Answering the Call
From hand-pulled engines, to hightech gear, Fire District #1’s history is rooted in service and community
Lit, Mixed & Forged A trio of downtown hangouts
Bonded by Purpose
Dear Readers, welcome
As 2026 begins, Gardner continues to balance growth with connection—honoring the people and partnerships that make progress possible. This issue highlights that spirit across every corner of the community.
We look back on the long tradition of service at the Fire District #1 and meet Yukon, the police department’s newest K9 officer who’s carrying on a proud legacy of teamwork and trust. We visit schools investing in spaces that support both learning and belonging, and we talk with local business owners whose creativity keeps downtown lively and welcoming.
From the hometown pride behind Hometown Sports Gear to GBA’s decades-long partnership in shaping the city’s infrastructure, each story reflects the same theme: Gardner’s strength lies in its people—their collaboration, resilience, and shared vision for what comes next.
Thanks for joining us! We’re proud to share these stories as Gardner steps into another year of growth, connection and community.
Leslie Clugston Andres, Editor
the cover
Taylor Nuessen serves Gardner as a firefighter with Fire District #1.
Photograph by Meagan Young
Editor Leslie Clugston Andres
Designer/Art Director Alex Tatro
Copy Editor Gina DeBacker
Advertising Angie Taylor ataylor@sunflowerpub.com
Contributing Photographers Sarah Reeves Meagan Young
Contributing Writers Ian Brannan Debbie Leckron Miller Lucas Shivers
Publisher Bill Uhler
Director Bob Cucciniello
GARDNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
109 E. Main St | PO Box 402 Gardner, KS 66030 info@gardnerchamber.com | 913.856.6464 www.gardnerchamber.com
President | CEO Beth Felski
Member Relations & Marketing Alyssa Petrik
Member Engagement & Events Jennifer Crable
G is a publication of Sunflower Publishing, a division of Ogden Publications, Inc. sunflowerpub.com
8 history ANSWERING THE CALL
From the clang of the city’s first alarm bell to today’s high-tech stations, Gardner’s firefighters have always been ready to serve
community PARTNERS IN PROTECTION
Gardner’s newest good boy, Yukon, continues a proud tradition of service, teamwork and community connection 20 schools BONDED BY PURPOSE
A shared commitment to growth is transforming Gardner Edgerton’s schools and shaping the district’s future
Gardner area
46
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Gardner community resources
48
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
A peek at a few community events celebrating the happenings around Gardner
With cigars, cocktails and community, the Stockton family’s trio of downtown venues brings new energy—and a shared spark—to Gardner nights
As one of the Kansas City Metro’s fastest-growing cities, Gardner is meeting the challenges of rapid growth with purpose and collaboration. The city continues to move forward in ways that preserve its hometown character while fostering a robust local economy.
At the Gardner Chamber of Commerce, we believe that when local businesses succeed, our entire community thrives. We serve as a catalyst for growth, a convener of leaders and innovators and a champion for a strong, connected community. Through strong, collaborative partnerships we work to build a unified vision that supports both economic opportunity and quality of life. Together, we’re shaping a community that’s growing stronger, smarter and more vibrant every day.
Beth Felski President and CEO Gardner Chamber of Commerce
Age Distribution
Gardner
25 miles southwest of Kansas City Metro
3.5 miles from New Century Airport
4 miles from Logistics Park Kansas City Intermodal Facility
Population stats
28,193 people currently residing in 9,930 households 285 businesses employing 4,300 people
“A vibrant and growing business community, paired with the charm of a small town, makes Gardner a desirable place to live! Just a short drive down I-35, Gardner continues to be ranked as one of the fastest-growing cities and one of the best places to live in the state.”
—Mayor Todd Winters
Households
Average home value $278,725
households
Average monthly rent $1,245
3,191 households
Income Distribution
Highlights
• State-of-the-art facilities and technology resources
• Professional development program for both new and veteran educators
• Home to four National Blue Ribbon Schools
• Competes academically at regional, state and national competitions
• More than 100 student teams, clubs and organizations in academics, arts, athletics, leadership, services and STEAM
• 14 career pathways, 19 dual-enrollment classes
• Recipient of the Kauffman Real World Learning Grant
• Mill levy has been reduced in the last 13 consecutive years
• Passed a $100 million bond issue in April 2025
• Gardner Edgerton Schools Foundation has raised over $15,000 for the We Care Fund in 2025
history
Answering the Call
From hand-pulled engines to high-tech gear, Fire District #1’s history is forged in service
Story by Debbie Leckron Miller | Photography by Meagan Young
In 1894, two devastating fires destroyed Gardner’s Main Street mercantile, grain elevator and haystacks, effectively prompting the creation of Gardner’s first organized fire department. Equipped with a hand-pumper engine and operated by quickfooted crews, the Gardner Fire Department soon established its storied tradition.
Like most small towns, Gardner’s firefighting beginnings were simple but effective. A gong attached to the wheels of the hand-pulled engine sounded with each revolution, warning people of its approach. Observers could tell how fast the volunteers pulling the engine were moving by the speed of the bell’s ringing.
The first fire alarm bell to alert the town was installed at City Hall. In a resourceful move, the bell was relocated to Farmers Bank in 1916, where ropes hanging at the top of the stairs dangled near the telephone office. The “Central ladies” (phone operators) stepped onto the stairs and pulled the ropes to sound the alarm when a fire call came in on the switchboard.
Volunteers answered the call. “In early days, it was all hands on deck in our small community,” says Mark Burdolski, former Johnson County deputy sheriff and current vice chair of the Fire District #1 of the Johnson County board. In 1917, a spark from a passing train ignited a wind-swept blaze that destroyed a lumberyard, home and hay barn. Teenage boys were dismissed from their high school classes to help firefighters.
The Gardner Fire Department handled calls within the city limits, but as the
surrounding unincorporated areas rapidly expanded, the Gardner Rural Fire Department was established in 1958. Nearby, Edgerton’s fire department also dates back to the late 1800s, followed by a rural unit in the 1950s. These two small volunteer departments from the townships eventually merged to form today’s comprehensive, full-time Fire District #1 of Johnson County.
District #1 covers 200 square miles and operates five stations—in Gardner, Spring Hill, New Century, and two in Edgerton (a fire station and the fire district administrative offices). Moving beyond its all-volunteer days, today’s district employs 69 full-time firefighters to staff the five stations. They range in age from 20 to 60.
South of downtown, at Fire District #1’s Station 82, 15 firefighters work 24-hour shifts, with three to five on each shift from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fire Chief Trig Morley and Deputy Chief Aaron Winkler oversee operations.
A native of Gardner, Winkler began his firefighting career in 2006 with the nowdefunct Gardner Public Safety department, which served both the town’s fire and police needs. There were no separate fire or police units; instead, officers were cross-trained in both fields. “Public safety departments was a concept used in some smaller communities,” Winkler explains. “Our title was public safety officer, and we responded to both fire and law enforcement emergencies.”
He described a typical public safety scenario in Gardner, which continued the dual arrangement from 1984 to 2010:
Opposite page: Fire Chief Trig Morley leads Fire District #1 of Johnson County; From top: Firefighters train for a minimum of two hours each day; Chief Morley and Deputy Chief Aaron Winkler oversee operations.
“When they retire and look back on their careers, they will know, ‘I didn’t just give what was required. I gave everything I had.’”
—Deputy Chief Aaron Winkler
Life at the Fire Station
Ever wonder what goes on inside the Gardner fire station? “We’re sure not just sitting around watching TV and playing cards,” laughs Deputy Chief Aaron Winkler.
The two-bay station houses a fire engine and a brush fire-fighting apparatus, along with six individual bunk rooms, a kitchen and living spaces. The crew of three to five firefighters begins their day at 8 a.m. with an update and “shift pass-along” from the previous crew. They then spend the morning inspecting the apparatus and truck, working on pumps, ladders or anything else that needs attention. They also typically do two hours of training every workday.
In the afternoon, they often participate in public relations events. “We love going to day cares or to businesses to do CPR training—anything that gets our face in the public. That’s who we serve, and we want them to know who we are,” Winkler says.
“Our town has always shown us so much love,” he adds. “Residents go out of their way to thank us for calls by delivering cookies, bringing kids by after a call, or thanking us for our service in the grocery store. We serve the best residents, and that’s why we want to give them the best service we can.”
After cooking dinner together and “talking about calls and just about life,” the crew heads to bed and “hopefully gets some sleep,” Winkler says. It’s rare to have a night without a call, he adds, as overhead speakers alert firefighters to the emergency, and portable radios and phone apps send alerts outside the station.
“The fire service is definitely a family because you’re living with these people 24 hours at a time, eating meals together, training together, running these highintensity calls together,” Winkler says. “This is truly a second family for us and becomes some of your best friends in life.”
From left: Chief Morley, firefighters Alex Dextraze and Taylor Nuessen, and Deputy Chief Winkler serve the Gardner community both on the job and in the community.
“You’d have one station officer on duty, and they’d be the one who responded with the fire truck. Then the police officers would arrive to help out. They’d carry gear in their trunks, and if it was a fire, they’d take off their police uniform, put on fire gear and help fight the fire.
“As Gardner grew, that concept was making it harder to meet the demands of the growing number of law enforcement and fire calls,” Winkler continues. To solve the needs, the two units split, and Gardner Public Safety consolidated with Fire District #1 of Johnson County in November 2010. (Gardner Rural and Edgerton had previously consolidated to form the district in 1993.)
For Winkler, increased staffing has made the biggest difference. “I remember as a public safety officer being the only person there on the scene for the first 10 minutes—all by myself,” he recalls. “Now we require a minimum of three firefighters on the fire truck. And within 10 minutes, we might have five fire trucks with 15 to 18 people on the call.”
“Consolidation has been the foundation for us being properly trained and properly staffed,” Winkler adds. “City governments often talk about being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. We talk about being good stewards of taxpayers’ lives, making sure we get the required number and properly trained staff to the call so we can take care of our residents.”
For Burdolski, one of the most dramatic firefighting additions over the years was the heat-sensing camera, “so we could locate folks in the smoke.” He also recalls one of the most memorable emergency
calls. “There was a fatality on I-35,” he says, “and traffic had to be rerouted. For officers, working the highway is super dangerous and very scary for their safety.”
Regarding notable fire calls, the dramatic 2003 blaze at Empire Plastics, known as the “longest sustained fire suppression operation in the history of Gardner,” is at the top of the list. An account from the Gardner Historical Museum describes the event: “We were Gardner Department of Public Safety back then, and every officer in the city who was not on vacation was on duty for the duration of the fire. It started around 8 a.m. and we were fighting a fire embedded in box after box of plastic beads used in manufacturing, as well as stack after stack of cardboard boxes. The fire burned well into the early evening hours and rekindles took place several times overnight.
“We utilized 32 apparatus from at least 19 departments from all of the metropolitan area to get the manpower to assist in the firefighting efforts,” the account concludes.
At today’s Station 82, Winkler credits his crew for going out on call. “Everything they do is heroic,” he says. “When they respond to a call, it’s that person’s emergency, and we’re there for that person in need.”
“Our firefighters are not just here for our paychecks, and it’s not just a job. It’s an extension of their lives, and they want to do well and be good, faithful servants,” Winkler adds. “When they retire and look back on their careers, they will know, ‘I didn’t just give what was required. I gave everything I had.’”
community
Officer Shawn Laurent and Yukon train together 16 hours a month.
Partners in Protection
Gardner’s newest good boy, Yukon, continues a proud tradition of service, teamwork and community connection
Story by Lucas Shivers | Photography by Meagan Young
As one professional canine unit retires, Gardner’s police force welcomes K9 Yukon and his handler, Officer Shawn Laurent, the city’s newest K9 unit.
“It’s more work than I could have possibly imagined,” Laurent says. “Being an officer is easy, but a K9 unit is so much harder. You can take off your uniform at the end of your shift, but you bring your work home with you each night with the dogs. They’re always there to play with.”
Serving the entire community with enhanced safety, Gardner’s K9 units—beginning with handler James Anderson and K9 Zeus, now Laurent and Yukon—have fulfilled a range of specialized duties.
“Once we got Zeus, we were able to do more vehicle sniffs and get more drugs off car stops and article searches that were discarded by suspects,” says patrol sergeant John Stimatze. “It helped to find more cocaine, heroin, meth and marijuana.”
How it All Began
Gardner’s K9 program began in 2016 with Zeus Anderson. Anderson has served on the Gardner force for more than 25 years, and Zeus retired from active service on June 30. Zeus, whose name was selected by a middle school vote, is a Belgian Malinois. Squarely built, proud and alert, with a black face and tan body, he came to the force weighing 60 pounds and quickly grew
to 85. The breed is known for its athleticism, strength and pure muscle.
“He’ll run right through a wall, fence or anyone for me,” Anderson says. “He’s got a little crazy screw in him.”
Anderson is an active member of the community, so Zeus is very well known around town. “People see our marked K9 cars around town. Restaurants often ask if they can share pup cups with the dogs,” Laurent says.
Anderson and Zeus first trained together at the Hill County Training Center in Pipe Creek, Texas.
“It was so hot for the whole basic training where we got familiar and learned about the dog and what he could do,” Anderson says. “The dogs know what they’re doing. Often, we’re just holding onto a leash.”
The team later completed about 12 weeks of local training with Lenexa officers.
“It was all so eye-opening,” Anderson says. “He bit me almost every single day for a while, but it helps with a lot of the drug work in my career as another step for narcotics detection.”
Meet Yukon
The newest addition, Yukon, is a 100-pound German shepherd with a sable coat. The breed is known for its agility and intelligence, and Laurent notes that Yukon is no different—he is loyal, confident, courageous and steady.
Gardner’s current K9 pair, Laurent and Yukon, began training in August 2024. “We got 14 weeks of training at Code Blue K9 in Minnesota with lots of summer heat, bruises from bites and long days,” Laurent says. “Yukon already came with his name. He shot up about 15 pounds early on to become a big boy.”
By the Numbers Gardner’s K9 Unit
1 | Retired K9 (Zeus) enjoying life off duty
2 | K9 teams since the program began in 2016
7 | Days a week the handlers are on-call with their dogs
12 weeks | Local follow-up training completed by Anderson and Zeus
14 weeks | Training time for Officer Laurent and Yukon at Code Blue K9 in Minnesota
16 hours/month | Required ongoing training for certification
85 pounds | Weight of Zeus at his peak
100 pounds | Weight of Yukon, Gardner’s newest K9
2016 | Year the Gardner Police Department’s K9 program launched
2,000+ hours | Estimated total training invested across the program’s history
From top: Yukon takes a moment to enjoy a toy; Zeus enjoys well-deserved downtime with Officer James Anderson.
Purpose & Protection
Several factors sparked the city’s interest in the police service-dog program.
“A big aspect is officer safety,” Laurent says. “The dogs can alert us to where suspects are in buildings and many other features.”
Trained in both patrol and drug detection, the K9s serve a dual purpose.
“In one of my first tracks with Zeus, he pulled me down on my stomach through a field to follow a horse,” Anderson says. “Another time, when a stolen auto came through our town, we caught both people who bailed out, thanks to Zeus.”
Beyond Gardner, the dogs often assist other law enforcement agencies.
“The benefit is not only a resource for our department to locate bad guys here, but I can go and help with other agencies,” Laurent says. “We do plenty of drug sniffs, but I could help with an article search to expand their crime scene with the use of Yukon.”
Always in Training
The K9 pairs are certified through the National Police K-9 Association, which requires annual certification and at least 16 hours of documented training each month. Sessions take place every Wednesday and include scenario work, tracking, article searches and bite-suit drills.
“We have fellow officers who serve as decoys in a training group. … [They] take bites for us in the suit, where we get help for training each week,” Laurent says.
The team also participates in community outreach, visiting groups and hosting live-bite demonstrations nearly every week.
“Most people are in awe of it,” Laurent says. “Outside of work, we have a supportive team at home to help out. [Anderson’s] wife has been a saint living with Zeus.”
For Gardner’s officers and their canine partners, every day brings new challenges—and new chances to protect and connect with the community they serve.
From top: Laurent and Yukon trained for 14 weeks at Code Blue K9 in Minnesota; Anderson and Zeus began working patrol and drug detection unit in 2016.
school
Bonded by Purpose
A shared commitment to growth is transforming Gardner Edgerton’s schools and shaping the district’s future
Story by Ian Brannan
USD 231 Gardner Edgerton School District thrives because of its dedication to students, staff, and administrators. To support their continued success, updated facilities are essential. The recently approved school bond will fund key projects that modernize facilities, improve learning spaces and will ultimately benefit the entire community.
The bond, totaling about $100 million, will fund eight major projects: a new elementary school ($48.3 million); a district service center ($16.5 million); renovations at Gardner Edgerton High School (GEHS) ($7.6 million); expansion of the Transition Readiness and Independent Living Skills (TRAILS) program at GEHS to add six new classrooms for the alternative education program ($5.5 million); playground upgrades at all elementary and middle schools ($6 million); safety and security enhancements districtwide ($11.8 million); special education (SPED) classrooms for the elementary schools ($500,000); and conversion of Sunflower Elementary into an early childhood education center ($10.8 million).
Four additional projects are pending approval, including orchestra rooms for the three middle schools, restrooms at the high school tennis facility, as well as district-wide technology projects and mechanical/electrical upgrades.
“The funding is supported through the sale of the bonds, approved through the election,” assistant superintendent Jody Marshall explains. “Ultimately, through premiums resulting from bond sales and investment earnings, the district hopes to have access to several million more dollars to apply toward additional priorities generated during the bond planning process.”
Construction will unfold over the next two years. District-wide safety platforms are expected to be completed first, by January 2026, followed by camera installations, playground renovations, special education classrooms, and GEHS commons and kitchen updates, all targeted for August 2026. The new district service center on Warren Street is scheduled to open November 2026, with the TRAILS addition wrapping up by December 2026. The new elementary school on Kill Creek Road will be completed by April 2027, in time for the 2027–2028 school year. Pre-design for the Sunflower Elementary conversion will be considered later in 2026.
According to Marshall, several of these projects have been on the district’s wish list for years. With voter approval of the school bond, the district can now bring them to life for students and the community.
“We believe all of these projects will help us improve student outcomes, improve staff recruitment and retention, and provide a great deal of capacity for us to accommodate the anticipated increases in student enrollment,” Marshall says. “The cost of improvements and new construction never seems to go down, so investing and completing these projects now will save the community money in the long run. Also, we believe these projects will strengthen the communities of Gardner and Edgerton in the short and long term.”
Marshall adds that these projects will enhance the district’s ability to serve and connect with students, families and community partners, expanding relationships that strengthen local collaboration.
Each improvement reflects a specific need identified by educators and families, so the projects are designed to have a lasting impact on students, teachers and the broader community.
The safety and security enhancements are considered the highest priority. The primary projects include a new camera system, a silent alert system for all staff members, and security film on all windows.
Converting Sunflower Elementary School into an early childhood education center has been a long-standing goal for both the community and the district. This change enables the district to concentrate specialized staff and resources during a critical developmental period for students, thereby maximizing the positive impact. As a result of the conversion, a new elementary school is under construction, helping the district balance enrollment across all elementary schools and prepare for future growth.
The new district service center, another long-standing goal, is necessary as the district continues to grow.
According to Marshall, the new facility will “enable us to be more responsive and effective in supporting all our buildings, save money by allowing us to purchase materials in bulk, enhance our maintenance and inventory capabilities, and provide much-needed storage and training space.”
Expanding the TRAILS program, designed for students ages 18–21 with special needs, has been a priority discussed for the last several years. “These programs are growing,” Marshall explains, “and these students should have access to updated
and expanded programs as they complete their educational journey with the district.”
The commons and kitchen renovations at GEHS haven’t been updated to match the school’s growing enrollment. Renovations will modernize the spaces, giving them a more contemporary feel while improving flow and efficiency.
The playground renovations will prioritize greater accessibility, incorporate design features with more student appeal, and improve layouts. Together, these updates will boost student engagement, enhance safety and invite greater community use.
Improvements to special education spaces will be tailored to each building, with projects designed with input from building special education and administrative staff to meet specific program and classroom needs.
“We are super excited to have the community’s support on these important projects—all are truly the result of the district’s partnership with our community leaders/members, students, families, and staff,” Marshall says. “We encourage the community to follow the progress. A lot will be happening in the coming months at every building and campus.”
To keep up with construction progress, go to the continuously updated USD 231 Bond 2025 Project Schedule at usd231.com/page/bond-2025.
The groundbreaking for the new elementary school was a community effort. Photo courtesy Gardner Chamber of Commerce
Parks
Brookside Park
Celebration Park
Cornerstone Park
Gardner Junction Park
Gardner Lake Park
KCPL Wetland Park
Meadowbrook Park 8. Stone Creek Park
Veterans Park
Westside Park
Winwood Park
Schools
Gardner Elementary
Gardner Edgerton High School
USD 231 Admin O ces
Grand Star Elementary
Madison Elementary
Moonlight Elementary
Nike Elementary 8. Pioneer Ridge Middle School
Sun ower Elementary
Trail Ridge Middle School
Wheatridge Middle School
IndustrialBypass
City
1. Fire District #1 - Gardner
Fire District #1 - New Century
Gardner Chamber of Commerce
Gardner City Hall
Gardner Historical Museum
Gardner Justice Center
Gardner Senior Center
Johnson County Fairgrounds
Johnson County Library
Johnson County Sheri Center
New Century Adult Detention
U.S. Postal Service
Recreation
Gardner Aquatic Center
Gardner Golf Course
Gardner Municipal Airport
New Century Airport
New Century Fieldhouse
Story by Lucas Shivers | Photography by Sarah Reeves
Lit, Mixed & Forged
With cigars, cocktails and community, The Stockton family’s trio of downtown venues brings new energy—and a shared spark—to Gardner nights
Three distinct event venues in downtown Gardner foster a lively atmosphere and a shared vision for entertainment and community. The Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge, The Forge, and The Bellows, , all owned by the Stockton family, lead creative crossover to serve the region.
“I grew up in Gardner and always wanted something to do on nights and weekends,” says Derrick Stockton, a former high school earth and space science teacher and managing owner. “People have been trained to leave town for Olathe or Kansas City for the nightlife and fun weekend events. I stayed in town and knew I wanted to have something for locals, friends and family.”
Stockton began with Ash & Anvil in 2022 and then opened two new bars a few years later.
“I wanted to open a cigar lounge first and fell in love with the industry after starting to smoke,” Stockton says. “It was a two-year process to get it all started and open the building. My original vision was for a part-time gig, but it quickly grew into more than full-time. I had to hang up the teaching and put all my effort into the businesses.”
Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge
Located in the town’s old blacksmith shop, the Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge’s aura connects to the historical site from the early 1900s.
“Cigars are a great equalizer and modern ‘watering hole,’” he says. “We have everyone from state politicians to blue-collars sit down and have lots to talk about. It brings people together. We’ve found lots of lounges lack the focus of both people and product to balance the hard work to hit all the points.”
Stockton remembers smoking cigars with his dad and uncle without distractions and spending time together with those who had influenced him.
Derrick Stockton offers more than 600 types of cigars at the Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge and enjoys being a part of the close-knit community of cigar aficionados.
“The community aspect drew me in,” Stockton says. “Those not familiar with the cigar industry may not really get it, but it’s a truly close-knit community. Cigars are a common denominator with everyone who comes through the door.”
The lounge features an impressive selection of more than 600 cigars—from legacy brands to boutique cigars— with many not found in other shops.
“Our products are not available anywhere else in Kansas or the Midwest,” Stockton says. “Cigar shops pretty much carry the same stuff with big brands. While those are great products, you can get them anywhere. We carry more of the mom and pop shops who take more risks to make different products since they don’t have to sell to the masses.”
Due to their creativity, Stockton’s favorite brands are the Espinosa lines.
“We’re open seven days a week with coffee on to share all day,” Stockton says. “We have retirees in at all times. We also have a rush at the end of the workday and evenings. We have our best regulars and lots of growth with new customers.”
Striving for excellent customer service as a goal for the business, Rick Talmadge has worked at Ash & Anvil for several months.
“I moved to Gardner and started smoking cigars,” says Talmadge, who quit his previous job specifically to work at Ash & Anvil. “It’s a fantastic place to be with so many friendships. My cigar knowledge has expanded exponentially.”
The Forge
With a hidden entrance and a swanky feel, The Forge is a modern speakeasy with a cocktail menu that blends house staples with seasonal rotations.
“We have a secret entrance and password to have fun with folks,” Stockton says. “It’s ridiculous how many bottles are on the back bar.”
After traveling with his family around the Midwest to find ideas, they discovered a standout in downtown Omaha, next door to a cigar lounge. This planted the seed for their current set-up.
“I was totally blown away with fun flavors and ingredients to make it all be part of our vision to start The Forge,” Stockton says. “We started learning how to be bar owners. It’s a long learning curve, and we love doing it.”
Stockton takes pride in serving complex cocktails, from new creations to riffs on traditional ones.
“Nothing on our menu is boring or just okay,” Stockton says. “In order to go on the menu, it has to be spectacular. When patrons leave, I want them to say, ‘That was a great cocktail!’ I want people to repeatedly come in.”
Supporting a rotation of drink items, the music and bar all contribute to the overall atmosphere.
“We have a great bartender team and staff with lots of creative freedom to play around with the interesting ingredients and things folks maybe haven’t heard of before,” Stockton says. “It’s such a wide array to make it easy. The bar experience shares really good drinks as a complete package and environment.”
The Bellows
Opening the same day as The Forge, an outdoor space known as The Bellows used to be an overgrown dirt lot.
“We weren’t sure what to do with the space,” Stockton says. “Once we decided to open an outdoor patio bar, it has
become very popular with everything from slushies to more traditional bar drinks.”
Patrons love the covered patio with five fire pits and a stage for karaoke and jam sessions.
Stockton keeps plans fresh with Bellows events, from cornhole tournaments to special nights like ‘Succulents and Stogies’ where customers can smoke as they plant little gardens in old cigar boxes. They have partnered with a local florist and, yes, patrons can take the boxes and plants home with them.
“We have a really diverse crowd that comes through,” Stockton says. “We have so many women come in with ladies’ nights, and it’s so cool to see my own grandma, mom and wife get involved. Now, people come to a small town to do stuff on a weekend that patrons want to do again and again.”
The Bellows, with a covered patio, fire pits, picnic tables and a stage, hosts cornhole tournaments and special nights like ‘Succulents and Stogies.’
the chamber hello, from
The Gardner Chamber of Commerce works for you, whether by providing residents, visitors and developers with community information or by facilitating ribbon cuttings for new businesses. We advocate for policies that attract and retain businesses in Gardner at every level of government, helping drive economic growth.
Membership in the Gardner Chamber offers visibility, connections, business resources and leadership opportunities. Members can engage with the local business community by attending networking coffees, after-hours gatherings and signature Chamber events. Businesses and member organizations also receive priority referrals, complimentary job postings, and exclusive marketing and event promotion opportunities.
Gardner Chamber Board of Directors
Executive Board
Trisha Allenbrand SPACESINC
Julie Dean Mid America Bank
Savannah Dowling Stern & Mauck, LLC
Elect
Bobbi Johansen ARVEST Bank Treasurer
Board
Mark Martinez HTeaO
Scott Moeder GBA
Melissa Prins The Hope Market
Heather Shippy Security 1st Title
Jeff Stewart Johnson County Park & Recreation Department
Ex-officio Members
Member
Member
Member
Dr. Brian Huff USD 231 Ex-officio
Bryan Johnson Johnson County Airport Commission Ex-officio
Mark Wiehn City of Gardner Ex-officio
From left: Jennifer Crable, Membership Engagement and Events; Beth Felski, President & CEO; Alyssa Petrik, Member Relations & Marketing. Photograph by Adams Pro Photo
Building Gardner’s Future, One Project at a Time
Based in Lenexa, GBA is an engineering, architecture and construction firm with deep Kansas roots. We caught up with their team to learn more about their ongoing projects and partnership with the City of Gardner.
Photos courtesy GBA
For more than half a century, GBA has been shaping the infrastructure that supports Gardner’s growth and everyday life. Headquartered in Lenexa, the company provides architectural, engineering and construction services to clients across the United States, focusing on municipal, water environment, transportation, site development, federal, industrial, life sciences and mission-critical projects.
“Our teams provide a full range of services, including planning, surveying and design through construction management,” says Colleen Connor, vice president and market leader for GBA’s Water Environment group. “We help communities and clients develop resilient, efficient, and sustainable projects.” With more than 500 employees and regional offices nationwide, GBA brings local commitment and national experience to every job.
That partnership is especially evident in Gardner, where GBA has worked alongside city leaders on projects that strengthen essential systems and prepare for future growth. “For more than 50 years, GBA has been proud to partner with the City of Gardner
on a wide range of environmental and infrastructure initiatives that have supported the community’s sustainable growth,” Connor says. Those projects include the design of the city’s water tower and the Kill Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant, along with more recent wastewater, transportation and utility improvements, such as multiple lift stations serving the Prairie Trace development and Gardner’s growing southeast area.
One standout example is the Cedar Niles Lift Station Project, which Connor calls “an essential lift station, gravity sewer, and force main system to enhance the city’s resilience and growth capacity.” The design reflects GBA’s philosophy of combining innovation and practicality with a deep understanding of local needs. “Our team approaches every project with a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and practicality,” Connor explains. “We see ourselves as an extension of city staff, working side by side in true partnership to achieve the best outcomes for the community.”
The Cedar Niles project also illustrates how that partnership pays off. “The city aimed to size the new facility to accommodate
future growth in a rapidly developing area of Gardner,” Connor says. “GBA partnered with city staff and stakeholders to design a solution that met current needs while planning for long-term capacity.” The team’s recommendation to install two parallel force mains allowed construction to proceed simultaneously, saving costs, reducing future disruptions and ensuring the ability to meet future demand.
Federal funding helped move the project forward, although it also presented additional hurdles. “The project was able to secure federal funding, which required additional environmental clearance,” Connor says. “GBA, in collaboration with city staff, successfully navigated the federal requirements and processes, helping the city meet all conditions to utilize the funding.” The result: Bids came in under budget, allowing the construction of both forcemains while maintaining fiscal responsibility. With work scheduled to begin in December 2025, the project represents another forward-thinking investment in Gardner’s infrastructure.
For GBA, being part of the Gardner business community goes beyond technical expertise. “Being part of the Gardner business community means investing in its continued success and growth,” Connor says. “We value the opportunity to collaborate with local partners, support community initiatives, and contribute our engineering and construction expertise to projects that enhance quality of life.”
Looking ahead, GBA remains focused on helping Gardner thrive. “We’re excited about continuing our work with the city of Gardner to deliver projects that enhance daily life and support long-term growth,” Connor says. “Our goal is to remain a trusted partner for the city of Gardner in helping build a resilient, connected and thriving community for years to come.”
Partnerships like this reflect the chamber’s broader mission: to bring together businesses, civic leaders, and community visionaries to build a stronger, more connected Gardner.
Hometown Sports Gear
Hometown Sports Gear works to strengthen community and bring quality sports gear to Gardner
Story by Ian Brannan | Photography by Sarah Reeves
As parents of two boys who attend Gardner Edgerton High School (GEHS) and play sports year-round, Matt and Lacie Griffin know firsthand the importance of local sporting goods stores. With a deep love for athletics and the Gardner community, the Griffins were inspired to build a business that would support Gardner athletes and make it easier for families to get the gear they need.
On March 8, 2025, the couple opened Hometown Sports Gear (HSG), a sporting goods store they co-own with Lacie’s father, Donald Mettler.
“We offer high-quality sporting goods and school apparel, so families don’t have to leave town to get the gear they need,” Matt and Lacie say. “Our store is designed to be hands-on, with equipment available for kids and parents to try out, making shopping an enjoyable experience.”
Matt and Lacie also say that focusing on helping and being involved in the community is important to them with their business. This community-first approach helps HSG stand out from other sports gear stores.
“Most sporting goods stores are designed to simply sell equipment, but our goal has always been much larger than that,” Lacie says. “We wanted to create a place where local families could come together, find the gear they need and feel connected.”
Matt and Lacie take pride in being a brick-and-mortar store where you can walk in and purchase official middle school and high school apparel.
“That matters to us because it means families can show their school pride right here at home, while supporting a local business at the same time,” Matt says.
They have further expanded their business by hosting online team stores such as the GEHS cross country program, allowing athletes and parents to order the apparel they need with ease. HSG will be adding more programs, including Gardner Gold, Wheatridge Gold and Trail Ridge coaching apparel.
“When families walk in, we want them to feel welcome, to touch the gear, to pick up a ball and to remember the joy that comes with playing sports,” Matt and Lacie say. “It’s not about rushing in and out; it’s about making it a place kids and parents actually look forward to visiting.”
Their work extends beyond the store, allowing them to give back and stay active in the community. From introducing a mini golf course for families to enjoy, to supporting Gardner Grind and collaborating with other local businesses to hand out rally towels at football games, the owners of HSG strive to be active partners in the community.
“Hometown Sports Gear is unique because it isn’t just about sports equipment. It’s about pride, connection and creating a true hometown hub for athletes and families in Gardner,” Lacie explains.
An interesting feature of HSG is the interior of their facility, which showcases pictures of local sports teams. To create this display, HSG partnered with local photographer Brian Kodger of Photo Expectations to capture authentic moments from GEHS athletics.
In collaboration with Kelsey Admire Photography, they also hosted a photoshoot with athletes of all ages, from babies and kids to high school competitors.
Their goal, they explain, was to create images that reflect the full spectrum of local sports, highlighting not only athletic performance but also the sense of fun, family and community that sports bring to everyday life.
One significant photo displayed by HSG comes from Dave Fesenmeyer, owner of Sign Inc., who shared a treasured photo of his grandfather in a 1938 Gardner baseball uniform.
“Including that image in our [display] bridges Gardner’s rich sports history to the present, creating a multi-generational look into local athletes,” Matt says.
Matt and Lacie see Gardner as a town with a rich athletic history, stating that opening HSG felt like a “natural fit.”
“Sports unite families, friends and neighbors, whether it’s cheering on a Friday night game, gathering for a youth tournament, or celebrating the success of local athletes,” Matt says.
“At Hometown Sports Gear, we see ourselves growing alongside the athletes we serve, from the moment they first step onto a field to their high school years and beyond. Every time a young athlete picks up their first glove, laces up new cleats, or tries on team apparel, we know we’re part of their journey.”
For the Griffins, being a part of Gardner means standing behind the community’s athletes, supporting their goals and contributing to the hometown spirit that makes the community special.
Listings highlighted in blue are G advertisers.
Advertising & Media
Buzzfish Media (913) 208-0349 www.buzzfishmedia.com
Russell-Hampton Company (913) 254-0500 www.russellhampton.com
Southwind Advertising (913) 515-4390 www.southwindonline.com
Wingert Billboards (913) 201-5436 www.wingertbillboards.com
Agritourism & Farming
Gieringer’s Family
Orchard & Berry Farm (913) 893-9626 www.goberryfarm.com
KC Pumpkin Patch LLC (913) 484-6251 www.kcpumpkinpatch.com
Prairie Center Meats (913) 238-9597 www.prairiecentermeats.com
Arts, Culture & Entertainment
Ash & Anvil Cigar Lounge (913) 558-8074 www.ashandanvilcigars.com
KC Wine Co. (913) 484-6251 www.kcwineco.com
Multimedia Art Studio (785) 246-5742 www.multimediaartstudio.net
MY Play Cafe (913) 314-5162 www.myplaycafe.com
Warren Place Venue (816) 813-4958 www.warrenplaceevents.com
Automotive & Transportation
Bret’s Autoworks (913) 856-5169 www.bretsautoworks.com
First Student (913) 856-5650 www.firststudentinc.com
Johnson County Airport Commission (913) 715-6000 www.jocogov.org/dept/ airport-commission
Olathe Ford RV Center (913) 856-8145 www.olathefordrv.com
TA Express Edgerton (702) 522-8513
Triangle Energy LLC (816) 739-8679 www.dfrealestatellc.com
Winters Automotive & Transmission (913) 856-4646 www.wintersauto.com
Business & Professional Services
Adams Pro Photo (913) 515-4390 www.adamsprophoto.com
Adobe (408) 753-5826 www.adobe.com
Blazer Strategies LLC (913) 938-6420 www.blazerstrategies.com
Corson Consulting & Bookkeeping (913) 980-3444 www.corsonconsulting.com
Design 4 Sports (913) 294-2941 www.design4sports.com
The Law Offices of Stockton and Kandt LLC (913) 856-2828 www.stocktonlaw.com
LegalShield (913) 788-0589 mmcruse.legalshieldassociate.com
MFIT Technology Solutions LLC (913) 213-0261 www.mfittech.com
ProLogistix (816) 730-8278 apply.prologistix.com
S&S Electronics LLC (913) 270-1765 www.sselectronicsks.com
Sedona Staffing Services (913) 361-7111 www.careerpros.com
Shawnee Copy Center (913) 268-4343 www.sccink.com
SPACESINC (913) 894-8900 www.spacesinc.com
Stern & Mauck LLC (913) 674-5222 www.smlawkc.com
Synergize Consulting LLC (708) 972-2846 www.synergizeconsulting.solutions
Troutt Beeman & Co., P.C. (913) 764-1922 www.tbco.net
ZenBusiness (844) 493-6249 www.zenbusiness.com
Chamber Supporter
Mark Burdolski (913) 605-8068
Rex Cummings
Carol Lehman (913) 710-0137
Daryl Reece
Community & Civic Organizations
Abdallah Shriners (913) 362-5300 www.abdallahshriners.com
Community Blood Center (816) 213-2728 www.savealifenow.org
Gardner Grange (913) 558-5261 www.grange.org/gardnerks68
Gardner KS Pride, Inc. (785) 418-9005 www.gardnerkspride.com
Gardner Rotary Club 785-418-5582 www.gardnerrotary.org
Johnson County Fair Association (913) 856-8860 www.jocokansasfair.com
Kiwanis Club of Gardner (913) 963-3126
Living Life Ranch (913) 731-5579 www.livingliferanch.org
Mission Southside (913) 530-4387 www.missionsouthside.org
Olathe Family YMCA (913) 393-9622 www.kansascityymca.org/locations/ olathe
Safehome (913) 432-9300 www.safehome-ks.org
Southwest Multi Service Center (913) 715-6653 www.jocogov.org/facility/southwestmulti-service-center
Spirit Wind LLC (913) 515-5943 www.spiritwind.live
The Hope Market (913) 586-6110 www.thehopemarket.org
Construction & Contractors
A to Z Handyman Service (913) 575-1170
www.atozhandymanservicekc.com
All Seasons Air Conditioning and Heating (913) 780-0076 www.allseasons-ac-heat.com
BCI Mechanical Inc. (913) 856-6747 www.bcimechanicalinc.com
Chapman Electric LLC (913) 575-1612 www.chapmanelectrickc.com
Cordray Roofing (913) 856-7663 www.kcroofing.com
Corson Construction and Roofing LLC (913) 208-3171
Deck & Rail Supply LLC (913) 884-3335 www.deckandrailsupply.com
Elliott Construction LLC (913) 208-9602 www.constructionelliott.com
Grata Development (913) 732-4778 www.gratadev.com
Hickman Home Comfort Heating & Cooling (913) 856-7730
Johnson County Comfort LLC (913) 212-6900 www.johnsoncountycomfortllc.com
Koch Construction and Remodeling (913) 815-3969 www.kochconstructionkc.com
Mr. Handyman of Olathe, Gardner (913) 286-4466 www.mrhandyman.com/ olathe-gardner
Olsson (913) 829-0079 www.olsson.com
Penny’s Concrete Inc. (913) 441-8781 www.pennysconcrete.com
PuroClean of Olathe (913) 353-8300 www.puroclean.com/po-ks
Santa Fe Air Conditioning (913) 856-5801 www.santafeair.com
Shaw Stone and Tile (913) 602-4489
Engineering & Construction
A.L. Huber Construction (913) 568-3289 www.alhuber.com
Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company, Inc. (816) 333-9400 www.burnsmcd.com
Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. (816) 272-8318 www.cmtengr.com
GBA (913) 492-0400 www.gbateam.com
H.W. Lochner, Inc. (816) 945-5865 www.hwlochner.com
Faith-based Organizations
Compass Ministries (913) 269-9377 www.compassofgardner.com
Divine Mercy Parish (913) 856-7781 www.divinemercyks.org
Faith Chapel (620) 282-1315 www.fcgardner.com
First Baptist Church (913) 884-7228 www.gardnerfirstbaptist.com
Grace Baptist Church (913) 856-2880 www.gracebaptistgardner.com
King of Kings Lutheran Church (913) 856-2500 www.kingofkingsks.org
New Life Community Church (913) 856-5683 www.newlifegardner.com
Financial Services
ARVEST Bank (913) 953-4100 www.arvest.com
Capitol Federal (913) 652-2431 www.capfed.com
Central Bank of the Midwest (913) 856-1056 www.centralbank.net
Central National Bank - Walmart (913) 856-2136 www.centralnational.com
Central National Bank Mortgage & Commercial Lending (913) 856-3218 www.centralnational.com
Edward Jones - Aaron Wyant (913) 856-6233 www.edwardjones.com
Edward Jones - Pete Carr (913) 856-8846 www.edwardjones.com
Frontier Community Credit Union (913) 651-6575 www.frontierccu.org
Mid America Bank (913) 884-2155 www.mid-americabank.com
Patriots Bank (913) 856-8809 www.patriotsbank.com
Government & Education
City of Gardner (913) 856-7535 www.gardnerkansas.gov
Fire District #1, Johnson County, Kansas (913) 764-7635 www.jocofd1.org
Gardner Edgerton Schools Foundation (913) 856-2031 www.usd231.com/o/foundation
Johnson County Community College (913) 469-8500 www.jccc.edu
Johnson County Election Office (913) 715-6800 www.jocoelection.org
Johnson County Government (913) 715-0430 www.jocogov.org
Johnson County Government - 6th District Commissioner
Shirley Allenbrand (913) 579-8206 www.shirleyallenbrand.com
Johnson County LibraryGardner (913) 826-4600 www.jocolibrary.org
Johnson County Park and Recreation District (913) 438-7275 www.jcprd.com
Johnson County Sheriff’s Office (913) 715-5800 www.jocosheriff.org
Little Building Blocks (913) 856-5633 www.littlebuildingblocks.com
New Life Christian Academy (913) 856-3934 www.nlcagardner.org
Open Arms Lutheran Child Development Center (913) 856-4250 www.kingofkingsks.org/ Open-Arms.html
USD 231 (913) 856-2000 www.usd231.com
Health, Wellness & Fitness
AdventHealth South Overland Park (913) 373-1100 www.adventhealthsop.com
Baxter Orthodontics (913) 856-4465 www.baxterorthodontics.com
Beck Chiropractic & Acupuncture (913) 605-1223 www.beck-chiro.com
Blazing Trails Martial Arts (913) 210-0829 www.blazingtrailsmartialarts.com
Bright Wisdom Therapy (785) 390-3404 www.brightwisdomtherapy.org
Catalyst Chiropractic LLC (913) 286-4968 www.catalystchirokc.com
CenterWell Senior Primary Care (913) 547-1710 www.centerwellprimarycare.com
Drs. Hawks, Besler, Rogers & Stoppel, O.D. (913) 856-6360 www.hbreyecare.com
Douglas H. Lerner DDS PA/ Family Dental Care (913) 856-8721 www.gardnerfamilydentalcare.com
Gardner Dentists LLC (913) 856-7123 www.gardnerdentists.com
Imagine Dental (913) 856-6171 www.mygardnerdentist.com
Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital - Main Campus (913) 856-8747 www.meadowbrookrh.com
Meadowbrook Rehabilitation Hospital - South Campus (913) 856-6520 www.meadowbrookrh.com
Ready Physio | Performance Physical Therapy (913) 213-3023 www.readyphysio.com
Rejuvenate Medspa (913) 645-5815 www.rejuvenatemdspa.com
SERC Physical Therapy (913) 856-7927 www.serctherapy.com
The University of Kansas Health System (913) 791-4200 www.kansashealthsystem.com
UOKHS: Family Medicine and Urgent Care, Gardner Edgerton Medical Pavilion (913) 445-5577
UOKHS: Physical Therapy, Moonlight Plaza (913) 324-8680
Winters Chiropractic Center (913) 856-8135 www.doctodd.com
Home & Garden
Attic Storage Gardner (913) 856-5757 www.attic-storage.com
Curby’s Lawn and Garden (913) 764-6159 www.curbyslawn.com
Rooted Landscape (913) 782-1845 www.rootedland.com
Sherwin Williams (913) 856-7888 www.sherwin-williams.com
Travis Hutton Lawn and Landscape Inc. (913) 710-5771 www.facebook.com/ TravisHuttonLawn Insurance
A & D Haas Health Insurance (913) 245-1253 www.myhst.com/agent/aleshkahaas
American Family InsuranceTim Miller (913) 856-6177 www.timmilleragency.com
Askins Insurance Team (913) 562-1365
Farm Bureau Financial Services (913) 856-2197 www.fbfs.com
Farmers Insurance - Robert K
Kelly Insurance (913) 856-3816 www.robertkellyinsurance.com
Health and Wellness Advisors LLC (913) 601-0824 www.hwadvisors.org
Joe Oldham’s State Farm Agency (913) 856-6124 www.joeoldhamagency.com
MJH Insurance & Financial Services (913) 856-0002 www.mjhins.com
New York Life (913) 271-7450 www.newyorklife.com/agent/ apeacock
VaughanFire Insurance Solutions (913) 203-6696 www.vaughanfiresolutions.com
Manufacturing, Logistics & Distribution
Amazon Fulfillment www.amazon.com
ColdPoint Logistics Warehouse LLC (913) 229-3800 www.coldpointlogistics.com
Excelligence Learning Corporation (913) 303-8411 www.excelligence.com
FedEx Ground (913) 856-1880 www.careers.fedex.com
Hershey Salty Snacks Co., The (701) 566-8520 www.hersheyland.com/dots-pretzels
ITI Intermodal of Kansas LLC (708) 333-7510 www.iti-intermodal.com
Kansas City Winair Company (913) 888-0894 www.winsupplyinc.com
TradeNet Publishing Inc. (800) 884-7301 www.tradenetonline.com
Personal Care & Services
Bruce Funeral Home, Inc. (913) 856-7111 www.brucefuneralhome.com
Colour Closet (785) 845-9809 www.courtneycolourcloset.com
Relax Skin Studio (785) 317-7209 www.relaxskinstudio.com
Pets & Veterinary
Gardner Animal Hospital (913) 856-6255 www.gardnerah.com
Oakbrook Animal Hospital (913) 884-8778 www.oakbrookanimalhospital.com
Prairie Paws Animal Shelter (785) 242-2967 www.prairiepaws.org
Real Estate Services
Bates, Sue - Platinum Realty (913) 706-7284
Bethel Estates of Gardner (913) 856-4107 wheatlandinvestmentsgroup.com
Big Water LLC (913) 406-4688
The Bristol Groupe (785) 838-4888 www.bristolgroupe.com
Conestoga (913) 755-9464 www.conestogakansas.com
Crown Realty (913) 215-9004 www.crownrealty.com
Horizon Trails Apartments (913) 605-1060 www.horizontrails.com
Keller Williams Realty Partners / John Tramble Jr. (913) 653-8640 www.john-tramblejr.kw.com
Kirk Home & LandCompass Realty Group (913) 244-5480 www.compass.com/agents/ nancy-kirk-matthew
Layton Real Estate (785) 883-2379 www.laytonre.com
Master Management (913) 856-3888
Nottingham Village Apartments (913) 938-5155 www.wilhoitliving.com/property/ nottingham-village
Rausch Coleman Homes (913) 433-0208 www.rch.com
Security 1st Title (913) 938-5340 www.security1stks.com
Team Graham LLC (913) 708-2122 www.teamgrahamkc.com
The Reserve at Moonlight (913) 884-3986 www.thereserveatmoonlight.com
Treadway at New Trails Apartments (913) 686-9030 www.treadwaynewtrails.com
Vintage Park at Gardner (913) 856-7643 www.vintageparkassistedliving.com
W.D. Gay Rentals (913) 856-6487 www.forrent.wdgay.com
Willow Chase - Twin Homes (913) 938-5532 www.willowchasetwinhomes.com
Restaurant, Food & Beverages
ACA Cottonwood Catering (913) 882-6142 www.acaofficecatering.com
Blazers Restaurant (913) 856-6565 www.blazers-restaurant.com
Cosentino’s Catering (816) 744-2146 www.cosentinoscatering.com
Culver’s of Gardner (913) 247-1040 www.culvers.com
DayLight Donuts (913) 429-0575 www.daylightdonutskc.com
ExBEERiment Brewing (913) 938-4175 www.exbeerimentbrewing.com
Fronteras Mexican Restaurant (913) 884-2303 www.fronteraskc.com
Goodcents (913) 856-4611 www.goodcentssubs.com
Groundhouse Coffee (913) 856-5711 www.groundhousecoffee.com
HTeaO (913) 274-0335 www.hteao.com
Kingdom Grounds Coffee Co LLC (913) 940-9351 www.kingdom-grounds-coffee-co. square.site
Panera Bread (913) 397-8383 www.panerabread.com
Pizza Hut of Gardner, KS (913) 884-6116 www.pizzahut.com
Planet Sub (913) 605-1068 www.planetsub.com
Sonic Drive-In of Gardner, KS (913) 856-5111 www.sonicdrivein.com
The Forge (913) 414-2158 www.forgekc.com
The Tipsy Tavern (913) 208-0306 www.facebook.com/tipsytav
Transport Brewery (913) 766-6673 www.transportbrewery.com
Retail
Bomgaars (913) 884-6767 www.bomgaars.com
Cosentino’s Price Chopper #117 (913) 856-8380 www.mypricechopper.com
Gardner Liquor (913) 884-5235
Hometown Sports Gear (816) 304-3403 www.hometownsportsgear.com
In Full Bloom (913) 800-1850 www.infullbloom-gardner.com
Joy Closet (913) 856-8868 www.facebook.com/ JOYClosetGardner
Pyro Papas Fireworks (913) 787-2219 www.pyropapas.com
Walmart Supercenter of Gardner (913) 884-8004 www.walmart.com
Westlake Ace Hardware (913) 856-4536 www.acehardware.com/ store-details/18561
Travel, Lodging & Tourism
Commemorative Air Force (913) 907-7902 www.kcghostsquadron.org
Dream Makers Vacations LLC (913) 927-0078 www.dreammakersvacations.com
Gardner Historical Museum Inc. (913) 856-4447 www.gardnerhistoricalmuseum.com
Gardner Super 8 (913) 856-8887 www.super8.com
Hampton Inn & Gardner Conference Center (913) 856-2100 www.gardnerconference.com
Lanesfield Historic Site (913) 715-2575 www.jcprd.com/435/ Lanesfield-Historic-Site
Great Life Golf Gardner (913) 856-8858 www.gardnergolf.com
Utilities & Public Services
Clearwave Fiber (877) 293-2973 www.clearwavefiber.com
Evergy (816) 556-2200 www.evergy.com
Gardner Disposal Service (913) 856-3851 www.gardnerdisposalservice.com
Gateway Fiber (888) 201-4339 www.gatewayfiber.com
Kansas Gas Service (800) 794-4780 www.kansasgasservice.com
KsFiberNet (316) 712-6030 www.ksfiber.net
Water District #7, Johnson County (913) 856-7375 www.water7.com
Catholic Charities
333 East Poplar Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 782-4077 www.catholiccharitiesks.org
Harvester’s Gardner
Mobile Food Pantry 1200 Energy Center Drive Gardner, KS (3rd Saturday) 555 W. Main Street Gardner, KS (2nd Thursday) (877) 353-6639 www.harvesters.org
The Hope Market 611 E. Main Street Gardner, KS (913) 586-6110 www.thehopemarket.org
Johnson County Aging and Human Services
11811 S. Sunset Drive, Suite 1300 Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 715-8800
www.jocogov.org/department/aging-andhuman-services
Johnson County Mental Health Services (913) 826-4200
Crisis Line: (913) 268-0156 www.jocogov.org/department/mentalhealth
Johnson County Suicide Prevention Coalition (913) 715-7880 Suicide & Crisis Line: 988
Joy Closet 975 E. Lincoln Lane Gardner, KS (913) 856-8868
Kansas Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) (833) 765-2003
Mission Southside 514 S. Kansas Avenue Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 530-4387
RideKC (816) 221-0660 www.ridekc.org
Salvation Army Olathe 420 E. Santa Fe Olathe, KS 66061 (800) SAL-ARMY www.centralusa.salvationarmy.org/ olathe
Southwest Multi-Service Center 510 W. Main Street Gardner, KS (913) 715-6653
United Way Human Services 211 or (816) 474-5112 www.unitedwaygkc.org
Here’s a peek at a few community events celebrating the happenings around Gardner. We’d love to see how you celebrate your community! Send your photos to info@ gardnerchamber.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue.
Photos courtesy Gardner Chamber of Commerce, City of Gardner, and Todd Riggins Frozen in Time Photography.
