Neighborhood Fair Offers Fun, Creative Look Into District Activities

Neighborhood Fair Offers Fun, Creative Look Into District Activities

CONTACT: Cynthia Wheeler-Linden, Kansas City, Missouri School District, (816) 418-7420
Andre Riley, Kansas City, Missouri School District, (816) 418-7414

WHO: Students, families and community members

WHAT: Neighborhood Fair at James Elementary School

WHEN: 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday, August 2, 2008

WHERE: James Elementary School, 5810 Scaritt, Kansas City, MO 64123

The Kansas City, Missouri School Distric invites students, families and community members to a Neighborhood Fair on Saturday, August 2, 2008 at James Elementary School. The fair will feature family entertainment, informative community booths and vendors, and important information about enrollment, free preschool and K-8 Neighborhood Schools. The fair is free and open to the public.

The event is designed for the James community to address concerns related to changes in the school’s boundaries. However, the event will also feature food, carnival games and the magician “Razzle The Dazzler.” Informative activities such as language proficiency tests, science activities, and library book giveaways and card registration will also be offered.

This fair is an effort by the Kansas City, Missouri School District to bring important services and information directly to the community

July 26th Heath Fair was a success

The health fair was well organized and had many resources available to the local community. You could get your blood pressure taken, get a healthy home check-up, and win prizes. The one thing that many people don’t take advantage of is the Mast Ambulance service that covers the entire household for only $59 per year. Everyone who attended were impressed and enjoyed learning more about their heath

Also, coming August 16th is the next Neighborhood Birthday Party at DAVE’s Place.

Area Farmer Markets

Listed below are a few local Farmers Markets
Look up more online at www.localharvest.org

• KC Organics & Natural Farmers Market at Minor Park
"Uniquely nestled in a beautiful park, On the grass and Under the trees!"

Come visit us in the park. Our family farmers offer organic produce that is freshpicked and locally-grown, natural specialty and Heritage meats, honey, mushrooms, edible flowers, herbs, grains, artisan breads, cereals and pies, fresh eggs, freshly-brewed "FT" coffee & more.

We continue to pioneer ECOPRODUCTS, with the highest organic-content handmade bar soaps & body care items, woodcrafts, candles, artisan natural-stone custom jewelry, etc.

Gourmet chefs' demos at 9:30 include samples and recipes. Our "Organica Music in the Park" venue showcases local up-and-coming talent.

"Uniquely nestled in a beautiful park, On the grass and Under the trees!"

Come visit us in the park. Our family farmers offer organic produce that is freshpicked and locally-grown, natural specialty and Heritage meats, honey, mushrooms, edible flowers, herbs, grains, artisan breads, cereals and pies, fresh eggs, freshly-brewed "FT" coffee & more.

We continue to pioneer ECOPRODUCTS, with the highest organic-content handmade bar soaps & body care items, woodcrafts, candles, artisan natural-stone custom jewelry, etc.

Gourmet chefs' demos at 9:30 include samples and recipes. Our "Organica Music in the Park" venue showcases local up-and-coming talent



Location:
E Red Bridge Rd & W 110th St
Kansas City, MO 64131

When and Where:
(May-October)
Minor Park - just East of Holmes and Red Bridge Road -
(E Red Bridge Road at W 110th St)

Market Days are Saturdays - 8am - 12:30pm
May 3rd - Oct 8th, 2008
Contact Information

Peter Stauffacher
www.KCOrganics.com
816-444-3663



• Farmers' Community Market at Brookside
The Farmers' Community Market at Brookside has a lively mix of local and certified organic farmers who provide freshly-picked vegetables, fragrant herbs, juicy sweet fruit, edible and cut Flowers. Our farmers use sustainable and humane practices to produce hormone and antibiotic-free meat, free-range eggs and honey products. The market also features organic freshly-prepared artisan food, including fresh hot fair-trade and locally roasted coffee, baked goods including pies, assorted breads, cinnamon rolls, granola cereals, cookies, and brownies, including many vegan varieties, gluten-free and much more. The market also offers organic hand-crafted soap and artists with unique handmade crafts.


Location

63rd and Wornall Road
Kansas City, MO 64113

When and Where

(April-October)
The market is held at the Border Star Montessori School located at 63rd and Wornall Road in Kansas City, Missouri every Saturday, starting April 12, 2008, from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Contact Information

Franki Shearer
www.farmerscommunitymarket.com


• Troostwood Youth Garden Market

MARKET DAYS - Saturdays, 8am to 2pm May 19 until October

Youth are providing fresh and healthy VEGETABLES from A to Z, and all of our foods are grown by organic methods.

We are members of JJ Farms and the Kansas City Food Circle. Please call to schedule a farm tour, or if you have any questions about our market.

Location:
5142 Paseo
Kansas City, MO 64110

When and Where:
(May-October)
LOCATION: 5142 Paseo, Kansas City, MO 64110 -- MARKET DAYS - Saturdays, 8am to 2pm, May until October -- Our 2008 schedule

Practical Tips To Secure Your Home

Practical Tips To Secure Your Home


It's no secret that crime is increasing every year and is invading what once were considered "safe communities." As the following FBI report shows, crime is on the rise. Crime against property occurs on the average of 20 times a minute with an estimated $1,000 loss for each occurrence. Burglary is a crime of opportunity where entry is gained due to the carelessness of homeowners.

Single family homes are twice as likely to be burglarized than apartments. While receiving a lot of publicity when it happens, hotels and motels account for less than 3% of all burglaries. The most likely things to be stolen in a burglary are cash, small electronic equipment, home computers, cameras, jewelry, furs, tools and hand guns.

Few people really bother about security until something happens to them or a neighbor. The public's complacent attitude is the burglar's best friend and your worst enemy. There are many things the average person can do to make their home less of a target. This report will get you started on the right road. Remember, the two things a burglar fears most are being seen and having to take too much time to complete the crime.

While burglars typically "target" a home when no one is home, if you surprise one in the act, your chances of being injured are too high to attempt to intervene. A sobering statistic shows many homeowners attempting to defend (themselves, family members, or their property) with a weapon end up having it turned on themselves.

Vital statistics on Crime in the United States,
Reported Offenses 1985-1991
Source: Uniform Crime Reports FBI

VIOLENT PROPERTY MURDER & FORCIBLE
YEAR CRIMES CRIMES MANSLAUGHTER RAPE
------------------------------------------------------
1985 1,328,870 11,102,600 18,980 87,670
1986 1,489,170 11,722,700 20,610 91,460
1987 1,484,000 12,024,700 20,100 91,110
1988 1,566,220 12,356,900 20,680 92,490
1989 1,646,040 12,605,400 21,500 94,500
1990 1,820,130 12,655,500 23,440 102,560
1991 1,911,770 12,961,100 24,700 106,590


LARCENY
YEAR ROBBERY BURGLARY & THEFT
------------------------------------------
1985 497,870 3,073,300 6,926,400
1986 542,780 3,241,400 7,257,200
1987 517,700 3,236,200 7,499,900
1988 542,970 3,218,100 7,705,900
1989 578,330 3,168,200 7,872,400
1990 639,270 3,073,900 7,945,700
1991 687,730 3,157,200 8,142,200

A SECURITY SURVEY
Many local law enforcement agencies will provide a free "walk through" of your property. The purpose is to identify all potential trouble spots and determine what steps can be implemented to improve the overall security of your property.


PUT YOURSELF IN A BURGLAR'S SHOES
One thing every homeowner should do at least twice a year is take a walk around and through your property with a close friend or neighbor who is not too familiar with your house. Start outside and ask yourself "how would I best break in? The purpose of not doing it alone is your pal may spot things you'll overlook. Return the favor and complete a survey for your friend.

Besides the obvious "lived-in" look, don't get into a habit of only doing certain things only when you're not home. Chances are good you can tell when your neighbor isn't home. Remember it's a burglar's job to know the same things. Most professional criminals can tell nobody's home at least four or five houses away.

Several dead giveaways are always closing the drapes ONLY when you're not home. Having no garbage cans out collection day, or an empty can sitting at the curb, are tip-offs you're not home. So are closing up the house as tight as a drum in the hot summer months without the air-conditioner running. Turning on a certain light or two and every other room is in total darkness. Ditto for picking up all the kid's toys, taking in the dog, shutting the garage door if you frequently leave it open, and turning off the lawn sprinkler.

Many people before leaving turn on the "burglar light, " the light over the kitchen sink. You might as well hang a sign on the front door you're not home! If you use an answering machine never leave a message that you're not home. Instead say you can't come to the phone right now. If you don't have a machine, turn down the volume on phones before leaving so it can't be heard from outside - another dead giveaway nobody's home.


EFFECTIVE BURGLAR DETERRENTS
You've probably head it several times and it's true! A dog is one of the best deterrents. Not because it's vicious, it need not even be seen, but it has to be heard. A dog with a menacing bark will scare away a lot of would-be burglars, not only because they don't know what kind of dog you have and what risk it would be to them if try tried to break in, but more likely because a noisy dog will create a disturbance and get attention - the last thing a burglar wants!

If you don't have a dog there's nothing stopping you from pretending. A Beware of Dog sign on your fence, a dog house in the back yard, even a loose dog chain or bowl can drive away a potential burglar. Don't be fooled by companies that provide cheap electronic "dogs" who bark none stop if a intruder trips a relay or otherwise signals his presence. Most experienced prowlers are familiar with these devices and won't be fooled or scared off.

Electronic devices that are effective besides the typical whole house alarm systems for windows and doors are infrared or motion detectors that sense movement or the heat given off by one's body. Anyone approaching too close will trigger any number of attached devices. The most effective are powerful lights or burglar horns that either flood the area with light or fill the air with a deafening sound without notice. Just like a barking dog, the would-be burglar will usually hightail it out of there for fear of being discovered.

To be effective, the sensitivity of such devices much not be set too high or stray animals will set them off too frequently which will get you on the wrong side of your neighbors. Also be sure such devices are high enough that they can't be easily turned off or broken.


SECURING DOORS
Illegal entry through the front door occurs more often than all other points of entry combined! All exterior doors should be of solid hard wood or steel reinforced. A good door does no good if the door frame is in bad shape or of inferior construction. Pay special attention to the door jams. Most, even in expensive homes are made out of cheap pine. It don't take much force to "kick in" the door even if protected with dead bolts, if the strike plate is attached with only a couple of 1/2 or 3/4 inch screws.

Take a few minutes and install 2-1/2 to 3 inch stainless steel or nickel plated screws in all your exterior door jams. Be sure screws go at least 1-3/4 inch deep into the underlying framing lumber. While you at it, consider getting heavy duty strike plates or a door reinforcement kit sold in many larger home improvement centers. Be advised you may have to chisel out more of the door jam to install but it's worth the effort for the greater protection provided. Another way to increase the chances of your door holding is to further protect it from being kicked in by installing a device on the floor that the door rests against on inside center when shut, and swings away when the door opens.

Any kind of sliding glass door is a favorite target. Guard against the door being lifted up and out by installing several screws into the door's upper track. Open and shut the door through its entire range to allow just enough of the screw's head protruding to allow free movement without allowing the door to be removed. Several devices can be installed into the door's upper or lower track that acts much like a dead bold by running a heavy pin through the door track and deep into the frame. Just having a length of old broom handle at a 45 degree angle in the door track also prevents the door from easily being forced open and works nearly as well!

You garage door is easy pickings unless you have a electronic door opener. Today these devices are fairly cheap (around $150) and make it practically impossible to force open the overhead door from the outside without breaking through the actual door panels due to the high tension produced from the worm drive or chain device that makes the openers work Yes, it is possible for burglar to punch in the right code and gain access, but with today's remote controls providing so many possible combinations, the odds are very slight, and the burglar won't waste the time trying all the possibilities.

Final bit of advice on automatic door openers. Do be sure to change the security code from the preinstalled settings which are almost always set to zeros. Also, if you notice your door open and you're sure you shut it, one of your neighbors probably set his opener to the same code. Take the time to change your setting, or you're giving a potential burglar a great opportunity to gain free access.

SECURING WINDOWS

Burglars break windows as a last resort - or by accident. The preferred method is cutting a access hole or slipping in a thin stiff wire and undoing the locking device. Most double hung windows have cheap locks which should be replaced by heavy duty sash locks or even keyed locks, if you can put up with the inconvenience. An old trick is installing a small eyebolt in either corner. If done correctly the window can't be opened, with the eyebolt in place from the outside. Of course you could screw the window shut by drilling a hole through the frame but it defeats the purpose of having a window, and presents a fire hazard. Not recommended.

The safest windows are glass block. Almost impossible to break through, they of course can't be opened and are not as pleasing to look at. A good choice for basements or areas at or near ground level.

Another good protection is installed roll-a-way electric security shutters, or decorative security grates. The main down side is they can prove to be a serious fire hazard and prevent your escape. Newer models install on tracks or can easily be pushed open from inside to lessen their danger in the event of fire and the thick smoke sure to accompany it.

HOUSEHOLD INVENTORY

The above steps can go a long way to protecting your home but no matter how secure your residence is, if a professional burglar has targeted your home and is determined to break in, the unthinkable may still happen. To aid law enforcement agencies and greatly assist in insurance claims you should maintain a detailed household inventory of all your valuables.

It makes sense to "mark" important items with some permanent identifying mark. There are a variety of simple tools you can rent that will engrave serial numbers, a driver's license number or some other unique marking into your valuables.

Remember most burglars "fence" stolen items in order to get cash, usually for illegal drugs. You'll greatly reduce the chances of someone walking off with your TV, VCR or other valuables if it has a conspicuous ID number that can't be removed, simply because it will greatly reduce its street value and make it too much work to get rid of, and of course it is a lot easier to trace and return the property to the rightful owner.

Today, many people have a video camera. Sweep each room and record the contents from several different prospectives. Next, take close-ups of really important items. To tie-in, have a family member pose with the valuables. In a clear voice identify each item, the date of purchase, price paid and model and serial numbers. Remember to update the tape every time you purchase something new.

If you don't have a video camera, a regular camera also works well. Make a companion audio tape to go along with it. It very important that the tapes or pictures be kept off the property or they may be stolen or damaged. Keep them in a safety deposit box. Now set aside a hour or so and complete the security check list on the following page. Correct weak points as soon as possible and your home and belongings will be more secure.

HOME SECURITY AND SAFETY CHECK LIST

GENERAL SECURITY

1. Have you arranged to have member of a law enforcement agency do a professional survey?
2. Are all trees and shrubs pruned and well maintained to prevent anyone from hiding unseen?
3. Do any trees, down pipes, lattice work provide easy access to upper floors?
4. If you have skylights can they be removed from the outside or easily broken?
5. Any ladders, tools kept outside to assist any potential intruder?
6. Are you guilty of keeping a hidden house key outside the house where it's sure to be found?
7. Is your home well lighted with particular attention to exterior doors?
8. Can your main entrance be seen from the street?
9. Are exterior doors at least 1-3/4 inch thick and made from solid wood or reinforced with metal?
10. Do all exterior doors have heavy duty dead bolts and reinforced door jams?
11. Can anyone gain easy access through a mail slot, dryer vent, or pet entrance?
12. If doors have glass panels can someone break through and defeat the locking mechanism?
13. Have all sliding glass doors been protected from being easily lifted out from their frames?
14. Are all exterior lights and security devices in good working order and protected from breakage?
15. Does the door from the attached garage leading to the house have a dead bolt?
16. Does your overhead door have a working electronic door opener?
17. Does your overhead door have any loose, broken or missing door panels or hardware?
18. Do you keep the overhead doors closed, and your car locked inside the garage?
19. Do all windows have reinforced locking devices that can be secured in the open position?
20. Do all screens and storm windows have reinforced locks?
21. Do ground level windows have guards or grates?
22. Are basement windows glass block or protected by grates or security devices?
23. All irreplaceable items kept in high quality fire resistant safe or in off-site safety deposit box?
24. Do you have a complete and current video tape or pictures of all your valuables off-site?
25. Are all firearms kept secured and apart from ammunition?

FIRE PREVENTION AND SAFETY

1. Is your heating system in proper working order and inspected for dangerous leaks yearly?
2. Is there ample air circulation around appliances that are likely to overheat?
3. Any overloaded circuits, long extension cords runs, too many devices plugged unto one outlet?
4. Fireplaces, chimney free of dangerous build ups that could catch on fire?
5. Protective grate in front of fireplace to prevent sparks, hot logs from rolling into room?
6. Kitchen oven hood and far clear of greasy build-up that could cause a fire?
7. Smoke detectors installed on each level and tested weekly?
8. Smoke detector batteries replaced every 12 months or less?
9. Working fire extinguisher in kitchen, basement, garage, auto?
10. All family members sleep with bedroom door closed to prevent spread of fire, smoke?
11. All family members practice fire drill, know escape route, designated meeting pace to go outside?
12. Children know how to use phone to get help in an emergency?

WHEN AWAY FOR EXTENDED PERIODS

1. Security system armed? Automatic timers for lights, radio turned on? Phones turned down?
2. Arrange for neighbor to watch house, cut, water grass, give house that lived-in look?
3. No change in normal pattern of opening, shutting drapes, dead give-away lighting patterns?
4. Arrange to stop mail, newspaper delivery, yard work performed?
5. Arrange to have local police give "special attention" for area beat car?

Health during times of extreme heat

Heat index causes Health Department to issue heat advisory

The City of Kansas City, Mo., Health Department has issued a heat advisory after consultation with the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, Mo., resulted in a forecasted heat index of 96 degrees by 11 a.m. today at the Kansas City International Airport. Once the Health Department issues a heat advisory, it remains in effect for the rest of the summer.

To protect your health during times of extreme heat:
-- Never leave children, pets or others alone in closed vehicles. The temperature inside a car can surpass 140 degrees and become fatal within minutes.
-- Avoid too much sun exposure and postpone outdoor activities and games.
-- Avoid extreme temperature changes, such as a taking a cool shower immediately after coming inside on a hot day.
-- Stay indoors as much as possible.
-- If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a public building every day for several hours.
-- Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs to reduce heat.
-- If you have to work outside, take frequent breaks, rest in the shade and drink plenty of water.
-- Dress for the weather by wearing loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. These clothes reflect heat and help maintain normal body temperature. If you have to be outside, cover as much skin as possible to avoid sunburn. Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat.
-- Check on your neighbors, friends and relatives — especially the elderly — at least twice a day (morning and night).

A heat warning will only be issued by the Health Department when the heat index is scheduled to reach 105 degrees at KCI airport by 11 a.m. A heat emergency will be issued when the heat index is scheduled to reach 105 degrees at KCI Airport by 11 a.m. for three consecutive days or the temperature is greater than 85 degrees at night or 130 degrees on any day. The criteria were established after analyzing heat illness and injury data from the 1980 heat wave, which caused 157 deaths.

For more information about heat-related illnesses, go to the CDC Web site at: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/index.asp.

Emergency Home Repair Program

Emergency Home Repair Program to start accepting applications Aug. 1
Reformatted Minor Home Repair Program designed to better meet needs

Eligible Kansas City, Mo., homeowners who are in urgent need of roofing, plumbing, electrical and mechanical work can apply for the City of Kansas City, Mo., Emergency Home Repair Program. Applications for homeowners who meet program requirements will be accepted Aug. 1.
"We have redefined the Minor Home Repair Program so that we can better meet the needs of eligible applicants," said Bob Jackson, manager of the Property Preservation Division. This division of the Neighborhood and Community Services Department administers the Emergency Home Repair Program, Home Weatherization Program, Municipal Court Fund Program (referral only) and Paint Program.
Eligible applicants are homeowners who own only one property, have not received assistance from this program (the old Minor Home Repair Program) since Sept. 30, 1993, and meet these household income guidelines:
o One person – $23,950
o Two people – $27,350
o Three people – $30,800
o Four people – $34,200
o Five people – $36,960
o Six people – $39,650
o Seven people – $42,400
o Eight people – $45,150.
"Approved applicants receive a single service of urgent need and the repair will be made by a contractor who meets our more clearly defined list of responsibilities. The work provided by this program is 'emergency' in the sense that it is not routine maintenance and will proceed as quickly as possible," Jackson said.
Applications will be accepted Aug. 1 through Dec. 1. In the future, program administrators anticipate accepting applications January through April to allow appropriate time for the work to be done within the calendar year a homeowner applies for assistance.
A Community Development Block Grant established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funds the Emergency Home Repair Program.
Applications for the Emergency Home Repair Program are available at the Property Preservation Division office on the fourth floor of City Hall, 414 E. 12th St., and online at http://www.kcmo.org/neigh. For more information or to have an application mailed to you, call (816) 513-3025.
Media inquiries should be directed to Teresa L. Clark, public information officer for the Neighborhood and Community Services Department, (816) 513-3247.

Tips on saving energy costs

Furnace Filter

Your furnace works hard all winter to keep your home comfortable.
Check the filter regularly and replace it if you need to.
If a later of dirt has built up, simply throw it away and slide in a new one.

Leaving Town
If you're leaving home for a few days, here are some things you can do to save energy.
- Turn down your thermostat.
- Unplug major electronics, such as TVs and cable boxes.
- And instead of leaving a few lights on all of the time, put some on a timer to make it look like someone is home.


Clothes Washer
Did you know that about 90% of the energy used for washing clothes goes to heating the water?
By simply changing the setting from "hot" to "warm," you could save up to 50% on your energy use - and still get your clothes clean.


Extra Fridge
I know how convenient it can be to have a second refrigerator in the garage.
But did you know that it could be costing you an extra $150 a year in electricity?
Ask yourself if it's really worth it. And if you do keep it, why not plug it in only a couple of days before you need it.



Caulk
Did you know that some homes have enough leaks around the windows and doors to equal a three-foot-square hole in the wall?
Imagine how much energy would escape through an opening like that.
By caulking and weather-stripping, you could save up to 20% on energy.


Call Before You Dig
Isn't it great to get outside in the Spring and work in the yard?
Well, here's a bright idea for staying safe:
If you're going to be planting a tree or digging in the yard for any reason, call your utility first.
They'll locate and mark any underground lines.
Because if your shovel comes in contact with an underground line, the results could be fatal.

So call before you dig.

KANSAS ONE-CALL
1-800-DIG-SAFE
1-800-344-7233

MISSOURI ONE-CALL
1-800-DIG-RITE
1-800-344-7483

Allow two working days for member utilities to mark your service locations. It's one call that can save your life.


Electrical Safety In Storm Season
With storm season in our area, It's a good time to brush up on some electrical safety tips.

Here's a bright idea:
If you see a downed power line, always assume that it's live.
And whatever you do, don't touch it or try to move it with another object.
Just move away from it. And call KCP&L immediately.
Play it safe and have a great Spring.



CFL Bulbs
Here's an easy, money-saving tip:
Replace your old light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
It may look kind of funny. But it'll save you money.
Because it uses about one third the energy of normal bulbs.
If every American replaced just one old bulb with one of these, the reduction in green house gasses would be like taking 2 million cars off our roads.
Now that's a bright idea.


Fridge Coils
Did you know that your refrigerator accounts for 10% of your monthly electricity use?
After all, it's running 24/7, keeping your food fresh.
But here's a bright idea:
You can reduce the energy your refrigerator uses, simply by cleaning the cooling coils twice a year.
Your fridge will work more efficiently and save you up to $10 a month.
Pretty cool, huh?


Ladder Safety
With Spring here, people are up on ladders, pruning trees and cleaning gutters.
But remember...
If you or your ladder comes into contact with an overhead line, the result can be fatal.
So here's a bright idea: always look up before raising your ladder. And stay at least ten feet from the nearest line.

Play it safe. And have a great Spring.

Call Before You Trim
Contact KCP&L at
816-471-KCPL
816-471-5275

Crime Data for WGNA

The KCPD would like to share Community Crime Data that is located on www.kcpd.org website.

You can now check our homes association group crime statistics on the internet.
Go to www.kcpd.org, in the upper left hand corner you will see Community Crime Data.
Go to Metro, then pick your group's name from the drop down.




Another helpful link not associated with the KCPD is www.CrimeReports.com

Kansas City Free Health Clinic hosts youth event on July 19

For young people ages 13 to 24, come to the Kansas City Free Health Clinic at 3515 Broadway in Kansas City (Missouri) on Saturday, July 19, from 1 to 4 p.m. for "HIV: Put U First."

We'll be out back with prizes, free food, entertainment, information and FREE HIV TESTING!

Brookside Summer Sidewalk Sale scheduled July 10-13

Click here for more information.

Summertime and the shopping is easy. Beginning Thursday, July 10, the Brookside Business Association presents the 2008 Brookside Summer Sidewalk Sale. With more than 70 stores, restaurants and services, Kansas City residents can stroll down Brookside streets, perusing the hottest sales from their favorite Brookside merchants.

The Brookside Summer Sidewalk Sale runs Thursday, July 10 through Sunday, July 13. Complete information is available online at www.BrooksideKC.org.

Coinciding with the Sidewalk Sale is a dedication ceremony for the newly renovated Brookside Court Park, on Saturday, July 12 at 11 a.m. The park has been redeveloped to include new pathways, landscaping and a wood deck plaza. Music by Danny Embry beginning at 10:30 a.m., will accompany the ceremony.

Brookside is located from Wornall to Main, between 62nd Terrace and Meyer Blvd, only minutes from the Plaza, Leawood and south Kansas City.

Neighborhood Crime Watch - Trainings and Signs coming soon!

Our division will be offering two-hour block watch trainings throughout the rest of 2008, at different times and locations all across the city. Registered groups that send 3 or more people to these trainings (or attended the May 3rd training at the Kauffman Foundation) will be able to receive Neighborhood Watch signs for their area, free of charge! Yes, we will have signs again soon - I know many of you have been asking about them for some time.

The flyer for this event is online at http://www.kcmo.org/neigh/CrimeWatchtrainings2008.pdf - the webpage version will be available on Monday, due to the holiday. Additional times and dates may be added to the list, so stay tuned for more information! We're especially looking to partner with those multilingual areas of the city that we have not been able to serve completely before. Feel free to print our flyer and distribute it to those you know, as well - one of the reasons we wish to do this is to grow the capacity in KCMO for crime watch groups where it has previously fallen by the wayside or never been able to be active.

If you would like to pre-register for a session, please contact one of our office's staff so that we can try to ensure that we have enough space for those in attendance.

David Reynolds
Community Safety Coordinator
Neighborhood Services Division (formerly CCS)
Neighborhood & Community Services Department
City of Kansas City, Missouri
Office: (816) 513-3235
"Nothing Can Stop Dedication"

Safety Information

Below are informative links and phone numbers.


Helpful Contact Phone Numbers:

• Police Non-Emergency: 234-5000
• Police Emergency: 911
• Metro Patrol Division Station: 234-5520
• Crime Analyst: 349-6416

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• TIPS Hotline: 474-TIPS (8477)

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• Animal Control:
email: AnimalControl@kcmo.org
Animal Health and Public Safety Division
4400 Raytown Road
Kansas City, MO 64129
Phone: (816) 513-9800
Fax: (816) 513-9822

*Please remember that Animal Control has regular business hours so please leave a message and do a follow up call the next day. You can also call 311.
Phones are answered Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday calls are accepted from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m

If you feel your life is threatened by an animal call Animal Control(816)513-9800 try to get away from the animal. Do not provoke the animal.
Remember Police and Animal Control are two separate services that work together to help you.

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• The 3-1-1 Action Center
City Hall, first floor
414 E. 12th St.
Kansas City, MO 64106
Phone: 311 or (816) 513-1313
Fax: (816) 513-1303
E-mail: actioncenter@kcmo.org

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• Would you like to see what crimes happen in your neighborhood?
go to www.crimereports.com to learn more.

• KCPD Newsletter: click here
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July Events in Kansas City

Tomato Festival
The second annual festival features a salsa contest. Find family friendly activities such as putt-putt tomato, a knock the cans game and a tomato toss.
Date: Saturday, July 5
Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: The City Market, 20 E. Fifth St.


Swim pool parties
The 2008 free parties will feature pool activities, contests, prizes and healthy snacks.
Date: Tuesday, July 8
Time: 5-7 p.m.
Location: Swope Pool, 6700 Lewis Road

Children's film festival
Bring your blanket for music, the movie Transformers, refreshments, prizes and kid-friendly entertainment.
Date: Friday, July 11
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Hyde Park, 36 Street and Gilham Road


Children's film festival
Bring your blanket for music, the movie The Last Mimzy, refreshments, prizes and kid-friendly entertainment.
Date: Friday, July 18
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Hyde Park, 36 Street and Gilham Road

Dragon Boat Festival and races
The annual festival includes something for everyone. The exhilarating races start immediately following exciting hand-on art activities for children, stimulating live music and traditional Chinese dance.
Date: Saturday, July 26
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Cafe corner, adjacent to Brush Creek on the Country Club Plaza

Trash pick-up delayed, City offices closed July 4

Trash pick-up delayed, City offices closed July 4

No trash tags needed July 7-11

In observance of Independence Day on July 4, curbside trash and recycling collection will be delayed one day and City of Kansas City, Mo., offices will be closed. The 3-1-1 Action Center, a division of the City Manager's Office, also will be closed for the holiday.

Residents who usually have Friday trash collection will receive this service Saturday, July 5.



The week of July 7-11 is a “no tag” period for trash collection in the city. During this period, residents may set out more than two bags of trash without tags. This is done to accommodate the extra trash that is usually accumulated at this time.

For more information about solid waste collection services, visit http://www.kcmo.org/trash or call the 3-1-1 Action Center at 311 or (816) 513-1313.

Media inquiries about trash and recycling should be directed to Dennis Gagnon, public information officer for the Public Works Department, (816) 513-2659.

4th of July displays around Kansas City

Click here to learn more.