Living in Clay County 2020 by Marty Novak

y t n u o C y a l C n I g n i v i L

EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS MUSEUMS & HISTORIC SITES COMMUNITIES COUNTY SERVICES EDUCATION

N O I IT D E 2020

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LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Enjoy Clay County at any pace Clay County is an inviting destination no matter what pace of life you enjoy. Whether you’re passing through or looking for a place to settle down, Clay County’s unique attractions and entertainment venues, bustling shopping districts and diverse communities with first-class amenities are ready to welcome you. Conveniently located in the northeast of the Kansas City metropolitan area, in Clay County you’ll find a mix of growing suburbs, historic downtowns, small-town charm and quiet country living. Top-notch school districts and college campuses, as well as a wealth of employment opportunities, make Clay County an even more inviting place to put down roots. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 242,000 people make their homes here. Community festivals, public art, live theater and musical performances, intriguing historic sites, a thrilling amusement park, acres of beautiful parkland and the 7,200acre Smithville Lake mean there is always something on the calendar for an outing. Whether you’re spending time with friends or family or rolling solo, there is something new to experience. And while there is plenty to do right here, just a short drive across the Missouri River, which serves as the county’s southern border, are some of Kansas City’s most iconic destinations, including the stadium complex the Chiefs and Royals teams call home. Interstate 35 brings travelers from Iowa and Northern Missouri from the north and travelers from Kansas in the southwest. Additionally, U.S. Highways 69 and 169, as well as Missouri Highways 33, 92, 152 and 291, create a flowing transportation network for passengers and goods through Clay County. Come enjoy the ride!

Living in Clay County published December 2019 by Courier-Tribune and Gladstone Dispatch 104 N. Main St., Liberty MO 64068 • (816) 454-9660 Publisher: Sandy Nelson • Editor: Amy Neal • Managing Editor: Amanda Lubinski Editorial Contributors: Kellie Houx, Sean Roberts, Adam Burns ON THE COVER: “Seeker” is a laser-cut aluminum sculpture in front of the Northland Innovation Center in Gladstone

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Index AX THROWING

PURPOSE, PASSION, O S E, PAand S S JOY ION, and JOY I N EVENTS LI F EAND ATTRACTIONS IN LIFE

Woods Village — A SS Continuing Care— Community PURP Oat SELinden , PA IWoods O N, a nd JOY I Retirement N LIF E Village PARADISE PLAYHOUSE at Linden Woods Village — A Continuing Care Retirement Community A Continuing Care Retirement Community

PU R P O S E , PAS S ION , and JOY IN LIFE

at Linden Woods Village — A Continuing Care Retirement Community

5 6 9

BREWERIES AND WINERIES

MOONSHINE DISTILLERY

MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC SITES

TWA MUSEUM

COMMUNITIES

Avondale

Birmingham Claycomo Excelsior Springs Gladstone Glenaire

Holt Kansas City Kearney Lawson

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Liberty Missouri City Mosby

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North Kansas City

Moving to a continuing care retirement community Moving to a continuing care retirement community like Linden Woods Village like Linden Woods Village gives you and your family gives you and your family the security of knowing that your needs will be the for security of regardless knowing that needs cared cared in the future of what the your future holds. Thiswill peace be of mind can of the greatest gifts that you can to yourthe family. forbeinonethe future regardless ofgivewhat future holds. Th is peace of mind can be one of the greatest gifts No matter your life situation, there is a place for you at Linden Woods Village. Moving to a continuing care retirement community like Linden Woods Village that you can give to your family.

Call (816) 268-4000 for more information. gives you and your family the security of knowing that your needs will be cared for in the future regardless of what the future holds. This peace of mind can be one of the greatest gifts that you can give to your family.

No matter your life situation, there is a place for you at Linden Woods Village.

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No matter your life situation, there is a place for you at Linden Woods Village.

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LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Village of Oaks Village of Oakview Village of Oakwood Village of Oakwood Park Pleasant Valley Prathersville Randolph Smithville

FARMERS MARKETS

COUNTY SERVICES

EDUCATION

MID-CONTINENT PUBLIC LIBRARIES

RABBIT hOle

Ax-throwing Entertainment on Fire in Liberty

WoodChux 888 S. Missouri Highway 291, Liberty (816) 415-CHUX (2489) www.woodchuxkc.com

oodChux set its sights on Liberty and in 2019 opened a facility with 15 ax-throwing lanes, each holding up to six throwers. Plus there’s a place for visitors to try corn hole and other games. There’s also a small stage for music and entertainment. On top of that, the owners constructed a mobile two-lane throwing trailer to take to festivals and other community events. One of the owners, Jon Barton, said the trailer made the rounds to around 30 events during its first summer and fall. “It’s in temporary storage until the warm weather returns, but I guess we could pull it back out to a party in a barn or warehouse,” he said. Barton and his fellow WoodChux owners, Kyle

Wilson and Gary Campbell, actually were visiting another ax-throwing location in the metro area for a birthday party when the idea for their own business started. But ax throwing wasn’t a bullseye right way. Barton was hesitant if it would be enjoyable. “I had a blast and such a good time,” Barton said. “We ended up sitting and talking. We started thinking about what it would take to bring to the Northland.” The three men are neighbors and spend considerable time together. After that birthday party, the trio started working through some of the logistics of creating their own range. They started looking at locations, safety and training. A site in the Liberty Corners Shopping Center proved to

be the right location. Once the former drop ceiling was removed, the three men realized they had the height clearance they needed and the space to add the lanes and the cages to keep the throwers safe. “We also added LED lights, which improves their longevity and the necessary light to throw,” Campbell said. Reservations can be made online, but walk-ins are welcome and league play also takes place. All throwers must sign a waiver and wear closetoed shoes. The WoodChux website explains there is no age minimum, just an ability limit. “We recommend 12 and up, but if they are able to safely throw an ax, we’ll let them throw!” Wilson said WoodChux

provides another avenue for entertainment that was needed. “We realized there is a need in the community for good fun,” Barton said. The facility also sells beers and ciders, and Campbell said they limit the beers to three per person. While WoodChux doesn’t sell food, food can be brought into the facility, and one of the facility’s neighbors is a pizzeria. The facility recently started hosting Friday evening corn hole tournaments. “I imagine in 2020, after New Year’s, we are going to have quarterly tournaments,” Barton said. “Then we will celebrate our first anniversary Jan. 21. Who knows where we’ll keep going, but it’s looking good.”

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Events & Attractions in Clay County YEAR-ROUND Worlds of Fun/ Oceans of Fun

With more than 100 rides, shows and attractions designed for the entire family from toddlers to teens, Worlds of Fun is set up much like the places in “Around the World in 80 Days.” The amusement park, a Cedar Fairs property, includes new rides almost annually to either Oceans of Fun or Worlds of Fun. In the 2020 season, Oceans of Fun will be gaining the Riptide Raceway, described as the longest mat racing slide in the world. There will be four separate slides at 486 feet long. Once guests make their way to the top of the five-story slide complex, they will race through the winding hillside, around a tight 360-degree loop

and down the final stretch into a splashdown. The first one to reach the finish line wins. Along with the rides, the park also offers Halloween Haunt and WinterFest. The park is at 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave., Kansas City, just off of Interstate 435. Find out more at www.worldsoffun.com.

up-to-date information, contact the Smithville Lake Park Office, 17201 Paradesian St., by calling (816) 407-3400 or visit www.claycountymo.gov/Parks/ Smithville_Lake.

Smithville Lake

The nonprofit sanctuary sits on 100 acres of land on the east side of Liberty. There are hands-on exhibits, live animal exhibits, and classes for various ages. Trails are open daily 8 a.m. to dusk. There is one trail that is ADA accessible. The sanctuary holds two annual events – Fairy Tale Forest and the Elves Workshop in October and December. The sanctuary is at 407 N. LaFrenz Road. Visit www.naturesanctuary.com.

Boating, fishing, hunting, swimming, camping, hiking, horseback riding, trap shooting and more await at Smithville Lake. Three marinas, a floating restaurant, golf courses and disc golf courses, and the Jerry L. Litton Visitor Center are just some of the amenities. Some facilities close or have reduced hours in the winter. A daily vehicle entrance fee is required to access some areas. For

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary

Village at Briarcliff

At U.S. Highway 169 and Briarcliff Parkway sits the Village at Briarcliff. It's a shopping destination with many locally owned businesses, boutiques and restaurants. There are also performances and movies during the summer months. Find out more at www.thevillageatbriarcliff.com.

Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce Trolley Tours

The Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce provides the Chamber Trolley for a variety of wine tours. Beginning this year, they will be offering craft beer trolley tours as well. The two vehicles are authentic streetcar-style trolleys, handicap accessible and available for rent.

For information regarding tours or rental, visit www.EStrolley.com or call (816) 630-6161.

WINTER Hometown Holidays

Usually on the first Saturday in December, Hometown Holidays takes place in Historic Downtown Liberty. There are free family activities from 2 to 5 p.m. including pictures with Santa,

crafts and refreshments. The night is capped with the mayor's Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Eagle Days

Each winter, as convocations of bald eagles flock to Smithville Lake, several conservation partners join forces to give visitors to the lake an up-close look at the wondrous birds. Eagle Days will be hosted Jan. 4 and 5, 2020, at the Paradise Pointe Golf

Course Complex in Little Platte Park, 18212 Golf Course Dr., Smithville. Typically, live eagle programs are presented, along with eagle videos and activities, and spotting scopes are available to view eagles in the wild. Learn more at www.nwk.usace.army. mil/Locations/District-Lakes/ Smithville-Lake.

usually a blues festival, then up-and-coming country acts, bluegrass and rock groups throughout the season. For more details about the season or to purchase tickets online, visit www.kearneyamphitheater.com.

Snake Saturday

For more than 20 years, the Gladstone Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the city of Gladstone, has offered blues acts to audiences. The show is at Oak Grove Park, 76th Street and North Troost Avenue, the first weekend in June. For more details, visit www.gladstoneechamber.com.

SPRING Gatsby Days

Arts in the Park in NKC

Snake Saturday is a prelude to St. Patrick’s Day. The 2020 Snake Saturday will be March 14. The theme will be Shamrock Shindig. There is a parade through North Kansas City, a charity cookoff, the Lad and Lassies contest and other festival events. Learn more at www.snakesaturday.com.

A favorite among visitors, Gatsby Days usually occurs in early spring, reviving the 1920s and Excelsior Springs’ Golden Era. The theme is based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, “The Great Gatsby,” a story of the Gilded Age of the 1920s. A variety of events are featured throughout the weekend that explore culture and history in and around the roaring ’20s, like Gin and Jazz. Entertainment for all ages is held in downtown Excelsior Springs, usually around the first part of May. Find out more at www.esculturalguild.com.

SUMMER Linden Square

Gladstone’s Linden Square, 625 NE 70th St., continues to add entertainment throughout the spring and summer. A free concert series, Sounds on the Square, is offered many Friday and Saturday nights from June through September. The outdoor amphitheater also hosts free movies in the park. Several special events including Food. Art. Drink, Kids Fest and Whiskey Fest are spread throughout the summer and fall. For updates, visit www.lindensquare.info.

Kearney Amphitheater

Smithville Lake Beach

The summer lineup at the Kearney Amphitheater, located in Jesse James Park off Missouri Highway 33, is packed with a variety of sounds. There’s

Gladstone Summertime Bluesfest

Arts in the Park is sponsored by the city of North Kansas City and North Kansas City Parks and Recreation in collaboration with Northtowne Arts Coalition and community partners. Arts in the Park, running June 12 and June 13, will showcase a variety of fine art mediums in the most beautiful park nestled just north of the Missouri River. There will be live music, food trucks, entertainers, street performers, a special musical guest and a variety of great artists.

Wine Festival

Held in mid-June in Lover’s Lane in East Valley Park in Excelsior Springs, the Wine Festival highlights wines made in Missouri. Find out more at www.visitexcelsior.com.

Summer Band Concerts

The Liberty Summer Band, an all-volunteer group of about 80 musicians, gives four concerts. The first three are usually during June evenings, and the last is a patriotic event in early July. The shows are in front of the Rooney Justice Center, 11 S. Water St.

Make Music Day

The Liberty Arts Commission leads the charge as the city participates in the global music event on the summer solstice. Musicians and singers are placed throughout venues around the city. Learn more at www.makemusicliberty.org.

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

FALL Jesse James Festival

Named after Kearney’s infamous native son, the Jesse James Festival is held each September throughout downtown Kearney and in Jesse James Park, located north of the city on Missouri Highway 33. The annual festival includes carnival

Linden Square

Waterfest

The annual Waterfest celebrates Excelsior Springs’ mineral water heritage. This two-day event, June 26 and 27, will feature trolley tours, a car show, fireworks and much more. Other main events include food and craft vendors, a parade and naturally, water games. The festival takes place in downtown Excelsior Springs. For more information, visit www.exspgschamber.com or call (816) 630-6161.

LibertyFest

The day before the Fourth of July, Liberty Parks and Recreation and the Liberty Area Chamber of Commerce join forces to celebrate with lots of patriotism and fun at the Fountain Bluff Sports Complex, 220 Old Missouri Highway 210. Family activities including inflatables, face painting, balloon animals, fishing in the stocked ponds and lawn games. After dark, fireworks light up the sky. Learn more at www.thelibertyfest.com.

Kearney's July 3 Celebration

Each year the city of Kearney hosts a celebration in honor of the nation’s independence on the eve of its birthday, July 3, in Jesse James Park. The event, free to the public, features fireworks, food at the concession stand and music from Kansas City band Switch, playing hits from the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s. The fireworks display begins at dusk and includes music.

Independence Day at Smithville Lake

Fireworks twinkle in the night skyand dance off the water's reflection each year on July 4 at Smithville Lake. Among the prime viewing locations for the thousands who congregate at the lake for the annual display are the swimming area at the south end of Little Platte Park and at the Crow’s Creek campground. Boats on the lake can also provide ideal viewing spots. Fireworks are launched near Smithville Lake Dam.

Kansas City Air Show

Right after the Fourth of July’s fireworks have come to an end, the Kansas City Air Show will encourage guests to continue looking at the sky July 6 and 7 at the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport. In addition to the Blue Angels, the show features the U.S. Army Golden Knights, A-10 Demo Team, Patty Wagstaff, Julie Clark and other performers. It is organized by the nonprofit KC Air Show Charities. For more details, visit www.kcairshow.org.

Friday in the Park in North Kansas City

The annual Summer Concert Series at Macken Park, 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, is slated for May 8, July 10, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11. Learn more at nkc.org.

Gladstone Theatre in the Park

Offering three days of free shows for two productions, Gladstone Theatre in the Park

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

is at home on the stage at Oak Grove Park, 76th Street and North Troost Avenue. The first show is around the first weekend in July and the second is the first weekend in August. Started by Van and Susie Ibsen, the summer theater program has been on stage for around 30 years. The 2020 shows are “Matilda” July 10 to 12 and “Newsies” Aug. 7 to 9. For more details, visit www.gladstonetip.com.

BBQ & Fly-In on the River A barbecue contest, beer garden, live bands, vendors, flyovers and fireworks highlight this fun-filled August weekend in Excelsior Springs. Find out more at www.visitexcelsior.com.

Hot Summer Nights

Hot Summer Nights, a free summer concert series in Smithville's downtown Courtyard Park on Main Street, draws visitors each Saturday night in August. Each week features a different theme such as a celebration for the start of a new school year, car shows and salutes to the armed services. The annual series is presented by the Smithville Downtown Historic District and Smithville Lions Club. Call (816) 916-8970 for more details.

Nehemiah Fest

A three-day festival of camping, fellowship and live Christian music, Nehemiah Fest brings around 50 bands to four stages at Smithville Lake late each summer. The festival is usually around the middle of September. For details, visit nehemiahfest.com.

games, demonstrations, food, mud volleyball, music, arts and crafts, a 5K run, a parade, children’s fishing and barbecue contests, a pageant and rodeo. The festival annually runs over two weekends in the middle of September. Learn more at www.jessejamesfestival.com.

Liberty Fall Festival

The Liberty Fall Festival is held on the fourth full weekend of September each year. The event can be traced back to 1934, with ties to the Clay County 4-H and to William Jewell Colleges’ Homecoming events. This year, the three-day event will be Sept. 25 to 27 with 175 arts and crafts booths, a carnival and a Saturday morning parade. Food and beverages are sold throughout the festival, and many booths benefit local nonprofit groups, so enjoy the food and support a cause. Learn more at www.libertyfallfest.com.

Gladfest

Gladstone’s annual fall festival offers a full weekend of entertainment and activities. In 2020, the festival will hit 41 years with events around Gladstone City Hall and the downtown Linden Square area. Attractions include a carnival, parade, performances and vendors. For more details, visit www.gladstonechamber.com.

Encore NEW PARADISE PLAYHOUSE OWNER EXCITED ABOUT VENUE’S OFFERINGS

PERFORMANCE

ohn Blackburn was always fond of the Paradise Playhouse Banquet Hall located in Excelsior Springs. He saw potential in the historic dinner theatre venue. So when an opportunity to purchase the building presented itself, he made sure to pull the trigger. “It’s a beautiful venue that needed to be open,” Blackburn said. “It’s a great asset to the Excelsior Springs community.” After purchasing the venue, Blackburn, a Hamilton, Missouri, native who moved to Excelsior Springs in 1969, updated the stage, painted walls and executed a deep clean

Paradise Playhouse 101 Spring St., Excelsior Springs Hours of operation: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday If interested in booking the venue, call (913)-244-7956.

before working up a business plan prior to re-opening. Blackburn’s vision leaned more toward a variety of entertainment, rather than a straight dinner theatre focus as had been in place in the past. “We’re leaning more toward different types of entertainment,” he said. “We’ve had a few baby showers there and a class reunion just signed up. They like the setup we have because we have a big screen and they want to use that.” Blackburn welcomed his first guests as owner with Liberty comedian Mike Vandelier as the main attraction. The second show involved Elvis impersonator Bobby Simkins in an October performance. The evening went

so well that Blackburn booked Simkins to return. “We’ve had good reviews on our first two shows,” Blackburn said this fall. “We had a really good turnout with Bobby Simkins. People really enjoyed that, and that’s why we’re bringing him back for another dinner show with him on New Year’s Eve.” The playhouse, which consists of a large room and stage that accommodates 184 people and a smaller room that holds 60 people, is open for other bookings such as company special events, meetings, personal events such as baby/wedding showers, etc. Karaoke nights are slated for Saturdays that don’t have an

entertainer scheduled. Blackburn said he’s pleased to play a part in bringing the Paradise Playhouse back into operation after it closed a few years ago. “I know some folks are happy to see that it’s back up,” he said. “It gave me a lot of gratification that they were looking forward to coming back to more shows. “We’d like to get as many locals here as we can, but we do have several that came from Kansas City and Liberty for our first two shows,” he added. “So I think they had a great time. We’d like to be able to be a destination for folks that want an enjoyable night out with special entertainers.”

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BREWERIES Big Rip Brewery 216 E. Ninth Ave., North Kansas City www.bigripbrewing.com Big Rip opened in May 2013, founded by two friends who caught the beer- and wine-making bug years ago and decided to throw in together to start this brewery. The brewery helps local organizations raise funds through private events and donations. There’s also space for private parties and tours.

Cinder Block Brewery 110 E. 18th Ave., North Kansas City www.cinderblockbrewery.com Cinder Block Brewery was established in 2013 out of the joy of handcrafted beers.

Every brew is aged in a barrel for three to 18 months before blending and packaging, and each barrel is evaluated on what spirit was previously stored in it, the wood variety and the toast of the wood. All these factors play into how the barrel will help blend with the beer style being placed into it. The brewery has a food truck attached where food choices include create-your-own wraps and sandwiches and waffle fries. Its new event space is the Reclamation Room. While the beers on tap vary, the standards include Northtown Native, Prime Extra Pale Ale, Pavers Porter, Block IPA, Weathered Wit, English Cherry Cider and French Off Dry Cider.

Calibration Brewery 119 Armour Road, North Kansas City www.calibrationbrewery.com A father and son partnership launched Calibration Brewery in 2016 after exploring the world of home brewing and realizing that they were onto something. Calibration launched with their flagship Scotch Ale, and they haven’t stopped innovating flavors and experimental blends. The bulk of Calibration’s beers have pop

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

AS WINERIES AND BREWERIES CONTINUE TO BUBBLE UP IN THE NORTHLAND, PEOPLE ARE SEEKING THESE LOCALES FOR FRIENDLY GATHERINGS, DATE NIGHTS & MORE.

culture names and references such as Back to Black IPA. Along with beers, Calibration has a menu of sandwiches, entrees such as battered fish and chips and shareables, plus soups and salads.

CALLSIGN Brewing Co. 1447 Gentry St., North Kansas City www.callsignbrewing.com CALLSIGN Brewing Co. came about after a pair of Air Force veterans moved on from their garage brewing days and started a full-fledged business. The brewery is also aimed at honoring veterans. The everyday beers are Fighter Pale Ale, Blonde Bombshell Ale, Bomber Brown Ale, Imperial Stout on Nitro, Huey American Wheat, Screaming Eagle Cream Ale and Attack IPA. The business partners with Cluster Truck for food. The brewery has room for shuffle board, darts and board games.

3Halves Brewery 110 E. Kansas St., Liberty www.3halvesbrewingco.com John Kennebeck knows about making local businesses work and thrive. In Trenton, he helped propel the family popcorn business. Now, he’s turned his attention to beer. He hired Rodney Beagle and in early September 2019, opened 3Halves Brewery. The brewery shares the large building with Jousting Pigs Barbecue just off Liberty’s historic downtown square. There are beers named for the brewery’s location in the heart of Liberty, near the county seat and the circuit court of Clay County: Civic Duty light; Stick 'Em Up

stout in honor of the Jesse James Gang robbery on Feb. 13, 1886; Desert Gold light wheat for the old grain company Desert Gold Feed Co.; Cannonball pale ale, which hearkens to the riverboats docking in Liberty Landing and firing a cannon to alert the town of arrivals; and Diamond in the “Ruff,” playing on the name of the brewmaster’s beagle.

Dubious Claims Brewery 451 S. Thompson Ave., Excelsior Springs dubiousclaimsbrewingco.com The names of the beers at Dubious Claims such as Therapy IPA are tied to the name of the brewery and an homage to Excelsior Springs’ past. In the early to mid-1900s, Excelsior Springs became America’s Haven of Health. Boasting of 46 mineral water springs and five different varieties of waters, each with unique healing properties, Excelsior Springs was a “wonder working” destination to the ill. Mineral water pavilions and bath houses soon gave way to the big business of health sanitariums. These facilities thrived until a national media exposé of “dubious claims” dried up the mineral water business. Some of the beers, which poke some fun at the claims of the water, include Bathhouse Blueberry Wheat, Rejuvenating Raspberry Wheat and Pick-Me-Up Pale Ale. The kitchen serves up a variety of appetizers such as brewhouse Bavarian pretzels. There are salads, handcrafted pizzas, ovenroasted sandwiches, and wraps.

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31010 W. 124th St., Excelsior Springs www.fencestile.com Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery, situated in the rolling hills of Excelsior Springs, runs on the belief that wine is an experience to be savored and shared. The winery includes gift baskets, wine merchandise and wine accessories for sale. The space includes a patio overlooking the vineyards and an outdoor fire pit. The wines available include eight whites and rosés. There are five red wines, three sparkling wines and a dessert wine. There are also a few select wines that are available only in the tasting room or to wine club members only. The winery has hosted such events as tastings, cave tours and live musical performances.

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100 E. Pope Lane, Smithville www.ladogaridgewinery.com Leinda Haddock and her husband Galen own and run Ladoga Ridge Winery in Smithville. The couple has invested much thought, time and hard physical labor to develop this business — literally from the ground up. The couple still manages everything from the pruning of the grapes, which Galen handles, to the tasting room and staffing, which falls to Leinda. There are 16 wines and one of the most popular is the semidry Sully's White, Leinda said. Some of the other top choices are Galen's Red, a dry red wine; the strawberry-rhubarb and the black cherry. Limited runs are also available with seasonal flavors like watermelon in the summer, apple in the fall and cranberry wine around Christmas. Two sizes of wine slushies also can be had at Ladoga. The winery also carries an assortment of cheeses, breads, crackers

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15010 Salem Rd., Excelsior Springs fourhorsesandadogwinery.com A pair of friends brought Four Horses and a Dog Winery to life in 2008. White and red wines are available, alongside a variety of other drinks. The bestseller, non-drink, at Four Horses and a Dog is the picnic pack, which includes sausage, cheese, crackers and chocolate.

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1325 Odd Fellows Road, Liberty www.belvoirwinery.com Belvoir Winery in Liberty, located in the former Odd Fellows Home, has become a venue for weddings, corporate events and parties. Plus the bars inside are open to the public. Other public events include paranormal investigations that run almost monthly. Along with the winery, the top floor of the main building is now an inn with rooms for rent. There are eight wines available: three reds, three whites, one rosé and a fortified wine. The white wines are the Chardonnel, Plumeria and Sorelle Dolci. The red wines are the Norton, Casanova and Lucky Pierre. The specialty wines are the Naked Pink and Boo’s.

Four Horses and a Dog Winery

Belvoir Winery

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WINERIES

and summer sausage from Paradise Meat Locker.

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LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

SHINE ON LITTLE PLATTE DISTILLERY IN SMITHVILLE SERVES UP FLAVORFUL MOONSHINE

amed after the little river that brings its water, Little Platte Distillery is celebrating one year of business, having opened in the fall of 2018. Starting with a bang, the moonshine distillery had 600 people show up for its grand opening, creating a standing room only effect with a line out the front door. The idea of distilled moonshine originated in the form of a hobby, owners Sheila and Darold Davis said. “We liked going to different facilities,” Darold said. “Just liked it so much we opened our own. We’ve been doing that for several years, just traveling and visiting other ones.” Sharing the business with Sheila’s sister and brother-in-law, Cheryl and Brian Woodman, the business at 210 E. Meadow St. in Smithville is open three days a week: Thursday and Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. “If we are slammed on a Saturday night,” Sheila added, “we are not closing.” The building has a patio that can hold about 50 guests and during the warmer months, the distillery entertains with live music. Inside are games and a bar with some seating around the walls. Visitors can enjoy any of the four distributed flavors or try a flavor from the limited-time offerings available only from the bar. Of the four bottled varieties of moonshine, the straight is called

Show Me Shine, which is used for cocktails mimicking drinks like a margarita or bloody mary. Then there is Apple Pie, the most popular, Pecan Pie and Fire in the Hole, which started as a temporary cinnamon flavor that regulars loved so much Little Platte Distillery now bottles it. Black Cherry infusion and pumpkin spice were seasonal offerings this fall. The Black Cherry was so popular they made another batch. Eager to be a part of the community, Little Platte Distillery prides itself on partnerships. Products are stocked locally, and the entire business is family operated. The partnerships range from Smithville restaurant Chop’s BBQ delivering food to those drinking at the bar to the distillery getting all its supplies such as corn sourced locally. “The only thing that isn’t local is the glass bottles,” Darold said. “But they still come from Missouri.” The couple also provides leftover spent corn to a local pig farmer. “Distilling is about a two-week process,” Darold said. First they cook the corn and then they ferment it. The next steps are to distill, then bottle and serve. For those who do not want moonshine, the establishment serves a pale ale brewed in Hamilton. “It’s been a lot of fun,” Sheila said. “We became the local watering hole.”

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Museums & Historicin Clay Sites County building that previously housed drugstores. The museum and historical society also host an annual homes tour, a picnic and trivia nights. Contact the museum at (816) 792-1849 or visit www.claycountymuseum.org.

Excelsior Springs Museum and Archive

Operating with an all-volunteer staff, the archive collects photos, newspaper clippings, obituaries, family histories and artifacts. Exhibits and displays are available for viewing during various hours of the week depending on the season. There is a fee for admission. Call (816) 630-0101 or visit esmuseum.com to find out more.

Frank James Bank Museum

Pharis Farm

Airline History Museum

Located in Hangar 9 at the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport, 201 NW Lou Holland Drive in Kansas City, the museum offers daily walk-in tours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Three rooms display photos and artifacts of commercial aviation history. The working hangar offers tours of various aircraft including a Lockheed Constellation. The front entrance is on the east side of the hangar building. There is a fee for admission. For more information, call (816) 421-3401 or visit www.airlinehistory.org.

Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum

The site closes for the winter and reopens in April each year. In-season hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. The farm property, located at 4109

NE Pleasant Valley Road in Gladstone, includes the home museum, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, as well as a heritage garden, original outbuildings, barns, historic cemetery and 22 acres of farm ground. Volunteers host various events throughout the spring, summer and fall including Big Shoal Country Fair in September. Call (816) 453-3276 or visit atkinsjohnsonfarm.com for more property details.

files; historical photographs; birth, death, marriage and cemetery records; land abstracts; genealogy books and documents detailing Clay County back to its founding in 1822. Archives volunteers are present to assist any way they can. Contact the archives at (816) 781-3611. Find out more at www.claycountyarchives.org.

Clay County Archives & Historical Library

Located in Liberty at 14 N. Main St., the Clay County Museum and Historical Society offers a variety of exhibits and activities for people of all ages including the newly added Battle of Liberty exhibit. The exhibit details the September of 1861 fighting when Liberty and Clay County briefly became a focal point of the Civil War. In existence since 1965, the museum is located in a historic

The Clay County Archives and Historical Library, located at 210 E. Franklin St. in the county seat of Liberty, was incorporated in 1979 for the purpose of preserving county records and other historical materials. Today, the archives are home to thousands of files including closed Clay County probate

Clay County Museum & Historical Society

Frank James, Jesse James’ brother and fellow gang member, at 20 is credited with committing his first robbery and murder while in Missouri City on May 19, 1863. The museum at 417 Doniphan St., Missouri City, tells that story. Call (816) 750-4380 for details.

Garrison School Cultural Center

Garrison School at 502 N. Water St. in Liberty was established in 1877 as the city’s only African-American school. Now the building is the home of Clay County African American Legacy, an organization dedicated to educating and informing the community about the history and influence of African Americans in Clay County. A historic landmark, Garrison School hosts community events, exhibits and educational activities. An art gallery opened at Garrison School in 2017. For more information, visit www.ccaal-garrisonschool.org.

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Hall of Waters

The Excelsior Springs museum, located at 201 E. Broadway St., was originally built as a Federal Public Works Administration project in the early 20th century. The $1 million project was the most ambitious project undertaken by the PWA in Missouri and was used as a health spa in the 1930s to take advantage of the mineral waters there. The water bar is open for self-guided tours of the history of the city. The building was placed on the Clay County Historical Landmark Register in 1981 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Call (816) 630-0750 for more information.

Jesse James Bank Museum

The Jesse James Bank Museum, located on the historic square in Liberty, is the former bank site

of the nation's first successful daylight peacetime bank robbery. While the robbers were never caught, the crime was attributed to the infamous James gang. The robbery resulted in the loss of $60,000 and left one man dead. Visitors see the bank with period furnishings and the original green vault. The museum is located at 103 N. Water St. It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed throughout January and February. To contact the museum, call (816) 736-8510.

Jesse James Birthplace

The Jesse James Farm & Museum, 21216 Jesse James Farm Road, east of Kearney, is where Frank and Jesse were raised. The James homestead, part of Clay County Historic Sites, is currently undergoing hundreds of thousands of dollars in structural renovations. Visitors can view galleries of artifacts and take a guided tour around the house where Jesse was born. There is an admission fee. To contact the museum, call (816) 736-8500.

Our Lady of Mercy Country Home Dedicated to Care with Dignity Retirement Apartments and Licensed Residential Living In the Liberty Countryside • 24-hour staffed front desk • Monitored security system • Emergency pendants and assistance • Daily worship services • Weekly housekeeping • Affordable monthly rates • Apartments with patios or balconies • Community garden • Covered outdoor patios

Kearney Historic Museum First opened in 2006 to celebrate Kearney’s sesquicentennial, the Kearney Historic Museum is home to several permanent and rotating

Please call or come by for a tour of our full-service facility. Our Lady of Mercy Country Home 2115 Maturana Drive; Liberty, MO 64068 (816) 781-5711 www.ourladyofmercy.net

Clay County Museum

Founded as a faith-based, not-for-profit facility, Our Lady of Mercy Country Home is a mission of the Mercedarian Missionaries of Berriz. 75127995

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

displays. Located in the heart of downtown Kearney at 101 S. Jefferson St., the museum collects, catalogs, preserves and tells the story of the city’s past. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Call (816) 903-1856 for more details.

Liberty Jail Historic Site

Joseph Smith, the first president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and six of his followers were kept at the Liberty Jail for five months in late 1838 and early 1839. It is here that Smith received three revelations that are now included in the Doctrine and Covenants. The jail site at 216 N. Main St. in Liberty is now a visitor’s center that includes a reconstruction of the space where Smith was held. For more information, call (816) 781-3188.

Mt. Gilead Church and School

Located at 15918 Plattsburg Road in Kearney, the church currently serves as a place for gatherings, including weddings, while the one-room schoolhouse lets area children experience what getting an education was like for the generations that came

before them. To find out more, call (816) 736-8500.

Pharis Farm

The history of the Pharis Farm began in 1836, when Fielding Bell, the son of a Revolutionary War veteran, migrated to Clay County from Mason County, Kentucky, via steamboat with his wife and eight children. The property is now part of the Clay County Historic Sites, which is planning agricultural and conservation programs on the 160-acre farm, at 20611 Highway EE in Liberty. To schedule an event or obtain additional information, contact Clay County Historic Sites at (816) 736-8500.

Shoal Creek Living History Museum

Nestled on 80 of the 1,000 acres that makes up Hodge Park at 7000 NE Barry Road, the Shoal Creek Living History Museum has 21 structures with several buildings dating between 1807 to 1885. The grounds are open daily, dawn until dusk, and free of charge unless during a special event for admission or donation. The volunteer-led museum offers several events starting around Easter with a kids jamboree, free first Saturday

events in June to September, a harvest festival, a scary fright night and a kids safe Halloween, plus a wilderness run as well as a visit with St. Nicholas. For details, call (816) 792-2655 or visit shoalcreeklivinghistorymuseum.com.

Smithville Historical Museum/Patterson House

The Patterson House, built in 1888, is located next to Little Platte River at 201 N. Bridge St. in Smithville. The property was reopened last spring as the Smithville Historical Museum and is home to the Smithville Historical Society. The property is on the Clay County historic registry and was built using bricks made on site and lumber from local walnut and cherry trees.

TWA Museum

The mission of the TWA Museum is to emphasize the story, history and importance of the major role Trans World Airlines played in pioneering commercial aviation. The museum, located at 10 Richards Road at the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport, is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday and charges admission. Call (816) 234-1011.

Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site

Stepping onto the grounds of Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site, located at 26600 Park Road North in Lawson, is like stepping into 19th century pastorale. Many of the buildings that Waltus Watkins spent half a century building, including a home, three-story woolen mill, smokehouse, brick kiln, sawmill, gristmill and acres of cropland and orchards, have been preserved to give visitors a sense of life in the 1870s. The mill is the only 19th century textile mill in the United States with its original machinery still intact. During the summer, the site’s Living History Farm Program offers visitors a chance to watch an 1870s family live, work and play. Tours are given of the Watkins home and woolen mill. In addition to the historic site, the state park offers a variety of recreation options including biking, hiking and equestrian trails, and a swim beach. Trails are open from 7 a.m. to sunset each day. Fishing can be done anywhere on the lake except the swim beach. For more details, call (816) 580-3387 or visit www.mostateparks.com.

Hall of Waters

Shoal Creek Living History Museum Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site

Kearney Historic Museum

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Flight

HISTORY TAKES

TWA MUSEUM OFFERS GLIMPSE OF PAST TRAVEL

he only Trans World Airline museum in the world is located at the south end of Clay County in Kansas City. With equipment ranging from old-timey training machines and mock cockpits to actual planes, the TWA Museum is a must-see. RESEARCH TOOL TO EXHIBIT Acquired just in June 2019, the museum shows off the oldest TWA flying aircraft, a 1937 Lockheed Electra 12A, known as “Ellie.” Originally owned by Continental Airlines, the aircraft sold to TWA in 1940 for research and testing static discharge, and it has endured ever since. It wasn't until 2005 the plane started its journey to Kansas City. This aircraft, seating eight —

two crew and six passengers — is one of only a handful left in existence, originally one of 130 total built. It was the fastest plane of its kind at the time. Ruth Richter Holden, daughter of TWA founder Paul Richter who often flew the plane, heard of the survival of this aircraft and went out to buy it. Known as a “tail-dragger,” Ruth was not certified to fly the Lockheed Electra 12A, so she called Capt. Curt “Rocky” Walters to get the aircraft from Georgia to California for her. After enjoying it for a while, Ruth believed Ellie should be in the TWA Museum and delivered it this past summer. The plane is available for viewing at the museum, 10 Richards Road, Suite 110, Kansas City.

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

With it comes a storied past. “There was a time,” museum volunteer Pam Blaschsum said, “Betty Davis’ husband died and she was on a Northwest flight to go to his funeral. They had weather and they canceled, and Paul Richter came down, got this airplane, went and got her and took her to her husband's funeral.” PRESERVING TWA’S LEGACY TWA was the first commercial airline in America to adopt the use of wing flaps. Sold later to American Airlines, TWA’s history lives on in former employees and the TWA Museum located right by the Charles B. Wheeler Downtown Airport in Kansas City. Within the facility, people will find models of former commercial

airliners and uniforms worn by TWA employees. Additionally, the museum is in the process of refurbishing and reconstructing a large commercial 727. Guests can rent out a bar space at the museum for private parties. Designed with the original Ambassador Club bar look in mind, it has original terminal seating, tables made from original plane wheel gear coverings and a lit “twin globe” window. “This is my favorite part,” Blaschum said of the window. “The original TWA logo was called the twin globe.” The twin globe glass in the event space at the museum was originally in the Ambassador Club in St. Louis.

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Communities in Clay County

AVONDALE

Pop. 480 City Hall 3007 Walker Rd. Avondale, MO 64117 (816) 453-7710 Avondale is conveniently located near several major Kansas City roadways and highways, including U.S. Interstates 35 and 435, and Missouri Highway 210. Avondale has many volunteerbased services, including the fire department and snow removal, which lowers residents’ taxes.

VILLAGE OF BIRMINGHAM

Pop. 200 City Hall 510 Spratley Ave. (816) 455-0045 villageofbirminghammo.com The Village of Birmingham is located off Missouri Highway 210, just east of SubTropolis, and is surrounded by Kansas City. It was named for Birmingham, England, and founded in 1887. City events including Christmas and Fourth of July celebrations are held at City Hall and at the adjacent volunteer fire department.

CLAYCOMO

Pop. 1,500 City Hall 115 E. US Highway 69 (816) 452-5539 www.claycomo.org Claycomo sits in the southwest corner of Clay County with convenience to two major highways: Interstates 35 and 435. Claycomo is home to nearly 100 businesses, including the Ford Motor Co. Kansas City Assembly Plant. Those in the community enjoy amenities such as two public parks featuring tennis courts, shelter houses and sports fields. The village hosts different events at the parks throughout the year including concerts and bonfires. The community supports its own ambulance services, fully staffed fire department, constant police protection and a municipal court.

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS

Pop. 11,000 Hall of Waters 201 E. Broadway Ave. Excelsior Springs, MO 64024 (816) 637-2811 www.cityofesmo.com

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

Just 30 miles northeast of Kansas City sits a town known and named for its mineral springs, embracing a rich history. Excelsior Springs, founded in 1880, was built on natural spring wells, drawing people from all over the world to come explore their supposed healing powers. Priding itself on a mix of shopping, eateries, historic sites and cultural experiences, Excelsior Springs also has numerous tours including those on a trolly and those highlighting the paranormal and local breweries. Calling the community home also is the historic Elms Resort and Spa, which was recently purchased by Hyatt. Having had guests like Harry S. Truman and Al Capone, The Elms is a staple site in Clay County and a popular wedding and conference venue. The Excelsior Springs Community Center, located on Tiger Drive, is home to both the Parks and Recreation office and the Excelsior Springs Business Center. The community center also features an indoor aquatic center, gymnasium, indoor track, racquetball courts, fitness center, weight room, aerobics/dance

room, and community and party rooms. For more information, call (816) 656-2500.

GLADSTONE

Pop. 27,423 City Hall 7010 N. Holmes St. Gladstone, MO 64118 (816) 436-2000 www.gladstone.mo.us Gladstone is situated along the eastern edge of Clay County and was incorporated in 1952. The city’s first census came in at 14,502 in 1960 and quickly surged past 23,000 a decade later. Gladstone’s population has hovered around the mid-20,000 mark since the 1980s. In 2016, a large committee created a working document called “Gladstone: Shaping Our Future.” In that document, the phrase, “Gladstone: An innovative, welcoming community with outstanding business, educational and recreational opportunities for all” emerged and from 2017 on, the city leadership, staff, community and businesses have continued reaching for this ideal. Anyone visiting Gladstone can

take advantage of the numerous restaurants and retail stores in the vicinity, along with a fresh and modern-looking downtown space. Linden Square is an outdoor venue and a primary piece of Gladstone’s downtown. It hosts numerous activities, events and festivals throughout the year, including Friday and Saturday concerts in the summer and Whiskey Fest in early fall. Locals can also enjoy the amenities of the Gladstone Community Center, which features a fitness center, banquet space and one of the Northland’s largest natatoriums. The area features many recently completed projects, including The Heights apartment complex, Linden Square public space and the Northland Innovation Campus. The Northland Innovation Campus opened in the fall of 2016 and serves a myriad of educational functions. The project is a partnership between the North Kansas City School District, Northwest Missouri State University and the city of Gladstone. A variety of undergraduate and graduate programs are offered. The city offers an abundance of outdoor opportunities through its extensive system of parks and trails. Hobby Hill Park, 7601 N. Broadway, includes multigenerational play structures, shelter and restrooms, a paved trail with boardwalk and bridges around a wetland. Happy Rock Park, Northeast 76th and North Antioch Road, spans nearly 80 acres. The park is the largest in the Gladstone Parks System and includes ballfields, basketball and tennis

Central Park in Gladstone

courts, playgrounds and a 1.3-mile trail. Oak Grove Park, Northeast 76th Street and North Troost Avenue, serves as a host site for various actives during the year, including the Gladstone Summertime Bluesfest and the Theatre in the Park series. Central Park, Northeast 69th Street and North Holmes Street, welcomes those looking for a place to cool off to a zero-depth entry pool with play features. The Gladstone Parks System also incorporates several more outdoor spaces, ranging from secluded groves to areas spanning almost 40 acres. Those parks include: Meadowbrook Park, Flora Park, Hidden Hollow Park, Little Gulley Park, Sycamore Park and the Maple Woods Nature Preserve.

GLENAIRE

Pop. 580 City Hall 309 Smiley Rd. Glenaire, MO 64068 www.glenairemo.org After incorporating in 1950 as the Village of Glenaire, this community became a fourth-class city in 1994. Now known as the City of Glenaire, it used to be a retreat along the Interurban. The Interurban Lake was a destination with the Interurban Trolley making stops. The Glenaire City Hall/ Clubhouse was established in 1921, known at that time as Urban Heights Community Club. The building was a barn donated by John Robert Smiley. He also gave the club a 25-year lease on the land. The men of the community built a foundation for the barn, and over the years built on a kitchen and installed windows and doors appropriate for a clubhouse. It was Clay County’s first rural club building.

HOLT

Excelsior Springs – Elms Historic District

Pop. 472 City Hall 315 Main St. Holt, MO 64048 (816) 320-3391 Holt comprises .45 squaremiles and lies in both Clay and Clinton counties, nestled mostly between Missouri Highway 33 and Interstate 35. The city itself was laid out in

1867 by Jeremiah Holt along the trail of the Hannibal St. Joseph railroad line. While the railway buzzed, Holt became much like other railroad towns, having a mill, post office, hotel and stockyards. In 1908, the city’s main crop was Burley tobacco, which is celebrated in one of the area’s newer businesses, an event space that was once a working tobacco farm called Tobacco Barn Farm, located off Missouri Highway 33 in rural Holt. Today, city leaders and caring community members are trying to revitalize the city, redoing infrastructure around the city including along Main Street. The former American Legion Building is a community building run by the park board that hosts community events and meals. Military supporters are currently working to expand the city's veterans memorial in City Park, located in front of City Hall, to include bricks honoring area service members. The city has a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ holtcityhall/.

KANSAS CITY

Pop. 491,000 City Hall 414 E. 12th St. Kansas City, MO 64106 www.kcmo.gov Kansas City, Missouri, was incorporated as a town on June 1, 1850, and as a city on March

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

28, 1853. In the early years, it was a stop before pioneers headed west. For others, it became a destination to establish a home and build an empire like R.A. Long, who owned the lumber company R. A. Long & Co., or Joyce Clyde Hall, who founded Hallmark Cards. The city is home to professional sports teams such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals and Sporting KC. Kansas City is a metropolitan community divided by a river with the city boundaries stretching into Jackson, Platte and Clay counties. About 51% of the city's land mass is in the Northland. While the Northland has pockets of shopping areas with Briarcliff Village and the shops along Antioch Road, this part of Kansas City is particularly strong in parks and recreation. Keeping Kansas City’s nickname of Paris of the Plains, the section of the city north of the river is home to fountains, sculptures and parks. The Northland Fountain, at the intersection of North Oak Trafficway and Vivion Road in Anita Gorman Park, came to be through the efforts of the public and private sectors working together to achieve a common goal. In winter it becomes an ice sculpture attracting people to view varied shapes created by the frozen water. It’s a magnet for photos varying from wedding pictures to pre-prom photos for high school couples. Adjacent is the Clay County Veterans Memorial. The Children’s Fountain, heading into North Kansas City, is at the intersection of Missouri Highway 9 and North Oak Trafficway. The six children are designed to represent children

Kearney Amphitheater

everywhere. Hidden Valley Park at Northeast Russell Road and North Bennington Avenue is 195 acres between Missouri Highway 210 and Russell Road with lighted asphalt walking trails, nine-hole flying disc course, state-of-theart playground equipment, rain gardens and park benches. With more than 1,000 acres, Hodge Park is the second largest park in Kansas City and is named for Dr. Robert Hodge, an internal medicine physician. Born in 1920, Hodge lived for many years north of the river on his family farm, which had been homesteaded by his great-great grandfather in 1833. Property acquisition for a park north of the river in Clay County near Shoal Creek began in 1965, with

Penguin Park

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

more property acquired at later times. The Shoal Creek Living History Museum was developed in 1976 as Heritage Village and dedicated in 1977. In 2000 it became the Shoal Creek Living History Museum. The museum has more than 20 structures with 17 authentic 19th century buildings dating from 1807 to 1885. Penguin Park, 4124 NE Vivion Road, began as part of Lakewood Greenway, an area acquired by the Parks Department in 1957. Vernon Jones, the Kansas City North parks district supervisor, created and built figures for Santa’s Wonderland in Gillham Park. After another employee made a miniature penguin for Santa’s Wonderland, Jones decided to build a large penguin in 1965. The penguin was placed on the northern area of Lakewood Greenway and was a hit. Jones created other animals for the site, such as a giraffe, elephant and kangaroo. While unofficially known as “Penguin Park” for years, the corner of Lakewood Greenway was officially renamed Penguin Park in December 1998.

KEARNEY

Pop. 10,049 City Hall 100 E. Washington St. Kearney, MO 64060 (816) 628-4142 www.ci.kearney.mo.us The town of Kearney was laid out by John Lawrence in the spring of 1867, with the building of the Hannibal and St. Joseph Railroad. Kearney was incorporated two years later, gaining status as a fourth-class city in 1883. Northeast of the city’s limits is a farm whose former resident lives in infamy, bringing international notoriety to the city: outlaw Jesse James, who robbed banks and stagecoaches across the country. Located roughly 30 minutes by car northeast from downtown Kansas City, Kearney is now one of the fastest-growing cities in the metro area. The city is known for being family friendly as it boasts great schools, a low tax base and fun activities and events throughout the year including multiple festivals and parades, concerts, downtown Halloween and Christmas activities, bull rides, a wine festival and farmers market.

James Festival, July 3 fireworks celebration and Oktoberfest. Mack Porter Park located at 1001 N. Highway 33, includes a trail, ball fields, bathrooms and concession facilities. The park's walking trail connects it to Jesse James Park.

Excellent tournament venue Snack bar, driving range, lessons available 4,000 sq. ft. banquet facility Exciting “Hideout Lounge” ne ★ Gladstone ribu Dis r-T pa rie t ou

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LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

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Pro Shop 816-532-4100 18212 Golf Drive Smithville, MO 64089

Membership opportunities available

Award winning pro shop www.paradisepointegolf.com

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Pop. 30,614 City Hall 101 E. Kansas St. Liberty, MO 64068 (816) 439-4400 www.libertymissouri.gov Liberty, which is one the largest of the cities in Clay County, strives to be a modern, growing city while remembering its historic roots as one of the earliest incorporated towns west of the Mississippi River. With the 2019 passage of a use tax, the city has fulfilled promises to residents to make improvements across Liberty. Many improvements have come to the city’s neighborhood parks and the Liberty Community Center. The destination park, City Park, will be undergoing significant renovations to become inclusive to all children and adults with various play structures aimed at people with varying challenges. In the past few years, the Liberty Commons shopping area has been redeveloped, the downtown streetscape has undergone reconstruction, an interchange at Interstate 35 and South Liberty Parkway has been added and a wastewater treatment plant has been constructed for a total of $200 million. In 2019, the biggest roadway project was improvements to Kansas Street and the bridge over Interstate 35. Visitors come to Liberty for a historic downtown neighborhood, parks and recreation including

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Kansas City – Clay County Veterans Memorial

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showcasing national musical acts each year. Lions Park is in downtown Kearney off Jefferson Street between West First and West Second streets. The park’s stage is home to several events throughout the year including theater productions, concerts, community Easter egg hunt and themed family fun and movie nights. In the coming months and years, the park will be revitalized to include updated play structures and a splash pad water feature. In addition to its many recreational offerings that include ball fields, a disc golf course, play equipment, a lake stocked with fish, miles of walking trails and rodeo grounds, Jesse James Park north of downtown on Highway 33 is home to Kearney Missouri Amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue that hosts national musical acts, with capacity for 4,500 people. Jesse James Park is host to a slew of community events each year including annual North Kansas City the – Dagg ParkJesse Sprayground

Kearney continues to experience a growth in amenities that make the city a great place to live, work and play. Projects recently opened include a host of restaurants and businesses aimed at hospitality such as the reopening of a beloved homemade ice cream shop, new Mexican and burger restaurants and a Holiday Inn Express hotel. In 2020, residents and visitors alike will find it easier to navigate to and through Kearney as construction of the second Interstate 35 begins in the summer and safety updates to Missouri Highway 92 are expected to be complete. The city has nearly 140 acres of parks with miles of walking trails and an amphitheater

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North Kansas City - Dagg Park Sprayground

Pop. 2,500 City Hall 103 Pennsylvania Ave. Lawson, MO 64062 (816) 580-3217 www.cityoflawsonmo.org Whether visiting the city’s lake, community center or walking through City Park, the Lawson Parks and Recreations Board provides facilities available for rent and programs to accommodate a plethora of needs and interests. Community events include an annual fall festival, regular farmers markets, story times in the park, children’s crafting, Easter egg hunts in April, community movies in the park and a city picnic in May. Other features for families to enjoy are playground equipment, fishing, camping, hiking, walking trails, primitive fitness equipment and golf at City Park, City Lake and the local golf course. Recently completed, City Lake has a 19-hole disc-golf course and RV park. Camping has moved from primitive lots along the lake to the RV park with water and electricity hookups available. The lake also has new bathroom improvements, a covered fishing dock and an improved parking lot. Aside from the lake, Lawson is also home to the historic Watkins

LIBERTY

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LAWSON

Mill, a Missouri state park and landmark.

the nationally known Fountain Bluff Sports Park, the highly rated Liberty Public Schools and William Jewell College. The city is also expanding its business and technology base with the addition of the second phase of Heartland Meadows, which could allow for an additional technology-based business. Plus, the addition of the second phase of South Liberty Parkway will open up land that could be used for a mix of development. The multi-million dollar facility at LMV Automotive Systems includes a training center. Future businesses along South Liberty Parkway will be in addition to the LMV and may support the Ford Assembly Plant down the road in Claycomo. Along with development comes Norterre, a multi-purpose development north of Liberty Hospital with a wellness center, assisted living and memory care, plus long-term and short-term stay units. There's multi-family housing being built with the Forest Avenue Apartments and Parkway Heights. New single family homes are coming with Homestead and

Riverwood. One of the leading amenities in Liberty is the park system. The city has more than a dozen parks and greenways, plus more than six miles of trails around the city. Fountain Bluff Sports Complex, 2200 Old Highway 210, hosts various sporting events on the 146acre site. Tournament games from all over the United States come to the community to use the fields. Ruth Moore Park, 401 N. Grover St., features a splash pad themed after the fire station that sits across the street. In 2019, the park gained a zipline for kids to ride. Stocksdale Park, 901 S. LaFrenz Road, covers 112 acres of the eastern edge of Liberty. It provides a wide range of amenities, including conservation areas of prairie and forest, one of the region's most extensive mountain bike trails and Liberty’s dog park. Along with the disc golf course, there is also a cricket pitch that is used by two clubs in the Kansas City metropolitan area. On most weekends from late spring to early fall, guests can sit and watch the game. City Park, 970 S. Missouri

Westboro Canterbury Playground in Liberty

Highway 291, was established as Liberty's first park in 1949. It encompasses 12 acres in the heart of Liberty. Its playground and sprayground are popular attractions for children, especially during the warmer months. The park improvements will be completed in spring 2020 to add more inclusive playground amenities.

MISSOURI CITY

Pop. 287 MCCA Building (City Council chambers) 309 Main St. P.O. Box 264 Missouri City, MO 64072 www.missouricitymo.com A quaint town, Missouri City began as Williams’ Landing in 1834. By December 1857,

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residents changed the name to Missouri City with incorporation taking place two years later. During the Civil War, the town was prey to Bushwhackers and Jayhawkers, and its business of tobacco and hemp was nearly entirely destroyed. Nestled along the Missouri River, this city includes a school, post office, The Frank James Bank Museum, churches and a city park. During summer months, the town comes alive with a motorcycle, airplane and car show in addition to a city parade.

MOSBY

Pop. 200 C ity Hall 123 1 2 Fo ur t h St . Mosby, MO 64072 (816) 628-4737 Mosby was platted in 1887 by the Milwaukee Land Co. Originally a heavily wooded area, the town was settled next to the Milwaukee Railroad line. From village to city, Mosby’s population grew as a result of the railroad, having multiple railroads through the area. These lines provided access to two steam and an electric train. A pier for the Interburban Bridge can still be seen in Fishing River near the Fishing River Bridge in the city. The city has three waterways: Holmes Creek, Fishing River and Crockett Creek. Many people visit the Fishing River every year as the 39-mile tributary of the Missouri River is one of the city’s finest attractions.

NORTH KANSAS CITY

Pop. 4,300 City Hall 2010 Howell St., North Kansas City, MO 64116 (816) 274-6000 www.nkc.org North Kansas City is a unique city in the Northland as it expands during the work day to a population of more than 25,000 and contracts at night to about 4,300 due to the town’s flourishing industry and commerce. North Kansas City is home for nearly 1,000 companies engaged in manufacturing, warehousing, transportation, wholesale and retail trade, and business and personal services. This strong and stable

economic base keeps taxes low and municipal services high in quantity and quality. Major businesses include: Cerner Corp.’s world headquarters, North Kansas City Hospital, Harrah’s Casino & Hotel, BNSF Railway Co., Ingredion and Helzberg Diamond’s corporate headquarters. While the city may not cover a large land mass, there are four parks, a dog park and a recreation center. Dagg Park, located at 2000 Iron St., is open 8 a.m. to dark. The sprayground is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Memorial Day weekend to Sept. 30. The playground is open from 8 a.m. to dark. Macken Park, 1002 Clark Ferguson Drive, is the largest of the city parks at 60 acres. The park is home to a variety of recreational activities and includes amenities like shelters, ball fields, walking trail, playgrounds and courts for tennis, pickleball, racquetball and handball. Waggin' Trail Park, 432 E. 32nd Ave., is open 6 a.m. to sunset or 9 p.m., depending on which comes first. The 4.7acre off-leash dog park is a partnership between the NKC Parks & Recreation and KC Parks & Recreation. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, and each area features a paved walking trail and multiple obstacles.

VILLAGE OF OAKS

Pop. 130 City Hall 6404 N. Locust Rd. (816) 436-9150 www.villageofoaks.org The Village of Oaks is nestled between Englewood Road and Barnes Avenue, east of North Oak Trafficway. The area is known for the historic Hernandez Home on Northeast Wilson Boulevard. Red cobblestone from the original Clay County Courthouse (circa 1934) was used to build the home. Thomas and Jane Martin moved to Missouri from Kentucky to start the village. Making the journey in a covered wagon, the family ultimately settled on 50 acres of land that later became part of the Village of Oaks.

They built a log cabin and started farming west of Telephone Road, now known as Flora Street. Between settling in 1845 and 1852, the Martins purchased an additional 290 acres. The land originally owned by the Martins now constitutes not only part of the Village of Oaks but also parts of the Village of Oakwood (located north of the Village of Oaks).

VILLAGE OF OAKVIEW

Pop. 375 City Hall 6404 N. Locust Rd. (816) 436-9150 www.oakviewmissouri.com Located on .18 square miles of land off North Oak Trafficway, generally found between Northeast 64th Street and Northeast 62nd Street, is the Village of Oakview. It's a small community with its own police department.

VILLAGE OF OAKWOOD

Pop. 195 City Hall 24800 Broadway Ave. (816) 286-1152 www.villageofoakwood.org This small community was founded in the 1920s and named for a grove of oak trees near the original town site, according to the Historical Society of Missouri website. The community is located off North Oak Trafficway between Barnes Street along the south border and Northeast Poplar Drive to the north.

VILLAGE OF OAKWOOD PARK

Pop. 200 City Hall 6404 N. Locust St. (816) 277-4882 www.villageofoakwoodpark.com This community is a place where roots run deep with family tradition and legacy, its website states. Located just off North Oak Trafficway, near Northeast 61st Terrace, the boundaries of the village begin at Northeast Poplar Drive to the south and extend past Northeast 61st Place to the north.

PLEASANT VALLEY

Pop. 3,000 City Hall 6500 Royal St. Pleasant Valley, MO 64068 (816) 781-3996 www.pleasantvalleymo.org Sharing a border to the county seat, Pleasant Valley is ranked one of the safest cities in the state. It has its own police department and over 100 businesses, plus Pleasant Valley is in close proximity to the Kansas City Police Academy. With a community center called Pleasant Valley Civic Building, the town sees many wedding receptions, family reunions and special events. There are two parks within city limits, and the popular Pleasant Valley skate park is just outside the city. Additionally, there are three picnic shelters. Two shelters are at City Park behind City Hall at 6500 Royal St., and the third is located in the park adjacent to the community building on Sobbie Road right off of Pleasant Valley Road.

PRATHERSVILLE

Pop.128 Prathersville Bible Church 25406 County Fair Circle Prathersville, MO 64024 (816) 863-7804 Prathersville is a rural village located southwest of Excelsior Springs. The community was incorporated in 1954 and is named after the Rev. J.A. Prather, who built a steam mill in the area. As no businesses exist and the community is zoned exclusively for agriculture use, the only public building within the village's limits is the Prathersville Bible Church.

RANDOLPH

Pop. 54 City Hall 7777 NE Birmingham Road. (816) 455-9323 Randolph is located on the banks of the Missouri River at the southeast corner of the intersection of U.S. Interstate 435 and Missouri Highway 210, south of the Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun amusement parks and west of Ameristar Casino.

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

SMITHVILLE

Pop. 9,455 City Hall 107 W. Main St. Smithville, MO 64089 (816) 532-3897 www.smithvillemo.org Over 150 years of history can be found in Smithville. The city continues to “Thrive Ahead,” as its motto proclaims, and is in the process of growing with new businesses, new housing developments and a state-of-theart educational system. Named as having the secondbest high school in the state by U.S. News and World Report, Smithville School District was also recognized for its innovative design implemented in its newest building, Eagle Heights Elementary School. The growing community is also home to Smithville Lake, a popular recreation and tourist destination. With close proximity to Kansas City International

Airport, the town is an ideal location for shopping, camping, day tripping and other musings. The city has an active American Legion and recently installed the only 9/11 Memorial in the area, located at Courtyard Park along Main Street. Smithville is regularly listed as a great place to live thanks to its easy highway access, low crime rate, low tax rates and all-around small-town feel. Having just rolled out a new strategic plan, the community is aiming to have more economic development, walking trails and more in the coming years. It also recently brought back its annual Octoberfest from a seven-year hiatus. The downtown area is rich with community events including a homecoming parade, amateur barbecue contest, races for bicyclists and runners, summer concerts, movies in the park and community yoga opportunities.

The city also completed its downtown streetscape project and lined the historic district with new banners. Outside of the historic district, Smithville Marketplace is under construction. The 66-acres between Cliff Drive and U.S. Highway 169 will also feature a new Price Chopper, Taco Bell, Scooter’s Coffee and a Porter’s Ace Hardware. Smithville has nearly 350 acres of parkland and is working with the University of Missouri Extension to help move toward self-sustaining food growth through a pilot program called Missouri EATS. Smith’s Fork Park, located at 1601 Highway DD, is a 250-acre park that the city leases from the Army Corps of Engineers. Amenities include fields for multiple sports, shelters, skateboard park, self-supplied driving range, campground, nature area and fishing from the

Smithville Lake Dam spillway. Heritage Park just received new equipment designed for all things baseball. Located at 320 E. Main St., this park has lighted fields, shelters, picnic tables, walking trails and restrooms. Courtyard Park along the 100 block of Main Street is home to the Ali Kemp Memorial Stage which hosts a plethora of performances throughout the year. It also is home to the 9/11 Memorial Rail paid for entirely by community donations. The Heritage District surrounding the park is a hub of activity including Hot Summer Nights concert series, farmers and makers markets and movie nights. Helvey Park is home to a regularly stocked Helvey Lake which is used for an annual fishing tournament. Located at 1 Helvey Drive, west of Dam Road, the park also includes 15 acres of land and picnic tables.

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farm fresh

he Northland is rich in farmers and makers markets. Come meet the farmers of the community who cultivate fresh food at weekly artisan markets across Clay County.

Gladstone Farmers Market:

Open 2 to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from May through October on the east side of Linden Square in downtown Gladstone.

Historic Downtown Liberty Farmers Market: Open 7 a.m.

to noon on Saturdays from May through October on the Historic Liberty Square.

Holt City Market: Open 4 to

7 p.m. on Fridays from May through October at 4500 Highway PP in the west grass lot.

Kearney’s Farmers & Artisan Market: Open 7 a.m. to noon

on Saturdays from May through October in the parking lot of Kearney School District’s Early Education Center, located at the corner of Missouri Highways 33 and 92.

Lawson Farmer’s Market:

Open 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays from May through October at Lawson City Park, 350 N. Pennsylvania Ave.

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Liberty Farmers Market:

Open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays from May through October in the Feldmans Farm & Home parking lot, 1332 W. Kansas St.

North Kansas City Farmers Market: Open 7:30 a.m.

to 1 p.m. on Fridays from May through October at the southeast corner of Armour Road and Howell Street.

Smithville’s Farmers & Makers Market: Open 4:30 to 7:30

p.m. on Wednesdays and 9 to noon every second Saturday from June through September in Courtyard Park along the 100 block of Main Street.

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County Services in Clay County PUBLIC HEALTH CENTER Clay County Public Health Center, 800 Haines Drive in Liberty, provides family, personal, community development and environmental health services; and records such as immunizations as well as birth and death certificates. For more details, visit www.clayhealth.com.

SENIOR SERVICES Clay County Senior Services, with an office at 4444 N. Bellview in Gladstone, supports Clay Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s older adult population through a variety of programs and discounts for fitness and educational opportunities. For more information, visit www.claycoseniors.org.

CLAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Administrations Building 1 Courthouse Square, Liberty, MO 64068 (816) 407-3600 www.claycountymo.gov

Clay County Administration Building

Liberty is the county seat for Clay County. Home to 242,874 residents as of 2017, Clay County is one of the largest in Missouri. Comprising 409 square miles north of the Missouri River, Clay County was first organized in 1822.

Assessor ....................................................... (816) 407-3500 Auditor ........................................................ (816) 407-3590 Clerk ............................................................ (816) 407-3570 Collector ....................................................... (816) 407-3200 Commission ................................................. (816) 407-3600 Recorder of Deeds ....................................... (816) 407-3550 Sheriff (nonemergency) ............................... (816) 407-3750 Treasurer ...................................................... (816) 407-3540 Citizen Services ........................................... (816) 407-3650 Election Board .................................. (816) 415-VOTE (8683) Health Department ...................................... (816) 595-4200 Highway Department .................................. (816) 407-3300 Historic Sites ................................................ (816) 736-8500 Midwest National Air Center ...................... (816) 407-3390 Parks Department ....................................... (816) 407-3400 Planning & Zoning ...................................... (816) 407-3380 Prosecutor .................................................... (816) 736-8300 7th Judicial Circuit Court ............................. (816) 407-3900 Tourism ........................................................ (816) 407-3659

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Education in Clay County Excelsior Springs School District

Missouri City School District

Parochial & Private Schools

300 W. Broadway Ave. Excelsior Springs, MO 64024 (816) 630-9200 www.essd40.com

700 E. Main St. Missouri City, MO 64072 (816) 750-4391 www.mocity.k12.mo.us

Eagle Heights Christian School Grades: K-12 Primary Campus: 5600 N. Brighton Ave., Kansas City www.eagleheightseagles.org

Student Body: 2,851

Kearney School District 150 Missouri Highway 92 Kearney, MO 64060 (816) 628-4116 www.ksdr1.net Student Body: 3,514

Lawson R-XIV School District 401 N. Allison St. Lawson, MO 64062 (816) 580-7277 www.lawsoncardinals.org *Lawson School District services portions of Clay, Clinton and Ray counties. Student Body: 1,200

Liberty Public Schools 8 Victory Lane Liberty, MO 64068 (816) 736-5300 www.lps53.org Student Body: 12,883

Student Body: 23 *The Missouri City School District serves grades K-8. High school age students attend either Liberty or Excelsior Springs high schools.

North Kansas City School District 2000 NE 46th St. Kansas City, MO 64116 (816) 321-5000 www.nkcschools.org Student Body: 20,188

Smithville R-II School District 655 S. Commercial Ave. Smithville, MO 64089 (816) 532-0406 www.smithvilleschooldistrict.net Student Body: 2,647

Faith Academy Harvest Christian School Grades: Pre K-8 4300 Corrington Ave., Kansas City Faith Christian Academy Grades: K-12 Primary Campus: 4330 NW Cookingham Dr., Kansas City Northern Hills Christian Academy Grades: Pre K-8 17211 NE 190th St., Holt www.nhcapatriots.com Northland Christian Schools Grades: Pre K-12 Student Body: 450+ Main Campus: 10500 N Arrowhead Trafficway, Kansas City Liberty Campus: Kansas City Church, 7700 N. Church Road northlandchristianed.com (Additional campus in Platte County)

Oakhill Day School Grades: Pre K-8 7019 N. Cherry St., Gladstone www.oakhilldayschool.org

St. Gabriel Catholic School Grades: Pre K-8 4737 N. Cleveland Ave., Kansas City www.stgabrielskc.com

Our Savior Christian Academy Grades: Pre K-10 East Campus: 1103 S. Commercial Ave., Smithville www.oursavioracademy.org *Additional campus in Platte County

St. James Catholic School Grades: K-8 309 S. Stewart Road, Liberty www.stjames-liberty.org

Outreach Christian Education Center Grades: Pre K-8 2900 NE Cates St., Kansas City www.outreacheducation.org St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic School Grades: Pre K-8 6415 NE Antioch Road, Gladstone www.sataps.com/school St. Charles Borromeo Academy Grades: Pre K-8 804 NE Shady Lane Drive, Kansas City www.borromeoacademy.com

St. Patrick School Grades: Pre K-8 1401 NE 42nd Terrace, Kansas City www.stpatrickkc.com/school St. Pius X Catholic High School Grades: 9-12 1500 42nd Terrace, Kansas City www.stpiusxhs-kc.com

Higher Education Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods 2601 NE Barry Rd., Kansas City (816) 604-1000 www.mcckc.edu Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary 5001 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City (816) 414-3700 www.mbts.edu Northwest Missouri State University-Kansas City 6889 N. Oak Trafficway, Suite 400, Gladstone (816) 272-4621 www.nwmissouri.edu/kc William Jewell College 500 College Hill, Liberty (816) 781-7700 www.jewell.edu

Kearney School

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

MID-CONTINENT PUBLIC LIBRARY

ith renovations supported through the voter-approved Proposition L, which passed in 2016, generating a total revenue of $10.5 million from taxpayers in Clay, Platte and Jackson counties, Mid-Continent Public Library System has 31 branches. Nearly all of them are showing off newly added features and updated technology, and some have undergone a total remodel. Most branches are open seven days a week. Monday through Thursday hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. depending on the branch. The libraries close at 6 p.m. on Friday and are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Most branches also offer Sunday hours from 1 to 5 p.m. Call individual branches for more details. One of the largest library systems in the country and the biggest in the Kansas City area, eight of the library system’s locations call Clay County home. Find out more at www.mymcpl. org.

Antioch Branch

6060 N. Chestnut Ave., Gladstone, (816) 454-1306

Claycomo Branch

309 NE U.S. Highway 69, Claycomo, (816) 455-5030

getting a new facility located one mile south on South Withers Road across from the Liberty Academy. The current location will remain open through construction.)

North Oak Branch

8700 N. Oak Trafficway, Kansas City, (816) 436-4385 (This branch is also getting a new facility. The location has not been announced.)

Smithville Branch

120 Richardson St., Smithville, (816) 532-0116

Woodneath Library Center

8900 NE Flintlock Road, Kansas City, (816) 883-4900

NORTH KANSAS CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Antioch Library

Your Muzzleloading and Adult Airgun Headquarters!

2251 Howell St., North Kansas City (816) 221-3360 www.nkcpl.org

Serving over 15,000 cardholders, the North Kansas City Public Library has been operating since 1939. Housing an extensive collection of books and multimedia resources, the library also hosts community events and offers free cards

•Guns •Books •Military Clothing •Full Line of Bullets in Stock! Come Live the History!

Excelsior Springs Branch

Kearney Branch

100 S. Platte-Clay Way, Kearney, (816) 628-5055

Liberty Branch

1000 Kent St., Liberty, (816) 781-9240 (The Liberty library is

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to residents of the Kansas City “Voted Bestarea. Pizza in the Northland 2018-2019” metropolitan 2018 The library is also part of the Missouri Evergreen partnership, which is backed by the Missouri State Library. The library is open daily: 2019 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 • Nani’s House Made Meatballs p.m. Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Pizza/Sandwiches/Pasta/Salads Saturday; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. ★ ch

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a new chapter for literary exploration RABBIT HOLE LOOKING TO PROVIDE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES INTO LITERATURE IN NKC

Rabbit hOle 919 E. 14th Ave., North Kansas City (816) 492-7915 www.rabbitholekc.org Scheduled to open in 2020

abbit hOle could open in the early fall of 2020, but co-owner Pete Cowdin said people need to be flexible with the team as construction time can vary depending on weather and time. However, when the construction is completed and the fabrication team can rest for a few seconds, Rabbit hOle will be a place to visit for the entire family. The museum at 914 E. 14th Ave. in North Kansas City is described as the world’s first “explor-a-storium,” a place centered on literature. “Initially, we plan to open the first two floors and then add as funds become available,” Cowdin said. Perhaps some visitors will remember Cowdin and his partner, Debbie Pettid. The two owned and shared their love of books with Reading Reptile in the Brookside/Waldo area of Kansas City, south of the river, for

30 years. For a few years, the duo has been out of the limelight, raising funds and gathering up local and national support. “We looked at experiential museums that draw people in,” he said. “One of the models is the City Museum in St. Louis and the second is the Meow Wolf in Santa Fe that are highly immersive. Debbie and I believe that the future of museums is going to be about inclusion and experiential.” Cowdin said both museums he mentioned receive hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. In 2010, the City Museum tallied up more than 700,000 visitors. The Meow Wolf Museum nets around half a million visitors annually. “I'm not sure if we hit these numbers, but I believe eventually we can,” he said. “I feel we tap into that cultural need.” The museum will look at classic and contemporary works of children’s literature. Currently,

two floors are being built, but Cowdin and Pettid hope to expand upward in the future. This museum will not be static, but always developing and moving. “Kids need physical things, so we will have the things to read, but there will be a physical environment to play in as well,” Cowdin said. “The other hope is to have a place where people can move, discuss and enjoy at their own pace.” One of the constant figures will be Fox Rabbit. An optional experience will invite visitors to journey into the Rabbit hOle origin story by way of Fox’s underground burrow, which is right at the entry and ticketing area. Once in the space, there's the Explor-A-Storium with an immersive narrative, curated exhibits, performances and an evolving array of exhibits. “On the map, we have ‘Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel,’

by Virginia Lee Burton,” Cowdin said. “Such a character as Mary Anne the steam shovel could be a big hit with kids.” Cowdin said 25 to 30 fabricators will help Rabbit hOle bring the beloved children's characters to life. Along the way, families and kids can have lunch in the café, which will have literary fare that will be brought to them via an automat system. There also will be the Tons of Fun Room, which will function as a makerspace, craft room and gathering area. Sandwiched between the Tons of Fun Room and the bookstore is the Goodnight Moon Room. Cowdin said the green room will be a place to host storytimes, baby music times and book clubs. On the second floor, visitors will explore the 100-Year Panorama honoring the history of the American children’s book. The second floor also has a print shop, writing lab, resource library

LIVING IN CLAY COUNTY 2020

and reading room. A Discovery Galley will give children, parents and other visitors a chance to look at original book art. “One cool room with be the Immersive Galley,” Cowdin said. “This is going to be another space that changes. This 3,000-squarefoot space will change up quarterly to every six months with an in-depth look at a single book.” Cowdin hopes visitors to the Rabbit hOle will spend three to four hours in the museum. “It’s going to be large and dynamic,” he said. “I truly don’t believe people will get to experience everything in one visit. It’s going to be a shared experience for everyone in that family that will defy the boundaries of childhood and adulthood.” Cowdin said the museum will be evolving in many ways. They will seek out program partners such as school districts and the local library system. “There’s no place like this and that’s exciting,” he said.

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Take A Trip Down Memory Lane!

2020 Shoal Creek Calendar of Events 1st Saturday Events – 10 am-3 pm June • July August • September

Kids Spring Jamboree – APRIL, 2020 16th Annual Harvest Festival, - October 3, 2020 10am-3 pm Kids Safe Halloween- October 24, 2020 10 am- 2 pm Wilderness Run, - November, 2020 Visit From St. Nicholas – December 5, 2020 10 am- 4 pm *Times/Dates –Subject to Change – Visit our Website For all Dates & times

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GOLDEN VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER 1602 N 2nd St., Clinton MO 64735

(816) 331-4327

4880 N.E. Goodview Circle Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

WESTERN MISSOURI MEDICAL CENTER

LEE’S SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER

(816) 331-4327

(816) 478-3008

2000 SE Blue Parkway, Suite #110 Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 (816) 478-3008

PHC LIBERTY

888 Haines Drive, Suite 224 Liberty, MO 64068

(816) 781-2333

ST. JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER

1004 Carondelet Dr., Suite #450 Kansas City, MO 64114

(816) 942-7200

CARROLL COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL 1502 N Jefferson St., Carrollton, MO 64633

(816) 331-4327 LEGENDS

2300 Hutton Rd., Ste 106 Kansas City, KS 66109

(913) 721-3387

407 Burkarth, Ste 302, Warrensburg, MO 64093

ANDERSON COUNTY HOSPITAL 421 S. Maple St. Garnett, KS 66032 (816) 478-3008

MERRIAM

6815 East Frontage Road Merriam, KS 66204

(913) 721-3387

MENORAH MEDICAL CENTER

5701 W. 119th St., Suite 425 Overland Park, KS 66209

(913) 663-5100

RESEARCH MEDICAL CENTER

2330 E. Meyer Blvd., Suite T104 Kansas City, MO 64132

(816) 333-6996