Discovering De Soto / Summer 2020 / Navigating the 2020 Pandemic

Discovering Exploring

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Community & Business Feature Publication

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

De Soto, Kansas

and Western Johnson County

SUMMER 2020

navigating the 2020 pandemic

Business news • School District news • CLASS OF 2020 GRADUATES • Faith • Organizations • De Soto City Pages Healthcare • Public Safety and more inside...

A Beacon of Light & Hope Standing tall in the darkness, the relic De Soto Water Tower is an icon of light, shining in the dark skies of our rural town.

Little did we realize there was an impending pandemic on the horizon that would bring rapid transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Swift, stay-at-home orders closed non-essential businesses and essentially all schools and colleges throughout the state, country and entire world.

Shut down and quarantined.

Unthinkable that a pandemic could actually happen.We began to take the virus seriously, as it became personal, with stories of those we knew or someone else knew. A healthy respect for this virus–not restrained by age, race, gender, nationality or status–made us comply with implemented safety measures. Essential services have fearlessly had to continue providing healthcare, groceries, deliveries and the duty of first responders.

We are fortunate to live in De Soto with an ample amount of fresh air.

Serene, it seems surreal and easy to forget the intensity of the pandemic in heavily-populated, dense areas.

“We are all in this together,” as we learn from countries world-wide, and counties throughout our state.

And then there is the byproduct of a closed economy. Most of us have not known of such times, growing accustomed to much abundance.

From individuals up the ladder to corporations, each are finding new, novel ways to cope, bringing hope, encouraging one another through the pandemic.

Businessess are reworking new ways to operate, schools and families rethinking ways to educate, churches adapting technology for online worship, and all of us finding ways to stay connected with virtual and drive-by celebrations and condolences.

Stay Strong, Stay Safe, Stay Hopeful. Shine On. We are part of history in the making. Godspeed.

Rose M. Burgweger, Editor/Publisher, Discovering De Soto

The Historic Water Tower of De Soto, Kansas

Built in 1938, this old-style water tower holds an endearing history for many in our town. Memories tell of City Water Superintendent /Electrician Floyd Ross placing a light bulb at the very top of the water tower so it would be visible to airplanes; and hanging the lights along the railing that first Christmas.

Several former mayors would also climb the tower, carrying up the Christmas Star which was “viewed for miles and could be seen from Cedar Creek Hill,” added Kathy Ross, town historian.

Earlier this year, in downtown De Soto where the Masonic Lodge #40 meeings are held, the water tower was brought up prompting memories retold by lodge members. Discussions began and the group was ready to take up a collection. Member Danny Lane approached the City on behalf of the lodge.

The idea was shared with City Administrator Mike Brungardt who “started talkin’ and it got done,” stated Danny.

The City funded the project and worked with the City Water Department Foreman Marshal Goodnight, who coordinated the project, with an electrician and the Northwest Consolidated Fire District.

“The Fire District was very accommodating to have the light mounted on the building rooftop,” commented Mike.

The light is on a dawn to dusk sensor. On April 9, 2020 it first illuminated downtown De Soto.

“It is a beacon of light, a symbol of community,” declared Danny. above photo and back cover photo by Linda Lane

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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/

A Beacon of Light & Hope........................................... 2 WELCOME........................................................................ 3 Pandemic 2020

Timeline Vocabulary Primer ......................................4 Life stopped Life restarts...............................................5 The Many Faces of Coronavirus..................................5 Banks Pharmacy Empty Shelves................................6-7 Reopening dine in Restaurants....................................8-9

Housing Market

Realtors adapt Honey Creek K-Ten Phase II...........10 Arbor Ridge Homes & Villas........................................11

Business news

Burning Tree Sol De Soto.............................................12 De Soto Veterinary Clinic.............................................12-13 PPP Loans RG Fiber......................................................14

CITY OF DE SOTO Pages

Bond Referendum Parks & Recreation....................... 15 2020 City of De Soto “State of the City Address”....... 15-16 COVID-19 Update: De Soto Reopening Plan........... 16-17 City Hall Emergency Storm Shelter Available........... 17 City Directory De Soto Parks & Recreation........... 18 Organizations & groups...............................................19 USD 232 School Pages...............................................20-21 USD 232 Class of 2020..............................................22-23 Selling Grandpa’s Garage Lumber One.................... 23-24 FAITH...............................................................................22-23

HEALTH SAFETY

Masks Sewing Brigade Hillside Village................... 28-29 HEALTH CARE.................................................................30 PUBLIC SAFETY.............................................................31 Opportunities for giving............................................ 32

WELCOME

Media has opened up much of its COVID-19 coverage the last several months, allowing for the public to view stories from across the nation and world. Thanks to TIME Magazine, National Geographic, WIRED, The Week and The New York Times who all gave me a broader perspective in compiling this issue– Navigating the 2020 Pandemic.

The Kansas City Star and online Shawnee Mission Post https://shawneemissionpost.com/ were also helpful, providing local news and updates.

When viewing this issue of Discovering De Soto online, you will find “links” enabled to easily access the many resources that are part of this issue. https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto

Thanks to many who contributed their stories.

My apologies that I could not include them all.

Sincerely, Rose editor and publisher, Discovering De Soto

Expanding De Soto will be delivered to

De Soto mail boxes the end of June 2020.

This publication is the De Soto Chamber of Commerce Member Directory for 2020.

Publishing end of June 2020

The publication is produced by Sunflower Publications, located in Lawrence, Kansas. They also publish neighboring Eudora’s community magazine Discovering Eudora, which inspired the creation of Discovering De Soto.

In additon to producing several magazines for cities throughout Kansas, Sunflower Publications publishes Kansas! Magazine.

Kudos to our Advertisers who fund the staffing & production of Discovering De Soto!

Published by RMB Prints & Design, llc Rose M. Burgweger, publisher / editor

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Meg Johnson Administrative Assistant David Grodowitz Advertising Assistant Blake Bradford Contributing Graphic Designer Katherine Diaz Contributing Writer Helen Ash Copy Editor Ella Fixsen Student Intern

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

Additional distribution in Western Lenexa, Linwood and Shawnee.

Independently owned and published by RMB prints & design LLC. Publishing Quarterly Printed Harvest Graphics Print Solutions/Lenexa Online publications https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Copies $2.50 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. 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, individual, business or organization.

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

Published/Editor reserves the right on final editing of all content herein.

Special Thanks to The City of De Soto who fund De Soto Printing & EDDM Distribution

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Printed Copies also available at these locations: De Soto Harps Foods Steve’s Meat Market Downtown De Soto look for our new bin Lenexa Suburban Lawn & Garden Shawnee Price Chopper courtesy Kansas City Star Earl May Country Club Cafe like us on Facebook https//www.facebook.comDiscoveringDesoto 3

Discovering De Soto January 11, 2020 / February 5, 2020 As the new decade of 2020 began, Kansas was enjoying large-scale celebrations of the Chiefs Super Bowl win. Enormous crowds filled Kansas City with an abundance of Red throughout the entire metro area.

Unbeknown to us, COVID-19 was brewing across the horizon.

We were about to enter a new era, completely foreign to us. Separating us, yet bringing together the best in us.

December 31, 2019 The Wuham Municipal Health Commission, China reported a cluster of cases of pneumonia indentifying a novel coronavirus.1 January 13 Officials confirmed the first recorded case of COVID-19 outside of China in Thailand.

January 21 The first case of COVID-19 in the United States in the state of Washington. The patient recently returned from Wuhan, China. 2 January 30 The World Health Organization (WHO) reconvened the Emergency Committee (EC) and reached a consesus and advised that the outbreak constituted a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and declared the novel coronavirus outbreak (2019-nCoV).

There were 7,818 cases worldwide, with the majority in Wuhan.

February 12 Dow record high recorded. 3

March 7 First Case of Coronavirus In Kansas Confirmed In Johnson County. 4 March 9 Stock market crash began. 3 March 11 WHO assesses that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. 5

March 17 Kansas Governer Laura Kelly closes schools for the 2019-20 school year.

March 24 Stay-at-home orders began with the CORE 4 partners of Jackson County, Missouri; Johnson County, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; and the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas.

March 30 Stay-at-home orders for Kansas mandated by Governor Laura Kelly.

April 3 Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people wear cloth face coverings in public spaces.6 May 3 / 4 Kansas stay-at-home orders expire. Kansas AD ASTRA Phase I begins.

May 11 (See page 5/Guidelines and pages 16 -17/ City of De Soto) Phase I in Johnson County. Local HealthOfficer extends Kansas orders.

May 22 Modified with phase 1.5 Phase II begins7 for State of Kansas and Johnson County.

June 8 Anticipated (Modified from no earlier than June 15) Phase III begins7 for State of Kansas and Johnson County.

June 22 Anticipated (Modified from no earlier than June 29) Phase Out begins7 for State of Kansas and Johnson County.

–compiled by Rose M. Burgweger, Discovering De Soto Editor / Publisher

1 https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/27-04-2020-who-timeline---covid-19 2 https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/p0121-novel-coronavirus-travel-case 3 https://www.thebalance.com/fundamentals-of-the-2020-market-crash 4 https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-03-07/the-first-case-of-coronavirus-in-kansas-isconfirmed-in-johnson-county 5 Updated and complete WHO Timeline - COVID-19 online: https://www.who.int/news-room/detail/27-04-2020-who-timeline-covid-19 6 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html 74Dependent upon evaluatiion of the statewide progress in Kansas

2020 Pandemic Vocabulary Primer

unprecedented

an adjective meaning “without previous instance” and “never before known.” https://www.dictionary.com/e/s/the-best-words-to-use-duringunprecedented-times/#unprecedentedl

surreal “disorientating, unreal, like a dream” In close proximity everything seems the same, but in reality everything has changed.

pandemic A worldwide spread of a new disease according to the World Health Organization.

COVID-19 A specific Coronavirus Disease 2019,

abbreviated as COVID-19. ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. (originally 2019-nCoV).6 Coronaviruses are named for the crown-like spikes. Upper respiritory viruses include (4) common human coronaviruses, such as the common cold.

There are (3) other human coronaviruses that are more acute:7 MERS-CoV SARS-CoV SARS-CoV-2 which is COVID-19.

COVID-19 has a high transmission rate that has spread worldwide.

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Business news • School district new nizations • de Soto city pages

Wash your hands for 20 seconds

Center for Disease Control and Prevention CDC.gov

Summer 2020

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KUDOS TO ALL WHO SERVED • ADAPTED • ADHERED TO • WERE FIRST RESPONDERS CONTINUED WORKING IN ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES • HELPED OUR COMMUNITY!

Life stopped with stay-at-home orders in place throughout the Kansas metro area that began March 24, extended to May 3 by the state, and again to May 11, 2020 by the county.

“Essential business” was the criteria for being out in public which included work, grocery shopping, medical care and/or taking care of family or friends who are in need. People could go outside for excercise, walking, riding bikes. Gatherings are limited to ten people observing social distancing. Our “shelter in place” quarantine began.

Kansas was the first state in the nation to close schools for the rest of the academic year.

social distancing Also called “physical distancing,”

means keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home.

• stay at least 6 feet from others • Do not gather in groups of 10 or more • Stay out of crowded places/mass gatherings

flattening the curve

Implementing social distancing to keep the daily number of virus cases at a manageable level for medical providers. https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-flatten-the-curve.html

NUMBER OF CASES

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/social-distancing.html

OUTBREAK WITH NO INTERVENTION

Day to day living, as well as Celebrations have adapted postponed and rescheduled: Weddings • Graduations • Funerals • Reunions Hospital & Nursing Home Visits • Family Gatherings Birthday Parties • Dinners • Meetings • Groups Business and Vacation Travels Technology has helped immensely with social ties, working at home, business and group meetings.

Zoom Facebook LIve YouTube Facetime Skype have kept us engaged with one another.

HEALTHCARE SYSTEM CAPACITY OUTBREAK WITH INTERVENTION

DURATION OF TIME SINCE FIRST CASES

personal protective equipment “PPE” is a term OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health

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Administration) uses for equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards. Currently, it also refers to “Masks” for the general public.

see page 28 Masks

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

De Soto, Kansas

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navigating the 2020 SUMMER 2020 pandemic

and Western Johnson County

navigating the 2020 pandemic

Life restarts (cautiously) Reopening across the US and Kansas

By the time you are reading this publication, life has begun to reopen in De Soto.

If all goes well, Phase III will begin and then we Phase Out. Stay healthy and cautious– keep washing your hands, avoid touching your face, and wear a mask in public places.

Complete Guidelines on national, state and county levels can be viewed online: https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/ https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1055/Plan-to-ReopenKansas---Business-Guidance-PDF---4-30-20 https://www.jocogov.org/sites/default/files/documents/CMO/Phased%20opening%20 in%20Johnson%20County%202.pdf

The Many Faces of Coronavirus / COVID-19 For COVID-19, data to date suggests that 80% of infections are mild or asymptomatic, 15% are severe infections, requiring oxygen and 5% are critical infections, requiring ventilation.1 While statistics seem low, on a personal scale we all seem to know of someone in the severe to critical percentages. Cautionary measures should remain to be taken by both businesses and individuals.

emic2020 . . .

Business news • School district news cLaSS OF 2020 gRadUateS • Faith • Orgaws cLaSS OF 2020 gRadUateS • Faith • Organizations • de Soto city pages

Avoid touching your face

1 https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-similarities-and-differences-covid-19-and-influenza

Wear a mask in public places

Keep 6ft distances

Protect Yourself and Others https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html

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Discovering De Soto De Soto banks have

TriCentury Bank is here for you!

“Your Hometown Bank” Headquartered locally in De Soto– Staying 125 Years Strong Throughout these Challenging Times!

Bank Anywhere & Anytime with our Mobile Banking App! Mobile Deposit Mobile Bill Pay Mobile Popmoney Mobile Alerts

®

Apply for a Home Equity line of credit from your Hometown Bank!

Up to 90% of your home’s equity with a competitive rate!

No annual fee!

www.TriCentury.Bank 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)

remained open throughout the 2020 Pandemic utilizing drive-through banking during normal business hours.

Precautionary measures have included sanitizing drive-through tubes, and bank tellers wearing gloves for extra safety, as money circulates through many hands.

Lobbies were closed, with limited access by appointment for safety deposit boxes.

Banks will begin to open lobbies as they are ready and considered safe for customers.

Harps workers are all required to wear masks, Morgan Kennedy, Emily Mann and Bob Bruce.

We will continue to sanitize all Shopping carts

De Soto’s Cedar Creek Pharmacy

remains open with drive-through services.

Access to the pharmacy inside Harps is dependent upon current conditions allowing for safely reopening. “We come in contact with many people having various medical conditions and don’t want to contribute to the spreading of any viruses or illness,” stated Lori Murdock, owner and pharmacist. “We will make sure we are very comfortable with the status for our in-store access to open.” The pharmacy is available for current customers, as well as those now at home in De Soto. Script transfers are easily done and appreciated. Staying healthy and keeping De Soto healthy!

Health & Wellness for De Soto Your Hometown Full-Service Pharmacy Serving the De Soto Community Since 1992 and especially during our current times!

Full Service Prescription Care • Delivery Automatic Refills • Syncing Medications Pharmacists Lori Murdock, Betsey Gallinger and Caleb Weinhold look forward to assisting You!

Health & Wellness Center Vitamins • Botanicals Homeopathic

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 6

Seminars to be rescheduled later in Summer.

Cedar Creek Pharmacy & Wellness Center

Located inside Harps 34040 Commerce Drive Phone (913) 583-1117 Fax (913) 585-9801 www.CedarCreekPharmacy.org Drive Thru Open Monday-Friday 9 to 6 • Sat 9 to 1 • Sunday closed

Summer 2020 “WE ARE SO PROUD OF OUR STORE ASSOCIATES AND HOW THEY TRULY HAVE BEEN SUPER HEROES THROUGHOUT THESE TIMES.” –HARPS Corporate Office Springdale, Arkansas Pandemic leads to Empty Shelves throughout Area Grocery Stores

These shelves tell a story of no bread, no disinfectant soaps/wipes, and no toilet paper... prevalent throughout the end of March and April. There was an eerie feeling grocery shopping. Product limits were implemented. Senior hours began. Plastic barriers were put up at registers. People began to wear masks and gloves. Shoppers were limited at some area stores. Many ordered groceries online, having them picked up or delivered.Supplies have begun to catch up with the demand with shelves becoming more restocked.

taking extra precautions during these times. Shown above / left are . You are also encouraged to practice “safe distancing” and wear a mask. for your safety. photography provided by Harps

View Weekly Ads Online for De Soto’s Harps Food https://www.harpsfood.com/WeeklyAd/Store/249/

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HARPS IS OPEN MONDAY-SUNDAY 6 AM to 8 PM

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Sanitized Carts for your Safety and Care

Order today!

913-585-9876

GROCERY DELIVERY shop.harpsfood.com

“Shout out to Harps Food Stores for their most amazing online shopping and delivery. Wonderful customer service and exceeded the expectations on the delivery timeline. I will most certainly be doing this again!”

-Jennifer Riek Lange Harps De Soto Delivery Customer

HARPS

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Discovering De Soto Burger King proudly displays new signage for the De Soto skyline.

Bring in the family and enjoy Family Bundle Meals with ad coupons (shown at left).

Also available for pick up and delivery.

Reopening dine in Restaurants

3 4 0 7 1 Co mme r c e Dr i v e , K- 1 0 a n d Le x i n g t o n

e Download BK.COM App e Grubhub e DoorDash e Uber Eats e Postmates

4 Whopperü Sandwiches 4 Small Fries 4 Small Soft Drinks Cannot combine offers, one per customer.

No substitutions.

Meniton offer when ordering

Offer 8971

Redeem only in De Soto, KS Expires 8/31/2020

6 Whopperü Sandwiches 6 Cheeseburgers 6 Small French Fries Cannot combine offers, one per customer.

No substitutions.

Meniton offer when ordering

Offer 9072

Redeem only in De Soto, KS Expires 8/31/2020

34071 Commerce Drive | Open for Breakfast Hours: Daily 7am - 10pm

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One did not realize the importance of eating out–until restaurant doors were shut. Not just for satisfying a hungry appetite, but they also filled us socially, dining with friends and family.

Restaurants added take out and curb side delivery to their menus.

Wanda’s Roadside Cafe, JT’s Grill and KJs Pizza made menus and specials available on local De Soto facebook pages.

JT’s Family Carry-out Specials offered complete “no fuss, no mess” family dinners for 4!

“They kept our lights on and employees working!” owner Whitey Whitney reported.

“A huge hit!” JT’s also invested in making online ordering available at jtsgrill.com Chinese food and pizza have always been popular “take out” meals, available locally at Lucky Gardens and KJ’s Pizza.

KJ’s continues carry out /curb service, with phone payments.

Their full menu has returned, along with social-distancing seating.

Bubblecreams has reopened at 33490 Lexington Avenue, with its fresh air garage-door windows. Cause Coffee located at 33180 W. 83rd Street expects to reopen the first week of June.

El Patron had already offered online take-out and drive thru, with steady business. Then on May 5 orders spiked! Cars lined up along 91st Street patiently waiting to order authentic Mexican take-out for Cinco de Mayo. “It was quite busy and pretty wild that night!” exclaimed Valente Jr. “We didn’t expect all of that.”

DINE IN & DRIVE THRU NOW OPEN Take out Online with Full Menus

Visit our facebook page for specials El Patron De Soto

EL PATRON

MEXICAN FOOD • BAR & GRILL

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

Dine In Take Out Open Monday-Thursday 10am -9pm Friday & Saturday 10am -10pm Sunday 10am -9pm

WINE LOVER’S SUNDAYS 10% OFF Walk-in Beer Cooler Coldest beer in town!

GREAT SELECTIONS & BRANDS

Locally Owned for 12 years!

MIKE’S LIQUOR

ReOpened for some Good Cheer!

Angus Beef Burgers & Wide Glide Fries

WEDNESDAYS

Harley Hog Wings $1 SAFELY WELCOMING BACK STAFF & CUSTOMERS!

“Great place and great atmosphere”

9160 Lexington Avenue 913-583-1711

9150 Lexington Avenue • 913-585-1416

Open Mon-Thurs 9am-10pm Fri-Sat 9am-11pm Sunday Noon-8pm

Open Sunday-Thursday 11 to 11 • Friday-Saturday 11 to 2am

Liquor stores were allowed to remain open as an essential business, while bars were closed unless they provided food.

Beer 30 opted to close completely, but “remained busy and productive,” said owner Charles Crist. “We tore out walls, updated the beer cooler cap system and spent our time upgrading and remodeling.” Now reopened, he reminds everyone to “Be Safe and Social Distance.”

Restaurants are reopening with limited seating to accomodate social distancing, and taking plenty of safety precautions as listed in detailed guidelines from state and county entities.

Disposable menus, condiment packets, increased sanitizing procedures, and hardworking staff are adapting to serve.

PIZZA PASTA CALZONE SOUP

DOWNTOWN DE SOTO, KANSAS WWW.KJSPIZZERIA.COM 913.586.5141

Our De Soto Restaurants Thank You for Your Support!

With heartfelt sadness, we say good bye to our local diner Wanda’s Roadside Cafe. Its doors will close on Friday, May 29, 2020. The All-American restaurant captured the rural, hometown feel of De Soto well. Wanda welcomed all with her country home-cooked meals, delicious homemade pies and hearty breakfasts.

Wanda Riedhart established Wanda’s Roadside Cafe on January 7, 2012 and was featured in the 2016 Discovering De Soto Holiday/ Food Edition.

Wanda’s will be truly missed!

Lunch Pizza Slices Slices M-F M-F till til 2PM Lunch Pizza 2 PM Eat Eat in In && Carry Carry Out Monday - Saturday 11am - 9pm Monday-Thursday 11-8 Sunday Noon 8pm 12-8 Friday-Saturday 11-9toSunday

Fresh Meats

ARE ALWAYS available

10% OFF Thursdays

Regular Prices Only with Coupon Sides of beef, sold hogs, turkeys or Specials are not included Expires 9 -1-20

CUSTOM CUT-TO-ORDER MEAT Monthly Stock-up Specials Walk-In Specials Online Specials www.stevesmeat.com Great Recipes & Tips online at “The Butcher’s Blog”

Steve’s MEAT MARKET Caring For Our Customers Since 1969

Open Tuesday-Friday 9 to 6 Saturday 9 to 5 Closed Sunday / Monday

32685 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-1390 9

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Discovering De Soto

HOUSING MARKET Realtors adapt to “Stay-at-Home Orders” and implement Guidelines for the Real Estate Market

Exploring

Considered an essential business, the Real Estate Market remained “open for business” for those buying and selling their homes during the recent Kansas stay-at-home orders.

Kris Johnson shared that showings were done virtually with videos or photos. Closings were completed with the signers only. “I feel horrible not being able to sit next to my client as they close on the largest purchase of their lifetime,” Kris lamented. “I sat in the parking lot communicating with text messages and phone calls, while the first time homebuyer signed closing documents.” For 27 years Kris has been a realtor, never missing a closing with a client.

“Official Practices and Guidelines for Real Estate Professionals under the COVID-19 Stay at Home Ordinance” were given by the Kansas City Regional Association of REALTORS® for maintaining safety throughout communities, while also supporting those requiring shelter. Complete information can be viewed online at http://kcrar.com/covid19 Kris added that prior to the stay-at-home order the real estate market was excellent. It is expected to be good once people can get out of the homes again and the economy gets reestablished as businesses begin to reopen.

Honey Creek Extra-Trash Pickup Service available for De Soto Refuse Customers From April 27 to May 8, Honey Creek allowed De Soto residential refuse customers to set out three extra trash bags on their usual trash pickup days. Many have used the Pandemic shut down as an opportunity to clean out the clutter. Thanks Honey Creek!

De Soto

Kris Johnson

ABR, CRS, e-PRO, SRES Broker Associate in Kansas and Missouri

(816) 392-9365

Office Direct (913) 825-3116 krisjohnson@kw.com www.krisjohnson.kw.com

Are you wanting a larger or smaller home?

Thinking about maintenance provided?

I can help you! The stay-at-home order may have helped make your decision.

21648 Midland Drive Shawnee, KS 66218 Direct 816-392-9365 krisjohnson@kw.com 10

K-Ten Apartments begins Phase II Construction With the infrastructure of roads already in place, Phase II for K-Ten Apartments will begin at the end of May. This will bring an additional 56 units to the complex, which are expected to become available in Spring/Summer of 2021.

On West 83rd Street, four miles west of K-7 Kill Creek Road

83rd Street Exit

Kill Creek Road Exit

Cedar Creek Parkway Exit

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

Single Family

Homes

v Choose from a variety of Custom Homes and Builders, or bring your own Builder v Daylight/Walk Outs backing up to beautiful Greenspace with mature trees v Phase II Now Open!

From the low $340s Affordable HOA dues $120 yr.

Special 100% financing with lender approval

Single Family

Villas

Outdoor Maintenance Provided Traditional & Reverse 11/2 Story

v Maintenance provided for Carefree From the low $300s Affordable HOALiving dues

Yard and Landscape Care, v Snow Your Choice of Floor Plans Painting Removal and Exterior 16 Additional Lots v Added vvTwo Car Garages Large Cul-de-sac Lots v Upscale Features throughout v Covered Back Decks or PatiosRooms Three from Car Garages vvChoose four different floor plans v Affordable HOA dues

Furnished Home 31405 W. 83rd Circle, De Soto Furnished Home 31380 W. 85th Street, De Soto

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

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.

“Unique Building Concepts for all your Stages in Life.”

Spacious single-family homes with various levels of maintenance.

Build your community of family and friends.

www.ArborRidgeKS.com

To ensure your safety, please view Models by appointment Call (913) 444-2029 FURNISHED SINGLE FAMILY MODEL more84th information at Arbor Ridge, 31425For West Terraceabout in Deliving Soto preview homes online https://www.arborridgeks.com

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Discovering De Soto

Business news Burning Tree Golf Course

7909 Wyandotte, De Soto 913-301-3000 http://www.greatlife-burningtree.com Peak Season April-October Open Daily 7am to Dusk

Burning Tree Golf Course announces new managers Randy Faircloth in De Soto and Mark Peck in Gardner.

Burning Tree has been open, being compliant with Leavenworth County mandates. Practiciing “Play and Stay Away” distancing The Summer Golf Academy is currently on hold for 2020.

Sol De Soto Tanning Solutions, LLC

33255 Lexington Avenue, Suite G 913-586-5097 Sol.DeSotoTanning@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/soldesototanning/ Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11am-8pm Friday, Saturday 9am-6pm Sunday 12pm-4pm Mon. closed Sol De Soto was eager to open their business, with a Grand Opening on March 7th–and were abruptly temporarily closed due to the stay-at-home orders.

Sol De Soto is a locally-owned tanning salon offering UV spray and self-tanning services. A wide assortment of tanning lotions and products are also available, including body wash and lotion, teeth whitener and sunglasses. Owner DiAnne Miller looks forward to welcoming you, reopened with safety measures in place.

Business News continued on pages 12/17 De Soto, Kansas Lost and Found Pets and Animal Advocates

Unde r N Owneew rship

We look forward to providing care for you all and meeting your owners as well!

-Dr. Matt Fehr, DVM Clinic Hours: Mon-Sat mornings 7:45-12 M-T-W-F afternoons 1:30-5:30 Closed Sun

We strive to provide high quality medicine, compassionate care, and super-friendly service for all patients.

• Wellness Exams • Annual Wellness Dentistry • Preventative Medicine • Microchipping • Soft Tissue & Orthopedic Surgery • Chiropractic Adjustments • Acupuncture

De Soto Veterinary Clinic

33900 Lexington Avenue Phone 913-585-1115 desotovetclinic@gmail.com www.desotovetclinic.com

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Two rural veterinary doctors, Dr. Matt Fehr and Dr. Matthew VanderVelde exchan photo in front of the De Soto Veterinary Clinic at 33900 Lexington Avenue in De S

De Soto Veterinary Clinic Changes Hands A well thought-out decision began in Spring 2019 when Dr. Matt Fehr was in De Soto visiting relatives. He stopped by the veterinary building one afternoon and inquired about selling the business. The two doctors, Matt and Matthew, got acquainted going out to dinners and meeting together. “Over time it became more comfortable–and I realized it was time to pass the baton,” said Dr. Matthew VanderVelde, feeling reassured. “God had alot to do with this.”

New ownership of the De Soto Verterinary Clinic officially began on April 1.

“Pets are now members of our family, held with esteem, love and advanced care,” added Dr. Vanderwelde. “Dr. Matt Fehr has a good future ahead of him in a growing community.”

Dr. Matt Fehr brings 14 years of mixed

animal veterinary medicine experience to De Soto, practicing in the Great Bend and Hutchinson areas of Kansas.

Dr. Fehr completed his doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition, he completed his education in Chiropractic and Acupuncture therapies at the Options for Animals College of Animal Chiropractic1 in Wellsville, Kansas, accredited by the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association (IVCA) and Kansas Board of Regents.

Chiropractic and Acupuncture therapies provide additional treatment options for the neuro-musculo-skeletal systems.

“I am looking forward to continuing to provide excellent compassionate care for our clients and their animals,” said Dr. Fehr. “Dr. VanderVelde has built a great practice.”

Faith and family brought Matt and his wife, Laura, to the De Soto area. Laura is owner of Danceography Dance Studio that opened in De Soto in January 2020. They both look forward to many years in the De Soto community.

1 https://optionsforanimals.com/animal-owners/what-is-animal-chiropractic/

Summer 2020 “THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN SEEING YOUR CREATIVITY AND BEING ABLE TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES.” –Sara Ritter, Executive Director, De Soto Chamber of Commerce/EDC

.

De Soto Chamber engages Community and supports our Local Businesses with creative Driveway Chalk Contest

nge a gentlemanly, business handshake in this Norman Rockwell-like Soto. submitted photography by Laura Fehr

s/Ownership after 35 Years of Service Dr. VanderVelde is well-known by many

in the community, providing veterinary services in De Soto for over 35 years.

He first visited De Soto in 1984, when his new bride Lea encouraged him to pass out cards in the area. De Soto Veterinary Clinic opened in the renovated building in March 1985. (Originally built in the 1980’s. all in barn wood, it was a former liquor store.) The building was rented from 1985-1997, and then purchased in 1997.

A graduate from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. VanderVelde cared for both domestic and farm animals. De Soto was largely separated by outlying farms with cattle, sheep, goats and horses. In the last ten years, his practice became more focused on smaller pets, with a suburban climate becoming more prominant. Lea VanderVelde also offered pet grooming.

With the advancement of technology, Dr. VanderVelde has seen great strides in the veterinary profession. The original film used in the 1990’s were replaced with x-rays done with digital radiography, increasing the ease and accuracy of diagnostics in animals.

Throughout his practice slow, gradual growth culminated in the last five to ten years when the practice really began to blossom. He was also an independent consultant for nearby Merck, reviewing proposals semiannually.

Matthew and Lea look forward to retirement, and will remain at their farm in Linwood raising Normandy cows and calves, and chickens for eggs. They will continue raising dogs for therapy and service through Loving Paws Animal Therapy Program, Inc. and Kansas Specialty Dog Service/ KSDS Assistance Dogs, Inc. They’ll also enjoy their grandchild with “Opa” Vanderwelde (grandpa) doing some fly-fishing and continuing to sing in the Olathe Trails West Barbershop Chorus.

In late March, the De Soto Chamber of Commerce announced its first Driveway Chalk Art Contest on Facebook. Participants created artwork featuring their favorite local business, with many impacted by the COVID-19 stay-at-home order.

“We were wanting to support businesses,” said Chamber executive director, Sara Ritter. “We knew these businesses were being closed and being impacted, and also, it was a way to educate even the younger folks that businesses are important.”

It was essential for the Chamber to engage the community in a positive way during these uncertain times and make it a fun activity for all. Participants were urged to abide by the social distancing guidelines when creating their works of art to ensure the safety of all.

The contest was held between March 25 through April 2, and the winner was announced April 3.

The Grand Champion was Brooke Brownell and her family with a worldly creation dedicated to Cause Coffee.

The family won a grand prize worth $100; with a $50 gift card to KJ’s Pizzeria and also a $50 gift card to JT’s Grill.

Additional prizes included five Reserve Champions, who each received a $20 gift card to their choice of either Bubblecreams or Cause Coffee.

An anonymous Chamber member contributed the prize funds.

“I appreciate the person who made those funds available and we appreciate all of our businesses,” Sara commented.

“We wanted to do something to let our businesses know that the community supports them.”

–written by Katherine Diaz, contributing writer In additon to the Driveway photos shown at right, you can find all artist entries posted online at the De Soto Chamber Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.comDeSotoKSChamber/ photos/

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Discovering De Soto

Business News continued from page 12

THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) HAS EXTENDED FILING DEADLINES TO JULY 15, 2020. https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus-tax-relief-and-economic-impact-payments

Exploring

Small Business Administration Protection Loans offered by local De Soto Banks

RG Fiber Completes City of De Soto Agreement providing Broadband Access to Unserved Areas South of K-10, Clearview City and Riverfest Park

De Soto

Part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) includes The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

The PPP loan helps small businesses keep their workers on their payroll. The Small Business Administration (SBA) will forgive loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities.1 Applications were first available April 3, with additional funding resuming April 27, 2020 with “necessity” certification in good faith.

Locally, loans were available through Great American Bank, Southern Bank and TriCentury Bank, all FDA approved lenders.

Shelby Lathrom, Vice President of Great American Bank reported as of May 1, they approved 230 PPP Loans with an updated total of $12,712,569 going towards current businesses customers and local businesses in the community.

RG Fiber reported that installation of the fiber optic network that was part of the agreement with the City of De Soto to provide access of broadband internet to unserved areas south of K-10 and Clearview City has been completed as of May 1, 2020.

Area residents have commented on their satisfaction with having access to reliable, fast broadband service–especially during the stay-at-home orders with increased online usage.

“We have had RG Fiber for several months now and have been more than pleased with their friendly service and professionalism.

Living south of K-10 our internet options have always been slow, expensive, and very limited. RG Fiber has provided us with great high speed internet service through fiber very reasonably priced!

Thank you, RG!! –Marilyn Just

Happy Holidays from your locally owned community bank!

Great American Bank

Complete information https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/ 33050 West 83rd Street, De Soto, KS Public WiFi is also now completed at Riverfest Park. Miller Park loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program Phone: 913 913--585 585--1131 / greatambank.com and downtown De Soto have had public WiFi access since the Please see the back page for additional local avenues to assist end of 2019. For more information: https://rgfiber.com during these times as we move forward reopening businesses.

continued on page 19 / RG Fiber Student Program ocally owned community bank!

1 https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/ Happy Holidays from your locally owned community bank! paycheck-protection-program

Great American Bank

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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888A New Hampshire St. Lawrence, KS Phone 785-838-9704

3500 Clinton Pkwy Lawrence, KS Phone 785-838-9704

33050 West 83rd St. De Soto, KS Phone - 913-585-1131

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3901 Main St. Kansas City, MO Phone – 816-561-8866

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Volume 4 Issue 2 Spring/Summer 2020

City Publication IN THIS ISSUE: 2020 Parks & Recreation Bond Referendum.......15 2020 City of De Soto “State of the City Address”................................15-16 COVID-19 Update: De Soto Reopening Plan..................................16-17 City Hall Emergency Storm Shelter Available.......17 City Directory.........................................................18 De Soto Parks & Recreation.................................18

City Information/Meetings 32905 West 84th Street PO 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 Commission Agendas / Minutes can be found on the City Website:

http://www.desotoks.us/AgendaCenter City of De Soto Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/CityofDeSotoKS/

City Hall Twitter

https://twitter.com/CityofDeSotoKS

City Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/cityofdesotoks/

www.desotoks.us

2020 City of De Soto “State of the CityAddress” Mayor Rick Walker spoke before the De Soto Chamber of Commerce on March 12, 2020, reporting on accomplishments, upcoming projects and initiatives from the City of De SotoCity Council. Following is a summary of key points addressed, which were made prior to the COVID-19 related financial impacts.

Finances No single responsibility of a city’s governing body and administrative officials is more critical than the preparation, adoption, and implementation of the annual budget, which sets the course for the levels of service provided to the community.

De Soto’s General Fund began 2020 on firm financial ground, with a 2019 year-ending cash reserve of $2.37 million, up slightly over the previous year. The 2019 General Fund revenues exceed the budget amount by nearly $600,000, or 15%. While maintaining budget and expense discipline played a role, the increase is largely due to two revenue bright spots. Sales tax collections exceeded budgeted amounts by about $300,000 and topped the 2018 collections by about 8%. Additionally, due to a surge in new home construction, building inspections and planning application fees surpassed budget amounts by a combined $225,000.

The 2020 Operating Budget Water and Sewer Utilities also ended 2019 in good shape, with each fund seeing an increase in its cash reserves. By the end of the year, the water fund had a balance of $1.4 Million, and the sewer fund ended with a cash balance of $377,000. Although the 2020 budget includes modest inflationary rate increases for both utilities, the City will forgo these increases in light of projections on costs and revenues into the future.

The 2020 Operating Budget shown above maintains or slightly expands levels of service compared to previous years. Minor increases in road maintenance expenditures and personnel are offset by increases in expected tax revenues and a projected decrease to the end-of-year fund balance, which has been elevated during the past two budget cycles.

De Soto’s overall operating budget, is just over $11.5 million dollars.

ECONOMIC ACTIVITY Finances are closely tied to the economic activity and construction within the City. The Building Inspections Department issued 370 permits in 2019. Sixty-one of these permits were for new single-family residential structures, the most in De Soto’s history.

continued on page 16 15

www.desotoks.us

Build your life with 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. continued from page 15 / 2020 State of the City Address

In total for 2019, the value of new construction within De Soto topped $41 Million, nearly twice that of 2018.

Business activity in the City has spiked since the middle of 2019, with the opening of numerous new businesses. These businesses include Edward Jones, Mike’s Liqour expansion, Ritter Cigar Company, Danceography, Bubblecream’s Ice Cream, Anabel’s Maker’s Market, Up in Arms, Brilliant Sun and Wellness, Jenna Boom, and Burger King.

The addition of new retail and service establishments result in meaningful contributions to the vibrancy and quality of life in the De Soto community.

Looking forward to 2020, there are several projects currently under construction, and the City has recently approved several planning applications. These projects include Arbor Ridge, Possum Creek, Cherokee Woods, Arcadian Estates, Hike 20 Commerce Park, and K-Ten Apartments, Phase 2.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS Public Works Facility In July, the City purchased a 3.4-acre property at 9620 Lexington Avenue, the desperately needed new Street Department home.

While contemplating the construction of a new $3.2 million facility, the Lexington purchase opportunity arose and saved the City more than $1 million in capital expenditures, as well as accelerated the Street Department’s new facility timeline by several years.

91st Street Construction The City extended 91st Street from Lexington Avenue to Sunflower Road.

The extension includes a multi-use recreation path, bike lanes, and provides direct access to businesses, residential areas, and amenities including Lexington Park. This was a $1.2 million project, with $580,000 in funding from the Johnson County CARS program.

City Hall Storm Shelter featured at right 2020 GOALS & INITIATIVES Riverfest Bathrooms The City broke ground on the restroom facility at Riverfest Park, which is centrally located between the festival area, bandstand, and playground.

Roundabout A major upcoming project in the CIP is the construction of a roundabout at the intersection of 91st and Lexington Avenue. With an estimated cost of $1.25 million, construction is scheduled for 2021 and project design will start this year.

The Mayor is excited to continue the progress that has been made as a community and says he welcomes the opportunities ahead.

C O V I D -19 U P D A T E : D E S

n De Soto’s Reopening Plans moved forward with the State/County plans at the May 7, 2020 City Council Meeting.

The State’s Phase 1.5, which began May 18, does not differ from the City’s Phase One. Plan Phases are shown above.

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City Hall Emergency Storm Shelter Available In late 2019, City Council approved the initiative to transform and designate an area of the lower-level hallway of City Hall (32905 W 84th Street) into an Emergency Storm Shelter; the City is pleased to share that this resource for De Soto residents is ready for use!

The City’s Emergency Manager, Steve Chick Sr., in partnership with Johnson County Emergency Management, designed the shelter entrance to be “hands off.” This means that no person or entity has to physically unlock the door for the residents waiting to seek shelter.

The City Hall building had been previously used as a community shelter, but the practice was discontinued because of the lack of after-hours response availability.

The new, advanced-entry emergency storm shelter removes that dependency and is tied directly to the tornado sirens; during a storm, the shelter will electronically unlock when the sirens are actively in use.

Entry to the shelter is east of the main City Hall Entrance along 84th Street and is clearly marked with red signage.

If you plan on using the shelter, it would be a good idea to scout the location of the correct door before we have a tornado warning or inclement weather.

The City Hall Emergency Storm Shelter is located on the northeast corner of the De Soto City Hall front entrance, at 32905 W. 84th Street. It is clearly marked with red signage (shown above) Storm Shelter Entrance.

We recommend that if you are going to City Hall for shelter, you should arrive within 10 minutes or find other shelter.

It is not mandatory, but it is recommended to bring a flashlight, a cell phone and a radio with you.

While we always hope to not need to use the storm shelter, we are pleased to be able to provide this public service once again for our community.

SOTO REOPENING PLAN

n The full plan may be viewed at the City website: www.desotoksus/ This plan is current as of May 20, 2020.

Any changes will be posted on the City website and social media. This plan solely pertains to the De Soto City facilities and functions and does not reflect private businesses or the policies of other local governmental agencies.

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Discovering De Soto

De Soto Parks & Recreation

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

Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm CITY HALL 32905 W. 84th Street 913-583-1182 fax 913-583-3123 Mayor Rick Walker 913-375-7729 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 Maughmer 913-586-5252 Direct 913-210-9186 Cell CITY CLERK Lana McPherson MMC 913-586-5250 Direct 913-689-8733 Cell CITY CODES & CIP MANAGER Walter Gardenhire 913-586-5263 Direct 913-940-8552 Cell CITY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Whitney Lange 913-586-5255 Direct 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 913-669-6359 UTILITIES 913-583-1182 Nancy Steele x112 Erika Carrillo x122 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 Tim Fisher 913-915-5416 Cell Bob Garrett 913-707-6284 Cell Linda Lane 913-634-8299 Cell Todd Manson 913-909-0145 Cell Ian McPherson 913-585-1827 Home John Shultz 913-585-3511 Home Roger Templin 913-583-3183 Home 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 Erika Carrillo 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. non-emergency 913-782-0720 emergency 9-1-1

JOHNSON COUNTY NORTHWEST CONSOLIDATED FIRE DISTRICT Todd Maxton, Fire Chief 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 Mon-Fri 9 am-11am 12:30 pm-4:30 pm Sat 9 am-noon

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The upcoming Parks & Recreation sports seasons are tentative as of the time of printing, May 21, 2020.

Please check for updates on the City website or follow us on Facebook at De Soto Parks & Recreation.

Registration Options:

http://www.desotoks.us/159/Programs-Activities Please click on the ONLINE REGISTRATION link in the dark green box / left side of web page

De Soto City Hall

32905 W. 84th Street

De Soto Parks & Recreation Office 32905 W. 84th Street

2020 Youth Activities Youth Baseball Youth Blastball Youth Softball Youth T-Ball

Deadlines are June 5 for Youth Sports listed above

Fall Youth Soccer Fall Youth Volleyball Dolphin Swim Team

2020 De Soto Aquatic Center Swim Lessons Pending on Pool Opening for the 2020 Season Parent Tot / Levels 1-5

Session III July 6-16 Session IV July 20-30

2020 Seasonal Summer Job Openings De Soto Aquatic Center

Front Desk and Concessions Lifeguards Swim Instructors

Youth Sports

Baseball and Softball Umpires

2020 Job Openings Adult Activities

Group Fitness Instructors For more information, Contact Justin Huslig email jhuslig@desotoks.us phone (913) 586-5281

Full Time Position

Building Maintenance Technician Online Application http://www.desotoks.us/Jobs.aspx

continued from page 11 / Business news

Summer 2020

Organizations & groups Jake’s Fireworks and World Class Sports will Open!

Owner Jake Marietta has given updated information for Jakes Fireworks, opening on June 29, 2020 and World Class Sports, opening around Labor Day. Located at 34045 Commerce Drive.

Enjoy this entertaining firework safety video on their website: https://www.jakesfireworks.com/fireworks-safety

Brilliant Sun Wellness Yoga & Bodywork

Owners Josh Mitchell and Kimberlee Aubrey have announced their yoga studio space will not reopen in downtown De Soto.

Brilliant Sun Wellness will however, continue providing Yoga and Bodywork Classes through private and pop-up sessions, as well as corporate and special events. “Due to the nature of the studio’s practices of close proximity, we felt that we could not safely reopen the studio,” informed Josh and Kimberlee.

“We took pride in the effort to revitalize downtown De Soto.”

Jazzercise–adapting to keeping you fit!

Jazzercise classes kept students moving after stay-at-home orders were implemented. De Soto Jazzercise went LIVE! Using Zoom and a private Facebook page, Jazzercise, Inc. created a YouTube Series of home workouts and Jazzercise classes. Customers received access to On-Demand Jazzercize.

“Our students have many options for working out at home and there are many online resources Jazzercise has created,” said Jackie Stecher, Jazzercize De Soto franchise owner/ instructor. “When we open, we will have limited in-person classes and follow all government guidelines; and will continue to provide online options for our customers.”

Join us however you are most comfortable. There are currently a variety of Live online classes presently meeting. For more information, email Jackie Stecher desotojazzercise@yahoo.com or call 913-226-4616.

.

De Soto Historical Society

Reopened Thursdays 10 am to 4 pm or by appointment

De Soto Historical Building 33055 W. 83rd Street • Downtown De Soto See our facebook page for updates and current information:

https://www.facebook.com/desotokshistoricalsociety June 24 Wednesday 6:30 pm De Soto Historical Building

Railroaded: The Industry That Shaped Kansas” Special presentation by Leo E. Oliva from Kansas Humanities Speakers Burea.

July 29 Wednesday 6 pm Ottawa Depot Museum /1859 Cabin Meeting and tour with Diana Staresinic-Deane, museum director.

Carpool & meet in Ottawa – specific details to be determined.

Meetings subject to change according to government guidelines.

.

Johnson County Library Update

Beginning Monday, May 18, library materials were able to be returned to Blue Valley, Lenexa City Center and Monticello Book Drops Only. New holds may be placed through the online catalog for pickup at these locations.

Starting Tuesday, May 26, you can pick up your holds at Blue Valley, Lenexa or Monticello drive-thru windows.

Open 9 am to 5 pm Monday–Saturday 1 to 5 pm, Sunday All in-person events have been cancelled through August 31.

Many programs have been moved online. For the most current, up-to-date calendar of events see our website: https://www.jocolibrary.org/events/online-events In addition, there is also a frequently asked question page: https://www.jocolibrary.org/covid-19-reopening-faq Patrons are advised to thoroughly wash their hands after handling Library materials. Because many materials have plastic coverings or cases, all returned items will be isolated for a minimum of 72 hours before being checked in and returned to circulation.

College grads Congrats!

Caelin Eager / Masters Piano Pedagogy and Performance Masters of Music / University of Colorado Boulder Francisco Gamboa / Digital Marketing Certificate Johnson County Community College

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

De Soto Community Center • 32905 W. 84th Street De Soto North • 33180 W 83rd Street

Class Schedules online https://www.jazzercise.com

Call 913-226-4616 for more information or email: Jazzercise De Soto desotojazzercise@yahoo.com

Rebekah Rose Regina Bartholomay Burgweger Masters of Arts in Security Studies / Georgetown University Rex H. Templin / BSB in Accounting and Business Analytics School of Business / University of Kansas USD 232 High School Graduates listed on pages 22 / 23 19

Discovering De Soto

USD 232 Website https://www.usd232.org De Soto High School The Green Pride https://dhsnews.org Mill Valley High School Jagwire https://www.mvnews.org

MARCH 17–Governor Laura Kelly ordered Kansas schools to close for the remaining school year Abrupt School Closures announced– learning adapts and continues in a new form With school buildings closed, the USD 232 School District implemented “Continous Learning” to be a tool for students to continue to learn as much as possible and reasonable under extraordinary circumstances.

“Learning Across Kansas” aired on PBS/KCPT

Kansas’ students received supplemental education content via television thanks to an alliance between the Kansas State Department of Education, the Continuous Learning Task Force and the Kansas Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).

Beginning on Saturday, April 25, students and their parents/ caregivers were able to tune in weekly for fun, short and engaging lessons. Each 30-minute segment of the “Learning Across Kansas” television show, produced for elementary, middle and high school students, featured Kansas teachers delivering grade-specific educational content aired on PBS stations across Kansas.

USD 232 teachers, Megan Clark, Clear Creek Elementary (art) and Keil Hileman, Monticello Trails Middle School (social studies/ museum connections), were part of the KSDE task force for continuous learning. They each created video lessons that aired via Kansas PBS/KCPT on Saturday mornings.

The Continous Learning-Kansas Public Broadcasting Alliance gave students of all ages an additional avenue for learning. It also created an opportunity for public and government sectors to work together, combining skills and talents. This venture benefited students across the entire state of Kansas. https://bitly.com/2KhDgcc

“Maximizing each student’s potential, through inspiration and discovery” students were connected to their teachers and engaged in meaningful learning experiences that focused on essential learning standards.

Students transitioned to remote learning April 1, 2020.

Though the distance-teaching and learning environment will never replicate the amazing things that happen in classrooms, there were certainly opportunities for innovation. Teachers reviewed the curriculum covered during this time, and focused on the most important learning standards and skills for the remainder of the semester.

All were reminded to extend grace and patience for children, teachers and parents. Expectations for students varied depending on grade levels. Specific expectations by the Kansas Department of Education Continuous Learning Task Force were included for each grade level online and can be found on the USD 232 website: https://www.usd232.org/learningplan Updates and COVID-19 information relating to USD 232 are available online: https://www.usd232.org/covid19 Helpful advice on “Talking to kids about the Coronavirus Crisis” can also be found linked to the USD 232 website: https:// childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/

20

Morgan Hunter Education sends A Big Congratulations out to the De Soto and Mill Valley High School Class of 2020!

Many of our Substitute Teachers have been with you throughout your whole high school career and we wish you the best of luck as you find your way in the world!

TOGETHER, WE'RE STRONGER This fall, come back to school with us.

We're currently hiring for Substitute Teachers for all schools in the De Soto, Eudora and Lawrence school districts.

• Enjoy a rewarding career helping our local students • Make your own schedule • Receive weekly paychecks

APPLY TODAY MHedteach.com

Find the right fit.

866-923-6433

Summer 2020

District Names 2019-20 Teachers of Year

Melissa Hembrey of Riverview Elementary School and Amanda Sweet of De Soto High School received the USD 232 school district’s highest honor being named 2019-20 Teachers of the Year. Both will represent USD 232 in the 2021 Kansas Teacher of the Year Program. The school district is an important and strong participant in the state’s teacher recognition program, having 15 state finalists and 12 semifinalists represented in the program since the year 2000.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Program recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. It utilizes a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance, and the teaching profession.

Mill Valley High School Principal Appointed The USD 232 Board of Education formally approved the appointment of Dr. Gail Holder as principal of Mill Valley HIgh School on March 2.

The position becomes effective July 1, 2020.

Dr. Holder was formerly an assistant principal at Olathe East High School. She will follow Mr. Tobie Waldeck at Mill Valley, whose retirement was announced last November.

Free/Reduced Cost Internet Program for qualifying De Soto Students and Families offered by RG Fiber

USD 232 is pleased to announce a new program RG Fiber has implemented for students who need reliable internet connectivity at their De Soto home residence. This program is for families who qualify for free or reduced meals at school. The home address must be located in a RG Fiber service area.

RG Fiber will provide 150 Mbps symmetrical fiber service for Free during the school year for families qualifying for free meals.

The 150 Mbps service will be provided at a 50% discount, or $29.98 per month, for families qualifying for reduced cost meals.

There is a one-time activation fee of $35.

Qualifying families should contact RG Fiber and submit a copy of their free/reduced approval letter received from the school district.

Upon verification, installation will be scheduled.

Request Free/reduced meals approval letters via email: nutrition@usd232.org Submit Internet Program requests via email: support@rgfiber.com

USD 232 receives high rankings for 2020 Best High Schools in Kansas

The U.S. News & World Reports Best High Schools for 2020 and ranked De Soto HIgh School in the top 10 of the State of Kansas High Schools. Mill Valley High School also ranked highly at number 12 in the State of Kansas. Both district high schools had 100% graduations rates. Congratulations!

“Making a Difference” Awarded to Rob Foster

USD 232 and the USD 232 Education Foundation presented the Making a Difference Award, cooperatively with the program being sponsored by Great American Bank in De Soto.

Recipient Rob Foster, Band Director at Lexington Trails Middle School since 2005, is a KU graduate and holds a Master’s Degree in Music Education.

Mr. Foster gives every student every possible opportunity to creatively express themselves through music. If a student wants to play an instrument, he finds a way to make that happen.

He constantly encourages students to explore competition opportunities and solos during concerts. He spends countless hours helping students perfect their skills and attending music events across the state. (excerpt from nominator) The award will continue to be given monthly when the 2020-21 school year resumes, recognizing those who are truly “making a difference in the lives of young people.”

USD 232 Summer Programming Update

All in-person student activities scheduled for June will NOT take place. These include events, camps and summer programming.

In addition these in-person summer activities are also included: high school credit recovery, weights and conditioning, drivers’ education classes; athletic, activity or music camps held at school building; and all facility rentals for the month of June.

The district is closely monitoring the evolving health situation, and changes will be communicated accordingly through our website: https://www.usd232.org/Page/8120 Updates

USD 232 Class of 2020 Graduation

The USD 232 Board of Education confirmed July 25, 2020 as the graduation date for both De Soto and Mill Valley High Schools. Ceremonies will be held at each district high school.

Mill Valley High School 9 am De Soto High School 2 pm Currently we are planning for in-person ceremonies at the respective high schools. These are contingent upon all health limitations that may be in place at that time. https://www.usd232.org/ Updates In the event in-person ceremonies are not able to be held, graduation ceremonies will be moved onlilne.

The Arts Council of Johnson County recognized high school nominees and awarded scholarships at the 2020 Shooting Stars Celebration held virtually Sunday, May 17. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K22_VciLTEs

Class of 2020 Graduates listed on following pages 22-23.

21

Discovering De Soto Adams, Cody Dale Albert, Taylor Kenna Allen, Cameron Everet Alvarez Carrillo, Jesus Manuel Ames, Sydney Erin Arnold, Logan Ryan Baker, Alicia Lynn Banuelos, Jose Barger, Luke David Baruth, Adam Casey Bates, Alex Gene Baxter, Brayden Lee Beal, Madeline Money Beggs, Lucas Sammuel Bell, Trinity Jeanette Berard, Zachary Mark Bergeron Zachary Clarence Beshoner , Jaeden Frances Bessey, Sophia Faith Bichelmeyer, Connor Evans Bilek, Bradley Adam Billinger, Parker Lee Blom, Emma Nicole Boehm, Broderick Joseph Book, Isabel Katherine Boresow, Ashlen Marie Bradley, Austin Paul Breaux, Khaleelah Whitnie Brotherton, Paetton Christopher Bryan, Morgan Lee Burger, Taylor Nicole Campbell, Colin Joseph Canant, Brody Eugene Capelo-Ruiz Angelina Maria Capling, Samuel James Carlos-Del Real, Arianna Carlton, Alexander Blake Carrillo, Elizabeth Charcut, Jeffrey Mekhi Chase, Brandin Lynn Childers, Autumn Marie Christy, Elijah Rain Colwell, Christine Elizabeth Conley, Mya Nicole Contreras, Isaac Jared Cravens, Connor Dean Culver, Chase William D’Andrea, Sydney Elaine Daise, Corinne Michelle Daniels, Joshua Russell DeHaven, Haley Christine DeLeon-Bocardo, Yasmin Denny, Logan David Diehl, Jordan Marie Dittemore, Michael James Dobosz, Jolie Marie Dockins, Toby Brook

DE SOTO HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATING CLASS OF 2020 Doherty, Timothy Sean Dority, Andrew Patrick Dossett, Dylan Michael Eager, Devin Nathaniel Kelii Ellis, Hayle Ann Ellis, Taylor Marie Endres, Ian Christopher England, Daniel Frederick Ericson, Mason Matthew Escobar, Oscar Eduardo Evans, Taegan Matthew Flores Ramirez, Jaquelin Yanely Fornal, Devon Michael Forshey, Jared Tyler Frakes, Christian Wyatt Franklin, Amanda Karen Frick, Sheridan Elizabeth Fuhr, Emily Paige Gamboa, Carlos Manuel Gamboa Gomez, Andres Gonzalez-Flores, Denise Paola Goodin, Jacob Talon Goodman, Neal Alexander Gratz, Elian Alexander Gress, Addison Elisabeth Grieshaber, Aspen Gail Grube, Sierra Rain Gulley, Daliss Lee Ann Haden, Ella Marie Hall, Lucas Samuel Halvorsen, Kyra Noelle Hampton, Madison Leah Harrison, Dakota Zane Hashagen, Kathryn Elizabeth Hashagen, Samuel Albert Hendrix, Wesley Thomas Henggeler, James Robert Heredia Alban, Alejandro Geovanny Hernandez, Victor Manuel Hileman, Lane Claire Hinkle, Briana Grace Hobson, Alexus Marie Hoelting, Erica Dawn Hoover, Reece Michael Hopkins, Allison Christine Hopkins, Kalie Grace Howe, Brent Michael Hyer, Logan Mark Iddings, Ethan Will James, Jack Laurence Johannes, Mason Rae Jones, Colton Scott Julian, Makenna Grace Kellogg, Lauren Elizabeth Kennard, Claire Abigail Kennedy, Morgan Lindsay

Kerr, Makenna Kathleen Keyster, Anna Kaye Kindred, Tiye’ Imani Lynn Klein, Alizabeth Grace Knight, Hayden Scott Kowynia, Adam Joseph Kroeger, Magdelyn Marie Kuhn, Noah Patrick Laney, Morgan Sophia Langford, Jackson Alexander Lappin, Rose Elaine LeCluyse, Delaney Jane Lee, Adam James Lingner, Matthew Wesley Loomis, Jack Boyd Lovegren, Tyler Duane Macedo, Alexander Mackay, Aaron Dalton Mallicoat, Lauren Dove Mann, Trenton Corbett Marquez Carillo, Sergio Marquis, Cale Robert Marti, Katelyn Elnora Martin, Abigail Elizabeth Mascareno, Madelyn Rose McCain, Taylor Lynn McCombs, Connor Owen McDaniel, Seth Wyit McGee, Kadin Alyn McQuality, Samuel Isaac McQueeny, Loren Elaine Mercer, Joshua Duane Millman, Blake Oliver Millman, Luke Timothy Millman, Zach Franklin Mills, Emilee Jordan Minor, Kolby Curtis Mitchell, Tyler David Mize III, Jack Everett Mohl, Mackenzie Marie Molzen, Graci Elizabeth Mora, JR Alberto Morton, Coby John Moss, Hayley Elaine Daisy Nascimento, Hugo Nogueira Porto Nascimento, Lucas Nogueira Porto Nava Ramirez, Carlos Abel Nelson, Luke Wayne Newsom, Logan Riley Nimrod, Dylan Wright Novak, Lily Cathryn O’Bannon, Chase Timothy Oberle, Allison Victoria Olivarez, Anjalena Renee’ Parker, Brett Matthew Parrish, Mason Jeffrey Paterson, Maliq Julius-Arman

Payne, Alexandra May Perales, Miguel Reynaldo Perez-Rios, Elmer Jesus Peterson, Erica Ann Peterson, Jarred Newell Pflaum, Cooper Thomas Pickert, Erin Mary Pinedo, Gerardo Angel Post, Hannah Amelia Proctor, Cole Thomas Ray, Cole Michael Reeves, Faythe Olivia Reinertsen, Adison LJ Reynolds, Jonah Sterling Reynolds, Kaylee May Ricks, LaMyah Janice Ritter, Hayley Grace Rivera Villaneda, Jose Alfredo Robbinson, Camryn Nicole Robke, Quinlan Ann Rock, Leighton Renna Rodgers, Kailyn Grace Rodriguez, Lilyan Bryonna Romero-Marquez, Ricardo Rosen, Jakob Henry Rowse, Chaney Lynne Rowse, Jordan Ashley Sanchez-Saenz, Ana Yeli Shenk, Rainelle Kirsi Shupe, Mackenzie Rae Smiley, Tiger Joe Smith, Bryan Keith Stanton, Lauren Elizabeth Stricker, Gage Seaton Sullivan, Issabela Nieva Taylor, Timothy Joseph Tickle, Kate Anna Towner, Cole Everett Truelson, Charles James Tucker, Quaid Todd Turner, Mason James Vandewynkle, McKinley Sue VanLerberg-June, Emma Kaye Varzaly, Brock Vick, Emily Shayanne Vilchis, Evan Yale Villa, Ezequiel Saenz Warner, Lane Christian Warnes, Ellienne Catherine Watts, Shane Derrick Wheeler, Justine Louise Wickizer, Morgan Renee Williams, Dallas Lee Wilson, Dillon Ruslan Wingo, Weston Hasvold Wolff, Aubree Jordan Wright, Alexander Patton Zubenel, Audrey Helena

MILL VALLEY H Allen, Tyesha Marie Robinson, Kellen Yuuki Tarumoto Adams, Leah Marie Albertson , Ashley Lauren Allen, Madison Kennedy Allen, Morgan Patricia Altman, Avery Anne Ammann, Isaac Peter Anderson-Alexander, Ethan James Archibong, Faith Mfonobong Armstrong, Ella Renae Avila, Ada Janett Ayers, Brynn Nicole Aylward, Karsyn Samantha Babcock, Thomas Edwin Babcock, Travis Wayne Baker, Isabella Angeline Baranczuk, Ashley Marie Baranczuk, Ethan Christopher Barge, Tyler Jackson Barker, Katherine Elaine Barker, Madeleine Grace Beaver V, Robert Leroy Beggs, Colby Justin Bellmyer, Brett Thomas Bennett, Chase Michael Bilyeu, Spencer Ruben Blazer, Adrien Cole Blubaugh, Morgan Grace Bogart, Anne Elise Boone Cline Elliott Brackin, Kelly Nicole Brehaney , Jared Todd Brock, Charles Allen Brooks, Brayden Matthew Brown, Corinne Brooke Brubeck, Andrew Collison Bruce, Taylor Alexis Burke, Eva Elizabeth Burns, D’Azia Lashae Darece Butler, Kelsey Ann Byrne, Keegan Matthew Cabrera, Gabrielle Jordan Caldwell, Carson Ryan Canning, Harrison Dean Carroll, Ian Jacob Ceule, Will Alexander Chapman, Maya Nicole Chappell, Clint Kenon Charest, Taylir Jordan Christopher, Kendal Austin Cline, Chase Atticus Coacher, William Jeffrey Cohara, Brandon Joseph Conner, Kylie Savannah Contreras, Jacob Matthew Crain, Samuel Jesse

Class o 22

Discovering De Soto is honored to present the Class of 2020. Our apologies for any omissions or errors. Information available prior to printing 5/22/20.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATING CLASS OF 2020 Cramer, Michael Christian L Crocker, Michael Richard Cross, Jackson Warren Cummings, Kaylea Marie Davie, Hannah Jane Davis, Brianna Kaye Day, Sydney Lynette Deas, Justin Allen DeBrabander, Abby Allene Deines, Makayla Grace Dempsey, Ashlyn Grace DeWitte, Jace Ethan Dixon, Zachary Kenneth Dixson, Dalton Andrew Downey, Joan Marie Doyle, Bennett Michael Doyle, Jacob Charles Draper, Tyler Ziyuan Duffin, Cael James Dunn, Molly Elizabeth Ebner, Sydney Elise Eckardt, Cahill Robert Elevier, Austin Alan Endsley, Spencer Troy Esser, Jacob Christopher Evans, Taegan Shae Everhart, Cameron Joseph Everhart, Carson James Fangman , Gavin True Farthing, Abby Marie Ferguson , Riley Eric Fitterer, Elena Theresa Fitterer, Gabrielle Grace Flack, Hunter Thomas Flick Jr., Shawn Charles Florez, Lauren Marie Fouts, Rylee Ann Marie Fox, Emma Grace Franken, Matthew Nicholas Frantz, Kaya Emily Frempong, Israel Aaron Anarfi Frias, Alyssa Catherine Frost, Grant Michael Garcia, Jessica Alice Gatapia, Nicholas Machado Gephart, Danielle Delores Gillette, Joseph Thomas Glunt, Joshua Alexander Godfrey, Allison Rose Golden, Sydney May Gomez, Joshua Wayne Gonzalez III, Noe Gourd, Allison Katelyn Gowin, Kaitlyn Kay Grabmeier, Audrey Anne Graybar, Ethan Mitchell

Green, Tyler Winston Greene, Rylie Jourdan Greenfield, Nathaniel Jason Greenhalgh, Alexandra Lynne Greenup, Samuel Isaiah Grega, Ashley Elizabeth Griffin, Chloe Marie Guilfoil, Amber Nicole Haines Mills, Duncan Forrest Hall, Austin Bradley Hanson, Grace Ann Harlow, Maxwell Jeffrey Harris, Zane William Haymaker, Molly Maureen Hays, Ashley Nicole Heimer, Kaitlyn Avery Heinking, Alexander Stephan Henderson, Jordan Eugene Hernandez, Cecelia Marie Hernandez, Ernesto Sebastian Hernandez, Reese Allen Hertog, Rebecca Kay Hightower, Darius Garner Hissong, Cainen Scott Hodes, Madelynn Grace Hodson, Jacob Andrew Hofstetter, Aubrey Ann Hofstetter , Claire Patricia Hofstetter, Wyatt Edwin Hoog, Annabelle Sofia Hookstra, Noah Steven Gills Howe, Jacob Michael Isaacsen, Shaina Marie Isern, Cara Hope Jackson, Sydney Lynn Janssen, Nathan Samuel Jenkins, Chase Wyatt Jenkins, Sydney Marie Johnson, Alec Jordan Johnson, Lauren Grace Johnson, Tabari Derrell Johnston, Kaleigh Marie Jones, Jacob Carter Jones, Kevin Gregory Jones, Preston Meier Jones, Tanner Michael Joyce, Brendan Thomas Kaiser, Emerson Ryan Kariuki, Stafford Kimatu Kauffman , Grace Catherine Kauffman , Sarah Olivia Keal, Austin Ray Keal, Zachary Michael Keller, Jacob Eugene Kelley, Lance Michael Kelley Padilla, Rodrigo James

Kelly, Kyle Christopher Kerstetter, Ellie Nicole Keungkhamphong, Cyan King, Dilara Ann Kinkade, Rachael Marie Kinsey, Donald Dale Klaudt, Sophia Elizabeth Knernschield, Khloe Isabella Knight, Olivia Mae Koca, Morgan Elizabeth Koehler, Brooke Marie Koester, Kaylee Marie Koppa, Gavin Strom Kornis, Quentin Luke Krantz, Jonte Tyriek Krown, Megan Iris Laluk, Brianne Michelle Langegger, Jurgen Josef Lawson, Avery William Lee, Abigail Elaine Lee, Alexander Julian Lee, Daniel Jinho Lee, Kevin William Lee, Nathaniel Keyshawn Leininger, Nolan Andrew Lenninger, Nicholas Alexander Liby, Avery Laurel Lillich, Nathan Christopher Lindsey, Wyatt Xavier Litterick, Sydney Ann Livingston, Allison Marie Lockhart, Eli Chaney Lynn, Kailee Ann Macias, Christian Andrew Madrigal, Stephanie Lara Majerus, Brandon Richard Males, Ethan Michael Mansfield , Joshua Sean Mantel, Ethan Daniel Martin, Mya Jewel Mason, Benjamin Curtis Mayorga, Estefania Mays, Jackson Henry McClendon III, Troy Lee McDonald, Jenna Marie McElroy, Rylee Morgan McElwee, Isaac Anthony A McElwee, Maria Cecelia McGarry, Christina Elena McGuire, John Robert McKinnon, Colin Michael Meacham, Nathan Maurice Melvin, Sarah Taylor Middaugh, Kayla Joye Miles, Elora Zickefoose Miller, Abigail Michelle Miller, Jacob Andrew

Summer 2020 Mills, Zachery Isiah Moberly, Cole Christian Modin, Ava Alexis Morgan, Abbie Lynne Morris, Cadee Rae Morris IV, William Bradley Muttai, Jesse Kipruto Lagat Myers, Logan Xavier Neely, Trevor Patrick Nichols, Esther Michelle Norsworthy, Gage Robert O’Neal, Lauren Marie Oesterreich, Logan Gene Oliver, Paige Reilly Ornelas, Kevin Alberto Ouellette, Trinity-Ann Sky Overbaugh, Megan Leigh Overbeck , Gaige Ryan Paden, Anna Jordan Panuco IV, Jesse Parker Jr, Terrance Julian Pastine, Drew Kendall Peachee, Ethan Andrew Pennington, Samantha Nichole Pentola, Anthony Christopher J Peter, Nicole Allyse Petropoulos, Sara Lynn Pettigrew, Nicholas Connor Phale, Daniella Kutlo Phlieger, Kiley Brook Pinney, Alexandria Starr Pitts, Kylie Rae Poje, Kara Danielle Proctor, Megan Elizabeth Rader, Brandon James Ralston, Sophia Grace Reed, Jeremiah Nicholas Rees III, John Edward Ricker, Anna Brooke Rico, Angelina Bell Rissler, Andrew James Roberts, Callie Rose Rodriguez, Shay Alia Rojas-Vann, Xavier Giani Rold, Anna Leigh Ross, Carson Graham Roush, Ryan Gary Runk, Anthony Michael Sanders, Justin Scott Santaularia, Matthew Thomas Schamberger, Benjamin James Scheck, Joseph Robert Scheelk, Mallory Grace Schenk, Griffin Doone Schierbaum, Jason Eric Schmidt, Abigail Catherine

Schmidt, Nicholas Michael Schumacher, Mitchel James Schwartz, Carson Michael Schwartzkopf, Charlie Joseph Schwegman, Cameron James Scott, James Mason Sherman, Meghan Leslie Shope, Mark Wyatt Shurley, Ella Lyn Skavo, Aleksa Smith, Emma Paige Spaw, Brooke Elizabeth Stapp, Cade Alexander N Starr, III Walza Ray Stevens, Ryker Aidan Stiens, Brian Richard Stoneburner, Grace Christine Stove, Benjamin Richard Stuart, John Robert Sunderman, Rachel Cheyanne Sutton, Joshua Terry Sweet, Dallys Ashton Talavera, Cristina Michelle Taylor, Aidan Hastings Taylor, Jadon James Teasley, Amanda Kathleen Teasley, Kayla Marie Teeple, Nicholas Joseph Terry, Jack Andrew Thomas, Aidan Robert Thomas, Loren Macy Tilden, Adam Michael Tow, Andrew Reece Turaga, Srikar Surya Valencia, Madeline Holly Van Dyke , Whitney Elizabeth Vandegrift, Gilbert Joseph Velez, Natalie Ann Vitt, Camryn Renee Volkamer, Samantha Leigh Vomhof, Sidney Jane Wagner, Emily Aileen Walker, Jenna Rae Walkup, Megan Ann Weber, Colton Joseph Whisler, Brayden Anthony White, Abigail Ann Whitehill, Lanie Mae Wilhauk, Analiese Claire Willett, Carly Elizabeth Willis, Kaytlin Michelle Wilson, Asher Jacob Wilson, Cierra Jade Wiltse, Braeden Michael Zebley, Ryan Kate Zuch, Jenna Elizabeth Zuniga, Noah Salvador

of 2020 CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ENTIRE CLASS OF 2020 USD 232 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES! –USD 232 Superintendent Frank Harwood

23

Discovering De Soto

Selling Grandpa’s Garage

De Soto’s famous long-time downtown hobby shop known as Grandpa’s Garage and Body Shop will soon belong to someone other than Dean Weller. Dean has owned the 102-year-old structure since 1974 for the pleasure of building replica Model A’s and restoring a few others from parts gleaned from many locations around the country. There are, also, some other eye-catching vehicles besides A’s. One of his favorites built from the ground up resides in the lobby of TriCentury Bank. Another favorite is on display in the Olathe car museum. The transparent steel-lace Model A convertible, “rumble seat” and all, (shown below) is destined soon to be transported to the Model A Ford Foundation Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan, for a permanent display.

Whoever buys Dean’s shop will inherit the three Ford signs hanging over the sidewalk. He, also, would be happy if the eventual buyer maintains the Grandpa’s Garage and Body Shop name. At last notice, Dean has an offer for his wonderland shop and is waiting for the City Council’s approval.

–Dick Stine, Contributing Writer

Exploring

De Soto

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

TEAM WHITMAN SALUTED AND THANKED HEALTHCARE WORKERS, FIRST RESPONDERS, MILITARY MEMBERS AND ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL ON THE FRONT LINES OF THE FIGHT AGAINST THE CORONAVIRUS.

#WhitmanSalutesKC

4.28.20

Carriage Houses of Johnson County 7th annual “People’s Choice” Car & Air Show • Saturday, August 29

Annual Free Event Food and Entertainment 29230 W. 83rd Street

American Family was one of the first insurance companies to step forward and return $50 per vehicle to their auto insurance customers.

“With so many fewer cars on the road, we have experienced vastly fewer accidents,” announced local agent, Julie Coover. Our office team members have all been working from home, being able to answer calls and continuing to service our clients.

E WORRY A “TAKE SOME OOFLITH OUT OF LIFE” P CY. With rewards for safe behavior that protects what matters most, rather than penalties for what doesn’t go quite right. And with the support you need, every step of the way. For your car.

Your home. For your unique life.

Dream fearlessly with American Family Insurance. Contact me today.

AUTO PARTS

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

33530 LEXINGTON AVENUE (913) 585-3180 Business Deliveries Available

As an essential business we have remained 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

Additional 10% off with this AD Includes both Regular & Sales Prices for In-Store Purchases

American Family Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. & its Operating Companies, American Family Life Insurance Company, 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2020 017720 – 1/20 – 12188396 ~

We have remained open as an essential business to assist you with all your Auto needs!

Cleaned & Sanitized Vehicles • COMPETITIVE PRICING • WE OFFER FINANCING Family-Owned & Operated

View our auto inventory online https://www.desotoautosalesks.com Visit us at 33500 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-586-5305 Open Mon Tues Thurs Fri 10 to 6 / Wed noon to 6 / Sat 9 to 4 / Sun closed 24

We remain Open to Serve You! Free Delivery for our De Soto Customers

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Lexington Lake Park

Clearview City

W 103rd St

K-10

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Ave

95th St

De Soto Water Tower

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.

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anything from a 2 x 4 stud for a doghouse to an obscure truss bracket for a large commercial job!

Le

Edgerton Rd

95th St

Sunflower Rd

K-10

Every job matters. We can help you purchase

91st St

Easy Access via 95th or 91st Streets to Sunflower Road 9800 Sunflower Road in De Soto

Working locally with Harding Contracting, Bowlin Construction, and DVP/Arbor Ridge Homes.

Locally owned Lumber One is one of the larger lumber yards within the KC Metro area.

Serving single-family and multi-family home builders, commercial builders, remodelers and walk-in retail customers.

We have remained open as an essential business. You’ll find we are Close, Convenient and at a Safe Distance!

Products include: all types of lumber and related hardware, trusses, rebar, exterior windows/doors, all types of millwork, and we also offer quality, trusted labor referrals. Expertise for all your projects!

Open Monday-Friday 7am to 5 pm

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 25

Discovering De Soto

FAITH Worship goes online as churches adapt to stay-at-home orders

Easter came and people still worshiped and celebrated Jesus’ Resurrection–even though church buildings were closed for public worship. Churches in our community, as well as across the country, adapted and utilized technology to preach the gospel, instill hope and be anchored to God’s Word.

Sunday morning worship was held in the comfort of your own home and available online to view at your preferred time.

Churches are expected to reopen as part of Kansas phase 3, anticipated to begin June 8 (with 45 maximum); and phase out statewide restrictions anticipated June 22. https://covid.ks.gov/ See Church websites for Vacation Bible School rescheduling and/or cancellation information.

Serving the wider De Soto Community in Words and Actions through Christ’s Love since 1858.

Worship with us on Facebook Live or YouTube Sunday Mornings 10 am Online all ages Sunday School 9 am Visit out website www.DesotoUmc.org for all upcoming activities, ongoing COVID-19 responses,and plans for in-person worship.

Pastor Richard Copeland’s first online sermon on YouTube for De Soto Baptist Church. “In all my 50 years of preaching, I have never, ever witnessed a time as this,” exclaimed Pastor Copeland.

Pastor Jeff Pronto also preached live Facebook Sunday Services for the De Soto United Methodist Church congregation, and provided noontime devotions for additional encouragement. Keeping the Blessings Box full!

8655 Copeland Way | 913-585-1026

www.desotobaptistchurch.com Weekly Worship Services Online posted Saturday evenings to view throughout the week.

Weekly Family Devotions for the entire family.

Continuing to do the mission and ministry of the church.

We love you all. –In Christ’s Peace, Pastor Jeff

Stay Strong De Soto!

de soto UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 8760 Kill Creek Road PO Box 400 913-583-1359

Online Worship via Facebook • YouTube through June

Serving the Greater Kansas City Faith Community for 29 years http://metrovoicenews.com 26

“For we know that all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

Summer 2020

De Soto Youth Ministries 33180 W 83rd Street, De Soto (913) 583-3411 www.desotoyouthministries.org

After over 50 Mission Trips–Emergency Medical Care needed in Nicaragua and area KU Med

Harvest Ridge Covenant Church held an inside-your-car 7 am Sunrise Service Easter morning. A spectacular sunrise preceded the service, which added to the glorious morning! Attendees listened to the sermon via radio, as it was preached outside the front entrance. YouTube has also been utilized for worship services, allowing for online viewing throughout the current stay-at-home orders.

Parking lot / Online Services

SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:15

The Gospel of Luke Series

harvestridge.org

HarvestRidge COVENANT CHURCH

Q

Welcoming Contemporary & Traditional Worship for All Ages 22015 Midland Drive, Shawnee, KS 66226 | (913) 441-5500

Reach Church COMING SOON!

Bill Wilting (Founder/Director of DeSoto Youth Ministries) feels like he has been in “lockdown” since January on a mission trip when he was loaded in a van and transported at 100 mph to an emergency room in Nicaragua with internal bleeding. After days in ICU, blood transfusions, and a month in Central America, Bill was medically transported home only to end up two weeks later at KU Med with more internal bleeding, more procedures, more blood transfusions and more days in ICU. Specialists there found the cause—an anomaly of blood vessels in his lower abdomen. Bill made KU Med history, with the repair procedure.

Here are Bill’s own words as Nicaraguan doctors and nurses were surrounding him doing their best to keep him alive and find out the source of the bleeding. “I began to have a whole new picture of God’s grace as they did a procedure on me in that sterile, white, brightly lit room to empty my intestines and stomach of all the blood. I lay there totally naked, in my blood and filth, and I suddenly got a picture of the holiness of God—pure and white with only me to mar his reflection.

I began to feel very unclean. One nurse, seeing my discomfort, leaned over and with compassion in her eyes whispered “esta bien” which is Spanish meaning it’s okay. It felt like God, himself, said that to me. I remembered Jesus hanging on a cross, totally naked in his own blood, turning to the thief next to him and saying, “Today you will be with me in paradise.

‘Esta bien’—it’s okay, I know your heart.’”

Bill is recovering and regaining strength daily, after all the blood loss and procedures. It has been a long journey, but with many insights. Even after 30 years working with youth and 59 mission trips, Bill says this medical journey has taught him so much about humility, compassion, appreciation, and God’s grace and mercy. Bill is anxious to get back to work, making a difference in the lives of others.

–submitted by Donna Wilting

What once was the Performance Glass building is becoming Reach Church! Plan to join us this spring in a great, new Worship space.

Follow our updates on reachdesoto.com as construction, ministry plans and volunteer opportunities develop!

33085 West 83rd Street De Soto, Kansas 66018

reachdesoto.com

913.599.6447

Ryan McDaniel, Reach Church Campus Pastor, gives remodeling updates on both the interior and exterior of the building. View and preview the progress online: https://www.facebook.com/ReachChurchDeSoto/videos/181219763013881

27

Discovering De Soto

HEALTH SAFETY CDC recommends wearing cloth Masks in public settings

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of a mask or face covering as an extraprecautionary measure in public settings, especially in areas of significant transmission. It is emphasized that this should not be seen as a substitute for social distancing. CDC also advises that cloth masks help keep your germs from transmitting to others, when you may have the virus without any symptoms. It is also a deterrent to touching your face.1 Plenty of resources are available online to assist you in making your own masks. The CDC website shows several sew and nosew methods: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/

downloads/DIY-cloth-face-covering-instructions.pdf

At a time when businesses have begun to “reopen” the public will cautiously enter their favorite restaurant, hairdresser, health club–and a myriad of other businesses that have been closed during the recent stay-at-home orders. Likewise, business owners are implementing extra safety measures.

Nationally Costco, and airlines have made it manditory to wear face masks. Consider wearing a mask and keep washing those hands, wiping door knobs, and keep your phone and electronics all sanitized. Stay clean and disinfected.

1 https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/

Sanitizing products have been a challenge to find for shoppers.

With increased production, they are becoming more available.

Locally, Good Spirits Distilling in Olathe went from producing vodka to hand sanitizer. Increased demand allowed them to hire employees who had been laid off due to the stay-at-home orders.

The recipe is from the World Health Organization and works well dispensed in a spray bottle.

The Sewing Brigade (inspired

by Rosie the Riveter) use their Sewing Expertise to Provide 400 Donated Masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It clearly takes an army for any volunteer project,” Judy Macy proudly stated. ”De Soto has proven there is an army of ladies willing and able to help all those in need with their sewing expertise.”

“About half a dozen ladies were sewing masks, with lots of other ladies donating materials and supplies,” Judy reported. A box was set outside to receive donations from many in the community.

One large material donation came from Mindy McCarthy, whose mother was a quilter and had passed. Mindy donated a huge box of her materials, along with a box of ribbon that was used to tie on the masks. Another generous donation of headbands was also received from the ladies at GEAR, that was also used to secure masks, as elastic became difficult to find.

Over 400 masks were donated to medical facilities in De Soto and surrounding areas throughout the Stay-at-Home quarantine.

Recipients included: Assisted Lifestyles Nursing Home, Olathe; Blackhawk Nursing Home, Spring Hill; Hillside Village, DeSoto; Morningside Care Homes, Baldwin; Sunrise Nursing Home, Prairie Village; Shawnee Mission Pediatrics; and Wellsville Police Department.

Larger facilities included Meadowbrook Rehab Hospital, Gardner and Advanced Health Care in Overland Park. Donations were also made to the De Soto USD 232 custodians and USD 232 School Nutrition Program. “Our biggest request was 60 face masks to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department,” informed Judy.

Kudos to “The Sewing Brigade” for their labor of love and service for many during these times.

Discovering

De Soto residents

continued on page 28 / Recognition

Share your story with our readers... for story consideration email info@discoveringdesoto.com

Plenty of masks can be purchased locally in De Soto area shops.

Anabel’s Makers Market Gift Shop and Jena Boom Boutique are both reopened in downtown De Soto. The Corner Crafter also has masks available for purchase for the public.

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Summer 2020 “AS RESTRICTIONS WERE IMPLEMENTED EARLY ON, THE HILLSIDE VILLAGE STAFF HAVE BEEN PHENOMENAL!” –Peg Wessel, Director of Nursing, Hillside Village

Hillside Village of De Soto 33600 W 85th Street, De Soto (913) 583-1260 http://www.hillsidedesoto.com

Employee Heroes Care Well for Hillside Residents Peg Wessel keeps a running list on her desk of the many “Thank You” notes she plans to write once her world calms down.

“There are so many people in the community that have asked, ‘Is there anything you need, is there anything we can do for you?’ And it’s been amazing,” Peg said, Director of Nursing at Hillside Village. “De Soto’s a great community, and the people here just have really embraced Hillside Village.”

As nursing homes nationwide have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, Peg took a proactive approach with one top priority: to keep residents and staff members safe.

On March 9th, restrictions were implemented at Hillside, which was one week before long-term care communities were mandated to restrict, according to Peg. “We restricted visitation from families and vendors, only allowing our staff (and outside lab and x-ray technicians) in the building,” she stated. “We also started screening anyone who came in.”

As part of the ongoing process to ensure no potential virus exposure, staff members are temperature screened twice during an 8-hour shift and three times during a 12-hour shift.

If anyone is ill, they are to stay home. In addition, all staff wear facemasks in the building, and residents are advised to wear them when leaving their personal rooms.

“We feel that (being proactive a week earlier) was a really positive thing that we did because we have been COVID-19 free the entire time,” Peg said. “We just feel like ‘Yes, we took those steps early (and it) made a big difference!’”

Due to the visitation restrictions, Peg and her staff have helped residents communicate with loved ones using technology.

“We have a life enrichment/activities department, and they’ve done a phenomenal job making sure everybody gets to FaceTime and do Zoom visits with their families or send pictures, and it’s worked really well,” Peg explained.

During these new changes, Hillside staff have been “phenomenal” Peg affirmed. “They come to work everyday, they’re very dedicated and they understand all the restrictions that we have.”

At Hillside, all staff members are cherished. Peg wanted to recognize their efforts, and do something to show “we really do care about you and we’re happy that you work for us.” She contacted Sign Gypsies of Johnson County and coordinated the “Heroes Work Here” lawn sign, which truly surprised staff. Peg recalled the first morning it was displayed, “It was funny because one person said, ‘I needed a sign today and I got a sign today!’”

As the nation navigates through the current pandemic, Hillside Village will continue to follow the recommended guidelines by the Center for Medicare Services (CMS), Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure the safety of all residents, their families and work towards normalizing the new everyday life.

–Katherine Diaz, Contributing Writer

Everything for your Lawn & Garden _ Flowers _ Hanging Baskets _ Garden Décor _ Vegetable Plants Potting Mix _ Mulch _ Fertilizers Insect & Weed Control Products

Bird, Pet & Livestock Feed

Bowlin Farms was safely quarantined with a hefty, full-size mask

for its farmstand located at Kill Creek Road and 115th Street.

They are now open to the public and also offer online ordering!

Social distancing will be followed, helping one customer at a time.

Curb side pickup is also available for freshly-washed produce. https://www.bowlinfarms.net/

De Soto Feed & Garden remains open as an essential business, providing livestock feed, as well as pet food and a variety of locallygrown garden plants and flowers. Nearby, for safe shopping.

DeSoto DeSotoFeed 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 29

Discovering De Soto

HEALTH CARE Medical Care for Patients and Care for area Medical Staff AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at De Soto 8960 Commerce Drive, Suite 4E 913-789-3961 As always, AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at De Soto remains committed to caring for the health of our neighbors and community. Our office remains open for regular business hours to provide care for existing and new patients.

We are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of patients, providers and staff in our office by reducing person-to-person contact as much as possible while still providing the compassionate, individualized care you need. We have implemented universal mask use, temperature testing, employee COVID-19 testing, streamlined online registration and reduced waiting room time.

Additionally, our office has expanded the availability of video visits so that, when appropriate, patients can be seen virtually by a provider without leaving the comfort and safety of their own home.

If you have questions or feel you are experiencing coronavirus symptoms, please call our office and our team can determine the best care for you.

–submitted by Mary Birkel, AdventHealth

In recognition of donating Personal Protection Masks to several divisions Judy Macy was presented a Patrol Division Challenge Coin by Deputy Condon.

A huge thank you to Judy and all of the sewing assistance by many. Thank you for keeping our first responders safe at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.

De Soto resident battles through COVID-19 with diligent medical care, plenty of prayers and a healthy dose of community support!

Eric Goodman was one of six COVID-19 cases recorded in De Soto. Saturday, March 14, the 43-year old woke up with a slight fever, headache and a cough. He just had returned from a business trip in Atlanta earlier that week. The next day breathing became very difficult and his fever had heightened.

Eric and his wife, Elizabeth, contacted a health professional through TeleMed and were directed to go to the emergency room. After five days in the hospital, Eric was sent back home. March 22 he told his wife he needed oxygen. Rushed to the ER, he was sedated and put on a ventilator for 13 days. It was a very tough journey that was shared on facebook and celebrated on Easter Sunday in Westside’s Worship Service.

Westside Church congregates in the parking lot of AdventHealth Shawnee Mission showing support for patient Eric Goodman through powerful prayers and worshipful songs. shown below https://www.facebook.com/amy.dmyterko/videos/2871678432922731/ Eric’s story can be found online at:

https://www.mvnews.org/ covid-19-hits-close-tohome/# https://westsidefamily. church/westside-familychurch-audio-podcast/ tag/Eric+Goodman

COVID-19 Symptoms 1

• Cough • Shortness of Breath • Fever • Chills • Muscle Pain • Sore Throat • New loss of taste/smell Symptoms can appear 2-14 days after exposure.

Most people may only have mild symptoms.

COVID-19 can also be serious and life-threatening.

Emergency warning signs can include: • Trouble Breathing • Persistent Chest Pain/Pressure • New Confusion • Inability to wake/stay awake • Bluish lips or face Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility.

Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.

1 Center for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

30

Kaw Prairie Church gathered in the parking lot of AdventHealth Lenexa to show support for healthcare workers as shifts were changing. shown above Church of the Resurrection distributed encouraging signs for essential workers throughout the area. submitted photos

Summer 2020

PUBLIC SAFETY

Deputy Huff’s promotion to Sergeant, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office was announced on April 29

by Sheriff Calvin Hayden.

Sergeant Huff currently patrols De Soto.

His new assignment as Sergeant is yet to be announced. Congratulations on this well-deserved promotion.

Chief Todd Maxton shares insights on COVID-19 and its impact on NWCFD daily functions and staff.

As first responders, how have you navigated through the COVID-19 Pandemic these past several months?

“We are in regular contact with our Medical Director and have weekly video conferences with several agencies/groups, including JOCO Emergency Management, public safety stakeholders, emergency services chiefs, and local/state/federal officials.”

“There is a lot of information to share and a digital dashboard was created exclusively for our employees.”

In addition, the following have been implemented: • All meetings and travel have been postponed or canceled • No public education programs or event standbys • Public access to fire stations is restricted • No station visits from friends or family • We have limited our on-duty movement and limited contact • Training is temporarily limited following the social-distancing guidelines.

How it has affected the NWCFD staff / employees?

“Our employees understand we are operating in a disaster declaration and that they are essential employees. It is difficult for our employees to catch up on the latest information when they return to work because the information changes so frequently. We cannot function without healthy employees. We’ve taken steps to ensure minimum staffing levels are met, including having contingency plans if our workforce is affected by the virus. We have procured personal protective equipment through existing inventory and through state and federal assistance. Our wildland fire gear had already provided us with N95 masks.”

In addition, Chief Maxton thanks the various organizations who have assisted us with supplies and chosen to remain anonymous.

Shown above is the home page of the Johnson County COVID-19 Dashboard. Selecting the 66018 zip code map area, shows (6) positive COVID-19 Cases in De Soto (cumulative 5/2020).

Johnson County COVID-19 Dashboard

The general public can access the Johnson County COVID-19 Dashboard and view a multitude of current statistics, charts and graphs showing information on case counts, hospital bed capacity, MED-ACT activity and other key trends. Data continues to be updated.

https://public.tableau.com/profile/mapper. of.the.day.mod.#!/vizhome/covid19_joco_ public/Dashboard A Digital Dashboard is an electronic interface that aggregates and visualizes data from multiple sources, such as databases, locally hosted files, and web services. Dashboards allow monitoring and displaying of trends, actionable data, and real-time information.1 1 https://www.klipfolio.com/resources/articles/ what-is-digital-dashboard

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

https://www.nwcfd.org

https://www.facebook.com/NWCFD

In an Emergency Call 911

non-emergency 913-583-3886

www.notifyjoco.org Sign up to receive Severe Weather Notifications www.nwcfd.org/weather-safety Area Weather Information 31

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Opportunities for giving

One De Soto Relief Fund

Providing financial help and assistance for De Soto residents with hardship in our current crisis– COVID-19.

The De Soto Kansas Food Pantry created the One De Soto Relief Fund as a united means to help citizens of the De Soto, Kansas community who are undergoing hardship due to a current emergency, crisis, or natural disaster.

One De Soto Relief Fund

Funds are managed by an Advisory Committee under authority granted by the Board of Directors. The funding will be distributed as a grant intended to support basic expenses during the hardship such as rent payments, travel expenses, health insurance, immediate medical needs, or other critical expenses. The grants will not be cash grants, but directed to the entity where payment is needed.

The Advisory Committee meets weekly to review applications according to guidelines and requirements of the One De Soto Relief Fund. Grant Criteria can be found online: https://desotoksfoodpantry.files.wordpress.com/2020/05/grant-criteria.pdf Funds will be distributed directly to pay for qualified expenses.

Applications are available at De Soto local banks and online (Aplicacion en espanol):

https://desotoksfoodpantry.wordpress.com/one-de-soto-relief-fund/

“I am overwhelmed by the support for our community–those who live here, work here, have family here, have businesses here, or just wanted to help us– all who have given to this fund. To date we have received $21,000.”

“We have a wonderful community, we are One De Soto!”

–Lori Murdock, Food Pantry Chair / Advisory Committee Organizer

Donate to One De Soto Relief Fund online: https://desotoksfoodpantry.wordpress.com/one-de-soto-relief-fund/ or mail a check to One De Soto Relief Fund, 32905 W. 84th Street, De Soto, KS 66018 Thank you for your support!

The CARES Act gives you a $300 tax break for Charitable Donations Beginning in 2020, those taxpayers that do NOT itemize their deductions (use the standard deduction), will be able to deduct a charitable contribution of $300 per individual. This will be reflected on the returns filed in the spring of 2021, with donation receipts. Donations must be made in the form of money (check/debit/credit card) to a qualifying 501(c)(3) organization under IRS Code Sec. 170(b)(1)(A).

Friday, June 5 Noon to 6 pm Harvest Ridge Covenant Church 22015 Midland Drive, Shawnee Wednesday, June 24 10 am to 3 pm Monticello Branch 22435 W. 66th Street, Shawnee Wednesday, July 22 Noon to 5 pm Mill Creek Community Church 7825 Gleason Road, Shawnee Wednesday, July 29 2 pm to 7 pm Mill Valley High School 5900 Monticello Road, Shawnee https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive For the safety of our donor community and in accordance with CDC guidelines, all donors are required to wear a face mask. If needed, a mask will be supplied.

In coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Red Cross is also seeking people who are fully recovered from COVID-19 to sign up to donate plasma to help current COVID-19 patients. https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/plasma-donationsfrom-recovered-covid-19-patients html The American Red Cross is also in need of volunteers: https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities.html

De Soto resident, Pam Papp, K-10 SmarTax, LLC

“ I challenge you— as you are able, to make a “generosity impact” with some or all of your Economic ImPACT / STIMULUS checks!”

–De Soto resident DAVE ANDERSON, former De Soto Mayor

https://www.caringbridge.org “A world where no one goes through a health journey alone”