I'm considering a career change. I'm currently a calibration technician with the MS Army National Guard (federal Civil Service). I've put in a couple of applications with the FAA to be an air traffic controller. One location I'm applying for is in Olathe, KS. Just so you know, I was born in KC, MO and lived there until I was about five, then moved to FL. Most of my family on my dad's side still reside in the KC area (Blue Springs and Overland Park mostly). The last time I've been to KC was about 10 years ago (whatever year "Independence Day" came out in theaters).

I've looked on various websites about the stats and demographics of the areas, but I'd like some first-hand perspective of what it's like to live in this area. Some things I'd like to know:

- cost of living/housing market in general
- recreational activities - my wife and I are not outdoorsy types, so fishing/hunting is not our bag. She likes cultural type stuff (art, theater, and such), I love to downhill ski and, of course, I dig a good car enthusiast scene.
- attitude of the people in general - friendly, snobbish, open-minded, etc.
- traffic
- any unusual growth or decline of the population, businesses, etc.
- political climate (liberal, conservative)
- law enforcement. I know this sounds a bit strange, but I don't want to end up in some psuedo-**** gustapo police state (like California )

Any other tidbits of info you could pass on to me would be great.

GO CHIEFS!!!