city where responsible growth is a goal. Responsive, accountable government working in the best of public interest.

BroadBand APPROVAL continued from page 17 In April of 2018, the Council authorized staff to distribute a request for proposals from service providers to build out a city-wide gigabit broadband network.

•

Saturday • December 1st • 5:30 pm De Soto City Hall 32905 West 84th Street

•

Join Us for our annual De Soto Rotary Supper Soup, Chili & Dessert

The City received three responses from that RFP, and the committee spent the summer evaluating them and meeting with the respondents.

On September 6th, the Council selected RG Fiber of Baldwin City as the City’s service partner, and a formal contract was subsequently approved by the Council on October 18th.

Senior Center 5 pm to 6 pm

We look forward to our partnership with RG Fiber, and are excited to deliver a solution that will have such a direct impact to quality of life and economic viability in our city!

South Entrance / In Back of City Hall Accessed also inside from Front Entrance Cash / Check Donations are Appreciated!

Links to reports and discussions can be found on the City Website: http://www.desotoks.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=31 Also see RG Fiber Feature Article on Page 16

Please Bring a Donation

C I T Y

O F

D E

S O T O

To provide more timely and interactive communications with the community, the City of De Soto has added several social media accounts.

Like, follow, or subscribe, as appropriate:

E X PA N D S

City Hall Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CityofDeSotoKS/ City Hall Twitter https://twitter.com/DeSotoKansas City YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/DeSotoKansas

The City of De Soto New Website launched October 4 – Updated with a fresh look, improved navigation and new inter-active tools. You’ll find detailed City government news and information right at your fingertips.

18

De Soto Parks & Recreation NEW City Website Online Registration

Easy Access for Youth/Adult Programs, Activities & Sports Informational Flyers, Area Recreation and Facilities Information.

http://www.desotoks.us/151/Parks-Recreation

2019 SPRING Youth Activities Youth Soccer Fee $30

Santa

Comes In at 5:35 pm!

De Soto HIgh School Band & Choir Performing 5 pm Join in Singing Holiday Classics!

•

De Soto Arts Council Open House City Hall Lower Level 5 pm to 6 pm

De Soto’s Local Artists will be displaying their work.

Refreshments & Gift Purchases will be available.

Also on display in the upper hallway, this quarter, DAC members Danny & Linda Lane capture the beauty of nature with photography.

Linda enjoys the art of computer manipulation on many of her images, while Danny is more of a photo purest. www.photographybylane.com

f o r D e S o t o’s F o o d P a n t r y

ages 4 thru 8th grade

Registration Deadline Friday, February 8 Youth T-Ball Fee $50 ages 5 thru 6

Registration Deadline Friday, March 1 Youth Baseball Fee $75 ages 6 thru 15

Registration Deadline Friday, March 1 Youth Softball Fee $75

ages 6 thru 15

Registration Deadline Friday, March 1 Youth Blastball Fee $25

ages 4 thru 5

Registration Deadline Friday, May 3

2019 Winter Adult Activities Adult Co-Ed Volleyball

Fee $110 per team 8 match schedule

Registration Deadline Friday, December 21, 2018 Matches begin Monday, January 7, 2019

Fitness Classes

S O C I A L

M E D I A

Parks & Recreation Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ De-Soto-Parks-Recreation-473048509415414/ Parks & Recreation Twitter https://twitter.com/de_sotoparksrec

Individual classes (with various class fees) Monthly Memberships (for all fitness classes held each month).

Group Exercise Classes include: Weekday Yoga, Tabata, Circuit Training and Saturday morning fitness options.

Additional Information available online at our NEW Parks & Recreation web page:

http://www.desotoks.us/151/Parks-Recreation De Soto Aquatic Center Swim Lessons Registration will open on March 1, 2019

Employment Opportunities City of De Soto Website https://www.DeSotoKS.us/

Officials / Youth Basketball & Youth Soccer Umpires / Youth Baseball & Softball De Soto Aquatic Center / Lifeguards Concessions & Front Desk Attendant Seasonal Parks & Recreation Maintenance Fitness Instructors Contact Justin Huslig (913) 586-5281 Online Application: http://www.desotoks.us/Jobs.aspx 19

www.desotoks.us Build your life with us CITY HALL 32905 West 84th Street 913-583-1182 fax 913-583-3123 Mayor Rick Walker 913-NUMBER Home 913-357-7729 Cell City Administrator/Engineer Mike Brungardt, P.E. 913-586-5253 Direct 785-764- 8737 Cell City Attorney Patrick G. Reavey 913-586-5299 City Hall Direct Office 816-474- 6300 CITY BUILDING INSPECTOR Cameron Mauphmer 913-586-5252 Direct 913-210-9186 Cell CITY CLERK Lana McPherson 913-586-5250 Direct 913-689-8733 Cell CITY CODES & CIP MANAGER Walter Gardenhire 913-586-5263 Direct 913-940-8552 Cell CITY FINANCE OFFICER Bonnie Bennett 913-586- 5262 Direct CITY PLANNER Brad Weisenburger 913-586-5286 Direct CITY STREET SUPERINTENDENT Ron Creason 913-238- 0437 Cell City Shop 913-583- 3379 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/BUILDING CODE OFFICIAL Steve Chick, Sr. 913-586-5277 Direct WATER/SEWER SUPERINTENDENT Doug Smith 913-238- 0434 Cell Wastewater Plant 913-585-9956 WATER DEPARTMENT Water Plant 913-583-1749 UTILITIES Nancy Steele 913-583-1182 x112 Erika Carrillo 913-586-5270 Direct CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Lori Murdock 913-441- 6907 Home 913-636-2679 Cell CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS Rob Daniels 913-221-4498 Cell Kevin Honomichl 913-583-1623 Home Danny Lane 913-634-9150 Cell Kevin Ritter 913-208-5352 Cell PLANNING COMMISSION Richard Hemphill, Chair 913-585-1946 Home Todd Manson 913-909-0145 Cell Bob Garrett 913-707-6284 Cell Linda Lane 913-634-8299 Home Ian McPherson 913-585-1827 Home Tim Fisher 913-915-5416 Cell PARK & RECREATION DIRECTOR Jay Garvin 913-586-5280 Direct 913-544-8073 Cell AQUATICS & RECREATION MANAGER Justin Huslig 913-586-5281 Direct 913-620-6629 Cell BUILDING MAINTENANCE Nate Johnson 913-626-6567 Cell MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK Kathy Bounds 913-586-5290 Direct CITY PROSECUTOR Amy R. Mitchell 913-782- 2720 CITY JUDGE Randy McCalla 913-390-1555 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. Sara Ritter Director 913-583-1585 office 913-238-2206 cell

ANIMAL CONTROL Johnson County Sheriff 913-782- 0720 JOHNSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPT. Dispatch non-emergency 913-782-0720 emergency 9-1-1 JOHNSON COUNTY NORTHWEST CONSOLIDATED FIRE DISTRICT Todd Maxton Interim Fire Chief Fire Department non-emergency 913-583-3886 emergency 9-1-1

HONEY CREEK SANITATION Randy Weldon 785-423-1809 Cell

DE SOTO US POST OFFICE 33155 W. 83rd Street 913-583-1543 Monday-Friday 9am-11am 12:30pm-4:30pm Saturdays 9am-noon

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CITY HALL 32905 West 84th Street 913-583-1182 fax 913-583-3123

C ity I ncentives for Residential Development In recent months the City of De Soto has taken positive steps to incentivize residential development in the community. On July 19, 2018, the City Council approved development agreements waiving the excise tax on two single-family residential projects.

These agreements were essentially identical to a previous agreement approved in April waiving the excise tax on a third residential project that had been stalled since the economic downturn in 2008. In total, the three developments include 18 platted duplex lots, 94 platted single-family lots, and a 36-acre parcel that is slated for approximately 30 estatesized lots.

In addition, on August 2, 2018, the City Council passed an ordinance implementing a Neighborhood Improvement District (NID) encouraging redevelopment of blighted and dilapidated properties in targeted portions of the community. The NID offers excise tax and permit discounts of up to 90% for builders or owners who make significant aesthetic improvements to existing structures.

Finally, on September 20, 2018, the Council made permanent reductions to the City’s water and sewer system development fees, which apply to all new construction in the City.

These reductions will save builders, and ultimately home buyers, approximately $4,600 on the cost of a typical single-family home.

According to City Administrator Mike Brungardt, “These incentives for residential development are part of the implementation of the City’s recently adopted Strategic Plan, which includes strategies to grow the City’s population. They recognize that added rooftops drive other private investments such as retail shopping and restaurants. The City Council wants to demonstrate that the City is “Open for Business” and eliminate any City-related financial disincentives to housing construction.”

Brungardt points out that the total of all building permit fees and excise tax produce a fee total of about $11,200 for a single-family home on a typical ¼-acre lot. $11,200 $3,880 The recent excise tax waivers Builder Fees Builder Fees and permit discount program & Excise Tax & Excise Tax no incentives with incentives reduce that fee approximately $7,300 (a 65% reduction) Excise Tax Waivers and Permit Discount Program will help reduce to a total of $3,880. housing fees approximately 65%.

RG FIBER continued from page 16

Mike has witnessed the impacts broadband has made for families and children who lack access to internet and the empowerment of establishing two-way communication between local government and its residents.

“We’ve partnered with a school district (in Baldwin) to provide families that qualify for free and reduced lunches, free or reduced internet,” Mike said. “We get zero government support for that. That is just something we feel is right because we live in this town (and) we want to give these kids an opportunity.”

RG Fiber is not only bringing broadband to unserved areas in small towns, it’s providing opportunities for success and building communication between government and residents.

These additional benefits for De Soto will help create an inclusive environment that promotes personal growth and community prosperity.

“Along with empowering students to be able to do their homework from home and have a level playing field from that side of it; and along with empowering the community to interact and engage with their civic leaders, we’re also seeing a lot of economic impacts in small towns around the property values going up, certain houses being bought, renters renting from a place that has a fiber connection in it,” Mike stated.

“We are very passionate about small town communities,” Mike exclaimed. “And we love that word ‘community!’”

The first component in fulfilling the city’s broadband proposal is to provide service to unserved areas, primarily south of K-10. Plans to start implementing fiber optics have already begun. RG Fiber installed equipment earlier in the year before the RFP was sent out. The technology installed is the third version of the advanced technology that was initially deployed in Baldwin. Mike said, “It’s known as the micro-node concept.”

With the equipment setup, Mike proposed to have the project completed within six months (not including the possible loss of two winter months). The city has set a twelve-month deadline.

“After that point, we already have a design for the entire community that includes ample growth,” Mike said.

“We planned for a lot of extra capacity for that growth.

After that first project is done, we’re going to be able to branch out into other areas off of our existing network and continue to expand out through the community.”

RG Fiber holds true to its belief–empowering small town America in the 21st century with a solid communication infrastructure prepares the town and its residents for the future now!

facebook groups in the community

De Soto, Kansas City Government Page In And Around De Soto Public Group De Soto a Fun Place to Live Public Group De Soto, KS Swap And Talk

A place where you can sell, trade, and swap a variety of items.

De Soto, Kansas Lost and Found Pets and Animal Advocates

Information about lost and found pets, with additional resources.

Storm Dogg

Weather Updates and Bulletins

View all issues on-line at: https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Discovering De Soto Community Updates

Advertising Information: rmbprints@icloud.com Editorial Submissions: rmbprints@icloud.com Celebration Submissions: info@discoveringdesoto.com Organization Submissions: penpointclericalhelp@gmail.com Printed Business Subscriptions Available Online Subscription: rmbprints@icloud.com

25 years of experience and expertise brings quick results...

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whether you are buying OR selling real estate.

Certified Residential Specialist with a referral network that can assist with a move anywhere in the United States.

Proudly serving as a leader in the local community and as President of Kansas CRS.

ABR CRS GRI SFR SRES Licensed Broker in Kansas and Missouri

–written by Katherine Diaz, Contributing Writer

21648 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 Direct 816-392-9365 krisjohnson@kw.com 21

Single-Family

Homes

v Choose from a variety of Custom Homes and Builders, or bring your own Builder v Beautiful Daylight/Walk Outs backing to treed Greenspace v Phase II Now Open! from the low $340s affordable HOA dues $120 yr.

Special 100% financing with lender approval

Townhomes

Traditional Two Story & New Reverse 11/2 Story Affordably Priced starting at $249,500 Special 100% financing with lender approval v Maintenance provided for Carefree Living Yard and Landscape Care, Snow Removal and Exterior Painting v Two Car Garages v Affordable HOA dues v Large Cul-de-sac Lots v Covered Back Decks or Patios v Choose from four different floor plans

Spacious Living Areas

FURNISHED HOME MODEL 31545 West 85th Street in De Soto Saturday and Sunday 9 to 5 or by Appointment (913) 406-3367 22

Walkout Covered, Screened Deck off Master Bedroom

FURNISHED TOWNHOME MODELS 31702 West 83 Place 31704 West 83 Place Saturday and Sunday 9 to 5 or by Appointment (913) 406-3367

Enjoy living in Arbor Ridge, nestled in the warm, growing community of De Soto.

Centrally-located in Western Johnson County, just next door to Shawnee, Lenexa and Olathe. Downtown Kansas City and Lawrence are only 30 minutes via easy highway access. You’ll enjoy the many spectrums of urban, suburban and rural life.

Villa Ranches v 11 Lots remain with Your Choice of Floor Plans v Outdoor yard maintenance taken care of– freeing you up to do the things you enjoy! v Three Car Garages

from the low $300s

Killcreek Road

On West 83rd Street, four miles west of K-7 83rd Street Exit

Killcreek Road Exit Cedar Creek Pkwy. Exit

Quick Access via K-10 Kill Creek Road Exit One Exit Past Cedar Creek Pkwy

“Unique Building Concepts with a variety of Homes for all your Stages in Life.”

Spacious single-family homes, several styles of Townhomes and Villa Ranches available with various levels of maintenance.

Build your community of family and friends.

“Each Unique, Beautiful Home” FRONT ENTRANCE

will inspire and impress you, when you visit our fully-furnished Single-Family and Townhome Models. Villa Ranches available Spring 2019.

Many extra features are standard.

v Highly-Rated USD 232 School District v Newly built Harps Foods & Established Steve’s Meat Market offer nearby shopping v Small-town Values v Charming New Local Restaurants v Nearby Parks & Aquatic Center v Major Employers v Easy Highway Access Learn more about our growing DeSoto community on-line at www.issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

www.ArborRidgeHomes.com

View Models Saturday and Sunday 9 to 5 or by Appointment (913) 406-3367

For more information on living at Arbor Ridge, Contact Cole Coombs, Keller Williams Real Estate 913-406-3367

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Discovering De Soto

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Commercial & Residential

Development

Exploring

De Soto Business Center

An exterior face lift was recently completed for the De Soto Business Center, located at 9150-70 Lexington Avenue, with new signage added.

A new asphalt parking lot and walkways improve accessiblity for the public. Planter boxes and pillars add nice aesthetic touches and a fresh look.

Tenant Mike’s Liquor will double their square footage, expanding this month. Beer Thirty, also a longtime tenant, is pleased with the upgrading of the facility.

2,000 sq. ft. is available for additional office or retail space.

Contact 913-915-5416 or 913-915-7389 for more information.

De Soto

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Lexington Avenue Office/Work Spaces

Building owner, M Development Company llc has a variety of business and office space available with flexible work spaces available in a variety of confirgurations.

Contact 816-535-0935 for more information.

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Quaint Reverse-Ranch Bungalow Homes 1,700-1,900 sq. ft. Three Bedrooms Garages and Cozy Front Porches Rustic Shades of green, gray and brown Charming Wooden Picket Fences

Volunteers cleared brush /overgrown trees, making for a well-groomed area.

The newly established Volunteer De Soto completed their first project in October, assisting a homeowner who has been in ill health and unable to maintain their home. Volunteers worked the majority of the day on exterior yard work, and made an enormous difference in both the front and backyards. The homeowner was delighted and the new look enhances the neighborhood as well.

Volunteer De Soto was established in early 2018, giving homeowners who are physically or financially unable to maintain their homes, an option to clean up their property and avoid possible citations with the City.

Community Representatives include Wess Huddelson, Linda Lane, Don Parr and Joe Rawie. Visit our website at www.VolunteerDeSoto.com for more information, to volunteer or seek assistance.

Follow us on Facebook to see updates on new projects.

submitted by Linda Lane, President, Volunteer De Soto

Raising Customer Satisfaction One Door at a Time

Commercial & Residential Services

Tracker Door Systems, L.L.C. is an authorized dealer of Commercial & Residential Overhead Doors, Dock Equipment, Security Shutters and Gate Doors Openers. n New/Replacement Garage Doors n Repairs All Types n 24-Hour Emergency Service Call or Visit our Website for Free Estimates

913-397-7204

www.trackerdoor.com

For Information Call 913 • 915 • 7389 24

Serving the Kansas City Market Since 1999

35000 West 95th Street in De Soto We come to you

Quality Products from Quality Suppliers Lumber One offers quality Sierra Pacific Windows for both Builders and Home Owners. You’ll find a wide selection of Aluminum Clad, H-3 ® Clad, Vinyl Windows, Replacement Windows, Casement, Double and Single Hungs, Awnings, Sliding Windows, Patio Doors (both hinged or sliding) and Radius Windows.

Strikingly innovative windows and doors crafted with time-tested attention to detail; industry-leading energy efficiency; sustainable building practices that put the environment first; and service that puts you first.

Welcome to windows and doors that never compromise, made by people who don’t either. www.sierrapacificwindows.com

Homes shown are local construction in De Soto.

Lumber One is locally owned and has been in business for fifteen years. We began selling lumber to builders and expanded to include windows and trim. Servicing a wide spectrum of commercial projects, we have now branched into retail sales. We are ready to assist you with your big and small projects with free local delivery.

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 quality materials and quality manufacturers.

We look forward to you visiting De Soto’s local lumberyard.

Located just around the corner from De Soto’s Water Tower, 1/4 mile South at 9800 Sunflower Road.

Open 7-5 Monday-Friday 9800 Sunflower Road in De Soto

Phone 913-583-9889 Fax: 913-583-9887

www.lumberonekc.com

Free Delivery for our De Soto Customers 25

Discovering De Soto Information provided by USD #232

Exploring

De Soto

Serving the communities of De Soto - Lenexa - Olathe - Shawnee USD 232 Website https://www.usd232.org phone 913-667-6200 De Soto’s HIgh School Newspaper, The Green Pride, is available printed and online with additional school news. https://dhsnews.org

Starside Elementary was recognized on September 17th in Topeka by the Civic Advocacy Network (CAN) as a School of Excellence. Starside Principal Kris Meyer, Counselor McKenzi Mispagel, and Starside students accepted the award on behalf of the entire school. The Civic Advocacy Network was established by the Kansas State Department of Education in order to recognize schools that promote civic engagement.

“We are most proud of our COMET’s Care Community Service Day. Students, staff, and families come together for an entire school day to support our community through a variety of outreach,” said Kris Meyer, Principal at Starside Elementary.

Wendy Ping, art teacher at Monticello Trails Middle School, was recognized by The Kansas Art Education Association as the Kansas Outstanding Middle Art Educator for 2018-19.

2018 Student Art Award Winners were recognized by the USD 232 Board of Education on October 1, 2018. Students’ art represented each school in the district, and they received a Creative Achievement Award. Artwork becomes part of the permanent collection on display at the Administration Offices in De Soto.

Shown above from left: Waverly Altis Monticello Trails Middle School, Sydney Barge Mill Creek Middle School, Brooke Wright Mize Elementary, Rose Rulifson Horizon Elementary, Natalie Flores Starside Elementary, River Hastings Lexington Trails Middle School, Aubrey Johnson Clear Creek Elementary. Not pictured: Sadie Stokes Riverview Elementary, Luke Michaels Prairie Ridge Elementary, Corrine Schwindt Belmont Elementary, Lauren Hurley Mill Valley High School, Sam McGuire De Soto High School.

Megan Clark, art teacher at Clear Creek Elementary, was recognized by The Kansas State Department of Education as a finalist for 2019 Kansas Teacher of the Year. The team, comprised of the Teacher of the Year and state finalists, serve as ambassadors for education in Kansas, making public appearances across the state promoting education and the teaching profession.

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

The Bridge Pathway to Independence Program is offered for students who have exceptionalities, ages 18-21, through the USD 232 School District. Students enjoy making Peanut Butter Dog Treats–mixing the ingredients, using cookie-cutter bones, baking and packaging them.

Shown Above (Left to Right) Front Row: Estefania M., Brock O., Tyesha A., Abby D. Back Row: Kellen R., Emily W., Kyle R., Jacob T.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats may be ordered online: jsutterbrown@usd232.org or purchased at our local De Soto Veterinary Clinic.

Packages of 10 / $3 and 20 / $5.

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

DE SOTO VETERINARY CLINIC

Dr. Matthew VanderVelde 33900 Lexington Avenue • 913-585-1115

Exploring

WARM WISHES & GOOD CHEER!

De Soto

2nd Annual CAREER FAIR will be held by USD 232 on

Tuesday, February 19, 2019, 9 am to 3 pm, at Mill Valley HIgh School in the Gymnasium.

Last year, approximately 50 businesses participated. This year we are planning on 800-1000 students attending. Four area high schools will be participating: Basehor-Linwood HIgh School, Eudora High School, De Soto High School and Mill Valley High School.

May this season inspire your dreams.

Businesses are invited to participate with booth space, lunch and access to a hospitality room provided at no cost.

Contact Cindy Swartz via email at cswartz@usd232.org to register by January 18, 2019.

The Career Fair is a great opportunity for students to learn about area businesses, available careers, skills needed, and local education programs.

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

Apply Today!

mhedteach.com 866-923-6433

Julie Coover, Agent 32565 Lexington Ave Ste B Bus: (913) 583-1219 jcoover@amfam.com juliecoover.com

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, American Family Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 008897 – Rev. 10/16 ©2016 – 8926679

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Discovering De Soto

Celebrations recognition &

remembering 2018 Exploring

DE SOTO WILDCATS HALL OF FAME The De Soto Hall of Fame Committee announces the 2019 De Soto Wildcats Hall of Fame: Mark Chipman Faculty/Coach Started the Cross Country program in 1982 with six kids.

In his nineteen years at DHS, five teams went to State. Coached twenty-two “All-State” runners. DHS Coach from 1982-2000.

Neil Erisman Former Student Wrestling State Championships 2003- 2006 Nationals 2004 Football Team Captain, 1st Team All State all 4 years, Oklahoma State University 2006- 2011 4 x Dean’s Honor Roll Member, 2nd team Academic All American, Business Administration Degree w/ minors in finance and management Activities/Athletics Achievements Athletes in Action, Founded the organization at OSU. Four-Year Letter Winner in Wrestling Team Captain 2008-2011, Big 12 Champion, 3x NCAA qualifier Career Wrestling Graduate Asst. OSU, Wrestling Coach Stillwater High School, OK (State Champions Ranked #10 Nationally), 2015-2018 Asst. Wrestling Coach University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Top 20 in 2017-2018, best finish in 23 years), Present Head Wrestling Coach University of Arkansas, Little Rock

De Soto z

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Kassidy Forshey & Seth Gallagher Married April 27, 2018

Kassidy Forshey, daughter of Monica and Ted Forshey, married Seth Gallagher on April 27, 2018.

Kassidy is a 2014 DHS graduate.

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Nathaniel Greenwood & Mary Wray Married May 25, 2018

Reception for Inductees, friends and family, January 11, 2018.

Induction Ceremony 7:15 De Soto High School Main Gym Nominations accepted for 2019 through September 30, 2019.

Categories: Academics, Activities / Athletics, Coaches / Sponsors Distinguished Service (eligible five years after DHS graduation).

For more information or to submit online nominations: https://dhswildcatnation.com/hof-nomination/

Nate and Mary exchanged wedding vows at a chapel inside Embassy Suites on the Plaza in Kansas City. Reception followed with hors d’oeuvres, music and dancing.

Nathan is a 2008 homeschool graduate; Mary MVH graduate.

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Elise Papp & Nick Koch Married October 27, 2018

Elise Papp, daughter of Pam (Papp) Claycamp & George Papp, married Nick Koch at Stony Point Hall in Baldwin City. The couple lives in Bonner Springs. Elise is employed at Children’s Mercy Hospital / RN; Nick at Westar Energy / Engineer.

Elise is a 2008 DHS graduate.

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Emma Joanne Papp Born July 19, 2018

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Trisha Roberts & Josh Parker Married August 11, 2018

Trisha Roberts, daughter of Nancy and Jay Roberts, married Josh Parker at Mildale Farm in Edgerton in an outdoor ceremony on a beautiful summer day. Reception with dinner was held in the equestrian barn. Hightlight of the evening was Jay Roberts, father of the bride, singing You Look Beautiful Tonight to his daughter. Trisha is a 2008 DHS graduate.

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Parents Luke and Janelle Papp. announce the birth of their daughter, Emma Joanne Papp. The family lives in Fort Worth, Texas. Luke is a 2005 DHS graduate.

To include your Celebration Listings, email info@discoveringdesoto.com

Complimentary listings subject to space availability/editor’s discretion.

Foundation established to provide support

In 2018, law enforcement across the country has seen 107 line of duty deaths. Not included are law enforcement deaths while off duty. From automobile crashes to gunfire to felonious assault while on duty, to cancer diagnoses, heart attacks, and suicides off duty, the cause does not make the loss any less traumatic to the family and friends left behind. When an officer dies, it sends shockwaves through a department. Families are left with a void.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office established the

Exploring

Tributes

Our deepest sympathies to residents who have lost loved ones this past year. Remembering them well.

Timothy “Tim” Maniez 1952 to 2018

De Soto

Johnson County, Kansas Sheriff’s Charitable Assistance Foundation 501(c)(3) not for profit organization in the

first quarter of 2018. The goal of the Sheriff ’s Charitable Assistance Foundation is to provide financial assistance to the families of Johnson County Sheriff ’s law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty and public service members in need in the Kansas City Metropolitan area or other charitable activities deemed appropriate by the board.

The seven member board consists of volunteers from the community, four of which are retired law enforcement officers, appointed by the Sheriff to manage the Foundation as a separate and distinct entity.

Members include: Robert Johnston, president; Phil Hodgdon, vice president; Vince Werkowitch, secretary; De Soto resident, Jennifer Chick, treasurer; business owner, Travis Hicks; Ed Schlesselman and John Zermites.

The Foundation meets on a quarterly basis.

To contribute to this non-profit organization, or if you have fundraising ideas, please contact Brittney Wray, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office at 913-715-5504 or email Brittney.Wray@jocogov.org.

Sally Martha (Schmidt) Bedford 1932 to 2018 Moving to De Soto at a young age with parents (Ted and Martha Schmidt) and brother Charles “Bub” Schmidt, Sally Bedford quickly adapted to living in this amazing town. She gained lifelong friends and married her high school sweetheart, Archie Bedford, in October 1951. They remained devoted almost 67 years, enjoying their marriage in the town they grew up in.

The mother of two daughters and three sons, Sally was busy her entire life chasing her kids and working full-time for the De Soto school district. This continued well into her retirement where she continued to love the company of her children, 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Sally’s greatest joy was life itself, always with a smile on her face and kind words for everyone she knew. She was taken much too soon for her young age of 86, and will be missed by all.

Memories of former Mayor Tim Maniez: If you grew up in De Soto, you likely knew Tim Maniez. He started Kindergarten at De Soto Elementary on Peoria Street, attended middle school at the “Pink Prison” formerly known as Countryside, came back to attend 7th and 8th grade in the Elementary school, and on to the (former)De Soto High School for his Freshman year, and graduated from the new De Soto High School (now LTMS) in 1970.

During all those years, Tim could be seen biking with friends around town, or hauling someone on his Bridgestone motorcycle, and then cruising Main Street in one of his many cars.

Tim was an avid tennis player and trumpet player during school days, earning several awards in both. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after graduating from DHS, married his high school sweetheart, Debbie Maness – DHS Class of 1971, and they took off to wherever the USAF assigned him to duty. After serving in the USAF, Tim and Debbie returned to De Soto, then lived in Linwood for a few years prior to buying a home in De Soto.

When their two children, Meredith and Tyler, were old enough to play sports, you could find Tim at all the sporting events his children were involved in. Tim was always involved in helping not only his children, but others in the community as well. He had a passion for the parks in De Soto and was instrumental in keeping the city’s parks and playgrounds ready for the children. Tim contacted several De Soto people and with their financial donations and the City’s donation, the City purchased the properties that bordered Miller Park. Those houses were razed and the size of Miller Park increased for activities. He was also a proponent of purchasing the former sand plant where Riverfest Park is today.

As Tim’s commitment to the community grew, so did his desire to see his former high school become the De Soto City Hall. He worked countless hours with many people in helping to bring about the purchase and remodeling of what is now De Soto City Hall. He loved his hometown and cared greatly about the City’s progress and sustainability. He wanted the city to be open, friendly, and welcoming to all who came to town, just as it was in his childhood days. In the Class of 1970 Prophecy, someone on the newspaper staff wrote: “Look, here comes Mayor Tim Maniez crossing the street to the Post Office.”

Tim was appreciative of the support he received while serving on City Council and as Mayor. His loyalty and love for his hometown of De Soto will be remembered by those who knew him.

Ruth E. Zimmerman 1937 to 2018 Ruth Esther Zimmerman was born December 10, 1937 in Piper, Kansas. She lived the majority of her life in De Soto after moving there in her early childhood, after a long stay in Bethany Hospital with Polio. She graduated from De Soto HIgh School in 1955. Graduating from Emporia, she taught Home Economics at De Soto HIgh School for several years.

As the receptionist for De Soto Medical Practices, she provided loving care to all with a smile to all the patients that entered for more than 30 years.

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2019 Public Safety Town Hall • On average, 25 hom Presentations by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Association (NFPA) and Northwest Consolidated Fire District.

Tip: Always make sure

Discovering De Soto

PUBLIC SAFETY

Christmas Tree Safety

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart.

Here are some safety tips to remember: • Choose a tree with fresh green needles that do not fall off when touched.

• Cut 2” from the base of the trunk before placed in stand.

•Add water to the tree stand and continue each day. Christmas trees soak up water daily.

• The tree should be at least three feet away from heat sources. Christmat trees can spread a fire very quickly when near an open flame, with fireplaces and candles.

• Do not set up a tree where exits or halls are blocked.

Exploring

De Soto

One of every three home Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems. Heat sources too close to the tree causes one in every four fires.

The public event will take place on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 6:30pm to 8:30 pm

at De Soto City Hall • According to the U 32905 West 84th Street common spreading

Always remember to unplug

Winter Fire Safety

The risks of home fires go up during the cold, winter months.

Heating is the second leading cause of home fires.

Remember these safety tips:

Be safe and check that lights are used appropriately indoors and/or outdoors. Replace worn cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufactur’s instructions for the correct number of light strands to connect. Turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas dispose of your tree promptly. Dried out Christmas trees become an increased fire hazard and should not be left in the home or garage, or left outside.

Honey Creek Sanitation will pick up real trees placed out at the curb in De Soto through December 31.

Johnson County free Christmas tree recycling starts the day after Christmas. Trees can be dropped off from December 26 through January 31 during regular winter park hours, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m at Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe (the north side of the marina parking lot).

No other yard waste will be accepted. Wrapping or any plastic should be removed from the trees, as well as any remaining decorations or lights. Trees will be used to mulch park trails and in landscaping while others will be used to improve fish habitat in park lakes.

• Never use an extention cord or power strip while operating a heater

• Always unplug your Christmas lights before you go to bed and when you leave your home to go out.

• There are 28,600 electrical fires per year, with a common spreading factor due to curtains.

• Household pets are responsible for 1,000 house fires yearly.

Always make sure Candles are blown out prior to going to sleep or leaving your home.

On average, 25 home candles fires are reported per day.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 2018

Visit our informative web site www.nwcfd.org and facebook page with area weather information

https://www.facebook.com/NWCFD

Northwest Consolidated Fire District Proudly serving the City of De Soto and Northwest Johnson County

1 De Soto Station 2 Olathe Station 3 De Soto • Station • • 9745 Kill Creek Road 29520 West 127th Street 33150 West 83rd Street

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https://www.facebook.com/NWCFD

In an Emergency Call 911

Keep your space heater 3 fee

• Keep your space heater three feet away from furniture and other objects.

–submitted by NWCFD and Johnson County/Kansas

www.nwcfd.org

non-emergency 913-583-3886

Information provided by USD #232

Visitor Access Controls at all schools part of 2018 Bond

All schools in USD 232 implemented new visitor access control systems and procedures. This is part of new security measures approved by the Board of Education, related to the 2018 bond issues.

Exploring

Lunch with Law Enforcement

is a new district initiative which invites local police officers to join students for breakfast and lunch at all twelve schools.

The program strengthens community engagement for local law enforcement agencies, allowing officers to become familiar with schools, staff and students. Meals are provided for officers, The USD 232 Education Foundation Fund made the initial donation.

De Soto

Video/Audio Door Access Stations were installed at main entrances in all district schools.The new door stations give schools the ability to have a locking configuration that requires visitors to push a button to request access into the building. Images from the video cameras are recorded for security reasons.

According to law enforcement experts, two important allies for safety are time and distance, keeping a potentially dangerous subject as far away for as long as possible.

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

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Discovering

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID EDDM RETAIL

De Soto

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A community located in Western Johnson County, Kansas.

Local Postal Customer

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OUR NEWEST CHRISTMAS STORE OPENS NOVEMBER 15TH!

GROWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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Choose from thousands of fabulous poinsettias grown in our greenhouses! Starting at $4.99 and up.

We are making fresh arrangements for your home and business everyday!

We have a lot of unique gift ideas for you or your loved ones!

Wind Chimes Garden Accents Statuary Bird Feeders and so much more!

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Custom and pre-made greenery options for outdoor containers.

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