Warm up Parade March 13th

Parade Route:
Starting at 65th Street & Wornall Road
North on Wornall Road to 63rd Street
East on 63rd Street to Main Street
South on Main Street to Meyer Boulevard
West on Meyer Boulevard to Brookside Plaza

The parade is proudly sponsored by theKansas City Neighborhood Tourism Fund and by the Brookside Business Association.

Fundraiser for WGNA

Walnut Grove Neighborhood Association needs your help. For every purchase made, Flower Power Fundraising will give 50% back to Walnut Grove Neighborhood Association.
Click here to learn more >>

This is a great resource if you learn of someone who is in danger of losing their home and is running out of options. There is a considerable amount of funding dedicated to this, and can be a resource for up to 18 months. Please refer clients to Marjorie or Latrice for Foreclosure Mitigation counseling first, and we will then work with them to get through this process.

Mark Stalsworth
President/CEO
Neighborhood Housing Services
5835 Troost K. C. Mo. 64110
816-822-7703 Ext 233

Friday Feb 26th

Join the Salvation Army and Numana Inc. and help pack food to send to Haiti earthquake survivors at the Million Meals for Haiti event at Kemper Arena. The event takes place on Friday from noon until 8 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Free cell-phone service available to low-income households in Missouri

Free cell-phone service available to low-income households in Missouri

More than 700,000 low-income households in Missouri are eligible for free cell-phone service through a federal program.

The program, which recently became available in the state, will cover about 96,000 households in Jackson and Clay counties.

The Federal Communications Commission created a program 25 years ago called Lifeline to ensure landline access to low-income households.

The program, now called SafeLink Wireless, was recently updated to provide free cell-phone service and 68 minutes of free monthly talk time for one year.

Missouri is one of 21 states, plus the District of Columbia, participating in the program.

The service is provided through TracFone Wireless.

To qualify for the program, households must participate in federal programs such as Federal Public Housing Assistance, the National School Lunch Program, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or disability benefits for veterans.

For more information, call 800-723-3546 or go to www.safelinkwireless.com.

FEB 24th 5th District Meeting

ADVOCACY TRAINING FOR URBAN AG CODES

Would you like to learn how to be an effective advocate in Kansas City for urban agriculture and good food grown in neighborhoods?


We’ve been working with the KCMO Urban Planning Department to develop proposed codes revisions to support urban agriculture and a good quality of life in KCMO neighborhoods. We want to invite you to get involved in the advocacy process.


Beth Low, the new Director of the Food Policy Coalition of Greater KC, is organizing an Advocacy Training to help us get ready for the support-building process needed to pass the proposed codes revisions. Beth has great experience as a community organizer, electoral campaign director, and elected official, and will be sharing the training with Carrie Shapton of the Partnership for Children. She is also hoping to enlist the support of a few generous elected officials so they can share the experience of being lobbied and work with us on effective strategies.


The training is scheduled for FEBRUARY 28, 12:30-4:30.


Penn Valley MCC
Campus Center, Rooms 502-503.

3201 Southwest Trfy

Kansas City, MO 64111-2764
http://mcckc.edu/main.asp?P=PVCampusMap



WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF AVAILABLE SPACES, and priority will go first to KCMO residents who can say “Yes, I’d love to help out with this codes campaign!” and then to other excited, committed folks who will put their new skills into action in their own communities.



PLEASE RSVP THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND.



This is going to be really wonderful. Getting involved in the political process in this way is a new thing for many of us urban agriculturalists and local food advocates. By the end of the day, we’ll have a new set of tools just as handy as our rototillers and harvesting knives. I hope you can attend!

BUY local grown food. Sign up soon!

Hello local eaters and fans of KCCUA!



Briefly, our Regular CSA works like a concentrated community around food and farm. As a member, you understand the risks associated with farming and agree help support the farmer in the early season when cash flow is especially tight.
In return for your investment you will receive a share in the farm’s bounty.
That bounty, usually at a 25% discount from market prices, comes in weekly bags of produce straight from the field beginning May 5 and ending September 29.

Pick-up at the farm is on Wednesdays from 1-6pm, at the Brookside Market on Saturday mornings and delivery is available as well for an additional fee. In addition to the fresh produce, you will receive weekly email updates of the farm, some recipe ideas to try and invitations to come to the farm on volunteer days and join in on the fun.
Click here to learn more>>

Reorganization of KC School District

Kansas City Superintendent John Covington on Saturday unveiled a sweeping plan to close half the district’s schools, redistribute grade levels and sell the downtown central office.

Covington presented his proposal to the school board in advance of a series of public forums this week on what would be the largest swath of closures in district history — as well as a major reorganization.

Read more: Reorganization of KC School District would involve closing half of buildings

Southtown, Waldo, and Brookside Upcoming Schedule of Events

Southtown, Waldo, and Brookside Upcoming Schedule of Events

The following are the upcoming events in Brookside, Waldo, and Southtown during the month of February. These are great ways to meet new friends and clients and learn what's happening in the community.

Monthly Luncheon
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
11:45am to 1pm
Speaker: Jana Belzer, "Raising Awareness of Heart Health for Women"
Caterer: Cosentino's Price Chopper
Location: Broadway United Methodist Church
406 W. 47th St.

Cost: $10/person (checks or cash)
Reservations required by February 16 by calling
816-523-5553 or emailing marti@southtown.org


---------------------------

February Networking
Wednesday, February 24, 2010

8:00am-9:00am
Wornall House Museum, 6115 Wornall Rd.

Light refreshments provided.
Network with friends and learn more about the musuem right in your back yard!

-------------------

And Beyond...
Meet, Tweet, and Eat
Tuesday, March 2, 2010

3:30p-5p: "Social Networking 101," seminar
5:00-7:00p: Annual After Hours Networking

Location: Alphapointe, 75th and 71 Hwy.
$5/event

Enjoy meeting people from the entire metro area, bring a door prize and win a door prize, display your brochures/handouts, and try food and drink from our many wonderful restaurants and food establishments

Make a Splash

KCMSD District plans Right Sizing public forums

A message from KCMSD
District plans Right Sizing public forums
Superintendent Dr. John Covington and members of his leadership team will unveil the District's Right-Sizing Proposal to the Board of Education at a special School Board meeting at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, at the offices of Husch Blackwell Sanders, 4801 Main, Kansas City, MO. The meeting is open to the public.

A series of four community forums will take place throughout the district next week to gather input on school closures. The forums will be designed to give parents and community stakeholders information about the schools located in their particular geographic region.

The FOUR forums will be as follows:
· Tuesday, Feb. 16 - Northeast Elementary School, 4904 Independence Ave. (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(Askew, East, Fairview, Garfield, Gladstone, James, McCoy, Northeast Elementary, Northeast HS, Pitcher, Rogers, Scarritt, TAPC, Trailwoods, West Rock Creek, Whittier, Woodland)

• Wednesday, Feb. 17 - M.L. King Elementary School, 4201 -A Indiana (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(Carver, Central HS, Central Middle, Delano, Faxon Montessori, Franklin, King, Ladd, Melcher, Moore, Richardson, Weeks)

· Thursday, Feb. 18 - Paseo Academy, 4747 Flora (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(ACE, Ace 6th Grade, ACE Lower, Banneker, Holliday, KCMSA, Knotts, Paige, Paseo, Pinkerton, Troost)

· Friday, Feb. 19 - Foreign Language Academy, 3450 Warwick (6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
(Attucks, Border Star, Douglas, Foreign Language Academy, Garcia, Hartman, Lincoln College Prep, Lincoln Middle, Longan, Longfellow, Manual, Phillips, Southwest, Swinney, Westport, Westport Middle, Wheatley)

For more information about the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD), call Public Relations at (816) 418-7420 or visit www.kcmsd.net.

FEb 23rd: Kansas City Police personal safety Class

The Kansas City police department will be teaching a personal safety class at
The Scottish Rite Temple at 1330 E. Linwood on February 23rd from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

This facility has a seating capacity of around 1,000, as well as ample parking,
so please pass on the invitation to attend to all friends, family, neighbors and co-workers as well as post on neighborhood sites and electronic contacts.

The class will consist of a 1.5 hour Power Point presentation covering personal safety at home and in public, discussion and prevention of Drug Facilitated Sexual Assaults, discussion on types of weapons to include hands on, pepper sprays, stun guns and lethal weapons. The program will also include a demonstration (by Kansas City Police and a volunteer) of hands on escape moves then followed by a question and answer session.

Printed crime prevention brochures will also be available.
We will not be selling any types of defense weapons/sprays and this service is free to all who wish to attend. If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to call or e-mail.

If you have any questions please contact P.O. John Trainor at 816-349-6428 or john.trainor@kcpd.org

Job Opportunity Feb 15th

The Southeast Caring Communities Neighborhood Resource Center at Covenant Presbyterian Church is hosting the 2010 CENSUS JOB
Friday, February 12, 2010 9:00am until noon.

Please call 1-866-861-2010 for details.

FABU sales

Delayed Trash pick up

In observance of the President's Day holiday Feb. 15, curbside trash and recycling collection will be delayed one day and City of Kansas City, Mo., offices will be closed.

Residents who usually have Monday collection will receive this service on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

Feb. 22nd: Women’s Personal Safety and Awareness Class

Community Partners; the Heart of America Indian Center located at 600 West 39th,
will be hosting a Women’s Personal Safety and Awareness Class presented by the Kansas City Missouri Police Department
on February 22nd from 6 to 8 pm.

Due to space, the class will be available to the first 25 who reserve a seat. The class consists of a 1.5 hour Power Point presentation covering all aspects of personal safety and awareness including the use of physical force and protection with weapons, a 15 minute hands on demonstration of escape techniques and a 15 min question and answer session.

I will be the instructor for the class and participants will not be physically engaged during this initial course. Safety Information packets will also be given to attendees. Parking is available but limited (Indian Center lot, lot across street to the East of the Indian Center and street parking)To reserve your seat, call me at 816-759-6313 or James.schriever@kcpd.org.

Master Patrol Officer James Schriever, CIO, Central Patrol Division,
Office 816-759-6313, Cell 816-719-8350

Tele-town Hall

For Kansas City parents, teachers and administrators
Tuesday, February 9, 7-8 p.m.

Schools First is a new initiative created to help all schools in Kansas City - public, private and charter – by improving public safety and infrastructure around the schools. Schools First will:

Use a no tax increase bond to fix sidewalks, crosswalks and other city infrastructure around all schools

Use a portion of a renewed Public Safety sales tax to fund increased police presence around all schools

Focus Kansas City’s basic service priorities on areas around all schools

Partner with all schools to apply for federal and private grants to improve neighborhoods and walk to school programs

Create a city based staff liaison to work with every school

After a brief overview of the program, Mayor Funkhouser will take questions from callers.

To participate in the Schools First Tele-Town Hall please call:

1-888-886-6603 Ext. 13998#

Harvesters: Forks & Corks

Event Details
Forks & Corks
Thursday, Apr. 29
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location: Grand Ballroom at the Kansas City Convention Center
16th & Wyandotte Kansas City, MO 64105
Eat, drink and help feed Kansas City's hungry at the 14th annual Forks & Corks, a food and wine tasting event benefiting Harvesters.
Click here to learn more >>

Take a Tour of Harvesters

Click here to Register

Harvesters: How to help Donate or Voluenteer

Volunteers bring their hearts and their hands to their work at Harvesters. And their work is vital to our common mission of alleviating hunger in Greater Kansas City.

Harvesters simply could not do the work we do without volunteer support. Hours spent by volunteers sorting food, assisting at special events or providing professional services translate into the work of approximately 44 full-time employees per year. Just one hour or afternoon of your time can make a difference!

Click here to learn more>>

StoneLion Puppets Coming to Marlborough!

Save $ with www.GROUPON.com Coupons

Click here to learn about past deals.


Groupon started in November 2008 as part of The Point, a platform for collective action. We started Groupon to make it easier for people to enjoy the great things in their community. We do it by offering daily deals at unbeatable prices through the power of group buying.

We also use Groupon's consumer collective to lift each community we touch, by featuring local charities and organizing support for community causes.

We treat our customers the way that we like to be treated, and do everything we can to offer a "too good to be true" experience from the moment you buy your Groupon to the day you use it.

Ozanam Guild

Be Part of Ozanm Guild:

The Ozanam Guild is a group of young professional adults who provide fund raising and volunteer support at Ozanam, a treatment center for children. Guild membership offers opportunities to meet new people and network with other young professionals while playing a vital role in Ozanam's efforts to serve children and their families.


Happy Hour at Sol Cantina!


Second Fridays
Friday, February 12th 6-8 p.m.
$15 donation: Bevergages and Appetizers

100% of the proceeds benefit KC area kids!
Bring 5 friends, Get in FREE!

Career Fairs in KC and OP

Kansas City Career Fair
Friday, February 12
11:00 AM to 2:00 PM - FREE to attend!
InterContinental at the Plaza
401 Ward Pkwy
Kansas City, MO 64112

Register below and get instant access to the company list.



Overland Park Career Fair
Date: Friday, February 26
Location: Holiday Inn Hotel
8787 Reeder Road
Overland Park, KS 66214
Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

For a list of attending companies, click the Here.


Bring at least 15 resumes to the event!

Suspected Serial Rapist Sketch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information, contact:
January 28, 2010 KCPD Media Unit
816-234-5170

Police release sketch of suspected serial rapist

Kansas City Police have released a composite sketch of a suspected serial rapist, based on victims’ description of him. The sketch is attached.


Police believe the man depicted in the sketch sexually assaulted two women this past weekend –
one at 9:50 p.m. Jan. 23 in the 8300 block of Mercier Street,
and another at 12:30 a.m. Jan. 24 in the 10 block of East Porte Cimi Pas.
Police think the same man could be responsible for two similar sexual assaults in the same area last fall. Those occurred Sept. 29, 2009, in the 7500 block of Summit and on Oct. 11, 2009, in the 100 block of East 78th Terrace. In all four cases, the suspect assaulted the women in their homes.

Victims have been working with a forensic sketch artist and detectives to produce this sketch. They have described the suspect as a black male who is about 6 feet tall and weighs 250 pounds.
He is bald and has pitted cheeks, possibly from acne scars. The victims said he had a deep, smooth voice and that he had very bad breath and smelled of exhaust fumes.

Police urge anyone with information about the suspect to come forward by calling police or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

Please note: A composite is not a portrait of one person, but a grouping of characteristics to put people into a category that narrows the search and eliminates other groups. It is intended to place the focus on a smaller grouping of individuals.

KCMSD Prayer Breakfast -- This Saturday!! Jan 30th

A Prayer Breakfast to pray over the KCMSD, our community, our families, our scholars, the current school board elections and the school board candidates. The intention of this prayer breakfast is to bring area ministers (and people of faith) together to pray for the KCMSD, its leadership and those involved with it such that we create a spirit of civility and purpose. Please join us.

Who: All who care about our scholars, our schools and our community

When: This Saturday, January 30th from 8am-10am

Where: Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church, 2801 Swope Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64130

Hosts: Concerned Clergy (Pastor Michael Brooks, President; Pastor Frank Douglas, Vice President; Pastor Emanuel Cleaver III, Vice President) & Area Ministers

Use Your Community Centers

New Year's Resolutions often come with the best of intentions, however, the Kansas City Parks & Recreation Department through the Community Centers can help you succeed if one of those resolutions in getting fit.

KeepKidsAliveDrive25

www.KeepKidsAliveDrive25.org

Tax Season Info

Its Tax Season: See below for helpful links

More tax breaks this year Click here

Tax tips: Click here

Tax Assistance Centers: Click here

Free Tax Return Preparation For You by Volunteers: Click Here

Need a form? Go here: Click Here or to IRS website Click Here


If you would like to set up an appointment to talk with a professional
• H&R Block: NOLAND ROAD RETAIL SHOPPES
3613 S Noland Road
Independence, Mo 64055

816-461-6222 ask for Stacia Diaz

2010 Census

Click Here to learn more>>

City urges cold weather safety

City urges cold weather safety
Due to the ongoing cold weather, the City of Kansas City, Mo., Health Department reminds the public to protect themselves and others from the extreme cold.

With snow on the ground and very low temperatures, many residents may not have left their homes for nearly two weeks. Residents should check on family, friends and neighbors daily while the cold weather lasts to make sure they are safe in their homes and not in need of help.

When possible, stay inside out of the cold. If it is necessary to go outside, stay dry and warm by wearing layers of loose clothing, a hat or cap, and some sort of waterproof and windproof outer layer.

Be cautious when using space heaters in homes. Electric space heaters can overheat and become fire hazards. When using portable gas stoves or heaters indoors, make sure to have adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and keep stoves or heaters several feet away from drapes, furniture, or other things that can catch on fire.

Residents without heat in their homes can call the United Way at 2-1-1 for information on the nearest open warming shelters or utilities assistance programs. Renters of homes or apartments who lose heat can contact the City’s 3-1-1 Action Center for assistance with contacting landlords. The 3-1-1 Action Center, a division of the City Manager’s Office, can be reached at 311 or (816) 513-1313. Regular business hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Information also can be submitted to the 3-1-1 Action Center online at http://www.kcmo.org.
.
Try to use battery-powered lamps or flashlights instead of candles if electricity is lost. If using candles, do not leave them unattended.

When using a gas or kerosene powered generator, make sure it is either outside or in a very well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Just opening a window or door or using a fan will not prevent carbon monoxide from building up indoors.

Leave water taps on slightly so that they drip, and open cabinet doors around water pipes to help prevent freezing.

Eat well-balanced meals. Do not drink alcoholic beverages, as they cause heat to be lost more rapidly. Instead, drink warm, sweet beverages like hot chocolate or sweetened coffee or tea to help maintain a warm body temperature.

The City is in regular contact with partner agencies such as the Salvation Army and United Way of Greater Kansas City to provide safe options during the extremely cold weather.

Tips for cold weather

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Jan. 5, 2010
more snowfall predicted Tuesday evening into
Wednesday, KCP&L is putting additional crews on standby and offering safety tips for
customers.

In terms of crew preparations, extra personnel are added to shifts, which run 24 hours per day.
The combination of round-the-clock availability and additional staffing minimize restoration
times. Tree trimmers are also being deployed to proactively address tree limbs that could
become problematic.
“Whenever there’s a situation with nasty weather, safety has to remain the top priority,” said Bill
Herdegen, vice president T&D operations for KCP&L. “While we are readying our teams,
customers can brush up on their knowledge of basic safety reminders, making us all better
prepared to respond to potential outages.”

Winter Weather Safety Tips
Prepare a winter storm kit by gathering extra supplies for your home and your car,
including:

* First Aid kit and essential medications
* Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
* Canned food and can opener
* Bottled water (at least 1 gallon per person per day)
* Warm clothing, blanket, coat, gloves, hat and water-resistant boots for each
family member
* Stay indoors during the storm, if possible. If you must move to an alternate location,
dress warmly with several layers of clothing, wear gloves and a hat to avoid exposing
your skin to dangerous wind chill.
* Walk carefully on snowy and icy surfaces. Avoid traveling by car and risking being
stranded, but if you must . . .
-more-
Page 2
KCP&L Prepares for Winter Storm, Offers Safety Tips - 2 of 2
o Carry a "disaster kit" in the trunk.
o Keep the car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from
freezing.
o Always let someone know your destination, route of travel and expected time of
arrival.

* Carry a cell phone if you have one.
* Listen to weather radio or local radio and TV stations for updated storm information.
If you have Internet access, you also can check KCP&L Power Watch maps at
www.kcpl.com.
* For family members on a life support system, plan for arrangements to get them to
a location where their needs can be met. In addition, contact KCP&L at 888-471-5275 to
make sure we've noted that a life support system exists at that service location.
* In the event of a power outage, call 1-888-LIGHTKC (1-888-544-4852) to report the
outage. And, keep the following in mind:

* Do not open your refrigerator or freezer more than necessary. Undisturbed
food will remain frozen in most freezers for up to 48 hours.

* Do not use charcoal grills to heat your home or to cook indoors. Dangerous
carbon monoxide fumes can build up and cause serious injury or death.

* If using a portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s safety and
operating guidelines. Be sure to operate the generator in a well-ventilated area.
Never operate it indoors or in your garage. Dangerous carbon monoxide fumes
can build up and cause serious injury or death. Never connect to your home's
main electrical panel or plug it directly into a household outle

City suspends trash and recycling for Jan. 8 due to cold

City suspends trash and recycling for Jan. 8 due to cold

The City of Kansas City, Mo., Public Works Department’s Solid Waste Division announced Thursday, Jan. 7 that trash and recycling collections will be suspended on Friday, Jan. 8. The suspension is due to concerns that prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures could create health and safety risks for trash and recycling collection workers.

Residents with regular Friday collection are asked to place trash and recycling curbside by 7 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9. The delayed collection will occur on either Saturday or Sunday, Jan. 9 or Jan. 10, as crews will work half days during the weekend.

Because many residents have experienced trash or recycling service delays and misses during the recent winter weather events, the City will waive the two-bag limit for trash collection through Friday, Jan. 15. This temporary policy change will allow residents the opportunity to discard excess trash that may have accumulated due to missed collections.

Media inquiries about the City’s solid waste services should be directed to Dennis Gagnon, public information officer for the Public Works Department, (816) 513-2659.

Gina Boucher
Aide to Councilwoman Cindy Circo
5th District At-large
816.513.1633
gina_boucher@kcmo.org

www.cindycirco.blogspot.com

Reply

Reply to all

Forward

Computer Technology Maintenance Shop

Hello Everyone!

Just wanted to let everyone know that it has taken a while but I have
finally managed to open an office to provide computer support and assistance
to those in the need.

So, I am sending out the word to everyone hoping you all will pass this
information along to your friends and associates.

Office address -- 810 E. 63rd. St -- Suite 300
(NW corner at the intersection of 63rd St. and Rockhill in south KC)
Phone Number -- 816.569.1490.

So, if you need assistance, have any questions about XP, Vista, Windows 7,
laptop, desktop, home network, etc... or just want to chat, give me a call
or stop by. There is parking behind the building.

Hope to hear from somebody!!!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS and HOLIDAY SEASON TO ALL AND BETTER 2010!

RonC
Ronald T. Craddolph, Jr. -- Principal Member
Technology Maintenance Shop, LLC
816.569.1490

A message from KCMSD

"Right Sizing the District" public forum to be Thursday at the Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus

The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) cordially invites members of the community to attend our "Right Sizing the District" Public Forums.
These important meetings will allow the public to provide direct input as we seek to improve student achievement by reducing the size of the district and redeploying key personnel and material resources.

The first of FIVE forums will be as follows:
THURSDAY, Dec. 10 - Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus
(Upper Campus), 3500 E. Meyer Blvd.
6:30 to 8 p.m.

For more information about the Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD), call Public Relations at (816) 418-7420.

Holiday Warm-Up

Holiday Warm-Up
(An informal After-hours Networking with Southtown, Waldo, & Brookside )

When: Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Time: 5pm-7pm
Place: Charlie Hooper’s in Brookside 12 W. 63rd St .

Light refreshments provided.

Sponsored by the Brookside Business Association , Southtown Council, Waldo Area Business Association

Around town: Events and things to do

Take a drive through Longview Lake Campground at Longview Lake Park to take in 300,000 holiday lights and figures. The display closes Dec. 31 and is open to the public.
Susan Pfannmuller
Take a drive through Longview Lake Campground at Longview Lake Park to take in 300,000 holiday lights and figures. The display closes Dec. 31 and is open to the public.


CROWN CENTER ICE TERRACE: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Dec. 10, 13-16; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Dec. 11-12; closes March 14. 2450 Grand. $6; $3 skate rental;, seniors and children under 5 free admission. www.crown center.com (816-274-8411)

ICE SKATING AT PARK PLACE: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 14-16; noon-8 p.m. Dec. 13; closes Feb. 28. 117th and Nall, Leawood. $6; $3 skate rental; children under 5 skate free Monday-Friday, until 3 p.m. except on holidays. www .destinationparkplace.com (913-663-2070)

HUMAN RIGHTS DAY COMMEMORATION EVENT: Outdoor candlelight ceremony and speaker. 6-9 p.m. Dec. 10. Loose Park, Garden Center Building, 5200 Wornall. Free. (913-548-2973)

HOLIDAY
WONDERLAND IN WHITE: Collection of white plants including poinsettias. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 10-16; closes Jan. 3. Powell Gardens, 30 miles east of Kansas City on U.S. 50. $7; $6 seniors; $3 children 5-12. www.powellgardens.org (816-697-2600)

SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND: Interactive play area for children. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 14-16; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 13; closes Dec. 24. Bass Pro Shops, 18001 Bass Pro Drive, Independence. Free. www.bassproshops.com (816-795-4300)

SANTA’S HOME AWAY FROM HOME: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 14-16; noon-6 p.m. Dec. 13; closes Dec. 24. (Breaks are at 1 and 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.) Great Mall of the Great Plains, 20700 W. 151st, Olathe. www.greatmallgreatplains.com (1-888-FUN-MALL)

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: 300,000 lights and 175 animated figures. 5:30-10 p.m. Dec. 10, 13-16; 5:30-11 p.m. Dec. 11-12; closes Dec. 31. Longview Lake Campground, Longview Lake Park, I-470 east to View High Drive, south on View High Drive to Third Street. Free. Donations are accepted. www.jacksongov.org/recreation (816-503-4821)

GARDENS BY CANDLELIGHT: A LUMINARY WALK: 5-7:30 p.m. Dec. 12-13. Powell Gardens, 30 miles east of Kansas City on U.S. 50. $7; $6 seniors; and $3 children ages 5-12. www.powellgardens.org (816-697-2600)

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS WEDDING: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 10-12, 14-16; 1.-4 p.m. Dec. 13; closes Dec. 30. Vaile Mansion, 1500 N. Liberty, Independence. $5; $2 children. www.vailemansion.org (816-325-7430)

MY SANTA EXPERIENCE: Hand-written letters to Santa, toy crafting with elves, fireside chat with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus and a winter wonderland. Noon-8 p.m. Dec. 10, 14-16; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Dec. 11-13; closes Dec. 24. The Legends at Village West, 1867 Village West Parkway, Kansas City, Kan. $44.99 and up for photo package. www.legendsshopping.com (913-788-3700)

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: Burroughs Audubon Society of Greater Kansas City. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 11-12; 1-5 p.m. Dec. 13. Burroughs Audubon Library and Nature Center, 21509 Woods Chapel Road, Blue Springs. www.burroughs.org (816-333-3293)

JOURNEY THROUGH BETHLEHEM: Children can pet live animals, create holiday crafts and visit with Santa. 7-9 p.m. Dec. 11; 6-8 p.m. Dec. 12. New Vision Church of the Nazarene, 100 S. Sunrise, Raymore. www.new-vision-church.com (816-348-0303)

Neighborhood Stablization Programs

Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

December 17th Meeting Location

Tulips on Troost

Two areas of the Marlborough area in Kansas City, Missouri will be ablaze with color next spring due to the work of some volunteers and over 1000 tulip bulbs from Tulips on Troost.

Along Troost Avenue, from 77th Street to 79th Street, and the right-of-way leading to the newly renovated bridge at 85th & Troost, tulip bulbs were planted in early November. These particular Marlborough areas were identified by residents who have been working hard to beautify their neighborhood for the past year.

“We’ve undertaken several beautification projects this year in the Marlborough area, like neighborhood clean-ups. We also began the Marlborough Neighborhoods Beautification Award, which is awarded monthly to residential properties since July as well as adopting a half-mile of 85th Street to keep clean through the City’s Adopt-A-Street Program,” said Betty Ost-Everley, president of the Marlborough Community Coalition. “We wanted to highlight the gateways to our community from Troost Avenue and celebrate the renaissance we are bringing to this area with these activities and the many more we have in progress. The Tulips on Troost activities will allow us to do that.” Ost-Everley adds that these plantings will be the furthest south the tulips have ever been planted since the Tulips on Troost program began.

This planting season, Tulips on Troost will be partnering with not only the Marlborough Community Coalition, but the KC Urban Youth Center, Dialysis Clinic, UMKC and others to make Troost beautiful! Tulips on Troost is a project of the Southtown Foundation. Visit www.tulipsontroost.com for more information.

Tax Season. www.kccash.org

KC CASH (Creating Assets Savings and Hope) is a coalition established in 2003 by non-profits, financial and educational institutions, government organizations, and the business community. KC CASH offers free preparation of federal and state tax returns to low/moderate-income working families in Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas. During the 2008 filing season, 267 volunteers prepared more than 4,400 federal returns, generating more than $5.2 million in federal refunds. More good people are needed to help make a difference!

Volunteers are asked to spend 3 to 4 hours per week during the tax season. Under the supervision of tax professionals, you may prepare federal and state income tax returns for the current year. If you do not want to prepare tax returns, you can serve as a translator, information assistant, or a greeter. Training begins in November 2009 and is provided for all job types. For more information, visit www.kccash.org or call 816-559-4676.

KC CASH (Creating Assets Savings and Hope) is a coalition established in 2003 by non-profits, financial and educational institutions, government organizations, and the business community. KC CASH offers free preparation of federal and state tax returns to low/moderate-income working families in Kansas City, Missouri and Kansas. During the 2008 filing season, 267 volunteers prepared more than 4,400 federal returns, generating more than $5.2 million in federal refunds. More good people are needed to help make a difference!

Volunteers are asked to spend 3 to 4 hours per week during the tax season. Under the supervision of tax professionals, you may prepare federal and state income tax returns for the current year. If you do not want to prepare tax returns, you can serve as a translator, information assistant, or a greeter. Training begins in November 2009 and is provided for all job types. For more information, visit www.kccash.org or call 816-559-4676.

Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec 3rd.

Kansas City’s Brookside shopping district will celebrate the start of the holiday season this Thursday, December 3 at 6 p.m. with the annual tree lighting ceremony.

Everyone is invited to gather around the tree for light refreshments, drawings for gift certificates from Brookside businesses, and music by The Holiday Trombones and St. Peter’s Children’s Choir. See the “Stars of Brookside,” a collection of star ornaments provided by Border Star Montessori art classes and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride – proceeds of which will go to benefit the St. Peter’s Emergency Assistance Fund. Canned goods donations will also be collected to benefit Harvesters.

The ceremony will take place at the south end of the parking area between Sharp’s restaurant and Bank Midwest, at the corner of 63rd Street and Brookside Plaza.

The Kansas City, Missouri School District

The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) cordially invites members of the community to attend our “Right Sizing the District” Public Forums.
These important meetings will allow the public to provide direct input as we seek to improve student achievement by reducing the size of the district and redeploying key personnel and material resources.

The schedule for the “Right Sizing” forums is as follows:

· Dec. 10 – Afrikan-Centered Education Collegium Campus (Upper Campus), 3500 E. Meyer Blvd. (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
· Dec. 12 – Garfield Elementary, 436 Prospect Ave. (10 to 11:30 a.m.)
· Dec. 14 – Border Star Montessori, 6321 Wornall Road (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
· Dec. 15 – Central High School, 3221 Indiana (6:30 to 8 p.m.)
· Dec. 17 – Garcia Elementary, 1000 W. 17th St. (6:30 to 8 p.m.)


These valuable public forums will provide the public a key opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas on the school closure process. An outline of the event includes:

· A short introduction by Dr. John Covington, superintendent
· A “State of The District” overview
· Facilitated breakout sessions where participants can provide feedback
· A summary of group feedback


The Kansas City, Missouri School District (KCMSD) offers a world class education to approximately 17,000 urban students (PreK-12) under the leadership of J. Wm. Covington, Ed. D. We are culturally and intellectually diverse, featuring quality neighborhood schools, arts and science signature schools, Montessori, a career & technical center, free early childhood education, and language immersion in Spanish or French.
For more information please contact Andre Riley, District Communications Specialist, (816) 442-9337.

Crime Prevention

Census Jobs $11.00 - $20.00

Save $ with CFL lights

Click Here to learn more and or order CFL lights

Health Clinic: Dec 9th & Dec 10th

NO HEALTH INSURANCE?

WE CAN & WANT TO HELP YOU!


2-DAY FREE HEALTH CLINIC FOR THE UNINSURED
Bartle Hall Convention Center, Kansas City, Missouri

Wednesday, December 9th
12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 10th
10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

CALL 877-249-5030 TO REGISTER

You must register. Walk-ins will be seen only on a limited basis
Sorry - no guarantee unless you have an appointment.
Doors will open at one hour prior to start for patient registration
Parking will be free
Please note:

o Patients ages 6 – 65 are welcome
o This event is for those WITHOUT insurance. Recipients of Medicare, Medicaid or Veterans Administration benefits are not eligible.
o If you are taking medications, please bring your medicine bottles
o If you need a translator (other than Spanish), please bring an adult who speaks English and your primary language with you



Wednesday, December 9th
12:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 10th
10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.


CALL 877-249-5030 TO REGISTER

FREE Admission: CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK:

Treat your whole family to the eye-dazzling delight that is "Christmas In The Park." Jackson County Parks and Recreation has made these animated displays at the Longview Lake Campgrounds a holiday tradition since 1988, striving to make each year better -- and brighter -- than the year before.

300,000 lights and 175 animated figures.

5:30-10 p.m. Nov. 25; closes Dec. 31.
Longview Lake Campground, Longview Lake Park,
I-470 East to View High Drive exit,
south on View High Drive and follow to Third Street.
Free.
Donations are accepted. www.jacksongov.org/recreation (816-503-4821)

Free Admission to the Zoo... for KC residents

Free admission for Kansas City, Missouri, residents
from Thu., October 1 until Mon., November 30, 9:30am-4:00pm
Price: free

The debate over whether it's better to live on the Missouri or the Kansas side of these cities may never be resolved. But for zoo lovers, anyway, a KCMO address is currently more beneficial. All month, the Kansas City Zoo (6800 Zoo Drive) is letting in residents of its side of the state line for free. The offer extends through November. Those without a photo ID or a bill showing a Missouri-side address must pay regular zoo admission: $10.50 for adults, $9.50 for seniors, and $7 for kids ages 3 to 11.
The zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Call 816-513-5800 for more information.

Special Master Gardener Training at Southeast Community Center, Swope Park

This winter, the University of Missouri Extension Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City program will begin a special Master Gardener Training for midtown and downtown residents starting February 27, 2010.

The classes, taught by University of Missouri Extension faculty, will be held every Saturday from 9am-4pm for 8 weeks till April 24th (omitting Sat., March 13th). The eight-week training program will be held at the Southeast Community Center (4201 NW 63rd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64151) in Swope Park.

There will be an Open House on January 23rd from 10am - 12 noon at the Southeast Community Center. This is a great opportunity to learn about the Master Gardener program, training, volunteer opportunities, and to pick up an application. All interested persons are invited. Applications are due February 1, 2010. For more information about the Open House, contact Molly Fusselman at fusselmanm@missouri.edu.

Program fee is $150. Eight to ten, 50% scholarships will be available upon approval.

Training topics include:

* Basic plant anatomy and functions,
* Maintaining healthy soil,
* Fruit and vegetable gardening,
* Lawn care,
* Tree and shrub care,
* Landscape design,
* Growing annuals and perennials and
* Basic plant pathology



Trained Master Gardeners become volunteers of MU Extension and help in sharing research-based horticulture information with the public. Forty-five hours of volunteer service are expected the first year and 25 hours in subsequent years to maintain the Master Gardener badge. After the first year, 6 hours of continuing education are required.

Master Gardeners educate the public on gardening, answer gardening questions and contribute to their communities through volunteer service projects. Local Master Gardener activities include: MG Hotline [(816) 833-8733]; Speakers Bureau; Garden Tour/Plant Sale; demonstration gardens; and special events. Community projects include Swope Park demonstration garden, Watkins Woolen Mill heirloom garden, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary, Harvesters and more.

If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, contact Lala Kumar, MU Extension horticulture specialist, at (816) 252-5051 or kumarl@missouri.edu.

Nov. 18th 7pm: Mayor's Tele-Town Hall Meeting

Mayor Mark Funkhouser invites you to participate in a Tele-Town Hall Meeting on Wed., Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. Participate by call (888) 356-3090 and enter code number 13548#.

RIC & RAC

Ric Rac Round Up Holiday Craft Fair (11/19)
Get your shopping done early at this one of a kind craft fair featuring local Kansas City artists!
Time: 5-9pm
Place: Californos @ 4124 Pennsylvania in Westpor
Cost: FREE
More Info: ricracroundup.blogspot.com

Nov. 19th Free Chili Supper

Fight for Air Climb. Nov. 14th

Join us for one of the most unique events in Kansas City! On November 14, 2009, hundreds of people will huff and puff their way to the top of the Town Pavilion Building for a great cause. This is more than your same-old 5K. This event is a vertical race to climb 34 floors. Whether climbing for a winning time or simply to cross the finish line, in honor or in memory of someone with lung disease, this event is a great way to challenge yourself physically. We guarantee that all finishers will have a newfound respect for healthy lungs!
CLick here to learn more

Free Trick or Treat Event at the KC River Market

Trick or Treat Event at the City Market! 10am-2pm; Kids are invited to pick up a Trick or Treat Map at the City Market Information Tent for a list of participating tenants.

Both traditional treats and healthier options will be available around the Market
Saturday Farmers' Market,
The City Market,
20 E. 5th Street, Suite 201,
KCMO 64106; 6am-4pm;
Admission: Free
Parking: Free
816-842-1271
http://www.thecitymarket.org/

FREE Flu Shots!!

University of Kansas Medical Center -
This year's event will be at a new location on campus, in the parking lot just east of 36th and Rainbow Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas;

8am-1pm - or while supplies last; FREE!
No appointment or cost is required for the shot - HOWEVER- To support Harvesters, the Community Food Network, you can donate non-perishable food items, paper products or a monetary gift; Shots are available to anyone 18 and older; open to residents of either Kansas or Missouri; Shots are for the typical seasonal flu variety, as vaccines for the swine flu (H1N1 virus) have not been released.

Shots are recommended for most people who already suffer from a disease or physical condition; “Late October to early November is the best time of year for a flu vaccination,” said William Barkman, M.D., pulmonary and critical care specialist and chief of staff at KU Hospital. “Since the body’s immune system takes time to respond to vaccine, it should be given one to two weeks before the flu season begins in order to stimulate enough antibodies to prevent infection.”; 913-588-1227; http://www.kumed.com/

If you're unemployed and in danger of losing your home...

If you're unemployed and in danger of losing your home...

The federal government today unveiled an online tool that will let mortgage companies project the income you may be getting from unemployment benefits.

Admittedly, that's not going to help many jobless persons who are in dire straits. But for those who are trying to get a home loan modification application accepted, this may help.

Find the new tool on the U.S. Department of Labor's Web site.

The program, funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, took a collaboration of the Labor department, The U.S. Treasury Department, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the Federal Reserve Bank and the Hope Now Alliance.

By calculating a homeowner's expected jobless benefits over several months, it may help people qualify for loan modification.

Nov. 7th & 8th be a part of Wings of Hope

Click here to go to the website and learn more >>

Angel Food Ministries

Click here to learn more about Angel Food Ministries

Curbside Leaves and Brush Collection

Schedule for fall 2009
The City of Kansas City, Mo., collects up to 20 sacks or bundles of leaves and brush (excluding grass clippings) from residences, during scheduled curbside collections in the spring and fall.

For fall 2009, residents will receive yardwaste collection as follows:
Nov. 10 and Dec. 8


Here are the rules:
o Sacks and bundles should be curbside by 7 a.m. on the scheduled day of collection.
o No more than 20 sacks and/or bundles per household.
o Sacks and bundles must not weigh more than 40 pounds each.
o Use only paper lawn debris sacks. No plastic bags.
o If you seal sacks, use masking tape only; do not use plastic or duct tape.
o No grass clippings. No trash.
o All branches must be bundled. Branches must not be more than 3 inches in diameter.
o Bundles of branches must not be more than 2 feet in diameter and not more than 4 feet long.
o Use twine or jute rope to tie bundles; do not use wire or plastic tape.
o If wet weather is forecast, cover sacks/bundles with clear plastic.
o If sacks and bundles are not collected on the scheduled day, residents must call the 3-1-1 Action Center within 24 hours. To report service related issues, The 3-1-1 Action Center can be reached by calling 311 or (816) 513-1313.

Recycle Glass too!

Ripple Glass has the answer.

We're building a state-of-the-art processing plant. Developing a metro-wide collection network. And we've found a local company that will convert the recycled glass into fiberglass insulation, saving massive amounts of energy while producing a product – much of it to be used in area homes – that saves still more energy.

It's an effective solution to one of KC's most intractable waste issues, helping the environment and providing a boost to the local economy.

Support Urban Food Production in Kansas City!!

Support Urban Food Production in Kansas City!!

Come to BADSEED, Tuesday, October 20, 6:00-7:30 pm, to discuss proposing City Code changes that will benefit Urban Agriculture.


Hello, all. Most of you have probably heard about the zoning/codes issues that were raised in relationship to Bad Seed Farm. Their situation is settled, for the moment; they can continue operations, the codes inspection division no longer has any possible violations pending with them. There were two issues though that were raised that don’t bode well for other urban farms- one, because they are farming on a lot with a residence, the farm is considered to be a home based business, and therefore Dan and Brooke (or other urban farmers) can’t have employees, volunteers, trainees, or anyone helping at the farm. The second is that no CSA members can come to the farm and pick-up their vegetables, as this is “conducting retail business” on site and that isn’t allowed in a residential neighborhood. Bad Seed can live with this through the rest of the season, but both of those restrictions really work against the benefits and dynamics we are all trying to create with locating farms in city neighborhoods.

Because of the situation with Bad Seed, it has become clear that codes restrictions like these would benefit from some adjustments on the question of urban gardens and farms.

In our meetings with the Urban Planning and Development staff, and with various city council people, they expressed a willingness to work with us to develop codes that more accurately fit the ways that urban food production is developing in Kansas City, MO. They are in a review period looking at the revised codes, so the timing is good for refinements.

The Kansas City Center for Urban Agriculture, Bad Seed Farm, and the Food Policy Coalition for Greater Kansas City are organizing a meeting of any interested community members who would like to have input into this process. You are invited to attend, Tuesday, October 20, 6:00-7:30 pm, at the Bad Seed Market at 1909 McGee, Kansas City, MO.


The goals of the meeting are:
-To look at existing codes that impact urban agriculture,
-To brainstorm about changes that might be useful and supportive of the benefits of urban agriculture, and
-To put together a volunteer committee of Kansas City, MO residents to lead the codes revisions process. This committee would work with KCCUA, the Food Policy Coalition, and city staff to research possibilities, prioritize, draft, and build political support for more urban ag applicable codes.
- Start a process that other municipalities in the metro area can use as inspiration and as a model for creating more urban ag friendly cities.

At the meeting, we will have KCMO Councilwoman Beth Gottstein, Patty Knoll from the Planning and Development Department of the city, and possibly other city representatives.


There are likely to be other issues as well, which is why we especially want those of you who are either currently engaged in or who are considering getting involved in urban agriculture to attend. The models for how we do urban food production in the Kansas City metro area are rapidly evolving; we need to think not only about what we are seeing now, but what we might see in five years, in ten years, or further down the road.


if you have any questions about this, you can contact:

Katherine Kelly, KC Center for Urban Agriculture, 913-831-2444, or katherine@kccua.org
Gretchen Kunkel, Food Policy Coalition of Greater Kansas City, ghkunkel@kc.rr.com
Dan Heryer & Brooke Salvaggio, badseedfarm@hotmail.com


We’re excited about entering into this process and look forward to working with the city to help promote good food production Kansas City, MO and to be what we hope is the first of many cities in our area looking at the benefits of urban food production.

Kansas City's website has a new look.

Check it out http://www.kcmo.org

Fall Events Around Town

Oct. 10.
PUMPKIN PATCH FOR DE LA SALLE EDUCATION CENTER:
Includes pumpkins, ponies, music and moon-bounces. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Brookside Park, 56th and Brookside. Free. (816-561-4445, ext. 232)

Oct. 10.
PUMPKIN PATCH: Includes children’s games, activities, entertainers and music.
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Crown Center, 2450 Grand. Free. www.crown center.com (816-274-8444)


Oct. 10-11.
AMERICAN INDIAN FALL FESTIVAL:
Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site, 3403 W. 53rd, Fairway. Free. (913-262-0867)

Oct. 10.
HARVEST FESTIVAL:
Includes baked goods, sewing and hand-crafted projects competition.
10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Shoal Creek Living History Museum, Hodge Park, 7000 N.E. Barry.
$5; ages 5 and under free. www.kcmo.org/parks.nsf/web/shoal (816-792-2655)


Oct. 10.
OKTOBERFEST: Includes German music performed by the Alpen Spielers, German food and wine. Noon-5 p.m. Holy-Field Vineyard and Winery, 158th and State Ave., Basehor.
$5. www.holyfieldwinery.com (913-724-9463)


Oct. 10.
VFW OKTOBERFEST: In the park behind the VFW Hall. Includes live music, craft vendors and beer. Food served from 3-6 p.m. Sponsored by the VFW #7397 and American Legion #407. 2-10 p.m. Lenexa VFW Hall, 9550 Pflumm, Lenexa. (913-492-2244)


Oct. 9; closes Oct. 30.
FRIDAY NIGHT GHOST TOURS ON THE SQUARE: 7, 8, 9 and 10 p.m. Independence Square, Independence. $18; $12 for children. www.theindependencesquare.com (816-461-0065)


Brookside Trick or Treat Street
WhenSat, October 31, 4pm – 6pm
Where: Brookside Shopping District:
FREE
Over 50 shops will be handing out treats to the children. Look for the ghosts hanging from the doorways and you will find the treats.

Do you need help paying your water bill?

Financial assistance soon will be available for Kansas City residents struggling to pay their water bills.

Beginning Nov. 1, residents who meet income guidelines can call the United Way’s 211 hot line for possible assistance from a pilot project through the city’s Water Services Department.

Click here to read more >>

Click here to go to United Way of Greater Kansas City >>

Fall Clean up. October 24th

Donated food helps pets and owners

".....Free bags of cat and dog food saved Gayla Pritchett from having to hand over Kiki, Mia, Spencer and Ladybug to an animal shelter.

Out of work for nine months until last week, she couldn’t afford to feed her two cats and two Chihuahuas. Spay & Neuter Kansas City stepped in and fed the pets for her...."


HOW TO HELP
Drop off donations at Spay & Neuter Kansas City, 59th Street and Troost Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. For Saturday times, call 816-353-0940. Donations also can be dropped off at Brothers Pets, 4015 Sterling Ave. in Independence.

For more information, go to www.snkc.net or www.volunteams.org.

2009 Good Neighbor Award

2009 Good Neighbor Award

You are cordially invited to the Good Neighbor Award’s presentation on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at 1:00 pm -3 pm in the Robert J Mohart Multi Purpose Focus Center 3200 Wayne, KCMO. Immediately following the presentation will be Kansas City Neighborhood Advisory Council’s (KCNAC) candidate forum.

The following are the names of local residents who have provided a substantial service to our community.

Ray Barber-Shoal Brook II
Is a talented, generous, concerned neighbor and willing handy man that maintains the quality and safety of Shoal Brook II neighborhood.

George and Pearl Burns- Marlborough Heights
Unofficial neighborhood watch for the neighborhood, picks up litter to keep the neighborhood clean and is always helping and willing to help any neighbor.

Doug Collins-East Swope Highlands
Keeps the grass mowed on the ROW along the heavily speeding traffic on Gregory Boulevard.

Terry Everley-Marlborough Renaissance
Fondly known through out the neighborhood as Mr. Terry, cuts the weeds in the ROW around the traffic stop signs, checks on the neighbors, willing to lend a hand to help others, picks up trash, repairs the neighborhood’s children’s bicycles and mentors those without male role models, also informally block watches.

Wayne Fair-Wendell Phillips
For over a year, this gentleman took an entire summer and cut down limbs and branches that were impeding traffic, goes around and picks up trash, cuts the grass of those who can't maintain their yards. Cooperates with the police to keep trespassers and drug sales and users from being able to do their business on vacant properties. He takes away all the dumped tires and just has literally, single handedly changed the appearance of the Beacon area. He even travels down to the Vine Street area.

Tammy Gay-Waldo
Mows the lawn for the neighbor whom is recovering from surgery, collects and donates paper goods to the City Mission, actively engaged in the homes association, blocks watch captain, organizes block parties and created the butterfly garden.

Marquita Henry-Foxtown West
Ms Henry assist with countless neighborhood clean-ups and that she “has used a shovel and the blue bags to work through the neighborhood to pick-up trash”.

Tim Johnston- Briarcliff
By himself has walked approximately 1 mile in distance to pick up trash along 169 highway at the Briarcliff Parkway exit in Kansas City, Missouri. He has collected more than 50 each 40 gallon bags of beer bottles, water bottles, pop cans, paper products, car parts, Styrofoam and other litter since Feb 2009. Mr. Johnston recycled the refuse he could and his neighbors assisted his efforts to dispose of the waste properly.
City staff eagerly contacted MODOT to advise their organization of Mr. Johnston’s efforts and highly recommended that 1) Adopt a Highway dedicated to Mr. Johnston and 2) a NO MORE TRASH $1000 litter fine sign be posted in the area he has been cleaning. MODOT will also provide a safety vest and trash bags to assist them in keeping that area clean.

Minnie Mitchem- Noble
She continues to pick up litter and trash all over the Noble neighborhood for more than 35 years.

Sharon Mohler- Armour Hills
Mother of 5 young children, takes the time to clean out the neighbors house after a fire, trims the large shrubs in Arbor Villa Park, clears weeds and mows the yard of one of the elderly when he is not up to it, organizes block parties and informally block watches.

Darryl Rider-Hertz Rental 800 e 18th, KCMO 64108
Mr. Rider donated equipment to the Friendship Baptist Church Block-by-Block clean up to help with their efforts.

Steve Shawhan- East Swope Highlands
Picks up litter frequently along the heavily speeding traffic on Gregory Boulevard.


Venessa Huskey Wates
Neighborhood & Community Liaison
Neighborhood Services Division
Neighborhood & Community Service Department
voice (816) 513-3019
fax (816) 513-3201

Holidaymart

Learn more about Holiday Mart click here >

Kansas City Neighborhood Advisory Council seeks residents for 2010 election

The City of Kansas City, Mo., Neighborhood Advisory Council is seeking candidates for its 15-member council. The council addresses proposed City policies and programs and makes recommendations to the director of the City’s Neighborhood and Community Services Department.

The council consists of two members from each of the City’s six council districts and three at-large members. Interested residents must apply by Sept. 25, and registered neighborhood organizations will then elect candidates to represent their areas.

Applications are available at http://www.kcmo.org/neigh/Application2009.pdf, or at the Neighborhood and Community Services Department, City Hall, fourth floor, 414 E. 12th St.

Advisory Council members are expected to attend monthly meetings, meet with groups in their regions and participate in other related events, including public hearings and forums to discuss key issues and receive input on a variety of community matters.

Candidate eligibility requirements include being able to prove residency, not having any outstanding warrants or delinquent taxes, being a registered Missouri voter and not having any conflicts of interest with the work of the advisory council.

The advisory council also provides feedback to the mayor, City Council, city manager and all department directors regarding the concerns and perceived impacts of decisions that affect Kansas City neighborhoods.

For more information about the Neighborhood Advisory Council or to have an application mailed to you, call Shalisha Boles, Neighborhood and Community Services Department, (816) 513-3200.

Shalisha Boles
Neighborhood and Community Services
Administration
816-513-3200