It certainly wouldn't have been so bad if the publisher of this magazine and its clones for different areas of the Kansas City metro had simply stuck to trying to sell what is very expensive print advertising, but when the sales rep visited today I got a big surprise. On page 22 of the August 2011 issue (I'm fairly sure it is on the same page in the clones) is a one-page article entitled "Adventure for Parents and Kids." This article had two, count 'em, two slaps in the face of local businesses and organizations. First, they mention the recent Kansas City Maker Faire at Union Station (where it has been approximated around 5,000 people attended over two days and had to pay a rather hefty $12.00 entrance fee), but they failed to mention the 2nd Annual Mini Maker Faire that will again be held in Parkville (IN THE NORTHLAND!) on the 19th, 20th and 21st of August and which will be free to the public. This event which was only one day last year drew more than twice as many attendees as the event this year at Union Station. Finally, the article mentions Arduino, small programmable computer boards that can be used to run anything from simple electronic devices (such as TV Begones; devices that will turn off any TV in a room) to highly sophisticated robots. This is okay, as far as it goes, but then the article goes on to tell readers that Arduino boards can be purchased on line and does not mention the H.M.S. Beagle in Parkville that has been stocking Arduino boards for over two years for makers, DYIers and hobbyists. Come on folks, if you're going to promote yourself as a publisher of information about the life style in the Northland then please know and understand your market. Now, I realize that this magazine is published in Overland Park, Kansas, and that the Northland is a place that requires a visa and a whole series of vaccinations as well as a long drive (15 to 20 minutes, typically) to get to. So that probably explains the oversight, but I suspect it is just plain laziness on the part of the editors and publisher. Kingdon Holdings LLC, take note, no businesses will advertise with you if you continue to promote on-line businesses as an alternative to shopping locally, and as long as you ignore local events that rival any in the nation your readers will remain ill informed. read more