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De Soto, Kansas and Western Johnson County

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Native Rock

Martin Marietta Sunflower Quarry Stone Posts at Kill Creek Farm Day Trips Exploring Rock Formations Local Parks Stone Buildings

Food • Health & Wellness • Faith • Congratulations • Local Residents • Organizations De Soto City Pages • NWCFD Year in Review • Business News • and more...

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Discovering

WELCOME

De Soto

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Community Feature & News Publication

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

Welcome

SPECIAL FEATURE “Native Rock”

Stone House.................................................................. 6 Martin Marietta Sunflower Quarry......................... 8-11 Native Rock nearby parks.......................................... 12-13 Native Rock day trips.................................................. 14-15 The Barn Post Rocks................................................... 15 Business News............................................................16 Local Residents Krause Gems and Rocks, Inc.........16, 34

CITY OF DE SOTO Pages

De Soto doubles in size overnight!.............................17 Economic Development ..............................................17-19 City Directory / De Soto Parks & Recreation..........20 HEALTH & FITNESS.................................................... 21 Healthcare .................................................................... 22 Imagine Furever Ranch.............................................. 23, 25 Community Care & Support: Garrett Family....... 24 FOOD Stone Soup Prime Rib Roast....................... 26-27

ORGANIZATIONS

USD 232 School Board District ................................28-29 Celebrations.................................................................. 29 De Soto Organizations............................................... 26-27 Buildings: abbott hall, stone churches..................... 30-31

FAITH

Easter: the stone was rolled away.......................... 32-33

PUBLIC SAFETY

NWCFD 2021 Year in Review.............................. 34-35 Discovering De Soto is printed and distributed to De Soto residents and businesses throughout De Soto through funding from the City of De Soto.

Additional distribution in portions of Lenexa, Olathe, Linwood and Shawnee.

Independently owned and published by RMB Prints & Design, LLC. Published Quarterly Printed by Allen Press Lawrence, Kansas Online publications https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto 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. 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. Publisher/Editor reserves the right on final editing of all content herein, including acceptance of submissions, editorial and advertising.

Back in the 60’s, my neighborhood kids and I would play at “The Big Rock” at the end of Tiverton Lane. This huge rock was the entryway to our own imaginative playground. It consisted of dirt mounds that we rode our bikes on. We pretended dinosaurs lived there, found fossils, and made discoveries each day as we played for hours. Interesting that I still remember those days of childhood filled with unstructured play.

In this issue, we look at the Native Rock in De Soto, surrounding parks and nearby day trips. This issue has been on my mind for several years, and was inspired by the cover photo. Amidst the golden Kansas prairies are the rustic native limestone rock.

And how good it is to focus on solid, stable rock during these continued COVID times. Enjoy the issue!

Discovering

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Sincerely, Rose Burgweger Discovering De Soto publisher/editor

De Soto, Kansas and Western Johnson County

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Native Rock Martin Marietta Sunflower Quarry Stone Posts at Kill Creek Farm Local Parks & Buildings

Food • Health & Wellness • Faith • Congratulations • Local Residents • Organizations De Soto City Pages • NWCFD Year in Review • Business News • and more...

Cover photo and design

by RMB prints & design, llc Konza Prairie Nature Trail Manhattan, Kansas

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

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

For editorial submissions and advertising information, contact

Discovering De Soto by email: RMBprints@icloud.com

∂

Blake Bradford Graphic Designer Assistant Katherine Diaz, Kris Meyer, Sheri Leffert Contributing Writers Pam Ebert Administrative Assistance Ashton DelVecchio, Helen Ash Copy Editors

∂

Special Thanks to The City of De Soto for Funding Printing & Distribution

City Pages written/designed by Whitney Lange

∂

Printed copies are available at these area locations: De Soto Harps Foods Steve’s Meat Market Downtown De Soto look for our bin Lenexa Suburban Lawn & Garden Shawnee Price Chopper courtesy of The Kansas City Star Earl May Country Club Cafe Sign up for free online subscription at RMBPrints@icloud.com All issues available online: https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto Like us on facebook https://www.facebook.com/DiscoveringDeSoto

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P H A S E

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Exceed your Expectations v Highly-Rated USD 232 School District Charming local Businesses to shop and dine v Nearby Parks & Aquatic Center Desirable Cul-de-Sac, Corner, Daylight and Walk-out Home Sites Affordable HOA Dues v Homes in the low $400’s

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5

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Native Rock 2022

StoneHouse

Nestled in Downtown De Soto on 83rd Street stands a little stone house that has been newly-refaced, giving it added character and charm. The stone project began a couple of years ago and is now close to completion. Owner Terry Childer is a stone mason by trade and shares his expertise about his personal home project.

Native Kansas rock was retrieved from various areas in Johnson County and used for 80% of the facing. “The actual limestone rocks are meticulously shaped and reformed by hammering them out,” informed Terry. “Corners are even more time consuming, since they have two faces on each side.”

20% of Dover Gray prefabricated limestone was mixed into the wall as a timesaving measure, as it does not have to be shaped.

In addition to carving out the rock face, there is also the skill of rock placement. Arranging the rocks, one wants to keep the stone wall balanced in color and texture. It can be somewhat of a puzzle fitting together the various rock sizes in an aesthetically pleasing manner. As one works with stone, you will begin to get a “feel” for working with these raw materials. Masonry mortar is placed in between stones to adhere them to the wall.

(Dry stacking, with no mortar in between rocks, is another method also used.)

Terry has also added various stones shown above that protrude out of the wall for depth and functionality.

Additional details include the “star” shown at left in the peak of the house that displays a fossil in the center. Each of the star points were hand carved.

Look closely and you will find there are rich details, with arched window wells and a doorway with a center stone. Terry will place two stones under the arch completing the entryway shown at right. He expects to complete his stone house this summer with added accents and landscape enhancements.

“Alot of guys I grew up with in De Soto were bricklayers and did stonework and masonry,” shared Terry, who has lived in De Soto for most of his life and attended De Soto schools.

He has done stonework throughout his life and has worked on many homes in the community.

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Looking back at the home’s rich history, Terry recollects, “It’s been in this location, since the 1900’s when it was built as a Sears Roebuck prefab house,” so he’s been told. At one time the home was the area telephone office. Dave and Gladys Plummer lived in the home, while they ran the pool hall next door.

The black and white photo of the home is dated 1975. shown above

courtesy of the De Soto Historical Society

Since 2008, Terry has been in the house and has been the caretaker of the property. The home originally was made of cedar, but thinking it was too much of a fire hazard, he put siding on the house years ago. With his expertise as a stone mason, he used his skills to transform the home again. Now it truly captures the rich history of the area with native rock and adds to the historic downtown area.

Terry does not have a phone, so you’ll have to catch him outside this spring to pay your compliments to his fine stonework. Look for the final touch of a weather vane with a rooster that will stand on the upper ledge under the star.

–Interview with Terry Childer,

by Rose Burgweger, publisher/editor Shown below is the entrance to Cedar Ridge West Subdivision in De Soto, done by local resident Terry Childer. This stone piece uses the dry stack method, with no mortar in between the stones.

RESIDENTIAL I RURAL I COMMERCIAL I RECYCLING

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Treating your property like a real “Estate”

Real Estate Consultant | Platinum Realty Residential - Investment - Recreational Properties MarchJune March March c: 913.221.3729 cell 913.221.3729 Su Mo Mo Tu We We We Th Su Su Tu Su Mo Mo Tu Tu We We Th Th Fr Fr Sa Sa Su Su Mo Mo Tu Tu We Th o: 888.220.0988office 888.220.0988 1 2 3 4 5 11 22 133 66davjd-williams 77 88 99 10 557 668 779 10 88 6 w: movewithplatinum.com/ 10 11 11 12 12 email dwilliams@movewithplatinum.com 13 12 14 13 15 14 16 15 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 14 15 16 17 l: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dndwilliams20 21 22 23 24 website 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 19 20 21 22 27 26 28 27 29 28 30 29 31 e: dwilliams@movewithplatinum.com 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31 https://www.movewithplatinum.com/davidwilliams

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Ready to Buy or Sell?

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/dndwilliams

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Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Shown below is an active pit, currently being mined at Sunflower Quarry by Martin Marietta. It gives a great view of the various layers of limestone, one of the most common rocks in Kansas. Limestone is used as a construction material for buildings, cement and asphalt.

Sunflower Quarry 34135 West 95th Street De Soto, Kansas 66018 (913) 583-3311 Products: Aggregates https://www.martinmarietta.com/ locations/central/kansas-city-district/sunflower-quarry Martin Marietta is an aggregates-led company that also offers cement, ready mixed concrete, and a broad array of construction materials. It is an American-based corporation with over 500 locations throughout the United States, Canada and the Bahamas.

American-Marietta Corporation merged with the Glenn L. Martin Company in 1961 and created the Martin Marietta Corporation.

Martin Marietta Materials became a separate entity in 1996 and is a member of the S&P 500 Index.

Martin Marietta entered into a lease with property landowners of Sunflower Quarry in De Soto, Kansas, on January 1, 2005.

Located off 95th Street, just east of Lexington Avenue, a mile-long gravel road brings you back to the entrance of Sunflower Quarry. Tucked away on 800 acres, the quarry is filled with various stockpiles of rock, enormous trucks and currently, two mining pits. It is a busy, bustling area.

During a warm December afternoon last year, I was given an on-site tour of the local quarry. As I was driven through various areas, I was able to view the processing and stockpile sites of the quarry.

It was a fascinating field trip, learning about the aggregates world. Enjoy the tour and learn about quarry production through these pages. Thanks to Martin Marietta for giving me the opportunity to share with our readers about our local Sunflower Quarry.

–photography and article by Rose M. Burgweger Discovering De Soto editor/publisher

Soil is first removed and relocated on the property.

It will be reused to reclaim the land to fill in slopes and banks.

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Native Rock

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Above the ledges of rock, dirt is removed by stripping crews who take the topsoil off and transport it to another area, where it will be used for reclamation.

As the pit is mined, ledges of golden yellow and rocky gray limestone are revealed. Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed of the mineral calcite (calcium carbonate).

Formed by marine sediment, it has been buried and compressed into rock through many years.

There are currently two active pits in the Sunflower Quarry.

Shown, are various colors of rock ledges that can be 20 feet thick. The depth of the pit goes down 75 feet.

The top layer, with its yellow coloring, is more weathered and is used for commercial purposes.

Shale is found throughout the remaining layers of the pit, is mainly unusable, and serves as backfilling in the pit.

The remaining majority of the rock is loaded on super-sized haul trucks, that carry 60 tons per load to the processing area in the quarry.

“We extract rock from the pits as approved by the Johnson County Conditional Use Permit,” clarified James Nicholson, senior environmental engineer with Martin Marietta. “The entire operation is monitored closely by Johnson County, the State of Kansas, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA).”

As a pit is mined, there is concurrent reclamation with shale “filling as you go.” About 50% of materials are extracted, and 50% will go back as reclamation. The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) governs mines for reclamation.

Approximately 73 acres have been reclaimed to KDA specifications, inspected and released from bond. Several more acres have been reclaimed and are awaiting the required growing seasons to apply for bond release. continued on page 10

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Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E continued from page 9

Drilling is done to prepare open holes for explosives. Shown at left are small mounds of dust from the drilling preparation for explosives. These holes are 22 feet deep.

Explosives are contracted by an independent explosives company. After the pit is cleared, they load the holes with explosives and “shoot the shot,” safely detonating the materials in a controlled explosion (without the use of dynamite).

Blasting restrictions are set by the Johnson County Conditional Use Permit (CPU). Blasting is permitted five days a week, but occurs, on average, one or two times a week at 2 pm.

Once the “shot” is clear, loading equipment will come into the area.

Shown above, the complex processing area with crushers, screens and conveyor belts move rock throughout the system.

The mined rock is processed in various sizes for multiple uses.

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Native Rock

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Loading begins and enormous haul trucks are filled with 60 tons of rock on each load. shown above These heavy loads of rock are safely transported throughout the quarry. All roadways are bermed for safety. shown at right Processing begins at the upper section of the processing plant, where trucks arrive to unload mined rock. shown at left There are four crushers and five different screens in the processing area. About 600 tons of rock an hour are crushed in the primary crusher. The ultimate size of the product is determined by which screen the rocks go through. Rock size determines if they will be used for asphalt, concrete or road base materials.

A complex electrical wiring system powers each of the belts in the processing area. shown at right After rocks are processed, they are loaded and transported to stockpile areas located in the quarry for storage. Rock is then loaded onto customer trucks and hauled to job sites, and/or used as ingredients for ready mix concrete or asphalt.

Shown above is stockpile 819, which stores 1/2” rock used for asphalt.

Asphalt plants will use the raw rock ingredients to make asphalt.

Aggregates are an engineered granular material consisting of crushed stone, gravel, and sand of varying mineralogies.

Below are types of stockpiles for Sunflower Quarry: 965 Fine Product Screenings 535 Commercial Road Rock / Residential Driveway 1” with fine dust that aids in compaction 467 1 1/2” Concrete 819 1/2” Asphalt Road Use

Sunflower Quarry is part of the Central Division of Martin Marietta, in the Kansas City District. Much thanks to the following individuals and their assistance for this feature: Matt Rosenthal, vice president-general manager, Kansas City District Franklin Downs, plant manager, Sunflower Quarry Tony Flohrschutz, assistant plant manager, Sunflower Quarry James Nicholson, senior environmental engineer, Central Division

Facility offices located at 34135 West 95th Street, De Soto Residential Customers (913) 583-3311 Commercial Customers (913) 228-4281 Andy Jones, sales representative Hours of Operation Monday-Friday 7 am to 5 pm Deliveries available through contracted trucking companies.

Shown above, stockpile trucks are filled with processed rock and transported to specific stockpiles in the quarry.

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Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Native Rock nearby parks

Native Rock

Article compiled by Pam Ebert Photography by Rose M. Burgweger (unless otherwise indicated).

There are plenty of rustic parks to explore in and near the De Soto area that provide local hiking along many scenic views. Shown above is a rock stairway at nearby Ernie Miller Nature Center. Prior to the limestone rock, there were railroad ties that led you up the path. Many trails are found throughout the 116-acre park.

Online trail map: https://www.jcprd.com/DocumentCenter/View/1004/ Ernie-Miller-Park-Map-PDF?bidId Located at 909 N. Highway 7 in Olathe.

Open year-round. Bicycles and pets are not allowed. https://www.jcprd.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/Ernie-Miller-Park-12 The stone wall shown at left is located within the Legacy Garden at the Overland Park Arboretum. The exhibit displays bands of light and dark cobblestone in a wire mesh, portraying waves of water. The memorial titled “Josh’s Story Garden” was created in 2016. Grandparents Carol and Jim Burrows financed the memorial.

They collaborated with Overland Park landscape architects Robert Whitman and Michael Burton, creating this serene “living room space” with tables and embedded quotes. An abundance of florals and pathways are found throughout the 300-acre arboretum located at 8909 W. 179th Street in Overland Park. https://www.opkansas.org/recreation-fun/arboretum-botanical-gardens/ The common rock wall shown at left can be found at Lexington Lake Park.

It was created by early pioneers as fences to keep cows within boundaries.

The half-mile long rock wall is east of the dam, on the park’s north side. Many enjoy the scenic walk around Lexington Lake, but there are also additional trails to explore. View maps online: https://www.jcprd.com/DocumentCenter/View/ 16317/Lexington-Lake-Park-Map-PDF?bidId There are nine miles of mountain bike/hiking trails and a 1.6 mile paved multi-use trail around the lake. The 465-acre park is located at 9000 Sunflower Road in De Soto. https://www.jcprd.com/ Facilities/Facility/Details/Lexington-Lake-Park-39 The rustic rocks shown below are found at Wilder Park Bluff, located in Western Shawnee at 24200 West 55th Street. The park opened last summer in 2021. Plenty of rock was used in the decor of this park with a buffet ledge in the shelter and a fun interactive Splash Pad shown bottom right that is open during the summer season. There is plenty for kids of all ages to also enjoy in the Tree Canopy Playground, with the Hillside Slide and circular swings. De Soto business ABcreative was the innovative playground creator. (See Discovering De Soto Get Out & Play, pages 6-7, https://issuu.com/discoveringdesoto/docs/discovering_de_ soto-summer_2021_online) The park also has a 1.38 mile trail, natural grasses, a patio overlook and shelter. The City of Shawnee Parks and Pipes sales tax funded the project. cityofshawnee.org/wilderbluff

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897-acre Kill Creek Park at 11670 Homestead Lane in Olathe has over 12 miles of hiking, mountain bike, and equestrian trails and 1.5 miles of paved, shared use trails. You can also hike up the 58-foot high Russell and Helen Means Observation Tower (elevator available). Picnic shelters, swimming beach and marina are open during the summer. https://www.jcprd.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/ Kill-Creek-Park-28 photo courtesy of City of Shawnee Parks

photo courtesy alltrails.com

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022 Interesting rocks shown at right can be found along trails at Hollis Renewal Center located north of Edwardsville. Explore trails and bridges, and stay overnight in “tiny cabins.”

Lodge and cottages also available for families and/or groups. Open dawn to dusk.

Trail map on website: https://www.holliscenter.org

TriCentury Bank Stands Strong for You!

Wide open spaces are found along the Konza Prairie Trails shown above, which is located near Manhattan, Kansas. Three trails of varying lengths (2.6, 4.6, 6.2) wind through lowland forest areas, cross Kings Creek and climb over ancient limestone ledges into the native tallgrass prairie. A moderate walk with some steep climbs bring you great views of the Flint Hills and Kansas River Valley. Dogs and bikes are not allowed on trails.

Located in the Konza Prairie Biological Station, the preserve is owned by The Nature Conservancy and Kansas State University. Nature trails are open to the public daily, from dawn to dusk. Note that trails are closed during wet conditions or controlled burning. https://keep.konza.k-state.edu/visit/ Educational materials: https://radermikaela.wixsite.com/keepvirtualfieldtrip Photo shown above courtesy of All Trails. The group provides detailed trail maps and reviews worldwide.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/kansas/konza-prairie-nature-trail-loop

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Bird Seed & Bird Feeders

Pet & Livestock Feed

_

“Your Hometown Bank” Headquartered locally in De Soto– Staying 127 Years Strong Throughout Challenging Times!

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

Use your home’s equity and get a competitive rate!

No annual fee!

A variety of accounts for all your personal, family and business needs.

We look forward to providing your banking services!

www.TriCentury.Bank

& Vegetable Plants _ __Flowers available early May

_

Garden Gifts _ Mulch & Soil

Fertilizer Refill Propane Bottles Locally Owned & Operated for 15 Years

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

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

33485 Lexington Avenue in De Soto Phone 913-583-3222 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 13

Discovering De Soto S P E C I A L F E A T U R E

Discover the natural beauty of Kansas along The Native Stone Scenic Byway online or experience the scenic 75-mile route by following highways K-188, K-18, K-4 and K-99. View the video for a panoramic view of the byway, highlighting rock formations and the limestone that has been the building blocks for many historical buildings and landmarks along its route. https://www.travelks.com/things-to-do/byways-and-highways/byways/native-stone/

Native Rock day trips

Photography by Rose M. Burgweger Rock Illustrations Blake Bradford

Little Jerusalem shown below can be found in Western Kansas, between Scott City and Oakley. You’ll be amazed that you really are still in Kansas with these large Niobrara Chalk formations that stretch a mile long with 100-foot spires and cliffs. The soft limestone pyramids and grass/dirt trails do have plenty of wildlife in this remote area: bats, hawks, snakes, toads, and lizards; along with unique plants. Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park was designated as a state park in 2018 and the 332-acre area is owned by The Nature Conservancy. https://www.travelks.com/things-to-do/parks-and-nature/scenic-areas/little-jerusalem/

The Barn at Kill Creek Farm 9200 Kill Creek Road, De Soto, Kansas (913) 535-4092 http://TheBarnatKillCreekFarm.org Shown above: Post Rocks provide a rich, historical Kansas

Monument Rocks National Landmark shown below is in nearby Oakley, Kansas.

You can get up close to these 50-foot Niobrara Chalk formations for some great photos. There are no services at the site, and the road is impassable in inclement weather. The landmark is on private land. Please respect the land. There is no camping and no climbing. https://www.travelks.com/listing/monument-rocks-national-landmark/2886/ Stay over in Oakley (https://www.visitoakleyks.com/lodging) and enjoy Sunshine Bakery for breakfast–an incredible local bakery and coffee shop.

3502 Hwy 40, Oakley, Kansas Open Tuesday-Friday 7am-10:30am Saturday til 11am

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Native Rock

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

The Barn Post Rocks

landmark at The Barn at Kill Creek Farm located in De Soto, Kansas.

Top of the Rock excavations shown below are located in nearby Branson, Missouri. The rock formations can be viewed at Johnny Morris’ Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge. View Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave on an electric cart and view plenty of rock formations, waterfalls and views of Table Rock Lake.

There’s plenty to do for a weekend or week at the resort.

Visit online for a glimpse of this beautiful and scenic area. https://bigcedar.com/attractions/top-of-the-rock/

The Barn at Kill Creek Farm is home to a host of native rocks called Post Rocks–an identifying feature of the Kansas post-rock area landscape. The limestone fenceposts at The Barn serve as a natural barrier around The Barn’s scenic landscape, separating the parking lot from the outdoor event space. The Post Rock fenceposts at The Barn were purchased in 2018 by board member and former owner Darrel Zimmerman. The idea to purchase Post Rock fenceposts stemmed from his fascination and collection of antique barbed wire.

According to Darrel, “The two just go hand in hand.”

The Post Rock fenceposts separating The Barn from the living quarters on the farm are strung with many different types of antique barb wire from Darrel’s collection. From flat ribbon barb wire to torn ribbon barb wire, to Crandal’s Ric Rac (the most dangerous type of barb wire), each fence post bears wire markings and oxidation from the previous landscapes where these native Post Rock fenceposts were once contained.

Books have been written about the history, origins, and people of “The Land of the Post Rock”–a nearly two-hundred-mile stretch of land covering more than three million acres. From east to west, the boundaries begin a few miles north of Dodge City, running clear up to the middle of the Kansas/Nebraska border. In the 1800s, early Kansas settlers didn’t have access to timber, so they relied on the native limestone to forge fenceposts for their properties. With their distinctive caramel stripe and chalky beige coloring, limestone fence posts have become an identifying and incredible natural feature of the north-central Kansas landscape.

The Post Rock at The Barn was purchased from a rock quarry in Alma, Kansas, using donated funds from a local benefactor, friend, and avid supporter of The Barn. Darrel was able to purchase enough Post Rock to complete the fencing project. He worked with his son, Barry, and De Soto resident Dean Wall to dig holes with Dean’s power auger. Placing the rocks approximately one-and-a-half feet in the ground was no small feat–as most of The Barn’s Post Rocks weighed around 350-400 pounds!

Walking the line of Post Rock fenceposts at The Barn, one can spot a clamshell print or other marine fossils bore into the ashen limestone–relics from an ancient past.

The Post Rock is also marked by manmade features–from drill holes made by the feather-and-wedge quarrying process used by the pioneer settlers, to markings made by barbed wire etched into the rock by farmers and their livestock. Each Post Rock tells a unique story and proves the resourcefulness of the early settlers.

Their innovative use of local limestone complements the natural scene of the Kansas prairie.

–written by Kris Meyer, contributing writer

Learn more about Post Rocks:

The Post Rock Museum 202 West 1st Street La Crosse, Kansas http://www.rushcounty.org/PostRockMuseum/index.html

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Discovering De Soto

Local Residents Business Feature Krause Gems and Rocks, Inc.

BUSINESS NEWS De Soto Chamber of Commerce

The annual De Soto Chamber Membership Dinner has been moved to Friday, March 25, 2022. The event will continue to be held at Cedar Valley Forest, 29145 West 83rd Street in De Soto.

The event will begin at 6 pm with a social hour, followed by dinner.

A silent auction and wine pull will be held. Enjoy live entertainment by comedian Scott Long.

RSVP Katy Fallon email kfallon@desotoks.org phone 913-583-1585 Chamber Monthly Membership Luncheons Held the second Thursday of each month at 11:30 am.

Enjoy lunch, a guest speaker and networking with fellow members.

Upcoming Luncheon Dates: March 10 April 14 May 12 Learn more about the De Soto Chamber of Commerce at: https://www.desotoks.org/

Jena Boom

The boutique in downtown De Soto has closed its doors at 33080 West 83rd Street. Owner Leslie McNamara will continue the business online, as it was prior to opening the downtown shop.

Visit Jena Boom’s website at: https://jenaboom.com/ and facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JenaBoom/

O’Reilly Auto Parts

Building construction has been completed, with product inventories in progress. O’Reilly Auto Parts store, located at 34009 West 91st Street in De Soto, is now expected to open this spring. O’Reilly Auto Parts is headquartered in Springfield, Missouri.

Advantage Termite & Pest Control

Advantage Termite & Pest Control is currently hiring pest control and wildlife technicians. All of our highly trained technicians are uniformed, licensed and background checked.

For more information, online applications are available at: https://www.advantagetpc.com/careers/

Business news continued on page 34

Professional Pest Control Termite Control Wildlife Removal

913-768-8989

Family Owned & Operated in De Soto Serving Residential and Commercial

34105 Commerce Drive De Soto

www.advantagetpc.com

#1 Rated Kansas City Termite & Pest Control Company 16

Based in De Soto, Krause Gems and Rocks, Inc. is a small business with national reach and is run by local residents, husband and wife, Doug and Karla Krause.

Krause Gems and Rocks, Inc. sells wholesale products such as various sizes of flats of peacock ore, amethyst, quartz, smoky quartz and large rock specimens, including geodes and jewelry.

These products are sold to various nature parks, state park visitor centers, and museum and cavern gift shops. Ernie Miller Nature Center and the Lawrence Nature Center are local clients.

Doug and Karla began their business in 2018 after deciding this was what they wanted to do together after retirement. “Our neighbors owned this business (with a different name) for over 36 years and were retiring,” shared Karla.

“They asked us if we might be interested in taking it over, as they had a great clientele established.” At the time, they were hesitant about the time required as they both work full-time, and declined their offer, However, a few months later, Doug and Karla decided to take a leap of faith and bought the business.

Initially, the couple traveled to visit clients and attended Gem and Mineral Shows. When the pandemic hit in 2020, traveling was put on hold.

“Like other businesses, the pandemic decreased our sales,” they said. Fortunately though, Doug and Karla have maintained business with the established clients and have even grown their clientele.

Browse their unique and interesting rock collections online. Interested parties can contact Doug and Karla through their website: https://www.krausegemsandrocks.com or email: krausegemsandrocks@gmail.com

–written by Katherine Diaz, contributing writer

Concrete blocks shown below are found along 83rd Street on the east side of De Soto. These oversized blocks create a berm along roadways. They are made with overruns from concrete jobs and sold to various entities.

Volume 6 Issue 1 S pring 20 22

C ity P u bl i cat i on

www. des ot oks.us

I N T H IS I S S U E: Economic Development..................17-19 City Directory.....................................20 Parks & Recreation.............................20

C I T Y M E E T I N G S: City Council Meetings First and Third Thursdays @ 7pm

DE SOTO DOUBLES IN SIZE OVERNIGHT Disclaimer: After approval of the TIF, Kansas statue gives authority of inter-jurisdictional veto to the Board of Eduction and Board of County Commissioners for 30 days. The veto period ends February 19th; at the time of printing, neither entity had issued a veto.

In November of 2021, the De Soto City Council unanimously voted to annex approximately 6,375* acres of land (almost 10 square miles), including a 6,000-acre portion of the 9,000-acre property formerly known as the Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant. Prior to the annexation, De Soto was approximately 7,400 acres; the new land brings the total acreage to around 13,775.

City Planning Commission Fourth Tuesdays @ 6pm Municipal Court Second and Fourth Mondays @ 6pm City Council and Planning Commission Agendas/ Minutes can be found on the City website: www.desotoks.us/AgendaCenter

C O N N E CT W IT H U S : 32905 West 84th Street PO Box C De Soto, Kansas 66018 913-583-1182 913-583-3123 (fax) www.desotoks.us ANNEXATION MAP 6,375 ACRES ON 11/18/2021 Along with the annexation, City Council approved a predevelopment agreement with the Sunflower Development Group (SRL) who currently owns the former ammunition plant.

W h a t is a n ne x a t ion?

It is the legal process of bringing property into city limits and is one of the primary means by which cities grow - both in actual size and, if tenanted, population. It ensures that future residents and business owners of this land, who benefit from City services and facilities, actually share the existing tax burden associated with those services.

Although the Sunflower Ammunition Plant has been intertwined with De Soto's history for many generations, it was located in unincorporated Johnson County, not within the city limits De Soto.

W h at a r e th e oth e r 37 5 acr e s t h a t wer e a nn ex ed?

Along with the annexation of 6,000 acres of the Sunflower property, the City annexed land at the northwest corner of 103rd Street and Edgerton Road.

The agreement outlines good-faith intent on the part of the City and SRL to form a Tax Increment Financing District (TIF) encompassing all 6,000 acres of the ammunition plant lying north of 127th Street.

Tax Increment Financing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is, at its core, a financial tool used by local governments to help fund economic development in deteriorating, blighted, or distressed areas; there are only certain scenarios, properties, and developments that can be funded by a TIF, and without its creation, economic development would not and could not take place.

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MISSION STATEMENT

“The City of De Soto delivers big adventure and lifelong opportunities to its’ residents. Civic and collaboration are hallmarks of our welcoming city where responsible growth is a goal, a responsive, accountable, and works in the best interest of the people."

W h a t is Bl ight & how is Sun f lowe r bl igh te d?

A blighted area is an area that has...

Substantial number of deteriorated or deteriorating structures: 125 buildings on the Sunflower property, comprising of 453,511 square feet, are in poor or collapsed condition Defective or inadequate street layout: 70 miles of roads, built to support the ammunition plant, are unusable Unsanitary or unsafe conditions: Of the 427 standing structures, 306 contain asbestos-containing materials and many are not structurally safe to enter

tax and distributing it to all the taxing entities, the increment is used to pay for blight remediation and infrastructure needed to make the land ready for redevelopment.

W h a t i s a TIF Dis tr ict?

Established by City ordinance, a TIF District is the boundary in which the tax increment financing takes place.

All landowners in a TIF district pay taxes based on the value of their property, just like how residential homes have taxes that are based on what the property is worth. In a TIF district, the base value of properties are frozen for a period of time. During this time, the base tax revenue from the property stays the same and goes to all the usual entities (i.e. schools, parks).

As development occurs in the district, the property value rises, and the property owner pays more in taxes. The incremental increase in property tax obligation is the "increment" part of TIF and is where TIF proceeds are created. Instead of collecting the

SUNFLOWER AMMUNITION PLANT The TIF is a refund system; when the developer cleans up blight or builds TIF-qualifying infrastructure (streets, sewers), they get reimbursed from the fund, which they can now use for more cleanup and infrastructure.

An important consideration when forming a TIF is the principal that the blighted property will remain blighted, will never be cleaned up and will therefore never redevelop unless an economic incentive is provided.

Incremental TIF revenues would therefore never occur.

Local taxing entities don't "lose out" because the additional property tax would never haven been collected in the first place.

Initially, large-scale light industrial development is contemplated for about 1,000 acres of the Sunflower property in the northeast portions of the site. This development is expected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in TIF-increment revenues and funding that will be used for the extension of public infrastructure to serve initial phases of development and blight remediation on the remainder of the 6,000 acre TIF area.

City Administrator Mike Brungardt explains, “The economic incentives package is vital to facilitate the complete remediation of the land and prepare it for

SUNFLOWER AMMUNITION PLANT

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c pride, inclusiveness, and government is

redevelopment. The ultimate benefit this brings to the community will be to finally complete the cleanup and return the former ammunition plant to productive use. In the current economic development climate, there is real near-term potential for hundreds of millions of dollars in private investment that could generate thousands of jobs for the region. De Soto is poised to become the next economic engine of Johnson County.”

The TIF was approved by City Council during the January 20, 2022, meeting.

toxic pollutants, Sunflower Development removes blighted structures, and new infrastructure is developed, more of the TIF district will become available for development. The Army's portion of cleanup is expected to continue through 2026.

To help offset more than $105 million in environmental cleanup costs, like the demolition of dilapidated structures and removal of asbestos, the TIF allows Sunflower Development to use a portion of the money for environmental remediation.

THE FUTURE Mayor Rick Walker says, “The former army ammunition plant is historically and culturally tied to the City of De Soto; while in operations, it drew people from around the country and truly made De Soto prosper. Taking this step and making the investment to incorporate the SRL property into the limits of the city is something the community has wanted for years, and I’m honored to be delivering on the decades-long vision of reviving the land into something even more prosperous.”

Rezoning

SUNFLOWER AMMUNITION PLANT

The agreement also indicates the City's intent to rezone the 1,000-acre northeastern portion of the property from Johnson County's RUR (Rural) to De Soto's M1 (Light Industrial). The 1,000 acres are ready for development and will likely include millions of square feet of industrial and manufacturing facilities.

This initial economic development activity could remake the former plant into what it once was: a catalyst that brings jobs, homes, hotels, restaurants, and prosperity for De Soto and the surrounding region.

The remainder of the 6,000 acres still has remediation work to be done before it will be ready to develop. As the Army cleans up the

CITY OF DE SOTO

W i l l t a x pa yers be "on the h ook" f or t h e c l e a n u p of Sun f lowe r ?

No! The U.S. Army is required to clean up dangerous materials at the plant; all other remediation is the responsibility of the owner, SRL.

Will the TIF In c r ea se r es i den t t a xe s ?

The TIF district will not increase resident taxes. TIFs benefit residents' taxes due to the diversification of De Soto's tax base. Currently, most City funding comes from residents, but with increased business activity, less residential property taxes are required to provide essential services.

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MAYOR Rick Walker 913-375-7729 Cell

City Hall Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm

CITY ADMINISTRATOR/ENGINEER Mike Brungardt, P.E. 913-586-5253 Direct 785-764- 8737 Cell CITY ATTORNEY Patrick G. Reavey 913-586-5299 Direct 816-474- 6300 Office CITY CLERK / ASSISTANT TO THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR Brandon Mills 913-586-5250 CITY BUILDING OFFICIAL Cameron Maughmer 913-210-9186 Cell CITY BUILDING INSPECTOR Dale Hamilton 913-274-8259 Cell CITY CODES & CIP INSPECTOR Walter Gardenhire 913-586-5263 Direct 913-940-8552 Cell CITY COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Whitney Lange 913-586-5255 CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Lori Murdock 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 CITY FINANCE OFFICER Bonnie Bennett 913-586- 5262 CITY PLANNER Brad Weisenburger 913-586-5286 Direct MUNICIPAL COURT CLERK Erika Carrillo 913-586-5290 PARK & RECREATION DIRECTOR Jay Garvin 913-586-5280 Direct 913-544-8073 Cell AQUATICS & RECREATION MANAGER Justin Huslig 913-586-5281 Direct BUILDING MAINTENANCE Nate Johnson 913-626-6567 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 Justin Milburn 913-530-1397 Cell John Shultz 913-585-3511 Home Roger Templin 913-583-3183 Home STREET SUPERINTENDENT Ron Creason 913-238- 0437 Cell City Shop 913-586-5257 UTILITIES 913-583-1182 Nancy Steele x112, Erika Carrillo x122 WATER/SEWER SUPERINTENDENT Doug Smith 913-238- 0434 Wastewater Plant 913-585-9956 WATER DEPARTMENT Water Plant 913-669-6359 MUNICIPAL COURT 913-586-5290 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 9am-11am 12:30pm-4:30pm Sat 9am-noon

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DE SOTO PARKS & RECREATION www.desotoks.us/151/Parks-Recreation RE GI ST RA TIO N OPT IO NS:

In-person: De Soto City Hall 32905 West 84th St. Online: https: //bit.ly/DeSotoParksActivities Mail In: PO Box C, De Soto, KS 66018 After Hours Drop Box: 32905 West 84th Street 2 02 2 S PRI NG Y OUT H A CT IV I TIES

Youth T-Ball Ages: 5 thru 6 | Fee: $50 Registration Deadline: March 4, 2022

Youth Baseball Ages: 6 thru 15 | Fee: $75 Registration Deadline: March 4, 2022

Youth Softball Ages: 6 thru 15 | Fee: $75 Registration Deadline: March 4, 2022

Youth Blastball Ages: 4 thru 5| Fee: $25 Registration Deadline: May 6, 2022

2 02 2 SPRI NG A D ULT A C TI VI TI E S

Adult Co-Ed Volleyball Fee: $120 per team Registration Deadline: March 11, 2022 Begins: March 21, 2022

2 02 2 A QU A TIC C ENTE R AC TI V ITI ES Dolphin Swim Team Dolphin Swim Academy Swim Lessions

EMP LOY ME NT OP PORT UNIT IE S Lifeguard (De Soto Aquatic Center) Concessions and Front Desk (De Soto Aquatic Center) Managers (De Soto Aquatic Center) Officials (Youth Soccer & Youth Basketball) Umpires (Youth Baseball and Youth Softball) Fitness Instructors

For more information, please contact Justin Huslig at jhuslig@desotoks.us

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

HEALTH & FITNESS

Golf & Fitness Center The Burning Tree rock at the entrance to Burning Tree Golf Course dates back to the original owner and designer, Bob Hill. The course was named when lightning struck a tree in the middle of the course during construction in 2001. https://www.greatlife-burningtree.com

Fitness&Center Open 24/7 Golf Fitness Call pro shop or check Facebook for winter hours.

75% off initiation fees until March 31, 2021 https://www.greatlife-burningtree.com Call 913-301-3000 to set up your membership today!

Membership includes both Golf & Fitness Single $34.99 plus tax Family $44.99plus tax Freshly Circulated Air & Clean Equipment

Fitness Center City Hall Gymnasium 32905 West 84th Street • De Soto Burning Tree Golf 7909 Wyandotte • De Soto Just across the Kansas River Bridge

Membership Rates Include Burning Tree Golf & GreatLife Fitness

Specials & Offers

https://www.jazzercise.com/Offers

TWO LIVE DE SOTO JAZZERCISE LOCATIONS AND ONLINE JAZZERCISE De Soto Community Center•32905 W. 84th St. Jazzercise De Soto CAUSE COFFEE•33180 W. 83rd St.

Class Schedules online https://www.jazzercise.com Call 913-226-4616 or email desotojazzercise@yahoo.com follow us on facebook: Jazzercise DeSoto

If schools are closed due to weather, the 5:30 AM class is cancelled.

Watch facebook for updates on other class times.

Building Bones

According to Google, “Bones provide the structure for our body, which are made up of 206 bones.” Connective tissue, reinforced with calcium and specialized bone cells make up our bones. Our body’s bones include the bones of the skull, spine (vertebrae), ribs, arms and legs. Bones provide shape and support for the body and protect our brain and heart.

Looking further into the anatomy of the bone, John Hopkins states that bone is actually living tissue with the following three types of tissue: • Compact tissue–the harder, outer tissue of bones.

• Cancellous tissue–the sponge-like tissue inside bones.

• Subchondral tissue–at the ends of bones, and covered with cartilage.

Cartilage is the connective tissue in adults, and also the tissue from which most bones develop in children. The tough, thick outer membrane that covers the bones is call the periosteum. Muscles, ligaments and tendons attach to the periosteum.

Beneath the hard outer shell are tunnels and canals through which blood and lymphatic vessels carry nourishment for the bones.

Bone marrow, a spongy tissue found in the center of bones, produces red and white blood cells, moves oxygen through the bloodstream, and assists with blood clotting.

Bones are 60-70% inorganic mineral (calcium and phosphorus), 10% water and organic components (collagen, proteoglycans). 99% of your body’s calcium and 86% of phosphorous is stored in your bones.

Complex and intricately made, bones provide strength and support for the body and are a site for development and storage of blood cells.

To maintain and boost bone density, strive to get 1,000 mg of calcium through diet and supplements. Calcium helps make your bones hard and dense. When your levels are too low, your body takes calcium from your bones. This loss can lead to osteoporosis (brittle bone disease). Calcium-rich foods include yogurt, tofu, baked beans and salmon. Vitamin D helps the body abosorb calcium.

Exercise helps build your muscles, and improves balance and coordination. Weight-bearing activities and resistance exercise (strength training) help make bones more dense. Walking, climbing stairs, push ups, free weights, rowing and resistance bands are some great ways to keep your bones strong.

–health bits compiled by Rose Burgweger Information compiled from the following websites: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/anatomyof-the-bone; https://courses.lumenlearning.com/cuny-csi-ap-1/chapter/ skeletal-levels-of-organization; https://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/ss/ slideshow-boost-bone-health; https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefitsbone-marrow#1

21

Discovering De Soto

Healthcare

A Year to Focus on Health!

As we begin yet another challenging year, COVID continues to loom and the Omicron variant has been especially contagious.

Though the majority of cases are much milder than previous variants, individuals are all affected differently. Masks, vaccines and boosters, and distancing all remain effective measures.

For overall health, Lori Murdock, pharmacist, has always wanted to “help you get healthier.” There are many natural avenues to aid and assist with your general health. Excerpts from the January 2022 Health & Wellness for Life Newsletter follow: Nutrition Focus on healthy foods to boost your immune system, reduce inflammation, help with digestion, give energy to your body and help reduce stress. Change the food you eat, before the foods you eat change you, beyond repair!

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, and fish. These are nutritious foods that not only provide healthy nutrients, but help reverse inflammation in the body.

• Avoid inflammatory foods such as sugars and dairy.

• Find new recipes that allow you to use more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods.

Gut Health About 70% of your immune function relies on the health of your digestive system. Support your digestive tract with good probiotics, nutritious foods, and reduction of inflammatory foods.

Health & Wellness for Life Your Hometown Full-Service Pharmacy

Serving the De Soto Community Since 1992 Full-Service Prescription Care • Delivery Immunization Services • Syncing Medications Pharmacists Lori Murdock, Betsey Gallinger and Caleb Weinhold look forward to assisting You!

Health & Wellness Center

Vitamins • Botanicals • Homeopathic Remedies

Health & Wellness for Life Monthly Seminars 7 pm –8:30 pm Fourth Wednesdays Senior Center

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

Vitamins There are vitamins, minerals, and botanicals that can help prevent damage to the body, support the immune system, reduce effects of stress, and reduce inflammation. Look at adding antioxidants, zinc, vitamin D, and curcumin.

Excercise and Rest Exercise can help reduce stress. When you exercise, endorphins are produced and help you to feel good.

Exercise daily, but don’t overdo it. Too much exercise can be a stress on the body. Choose what is best for you.

Sleep is needed to heal your system. Getting a good night’s sleep is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. Avoid caffeine, sweets, and stressful tasks close to bedtime. Also avoid computers, tablets, and phones within two hours of bedtime.

Good exercise and sleep habits will lead to better health for yourself.

2022 Holistic Health Seminars held monthly at 7 pm • February 23 • March 23 • April 27 • May 25 Free Seminars with a variety of topics each month.

Held at the De Soto Senior Center, 32905 West 84th Street.

Individual consultations are also available with Pharmicist Lori Murdock. Phone (913) 583-1117 for more information.

'I Feel Love Through Your Eyes' When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe in early 2020, Samaritan's Purse rushed Emergency Field Hospitals to Cremona, Italy, and to New York City-the European and North American epicenters of the virus-to support local hospitals that were overwhelmed with coronavirus patients. One year later, we remember God1 s faithfulness as we

Kudos to our healthcare workers Shown at right: This photo and text capture the care of many healthcare workers throughout the challenging COVID pandemic.

May we all show love through our eyes and hands.

Reprinted with permission from Samaritan’s Purse, which is a non-denominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/covid-19 -a-look-back/

22

worked to save lives and bring the hope of Christ to sick and suffering people.

In Italy, Francesco was the first person admitted to our intensive care unit for critical patients. Our doctors and nurses provided round-the-clock care as Francesco was placed on a ventilator and fought for his life. Our medical team also surrounded him with prayer...

See How God Answered

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Providing Shelter and a Sanctuary for Pets in a Unique Setting

As the forlorn dog reluctantly enters the building, he is greeted by wagging tails, joyous barks and friendly canine faces welcoming him to his new home. He has arrived at the Imagine Furever Ranch, a senior dog sanctuary in Johnson County, situated on a beautiful four-acre treed tract of land in Western Shawnee.

Todd Mitchell and Kathryn Lask founded the ranch in 2020.

Todd was inspired by his beloved dog Lucy, who went blind in later years and depended on him to care for her. Seeing her struggle motivated him to commit to helping other senior dogs who have given so much joy and unconditional love, but might require more care as they get older. Todd and Kat visited the Always and Furever dog sanctuary in Spring Hill and liked its open concept with couches, chairs and comfy beds in a living room setting rather than individual kennels. They recognized a need for a similar shelter in northern Johnson County. Kat found a perfect location for sale just a few blocks from her house–an old Montessori school property where her son had previously attended. continued on page 25

De Soto requires all dogs and cats to be tagged on a yearly basis. The fee is $10, and tags help locate pet owners.

Form available at City Hall or view and download the application form online: https://www.desotoks.us/ DocumentCenter/View/480/Pet-Tags-PDF

De Soto Veterinary Clinic Dr. Matt Fehr, DVM

Clinic Hours: Monday-Saturday mornings 7:45-12 noon M-T-W-F afternoons 1:30-5:30 Closed Saturday and Sunday

Providing high quality medicine, compassionate care, and super-friendly service • Wellness Exams • Preventative Medicine • Annual Wellness Dentistry • Microchipping

Gro Pet Av omin aila g ble

• Soft Tissue & Orthopedic Surgery • Chiropractic Adjustments • Acupuncture

33900 Lexington Avenue, De Soto (913) 585-1115 desotovetclinic@gmail.com www.desotovetclinic.com

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seniorcare-kansascity.com 23

Discovering De Soto

PEOPLE

Community Care & support

Meet Grant Garrett: an active 6-year-old who loves sports, school, and exploring the great outdoors. Grant was elated to join the kindergarten ranks at Starside Elementary last fall when life as he knew it took a major change. Grant was diagnosed with a rare bone marrow disease called Aplastic Anemia.

Since last fall, his parents, CJ and Samantha have been fighting alongside Grant the battle of their lives.

Aplastic Anemia is a rare bone marrow failure where the marrow fails to produce all three cell lines–red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Essentially, there are no infection fighting cells (white), very few oxygenated cells fueling his body (red), and no ability to clot blood (platelets), causing bleeding and bruising. Due to a lack of red blood cells, Grant tires easily. His organs must work in overdrive, potentially leading to other complications.

Grant has two treatment options: HATG, which is an immunosuppressive therapy (30% effective long-term) or Bone Marrow Treatment (90% effective). To date, Grant’s medical team has located multiple Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) matches in the donor registry. However, a successful transplant entails four donor-matched requirements: an HLA match, an ethnic match (Caucasian), a blood-type match (type-O blood), and a Cytomegalovirus (CMV) negative status. To date, all of Grant’s potential donors were CMV positive. (CMV is a flu-like virus that most people are exposed to at some point in their lives.)

In addition, doctors prefer using matched donor/recipient gender to avoid Graft-vs-host disease.

Finding the perfect donor match has proven exceptionally difficult. Grant’s parents elected to use a 30-year-old male donor in the UK who tested positive for CMV, praying and hoping for the best. Grant had an initial transplant date of December 22, but the transplant was delayed due to the donor contracting Covid. His transplant was rescheduled for January 8 and Grant began a required 7-day chemo regimen. On January 6, the donor donated his bone marrow in the UK. The donor’s marrow was flown to Wisconsin where a medical lab counted the cells and froze the marrow to use immediately following Grant’s chemo. Timing the commencement of chemo and receiving donated marrow is pertinent because fresh cells are preferred. According to Samantha, “After two delays, we opted for frozen cells (which are less effective because cryopreservation kills nearly half the viable cells).”

On January 12, doctors called for “We encourage an emergency stop to his transplant everyone ages 18-35 because according to lab tests at the time of his donation, the donor to join the registry at tested positive for HIV. This turn https://bethematch.org of events has been devastating or you can text for the Garretts. However, the search continues with urgency and the hope ‘GrantStrong’ for new donor candidates for Grant. to 61474” Currently, the Garretts have elected to try immunosuppressive therapy. Whether there is no response at all or Grant reaches remission, he will eventually relapse, requiring ultimately a bone marrow transplant. A new donor is needed soon.

24

Grant Garrett, shown above; The Garrett family, parents CJ and Samantha, with son Grant shown above top; Dad CJ and son Grant, shown at right enjoying outdoor adventures.

“We encourage everyone ages 18-35 to join the registry at https://bethematch.org or by texting ‘GrantStrong’ to 61474,” pleads his mom, Samantha. The community can help by joining the donor registry, encouraging others to join the bone marrow donor registry, and by donating blood to any local blood bank.

A Caucasian male age 18-35 and cmv negative is the perfect candidate. However, a Caucasian female age 18-35 and cmv negative is great as well.

Grant and his parents currently reside in Milwaukee at the Ronald McDonald House Charities. As soon as Grant is too immunocompromised to continue living in a communal environment, they will rent an Airbnb.

Grant is not allowed to do any physically strenuous activities or sports because he is at such high risk of developing internal bleeding. However, Grant enjoys reading, coloring, and will welcome your creative ideas of encouragement.

If anyone would like to send Grant cards, well wishes, or fun activities to keep him busy during this difficult and challenging time, donations are being collected at: Encouraging Grant /

Starside Elementary, 35400 West 91st Street, De Soto, KS 66018

Office hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm on academic days.

Thanks for being a community that cares.

–written by Kris Meyer, contributing writer

Be the Match® is operated by the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). They are a worldwide nonprofit organization dedicated to help every patient get the lifesaving transplant they need. https://bethematch.org

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022 continued from page 23

The 501(c)(3) Senior Dog Rescue and Sanctuary is located on four acres in a parklike setting with plenty of trees. Inside open, couch-filled spaces are sectioned off for large and small dogs. Designed for people to gather together, love on dogs, volunteer and have fun!

Imagine Furever Ranch 20720 West 47th Street Western Shawnee 913-214-2228 https://imaginefureverranch.org

The Bridge Dog Treat Bags available until March 1 Homemade dog treats are available through the USD 232 Bridge Program. Young adults in the program produce and package these delicious dog treats available in two flavors: Peanut Butter Bones and Apple Cinnamon Oat Paws.

Packages of 20-25 dog treats are available for $5 a bag.

Order by email: thebridgedogtreats232@gmail.com The Bridge Program is for ages 18-21 and provides special education services to develop work-based skills.

Soup & Sox

For many years, De Soto Baptist Church has held the annual Souper Bowl event with various annual fundraisers.

This year, there is no soup luncheon (due to COVID), but efforts have been combined into a Soup & Sox fundraiser to benefit an outreach organized by Turner Baptist Church.

Their pastor, Steve Neil, spoke at De Soto Baptist and shared his own story growing up in the Sunflower Village.

The church has a huge outreach to homeless people in the Kansas City area.

De Soto Baptist is collecting new and gently-used sox through the month of February as part of the Turner Baptist outreach to the homeless.

A donation box is located outside the front entrance of De Soto Baptist Church, located at 8655 Copeland Way. Please secure sox together or place in bag.

The property was purchased in August of that year and they began renovating the buildings, adding spacious fenced run areas for the dogs–plus playground equipment, a huge firepit and other amenities for the community. As the project progressed, Kat and Todd put the word out on social media for dog lovers to join their team.

Shelee Brim and Wendy Morris shown below were recently retired teachers from the DeSoto School District looking for volunteer opportunities and eagerly joined the board. Shelee is the Surrender Coordinator and connects with people who need to give up their older dog for various reasons. The ranch also accepts dogs from other shelters. Most dogs are brought to the ranch, but Shelee also has “freedom drivers” to transport dogs if necessary from as far away as St. Louis and Oklahoma. Wendy is the Adoption Coordinator and helps interested people find the best pet fit for them. The goal is to find forever homes for all the senior dogs, but those that don’t get adopted can live out the rest of their lives in comfort and love at the ranch.

Imagine Furever Ranch officially opened its doors on August 27, 2021. As a non-profit organization, it relies on a completely volunteer staff to take care of the dogs and the property. The ranch also has a fostering program where volunteers can keep a dog at their home until they get adopted. Volunteer forms, participation waivers, orientation videos and fostering and adoption forms are all found on their website. The ranch also welcomes donations of money or unopened canned or dry dog food.

The ranch not only brings joy to the dogs who live there, but also to the volunteers who help out. Debbie Mullikin volunteers on Saturdays. “I’ve always loved dogs, and it’s such a rewarding experience to help homeless dogs find homes,” she said.

As for myself, the two shelter dogs I adopted during the COVID pandemic have provided joy and companionship and brightened my days of isolation as I stayed home more. Dogs have been proven to help people combat depression.1 As Debbie says, “This is a special place for pooches and people. It will change your life. The property is beautiful and peaceful, and when you go inside and are around those sweet dogs, you will just fall in love.”

Plenty of colorful leashes await individuals and families to come and walk dogs for a “doggie outing” around the property.

On average, six to ten dogs live at the ranch Open to the at any given time. Since August, over 75 public Saturdays dogs have come through their doors and most have been adopted. Imagine Furever 10 am to 2 pm Ranch is open to the public Saturdays Volunteer from 10 am to 2 pm, and located at 47th opportunities and Woodland. The grounds are also available for birthday parties, bonfires and are available outdoor gatherings free of charge. For more throughout information about Imagine Furever Ranch, the week visit their website or stop by on a Saturday. https://imaginefureverranch.org

–written by Sheri Leffert, contributing writer

1 https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/pets-depression

25

Discovering De Soto

FOOD

Stone Soup

Perfect Prime Rib Roast

The original book “Stone Soup” was written and illustrated

by Marcia Brown and published by Charles Scribner’s Sons.

It is a retelling of an old French tale of three soldiers who come to a town hungry. They find no one has food for them. They creatively start a pot of “Stone Soup” and eventually the town people begin to also add various food items to the soup.

The town ends up with a feast fit for a king!

The story provides a fun read-along as you make your own tasty soup, with each person and/or child contributing an ingredient and dropping it into a big pot.

There are plentiful versions and suggestions to making your own stone soup when googling “Stone Soup recipes.”

Most have chicken chunks, broth, and plenty of vegetables– potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, beans, etc. Croutons, small red potatoes or tomatoes are good substitutes for the rock.

Season to taste.

Here’s an updated version of the Prime X version, now called the “Food Wish Method” by Chef John.

Rule #1 Leave prime rib out for at least six hours til room temperature.

Rule #2 Use a bone-in prime rib (two ribs is enough for four people).

Flavored Butter: Soft butter, freshly ground pepper and spices (Herbes de Provence) Mix and spread over room temperature prime rib.

Salt generously with kosher salt.

After prime rib is buttered and seasoned, preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Use exact weight of meat x 5 minutes = cooking time at 500 degrees.

Meat goes on the middle rack for the calculated cooking time.

Rule #3 After baking time is complete, turn off oven. DO NOT OPEN OVEN. Leave in the oven for two hours. Meat has been seared and will slowly cook for the remaining two hours.

Remove after two hours and slice. Meat has already rested in the oven.

Remove ribs (save for later). Slice remaining meat into serving slices.

Place onto warmed plates and serve with hot au jus.

Ritter Cigar Company hours: Monday-Friday 1 pm to 8 pm Saturday 11 am to 8 pm Sunday noon to 5 pm Hours were listed incorrectly in our last Holiday issue.

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Grocery Pickup & Same Day Delivery shop.harpsfood.com 26

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End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

Delicious

Prime Rib Roasts For a perfectly pink and delicious prime rib, view a step-by-step video online at: https://stevesmeat.com/shop/prime-rib/ You’ll also find a great collection of additional recipes at: https://stevesmeat.com/the-butchers-blog/

Regular Prices Only

10% OFF Thursdays with Coupon

Sides of beef, sold hogs, turkeys or Specials are not included Expires 6 -15-22

Note that Coach Andy Reid prepares his prime rib in a similar manner. The Kansas City Star originally published the story on January 22, 2021. You can still view the article online at: https://www.kansascity.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/ sam-mellinger/article248610520.html

CUSTOM CUT-TO-ORDER MEAT Monthly Stock-up Specials Deer processing USDA slaughter house

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 8 to 5 Closed Sunday / Monday

32685 Lexington Avenue in De Soto 913-583-1390

Join us for some Good Cheer!

WATCH YOUR FAVORITE TEAMS AT JT’S

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Order online at jtsgrill.com

33255 Lexington Ave

913-585-1116

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

GREAT SELECTIONS & BRANDS Locally Owned for 15 years!

MIKE’S LIQUOR

9160 Lexington Avenue 913-583-1711 Open Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm Fri-Sat 9am-10pm Sunday 11am-8pm

monthly live Bands

Check our Facebook page for updates Home of the

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TAKEOUT AVAILABLE except Taco Tuesdays.

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9150 Lexington Avenue • 913-585-1416 Open Sunday-Thursday 11 to 11 • Friday-Saturday 11 to 2am 27

Discovering De Soto

ORGANIZATIONS

Congratulations

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

USD 232 is ranked #2 “Best School District” in Kansas USD 232 is ranked a Best School District in Kansas as identified

by Niche. The district received an overall grade of A+. The 2022 Best School Districts ranking is based on rigorous analysis of key statistics and millions of reviews from students and parents using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Ranking factors include test scores, college readiness, graduation rates, SAT/ACT scores, teacher quality, public school district ratings, and more.

KINSEY SCHLEICHER Belmont Elementary Grade 3

MEREDITH FACER Clear Creek Elementary Grade 3

JOHNNY LEGATT Starside Elementary Grade 5

AVA TAYLOR Lexington Trails Middle School Grade 8

MTMS teacher named a 2022 Kansas Horizon Award winner

The Kansas State Department of Education named Anna Meissbach, 7th grade Pathways teacher at Monticello Trails Middle School, a 2022 Kansas Horizon Award Winner. Meissbach is the school district’s 19th recipient since 2003.

28

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

USD 232 School District Art Awards

Each school year the USD 232 School District selects students’ artwork to be displayed at the Administration Office in De Soto.

Artwork is selected by art teachers from from the previous school year for each school in the district. Below students and their artwork were recognized at the Board of Education Meeting held November 2021. The artwork collection may be viewed by the public during Administration Office hours located at 35200 West 91st Street, De Soto.

GABE HOWARD Horizon Elementary Grade 4

ALLY PEDLEY Mize Elementary Grade 5

BRIDGET HARBORD Prairie Ridge Elementary Grade 4

HOLLIE CHEN Riverview Elementary Grade 5

EVALYN DILL Mill Creek Middle School Grade 8

MADELYN MULRYAN Monticello Trails Middle School Grade 7

MADELINE JONSCHER De Soto High School 2021 Graduate

KARISSA RHOADS Mill Valley High School 2021 Graduate

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Erik William Bjerrum Mentes of Lyndonville, Vermont, and Rhiannon Nicole Caldwell of De Soto, were united in marriage on October 13, 2021 in Nehalem, Oregon.

A reception was also held in Lawrence. The bride, daughter of Steve and Toni Caldwell, graduated from De Soto High School, and the University of Tulsa with a mechanical engineering degree.

The groom graduated from Norwich University. Captain Mentes is a C-17 Air Force pilot. The couple are stationed in North Pole, Alaska.

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29

Discovering De Soto

ORGANIZATIONS De Soto Historical Society 33055 West 83rd Street • Downtown De Soto https://www.facebook.com/desotokshistoricalsociety Contact: Kathy Ross kathy@grandmasshop.com De Soto Historical Building is open Thursdays from 10 am-4 pm.

Enjoy viewing a great collection of De Soto’s history!

Monthly meetings on Wednesdays at 6:30 pm Held at the De Soto Historical Society Building, 33055 West 83rd Street in Downtown De Soto

February 23 Welcome Back Meeting

Show & Share Historical Society Building

March 30 Kansas Humanities Presentation Tasting the Past: Exploring Kansas Food Memories

Guest speaker Louise Hanson explores food traditions from ethnic populations in Kansas–German, Czech, Italian, Jewish and others.

April 17 Citizens Forum / Anniversary Celebration

Two community guest speakers. $25 yearly memberships due

May 25 Pizza Party

Cemetery Flyer / Memorial Day / Calendar Picture Voting

De Soto Rotary Club https://portal.clubrunner.ca/4383 https://www.facebook.com/De-Soto-KSRotary-Club-112342748793494/ Contact: Bob Zindler desotorotaryclub@gmail.com

Meetings are held monthly on the first and third Fridays at 7 am at De Soto Methodist Church, 8760 Kill Creek Road (lower level).

Evening monthly meetings on the fourth Thursday at 6 pm.

Visitors and spouses are invited to these “social” event meetings.

National Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) http://www.johnandhattiepossum.net/ Contact: Sherry Bowlin sherrybowlindar@gmail.com

The John and Hattie Possum Chapter, NSDAR was organized in 2013 by 12 members. There are currently 28 members in the chapter. The chapter name comes from the Shawnee Indian, John Possum, and his wife Hattie. In 1858, John Possum sold 80 acres of the 740-plus acres of land that he and Hattie owned. The 80 acres would eventually become the City of De Soto, Kansas. Our chapter represents a broad spectrum of ages, occupations and interests. The chapter meets monthly and provides many avenues to serve.

Chapter members filled 73 “Blessing Bags” on December 8, 2021, with blankets, hats, scarves, popcorn, candy, gift cards and other items that were distributed through the De Soto schools.

Shown below from left: Carol Coffman, Pam Kelley, Maye Gulley, Cindy St John, Terri Kelly, Sherry Bowlin, Janell Slater. not pictured: Dee Clark

30

Shown above: Abbott Hall in downtown De Soto with original stone from 1865.

stone churches The original Methodist Episcopal Church building, south of Abbott Hall, was the second building to be built on Peoria Street. The lot was purchased from Major Abbott in 1869 for $75 and constucted in 1870. Rock was taken from the quarry on what was known as the Roberman Place, west of De Soto (also referenced as the Kansas River bluffs). It was the first church built in De Soto. It no longer stands on the property.

At the end of the street, at 3rd and Peoria, the second church was built in 1879. For 30 years, it was a Presbyterian Church. At one time, it was a movie house, and also rented as a residence.

Through the years, various religious congregations have used the building, also known as the stone/grace church. Currently it is the home of the Faith Builders International Church.

–information provided by Kathy Ross, De Soto Historical Society Shown below, the current stone church originally constructed in 1879.

buildings abbott hall

Abbott Hall, located at 83rd Street and Peoria, was built in 1865 by Major James B. Abbott with local native rock quarried from bluffs of the Kansas River, just west of De Soto. Rocks were hauled by wagon, and it took many years to complete the building. It is the oldest public building in downtown De Soto, rich in history.

At one time it was known as The Stone Hotel. The De Soto Masonic Lodge originally held their meetings in the upper floor (until their current building was completed in 1908). The lower floor housed dry goods, clothing, and a farm implement and supply store. J. Stuchbery operated a hardware store until 1903. Abbott Hall became the social center of the community, with many dances, lodges, and other social activities for many years.

The building also became a recreation and pool hall.

During WWII, cots were rented out to Hercules Army Ammunition Plant (Sunflower Ordnance) employees, who took turns sleeping in shifts.

The building was renovated in 1991 and was a museum for many of De Soto’s historic treasures (see Discovering

De Soto Heritage Edition Fall 2016, Abbott Hall page 19).

The historical stone building is currently vacant.

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

De Soto Arts Council 32905 West 84th Street, De Soto City Hall (lower level) http://www.desotoartsks.org https://www.facebook.com/art.desoto.1 Contact: Diana Zwahlen desotoartsks@gmail.com The De Soto Arts Council is a non-profit organization encouraging and promoting art within De Soto, and surrounding areas.

The Arts Council is seeking individuals with an interest in the arts, as well as artists in both 2D and 3D medias–including weavers, potters and sculptors; and performing artists–musicians, dancers, thespians.

We invite local artists to consider visiting a meeting or Open Studio.

Meetings are held monthly on the fourth Thursdays at 7 pm. in the De Soto Arts Council Room (lower level of City Hall) We are currently in the process of establishing a call for artists for a public sculpture, and an outdoor mural (locations to be determined).

Open Studio meets monthly the first Thursdays at 7 pm. in the De Soto Arts Council Room (lower level of City Hall).

Bring your own projects and supplies. Sink and electricity available.

Free event for members, visitors and guests.

Plein Air Event Saturday, May 7, 2022

We are seeking artists to work at area historic locations in downtown De Soto. Awards will be given. We are joining with the De Soto Historic Society and the Spring Fling Downtown organizers and will host the Plein Air Event.

For details, visit our website: https://www.desotoartsks.org/ or call Diana Zwahlen at 913.638.8998

De Soto Chapter of the Oldtime Fiddlers, Pickers & Singers https://www.facebook.com/groups/kofps Contact: Doug Danner ddanner1@kc.rr.com (913) 441-2713 Meets 3rd Friday of each month from 5 pm to 9 pm De Soto Senior Center of City Hall Meetings are open to the public to perform or just listen. The music is primarily traditional country or bluegrass with some gospel mixed in. However, musicians and singers of all genres are welcome.

We are a not-for-profit organization and strive to provide community service where ever we can. Meeting information and cancellations are posted on the facebook page.

Shown above, Abbott Hall at right, is next to the Methodist Episcopal Church.

At the far left is the Presbyterian Church. courtesy De Soto Historiical Society Shown below, the rock path is part of the De Soto Rainwater Project located at Riverfest Park. The project was done in collaboration with Friends of the Kaw, The City of De Soto, Kaw Valley Companies and Low Maintenance Landscape, Inc.

Friends of the Kaw http://kansasriver.org/wsff/ 13th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival Friday, February 25, 2022 Live & Virtual Screenings Doors open at 6 pm Show begins at 7 pm Tickets $20 Liberty Hall, 644 Massachusetts Street, Lawrence All proceeds from the event will benefit Friends of the Kaw, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The Friends of the Kaw protects and preserves the Kansas River by cleaning plastic out of sandbanks, educating students about water and ecology, working with cities on shoreline land development. The group has done many area projects at Riverfest Park, Lexington Lake and USD 232 middle schools.

Friends of the Kaw information: http://kansasriver.org/about-fok/ Ticket Information: http://kansasriver.org/wsff/ The film festival is one of the largest environmental film festivals in the nation, with tours in over 140 cities. For more information: https://www.wildandscenicfilmfestival.org/about-the-festival/

31

Discovering De Soto

FAITH

... the stone w a s r o l l Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.

Matthew 27:59-60 ...they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. from Mark 16:4 ...they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. from Luke 24:2 ...the stone had been removed from the entrance. from John 20:1

The Empty Tomb by Lightstock

Interesting to also note, that throughout the Bible there are many references to Jesus being our rock, our solid rock, our mighty fortress and refuge, the cornerstone, the Rock eternal, the rock of ages.

Good to know in these ever changing times, and ever so challenging times.

rock

Easter Egg Hunt for Special Needs Families April 9 • 7 am to 3 pm for children, young adults and their siblings Sign up online: https://www.kawprairie.org/info

32

A beautiful and powerful sight to behold...when the stone was rolled away.

On the morning of that first Easter, a miracle came to be...

Jesus had risen...indeed, He has risen!

Just as the angels had cried out, “Joy to the World!” when Jesus was miraculously born...it truly was a Joyous Morning at dawn

on the first day of the week, when the angel stood at the tomb and announced, “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said!”

Countless hymns reflect that morning...“Joy to the world,

He has risen, Halleluah, He’s risen, Hallelujah, He’s risen, Hallelujah, Hallelujah...”

You are invited to worship the Risen Savior this Easter.

Many churches, both near and far, are also available online.

Services: Good Friday 3 pm Easter 9 am Mill Creek Middle School Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 16 at 11 am on our property

End-of-Winter/Spring 2022

ed away

United Methodist Women

Food & Craft Sale

Handmade Gifts & Homemade Food Saturday, April 2 • 9 am – 2 pm Coffee & Pastries 9 am Soup, Sandwiches & Pie 11 am

He Is Risen!

The United Methodist Church of De Soto

invites you to join us for

8655 Copeland Way | 913-585-1026 www.desotobaptistchurch.com 11 am Sunday Services both in-person and online 9:45 am Sunday School for all ages Men’s & Women’s Bible Study 2nd & 4th Mondays

check our church website/facebook for updates

Holy Week Worship

updated on church website/facebook www.desotobaptistchurch.com

Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 16 at 10 am at Miller Park, west of downtown De Soto

Easter Sunday Services April 17 8 AM and 10 AM Easter Worship 9:15 All Ages Easter Egg Hunt All Are Welcome!

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

Worship Every Sunday 10 AM All Ages Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday, April 17 at 9:15 am at The United Methodist Church of De Soto

33

PUBLIC SAFETY Additional Text to Come

Local, privately owned, friendly.

We have what you need for hunting, home defense, or personal protection.

We offer new, used, consignment and trades.

33490 Lexington Ave, Suite F 913-608-3288 UpinArmsKansas.com sales@upinarmskansas.com Business news continued from page 16

Up In Arms, located at 33490 Lexington Avenue in Suite F,

has expanded their interior space by 200 square feet. “It makes the shop seem twice as big,” Ryq Farrow, owner of Up In Arms, commented. He was very pleased with the expansion that was completed in January by building owner, Rocky Meo.

Carquest Auto Parts in De Soto is being managed by Mike Woods, and will remain locally owned.

Mike has an extensive background with Carquest and was employed with the company for 28 years. He was an account executive the past 15 years for independent stores south of the Kansas City metropolitan areas that included the regions of Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas. The position involved inventory control and use of promotional programs.

Mike semi-retired in 2018.

Through the years he called on John Flegler, owner of De Soto’s Carquest since 1983. “He approached me about the local auto parts store, as he was considering fully retiring,” informed Mike, who has managed the auto parts store since September 2021. He has also relocated to the nearby area.

“We are in the area, still locally owned and operated with the same employees,” Mike affirmed. “The same people you know.”

SERVING DE SOTO & SURROUNDING AREAS SINCE 1983 Managed by Mike Woods

AUTO PARTS

Business Deliveries Available Monday - Friday 8 AM - 6 PM Saturday 8 AM - 2 PM 33530 LEXINGTON AVENUE, DE SOTO (913) 585-3180

Four NWCFD employees completed Swiftwater Rescue Technician Certification in Golden, Colorado. shown above In 2022, additional staff will attend this top-rated course and also the continuing education training in Oklahoma City.

The NWCFD hosted the Oklahoma State University Fire Service Training Division that taught most employees basic water rescue and boat operations in a two-day course.

Our district has two certified ice rescue trainers that certify personnel to the level of ice rescue technician.

Ice rescue training shown above was done last winter.

All fire suppression employees are certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).

NWCFD and other Johnson County providers received the American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline GOLD PLUS Joint Achievement Award for improving patient care and the CARES Hallmark Award for contributing to the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest data reporting.

See Our Weekly Ad and Order Online For In-Store Pickup www.carquest.com/stores/ks/de-soto/5241

Johnson County MED-ACT & Overland Park Fire Department Olathe, KS

Lead Agencies: Consolidated Fire District #2, Johnson County Fire District #1, Johnson County Fire District #2, Leawood Fire Department, Lenexa Fire Department, Northwest Consolidated Fire District, Olathe Fire Department, Shawnee Fire Department

34

CARES H

NWCFD 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW Northwest Consolidated Fire District Community Report

NWCFD 2021 TOTAL CALLS Station 11 Area Calls Engine 11

Brush 11

The Northwest Consolidated Fire District (NWCFD) protects an area of 70 square miles with three NWCFD staffed stations. Services include fire suppression, rescue operations, Haz-Mat response, vehicle extrication, emergency medical services, fire prevention programs, public education, and fire inspection programs. Fire and EMS services are provided for the City of De Soto, Lexington Township, and parts of Olathe Township. Sunflower Redevelopment LLC also contracts with NWCFD to provide fire protection for the former Sunflower Army Ammunition Plant.

A five-member Board governs the Northwest Consolidated Fire District.

The Board is appointed by the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners and the De Soto City Council. The Fire Chief reports to the Board. Board members are appointed to three-year terms and serve our community voluntarily. Our organizational structure consists of a fire chief, an administrative assistant, three battalion chiefs, and 27 full-time and five part-time firefighter/EMTs, for a total of 37 employees.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all lives. It was another challenging year for NWCFD to address the pandemic, and the challenges will continue. Protecting and preserving our workforce to maintain minimum staffing levels was the highest priority.

Our personnel stepped up and battled these obstacles well. Cautionary steps include minimizing large group gatherings, increased isolation, shifting in-person meetings to virtual meetings, and “station lockdown” to outside guests.

2021 incidents were at a record high for NWCFD with 989 total incidents.

There were overlapping calls 12% of the time, where more than one call was active in the District at any given time. Apparatus are strategically moved for coverage reasons when there are potential extended travel times responding to service calls. There are automatic aid agreements with all Johnson County fire agencies and Consolidated Fire District 1 of Douglas County with mutual response and coverage assistance.

Significant progress has been made in addressing our aging apparatus fleet.

Our reserve fire engine was replaced due to structural issues. The unplanned replacement resulted in a new fire engine at Station 13 (downtown De Soto) and placing the seven-year-old fire engine in reserve/spare status. A 3,000 gallon/1,000 GPM pump tender truck (water-hauler) is on order to arrive this summer, replacing a 30-year-old tender truck. A 30-year-old brush truck chassis will also be replaced this year.

We are forward-thinking when it comes to service delivery needs.

Long-term planning continues as we complete our due diligence for replacing Station 13 (downtown De Soto). We also plan for enhancements needed to expand or improve our Insurance Services Office (ISO) Fire Suppression Rating Schedule as our district grows.

NWCFD began the year with a radio number assignment change. Our “190” legacy series has transitioned to the “10” series. Stations 191, 192, and 193 are now assigned station numbers 11, 12, and 13. Apparatus numbers correspond with station numbers– Engine 13 is assigned to Station 13. shown above, top left photo All Johnson County fire/EMS agencies use the same radio network.

The mission of the Northwest Consolidated Fire District is to provide high-quality fire, rescue, and emergency medical services in a safe and caring manner to our community. We take protecting our community seriously and strive to have our level of service reflect this.

–Fire Chief Todd Maxton, phone 913-585-0076

Tender 11 Boat 11

Battalion Chief 11 Station 12 Area Calls Engine 12

Brush 12

Tender 12

ATV 12 Station 13 Area Calls Engine 13

Brush 13

Boat 13 Out of District

989 221 397 48 11 3 266 121 190 33 4 10 579 615 42 7 68

BREAKDOWN OF NWCFD 2021 CALLS Fire Calls Building Fires

Trash Fires

Vehicle Fires

Grass/Brush

Explosions

Rescue & EMS

EMS Calls

Injury Accidents

Non-Injury Accidents Water Rescues

Standby

69 19 1 4 42 1 598 499 52 22 2 17 \

Additional Calls 24 HAZ-Mat Service Calls 118 Lift Assist 78 Good Intent Calls 128 Cancelled En Route 68 r False Alarms 50 Special Incident 1 Auto/Mutual Aid Received 19 Auto/Mutual Aid Given 66 e

Districtwide Averages Dispatch to Enroute Turnout Time Dispatch to Arrival Response Time

2021 Training Hours

2021 Burn Permits Issued

1:19 5:49 7900 1072

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

11 De Soto Station 12 Lexington/Olathe Station 13 De Soto • Station •33150 West 83rd Street 9745 Kill Creek Road • 29520 West 127th Street

https://www.nwcfd.org

In an Emergency Call 911

https://www.facebook.com/NWCFD non-emergency 913-583-3886

35

Discovering

De Soto

W

A community located in Western Johnson County, Kansas.

Postal Customer De Soto, KS 66018

Like us on facebook and receive community updates

https://www.facebook.com/discoveringdesoto

Thanks for another great season Chiefs!

What a memorable 13 seconds!

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