Have you ever wondered what makes Waldo the unique and eclectic corner of the community we all love? A recently released book from The History Press explores that question, and more. “The Waldo Story: Home of Friendly Merchants” traces Waldo’s past back more than 170 years beginning with its role on the Santa Fe Trail and the Civil War, through the housing boom of the early 19th century and the post war boom to the modern day. Using more than 50 images, some never seen before, the book also shares stories of Waldo institutions like the Waldo Water Tower, the Gillis Home, and the Waldo Theatre.

Sparkle on 63rd“It takes your breath away, it’s pretty stunning.” These were the words an Astor Place resident used to describe the new landscaping around the office buildings of 701 and 751 E. 63rd Street. River birch, ginkgos, holly and white pine now add shade and verdancy to the street. Developer Andy Battmer and his business partners had the help of landscape architect Phil Hogan and landscaper Juan Mendez. “We wanted to soften the appearance of the buildings, especially the garage. We chose pine trees that grow tall and slender and trees that can take the abuse of the city,” said Andy.

Monthly Luncheon

Wednesday, May 16, 11:45 a.m.
Presentation by KC Parks Director Mark McHenry
Location: Wornall Baptist Church, 400 W. Meyer Blvd.
Catered by: Mad Jack’s on Troost
$10/person
Please RSVP by May 15 to (816) 523-5553. RSVP’s required

Waldo GatewayHave you seen the newest marker in Waldo at Gregory and Wornall Road? This is the Waldo Community Improvement District’s latest project to enhance Waldo’s identity and boundaries.

The marker, designed by Darryl Hawkins of Innovative Design & Renovation, was built to be unique but with similar characteristics of the main Waldo monument at 75th and Wornall.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the little vacuum shop at 7200 Wornall is still a little vacuum shop. The Waldo Vacuum Co. has turned into Midwest Vacuums. The shop has a renovated interior, a new sign, and is owned by one of the nation’s top vacuum enthusiasts, Sarah DeGondea. The DeGondeas had approached the shop’s previous owner about carrying central vacuum systems, but found that he wanted to retire and sell his shop instead. While waiting at the stop light to leave the shop, they counted 47 cars pass before the light turned green. This made an impression, and five days later, they bought the store.

ImplosionOn Sunday, April 15, crowds gathered behind caution tape in the Research Brookside Campus parking lot. They counted down the seconds to 10 am when a series of explosives collapsed the concrete structure of 6700 Troost. Cheers and applause followed as a dust cloud rose from the debris. This was one of the final demolitions needed to make way for the future Rockhill Greens, an aging-in-place housing development that features a large central green space and easy access to medical facilities. Urban senior citizen housing has proven to be a major issue facing cities as people look to downsize but remain connected to the communities they have lived in throughout their lives. Thank you, Rockhill Greens, for the investment and for the entertainment.