From Our Community

Prepare for Friday Fright Night
Gladstone Parks & Recreation in cooperation with the Gladstone Area Chamber of Commerce and the Northland Optimist Club will host a fun Halloween event Friday, October 29, from 6-9 p.m. at Oak Grove Park (76th and N. Troost). There is no charge for the “Friday Fright Night” event. It is open to the general public.

Local vendors will pass out candy while kids enjoy scary and “non-scary” stories presented by the River & Prairie Story Weaver. New for this year is a special presentation by StoneLion Puppets. Marionettes will perform “Bone-yard Jamboree” for your scaring pleasure.

So, put on your best Halloween suit, load the family in the car and be prepared – to be scared! For additional information, please call the Gladstone Parks & Recreation at (816) 423-4091.


Synergy “Homeless Night” – Nov. 12
On Friday, November 12, hundreds of young people will unite to help kids like Jason (see his story below) by sleeping outside to simulate homelessness, learn about the issue, inform others and raise funds. There are many ways to get involved. Read more at Synergy's website: http://www.synergyservices.org/.

Jason is the oldest of four children. Things have always been tight financially for the family. When Jason was younger, his dad was injured in an auto accident and hasn't been able to work since. Then the economy turned bad, and Jason's mom was laid off from her job early last year. When the family lost their home to foreclosure, they moved into a cramped two-bedroom apartment. When Jason turned 18 and graduated from high school last year, his heartbroken but financially desperate parents asked him to make plans to move out.

He was able to quickly get a part-time job and stay with some older friends at their place. But when his part-time job ended, he wasn't able to find other work and his friends kicked him out. He stays short periods with his family and with other friends. He hasn't told his parents he is out of work and homeless.

Jason is one of more than 2,000 young people who are alone and homeless on any given night in Kansas City.